#how are we here already I'M NOT READY KIDS

[rayraelleaizawa]

Hi! How are you doing? I was wondering how would Shanks react if someone (stranger or family member) insulted his lover like "I wish you were never born" to them? How would the Red-Haired Pirates react? Can you write a one shot about it?

Hi! sorry it again took me ages to write this tho i love the idea!

I hope this is will be to your liking :) I imagine Shanks being more of the quiet guy when he's really angry. Quiet, but deadly.

Shanks x Reader

Female reader mentioned but only 1 time.

It started as a normal day where the Red Force docked on an island and you were out with Shanks roaming through the streets and looking at vendors and shops.

You two have been dating for quite some time, and the world knew you as red haired Shanks' better half, so most of them treated you extra nicely in fear of the emperor. Still, Shanks was always near you, due to his relationship with you you became a target to his enemies.

You and Shanks were having fun, him being his usual self, joking and trying all kinds of alcohol at the different food and drink stands.

Lime Juice and others of your crew were at one market stand, and Shanks and him had a small drinking competition. You leaned at a house wall and watched them smiling as Shanks laughter got louder and louder over the minutes, as someone next you said your name suddenly.

"Is that really you?", said the voice as you turned around and your mother stood there.

You were suprised. You haven't seen your family in ages, and the good-bye with them wasn't a very good one either. You didn't miss your family, especially not your mother, who only cared about image and what others thought of you.

"I shouldn't be suprised seeing you here, after the announcement came that pirates docked at this island", she said in a condescending voice.

You swallowed, as you weren't prepared to suddenly meet your mother again. You haven't told Shanks about your relationship with your family, but he never asked. He seemed to understand that your family was a chapter in your life which you had closed already.

"At first I was suprised when I heard the rumors that you and red haired Shanks were a couple. I couldn't believe that an emperor of the sea would be interested in my child", she laughed.

"But then when there were pictures of you in the newspaper, next to that man, i finally believed it. And in the end it all made sense to me. Why haven't I thought of this before? Of course would my inconsiderate good-for-nothing kid go with a drunk criminal without even thinking what it meant for family. What it meant for me! My child is now a criminal! Can you even imagine what the neighbors thought of your father and me?! We had to move to another island so people would stop looking at us"

You looked at your mother with wide eyes as she started getting louder and louder.

"Don't talk about Shanks that way! He is more than just that! He and his crew are the best thing that ever happened to me", you spoke back, and a heated argument between you two arose.

Your mother yapped about having born a criminal and that it is your duty to repay her for giving birth to you, while you argumented back that all you ever did was living for her, how she wanted you to be.

The fight between you and your mother quickly caught the attention from the people around. Shanks stood up and walked closer, but he didn't intervent for now. He knew you could fight your own battles, eventho he was concerned what exactly was happening. Lime Juice, Hongo and others of your crew also watched closely, ready to jump that woman if she went too far.

"Shanks gave me a family I'm proud of. They accept me for who I am! All you ever did was pressing me in a role of the perfect child with the perfect mother!"

"You ungrateful brat! I did everything to make you look good and you can't even thank me for that? I should've thrown you in a trash can when you were a baby. I wish you were never born!", she yelled at you and slapped you across the face.

You stood there, motionless, as you slowly realized what just happened. Before you could turn your head back from the slap, Shanks moved infront of you. His Haki was flowing around him as the crowed quickly got smaller as the smart ones all went to hide. Your mother tried to act tough, but it didn't even last a few seconds as she crumbled before him, tears streaming down her face in fear.

"You can insult me as much as you want, but never. ever. say a bad thing about my queen."

His aura alone got your mother to apologize endlessly and to beg him to spare her life. Shanks was angry, and an angry Shanks is something you never want to witness. He isn't loud and he isn't throwing hands, he is just, quiet, consuming of all your senses. He's your nightmare.

You stood behind him, holding your cheek as Hongo touched your back. His eyes were checking over your frame for injuries. You could also see Benn standing a few feet away, leaning against a house wall as he watched everything with his brows furrued.

A feeling of protection came over you, but your heart still ached. You never had the best relationship with your mother, but she never said anything so cruel to you. You slowly turned around and started walking towards the Red Force. You knew you could leave the rest to Shanks. He wouldn't kill her, she was still your mother, but he'd make sure she'll never came near you again. His crew followed you, with a respectfull distance to not smother you, but still close enough that everyone could see they were ready to kill for you.

Back at the Red Force you went to your joined room with Shanks. You sat on the bed and stared at the wall. Only after some time did you realize you were crying. Not long after you heard the door opening and then quietly closing again. Shanks walked up to you and slowly sat on the bed behind you. He moved his arms around you and gently brought you to his chest.

He didn't talk at first, just let you settle in his arms and cry. He kissed your forehead from the side.

"You are the world, darling. The only good thing this woman has ever done, was bringing you into this world. I couldn't think of what I'd do without you. I love you, and I want you to know that you're appreciated for who you are."

At first you didn't respond, you just moved and buried your head in his chest as he gently held you.

"Thank you for being my family", you said after some time, and Shanks smiled into your hair, pressing gentle kisses on your hairline.

"Always, my love"

The next day, Lucky made your favourite food. Benn lend you one of his infamous notebooks he wrote about his past adventures in that no one was allowed to read. Monster wanted to play with you, and the others all did little favours for you over the next week. Appreciating you even more than they already did. Telling you "thank you" for small things you did, but with the meaning that they are gratefull you exist. And Shanks did everything to let you know that he was the most gratefull of that.

[melliae]

Is love to be earned? Musings on one of Canto VIII’s themes

“Under Mercy, all shall be made equal”

Chesed. The Kindness and Mercy of God. His all-encompassing love that accepts and joins all, for only God fully understands your heights and depths, your best and your worst. Thus, it’s no coincidence that Dante’s awakened to its corresponding Sapling of Light’s ability in the Canto whose Sinner is the kindest of all, the one who couldn’t bring himself to hate his siblings, parents, and elders.

But such a thing really goes against what we hold as common morality, right? It’s alright—No, you must hate those who bring you and others harm, and not to forgive them as long as you want even if they have changed or are in the path to do so. Doing the contrary will certainly win you some disapproving/confused glares… Why does that sound familiar?

“Xinchun: ... Right. I guess... if it was anyone else among my siblings, they would have sent their lackeys after us already... Or... maybe I'm not even worth that much effort already.”

“Dissapointed Audience: We raised that failure as our own son? What a pathetic disappointment… Excited Audience: Don't worry... I have faith in our third child. I mean, it's not like we expected anything from this one, right?”

“Wang Qingshan: We've sacrificed so much of ourselves... just for this day... just for the Family Hierarch war… […] If I fail here miserably... having accomplished nothing... they might kill me when I get home… I have to do something, anything... to be a proud sister to my little siblings…”

“Shi Sijing: Father... Please forgive me... I should've done better than this…”

“Xue Baochai: But maybe they'll use a different treatment method on [Xue Pan] this time. Hopefully they'll edit him to be more obedient to mother's commands this time around~”

“Hong Lu: When a child is born, they aren’t celebrated—they are hidden, concealed for years in the dark, so that competition wouldn’t take notice of a new rival…”

Surprisingly, how collective morality can twist itself into the monstrosity that we see in the inhabitants of Daguanyuan. Every family readies itself to kill or be killed to achieve what they want, and impossible standards are put in children.

Certainly, most people would think our society—our ethics—can’t possibly be the same as Daguanyuan’s, but that’s a vile lie. The 2 systems are rooted in the same principles, on the threat that people do not deserve love if they don’t fulfill the standards and rules imposed upon them by others, that they are monsters that deserve to be insulted and gutted for daring to betray others’ expectations, no matter if they are kids or their parent, stranger or friends, or even the ideas we have of people

Truth to be told, it’s near impossible to escape such feelings and gut reactions, and as luck would have it, we are particularly good at pointing fingers, especially towards our parents and older relatives, those who raised us and were supposed to give us unconditional love. But things are always more complicated than that, aren’t they? We would love to always be the good guys, to receive love and care despite our flaws, yet when we have to do so with others…

Certainly, we can blame the Elders and Hierarch of Hongyuan for this. But at the same time, they were victims of that very same thing, weren’t they? Shi Miyin and the past Hierarchs were unconscious of that fact, they never understood what their search for immortality truly implied: just as the river goes down the mountain to the sea and the Sun rises and sets, so does the human life grow and withers away, acting as fertile soil for the next generation. Nature, after attaining the highest level of development, will forever descend into the dark embrace of the unknown, falling apart against the wishes of society and the collective.

“So for many people all too much unlived life remains over—sometimes potentialities which they could never have lived with the best of wills, so that they approach the threshold of old age with unsatisfied demands which inevitably turn their glances backward.” - Carl Jung, Structure and Dynamics of the Psyche.

The wish for immortality is a manifestation of the fear of death, which in turn is a product of fearing life and its disappointments. That is, for the Elders, to die means to have failed their forefathers, their family, and everyone else, admitting that everything they have done was for naught—sacrificies, tears, murders, pain, hatred. The Distorted form of Jia Mu, acting as a mere palanquin for the Xianhuang Worm, a symbol of collective expectations, traditions, and thus fears, with some of the skills’ names and affinities show how little Jia Mu thinks of herself without the Elders—the collective and society—approving of and praising her. 

However, immortality is infinite time and duration, and within infinity everything happens and therefore fades into sameness, which runs contrary to what life is about! Immortality goes against nature, and by “achieving” it, the Xianren fully physicalized their own fear of death born from trying to fit with what society asked of them, foregoing their own essence in search of that little, most “worthless” thing called love, the essence of God and goal of nature.

Back in Canto V, Queequeg felt envious of how Abnormalities “know” what they wish, and Ishamel expressed a curious idea of how Whales may feel lonely and try to make more of them to alleviate it. Naturally, this is similar to how Bloodfiends themselves act, and in that context I have to point out how the Manchengan Bloodfiends described the Golden Bough’s light as warmer and gentler than even the one they thought they lost forever—the same light Abnormalities, the unconscious aspects of life, and even the Pallid Whale seem attracted to. And what does the Golden Bough do? It illuminates the mind and manifests it, bringing buried fantasies into the sphere of consciousness, into reality.

The above was just a very long way to say that nature itself wants to be realized. It wants to be lived and known, and the only way to do so is… simply living, experimenting the good and the evil, the successes and failures. Pitifully for us, conscious beings, we are alienated from what surrounds us from the moment we open our eyes, all the while something primal inside us wants to feel connected to it, which is something only achievable by love, the creator and end of all creation. We, thus, yearn for something that is a deeply unconscious part of us, making us seek it in the external world… The rest is history, isn’t it?

“When we were born, our natures were good. Though our natures were similar, our habits made us different.”

But no matter how marred and deformed the body becomes, the repression of the yearning to live will never disappear, for it is our inalienable nature as living beings. Only in the most hopeless of situations is that drive truly lost. So, despite how aberrant they became, the Elders wished to experience all those possibilities they couldn’t live, those “foolhardy, young, witless, and flawed choices” that lead to “an adventure they would have never made,” which isn’t that far-off from how Bloodfiends work, right? A stale immortality that wishes to return to the natural flow of things more than anything, yet inherently tied to pleasure and blood.

Even when despair and stagnation hit rock bottom, the Elders refused to move from the comfortable stronghold they created, surrounded with artificial nature, content with merely watching the adventures, failures and bitterness their souls longed for. They watched and watched, but never dared to understand what they witnessed, because that would have meant they lived incorrectly and did everything wrong, that they are not worthy of the “love” and “respect” they desperately fought for.

With all of that said, then Hong Lu perfectly acts as the foil for the Elders and Shi Miyin: they are people who refused to follow what life—their own selves—had in store for them, merely witnessing from afar as everything that ends is ultimately meaningless. Only the eternal, such as Danguanyuan and its traditions, has any value, for it will never disappear and change, showing that they have done something worthy. To dream big and sacrifice oneself for the collective are the only correct ways to live, and Hong Lu soon learned that despite lacking such ambitions to begin with, seeing the way he lived as meaningless.

“Jia Qiu: Each heart has a different cause that moves them. How can one speak of the fathoms of a lake when all they have seen is the water’s surface?”

Kong Qiu, by contrast, is the antithesis of the Elders: he experienced the depths of despair the day the Kong family was eradicated, failing in every single way the standard by which Danguanyuan’s inhabitants judged the world. However, despite temporarily falling into a deep hatred for the world, he walked beyond the prison of Hongyuan, into the vast City filled with flaws, disappointment, and hope, and “by the age of 30” he firmly stood up against society and its delusion that there was only 1 way to be and act, as represented by his EGO, Érli. He essentially became what the Elder could have been if they had not been broken, the “perfect man” by which life becomes realized and known, accepting the walks of life and flows of people, but only as long as they follow what their soul and heart tell them.

