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lewmagoo · 11 months

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million dollar man | rhett abbott

description: in which a mysterious, silver-haired cowboy rescues a young waitress who’s down on her luck

listen to the spotify playlist here!

warnings: 18+ ONLY, age gap (rhett is in his mid 40s, reader is in their 20s), mentions of sex work, workplace harassment, financial troubles, a little ageism, smoking, unprotected p in v sex, daddy kink, dom/sub dynamic, degradation, overstimulation, squirting, begging, choking, creampie, i think that's it?

pairing: rhett abbott x f!reader

notes: this is one of my longest stories to date. it started out as a simple smut scene and then it turned into an entire backstory. rhett has gray hair in this because i said so. i'm also dedicating this to my fellow old man fucker in arms, @rhettabbotts <3

It was late July. The air was hot and sticky, but the crystal water of the swimming pool was cool on your exposed skin as you sank down into its depths.

You couldn’t help but let out a long, blissed-out sigh, your eyes drifting shut at the feeling of the ripples washing over you. You couldn’t remember a time in your entire life when you’d felt this relaxed and at ease. Not a care in the world, floating through the water as if you were suspended in a dream.

And you were, really. A dream that had been made a reality by the man sitting just a few feet away from you, cigarette smoke swirling around him like a halo as the sunlight illuminated his figure, making him appear like an angel. And as far as you were concerned, he was just that: an angel. One who had saved your very life.

Rhett Abbott was a very powerful man. You couldn’t fully wrap your mind around just how powerful he was. It was something he never discussed with you, insisting that he didn’t want his demons tainting you.

While he had always been nothing but loving and kind to you, you had witnessed the ruthless side of him a few times, namely when he’d rescued you from your old life.

Rhett had come rolling into town in his Silverado, just passing through, and he met you at the hole-in-the-wall diner you waitressed at. You’d never forget seeing him for the first time. Tall and broad, tan Stetson balanced atop his head. A pair of worn Levi’s with a white T-shirt on top. He was the most beautiful man you’d ever seen.

He took his hat off as he took a seat at the counter, revealing a head of graying hair that sent your heart quickening in your chest. Then he smiled at you. You shyly offered him a menu, but he shook his head. “I’ll jus’ have a black coffee, ‘n two eggs, over easy. Toast, bacon, whatever you put on your usual breakfast plates. Please and thank ya.”

His voice caught your attention. Deep and low in his throat, lilted with an accent you couldn’t quite place. But it was clear he was from out west, that much you could tell.

“Of course! Anything else?” You asked as you scribbled his order down on your pad.

He considered it for a moment and then he said, “Some jam for the toast, if it ain’t a bother.”

You couldn’t help but smile at his politeness, despite his rough exterior. His shining blue eyes were gentle as they regarded you, and you found yourself distracted by them. You’d never seen eyes so blue. They looked like the ocean. You’d never been, but you’d seen pictures of water that was so blue it was breathtaking. His eyes were even prettier than that.

“C-comin’ right up,” you finally responded, realizing you were allowing your mind to wander.

You turned and put your order in with the cook before you quickly moved to pour a cup of coffee. Everything was going just fine until you turned and miss-stepped, sending yourself careening forward. To your utter horror, the mug of coffee slipped from your hands and hit the counter, splashing all over the man, effectively staining his white shirt.

You gasped sharply, steadying yourself before your hand shot up to cover your mouth. “Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry! Are you alright?! Did it burn you?!” You were shifting into a panic, scrambling to grab a handful of bar towels you kept behind the counter. You rushed around, intending to help the man clean up the mess.

You were so wrapped up in your panic that you didn’t realize that he wasn’t angry with you at all. You were simply so used to customers, and your manager, being rude to you that you just expected a hostile reaction.

But just as you approached him, he slowly stood, and suddenly, a pair of steady hands were resting over top of your own. You looked up in surprise, only to find those crystal blues gazing steadily down at you.

“Hey now, don’t fret none, it was just an accident,” he assured you, and the deep velvet of his voice calmed you instantly, bringing you back to yourself, renewing your focus.

You stared at him in confusion. “I just spilled hot coffee on you, and you aren’t angry?”

He shook his head, gently taking the bar towels from you to dab at the stain himself. “Ain’t no use gettin’ angry over somethin’ you didn’t do on purpose. I got plenty more of these white shirts where this one came from. And I’ve had worse injuries than a measly little burn from some hot coffee. I’m fine. Promise.”

You let out a sigh of relief, your tense shoulders falling relaxed. “Oh, thank goodness. I really am sorry, though. I’m so clumsy.”

He moved to wipe up the mess from the counter, completely unbothered by it. But he was bothered, however, by the implications of your response. “You have people get angry at you often?” He asked.

You paused, considering your answer. “Well…some of the men that come in here aren’t very nice. Cranky truckers and whatnot. If you make a mistake they tend to get pissed and take it out on you. And my…” you glanced around to make sure no one was listening, “boss, he’s not the nicest guy out there. He says I’m too clumsy for my own good.”

Something flashed in those blue eyes. You swore they darkened a shade. “Huh. Well, they’re all fuckin’ assholes. You’re just doin’ your job.”

You were floored by his behavior. You’d expected him to insult you for your mistake, to call you some degrading name, like you’d been called so many times before. But instead, he’d offered you kindness and understanding.

“Thank you,” you earnestly replied.

He shrugged, taking a seat again on the stool he’d previously been perched upon. “‘s basic human decency to be nice to your fuckin’ waitress. ‘specially when she might have half a mind to spit in your food if you treat her like shit,” he said with a mischievous twinkle in his eye.

You couldn’t help but smile at that, finally turning to gather up the coffee-stained towels and rounding the counter again. As you tossed the towels in a bucket nearby so you could wash them later, the cowboy leaned forward, still eyeing you.

“I’m Rhett, by the way,” he informed you.

You shyly gave him your name in return. “It’s nice to meet you,” you said.

“Likewise,” he echoed. His exterior seemed so rough. There was a tattoo of a steer skull inked into the skin of his left forearm. His face was fixed with hard lines, and although he still appeared youthful, you could tell he was older. Mid to late forties, if you had to guess. His eyes held untold stories, things he’d experienced that had turned him into the rough man he was today. But his exterior was misleading, because behind it, he was warm and kind.

You didn’t know it then, but this was the start of something bigger than you ever could have imagined. This man, with his ocean-blue eyes and velvet voice, would soon become your knight in shining armor.

Until then, the spell between you was quickly broken when you heard “Order up!” which caused you to jump in surprise.

You giggled softly at your own jitteriness, and quickly turned to retrieve Rhett’s food from the serving window, thanking Anton, the cook, as you did so. “Here you go! Need anything else?”

“Just a coffee refill,” he replied with a knowing smile.

“Oh! Of course! Sorry, I got so distracted!” You exclaimed in embarrassment as you hurried to pour him another cup of coffee, this time making sure not to spill it on him.

“Thank y’ kindly,” Rhett said.

“You’re welcome. Let me know if you need anything else!”

You busied yourself with sorting clean coffee mugs back into their respective stacks, all while Rhett tucked into his food. You found yourself wanting to speak to him further, to ask him questions about himself, but you were afraid of being a bother, and you were afraid you were misreading his kindness as an invitation to talk to him.

He’s just being nice, you thought. He doesn’t actually want to talk to me.

Besides, your boss, Martin, was just in the back. If he saw you bothering a customer he’d flip his lid and use it as an excuse to yell at you. It didn’t take much to piss him off, and for whatever reason, he seemed to particularly have it out for you. The least he was involved, the better.

Some might question why you kept this job if you were being mistreated by your boss. The fact of the matter was, you had no choice. You were desperately trying to keep up with your living expenses and rent to avoid being evicted from your home. You were severely behind on your utility bills, to the point where the city was going to start shutting things off if you didn’t pay up.

You were living paycheck to paycheck, barely staying afloat. This waitressing job was the only one you could get in this tiny town, and you didn’t have the time or resources to go hunting for a better-paying job. This was your lot in life, and you were trying to make due. However, you weren’t sure how much longer you could go on.

You tried your best to keep your head down and do your job, but with the way your boss behaved, and the way this town seemed to have it out for you, it was difficult. You seemed to have garnered a reputation, and you weren’t quite sure how it had started. You heard the way people talked about you when they thought you weren’t listening. Whispers of what you got up to after the sun went down. Accepting money from men in return for sexual acts.

The truth was, you were not involved in sex work. The only thing you could think might have started the rumor was the fact that Luke Jones, the sheriff’s one and only deputy, had propositioned you for sex once, and when you turned him down, he went off the rails and berated you in front of the whole diner. He must have decided to spread rumors about you behind your back, which had done great harm to your image, and changed the way people treated you. If the cops said you were bad news, everyone believed them,

You hated this tiny, conservative Christian town, but you were trapped with no escape.

Rhett Abbott was the first person who’d been genuinely kind to you in a long time. There was no judgment in his eyes as he looked upon you. Not even after you’d embarrassed yourself and spilled his coffee. It made your heart warm in your chest, and you decided that maybe this work shift wasn’t so bad after all.

Then he was asking you for a coffee refill and you were trying to hide your smile as you turned to grab the well-used coffee pot.

“Thanks,” he said with a nod and a crooked smile. It made your knees weak.

But the spell between you was soon broken by the sound of your name being gruffly spoken. You jumped, nearly spilling the coffee you were still holding. Rhett watched you, his eyes narrowing as you scrambled to put the carafe back in its place and rush to the back.

There was a man back there, and just by the time of his voice, Rhett could tell he was no good. He put two and two together and realized the man was your boss, who you’d already mentioned having a short fuse.

Rhett was a lot of things. He’d committed acts he wasn’t proud of. He had many enemies. There were those who would pay money to see him dead. But one thing he was not, was an abuser. He didn’t mistreat people just for the hell of it. And just from interacting with you, and seeing the way you reacted when you spilled his coffee, he could tell you had suffered a lifetime of mistreatment.

And that was when he found himself considering something he never thought he’d do. Maybe he was crazy. Maybe he’d been bashed in the head one too many times. Either way, he wondered if you would let him take you away from all of it.

He wasn’t sure why he was so enamored by you. He’d only just met you, and if he offered to take you away right then and there, he was sure you would say no. So he didn’t say anything. But he decided that he was going to remain in this godforsaken town a few more nights, just to see how things played out.

He hadn’t done much good in his life, but if he could rescue you from your unfortunate circumstances, maybe it would make up for all the years of sin and wickedness. Maybe he could do right by you. Give you the life you deserved, protect you from harm, give you freedom.

Until then, he wouldn’t jump the gun. He would wait patiently, and swoop in when you needed him to. Although, now seemed like a pretty good time to do that. He could hear your boss shouting, and it sent heat boiling beneath his skin.

But he resisted the urge to go back there and tear the man apart. He didn’t want to scare you, and such a reaction would be overkill, especially when he’d only known you all of forty-five minutes.

A few minutes later, you came back to the front, very obviously trying to make it look like you hadn’t been crying. At that point, Rhett had finished his food, and when you saw it, you quietly spoke to him.

“All ready to finish and pay?” You asked, avoiding eye contact.

Rhett leaned forward over the counter, lowering his voice. “Shouldn't let ‘im treat you that way.”

You paused, a fresh wave of tears welling in your eyes. You managed to lift your gaze to his, your bottom lip quivering. “I have no choice. It’s either work this job, or end up on the street.”

I could take you away from all this. Those were the words on the top of his tongue. But he refrained. Now wasn’t the time. “Yeah, well, he’s a goddamned prick. Y’ deserve better.”

You stared at him for a moment, your heart aching in your chest. His kindness and understanding were unfathomable to you. Why on earth was he being so nice? And that’s when your brain threw a negative thought at you that made everything come to a screeching halt. What if he was only being kind because he wanted something? He didn’t seem like a creep, and he hadn’t made you feel uncomfortable in the slightest. But what if he was just good at hiding it?

“Why are you being so nice to me?” The words came out before you could stop yourself.

Rhett leaned back in his seat, grabbing his Stetson before he rose to stand. “Because you look like you could use some kindness. And I don’t believe in mistreatin’ service workers just for the hell of it.”

He dug out his wallet and tossed a $100 bill onto the counter, which more than covered his measly $10 meal charge. Your eyes went wide, and you looked up at him just as he placed his hat on his head. “Keep the change. Buy yourself somethin’ nice.”

Then he was gone, leaving you flabbergasted in the middle of the diner. “Ninety fuckin’ dollars,” you whispered to yourself in amazement, referring to your tip. You snatched the bill off the counter and quickly rang it up, placing the money beneath the cash tray to be put in the safe later, and taking out $90 in cash for yourself. He told you to keep it, so that was what you were going to do.

You thought that night would be the last time you ever saw Rhett Abbott. Thought that he appeared like one of those guardian angels you’d heard people talk about, just to give you a little help along the way, before disappearing into thin air.

But the very next night, he walked through the door of the diner again, and your heart began to race in your chest. He was real. Flesh and blood, standing right in front of you.

He looked just as good as he had the previous night. Except this time, he’d ditched his coffee-stained white shirt in favor of a blue button down, tucked into his jeans with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows to show off his strong forearms, that steer tattoo still on display.

He took his hat off and sat at the bar, and he gave you that crooked smile of his. It made your knees weak, and you set down the stack of plates you were carrying just so you didn’t drop them.

The diner had a few customers that night, so you couldn’t focus all of your attention solely on him. Nor could you talk freely, for fear of other patrons overhearing.

But he was still as charming as ever. “Hey,” he said with a twinkle in his eye, “miss me?”

Actually, yes. “I thought you were just passing through,” you said.

He shrugged, resting his elbows on the counter. “Changed my mind.” He held eye contact with you, and it made your heart race.

You shook off your dazed expression and whipped out your order pad. “What’ll you have?”

“How’s your French toast?” He asked. So he was a big fan of breakfast for dinner, it seemed.

You shrugged. “It’s pretty good. I’d recommend the pancakes though, Anton makes the batter from scratch and they’re fluffier than a cloud.”

Rhett’s smile grew wider. “Alright then, I’ll have a stack of ‘em. With a couple of scrambled eggs this time. And black coffee.”

You couldn’t help but smile in return. “Sure thing. And I’ll try not to spill the coffee on you this time.”

That smile turned into a grin. “Thanks, ‘preciate it.”

That was, unfortunately, as far as your interaction went. You handed him his coffee and then got whisked away to serve food to other customers. A family of five walked in, and seeing as how you were the only waitress on the current shift, you had to take care of them.

Rhett noticed this, and his brow furrowed. It was hardly fair that you had to do all of this by yourself. Where were the other waitresses?

When you made your way back to the counter to grab his order and hand it to him, he stopped you with a question. “You’re doin’ all this by yourself? Where’s your help?”

You grimaced. “There’s usually only two of us working at night but the other girl has been sick in the hospital so she’s called off a few nights in a row. My boss won’t hire anyone else either so it’s all on me.”

“The more you tell me bout that son’bitch, the more I don’t like him,” Rhett grumbled.

You shrugged. “Just somethin’ I gotta deal with. You need anything else?”

He wanted to continue the conversation, but he didn’t want to keep you from your work and get you in trouble, so he simply requested some pancake syrup and let you get back to your duties.

That night, as he left the diner, he gave you another large tip, and you cried over it, not understanding why he would do such a thing. In this place, you were lucky to even get a dollar or two as a tip.

After those first two nights, Rhett quickly became a regular. Each night he’d walk through the doors, take a seat at the counter, and order breakfast for dinner. And each night, you’d talk to him, and find yourself growing more and more enamored with him with each passing hour. He continued to leave large tips, and it made you think that he had to be rich. No one could afford to throw money around like that.

But it didn’t feel appropriate to ask him about his money, so you kept your questions to yourself. You fell into a routine of expecting his presence every night, and appreciating those generous tips.

The entire time, however, Rhett was watching you, and he noticed a few things. Of course, there was the way your boss treated you. But he also noticed how some of the customers treated you. They were impatient and short with you, and it only served to make you more frazzled, resulting in a few mistakes on your part.

You would always apologize profusely and come back to the counter holding back tears. It sent the heat of anger blossoming through Rhett’s chest. He couldn’t stand to watch this much longer. And thankfully, he didn’t, because his opportunity to give you a better life came one night when the diner was particularly busy.

A group of younger men, one of which wore a deputy’s uniform, were picking on you. They would make comments each time you tended to their table, and Rhett caught wind of every word. Their behavior filled him with such rage that he took his hand off of his coffee cup, for fear that he would crush it in his own grasp, just from his anger.

He was tempted to step in, but he waited. The next time you walked up to the counter, he caught you. “I can take care of them assholes for ya,” he offered.

“What?” You asked, unsure of what ‘take care of’ meant in this context.

“Teach ‘em how to be respectful. ‘Cause they sure as hell ain’t respectin’ you right now. ‘Specially that fuckin’ cop.”

“Oh, no, it’s okay. They’re just playing around. Don’t pay attention to them,” you brushed it off. But he could tell it was bothering you.

The final straw happened when you walked back over to their table, and one of them stuck out his leg and purposely tripped you. You let out a yelp of surprise and went down. Thankfully, you were only carrying a pitcher of water, but the water went everywhere, including all over your white top.

Quick as a flash, Rhett Abbott stood up. “Enough!” His voice boomed through the diner, and everyone went dead silent, including the boys who’d been picking on you.

The cowboy approached the table, kneeling to reach for your hands. He locked eyes with you and calmly asked, “You okay?”

When you nodded, he pulled you to your feet, and without hesitation, he shrugged out of his denim jacket and put it around your shoulders so no one would be able to see through your wet shirt.

“Go outside,” he said to you.

“But-”

His piercing eyes caught your gaze. “Go. Trust me.”

And you did. Maybe you were foolish for it, listening to this man you’d only known for the better part of a week. But when Rhett told you to trust him, you somehow knew you could. You hugged his jacket to your body and you walked out of the building and into the cool night.

Back inside, Rhett was seething. He stared at the group of men, and without a word, he reached across the table and grabbed the napkin canister, yanking the top off and dumping the stack of napkins into the lap of the deputy. “Clean up the mess,” Rhett gruffed.

The boys snickered. “Not my fault this place has clumsy waitresses,” Luke, the deputy, said.

Rhett growled, and suddenly, he had Luke by the collar. “Clean up the fuckin’ mess!” He barked. Then he slammed the man back down into his seat.

“Hey!” Luke exclaimed, jumping back out of his seat as Rhett marched back to the counter to grab his hat. “You realize you just assaulted an officer of the law?!”

Rhett remained silent as he fished out his wallet and pulled out a single $10 bill, slamming it down on the counter. Then he turned, his eyes dark and stormy.

“I don’t give a shit. Next time, I’ll do a lot worse.” Then he put his hat on his head and sauntered outside.

He found you leaning against the outside wall, and when you saw him, you wiped at your cheeks, trying to hide the tears. He sighed softly, boots crunching against gravel as he neared you.

“Thanks for that,” you whispered.

“Mm,” he hummed in response. You were both quiet for a few moments before he spoke again. “Listen, maybe I’m bein’ too forward, maybe I’m fuckin’ crazy, but what if I said I could take you away from all this?”

You looked at him, your brow furrowed in confusion. He was as serious as could be. “What?”

“I could. I know I don’t look like much, but I got some money. Got a place out west. Lots of land, horses, cattle. Nice house with a swimmin’ pool in the back. But the thing is…it’s real empty. It ain’t fit for a lonely old cowboy. But it could be a home, with you in it.”

Your eyes widened. There was no way this was real. There had to be a catch. Maybe you were dreaming. Yeah, that was it. This was a dream and you’d wake up any minute, curled up on your broken-down old mattress in your tiny, ill-repaired house.

“I’ll let you sleep on it, if ya need. But I’m tellin’ you right now, you deserve better than this town. It’s like fuckin’ quicksand, it’ll suck you in and you’ll never get out. Believe me, I know.”

“Why?” You asked. “Why would you do this for me?”

Rhett shrugged. “Because I can see you need help, and I have the means to give it to ya.”

You stood there, speechless, your eyes wide and watery. “This isn’t real,” you whispered. “You’re just a dream and I’m gonna wake up soon and you’ll be gone.”

“Ain’t no dream, sugar. I’m real and I’m offerin’ you a fresh start. Don’t need to give me an answer right now, you can think about it, but-”

To hell with it. “Yes,” you cut him off.

His brows raised. He hadn’t expected you to say yes so quickly. Before he could speak again, you continued.

“Why the hell not? I’ve got nothing going for me here. I’m gonna die in this Podunk town if I don’t get out right now. So yes, I’ll go with you.”

Rhett tilted his head, caging his bottom lip between his teeth. “Alright then. We can leave tomorrow if y’ want. My place is in Wyoming, it’s gon’ be a long drive.”

You wondered what he was doing so far away from his home state. And in the back of your mind, you knew this was potentially the most foolish decision you’d ever made. What if he was a serial killer who was going to dump your body in some ravine somewhere? But as you looked into the kindness of his deep blue eyes, you knew that those fears were all in vain. This man was not here to harm you. He was here to rescue you.

So you took a headfirst leap of faith and let him.

That very same night, you walked back into that diner, tossed your apron onto your boss’s desk, and told him, “I fuckin’ quit.”

You ignored his overdramatic pleading, tuning him out when he shouted after you. You left it all behind and came back outside where Rhett was waiting, smoking a cigarette. When he saw you, he stamped out the cigarette and pushed off of his truck, which he’d been leaning on.

“Well?” He asked.

“I quit. Maybe I’m stupid for doing this, but I trust you, and I’ll go wherever you wanna take me.”

And that’s how it all started.

He took you back home that night, insisting upon it after you told him you’d been walking to work to avoid the cost of gas and car maintenance.

His truck smelled like him. The faint scent of cherry tobacco, and a cologne that smelled like vetiver and cedar. It was strangely comforting and you found yourself at ease wrapped up in his scent.

When he pulled up outside your shabby little house with its unkempt lawn, you felt a little embarrassed about your living situation. But if he judged you for it, he made no indication.

“Pack what’s most important to ya. I can have a moving company come and pack up the rest and ship it to my place.”

You hesitated before you climbed out of the truck, reality finally hitting you in the face. “Rhett…you should know I’m sort of…in trouble. I owe money. I’ve got overdue bills, and people I borrowed money from. If I skip town I’ll be in big trouble.”

Rhett gazed at you, and the yellowish light cast from a nearby street lamp made his eyes look dark, almost brown. “Don’t worry about all that.”

“But-”

“I said I’d take ya away from all this. I mean it. You come with me, and you won’t have to worry about anythin’ ever again. I can promise you that.”

“I can’t ask you to take care of my problems for me.”

“You aren’t askin’ me to. I want to.”

You stared at him in disbelief. There was no way this was real. But your heart was telling you to trust him. If he said he would take care of things, then he would.

“Okay,” you relented.

“Alright then. I’ll see ya tomorrow mornin’, around 7 if that’s okay with you.”

You nodded. “Yeah, it’s okay. I’ll see you then.”

Then you slipped out of his truck and slammed the door shut behind you. He waited in your driveway to see to it that you got safely into the house before he finally pulled away.

Once you were inside, you pushed the front door shut and leaned back against it, reeling from what had taken place in the last few hours. Had you really just agreed to run off with this man? Were you crazy? Had you gone completely bonkers? Maybe, but strangely enough, you also had a sense of peace. Somehow you knew this was the right decision.

So you set about packing a duffel bag with your necessities, and by the time morning came, you were waiting out on your front step for Rhett to arrive.

He pulled up at 7 o’clock on the dot, and he climbed out of the truck to greet you. “Mornin’.” His kind smile sent a fuzzy warmth rushing through you, as if you’d just sipped a glass of bubbly champagne.

