#heres for hopin he says yes

[baronessvonglitter]

Darlin’ Cowgirl

Jack Daniels x f!reader

Word count: 3.1K

Summary: looking for a way out of a bachelorette party, an accidental butt dial becomes a booty call

WARNINGS: 18+ Only! Explicit and Mature, friends/coworkers to lovers, reader is at least 21, tipsy flirting/dancing, improper use of a mechanical bull, semi-public sex, fingering, oral sex (m & f receiving), unprotected p in v sex, smut, dash of romance with a happily ever after, no use of y/n, reader has hair and wears a dress

Author's Note: this was the first one-shot I'd ever written on AO3 and decided to post here as well 🤠🥃

JACK DANIELS MASTERLIST | FULL MASTERLIST

You aren't looking forward to the bachelorette party. You don't even like weddings, yet somehow you've been roped into being part of your old college roommate's wedding party simply because you ran into her at the grocery store a few months back. It was only when you had the bridal shower that you realized you were one of thirteen bridesmaids. Great. Now you'll feel even more invisible than you already do.

You've been in a slump lately, and the only thing bringing out of it is your devilishly handsome coworker Jack Daniels, aka Agent Whiskey. You're an Information Security Specialist for the Statesmen, an ultra-secret espionage agency, so naturally you keep the details of your job pretty hush-hush. Whiskey, as you affectionately call him, is one of your few confidantes, despite the fact that he flirts with you at every turn. You admit to yourself that it's a nice distraction from your loneliness, even if you feel his flirtatiousness is just a bit of fun for him, his own distraction.

You take your time in dressing up for the night: a spaghetti strap black minidress with a plunging neckline and silver cowgirl boots. At the bar you meet up with your fellow bridesmaids and the bride-to-be, who are all in shades of pink and white, near exact replicas of each other, nearly indistinguishable. You stick out like a sore thumb and you know it.

The bridesmaids want to take shots so you take some with them, hoping your anxiety will dilute just a little. Your inhibitions are lowered just a little, but not enough to go out to the dance floor with the others. You watch as others watch them, in admiration as they laugh and gracefully (despite the Buttery Nipple shots they'd all consumed just minutes ago) and wish you could be part of them. You hang back at the bar, politely declining offers to dance from men who come by to not-so-subtly ogle you. You feel like a piece of meat. Perhaps it was a bad idea to come out, knowing you hate places like this. However, just as you're about to order a Lyft, you get an incoming call from Whiskey himself.

Confused and blushing you go to a quieter place of the bar, which is still very loud. "Hello?" you practically shout into the phone.

"Hey darlin'!" you hear Jack's voice on the other end. "You called me?"

"Um.. no, I didn't.."

He chuckles, warm and low in your ear. "Yes you did, darlin'. I was hopin' you were okay."

You quickly check your call log and sure enough, you'd called him about fifteen minutes ago, when you and the bridesmaids were doing shots. "I must have butt-dialed you," you shout back, giggling.

"Aw, lucky me," he drawls. "That pretty ass was thinkin' about me?"

You're too flustered to reply.

"Where are you anyway? Loud as hell over there."

"I'm at a bar for a bridesmaid party."

"That one you were talkin' about earlier today? No invite, huh?"

You giggle again. "It's for women only."

"Exactly! That's my kinda good time!" You hear him chuckle again.

"Actually it's kinda lame. I'm thinking of calling it a night."

"Don't you dare," he says with mock authority. "Wait there a minute and I'll be on my way. Text me the address."

You hang up and text him, wondering what he's up to. You've never hung out with him after work, even with all the flirting you've both done. You think it's strictly professional with a touch of playfulness, but you've never been one hundred percent sure.

You hang out at the bar, wanting to be visible to him when he arrives, but it's only after you're returned from the ladies' room checking your makeup, outfit and hair, that you see him, well the back of him, and he's mingling with some of the bridesmaids, who are obviously taking a much-needed alcohol break from dancing.

You gently touch his shoulder. "Hey there, stranger."

He turns, smiling, and the look in his eyes becomes one of pure lust. He drinks you in, unabashedly. "Damn darlin', you look so good it hurts," he drawls.

You glance at the bridesmaids, most of whom are checking him out with flagrant interest. "Did you meet everyone? Kaitlyn's the bride-to-be," you introduce them.

"I have, and her husband's one lucky sonofabitch, if I may say so," he places a gentlemanly kiss on the bride's hand and she in turn blushes. "Who's your friend?" she asks.

"A coworker," you say mysteriously, glancing at Jack, who has now turned his whole attention to you.

"You wanna dance, darlin'?" he asks, extending his hand to you.

Your stomach drops, just because you're pretty shy about dancing, and if anything you'd like to leave him with the impression that you can at least move in rhythm. "Maybe the next song," you suggest. "But first, how about a couple of shots? On me."

He smiles and shakes his head. "Darlin', I can't allow that. My treat," he insists, and orders a couple shots of whiskey for you and him.

"Had to be whiskey, huh?" you tease him, taking the shot glass in your hand.

"Of course." He lifts his glass to yours for a toast. "To coworkers getting to know each other better," he says, and there's a twinkle in his deep brown eyes that's hard to miss.

"To getting to know each other better," you grin and down the shot. It's like fire in your throat and stomach.

"Too much for ya to handle?" he teases, having downed his with ease.

"Depends.. which Whiskey are you talking about?" you tease back, feeling a little surge of confidence that either comes from Jack or from the shot.

"You're a little firecracker," he says in a low voice, his eyes blatantly going over every line and curve of your face, and downwards to eyeball your neck, the curve of your breasts. You wonder what he's imagining.

"Firecrackers are fun but dangerous," you warn him with a cheeky smile.

"We both know I'm all about that danger. Ain't nothin' I can't handle.." a subtle lift of his brows suggests he means more than mere flirtation.

"Is that a challenge?" You step closer to him, and the scent of his cologne, notes of leather and tobacco, catches your attention.

He notices your stance, the way you've shifted from a sweetheart wallflower to a provocative temptress. "What if it is?" he whispers into your ear, his breath tickling your skin and raising goosebumps on your flesh.

You follow his lead and whisper into his own ear, your lips grazing his cheek. "Then I accept.." you keep the ghost of a kiss upon his freshly shaven cheek and slowly pull back, looking into his eyes and seeing a newly effected desire there. "Dance with me." You bring him out to the floor, having completely lost sight of the bridesmaids. Nothing exists now but you and Jack and this chemistry that's been building between you.

His hands are on your hips as "Neon Moon" starts to play, a slow and soulful song that suits the mood you're both in. The colored lights sweep across the room, casting blue and scarlet and amber glows across the crowd. You're lost in each other, in the touch of his hands on your hips, the way he caresses them, loving their shape. You rest your hands on his broad, strong shoulders.

"You're a good dancer, Jack. You know what they say about men who are good dancers," you tell him suggestively.

"Really? What do they think, Gorgeous?" He pulls you even closer so your bodies are practically flush together.

"That they're good in bed," you answer with an arch of your brow, as if to imply it was beyond your belief.

He looks at you like a man looking at his first meal in a week of starvation. "Do you want to find out just how good of a.. dancer I am?"

Heat blooms across your body, and your pussy clenches in response. It only takes a moment to imagine what it would be like, riding this cowboy. You see him and you realize you have him right where you want him. "There is something I've been dying to ride.." you gently tug his shirt to bring him closer, as if in a kiss..

For a moment he looks like he's going to melt from the heat coming off you. "Oh yeah, darlin'? And what exactly is that?" he smirks.

Your face lights up. "That mechanical bull!" You grab Jack's hand and lead him across the huge barroom to the line to ride the bull. Sneaking a look at his face, Whiskey looks bewildered, but manages to cover it just in time. "That stupid thing? I can think of something more fun to ride," he smirks again and you resist the urge to drag him outside and let him have his way with you in the alleyway.

You only smirk back at him as the operator calls you to come forward and get atop the bull. Getting on top is easy, but staying on will be hard. As soon as you're situated, the bull starts spinning and bucking, slowly at first to let you get your bearings. You laugh and hold on, your body moving with the bull, anticipating its every move. Your hips grind down to the leather, thighs locked tight as you move your pelvis forward. Catching Whiskey's eye you blow him a kiss.

Seeing that the ride is winding down, he goes up to the operator and pays him to let you go again. This time, apparently on Whiskey's orders, the ride goes slower, allowing you to continue your little show for Jack. Keeping eye contact with him, you imagine it's him beneath you. Suddenly you gasp as you realize the bull is moving faster, and you watch as Jack's expression turns dark, lustful. You bite your lip as the speed increases. Pleasure pools in your belly, more specifically between your thighs, and the first stirrings of pleasure begin to radiate outward to your limbs, You rear your head back, face pointed up in ecstasy, and a rolling thunder starts in your veins.

You don't realize it until it's happening but you're being led away by Whiskey to a small corridor where no one can see you, and buries his face in your neck. "Tell me to stop if that's what you want," he says, his voice strained. "But by all that's holy, you are the hottest god damn thing I've ever seen."

But by then your leg is already hooked around his hip, shamelessly rubbing against him, the pleasure from the bull ride still fresh in your body. "I don't want you to stop," you whisper.

He growls low in his throat, which you dare to kiss, grazing your teeth across his skin. He gives a sharp hiss, and when he presses against you you feel proof of his desire, as if you needed any more. His hand goes beneath the hem of your dress and slides up, finding the edge of your lace panties. "Black?" he murmurs, his lips still against your neck.

"How did you know?"

You feel the curve of his smile against your skin. "I always know." His fingers trace your inner thighs before dipping into your heated, slick cunt. "Christ woman, you're soaking wet. For me." With his fingers inside you he kisses you, and you tip your face up to lean into his kiss, He slowly pumps two thick fingers inside as he slips his tongue into your mouth, mimicking the movements, earning a deep moan then a whimper from you.

"Watching you ride that bull, I just know it was me you were thinkin' of," he whispers huskily against your ear. "God damn if you aren't the most gorgeous thing I ever laid eyes on,, been wantin' you a long time, darlin'."

Through the haze of desire you smile, finding the temerity to feel touched by his words. "Took you long enough to show it," you tease, cupping the back of his head as you kiss, leaning against the wall as he fingers your wetness.

He groans again. "As much as I want to continue, I'd like to find a more comfortable place to fuck you." He pauses to look to you for consent. "That is, if you still want this."

You reply by palming his rigid cock, already threatening to poke through his tailored trousers. "I absolutely do.."

In a flurry of movement he brings you outside. The bachelorette party is the last thing on your mind, if you even still remember it, All you can think of is being with Jack. He leads you to his truck, the spacious backseat warm and inviting. He's on you again as that door is closed, His mouth finds yours, tongue claiming you. "I want to be gentle, but I don't think I have it in me right now," he admits.

You shake your head. "I'm not asking for gentle, I'm asking you to fuck me, Jack."

You've never called him by his name before, never been so informal with him, but the look in his eyes tells you it's perfectly all right by him. He lays you down on the seat. "Can I get a little taste of ya, darlin'? Been wonderin' what you'd taste like since the day we met."

This draws a sweet whimper from you, to hear he'd always wanted you. "God yes, please.."

He gingerly removes your panties, kissing his way back up your calves and thighs once they're off. You blush when he breathes in your scent. His hands cup the backs of your thighs, hooking them over his shoulders and you can't help but feel exposed. "Christ.. woman, you're gonna be the death of me," he mutters before taking off his hat and leaning in to devour you.

You give a sharp gasp as you lean your head back against the seat, hands mussing his hair as he laps at your wet cunt, licking up your folds and dipping his tongue inside you. He gently laps at your clit, using more pressure with each lick until he cups his lips around it and sucks, listening to how much you like it, how much more you need.

"Fuck!" you shout, a victorious roar as you feel yourself so close to that edge, and Whiskey is happy to let you use him for your pleasure. His tongue draws shapes upon your clit, alternating between swiping with his tongue and suckling it. Only when you come and he sweeps across every fold to drink up your juices does he stop.

You practically push him down, effectively trading places with him as you kneel before him. "My turn.."

His gaze turns dark even as his face lights up. "Hell, I'm not sayin' no to that, darlin'."

Smiling, you undo his trousers and pull them down with his briefs. His cock springs out, thick and long, perfectly curved, smooth, perfect. "God, I just knew you'd have a big dick.." you whisper, tracing with your tongue from root to head.

Whiskey exhales, watching you work on him. He palms the back of your head but doesn't urge you any further than what's comfortable for you. You use your hand to stroke his base while getting the first few inches of him into your mouth, daring to deep-throat him, wanting to see that look on his face, wanting to see him go crazy for you.

"Jesus, darlin'. I'm so on edge right now I might just burst if you keep doin' that," he chuckles. "Get on up here and ride me, gorgeous."

You feel your heart pound in every extremity of your body, especially your cunt, as you get up and straddle him, hiking up your dress. He stops you a moment and caresses your cheek. "This okay with you, darlin'? I have protection if you prefer.."

You smile and shake your head. "I'm on birth control, and I'm clean."

He smiles back. "Ah good. I'm clean too, darlin'." You know it has to be true, as the agents do periodic physicals and are prohibited from missions for the slightest findings.

Kissing him, you rise over him, using your hands to find him and bring him into you. He slides in without any resistance, and you take your time trying to get as much of him inside as you can. "Fuck, Jack," you whisper as he fills you.

Through the pleasure of connecting your bodies he smirks. "Is that an order?"

You giggle a little. "Looks like I'm the one doing the fucking." Just as you say that, he pushes up from under you, moving you up, filling you up just a little bit more. "God!!"

Sinking his teeth in to his lower lip he grabs onto your hips and moves you how he wants, watching your body for clues on what you like and what you want more of. He pulls the front of your dress down and frees your breasts, suckling on each nipple at a time as you melt on top of him, inadvertently letting more of him inside. He's fucking you and you're fucking him.

You grab his hat from the seat next to you and put it on yourself, riding your cowboy. Whiskey watches you, whispering your name, calling you his Cowgirl, bucking his hips up into you until he bottoms out, then lifting you with long strokes until you push him down to grind down. His thumb flicks over your clit, swirling the letters of your name and his, hearing your wild moans and shuddering sighs. You've never come so hard or so fast. You feel the first fluttery feelings deep within, and they shoot through your veins, lighting up your entire nervous system, and you scream his name as your cunt clenches spasmodically around his cock, and soon you feel him spill his cum deep inside you, spurting its warmth to your insides.

It takes a moment for you to come back to earth, and when you do, Whiskey is kissing you, tenderly, with the remainder of the passion you two just shared. "That was.. wow," you sigh, feeling shy around him now, of all times.

"It was spectacular, darlin'. I hope you know I'm gonna want you again," he puts his forehead to yours.

"Is that so?" You blush with elation.

"Of course darlin'. I'm hopin' to make this a long-term association, if you're so willin'. But on one condition."

You raise a brow. "Already calling the shots, huh? What's the condition?"

"That the only thing you ride is me. Ain't no way I'm being upstaged by a damn mechanical bull ever again."

You laugh, and he loves the sound of it. "We'll put a pin in that conversation."

He strokes your hair. The electric light from the bar sign lights up the inside of the truck, magenta and cyan. "You comin' home with me tonight, Cowgirl?"

You smile and give him a soft kiss. "You bet, Cowboy."

divider by @saradika-graphics 👑

[carlsangel]

BACK OFF

carl grimes x fem!reader

(ron makes you uncomfortable, carl comes to your rescue.)

tags: i really don’t know o-o

masterlist here!

“Seriously I don’t get why we have to come to this, what’re we even gonna do here?” You complain, walking beside Rick and Carl on your way to Deanna’s house. Carl looks at you, unsure of what to say as he adjusts Judith in his arms. “Well, they’re tryna be nice…and welcoming I suppose. We’re gonna be polite and say thank you. We’re lucky to be here.” Rick responds.

All of this seriously confused you. I mean, a couple of days ago, you guys were all on the road and sleeping on the floor of a barn that smelt like horse shit. How were you meant to go from that, to going to a house party in a normal house, with normal people, in a normal community? It’s just simply not possible. Not in the world you live in.

You accept what Rick says and just leave it at that. You enter Deanna’s home to the intimidating sound of loud chatter. You were expecting people to harass you with tons of questions about your past and how you wound up here with the group. Things about your family you wished to forget.

Deanna walks over to greet you guys and she grabs Judith from Carl’s arms, freeing his hand to hold yours. He gives a gentle squeeze as Deanna makes pointless small talk that’ll later be forgotten. You notice that Maggie and Glenn are already there which makes you feel somewhat better. You’re pulled from your thoughts when Carl begins to walk further into the house, to the kitchen.

“C’mon I saw someone with lemonade.” He says with a smile. You smile too at how sweet he was, how excited he got over something as simple as lemonade. You follow him through the crowded home and stop at the island with pitchers of random beverages. He grabs you both a cup and pours the lemonade into them. You stare around the room, studying everything you see. Every exit, every person, everything.

“Here.” He hands you the glass and notices how intently you’re looking at everything. “Are you okay?” He asks, pushing the cup closer to you. You snap out of whatever trance you were in and grab the glass. “Yeah I’m fine.” You give him a small smile. He could tell you were spewing bullshit. He knew you well, I mean you’re best friends. You wished you were more than that; he did too.

“Look this place is real. I know it’s hard to accept…I barely have myself.” He explains. “But everything is finally gonna be okay.” You nod, taking in his advice when you hear someone arrive to the house. You and Carl walk into the hallway and look towards the end of it, noticing Jessie and her family had arrived. You’d met Ron earlier and he seemed relatively normal. Minus his odd remarks.

“It’s been a while since we’ve had a girl show up at the gates. We’re glad you’re here.” He told you. Who says that? You saw him as he entered and your nose sort of wrinkles. Rick walks over to the both of you and instructs Carl to find Judith and to pry her from whatever strangers arms she was in. You watch as he walks away and your heart immediately sinks. You walk back into the kitchen to hide and you stand by the island sort of just looking around.

“There you are.” You turn to be met by Ron. Great.

“Oh…hi?” You respond as he walks over to grab a glass. “Is that lemonade?” He asks pointing at your cup. Your eyebrows knit together in annoyance; it’s the only yellow beverage on the counter. “Yes.” You respond shortly. He notices how short you’re being but doesn’t really take it as a hint to leave you the fuck alone, but rather a sign to keep going. “Sooo you didn’t talk much back at my house. I was hopin to get to know you more.” He explains. You turn to look at him and drink from your cup, not exactly sure what he wants to hear from you.

“Well what about your family?” He scoots a little closer to you. “M-my family?” You mutter. “Yeah your family. I assume they’re no longer with us…I mean that’s how it is now, right?” He states, you begin to slowly inch away from him. How is this any of his business? You begin to feel increasingly uncomfortable. “I’m just saying, I know how you feel. Before all this, I lost an uncle of mine. So if you need to chat at all, I’m here.” He places his hand on the small of your back, causing you to pull away from him completely. He puts his hand up in the air defensively. Before you know it, his shoulder is pushed back a little, and Carl now has his attention.

“C’mon man just back off her a little okay?” He says relatively politely. Ron laughs a little and shrugs. “I was just tryna help.” Carl scoffs. “I think she’s fine without your help.” He replies. Ron looks between the both of you for a moment and sort of laughs to himself. “You’re together aren’t you?” A smug grin forms on his face. Like he knows anything. “No, but that has nothing to do with the fact that you’re clearly weirding her out.” You place your cup down on the counter, getting ready to head out as soon as possible.

“How am I making her uncomfortable? All I’m doing is trying to help her. That’s all.” Carl rolls his eyes. You could sense that this wouldn’t end well. “Help her? That involves touching?” He remarks. He pushes past him and grabs your hand, leading you out of the kitchen and the situation. He leads out outside to the empty porch. You shiver a little at the sudden breeze of cold air that passed through. Carl noticed of course, he notices everything about you. He takes his flannel off and hands it to you.

“What about you?” You ask, taking it from his hands. He shrugs. “You matter more.” He gives you a small smile. You put the flannel on and you both lean against the railings of the house silently. He’s the first to speak up. “Sorry I wish there for you earlier.” You can see him overthink. You shake your head in response, “No don’t apologize. He didn’t get very far thanks to you.” You giggle. He smiles at that and nods.

You look off into the distance for a moment silently, your hands gently resting on the rails. After a moment you can feel his hand over yours. You’re glad to have someone like him. Someone who actually cares.

You can tell you’ll be more than friends very soon.

a/n: erm this was ass and i’m sorry about it :/ yall idk how to write endings and i know that’s prevalent IM SORRY rhrjrbtjfbfngn anyway i actually like ron and really think he’s a misunderstood character butttt THIS WAS FUN TO WRITE :>

[dark-night-hero]

Imagine being the twin traveller older siblings featuring honkai characters.

Imagine being in one of the planets that the trio, Dan Heng, March 7th and the trailblazer just happened to dropped by upon having some errands to un when they happened to come across you, You who was going planet to planet hopin to find your younger siblings, a twin that have been gone missing for some time now.

Imagine upon interaction, they find you quite intimidating. Your first meeting was after all, not very pleasant but thanks to you managing to put them out of troubles they would have been facing just like their other ventures. This might be the first time they manage to get out of trouble so quickly because of you. That might also be the reason why they somehow come to pursue you into tagging along with them, hoping to help you find the world your younger siblings where.

"You know, I'm starting to keep like I only came here to be the babysitter of this group. I should have taken upon Welt's offer to stay with him back in the express." "Hey! We're not kids!" "Yes, yes. Just a bunch of troublemaking idiots." You laugh as if the four of you aren't basically surrounded and accused of some shit. Then a figure on the corner of your eyes caught your attention but before you could even say a thing, a ball was thrown and a cloud of smoke soon appeared. Oh here goes another fucking trouble.

Imagine being put in a troublesome situation was nothing knew to you. With your younger siblings constantly causing troubles here and there whenever they were to venture another world, you were used to cleaning up their mess, just like who you decided to watch out for these dumbass trio. Looking at near distance as the trio converse happily with each other, talkig about the missions and experiences they have experienced in the other planet you've been through. You cannot help but to stare longingly.

"I hope they aren't too much to handle." It was Welt. "Oh them? Not really." You chuckle, looking to your side to find the man in there. "My siblings were far more troublesome than they are." "Sounds like they messed up alot." "They do... In fact there was this one time were they..."

"Oh fuck." You quickly look down and took a quick step behind Dan Heng. "???" "What's wrong?" The trio looked back worried at you when you urge them to look forward. "I just remember I've been here before." "Is there something that matter about that?" "Yes!" You shouted but quick cover your mouth. You shouldn't have accompanied them in this place. "You see that man in there? That's one of my ex." "Ex???" "Your ex is the Dozing General?!" "Yes! Now hush before he remember me!"

"The kids are rather worried." "Were they? Sweet." You reply with a chuckle. "Are you okay?" "I... I am okay." You sigh before looking away from the endless stars outside the express. "Are you sure?" Welt asked, eyes meeting yours that seems to bring comfort into you. "I... I'm just worried about my siblings. I had this feeling... I kept feeling off nowadays... I'm worried that something bad happened to them..." You said with a rather defeated sigh before once again looking back to the stars. "It makes me wonder if things would have been different if I came with them when they asked me too. They're not kids anymore, but still, having me with them might bring some difference, you know? If only I wasn't stubborn maybe I would know where they have gone to. If only..." "Hey, I'm sure they're alright. Okay? They're safe. We'll find them soom enough, okay?"

Imagine it was finally the time to say goodbye. With the trio and Welt sending you off, you smile at them before chuckling. "It was nice meeting you all." "Do you really have to go?" "Really March? Of course they have to go." "But do they really need to go?" Trailblazer pout causing you to laugh. "Yes kiddo, unfortunately I need to go, alone this time." Turning away from the trio. "I'll get going now. Please do send her my regards and apologies for parting without her on sight." "Alright. May you have a great journey ahead of you."

Imagine feeling your siblings closed by, although there was no visible planet on sight. You knew where they are. You've been there before after all, so who would have ever thought that that is where they have gone by. Why Teyvat of all world to choose from? That world is quite, complicated. Bounded by some unwanted rules and principles. And by the looks of it, given their scattered energy, your gut feeling was right to feel like something was off from the moment you lost contact with them.

Imagine with a little bit of regret but endless of good memories you have. You smile at them and bid your goodbye for the last time saying, "If chances permits I'd be happy to come aboard again." And then you disappeared. Only to appear as another falling star on the land of teyvat.

[ⓒdark-night-hero] 2023°

: Now I want to make a whole ass ff story about this. A genuine cross over but I barely played honkai and barely know about it's lore sjhfjsjshksjdhdjsk so yeah, did I fucked up or nah?

[jungle-angel]

Baby's first Thanksgiving with rip wheeler! please and thank you <333

Rachel.....dahling.....why must you make me an offer I can't refuse??!!!! (lol).

Neither you nor Rip were awoken by the alarm on his phone that usually awoke the two of you during the work week, but rather, the cries of your four month old daughter, Evelyn.

"Relax sugar bear, I've got her," Rip groaned, leaning over to kiss your cheek.

You awoke again, maybe a few minutes or even a half hour, to the snow falling heavily outside and Rip re-entering your room with Baby Evie who had finally calmed down.

"You know young lady," he said, pretending to be stern with her. "Your momma needs her sleep too. We've got a big day ahead of us with all your aunts and uncles, your cousins and everybody coming over for dinner tonight."

You laughed and held out your arms to take Evelyn from your husband. "Did Rhett and the others call?" you asked him.

"Said they'd all be up from Wabang in the next hour if the snow doesn't get worse," Rip explained. "Gettin the house done's gonna be a pain in the royal ass."

You laughed as you sat back and let Evie feed for a little bit, knowing she was probably hungry. A savory smell coming from the kitchen caught you off guard. "Rip is somebody in the kitchen?"

Rip shook his head and shrugged. As soon as you could get out of bed and Evelyn had her fill, you took her right down to the kitchen to find Mo, Thomas Rainwater's right hand man, in your kitchen, peeling a rather large bag of potatoes Rip had gathered from the garden in the backyard.

"Well good morning sleepyheads," Mo greeted.

"Morning Mo," you chuckled. "How long have you been at those potatoes?"

"Been at'em for a good half hour," Mo answered. "Birds's all gutted and brining in the fridge. Don't know what the hell you want done with the corn though."

"Woah wait a sec, ya'll brought corn?" Rip asked him.