Fundamentally speaking, then, Kong Qiu has an enormous wellspring of kindness he has managed to perfectly control and manage thanks to the worldly wisdom he has gained. In Kabbalistic terms, this can be understood as Geburah tempering Chesed, or the justice and might of God controlling his kindness to allow the continued existence of creation. Needless to say, his violent but necessary confrontation against Hong Lu shows it the best, as there’s no better guide for the “eternal child” than the adult that experienced the worst of life.

And so, we finally arrive at Hong Lu’s final realization.

“So what if we can race against the wheels of death? If we are always running, we can’t behold the sceneries.”

The Elders and Hong Lu shared the fear of the meaningless represented by death and temporality. They ran and ran to not be hurt more than what they already were. They closed themselves into their respective lands of illusions, warding off the violent and bitter waters of life that dictate the flow of time itself, as Hubert wisely stated. But at the end, after witnessing what the Sinners and Kong Qiu have done for him, Hong Lu decided and exposed himself to the risk of failure, for life is teleology par excellence—seeking its own descent and end as the culmination of its existence.

But more importantly… Hong Lu understood the Elders were no different than him and everyone else from his family. They were much of a child as he was, that even his beloved grandmother was a “little girl” before the eyes of collective tradition and morality. So, instead of killing them in a fit of anger guided by his disappointment, he shared his kindness and love with Elders one final time before closing the doors of their self-created, interminable hell isolated from the world and its refreshing waters.

“Hoping that through my finder you’ll find another answer.”

Love is the creator of nature, its conqueror, and humanity is alienated from nature since its birth. But if his older brother and friends fought for and won him, who is to say the Elders can’t be saved? It may be meaningless, they surely won’t change, but he wants to give them that last mercy.

It may acquire diverse shapes and forms depending on their circumstances and necessities, yes, but Hong Lu knows very well how important it is to feel loved, independent of what people do, for that is what everyone yearns inside their hearts.

Post-Commentary

There’s not much to say here, really. I think the post already speaks for itself. At most, I think the ideas may be somewhat clunky and dispersed? The topic is really dense, so trying to summarize it like this feels lacking. The Divine Comedy certainly describes the same idea, though with harsher lenses (akin to Kong Qiu’s).

Outside of that, the only thing I can rescue is that my appreciation about Shi Miyin can potentially apply to Jia Huan at some level, thanks to Qiu’s comparison. I don’t think his usage of the “Contempt, Awe” EGO is just as simple as him being a “professional hater,” as we know the Spiral is just as susceptible to having its own pride broken and hating itself.

So, with that said, until the next post!

(please, someone steal my computer)

[timeslipcamp]

thoughts on episode 17

i've got my coffee i'm at work i am LOCKED IN reading this. i am SO READY for this love island episode yall have no idea

liveblogging as i read it let's go!! 🌹

spoilers for episode 17

so last we left off, sinostra was declaring war on hyde for the maybe maybe not fake warding card, and romeo had just told us that we didn't hear anything before the screen faded to black. we're getting INTO IT now!!!

benkei dropping secrets immediately is so fucking funny. staff shortages and confused that elias is working. so he might not be a janitor, great! great!!

(also first thought about the anomaly involved is its gonna be a shapeshifter or doppelganger type deal, which would be SO funny. not only do we have to date these dudes but now we have to figure out which ones the real one. how funny would that BE)

the fox escaping???? oh my god so it IS smart!!

god if i don't finally get some more background info this chapter i'm gonna scream.

THE PRODUCERS PICKED THESE GHOULS???? okay that makes a little i guess, because no one in their right minds would have picked this group. i still cannot believe the fucking line up we have this is so funny. also the fact that they had to BRIBE THEM

also the way the chancellor said "can you imagine" when he was telling us how much information worldwide they could get? why haven't they already? why are you holding it over our heads? why do we have to prove ourselves to be saved? god i hate the institute.

love/hate relationship with whatever this implies. definitely doing a deep dive into that later unless someone beats me to it

this dude is killing me hahahaha LOVE these designs. i'm already having a fucking blast with this episode and i haven't even seen a single ghoul yet. this might be my new fav episode

the lil fireworks animation was actually so cute. my girl deserves an island vacation let her relax. also love the aphrodite shoutout, this game looooves their greek mythology huh

the bachelors being described as irresistible and the creme de la creme is sending me through the ROOF thinking about who the line up is. does this mean that these 6 are the hottest canonically? or just the hottest according to KP? i want jiro's reaction to being chosen SO BAD

THEY CHANGED HIS HAIR???????? oh im not surviving this chapter i cant read this at work

"No way I'm letting those other guys anywhere near her. I'm in this for real."

YEAH I BET YOU ARE RUI

jiro please 😭 "I'm a doctor by day, model by night," actually made me choke while leaving this voicemail im fucking dying I CANT DO THIS "she seemed fine" IM CRYING

HARU AS A SINGLE FATHER STOP HAHAHA

jin not saying anything and ren is such a DICK god this is the best episode i don't even care about the plot anymore this is the best episode ive ever read

BIG FAN OF ENEMIES TO LOVERS???? MC PLEASE HAHAHAHA

not the chancellor bribing them all to be here bro 😭 what did they bribe jin with 👀

ren with the ocean lovers name....a surfer....from shonan....its all coming together

dude who am i even kidding i'm gonna end up in love with rui. these antics on the show are so funny. i am OBSESSED with the interviews i think we need these on regular missions too. jiro continues to be the funniest ghoul at this school

also ed just like??? describing his current life as his ideal one?? "I suppose I'd want to build a small cottage in the woods and live there quietly with my spouse. It might be nice to have a big dog, too. A loyal and obedient one."

like ed that is quite literally where you are now

A WOMAN IN WHITE?? LA LLORONA??? oh PLEASE give me a good woman in white haunting those tales are ALWAYS heartbreaking. (for those unaware, a 'woman in white' legend are urban legends that pop up quite literally all over the world in a hundred different forms. typically they're a woman, either in a wedding dress, a white dress, or funeral dress. they're women who died of heartbreak, suicide, etc and come back because their pain keeps them here. a lot of ones involve a lover either leaving them or dying, killing their children, the themes go on, but the vibe that i'm getting based on the blood and the wedding dress from this one is that she found love on the island that turned out to be a lie and now only those who prove their love is true can leave)

it being the old producer is so fun i'm so locked in lets go

also love that ed called haru the tamer...an interesting moniker i like it

this is so interesting listening to this group talk. we've got what, four third years, a super intelligent second, and a first year? so it's a pretty seasoned group. kinda makes me think ren's gonna pull a cool move at the end and prove he can match with them. this is such a fun group i'm so excited

FINALLY a couple more bits of info about the clash!! jiro woke up right before, frostheim was sympathizers, obscuary was neutral, and mortkranken was dissidents. love jins silence after jiro mentioned yuri still hates frostheim. UGH i need the jinyuri backstory soooo bad im gonna lose my mind when it happens

haru fucking dodging around the screen is so funny. they really didnt have to have his sprite zip around from side to side but they DID and i LOVE IT paintball is so funny thank god taiga isnt here

HOW DARE YOU FUCKING INTERRUPT THAT PART

darkwick planting the kyklos??? or darkwick has a secret in on a liminal space??? HELLO ED WHERE ON EARTH oh im so mad we were interrupted

shoutout to whoever posted about kisaragi station last week that was a fun thing to notice right before this episode lol

i am actually suddenly very on board that jin is aware he is being used and that's part of why he hasn't done anything this year. that would also be a huge reason for tohma, a former vagastrom ghoul, to transfer and then start investigating. he can play the good sympathizer flipper and use his new connections to find out what darkwick is up to. did darkwick send the kyklos there? do they have a mole in kisaragi station? does haku's vaguely implied teleporting powers allow him to see into liminal spaces? ugh i need to know. cool that they're bringing up barrier stuff given that the kyklos transported us somewhere

okay what the fuck is the vessel shit. rui what do you mean this vessel isnt worth it. why does ed want you? what??? god these episode cuts are going to drive me INSANE. "saving my life force for you" ed please

ren expertly avoided being on the beach though lmao good for him

top ten moment with the crabs and dr jiro god i love him

THE BRACELET TO PROTECT HER FROM EVIL EXPLODING WHEN ED TOUCHES HER HAHAHAHA IM FUCKING LOSING IT

funniest panel yet this episode. ed in the cuck chair in hotel rooms confirmed

ooo ed lore! romania technically has a part that borders the sea, and that's where a lot of "classic" vampire tales stem from. would love if they really went the vlad the impaler route or something, but he lived in the 15th century, so slightly too long ago. or not! ed only said older than 400, so if he's off by 200 years 😂

i'm loving ren and jiro interacting dude. never in a million years would i have paired them together but now i need them hanging out 24/7

dude rui really doesn't think he's ever going to leave the school, does he? his talk with haru was brief and he didn't say much but it just felt kinda...defeated. i don't think he thinks he'll ever be cured. rui baby :(

rui listens to BALLADS he would oh my god emo boy. also jiro asking jin if he wants to play piano :((( jiro baby pleaseITS ZENJIS BIRTHDAY???? oh im gonna throw up whyyyy

its a woman scooooooorned WOMAN IN WHITE LEGEND LIVES thats fucked up though fuck that guy. you can do better maya

"rugged guys" ed is so funny dude i can't do this

dude why did they give everyone these glamor shots and then haru is over here sweating and fighting for his life--

nvm im into it

ANOTHER REN STIGMA MOMENT he can use it to boil water??? okay so we've got ink removal and boiling water....can he like alter liquids somehow? control them?

ED IS ALLERGIC TO GARLIC HAHAHAHA

wait why was rens confession so cute 😭 dude thats the first nice thing AW REN yes we can keep hanging out!!! ren stans stay winning this episode

these are all so sweet lmao i love this episode so much dude it's so good. "i guess it's over now" rui stop making me CRY! jin...i hate to say that worked. im so annoyed lmao

NOT JIN INTERRUPTING THE CHOICE HAHAHA thats soooo funny. he's so dramatic dude. he didnt want to hear who we were picking

YURI CALLING JIRO TO CHECK ON HIM and us THATS HIS MANS

ooooo okay having someone from the institute undercover on the island with us 👀 hate that actually. jin didn't seem too happy about that either. was he there to watch us or the anomaly? what did he hear?

BENKEI WAS THE OLD CLEMENTIA ADVISOR?????

oh my god okay let me get my thoughts in order

okay first of all, the protection charm from benkei and then he's from clementia is fascinating. makes sense why he and nicolas are friends now. nice that they were able to find him a job after but i STILL dont trust elias. at all lmao especially with what benny said earlier.

this anomaly got solved annoyingly quickly but i do love that jin let it drag out thats funny as hell. this was such a funny episode. got a few clash hints and a zenji mention and a small reveal at the end. lot super lore heavy but thats FINE i guess. mc still has two months, hopefully we make some headway with her next mission.

hotarubi and a festival! here we come!

[respectfulrebel]

You can’t just keep creating the best Noahs out there and making me fall in love with all of them 😭😭😭

This chapter truly had everything and made me go from 😳🫠 to 😤🤬 to 🥺🥰 and I’m gonna spam you with my favourite lines now cause you asked for it 😅

He slowly put his hands under your t-shirt, teasing your skin and testing if you'll let him. He moved them up your sides until he reached your breasts and took them both in his hands. You disconnected your lips and took a deep breath, not expecting this kind of touch. In your office. With an unlocked door. Oh god.

ALREADY???? Okayyyy 🫠🫠🫠 fucking hot btw

"By the way, you're dirty too." he winked at you and left your office.

🤭🤭🤭

"Because I want to introduce her to her future daughter in law."

Aww 🥺

"Did you just compare me to a dog?" he laughed but mimicked her actions and let his eyes read over the menu.

🤭 he is kinda like a puppy tbf

You felt Noah's hand move your hair on the side where you didn't hold your phone to your ear and soon his hand was replaced with his lips.

🫠 little tease

"Are you crazy?" you turned around in your chair to face Noah who was smiling back at you.

"You liked it." he knew you did.

🤭🤭🤭🤭

"Okay. But can I still kiss you?" he was teasing you at this point.

Why is he so cute 🥺

"Okay minions, get ready, the tour starts in 5 minutes!" you heard Noah's voice and after a few more steps you saw him standing next to the ladder.

He will be such a good dad 😭😭😭

You noticed a balloon in the shape of a firetruck around him and your eyes followed the string only to find out that Noah had it tied around his belt.

I saw that picture you posted of the balloon a while ago and I knew it was related to this but now I know the context and that’s so cute 😭

Half an hour later Noah slid down the big pole and you heard all of the tiny voices go "Woow!" from the hole that connected the main floor with the first floor.

Now I wanna see that too 🫠

And your heart was melting at that sight. Seeing Noah in his uniform with a small kid sitting in his lap was something you didn't expect to see today.

Omg 🥹

"Plans. With. Who?" he made dramatic pauses between each word.

I love how playful he issssssss 😭😭😭

"Will you be mad if I sleep with one of them?" you had to laugh at her face when she saw the group of big men sitting around one big table. "Not hotshot of course."