“Morning,” came your response. He graciously took your bag from you and placed it into the bed of his truck. Then he opened the passenger door for you, and you climbed into the confines of the vehicle.

“Y’ hungry?” He asked after he’d settled into his side.

As if on cue, your stomach rumbled, and you gave him a sheepish look. “I haven’t eaten yet.”

“I’ll fix that.” He pulled out of your driveway and headed into town, there he stopped at Royal Donut, the local donut shop. He took you inside and let you choose whatever donuts you wanted. You walked out of that shop with a dozen assorted favorites, cups of coffee, and some other bakery items.

It was more than you could ever eat, but Rhett spared no expense. And as he drove, you happily ate your fill of donuts, a treat that you never bought yourself. He seemed pleased that you were enjoying the sweet treats.

And thus began your trip to Wyoming with a mysterious, silver-haired cowboy.

The further away you got from that shitty town, the more at ease you felt. You relaxed into the leather seat of Rhett’s Silverado, and you let yourself forget about your problems for just a little while.

You found Rhett incredibly easy to talk to. He had this way about him that made you want to talk to him. You wanted to know more about this man who’d walked into your life and whisked you away. This was the kind of thing that only happened in movies and storybooks. It didn’t happen to small-town girls who led flat, broke-down lives.

And yet, there he was, driving with one hand on the steering wheel, the other resting atop the gearshift, looking like a dream with his hair haphazardly brushed back with his fingers, wearing a simple black t-shirt and jeans, with an ornate belt fastened around his waist.

There was a pair of black cowboy boots on his feet. You never thought you’d find such a thing attractive, but you did. He was every bit a cowboy as you could have imagined. Open pack of Marlboros in the cup holder. Pistol in the glove compartment. Dreamcatcher hanging from the rearview mirror.

He told you the dreamcatcher was given to him by an old friend named Joy Hawk. “She passed a few years ago. Every time I look at it I think of her.”

You admired the colorful beads, watching as the feathers fluttered from the air conditioning. Someday, you would find that same dreamcatcher beside your bed, because Rhett noticed you admiring it so much that he decided you should have it. But until then, it would remain dangling upon his rearview.

During that lengthy road trip, you talked about anything and everything. You revealed some details about your life and explained why you had a negative reputation, of sorts, within your town.

“You mean that fuckin’ asshole that tripped you spread rumors that you were tradin’ sex for money?” He clarified, his hand tightening on the steering wheel.

“I-I think so. That’s the only reason I can think the rumor even got started. His pride was hurt when i said I wouldn’t sleep with him.”

Rhett ran his tongue over his teeth, breathing in deeply. “I shoulda beat his ass like I wanted to. Fucker deserves it.”

You shook your head. “What you did last night was more than enough. Besides, I wouldn’t want you to get arrested on account of you defending me. I’d feel so bad,” you said.

“I wouldn’t’ve gotten arrested. And even if I did, they’d let me go after I made a phone call.”

You looked at him curiously. “Why? You famous or something?”

“Not really. Won a couple bull ridin’ circuits. Own a cattle ranch. I just have good connections. And a good lawyer.”

Something about his answer made you think he was being modest. With the way he threw money around so freely, and the way he was dressed, you knew he was more wealthy and powerful than he was letting on. But you chose not to question it further. If he wanted you to know more, he’d tell you.

Instead of talking about his status, he changed the subject. He talked about his family, and how rocky his relationship was with them.

“It all fell apart when I was in my early 30s. Found out my wife was cheatin’ on me with my brother.”

Your jaw dropped at his revelation. “Oh my gosh. With your own brother?! That’s awful. I’m so sorry.”

He shrugged. “I got over it. But it took me a while. I spiraled pretty hard after it. Did some shit I ain’t proud of, all because I was angry. But that was a long time ago. I’m in a better place now.”

“You never remarried?”

“Nah. Just never found anyone I wanted to settle down with. Maria, my ex-wife, tried to rekindle things but I never could look her in the eye again after what she did. So I just put all my focus into buildin’ a life for myself. Rode in a few rodeos. Built a house. Been runnin’ a cattle business for the last decade. Haven’t had time for anyone special.”

“Except for me,” you quietly murmured.

He smirked, nodding in agreement. “Except for you, little darlin’.” Then he paused. “‘s alright if I call ya that?”

“Yeah. I like the sound of it.”

From that moment on, you became Rhett Abbott’s little darlin’, and everything changed. You wondered what made you special. What made him decide, fifteen years after his marriage went down the drain, to open his arms to someone else?

You’d never understand, but you didn’t have to. Rhett had pulled you from the miry pit you’d been sinking into, and you would be forever grateful to him for it. You didn’t know it yet, but he would soon lavish you with everything you could ever want or need. He would provide for you beyond your wildest dreams, and you would wake up every day and thank your lucky stars that he had walked into that shitty hole-in-the-wall diner and swept you off your feet.

Now you were on your way out west to his big ranch to start a new life. You had no idea how he was going to work out all the details. There were still so many loose ends you had to tie up in your personal life. To anyone else, this decision probably seemed like the most foolish decision you could’ve possibly made. But to you, it felt like fate, so you decided to take it as such.

Instead of worrying about those things, you allowed yourself to be in the moment, getting to know Rhett during all those hours in the truck together. He got you whatever you wanted to eat along the way. Fries, milkshakes, your favorite treats. You felt a little bad that he was spending money on you, but at the same time, it felt nice to be spoiled, so you allowed yourself to bask in it.

The trip took twelve hours in total, and toward the end, you fell asleep with your head resting against the window. A few hours later, you woke with a start when you felt the truck pulling to a stop.

“Shh, you’re alright,” Rhett’s low cadence filled your ears. “Just pullin’ into the drive.”

Suddenly, you were very much awake as you realized what you were looking at. You’d finally arrived, and although it was dark, you could see that the property was large. And the house you were approaching was bigger than you could’ve imagined.

Your eyes went wide. So he was rich, rich.

You were essentially speechless as you climbed out of the truck and followed Rhett to the front door. There was a motion light that had turned on as soon as he pulled the truck to a stop, illuminating the front of the large house. It was designed to look like a rustic cabin, but much bigger. Wood beams framed the expansive porch. Even the front door was wooden. A few rocking chairs decorated the porch. Green fern plants hung from the ceiling, creating a whimsical feel.

You weren’t sure what you were expecting his home to look like, but this exceeded your wildest expectations. You drank everything in as he took you inside, standing there dumbly in the entryway as he reached over and flipped several light switches on one switchplate, illuminating the front of the home.

An entry area with a plush rug stretched out before you. It opened up into the main living room, which was furnished with two leather couches, some comfortable-looking overstuffed chairs, a bearskin rug, a custom coffee table, and so many more odds and ends that made it feel like a home.

“Whoa,” you whispered to yourself in amazement. Your own home looked like a tattered shoebox compared to this. “How is this real?”

Rhett smiled at your wonder. “It’s real. Built it myself.”

Your eyes went wide as saucers. “You built this?!”

“Not by myself, I had a lotta help, but yeah. C’mon, let me show you where you’re gon’ be stayin’. I’ll give ya a tour tomorrow, I’m sure you’re wiped out and want some sleep.”

You were in fact wide awake, but you let him lead you up to your room anyway. You followed up up the wide, wooden staircase and up to an open hallway, complete with wooden banisters. It overlooked the main floor of the house and gave you an idea of just how big the place really was.

On your way down the hallway, you passed a few different rooms, and you noticed that one had a nameplate on it with the name Amy etched into it. You wondered if it was too forward to ask him about it, but the words were out of your mouth before you could stop yourself.

“Who’s Amy?” You asked as you trailed after the man.

He glanced back at you. “Amy’s my niece. She don’t stay here much anymore, she’s grown, and she’s off backpackin’ through the Appalachian Trail with her wife, last I heard. I just kept her room the way it was in case she ever needs to stay with me.”

You nodded in understanding, and you wondered if she was the daughter of the brother that Rhett’s wife had cheated on him with, but you didn’t ask any more questions. You already felt like you were imposing enough as it was, and you felt it was rude to interrogate this man who’d just invited you into his home out of the goodness of his heart.

You didn’t have time to continue your questions anyway, because Rhett stopped at the end of the hall and opened the door to another bedroom, motioning for you to step inside. The first thing you noticed was its coziness, with a large, plush rug covering most of the floor. The bed was queen-sized, set inside a bedframe made of logs.

There were rich oak nightstands on either side of the bed with ornate wrought iron lamps. There was even a flatscreen television mounted to the wall across from the bed. But best of all, there was a large, stone-hewn fireplace along the far wall. You were blown away. It was the nicest bedroom you’d ever seen. And the bed looked so inviting. Maybe you would finally get a good night’s sleep and wake up without any lower back pain, as you were prone to.

“Rhett, I…” you started, but you couldn’t form the words.

He smiled as he walked over to place your bag atop the bed. “Don’t mention it, little darlin’. For now, I want ya to get some sleep. Bathroom’s right over there,” he motioned toward a door on the other side of the room. “Should be toiletries and whatnot in there. My housekeeper Kira usually keeps everythin’ stocked.”

Your brows shot up. He had a housekeeper? It only made sense, seeing as how the place was so big and he was only one person. Even so, it was a lot to process. How on earth had you gotten so lucky to meet this guy? It still felt like a sick joke that God was playing on you. But you’d enjoy the joke for as long as you could.

However, there was no joke. No one was pulling a fast one on you. Rhett Abbott was a sincere man who truly wanted to help you, a poor waitress down on your luck. And help you, he did. After you got settled in that night, he set about doing exactly as he told you he would; taking care of things.

Over the next few weeks, he began the process of having all of your things moved to his place. He worked behind the scenes to cover all of your financial expenses. He paid any outstanding balances and bills you had, down to the very last dime.

In just a short amount of time, your entire life changed. You went from barely keeping your head above water, to floating atop the same water on a pool float with a mimosa in hand. Rhett became your protector, your provider, the best thing to ever happen to you.

Gone were the days of worrying if you’d have enough money to buy groceries or pay your electric bill. As the months went by, Rhett provided everything you could ever need or want. Clothes, jewelry, shoes, food, hygiene products. He spared no expense and he was more than happy to lavish you with those things.

He’d well and truly become your savior, and you would be forever grateful to him for giving you a chance when no one else would.

As time passed, and you fell into an easy routine of life with the gray-haired cowboy, you found yourself falling in love with him. Being in his presence felt so safe and warm, and you became drunk off of that feeling. You couldn’t help but fall head over heels, and he was there to catch you when you did, confessing that he, too, loved you.

It felt natural. It felt right. And Rhett hadn’t allowed himself to love anyone in this way since his marriage had fallen apart. Even then, he never truly knew what love was. He’d only married Maria because he was afraid of being alone. A lot of good it had done him, because he’d ended up alone anyway.

But all of those events in his life had led him here, to you, and he realized then that it was all worth it. The pain, the suffering, the hardships he’d endured were simply molding him into the man you needed him to be. Taking care of you gave him purpose.

He pledged himself to you, promising that he would take care of you for as long as he lived, and even after, he would see to it that you didn’t have to worry about a thing. You would be financially set for the rest of your life. It was a concept that was so foreign to you that it was difficult to wrap your mind around.

Money would never be a concern for you ever again.

But for you, it wasn’t about the money. Of course, the financial stability was wonderful, but you came to the conclusion that you would be happy with Rhett no matter your situation. Rich, poor, anything in between. You were content with all of it as long as he was by your side. Not only was he your savior, but he was also the love of your life.

He had so much to teach you, from all the years of life he’d lived. He’d seen so much in his forty-five years, he had many stories to tell, and you eagerly listened to all of them. As time went on, he opened up more and more.

You were curious as to how he made so much money. He didn’t tell you all the details, but the gist was that he raised and sold cattle, and it had become a wildly successful means of living for him. Before his livestock business, he was a bull rider. You’d seen the medals and trophies in his office. He was modest about his riding career, but his awards boasted of national fame in the rodeo circuit. He was one of the best there was.

He explained that he’d had to give up riding when he was still young. “Most guys get ten or so years in the circuit. I got seven. Fucked up m’ shoulder and wrist one too many times. Got to the point where I couldn’t hold onto the ropes anymore. My last ride damn near killed me, I thought I could handle it but I lost m’ grip and went down. Landed me in the hospital for a month.”

He showed you the various scars and injuries he’d suffered during his riding career. His shoulder was littered with aged scars, which were from extensive surgeries he’d undergone just to be able to use it still.

After that, you spent many a night massaging lotion into that shoulder, just to give him some temporary relief of the pain he still suffered. He was grateful for your gentle touch, and he found himself marveling at how he got so lucky to find someone like you.

But life wasn’t all rhinestone cowboys and star-spangled rodeos. While he made an honest living with his job, he had his fair share of issues when it came to his wealth. After his divorce, he’d spiraled out of control and gotten himself in trouble with some powerful people.

Those days were behind him, and he’d since paid his dues, but he still had those enemies who would jump at the chance to see his success go down the drain. Particularly the neighboring Tillerson ranch.

The Abbotts had a long history with the Tillersons. And that history had carried on through each generation. Rhett’s father, Royal, had been dead for the better part of a decade, and the Tillerson patriarch, Wayne, had been dead for even longer. But his sons were still alive and kickin’. And they’d do anything to knock Rhett down a few pegs and gain the upper hand in the business realm.

Rhett had fought tooth and nail to get where he was today. He was the son of an impoverished cowboy, he had extremely humble beginnings and was always told he wouldn’t amount to much. But he’d proved everyone wrong just by succeeding. Because of all the blood, sweat, and tears he’d put into his livelihood, he was especially protective of it, and never allowed anyone to threaten what was his.

You knew Rhett was protective. You had seen it early on when you first met him, when he defended you against those boys in the diner. But you saw it again one day when you faced his competitors one night at a rancher’s event.

He told you that you didn’t have to go. “Don’t want ya to feel obligated, little darlin’.”

“I want to go, so I can support you,” you insisted. “Besides, I couldn’t pass up seeing my man dressed up all fancy.”

He smiled shyly. “If you’re sure, then okay.”

“I’m sure. Plus, it’s high time I let everyone know you’re off the market, right?”

Despite your upbeat attitude, part of you was nervous. Rhett had told you how some of these people behaved, and how judgmental they could be. You were afraid of what they might say when they noticed how much younger you were than Rhett.

But your relationship wasn’t something you wanted to hide. To hell with what others thought, or at least, that’s what you tried to convince yourself of. You wanted to walk in on Rhett’s arm and have him show you off.

And that was exactly what you did. Rhett bought you a new dress, a deep blue to match the shirt he wore. You couldn’t take your eyes off of him. He wore his nicest pair of jeans, the blue shirt with a bolo tie around the collar, his most expensive belt, decorated with his favorite buckle that was polished to perfection. His silver hair was neatly combed back, and he wore a jet-black hat atop his head.

He’d never looked more beautiful, and you couldn’t believe you were lucky enough to be called his. You walked into the event that night with your arm looped through his, butterflies of nervousness fluttering in your belly.

“You’re gon’ do just fine,” he quietly assured you. You smiled and squeezed his bicep in thanks.

And you were just fine. Until it came time to meet people. You were content to keep to yourself, safely tucked into Rhett’s side. But everyone noticed you, because it was a rarity for him to come to an event with a plus one.

It was Luke Tillerson’s wife, Camilla, that took it upon herself to find out who you were. “Who’s your little friend, Rhett?” She spoke up.

Little friend? You didn’t like her tone. But Rhett didn’t let it affect him. He tightened his arm around your waist and replied. “This here’s my girlfriend,” he introduced you.

The woman made a face, eyeing you up and down. You immediately felt scrutinized. “Oh, how…cute.”

“She is, ain’t she?” He said, gazing down at you lovingly, purposely ignoring her implication. But he could tell you were bothered, he could see it in your eyes. You stepped closer to him, pressing yourself against his side.

You’d never felt so out of place in your life. These people were all filthy rich. They’d been born into wealth. Surely they would see you as Rhett’s charity case if they knew your background.

“Abbott!” A male voice suddenly interrupted the conversation. An older man dressed in an expensive suit and sporting a stereotypical handlebar mustache approached Rhett, and before you or Rhett could protest, he whisked him away, claiming he had someone for him to meet.

This left you entirely alone with Camilla. Your palms grew sweaty and your muscles tensed. You were afraid she was going to start prying into your business. And sure enough, she did.

“You’re awfully young,” the woman remarked, idly sipping the expensive cocktail she held between her manicured fingers.

“And what about it?” You asked, immediately defensive. You’d been afraid this would happen.

“Oh, don’t take it personally, hon. I just didn’t think Rhett would stoop to such a level. I mean, what are you, mid-20s? He must have been incredibly desperate.”

You bristled, your skin growing hot beneath your dress. “I really don’t appreciate that,” you gritted out. “He isn’t desperate. It’s not like that.”

Camilla laughed it off. “Oh, you sweet child. You don’t get it, do you? He’s having a midlife crisis. You’re only a phase. Once he gets sick of you? He’ll drop you like a bad habit. He’s only interested in one thing, and it’s not your brains or pretty face.”

You wanted to throw angry, biting words right back at her, but you were speechless. You couldn’t believe the audacity of this woman to speak so boldly to someone she’d never even met. You could feel tears welling in your eyes, and although you willed them to go away, they wouldn’t.

“H-he’s not like that,” you whispered, repeating yourself. You had been with him for nearly a year. Not once did he ever display the tendencies she was describing.

“Honey, I’m just trying to warn you so you don’t get hurt when he gets bored. Go find a man your own age before it’s too late.”

Those tears welling in your eyes began to make their way down your cheeks before you could stop them. You couldn’t fathom how someone could be so cruel. Camilla said something else to you, but you didn’t hear her. You were too overwhelmed, too hurt. Your immediate instinct was to find Rhett. With your breath coming out in short, shallow gasps as you tried to hold in your tears, you turned, your blurry eyes scanning the room for him.

But Rhett had already seen you, and he was making a beeline for you. As soon as he appeared in your line of sight, you knew he was going to come to your aid. He’d been watching you warily from the corner of his eye as he talked to a potential new business partner, because he knew how Camilla Tillerson was. She’d never grown out of her high school mean-girl phase, and she thought just because she was Mrs. Luke Tillerson she could behave whichever way she wanted.

When he saw your shoulders tense, he knew something was wrong, and he excused himself to come to you. And then you turned, and there were tears in your eyes. It set off alarm bells in his head, and his chest tightened as anger welled up inside him.

As soon as he reached you, he was pulling you close, and you let yourself melt into the safety of his arms. Rhett had it handled, you didn’t have to worry anymore. “The fuck did you say to her, huh?!” He demanded.

Camilla’s eyes widened. “Nothing! I was just trying to give her some friendly advice, woman to woman.”

Rhett glared at her. “Like hell you were. You really gon’ stand there and insult my gal? And ain’t it convenient that you waited ‘til I walked away to do it?”

“Hey, there a problem here?” Another voice chimed in. This time, it was Luke’s.

Rhett sighed, rolling his eyes. “Yeah, your wife. Tell her to keep her big mouth shut.”

He ignored Luke’s dramatic reaction, opting to instead end the argument and tend to you. He tucked you under his arm and he led you out of the room. You didn’t see it, but he made sure to hold his hand out behind him as he went, his middle finger in the air to get the message to Luke and his wife across.

Once he had you outside, he led you to the truck, where he stopped to let you pull yourself together. You wiped at your wet cheeks, and he kindly gave you the handkerchief he always kept in his pocket to help.

“How can someone be so mean?” You whimpered softly.

Rhett fought the urge to go back inside and start yelling. It wouldn’t help anything, and it would only get him banned from the event altogether for acting like a fool. Instead, he focused on you. “What’d she say to you, baby?”

You sniffled, staring down at the handkerchief as you gingerly folded the fabric over itself. You relayed the words Camilla had spoken to you, and you watched as Rhett’s jaw tightened, his chest heaving slightly.

“That fuckin’ bitch,” he gritted out. Then he grimaced apologetically. “‘scuse the term, I don’t like to call ladies names but that one deserves it. I can’t believe she’d do that to ya.”

“It’s what I get for thinking I could measure up to all this. I’m nothing compared to all those people in there. They’re filthy rich and I’m just fuckin’ trailer park trash!”

In an instant, Rhett had your face in his hand. “Don’t you dare start talkin’ like that about yourself. I ain’t gon’ stand for it. You got just as much a right to be there as anyone else.”

“Do I? Or am I just your arm candy?” As soon as you said the words, you regretted them.

“You know that’s not true,” he lowly said. “You’re not a fuckin’ object, alright? You’re a brilliant human being and I’m sorry the others can’t see that.”

You wanted to say more, but you were too emotional. “Can we please just go home?”

Rhett sighed softly, but relented. “We’ll talk more about it later.” And then he opened the passenger door of the truck and allowed you to climb in.

Camilla’s words and attitude had really gotten to you. You knew what she said about Rhett wasn’t true, but there was still that nagging voice of insecurity that made you think it was true.

What if he did eventually get bored of you? What if he didn’t even love you and he truly was only interested in you for what you brought to the table sexually? Those were all lies, and you knew that. But the longer you let them fester, the more tortured you felt.

When you arrived home that night, you went right up to the bedroom without saying a word to Rhett. He stood at the foot of the steps and watched you go up, but he didn’t say anything. Instead, he sighed tiredly and sauntered over to his extravagant liquor cabinet.

He poured himself a glass of whiskey, downing it in one go before he poured another, and then made his way upstairs to where you were already getting ready for bed. He decided to give you a few moments of silence before he tried talking to you again. You obviously needed a little time.

Instead, he busied himself with getting ready for bed himself, shedding his clothes and slipping into a fresh pair of underwear to sleep in. Then he finished off his whiskey before he headed to the bathroom to brush his teeth.

It wasn’t long before he was settling into bed, all while you were still busy at your vanity, going through your skincare ritual. He gave you that time to yourself as he cracked open the book he’d been reading the last few nights, perching his reading glasses on his nose as he did so.

A few minutes later, you joined him in bed, slipping beneath the plush covers. He didn’t waste another moment as he quickly set his book aside. “We need to talk this out.”

You sighed. “I know.”

“Do you? Because I don’t think y’ do.”

You looked at him with a furrowed brow. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Listen, I ain’t the best with words, but…I don’t think you know just how much you mean to me. I don’t give a shit what Camilla Tillerson says. She’s wrong, you hear me? You’re not just some phase that I’m gon’ get bored of. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me. You make me a better man and I’m forever grateful, you hear me? So fuck what all them prissy, starch-collared cowboys think. Because I know the truth. And the truth is that you’re the love of my life. Nothing’s gon’ change that.”

At his earnest confession, your eyes welled with tears again. “Oh, Rhett,” you whispered. You moved closer, wrapping your arms around him.

“I love you, you hear me, girl? I’ll love you ‘til the day I die.”

And somehow, you knew he would.

His confession eased your fears, but there was still that little insecure voice within you. However, somewhere along the way, you determined in your heart that you were done caring about what people thought.

You loved Rhett, and he loved you. You weren’t going to hide that. So you continued attending events with him, walking in with your head held high, proud to be standing by your man’s side. You didn’t let anyone talk poorly about him, or yourself. You stayed far away from Camilla Tillerson, and you refused to listen to comments that she or her family made toward you. What they thought didn’t matter.

Rhett proved his love to you over and over again. He showed you that what you shared was real and true. That you were the only one for him. And it wasn’t long before he pledged that love to you with a ring.