"And you mean to tell me you don't remember?" Mo questioned. "I got that shit from my neighbor."

"Wait, the old lady on the rez that owns the corn stand?"

"Of course it's the old lady you brain dead deer turd," Mo laughed. "She's the only owner of a roadside corn stand in the whole of Bozeman!"

Rip went down to the cellar pantry and came back up a few minutes later with the basket of corn, setting it beside the island counter in the kitchen. "Here's hopin we have enough."

"That shit'll feed a whole village for weeks," Mo told Rip as he peeled the potatoes. "Here, you take over the potatoes."

"Yes chef, anything you say chef," Rip chuckled.

"(Y/n) you want anything while I'm in here?" Mo asked you.

"Um just a coffee if you don't mind," you answered. It wasn't long before the coffee was brewed and Evelyn began making grabby hands for her uncle.

"Alright, alright sweetpea you come with me," Mo said, lifting Evelyn from your arms.

You slipped into the kitchen to help your husband peel the potatoes, shuck the corn and get everything ready for when the family arrived. "Well," Rip said as he began chopping the onions. "Not as chaotic as I thought her first Thanksgiving would be."

"Just you wait," you warned him. "John, Thomas, Kayce and Monica will all come traipsing through that door with something freshly dead and throw it on the counter."

Rip laughed before he kissed you. "Happy Thanksgiving sweet thing."

"Happy Thanksgiving you big weirdo," you answered.

[tightjeansjavi]

blue jeans n’Texas dreams | part 13

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” 𓃗

Pre! Outbreak/no! Outbreak Joel × horseback riding instructor f!reader

A/N: it’s here finally. This is the longest chapter I have ever written for any of my fics. This chapter will make you swoon. It will make you laugh, cry, and feel. Horse dad! Joel and Clover are very special to me. Thank you for being patient, and happy reading.

~word count 13.3k (you heard that right!)

Summary: 4th of July weekend at Joel and Tommy’s family lake house proves to be one for the books. Summer lovin’ never felt so real. (and a pack of raccoons stealing your bra and panties)

Warnings: smut (protective p in v) fingering, oral (f receiving), dirty talk, teasing, filth, a little handjob action, reader has a size kink (if you squint) Joel is an ass man, skinny dipping, mentions of alcohol consumption, public sexual activity, fear of getting caught (but it’s a turn on) praise kink, heavy use of pet names, Joel has some serious horse dad! Rizz, riding it like a cowgirl on the kitchen floor, fluff, some angst, admittance of feelings, Joel talks you through it, soft! Joel, sweetie pie! Joel, sunshine reader, no physical description of reader, no use of y/n, readers nickname is clove/clover because you’re Joel’s lucky charm. Tommy being himself, Sarah showing support for her dad, Ellie exists in this universe and is Sarah’s best friend! (+18) minors dni!

blue jeans playlist:

“Remember, kiddo. Toes up, heels down and eyes forward. If you look down at Frankie’s head, he’s not gonna know where you want him to go. Try and look right between his ears and make sure he’s not cutting off those corners. Good job!” You praised Sarah as she confidently trotted Frankie along the rail. Her and Joel had just started taking joint riding lessons together, and Sarah was ecstatic that her dad wanted to learn with her.

“Joel, honey...”

“I know, I know. It’s my diagonal again ain’t it?” Joel responded gruffly, followed by a light huff. He was wearing the same hot pink leopard spotted helmet from the time you went on a trail ride together. He knew you loved how cute he looked in it so of course he'd have to wear it again, just for your enjoyment.

“Dad, all you need to do is remember to rise and fall with the leg on the wall, it’s easy!” Sarah chimed in as she trotted Frankie through the middle of the arena.

“Easy enough for you, sweet pea.” He bantered back as he eased Whiskey to a gentle halt alongside you and Ezra in the middle of the arena.

You glanced over at your boyfriend with a gentle smile as he reached down and gave Whiskey a light pat on his furry neck. “Are you just taking a breather cowboy?”

“Of course. Jus’ a quick one. Was hopin’ maybe I could get a quick kiss or somethin.’ I think it might really help me remember this whole diagonal stuff.” Joel glanced over at you with a teasing grin playing on his lips.

“Oh? You think it’ll help you remember? Well, in that case..” You trailed off. It was difficult to say no to your Texas tall glass of water, especially when he was looking at you with those big brown puppy dog eyes of his. “Alright. Just one little kiss. That’s all you get.”

“M’so lucky that I jus’ get a little one.” He chuckled warmly as he leaned over the saddle and pecked your lips softly.

“GROSS! Frankie, cover your eyes!” Sarah giggled, her nose scrunching up like a bunny’s nose does.

You couldn’t help but pull Joel in for one proper kiss before you playfully pushed him away. “Alright, you’ve had your kiss, now get your cute ass back on the rail mister! Whiskey has barely worked up a sweat! Get to it!” Your tone was playful and a little teasing as Joel gave you a playful salute in response. “Yes ma'am! Right away!”

When Joel and Sarah’s lesson was finished for the afternoon, they spent the next hour bathing and grooming Frankie and Whiskey before turning them out to the pasture. It was sweltering out under the blazing Texas sun and Joel found you sitting underneath a nearby apple tree close to the pasture fence. You were busy scribbling something down in your notebook. His boots were soft along the grass as he sank down alongside you with a soft grunt. His arm loosely draped across your shoulder as he pressed a light kiss to your sweaty temple. “How’s my girl doin’ today?” He rasped softly.

Your hand subconsciously drifted to his jaw where the pads of your fingers were lightly brushing across his beard. “Pretty good. It’s so fucking hot out though and I literally feel like i’m melting.” You laughed softly.

“Mhmm. Hotter than satan’s asshole, that’s for sure. You still look gorgeous as ever, even if you are meltin’ like an icecream cone left out in the sun, sprinkles and all. I’d still lick you–”

“Joel Miller.” You teasingly warned him.

“That’s yours truly. What’s the matter?”

“It’s too fucking hot for me to be getting horny. You can’t be talking about licking me up, Jesus christ.”

Joel laughed and it rumbled deep within his chest as he gave your shoulder a light squeeze. “Okay, okay. I’ll keep the suggestive commentary on the low, okay?”

“You’re too kind.”

“Speakin’ of the heat, do ya have any big plans for 4th of July weekend?” Joel asked casually, but definitely out of the blue.

You found yourself craning your neck upwards a little so that you had an easier time looking over at him. Your brow raised at the deliverance of his question. “No, I don’t have anything planned at the moment..probably just going to be in my apartment with takeout or something. Why do you ask?”

“Well, umm..I was wonderin’ if uh, maybe you’d like to come up to my Grandad's lake house? Tommy already went ahead and invited Ryder, and Sarah and her friend Ellie are comin’ up as well. I know maybe it's..sorta a big ask of ya? I’d just really love to spend the holiday weekend with you.”

The smile that slowly washed over your face was nearly contagious as your thumb gently swiped across his lower lip. “I’d love to spend 4th of July weekend with you Joel. That sounds like an incredibly fun time.”

“Tommy and I have been goin’ up there since we were kids. Grandad built it himself, and it's got all the rustic charm that you could ever dream of. Got a speed boat as well at the end of the dock, and innertubes as well. Nice big fire pit close to the water and a screened in porch. It’s like a little slice of heaven, y’know?”

“It sounds perfect, truly. I’ll ask Ryder if she wants to go and get a mani pedi with me. It’s been so long since I went on a vacation. I think the last time was in highschool..maybe?”

“I uh—can I pay for you to get your nails done? I know, I know. You got a thing about me not payin’ for ya, but let me treat you, okay?”

“Joooeeeel.” You let out a light huff as you leaned over and pecked his cheek affectionately. “Fine. You can pay for my nails under one condition, I want you to pick the color out.”

“Oh no no. Darlin,’ I ain’t equipped for that. I don’t know nothin’ about nail polish colors. Sarah’s painted mine about a dozen times, but she always picks the color out.”

“Baby, c’mon. It would make me oh so so happy if you picked the color. I want it to be a color that you like. Please?” You lightly fluttered your lashes at him.

Joel laughed, shaking his head slightly before he ultimately gave in. “Alright, I’ll pick out a color for ya, but in order for me to do so, I need ya to stay super still so that I can admire your beauty.”

“You’re such a dork.” You stifled a laugh as he was intently studying you, and your features. From the tone of your skin, to the color of your hair and eyes. He wanted to make sure he picked out the perfect color to compliment your features that he loved so dearly. “I’m thinkin’ any shade of blue. Maybe even a light blue or teal? I think that will compliment you very well, baby. Jus’ know that you can pull off any color regardless.”

“Hmm. Light blue, or teal? I think I can handle that. Any specific reason why you picked those colors?”

Joel looked over at you with a tender, soft smile. “Jus’ think those colors will really bring out the color of your eyes.”

Goddamn your Texas tall glass of water always being a total sweetheart.

“He offered to pay for your nails too? Goddamn girl. If that ain’t a man in love..” Ryder was sitting next to you in the pedicure chair while she flipped through the latest tabloid magazine.

“Ryder, don’t be ridiculous. We haven’t been together that long for him to feel about me that way. He did get all bashful when I asked him what color nail polish he’d like to see on me.” You looked over at your best friend with a small grin. “Then he proceeded to study my face as if I was the Mona Lisa or something.”

“Honeybun, that man is so fucking in love with you, I’m surprised he hasn’t fallen over his two feet just from you walking into the room. Babe, you are the Mona Lisa in his eyes.” Ryder reached over and gently gave your arm a squeeze.

“Just like you’re the Mona Lisa in Tommy’s eyes.” You shot her a playful wink.

“Speaking of our Miller men, what are you going to wear this weekend? Don’t you dare say whatever you have in your closet. I will drag your ass so fast to the nearest mall.” Ryder threatened you playfully.

“Ryder, you know I can’t stand the mall. Besides, I was just going to pack a few t-shirts and shorts and a bikini or two.”

“Nuh-uh we’re going shopping. We’re going to find you a bikini that was quite literally made for you. Joel’s going to take one look at ya and his brain is going short-circuit. Trust me on this one babe.”

“Okay, fine. We can go shopping. Just know that I’m only agreeing because I love you.” You leaned over the armrest of the chair and pecked Ryder’s cheek playfully.

“Damn, I think Tommy has some serious stacked competition now!” Ryder giggled as she leaned into your kiss.

The mall was surprisingly not as busy as you were expecting it to be. Ryder was already grabbing your hand and pulling you to the nearest summer wear store she could find. She grabbed numerous bikinis for you to try on before ushering you into the nearest dressing room.

“Are you sure it’s necessary for me to try every single one of these on Ry?”

“Babe, yes. We have to find the perfect one and it’s definitely in that pile that I gave you. So, how are you and your Texas tall glass of water?” You could picture Ryder wiggling her eyebrows suggestively through the otherside of the dressing room door.

“Pretty good. Him and Sarah are taking joint riding lessons together now. She’s totally kicking her dads ass when it comes to remembering to trot on the correct diagonal. He’s an absolute good sport though, and Whiskey seems to like him.”

“That’s so fucking cute that they’re both taking lessons now. Tommy and Callus get along pretty good as well. We should all go on a trail ride or something one of these days.”

“How about when we get back from this trip? We can pack a picnic too and make it an all day adventure.” You had just finished trying on the first bikini. It was a soft white color with ruffles, and enough coverage for it to still be family friendly.

Ryder looked up from her phone when you had slipped out past the dressing room door and gave her a little twirl. “Oh, babe! I love this one. How do you feel in it?”

“It’s super cute, and I’m a fan of the cut and the straps..just feel like it’s missing something y’know?”

“Absolutely. Well, there’s plenty more for you to try on so get your cute ass back in there!” She gave your hip a playful tap.

“Don’t mind me prying.” Ryder continued, “the last juicy details you gave me were when Joel went down on you. Anything else exciting happened since then?”

You could feel the heat rise to your cheeks as you adjusted the straps on the next bikini you were trying on. “We haven’t fucked yet. Ever since that whole incident with Logan, things haven’t progressed. Which is honestly totally okay with me. Is it bad that I’m hoping that maybe it’ll happen this weekend?”

“Oh girl, I bet he’s also hoping that it’s going to happen this weekend. Can’t say I blame him, you’re the entire package wrapped up with a pretty bow. If there’s ever a moment where you and Joel want to get some alone time, just holler for Tommy and I to watch Sarah and her friend. I think we can definitely keep our hands to ourselves for a few hours.”

“Fuck. Do you really think that he’s feeling that way too? I mean..I was going to bring a few condoms regardless. I just also don’t want to rush him, or make him feel like he’s pressured to have sex with me.”

“Babe, I bet he and Tommy have already discussed it. Hell, they probably are talking about it right now. I don’t think you could ever make that man feel pressured to do something, hun. You’re the sweetest person I know, and you’re both so considerate of one another’s feelings. My best advice to you is to just go with the flow. If it happens, it happens. I’m definitely rooting for y’all regardless.”

“Yeah, we both are really considerate of one another’s feelings. He’s just—he’s so sweet. He’s so patient and honestly I’m still getting used to being in a healthy and stable relationship. I wake up everyday not worrying about where or who he’s been with. He respects me and my horses. He’s amazing with his daughter. He’s—”

“Babe, are you sure that you’re not in love?” Ryder asked with a raise of her brow. “You sound like a woman madly in love. I’m just so happy that you’ve found a man that treats you so well. After everything you’ve been through, you deserve it.”

“Okay, maybe I’m just a little in love. Just a tad. Just an itty bit in love.” You checked out your appearance in the mirror. You liked the way this bikini accentuated your body. You liked the color and the multicolored flowers scattered about the fabric. It was perfect, and you couldn’t wait to see Joel’s reaction when he would see you in it.

“Oh my god, that’s it! That’s the one! Oh, you look so so beautiful!” Ryder gushed as you stepped out of the dressing room.

Before the day was up, you couldn’t help but text your boyfriend about trying on bikinis, and how excited you were for the long and fun weekend ahead.

Hey, handsome. Wait until you see the bikini I got today ;)

Joel was out to dinner with Tommy and Sarah at the local diner when he saw your text. He couldn’t help the rosy shade that washed over his cheeks. It made him feel like he was back in highschool, with his first crush and all the giddy feelings that came along with it.

Yeah? I can’t wait to see it and take it off of you, baby ;)

“What’s got you smilin’ at your phone like a love struck fool Joel?” Tommy asked curiously from across the table.

“S’nothin. Jus’ my girl askin’ me how my day went.”

Tommy couldn’t help the smirk that spread across his lips that were resting along the rim of his beer bottle. “Mhm. I’m sure it was just that.”

When Joel got home later that evening and Sarah was tucked away in her room, he found himself sinking down onto the comforter with a heavy sigh. It was an incredibly long day on the job. His back ached, and his feet and calves were sore, but then he thought back to your text from earlier, and a sudden confidence washed over him as he laid there. He pulled his phone out of his pocket before grasping his belt and pulled it loose as he shimmied his jeans down his legs and kicked them off to the side. He scooted himself back against the pillows for leverage. His thoughts drifted to you as he used his teeth to hold the hem of his t-shirt up so that you’d be able to see his happy trail and abdomen. It didn’t take long for him to get hard as he imagined just how fucking amazing you were going to look in a bikini. His freehand reached for his phone and he quickly snapped a picture with his boxers visible and just the bottom of his face where you could see his teeth holding up his shirt.

He sent the image to you along with the words,

for u ;)

You had just gotten back to your apartment when your phone buzzed in the cup holder. The last thing you were expecting was for your boyfriend to send you a very cheeky photo of himself in his boxers. You stared at the message and the photo for a good couple of minutes before typing back,

That’s not fair :( I wanna see your handsome face dammit

Okay, I won’t lie. I am incredibly turned on right now.

Look at you being all cheeky ;)

I like this side of you, Miller. Can’t wait to see more of it x.

Joel was already in the shower while you had innocently blown up his messages. He may, or may not have tugged one out while moaning your name under his breath while his palm was resting flat against the shower wall. His free hand was wrapped firmly around the base of his hardened cock. Everytime he twisted his wrist and dragged his thumb across his leaking tip, he thought about you. He took his lower lip harshly between his teeth as his lashes fluttered shut. Who knew he could be a little naughty.

When he got out of the shower he wrapped a towel loosely around his hips as he grabbed his phone from the countertop. He eagerly checked to see if you had responded to his picture, and he couldn’t help but let a chuckle slip past his lips as he read your messages.

He sent you another photo, this one was a selfie of him in the steamy shower mirror. His hair was damp and curly and the towel was just barely hanging onto his hips. God, did he look so handsome.

Is this better? ;) his message read.

Much better x. You responded back.

Friday morning had rolled around in a flash and Joel was in his room checking to make sure that he had grabbed everything he needed for the weekend ahead. He almost didn’t catch the glaring obvious box of condoms sitting on the top of his opened weekend duffel. Not only were there condoms, but there were also handcuffs..and lube? “God fuckin’ dammit Tommy.” The older Miller brother muttered under his breath. He pinched the bridge of his nose between his fingers with a shake of his head when he found Tommy’s note under his generous gifts.

Here’s to you getting laid this weekend big brother ;) xoxo -Tommy

Joel stuffed everything back into his bag before he zipped it up and tossed it over his shoulder. “Hey Sarah, Kiddo? You almost ready?”

“Yeah! Just gotta grab the snacks from the pantry and then I’m good to go!” Sarah responded from down the hall.

Joel reached for his phone that was resting along the nightstand. He checked the time before sending you a quick text while he slipped past his bedroom door.

Hey darlin, heading out shortly. Gotta go pick up Sarah’s friend, and then we’re gonna stop at a Starbucks before picking you up. Can’t wait to see you x.

When you heard the familiar sound of heavy truck wheels rolling into your otherwise quiet parking lot, you quite literally raced out of your little apartment, weekend back strung over your shoulder as you excitedly descended down the old metal staircase. There was no reason for you to hide your genuine excitement to spend the weekend with Joel, his family, and your best friend.

Joel tipped his sunglasses down over his nose as he watched you gleefully run down the steps. His lips curved up into a grin when he saw that you were wearing a simple yet pretty sundress. It was light yellow with little flowers scattered throughout the flowing fabric. What he really zoned in on was your smile. It was the brightest he had ever seen it, all teeth with your eyes crinkling in the corners. You were beautiful, and Joel was a man truly, madly, and deeply in love.

“Oooh so that’s your old man’s girlfriend?” Ellie was grinning from ear to ear in the backseat where she was seated next to Sarah. “Hey, Mr. Miller? How the hell did your ugly mug end up with that?” She teasingly asked.

Ellie was like family to both Joel and Sarah and she was as much of a little trickster, as she was a sweetheart. It was no wonder that her and Sarah became best friends one day on the playground back in kindergarten.

“Kid, I actually have no clue how I ended up with someone as beautiful as her. I’ll let ya know as soon as I figure it out, Kay?” He shot the two girls a little wink before he slipped out of the driver's seat to meet you just outside at the front of his truck.

“Christ almighty. Ain’t you just a sight for sore eyes? That is one hell of a dress, and one hell of a woman wearin’ it.” Joel lowly whistled as he pulled you in for a hug, lifting you off the ground slightly as he inhaled the sweet smelling perfume that you were wearing.

“Hey handsome, happy to see me?” You looped your arms loosely around his neck as he stole a quick kiss from your lips.

“Happiest goddamn man alive. He pecked your cheek sweetly as he set you back down onto the pavement. “Lemme take that for ya. Latte’s waitin’ for ya in the cup holder. Sarah loaded up on snacks as well.” He slipped your overnight bag off of your shoulder, ushering you to the passenger door with a light tap to your ass that had you looking over your shoulder at him with a soft giggle.

“Oh wow, so he’s like really in love with her huh?” Ellie asked as her and Sarah watched the way you and Joel embraced without a care in the world.

“This is truly the happiest I have ever seen my dad. She’s so freaking cool too. I’m just so happy that he finally has someone, El.”

Joel had safely secured your duffel bag along with the rest of the luggage in the bed of his truck. He had one more surprise for you in the glove box and it was a certain CD that he just knew would bring a smile to your face.

Once you were situated in the passenger seat you said your hellos to Sarah and Bella as you buckled in.

“Open the glove box f’me doll.” Joel softly requested as he started the ignition.

With a curious raise of your brow you popped open the glove box where you found Spirit Stallion Of The Cimarron soundtrack CD.

“Oh my god, did you really? Joel! Are you sure you’re ready for what you’ve just signed yourself up for? Sarah and I know all the words to every song.” You leaned over the center console pressing a soft kiss to his cheek as you took the CD out and slipped it into the slot.

“Baby, I think you’re forgettin’ that I also know all of the words. The soundtrack, as Sarah says, is bumpin’ and I gotta agree. Bryan Adams is a genius.” He toggled with the volume when soundtrack #1 Here I Am crackled through the old speakers.

Here I am, this is me

There’s nowhere else on earth I’d rather be

Here I am, it’s just me and you

Tonight we make our dreams come true

For the entirety of the drive it was filled with laughter, singing and Ellie’s shitty puns book that she took with her everywhere.

Joel and Tommy’s family lake house was everything you imagined it to be, and more. It was nestled between a grouping of pine trees overlooking the shimmering water below. It has a long wooden dock leading down to the water's edge. There was a stone path off to the left leading to a fire pit surrounded by handmade chairs with peeling chipped paint. They were obviously well loved and you couldn’t help but imagine a very young Joel Miller sitting on his granddad’s lap with marshmallow fluff and chocolate smeared all over his face.

At the end of the dock was a decent sized speed boat covered with a thick blue tarp. Adjacent to the boat was a pair of Yamaha Jet Skis.

Ellie and Sarah wasted no time to grab their bags from the bed of the truck and set them down before they raced to the dock, their girlish giggles filling the air as Joel hollered after them to not go into the water without an adult present.

“I’m surprised that Tommy and Ryder aren’t the first ones here.” You remarked as Joel handed you your bag.

“I ain’t that surprised. They probably ended up stoppin’ for gas or somethin.’ Maybe a little more than just gas, huh?” He wiggled his eyebrows at you suggestively as he hauled out two cases of beer.

You playfully swatted his shoulder with a teasing smile. “You think they fucked in a gas station bathroom?”

“Wouldn’t put it past ‘em. Especially Tommy. He’ll fuck just about anywhere. Pretty sure I found a cum stain on the passenger seat in his truck the last time I was in it. Haven’t been in there since.” He hopped down from the bed of the truck and slammed it shut.

“and..what about us?” It was bold to ask but after Joel had sent you those pictures..you couldn’t stop thinking about it since.

“Us fuckin?’” He finished the sentence for you and all you could pay attention to was the way his voice dipped down an octave and his Texas drawl grew thicker. He was standing close to you now, hands slowly clasping around your cheeks as his cinnamon brown eyes bore into yours. “Baby, of course we will. We got all night to get into those shenanigans, okay?”

His close proximity, his tan biceps, lingering aroma of cologne, mixed in with his suggestive verbiage had your mind spinning as you wasted no time to close barely-there gap between you. Your lips slotted together as his hands dropped from your cheeks and found purchase around your waist, bunching the fabric of your dress between his fingers—

BEEP BEEP BEEP

Fucking Tommy.

“Well, I’ll be damned! Don’t y’all go’n stop on our account!” Tommy whistled from the open window of his truck.

Joel loosened his grip around the fabric of your dress as his lips detached from yours. With one hand on your ass and the other with his middle finger angled high in the air, you just knew that this weekend was most definitely going to be one for the books. “Show ain’t for free! Y’all gotta pay up!” His voice vibrated warmly up your chest.

“Pay up?! Hell no brother! Ain’t payin’ you shit!” Tommy hopped out of his truck.

“C’mon.” He whispered against the shell of your ear. “Wanna give you a tour of the house before these two try’n ruin it. Last stop will be our room.” He drawled out ‘our room’ with almost a low purr that sent shivers trickling down your spine.

You caught Ryder's knowing wink from the passenger door as Joel steered you towards the front door, his arm securely fastened around your waist as if he was stuck to you like glue.

The house was rustic and homey. You could tell right off the bat that Joel’s grandparents were maximalist’s by their decorating style. Handwoven quilts laid perfectly across the arm rest of the dark teal couch. There were photographs of Joel, Tommy scattered about. There were quite a few of Joel and Sarah as well. The kitchen was dated, yet charming but you didn’t pick up on most of the details because Joel was already pulling you up the staircase to the room in the house that had the best view of the lake. “Gotta be quick when pickin’ out a room. Tommy usually always snags this one but not this time.” He closed the door softly behind you with a light click.

You could already feel the excitement pooling deep within the pits of your tummy and between your thighs as your eyes landed on the fairly large bed pressed up against the wall. “I see why you picked it. The view is amazing..”

“It is quite a beautiful view indeed.” He wasn’t talking about the lake of course. He was talking about you.

You could feel his warm presence coming up behind you, strong arms winding around your body as he pulled you flush against his chest where you could feel his rhythmic heartbeat skip a beat. His hands splayed across your hips scrunching up the fabric of your dress once more. All he had to do was dip his fingers a little lower..

“Joel?”

“Yeah baby?”

“How long do you think we have till they come looking for us?”

“Ten minutes tops. Why? You got somethin’ mind?” His lips were brushing against the exposed skin of your shoulder, pressing soft kisses against your warm skin. His teeth playfully nibbled on the strap of your dress as he dragged it down slowly, listening to your harsh intake of a jagged breath as your back arched into his broad chest.

“How fast do you think you can make me cum?” You whispered through the thick growing tension that coated the air in an aroused filled haze.

“You challengin’ me? 5 minutes tops. Maybe even a little less. S’Nice that you’re wearin’ somethin’ accessible. It’s so easy for me to just..” he slowly dragged his hand down your stomach feeling you clench inwards as his fingers dipped under the fabric of your dress and brushed over your covered core where he could feel the damp patch growing through the thin fabric of your panties. “Y’want my fingers or tongue? Can getcha off either way my dear.” He purred.

“Fingers. I want to see what you’re really made of, Miller.”

“Think that’s a challenge I’m willin’ to participate in. Just need’ya to relax. Spread your legs a little f’me. Use my chest for support. Atta’ girl.” He praised you as his thumb hooked along the side of your panties and pulled them aside. “What’s gotten you so riled up, hmm?” He dragged his fingers slowly through your sticky wet puffy lips, gathering up your arousal as he played with you.