That whole scene gave major romcom vibes and I love it 😂🤭

"I can't let you sit here by yourself, kitten."

Eww get lost 😤

"So, we're gonna leave now. If you want to get her a drink so badly I'm sure you won't mind paying for their tab."

We love a protective boy 🥰

"Noah." he heard the uncertainty in your voice and dropped to his knees. Your eyes shot open, "What are you doing?"

"Begging." he chuckled back at you.

"Get up."

"No."

"Noah."

"Tess."

Fray boy Noah has some serious competition 😩 God, why is he so perfect 😭

Your hands grazed the skin of his thighs and your lips kissed the soft skin of his tummy. You wanted to tease him longer, but your need to touch him was stronger.

🫠🫠🫠

You heard him take a sharp breath and mumble something like "Fucking tease." when you kissed the skin between his jaw and ear. Found it.

Aahajsjshhajdjs I love theeeeeem 😭

"Please what baby?" Please me, you wanted to say but wasn't bold enough.

"Go lower." you whispered and he laughed at your sudden shyness.

"Come on, don't tell me you're shy. Say it."

"I'm gonna make you say it."

He’s a menace 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠

"You can give me one more. Come on, pretty girl, I know you can."

The way he calls her pretty girl 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠 I think that’s my favourite nickname ever 10/10

The slow movements of his fingers combined with his wet tongue made you see stars. Almost literally, because the approaching orgasm got you squeezing your eyes so hard you were sure you saw little sparks behind your eyelids.

"Fuck, I don't have any condoms."

"Are you kidding me?"

Uh-oh 🫢

"Promise you'll pull out."

TESS!!! I get it though… 🤭

Noah sat back on his knees, stroking his own dick, but his eyes were on you. You kept holding eye contact while you were both getting yourself off.

HOT

"You're so fucking hot. I'm never letting you go."

🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 you better!

"I want to date you officially. I'm gonna tell the guys and the captain. If you want to, of course."

He didn't expect to end your first night together like this, but he was exhausted from the terrible nightmare that he let you hold him until he fell asleep again.

Ohhh babyyy 🥺😭

"For fucks sake." he mumbled, still between your thigs. He kissed your clit for the last time before he pulled his t-shirt back on and before he was out of the door he said "Gonna finish this later."

For fucks sake indeed 🤭

Dating a firefighter comes with lots of stress, especially if you're also part of the department. You know what can happen and that no tomorrow is promised when he's at work.

That stressed me out so much 😭

You made him promise to wake you up every time before he leaves, you spend a few minutes cuddling or have a quick coffee together before he leaves. You've seen way too many wives crying over their husbands, hating themself for "I didn't tell him I love you this morning." and you didn't want to risk anything.

Noo stooooooppp 😭😭😭😭 that’s so saddd 😭

"Grab an oxygen mask and follow lieutenant Smith, you're needed inside."

"Sir I'm not trained for going inside of the building." you started to feel panic, searching the crowd for your captain, but he must've been fighting the fire alongside his men.

NOOOOO WTF????? 😡😡😡😡😡 surely that’s not following protocol, she’s not fucking trained, he’s risking her life??????? What kind of a captain is he???? 🤬

Once he kicked the door open everything happened so fast. You saw two little boys in the corner of the room, holding hands and hugging each other. Their eyes were full of fear and hope at the same time. Before you had a chance to reach out your hands the roof collapsed and you saw black.

Nooooooooo 😭😭😭😭

Noah's heart stopped for a second. What did he mean inside? There's no way he would send you inside of a building that's on fire.

Our boy’s about to go ballistic

"I don't know Sebastian, calm down. Don't make a scene." your captain told him. He understood he was worried, but for the sake of both of your jobs he tried to calm him down.

"Don't make a scene? Are you fucking kidding me?" he yelled again, louder this time.

I’m sorry, I know he’s scared and pissed but like… why am I even more attracted to him when he goes all protective and angry? 😭

He couldn't bear the thought of something happening to you, not right now when he finally started to feel happy.

🥺🥺🥺🥺

"Where's the incident commander?" "Noah don't be stupid." Nick knew Noah well, he knew he was about to beat the shit out of that guy.

As he should 🫢

"I'm not letting this go, I'll file a complaint against you." and with that Noah turned around and stormed away.

👏 👏👏👏

"Are you mad?" he asked, you already told him many times that you were not mad, but it seems like he has a hard time believing you.

"Why would I be mad at my boyfriend for standing up for me?" when you said it like that he finally cracked a smile and looked less worried.

I imagine him being like “🥺👉🏻👈🏻 are you mad?”

Ughhhhh I love them so muuuuchh 😭😭😭

It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside to see them love each other and care about each other 🥺🥺

THE FIRE WITHIN

chapter 3 (series masterlist)

Pairing: firefighter Noah x female reader

reader has a name (Theresa Monroe, but the story is written in 'your' POV)

Warnings: 18+ MDNI! / sexual content (oral both receiving, unprotected sex) / flashbacks of tragic call / reader geting hurt on call / verbal harassment / nightmares / sex at work / I think that's it, let me know if there's anything else!

Words: 10,8k

Author's note: Treat this one nicely please, I feel like it's my baby, one of my favorite things I've written si far❤️‍🩹 let me know your opinion, I love getting feedback from you!

Be aware you're reading this at your own decision, it contains sensitive topics, so please think twice before reading as I wouldn't want to cause anyone any discomfort while reading my work!

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Noah’s hands explored your body, gripping and squeezing you once in a while. You liked the feeling of his hands on you. Your hands were in his hair and you could swear you heard him moan a few times when you tugged at it.

He slowly put his hands under your t-shirt, teasing your skin and testing if you’ll let him. He moved them up your sides until he reached your breasts and took them both in his hands. You disconnected your lips and took a deep breath, not expecting this kind of touch. In your office. With an unlocked door. Oh god.

“Wait, Noah. We can’t.” you whispered into his open mouth.

“Why not?” he put on his best pout.

“We are in my office, anyone could walk in any minute.” you sat straight on his lap and removed his hands from under your t-shirt, “Plus, you’re dirty.” you pointed to his face and laughed.

“Okay you’re right.” you knew were.

He stole one more kiss before you stood up and put your clothes back in place. Noah collected his jacket and went for the door. “By the way, you’re dirty too.” he winked at you and left your office.

You quickly moved to take your phone from your bag and opened your front camera. You couldn’t help but smile when you saw the slightest amount of grey on your face. Your fingers wiped it off and then you swiped them over your lips. You could still feel the butterflies in your stomach. Noah is going to be trouble.

—

“My mom is coming to town for lunch, do you wanna come?”

You read Noah’s text as you sat down behind your desk at station 19.

“Why would I come to have lunch with your mom?”

“Because I want to introduce her to her future daughter in law.”

“Smooth Noah, real smooth.”

You laughed at his flirtatious message. You got used to it at this point. Since the day he came to your office and you both let yourself go you couldn’t stop texting each other. You have not been back to station 25 since that, so you were glad he couldn’t see your smiles and red cheeks from his obvious flirting.

“I’m serious.”

“Of course you are. And I’m working.”

“Okay, I’m just gonna tell her about you then.”

You locked your phone and put it in the bottom drawer, because otherwise you’d spent the next 8 hours texting with the handsome firefighter instead of doing your job.

—

“Hi mom.” Noah greeted his mom with a smile on his face and kissed her cheek.

“Hi Noah. Dad is sorry he couldn’t come today, work.” she apologized on behalf of his father.

“It’s okay.” he shrugged his shoulders. “How are you?”

“Good. Work has been busy lately but at least I’m not bored. Your dad is still a pain in the ass and we are thinking about getting a dog.”

“A dog?”

“Yeah. I miss you, so I thought of getting a dog.” she said and looked over the menu.

“Did you just compare me to a dog?” he laughed but mimicked her actions and let his eyes read over the menu.

“You know what I mean! It’s either a dog or you could give me grandchildren.” she winked at him over the paper in front of her face.

“Sure mom, dog sounds great.” he chuckled to himself. He knew what messages he sent you earlier, but he also knew his mom and what would happen if he told her about you. She wouldn’t leave the town until Noah would take her to your place and introduce you. Which was not happening yet, he still has to charm you until he introduces you to his parents.

“How is your work? Everything okay?” his mom asked him when they finished their meals.

“Yeah, the usual.” Noah lied. He didn’t tell her about that call and his mental state since that day. She was a good mom and she would be worried. She knew his job was dangerous, but he always told her about medical calls or small fires so she wouldn’t be scared.

“Will you come visit us any time soon? You know, stay for the weekend. Dad could use your help in the garden.” and his first thought was about you coming with him. It scared him how much he wanted you, but he could picture you and your mom getting along. He’s crazy, he doesn’t even know you that well.

“I promise I’ll visit you and dad soon okay?”

—

You had plenty of time to think about you and Noah over the next few days and you came up with some rules. It was Tuesday today, so your plan was to present them to him and leave no room for discussion.

You were in the middle of a call with your boss when the door to your office flew open and you saw Noah.

You put your finger on your lips to make sure he stays silent. He slowly closed the door behind him and with a few long steps he was behind your chair.

You felt him tower over you and his hands by your sides.

“Yes, I had a call with John and he agreed.” you continued talking with your boss.

You felt Noah’s hand move your hair on the side where you didn’t hold your phone to your ear and soon his hand was replaced with his lips.

“Sorry, what did you say?” you got lost in the feeling of Noah’s lips on your neck and didn’t hear a word the person on the other side of the line told you.

You felt Noah’s lips turn into a smirk. He expected you to push him away, but you didn’t. You enjoyed it.

“I’ll make sure to send you the papers by the end of your week. Thank you. Bye.” you quickly finished your call and threw your phone on the table.

“Are you crazy?” you turned around in your chair to face Noah who was smiling back at you.

“You liked it.” he knew you did.

He leaned down and put his hands on the handles of your chair. Your faces were close and you could smell his cologne.

“Listen Noah, I thought about this,” you pointed your finger at him and then back at you, “and maybe we should make some rules for this to work.”

“What rules?”

“Let’s not rush things. This is nice, I like it. I like spending time with you when I’m here, but we don’t really know each other yet. Let’s take things slowly, please.” you looked up at him.

“If you’re talking about what I texted you about my mom the other day, that was just a joke.” he panicked, thinking he scared you off with a stupid joke.

“No it’s not because of those texts.” you laughed at his panicked face. “I mean in general.”

“Okay. But can I still kiss you?” he was teasing you at this point.

“Noah!” you playfully smacked his arm.

“No, I agree. Let’s not rush anything.” he leaned down to kiss your forehead. “I have to go. Will you be there for the Open day on Friday?”

“Yeah, but I also have to be at 19. I think I’ll come here around lunch time.”

“Great. Bye.”

“Safe shift!” you called after him but doubted he heard you.

Throughout the rest of your day you got a few messages from Noah, but it seemed like a busy day for station 25. They had many calls and even when you left at 5PM they were out.

—

The next day you saw the final version of a schedule for the Open day. Open day is held once a year at a few stations. The public can come and see the station, trucks and other fire equipment. Firefighters have various activities ready for the kids that are usually the most excited to come and see their work.

You’ll be spending your morning at station 19 where they asked you to speak about your job for the public. You’ve never done that so you were nervous about all the attention you’re going to get. You changed your speech too many times that you decided to write down just simple points and talk from your heart.

After you’re done you’re going to station 25 where you don’t have exactly a slot for speech, but you want to be there to answer questions and talk with people that are interested in your job. And maybe because you really want to see Noah too.

The crew of station 25 made their own schedule which was pretty obvious when you read each time stamp and the activity. They wanted to have fun and hid it behind “There will be kids!”

10:00 - start

11:00 - introduction and short introduction of the fire department’s work

11:30 - fire safety talk

12:00 - break

12:30 - station tour

13:30 - intervention and equipment demonstration

14:30 - fire truck ride along

15:00 - Q&A with the crew

Noah’s name was written beside the station tour and fire truck ride along. Of course he chose the fun stuff.

“When are you coming to the station on Friday?”

Speaking of the devil… the devil sent you a message.

“I think I’ll be there in time for your tour.”

“So you’ve seen the schedule. What do you think?”

“That I’m very interested in your guide skills.”

“You’re gonna love it.”

Of course you will. He’s like fish in the pond when it comes to fire stuff and you’re sure his tour will be educational and fun.

—

“Overall the goal of our Crisis intervention team is to help not just fire fighters, but also to those affected by the fires and to everyone who lost their property or their closed ones on a call. It's a very important part of the fire department and I’m glad that our team is getting bigger and bigger.” you closed your notes as you were saying the last few words to the crowd. “But we’re still understaffed. If any of you are interested in being part of the Crisis intervention team don’t be afraid to reach out. Thank you for your attention everyone.”

After you finished speaking there was an applause for you. The whole speech thing went much better than you thought and now you were ready to enjoy the rest of the day with others.

“Are you leaving already?” an older lieutenant approached you as you were packing your things.