You were married in the woods. You wore a whimsical dress with a crown of flowers in your hair. You even got Rhett to wear flowers in his hair. You said your vows under an old weeping willow, with the local pastor officiating. Rhett’s niece Amy and her wife flew in to witness the marriage, and his mother Cecelia, who was well up in years, but still just as lucid and fiery as she’d ever been, came too.

It was a quiet, intimate ceremony. And after it was all said and done, Rhett treated you to a honeymoon in the mountains, in a little log cabin built for two. It was blissful and dreamy and everything you ever could’ve hoped your honeymoon to be.

He treated you like a queen, and you knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that he was it for you. There was no one else you could imagine spending your life with. He’d found you at rock bottom and offered you a steady hand to hold, slowly pulling you to your feet and building you up until your old life was but a bad memory.

With Rhett, you wanted for nothing. You were loved, provided for, protected. He was the greatest gift you’d ever been bestowed, and you cherished him every waking moment.

Now, whenever there were business events to attend, you walked proudly by his side, displaying the beautiful ring he’d placed upon your finger, letting everyone know that you were the one that had made Rhett Abbott believe in romance again after all these years of wallowing in his own loneliness.

Your life together was sweet, and it went down easy like a spoonful of honey. Gone were the rough days and the fear of wondering if you’d end up living on the streets. Now, you woke up every morning to the sun streaming through your windows and your husband’s strong arm slung across your waist, and you silently whispered a prayer of thanks to the universe for it.

That was exactly the kind of morning you’d just woken up to. It was early, especially to be awake on a Sunday morning, but you were alert as could be. Beside you, Rhett was still sleeping peacefully, the sheets slung loosely over his naked hip, his silver hair mussed against the pillow.

Sundays were his day of rest. He wasn’t above doing hard labor, and could often be found working out in the fields with his ranch hands. But Sundays were reserved for rest and spending time with you. Usually, you would gently wake him, but because it was early, you decided to let him rest a little longer. He deserved it after a long and arduous week.

Instead, you slipped out of bed and went to get into your swimsuit so you could jump into the in ground pool in the back. Although the sun had barely been up that long, it was already quite hot outside, and you were eager to take a dip in the cool water to start your day.

You donned a white bikini. It was simple, but it was Rhett’s favorite. Particularly because the straps wear easy to untie and gave him easy access to the body that he loved so much. You couldn’t help but smile to yourself, because you knew he would be delighted to wake up to the sight of you in your skimpy bathing suit clinging to your wet skin.

As you sneaked back through the bedroom, he was still sound asleep, and you left him be. You padded through the house with your feet bare, the air conditioning cool against your exposed skin as you went, raising goosebumps in its wake.

But the second you stepped outside, you warmed right up. You stopped to grab a beach towel and a bottle of SPF in the outdoor cabinet near the door, and then you took a moment to put on the cream, allowing it to soak in for a bit before you stepped toward the pool and dipped your foot in, shivering at the coolness.

Sucking in a breath, you finally went for it, quickly lowering yourself off of the concrete edge and plunging straight into the water. You squeaked at the cold shock, but moments later, your body grew used to the temperature, and you relaxed, closing your eyes for a moment before you swam to the other edge of the pool to grab a large innertube to float around on.

You pulled it over your body and then rested your arms over the inflated edge, breathing out a sigh as you let yourself float around aimlessly. You rested your head atop your hands, letting your eyes drift shut as the water gently lapped at your body. It felt heavenly, and you relished in every moment of it.

You couldn’t believe that this was your reality. A giant in-ground pool in the middle of a glorious ranch in Wyoming. Never in your wildest dreams had you imagined you’d be in this position, but here you were, all thanks to your million dollar man.

“Thought I’d find y’ out here.” Speak of the devil.

You smiled, lifting your head to take in the sight of your husband. He was dressed only in the white underwear he’d worn to bed, and you couldn’t help but let your eyes wander brazenly, drifting toward his crotch.

“Mornin’, Daddy,” you sighed.

He raised a brow as he stopped at the edge of the pool. You eagerly swam toward him, and he leaned down to kiss you. “Mornin’, little darlin’. Sleep okay?”

“Like a baby.”

He smiled, kissing you again before he turned, opting to take a seat on one of the soft lounge chairs. You watched as he reached into the side table that stood beside the chair, pulling out his pipe set. You couldn’t help but bite your lips as you watched him ready the old pipe. It had been given to him by his grandfather, and he only used it once in a while. It was intricate, hand carved and passed down through the generations.

He noticed you eyeing him, and he smirked. “What? I’m feelin’ fancy this mornin’, sue me.”

You shook your head. “Oh, no, keep going. You know how sexy I think you look with a pipe.”

He rolled his eyes as he pressed a scoop of cherry tobacco down into the pipe. “Yeah. Sexy like a fuckin’ grandfather.”

“Exactly.”

He snorted in laughter. “Oh I’m sorry, I forgot who I was dealin’ with. My wife loves old men.”

You giggled in response. “Hey, I only have eyes for one old man, and that’s you.”

You shared a good-natured, knowing look with him before you spontaneously turned and dipped back into the water. Rhett leaned back against the lounge chair, taking a puff from the pipe and letting the smoke curl into the air. He watched you through hooded eyes, admiring the way your body moved in the water. He noticed that you were wearing his favorite bikini of yours, and he couldn’t help but groan low in his chest.

You swam about for a few more laps, all under Rhett’s watchful eye, before you finally decided to get out of the water. You felt his gaze on your body as you emerged from the pool dripping wet, bathing suit clinging to your skin. Your nipples were prominent beneath the fabric against your breasts, and Rhett could see it clearly.

You grabbed the towel you’d set out early, using it to dry your body, right in front of your husband. You turned to catch his cool blue gaze, and the way he was looking at you made you weak in the knees. He stared right at you as he brought his pipe back to his lips, and this time, when he released the smoke, he created smoke rings that floated up into the air.

God, did he really have to make everything so sexy?

“What’s’a matter, honey?�� He teased, a twinkle in his eye.

“Nothin’!” You peeped, shaking your head as you finished trying off.

He smirked again, and you wanted to wipe it off his face. Then he leaned back, spreading his legs. You had full view of his cock, and those heavy balls of his, barely hidden by the fabric of his underwear. You swore you began salivating, and he wasn’t even hard yet.

“Come sit on daddy’s lap, little darlin’.”

Oh, so that’s how he wanted to play. Without a word of protest, you tossed your towel aside and climbed into his lap. He set his pipe in its cradle so both of his hands could rest on your hips. “Look so pretty, glimmerin’ like a fuckin’ diamond,” he mused, admiring your damp, shimmering skin.

You leaned in, searching out his lips, and he obliged you, kissing you languidly. In the process, you lifted your hand, discreetly tugging at one of the ties on your bikini top. When you parted, the top conveniently fell, revealing your breast.

“Oh, oopsie!” You exclaimed.

Rhett rolled his eyes. “Yeah, oopsie.” But he brought his hand up to untie the other side, and then the back. With ease, he plucked the fabric from your body and tossed it aside, revealing your chest. “Much better.” Then he surged forward, opening his mouth to swirl his hot, wet tongue around a nipple.

You gasped lowly when he closed his lips around the little bud, suckling softly. “Know I can’t resist these fuckin’ gorgeous titties,” he growled, teeth nipping at you.

“I know,” you gasped, “‘s why I wore this set.”

He grinned at you as he made quick work of untying the bottoms. “I figured. Dirty little slut, know exactly how to get daddy goin’, don’t ya?”

He went back to mouthing at your breast, his other hand coming up to knead at the one he wasn’t laving his tongue all over. You wrapped your arms around his shoulders, bringing yourself closer to him as you relished in the feeling of his teeth gently scraping against your nipples. It sent shockwaves of pleasure crackling along your spine, and you could feel yourself growing wetter by the minute.

Rhett was obsessed with your tits. He always wanted his hands or his mouth all over them, and you were more than happy to oblige.

“Can’t get enough of ya,” he murmured, his large, warm hands squeezing your ass. “Mind if I fuck t’ out here, baby? Or would you rather go inside where it’s cooler?” He was always so considerate of your comfort.

“Out here,” you gasped as you pulled his mouth to yours, your fingers threading through that silvery hair. “Don’t wanna wait.”

He hummed in amusement. “Impatient lil thang,” he drawled.

“Can’t help it,” you sighed as you positioned yourself so your pussy was against his slowly hardening cock. “Need my daddy right now.”

He growled low in his chest. “Yeah? Poor baby, daddy’ll give you what you need.”

You whined in response, letting your head rest on his shoulder as you began to rock your hips back and forth. His big arms came up to wrap around your torso, and you basked in the feeling, eyes drifting shut. You felt so safe, surrounded by him. The sweet scent of cherry tobacco was comforting, paired with the scent of his shampoo, and the natural, intoxicating musk that could only be described as Rhett.

You could get drunk off of his scent alone.

When he realized you were inhaling him, he hummed knowingly. You were like a little puppy, the way you always sniffed at him. He found it endearing.

But then he felt your cunt soaking through the fabric of his underwear, right against his cock, and he forgot all about that cute little quirk of yours, his brain short-circuiting.

Above him, you could feel him growing harder and harder against you. It was your favorite feeling, because when he was hard, he grew so big. You’d never forget the first time you saw his hard cock. You had meekly questioned how it was going to fit inside you.

Now you took it like a champ, but that didn’t mean you didn’t still like to talk it up and tell him how big he was. You knew how much it got him going.

You looked down, and whimpered pathetically when you saw him growing between your legs. Almost frantically, you began rutting your hips more quickly, building friction.

“Hey now,” Rhett drawled, “slow down there, baby. We got all mornin’, ain’t no rush.”

He tipped your chin up to kiss you again, and you shivered in his arms. “I know. But I wan’ you now. Need to be full, need your fat fucking cock inside me.”

Rhett’s eyes widened at your brazen language. He wasn’t shocked by it, he just wasn’t used to you being so bold right off the bat. Usually, it took getting you a little worked up for the filthy talk to start, but he was already getting your unfiltered desires and you’d barely even begun.

Before he could reply, you were scrambling to get his underwear down his legs. Moving quickly, he aided you, yanking them down the rest of the way and kicking them aside.

Without warning, your hand was on him, stroking him to full hardness as he grunted in surprise. You leaned forward and let a trail of spit fall from your pursed mouth, right onto the shiny, pink tip.

You used it as lubricant to stroke him further, but within seconds, he was gently pulling your hand away. He then reached between your thighs and slid his middle and ring fingers inside you, pulling a sharp gasp from your throat. “Gotta get you ready,” he murmured, and suddenly he was fucking his fingers into you hard and fast as you squealed and fell forward against him, the obscene wet sound reaching your ears.

You weakly grasped at his arm, unable to speak, but you knew if he kept going you’d end up squirting all over him. “Da-d-daddy!” You managed to squeak.

And then, all at once, he stopped. He pulled his fingers from you and used your slick to further lube up his cock. You watched, salivating as the tip began to glisten with precum. Eagerly, you reached down, swiping your finger over the slit and smearing it around.

Rhett gasped, shivering at the sensitivity.

“So pretty, Daddy,” you mused, admiring the glimmering hardness beneath you.

“S’all for you, little darlin’,” he rasped. Then he grabbed your hips, arranging you properly before he aligned himself with you. “Let’s see if this needy pussy is ready f’ me.”

He ran the plush tip over your aching clit, and you trilled softly, closing your eyes in anticipation. Then, finally, you felt him as your entrance. Slowly, oh so slowly, he began to push into you. Little by little, your anatomy stretched to accommodate him. You could feel every vein, every twitch, and it already had your eyes rolling back in your head.

“‘ere you go,” he praised, his eyes fixed on the place where your bodies met. “Just a little further. C’mon honey, I know you can do it.”

At his encouragement, you sank down all the way, until you felt his balls pressing against you and you’d taken him down to the hilt. Then you glanced down and smiled proudly. “I did it, Daddy. I took the whole thing!”

Rhett beamed. “Atta girl. Takin’ it like you were made to.” His hand came up to cup your cheek, thumb stroking the skin. “You wan’ do it by yourself or do ya need Daddy’s help?”

Your brow furrowed as you considered the ultimatum. “I wanna try to do it by myself first.”

He nodded, leaving a kiss to your knows. “Alright then, go ahead. Take what y’ need.”

You placed your hands on his big, broad shoulders and began to slowly move atop him, using your thighs to lift yourself off before sinking back down. Rhett’s own hands found purchase on your thighs, lovingly squeezing at the flesh, enjoying the feeling of you building your own rhythm.

As you did so, he dipped his head forward again, mouthing at your breasts, tongue swirling around each nipple. You let out a soft moan at the feeling, taking in every sensation you felt.

The stretch of his cock inside you, the shock of his teeth nipping at your sensitive flesh, the feeling of his hands, calloused from years of work, resting on your thighs. His presence was so big and manly, surrounding you entirely. You felt so safe, like nothing in the world could harm you.

“Love you, Daddy,” you breathed as you began moving faster, focusing on the task at hand. Up, down, swivel your hips against his. A steady rhythm that you stayed with, periodically tightening around him as you did so.

“Love you too, baby.”

Rhett watched you above him, his eyes shining like the stars. You were so beautiful like this, slipping into the throes of pleasure. He wished he could have this moment etched in gold and display it on the walls of his home.

Your soft whimpers filled his head, swirling around like the smoke from his pipe. The sweetest music to his ears. He ran his hands along your body, as if committing the feel of your soft skin to memory.

“So pretty like this, ain’t ya? Usin’ Daddy for your own pleasure.”

At that, you moaned, opening your eyes to gaze into his own. “Feels so good.”

“I know. I can feel you gettin’ wetter.”

And he could. Your arousal had begun to drip down against his balls, and you were so slick that you had to focus on being careful so you didn’t accidentally take him too deep and hurt yourself.

But soon, your thighs began to burn, and you grew fatigued from doing all the work. You’d bitten off more than you could chew. You needed help.

“C-can you take over, please?” You asked.

“Already?” He cooed. “I thought for sure you’d last longer. You’re just a pathetic little thing, ain’t ya? Need Daddy’s help with everything.”

“Yes sir,” you agreed, nodding your head and gazing at him with doe eyes.

“Don’t worry. I gotcha.” His hands tightened around your hips, and suddenly, he was moving you up and down on his cock with his sheer strength. You gasped loudly, immediately falling forward against his strong chest as he did so.

You felt every inch stretching you, splitting you open. Your mouth parted to let out your unabashed moans and whines, already so blissed out that you were drooling against his chest.

He began shifting his hips up to meet yours each time he brought you down, jarring you as he fucked you fast and deep, fingertips digging into the flesh of your ass.

But he didn’t let you get too used to that position, because it wasn’t long before he was suddenly pulling you off of him. You squeaked in protest, looking at him in confusion.

“Want you on y’re hands and knees,” he gruffed. He slipped out from under you, and you watched his hard cock bob as he got up, glistening in the morning light.

He had to arrange you how he saw fit, because you were too preoccupied staring at his dick. Then he was behind you, clutching your hip with one hand while the other aligned himself with your cunt.

In one swift but careful thrust, he was back inside you, and you all but howled against the lounge chair. He lifted his hand to swat your ass, leaving a brief sting that was soothed by his gentle palm.

Then that same hand rested on the small of your back as he pushed you all the way forward so your face was against the cushion. Then he began to roll his hips forward, and you whined at the feeling. This angle was so much more intense, and he felt even bigger somehow.

“S’big, Daddy!”

“I know. Poor little pussy’s just stretchin’ so wide to take me. I don’t know, think I should pull out and make you take m’ fingers instead?” He pulled his hips back, and you gasped, immediately reaching back to grab at his arm.

“No! I can take it, promise! I’m a big girl!”

“Are you? And here I was under the impression that y’ were just a little thing.”

“No! Please!” You begged.

Then he thrust forward, and you let out a wail into the open air. Good thing no one could hear you back here. “Alright then. Wan’ you to lay there and take every last inch of Daddy’s dick.”

And you did. He fucked you hard and fast, and you clawed at the cushions for purchase, your mouth open, your eyes screwed shut. It felt like heaven, and you were certain you weren’t even on Earth in that moment. You were floating above yourself, watching your husband claim you as his.

Again, drool spilled from your mouth, this time soaking the fabric of the cushion beneath you. You moaned and squealed and cried out, wonderfully blissed out.

But all too soon, Rhett was switching positions again. He pulled out of you once more, and this time, you wailed. “Daddy, no!”

“Be fuckin’ patient,” he huffed as he turned you onto your back. “I’m gon’ give it back to you.” He shoved your knees up toward your chest, and then he was inside you again, stealing the breath from your lungs.

This time, he pressed the weight of his body against you, keeping you grounded as he began fucking into you. A hand came up to wrap around your throat, squeezing the sides, not to cut off airflow, but blood flow. Within seconds, your head was going woozy, and Rhett grinned down at you.

“Filthy little slut. Bet you’d come right now just from my hand around your throat if I let ya.”

You would, because you’d done it before. However, that wasn’t his goal in that particular instance. He simply wanted to watch the way your body reacted to it. Your eyes rolled back in your head and your mouth fell open, leaving you in this state of pure, unadulterated bliss.

He felt you tighten around him, and he grunted, pushing his cock even deeper. Your hands clutched at his flexed forearm, nails digging into the skin, sure to leave marks. He growled and grunted above you like a goddamned animal, fucking you within an inch of your life, and you took it like the good girl you were.

And then you felt it. The tip of his cock brushed something inside you that sent you into orbit.

“That’s it. Look at’cha. Got your eyes rollin’ back in your fuckin’ head.” Then he grabbed one of your hands and brought it down to your lower abdomen. “Feel that?”

All you could do was squeak in reply.

“‘S Daddy’s cock inside ya.”

At that, you let out a deep keen, tears beginning to stream down the sides of your face. You sobbed and moaned and made all sorts of sounds that you might’ve otherwise been embarrassed about, but Rhett couldn’t get enough.

Then his scruffy face was nuzzling into your neck, and his teeth were nipping at your pulse point, and you swore you were going to black out from the glorious intensity.

“D-d-” was what came out of your mouth. He knew what you were trying to say.

“What is it, huh darlin’? What’s my baby need?” Suddenly his fingers were at your aching clit, rubbing short, sharp circles, and you jolted against him like a live wire, pussy clamping around him. “Oh, that’s what you needed. Poor thing, Daddy was neglecting that sweet little clit. I’m sorry.”

He kissed you, swallowing your cries as he pumped his hips in time with his fingers at your clit. That, paired with his free hand still around your throat, you knew you were a goner.

“Go-gonna c-c-come! Please D-Daddy can I–”

But you didn’t even have to ask. “Come.”

And you did. You tried to scream, but it died in your throat. Instead, your mouth opened, but no sound came out. Rhett stayed close, his forehead pressed to yours as you fell apart around his pistoning cock.

You were free-falling, plunged straight into the depths of an orgasm so fiery and all-consuming that you lost yourself to it. You were not of yourself. You were on an entirely different plane of existence, vibrating with crackling electricity, as if you were a bolt of lightning flashing through the sky.

The molten heat surged through you from the top of your head to the tips of your toes. And Rhett held you the entire time, your body trembling fiercely in his arms.

It took some time to come back to yourself, and when you did, you found him gazing down at you, his eyes as clear blue as the sky above him. He let out a breathless laugh. “Hey there, darlin’. Welcome back to earth.” He’d slowed the movement of his hips just to let you recover.

“I…wow,” was all you could say.

“That was intense, huh?”

You nodded, your eyes watery.

“You okay to keep goin’? Or do you need a break?”

“I-I think I’m…okay.”

But that didn’t convince him. “Look at Daddy.” You lifted your eyes to his gaze. “I need a for-sure answer. Can I keep goin’?”

“Yes,” you finally answered with confidence. “Wan’ you to keep going, please Daddy.”

He smiled softly, the corners of his eyes crinkling. “Good girl, that’s all I needed.” Then he kissed you before he leaned back, pushing your knees toward your chest again.

And just like that, the switch was flipped, and he slipped right back into that harsh dominance, as if it was a well-fitted glove. Suddenly he seemed so much bigger above you, and you felt tiny. It made your heart sing.

Slowly, he began to move within you again, and you whined, closing your eyes at the delicious stretch. Rhett leaned back to admire the sight of your pussy swallowing him whole, and the creamy ring of your cum that now decorated the base of his cock.

He reached down, swiping his fingers against the base and gathering your slick before he brought those same fingers to your mouth, sliding them past your lips. “Tastes so good, don’t it?” He murmured lowly, and you nodded in agreement, eyes wide and watery, gazing up at him with such trust and adoration.

He leaned in to kiss you, tasting your cum on your lips. He stayed close, wrapping your legs around your waist and pressing his chest to yours. He began to fuck you deep and slow, rutting into you. This allowed you to feel every inch, every spasm, everything.

He caged you in with his big strong arms, protecting you from the word. You were so safe. So secure. Rhett would protect you from all harm.

“You mind if Daddy fills y’ up, baby?”

“Please,” came your whisper.

“Good. ‘Cause ‘m close.”

With his mouth against yours, he began to pick up the pace again. Quick but deep thrusts, cock battering that spot inside you that made your toes curl. It was inevitable that you’d come once more before he did, just by the way he had you feeling. A steady pressure had begun to build deep within the core of your being, and eventually, it would have to be released.

Then his fingers were at your sensitive clit again and you were mewling into his open mouth. Stars danced in your eyes, on your skin. You felt like you were part of a glittering galaxy.

Your arms found their place around your husband’s shoulders, and you held tightly to him as he went a little faster, a little deeper. Building and building and building. And you were already growing closer by the second. You knew your end was almost upon you.

“Daddy!”

“Go ahead.”

This time, when you came, it flooded from you, soaking Rhett’s cock, dripping down beneath you onto the lounge cushion. It was his turn to have his eyes roll back in his head, and he fucked you through it.

“Fuck, got this pussy squirtin’ all over me,” he hissed, slipping out of you to run the tip of his cock rapidly over your clit, prolonging your orgasm and making you cry out.

Just as you came down, he slid back into your still-spasming cunt, grunting at the tightness that surrounded him. He gripped your thighs in his strong grasp and his focus shifted to chasing his release.

Beneath him you were so far gone that all you could do was lay there and take it, still writhing in bliss, silent, pleasured tears falling. Your head was swimming, you felt as if you were floating through time and space.

“Look at me,” Rhett’s lilted baritone filled your fuzzy head, and you opened your eyes, locking your gaze with his. “Gon’ fill your pretty pussy up. Want you to take it all like my good little darlin’.”

You nodded, eager to take his load. His movements quickened, hands clutching you tight as he thrust forward hard and fast. You held onto him to keep yourself grounded, body trembling, hovering on the brink of being too overstimulated to handle much more.

And then, finally, you felt it. Rhett gasped, mouth falling open as his orgasm overwhelmed him. He kept his hips flush with yours, cock spasming within you, spilling the heat of his release into the deepest part of you. And you took it all gladly, body relaxing entirely at the feeling of him claiming you. You’d never tire of it.

He gradually came down, his body falling limp above you, though he still kept himself from pressing his full body weight into you. His softening cock was still nestled inside you, and you wrapped your legs around his waist, hoping to keep him there a little longer.

“M’ good girl,” he cooed down at you. “Took that so well.”

You smiled dreamily up at him. You didn’t quite have the wherewithal to speak, but that was okay. He didn’t need you to speak. Gingerly, he moved to slip out of you, but you whined in protest, not wanting to part from him.

“Y’ gotta let me go, honey. Can’t stay like this forever.”

“W-want you close,” you whispered.

“I know, and you can have me. But I gotta get you cleaned up first. And it’s gettin’ hotter by the minute, I ain’t about to let my pretty little gal get heatstroke on my account.”