“Y-you. You’ve gotten me so riled up the second we got here.” You stammered as one of your hands braced itself against his strong thigh.

“Me? Mmm. Anythin’ in particular that I did to get you so fuckin’ horny? Surprised you ain’t fuckin’ my hand already. You’re absolutely drippin’ for me baby. Y’want two fingers or one?” His thumb brushed across your sensitive, needy clit and your knees nearly buckled.

“Your confidence really gets me off. I love it when you act so sure of yourself. It’s fucking sexy as hell. Two, please.” Your nails lightly dug into his thigh as you braced yourself against his chest.

“You’re so fuckin’ sweet n’filthy. How’d a man ever get so lucky?” He nibbled along your shoulder as he easily slipped two fingers inside of your sopping wet hole while his thumb worked your clit in expert tight circles. “Y’gonna let me hear those pretty noises that y’make baby? I love hearin’ ‘em.” He flicked his wrist slowly as he curled his fingers in a come hither motion.

Your eyes languidly rolled back into your skull as a whimper slipped past your parted lips. Getting fingered by a man never was an enjoyable experience until you met Joel Miller. He just seemed to know exactly how to work you into a putty at his feet with a literal flick of his wrist. “Fuck me. That feels..hnngh..so fucking good baby.”

“Tonight, baby. I promise. Y’gonna ride it like a cowgirl?” He chuckled against your skin as his free hand tightened its grip around your middle, holding you in place against him. His presence and grip on you was deliciously overwhelming. Your hips bucked up against his hand as his fingers ruined you into oblivion. It was almost embarrassing how quickly your Texas tall glass of water coaxed an orgasm out of you. Your little whimpers and mewls egged him on and created an uncomfortable tightness in his cut off shorts as he slipped his now glistening fingers out of you.

You could faintly hear Tommy and Ryder calling you just down the stairs as your body settled into a post-orgasm daze. Your eyes flitted down to his fingers coated in your cum and much to his and your own surprise you grabbed his wrist and brought his fingers to your awaiting mouth.

He let out a guttural grunt deep within his chest when your warm lips wrapped around his fingers and licked them completely clean and soon he had you pressed against the door, lips fervently pressing to yours so he could get a proper taste himself.

“I’m going to do more than just ride it, Cowboy.” You mumbled against his lips as he caged you against the door.

“I ain’t gonna doubt that for a second baby. Why don’t ya freshen up and get changed. We’re gonna go out on a boat soon. The girls are gonna wanna go tubing. You up for it?”

“I’m up for anything and anything.” You were quick to respond.

“That you are my girl. That you are.”

Joel and Tommy had just finished removing the heavy duty tarp from the speedboat while Sarah and Ellie were swimming along the shoreline where both Joel and Tommy could keep an eye on the girls. You could never be too careful.

Ryder had found you shortly after Joel had left the bedroom and she barely got a word in before you told her what just went down. You giggled about it like two little school girls as you changed into your bikinis. Your skin was still tingling from Joel’s touch as you slipped your little woven cover up skirt over your bottoms. You slipped one of Joel’s baseball caps over your head along with a pair of sunglasses and flip flops.

On your way down to the dock you each grabbed a beer from the stacked fridge in the kitchen. There on the fridge you noticed a photo of a younger Joel, holding a very very tiny Sarah and a woman next to him that you easily figured out was Sarah’s mom. He looked to be in his early 20’s, with the same boyish grin on his face that you had fallen so hard for. He was beaming like a proud father in stark contrast to the facial expression of Sarah’s mom in the photo.

Joel was a good father, and a good man. You couldn’t imagine why anyone would ever think to leave him and Sarah like that. For this reason you hoped you’d never meet his ex-wife.

Joel and Tommy were too busy making sure that the boat was up and running when you and Ryder descended down the dock. Tommy had noticed first and he gave Joel a light thwack on the head eliciting a grumble from the older Miller brother before he too looked up. His jaw just nearly dropped to the floor when he saw you in your bikini matched with your smile that could light up even the darkest of places.

“Hey, Miller? You keep your mouth open like that and you’re gonna catch flies!” You teasingly spoke.

Sarah and Ellie both giggled at your comment and Joel playfully narrowed his eyes on them. “Y’kids wanna get your life jackets on? Tommy is gonna finish hookin’ up the inner tubes and then we’ll be all good to go!” He shot you a wink as he offered you his hand to help you onto the boat.

You graciously took his hand as he barely broke a sweat on lifting you onto the vessel. You couldn’t help but imagine what other ways he could lift—

“Cat got your tongue darlin?’” He questioned suggestively.

“Can’t say it in front of the kiddos I’m afraid.” You gave his cheek a loving pat as you slipped past him and plopped down on one of the seat cushions, tipping the rim of the beer bottle back against your lips as you took a sip.

Tommy helped Ryder on in a similar fashion as Sarah and Ellie climbed onto the inner tubes attached to the back of the boat. Joel being the father he asked both girls to check to make sure their life jackets were secured and once he was satisfied, he gave Tommy the thumbs up to start driving.

“Hey, uncle Tommy?” Sarah asked as she gripped onto the Velcro straps along the tube. “Can we go faster than we did last time? Pretty please?”

“How fast are we talkin’ kiddo? Y’know your dad is a bit of a sour puss with this stuff.” Tommy chuckled from the driver's seat of the boat.

“Dad? Pleaseeee can we go super fast? I’ll even help with the dishes after dinner!”

“Kiddo, you’re on vacation. Just have fun, okay? Hold on tight. You girls have sunscreen on..right?”

“Yes dad!” Sarah quickly responded. “Yes we do Mr. Miller!” Ellie followed.

They did not in fact have sunscreen on as Tommy revved the engine up.

A few fast circles along the lake was all it took for the girls to go toppling into the water with excited screams. It looked like they were having an absolute blast back there and you wanted in on the fun. Joel was sitting alongside you, his arm draped along your shoulders with his head tilted back and soaking in the sun's rays. He’d take an occasional few sips from your beer as he knew you weren’t much of a drinker yourself. “You wanna go out for a spin? It’s as fun as the kids are making it look. Trust me. Tommy and I always had a blast out here as kids. Grandad always made it his personal mission to knock us off the innertube.”

“Let’s do it.” You responded with a grin as you were already hopping up from your seat. Ellie and Sarah had just swam back to the boat and successfully climbed back on. They were all smiles.

“Are you and dad going on it? Can I join you guys?” Sarah squinted up at you through the bright rays of the sun.

“Of course you can kiddo!”

Joel couldn’t help but feel the warmthness in his heart burst when Sarah had asked if she could join the two of you. Even more so when you had helped her back into the water with the utmost care. You were more of a mother figure to Sarah than you possibly knew.

Once the three of you were situated on the innertube with Sarah securely in the middle of you and Joel, Tommy sped off with no warning given as you let out a surprised scream, gripping onto the handles for dear life.

Ryder had managed to sneak a photo of the three of you on her Polaroid camera looking like the happiest bunch just before Tommy took off like a speed devil.

Hours of fun on the lake proved to be tiresome for the two young girls and by 4pm they were pooped. Sarah had fallen asleep against your shoulder at one point with her arms wrapped around you loosely. Once the boat had been parked alongside the dock, Joel carefully lifted Sarah into his arms, kissing the top of her damp head. “I’m gonna bring her inside and then start prepping for dinner. Would you like to join me?” Joel asked you softly.

“Of course. I’d love to.”

A small crooked smile graced his face at your response as he carefully climbed off the boat. An equally exhausted Ellie followed after him back towards the house. Joel helped both Ellie and Sarah out of their life jackets and hung them outside on the porch to dry. Once both girls were tucked away in the bunk room, he padded down the hall to the kitchen just as the porch door creaked open.

“Hey, Tommy and Ryder said they’re gonna take the jet skis out for a bit so it’s just you and me. What’re we cooking, good looking.”

“You’re adorable. I was thinking chicken, roasted potatoes and a few veggie sides for the herbivore?” He softly teased as he opened the fridge.

“You mean the veggie-saurus? That all sounds delicious. You’ll have to show me around the kitchen baby. Y’know, since we got a little preoccupied earlier.”

“The cutest veggie-saurus there ever was. Oh, we got preoccupied alright.” He chuckled as he set out bags of produce along the counter. “Stove can be a little wonky at times, but we do have a perfectly workin’ grill outside. Y’know if you wanna see your man in his element grillin’ shirtless.” He playfully bumped his hips with yours. “Cutting boards are in this cabinet and we got all kinds of prep bowls and stuff like that. Knives are to your left.”

“I think the grill is the logical choice here. Any excuse to see you shirtless is a good one. How do you feel about some roasted asparagus with parmesan and garlic along with the potatoes, and then a good old hearty salad? I make a really mean vinaigrette.”

“How do I feel about that? My tummy is rumblin’ already. You sure know the way to a man’s heart huh?”

“Through his stomach and his—”

Joel silenced you with a chaste kiss to your lips as his arms wound around your waste. “Keep that dirty talk up and I’m gonna say fuck the dinner, and I’ll just eat ya instead.” He grumbled.

“Nuh uh. You are not missing out on my vinaigrette.” You kissed him back with a grin plastered on your lips.

“Then I suggest we get cookin, good lookin.’” He swatted your ass playfully before pulling away from the kiss.

A comfortable silence fell upon you and Joel as he prepped the chicken while you prepped the vegetables. Through the open window in the kitchen you could hear Tommy and Ryder’s laughter echoing over the lake as they raced one another on jet skis. You could hear birds chirping and squirrels chattering in the trees above. It was both peaceful and stimulating. The purest form of dopamine you could grasp your pretty hands around.

The soft crackle of a record player tore you from your sweet internal bliss. You were so at peace that you hadn’t realized that Joel had departed from your side, and was digging through his granddad’s old records in the family room before choosing one. It was Elvis Presley, Can’t Help Falling in Love. A true classic.

The needle slowly fell upon the record with a soft hum as Joel padded over to you. The knife currently grasped in your hand to chop vegetables, was gently removed and replaced with his warm palm clasped around yours. The sun had slowly begun to descend from the sky creating a warm orange-pink hue through the billowing curtains along the kitchen window. A wordless exchange as Joel gently pulled you into his chest and slowly swayed you. His forehead was lightly pressed against your own, eyes soft in the early evening light.

Wise men say

Only fools rush in

But I can’t help falling in love with you..

The moment was interrupted when Tommy and Ryder came in through the porch door rather loudly. They were in love, and you and Joel couldn’t be mad if you tried.

Elvis continued to serenade you as you returned to your prepping duties. “Joel?”

“Yeah honey?”

“How old were you when you had Sarah?..” it was a question on your mind since you had seen the photo of him, Sarah and his ex-wife on the fridge.

“I was twenty-two at the time. Only a couple years out of highschool. Sarah’s mom and I were already married. My graduation day was also my wedding day, and that picture was taken up here. It was Sarah’s first time up at the lake house. Shortly after that is when her mom left us. Left me feeling pretty confused if I’m being honest. As far as I was aware, we were pretty happy.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to pry or anything. We don’t have to talk about it if you don’t feel comfortable doing so, okay?” You reached over with your freehand and gave his bicep a light reassuring squeeze.

“S’alright. I don’t mind talkin’ about it with you. It’s a part of me that I think you should know. Anyway, I was young and naive back in the day. I didn’t realize that she was pretty miserable and resentful till it was too late. It was devastating to come home to an empty house one day. I loved her, y’know? I was ready to drop everything to raise our daughter together. She was gone, and I had to grow up overnight for Sarah. Went through the 5 stages of grief all at once. Thank god Tommy was there to pick me back up.”

“I can only imagine how devastating that must have been. I know you loved her, and it’s disappointing that she didn’t respect you enough to at least tell you that she was not happy in the marriage, or as a mother. That’s the part that breaks my heart the most because you’re such a wonderful father, and man. You do everything for your daughter and I pity your ex-wife for that reason.”

“Part of me wishes that she could see just how well Sarah and I have been doing. That I wasn’t going to end up like a deadbeat father struggling to make ends meet. I’d never wish ill upon her, and I genuinely hope that she found her own happiness. If it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t have Sarah. I wouldn’t be a father and who knows, maybe I would have never met someone as wonderful as you.”

“You don’t wish ill upon her because you’re a good person, Joel. You have a pure heart and you deserve all the happiness in the world. I hope you never forget that okay? You mean a lot to me, and I’m so happy that I’m here with you.”

“Are you choppin’ onions right now? Is that why my eyes are waterin’? Goddamn you and your sweet angelic soul.” He chuckled through his tears brimming over his waterline. He sniffled a little as he wiped his eyes on the sleeve of his shirt. “Y’know Sarah really likes you. Always goin’ on about you and when I’m going to see you next. You—you don’t even realize it darlin’, but you complete our little family. You just nestled yourself into my heart, and hers without even tryin.’”

You couldn’t stop your own tears from spilling over as you found yourself embracing him tightly with your arms wrapped around his middle and cheek pressed against his chest. “I’ve never thought of myself..ever being a mom, but I love that kid as if she were my own.” You mumbled softly against the well-loved fabric of his t-shirt.

I love you so much

The words were trapped in his throat as he hugged you tightly to his chest with his chin resting along the top of your head.

Dinner was enjoyed out on the back porch table, and your grilled asparagus with parmesan and garlic was the hit of the night. When you and Ryder attempted to do the dishes and clean up the dishes, your men were ushering you outside with the girls to catch fireflies instead. It was the bare minimum, but absolutely mouthwateringly attractive for your two Texas gentlemen to insist on doing the dishes themselves.

The four of you were down along the dock under millions of twinkling stars. Sarah had her childhood firefly lamp looped around her wrist. The base of it had all kinds of stickers on it. Some of them were faded and torn but it was a memory of her childhood only being filled with happiness and love.

“I love her, Tommy. I really fuckin’ love that woman out there.” Joel announced as clear as day while he was drying off the dishes that Tommy had washed alongside him.

“I know you do, brother. I know. When are you gonna tell her? If you..haven’t already?”

“Tonight. I’m going to tell her tonight. After we roast marshmallows, and the girls go to bed. Would you and Ryder maybe mind givin’ us some alone time later?..”

“Of course. We won’t mind at all. I think we’re more than capable of creating our own entertainment.” Tommy responded with a wink. “She wants me to teach her how to play poker and backgammon. Who am I to deny my lady her wishes?”

“Regular poker..or strip poker?” Joel asked with a tiny grin.

“Regular poker to start, but a little strip poker never hurt anyone. What are you and your girl gonna do?”

“I think I’m gonna ask her if she wants to go skinny dippin.’”

“‘Atta boy.” Tommy clapped him on the shoulder with a wolfish grin.

Joel was torn away from his present naughty thoughts when Sarah rushed into the kitchen with her lantern in hand. “Dad! Dad! I caught sooo many fireflies! You gotta come see! We saw a baby fawn with its mom too! It walked out right in front of us and you totally missed it!”

“Woah, how many fireflies are we talking here kiddo?” He hung up the dish towel as he slipped past his brother and carefully took the lantern from his daughter's hands. “Wow! There’s gotta be hundreds in there! You wanna help uncle Tommy grab the stuff for the s’mores? Old man’s gotta go chop some wood for the fire.” He handed her the lantern back with a soft kiss to the top of her head.

“There’s millions more out there! I’ve never seen so many!” She beamed up at her father. “I have to let these little guys go and then I’ll help uncle Tommy!” She raced back outside before he could get another word in.

“Now that’s a happy kid if I’ve ever seen one.”

Tommy had already grabbed the bag of marshmallows, Hershey bars and graham crackers from the pantry.

“Yeah, she is pretty happy huh? Hope she’s always happy like this.”

You and Ryder took equal pleasure in watching Joel and Tommy chop down firewood with their equally rugged hands. Even in the lowlight you could see the muscles rippling in Joel’s back from each heavy swing of the ax.

“What’re you gals looking at?” Sarah and Ellie asked in unison as they plopped down in the wood chips. Both girls had mud on their knees and arms as they had opted to catch frogs now instead of fireflies.

“You’ll understand when you’re older.” Ryder responded with a small smile.

“What is she talking about?” Ellie whispered to Sarah with a light giggle.

“I think they’re checking my dad and uncle out. Y’know, girly stuff.”

“That’s so gross.”

Once the wood was properly chopped, Joel and Tommy used their boy scout’s knowledge to produce the perfect marshmallow roasting fire. In the meantime, Joel headed inside to grab a hoodie and his guitar from his room before he returned to his seat next to you. When he saw that you had a bit of stray chocolate and marshmallow fluff on the corner of your lips, he reached over and swiped it away with his thumb sucking the sticky sweetness into his mouth.

You visibly swallowed hard at the innocent gesture.

Goddamn him.

As more marshmallows were roasted, Joel began to mindlessly thrum his fingers along the strings of his guitar. It had been some time since he played, but it was just like riding a bike. “What’ll it be tonight folks? Somethin’ old, or somethin’ new?”

“It would be downright un-American if you didn’t start with Take Me Home, Country Roads, Dad.”

“Country Roads it is!” Joel started to play the old familiar tune, tapping his foot to the beat and lightly bobbing his head.

The entire time he was playing the guitar, you watched him with subtle softness in your gaze. You loved this man with everything your being possessed. Tonight, you were going to tell Joel exactly how you felt. You were going to tell Joel Miller you loved him.

More laughter and songs were shared as the fire began to die down and you and Joel could equally feel the electric anticipation that swirled between you. It bounced off your shoulders like ping pong balls. It shimmered like the brightly twinkling stars in the dark milky sky above.

Ellie and Sarah both let out an unenthusiastic groan when Joel announced it was their bedtime. He told you to wait up for him while he put the girls to bed. After tucking Ellie in, and then Sarah, Joel was stopped by his daughter's hand reaching out and gently wrapping around his wrist. “Dad?..”

“Yes, sweet pea?”

“Are you going to tell her?”

“Tell her what?”

“Are you going to tell her that you love her? I know she does. She’s just too nervous to say it outloud, but I see it in the way she looks at you when you aren’t paying attention.”

Joel slowly crouched down so he could be at Sarah’s level. His knees cracked and his back felt strained but he didn’t care. “Of course I am going to tell her, sweetie. I’m tellin’ her tonight, I promise. Get some sleep, okay? Sweet dreams babygirl.” He kissed the top of her head, smoothing her curls down softly with his freehand.

“Good. I’m glad that you are. I love you, dad. I’m so happy that you’ve found someone.”

“I love you too sweet pea. Love you so so much. Don’t you go lettin’ them bed bugs bite either.” He kissed her head once more before standing up. “You too El. Sleep tight kiddo.”

“G’night Mr. Miller..or should I say lover boy?” Ellie said with a giggle.

“You’re a goofball. Now I’m serious, girls. Lights out. You’ve both had a very long and fun day.”

“Daaaad. We get it. Go and tell her that you love her!” Sarah swatted at him playfully.

“Alright, alright. I’m goin.’ See ya kids in the mornin.’” Joel quietly shut the room to their bunk room closed. On his way out the porch door he bid Ryder and Tommy a good night, swallowing the lump that was beginning to grow in his throat as he walked back to the fire pit.

“Was beginning to think you had ditched me.” You leaned your head back gently against the headrest on the chair as you looked over at him.

“Me? Ditch ya? Never baby. Everyone’s gone to bed for the night. It’s just you and me now..how do ya feel about doin’ a little skinny dippin?’”

“Sounds like a fucking fun time to me.” You responded with a lopsided almost devilish grin. “Race ya down to the dock?”

“You’re on, baby.” Joel was already peeling his hoodie over his head as you raced past him yanking your own hoodie off and dropping it with a playful giggle. Your t-shirt was next as the wooden dock creaked and groaned as you ran across it. Soon you were just down to your panties with your bra discarded at your feet. The air was a little chilly and your soft nipples immediately pebbled from the sensation as you shimmied your panties down.

“Don’t ya go and pussy out on me!” Joel yelled from a short distance behind. “I will not hesitate to toss your ass in!” He was slightly out of breath as he struggled to pull his shorts down without eating ass in the process. You had made it look so damn easy.

“Oh, shut up old man!” You giggled.

“Who the hell are ya callin’ old? Thirty-four years old you little shit!” He tossed his shorts to the side muttering about how maybe it was too cold to be doing something as frivolous as this. “Shouldn’t we have grabbed towels!”

“That’s pretty old to me! Hey, it was your genius idea to go skinny dipping cowboy!”

“Oh, that’s it. You’re fuckin’ toast sweetheart!” Joel had grabbed ahold of you just as you were about to dive in. He lifted you up with practiced ease before he jumped into the lake with you secured to him.

“Joel Miller—” you were cut off as your body hit the water with a big splash. Fuck, was it cold. You resurfaced with a squeal as you proceeded to splash him.

“It is fucking freezing in here you asshole! My tits are going to freeze off! I swear, they make this shit look way more romantic in the movies!”

Joel resurfaced shortly after you, shaking the water from his hair and he held his hands up in defense as you splashed him. “Hey! I ain’t ever said it was gonna be warm!” He laughed. “How is this not romantic? We’ve got the stars and the moon and okay, my balls are probably gonna freeze off. Gosh darn it! You got any idea how fuckin’ pretty you look with the moonlight kissin’ your skin like that? So pretty. Y’gnna keep splashin’ me or come over here for a kiss?”

You were swimming over to him before he could utter another word as your arms comfortably looped around his neck while his arms wrapped around your waist, pulling you in close as you instinctively caged your thighs around his hips. “What was that about coming over here for a kiss?” Your fingers lightly twirled the wet strands of hair resting along the nape of his neck.

“You mean this kiss?” Joel whispered, his nose lightly brushing against yours as his lips found their home. His hands found purchase around your thighs as he squeezed them gently, kneading the soft flesh through the water.

Your eyes fluttered shut as you kissed him deeply, lips moving in sync as your chest were flushed tightly together. He could feel your pebbled nipples against his skin. Your lips detached only for him to brush them down your jaw, nipping lightly at the skin as they descended southwards. You tilted your head to the side, granting his mouth easier access as he peppered kisses down your throat, dragging his tongue between the valley of your breasts—

“What the fuck was that?” Whispered as something brushed up against your ankle.

“What was what?”

“Something fucking touched me and it felt slimey—”

“Probably was a fish or somethin.’ We are in a lake after all, honey.” He teasingly remarked.

“What if it was a snake?”

“Honey, I doubt it was a snake. Probably just a fish or maybe even some seaweed—” he felt it now too. “Maybe we..get out now?”

“Yeah, I think that’s a good idea.” You pressed one last kiss to his lips before slipping out his arms and quickly swam back to the dock. He was right behind you, gently lifting you up before he pulled himself over the edge with a huff.

The two of you sat side by side on the dock still completely bare. His arm gently wrapped around you as he pulled you against his side. “Sarah’s birthday is comin’ up soon n’a couple weeks. I’ve taken some extra jobs with Tommy to make a little more money. I’m a little worried that she’s gettin’ too attached to Frankie, so I’ve decided I’m gonna get her a horse for her birthday. One of her very own. Would ya help me out with that? I’d really appreciate it.”

“Joel..you won’t have to worry about getting Sarah her own horse.”

He slowly looked over at you, confusion etched between his brows as he tried to decipher what you had meant. “Whad’ya mean I won’t have to get Sarah her own horse?..”

You turned towards him, slowly looking up at him as you spoke, “Joel, you won’t have to worry because I am giving Frankie to Sarah for her birthday. I have never seen a kid so happy with a horse before. Frankie adores her, and they make such a fantastic team. They share a real connection, and I want them to be best friends forever. Please let me know if I’m overstepping. I care about your daughter so much Joel. She’s such a wonderful kid, and I’m hoping that you’re okay with this.” He could sense the hesitation and nervousness in your tone. His heart leapt out of his chest and flopped along the wooden dock like a fish out of water. He was in shock that you cared so much about his daughter that you wanted to give one of your horses to her.

He blinked a few times as he struggled to compose his words. Here was his moment. His opportunity to tell you just how much he loved you. He could throw it all out on the table right here, right now. He was ready, and never more sure of something in his entire life till now. With his courage gathered and warmth filled in his heart, he finally spoke.

“I’m so in love with you Clove, it fuckin’ hurts.” He whispered his confession like a warm breeze floating across your skin. His words melted into your pores like oozing bubbling chocolate. A shuddered breath escaped your parted lips as you looked at one another. He awaited your response as the crickets chirped their nighttime tune. “Clove?..”

“Clove, Clover. You’re my lucky charm, baby. It’s fittin’ dontcha think?” He choked out. Feeling slightly stupid for confessing his feelings. He could already feel his brain mocking him for thinking that you’d feel the same way that he did about you. Did he read the signs wrong? Did he overstep? Oh god, did he ruin everything just like that?

His thoughts stilled as your hand gently reached up and cupped his jaw. Your eyes were brimming with tears as you stroked your thumb across his beard with gentle ease. “Joel…baby, I-I—”

“I know honey, I know. S’okay. I jus’ had to say it. I’m so fuckin’ in love with you. You don’t have to say it back. I understand if it’s too much right now and I’m—”

You cut him off by gently pressing your finger against his lips. “Joel, shut up for just a second, please. Of course I love you, you silly man. I love you so much.”

“You—you do? You ain’t just sayin’ it cause you feel obligated to..right? I don’t want you to feel pressured to say anythin’ you don’t want to say.”

“Joel, you sweet wonderful man. I love you. I’m not just saying it to say it. I am so unbelievably in love with you, Joel Miller.” There it was again. That soft smile that only made its presence known when you were around him.

“Been wantin’ to say it for a while. Didn’t want to scare you away or nothin.’ Then you tell me that you wanna gift Frankie to Sarah for her birthday and my heart just..it burst like goddamn fireworks.” He chuckled softly through his brimming tears. “C’mere, my sweet girl. Make my heart burst a little more will ya?”

Joel didn’t have to ask you twice as you crawled into his lap, straddling his hips as you pressed his back against the dampened dock from your drenched bodies. You kissed him everywhere you could possibly reach. Tasting lingering sweat and droplets of lake water on his tanned skin. When your lips descended downwards and brushed across his navel, his hands gently found your face and pulled you level to his. It wasn’t that he wouldn’t have enjoyed your mouth on him, he just wanted all of you instead. “‘Nother time, kay sweetness? Let me jus’ take care of ya.” His lips found yours in a sweet embrace as he gently flipped you over onto your back. “Just wanna have one taste of ya and then we’ll go inside. How’s that sound?”