“Yeah, I promised I’d stop by at 25 too.”

“Shame, there will be fireworks later, they won’t have that.” he winked at you and gave you a fatherly hug before saying his goodbye to you.

When you were in your car you checked your phone to see it was 12:05 and you noticed a new message from Noah.

“I’ll be sad if you won’t make it in time:(“

“I’ll be there in 20.” you replied and started the car.

There seemed to be more kids than adults at 25. They were running around the trucks, staring at them with their wide eyes.

“Okay minions, get ready, the tour starts in 5 minutes!” you heard Noah’s voice and after a few more steps you saw him standing next to the ladder.

“Minions?” you asked him with a laugh.

“They won’t stop running around and they’re small, like minions.” he shrugged his shoulders. You noticed a balloon in the shape of a firetruck around him and your eyes followed the string only to find out that Noah had it tied around his belt. “Oh that’s just an accessory to keep their attention.” he said when he saw you looking at it. Right, obviously.

“You’re full of surprises lieutenant.” you said with an amused smile. He just winked at you and started walking in the direction of very excited kids.

“Before we start - don’t touch anything and don’t push any buttons, understood?” they all nodded their heads at him. Nick joined Noah and they started walking in the direction of administrational wing of the station.

You were very tempted to follow them too, but you’d be the only one above the age of 8. You decided to wait down with everyone else and join them when they go see the fun stuff.

Half an hour later Noah slid down the big pole and you heard all of the tiny voices go “Woow!” from the hole that connected the main floor with the first floor. Second later they all come running down to meet Noah by the pole. Nick had one boy sit on his shoulders and Noah’s balloon was tied around a little girl's ponytail.

“That was so cool!”

“You were so quick!”

“You must be so strong!”

“Can I try it?”

The kids were talking at once, jumping around from excitement. That’s when you noticed one of the kids, a brown haired boy in jeans and long sleeved t-shirt, standing behind all of the kids. He didn’t jump around like everyone else and didn’t ask any questions.

“Hi, I’m Tess. Can I join you for the rest of the tour?” you stood next to the little boy and asked him. He just nodded his head and gave you a small smile.

You followed Noah and Nick around like if you were at the station for the first time. They were telling jokes, making fun of each other and keeping the kids entertained. But your attention was on the boy beside you. He didn’t laugh much and looked very sad. His hands kept playing with the hem of his t-shirt so you offered to hold his hand and he accepted.

“Do you like it here?” you asked him when Noah and Nick told the group about the trucks.

“Yes.” his voice was low and he kept avoiding your gaze.

“What did you like the most?”

“The pole.” he finally sounded more excited. You learned that his name is Tom.

“It’s really cool, isn’t it? Do you want to be a firefighter when you grow up?”

“I don’t know yet.” he shrugged his shoulders.

“That’s okay, you have plenty of time.” you squeezed his hand.

“Now you can all see the inside of the truck, but remember what I said - don’t touch anything, okay?” Noah said and made a serious face. Bad for him the kids only laughed at him and sprinted inside the car.

“Do you want to go inside Tom?” you crouched down to his level and he just nodded his head no. He was shy, not like the other kids.

“Hey buddy, do you need help getting in?” Noah crouched down next to you and reached his hand out towards Tom. He looked at you and you gave him an encouraging smile. It took a while before he put his much smaller hand in Noah’s.

You continued to watch the two of them from afar. Noah made sure that Tom tried all of the different seats and patiently answered the few questions Tom asked him.

And your heart was melting at that sight. Seeing Noah in his uniform with a small kid sitting in his lap was something you didn’t expect to see today.

Tom along with the other kids ran off to get some snacks and you had a minute to talk with Noah alone.

“He reminds me of myself.” he said.

“I wouldn't have guessed you as the shy kid.”

“I was. I outgrew it, obviously, but I was like him.” the idea of little Noah made you pout and give him sad eyes.

“Don’t tell me you’re gonna cry.”

“I’m just very emotional and I pictured you playing with your toys all alone. Yeah I might start crying now.”

Noah laughed at your reaction and your glassy eyes. “Let’s have a snack, snacks always make me feel better.” he dragged you to the food area where you joined his group of minions.

—

For the rest of the day you hang out with Nick and Noah, watching the others do the demonstrations and talk more about fire safety.

The truck ride along was probably the kids favorite thing. You were happy to see Tom with a big smile when the truck stopped in front of the station. He was sitting right next to Noah and they both waved at you with matching smiles.

By the time the Q&A part was coming to an end some of the kids were falling asleep, the energy drained from their small bodies.

Some of them didn’t want to leave and had to be dragged away by their parents.

After everyone left and the doors were rolled back down you looked around and saw a bunch of tired firefighters.

“Looks like the minions drained all of your energy.” you joked and helped Noah with cleaning up.

“They were little devils.” he laughed.

“But they enjoyed it.”

After the station was cleaned everyone went to do their own thing, some of the guys hit the gym and others went to take a much needed nap.

And Noah sneaked away to your office.

You sat in his lap on your couch and your hands were around his neck.

“Are you gonna join us at the bar tomorrow?” his nose gently traced your jaw, planting a kiss here and there.

“I already have plans, sorry.”

“Plans?” he pulled away and looked suspiciously at you.

“Plans.” you confirmed.

“With who?”

“Do you think I don’t have any other friends than guys from work?” you faked being offended.

“Plans. With. Who?” he made dramatic pauses between each word.

“With my friend. Are you jealous?”

“That you’re gonna spend Saturday night with her and not me? Hell yeah.”

“Then it’s a good thing we’re going for drinks at Joe’s bar.” you whispered and leaned down to meet his lips for a kiss. You felt the corners of his mouth lift up when he realized that at least he can stare at you from a distance.

You rested your head on his chest and he let out a long yawn.

“You should go take a nap.” you said.

“Can I take one here?”

“I’m leaving in 15 minutes Noah.” you were met with puppy eyes and a sad face. “See you tomorrow.” you kissed his pout away before he left your office.

—

“So you’re telling me that group of sexy firefighters will be there?” your friend asked you with shock.

“Mhm.” you agreed and filled her glass with wine. She came to your place for pre drinks.

“And why didn’t you tell me sooner? I would have worn something different!” she sighed and looked at herself in the mirror.

“You look fine! It’s a bar, not a fancy club.” you laughed when she tried to push her boobs more in the view. You checked yourself in the mirror too.

This time you chose to wear blue loose jeans and a tight tank top with leather jacket over it. You curled your hair this time and did your go to makeup.

“So that also means I’ll get to see Mr. Hotshot tonight?”

“Yes, Noah will be there.” you sipped on your wine and thought about the message Noah sent you earlier. “Can’t wait to see you tonight, pretty girl.”

“You wanna fuck him so bad.” your friend turned around to face you, because she just caught you smiling for yourself after mentioning his name.

“Shut up!” you threw a tissue box at her to stop her from talking more.

You took a cab to the bar and just like the last time when you entered, the smell of beer and sweat hit you. You scanned the area and saw the guys already there. Noah sat with his back to the door so he didn’t notice you yet.

You two found a table with your name written on a piece of paper and sat down.

“Will you be mad if I sleep with one of them?” you had to laugh at her face when she saw the group of big men sitting around one big table. “Not hotshot of course.”

“Go for it I guess.” your answer seemed to satisfy her and she kept her eyes fixed on them.

After the bartender brought you two glasses of wine you felt someone watching you. You looked around and found Noah’s eyes looking at you. You smiled at him and he smiled back at you.

“Come hang out with us.” your phone buzzed with a new message from him.

“It’s a girls night.”

“Your friend is stripping Jolly with her eyes.”

You laughed at his message, but it was true. She chose her prize after five minutes after you two sat down.

“Maybe later.”

And with that you placed your phone down on the table, sign for Noah that the conversation is over for now.

“So is he single?”

“Can you take your eyes off of him for a few minutes and give your attention to me?” she rolled her eyes and unwillingly took her eyes off of Jolly.

“He’s just very handsome. And tall. And muscular.”

“He also looks like your ex.”

“Not fair.” she crossed her arms and made an angry face at you.

After a while she finally stopped talking about Jolly and updated you on her life. She was trying to find a new specialty, because couples therapy was boring, that’s what she said. She told you about the new apartment she’s thinking about moving into and about her family drama.

It was nice hanging out with her. You haven’t seen each other in a while so you had a lot to catch up on. You appreciated the female energy after spending time at work mainly with men.

“I’m gonna use the bathroom, I’ll be right back.” she excused herself and left you by yourself.

You unlocked your phone and sent a text to your mom who sent you pictures of her new garden plants. You must have gotten lost in your thoughts because you didn’t expect your friend to be back that quick. You heard someone sit down opposite to you so you put your phone away.

“That was qu-” you didn’t finish your sentence because that was in fact not your friend sitting on the other side of the table.

“Hi kitten. What can I get you?” a man in late 50s with a long beard and bald head was now facing you.

“I’m here with a friend actually.” you gave him a polite smile and hoped he’d take the hint and leave.

“You mean that girl?” you turned your head in the direction he was pointing to and saw your friend sitting next to Jolly. Amazing.

“She’ll come back soon.”

“I can’t let you sit here by yourself, kitten.” you turned your head back to where she was, too occupied with listening to whatever Jolly was saying. You looked where Noah was sitting, where he should be sitting. But you found an empty chair.

“So maybe after I buy you a drink we can leave on my bike together?” you looked back at the man and made a disgusted face.

Meanwhile your friend was lost in Jolly’s eyes and Noah was playing darts with others. When he glanced back to their table he saw your friend sitting there and looked for you. When he didn’t see you there he didn’t think much of it, you were probably using the bathroom or getting yourself another drink.

“Yes!” he cheered when the machine played that silly tone and ‘VICTORY’ was written on the top.

“I’m never playing with you again.” Nick just shook his head and started walking in the direction of the bar to order round for everyone, because he lost.

When Noah returned to the table you still weren’t there.

“Hi, did Tessa already left?” he asked your friend.

“Oh shit, Tessa!” she panicked and looked over to the table where she was sitting with you. When she started talking with Jolly she thought you’ll see her and come over, but then she completely forgot about you.

Both her and Noah saw you still sitting at the table, but not alone. There was an older man with you. Noah didn’t know how to feel, he wanted to go there and interrupt you, but what if you liked the man and he would just make a fool of himself.

“I'm so stupid, god I need to go there and save her. She’s gonna kill me.” your friend stood up, but Noah was quick and took her forearm and told her to stay there.

“Is there a problem?” Noah approached the table and looked at you.

But before you could speak up the man was quicker “No, we're just talking.”

“Are you?” Noah continued to talk to you. He saw the fear in your eyes and your head shaking ‘no’ just confirmed what he thought.

“So, we’re gonna leave now. If you want to get her a drink so badly I’m sure you won’t mind paying for their tab.” Noah took your hand in his and helped you stand up. He gave that man an ironic smile and led you away.

“Are you okay?” he asked you.

“I’m gonna kill her.” you quickened your pace, but his grip on your hand stopped you.

“Hey, are you okay?” he asked you again and looked at your face. He wanted to hug you, kiss your forehead and tell you he won’t let anyone close to you again so badly, but he knew he couldn’t.

“Yes. Thank you.” you squeezed his hand, the only thing you could do in front of everyone. “But I’m still gonna kill her.”

After your friend apologized like a hundred times and bought you two rounds of shots you swore you would forgive her. But your girl's night was gone when you saw her and Jolly.

“Do you think they’re gonna sleep together?” you asked Noah after you sat down next to him.

“Yep. And it’s either gonna be in the bathroom stall or in his car.”

“What?” you turned to face him with a shocked face.

“He doesn’t take girls home, Jolly is not a man of relationship.” he laughed at your reaction.

You continued watching those two, making jokes about what they could be talking about until they started making out.

“Gross.” you turned your back at them and faced Noah. You looked closely at him, inspecting every part of his face.

“You look nice today.” you complimented him. He was wearing black jeans with black t-shirt and grey overshirt.

“You look beautiful today.” he returned your compliment back and enjoyed watching you blush. His eyes left your face when something behind you caught his attention, “There we go.”

He motioned for you to look too. You saw Jolly and your friend walking in the direction of the bathroom, she was giggling like a schoolgirl.

“Oh god.” you just shook your head.

“Do you want me to take you home?” Noah asked.

“I guess so.” you shrugged your shoulders and looked around the table. Half of the guys already left too and your friend for sure won’t be leaving with you tonight.

“Let’s go.” Noah led you out of the bar, his strong grip on your hand making sure he doesn’t lose you.

When you were outside Noah led you around the corner and before you could ask him where you were going his lips were on yours.

Your hand immediately went to his hair, playing with his soft locks.

“Let me take you to my place.” the words slipped out of Noah’s mouth between kisses.

“Noah.” he heard the uncertainty in your voice and dropped to his knees. Your eyes shot open, “What are you doing?”

“Begging.” he chuckled back at you.

“Get up.”