He kissed you sweetly as he pulled his hips back, shushing your cries. You hated the initial empty feeling, especially when you were feeling fragile like this. But Rhett was quick to soothe you.

“Up ya go.” He lifted you to your feet, and you wobbled a little, still woozy. He secured a steady arm around you and guided you back into the house.

It was much cooler inside, and it felt good on your heated skin. However, you hardly even registered what was taking place, you were still feeling floaty. But Rhett had it handled.

He guided you upstairs, where he made sure you used the bathroom and took a quick shower just to rinse off. You didn’t have to make any of the decisions for yourself, because he did it for you, knowing you couldn’t handle trying to clean up by yourself. You needed this form of aftercare for your own well-being.

A little while later, you were clean, and dressed in one of his old rodeo t-shirts. You felt a little more like yourself, albeit a little fuzzy. Rhett had just finished helping you put lotion on your legs, and he was smiling up at you from where he knelt on the floor.

“I’ll bet you’re hungry after all that work,” he teased.

You hummed sleepily. “Yeah, I guess so.”

“How do some blueberry pancakes sound for my little darlin’?”

It was your turn to smile. “Sounds so good.”

“Alright then, let’s head on downstairs. You’re also gon’ drink yourself a nice glass of water while you’re waitin’ for your food. Ain’t gonna have you dehydratin’ on me.”

You hummed in agreement and allowed him to lead you out of the bedroom and back downstairs. He kissed the top of your head as you went, and you sighed happily, feeling at peace.

You were led to the kitchen, where you sat at the round table and waited for your husband to prepare your breakfast. As promised, he slid a glass of water in front of you and encouraged you to drink it. You sipped on it as you watched him move about the kitchen, and you couldn’t help but marvel at how good you had it.

Spending the morning being fucked by the pool, and having breakfast made for you? The old you could never have imagined this would be the case. You were eternally grateful that life had given you a second chance and allowed this man to come to your rescue when you needed him most.

You had faced a lot of adversity in your life, but now, it all seemed worth it, because it led you here.

Rhett truly was your saving grace. The yin to your yang. The moon to your stars. He was your million dollar man, and you wouldn’t trade him, or his love, for anything else in the world.

tagging those who might be interested (if you liked/reblogged any of my mdm promotional posts, i tagged you lol)

@eternallyvenus @up-thereinthesky @antiquitea @cdauni @coffeewithcal @rhettabbotts @combat-sixty-three @karma-is-my-girlfrined @blitchenslibrary @whoeverineedtobe @l-ynsdove @ravenmoore14 @virgo-wonder @sugarcoated-lame @sebsxphia @peachystenbrough @laracrofted @bradshawsbitch @damrlova @randomfandomgirl97 @bobfloyds @beepitybeepboop @buckys-estrella @callsign-magnolia @sunblchdfly @wkndwlff @withahappyrefrain @creatchie8 @topgun-imagines @lovinglyeternal @bobfloydsbabe

#rhett abbott x reader #rhett abbott smut #rhett abbott fanfiction #rhett abbott x you

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en-dazed · 10 months

Text

eternal ice - park sunghoon

PAIRINGS: Sunghoon x reader

GENRE: enemies to lovers, figure skater! sunghoon and reader, angst, fluff at the end

PROMPT: in which you have to skate with sunghoon for a competition but end up getting injured together

WORD COUNT: 9105 words

WARNINGS: one scene in which the reader gets harassed kinda and mentions of (vague) injuries but it’s not detailed

A/N: let me know if you enjoyed this and if you want more <3

You were always first place.

You were a perfectionist, painfully so. Good enough was not quite ever enough and second place couldn’t even compare to being first. In your mind, second place was the same as saying that you had failed. So you had always strived for first place - and been it too until the arrival of Park Sunghoon, the bane of your existence. Suddenly you were second, good at what you did but not the best.

Park Sunghoon was hailed as a prodigy. ‘Ice Prince’, they called him. You scoffed at the idea of it. You had been skating for longer than he had, taken part in more competitions than he had. But as your coach had so harshly pointed out one day at practice, Sunghoon had won way more medals than you.

“Y/N you’re glaring again.” Your coach, Jiyeon pointed out as you watched the boy you hated the most perform his routine on the ice. Sunghoon was good at what he did, you begrudgingly admitted to yourself. He was breathtaking to watch, gliding on the ice as if he was part of it. You hated him even more for being so perfect.

You huffed in frustration, tearing your eyes away from Park Sunghoon's mesmerising performance. "I can't help it, Jiyeon," you muttered. "He's always stealing the spotlight."

Jiyeon rolled her eyes at you, used to your never ending rants about the boy who had overtaken you. “Maybe you would be in the spotlight too if you took this as a lesson and learned from him.”

You shot her a sceptical look. “Learn from him? I don’t need to learn anything from him. All I need to do is beat his ass in the upcoming competitions.” There was a fire in your voice, lit by your hatred and passion.

Jiyeon sighed, her eyes filled with a mix of frustration and determination. "Y/N, listen to me. Hatred and rivalry will only take you so far. If you want to truly surpass Park Sunghoon, you need to find a way to grow as a skater, not just compete against him."

She stepped closer, her voice gentle yet firm. "You need to break free from the confines of your comfort zone. Push yourself beyond your limits. Take risks, explore new techniques, and infuse your performances with your own unique style."

You hesitated, considering her words. Jiyeon had always been a guiding force in your skating journey, and her advice had never led you astray before. Perhaps it was time to heed her guidance and embrace a new approach.

“What do you suggest I do then?” You asked sincerely.

Jiyeon grinned, a mischievous look on her face that made you suspicious. “You’ll see,” She made her way out of the audience, moving towards the exit. “Don’t forget your pair skating practice tomorrow!” She yelled out before leaving.

Your pair skate was with a guy you met only once, some Lee Chan that had taken part only in domestic competitions so far. He was good at skating - great even, but he lacked confidence. You had one day of practice with him already and he had been so nervous and shy around you that you almost got frustrated with him.

But as Jiyeon had reminded you, it was his first ever pair skate and his first ever international competition as well.

“Cut the boy some slack, he just needs more practice to build up his confidence,” Jiyeon had scolded you. “You were like him too once.”

You knew she was right but you couldn’t help but dread the long day ahead as you laced up your skates, waiting for both Jiyeon and Chan to show up.

But when the doors of the skate rink opened and Jiyeon came in, she was not followed by Chan but by Park Sunghoon.

The familiar anger bubbled up in your stomach at the sight of Sunghoon and you shot a pointed look at Jiyeon.

“What’s he doing here?” Your voice came out much more harshly than you had intended it to.

Jiyeon gave you a look that you knew all too well. Behave yourself.

“Sunghoon is going to be your new partner for the routine.” Jiyeon explained and you were sure your ears were playing tricks on you because there’s no way she had said that right?

“But what happened to Chan?” You asked, not quite sure you knew exactly what was going on.

Jiyeon sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Chan stepped down. Seems like he’s not quite ready to go international yet. Sunghoon was chosen as your replacement.”

A whirlwind of emotions passed through you - confusion, frustration and apprehension. The idea of skating with Park Sunghoon had never crossed your mind. You had accepted his presence on ice but the thought of skating with him in an international competition? You thought you were going to faint.

“Nice to meet you Y/N.” Sunghoon finally spoke up, extending his hand out to you. You were startled at his voice and it was then you realised that you had never even had a conversation with him before.

You wordlessly took the hand he had given you, shaking it once before dropping it as if he had burned you. Taking a deep breath, you swallowed your pride and tried to find the silver lining in the unexpected turn of events. Perhaps this could be a chance for growth, the chance to take risks and push yourself as Jiyeon had told you to do so.

You would go into this with an open mind.

… or perhaps you wouldn’t.

“Y/N! That’s the third time you’ve messed up that move! Get it together.” Jiyeon snapped at you from across the rink as you glided to a stop beside Sunghoon.

You clenched your fists, feeling the sting of Jiyeon's words. She was right; you were off your game. The frustration of having Park Sunghoon as your partner was getting to you.

Taking a deep breath, you locked eyes with Sunghoon. To his credit, he hadn’t said a single word every time you messed up. Sunghoon was annoyingly nice about your shortcomings and you hated it.

“Let's try it again," you said, your voice firm but devoid of the previous hostility. You pushed aside your animosity and focused on the ice beneath your feet, on the rhythm and flow that connected you both.

As the music began, you and Sunghoon launched into the routine. It started tentatively, with small missteps and slight imbalances. But you powered through until you got to the climax, the part that you kept messing up over and over again. The part where you had to trust Sunghoon to lift you into the air and rotate while holding you in place. You had done it before and it wasn’t anything that you couldn’t execute. It was your partner that had you so unnerved that you couldn’t attempt the lift and had changed the move instead, every time you had practised.

You took a deep breath before you skated towards Sunghoon, fully preparing yourself to be lifted. You would make it, you would make it, you… wouldn’t make it. Halfway through you hesitated for just a second. A second of hesitance that threw off your timing. A second of hesitance that threw off Sunghoon as well.

As the lift faltered, panic surged through your veins. You felt yourself losing balance, the ground coming closer with each passing moment. Instinctively, Sunghoon's arms tightened around you, trying to regain control, but it was too late. You crashed onto the ice with a thud, the impact jarring your entire body.

Pain shot through your limbs, and for a moment, everything went silent. You could hear your own ragged breaths and a loud scream as Jiyeon hurriedly skated towards you both.

“Are you both okay?” Those were the words that made you realise you were lying on top of Sunghoon.

Your eyes widened in shock as you quickly scrambled to push yourself off of Sunghoon, the weight of the situation sinking in. The sudden movement caused a sharp pain to go through your leg and the panic that set in was immediate.

“Jiyeon my leg…” You said at the same time as Sunghoon groaned in pain, clutching his arm.

Jiyeon knelt down beside you, her eyes filled with concern as she assessed the situation. "Stay still, both of you. I think we have to call the medical team for help.”

You bit your lip, trying to suppress the wave of pain that shot through your leg. Sunghoon winced, his arm visibly injured. Jiyeon left, rushing to her phone to make the call.

Sunghoon didn’t say a single word, the both of you sitting on the ice in silence.

Until - “How do you mess up such a simple lift?” Sunghoon was angry.

You felt the same anger bubble up in you. “Me?! You were the one that dropped me!”

Sunghoon's eyes narrowed, and he clenched his jaw tightly. "If you had trusted me and followed through with the lift instead of hesitating, we wouldn't be in this situation."

His words stung, fueling your frustration further. "You expect me to trust someone I barely know? You think I'm just supposed to put my life in your hands without hesitation?” You crossed your arms in vexation. “Some gold medal winner you are.” You muttered under your breath.

From the corner of your eyes you saw Sunghoon react, the annoyance in his eyes as he looked at you but you didn’t get to hear what he had to say. The medical staff burst in at that moment, distracting you both momentarily as they attended to your injuries.

For a moment you both forgot your irritation at each other.

Whatever the doctor had said after he had dropped the bomb on you went over your head. You listened absentmindedly before you interrupted him.

“Did you say four weeks? As in one month?” Your voice was desperate.

The doctor nodded sympathetically, understanding the shock and disappointment that washed over you. "Yes, I'm afraid so. Given the extent of the injuries and the need for proper healing and rehabilitation, it would be best for both of you to refrain from any intense physical activity, including skating, for at least four weeks."

You felt a sinking feeling in your chest. Four weeks seemed like an eternity, especially considering the international competition that was looming so close. The competition was in two months time and cutting out one whole month of practice - evidently much needed practice, from how disastrous today had gone - could be the difference between a win and a loss.

The doctor continued as if he hadn’t just thrown you into emotional turmoil. “Now, I gave the same advice to your partner. We have some excellent physical therapists in this hospital and I recommend that the both of you go everyday until you regain strength in your muscles. It should help you heal faster as well so from how I see it, you should be able to go back to skating after a month.”

At the mention of Sunghoon, guilt washed over you. You knew that it was because of you that he had gotten injured. You knew that if you had not messed up the timing, he would’ve caught you. It was the guilt that had you asking the doctor how Sunghoon was doing.

The doctor smiled reassuringly. “Don’t worry, your partner is fine. No broken bones and nothing that can't be fixed without some perseverance. It's not serious but physical therapy is still required.”

Relief flooded through you as you heard that Sunghoon's injuries weren't severe. It wasn’t that you were worried about him. You just couldn’t have him breaking a bone be on your conscience.

The relief was short-lived. You slowly processed the doctor's words. “Wait. Are you saying we have to go to physical therapy together?” You asked, hoping beyond hope that the answer was no.

Unfortunately the doctor seemed determined to not give you any good news today because he nodded at your question. “We have one physical therapist who specialises in rehabilitating athletes. Your appointments will be with him together.”

You felt a mix of emotions as the reality sunk in. You would be going to physical therapy with Sunghoon, everyday for a month. For a month, you were stuck with someone you couldn’t stand and you knew the feelings were mutual from the way he had glared at you in the hospital waiting room.

Jiyeon wasn’t very sympathetic.

“This wouldn’t have happened if you two just learned to work together.”

You sighed as she scolded you throughout the whole drive home.

“I mean, is it so difficult to just be professionals about this? You two have been competing professionally for years now. Act like it!”

You decided to pretend you couldn’t hear her.

“Y/N are you even listening to me?” Jiyeon was getting more annoyed by the second.

Jiyeon's voice grew more exasperated as she repeated your name, but you continued to stare out of the car window, lost in your own world.

Jiyeon soon gave up, an irritated look on her face as she drove. You felt bad but you really didn’t want to discuss this with her. You were already kicking yourself over how things had turned out and you didn’t need Jiyeon to tell you that the both of you getting injured was quite honestly, your fault. You closed your eyes, dread filling you at the thought of your joint appointment with Sunghoon tomorrow.

So much for going into this with an open mind.

When you went into the waiting room for your appointment the next day, hobbling along on crutches, Sunghoon was already there. His arm was in a sling and his expression was unreadable as he looked at you. It unnerved you so you decided to ignore him.

Taking a seat at a distance, you occupied yourself with a magazine, feigning interest in its contents while stealing occasional glances at Sunghoon. You could sense his gaze on you, but you refused to meet it, afraid of what you might find within those eyes.

The physical therapist, a Mr. Kim, greeted you both as soon as he entered. Once in the treatment room, he outlined a series of stretching and strengthening activities that would aid in your recovery. As he explained, you couldn't help but steal occasional glances at Sunghoon, who seemed equally determined to avoid eye contact.

If Mr. Kim noticed the tension between you both, he didn’t mention it. The both of you began your exercises in separate corners of the room, determined to get through the day without acknowledging each other. You tried to focus on your own movements, trying to shut out the presence of Sunghoon.

“There you go,” Mr. Kim smiled delightedly as you correctly completed the exercise he had set out for you. “You’re both getting the hang of it now. I have to step out for a little bit but help each other and take turns doing the exercises - don’t overdo it, you need rest as well.”

As Mr. Kim stepped out of the room, leaving you and Sunghoon alone, an awkward silence filled the air. It was clear that neither of you wanted to be the first to break it. You took a deep breath, considering your options. Despite the tension, Mr. Kim's words lingered in your mind — "help each other."

Swallowing your pride, you decided to take the initiative. "Sunghoon, why don't we alternate doing the exercises? It might make the session go by faster," you suggested, keeping your voice as neutral as possible.

He didn’t even look at you when you spoke and you were slightly annoyed at how he ignored you but then - he moved closer to you. He nodded without looking and even when he spoke, his eyes were on the walls. “Sure.”

His guarded voice puts you on edge as well. But despite the tense situation you decided that you weren’t going to let Park Sunghoon let your recovery slow down so you decided to start your own set as Sunghoon watched wordlessly.

The exercise Mr. Kim had taught you required you to stand, which was now a difficult task for you. There was a mild pain in your leg as you moved and you bit your lip to hold in a whimper of pain. You couldn’t show weakness in front of Sunghoon.

Your efforts were futile, however, when a wrong misstep caused a sharp pain to go through your leg and you lost your balance. You let out a surprised shout and your eyes closed as you braced for impact but none came. Instead, you were suddenly aware of an arm wrapped around your waist, that was holding you up and keeping you steady.

You opened your eyes to find Sunghoon standing close to you, his uninjured arm securely supporting you. His face remained impassive, but you couldn't deny the concern that flickered in his eyes.

"Steady now," he murmured, his voice surprisingly gentle.

You felt the back of your neck heat up in embarrassment. A whispered thank you escaped your lips as you pushed his arm away, slowly balancing yourself once more. For a minute, the tension between the both of you seemed to dissipate. You found yourself wondering if he truly wasn’t all that bad…

“I told you I can catch you.”

Sunghoon’s words were meant to get on your nerves and it did. When Mr. Kim came back not long after, you were both once more on opposite sides of the room.

Before you knew it, three weeks of your physical therapy was up. You could feel your muscles getting stronger, the pain decreasing little by little. You had abandoned the crutches at the start of the third week and could now walk with little to no pain. Mr. Kim had been ecstatic at the progress that you made.

Since the first appointment you hadn’t talked to Sunghoon. You arrived at your appointments at the same time as him and yet you kept to yourself. Neither of you bothered to acknowledge each other and Mr. Kim long gave up trying to get the both of you to work together. In the back of your mind you knew that you would have to practise with Sunghoon again eventually. But eventually can wait because for now, you had no interest in talking to Sunghoon.

Not talking to him didn’t mean that you didn’t observe him.

At times when Sunghoon was too focused on his exercises, your eyes would wander to him in curiosity. You weren’t interested in him, you told yourself. You still had some guilt over the accident and you just wanted to make sure he was making as much progress as you were. Unfortunately, it was clear that Sunghoon was struggling.

“Okay, let’s take a break now, shall we?” Mr. Kim stopped Sunghoon in the middle of his set and from the corner of your eyes you saw the way his eyebrows were furrowed in frustration. He clenched his arms and looked at it, the defeat on his face evident. Mr. Kim contined to talk - something about how it takes time to build up your strength and that he shouldn’t get discouraged. You were sure Sunghoon didn’t hear a word of what he said.

When the session ended you rushed out, eager to get home. Luck didn’t seem to be on your side, however, for sometime in between when you had come in for your appointment and the end of it, a torrential downpour had started. As you stepped outside the rehabilitation center, the heavy rain greeted you, drenching everything in its path.

You cursed yourself for not remembering to bring an umbrella despite your mother’s warnings that it might rain today. Getting wet and walking in the rain in discomfort was not very appealing to you so you stood in the shelter of the building, watching the skies and hoping that it would clear up soon.

You were there for a good five minutes before Sunghoon stepped out. His face was still etched with the frustration of the day and his expression turned even darker at the sight of the rain - or was it at you?

He didn’t say a word as he approached you and you noticed an umbrella in his hand. Sunghoon was clearly smarter than you to have thought ahead. You watched as he struggled to open the umbrella will one hand, occasionally trying to use his injured hand as well but giving up when he just couldn’t muster up the strength. You watched for just a second longer before you sighed.

“Give me that.”

Sunghoon seemed startled at your voice and maybe it was the shock that you had actually talked to him that made him let you take the umbrella from his hands. With a swift motion, you popped it open and handed it back to him.

He took it from you with a whispered thanks and looked at the path in front of him. You expected him to leave but he didn’t. He stood next to you with an expression on his face that you didn’t recognize. He seemed to contemplate for a while before he spoke to you.

“Are you waiting for someone?”

You shook your head no.

A pause.

“ Would you like to share the umbrella with me?”

It was a simple offer, a gesture that you wouldn’t think much of if someone else had offered it to you. But this was Park Sunghoon, someone who hated you and you hated in return. You should’ve said no.

And yet, when he stepped out into the rain and waited for you to follow him - you did.

As the two of you walked under the umbrella, a silence settled between you once again. The pitter-patter of raindrops against the umbrella created a soothing rhythm, creating a momentary respite from the outside world. You could feel Sunghoon's eyes on you, his unreadable gaze shifting between the rain-soaked surroundings and your face.

"I... I didn't expect you to help," he finally spoke, his voice laced with surprise and a hint of gratitude.

“Why? I’m not that heartless.”

“You don’t like me.”

He said it as if it was a fact and for a split second you felt ashamed at how you had treated him.

“I’m sorry,” You muttered. “For your injury and for… messing up the lift.”

Sunghoon glanced at you, his expression softening slightly. "It's not entirely your fault. We both made mistakes," he replied, his voice tinged with something you didn’t quite understand.

As the rain continued to pour, the weight of the past seemed to hang in the air between you. The tension that had once defined your interactions slowly gave way to a fragile connection, as if the shared vulnerability brought about by the accident had opened a door for empathy and forgiveness.

"I was angry," Sunghoon admitted, his voice filled with honesty. “We met for the first time and you looked at me as if you wanted me dead. You looked at me as if you would rather do anything other than have me be your partner,” A laugh escaped him, devoid of any emotion. “Am I really that bad of a skater?”

His question threw you off.

“No,” You answered honestly. “It was never about that. I just…”

The shame that had welled up in you was now threatening to spill over. You didn’t really have a good reason to hate him. In all honesty, Sunghoon had never done anything wrong.

Sunghoon was silent before he spoke again. “I respected you, you know. I thought you were one of the best figure skaters in the world. I looked up to you.”

“But then you treated me like I was beneath you and it felt like the image I had of you shattered. You couldn’t even trust me to lift you, such a simple move and we crashed instead.”

You listened to Sunghoon's words, his voice heavy with disappointment and hurt. His perspective shed light on a side of the story you hadn't fully considered before. Your own preconceptions of him had clouded your judgement when you met him and now, you weren’t quite sure if your judgement had been correct.

"I'm sorry," you said again, your voice sincere.

“Before you showed up I would win the gold at every competition. Every tournament, every performance, every single time. I loved it. I loved the feeling of being a star. I loved the feeling of being number one. But then you came.”

Heat rushed to your cheeks as you spoke.

“Suddenly it was Park Sunghoon that would win the gold at every competition. I was now silver. You shone brighter than me and something in me cracked at the thought that you could take away something I had worked so hard for in such a short instance.” Your voice was laced with vulnerability.

You couldn’t understand why you were telling him all of this. At the end of the day, Sunghoon was your competitor, your rival. But here you were, pouring your heart out for him as if he would understand. From the look on his face, you had a feeling that he did understand.

“I never meant to take anything away from you.”

“I know.”

And that was it. You couldn’t help the regret that enveloped you. How could you have treated him so badly when he didn’t even do anything wrong? When his only crime was chasing his own dreams?

“Your leg is better.” His words interrupted your thoughts.

“Yeah. Mr. Kim said I made a lot of progress.” You couldn’t help the smile that escaped you, proud of the work that you had put in. Sunghoon noticed it. Absent-mindedly, he thought that you should smile more often. He kept that thought to himself.

“What about you?” You asked him, something akin to pity in your eyes.

Sunghoon clenched his jaw and you had a feeling that he didn’t want to talk about it. Even now, his injured arm lay limp at his side. You noticed how he would move his fingers occasionally, clenching and unclenching his fist. You were about to tell him that he didn’t have to answer. It was alright, recovery takes time, you were going to tell him. But he spoke before you could.

“I feel like I’m stuck,” He was looking at his arm now. “I tried so hard. I did everything they asked. I followed what Mr. Kim said, exactly the way he said. But for some reason, I just can’t seem to go back to the way I was before. I managed to get the sling off but I haven’t made any progress since and I’m not even sure if I can do the pair skate at this rate.”

The weight of his words hung in the air and you felt empathy for the boy building up in you - an emotion you didn’t think you would ever feel for him.

“You can’t give up.” You surprised yourself with what you said. “We have to do the pair skate together. If we do it together then I’m sure we’ll win.”

You stopped suddenly and Sunghoon followed, not wanting to let the rain pour over you. He was shocked, you could tell.