Your fingers slipped through his damp locks as his head descended downwards between your parted thighs. There was something so distinctly erotic, and downright hot that Joel was willing and eager to go down on you under the soft glow of the moonlight. He made quick work of his tongue, kissing your clit lovingly as if he were worshiping it and your body. He moaned deeply against your core as his tongue worked you in slow languid strokes. He devoured you like a man starved under the stars while your soft moans and whimpers filled the nighttime air with the tune of the crickets and frogs croaking.

“Wrap your legs ‘round me.” He requested as he kissed his way back up your body in a haste. His strong arms wrapped around your back as your thighs clamped around his hips. He had no struggle in lifting you and him up from the dock as he proceeded to carry you inside. He didn’t bother to bend down to pick up your discarded clothing. That would become tomorrow's problem. Now, his sole focus was only you.

Somehow he managed to safely carry you back to the house without tripping over his two feet. You made it increasingly difficult towards the end when you began to press soft kisses to his neck. Your soft touch alone sent blood flowing southwards to his cock as he pressed open the porch door with his shoulder.

“Keep that up and I’m gonna have no choice but to fuck you right here on the kitchen floor baby.” Joel warned you with a low hiss under his breath.

“Mmm. That’s tempting..maybe we can do that later?”

“Christ, woman. You’re gonna be the death of me.” He carried you up the steps, silently grateful that he chose the room that was furthest from everyone else’s as he padded down the hall. Your bodies were still fairly damp as he playfully tossed you onto the made up bed.

He watched as you stretched your legs out, propping your knee up with your arms casually resting behind your head. “Did you bring condoms?..I brought some just in case.”

“Course I did baby. Been planning for this all week.” He went straight to his overnight bag unzipping it as he grabbed the box of condoms and tossed them onto the bed.

Your eyes widened the slightest when you saw what size condom Joel wore. You weren’t the slightest surprised. A broad man such as himself? Of course he was packing. “A whole box, huh? You really did come prepared.”

Joel could feel the nerves slowly creep up his spine as he nervously rubbed the back of his neck. It had been awhile since he had last fucked someone and he just wanted to make sure he was good enough for you.

You could sense his hesitation as he slowly sank down along the edge of the bed with a huff. His cock hung heavy between his thighs as you scooted up behind him, pressing soft kisses to his back and shoulder blades as your arms loosely wrapped around his middle.

“Hey, is everything okay? We don’t have to do this tonight, Joel. It’s okay. I promise I won’t be upset or anything. There’s no rush.”

“S’not that I don’t wanna.” He leaned back into your soft touch, his eyes fluttering shut from the sensation of your lips along his skin. “Jus’ been awhile for me and I uh—I wanna make sure it’s good for you. Y’know? I’m just..well, big. I don’t mean it in a tool douchebag kinda way. Jus’ don’t want to hurt ya.”

“Joel, baby. You’re so fucking sweet. I promise you that you’re not going to hurt me. In fact, I don’t mind a little pain. I can take it, trust me. Besides, I like the feeling of a cock stretching me out a little, filling me up. You think you can do that for me cowboy?” Your hand was lightly resting along the swell of his tummy. You liked that he was both muscular yet soft in all the right places. What you would give to kiss and love on his tummy, maybe another night.

Joel let out a shuddered breath and his cock twitched along the comforter from your words. He tilted his head to the side and upwards so he could properly kiss you while his hand found yours and slowly dragged it southward. He turned his body more so he could cup your cheek gently while his other hand guided yours around his cock. The softest groan slipped past his lips as your fingers wrapped around him. “Y’feel how fuckin’ hard you just made me? That’s all for you baby. All fuckin’ for you.”

You stroked your hand around his length slowly twisting your wrist as you eased yourself onto your back, scooting against the mass of pillows. Joel braced himself on his elbow as you reached for the condom and detached your lips to gently tear the packet open. He nestled himself between your thighs as you slowly rolled the rubber on, inch by inch. Words of praise were equally exchanged between you as your thighs spread open more.

“Please, jus’ let me know if it hurts at any point, okay?” His concern for you was genuinely sweet and you reassured him with a gentle kiss to his jaw, his arm rested above your head as his fingers locked down over the headboard.

“I promise I’ll tell you if it hurts. Okay? I promise Joel.” You whispered with your hand still firmly wrapped around him as you guided his tip to brush against your folds.

A shuddered hiss fell between you as he slowly sank into your warmth. His cock was girthy, with thick veins protruding along the skin as he stretched you open. He could feel your pussy fluttering and squeezing around him already as he bottomed out with a harsh grunt. You used your fingers to spread your labia lips open and his eyes drooped down to where your bodies were connected. “Y’gnna play with your pretty little pussy while I fuck her? S’that what you wanna do baby?” He pulled his hips back before thrusting them forward, repeating this a few more times as he fell into a rhythm.

“Mhmm. I want you to watch while I play with myself, baby. I want you to see just how good you make me feel. That’s it. You see how well I’m taking your cock, big boy? I can feel every inch of you stretching me apart.”

“Fuck. Yeah, you’re takin’ my cock so well baby. So fuckin’ well. Y’look so pretty playin’ with your pussy f’me like that. ‘Atta girl. Keep doin’ that.” He rolled his hips into yours a little faster, working between rhythmic slow thrusts where you could feel every inch of him to fast harsh thrusts that shook the bed and headboard into the wall. Your fingers sped up their pace along your clit as you lifted your hips up slightly to meet his thrusts. He was hitting the spongy soft spot inside of you at a deeper angle, and it was heavenly for both of you. You nearly came along his cock when his head dropped down and he spat a glob of saliva right between your fingers working on your clit.

Your moans intermingled in hot puffs of breath as your back arched against the pillows. “Fuck, yes. Please! Please don’t fucking stop, Joel! Don’t stop. I’m—I’m so close.” Your eyes rolled back as the familiar tingling sensation crept up from your toes and ascended up your ankles and calves. Your stomach muscles tightened as his cock twitched inside of you.

“Not gonna stop baby, I promise. Fuck! Want you to cum all over my cock, okay? Think you can be a good girl and do that f’me? Want to feel you completely coat my cock, sugar. C’mon.” His thrusts grew sloppy as he drove himself repeatedly into you. His lips found your shoulder where he kissed and nipped at the skin, biting down harshly as he spilled himself into the condom. The pleasure mixed with the pain sent you into overdrive as your walls convulsed and pulsed around him.

His arm dropped from the headboard as he softly collapsed on top of you with a grunt. His face was pressed firmly into your neck, and his sweat stained damp hair was lightly tickling your cheek. He whispered praises against your skin as he softened inside of you, letting out a shaky exhale that turned into a rumbled chuckle.

Your arms found purchase around his neck as you gently threaded your trembling fingers through his soft tendrils. “What’s got you laughing, Hm?” You couldn’t help but softly giggle along with him.

His strong arm latched around your lower back as he made himself comfortable. “Jus’ feel fuckin’ fantastic right now. Think your pussy sent me into cloud nine baby.” He pressed a sweaty kiss to your throat.

“Yeah? Well, I think your cock fucked me stupid.” You scratched his scalp lightly with your nails, earning a soft hum to creep up his throat.

“Think we mighta fucked ourselves stupid.” He concluded.

“Think you’re right on head with that one Joel. What are we gonna do with that entire box of condoms?”

“Fuck our way through ‘em. Now that I know how amazin’ your pussy feels around me, those condoms will be gone by the end of the weekend.” He gruffly whispered.

“Is that a challenge?”

“Nah. That’s the truth, baby cakes.”

“Round two?” You giggled.

“Baby, let me close my eyes for a few seconds, kay? Your sweet pussy milked me dry. Dontcha worry. Just need to get some fuel in me and you can take me for a real ride. How’s that sound, cowgirl?”

“Deal.”

Joel gently rested his weight on you for a few more minutes before he reluctantly slipped out of you. He disappeared into the bathroom to dispose of the condom and grab a towel. He sunk down onto his knees and gently wiped between your thighs. It was past midnight by the time the two of you made your way downstairs for a light night snack. You were wearing his hoodie and a pair of panties while he had nothing but his boxers and his cowboy hat on.

“What’s the lady got a fixin’ for tonight?” He whispered as he opened the fridge door quietly.

“Grilled cheeses.”

“Fuck. Those do sound good. Okay, two grilled cheeses coming right up.” He tipped his hat in your direction with a lopsided smile.

Once the grilled cheeses were made you and Joel found yourselves sitting side by side on the kitchen floor. He told you stories of all the summers he spent up at the lake house. How Tommy accidentally threw an entire box of sparkles into the fire pit along with all of the lighters. It created quite the colorful show.

How Joel had to get stitches on his eyebrow one year because he ate shit running down the dock.

How Sarah took her first steps and how proud Joel felt to witness them.

How he’d spend early mornings out on the lake with his granddad fishing and giving him life advice.

How you were the first woman Joel had ever brought out here since Sarah’s mom left.

The empty plates were discarded to the side as you found yourself climbing into his lap. Good thing he remembered to bring a condom down with him. His shorts were hanging low on his hips as you rode him, and at one point you had stolen his cowboy hat and placed it on top of your head. All he could focus on was the way your face twisted in pleasure as your hips continued to roll against his. When you both feared waking someone up, your hands gently clamped down over your mouths to muffle your noises.

Somehow fucking Joel on the kitchen floor was the perfect mixture of filthy, and sweet.

It was 3a.m by the time you had pulled yourselves up from the cool tile and proceeded to finally go to bed. There was no reason for clothes to be worn in the bedroom as you both plopped down onto the tousled comforter. Whispers of, ‘I love you’s’ and soft tender touches were shared as you drifted off to a blissful slumber.

Around 7a.m Tommy emerged out of his bedroom to start a pot of coffee. No one else was up and the first thing he noticed just outside the kitchen window was clothes strewn about on different sections of the dock. He took a sip of his coffee with a knowing smirk on his face as his older brother descended down the stairs, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. His hair was a mess and he smelled faintly of lake water and sex.

“Mornin’ brother.” Tommy tipped his mug in Joel’s direction.

“Mornin’ Tommy.” Joel gruffed out a response.

“Say, you may wanna pick up those clothes from the dock before Sarah and Ellie wake up. You wouldn’t want to have to explain that to them..right?” Tommy was grinning stupidly over the rim of his mug.

“Fuck me. I knew I was forgettin’ somethin’ last night.” Joel casually stepped over the spot along the kitchen tile where you and him fucked like bunnies just hours ago.

“Yeah, think ya forgot your pants out there.” He chuckled. “S’there a reason why you’re avoidin’ that spot on the floor?” Tommy asked with a raise of his brow.

“What’re you goin’ on about? I ain’t avoidin’ nothin.’” The heat was already rising up his cheeks.

“No fuckin’ way. You didn’t. You fucked her on the floor? You dirty, dirty dog. Now we’re gonna have to disinfect it n’everythin.’” Tommy tsked under his breath.

“No. You got it all wrong I’m afraid. She rode me to town on that floor. Fuckin’ wore my cowboy hat like a little minx. Absolutely had me speechless. Anyway, I’m gonna go gather up Clover and I’s clothes before the kids wake up.” He saluted Tommy with a small grin.

“Holy shit. Did she really? Goddamn. That’s hot. Hey, Joel?”

“Yeah?”

“Did ya tell her?”

“Course I did.” Joel confirmed.

“Oh thank fuck. I take that she said it back?”

“She did. She’s also giving Frankie to Sarah as a birthday present. You keep that a secret, okay? It’s gonna be a big surprise.”

“Sarah’s gonna be over the fuckin’ moon when that happens.”

“I know. She loves that horse so fuckin’ much. I couldn’t believe it when Clover told me. I was elated jus’ knowin’ how much she cares about me and Sarah.”

“I’m happy for you big brother. Truly, I’m so happy for you.”

“Thank you, I’m glad I waited for the right one to come along. Oh, and Tommy?”

“Yeah, lover boy?”

“You think you’d be up for being the best man at my wedding again?”

“Fuck yeah I’d be up for it. You betcha.” Tommy couldn’t help but pull his brother in for a big hug, squeezing him tightly. “Seriously though, do we have to disinfect any other parts of the house? Speak now or forever hold your peace.”

Joel clapped his brother on the shoulder as he hugged him back tightly. “Jus’ the kitchen floor. Haven’t tarnished any other spots in the house, yet.” He loosed his grip around Tommy giving him another nod before he poured himself a cup of coffee and slipped past the porch door to gather up yours and his clothes.

Your bra and panties were mysteriously missing..damn raccoons musta gotten to them.

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[ssinnerplazahotel]

╭──────────.★..─╮

*Chapter Six*

╰─..★.──────────╯

WC: 6k

Warning: 18+, age gap, smut, fluff, toxic elvis, manipulation (kinda?), drug use, it’s the 50s/60s

Pairing: elvis, black reader

Disclaimer: full of inaccuracies, inaccurate timeline, inaccurate depictions of Graceland, historically inaccurate themes and items

Masterlist: Prologue, Ch. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

“There you are.”

“Were you looking for me?”

You were standing at the counter in the kitchen—preoccupied with some homework that you were desperately trying to finish in between your chores—when Elvis entered the kitchen. He stood over your shoulder for a second, looking down at what you were doing before kissing your cheek and walking away.

“Why were you looking for me?” Your eyes followed him as he grabbed a glass from the cupboard.

“I have some news,” He said, his lips turned up in a suppressed smile as he filled his glass under the tap.

“Good or bad?” You asked, although you already had an idea. He left the glass by the sink and leaned against the counter beside you.

“I gotta go to Hawaii, the Colonel’s got something set up for me out there.” He must’ve seen the immediate devastation in your eyes. “But,” He added quickly. “We found a spot down there and I’m takin all y’all with me.”

“Who is ‘all y’all’?”

“All y’all. You, Dawny, Cinny, the boys. Everybody.”

“Why would you do that?”

“I found a house, and it wouldn’t make much sense to get that big a place just for it to be half empty.” He shrugged. “I told Daddy I wanted all of you there to tend to it. So that way I can bring you with me.”

“How long have you been conjuring up this idea of yours?” You had to admit you were amused. “It’s awfully creative, really, but I doubt Dawn would go. Not to mention it’s a waste of money~”

“You don’t worry about how I spend my money, birdie, okay?”

“I was just saying~”

“And why make assumptions when we can ask Ms. Dawn herself?” He walked back to the kitchen door, calling out for Dawn before returning. “She’ll have to say yes once I get done with her.”

“Maybe I should go.” You didn’t want to be alone with Elvis and Dawn. You knew she was still heavily suspecting of the two of you.

“Don’t go anywhere,” Elvis said just as Dawn walked into the kitchen. “Hey, Dawny, I was hopin to run something by you real quick.”

“Everything alright?” Dawn asked, her eyes moving between the two of you. She looked confused but you knew there was more to her expression than that. You cast your eyes back down to your homework.

“We were talking and I mentioned that I was going out to Hawaii for work and I needed to take you and Cynthia and everyone with me to tend to the house down there,” He explained in one breath, not giving her room to interject as he continued. “And she’s got it in her head that you wouldn’t be interested in goin.”

“To Hawaii?” Dawn asked in shock. “Why wouldn’t you just hire new help when you got there?”

“That’s what I was saying.”

“I know y’all, and I trust y’all,” Elvis said. “I’d be much more comfortable having you out there than hiring people I don’t know. It’s already been arranged and taken care of, all you gotta do is say you’ll go and it’s done.”

“I don’t know~”

“I’d only make you work three days a week, just like usual, nothing special,” Elvis continued. You had to bite back a smile at his determination. “You can do whatever you want with your free time. All expenses paid.”

“She has school, and there would be no one here,” Dawn said, still reluctant. “I’m sure Cynthia would be happy to go down there with you, but it makes more sense for us to stay here.”

“I’ll write a note to the school, they’ll put some assignments together and let her mail em in. I had to do the same thing for Joel ‘fore he graduated high school.” A smile started to form on Elvis’ face as he watched Dawn scramble for another excuse. “Her studies shouldn’t be affected at all.”

You peaked up from your textbook to watch Dawn as she struggled internally with the idea. If you knew anything about Dawn, you knew that she was never one to be easily swayed.

“Well…” She sighed, crossing her arms.

“Well?” Elvis smiled charmingly, matching her stance with his arms crossed.

“Well, alright, I guess.” You looked down to hide the shock on your face. Dawn caved. “When is all this happening?”

“Not for another couple of weeks.” You could hear the triumph in his voice as he laid out more of the details for Dawn. “You’ll know the rest as soon as I do. A-And if you see Cinnee, you’ll let her in on everything?”

“Sure,” Dawn replied. “She’ll be happy to hear.”

“Thanks, Dawny, you’re perfect,” He said. “Y’all take care, don’t work too hard now.”

“Alright now,” Dawn said.

You didn’t look up from your textbook, hoping that you came across as unbothered despite the way your heart was hammering away with excitement. “I didn’t think you’d let him talk you into that.”

“It didn’t seem like I had much of a choice.” Dawn clicked her tongue in aggravation. “Put that away and go sweep the porch. They went and tracked mud all up and down the steps last night, doing god knows what.”

You closed the book with a reluctant sigh. “I’m never going to finish this in time.”

“You shouldn’t have slept until one in the afternoon.”

“I already told you that I overslept.” It wasn’t a lie.

You’d been oversleeping more and more in the last few weeks. Trying to keep up with Elvis’ sleep schedule by being awake when he was awake. Sleeping when he slept wasn’t working out for you. Most nights you would stay up until you physically couldn’t anymore, exhausted from work and school. “It won’t~”

“~happen again. I know.”

You muttered an apology and went to get the broom before going outside. The air was warm that day, the boys all ran around wreaking havoc and causing a ruckus. You smiled a little when you caught sight of Elvis rough housing with Joel, pretending to teach him how to fight but really just playing tricks on him.

He called out to you when he saw you, getting your attention along with a couple of the other boys. You raised your hand over your eyes to block the sun. “Watch this, they call it the sleeper hold!”

You shook your head as Elvis maneuvered Joel into a chokehold. “Elvis, don’t hurt him!” You complained.

“I’m teachin him to fight like a man!” He laughed as Joel struggled against him, eventually breaking free before sparring with him again.

You got back to sweeping the porch, doing it in a rush so that you could get back to your homework. At least until Dawn found more busy work for you to do.

Class that night went on as usual, you got there just in time for your first class and left promptly after your last. You hadn’t spoken to Barb, Pat, or the guys since that night at the diner. They tried approaching you a few times but they eventually lost interest in you. You felt bad at first but after the first week of not speaking to them the other days went by painlessly.

Instead of going to the diner after class, you went straight back to Graceland to spend time with Elvis. You were afraid you were isolating yourself too much, but accepted that you preferred Elvis and Graceland more.

“I don’t think Dawn’s ever said no to me, she doesn’t have it in her.”

You laughed as Elvis went on and on about how easily he’d convinced Dawn to go to Hawaii. He was so proud of himself.

“It’s all gonna work out,” He said, looking up from where his head lay in your lap.

You sat against the headboard of his bed, your textbook abandoned beside you. You were supposed to be getting some work done and Elvis was supposed to be catching up on his reading but you were too distracted by each other.

“How far have you gotten on that book?” You teased, nodding at the abandoned book.

“Oh, well, pardon me,” He said sarcastically, reaching for it blindly. “It’s not my fault you’re so distracting.”

You laughed. “I barely said anything.”

“You don’t have to say anything.” He opened his book to a random page without looking away from you. “How can I read when you’re sittin here lookin all pretty in your little dress?”

“Give it a shot,” You said, nudging his head with your knee until he sat up.

“You’re plain cruel.” He moved to sit beside you, kissing your cheek before settling down. “Get to work, little girl.”

“I’m trying.” You put your book in your lap again, pulling your knee up to keep it balanced as you wrote.

You both turned your full attention to your tasks, a comfortable silence settling over the room. Elvis hummed quietly to himself as he read, you didn’t think he noticed—suddenly enthralled with the book that he couldn’t bring himself to read two minutes ago.

You’d started to make some leeway on your assignment when he snuck a hand onto your thigh, resting it there without looking up from his book. You glanced over at him but he seemed to still be invested in his reading. You had half the mind to know he was up to no good but you didn’t pay him any attention. That was until he shifted in his spot, inching closer to you.

“El,” You warned.

“Hm?” He responded, his hand slipping more toward your inner thigh. He didn’t take his eyes off his book, continuing to hum along to whatever tune he couldn’t get out of his head.

“Be good.” You moved his hand. “Can you, please? For at least twenty more minutes?”

“What do I get if I am?” He challenged, meeting your eyes with a smirk. He had that look in his eyes that made you want to drop everything and do whatever he wanted—but you managed to resist.

“Be good and you’ll find out,” You said vaguely. He looked pleased enough with the response as he put his left arm over your shoulders, holding his hand out for you to hold. You intertwined your fingers with a smile before returning to your work.

You liked nights like this the most. Nights when the two of you would simply exist together in a shared space. Nights when Elvis was in a good mood, when his patience wasn’t short and he was able to laugh with you. You wanted to hold on to times like these.

Eventually the twenty minutes winded down and Elvis made a show out of letting you know it. Tossing his book to the side and using his free hand to close your textbook.

“Hey,” You complained, you were mid-sentence when the book fell shut with a heavy thud. “I was almost finished.”

“That’s time.” He took the textbook from your lap and abandoned it next to his. For all you knew he could’ve been lying about the time, but you couldn’t bring yourself to care as he kissed your neck. “Was I good, mama?”

The question sent a shiver down your spine, sending you squirming away from his advances. “Sure.” He didn’t let you get away. He hooked his hand under your left knee and pulled you into his lap, looking up at you with an expectant smile. “What?”

“You owe me,” He said. “What’s it gonna be?”

“I don’t know.” You shrugged, placing your hands on his shoulders. “What do you want?”

“That’s a dangerous thing to ask, birdie,” He said, narrowing his eyes suggestively. “You give me an inch, I'm gonna take a mile.”

“I can handle a mile.”

“You think so?”

“I think so.” You leaned forward until your lips graced his but pulled away, smirking softly as his baby blue eyes darkened substantially. “What’s it gonna be?”

“I guess I’ll take you on a little ride,” He said, his eyes traveling over your body. “You look tall enough.”

You couldn’t help but smile as he closed the space between you in a tender kiss, his teeth nibbling gently at your bottom lip. You gripped the hair at the nape of his neck, forcing a hum of approval from his lips as your nails scraped against his scalp.

He always got so caught up with kissing you. He would kiss you until he got restless and wanted more. You never got tired of the feeling, if he didn’t stop himself you’d let him kiss you for hours. You craved him in so many ways that you couldn’t focus on just one. All you wanted, all you needed was to be close to him.

He swore under his breath, breaking the kiss. “I love you in this dress.”

It was a soft pink dress with a sailor’s collar. You hated it after you’d bought it and tried it on—it made you look too girlish—but you made yourself wear it since you paid for it.

“I only wear it when I don’t care how I look.”

“I’d hate to see you care.” His hands guided your hips as they rocked against his. There was hunger burning behind his eyes—subtle but intense.

“You’re so pretty.” You confessed impetuously. If you weren’t so absorbed in the moment, you might have kept the thought to yourself. But you didn’t care.

He laughed. “No, baby, that’s all you.”

He leaned forward with a grunt and pinned you beneath him.

“You’re it.” He kissed your neck as you squirmed.

“I’m always it,” You complained with a smile.

Elvis liked to play tag. Sometimes he’d find you around the house, or you’d run into him, and one of you would whisper ‘you’re it.’ Effectively initiating a game. From there whoever was “it” would proceed to chase the other until they were ultimately lured into bed. You’d take turns cornering each other around the house, stealing an occasional kiss or letting your fingers brush ever so slightly as you passed. Things would usually escalate from there and eventually one of you would cave and beg for release. It was fun trying to dominate each other, Elvis always got a kick out of it, so he’d tag you most of the time.

“Fight for it. I know you got it in you.”

You were already breathless as he continued his assault on your neck. You forced your leg up, pressing your knee into his stomach. He let one of your wrists go to force it down and you took the opportunity to turn onto your front.

He wrapped his arm around your waist and pulled you back against him. He laughed as you got your feet up under yourself and pushed back. He didn’t budge.

“You’re losing.” You could practically hear the smirk on his face.

“It’s not fair,” You complained. “You had me pinned from the beginning.”

“Alright.” He let you go. “Fair fights only.”

You faced him, standing up on your knees. He bit back a smile as you sized him up. You lunged at him with your arms out, only for him to easily evade your advance. You wrestled against him for only a moment before he turned you around by your arms and pulled your back against his chest yet again.

“Fair fight?” He asked, his lips grazing your ear.

“Fair fight,” You sighed reluctantly.

He let you go again, giving you another chance. “Come on.”

You turned to him again. He smiled as you wrapped your arms around his neck. He was tense, anticipating your next trick.

“What?”

“What?”

You quickly adjusted your legs beneath you before using all your weight to fall back and pull him forward. He laughed, catching himself so he wouldn’t crush you. He let you force him onto his back and you pinned his hands by his head. You were sure he could’ve easily stopped you, but he was clearly enjoying the look of victory in your eyes.

“I win,” You stated breathlessly, a triumphant smile gracing your lips.

“I lose,” He conceded.

“Strip.”

He sat up with you still in his lap, kissing the part of your chest that was exposed by the cut of your dress. You move out of his lap, scooting away and leaning back on your hands.

Elvis moved forward to hover over you but you lifted your foot and pressed it against his chest.

“Strip,” You repeated expectantly.

He chuckled, sitting back against his heels to unbutton his shirt.

You let your foot fall, purposely resting it between his legs. He groaned under your touch and lifted his hips to meet your foot but you moved it away before any pressure could be applied to his groin.

“I’m gonna remember this,” He warned.

“Remember it.” You smiled and nudged his thigh. “These too.”

You watched with an amused expression as he loosened his belt and unbuttoned his slacks. He took them off, leaving him completely exposed.

“Good,” You hummed in approval.

“You’re gettin too good at this.” He narrowed his eyes. “I’m gonna have to stop letting you win.”

“Letting me win,” You repeated, rolling your eyes as if you hadn’t already known. “I was going to be nice but now I don’t know.”

“Be nice to me.” He positioned himself between your legs again—you didn’t stop him. “Let me make you feel good.”

You sat up and reached back to unzip your dress. You slipped it off of your shoulders, letting him remove the garment completely before he sat up to get a condom from the drawer.