“No.”

“Noah.”

“Tess.”

You stayed silent and looked down at him. The street lights brought out his facial features and his almond eyes kept looking up at you. You never knew that you’d find a man at your mercy hot.

You leaned down and grabbed his face in your hands and kissed him a few times before you said “Okay.”

He only smiled from the happiness and reached into his back pocket to call a cab for you both.

—

Noah unlocked his door without breaking the heavy making out and once you were inside of his apartment he closed the door and turned you around so your back was against the wooden material.

It was like after you said yes to him, something in Noah woke up and he couldn’t keep his hands off of you.

His hands were everywhere, grabbing your neck, tugging at your hair or squeezing your ass.

Once you got out of the cab and realized where you were going you decided that you’re not going to hold back too.

You slid your hands down his solid chest until you touched the cold material of his belt. Without needing his help you managed to open in and after one messy kiss you pulled away and slid down against the door.

His jeans were down to his ankles and his underwear followed just seconds after. His dick was hard, swollen and already leaking a precum.

You looked up at him and when he saw you from this angle he had to hold himself from not cuming just from looking at you.

Your hands grazed the skin of his thighs and your lips kissed the soft skin of his tummy. You wanted to tease him longer, but your need to touch him was stronger. Your fingers grabbed his hard member and stroked him a few times. That simple movement had Noah going crazy. He imagined how your hand and mouth would feel around him, but the real thing was so much better. He leaned his forehead against the door and kept looking down at you.

When you took him in your mouth you felt his thigh muscles twitch under your hand. You kept switching between sucking and licking long stripes around his throbbing cock. His eyes were closed as he was enjoying the wet warm feeling your mouth provided.

“So good, you’re doing so good Tess.” he muttered through closed teeth.

His hands gripped your hair, gently, as he guided you in the pace he liked. The second you took him deep enough and his tip touched the back of your throat, he knew he had to stop you before he exploded right there in your mouth.

His strong arms reached down and pulled you up. He didn’t give you even a second to react and grabbed your chin to open your mouth so he could slide his tongue inside. When you didn’t protest his hands slid under your ass and he lifted you up in his arms.

“Wait, wouldn’t like to fall with you.” he chuckled as he pulled away from your face to navigate his way through his own apartment.

You took that as a chance to cherish the skin of his neck. You used your tongue and teeth, searching the most sensitive spot to suck on.

You heard him take a sharp breath and mumble something like “Fucking tease.” when you kissed the skin between his jaw and ear. Found it. You made sure to apply the right amount of pressure to get a deep moan out of him. Before you could do more damage to his neck he laid you down on his bed. He stood still by the edge of it and caressed the skin of your knees.

You dragged your feet from his thigh to under his t-shirt. While doing that your eyes never left his.

“Didn’t know you’re such a tease.” he stopped you from moving your feet higher and pulled it out from under his t-shirt. He brought it to his lips and gave you a few kisses before he said “But two can play this game baby.” with a smirk.

He pulled off his t-shirt and you saw his tattooed body for the first time. As he hovered above you you let your eyes shamelessly linger over his chest.

He took his sweet time taking your clothes off, leaving teasing touches everywhere.

He left open mouth kisses on your neck, your moans and whimpers were music to his ears.

He sucked on the soft skin of your breasts and left wet circles around your nipples before he captured one of them in his mouth. He teased it with his tongue, sucking hard but gentle at the same time.

He felt your hips move under him and your hands trying to push him lower on your body, but he remained strong and kept giving his attention to your nipples.

“Noahh.” you moaned his name, but he heard the unspoken “please” in your voice.

“Yeah?” he lifted his head from your chest, smirking at you. Bastard.

“Please.”

“Please what baby?” Please me, you wanted to say but wasn’t bold enough.

“Go lower.” you whispered and he laughed at your sudden shyness.

“Come on, don't tell me you’re shy. Say it.”

“No.”

“Say that you want me to eat your pussy.”

“Noah!” you smacked his chest. “You’re making fun of me, that’s not fair.” you knew he wasn’t really making fun of you.

“I’m gonna make you say it.” he whispered and leaned down to kiss you. Meanwhile his left hand made its way between your legs. He teased the skin of your inner thighs, dragging his fingers painfully slowly, but avoided your core.

His lips left yours and he started kissing you down your neck, between your breasts and followed lower and lower. He was facing your wet pussy and had to hold himself from diving straight in.

He started kissing your lower tummy, your thighs, hip bones and his hands were laying over your waist to keep you from moving your hips.

“Noah please.” you moaned again, wanting to feel his tongue on you.

“Say it.” he repeated again. You didn’t fight back this time, instead you collected all of your courage to let those dirty words out of your angel mouth.

“Eat me out Noah.” it was barely a whisper, but it was all Noah needed to dive in without giving you any warning.

He collected all of your juices with his tongue, feeling pleasure from finally tasting you. Your hands gripped the white sheets that were under you and your mouth was left open. It felt so good.

You dared to look at him between your thighs, almost cuming from the view. His hair was a mess and his eyes closed as he was enjoying it as much as you did.

His tongue worked in skilled motions, licking you from your entrance all the way to your clit where he sucked on it before toying with it with his tongue. You enjoy every lick with closed eyes. He was changing different paces, but when he felt your legs starting to shake around his shoulders he knew you were close and kept the steady rhythm of sucking your clit.

When you came on his tongue, you squeezed him with your legs and your back arched from the mattress.

“Fuck Noah!” you couldn’t help but almost screamed his name, because he made you feel that good.

He kept licking your sensitive pussy even when you tried to push him away.

“Noah.” it was something between a moan and a plea.

“You can give me one more. Come on, pretty girl, I know you can.”

And maybe it was his words of encouragement or the gentle flicks of his tongue that got you back into the bliss that Noah’s mouth on you was.

This time he used his fingers, first to slide them over your center to get them covered in your wetness before he slowly pushed one of them into you.

You couldn’t form any words, your brain fogged with the pleasure he was giving you. He started moving his finger in and out and used his tongue on your clit at the same time.

When he felt your walls squeeze his single finger he decided to add another one and you were sure you saw heaven.

The slow movements of his fingers combined with his wet tongue made you see stars. Almost literally, because the approaching orgasm got you squeezing your eyes so hard you were sure you saw little sparks behind your eyelids.

It took one adjustment of Noah’s fingers, moving them in and out in a different angle and your second orgasm took over you. Noah kept finger fucking you through the aftershocks and kissed the skin on your tummy. When he was sure he got you through the full ride, he kissed his way back to your face.

“Hey.” he said and stroked his fingers over your cheek.

“Hi.” you whispered and pulled him down by his chin.

His saliva was mixed with your juices, making you groan against his lips when you tasted his mouth.

You felt his dick twitch against your tummy and wanted more. You stroked him few times before he said “Fuck, I don’t have any condoms.”

“Are you kidding me?”

“I don’t bring girls over.” you could see a genuine panic on his face. “Do you have one?”

“No, I don’t usually let guys take me to their place.”

Great, at least you both knew that neither of you were fucking new people every week.

“Are you on the pill?” he asked, his voice full of hope.

“No.”

“Fuck.” he groaned and his head fell on your shoulder.

You knew what you’re going to say was very very risky, but you were sure you both wanted it to happen so badly.

“Promise you’ll pull out.”

“What?” his head shot up from your shoulder. “Are you serious?” his face was a mixture of happiness and confusion, because he didn’t believe you’re really going to let him do it.

“Just promise you won’t cum inside.”

“I swear I won’t.”

“Okay.”

“Okay.” you both kept looking at each other for a moment, before you pulled him down for a messy and sloppy kiss.

You felt Noah’s precum on your skin and reached out to line him at your entrance. Before he slid in he looked at you just to make sure you’re okay with it.

When you said “Fuck me Noah.” he fully slid inside you, your wet and warm pussy swallowing him fully.

“Fuck Tessa, you feel so fucking good.” he groaned into your ear and as a reaction your walls squeezed around him.

“You’re so tight.” he didn’t move yet, he enjoyed the feeling of you wrapped around him.

You were the first one to move your hips and since then it was a mess. Noah’s thrusts were messy and his breathing uneven.

His bedroom was filled with moans and the sounds of skin on skin. You felt every single one of his movements and it felt too good.

“I’m not gonna last long like this.” his words were silenced by your skin, but you knew you were close too.

“Then cum Noah.” you whispered in his ear and before he pulled out you slid your hand between your still connected bodies to rub circles on your clit.

Noah sat back on his knees, stroking his own dick, but his eyes were on you. You kept holding eye contact while you were both getting yourself off.

The sounds that Noah made when you felt the warm liquid on your body were ethereal. He lost control of his eyes and they shut closed, his head fell backward and his abs were twitching.

The warm feeling of his orgasm was the last thing you needed to push you over the edge and you enjoyed the third orgasm of the night.

Noah collapsed next to you and said “Give me a minute, I’ll clean you up.”

You just hummed in response and when you saw him lying on his back with his mouth open, you couldn’t help yourself and put your fingers in his mouth. The ones that were rubbing your clit just a minute ago.

He groaned when he tasted you again, cleaning all of your digits with his tongue.

“You’re so fucking hot. I’m never letting you go.” he kissed you on the lips before he got up and went for a towel.

—

Once you were both cleaned up, showered and after a late night snack, you laid back in Noah’s bed.

He gave you his underwear and t-shirt. The clothes smelled like him, just like the sheets of his bedding.

“I was serious.” he pulled you into his side after he found a comfortable position for himself.

“What do you mean?” you rested your hands on his chest and put your head on them, giving yourself better access to look at him.

“About not letting you go.” his hand slid in your hair and you closed your eyes at the comfort of his fingers sliding along your scalp. “I want to date you officially. I’m gonna tell the guys and the captain. If you want to, of course.”

You opened your eyes and caught him staring at you. You couldn’t see properly under the dim lights, but you could swear you saw pink on his cheeks.

“I’d like to date you officially too lieutenant.” you saw his lips turn into the biggest smile, your own following right after.

You crawled up his body and straddled his lap. “It’s official then, you’re my girlfriend.” he whispered against your lips.

“And you’re my boyfriend.” you felt like a teenager who just got asked by her crush to be his girlfriend, but you liked it. You felt like he was worth the chance to risk the mix between work and love.

“But don’t call me lieutenant again or we’re gonna have to deal with something else.” so that’s how you found out that he likes to be called lieutenant in bed.

“Yeah about that, can we buy an after pill tomorrow? Just to be sure.” you turned your voice to a serious tone.

—

It took you a while to fall asleep, the excitement making it harder. Noah didn’t let go of you, so you fell asleep cuddled together.

You felt safe in his arms. His breath tickled at the back of your neck in steady breaths. Until they were not steady at all.

You woke up before him from the tightening grip on your body. His breaths were quick and uneven, his body was shaking and he was mumbling something you couldn’t understand.

His nightmares, you remembered.

You tried to wake him up, shaking his body gently and calling out his name, but nothing happened.

He was still tossing around, his brows furrowed and his hair became wet from the sweat.

“Noah please, wake up.” you begged him, but you were sure he couldn’t hear you.

You didn’t know what to do, how to help him.

You raised your voice, scared that the neighbours might hear you, but you had to.

You took his arms and tried to stop him from moving around and kept repeating his name over and over, each time louder than before.

Finally, his eyes shot open and he took a deep breath in. He sat up and looked around the room.

“You’re okay.” you calmed your voice, not sure if touching him immediately was the right thing to do.

His eyes finally softened when he realized he’s in his bed and with you. His head hung low and his chest was still going up and down. He wasn’t ashamed that you witnessed it, but he was scared it might scare you off.

“Can I touch you?” you asked and he just nodded his head.

You slowly laid him down on your chest and put the covers over both of you.

“Do you want to talk about it?” you asked and caressed his head.

“No.” firm and straight answer.

“Okay.” you thought before saying the next sentence, “I know you don’t want to hear it, but I have to say it. Not as the department’s therapist, but as someone who you let this close. You need to talk about it Noah. I can give you John’s number, because I’m sure you know that from now on I can’t handle your therapy. If you’re not gonna do it for yourself, do it for me, please.”

Silence took over the room and Noah thought about your words. He knew you were right, he just didn’t want to go back to that call. Not voluntarily.

“Okay.” he whispered into the dark, but it was enough for you, for now.

He didn’t expect to end your first night together like this, but he was exhausted from the terrible nightmare that he let you hold him until he fell asleep again.

—

“I just told the guys.” your phone buzzed with a new message from Noah.

“And how did it go?”

“As expected, they don’t really give a fuck.”

“On my way to tell the captain now.”

You bit your lip after reading that. You just got an email that said you are officially permanent at station 25. You were really hoping to get stationed at a different station so it would be easier for you and Noah.

You were anxiously looking at your phone, waiting for Noah’s next message. You were sure that the captain of 25 knew the news too and you really wanted to tell Noah yourself. Too late for that.

Instead of another message your phone lit up with an incoming call from Noah.