“If I have to do this with someone else and I get second place again, I will personally make sure that you break your other arm as well.” You said fiercely.

Sunghoon's eyes widened at your sudden determination and the intensity in your words. He stared at you, speechless for a moment, before a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

“Alright," he said, his voice filled with a mix of gratitude and determination. "Let's do it together then. Let's win that gold. And if we don’t then I’ll personally let you break both of my arms.”

Something had shifted between you two. As if the rain had somehow washed away your resentment for each other, drop by drop, you found yourself looking forward to working with Sunghoon.

Slowly, you walked side by side under the shelter of the umbrella, shoulders touching occasionally but you didn’t seem to mind.

“By the way… where do you live?”

You took Mr. Kim by surprise when, at your next appointment, you offered to help Sunghoon with his set. Fortunately, he didn’t say anything, simply choosing to move away to let you stand next to Sunghoon instead.

Sunghoon lets you correct his posture. He lets you time him, he lets you support him. You even provided encouragement to him when he seemed to falter. The tension between you two had given way to a growing sense of cooperation and trust.

When he messed up, you didn’t make a snarky remark like you would’ve before. During one particular exercise, you gently touched Sunghoon's injured arm to assist him in maintaining proper form. He didn't pull away or protest. The animosity that once filled the air between you seemed to dissipate, replaced by a shared focus on Sunghoon's recovery.

Mr. Kim clapped his hands in delight when the session was over, remarking on how well the both of you had done that day.

“Thank you,” Sunghoon had given you a genuine smile as you both went outside together. “I honestly feel as if today was more effective than these three weeks all together.” He admitted.

“Don’t mention it, Park,” You smiled back at him in response. “We still have a competition to win.”

In the following days you continued to support each other’s development. Sunghoon’s determination remained unwavering, fueled by your encouragement and a desire to skate together with you, just as you had said.

And soon, before you knew it, the last week was up.

“Alright! You guys have done exceptionally well,” Mr. Kim praised you both at the end of your last session. “Especially you, Sunghoon. You made such a dramatic improvement in the last week. I’m honestly very impressed.”

His words brought a smile to Sunghoon’s face and even you felt a glimmer of pride. Sunghoon really had stepped up last week and within just a few days, he had regained control of the arm that he could barely use just a week ago. You had no doubt that he would be able to lift you with his now fully functional arm.

“We should celebrate.” Sunghoon said, as the both of you walked home together. It had become routine for the last few days, once the both of you had realised that you lived quite close by. If someone had told you a year ago that you would be walking home with Sunghoon and actually enjoying it, you would’ve laughed in their face. But lately, you came to realise that you actually liked his presence.

“Celebrate what?”

“The end of our physical therapy. We can go back to skating now, Y/N. Aren’t you excited?”

You smiled - his enthusiasm felt contagious. You came to know that Sunghoon really really loved skating. You both had a special place in your heart for it and you admired his drive for it.

“I am excited. But maybe we should perfect our routine before we start to celebrate. We have only one month left.” You were already stressed just thinking about it.

“Alright then,” Sunghoon smiled mischievously. “If we can perfect that lift before the competition then you have to promise me that you’ll go get ice cream with me as a celebration.”

You laughed. “Only the lift? What about when we win the competition?”

Sunghoon’s was confident when he replied. “We don’t need an incentive for the competition. We will win.”

Something about his confidence made your heart skip a beat. Were you sick? You chose to ignore it.

Except, your heart didn’t stop acting up.

The next time your heart skipped a beat would be at your first practice after recovery. When you walked in, you noticed that Sunghoon had arrived before you and was already on the ice. You almost called out to him. Almost.

Something made you stop and watch in wonder as he skated around the rink, lost in the motions and graceful movements. The way he glided effortlessly, his focus solely on the ice beneath his skates, captivated you. But it was his face that truly mesmerised you. At all the performances you had seen Sunghoon at, you focused on his movements. You judged his performance, the way he slid across the ice, his twists and turns. You had never looked at his face. Watching him now, you wished that you had looked at him sooner.

Sunghoon looked serene. He looked every bit like the ice prince that they called him - he looked ethereal. The look on his face was one of peace, of true love for the ice and pure joy to be skating. And as you watched, you felt it happen again.

Your heart skipped another beat.

You told yourself you were imagining it. Perhaps the skate rink was much too cold. Perhaps you were starting to get sick. Maybe you were about to get a heart attack. You came up with any and every excuse you could for why your heart kept skipping beats when Sunghoon was around.

The fluttering in your chest didn’t stop. In fact, when Jiyeon finally came and your practice together started, it got worse. The day you had both gotten injured, you had been so caught up in your own emotions that you haven't paid much attention to Sunghoon. Now, he was the only thing that you could focus on.

He skated with a purpose, becoming one with the ice and the music. When he skated next to you, you became entranced. Sunghoon looked at you as if you were the only person in the world. The chemistry was undeniable. You complemented each other’s movements as if you could read the other's mind. The world melted away and it was just you and Sunghoon and the ice.

The music built up, the climax approaching. This time you didn’t hesitate. When you leaped into the air with Sunghoon holding you up, you felt free. Sunghoon held onto you tightly. You had no doubt that he would.

He lowered you down, your legs wrapped around his waist and for a split second you allowed yourself to look into his eyes. In that moment you felt your heart flutter once more. The realisation hits you like a tidal wave—your heart skipping beats was not a coincidence or a figment of your imagination. Your heart really and truly was skipping beats for Park Sunghoon.

There was something in his eyes that you couldn’t read, a fierceness that surprised you. When the music faded and you both came to a graceful halt, the silence that followed was charged with a newfound tension. He was staring at you with an intensity that made you feel like you would melt under his gaze.

When Jiyeon approached, she broke the spell that had enveloped you both.

“You did great! I’m surprised that that was just the first practice,” Jiyeon was beaming from ear to ear. “I didn’t think we’d be able to bounce back from that horrible start but I’m glad you two managed to work it out. Your chemistry together is incredible!”

You found yourself blushing at her words. If you had looked, you would’ve seen that even Sunghoon had turned red.

“Thanks, Jiyeon," you managed to say, your voice slightly shaky. "We've been working really hard."

Jiyeon nodded enthusiastically. "It definitely shows. I have a good feeling about our chances in the competition."

You ran through the routine a couple times more before the day ended. You tried not to look into Sunghoon’s eyes in case you faltered again. So when he approached you at the end of the practice, you avoided his eyes once more.

“Y/N,” He ran up to you as you walked towards the door. The only response you could muster was a silent ‘hmm’.

“We did the lift today. You promised that we could get ice cream.” He grinned at you.

You felt your stomach churn at the idea of more time with Sunghoon. You didn’t quite understand the new feelings that seemed to bubble up whenever he was around and you didn’t want to understand it.

So you shook your head no. “I can’t. I'm too tired now.”

And before Sunghoon could react, you left.

The next few weeks passed by in a blur. After the first practice, you made sure to keep your distance from Sunghoon. You didn’t like how your heart would react when he looked at you or the way it sped up when he would hold you during the routine. But you ignored it. You shoved down whatever feelings you had that you didn’t even have a name for, deep down where it wouldn’t surface again.

You ignored Sunghoon. Whenever he attempted to make conversation you would reply shortly in a cold tone. You felt bad the first time you had walked away when Sunghoon had approached you to talk, the look on his face as you walked away leaving you wondering if this was really the best way to deal with it. But you didn’t know how to deal with it. At the end of the day, when the pair skate was over, you two would compete against each other once more. You couldn’t have your new found feelings - whatever they were - distract you from striving to overcome him.

And in no time at all, the competition loomed over you.

Sunghoon had given up trying to talk to you. You expected to feel happy about it but a part of you felt… well, lonely. You had grown used to his presence throughout the two months you had spent together and despite knowing that it was you who had pushed him away, you couldn’t help feeling a bit dejected.

It was especially lonely when you arrived at the competition held away from home, surrounded by people from all over the world. You were out of place here, a stranger. The only piece of home was Jiyeon and Sunghoon and one of those two people would no longer approach you.

You tried to brush off the feeling, reminding yourself of your determination to focus solely on the competition. This was not the time to wallow in self pity.

On the day of rehearsals, you came to the skate rink alone. You wore the outfit that Jiyeon had chosen, a brilliant midnight blue dress that sparkled like the stars. You knew Sunghoon had gotten a matching outfit but you hadn’t seen him wear it.

As you laced up your skates you felt someone loom over you.

“Hey, you’re really pretty. You’re in the pair skate aren’t you? I could help you practise if you want.”

You turned around, slightly startled by the unexpected voice. Standing before you was a young man, unfamiliar to you. You recognized him as one of the skaters from another country, a Daniel something.

“I’m fine, thank you.” You gave him a tight lipped smile. You expected him to leave but the guy was persistent.

“C’mon don’t be like that. I could help you out. In more ways than one.” The sleazy look he gave you made you shiver and panic welled up inside you.

“I really don’t need any help.” You made an effort to keep your voice from shaking.

The stranger's sleazy expression wavered for a moment, but he persisted, leaning in closer. "Come on, babe. I've got some great moves to show you. You won't regret it."

Your heart raced, and a surge of anxiety coursed through your veins. This was not the kind of attention you wanted or needed, especially in such a vulnerable setting. Taking a step back, you spoke more assertively, your voice tinged with a hint of warning.

“I'm sorry, but I'm not interested. Please respect my decision and leave me alone."

Just as you were growing increasingly anxious, a familiar voice called out from behind you. “She told you to beat it, Daniel.”

Sunghoon appeared from behind you, a protective arm wrapping around your shoulder as if it was the most natural thing in the world. At the sight of him, you felt a huge wave of relief wash over you.

Daniel glanced between you and Sunghoon, something like realisation setting in. With a scoff, he muttered something under his breath and walked away, disappearing into the crowd.

As soon as he was gone, Sunghoon dropped the arm on your shoulder. You felt the absence immediately, the loss of the warmth making you shiver.

“Thank you.” He gave you a curt nod in response. Sunghoon’s face was guarded. With a sinking feeling, you realised that him intervening did not mean that things were back to normal.

“Sunghoon-“

“You don’t have to speak to me,” He cut you off. “It’s clear you don’t want anything to do with me so you don’t have to thank me. I only helped because I thought you needed it. I won’t bother you again.” His voice was cold.

You felt a pang of regret as Sunghoon's words echoed in your ears. You reached out, wanting to explain, but he took a step back, his gaze avoiding yours.

“Sunghoon, please listen to me," you pleaded, your voice filled with sincerity. "I never wanted things to end up like this.

His smile was sarcastic. “That’s what you always say isn’t it? I didn’t mean it. It was never like that. I never wanted this. You say all that and for a moment it’s like you don’t mind my company, almost like you enjoy spending time with me. For just a moment I thought that you might even like me,” He let out a hollow laugh. “Guess I’m the fool because while I was falling for you, you were planning your escape from me.”

Sunghoon didn’t wait for a response. You weren’t even sure you could give a response. Tears welled up in your eyes as you watched Sunghoon turn away, his words piercing through your heart. The pain and hurt in his voice were unbearable, and you desperately wanted to reach out to him, to make him understand the truth.

But how could you explain something that even you didn't fully comprehend until now? How could you explain that he wasn’t the only one who had been falling?

There were four hours left before the competition started and you were crying in your room. Jiyeon had waited outside your room for ages, knocking and begging you to open the door. Eventually, she had given up. You had promised her that you'd show up when the time came. That was all you could muster up the courage to tell her.

Truthfully, you didn’t know how you could go through with it. To go out there and skate with Sunghoon as if nothing had happened, as if your heart wasn’t broken into pieces with no fault but your own. You hadn’t seen him since he had confessed. Not that you had even left your room since then. The tears that had started to fall back then seemed never-ending. You didn’t know that a person could cry so hard and that your heart could ache so much.

As the time ticked away, you found yourself trapped in a whirlwind of emotions, unable to find the strength to face the reality before you. Every passing minute felt like an eternity, and the weight of your actions weighed heavily on your heart.

The sound of a gentle knock on the door roused you from your thoughts. Jiyeon's voice reached you, muffled yet filled with concern. "Please, just open the door. We're running out of time, and I'm worried about you."

You ignored it.

She begged you to open the door, begged you to tell her what was wrong but you didn’t budge. For a while, the sounds behind the door went silent and you wondered if Jiyeon had given up again. But then, another voice came through the door.

“Open the door Y/N.”

You recognized the voice instantly and you felt yourself crumble just a little bit more. A part of you wanted to open the door, to see his face and find solace in his presence. But another part of you feared the pain and vulnerability that awaited on the other side.

There was a pause before he spoke again, this time so quietly you could barely hear him. “Please.”

And your willpower was gone. You rose up from bed to open the door. It was only when the door swung open that you remembered you probably looked like a mess. Your tear- stained face, pyjamas that you didn’t have the strength to get out of and messy hair probably looked like a sight. It was a shock when you saw that Sunghoon didn’t look much better.

Sunghoon looked dishevelled. His eyes were tired, surrounded by dark circles that rivalled your own. The pain and vulnerability reflected in his eyes mirrored your own, and in that instant, all the walls and barriers you had erected around yourself crumbled.

Without saying a word, Sunghoon stepped forward, closing the distance between you.

“What are you doing Y/N.” His voice was soft.

You didn’t answer his question, not knowing what he was asking.

He let out a shaky breath. “What are you doing to me?” He whispered.

He reached out a trembling hand, his fingers grazing against your tear-stained cheek. The tender touch sent a shiver down your spine, and you couldn't help but lean into it, seeking comfort in his presence.

“One day you’re telling me that you wouldn’t do this routine with anyone other than me. Next, you’re ignoring me while I try to talk to you. You’re hot and cold and I never know what to expect from you.”

He was pleading now. “Please tell me I didn’t imagine what I felt on the ice with you that day. Please tell me I’m not the only one who feels this way.”

He took your hand in his, softly putting it over his heart. “I know you hate me Y/N. But can’t you see what you do to me?”

His heart raced under your touch. His words cut through the silence, laying bare his confusion, pain, and longing.

You felt the tears threatening to fall again. “Sunghoon, I don’t hate you. I mean, I did but I don’t now. I hate how you make me feel. I hate how my heart seems to float whenever you’re near me. I hate the way my stomach fills with butterflies when you’re around. I hate the way my breath quickens when you touch me. Most of all, I hate how vulnerable you make me.” Your voice wavered, and you took a deep breath, trying to steady yourself.

Sunghoon's expression softened, his eyes filled with a mix of remorse and understanding.

“I never wanted to hurt you.” He murmured.

Your voice was barely audible when you continued. “You never did. I brought that upon myself. Despite how hard I tried to push you away, you’re always on my mind. It’s terrifying how much of my mind you had taken over in such a short period of time.”

Sunghoon’s hands tightened around yours, still pressed to his chest. A silence settled between you two, heavy with emotion.

“Y/N,” Sunghoon said softly. “When we win… can I kiss you?”

His question caught you off guard and you felt your heartbeat quicken. Under your hand, you could feel that Sunghoon’s heartbeat matched your rhythm.

Wordlessly you nodded yes. That was all Sunghoon needed. He breathed a sigh of relief, a genuine smile now spreading on his face.

“Go get ready. We have a competition to win.”

And for the first time since the rehearsal day, you smiled.

Mercifully, Jiyeon didn’t ask you any questions when you finally emerged out of your room in your outfit. She didn’t even say anything when Sunghoon grabbed hold of your hand as you walked towards the skate rink (although she did raise her eyebrow at you). You were glad she didn’t ask you anything because you honestly didn’t know what to say. You didn’t even have the energy for it, the emotional turmoil of the past few days had tired you out. You wanted to save your energy for the competition.

Sunghoon looked dazzling in his matching midnight blue outfit. You couldn’t help but peak glances at him, blushing when he caught you in the act. Sunghoon thought you looked gorgeous and didn’t hesitate to tell you so as well.

The competition started on record time and in the blink of an eye, it was time for you and Sunghoon to skate.

“Hey,” Sunghoon whispered to you before you both got on the ice. “I really really like you Y/N.”

Your face was bright red when the spotlight shifted over to you and you mentally cursed Sunghoon for telling you that right before you had to be under the spotlight. You hoped the audience didn’t notice.

The music soon started, the familiar notes that you had practised echoing through the place. As the music enveloped the rink, you and Sunghoon synchronised your movements, seamlessly gliding across the ice. The routine you had practised countless times now took on a new meaning, infused with the raw emotions and unspoken words that hung in the air between you.

With each graceful leap, each intricate spin, and each delicate touch, you poured your heart and soul into the performance. The audience watched in awe as the chemistry between you and Sunghoon radiated, a tangible connection that transcended the boundaries of the ice rink.

The routine progressed flawlessly, the tension and anticipation building as you approached the climax. The choreography seemed to reflect the journey of your relationship, with moments of tender closeness and fleeting glances that spoke volumes. The lift that you had once been so scared of, was performed flawlessly. The look in Sunghoon’s eyes as he held you was one of pure adoration and you wondered if you looked the same.

As the final notes of the music echoed, you and Sunghoon stood face to face, breathing heavily but exhilarated. The crowd erupted into applause and you could swear you heard Jiyeon even through the loud crowd.

With a mix of exhaustion and elation, you and Sunghoon skated off the ice, hand in hand, basking in the afterglow of the performance. As soon as you were off the ice you turned towards him.

“I really really like you too Sunghoon.”

He grinned from ear to ear. “I know.”

As you both awaited the judges' scores, Jiyeon rushed over, her face beaming with pride. "That was incredible, you two! You completely captivated the audience! I'm so proud of you!"

You smiled at Jiyeon's words, grateful for her unwavering support. Sunghoon squeezed your hand, his eyes filled with admiration and affection.

Soon, you were both asked to return back to the ice. The scores were announced, and the tension reached its peak.

“And the top scorers for the night and our gold medal winnders are… Y/N L/N and Park Sunghoon!”

A surge of emotions washed over you but before you could react to them, you felt an arm around your waist and suddenly you were pressed against Sunghoon. Before you could react, he pulled you closer, pushing his lips on yours. The touch of his lips on yours made a jolt of electricity travel through your body. Unconsciously, your hands moved to wrap around his neck, pushing him even closer to you. In the back of your head, you knew that the audience was going wild at the sudden act unfolding in front of them. At any other time, you would’ve been embarrassed. But you couldn’t bring yourself to care as you kissed Sunghoon with an urgency that surprised even yourself.

When you finally parted, breathless and gazing into each other's eyes, the world around you came rushing back. The crowd's cheers and applause filled the air, reminding you that you were not alone in this moment of bliss. You felt the heat creeping up to your face as the commentator made a joke about the two lovebirds. But when Sunghoon grabbed your hand in his, none of the outside world mattered.

“Can you two stop making out for one second?” Jiyeon’s exasperated voice made you break away from Sunghoon. His arms remained wrapped around your waist, pulling you close as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

Your rolled your eyes at Jiyeon. “Can’t I spend some time with my boyfriend when we’re taking a break?” You pouted.

“Your break ended 15 minutes ago!”

You looked at the timer Jiyeon had set out on the floor. “Oops.”

You couldn't help but giggle at Jiyeon's exasperation, feeling a mix of amusement and embarrassment. Sunghoon's laughter only added to the lightheartedness of the moment.

“And you,” Jiyeon pointed at Sunghoon, shooting a glare at him. “Why are you here? Don’t forget you’re competing against her now, not with her. Stop distracting my protégé.” She complained.

Sunghoon held up his hands in mock surrender, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Sorry, Jiyeon. I couldn’t resist coming to see my girlfriend. But I promise I won’t distract her any longer.”

You gave Sunghoon a playful nudge, trying to suppress your smile. "See, Jiyeon? He knows his place now."

Jiyeon rolled her eyes, though a hint of a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "Fine, fine. Just make sure you're both focused when you step back on the ice. We have a competition to win."

“Not if I win it first.” Sunghoon escaped the playful punch you aimed at him, laughing out loud.

“In your dreams Park. I won’t go easy on you just cause you’re cute.”

“You think I’m cute?” He teased.

“Enough!” Jiyeon yelled, covering her eyes at the sight of you two flirting.

Sunghoon gave you another quick kiss before he ran away laughing in joy. You basked in the glow of it all before Jiyeon barked at you to start practising again.

When the music started you felt the familiar adrenaline rush through you. You started to glide, your determination renewed. Sunghoon may have been your boyfriend but you hadn’t been joking when you had told him you wouldn’t go easy on him. He knew it too. He wouldn’t expect anything less from his ice princess.

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rioviaa · 9 months

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so I finally obtained the last memory for the captured memories quest. therefore I now have all 17 of them. complete. And I just want to jump in here for a second and just. Scream. Cry. Drop to my knees in the middle of a Walmart and die (like link hahaha too soon ueue) sooo..

his tattered clothing. the stains that are most likely mixed with wet dirt and dried blood. the clear exhaustion in his posture by holding on with the scarce amount of strength he has left. the way he forcefully lifts himself up with every last ounce of strength for the sake of protecting her. even if it costs his life. he stands before her. before the danger. becomes her shield. after months of standing behind her as her personal knight.

and just the guttural scream she let out here was just. wow. she refuses to stand behind. to stay behind. all her friends are gone. and in her mind she blames herself for it all. for being left behind from all the champions’ progress. from his progress. but no more. now she stands before him. shields him. she will not allow another one of her friends to fall due to her incompetence. no more.

listen. imagine seeing the stoic but kind knight who always protected you from harms way before thinking of his own safety. that has stayed by your side even during your worst tempers and sorrows. fallen. the rain falling on his battered clothing and soaking them beyond repair. the raindrops on his cheek and hair making the died blood and dirt smudging his features more, his hair damp and tangled. the master sword in an almost painful grip as if it were his lifeline. and it was.

gods this shot. this one right here. his grip never loosens. but his breaths stagger. his heart slows. the exhaustion of fighting for not only your life but most importantly her life from evening to midnight. a cruel way to loose oneself is by the fate of saving the lives of hundreds in exchange for your own demise while doing so. but he simply must make sure she is safe. must look into her eyes at least once before he feels his eyes give to the very darkness he gave his entire life to destroy. and my god i can’t imagine how Zelda must feel. to loose her last and only hope. but to also loose a friend she had learned to cherish along the way. Now left desperately searching for any ounce of life left inside his lithe body with her hands and sobs to his chest.

“princess are you alright?” except that’s the last thing on her mind at the moment. isn’t it? when she immediately redirects them to him and risking it all for the slim chance of the possibility of saving him.

her tone is so assertive here. He is her priority right now. Wow.

i just. have no words. her tone. was downright threatening. so powerful. the delivery of this line. impeccable. made shivers run down my spine just hearing it. she will have her swordsman saved. zero questions or doubts. an absolutely breathtaking cutscene.

Okay I’ll shut up now haha but god this scene racked my very core. Beautifully made and executed with the music and lighting. the tone and ambiance the voice acting the small details of their movements. yup this one has won my favorite memory.

little bonus of me trying not to burst into tears as Zelda’s horse nudges link with his snout after seeing the memory ugh im in absolute shambles over this game.

#botw link #botw zelda #botw memories #loz botw #botw #botw zelink #zelink #or they’re besties #i dig both honestly #botw screenshots #loz link #loz zelda #loz #loz breath of the wild #i am emotional #i am not okay #i am unwell #they make me ill #in the best possible way

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wishfulwithwine · 10 months

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You Belong With Me

Azriel x Reader

ACOTAR x Taylor Swift One Shot Series

photo from pinterest

But she wears short skirts

I wear T-shirts

She's Cheer Captain, and I'm on the bleachers

Dreaming about the day when you wake up and find

That what you're looking for has been here the whole time

Elaine Archeron was beautiful - glowingly, painfully beautiful. Feyre couldn’t even capture her full beauty in her portraits. Her beauty eclipsed that of the gorgeous flowers she tended to daily…

The ones in the garden that Azriel spent his afternoons now, watching Elaine work or talking to her on a bench nearby. Those were the days he was happiest, you noticed, and Rhys would have to drag him out of there to get him to leave on urgent missions.