“Get your motor runnin for me, baby.”

“It’s running,” You insisted, making him laugh.

“Make sure it’s nice and warm.”

He watched without scrutiny as you touch yourself. Your movements were unsure but he seemed satisfied.

“Curl 'em up inside ya,” He instructed.

You whimpered. “I need you.”

“I’m here. Just let me check.”

He replaced your fingers with his own and you cried out at the intrusion. He pumped his fingers in and out, causing the most indecent squelching sounds—only pulling away when you began to tense, anticipating your high.

You forced your eyes open when you felt him position himself at your entrance. His breath trembled slightly as he pushed inside. This was the closest you’d ever physically be yet somehow you wanted him closer. You wrapped your legs around his waist, lifting your hips to force him further inside.

“Here.” He reached behind you to grab a pillow, tucking it under you, keeping your hips elevated. “Yeah?”

“Yes.”

You let your head fall back against the bed. You felt the length of his arousal reaching places inside of you explored only by him as he kissed a tear from the corner of your eye. The salty taste mingled with the sweetness of his lips when he kissed you. Your lips became pliant against his as your jaw went slack in a silent scream.

“Let me feel you, sweet girl,” Elvis encouraged. You felt him quiver inside of you, his thrusts becoming more desperate as he chased his high and yours.

A moan bubbled in your chest, building and building until it erupted out of you. You came in waves—your orgasm rippling over your entire body in smooth fluid pulses.

Elvis followed quickly, the aftershocks of your orgasm effectively getting him where he needed to be before he collapsed on top of you. The weight of his body against yours seemed like the only thing keeping you from floating away. You felt his spent cock twitch helplessly inside of you before he rolled over onto his side.

“Don’t fall asleep on me,” He said, making you realize that you were dozing off already.

You jolted awake again when you felt his hand traveling between your legs. “No, no, no. I can’t take it.”

“Come get ready for bed.” He sat up, taking you with him. “You okay?”

“I’m fine,” You said, standing on unsteady legs. “Tired.”

“Okay, pretty.” He guided you to the bathroom. “Let’s get you cleaned up.”

You smiled endearingly as he helped you clean up. He dressed you up in one of the many nightgowns that he’d gotten you before helping you back to bed.

“You’re leaving soon?” You could barely keeping your eyes open as you laid in his arms.

“Mhm,” He hummed. “You’ll be right behind me when I do.”

“Promise?”

“I promise.”

*

You couldn’t remember if you’d packed your necklace—the thin, silver chain that held the two rings that Elvis had given you. You remembered purposely taking it off so that you wouldn’t have to explain it if Dawn saw.

You were good about keeping it tucked under your blouse while you were working, but you were traveling over nine hours all together with her and you didn’t want to risk it.

As you sat in the window seat on the plane waiting for it to take off, you subconsciously reached to toy with the necklace.

You tried and tried to remember if you tucked it away safely in your luggage or if you’d completely forgotten it at Graceland. Whether you left it or not, your hands itched for something to fidgeting with as you anxiously waited for the plane to take off.

“It feels just like you’re going up in an elevator,” Dawn said. “There’s no reason to be nervous.”

“I’m not,” You lied. “I just wish we were there already.”

That wasn’t a lie.

*

There was a party that night, much like every night. You, Cynthia and Dawn weren’t asked to prepare for it as you would’ve been at Graceland, so you were free to go about the night however you wanted.

“Going somewhere?” Dawn asked when she caught you leaving your room later that day.

The house was beautiful, walking distance from the beach with a view for miles. You had your own room on the ground floor—noisy nights were bound to be sleepless. The only grievance you had was that it was directly beside Dawn’s bedroom. You didn’t have that problem at Graceland, you never worried about running into Dawn, but here you would have to be extremely cautious of her presence.

“I’m going to go do some homework on the beach.” You held your books in one arm and a towel under the other. “Is that alright?”

“You don’t need my permission,” Dawn chuckled. “The sun’s gonna go down here in a minute though.”

“I know, I was hoping to catch it.”

“Don’t get lost out there.”

“I won’t.”

You couldn’t tell if your relationship with Dawn was getting better or if you were reaching a point of formality where being cordial was just routine. You didn’t really care, you were glad that she wasn’t so cold to you anymore.

“You headed out?”

You’re startled from your thoughts to find Joel coming down the hall behind you. He smiled as he met you, his sandy curls framing his face for a change.

“Joel,” You said with a polite smile. “I didn’t know Elvis dragged you along too.”

“He didn’t give me much of a say,” Joel said walking beside you down the corridor. “I was here before I knew what was happening.”

“I know the feeling.” You chuckled. “How are you liking it so far?”

“It’s nice.” He shrugged, shoving his hands into the pockets of his jeans. “My folks don’t like me to fly, ‘specially with E.P. They think he’s a lunatic.”

You couldn’t help but laugh as you reached the main room of the house. There was music playing from the record player, a mellow tune gently serenading the several dozen strangers taking up the space.

“What about your folks?” Joel asked, stopping by the front door with you instead of continuing on his way like you expected him to. “They mind you traveling this far?”

“Well, Dawn’s really the only family I have,” You said, ignoring the ache in your heart that you tried not to pay attention to now—no matter how much it hurt. “Wherever she goes, I go pretty much. And Elvis wasn’t going to take no for an answer from her either.”

Joel flashed a smile. “Well, having you here makes it feel more like home. So I’m glad you came.”

“Thank you, Joel.” You smiled.

“I better let you go,” He chuckled, pushing his hair out of his eyes. “Be careful out there.”

“I will be.” You nodded. “Take care.”

“You too,” He said before walking away and disappearing into the mix of people.

As you turned to leave you felt someone’s gaze boring into you. You didn’t have to look over your shoulder to know that it was Elvis, but you did anyway. Scanning the room, you found him watching you from a crowded corner—he didn’t seem to be listening to anyone talking to or around him. You didn’t let your gaze linger longer than a few seconds before you continued out the front door.

You chose a spot a few yards away from where the waves were crashing onto the shore, spreading your towel down on the dry sand before sitting down. The scenery was hard not to get lost in as you sat looking around at the private beach.

After a minute or two of taking it all in you did manage to force yourself to get to work. You were expected to mail in work every week for your classes so it was almost like you weren’t missing them at all.

You worked diligently while you waited for the sun to set, only closing your book and putting your work away when the first signs of sunset started to show. You sat with your legs crossed out in front of you, leaning back on the heels of your hands as you looked out at the sea.

“It’s almost as pretty as you.”

Your head snapped in the direction of Elvis’ voice, finding him walking towards you with a gentle smile on his face. He wore a tropical button down and a pair of khaki shorts, his feet bare. You realized then that you never noticed what he was wearing most of the time—too absorbed with his beauty to look away from his face for more than a second.

“What are you doing?” You asked in a panic. “Someone might see~”

“They’re all drunk.” He laughed as he sat down next to you. He kept a good distance between the two of you, reaching over and snatching the stack of paper your professors stapled together from between the pages of your textbook. “Whatchu doin out here all by yourself?”

“Are you drunk?” You asked humorously, taking the papers back as flipped through them with clumsy fingers.

“Maybe, yeah,” He responded with a short laugh. “I seen you talkin to ol’ Joel.”

“Yeah?”

“Mhm. That boy, I tell you.” You could tell the alcohol in his system was getting to him by the way he laughed after everything he said. “He’s such a kid.”

“Why do you say that?” You wondered.

“His mama’s got him on a leash like a dog.”

“His mother thinks you’re a lunatic.”

“She’s not wrong I guess.” Elvis shrugged, pulling his legs up and wrapping his arms around them as he looked out at the water. “I wanted to be here when you and Dawn got in, I got caught up with the press.”

“We got in alright without you.” You couldn’t seem to tear your eyes away from him, he was more stunning than the sunset. “Why’d you leave the party?”

“I dunno.” His words tumbled out of his mouth. “I seen you leavin so…”

“You know people watch your every move, Mr. Presley,” You said deliberately. “I don’t want anyone getting the wrong idea.”

“‘Mr. Presley,’” He chortled, meeting your eyes. “Let ‘em watch, let ‘em get the wrong idea too.”

“How much did you have to drink?” You ribbed.

“I’m not outta my mind, baby, don’t worry,” He said. “We’re not doin anything wrong here.”

You looked away as his gaze grew more intense. “I’m just being careful. For both of us since you have all the liquid courage in the world right now.”

“I saw you alone and came to check on you,” He said. “That ain’t a crime is it?”

“I guess not.”

“You’re not wearing your necklace.”

You were shocked by the observation, your hand subconsciously reaching for the necklace. You didn’t think he noticed that you never went without the necklace. “I took it off so I wouldn’t lose it. I didn’t think you’d notice.”

“Course I noticed.” He smirked proudly. “I like that you wear it all the time.”

You smiled softly, meeting his eyes again. “I’ll put it on when I get ready tomorrow.”

“I’m gonna be gone early t’morrow,” He said. “B-But, I mean, I want you to come to my room t’night.”

“I don’t know how easy it’s going to be with you upstairs and my room downstairs next to Dawn,” You said. “She might see me.”

Elvis hummed thoughtfully, his gaze shifting downward for a moment. “I guess you’ll just be extra careful.”

“Elvis~”

“I didn’t bring you all the way here to not see you,” He said stubbornly. “She won’t catch you. Don’t worry.”

“I hope you’re right,” You said, an edge of sarcasm in your tone. “She’s been nice to me lately, I don’t want to upset her.”

“She won’t have any reason to be upset,” He promised. “I’ll make sure.”

You nodded, looking back out at the sunset. The sky was painted in beautiful shades of orange and purple. “It’s so peaceful here.”

Elvis agreed. “I’m really glad you’re here.”

“I am too,” You said. “Thank you for inviting me.”

He smiled. “You’ll find your way to my room?”

“I’ll try.”

“That’s all I ask.”

He stood from his spot in the sand, dusting the back of his shorts. “Gimme what you finished. I’ll give it to somebody to get mailed out.”

You separated the completed pages and handed them over. “Don’t forget to sign it.”

“I won’t,” He said. “Cinee’s bringing her daughter out here t’morrow. Y’all should go out, see the sights. Take yourselves shoppin if you want.”

You thought for a moment that he could see the loneliness creeping into your eyes. “Okay.”

“Don’t forget. You’re it.”

“Wait for me?”

“Always.”

He waved his hand once before turning and leaving you alone again.

You looked over your shoulder as he left, turning your gaze back to the water after he was gone. You decided not to stay until the sun was completely down—you didn’t want to be alone in the dark—so you gathered your books and folded your towel into a neat square before heading inside yourself. As you were walking in you were shocked to see most of the guests starting to filter out the front door.

You noticed Joel walking out with the guys and stopped him. “Where’s everyone going?”

“Colonel’s got Elvis on a tight schedule,” Joel explained quickly. “He wants the house quiet so he can run his lines and get to sleep at a decent time.”

“What’s it to you?” One of the guy’s asked. You didn’t interact with him enough to know his name, but you did remember seeing him around Graceland all the time. His tone sounded harsh to your ears. You shook your head and pursed your lips as if to say ‘nothing.’

“She’s just askin,” Joel said. “She don’t mean no harm.”

“Goodnight, Joel.” You tried to smile before slipping through the front door, apologizing as you dodged the few people still leaving.

“Oh.” A girl stopped you as you passed her. “There you are.”

“I-I’m sorry?” You asked in confusion as you faced her.

“I was wondering where you were.” The brunette giggled drunkenly. “L-Listen, someone spilled their drink in the kitchen.”

“What?” You asked, although you heard her loud and clear.

“The kitchen.” She pointed, speaking deliberately so that you could understand her. “Someone spilled their drink. You should get it before Elvis sees.”

Someone called out for the woman, walking back inside the house and dragging her out by the arm. They laughed as they rushed out of the house after the crowd.

You stood there for a moment, staring off thoughtlessly, before walking down the hall to your room. You knew that the mess would be there tomorrow for you to clean up, so you’d worry about it then.

“‘You should get it before Elvis sees.’” You mimicked in an annoying voice as you stepped out of your sandals. You rolled your eyes exasperatedly before walking into the bathroom to get changed and showered for the night. As you turned the shower on you heard your bedroom door open. You cut the water off to go see who it was. And of course, it was the devil himself.

“Elvis?”

“You’re always so damn happy to see me,” He said sarcastically as he shut the door and turned the lock. “You’re practically jumpin up and down.”

“I can hardly contain myself.” You responded in the same tone. You cupped your elbows in your hands, folding your arms over your chest. “What are you doing? Dawn’s in the next room, and you’re supposed to be going over your lines.”

“I can’t go over no lines right now,” Elvis drawled in boredom.

“Why’s that?” You asked, biting back a smile as you watched him sprawl himself out onto your bed. “Because you had one too many?”

“I think I had three too many,” He said, making you laugh. “Y-You see, this is why I don’t drink. I feel like a sick fool.”

“Well don’t get sick, fool,” You said, crossing the room and joining him on the bed. He turned onto his side and propped himself up on his elbow as you sat back against the headboard. “I’ve got enough of a mess to clean up tomorrow.”

“Did you just call me a fool?” He smirked playfully. “I’d get you for that if I was in the gettin mood.”

You laughed. “You’re gonna have a headache in the morning. Why’d you drink so much?”

“I dunno, cause that sugary stuff don’t taste like liquor I guess.”

“Good answer.”

“Don’t be mean t’me, mama,” He whined, shifting to lay his head in your lap. “You were it t’night and I still came all this way to see you.”

“Aw, you poor thing. You came all the way down the stairs, you must be exhausted,” You said sarcastically, looking down at him. You brought your hand down to graze through his hair, watching his eyes close with a smile. “No one saw you did they?”

“Sonny got rid of everybody,” He hummed in response. “Colonel’s orders.”

“Elvis.” His eyes opened when your hand stopped moving through his hair. “You can’t sleep here. They’ll be looking for you in the morning, won’t they?”

“I’ll leave ‘fore anyone gets up.” He shrugged indolently. “Don’t worry.”

You nodded, twirling his hair around your fingers go. “Okay.”

“Okay…” His eyes fell shut again.

You smiled softly, watching his features soften until you heard his breathing even out. You sighed and leaned your head back against the headboard, letting your own eyes fall shut as you gently scratched his scalp.

True to his word, he was gone when you woke up the next morning. And so began the torturous cycle of Elvis’ long days of filming and short nights with you.

*

A/N: Dress inspired by this passage from The Shining by Stephen King—“She {Wendy} was wearing her blue dress, the one Danny thought was her prettiest. It had a sailor collar and made her look very young, like a girl just getting ready to graduate from high school.” (Pg. 87)

[enchantedflameandflower]

A Billy Butcher Christmas 2/?

Chapter 2

Billy looked out the window as if he was seeing the Christmas lights for the first time and the expression on his face lightened just a little. “Ah,” he sighed, and turned back to you. “It is, isn’t it.”

"I’m sorry the job didn't work out the way you wanted,” you snuggled closer to him determined not to let his lack of Christmas spirit get you down. “Maybe I can cheer you up and we can make some good Christmas memories." When you looked up into his dark eyes you caught a fleeting glimpse of real warmth but it was soon swept into a maelstrom of other emotions you couldn’t quite pin down.

Abruptly he stood up, leaving a draft of cold air in his wake. "I were just thinkin' of somethin' I need to run by M.M. I'll be right back," he said in a somewhat grumbly voice as he left the room.

There was suddenly a lump in your throat and a prickle of tears behind your eyes as you gazed back out at the lights. So much for your -

Billy’s gruff voice suddenly interrupted your thoughts. "Ho ho ho...” he intoned with a deep voice. “I really kinda like me girls on the naughty side."

When you turned around the most incongruous sight met your eyes. There was Billy with a Santa hat set at a jaunty angle and a Christmas sack of something slung over his shoulder.

A warm laugh bubbled up through your tears, now tears of joy, and you hastily wiped them away. “Billy…” You were at a loss for words, so instead you stood, throwing your arms around his neck. His free hand slid around your waist, holding you close as you hugged him and as soon as you were able to collect yourself you pulled back to look at him. “What’s all this?” you breathed, eyeing the red sack.

His eyes crinkled with his smile. "Your very own somewhat deranged Saint Nick bringin' you a sack of well deserved Christmas joy. Oh and uh...ya can take the saint part at yer own peril." He set the sack on the couch then sat down next to it pulling you into his lap. "Ya wannn see what Santa brought ya for Christmas, little girl?"

You giggled and couldn’t help grinning, feeling those happy tears prick at your eyes again. His lap was warm and it seemed everything before forgotten. “Well I like my Santa kind of naughty as well, so that’s perfect. I -“ You were so overwhelmed that he did all this for you that you lost your words for a second. “Yes let’s see.”

He grinned as he opened the sack and pulled out the first bright beautifully wrapped package. You could just imagine him charming the store clerk into wrapping it for him. The thought made you smile. You carefully unwrapped the package knowing Billy was probably about ready to tear the paper off himself so you could see what's inside. Finally opening the box and parting the tissue you caught the first glimpse of satin and lace in Christmas red.

You pulled the material carefully from the box, it was impossibly soft and beautiful, and you held it up. It was a red satin nightgown, short with thin straps and trimmed with expensive red lace. You honestly loved it, and you had a feeling he would love it just as much. “Billy, it’s beautiful. I love it, thank you.”

He grinned that charming grin that brought out his dimple. "Glad ya like it, darlin'. I thought it'd look gorgeous on ya. I'm hopin' you'll try it on for me later." He winks at you, his dark hazel eyes twinkling with pleasure.

"Now, let's see here," he says opening the sack again and pulling out a prettily wrapped package about the size and shape of a bottle of perfume.

You took the gift and so carefully started to unwrap it. There’s no way…you thought to yourself. But it was. Your favorite perfume in a perfect small glass bottle. Really it was the only perfume you’d wear. There had never been any other you’d liked but you’d ran out of your own bottle a couple months ago and hadn’t wanted to spend the money on new one. “Billy,” you whispered, taking the cap off and smelling the scent. “How did you know?”

"I remembered how good it smelled on you everytime I nuzzled into yer neck and...I hadn't smelled it for awhile. I do notice little things sometimes," he chuckled softly. "I'm glad it makes ya happy. Happy looks good on you." He shakes the sack out and one more pretty package tumbles out. It's long and sort of flat and rectangular...like a box that would contain jewelry. You carefully open the box and there's a little stylized golden sun with diamond accents on a gold chain. "That one's to remind you that your me spot of sunshine every day." His large hand smooths up and down over your back.

“I always want to be, if you’ll have me,” you murmured softly, turning the charm between your thumb and finger. “It’s perfect. Will you help me?” you asked. He took the necklace as you turned and pulled all of your hair to one side. You hadn’t felt this happy in quite awhile…he did all of this for you. He lifted the necklace over your head and you felt his fingers brushing the sensitive skin at the nape of your neck while he fastened the clasp.

"Let me see, darlin'," he said softly. You shift in his lap and turn so he can see the front of you. "Ah, it looks good. Suits ya." His smile was so genuine and warm. Then, tucking a couple of fingers under your chin, he tilted your head up to him leaning in and brushing his lips over yours.

*_*_*

Lettuce know if you want more! 🎄❤️

[atmosghoul]

Just discovered Rain & Aether being very sexy in your fic. I mean?!?! This was so…. hot?

“You started this, now I’m gonna finish it.”

… well… does he? What does he do? 👀😏

Oh boy,,,I hadn’t planned on finishing that buuttttt then I got this ask and I just,,,they consumed me ok I literally wrote this during breaks at work ON MY WORK WIFI SO UH YEA HERES HOPIN THEY DONT TRACK EVERYTHING

NSFW under the cut!

Continuation of this

Rain isn’t sure how long they’ve been here.

When did they move to a bed? Is this his bed or Aether’s?

Either way all Rain can think of right now is the sheets balled up in his fist and Aether’s mouth, warm and wet on his aching cock.

“Please, Aeth,” Rain whines. Even he’s not really sure what he’s pleading for. For aether to stop? To get closer?

Aether takes his mouth off of Rain and runs a hand up the water ghouls stomach lightly scratching his claws along the way to the lean throat where he gives a gentle squeeze.

“Please what?” Aether admonishes, sliding his hand up to grip Rain’s jaw, forcing the water ghoul to make eye contact.

Rain keens and grips Aether’s arm with both hands, nails digging into the larger ghoul’s arm.

“Sir!” He gasps. “Please sir, I can’t- too much, please.”

How many orgasms had Aether ripped out of him? He’d lost count. Surely Aether knows. He always keeps count. Loves to see how far he can push his partner, test the limits.

“You can and you will. Like i said, you started this and I’m finishing it. Finishing you,” Aether’s gaze travels to Rain’s hands.

“And what did I say about your hands?”

Rain quickly moves his hands back to the sheets mumbling an apology and looking away from Aether’s dominating stare.

Aether groans, giving a mischievous smile.

“Hmmm good boy. But, that’s two more for disobeying.”

Rain whines, high pitched and broken and Aether chuckles.

“Please, sir,”

Aether simply glides back down to Rain’s leaking cock harshly kissing and sucking various spots on Rain’s already marked torso along the way.

Aether takes Rain’s cock in one hand and grips the base tightly before teasing the angry purple head, languidly circling it around his tongue like a popsicle. Rain gives a full body shudder already so close to another orgasm. Then Aether takes him fully in his mouth, the head of his cock hitting the back of the quintessence ghoul’s throat. Rain screams as another orgasm rips through him.

“You’re doing so well, my little Rainbow.”

Rains exhales a shaky breath mumbling a ‘Thank you, sir’

“One more and then your punishment is over alright?”

Rain nods as his eyes drift closed.

“Words, princess,”

“Y-yes sir. Please,”

Rain braces himself for his cock to be abused once more but nearly cums again when he feels Aether’s large fingers prodding at his dripping entrance.

Rain arches off the bed but is quickly pushed back down by Aether’s hand splayed over his stomach.

“Still,” Aether says firmly not even looking up at Rain. His eyes are transfixed on where his fingers are now pressing into Rains hole so slowly. Too slowly.

Then Aether all but swallows his cock whole again. Only half hard now but the pleasure is white hot all the same. Rain takes deep breaths through his nose trying to keep centered. He feels like he might pass out from the overstimulation.

Aether’s fingers continue to work Rain open as he holds Rain’s cock in his mouth working his tongue lazily in time with his fingers. The quintessence ghoul feels half mad at how wet rain is. Fucking water ghouls.

He’s got two fingers in Rain and is poised to add a third when Rain arches off the bed again, hands never leaving their position in the sheets as another orgasm rips through him. Aether sits up and removes his fingers from Rain.

“Someone’s sensitive,” he chuckles darkly as he moves to lean over Rain and gently pushes the water ghoul’s hair from his face.

Rain closes his eyes and leans into Aether’s touch and hums out a shaky breath as a kiss is pressed to his forehead. A gesture too sweet and gentle for what Aether is about to do.

Aether’s hand cards through Rains hair before gripping a fistful of the dark waves and Rain’s eyes shoot open with a cry as Aether shoves into him with one hard thrust.

Aether stills inside Rain and leans down to enclose the water ghoul in his arms.

“So tight and wet for me,” Aether mumbles as he leans into Rain and begins kissing and sucking at his neck.

Aether pulls out almost all the way before slowly sliding back in all the way and starts a leisurely pace of deep slow thrusts making Rain feel every inch of his cock.

“Satanas you feel so good,” Aether growls low in Rains ear as he starts to thrust faster and harder.

“Gonna make you take my fucking knot.”

Rain is being jolted with the force and is using every ounce of self awareness left to keep his hands on the sheets like a good princess. He has to be good.

Aether leans back and grabs Rain’s thighs, pushing his legs back to change the angle and Rain starts seeing stars.

Then Rain feels Aether’s knot hitting his entrance with every thrust threatening to go in. He moans a loud high pitched whine and Aether answers with a growl as he leans over Rain again caging him in with his large arms.

“You gonna be a good little slut and take my knot? Huh?”

Words escape Rain. All thoughts in his head are simply of Aether and his massive knot about to push fully in.

“Please, please Sir breed me please knot me please,” Rain babbles now looking like not much more than a rag doll as Aether roughly ruts into him.

It only takes a few more harsh thrusts for it to pop past the ring of sensitive muscle. The pleasure and pain of Aether’s knot is so intense Rain’s brain goes even more fuzzy which he didn’t think was possible. He goes completely limp as he gives up trying to do anything other than just taking Aether’s cock and huge knot.

“That’s right, princess come on my cock squeeze my knot,”

Aether moans more than says. “You can do it, gimme one more. Cum one more time for me, you can do it i know you can.”

Rain’s eyes roll back in his head and Aether yells out as Rain’s orgasm sends him crashing into his own.

The last thing Rain remembers before blacking out is the feeling something hot and sticky on his stomach and a sudden empty feeling below his waist.

He comes to with big strong arms wrapped around him and fingers gently carding through his shaggy hair still damp with sweat.

“Welcome back, Rainbow,” Aether mumbles into the water ghoul’s hair.

Rain shifts and looks up at Aether. The look in his eyes tells Aether he’s not fully coherent again yet.

“You alright? Need anything?” Aether asks, hand moving from Rains hair to his face to gently cup his cheek.

“‘M thirsty,” Rain mumbles soft and sweet.

“Well luckily for you, I am always prepared,” Aether chuckles as he reaches behind him to the bedside table and retrieves and bottle of water.

He has Rain sit up and helps the water ghoul drink from the bottle before replacing the cap and setting it aside.

“Get back in here,” Aether says repositioning himself to lay back down with arms open waiting for Rain to nuzzle against his chest again. Rain does and Aether holds him close as they both begin to drift off.

“Sorry for interrupting your reading,”

Rain mumbles sleepily, his voice muffled slightly by Aether’s chest.

The quintessence ghoul chuckles.

“It’s alright, Raindrop. Book was kind of boring me anyway.”

[telli1206]

I Won't Let Go

Happy Holidays @bucket-barnes! I'm your Descendants Secret Santa. I did my best for a little Harry hallucination holiday angst for you. I hope you like it!

Harry is dealing with past trauma in Auradon during Christmas, and Uma and Gil are there to get him through it. Just a little fluff and angst for the holidays ❤❄

AO3

Uma’s hand tightens on the doorknob. Her eyes are tilted downward, following her own movement as if in a trance. She’s trying so hard to focus on the dinged-gold gleam of the metal rather than the words being spoken to her.