“Hi.” you said quietly after picking the phone.

“When did you plan on telling me?”

“Noah I got the email 30 minutes ago, I wanted to tell you when I see you.”

“So you let me go and tell the captain that we’re dating when you knew he knew and I didn’t?”

“I’m sorry I panicked.” there was a silence from Noah’s side. “I’m really sorry.”

“Well you’re lucky the captain said it’s not a problem if it doesn’t affect our work and that I’m happy I’ll be seeing you more often.”

“I’m pretty happy about that too.”

“So when are you starting?”

“On Monday.”

—

Monday came quicker than you thought. You spent the whole weekend at Noah’s place and thanks to his shift being on Monday too, he gave you a ride to work.

“I could get used to this.” you said when he leaned over the center console to give you a kiss before you left the car.

You parted your ways and you went straight for your new office. Now that it was permanently yours you thought about doing some changes.

Before you could think about what colored frames you’re going to buy there was a knock on your door.

“Come in.” you yelled.

“Hi.” Nick came in and gave you one of his smiles.

“Hey. Do you need anything?”

“No, I just came here to give you a warm welcome. We’re lucky to have you.” he pulled you in a hug and you were suddenly really happy that you got assigned to station 25.

“Thank you.”

“So, you and Noah?” he pulled away and wiggled his eyebrows at you.

They were long time friends and even though he liked you, he wanted to be sure that you’re not going to break Noah’s heart and make work hell for both of you.

—

The rest of the week went smoothly, there were only two calls with B shift that you had to be part of. Otherwise your first week as a member of the station 25 crew went great.

You spent some of the nights at Noah’s place, others at your place by yourself. You were in the honeymoon stage so you wanted to be together 24/7, but also agreed that it’s only healthy to spend some time apart.

You and Noah sneaked around the station like teenage kids, thinking that no one could see you, but they all did.

“Noah, we're gonna get caught.” you told him as he yanked you by your hand to the closest storage of extra fire equipment.

“Not if you’re gonna be quiet.” he whispered, leaning down to kiss you.

His lips started to feel like home and comfort, especially after you haven’t spent a few days together. You wanted nothing more than to take him home and hide under the covers. But his 24 hour shift only started.

“I miss you.” his lips were now kissing under your ear, sending shivers down your body when he whispered those sweet words to you.

“I miss you too.” you closed your eyes and gave him more space while leaning your head back. He was very quick to learn all of your sensitive spots.

“Tomorrow at my place?”

“Mhm.” you agreed just with a nod and brought his lips to yours.

You let your hands wander on his body, solid and soft at the same time. You took his t-shirt off to have a better access to his soft skin.

His hands went for your belt, he was determined to make the most out of the moment of privacy you had.

You let him pull them down along with your panties and reached out to lock the door.

He dropped to his knees and lifted your leg over his bare shoulder. He didn’t waste time with kisses and bites to your soft skin like he always does, he’s going to take his sweet time with you tomorrow.

“Oh Noah.” you had to put your own hand on your mouth to silence your moans. His tongue was on your clit and his arms were wrapped around legs to steady you.

Before your hand could tug at his hair, sirens started blaring through the station.

“For fucks sake.” he mumbled, still between your thigs. He kissed your clit for the last time before he pulled his t-shirt back on and before he was out of the door he said “Gonna finish this later.”

You managed to wipe his chin that was covered in you and then the door closed behind him. You pulled your clothes back on and when you were sure everyone was gone you opened the storage door and ran back to your office.

—

You were part of 25 for 3 weeks now and it was probably the best part of your career so far. You have never been part of any station, it was always the main administration building with no on call firefighters.

You enjoyed the new atmosphere, the adrenalin and the laughs that came with working here daily.

Noah has been amazing and sometimes you thought the reality was too good to be true. You two were going on dates or spent your time cuddled at home, but everything seemed to be fun when Noah was with you.

You had your morning ritual for days when Noah left earlier than you for work or on weekends when you were not working. Dating a firefighter comes with lots of stress, especially if you’re also part of the department. You know what can happen and that no tomorrow is promised when he’s at work.

He hated it when you started doing it, but when you told him your reasons, he let you. You made him promise to wake you up every time before he leaves, you spend a few minutes cuddling or have a quick coffee together before he leaves. You’ve seen way too many wives crying over their husbands, hating themself for “I didn’t tell him I love you this morning.” and you didn’t want to risk anything.

Neither of you have said I love you yet, but you were sure for some time now that you do love him. You were just building up the courage to tell him.

—

You were in the middle of a conference call when the station’s alarms started blaring through the building.

“Structure fire at orphanage at Guardian road. Children and staff inside. Crisis Intervention Team requested. Respond immediately. Structure fire at orphanage at Guardian road. Children and staff inside. Crisis Intervention Team requested. Respond immediately.”

When you heard the mention of the crisis intervention team you logged out of the call and ran down.

The guys were already jumping in their gears and starting the trucks. You grabbed the fireproof jacket and pants that were mandatory for you to wear on calls with “MONROE” written on its back.

You followed Dean, who was working with you today, and sat beside him in the engine truck.

You scanned the crew on board and didn’t see Noah there, he was in the ladder then.

Your captain rode with you and gave you more instructions as you were on the way to the scene.

"Some of the staff and kids are already out. Station 35 is already on scene, and Captain of 35 is in charge. Follow his instructions. The priority is to get the rest of the individuals out and extinguish the fire. Tessa and Dean, you’re assigned to work with Station 35 on those who have already been evacuated. Copy that?"

All of you yelled “copy” back at him and you heard muffled voices over the radio from your other truck. At the scene you quickly jumped out of the cars and everyone got to work. Noah was extinguishing the fire from outside alongside a few others and the crew from 35. Nick ran into the building as a head of evac. Your attention was on the small group of kids and two women. They were being treated by the medical team and you approached to help. You were treating small injuries and engaged in conversation with those poor kids. Most of them were crying from feeling scared and from losing the little belongings they had inside that building. You were trying to calm them down, even if they wanted a hug or a kiss to their forehead, you didn’t mind doing that. All of them went through a lot at this young age and seeing a place they called home on fire was hard for them. More kids and staff were evacuated from the building by Nick and his crew. “There’s two more, but they don’t want to leave their room.” you heard behind your back. “Grab someone from the crisis intervention team and get them out.” the captain of 35 barked back. “No one is trained for that sir.” one of the firefighters told him. “Monroe, come here!” the captain called your name. “Yes sir?” “Grab an oxygen mask and follow lieutenant Smith, you’re needed inside.” “Sir I’m not trained for going inside of the building.” you started to feel panic, searching the crowd for your captain, but he must’ve been fighting the fire alongside his men. “We have to save lives and if they don’t want to come out, we have to get to them. Grab a mask and go!” he yelled in your face. You didn’t have any support, because around you were just firefighters from 35 and they didn’t know you really were not trained to run inside. “Sir with all respect I can’t go th-” “You either get inside and save those kids or you don’t have a job tomorrow.” what an asshole. One of the firefighters helped you with the oxygen mask and helmet and motioned for you to follow him. You looked around the chaotic place and saw guys from your crew, hoping they'd notice where you were going and stop it, but neither of them would’ve thought it was you under the oxygen mask.

“They’re on the first floor.” Smith told you over the radio ran upstairs and you followed him. It was your first time seeing fire from this side. You were always standing outside, watching from a safe distance. When you reached the closed doors Smith pointed at them, signaling for you to do your job. “Can anyone hear me?” you yelled. “Yes!” two little voices called back from the other side of the door. “Can you open the door?” “No!” they yelled back. “Okay, stand back so when we kick the door open it won’t hit you okay?” “Okay!” you nodded to Smith that he can use his strength to open the door, because you were no help for that. Once he kicked the door open everything happened so fast. You saw two little boys in the corner of the room, holding hands and hugging each other. Their eyes were full of fear and hope at the same time. Before you had a chance to reach out your hands the roof collapsed and you saw black. You couldn’t open your eyes and your breathing became more difficult. You could hear the boys crying and Smith saying “Two men down, I repeat two men down! Two civilians with us!” before you blacked out completely.

After that another group of firefighters ran inside to save the four of you. One of them grabbed the two boys and ran back up, another one helped Smith to stand up and leave. Then you felt your body being lifted and you knew you were safe. Hopefully without any injuries too.

“Is that Tess?” Nick yelled to his captain when he saw your body being laid on the ground and your oxygen mask taken off. “What the fuck was she doing inside?” he quickly ran to you, leaving Nick behind.

At that point Noah started looking for you at the medical tent, worried when he didn’t see you there. “Hey, have you seen Monroe?” he asked one of the helping firefighters. “Cap sent her inside.” Noah’s heart stopped for a second. What did he mean inside? There’s no way he would send you inside of a building that’s on fire.

He quickly ran back to the scene and saw your captain kneeling next to you. He forgot about all the promises that your relationship won’t affect your work and his boyfriend's mood kicked in. “Why the fuck was she inside?” he yelled when he hovered over your body. “I don’t know Sebastian, calm down. Don’t make a scene.” your captain told him. He understood he was worried, but for the sake of both of your jobs he tried to calm him down. “Don’t make a scene? Are you fucking kidding me?” he yelled again, louder this time. He dropped to his knees next to you and grabbed your head in his hands. Someone already put an oxygen mask on your face and checked your breathing. “It’s probably just smoke inhalation Noah.” And the captain was probably right, but Noah was still pissed. “Come on wake up Tess.” he begged you, “Please wake up.” After what he has been through he didn’t care if it was just a smoke inhalation, he hated seeing you like this. He couldn’t bear the thought of something happening to you, not right now when he finally started to feel happy. “Baby please.” he leaned down to kiss your motionless face. “Please.” he cried into your hair.

Noah’s face and his wet cheeks were the first thing you saw when you finally gained consciousness. “Noah.” you whispered and lifted your hand to wipe his tears. “Oh thank god!” he pulled you in a hug and didn’t want to let go. Ever. “Let’s hand her over to the paramedics, Sebastian.” the captain said, happy to see you conscious too. Noah lifted you in his arms and carried you over to the ambulance. He couldn’t drive with you to the hospital where they decided to take you for a check up. “I’m gonna pick you up okay?” he gave you one last kiss before he jumped out of the back door and closed them. “Is she gonna be okay?” Nick asked, his voice full of worry. “Yeah, they said she passed out from the smoke inhalation. They’re gonna keep her overnight though.” before Nick could say he’s sorry Noah continued “Where’s the incident commander?” “Noah don’t be stupid.” Nick knew Noah well, he knew he was about to beat the shit out of that guy. “Do you know where he is?” Noah repeated his question and when Nick didn’t give him an answer he went to look for him himself.

“Captain Wilson!” Noah yelled when he spotted the man he was looking for. “Yes?” “Do you think it’s okay to send untrained staff inside a building that’s on a fucking fire?” Noah raised his voice. “Stand back lieutenant.” Wilson warned Noah. “You should stand back if that’s how you treat your people. She’s not trained to be a firefighter and she got hurt because you sent her inside!” he pointed his finger to the older man. “It was an accident.” that man didn’t seem like it bothered him at all. “An accident?” Noah closed the gap between them and was now standing chest to chest with him. “Noah.” he felt hand on his arm pulling him away. “I know you want to beat his ass, but he’s not worth it.” Jolly said in a low voice so only Noah could hear him. Noah kept staring at that man and with every breath he took he felt the anger inside him grow bigger. “I’m not letting this go, I’ll file a complaint against you.” and with that Noah turned around and stormed away.

—

“I’m glad you’re feeling better Tessa.” your captain told you after you sat down in one of the chairs in his office. Noah did the same beside you. “Thank you cap.”

You were released after 12 hours from the hospital and Noah took it as his own mission to keep an eye on you. He took you to his place and laid you down in his bed. You were happy when he let you use the bathroom by yourself and you had to beg him not to take a day off from his next shift. Your body was a bit bruised from the frames that fell on you, but other than that you felt fine. You were not back at work, you still had a few days for full recovery, but today you two were called to the captain's office.

“Your complaint was accepted and is currently under review. Someone will contact you for your testimony next week.” “Okay sir.” “Now, let’s talk about why I called you both here.” he shifted in his chair, visibly uncomfortable about the topic he wanted to discuss. “I don’t mean any of this in a bad way, but what happened after that incident can’t happen again. You can’t threaten an incident commander Noah, he outranks you.” “But it was his fault.” Noah protested. “It was, I agree with you. Someone from my crew has been hurt because of his orders and I hate that more than anyone. But your reaction was wrong.”

The fact was that both you and Noah knew it. He confessed what he did, because you didn’t believe him when he said he did nothing. He was a terrible liar, he was looking everywhere but in your eyes and kept fiddling with his fingers.

“I apologize.” Noah mumbled and avoided any eye contact. “I’m not gonna punish you for it, but I just wanted you both to hear it from me. Things like this can’t happen okay? Keep your feelings at home and work like colleagues. Let’s avoid any trouble, because I like you both and I don’t want to lose any of you just because you can’t control yourself. Human resources are not happy about you two, so please, try not to mess this up for all of us.” he didn’t leave any space for a discussion and dismissed both of you.