His happiness radiated from him on the days he would spend hours talking to her.

You didn’t need a mate bond to feel it.

The mate bond hadn’t set in for Azriel, but you had known.

You had known when he couldn’t pined endlessly for Mor. You understood Mor - she wasn’t just a pretty face, and was a close friend to all of you. Mor was the life of the party, the object of many men and women’s desires. If you hadn’t known of the mate bond, you would’ve made a move on her as well. You had watched his scowling, helped calm him down from ripping apart Cassian after Mor gave him her virtue. You - his mate - kept him company at Rita’s while he glared night after night at the men and women who would take her home or dance provocatively.

You had known he was your mate since the day he met your brother Cassian.

You felt the immediate tug on your chest, and looked to see Azriel - a beautiful boy surrounded in darkness. As you got to know him better, you vowed to make sure he would be happy.

You didn’t realize you just wouldn’t be the one who would share his happiness.

And now, Azriel was infatuated with Elaine.

Elaine - Feyre’s sister - who appeared alongside Nesta, and kept quiet except for tending to the garden or kitchen. The sister who didn’t know Azriel’s past, who didn’t know the reasons for his scars or why he cried late into the night.

Elaine didn’t know that he avoided talking about his family like the plague, unless he felt safe enough with his Inner Circle. Elaine didn’t know that he only bought from his clothes from a shopkeeper who had granted him kindness. She didn’t know the shame sometimes he felt about his heritage. She didn’t know that the foods he didn’t like, the places he loved, the spices that he avoided, the music he listened to….but you know she would soon.

Because anyone could see she had fallen in love with Azriel too.

Lucien - the poor man - who looked helplessly at the sight of the two of them. The man who pleaded for more time spent with her, but Elaine kept denying, wanting to toss her mate away for Azriel. She doesn’t realize how sacred mates are…

You watched as his hand clenched, trying to calm himself as Elaine gave a breathtaking smile to Azriel, who looked back at her with glimmer sparkling in his eyes. How Lucien’s full body tensed when Elaine gave Azriel a kiss on the cheek, which he moved to make a kiss on her lips.

You wanted to reach out, help him in some way. Let him know he wasn’t alone in the suffering the couple caused.

“Lucien, I’m going into the city. I’ll be doing some dress shopping with Mor so it might not be so interesting, but would you like to join us?” You offered, surprising him as you took his attention away from the hopeless scene. He raised an eyebrow, before nodding.

“You in a dress? I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wear one, Y/N” He said, and you chuckled, shaking your head, but let him wrap your arm with yours and winnow to the city streets.

Tonight was Starfall, and although most everyone had picked out a dress - you had not. You had never worn a dress to Starfall, but this year, you decided to be different. When you were a child, dressing up meant being auctioned to a husband, but now, if there was any way a dress could help your chances in getting your mate to notice you

You weren’t soft enough - hell, you were basically Night Court’s Co-General. Where Cassian couldn’t be, you took care of it. You helped train warriors, had studied battle plans… you weren’t some damsel in distress.

Well for one night, you could look soft.

“Y/N! I’m so glad you are finally taking my offer of a makeover! Cassian will be furious but I’m thrilled!” Mor said excitedly as she hugged me tightly when we arrived at a store. “Hi Lucien?”

“Hello Morrigan” Lucien said, awkwardly.

“Mor, Lucien was at the house and I figured he might be able to give some good advice as well” You said with a smile.

“You don’t have to lie, you know. I was looking rather pitiful staring at them. I won’t provide any good advice” Lucien said, with a sigh, but Mor looked to you with an intense stare, and you shot her a look.

Mor knew - Mor had known from the beginning as she had been fancying you, and realized your heartbroken glances at Azriel. One night, over more than a few bottles of wine, she had gotten the confession out of you. Luckily, you kept a tight lip after that, and Mor was the only one who knew of your mate bond.

“Actually Lucien, I have to confess something…” You whispered in a low tone, guiding the two of them to a quiet corner where you knew no one else would overhear you.

“You weren’t the only one watching them. Azriel’s my mate” You whispered, watching the shock on his body. “I-I’ve never worn a dress before because of what dresses symbolized for women back at the camps, but I was hoping if I dressed softer, maybe he would look at me as more than a friend”

“Well then, I think if you really want his attention, it wouldn’t hurt if he might feel some jealousy. Would you like to be my date to Starfall?” Lucien asked, reaching his hand out. Mor gasped, smiling widely and clapping her hands. You smiled, nodding your head.

“Wonderful! Now let’s go shopping!” Mor said, leading you through the store excitedly. You shared a look with Lucien, before giggling lightly and looking at dresses.

Hours later, you felt like you were looking at reflection of someone else.

After picking out a dress, Mor had taken over your apartment, bringing in some hair stylists she knew and both of you had a full afternoon of pampering. Lucien had even stayed, entertained with the two of you - feeling lighter than he had in weeks knowing he wasn’t as alone as he thought in the Night Court.

However, Mor had pushed him out an hour ago, to get himself dressed and make sure your final look was still a grand surprise. You waited anxiously for Lucien to show up, eager to show him your new appearance as well as get the night started.

“Thank you Mor” You said, looking to her with a wide smile. Tears were threatening to escape your eyes, as you brought your glass up to hers to clink in cheers.

“No! No crying. And you’ve always been like a sister to me. If Azriel doesn’t see you for the beautiful woman that you are tonight, he is an idiot and is undeserving of the mate bond” Mor said, the glasses ringing as you both drank the wine.

“You are beautiful. I am so honored to be your date” Lucien said, when he arrived at your apartment, staring at you in awe before taking your hand and kissing it gently. Blushing slightly, you pulled him in and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“Thank you Lucien. You look incredibly handsome as well” You said, holding onto him before you watched Mor winnow away to the party.

“Are you ready?” He asked, seriously, cupping your face in his hand. “If he recognizes you as his mate, and still doesn’t accept you, just know that I’m here and I’d be honored to court you. We can run away, together” Lucien said, seriously. You leaned your cheek more into his hand, gazing into his eyes.

“I’d be honored to run away with you too” You replied, kissing his palm lightly.

If you weren’t trying so hard to do this for Azriel, you might’ve just kissed his lips.

“Alright, then let’s go” Lucien said, smiling softly, before the two of you winnow.

Standing outside the door to the house increased your nerves tenfold, and you clenched Lucien’s arm a little tighter after he knocked on the door.

“Y/N! Cauldron! You look gorgeous! And Lucien, pleasure to see you too” Feyre said with a smile as she led us in.

“Is that Y/N? Are you trying to give your brother a heart attack? I can’t believe you’re wearing a dress” Rhys asked, as he took you in a glance.

“I’m getting a heart attack from Y/N? Why - oh shit. Y/N! You… you’re wearing a dress” Cassian said, the last bit softly as he knew what dresses meant to you.

“I’m fine, Cassian. A dress every couple hundred years does no harm, and I’m safe with all of you. I’m not expecting to be auctioned off today, am I?” You quipped at him, and Cassian smiled wildly, bringing you into a hug.

“You look stunning. Absolutely stunning” Cassian said, before going back to Nesta’s side, who smiled warmly at you.

“You do. You look absolutely beautiful” Nesta complimented with a smile. Now that she had accepted being your brother’s mate, she was much more amicable with you.

You looked over at Lucien, and went back to holding his arm. You could hear Elaine’s sweet voice from across the room, but didn’t dare to look over there.

“Oh! Hello Lucien, and Y/N! Oh wow…” She said, sweetly, noticing his presence but you hadn’t looked over yet. You could feel his arm tighten around yours, as you mimicked his. For if Elain had noticed you, then Azriel would be nearby.

Finally you turned your head, seeing Elaine looking gorgeous as usual, and Azriel, in a handsome black tux.

His eyes widened when they made eye contact with you.

Then, you jolted, feeling a pull on your ribs like someone was tugging on the other end of a string.

Finally.

“Get away from her!” Azriel shouted, walking quickly and angrily over to you and Lucien. Fury was building in his eyes, before Rhysand and Cassian went to hold him back, fearful of what might happen if Azriel reached you two.

“What the hell is the matter with you? Y/N’s here as my date” Lucien said, a bit smugly as he took in Azriel’s reaction. You couldn’t help but blush a little bit, leaning closer into Lucien’s arms.

Like a dog unhinged, Azriel was growling, shaking in Rhys’ and Cassian’s arms - both in unrelenting anger and trying to break free. His siphons were glowing brighter than anyone had ever seen before - brighter than when Mor had come back on the verge of death in Autumn, brighter than when he learned of Rhys’ protection of Velaris from Amarantha, more than… ever. They were glowing so brightly, most of them had to look away or shield part of their eyes from the light.

“MATE”

If you could see that I'm the one

Who understands you

Been here all along

So, why can't you see?

You belong with me

taglist:

@mcgintyandbeyond

#azriel x reader #azriel shadowsinger #azriel acotar #taylor swift #taylor swift one shot #azriel x y/n #acotar fanfiction #acotar fic #acotar x reader

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perexcri · 9 months

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fic recs!!

i woke up to being on a couple of fic rec lists and really appreciated it, so i wanted to capitalize on the nice energy and make a list of some of my own favs that i've read recently that i didn't necessarily see on the other lists :D check these out because they have some of the best prose/plots/characterization that i've read in the fandom :] 💜

one soft infested summer (M, 18k+, 3/7 ongoing) by @wheelersboy - this one is perfect for all the highler fans out there! it's got stoner byler of course, a music festival, lots out camping, and some really amazing writing! i started it just for the fun stoner vibes because Why Not, but i'm staying for the beautiful writing and the really complex and delicate relationship mike and will have in this one

Light Sleepers (T, 15k+, 2/6 ongoing) by @helioleti - WillEl-centric fic set during the time gap between the end of s3 and the beginning of s4 that explores their dynamic and their respective problems with mike, all while trying to cope with moving across the country from everything they know. each chapter is meant to reflect a certain stage of grief, which fits so well with all the complicated emotions everyone is going through!

drank my poison all alone (T, 4k, one-shot) by silverluminoqity - mike gets vecna'd and has to face his past self who's ashamed of who he's grown up to be, and my dudes the writing goes SO HARD. by far one of the best mike gets vecna'd fics i've read with such a good take on his character

star eater (T, >1k, one-shot) by @lowlightt - another fic where the writing does not play. honestly if you have a few minutes, READ THIS FIC. it's mostly just a confrontation between will and vecna, but it's so so powerful and impactful. and again, i cannot state it enough: the writing is AMAZING

tell me again (you said yes) (M, 32k, 3/3 complete) by @willow-lark - hey remember when cleradin was like a Thing for a brief second a few months ago? well if you miss those vibes, or if you just like great writing and some of the best weaving of canon into a fantasy au i've ever read, please look no further than this fic (and it's first part, fireball him! (cast protection)). i love this one dearly and enjoyed the wonderful ways Lark wove canon (specifically s1) into such a different setting, plus it was nice to see many of the other characters play a role in the events. beautiful, astounding, heart-wrenching - and did i mention there's an elopement 👀

In Undertow (M, 17k+, 3/6 on-going) by @souverian-are-we - this and one soft infested summer have become my summer byler reads~ when i say i love this fic, i mean you will have to pry it from my cold, dead hands 🥰 we've got estranged byler, jancy engagement with some stoncy going on in the background, and most of the characters still reeling from the consequences of their final battle with the upside down. it's all set at a lake house, which provides some breathtaking/atmospheric writing that this author uses to their advantage. it has some of my favorite scenes i've ever read in fic too, ones that have literally taken my breath away

california show your teeth (T, 77k+, 10/19 on-going) by @fireflywitch - what if the Byers and Hopper families were from Lenora and moved to Hawkins? this fic takes this one simple premise and turns it into one of my favorite fics i've ever had the pleasure of following along with. it essentially functions as a retelling of s1 and s2, gives almost every main character that's been featured in the show thus far a lot of time and space for their own plots, all while culminating into one larger story underneath. i don't think i've read a fic quite like this one in terms of its scope, plotting, and characterization, because there are a lot of moving parts, but this author goes above and beyond. i cannot recommend it enough

all i know is pouring rain (and everything has changed) (T, 3k, one-shot) by @willelfanpage - i think i read this one at the beginning of my workday while i was running some report on my computer and had to go about the rest of my day as if everything was fine ahah :'D seriously though, it's 3k words that pack an emotional punch all while examining will's relationship to rain. the writing is just gorgeous, and it's a character study that i haven't really seen done before, which was quite enjoyable~

Chasing Heartlines by (T, 7k+, 1/2 on-going) @cherryisgone - if you liked Tip-Toeing on Lilypads then may i direct you to its sequel, which features so much pining mike that he might as well be a tree? again, if you like cleradin/fantasy aus, then Cherry my beloved has you covered 💜 it fits so neatly with Lilypads and provides some fun contrast between will and mike~

Touch Me Like You Know Me (M, 15k, 4/4 complete) by @starsarefire824 - this exists in the rare pantheon of fics that actually made me cry. imagine an estranged byler reunion with all the emotions turned up to an eleven, and lots of lingering on lost time and how life sometimes takes us places we never thought we'd go. it's absolutely beautiful and is a classic to me :]

come back to me and forgive everything (T, 78k, 18/18 complete) by @howtobecomeadragon - i saw a lot about this one when it was on-going but am only just now getting around to reading it, and all i can say is why did it take me so long to get to it :') this author does such a good job of writing will and mike's relationship with a lot of nuance and complexity while still managing to make them feel like the teenagers they are. basically, will has to spend every july at lonnie's house in indianapolis, and for this summer in particular, the event is a lot more emotionally impactful for both mike and will. there's lots of emotional depth, the complexities of coming out and/or realizing you're queer, and, at the heart of it, how two friends try to mend things between each other. it's so soft and sweet

that's all i've got for now!! i'm quickly running out of time on my lunch break :'D also haven't been writing as much, but it's been fun to read more and relax a bit. hope you guys enjoy these because they're genuinely some of the best stuff i've had the pleasure to read in a while 💜💜💜

#fic recs #actually that last paragraph is a threat everyone had better read these now or i'll. blow up tumblr #byler #(< intended audience)#stranger things fic

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hysel-e · 14 days

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Year 2: Summer | Orter Mádl x Reader

☀️ Beach Vacation ☀️

"Last year, I wanted to invite you to the beach, but you immediately shot me down without even hearing me out,” you said, pretending to wipe away imaginary tears. “You wounded me, you know. Oh, how times have changed.”

“I had better things to do than spend the entire summer break with you,” Orter deadpanned, adjusting his glasses as he spoke.

“So you were just shy. I get it. Since you agreed to go this time, I'll take that as a sign we’re growing closer~”

“Do not put words into my mouth.”

You, Orter, and Alex were currently at the beach for summer break. It took a lot of convincing from both you and Alex before Orter finally agreed to be abducted to the beach.

However, while you and Alex were playing in the ocean, a certain four-eyes was seated in the shade, reading a book.

Noticing this transgression, you made your way over to him. "Why are you reading at the beach? Your habit of overreading is precisely the reason why your eyes turn into 3s when you take your glasses off,” you quipped, casting a playful glance at him.

Before Orter could respond to your cheeky remark, Alex approached with something in his hand. “I brought a slaughtermelon!"

"Why would you bring that here?" Orter asked, a trace of revulsion colored his face.

"It's times like these when you gotta smash melons, dummy!" Alex exclaimed enthusiastically.

"'Tis the season," you concurred, eyeing Orter mischievously.

"Speaking of smashing melons... Orter's pretty hard-headed. We could smash the slaughtermelon onto his head,” you suggested, half-jokingly. “I doubt he would sustain any brain damage due to that skull of his.”

Immediately following your words, you were pulled into the sand, finding yourself eye-level with Orter's feet. You had forgotten that you were currently in his natural territory.

“Did I lie, though?”

As night descended, you found Orter by the shore, his nose buried in a book as usual.

Approaching with a playful smile, you asked, “Mind if I join you?”

Without lifting his gaze from the pages, he replied, “What’s the point of asking? You’d do so regardless.”

“You’re so right, Orter. I can’t believe you know me so well,” you chuckled, earning a slight “tsk” from him.

“So, what brings you out here at this hour while Alex is fast asleep?” you inquired, settling down beside him.

Orter, as dry as ever, responded, “I went out to get away from you, but it appears that plan failed."

Without skipping a beat, you flashed a wide grin. “Then I’ll have no choice but to make you enjoy my company~”

At this point, he had completely abandoned any hope of reading in peace.

“What makes you think I want that?” Orter glanced your way, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose.

“I mean, who wouldn’t want a beautiful lady like myself for company?” you stated, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

Knowing that arguing with you was only a waste of time and breath, he let out an exasperated sigh and resigned himself to your presence, listening to your ramblings while gazing at the scenery.

It was a night of the full moon, the sky adorned with countless stars.

They say that the company you keep can enhance moments like these...

Though Orter was not one to appreciate the natural beauty of the night, the scene tonight was particularly alluring.

At some point, you fell silent. Resting your head on your knees, you watched as Orter absorbed the scene before him with his usual expressionless face. His presence alone had a way of making your heart skip a beat.

Opportunities to silently enjoy his company like this were rare, so you were savoring every second.

The scene of the ocean and sky illuminated by the full moon was breathtaking, and yet… you found the concentric rings in his eyes far more captivating.

“Quit staring,” his voice interrupted your trance.

“Oh, was I..? Maybe because the person I’m looking at is too mesmerizing to avert my eyes,” you teased.

Your comeback left him momentarily at a loss for words. Never before had he had to deal with such... brazenness. “You and your jokes. Your shamelessness knows no bounds, does it?” he said, adjusting his glasses.

With the widest smile on your face, you replied smugly, “Only when it comes to you~”

Unbeknownst to you, his heart fluttered just ever so slightly that night.

#orter madl x you #orter x reader #orter x you #orter madl x reader #mádl orter x reader #orter madl x y/n #mashle orter x reader #mashle orter #mashle orter mádl #mashle #orter x y/n #orter mádl x reader #orter madl #orter mádl #orter mádl x you #orter mádl x y/n

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oozedninjas · 1 year

Text

Purple led lights

Summary: What was supposed to be a sweet date night wound up as a situation of lewd feelings and voyeurism. Dear Donnie, you fucked up big time.

Set on 2k14/16 verse

Donnie's 24 y/o

Fem!Reader

Warnings and story under the line. Only click on keep reading if you're 18+~♥

Warnings: NSFW / SMUT / voyeurism / dildo use / exhibitionism if you squint

-------------------------

There’s a strange fixation on doing something without being noticed. Or so he believed. Now, it posed a potential threat to all he had cultivated in his connection with you. The worst part? Donatello couldn’t bring himself to look away, suddenly hyper-aware of the light surrounding the scene: led purple, illuminating your naked body. His pupils dilated, absorbing as much of the image as he could.

How had the night unfolded into this? His original intent was innocent—a surprise visit to your home, armed with a trove of terabytes housing new films meticulously chosen to align with your tastes. A carefully planned evening, fueled by the desire to elevate the relationship to a level he had yearned for so ardently: the tender press of his lips against your own.

Alas, his meticulously crafted plans were thrown out the window when upon entering through your balcony, you were nowhere to be found.

Next thing he knew, Donatello was wandering your apartment, driven by that curiosity that drives new lovers to know more of one another. Soon, he found himself in your room, your scent filling his lungs, blurring for a minute his common sense as he opened your closet. Donatello grabbed your clothes and sniffed into them, allowing the intoxicating aroma to fill him.

Just at that very moment, he heard your voice humming something outside of the room where he was invading your privacy. Panic shot through his body, sending his anxiety levels to the sky. The only thing he could think about was hiding. Well, not that there was time to do more than that, anyway. When you opened the door to your room, he had finished closing the closet door, locking himself inside.

True. He put himself in this awkward, arousing, and incredibly wrong situation.

You had turned on your led lights and set them on purple. Your hands caressed the buttons of your shirt, expertly unbuttoning them so the cloth could fall out of your body, and you went on removing every other garment on you until only remained a small turtle necklace.

His first thought, –aside from guilt– was that you were utterly ravishing, breathtaking, stunning. The way your nipples hardened to the feeling of cold, made him weak. You pulled out a device from your drawer. Donnie quickly recognized it as a dildo.

He felt a hot weave hit his cheeks. Donnie suddenly felt the need to fidget so to release the uneasiness he was feeling. He resolved to play with his fingers would be okay, since there was no space to do more.

You took a seat on the edge of the bed, holding up the seemingly plastic dildo. You licked a stripe on it. His hand flew to his mouth when he heard himself gasping, and for a moment there, Donnie thought you’d hear him, so he waited, closing his eyes, squeezing them, and holding his breath hoping not to get caught.

A few seconds passed before he heard a vibration sound, followed by a small whimper. Donnie took a deep breath and made himself look through the slot in the closet door again.

You were laying on the bed, butt naked, caressing your neck with the small device, sliding it down to your chest, your face twisting into a delicious frown that talked about how nice it felt to have it navigating your sink.

Donatello sighed, wishing to replace it with his hand. The desire grew stronger when you drove it close to your hard nipple and pressed over it. A loud moan escaped your lips. Electricity ran through his spine.

Donnie's heart was beating so fast he was surprised you hadn’t heard him. It beat faster when driving the toy lower. The vibration filled the room, along with your small whimpers.

By that very moment, his crotch was already killing him. It was painful to feel the pressure of his dick in his pants. It felt weird to have such a low instinct awakened by an action that was completely fucked up, but for some reason, that thought made it even more arousing.

Was he a bad person? Surely. Disgusting? undoubtedly. But everything had happened so fast, and Donnie could swear he did not come into your place with bad intentions, he just wanted–

“Donnie,”

He froze, eyes widening in disbelief. Did you moan his name? He surely must have misheard, yes, that was–

“Like that, right there…” You closed your eyes, moaning softly, pushing the toy inside you. Now the vibrations sounded different, and so did his name when you cried it out one more time: so desperate, so inviting that Donnie almost threw his self-control off the window and came out of the closet.

Almost.

Instead, his hand moved to his crotch, stroking it lightly as he bit his lower lip so as not to moan. His breathing became heavier, despite his attempts to keep it down. Donnie's eyes narrowed when fisted his cock, pre-cum already sliding down the tip. He used the liquids to lube his shaft, making small movements that were intensifying with every passing second, with every moan leaving your mouth.

“Donnie… more,” you whimpered as you took one finger inside your mouth and sucked on it. “Fuck me.”

Your voice started to echo throughout the room. “Fuck me deeper,”

He increased his pace. Wet noises filled the small closet. He grasped one of your clothes to drive it close to his nose. Gosh, the sounds his dick made embarrassed him endlessly as a pleasant, familiar feeling coaxed in his lower belly.

“Make me come…” you moaned “Donnie please… please,”

He saw you elevating your hips, your head falling back as you came long and loud. Donnie bit his tongue while waves of pleasure spread through his body, roaming it as he came all over your closet door.

The delight was so intense he couldn’t help to lose his balance, and in a desperate attempt to stop himself from falling, his hand flew to the front, seeking support in the door, but small closet doors were not made to hold up a mutant’s weight.

Before he could do anything, the door swung open, and Donnie stumbled out of his hiding spot, dick still in his fist.

“What the fuck?!!” you screamed, contracting your legs toward your chest in an attempt to cover yourself up.