“Uma? You get what I’m saying, right? It’s for his own good. T-to, help him, I guess? I just…I want to keep him safe.”

Her chest feels tight, and the next breath she sucks in is borderline painful. But she plasters on the most genuine-looking smile she can muster, looking Ben in the eye with her chest puffed in fake bravado.

“Of course, Ben,” she coos, brushing her hand along his arm in a reassuring way. “If there’s anyone here that knows what’s best for us, it’s you. If you think Harry needs this, I’m in.”

Ben flashes her a grin, the most white and straight and perfect one she’s ever seen still, despite being surrounded by them now in a world of prim princes and princesses. There’s a sadness in his eyes, though. Uma feels like she’s been recognizing it more often. Whenever Ben has to acknowledge how the Isle has made their lives different, she sees it. And she finds she can really appreciate that about Ben in this moment. Neither of them wants to do this, but they both care enough about Harry to know it needs to be done.

“So, you really want to be in there, with him? I’d hate to keep you confined, too.” Ben’s chewing his lip, his brow furrowed with worry. “Once I lock the door it has to stay that way. The clock’s going to start ticking down the minutes to the parade in about…10 minutes?” He tells her with a brief glance to his watch. “And then the bells go off for a full minute after that. I think Harry’s going to need the full night to recover. After what happened at that Tourney game, I can’t risk it. The gash on Jay’s leg isn’t even fully healed yet.”

Uma winces at the thought. That wasn’t the first time they realized the Tourney bell could set Harry off, but it was definitely the worst. He had lunged at Jay simply because the boy was closest to the direction of the sound, so he got the brunt of Harry’s swing. Jay hadn’t stood a chance.

She shook her head sternly. “I’m not leaving him alone, Ben. He needs me.”

And I need him. The thought goes unsaid, but the tiny smile quirking at the end of Ben’s lips makes his understanding clear. With a gentlemanly wave of his hand, he grants Uma’s entrance through Harry’s door.

There’s no hesitation in Uma’s step. She charges through the door with the same determination and confidence she always has when she’s coming to see Harry. Like she wants to be here. Because she does.

In this moment, there’s nowhere else she’d rather be.

The second he meets her eyes, Harry’s smile gleams so bright. Warm and all-encompassing, reaching all the way to the crinkles of his ocean-blue eyes.

He always smiles that way when he sees her, Uma knows that. Because she always feels that same familiar heat pool in her belly when he does it, like she’s the only thing he ever needs to see again. The only thing he wants in his life, forever.

“Love, you’re back!” Harry proclaims, his arms already outstretched for her. He waits patiently that way, his wide grin unwavering until Uma’s in his arms, her tangle of braids spilling into his face as he envelops her.

“I was hopin’ ye weren’t gonna make me spend Christmas Eve without ya,” he said, voice muffled into the side of her neck. She shakes her head vigorously at that, making him chuckle.

“Don’t be a dolt, Harry. You know that would never happen.” She pulls back to smack him on the chest, the gesture missing all its animosity as she couldn’t fight the smile off her face. Harry ducks into her space, looking up into her eyes with a teasing smirk on his lips.

“A dolt, am I? But I’m your dolt, so what does that make you?”

“Well-“

“CAP’N! HARRY!”

Uma’s eyes whip to the door when Gil comes bounding in, practically toppling over Ben as he tries to open the door. She swallows a snort at the comical way the blond boy rolls over the king’s arm, flipping into a somersault and jumping up to his feet in an almost graceful flop. He flashes a toothy grin when he’s finally standing in front of them, panting audibly as he tries to offer a little bow for them.

Harry bursts out a laugh at that, picking up Uma in his arms to bow them both in return, eliciting a giggle from her while she clings desperately to his neck. Harry stands up quickly though when a loud cough erupts from the doorway.

“Eh, well…I guess Gil…we’ll see you in the morning too?” Ben stammers slowly, his smile halfway curling in an uncomfortable way. “Just, you all have a good night. And Merry Christmas!”

Ben waves as he closes the door, barely nodding an acknowledgment at the way Harry waves wildly back, almost dropping Uma to the ground as he does so. She lands on her feet though, brushing herself off quickly so she can jump on Gil and hug him tightly.

“Gil, what are you doing here?” Uma demands, smiling easily when he hugs her close. He’s sighing happily, and she lets it happen for a few moments before pulling back to look at him.

“Really, you should be out, enjoying the holiday stuff! You don’t need to be stuck inside.”

Gil’s brows knit together as he stares at Uma, clearly dumbfounded.

“Why would I want to do that when you an’ Harry are in here? That stuff doesn’t matter if I don’t have you guys! You know I love you, don’t you Ums?”

Uma bites her lip at that, holding her breath to fight down the swell of tears that’s starting to build.

“Yeah, Gil. Yeah. I know.” She smiles at him, turning to stand beside him to throw an arm over his shoulders.

“And you love our first mate too, right? We both do,” she adds with a wink, relishing in the way Harry beams back at them.

“Course!” Gil agrees, quickly jumping on Harry. They fall back on the bed in a hug, Harry nearly bellowing with laughter as Gil squeezes him tight, tickling his neck when he buries his nose there.

“I was bummed when Ben told me you guys couldn’t come out of this room, so I made him lock me in too,” Gil added in his muffled voice. He lifted his head to look at Harry, his expression changing to confusion when he sees the smile unexpectedly slip from Harry’s face.

“Locked…in?” Harry repeats. “So we can’t get out?” He glances at Uma. “What’s he talkin’ about?”

Uma huffs, but forces a smile back on her face. As much as she loves Gil, sometimes he could really stand to have some sense knocked into him.

“It’s nothing!” She waves it away, walking up to Harry to grab him by the forearms. “I wanted to have a nice Christmas, just us. I told Ben not to let anyone bother us, ok? I’m sick of all bells and lights and singing and that…eggnog crap that tastes like spoiled milk with cake mix thrown in.”

She emphasizes her last comment with a fake gag, forcing a slight chuckle out of Harry. She throws a quick glance over Harry’s shoulder to Gil, who’s just staring at her, eyes blank and confused. She tries to give him a little wink, but she’s sure it’s not enough for him to understand what she’s doing. Still, she tips her head their way, indicating for Gil to join them, and her shoulders relax when he simply shrugs and follows her.

“Can we snuggle Harry? I just need some time with my boys. This winter weather is shit. I’d like nothing more than to lay in bed and maybe watch a movie on the laptop.” She grabs Gil and yanks them both to stand beside her.  

“‘Pirates of the Caribbean’?” She adds, pouting her lips hopefully.

Harry grins instantly. “Oh Cap’n, you always know how to get me to do yer biddin’.”

She smiles brightly, pushing Harry back towards the bed. As he crawls into place, Uma is quick to pull Gil close to her.

“Clock ticking’s about to start,” she mumbles quietly, eyes still on Harry. “Make sure you have both arms around Harry as soon as we lay down, got it? The next 10 minutes are gonna be real tough on him. And us.”

She looks up briefly to Gil, relief flooding her chest when his eyes widen in recognition. He nods and scrambles quickly onto the bed, prompting another cackle from Harry when he leaps on top of him, wrapping his arms and legs around him and locking them together on the bed.

Uma manages a shaky laugh at the sight, her eyes darting quickly around the room for a second. She spots Harry’s hook on a high shelf, where Ben had made him set it when they arrived in Auradon. His sword is mounted in a case on the wall, out of commission.

She sighs in relief and crawls her way onto the bed, carefully positioning herself on the other side of Harry. He’s still laughing, and she offers a loving smile as she lays her head on his shoulder, placing a hand over his and Gil’s on his chest. Her grip tightens as the clock ticks its first, and she’s fast to swing her other arm behind Harry’s shoulder, holding firmly as his eyes bulge at the sound.

Harry’s face quickly twists from fear to anger as his fists begin to clench. Uma plants a small kiss to his shoulder before closing her eyes and bracing herself.

“Love you Harry,” she whispers softly, before the silence of the room is lost to a heart-wrenching scream.

[delphi-dreamin]

In the Hearts of Two

Secret kisses and not-so-secret kisses

Fandom: Palia

Relationship: Hodari x Delphi (OC)

Word Count: 4.5k

Rating: Suggestive, but not explicit.

Notes: A 5+1 in the year of our lord 2024? It's more likely than you think. Thank you, thank you, thank you to @yourboyhack for keeping me writing on this one! (And for reading my handwriting, lol!)

One

“Here ya go, ladies,” Ashura says. “A flagon of mead for Sifuu, a pint of ale for Delphi, and an ormuu milk lassi for Delaila. Enjoy.”

“Thanks, Ashura!” Delphi chirps, giving him a bright, glassy smile as he turns to go back to the counter. He gives her a gentle smile and pats her shoulder before he goes, his low chuckle almost drowned out by Delaila’s laughter.

She waits until Ashura reaches the check-in counter before leaning over the table and teasing, “Sifuu, when are ye goin’ to ask him out? Ye’ve been givin’ Ashura eyes for years now!”

Delphi nearly spits out her beer at Delaila’s words, but catches herself and coughs, “I’d like to know the answer, too, please!”

Sifuu’s normally lavender cheeks flush a dusty violet and her eyes go wide. It’s a reaction Delphi’s never seen before, though she does recall through her alcohol-induced haze the retired monster hunter mentioning more than once that she’d been thinking about asking the innkeeper out. She hadn’t realized how much feeling was actually behind her musings.

Before she has to reply, Sifuu’s gaze focuses behind Delphi and she breaks out in a wide smile.

“Well, would you look at what the palcat dragged in!” Her voice is booming as usual, and she nearly overturns her drink waving in the direction of the inn’s entrance. Delphi doesn’t have time to look back before Sifuu is calling, “Hey Hodari! Haven’t seen you out this late in years!”

Delphi feels her own face heating when she hears Sifuu call Hodari’s name. She downs the entirety of her pint, nearly choking when a hand lands softly on her shoulder.

“Hey, Sifuu,” Hodari chuckles, squeezing Delphi’s shoulder lightly. “I was actually out lookin’ for Delphi, here.”

Delaila and Sifuu exchange glances and Delphi’s face goes white hot.

“Went out to your plot, but you weren’t home,” he drawls, seemingly unaware of the gears turning in both of the older women’s minds. “Figured I’d check the local waterin’ hole. Got a minute?”

Delphi coughs, wishing for all the world that she had more beer in her glass. She finally turns to look at Hodari, clearing her throat before replying, “Yeah, I can, uh, step out for a minute.”

She pointedly doesn’t look back at Sifuu and Delaila as she follows him out into the cool night. She expects him to stop at the square, probably to ask for her advice or assistance with Najuma, but he surprises her. He leads her from the inn toward Jel’s shop, then around to the back of the building.

“Hodari, what—”

She's cut off by his gloved hands cupping her cheeks. Her heart races at the contact, the drunken haze clouding her mind dissipating immediately. Her awareness narrows down to the soft smile on his lips, the apologetic tilt to his brows, the gentle circles he trace with his thumbs, and the heat beginning to pool in her belly.

“Sorry to pull you away like this, darlin’,” he murmurs, brushing her bottom lip with one thumb. “I was hopin’ I’d find you at home.”

“It’s okay,” Delphi breathes, willing her traitorous eyes to remain open, despite the overwhelming urge to close them and melt into him. “Is something wrong?”

“Nah,” he chuckles, his blue eyes sparkling in the moonlight. “I’ve just been wantin’ to do this all day.”

He pulls her in closer as he dips his head down, his lips finding her in a tender kiss. It barely lasts a moment, but she feels it like a bolt of lightning. It could be the beer or the cool breeze that rustles her hair and clothes, but she can feel a tingling sensation spread to her fingers and toes. It lingers within her, even as he backs away and bids her good night.

Two

He’s exhausted, knees and back aching, by the time he surfaces from the mines. Cursing under his breath, he realizes he’s lost track of time again. Luna and Ignis are high in the sky, the stars twinkling to the tune of the crickets chirping, but Hodari barely notices any of it as he trudges home. Najuma needs dinner and he still needs to finish up some things in the workshop before he can even think about going to bed or taking a warm bath to soothe his aching joints.

He’s crossing the bridge to the house when he notices the smell of cooking meat and the almost musical sounds of laughter coming from the covered table in the yard. As he approaches, the tension melts from his shoulders and he finds himself smiling.

Najuma sits at the table, chatting animatedly about a new invention while a large pot bubbles on the stove. A familiar figure sits across from her, with pink curls and sparkling violet eyes, listening with rapt attention as Najuma regales her with tales of explosions and collapsed chaapa burrows.

“Well shoot, if I’d known I was comin’ home to dinner, I’d’ve been home sooner,” Hodari jokes, propping his pick against the table.

“Dad,” Najuma groans, rolling her eyes while he chuckles.

“I’m just playin’, Najuma,” he laughs. The warm smile on Delphi’s face as she rises to stir whatever she’s cooking sets his stomach fluttering.

He thought he’d never feel like this again after Leta died, the butterflies in his stomach, the warmth spreading from his chest whenever she gives him that smile.

“Since you asked,” Delphi teases, turning off the stove. “I made sernuk noodle stew. Najuma told me you were working late and I was out hunting, so...”

“It smells great,” Hodari says, realizing for the first time how hungry he actually is. He watches her ladle stew into bowls, filling them nearly to the brim before placing two down in front of him and Najuma.

“Shit,” she hisses, shaking her head. “I forgot utensils. I’ll be right back.”

He watches her jog to the house, curls bouncing and hips swaying.

“Ugh! Gross, Dad,” Najuma scoffs, scrunching her nose in disgust. “I’m right here!”

“Yeah, yeah,” Hodari sighs, huffing out a laugh. He playfully ruffles her hair as he gets up from the table, narrowly dodging her flailing arms when her goggles fall over her face.

He makes his way inside, not quite sure what he’s planning to do, but following his feet as they lead him into the kitchen. Delphi is reaching for something in an upper cabinet, standing on her toes. Her top is riding up, giving him a perfect view of her lower back and midriff. The pinkish skin looks so soft and warm that he finds himself taking his gloves off as he walks over to her so that he can feel it.

He squeezes her waist gently as first, then fully wraps his arms around her and buries his face in her silky, lavender-scented curls. Feeling her warm and soft in his harms, he can’t help the contented hum that escapes his chest.

“How’d you do it, darlin’?” he murmurs in her ear, smiling at the shiver it sends down her spine and filing it away for later. “Najuma loves you, and I haven’t felt like this in years.”

“Like what?” she breathes, her voice almost trembling.

“Take your pick,” he chuckles. He turns her around, resting his hands somewhere between the small of her back and the swell of her ass. With her violet eyes with and sparkling up at him, he finds his words. “Warm? Happy? Completely gobsmacked that you’d pick me?”

Her smile is as bright as the sun as she drapes her arms over his shoulders, and he thinks that smile could bathe even the darkest parts of him in its light.

“Of course I picked you, silly,” Delphi replies. Hodari watches with awe as she tilts her head toward him and draws in close, her lashes fluttering as her gaze drops to his lips. “You’re you.”

His heart soars as she presses her lips to his. They’re just as soft as the rest of her, maybe even more so. And she’s so responsive, opening up for him when he runs his tongue along the seams of her lips, moaning and wrapping her legs around him when he grabs her by the hips and lifts her onto the counter. He’s halfway to lifting her shirt off when they hear a yell from outside.

“Are you two done yet?” Najuma calls. “The stew’s getting cold and I’m starving!”

They look at each other, Delphi’s eyes wide and her lips swollen even as she sucks her lower lip between her teeth. She grins, chuckling, “Guess we’d better get back out there and feed Najuma before she plants a smoke bomb under my bed.”

Hodari helps her down from the counter, handing her the glass she was reaching for a smiling.

“Go on, then,” he tells her. “I’ll be out in a minute.”

After all the blood in his body redistributes properly.

Three

The rain came out of nowhere, the sky clear one minute and dark gray the next. It’s so unexpected that even the sernuk she was hunting didn’t have time to retreat into the forest to take cover. Delphi quickly unstrings and stows her bow before running for the nearest cover she can find. It’s a long run, but she finally ducks into the mine, mud up to her knees and her clothes completely soaked. She leans over, hands on her thighs, in an attempt to catch her breath.

She finally manages, the burning in her chest subsiding and the stitch in her side easing. She finds a rock near the entrance to sit on and begins stripping off her soaked hunting gear. The heavy cotton and leather slap against the hard-packed dirt floor as she drops the gear into an unceremonious heap, already not looking forward to dragging it all back home after the rain clears.

She’s attempting to wring the rapidly cooling water from her hair when a familiar voice calls out to her, surprised delight creeping into the drawl she loves so much, “Well hey, darlin’!”

“Hey,” she laughs, looking up at Hodari with a tired smile. “I didn’t think you’d be here this late.”

He shrugs. “I’ve been fixin’ some of the supports. Almost had a cave-in last week ‘cause some idiot went too deep into one of the walls down below.”

“Oh, shit.”

“Yeah,” he sighs, scratching at the back of his neck. “I threw ‘em out. Told ‘em to come back when they learn how to swing a pick right.”

He sits down beside her, eyeing her piles of soaked gear. He nudges her playfully on the arm and teases, “You fall in a lake or somethin’?”

“Ha-ha,” she replies, unable to hide her grin as she rolls her eyes and nudges him back. “I don’t know if you noticed, doing your best impersonation of a mole down here, but it’s absolutely pouring out there above ground.”

“I’m just messin’ with ya, darlin’,” Hodari chuckles, patting her knee.

“Oh, you’re so warm,” Delphi sighs. She can feel herself beginning to shiver in the cool air of the mine.

He laughs heartily, but wraps an arm around her and pulls her into his side. Hodari gently rubs her bare arms in an attempt to warm her up, smiling as her shivers begin to subside.

“Feelin’ better?” he asks, and feels her nod into his shoulder. “Good. Anything else I can do, darlin’?”

His heart nearly stops when she looks up with wide eyes, cheeks pink, and breathes, “Kiss me.”

And who is he to say no?

Hodari’s smile turns soft as he lifts her chin carefully and lowers his lips to hers. She meets him almost shyly, her breath shuddering as she turns toward him. This lasts a few seconds, but finally he feels her shift. She takes in a deep breath, her lips remaining on his as she rises and climbs into his lap. His hands slide up her thighs, coming to rest on her ass as she groans into him. Her hands come to fist in his hair and he groans as well, encouraging her with a light squeeze. She responds enthusiastically, grinding down against him with a whimper.

This goes on for what feels like hours, her breath turning ragged while the movement of her hips only grows faster and harder. Her hands are snaking down his chest, coming dangerously close to where his shirt is tucked into his gray work pants when a deafening clap of thunder shakes the ground and they both jump.

Their eyes meet for a moment before they both break out into breathless laughter. Delphi pushes her hair behind her ears and sighs, gently extricating herself from Hodari’s hold.

“I should probably get home before the path floods,” she murmurs, bending down to pick up her sopping wet gear.

Hodari clears his throat, adjusting himself, and suggests, “You could come over for dinner? Let your clothes dry out, maybe wait out the storm?”

Delphi’s grin is bright as she nods and says, “Yeah, alright.”

Four

Hodari isn’t sure exactly what the purpose of this gathering at the mayor’s mansion is. The food is usually cold, he’s forced to make small talk with half the village, and there’s never a place he can go wo just sit with his own thoughts, so he usually hates them. But tonight as Badruu is talking his ear off about field crickets getting into his cabbage crop, he finds himself glad he came to this one.

Across the garden, Delphi is laughing at something Reth said, her eyes sparkling brighter than the forest green dress draped elegantly around her. It hugs her curves just right, leaving almost nothing to the imagination. She’s wiping a tear from her eye when she catches him staring at her. She smiles softly, giving him a little wave before she returns to her conversation with the chef.

He endures the rest of Badruu’s rambling before politely excusing himself. He turns to the pavilion where he’d seen Delphi, only to find her gone, Hassian and Tau now in her place. He looks around the garden in an attempt to locate her, but she’s disappeared completely. He meanders into the mansion, seeing Sifuu and Ashura chatting animatedly in the dining room, with Tish and Jel in the library, their heads bent together over a glossy magazine page.

Continuing further into the house, he sees several other villagers before he finally locates her in the front drawing room, chatting with Kenyatta and Najuma. He approaches quietly, placing a gentle hand on her elbow. The smile she gives him when she turns to see who’s trying to get her attention could light up the whole of the village.

“Hey!” she exclaims, turning to him fully. “Najuma was just telling us about a new invention! You should join us!”

“I was actually wonderin’ if I could borrow you for a minute,” he replies, nodding toward the door.

“Yeah, of course!” she responds brightly. She turns to the others and waves, saying, “I’ll see you guys later!”

Hodari gestures for her to lead the way, and before he turns to follow, he catches Najuma rolling her eyes.

They step out into the front courtyard, and Hodari watches her walk down the steps, unable to take his eyes off her hips as she does. She leads him out of the courtyard, just to the far side of the brick wall. Immediately, his hands are on her hips and he’s crowding her against the wall.

“I take it you like the dress?” she giggles, half-heartedly trying to push him away as he begins to press hot kisses into the soft skin just below her jaw.

“Darlin’, I think you’re gorgeous all the time,” he growls into her skin. “But tonight?” A rake of his teeth against her collarbone. “In that dress?” A squeeze to her hips. “You could outshine Embra herself.”

Her hands are in his hair, holding him close as his lips, teeth, and tongue caress and claim every inch of visible skin. He can feel her heart racing, hear her breath becoming more and more ragged. They’re changes he can feel mirrored in himself, nearly unable to think for the rushing of blood in his ears and the fire in his veins.

“Let me take you home,” he murmurs into the shell of her ear. “Maybe get you outta that dress?”

“Not tonight,” she breathes, and it almost comes out as a moan. She turns her head, pressing sweet kisses into his cheek and jaw. Chuckling at his disappointed groan, she adds, “The entire village is inside. Someone will notice if we both leave.”

Hodari drops his head onto her shoulder and sighs. He knows she’s right.

“I’ve already finished my virtues test,” she says, softly running her fingers through his hair. “And Sifuu’s agreed to be my Shepp. My Acceptance Ceremony will be soon, and then we can do this as much and as publicly as you want.”

She gently lifts his head and smiles at him before pressing a chaste kiss to his lips.

“I’m gonna head back in,” Delphi whispers. She pats his chest with another smile, then turns and heads back into the courtyard.

Five

“Shh!” Delphi giggles. “Someone will hear us!”

“Who’s gonna hear?” Hodari growls. “We’re in the middle of the woods!”

Their lunch lies abandoned at the corner of the blanket near their feet, a veritable feast for the insects that live in the underbrush. In the soft dappled lights from the canopy over head they lie, a tangled mess of limbs. Their tools and equipment are in a heap under a nearby tree, the light of the afternoon sun reflecting off the glimmering palium blades in rainbows that dance with the breeze rustling the leaves above.

It’s warm and cozy, and she breaks into another fit of giggles when he rubs his stubbly cheek against hers again.

“Auni camps out here all the time,” she gasps when his lips find her neck.

He huffs out at laugh, “Auni’s deliverin’ the mail. And he’s already been through the Bay.”

“And Hassian hunts out here!” she protests weakly, giggling and attempting to curl her legs up between them.

“Hassian went to the capital to sell pelts today. What is goin’ on, darlin’?” Hodari raises himself up onto his elbows, brows furrowed and lips turned down in a frown. “D’ya have somewhere else to be or somethin’?”

Delphi sighs, sitting up to face him. “It’s not that. It’s just...my Acceptance Ceremony is in three days. And you know I wanna do this right. I want to become a full member of Palian society so that there’s no doubt when we finally let everyone know.”

He takes her hand, staring down at it for a few moments before asking, “Doubt about what, darlin’?”

Delphi looks down at their hands, attempting to calm the swirling storm of her thoughts. The sour feeling in her stomach has been eating at her for days, ever since Eshe set the date for her ceremony. She wasn’t sure what it was at first. By all rights, she should be giddy with excitement. But there’s a lingering, insidious thought at the back of her mind. A tiny little shred of an intrusive idea that keeps telling her that maybe, just maybe, she doesn’t truly belong.

She takes a deep breath, exhaling fully before she begins, “I materialized out of thin air less than a year ago. I was told that I’m a member of a previously extinct race and that there’s no way of knowing exactly who I am or where I came from. My earliest memory is Jina’s shocked face while I sat on the ground at the base of the Phoenix Shrine.”

Hodari squeezes her hand lightly, nodding for her to continue. She smiles softly and nods back.

“I’ve worked until my fingers bled to build a life here. I’ve learned all the ins and outs of Majiri society and customs. I’ve made friends and a home, and I’ve found a wonderful, beautiful man with a lovely, brilliant daughter who I want to spend the rest of my life with.”

She raises their entwined hands to press a kiss to his knuckles.

“But at the end of the day, I’m still human. And you’re all Majiri. And as silly as it may sound, I’m still afraid that...someone, or everyone, is going to realize that I don’t belong here. And I just don’t want there to be any doubt that I truly want to be here and that I want to be a member of this community. For myself, just as much as for you and Najuma.”

Hodari looks at her with wide eyes and a slack jaw. He lets out a breath before pulling her into his arms. He holds her for a few moments before he seems to find his words.

“Darlin’, every time I go into the village, someone is singin’ your praises. They all love you.” He gives her a lopsided grin. “Almost as much as I do.”

She smiles softly, winding her arms around him.

“I love you,” she sighs, leaning in when he lifts her chin and lowers his lips to hers in a sweet, lingering kiss.

Plus One

“Oh, Delphi!” Tish gushes, her eyes alight. “It’s absolutely perfect! You look amazing!”

Delphi can feel heat rising in her cheeks as Tish showers her with compliments. She hadn’t even asked Jel to make the dress for her, it had been a surprise gift from him and Tish for her Acceptance Ceremony. But the soft, silky garment is the color of the sunset and drapes so beautifully that she couldn’t not accept it.

“It’s absolutely exquisite,” Jel agrees, turning her around to check the fit. “And I’m so glad we decided to go with the open back. Drawing that bow of yours has truly made you a sight to behold.”

“Thank you,” Delphi laughs. “Both of you. I don’t know how I’ll ever repay you for this.”

“You don’t have to repay us, silly!” Tish giggles. “It’s a gift! And besides, you’ve helped us both so much already, it’s the least we could do!”