Noah walked you to your car that was parked in front of the station. “Are you mad?” he asked, you already told him many times that you were not mad, but it seems like he has a hard time believing you. “Why would I be mad at my boyfriend for standing up for me?” when you said it like that he finally cracked a smile and looked less worried. “See you tomorrow?” he leaned down to kiss you before he had to go back inside. “Yeah, mine or yours?” “I’ll drive to yours if that’s okay?” “Of course it is.”

You gave him a few more kisses, on his forehead, nose, cheeks and lips. Something that always made him smile. He waited until you backed out of the parking space and you saw him standing there in your rearview mirror until you turned right. You knew what Noah did was wrong, but you still appreciated the gesture of standing up for you when you couldn’t do it for yourself.

You drove yourself to your place, ready to spend the next few days in bed until you’re allowed to go back to work.

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

This story is a work of fiction, with the plot and characters entirely made up. The appearance and name of the main male character are inspired by Noah Sebastian Davis, but the storyline bears no connection to the real person. Please do not steal or repost this work on other platforms without permission.

@lacy1986 @concretejunglefm @super-btstrash-posts @amelia-acero @justcarrie @koskeepsake @dominuslunae @ami--gami @follow-me-down-to-wonderland @iloveyoutodeathbutimdrowning

@chey-h @xmads-omensx @blade-dressed-in-red @respectfulrebel @alwaysfightforwhoyouare @mrscevans @blvckmvgicwoman @punkprincess1999 @fear-its-beauty @bloody-spades @n0n3xsisting @thenmaybehellaintsobadafterall @athenexe @tashka @badomensls @fadingintothegrey @concrtlimits @whatismylifexox @theanarchymuse95 @renegadebirch

If you want to be on my taglist click here

[ultimatecharbeefan]

Hello, I'm here for your TFPReverse au (again)

So, hear me out.

Since we are swapping both sides completely mech-chuman, I thought ABT Agent Fowler as a mech that could appear later in the plot, just like Magnus or Smokescreen. As a member of the cause of the anti-rebellion in their civil war, he can be one of the commanders, that found his way to Earth following the MECH signal and found three of his lost soldiers by the bye. Maybe his ship got destroyed, so he needs to stay longer and can't take sparklings into space again.

I remember liking the development of Fowler in the series, where he changes from the cold, distanced agent of the government to a part of the family. So I think here he would be just as earnest at the beginning, maybe even more.

He appeared after finally the children had been accepted and had found their way around the things, they tag along with each other pretty well and know how to live in the shadows, generally they know how to do their thing. And then the high command shows up, not trusting anyone besides himself. Maybe he even thinks children were brainwashed by the humans. He'd want to reorganise everything and put some restrictions to mobilise children into fighting the enemy. They are in the middle of the war after all.

And here comes the conflict of two soldiers, two commanders of the team. Optimus will NOT let anyone mess with his fine-working team, especially he won't sacrifice the young mechs to a complete stranger that doesn't know shit about his planet. On the other hand Fowler will NOT listen to an organic, that doesn't have a war over his head, happens to live in peaceful time and doesn't have to worry about loosing his life from the hand of the enemy every single minute. For Fowler, Optimus and his kind live way too shortly to know anything about the war, not to mention HIS war. He's a commander way longer than the human kind exists, more, he is a commander way longer than any of the children exist. They were already forged during the war, just from the mere purpose of serving the cause, they don't know what they are fighting for. That'll make Fawler feel like he's the only one that knows the weight of the situation, like he's the only competent here. He was supposed to lead this war to an end, not babysit his soldiers.

But... These soldiers are still children, if they were living in the times of peace, from the memories he keeps so close to his spark, they would be having the time of their lives right now, spending it playing in crystal gardens and learning about the propaganda of their long gone government. It'll take a some time and fighting (with and against each other) and a long ass talk with humans for Fowler to loose a bit. He'll finally be willing to cooperate with humans and not push the sparklings too hard. On the other hand, Optimus will have a fuller picture of what they are fighting, the deep shit they are now all part of. But with a new-old mech willing to slow down and actually teach the young how to fight, they may actually have a chance to win.

Sorry it's so long again, got carried away a bit.

- lober 🦞

You, keep talking. You have the biggest brain, lober.

It would take a VERY long time to get Fowler to get along with the autobots and the kids in general. When he learns that the leader of M.E.C.H is on Earth and they have a chance to end this war by killing him, Fowler immediately trains the kids hardcore to get them ready to fight back. After all, they were forged during the war. Their frames were made for them to fight.

This contrasts deeply with Optimus and his team who want the kids to enjoy their lives and have fun while they can before it’s taken from them. They have their conflicts with the Decepticons but it’s not as dire as the kids and Fowler with M.E.C.H. Because of this Fowler at first sees them as a nuisance.

Fowler has lost the reason why the war and the revolution started on Cybertron. It was for the chance to have the younger generation group up with a better life than he did but with how long the war had been going on and all he lost, he loses that point and just wishes to be done with it. That’s why it’s hard for him to see the kids as kids instead of just soldiers. Which the autobots help him see, after a lot of arguments and time.

I really do want to write a fic about this au on my ao3, I just need time to flesh the idea out more and the world. Also my friend asked me about June in this au and let’s just say I have plans with her and Jack specifically. Don’t worry about it :)

[themusicsweetly]

We're officially at the last ever Outlander readthrough 🥺😭

[elliewithcellie]

Girl, Interrupted

summary: Eddie crashes by your home when you least expected, but everything happens for a reason, right?

wc: 1.8k

cw: PURE SMUT (MDNI 18+), basically no plot, friends to fwb?, oral (f receiving), Eddie is a tease, fairly bold reader lol, fingering, talk of p in v sex, hair pulling, orgasms idk let me know what else

a/n: my bestie bought me slutty pajamas for my birthday, and since I'm a hypothetical whore, this has been on my mind nonstop. Finally took a break from my spn series to write this down. This is the filthiest thing I've written to date but definitely short and sweet

Eddie’s jaw fell slack as the door opened before him. He knew he shouldn’t have shown up to your place uninvited. Sure, you were his best friend, and of course, you had said he could come over whenever, but that never truly meant unannounced. He was already kicking himself for showing up as late as he did when you opened the door.

Your oh so short pajama shorts were the first thing that caught his eye, how your thighs spilled out beneath them, the cotton begging for relief. His eyes trailed higher to your tank top one size too small. The hem rested just above your midriff, the outline of your hips more prominent than he had ever seen. Your face was flush, pinks and reds lining your cheeks. He fought the urge to pinch himself, scared that he was dreaming, scared that he’d wake up to the absence of you and very real feelings emerging.

“Eddie? What are you doing here?” you asked, your arms crossing over your chest. “I thought you had a date.”

Date, what date? Eddie’s mind was going numb. His brain was flatlining at the mere sight of you, more exposed to him than he’d ever seen you. Fight or flight kicked in, debating on whether to say something or just turn around and leave. He was almost sure he was not supposed to see you in this state.

“I—uhh—it didn’t go well, so I cut it short. But I know you love the place, so I figured I’d bring over the leftovers.”

“Oh, sweet. Thank you.”

Eddie hesitated, scared to ask, but his interest piqued. “Is someone—you’re alone right now, right?”

Your eyebrows pinched together. You exhaled a dry laugh. “Please, I’m always alone. Come in. Tell me about your date.”

You ushered Eddie inside and settled into your couch. You pulled a blanket over you, and Eddie released a sigh. He couldn’t believe the hold you suddenly had on him. It was like he was in high school again, ready to combust at the sight of a shoulder. At least with your legs covered, he was less inclined to think about spreading them.

“Was it really that bad?” you asked, drawing Eddie from his thoughts.

“She was just so boring,” Eddie complained. “Like, there’s nothing wrong with her, but it was like we were from different planets! She didn’t know Metallica! How am I supposed to bond with someone when there’s nothing to relate to?”

“Did you think of showing her?”

“Showing her what?”

“Metallica!” you laughed. “Wouldn’t that be kind of romantic, you know, to introduce that to her? Maybe tell her you’re in a band? It’d be like showing her a whole new world. And maybe you’d get a groupie out of it.”

Eddie swatted at the air. “It’s not worth it. We were both bored. And it was clear she wasn’t looking to rock with a guitarist.”

“Oh, I highly doubt that.”

“You didn’t meet her. She’s pristine, a Chrissy Cunningham type. Meant to be with a lawyer or some shit.”

You leaned in closer to Eddie, your blanket sliding down your thighs. “Those are the girls who fantasize about guys like you the most. Those girls on the straight and narrow, the ones who seemed destined to be sweet stay-at-home moms or perfect career women, those are the ones who dream of just one night doing something they never thought they could. Something so wild that when they’re taking their kids to soccer practice, or their ‘perfect husband’ is asleep on the recliner while they're doing the dishes, they can think back to that wild night when they fucked a rockstar.”

Eddie’s lip trembled as chills coursed through his body. You leaned back against the couch and shrugged like what you said was nothing. You had to be on something, he decided. Never had you been so frank when the topic of sex came up. Your face was still flushed with color, and you couldn’t seem to find a comfortable position on the couch, shifting yourself from one side to the other to no specific rhythm. Heat radiated off of you, though you weren’t known to be the furnace between the two of you. Something struck Eddie as so foreign but so familiar as he took you in.

“Would you fuck a rockstar?” Eddie found himself saying.

Heat rose to your cheeks. “Do I seem like one of those straight-and-narrow girls to you?”

“That’s not what I asked,” Eddie said, a newfound confidence overtaking him. “You came up with that way too fast to act like you don’t think of it, too. So, would you fuck a rockstar?”

You bit your lip and shifted in your seat. You huffed into the couch. “Wouldn’t anyone?”

“Why so shy all of a sudden?” Eddie asked, egging you on. “You’ve been squirming since I got here, sweetheart. Is something on your mind?”

Your eyes trailed from his eyes to his lips, then back to his eyes. “Tonight is not the night to ask me that.”

“Why is that?” Eddie chuckled. “Were you in the middle of something? Was something left unfinished when I so rudely interrupted? And now all you can think about is the ache between your legs?”

You shuddered at his words. “Eddie,” you said, your voice shaking.

“I could help you.” Eddie leaned closer, his words almost a whisper. “Because I may not be a rockstar, but I’m sure I could give you the night of your life.”

Your breath hitched in your throat. “Don’t tease me. It’s not funny.”

“No one’s laughing.” Eddie pulled the blanket back, his hands resting on your thighs. Your legs slightly opened on instinct. “What kind of friend would I be, huh? If I didn’t at least offer?”

Eddie didn’t know where this bravado came from, but he didn’t care. All he knew was the longer you looked at him like that, the harder he got.

You grabbed him by his shirt and forced his lips on yours. Nothing soft or sweet came from your lips. You were needy and desperate, clinging to him like he was the air in your lungs.

The urgency shocked Eddie, but he quickly found your rhythm. He smirked against your lips as he pulled his jacket off. His hands snaked from your thighs to your hips to your ass, lifting you onto his lap. You groaned into his mouth as he rolled you against him.

He was sure he was dreaming now. Only there did he ever picture you above him, grinding your hips into his. Only there did he imagine you moaning from his touch. But never were his dreams this vivid, this real, this fucking good.

He pulled you from him and pushed you back onto the couch. You whined at the loss of contact. He’d never seen your eyes so dark, so lustful, so hungry for him.

He slid down to the floor onto his knees and pulled you to the edge of the couch. “You still want my help, sweetheart?”

You nodded emphatically.

“I need to hear you, baby. Say it.”

“Please help me, Eddie. I need you. Please.”

“Atta girl.”

You lifted yourself up as Eddie pulled your shorts down your legs. Eddie’s cock jumped at the sight of you. He bit his lip to maintain what little composure he had left.

“Aww, your poor little pussy’s just as needy as you, isn’t she?” He spread your knees apart, the cold metal on his fingers sending chills up your spine. The throbbing between your legs only intensified, a small whimper escaping your lips.

Eddie couldn’t wait any longer. There was no time for teasing, no time to explore. You needed him, and he was going to deliver.

He dove into your aching pussy like a man starved. You jumped at the contact, your hands flying to his hair. His tongue worked overtime, kitten-licking your clit before diving in for more.

“You taste so good, sweetheart,” he said, smiling against you. You moaned in response, grabbing a fistful of his hair and pulling him closer.

Your sounds turned him on even more, searching for his own release as he rubbed himself against the couch. His mind was in a daze, in utter disbelief that anyone could look so perfect for him with your legs spread and your back arched. Your chest rose and fell to the rhythm of his tongue, and your lips formed a perfect ‘o’. Oh, how Eddie wanted to feel your lips around his cock. How you’d sink down on him, your perfect innocent mouth being completely sinful just for him.