All traces of arousing left his body at once. The only thing he could focus on was your shocked expression, gaze stuck in his cock, realizing what he was doing. Donatello wanted the floor to open up and swallow him right then and there.

Instantly, he knew it: he had entirely fucked up everything.

#donatello bayverse #tmnt bayverse #tmnt smut #tmnt 2k16 #tmnt 2k14 #donnie smut #donnie #donatello hamato #smut

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snowmist-hashira · 11 months

Text

[Chapter title: Irresistible]

Muichiro Tokitou x Reader

Wattpad: [KNY Fanfiction] (One shots) Tokito Muichiro x Reader

Archive: Kimetsu No Yaiba: Tokitou Muichiro x Reader Master list: ♠ Information ♠

Link of the artist's profile is this: https://twitter.com/rainyforesty

I am open to requests for Muichiro x Reader content, and I also enjoy engaging in roleplays. If you're interested in either, please feel free to check out my pinned post for more information. ~ ♠

The late evening had arrived, and the once thunderous music had subsided, replaced by a hushed silence. Surveying the scene, her friends sprawled across the living room, their exhausted bodies in various positions, their faces etched with weariness from the night of revelry.

Y/n sighed as she looked around the messy living room. Empty bottles, half-eaten snacks, and scattered party decorations were strewn across the floor. It had been a wild night, filled with laughter, dancing, and perhaps a bit too much alcohol.

She gently tiptoed over her sleeping friends, careful not to disturb their much-needed rest. As she made her way towards her bedroom, she couldn't help but smile at the memories created during the evening. The party had been a success, and everyone seemed to have had a great time.

Thankfully the decision to rent the villa instead of hosting the party at her own house was made. She couldn't imagine the chaos that would have ensued if they had chosen her place. Her friends had suggested it, assuming it would be more convenient, but she had insisted on the villa for precisely this reason.

The thought of her pristine home being transformed into the aftermath of a wild party made her shudder. She cherished her space and valued cleanliness, so it was a relief that the mess was contained within the rented villa.

Y/n wasn't much of a drinker anyways, hence saving her of losing her dignity unlike her friends who were now scattered and laying down on the floor.

Y/n stepped out onto the patio, the cool night air enveloping her as she made her way towards the pool. The sight before her was breathtaking. The large, inviting pool glistened under the soft illumination of the surrounding dimly lights, casting a mesmerizing reflection on the water's surface. It was a tranquil scene, a stark contrast to the raucous energy of the party that had taken place just hours before.

The gentle ripples and undulations of the water captured her gaze, and she noticed the elegant movement of long strands of hair gracefully gliding through the pool. Initially assuming it belonged to a female friend, she soon recognized the unmistakable mint-colored ends that distinguished it.

Y/n's eyes widened in surprise as Muichiro emerged from the pool. The sight before her was nothing short of stunning. Droplets of water cascaded down his chiseled physique, accentuating his well-defined muscles. His long black-to-minty hair clung to his shoulders and back, creating an ethereal and captivating image. She couldn't help but appreciate the beauty before her. Muichiro had always been attractive, but in this moment, he seemed like a work of art. His presence exuded confidence and a quiet strength that drew her gaze.

"Y/n, How come you're still awake?" Muichiro inquired, his gaze fixed on her. Water droplets lingered on his lashes, resembling tears, as they cascaded down to his chest, adding to the allure that captivated Y/n's attention.

"U-Um, I can't sleep." she stammered, her cheeks flushing slightly as her gaze trailed to his well-defined abs. He looked incredibly attractive in that moment.

"And I don't feel tired just yet," she explained, her eyes briefly scanning the surroundings, trying to divert her focus from him.

Muichiro hummed in agreement, he too didn't felt tired. He shifted his position, sitting on the ledge of the pool beside her, his feet still dipped into the cool water. The moonlight cast a soft glow on their surroundings, heightening the sense of calmness.

Y/n watched as Muichiro's damped strands scattered messily across his forehead and the concrete, adding a touch of untamed allure to his already captivating appearance. Her eyes lingered on his relaxed posture, the way his muscles flexed slightly as he settled into a comfortable position.

"Isn't the water cold at this hour?" Y/n asked, stealing glances at him, her eyes attempting to catch a glimpse of his gaze hidden beneath his drenched bangs.

He shook his head gently. "No, not at all." Muichiro leaned closer to the pool, observing his own reflection on the translucent surface.

With a mischievous grin on his lips, he cupped some water in his palm and playfully declared, "See?" He then splashed the cupped water onto Y/n's face.

"WHA—" Y/n's eyes widened in surprise as the cool water splashed onto her face, drenching her in an unexpected splash. The droplets trickled down her skin, leaving her momentarily stunned. She blinked, wiping away the water that clung to her eyelashes, and her surprise turned into a mixture of disbelief and amusement.

She stared at Muichiro, her expression shifting from shock to playfulness. Despite the unexpected splash, she couldn't help but be captivated by the enchanting sound of his laughter. It was infectious and filled with a carefree joy that seemed to light up the night.

"Mui! I just took a bath!" Her eyes twitching in a playful banter of annoyance. "Oh, you think that's funny, huh?" Without a second thought, she reached her hand into the pool and splashed water back at him, her aim true and retaliatory. The water splashed against Muichiro's chest, droplets scattering around him, and he let out a surprised gasp before breaking into another bout of laughter.

"I find this much more entertaining," Muichiro remarked before abruptly yanking Y/n towards the pool, causing her to be drenched in a cascade of water that spilled over the pool's edge.

For most people, being in the pool would be no cause for concern, but unfortunately, Y/n did not know how to swim. As she was pulled into the water, panic seized her, resembling a startled cat that had accidentally fallen into a body of water

"M-MUI!" Y/n's heart raced as she instinctively wrapped her arms tightly around his neck, seeking support and stability in her vulnerable state.

As she clung to him, her face mere inches away from his, she couldn't help but feel a mixture of embarrassment and heightened awareness of their proximity. The rush of adrenaline mixed with the heat of her blush, creating a cocktail of emotions that swirled within her.

Muichiro's smug grin didn't escape her notice, and she couldn't help but feel a mix of annoyance and amusement at his mischievousness. Part of her wanted to wipe that smug off his face for pulling such a prank, but another part found the closeness and intimacy of the moment exhilarating. Muichiro's laughter filled the air, intertwining with the sounds of the water and creating a joyful symphony. His arms encircled Y/n's waist, providing a reassuring embrace that eased her worries.

"Y-You bastard..." Y/n cussed despite this her lips curved into a reluctant smile. She couldn't deny the magnetic pull that Muichiro had on her, his charm and charisma breaking through any attempts to stay angry with him.

Muichiro knew this and often abused this, it was so unfair!

But what can you do?

You can't resist him.

"Maybe I am a bit of a bastard," Muichiro admitted, his voice tinged with amusement. "But you know you love me anyway."

Y/n's blush deepened, the truth of his words ringing in her ears. She couldn't deny the strong affection and connection she felt towards him, even if it sometimes came with its fair share of exasperation. It was a delicate dance between annoyance and adoration, a balance that seemed to define their unique bond.

She playfully nudged him with her elbow, a mock scowl on her face. "You're insufferable, you know that?" she teased, unable to hide the affectionate glimmer in her eyes.

Muichiro chuckled, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "And you're too irresistible for your own good," he replied, his voice filled with sincerity. "I can't help but be drawn to you."

Smooth bastard.

Yeah, you definitely can't resist him.

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avelera · 1 year

Text

Random thoughts on the D&D movie in no particular order:

I loved the jokes. All of them. All the stupid jokes. I was their target audience and they succeeded at making me cackle at dumb shit while my partner's soul left his body

The landscape shots were breathtaking and honestly made me tear up at the beauty in places. In the theater, I remember thinking, "Yeah, FUCK yeah, these guys understood the assignment!" Nine out of ten times, I think fantasy should be animated, because if you don't pour millions into the budget, the action looks like crummy LARPers wearing silly costumes in the woods. This movie understood that if you're doing live action fantasy, you owe your audience some damn beautiful landscape shots and damn did they deliver on some beautiful landscape shots.

(cut for spoilers)

I sincerely appreciated Holga and her husband being divorced but still amicable. I'm so tired of the trope of exes being evil or awful. They just seemed like two adults who wanted to love each other but the circumstances of being together doomed them from the start. It was played for laughs but it was just a moment I genuinely enjoyed as divorcee. I also loved her ex's new wife looking exactly like her, both for the gag, and for what it said about both of them being each other's type even if it didn't work out.

I also cackled like a hyena at Holga's halfling fetish while also finding it rather sweet and enjoyed imagining all the reasons why she might have that preference lol

As a basic Drizzt Do'Urden loving bitch, I squeed when I saw Icewind Dale on the map. Then I had a moment between that and the Underdark of wondering, "Am I gonna see him? Even in the distance? Am I going to see my first love, Drizzt Do'Urden??"

And then I realized: the Paladin. The Paladin is Drizzt. Only good person who came out of a nation destroyed by evil. Too good for this world, too pure, to the point of being sanctimonious but is also a hottie. Xenk is Drizzt.

Oh, I also squeed when I saw the Underdark.

I appreciated how knowledge of D&D improved certain story beats (like the gelatinous cube or the displacer beast) but wasn't required to enjoy the plot. That's how references should be done.

The most agonizingly cringe moment for me was when Holga was dying. Just. I appreciated the beat. It couldn't go any other way. They delivered on their set up with the tablet, the only question was ever, "Who besides his wife is going to get saved with it?" And it made perfect sense who it was. I'm glad they didn't try to pull a fast one. But the scene was like... 10 seconds too long of her dying for me to not roll my eyes. We know you're going to use the tablet on her, dipshit, please keep this moving.

BUT I think the reason they did it was to land a sincere moment with the daughter, and I appreciated that. I think the scene could have been improved by Holga being like, "Don't you fucking dare use that tablet on me!" and then smacking him when he did it anyway and then he'd have to explain that he set out to save his daughter's mother, not his wife, who has passed on, etc etc. but I'm not sure that would have been much better so maybe the drawn-out opera death scene and the sincerity was better in the end idk.

I KINDA wanted to see the actors as the players playing D&D BUT I know why they didn't and it was a wise choice, it undermines the drama too much to say it doesn't matter because it's a game. Maybe if instead they'd should the characters playing D&D in universe as normal humans? Idk

I thought there'd be more Xenk? I thought he'd be in the arena with them? A little bummed but I also loved his GM NPC energy.

The combat and camera work was great! Genuinely enjoyable and well made, I appreciated the artistry that went into it.

Loved the bardic distraction scene for truly capturing the chaos of a D&D party's attempt at breaking and entering

Loved the portals bit for truly capturing the strategy and planning that can go into a functioning D&D campaign's clever heist, even if I'm sure it would have taken 5 sessions to plot out IRL

Honestly, it was just a fun, solid film! It's been a while since I've seen such a fun, solid film! I would buy it and put it on in the background to just enjoy and not angst over it! It was worth the price of admission, it was faithful to the spirit of D&D instead of sneering at it the way the early 2000s one did, and I had a good time! It wasn't the highest of art but it would have been weird if it had been! I liked it a lot!

#DND #honor among thieves

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stardust-goddess · 8 months

Text

Effort

Dean Winchester x Plus Size! Reader

Summary: Reader feels like she needs to put in extra effort to look and feel beautiful. Dean doesn’t think so.

A/N: hi everyone! I’m new to tumblr and writing but wanted to give this a shot. I feel like I might have made Dean out of character, but I think of this almost every morning when I get ready and just loved the idea. This is the first fanfic I’ve ever written, so let me know what you think and Enjoy!💕

The room was full of sunlight when you opened your eyes. Squinting at the brightness you took in the familiar surroundings of the motel room as you became more alert.

You and the boys were in Montana. Sam had found news articles of multiple murders from the past few months, all in close proximity to each other. With all the evidence leaning towards a possible werewolf, you and the boys packed up Baby and made your way to the latest murder scene to investigate. After a few days the hunt was successful and you all went back to the motel to get some sleep before heading back to the bunker.

Looking across from where you were, you noticed Sam’s bed was empty with a note on the pillow. ‘Probably out for his morning run’ you thought. Making a mental note to confirm that as soon as you got up. Turning slightly, you found Dean. He was still asleep, arms and body completely wrapped around you encasing you in warmth. You snuggled a little deeper in his embrace giving yourself a few extra minutes before finally getting up to start getting ready.

Slowly sitting up from the bed so Dean wouldn’t be disturbed, you untangled yourself from his arms. After checking Sam’s note and confirming he was in fact on a run and promised to bring back breakfast, you made your way to the bathroom. Starting to wash up for the day you looked over yourself in the mirror.

Looking at your bare face you sighed, today was definitely another makeup day. You’re skin looked a little blotchier then usual, with dark circles under your eyes, and a dull complexion. Eyes traveling a little further down you took in the rest of your body. Big arms, stomach, and thighs bounced back at you.

You had always felt insecure about your appearance. Being the size you were, you felt like whenever you were out in public people would stare. That they were judging you, and thinking you were big and sloppy looking when you really weren’t. This led you to putting extra effort into your appearance. Makeup always on, hair nicely styled, and a well put together outfit for the day. Being a hunter, this wasn’t something that you could pull off everyday, but you tried your best. On the days that you couldn’t, you always felt a little anxious, but Dean always made you feel better.

Dean made you feel like the most beautiful girl in the world. Underneath his tough hunter persona, he was so gentle and loving. Always complimenting you, and taking care of you. While he helped your confidence little by little, you still couldn’t stop those negative thoughts racing through your mind from time to time. Those thoughts where you wished you looked like the women you saw on TV and magazines. Women who were skinny and effortlessly beautiful. Women who could throw on leggings and a t-shirt with little to no makeup, and looked like they stepped off the runway.

Shaking those thoughts from your head. You finished washing up. Grabbing your hand held mirror and makeup bag to bring back to the bed. You always like doing your makeup sitting on your bed. It was comfortable and you had plenty of space to spread your products around. Walking out of the bathroom you noticed Sam was still out. You also noticed that Dean was now awake, sitting against the headboard, and scrolling through his phone. Seeing you in his peripheral vision, Dean looked up and gave you a breathtaking smile. God he was so gorgeous.

“Good Morning Baby.” Dean said lovingly reaching his arm out for you.

“Morning Handsome.” giving him a smile of your own, you grabbed his outstretched hand and let him lead you back to the bed. Settling you in between his legs, he pressed a kiss to your cheek, making his way down to the part of your shoulder that was peeking out of your oversized shirt. His arms wrapped around you to pull you a little closer.

“How’d you sleep?”

“Good, I always sleep the best when you’re with me, you?” you replied grabbing your makeup bag to get what you needed.

“Great, because my gorgeous girl was next to me.”

Dean dropped more kisses to your shoulder making you giggle, but inside you felt a little pang of sadness. You just woke up there’s no way you looked gorgeous right now.

you fell into a comfortable silence after that, enjoying each other’s presence while you started your makeup. Putting concealer first then foundation you started to bounce your beauty blender across your face, making sure everything got covered evenly. Once that was done you started coating your lashes in mascara. Dean watched you from your little mirror as you worked. Rubbing little circles into your hips with his thumbs, Dean broke the silence.

“Baby, you know we’re going to be in the car most of the day right? You don’t have to get all dolled up if you don’t want to.”

Stopping mid mascara swipe you looked down in your lap for a second before continuing

“I know, but I have too. If I want to look good I have to put the extra effort in.”

Dean’s brows scrunched together in confusion.

“Extra effort? What do you mean? You always look beautiful.”

Finishing your mascara you close the tube and look back down in your lap.

“I have to put more work in to look pretty. If I don’t people will see me and think I’m lazy and sloppy. I’m already big I don’t need to add more fuel to the fire”

Dean couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He knew you had insecurities and did his best to remind you that you were amazing and let your confidence shine through. Despite this you did still have some bad days, but this is first time you expressed those negative thoughts so bluntly. He couldn’t let those thoughts continue a second longer. Angling your body more towards him, Dean tucked some loose hair behind your ear before tilting your chin up.

“Listen to me baby, strangers opinions on the street don’t matter. They don’t have the honor of knowing how amazing you are. You’re so selfless and hard working. You constantly put others before yourself, saving people and helping me and Sammy make the world a little better. You’re not lazy and definitely not sloppy you’re stunning.”

Pulling you a little closer Dean continues

“Makeup, or no makeup, dressed up or dressed down you always look so pretty and so amazing. I get lost in those gorgeous eyes and this gorgeous body. I love the way you feel in my hands and pressed against me. You’re absolutely beautiful inside and out.”

You close your eyes, a little overwhelmed by his sweet words. He was right, others opinions didn’t matter. Finally finding your voice you speak up

“I just can’t help it sometimes. You could have any gorgeous woman on your arm, but you picked me. I feel like I have to prove to the world that I deserve you.”

Closing the rest of the distance between you, Dean presses a searing kiss to your lips. A kiss so full of love and want you feel warmth spread through your body. Breaking the kiss Dean cups your cheek, thumb running across your bottom lip.

“You have nothing to prove. I already have a gorgeous woman and I’m not letting her go anywhere.”

Blushing you let a smile work it’s way across your lips.

“There’s that smile I love, brightens my whole day.”

Moving you back into your original position, Dean slips his hand under your shirt. Rubbing small circles on your back while the other hand grabs your lipstick handing it to you.

“You already look beautiful baby but might as well finish what you started.”

Grabbing the tube you also grab your discarded mirror to finish up. Feeling lighter after talking with Dean. You were beautiful, you were confident, and with Dean by your side you could take on the world.

“I love you Dean, thank you.”

“I love you too baby, always.”

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kakuryuminn · 1 year

Text

WE FELL, LIKE BIRDS THAT GOT SHOT IN THE SKY

Tw: Blood, a bit gore. Celestial war.

°What if, mammon died with lilith?

A/n: Kind of connected to my fic in ao3. Where mammon and lilith are siblings in the human world and are chosen to participate at the devildom exchange program. This story is about how they died together.

Celestial realm.

The once white and breathtaking place, now looks ruined. The green grass that angels sleep in, now covered in blood and corpes. The sky covered with a disgusting smell of blood.

That day was unforgettable in the celestial realm.

"Belphie!" The call of his name made the said angel turn around, with eyes widened. "Focus, this is a war!"

When he finally came back to his senses, he looked at the scene infront of him. Corpses, blooded wings, and angels fighting for their dear life.

"... Where's lilith?" Was the only thing he muttered, belphegor had a stern expression but his eyes held fear. "S-she's with Mammon."

Belphegor sighed, a sigh of relief. If she's with mammon, she'll be safe. After all, mammon is the fastest among them, he can protect lilith.

Despite that thought in mind, belphegor flew and searched for the two, asmodeus following behind him, blocking arrows with his spear. Belphegor spotted them at an open space. Beel, levi, and lucifer were a bit close to mammon and lilith. Beel and levi fought with angels after angels, while lucifer was up in the sky, dueling with multiple angels at once.

When belphegor saw that, he took one of his arrows and aimed at one of the angels lucifer was fighting with. The angel screamed and fell, his wings being covered in blood. Belphie could hear some angels yelling the fallen one's name. Screaming in anguish.

Belphegor winced. His hand shook while aiming at the angels. He didn't want to do this. But if he doesn't do it, if he don't kill, he will be killed instead. Or worse, one of his siblings may get killed.

Belphegor looked beneath him, he saw beel struggling to aim. He came down, flying to his twin to help him.

He was tired.

But he doesn't have a choice.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

"Lilith! On your back!" Mammon yelled at his sister, pointing a finger at her. Lilith was quick to move. She shifted around and grabbed her spear, before striking at the angel. It was a good aim.

Mammon flew to her and grabbed her arms, pulling her close. "Listen, you need to go to beel and belphie. You're not safe if you're with me." Well, that was true. Many angels gather around mammon and lucifer. Probably because they were the hardest ones to fight. "If you're with beel and belphie, you can have a strong protection. Are you listening, lilith?" He asked.

Lilith nodded hesitantly. "But how about you?" She asked, worry lacing her voice as her pupils shook. "Lilith." Mammon, once again called her name. But this time, sternly. "Your safety is the most important to me. Don't mind your older brother, i can take care of myself." He reassured, carressing her face and brushing off some of the hair. "You need to listen to me. GO!"

With a single push on the back, lilith flapped her wings wide and flew quickly to the twins. She looked back at mammon, but mammon only gave him a toothy grin, before turning his head around and running forward to the horde of angels. Mammon was fearless, striking every angel with his spear. No angel was spared with his speed.

A skill that even the eldest, from above gaze at him with a proud smile.

When lilith arrived at where her twins at, she looked back again, sighing in relief to see the white haired angel even smiling while fighting. Although she was sure it was a mocking smile.

"Lilith! Where's mammon?" Leviathan, the third eldest asked her. Lilith pointed at the hoard of angels, levi frowned. "He's not there..."

Only then did he see his brother when the angels covering him fell, he saw Mammon's blooded spear. Some of the red, disgusting liquid on his hair and body.

"He's really the same as lucifer. Very fearless even in times like this." Asmo said behind his brothers. Only a few angels came to their direction and fight them. The rest, fighting with lucifer and mammon.

They soon separated, asmo and levi leaving to help lucifer, leaving the triplets alone.

"We should help mammon." Beel told them, pointing at their older brother. Belphie and lilith nodded in agreement, beel being the one who first flew to mammon, belphie behind him, while lilith is behind belphie.

It was a bad decision.

When the three of them flew, they were unaware of multiple angels flying above with bows and arrows. There were 10 of them above.

Beel, belphie, and lilith didn't see them. The sound of metal clanking and screams echoed to their ears as they run.

But, a scream was heard.

"LILITH!" The sound of lucifer and mammon's voices. Lilith stopped. She looked behind her, horror in her eyes as she saw multiple arrows heading her way. She looked back, seeing beel carrying belphie as they both stared at her with clear fear and horror.

"Ah...Bee—"

It was too late. Lilith, the youngest. The only sister they have, was strucked by arrows after arrows. Her once white and beautiful wings, now ruined and blooded. She coughed blood.

Lucifer, was flying fastly, as the angels loaded arrows, pointing it at her direction. All while having cold and spite in their eyes.

Lucifer knows he won't make it. He won't, he won't, he won't—

"LILITH!!!!" Someone shoot past lucifer in an incredible speed, going to his sister in a flash.

He gasped. NO! NONONONONONONONONONO

Mammon went behind his wounded sister, he flapped his wings widely, before turning her sister around to face him. He hugged her, wrapping her wings around her for protection. As he close his eyes.

THWACK! THWACK! THWACK!

Mammon didn't know how many times he have been shot. He only felt pain as the arrows dug deep into his skin, blood oozing out.

He coughed, blood coming out of his mouth. He saw the silhouette of lucifer. His eyes were getting blurry.

The next thing he knew, he was falling. Falling while he hold lilith tightly in his arms, their broken wings feeling numb.

Mammon could hear lilith's breath hitch. She coughed.

"...mmon...?" She mumbled, lifting her face. She stared at him in horror before her eyes filled with tears. Mammon took the shot for her. He was the most damaged as she can see some of the tips of the arrows exposed in his chest.

Mammon's pupils gazed at her, his once blue eyes now dull. He held her tightly, the tie in her hair now loose as her hair followed the wind beautifully.

Mammon smiled at her. "Don't cry..." He told her, blood coming out of his mouth. He used the strength left in him to cradle her close. "Don't cry lilith..." He told her, kissing the crown of her head.

"... I'm sorry! B-because of me...Y-you-!"

"Shhh..."

Mammon opened his mouth, he wiped his sisters tears with his thumb. Some of the blood getting on lilith's cheek. "It's not your fault. Don't cry..."