“Consider it payment for everything you’ve done for us,” Jel adds.

“Now that we’ve covered all of that,” Tish says, clapping her hands. “Are you ready to go?”

She’d done well to tamp down the nerves until now. Tish’s and Jel’s attention had kept her distracted from the anxiety that’s been growing within her for days. Since her last conversation with Hodari, she’s been trying to remind herself that she’s made plenty of friends here and that the village is welcoming her with open arms, but reason means nothing in the face of irrational fear.

She takes a steadying breath and nods, letting Tish drag her out the front door with Jel following close behind.

It’s a short walk from Tish’s house to the mayor’s estate. The lights in the garden twinkle merrily as they enter, a cheer going up from the pavilion where Sifuu and Delaila are chatting. Delphi can’t help but laugh, waving at them. Everyone from the village is there, Kenyatta, Nai’o, and Najuma chatting in the corner, Tish and Jel leaving her with smiles and waves to go talk with Reth by the food table. She thinks she can hear Badruu laughing from somewhere inside the house, probably talking with Ashura if she had to guess. Jina, Hekla, and Einar are huddled in a corner, Jina taking notes as Einar and Hekla talk. Hassian and Tau are lurking in a corner, Tau’s tail wagging as he chases moths around the outskirts of the garden. She can hear Zeki attempting to sell Caleri something while Elouisa shakes her head. There’s only one familiar face she’s missing.

She pokes her head into the library, the dining room, and the front drawing room, but she doesn’t see him anywhere. She tries to tell herself that he’s just late or that he’s just in an area of the house she hasn’t checked, but when Eshe comes to find her in one of the wingback chairs in the drawing room she’s a shaking, nervous wreck.

“We're ready for you,” the magistrate tells her, frowning. “But you look like you’re about to faint.”

Delphi sighs, scratching at her arm nervously. “I’m sorry, Eshe. I’ve been freaking out about this all week. But I’m ready.”

“What were you looking for?” Eshe asks, raising a brow at her. “I saw you combing every room of the estate.”

She can feel her face warming at Eshe’s pointed glance and admits quietly, “Hodari said he was going to be here. I’ve seen everybody else, but I haven’t seen him…”

Eshe tuts, taking Delphi’s hand and helping her to stand. “The miner and his daughter arrived just before you did. They were setting up the fireworks for this evening.”

Delphi lets out a breath and nods, smoothing her dress. “Okay. I’m ready.”

Every eye is on her as Eshe leads her into the garden. Sifuu waits on the raised platform in the center of the garden, her smile wide and bright when she catches sight of Delphi approaching.  The rest of the village lines the walkway, their smiles just as bright as Sifuu's. Just before Eshe stops her, she finally catches sight of the face she’d been looking for. He’s half-hidden behind Hekla and Jina, but his smile when he catches her eye is warm and reassuring.

Eshe's speech is short and to the point, and when she asks if Delphi will accept Kilima Village as her home, there are tears in Delphi's eyes as she says yes. The assembled villagers' cheers are drowned out by the loud booming of Najuma’s fireworks overhead, their jubilant faces illuminated by the colorful explosions.

Najuma sits near the base of the platform, giving Delphi a thumbs-up and a grin. Delphi’s confusion is cleared up as a pair of hands grabs her by the waist and spins her around. Hodari grins at her, his cheeks rosy and his eyes sparking. He dips his head toward hers and says loudly enough for her to hear over the fireworks, “I’m gonna kiss you now. In front of the whole town.”

“Please do,” Delphi laughs. She throws her arms around his neck, giggling as he catches her by the waist and spins her around.

The kiss is a mess, teeth crashing together and lips bruising as they both laugh, but the way her heart soars and her stomach flips at finally being able to kiss him openly makes it worth it. There’s whooping and applause from all around them, Sifuu’s loudest of all.

Listen, I didn't want to fall in love with this man. I was happy with my shy hunter and my flirty chef. And I DEFINITELY didn't want to imagine being a step-mom. But then I got to know him and his daughter and fucking hell. I'm absolutely feral over him. And I'm absolitely smitten with her. I've got some other things in the works for Hodari AND Najuma, so probably look for those sometime...

Taglist: @biteable-pink-pixie @sassykattery @sparkbeast20 @kyungjoon-do @attic-club-sandwich @consolationblog @flemmingbamse @syren201 @denpa-dere

 (And if any of you just like...don't care about my Palia fics, please let me know and I'll add a note on my spreadsheet!)

[ghostmemesource]

👻୧‿︵‿︵ ash vs. evil dead sentence starters

these are quotes taken from the starz series ash vs. evil dead. send in one of the prompts below for my muse’s response. please change pronouns/names where you see fit.

First thing I got to do is see a guy about a book. Must be some spell I can say to undo all this.

The other first thing I got to do is some cardio, ’cause my heart is jackhammering like a quarterback on prom night.

One false move, and I will Second Amendment your brains all over this truck.

We’re not leaving a trail of blood and guts behind us, we’re keeping Michigan moist.

There’s one thing I learned from [name]. Shoot first, ask questions never.

Last time I was here with a girl, I was hopin’ to get laid.

If I’ve learned anything from you, [name], it’s that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Hey, I’m looking for a friend. He’s, uh, tall, dumb, smells like… bread.

You fought this thing before. Maybe you just got to finish what you started.

Yes, I’m upset. Yes, I’m behind the wheel. Yes, I’m drunk. And maybe my license isn’t the fancy kind from the DMV. But at least I’m drunk!

Without good, there is no evil.

With all due respect, your tiny brain is a lot safer without my problems inside it.

Trust me, once you get jacked in the face, it’ll all click. I can’t even get my nut up to rumble unless I’ve had a good shot to the chin.

Once again I saved the world. Now it's time to get the girl.

Most people go through life thinkin’ they’re totally safe. People like us, we know the truth. Life is hard and dangerous, and sometimes you just gotta chop off somebody’s head to survive.

I kill demons, not people. Unless those people are demons, who look like people. And then I kill people, but they’re not really people, they’re demons. You understand?

Never get between a papa bear and his cub.

What’s out there knows that you’re alive, and it wants you to be… un-alive.

Well, good news I found a piece of pie with no blood on it. Anybody want a bite?

To save those two, I would submit to a prostate exam.

This town is only big enough for one asshole, and that asshole is me.

Sometimes what you think you saw, it’s exactly what you saw.

Someone needs to wash your mouth out, kid. And that someone is me.

Now I’m gonna kill you, just like I killed your father! I didn’t really kill your father, that just kinda sounded cool.

I gotta warn you, you’re gonna want to leave your husband for me, and I can’t let that happen. Family values.

I’m not drunk enough to know if this is good-weird or bad-weird. But I’ll get there though.

I’m going to be like a ninja losing his virginity, quick and discreet.

I told you. A good shot to the face always gets the juices flowin’.

Thanks for the opinion, appreciate it. Now you can take it, turn it sideways, shove it right up the old poop chute.

When you get back to Hell, work on your aim.

Do you know what evil is, [name]? It’s power without fear, without guilt, and without pain.

Hey, good looking. You here to break me out or break me in?

I'm gonna get you pregnant later.

I'd know that caboose from anywhere.

Even if this goes perfectly, there's a good chance you'll die.

Well, [name], it's been fun catching up. Sorry I got to kill you.

Don't you get it? Everybody dies here. It's just a rule.

If once you start down that path, forever, it will dominate your destiny.

Did you just Yoda quote me?

Alright, look, we get this done quick enough, we might have time to stop for churros.

Yeah, well, your cooking was shit.

Yeah, I remember when I was like you. Young, dumb, full of… conflicting emotions.

Sweet musical Jesus, that's your friend? Oh, she's filthy and fine!

She haunts my dreams. Just kidding. She does, though.

Do me a favor will ya, thank your mother for me?  She passed her genes down to you in all the right places.

Damn, [name]. Badass.

Why are you covered in blood?

So look, uh, I'm not a grief counselor, but if it's any consolation, I have had to kill and bury loved ones before. A bunch of times, actually.

Oh sure. I'll just sit here with the police officer we tied up and rethink my recent life choices.

Get ahold of yourself, woman!

I'm gonna say a lot of dumb things.

[bratshaws]

through the hourglass 347. brb x oc

a/n: no sMUT HERE FOR NOW BUT SOON (comments and reblogs are super welcome and encouraged!)

pairing: plus size!oc x rooster

warnings: none uwu

goodness gracious (pls read this one to know more what this fic is about!!)

chapter

1/

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-

“Do you want me to hold it for you?”

Beatrice shakes her head as she pulls her hair into a bun, they are all back at the Bronco,Nicole is happily sitting on the back seat and the twins are in their carriers, “I’m okay Roos.” she says softly, then places her hands on her hips, “...damn,I can’t believe we won.”

Rooster grinned, leaning against the Bronco with his arms crossed. "Believe it, gorgeous. We crushed it out there. You, especially, were a force to be reckoned with."

"Well, you know, the secret is a combination of skill, determination, and a touch of ankle-twirling magic." she frowns, “That…sounded terrible, ignore that.”

Rooster chuckled, shaking his head. I'll remember that for next time." he looks down at her, dragging his eyes down the large expanse of her thighs that were out in the open because of her shorts, “You still up to go to the Den?”

“Yeah!” she says, “I just need a quick shower, then we can go, ugh,I missed that place so much.” and her smile is so wide, “I’m glad we were able to find a table to fit everyone, you know?”

Rooster nodded, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Oh, I can't wait to see you strut your stuff at the Den with that ankle-twirling magic of yours." and he holds his chin up, propping his elbow on the Bronco’s hood, eyes dopey, ‘...you are so beautiful.”

She blushed at Rooster's compliment, a warmth spreading through her cheeks. "Flattery will get you everywhere, won't it?”

“Here’s hopin.” Rooster grinned, unfolding his arms and moving closer to her. "You sure we gotta go?"

“Yes, why?”

And he folds his arms again, the biceps bulging under his shirt and he presses his head against them leaving only those pretty brown eyes looking over at her, “...was thinkin’ of something.” oh the accent was coming out strong, she knew what he was thinking about.

“Roos.”

“Your ass just looks great.”

“Roos.” and she flicks her gaze to Nicole, who is still looking up at them with a little smile, “Honey…you are too-” she mouths the word ‘horny’ “for your own good.” but he’s still looking at her, and she was sure he was pouting, “Brad, honey, it’ll be for a short time.” She walked closer to him, leaning against the Bronco as well. "You really know how to make a girl feel special, don't you?"

Rooster smirked, his eyes filled with absolute want. "Just stating the facts, gorgeous. Can't help it if the truth happens to be, well,” and he sucks the air through his teeth “... enticing."

She playfully rolled her eyes. "Smooth talker."

He grinned, his gaze lingering on her. "I call it appreciating the finer things in life."

Beatrice laughed, and she kissed his cheek, “Same goes to you,baby.” she says as she rubs his chest gently as she walks past him, “I’m just going to put my bag in the trunk, can you secure Nikki?”

As Beatrice walked towards the back of the Bronco to put her bag in the trunk, Rooster playfully scooped up Nicole in his arms. The toddler giggled, her tiny hands reaching out to grab Rooster's nose. "Dada!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight.

Rooster grinned, his heart swelling with affection. "Hey there, my little princess. Time to get inside, ready?”

Nicole nodded enthusiastically, her hair - it was getting wavier and wavier - bouncing with the motion. Rooster secured her in the car seat, making sure she was comfortable and safe. "Alright, Nikki, you stay right here. Mama and dada will be back in a jiffy." and he pecked her forehead, then the twins’

Beatrice returned from the trunk, a satisfied smile on her face just in time to meet him halfway. "All set. Now, let's head to the Den. I'm really looking forward to catching up with everyone."

“Hm.”

“What?”

“You didn’t kiss me today.” she gave him a weird look as soon as the words left his mouth, “And feels weird,” he gently thumbs the fabric of her shirt, feeling the loose light texture against his fingers, “Cause I wanna kiss you.”

“...Roos, I’ve kissed you the whole day.”

Rooster's expression turned into an adorable pout, his brows furrowed playfully. "Yeah, but I missed my goodbye kiss before you went to play."

“Ah-honey, I kissed you before.”

“Did you?”

“Yes!”

“Hm,” he arches his brows, then tilts his head, “I don’t remember…maybe you should…remind me.”

Oh,his puppy-dog expression was hard to resist, and she decided to indulge him. Leaning in, she pressed a soft, lingering kiss on his lips, savoring the warmth and cocoa butter on his lips.

"There you go, Mr. Forgetful," she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

Rooster grinned, satisfaction evident in his eyes. "Ah, that's better. But…maybe another one?”

"You're insatiable, you know that?"

He winked, "Guilty as charged."

She rolled her eyes, feigning exasperation. "Alright, just one more, and then we really need to get going."

Rooster leaned in, capturing her lips in a sweet yet passionate kiss. His hands slid down the curve of her ass, digging his fingers on the soft flesh and humming happily when he does so. He tries to slide some tongue in there, but she laughs and gently pushes at his chest.

 When they finally pulled away, Rooster had a satisfied grin on his face."Happy now?" Beatrice asked,gently wiping his lips with her thumb, “Oh you got lip balm all over you.”

"Ecstatic," he replied, kissing her thumb, “You sure we can’t spend a few more seconds here?”

"As much as I'd love to indulge in a marathon of kisses, duty calls, LC."

He sighed dramatically, but the twinkle in his eyes remained. "Alright, alright. Duty it is." He pressed a final quick kiss to her forehead before heading to the driver's side.

As they settled into the Bronco, Rooster started the engine, and the familiar rumble filled the air. Beatrice couldn't help but smile at the comforting sound,leaning back into the seat.

-

“Okay,no,no,no, hear me out.”

She had no idea how this happened, but they were all sitting outside the Den - one of the new tables outside- eating and having drinks with the kids close by. She leans close to Rooster as Shells stands up and starts gesturing wildly.

“Hear me out,hear me out.” the blonde laughs, “So, Northride is big right? We have a fuck ton of areas to go and one of the areas was the Great Hall,like we did a fuckton of shit there, all the pleasantries and like, one day me and Bea had to help decorate- you remember that?”

"Oh, I remember that. Hard to forget,Shells.” Bea replies while holding the twins close and leaning against Rooster.

"Yeah!" Shells chimed in, returning to the table and taking a sip of her drink. "So, here's my brilliant idea. Hey,let’s just toss all this glitter on the wall- cause we’re lazy–”

“I refused.” Bea adds quickly, holding a finger up, “I just want everyone to know I said no.”

Shells laughed, holding her hands up in mock defense. "Okay, okay, Bea said no. But it was just a suggestion, you know? Anyway, we were there, covered in glitter, trying to make the Great Hall look like a magical wonderland or something."

Beatrice grinned at the memory, shaking her head. "We were probably the worst decorators in the history of Northride. Glitter was everywhere. I think I found glitter in my hair for weeks after that."

Rooster chuckled, picturing the scene. "Sounds like fun though."

Shells nodded, her eyes lighting up. "Exactly!And we had to tell one of our professors what happened, and ugh, thank god she was cool with it and we didn’t had to clean it."

Rooster looked back at Bea, one arm behind her shoulders,rubbing up and down her arm, “You never told me about that.”

"Well, It’s not like it’s bad…it’s just." and she shrugs, “Something, you know?”

Shells laughed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Hey, it was a brilliant idea! Maybe not the most practical, but it sure left an impression."

“Yeah…I’m sure Professor Garson loved it too.”Evelyn murmured, sipping her soda, “I knew it was Shells’ idea the second I heard about it.”

“Hey!”

Shells raised her hands defensively. "In my defense, it was supposed to be a surprise! A magical surprise. I didn't anticipate the glitter explosion."

Beatrice laughed, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Well, we certainly made the Great Hall …uh…sparkle."

Rooster leaned in, a playful glint in his eyes. "Is that where the glitter in our room came from?"

Beatrice nudged him, a teasing smile on her lips. "Maybe a little."

Shells grinned, leaning back in her chair. "See? Glitter has a way of following you. It's like a magical trail."

“Unfortunately.” Evelyn adds. “At least it wasn’t a prank, Northride hates pranks.”

Carmen leaned in, "You guys remember the time we convinced the cafeteria staff to have a themed food day?"

Beatrice blinked, “Wait, that happened?”

Carmen chuckled, "Oh, it happened. It was for career day, y’know,when  the little kids came by and asked us things? You were sick that day.”

Beatrice leaned back, her eyes widening in surprise. "I missed a themed food day? Seriously?"

Carmen nodded, her grin widening. "Oh yeah. We convinced them to do a 'Future Professions' themed menu. Each dish was named after a profession. Like, there was 'Doctor's Delight' for the salads, 'Engineer's Energy' for the main course, and 'Artist's Palette' for desserts. It was a riot."

“Especially considering Northride didn’t have any other courses except art related ones.” Evelyn says and Bea gave her a look, “I did help a bit.”

“You did?”

"Yeah, the cafeteria staff were actually pretty into it once we explained the idea.”

"I mean…that's actually a sweet idea," Beatrice admitted, “Why wasn’t I told though?”

Shells leaned against Bob and gave Bea a look, “Girl, as sick as you were? Come on, you’d want to come by.”

Beatrice opened her mouth, then closed…she was right. The reminiscing continued, and the group delved into more Northride tales,way too many of them honestly. Rooster, despite not having experienced those moments firsthand, found joy in them, especially when Bea smiled so often.

Evelyn smirked, "You know, Northride had this mysterious basement that was off-limits. Legends said it housed ancient artifacts or secret experiments. Of course, it was probably just a storage space, but the intrigue made it off-limits."

“Oh my god I forgot that.” Bea said, “It flooded once,remember?”

Shells gasped, snapping her fingers "I remember that! The rumors about that flooded basement spread like wildfire. People were convinced it was some hidden treasure trove…or bodies"

Rooster, still a bit puzzled about the whole basement saga, leaned in and asked, "Did anyone ever find out what was really down there?"

Evelyn shook her head, "Nah, it was all just urban legends. The flood was probably just a burst pipe or something mundane.”

“Or,” Shells says, “Bodies.”

“Sure,” Bea says, then looks back at Rooster, “I’m going to the bathroom super quick, can you handle the twins for me?” and she gently places them in his arms,”Since Mav has Nicole.

Rooster smiled, cradling the twins in his arms. "Of course, gorgeous. Go ahead, we'll be right here."

As Beatrice excused herself to the bathroom,she walked through the Den,walking past the people and disappearing inside. Upon entering the bathroom, she took a moment to breathe and collect herself. The sound of laughter and chatter from the ongoing celebration seeped through the closed door. 

After washing her hands and exiting the bathroom, Beatrice  walked out..well,almost,someone stood close by and she had to stop and look up, “Oh,Thomas,hi…?”

Thomas stood in the hallway, leaning casually against the wall."Hey, Beatrice," he greeted, his tone casual,"Great game out there. That block at the end was impressive."

"Uh, thanks," Beatrice replied, her guard instinctively rising. She took a step back, creating a bit more distance between them. "It was a team effort."

Thomas chuckled, pushing himself off the wall to stand straight. "Of course, a team effort. But you, you were the star of the show. The way you handled that block...impressive."

Beatrice felt a growing discomfort in the pit of her stomach. Thomas's compliments, though seemingly harmless, carried an unsettling undertone. She glanced around, hoping to spot Rooster. Fortunately, she saw them at the nearby table, still engrossed in conversation with Evelyn, Shells, and Maverick.

"Yeah, well, everyone did their part," Beatrice replied, trying to keep the conversation brief. "Excuse me, I need to get back to my friends and husband." and as if magic, Rooster’s head whipped back and his smile dropped immediately.

"Everything okay, gorgeous?" he just teleported himself there, holding two babies to his chest, it was…adorable.

Beatrice forced a smile, not wanting to cause a scene. "Yeah, just said hi to Thomas.”

Rooster's expression tightened, and he glanced over to where Thomas stood. "Hm.”

“I-I was complimenting Bea’s game is all.”

Rooster's gaze lingered on Thomas for a moment before he turned his attention back to Beatrice. "Alright," he said, his tone guarded. "Let's get back to our table then." he kept his eyes on Thomas…and the twins even glared at him. 

Fucking weirdo. He had to talk to him before they left.

[steam-beasts]

Snowy Sea Rescue!

Most of the time, Brendam Docks was quite busy with many dockmen shouting out orders, cargo being lifted and loaded on to ships to and fro, trucks being shunted by Salty as he bantered on with Cranky or even Carly like usual.

But in winter, it was significantly more busy than ever with the Christmas rush, so there are fragile and brittle gifts being held in multiple boxes that are carried out to sea.

Salty's driver's wife had presents which were amongst many gifts that arrived by boat to the docks, and his driver was eagerly anticipating its arrival until today...

____________________________________________

"Fourth cargo ship coming up! Get ready lads... and lass!" The Dock manager called out.

The three dock cranes were hard at work, unloading multiple crates of different gifts on to flatbeds. Salty was also hard at work, shunting as many flatbeds as possible to the right places.

Carly groaned "ANOTHER one?! That's the eighth one today!"

"It's the Christmas rush, Carly. It's a normal thing around 'ere..." Cranky creaked "Anyway, why are YOU complaining? Haven't you ever had a Christmas rush back in Southampton?"

Carly sighed "Yes, but...ugh, I never had to multitask unloading FOUR boats at once! Even a couple years back, it wasn't THIS intense!" She panted, sliding over to another boat. Down on the rails, Salty cackled at the portal crane's groaning "Hahar, sounds like ye are a wee bit rusty in the joints, lassie!" He said.

Big Mickey chuckled quietly "Trust me, you two. Be glad we aren't at Tidmouth Harbour. Over there's probably twice as busy compared to here, since it's the biggest harbour on the island!"

"Couldn't 'ave spoken truer words, me hearty. We'd ALL be tired out if we worked thar. Har....though, t' be truthful, it be takin' it's toll on me as well" Salty admitted a sigh, the work had been a bit straining with Porter away for his big sleep. Cranky and Carly exchanged nervous wide-eyed glances before silently going back to work. They couldn't bear the thought of being at Tidmouth.

Salty's driver poked his head and looked over at one of the ships "Oi, mate! Are there any red crates over there?" He yelled. One of the dockmen securing the crates looked back "Nah, can't say there are any. What about it, pal?"

"It's for me wife!" The driver yelled. Salty's interest peaked when he heard that "Did ye get a present for yer wife, driver?"

His driver smiled "Yep, four rather large ones to be precise. M' hopin' she'll like 'em"

"Oh I'm sure she will" the Dockside diesel chuckled. Just then, a chilly breeze swept through the docks, causing Salty to shiver, his frame rattling. Salty's driver exclaimed and kept a tight grip on the handles "Woah, ol' boy! Easy!"

Salty grunted "I get cold, driver. We diesels don't 'ave fur like the steamies!"

The diesel driver sighed and patted Salty's cab "I know, it's not really your fault. It's the winter! Everythin' around you gets as cold as ice, even the sea!"

Carly shuddered "Couldn't have said it better, Chuck! I took a dip in the water to find fish this morning, and it was freezing! My fins felt really numb and sore!" She said, flapping one of her fins "My operator had to hand-feed me fish"

Everyone murmured in agreement, including the Dock manager who was there to listen. The manager then walked over to Salty's driver with a schedule board "Alright, your crate should be here very soon"

"Hmph! It was supposed to be here yesterday!"

"Sorry. Bad sea conditions were causing the delay, I'm afraid" he shrugged before turning heel and leaving. The driver groaned, shaking his head "This damn weather" He muttered under his breath.

Salty let out a small dog-like whine at hearing his driver's dismay. Christmas Eve would be coming soon, so it made sense why the man was grumpy about it "Don't worry, driver. It will be here soon..."

___________________________________________________________

It was around 2:00 when the workload had thankfully died down, there were less ships coming in to the docks, and Salty had significantly less flatbeds to shunt. So, the cranes were able to get longer breaks and so did Salty, which was a relief! Working was ok, but admittedly a bit harder being one shunting engine short. But other than that, at least they could rest.

However, the peace and quiet was disrupted by a loud ear-splitting BANG!

Salty's whole body arched upwards like a frightened cat, and he even shrieked like one. Cranky, Carly and Big Mickey all nearly screamed at the loud noise, their poor sensitive ears!

"Flare spotted!" Big Mickey's operator yelled, pointing out into the ocean. Everyone immediately looked to where he pointed, and they all gasped in horror – it was a sinking cargo barge, and its crew were waving frantically for help and shouting.

"They're sinking!! Call the bloomin' Search & Rescue centre! Anyone!" The Dock manager barked from his megaphone. A workman spoke up "We can't! It'll be half an hour until they get 'ere in THIS weather! Those men will be down under by that time!"

The Dock manager was silent for a moment before looking up at the cranes "Do you think one of you three could get over there?"

"We would, chuck! But we're all sensitive to icy water! I got all numb and sore from a swim this morning! I was only in for a few seconds too!"

"Well, we need to get those men out of there somehow !"

Everyone murmured uncontrollably, no one knew what to do...except Salty.

Salty hummed thoughtfully to himself "Hmm...it be dangerous" He thought. Even if it was dangerous, SOMEONE has to risk it! Those crew members' lives were on the line. That's it. He MUST do something.

Salty's driver was on the diesel's footplate, nervously squeezing his handle bars when Salty suddenly jerked him off "Wha–?! Salty!" He exclaimed, landing on the ground with an oof.

Everyone watched with surprise as Salty jumped off the rails and went into his beast form. The monster diesel snarled and darted towards the ocean before jumping off the edge with a big SPLASH!

"Salty?!" Cranky and the diesel's driver gasped, the cranes spinned around to see him swimming towards the sinking boat. Salty wheezed and shivered as he paddled through the water, he was going to save those men no matter what!

His three pairs of limbs ached and clawed at the water, his finned tail giving him a boost. The crew on the sinking barge noticed the engine swimming towards them and all cheered and waved for his attention. Salty grunted and growled, trying to shake off the exhaustion as he reached the barge and its crew.

"Climb aboard, mateys!" He shouted hoarsely, the cold water had seeped into his vents. The crew didn't need to be told twice! They all crawled on top of Salty and held on tight as he bobbed about. Once he made sure everyone was one, Salty was about to leave until something caught his eye – something red.

It was the red crate his driver spoke about, floating on a single, small wooden platform. Conveniently, it was right next to him. Salty's eyes widened and without word, he quickly pulled it towards his buffers and pushed it along as he paddled towards the harbour.