It was warm.

He could feel the blood. It was warm.

He could also see lilith's pained expression as she wrapped her arms around mammon's neck. "Promise me...promise me that you'll be there—" She choked out. "Promise me that you'll wait for me in the afterlife, please mammon." She begged him. Mammon hates seeing his sister like this. He hates it.

"Of course. Of course I'll wait for you, hm?" He once again smiled, a smile that lilith loved and cherish.

"Lilith, i love you."

When mammon told her that, lilith cried more. She replied to him with an 'i love you too'. Hugging mammon for dear life.

"I'll rest now, okay? I'll hold you tight so you won't get hurt." Mammon carresed his sisters hair, he could smell the unpleasant devildom awaiting for them.

Lilith nodded and closed her eyes, breathing very slowly by the second that pass.

Mammon patted her back, luring her to sleep. Although, this sleep was eternal and not like when she was little.

The second Born's dull eyes blurred. But before they could shut close, he saw black hair and wings far more wider than his. He could see the silhouette of a hand reaching out to them.

Mammon smiled, it was lucifer. He hugged her sister close, she was getting cold now. Lilith would hate it. She hates being cold. Mammon cradled her sister more closer, her head on his chest.

"Wait for me, lilith..."

Mammon closed his eyes, feeling the peacefulness surrounding him. He could almost hear lilith's voice...

He wants to laugh.

Is this how birds feel when they got shot by humans and fell?

Perhaps, he can compare himself to a bird. A bird falling down from the sky.

Ah...

Lilith will be angry and lonely if he made her wait any longer.

...

#mammon #mammon angst #obey me shall we date #obey me angst #obey me #obey me mammon #lucifer angst #lucifer obey me #om! leviathan #om! asmodeus #om! beelzebub #om! belphegor #lilith obey me #the great celestial war #im sorry

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callumsgirl · 1 month

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one new message

Hey Fellas❤️There was another one shot scene in my head for quite a while now. I need to share it with you and please LMK what you are thinking about it!

pairing: Austin Butler x Callum Turner

summary: Callum had a tough week - learning new lines, filming until the sun went down and answering questions at press events. After all the stress, he finally had a weekend off and had planned a quiet evening with a relaxing series and maybe a scotch. Lying on the couch, relaxing and when he receives a message from an unknown number, the series is long forgotten. Callum receives an erotic, beautiful photo of you… Now he just has to convince you to ditch the guy you've been meaning to message and focus on him instead.

warnings: a scene full of flirting, dirty talk, sharing dirty picutres, first first sexual experiences, men x men, Callum touching himself while he's thinking about Austin

Callum had endured such a long week at work and filming his new project, all he wanted to do was change ouf of his black suit, grab dinner and a scotch and lounge around on the couch in his black brief boxers without a responsibility in sight.

Nobody should have to work until ten on a saturday night, but it had taken him that long to sort through the massive playbock and learning new lines for monday morning. At least now he had nothing planned for the rest of his evening.

His hotel room kinda too hot, the conditioning system too loud, and the glass with scotch on ice too cold pressed to his bare thigh as he reached for the TV remote let some droplets of condensation.

It felt awesome, a shiver run down his spine. Callum switched through Amazon Prime and Netflix to pick a series or a movie but he couldn't decide yet. He took another sip of his drink as his phone vibrated next to him. With a soft grunt, he abandoned the remote in favor of the phone and unlocked it with his pass code.

There was a next text message from an unknown number, and there was a photo attached. He grimaced, afraid of what he was going to find if he tapped on it. He read the phone number twice, but it didn't sound familiar beyond the Chelsea area code. He let his head tip back as he recalled the time he pissed one of his co-stars off and she gave his phone number to random women or men in retaliation. Callum really hoped he wasn't going to have to kindly ask someone to stop sending him ugly foot pics like last time.

Before he lost the nerve, he tapped on the message, and his screen was suddenly filled with a photo of a men who looked just a few years younger than him. And he was hot. He paused with his glas of scotch halfway to his lips before letting it settle back down to his thigh.

Hey,Barry. It's me, you wrote you number on my arm and your friend Sarah thought we both were a great match...idk why I'm texting you...haven't thought you were interested.. but now you have my number, too.

Callum didn't know who the hell Barry was, but he wasn't mad about the mix-up.

This photo was something else. It almost looked like it was taken in the the streets at night. But whoever you were.... damn, you were stunning. These black pants fit your legs pretty well, and the fabric of your all shirt was fitting your tonned torso and arms as well. Your dark blond hair looked fluffy and soft. Suddenly Callum felt the urge to touch it if he could. All pretty features and then there war your smiling - a bit playful, a bit shy, but absolutely breathtaking like you had a secret you want tell yet.

It took him a moment to stop staring at the photo and return to the previous screen and your message. He was going to have to tell you that he wasn't Barry and that you had the wrong number, but he just sat there and tapped his phone case instead. He didn't even like the name Barry, but damn if he didn't want to be Barry right now. That lucky bastard had you interested in him.

Callum was wondering how the mix-up happened in the first place as he drafted up a text to you. Only some sort of fucking idiot wouldn't check and double check that he gave you the right number. "Amateurs," he mumbled as he typed with a little smirk on his face.

Hey darlin', sorry to inform you, but this actually isn't Barry. However, I wouldn't mind one bit if you kept sending me the photos that are meant for him.

He hit send and tossed his phone aside, assuming you'd just block him and move on with your night. He brought his glas back to his lips and enjoyed the way the drink helped cool him down while he contemplated taking a shower, but when he reached for the remote again, his phone vibrated.

There was another message from the same number. Intrigued, Callum unlocked his phone again, and he was pleased to see another text and another photo. God damn, he thought.

Hey, thanks for letting me know you aren't Barry. Wish you a great evening.

This photo was totally different to the first one. You were leaning with your hips against the bar and your muscular arm was wrapped around a petite brunette. She had one hand resting on your chest and was holding a cocktail with the other. You two seemed to be having great time and suddenly you regretted coming back to the hotel so late. Plus Callum was sure that was the Old Manhatten Club, which pissed him off, because he got out of work so late he didn't feel like going out tonight. Maybe if he had been there, you wouldn't have been talking to Barry in the first place.

"Damn it." He was intrigued. He wanted to know more about you.

My night is substantially better now that I have two photos of you, pretty golden boy. So where did Barry get off to anyway? And why is he trying to steal my phone number?

This time Callum was dying for another response. But it didn't come. He stared at his phone for a solid minute before returning to his scotch and downing the rest of the glas.

Still nothing.

He got up and made his way to the small fridge. He put his empty glass down before filling it half full again. Then he picked up the phone and ordered a late-night snack from room service.

Callum probably shouldn't keep drinking, but the impatience in his stomach needed to be numbed. Then his mobile phone buzzed and when he looked over at the couch, the screen lit up.

He slammed the fridge door and heading back to his phone. There was no photo this time, but there was a new message. Callum licked his lips and started to read.

It was actually just a dumb tinder date. My friends tried to get me hooked up…I actually lost Barry in the crowd, so really, the man could be just about anywhere. And I don't think he was trying to steal your number at all, Not-Barry. He wrote it on my arm, smirked dirty and it smeared before I could add it to my phone.

"Okay," Callum said out loud. "Now we're getting somewhere." He sat down on the couch with his second scotch on the coffee table and started a new message.

A tinder date, pretty golden boy? Why are your friends thinking you need to get laid? Barry clearly needs dating tips…with someone like you, you don't take such a risk and just write your number on your arm.

Callum smiled and decided that he was going to have no shame for the night. Not as long as you kept writing back to him. He was contemplating how to save your number in his phone when another selfie with a message came through.

You were on the roof terrace and your friend, Callum guessed it was the petite brunette one, took aenother picture of you with a smile on your face. Now yo were wearing a black leather jacket and your pretty, plumb lips were distracting Callum.

Does this number look familiar? Still no actual Barry in sight, by the way...

Callum supposed that the 7 could have been mistaken for a 1. Or maybe Barry's phone number had a 5 that got smeared into a 6. It didn't really matter. Callum was going to shoot his shot and hope Barry didn't resurface.

Good, Barry can just stay lost. What's your name, pretty golden boy?

Then he saved your number as Pretty Golden Boy, and this time he did manage to turn the TV on while he waited with his phone in his hand. He muted the Netflix series and picked up his scotch before promptly setting it back down again.

Pretty Golden Boy: Don't shot so fast fast, darlin'. You tell me your name first...and how old you are. I need to make sure you aren't a series killer who try to hook me up...and your blood type and your eye color...last thing...you first movie where you cried.

Pretty and smart, he thought. Callum laughed and started typing. He realized he hadn't stopped smiling for the last twenty minutes as he hit send.

My name is Callum and I'm 34 A positive, blue-green, not a movie but Band of Brothers...for sure. Hope you're reliable, pretty golden boy.

On a regular night, the netflix series would have held his attention, but tonight he couldn't stop looking at his phone. "Come on, pretty golden boy," he muttered, running his cool glas of scotch along his thigh before taking another sip.

Pretty Golden Boy: One point for your fast response, Callum. Looks like you aren't a series killer at first sight. Now you have my attention. Send me a selfie exactly where you are, and I'll think about telling you my name. No changing into something nicer. No fixing your hair. Just a selfie. Right now.

Callum looked down at himself in just his black boxer briefs and mumbled, "If that's your wish, darlin'." When he set his phone camera to selfie mode, he looked at the screen and realized his hair still looked pretty decent from filming earlier this day. So he went ahead and took a picture where he was wearing a bit of a skeptical smirk, and before he sent it he added another picuture from his photo galery.

And now his heart was beating a little faster.

This was probably where you'd stop responding. Oh hell, at least he went for it, but a few minutes later, you still hadn't sent anything back to him. Maybe he could have pull a shirt on before sending the picutre, because you had never know he were almost naked an his couch. Clearly you were sending him actual selfies you'd taken tonight, and he did exactly what you'd told him to. Then his phone vibrated and his heart skipped a beat.

Pretty Golden Boy: ...Do you really expect me to believe that you're not just googling hot shirtless guy with a breathtaking smile, downloading a photo, and trying to pass it off as yourself? Not even Tinder has such attractive guys running around.

He tipped his head back and laughed loud and huskily. There was just something about you he really liked. He didn't even know your name or what your voice sounded like, but he could already tell he was going to like both of those things. If you ever told him or let him hear you.

Why should I cheat? That's really me, darlin'. I promise. Want see another picture real fast so i can't google hot shirtless guy with a breathtaking smile? Will you tell me your name now? Or do I have to keep calling you Pretty Golden Boy forever?

He was wondering if you were still at the bar, surrounded by guys like Barry who would love to take you home while you were chatting with him. And he hoped the next text would contain your name. But you just ignored him when you wrote back a few minutes later.

Pretty Golden Boy: Prove you're not just sending some photos of a random hot guy google recommended you. Last 3 pictures from your galerie!

"He's smart and definitly a handful," Callum murmured as opened his photo galerie. Maybe the last thirty pictures where taken at the press events this afternoon. He thought to skip these pictures because their weren't really personal of just him. Plus he was a bit nervous that you would stop texting back if you saw these picutres.

Then his phone vibrated again.

Pretty Golden Boy: No research! Show me!

"Fuck", he smirked. "Smart, hot and unpatiend", he licked his lips anf started to collect three picutres. It would keep his secret that he skipped most of the press event picutres. He chose one current picture of the press event and then another two from earlier this week.

He stood up when it knocked on his door. "One moment please!", Callum yelled and pulled a white shirt over his head. He didn't want to risk another young, inexperienced apprentice standing outside his door and almost fainting. Halfway to the door, he stopped again and took a deep breath as he stared down at his bare legs. "Just dinner, Turner," he reassured himself.

Two minutes later he was lying in bed, half under the white duvet, eating his burger and fries. Callum finished his message and attached the photos and then sent them off while he finished his dinner.

Sorry, room service interrupted my research. What is this, Pretty Golden Boy? A hostage negotiation? I already told you, that's really me.

Before his phone vibrated again Callum sent another picutre. He's laying in bed and eating his dinner.

It didn't take too long for you to respond this time, and Callum wasn't even letting his screen dim long enough to need to unlock it now.

Pretty Golden Boy: Are you an actor or something? Looking good...are you real? Are you naked under these sheets?

"Goddamn," he muttered. Of course he wasn't. Did you want him to be? Shit, he needed to stop thinking about that dirty stuff.

Yes, I'm an actor. I'm not naked under my sheets. There was room service a few minutes ago, darlin' You told me not to get changed or anything, so I'm laying in my bed half naked.

He felt flushed and too warm as he set his phone down on the bed and stood up to open some windows. Then he walked to his bed and his heart skipped another one or two beats. He felt warm und the blood was rushing through his venes.

He wasn't even with you, and you were under his skin.

He closed his eyes, fluttering, and rubbed one hand flat over his chest. His heartbeat hummed under his palm - too loud and definitely too fast. Callum swallowed hard and again your images flashed before his eyes. How desperately he wanted to run his thumb over your bottom lip, to touch you and hear your voice.

It was terrifying how much he wanted you, even though he didn't know you.

When he returned to his phone, there was another selfie and a message waiting for him. In the photo, you were not in the bar anymore. It looked like an appartment or something you Callum askend himself if it would be your place or your friends place...or Barry's. He shook his head and suppressed the thought.

Then he focussed on you again. Your brunette friend had definitely taken another photo of you and the way you were looking through the mirror at the camera with your eyelids half lowered made Callum sigh and groan.

Pretty Golden Boy: My friend Jess thinks there is something pretty wrong with me. We were at this Old Manhatten Club and a bunch of attractive guys were talking to me, but I only looked down my phone, just because of your messages. Now Jess thinks she need to work harder to get me laid and, suprise she'll create another online dating profile for myself.

"Shit, shit, shit", Callum grumbled and thought about getting dressed and heading out whereever his pretty golden boy was. Then maybe he could hear you tell him your name in person right before he pulled kissed you and fixed the problem of your friend Jess. Callum would lay you down by himself.

Old Manhatten is a good place to meet up. You don't need another online dating profile! Tinder is full of dumb idiots! Are you at your friends house or your place? I could pick you up, pretty golden boy.

Callum started heading to his closet when his phone vibrated in his hand.

Pretty Golden Boy: Are you knowing the Old Manhatten Club or just saying this to hook me up? Did you meet your dates at Old Manhatten Club?! I'm at my place and Jess is heading home soon. I'm not telling you my adress yet.

Not yet. That sounds...good and that they where getting somewhere good.

"Fuck, no!," he grunted, typing so quickly he had to go back and fix several spelling errors before he could send it. The last thing he wanted to do was make you uncomfortable, so he paused before getting any clothing out of his closet.

No! I knew this Club quite well because a friend of mine is the owner. You can ask Tom, the bartender. I would never meet my dates at a place like this. I like it more casual, romantic if you say so. Will you lay down in your bed now, pretty golden boy? Not yet, hmm..sounds fine to me. We'll work on this later.

Callum collapsed onto his bed with his forearm over his eyes and his phone clutched to his chest. He didn't have to check the time to know it had been a while since he texted you. He also didn't have to look at his phone to know it was after midnight now and that you and he had been chatting for almost two hours. He run his hand through his dark brown and soft hair when the phone vibrated against his chest.

Pretty Golden Boy: Alright, Callum Turner now I know everything I need to know about you.

Callum winced and felt his chest tighten. He watched impatiently as the three dots continued to dance across the disply. One by one, your messages arrived and he inevitably held his breath.

Pretty Golden Boy: Tom is pretty funny tbh. He's a real gentleman, and your story has been proven true.

Another three dots crossed his display.

Thank God! He was going to owe Tom big time.

Pretty Golden Boy: Tom mentioned that you come to his club every time you are in town, and that you hooked up with a young woman once.

He continued typing as he rolled onto his stomach and stroked his hair. A few dark strands of hair were sticking out wildly and could hardly be tamed.

I'm 34 and no angel. Maybe I've had sex with some people I shouldn't have slept with, but are you really going to open that chapter, pretty golden boy?

Callum closed his eyes and thought about the actress who had taken him into the bathroom with her last year. He was pretty sure she had brown hair, but other than that, he couldn't really recall.

He wouldn't mind taking a trip there with you, that was for sure. Or maybe you and he could skip the scandalous bar hookup and just go right to dinner or a movie. For some reason, he thought he might actually prefer that. Not that he would refuse to lie naked in bed with you.

Pretty Golden Boy:I'm alone now. Need to call somebody first. Text you when I lay in bed.

Callum mused out loud, "You better not call Barry."

Shit, he could have offered to call you and make sure you are just talking to him and not another stranger. He'd only had those two glases all night, and now he was picturing some faceless guy named Barry calling you and trying to sneak into your bed.

He texted you back.

Please tell me you're not calling Barry...you can call me anytime, darlin'!

With a sigh, he got out of bed and plugged his phone in, not sure what to expect at this point. He went back into the bathroom and showered quickely and used his toothbrush. Callum pulled on a fresh pair of boxer breifs and then he went back to his bedroom and closed all the windows. When he wason his bed again, he had no new notifications. He was about to text you again and check in when his phone suddenly rang.

CALL FROM Pretty Golden Boy

Callum was smiling as he cleared his throat and picked up. "Hey, Pretty Golden Boy."

A soft, husikily laugh preceded your voice, and he had to bite the inside of his cheek as you said, "Hey, Callum with the blue-green eyes. Are you trying to tell me that you were jealous if I would call Barry?"

He hesitated and narrowed his eyes briefly. The corners of his mouth twitched and he laughed: "In any case, I can't say the opposite without lying."

"I'm glad that I call you instead of anybody else...It wouldn't be Barry in a tousand times. I called Jess to ask if she's already home", you explained in a calm voice and Callum closed his eyes as he listened to your words. The sound of your voice triggered strange desires in him. He sighed and bit his lips the next moment as he heard a soft rustle humming through the speaker. "Happy to hear that. What are you doing?" Callum asked.

"I pull of my shirt and pants and lay down into my bed."

The next moment you moaned softly and Callum felt his body temperature rise. The blood was now pumping faster through his body and he put his arm over his eyes. "Shit, even your voice is sexy."

Okay. He should not be on the verge of touching himself after you spoke three whole sentences to him. "You make it home safely? Without Barry or another dumb idiot flirting to you?", he asked, trying to play it cool as he thought about those photos you sent him.

"Hmmm. A hot guy named Bruno hooked Jess up and drove us to my place. He's here if you want to talk to him?"

Callum thought for a beat that he had met his match in you. "You better be lying. You know what, put Bruno on the phone."

Your husikily laughter filled him up as you said, "I'm just teasing you. I had to ditch him, Barry and every other men, because he doesn't even look a hot as you. I think I have new standards now."

Holy shit. Callum was in trouble. He was getting turned on, and you weren't even really saying anything dirty. "Are you trying to kill me? Are you gonna tell me your name, Pretty Golden Boy?"

"No, i don't wanna kill you. You're to hot to die this young. I think I'm going to hold onto it a little longer."

"Fine. But please explain to me how I've never seen you at the Old Manhatten Club before. I'm certain I would remember your face."

Your voice sounded a little lighter now as you said, "I just moved here a month ago. It was my first time at the bar with Jess."

If he hadn't worked so late today, Callum would have probably been there tonight as well. "You had fun? You think you'll go back again?"

"Probably," you replied casually. "When do you think you'll be there?"

Callum was so warm he was starting to sweat. "Pretty Golden Boy, you just say the word, and I'll clear my whole damn calendar."

Your small, harsh sighs and your soft hissing would be the death of him. "You know, I still have Barry's, or rather your, phone number on my arm."

He imagined himself kissing your palm and rewriting his phone number. "Should be in my handwriting. I'll make sure I always bring a pen with me to the bar."

You cleared your throat hoarsely, and Callum imagined you leaning back against the headboard of your bed, listening to his voice. "Tom told me to watch out for the other men. But he said you were charming and the worse."

"The worse?", Callum asked.

"Actually, he called you a goddamn charming prince with blue-green eyes to fall in love with."

Callum laughed. "I've been called worse but maybe you'll fall in love too."

"I'm sure you have," you replied quickly. "You deserve some sort of punishment for daring to look good with and i hope you won't break my heart."

"It's a blessing and a curse. Now, are you going to send me another photo? Or are you going to just agree to meet me tomorrow night?"

He heard a rustle and then you murmured quietly and promisingly: "Barry won't like that at all. But here we go."

And then came another photo, and Callum briefly thought he had suffered a heart attack.

"Now it's my turn to ask if you're naked in this picture, pretty golden boy."

He took in every inch of your bare, tanned skin. He made sure to memorise every inch of your body, licking his lips as he followed the deep peaks and valleys of your stomach and pecs with his eyes. His fingertips twitched and he moaned softly, "Sure you don't want to kill me?

The duvet was pulled over your legs and billowed around your hips. Your dark blonde hair was still styled and in the dim light your lips looked even fuller, even pinker, even more kissable. The photo looked cosy and intimate, taken just for him. Callum had to actively remember not to touch himself.

"Almost naked. Just a black boxer breif."

"Fuck."

"Send me another one?", you asked seductively.

"Yes," he mumbled, swallowing hard as he tried to pose for another selfie as he was: stretched out on his pillow, his left arm bent and crossed behind his head. The duvet covered his legs and lower stomach. His silver chain reflected in the camera, his cheeks were flushed and his eyes looked darker than usual. He was clearly aroused and his skin was heated.

Fuck it. He snapped the photo and sent it off. And about ten seconds later, he heard a hoarse moan at the other end of the line. His breathing had quickened and he heard the rustling of fabric again.

"It should be illegal for someone to look so good. It's rude, honestly. Callum, you're kind of rude, because now I want to know...."

He was hanging on your every word. "Know what, Pretty Golden Boy?"

The call went completely silent before you said huskily, "What your lips feel like...everywhere."

A soft, startled laugh escaped his lips. You were on the verge of some dirty talk now, he could just tell. And his cock was hard as he replied with, "I'd love to let you find out. But before you respond, I need to know how much you've had to drink tonight. I don't want to take advantage of anything here."

You whimpered on the other end of the call. "An actor, blue-green eyes, and a gentleman? All Barry did for me was buy me those two burbon."

Bradley grunted and said, "That's enough about Barry. Why don't you go ahead and tell me where you'd like to feel my lips first, Pretty Golden Boy."

He heard your deep sigh and your loud breathing before you said, "I want to kiss you and feel your hands on me. I want your lips to caress my skin, mark me and I want to taste you. I want your mouth to brush over my skin just below my ear while you whisper in my ear. Wow…I can't believe I said that out loud. I should hang up."

"Don't hang up," Callum said, panting with need now. "Tell me more."

"Okay," you sighed with another deep sigh. "I want to feel your lips and hands around my cock, and i want to taste you lips, lick the taste of everything from your lips."

"Holy shit," he groaned, palming himself through his boxer briefs. "You're making me hard."

"It's pretty dirty...you're hard for me?," you whined with need. "And I want to feel your lips on the back of my neck while you do filthy things to me. Maybe fucking me deep and slow, and I don't even know you!"

"Yeah you turn me on. You'll feel all you told me and more," he guaranteed. "Please, tell me your name and what time I can meet you."

Callum listened to the rustle of your sheets as he waited. Then you finally said, "It's Austin. You can meet me at the Old Manhatten Club at eight."

"I'll be there, Austin." He liked the way your name sounded and felt on his lips. Callum was pretty happy that this Barry guy fucked up and Austin texted him. He was excited where this adventure will take him and Austin together.

#austin butler smut #callum turner smut #austin butler fic #callum turner fic #one shot #hot as hell #smut #phone talk

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