Everyone from the docks watched in amazement as the diesel shunter rescued the whole crew "Salty's doing it!" Big Mickey cheered, and everyone followed suit. Salty's driver smiled "Go on, ol' boy". Despite how things looked from their perspective Salty panted tiredly, his body was numb and aching from all the paddling and the workers' small, but added weight along with pushing the crate was not helping.

Finally, the dockside diesel reached the harbour and found a ladder for the crew to climb. As soon as they all got off, Salty was wheezing and straining his breath, the cold was NOT good for him. Black spots were clouding his vision, along with a mild dizzy sensation, the struggle to breathe properly worsened from the water getting through his vents. It was then he soon realised it – this may be the end.

But he didn't fret, he instead smiled and chuckled wearily "Well, at least I did somethin' brave afore I go... har"" then in a flash, everything went black. The muffled yells from above silenced, and everything went numb...

He hoped everyone was safe.

____________________________________________

The darkness seemed it would go on forever. The silence was nearly deafening. But Salty wasn't afraid.

"Do...do you think he'll wake up, Sir?" Someone piped up. They sounded worried

"I can't say for certain, I'm afraid. We'll just have to wait" someone sighed. They sounded a little anxious, but they were also trying to remain calm.

The darkness then got brighter, big and small blobs taking form. Salty winced and watched as the smallest blobs were shuffling about, their shapes soon gathering more detail as the minutes went on.

"Wait...I think he's waking up..!" One voice exclaimed.

"Thank the lord for that..." another sighed, sounding relieved.

"Well? Step back, all of you! Give Salty some space!" The same voice from before boomed. Finally, Salty's vision fully returned, he could finally see where he was;

Salty was in the Dieselworks! A dim light shine over him. Surrounding him were the employees, and in front of him were none other than his driver and Sir Topham Hatt. Both were relieved to see him awake, as it seemed.

"Salty, ol' boy! Thank God you're awake!" His driver cried as he jogged over. Salty smiled "Ahoy, driver..." he replied tiredly, his driver then scratched under the dockside diesel's chin. Salty purred in response and leaned into the affection, his tail softly thumping against the ground. As soon as that was over, Salty asked "So, uh...wha' happened t' me?"

Sir Topham Hatt then stepped forward "You were a really brave and useful engine, Salty. You fainted right after getting those men back on land! Luckily, you were escorted to the Dieselworks as soon as Carly pulled you out, and the employees here spent 3 hours trying to clear out the water from your insides"

Salty's eyes widened "Well, blimey..." he then looked to his driver, and it was then he remembered the red crate. He didn't remember it being pulled up before he lost consciousness "But...I didn' save me driver's crate o' presents fer his wife..." he said in a quiet, guilty voice. Sir Topham Hatt's gaze softened and he looked to Salty's driver, who said "But you did"

"Aye?"

"After you were taken here, Cranky fished out the crate. I can't thank you enough for getting it..." he explained with soft smile. In return, Salty smiled back.

"Salty...." The Fat Controller began "For your bravery, you will be repainted into a colour of your own choice!"

"Oh, thank ye sir!" Salty said happily.

____________________________________________

A day later, Salty returned to the docks in a clean new red livery that would definitely get James feeling jealous. His buffers still had their oil weathering, but he didn't mind at all.

The cranes and dock men welcomed him back, and all congratulated him on rescuing the crew men.

Salty was very glad that day that he saved the crew, and his driver's crate of gifts. But asides from that, he was just happy to be by the sea, no matter how chilly it could get.

"Ooooh.... don't take me away from the sea, boys! Oooh....doooon't take me away from the sea! Harharhar!!"

[da-awesom-one]

This Is The Thanks I Get?! (Jack Frost Version) - Chris Pine

*DISCLAIMER: These lyrics are fan-made lyrics of a song created and owned by Disney for a character that is owned by Dreamworks. No money is being made off of this. This was solely written for recreational purposes.*

sing = siiing

LYRICS UPDATED: 8/3/2024

-

Jack shook his head in disbelief, and then shook it towards the moon. "That's it. I've had it! I've had it with your silence, and I've had it with everybody and their mother giving me the cold shoulder!" He ran a hand through his hair, scoffing again. "I mean, what's it gonna take?!"

Frost began to count off from his free left hand. "I've started snowball fights, not that they ever let me in on them considering I'm invisible! I've even frosted some windows over to write them messages, and lemme tell ya, those were not the reactions I was hopin' for!"

"I mean, what do I gotta do, huh?!" he groaned, throwing his arms up into the air. "Do I actually have to spell it out for them, o-or sing it out loud to get them to hear me?!"

He was grimacing when he said this. But as the words registered in his head, his expression became pensive as he considered his remark.

In truth... he hadn't tried that.

Jack rubbed his chin in thought as he pondered this new development, his eyes darting left and right like clockwork. Was he really that desperate? Would he really stoop so low? Debase himself in such a way?

...It turned out that yes. Jack was that desperate.

"...Oh, what the heck."

(VERSE 1)

I can’t help it… if no one can look my way.

It’s a curse, I tell ya! 

Can’t stop it no matter what I do, or say!

Peep the name, son! It’s Jack Frost!

I’m THE rebel without a cause!

I’m free-spirited! My own kind of boss!

SO HOW COME EVERYONE WANTS ME TO GET LOST?!

“Ahem! Lemme explain…”

I’d give the cloak off my own bare back,

If you really needed that.

I’ll be the first one to volunteer myself!

If your igloo were to crumble, or if you were in trouble.

(PRE-CHORUS)

I’d cancel all your school days,

Be that friend that suggests fun stuff,

Take blame for all the messes!

And I’ll be there for you when things get rough!

I’d give, and give, and give, and give!

You’d think it’d be more than enough…

And all I really want is to get in on the fun.

(CHORUS)

But this is the thanks I get! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

This is the thanks I get! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

For wanting to be seen by them! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

Looks like I’ll get ignored again. (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

Since this is the thanks I get!

(INTERLUDE 1)

(Da, da, da, da)

(Da-da-da-da-da, da, da, da)

(Da-da-da-da-da, da, da, da)

(Da-da-da-da-da. Da-da, da)

(VERSE 2)

It’s so stupid!

But that’s the least I could say.

There are more words that are well-suited.

Like "cruel," and "wrong," and "unfair," and "lame!”

The gifts you gave me? I’m showing them off!

And you still won’t talk? You’re blowing me off?!

Um, do you think I won’t come up there?

‘Cause I won’t hesitate to drag your butt down here!

(PRE-CHORUS)

UGH!

I made a hundred snow days last year!

C’mon! That’s a high percent!

And still you won’t let me be seen?

The disrespect I just underwent!

You get my hopes up, and tear them down.

But, really, what do I expect?

It’s been like this every year ever since we met…

(CHORUS)

So this is the thanks I get! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

This is the thanks I get! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

For expecting you to really listen! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

Did I just get run over by Sven?! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

RRRRGH, THIS IS THE THANKS I GET?!

(INTERLUDE 2)

(Da, da, da, da)

(Da-da-da-da-da, da, da, da)

(Da-da-da-da-da, da, da, da)

(Da-da-da-da-da. Da. Da)

(BRIDGE)

I didn’t wanna do this.

I SWORE I’d never sing this!

But I’m really runnin’ outta options here,

‘Cause I refuse to be unseen for another year!

A ballad, a jingle, a melody, a glee?!

ANYTHING for them to finally see me!

To this low I’d really rather not stoop to,

But a man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do!...

*Cough* “Where was I? Oh yeah, right…”

(PRE-CHORUS)

Been at this for a century now,

So don’t think I’ll be going away!

C’mon, now. Say something, man!

Gonna leave me hangin’ here without a say?

Well, whenever you wanna chat-

Yeah, that’ll be the day.

Honestly? Something tells me I’m gonna be there, either way…

(CHORUS)

‘Cause this is the thanks I get! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

This is the thanks I get! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

My mental energy’s all spent! (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

For thinking today’d be different… (Da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da-da, da)

*Sigh.* This is the thanks I get.

(END)

“So thanks! Thanks for nothing…”

-

Been mulling over this ever since Disney released the song weeks ago. Figured I'd try my hand at a Jack Frost version, and I definitely love how it turned out. Might even add it to my fic, hence why I added some passages of it before the song.

Also added to the chorus, putting in extra lines. This was inspired by the Booth To Screen video of This Is The Thanks I Get?! where it ends with Chris Pine singing the whole first chorus before ending with how he harmonizes in the third line of the 2nd and last choruses. So in this version there are musical interludes between verses. Look it up on YouTube, and you guys will see what I mean.

Keep in mind, Jack's mentality here is "This Is The Thanks I Get for thinking today's gonna be any different than yesterday… or the last 100 years.” This is set during his 300 years of isolation, so again, he's trying all sorts of things to get seen. The spectrum is far more different than the villainous version depicted by King Magnifico, especially the middle where Jack loses his cool. Though not shown in these lyrics, in the story setting, he’s gonna try to calm himself down, which is mostly what he’s struggling with during the Bridge. Whereas Magnifico doesn’t, and gets himself continuously worked up before doing something he can’t take back.

Another example of the difference between the two is at the end when, instead of screaming in rage like the king, Jack just reins it in, and just flatly sings the last verse.

Long story short: both characters allow themselves to go insane here. Difference here is Jack remembered to make sure he came back. Magnifico didn’t.

Either way, the song's extremely catchy, and I can find myself singing to either version. Hope you guys enjoyed reading or singing it in your head.

PS: for those wondering, the Sven Jack mentioned in the song is Sven the Reindeer from Frozen. 😉

[dialovers-translations]

Diabolik Lovers CHAOS LINEAGE ー Subaru [01]

ー The scene starts in the dungeon of the Violet Manor

Subaru: Aah? Why me?

Yui: ( Uu, his glare gives me cold shivers...But this guy, for some reasonーー )

You seemed like a nice person so...

Subaru: Hah? I think you’re gettin’ the wrong idea here. Fuck off... Besides, I don’t wanna have to bother watchin’ over you!

Yui: B-But we agreed that I would choose one person...

Subaru: Che, what a pain.

...Fine, I just gotta do it, right!? But don’t cause trouble for me, ‘kay?

Yui: O-Okay. Thank you very much.

( He actually accepted it. Sure, he might seem scary on the outside, but strangely enough, he strikes me as a kind person. )

( I’m not sure why I feel that way though... )

*TIMESKIP*

Yui: Nn...Where am I...?

( Ah...Right. The manor’s dungeon...I must have fallen asleep. )

Monologue

After waking up at the Church,

I was taken to the Violet Manor.

Once locked away in the dungeon,

they told me to choose someone to watch over me, so I picked Subaru-san.

While he may seem scary at first glance,

I feel as if he has a gentle side to him as well.

With that in mind,

I asked him to be in charge of supervising me, butーー

Subaru: What? You’re awake?

Yui: ...! Yes, I woke up.

( I wonder if he kept an eye on me the whole time while I was asleep as well? I didn’t notice at all. )

( Also, is he upset or something? He seems to be in a really foul mood. )

( At first he struck me as a kind guy for some reason, but perhaps that was a misunderstanding on my part...? )

Subaru: What’s your problem? You’re so annoyin’. Don’t just watch me in silence. If you’ve got somethin’ to say, spit it out!

Yui: W-Well...My bad.

( He said I should say what’s on my mind so...I guess I’ll ask? )

Uhm, how long will I have to stay in this cell?

Subaru: Like I know. That’s up to Carla to decide.

Yui: ( In other words, there’s no telling when I’ll be able to get out? )

Excuse me! Can’t you ask him to let me out?

Subaru: Are you dumb? Hell no.

Sure, you might be the ‘legendary Eve’ who is necessary for someone to become the next Supreme Overlord, but I bet you think you’re oh-so special, don’t you?

That arrogance of yours pisses me the hell off.

Yui: ...Ugh.

( I guess it’s no use after all...Seems like I only made him even more mad. )

Subaru: Che. Thanks for ruinin’ my mood even more.

I want to just isolate myself in my room, and as if that isn’t bad enough, I’m here havin’ to look after some chick instead.

Yui: I-I’m sorry...

Subaru: Aah!? Too fuckin’ late to apologize now!

Yui: Eek...!

Subaru: The way you flinch like that pisses me off too. You’re the one who chose me for this job, remember? 

Are you havin’ regrets now or somethin’!?

*Thud*

Yui: Kyaah!?

( H-He dented the iron bars with his foot...I was wrong to think he’s a nice guy. He’s incredibly rough around the edges...! )

Subaru: Fuck! This anger has made me thirsty...

...Oi, come here for a sec.

Yui: Eh...?

Subaru: Hurry up. Walk up to the bars.

Yui: Ah, s-sure...

( Who knows what he’ll do if I refuse....I have no other choice but to obey. )

ー Yui approaches the iron bars

Yui: I-Is this okay?

Subaru: ...You actually came? What a dumb woman you are.

Yui: Eh?

Subaru: Everyone at this manor is a Vampire. Myself included.

Yui: Y-Yes...

( I wonder what he means with that? )

Subaru: I can tell by the look on your face that you don’t get it at all. ...It’s that ignorance which will come biting you in the ass. Like this!

*Clang*

*Rustle*

Yui: Kyaah!?

*Rustle*

Yui: L-Let me go, please! What on earth are you...!?

Subaru: I’m tryin’ to teach you that you don’t understand your own position. From a Vampire’s point of view, humans are our food.

Maybe you were hopin’ to get treated like some damn Princess ‘cause you’re the legendary Eve but...

I’ll remind you that as long as you’re down here, you’re nothin’ but mere prey.

Yui: N-No way!

*Rustle*

Subaru: Come on, I’ll suck from your shoulder. It might hurt if you don’t keep still. Nn...Nnh...

ー Subaru bites her

Yui: ...Ah.

( He’s sucking my blood...His fangs are sinking into my shoulder...! )

( Is this what he meant by ‘prey’? Am I going to spend the rest of my days locked up down here as these people feed off my blood? )

( No, I don’t want that...! )

Stop! Let me go, please!

*Rustle* 

Subaru: Oi, don’t thrash ‘bout! Didn’t I tell you to keep still!?

Anyway, the fuck’s up with this blood...? It’s way more sweet than I thought.

Damnit, I just wanted to scare you a lil’ by bitin’ you but I can’t stop...! ...Nn...

Yui: ...Kuh...

( These fangs...This pain...For some reason, it feels nostalgic to me. Do I know this sensation...? )

( Why? How...? )

Subaru: Nn...Hah...Nnh...

Yui: Aah...!

ー Yui starts growing dizzy

Yui: ( The place where he bit is burning...The heat’s rising to my head andーー )

ー She experiences flashbacks of her past memories

Yui: Wha...?

( What...? Where is...that place I saw just now? )

ー Yui has another flashback

Yui: ( Uu...! ...What are these images...? )

( I know...this house. It’s a very nostalgic place but... )

( Uu, kuh...It’s like something is stirring up my mind... )

*Riiiing*

Yui: Ah...Aah...

...I...I...

Subaru: Haah...What’s wrong? Is somethin’ the matter?

Yui: That place...

It is the home, we must return to...

Subaru: ...Haah?

ー Yui regains her memories

Yui: Aah...! Aaaaaaah!!!

*WOOSH*

ー The screen temporarily fades to white

Yui: ( A bunch of different images and information...are swirling inside my head at once... )

( Right...I am, we areーー )

Uu...Kuh...

Subaru: Oi!? What has gotten into you all of a sudden!? Whatcha screamin’ for!?

Yui: ...No, I am not the legendary Eve.

I’m...Yui...

Subaru: ...Haah?

Yui: ( Right...I remembered everything. )

( I moved into the Sakamaki manor and met Subaru-kunーー Then we eventually started dating. )

( I could have sworn I was there before I suddenly awoke at the Church. Where is this place? )

( Why did I...forget who I am? )

( It’s not just me either. Everyone is acting strange. )

Subaru: What’s with that dumb look on your face...? Did you lose your mind ‘cause I sucked a bit of your blood?

Yui: No, I haven’t. I remembered everything, that’s all...

How could I forget about something so important...?

Hey, Subaru-kun! What is going on? Where are we!?

Subaru: Haah? 

Yui: Why are Carla-san and the others at the same manor...? Do the Tsukinami brothers own these lands?

Subaru: Oh shut up...What nonsense do you keep spoutin’?

Yui: Eh...?

Subaru: Did you forget overnight? Carla is my older brother. Why would it be strange for him to live here?

Yui: No way...

( Carla-san is his older brother? There’s just no... )

( But they did introduce themselves like that yesterday. What is going on? )

R-Right. Where is Ayato-kun? And Kanato-kun...You remember your own brothers, don’t you?

Subaru: My brothers? Those dudes from the Orange House?

Hah! The fuck are you sayin’? They’re the enemy!

Yui: No way...

*Thud* 

Yui: T-Then, what about me!? Do you know who I am!?

Subaru: You’re Eve, right? The woman needed to become the Supreme Overlord of this place. I haven’t forgotten that.

Yui: No, that’s not what I meant...

( We’re a couple, Subaru-kun. ...Sakamaki Subaru-kun. )

Selection

→ Tell him that you are dating (♡)

Yui: ( I wonder if he’ll remember if I tell him the truth...? )

Hey, Subaru-kun. We’re dating, you know.

Subaru: ...Haah? You’ve been spoutin’ nothin’ but bullcrap this one time, but that one beats all.

Are you sayin’ that sorta stuff ‘cause you wanna get outta here and regain your freedom?

I won’t let you out of your cell, even if you keep on talkin’ out of your ass.

In the end, you’ll just get chased ‘round by those other guys if you make it out of here.

Then I’d argue that you’re still better off down here.

→ Tell him that you know each other (🖤)

Yui: ( Subaru-kun sees me as a stranger...? )

( His memories are jumbled up after all... )

( Even if he can’t recall that we’re lovers, I wish he would remember me somewhere deep downーー ) 

Subaru-kun. We didn’t meet for the first time yesterday.

We’ve known each other...for a very long time.

Subaru: Che...Why are you makin’ all of this crap up?

I met you for the first time yesterday. Now cut the crap or you’ll be in for a world of pain.

Yui: ( I guess he won’t believe me after all... )

Subaru: ...Do you want to get outta here so badly?

Even if you somehow were to escape this manor, you’ll just be caught by one of the other guys. You really are an idiot.

Yui: ( Subaru-kun wouldn’t joke around about something like this... )

( He truly does not does doubt the fact that he is Subaru from the Violet Manor. )

( Could it be that his memories have been altered, just like mine were up till now? And those of the others’ too. )

( I wonder what we’ve gotten ourselves caught up in...? )

Subaru: ...Why do you look mortified?

Aah, I guess it makes sense to be in shock after havin’ your blood sucked for the first time ever. You’ve only got your own carelessness to blame though.

Yui: ( No, that wasn’t the first time. He’s drank my blood so many times. )

( But right now, I’m mere food in this eyes, not his girlfriend or anything even remotely close to that... )

( Almost as if we’re back to square one...That just can’t be. )

Subaru: Oi, don’t be tearin’ up now. The other guys will get the wrong idea.

*Thud*

ー Kou approaches them

Kou: Hey there~! Getting along just fine? You guysー ...Wait. Woah, what’s with the heavy atmosphere?

Azusa: Eve...Looks as if she’s about to cry. Did something...happen?

Yui: ( Kou-kun, Azusa-kun... )

Kou: Ah! You were picking on her, weren’t you!?

Azusa: You mustn’t...Subaru. You have to take good care of Eve...

Subaru: Don’t be makin’ assumptions! I’m not a lil’ kid!

Anyway, why are you guys here? 

Kou: Ah, right! Carla-kun’s asking for you. There’s something he wants to talk about, apparently.

Subaru: Carla does?

Azusa: Yes...That’s why we’ve come to get the two of you...

Yui: Eh...?

Subaru: ...She’s coming as well?

Yui: ( Subaru-kun’s glaring at me. I guess he’s suspicious of me after I said all those strange things... )

Subaru: I don’t mind lettin’ her out of her cell, but don’t blame me when she makes a run for it!

She’s willing to go as far as to lie just to escape this place after all.

Yui: ( I never lied though... )

Azusa: Don’t worry...We’ll help out as well, so let’s go while keeping a close eye on her, so she doesn’t escape... 

Subaru: Lock her up, then let her out. Stop changin’ your damn mind every five seconds.

Kou: Go complain to Carla-kun about that. It’s not our fault.

Azusa: ...Carla is the eldest son of the Violet House, so we only do as he says...

Yui: ( Kou-kun and Azusa-kun don’t seem doubtful of the current family make-up either... )

( Even though Carla-san is a Founder, so there’s no way he’d be related to Vampires. )

( I wonder how this happened...? )

Subaru: ...God, what a drag. Oi, Eve! Get outta your cell. Don’t cause me trouble, ‘kay?

Yui: ( Does the problem lie with everyone else? Or maybe I’m the issue...? I don’t know, Subaru-kun! )

ーー TO BE CONTINUED ーー

[noah-moth-cursed-chaos]

So a few people seemed to want this so here is the promised Drabble! It’s just sorta a first meeting/dynamic setup sort of thing but I like it. I bent canon some with them not having any idea of where Miles is in this for plot purposes but yeah

Patrick O’Hara was heading to the commissary, both to get some lunch for himself and some some treats for Widow, when someone knocked into him. He stopped and stared for a moment, the man was decently tall, wearing an interesting outfit, all black with what may have been a gas mask and a jacket of some sort. Probably just another spiderman he hadn’t met yet.

“Crud Sorry- my bad I should be looking where I’m going-“ Wow. What a voice. Did he sing? He should.

“Ah Uhm-no harm done pal. Say, how long have you been ‘round here? I haven’t seen ya before.” He stood up a bit straighter, hoping he looked good.

“Oh I’m new… what about you?”

“I’ve been here a good few months now. It’s a pretty nice setup, gettin to actually make a difference and all.”

“Yeah it seems pretty nice.”

“… I’m called Webslinger by the way.”

“Noir. Hey uh-I’ve gotta go, but it was nice meeting you.”

“Right-yeah, see ya ‘round newbie.”

“Yeah. Of course.”

It’s funny how all it takes is a few moments to change the course of the future.

Patrick O’Hara was highly familiar with this.

From the moment Ben died, to the moment he joined Morbius’ side show, to getting bit by that spider, to joining the spider society.

And while he did not know if meeting that black-clad stranger would change his *life*, it had most certainly changed his afternoon. He’d been thinking about him all day, sadly nobody he asked knew anything about a ‘Noir’ spiderman. Maybe he should ask Miguel…

Except that turned out to be an awful idea.

“Spiderman Noir? He was here-inside the base?”

“Yes sir I was just wondering if you knew about him, he seemed like a nice man.” He didn’t like the way Miguel was looking at him. Almost like an animal looking at meat.

“He’s part of Spiderpunk’s band of rogue spider people, he isn’t a nice man he’s a danger to the multiverse.” He paused, before seeming to get an idea, “But you aren’t.”

“No I’m not uhm-what does that mean boss?”

“They have information on the whereabouts of a particularly dangerous anomaly, if we had eyes on the inside we could find and contain it.” Ah. This was a mistake. Patrick was a lot of things, a spy wasn’t one of them. Why did all the moments that changed his life seem to change things for the worse eventually?

Noir hadn’t expected to walk into Hobie’s base to find him talking to cowboy. Let alone a familiar one. How did he get that horse in the building? How did he convince Hobie to let a horse in his base, let alone Riotheart?

“And-oh hey! Noir right?” Webslinger turned his attention to him upon seeing him walk in.

“Yep. And you’re Webslinger. I thought you were part of Miguel’s group?”

“Was.” He responded, “Apparently you never were.”

“… I had my reasons for being in there that day.” As soon as Noir had left that day, as a matter of fact, he remembered his reasons had been to beat Miguel’s ass for what he did to Miles. If a cowboy with a cute voice was all it took to distract him, he was glad he didn’t see many cowboys back home.

“I’m sure you did pardner. It is nice to formally be on the same side as you, however. I’m hopin we’ll be working close together from now on.” Webslinger held out his hand, and Noir shook it. He had a firm grip.

“I’m sure we will.”

When Webslinger had walked away, going to do something with his horse, Hobie turned to Noir.

“I don’t trust ‘im, there’s something fishy about ‘im.”

“Give him a chance, he seemed alright the first time we talked.” Noir didn’t know why that would actually matter-they’d spoken for maybe three minutes- but apparently it did.

Hobie squinted at him for a moment, “I am. But I’m keeping an eye on the bloke, and I’m askin you to do the same, mate. Miguel still thinks we know where Miles is, we don’t know what he’ll do to get to us.”

“… Have. We made any progress trying to find Miles?”

“We know the go home machine malfunctioned, but not where it sent him.” Hobie paused before adding, “We’re gonna find him. If he doesn’t find us first, you said he’s crafty like that didn’t you?”

“Well. I sure hope he is.” Noir sighed, “Poor kid must be feeling so alone right now.”

Patrick did learn a lot over the next few weeks. Places where the group met, what universes they were all from, that they hadn’t actually found Miles yet. He reported… bits and pieces back to Miguel. Somehow he couldn’t pull himself to fully betray this ragtag little team he wasn’t even actually a part of. Maybe it was the fact that he’d now heard how Miguel had gone essentially savage on the poor kid. Anomaly or not that had been a child, and a scared one at that. So Patrick made the group seem less organized than it was, understated how much they knew, made them seem smaller and weaker in hopes that Miguel would think they weren’t a big enough threat to take action against. So far it’d worked.

And he learned about Noir. He’d learned about the world he was from and the values he’d carried and that, although it was in a much more metaphorical sense, he was just as isolated as Patrick was. Honestly he could barely imagine it-having an aunt and friends and all these people who loved you and still inevitably being so horribly alone in the way Noir was. It almost made him feel lucky it was just him and his horse back home.

And Noir was. Nice. He may have been serious, but he was far from cold. He cared, a lot. And he was bright and determined and had this sense of justice about him he couldn’t help but find alluring.

And the closer he let himself be to Noir, the more of a bad idea it felt like. The more he knew it’d hurt if his precarious position as a double agent was revealed, or the fact that he wasn’t exactly doing that job the way he should be. The more it’d hurt for Noir to find out.

And the closer he got, every time he went back to the spider society, it made a bit more sense how someone could be so surrounded by people, but still so horribly, irrevocably, alone.