He placed a finger at your entrance and pumped in and out, his thumb now circling your clit. Your head fell back. “God, yes, Eddie. Just like that.”

“I need you to do something for me, baby,” Eddie said as he added a second finger.

“Wha—what’s that?” you asked, breathless.

“I need you to tell me what you think of when you get off. Tell me what you were thinking of before I showed up at your door.”

“I—I oh god,” you shouted as Eddie’s lips found your clit. “I—I thought about you on your fucking date.”

“Oh fuck,” Eddie groaned into your pussy, the vibrations shooting up your spine.

“I pictured you fucking her from behind, her skirt hiked up to her hips, her panties to the side as you fucked her in front of the bathroom mirror.”

“Fucking C—Christ,” Eddie stuttered, his hips rutting into the couch faster. “Keep going.”

“Then it was me you were fucking. You grabbed me by the hair, so I could watch what you were doing to me,” you said, your voice shaking with every word. “Eddie, please. I’m close. Please.”

“Come on, baby. You can do it. Tell me what I was doing to you.” He was past dreaming at this point. He was sure this was heaven. Hearing your words had him reeling. He didn’t want to stop, didn't know how to stop. He just knew he needed to see you come.

Your lip trembled. “Your hands were all over me, playing with my tits, your lips on my neck, and—and your big cock pounding into me over and oh-ver and—and Fuck! Eddie, don’t stop! Please, please, please!”

Your orgasm crashed down on you, expletives and Eddie’s name on your lips. Eddie continued to pump his fingers in and out of you like a madman as he lapped up your cum.

“Oh god, oh fuck!” he moaned against you.

You pushed his head off of you and caught your breath. Eddie took a breath, too, leaning back against his heels. You pulled him back up to you and kissed him, tasting yourself on your lips.

“That… was so hot,” Eddie said, releasing a breath.

“Can it be my turn to help you?” you asked, looking up at him through your eyelashes.

Eddie’s cheeks rouged slightly, his eyes trailing to the growing wet spot on his jeans. “I had a turn already,” he said, guilt painting his words. He leaned in toward you, a devilish smirk joining his features. “But I’m not done with you. Not yet.”

[whre4wanda]

Mine

*Mature content*

Biting, marking, strap-on, mommy kink, choking, oral, praising kink, Wanda being jealous.

Summary- you accompany your mother to the country club house, only to meet an interesting woman.

I don't really have a clue about tennis so bare with me here.

(y/m/n) - your mother's name

Milf Wanda is amazing! And thank you for so much positive feedback on my previous fic!

Your pov:

"Mom do I really have to go with you?" You ask, voice filled with annoyance as you follow the woman up the stairs.

"Yes you do. Now go pack your bags. I don't want to hear another word of this. We are going and that is final." You let out a defeated sigh, and walked up to your room. Your mother insisted, well more like forced you to accompany her to the country club to play some tennis because apparently you had been inside the house far too long this summer.

You were a good tennis player, that's for sure but being around so many snobbish, older people just wasn't how you wanted to spend your day. Especially with your mother's nagging voice ringing in your ear, constantly murmuring how you weren't playing perfectly. Nonetheless you began to get ready because you weren't in the mood for another scolding from the older woman. You put on your clothes, a pair of shoes, picked some essentials before placing them in your gym bag, and lastly, you grabbed your racket and a few tennis balls.

"Alright, let's go!" Your mom yelled from downstairs and you groaned. You rushed downstairs before grabbing your water bottle then walking towards the car.

"Trust me kid, I'd rather be at work than go to that country club." Your dad murmured softly from behind you and you only chuckled.

_

You stepped out of the car before your mom walked behind you, a grumble of annoyance escaping her lips.

"I told you, no short skirts, are you trying to show your ass to everyone? Christ what will people think?!" You rolled your eyes but you had a sly smirk painted across your face. Perhaps you'd find someone interesting here.

Your family walked into the Westview Country club, being stopped by a couple of your mother's closest friends. Your dad had already wandered off to the buffet and you were left awkwardly standing in the center of the large room.

You sighed, annoyance already bubbling up deep within you. You decided to make your way outside to the courts instead of just standing alone in the room. You were bored and beyond frustrated that your mother had pulled you away from the comfort of your room and forced you to come here. You walked past a few people you knew, smiling at those who even offered a glance your way. The rest of them just passed you without a word or just gave you a scowl. Well isn't everyone in this place just a ray of sunshine.

Minutes later and you were starting to get pissed. Your mother was nowhere to be found and your dad was surrounded by a bunch of other men talking about sports or the young girls they had been sleeping around with. Ew.

As you made your way to an empty court, you got hit by a tennis ball on your head.

"Ouch! What the fuck man?" You grabbed the ball before turning around, ready to scold whoever had hit you with the ball. You knew it wasn't intentional but you just wanted to let your frustrations out.

"Oh, I'm so sorry sweetheart, a friend and I were playing and turns out my aim wasn't right." A blonde woman apologized with a sincere smile on her face. You weren't even paying attention to her apology because you were so mesmerized by her features. This woman was sculpted by aphrodite herself. The woman had short blonde hair, gorgeous green eyes, plump pink lips, manicured finger nails that could probably ruin you...

"Oh um no it's okay." You cleared your throat in embarrassment before letting a chuckle fall past your lips. The blonde just smiled at you before she tilted her head.

"Do I know you? You just look so familiar?" She asked, now placing her racket in her other hand.

"Oh no. I don't think so. My mother is actually the one who comes here often and-"

"Y/n, there you are." Your mom came in, interrupting the conversation you were having with this mysterious woman.

"Oh. I see you've met Wanda Maximoff." Your mom murmured and it was then that you remembered the infamous woman your mother did not like. At all.

Wanda, on the other hand now realized why you looked so familiar. You practically had your mother's face if it wasn't for the difference in eye color and well because you were younger.

Back to you, you still wondered how your mother could hate such a beautiful woman. Then again, your mother hated everyone. Your eyes ran over the woman's features before they landed on those gorgeous green eyes that were looking right at you before they turned to your mother.

"Hello y/m/n." Wanda said, her voice sounding as equally pissed as your mom's. The blonde woman averted her eyes to you, smiling at you before your mom began talking.

"We should catch up! Have some tea some time." Your mom said and you fought the urge to scoff.

"Of course, that would be great, I really should get back to my game though." The blonde spoke and you were a little upset that you wouldn't have time to talk to her anymore.

"Well y/n here is a great player herself. Maybe she can play against you." You turned to your mom with a scowl plastered on your face. Of course your mom would do this. Yes, you wanted to talk to the blonde but you didn't want to embarrass yourself in front of her.

"Sure, I wouldn't mind that at all."She smiled and winked at you. You blushed a little before your mother nudged you to walk over to the court she was playing at.

You and Wanda began walking in an awkward filled silence until the blonde woman spoke up.

"Your mother. Very interesting woman isn't she? " She said and you laughed a little.

"Yeah, one could say that. But I'd like to think we're different."

"How so?" She asked and you just shrugged.

"I don't know, I just guess we're not the same." Wanda nodded and watched as you walked in front of her, your skirt riding up from your movements.

"Sorry Agnes, do you mind if I play with someone else right now?" Wanda asked and the woman named Agnes just agreed before walking off the courts.

"No problem hun, I should catch up with Ralph and make sure he isn't up to anything stupid." She  joked before turning to you.

"Hiya hot stuff, what's your name?"

"Y/n." You said with a shy smile and Agnes chuckled.

"Well aren't you a cutie. Anyways you two enjoy your game. And take it easy on her Wanda." Agnes said with a pointed look making her friend roll her eyes.

"I should warn you, I'm not the best player." You said with a shrug of your shoulders which made the blonde woman smile.

"Neither am I sweetheart, but we'll see what happens yeah?" Wanda said as she bent down to pick a ball up.

You watched as she bent down. You fought the urge to stare at her ass but it wasn't that easy. Wanda could feel your eyes on her and when she stood up she had the biggest smirk on her face.

"See something you like?" She teased and you felt your cheeks heating up in embarrassment.

"Uhm I'm sorry." She only laughed before walking over to place her bottled water down.

You walked over to place your phone and water bottle on the side before making your way to your side of the court. And just like that, you and Wanda began your game of tennis.

_

_

"Well, you're quite the excellent player yourself Ms y/l/n"

"You're not too bad too Mrs Maximoff."

"Oh honey, please call me Wanda. Mrs Maximoff makes me feel old." She says with a small laugh and you nod your head.

"Alright Wanda." The name slips off your tongue in a way that has Wanda holding onto her racket for her dear life. You were so sweet and adorable to her, something about you intrigued her. She'd never felt this way before. Never with her past relationships and surely never with Vision. And the smile you sent her afterwards, was enough to make her feel like she was young again. Something about you drew her in and she wanted to explore it more.

You could practically feel the tension between the two of you, her eyes scanning your face and her lips parted but of course your mother just had to walk in and ruin the moment.

"Who won?" She asked and you turned to Wanda.

"Uh we weren't really keeping track." You said while shrugging and you could see your mom fighting back a scoff.

"But it was fun." you commented and Wanda sent you a wink.

"Well it was nice to see you Wanda, but we should get going."

Your mom pulled you away before you even got the chance to say goodbye to Wanda.

_

_

After that day, you found yourself visiting the country club more often just to see a particular blonde woman. You often went with your parents or sometimes even alone.

Wanda caught onto your little act and she loved every second of it. She loved the days when you'd decide to come alone. That way, she could be more flirtatious with you not that she stopped even when your parents were around, she just did it skillfully.

"I see you've come alone. Is it perhaps to see me once again?" She asks with a small smile playing on her lips.

"Well Wanda as much as I do enjoy seeing you, who says a girl can't come here to play some tennis?" You teased with a wiggle of your brow and she chuckled.

"Fair enough, but enough of that, join me for a drink?" She asks with a hopeful smile and who were you to deny some time with the blonde woman.

So with a nod of your head, you followed the woman to the bar area. You sat down with Wanda next to you, and she called over the bartender to order a drink. You spent the afternoon talking to Wanda, and it was absolutely amazing. It seemed as though the alcohol she drank made her more bold with her touches and glances, and even her words were much more sultry and suggestive than before. And you won't lie, you did enjoy the slightest bit of attention that you got from the older woman.

"Can I ask a qiestion?"

"Well you're already asking me one aren't you detka?" She teases and you laugh lightly.

"Go ahead."

"Are you married?" Wanda is taken aback by your question and you are immediately overcome with a dreadful feeling.

"Oh god I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable, I just wondered why you were reffered to as Mrs since, well I haven't really seen you wear a ring."

Wanda shakes her head with a small chuckle that eases your nevers just a bit.

"That's alright malysh, I'm not mad. I was married but unfortunately we didn't work out." She pauses for a moment, her finger tracing the outline of the glass like she was contemplating whether to continue talking or not.

"I understand, you don't have to tell me if you don't want to."

"You're precious." She remarks again, giving you a wink that sends butterflies down to your stomach.

"He wasn't faithful. After I had my twins, he sort of just distanced himself. I thought I was overthinking it but I guess I was right when he'd barely come home at night or whenever he did, he'd smell like another woman's perfume." A dry chuckle escaped her lips and your heart clenches.

"I'm sorry about that." You say, reaching for her hand and rubbing it. She gives you a small smile before clearing her throat.

"That's all in the past malysh. I guess the name still sticks to this day."

"You have twins?" You ask with a smile and she nods her head.

"Hm hm. My two boys, Billie and Tommy."

"That's amazing." You say with a genuine smile and Wanda gives you one of her wide smiles.

_

_

"You're in to her aren't you Wanda?" Her friend asked as they sat on the pool chairs, watching the twins have fun inside the pool.

"Of course not Agnes, that's insane. I just have an admiration for her. That's it."

"Oh what a bunch of bull-" Wanda gives Agnes a warning look that silences the brunette from finishing her cuss word.

"It's harmless fun Agnes. It really isn't anything." Wanda explains to her friend who doesn't believe a single word she says. Agnes scoffs but says nothing more, instead she picks up her drink and takes a sip of it while watching Wanda with a unamused expression.

_

_

Wanda had asked you to help her with a few things at her home. And being the polite girl who had grown a crush on the woman, well you agreed. Which is how you found yourself next to the woman, helping her with her sink.

"Do you really know what you're doing there y/n?" She asked, gaze shamefully sweeping down your frame.

"Your lack in faith for me is quite undermining Wanda." You joke as you finished up. Wanda bit her lip, heat spreading down her spine as she watches you fix her sink.

"There. Done." You remarked as you stood up. You opened the faucet, smiling to yourself once the water begins to run.

"Problem solved."

"Thank you y/n you're a life saver." She murmurs and you shoot her a smile.

"How much can I pay you?"She asked as she pulled her wallet out.

"Oh no, please it's not necessary."

"Nonsense y/n, let me at least give you something." She pulls out money, handing it to you but you push her hand back gently.

"I'm serious, it's okay Wanda." With the way you were looking at the woman, she could only breath out before darting her tongue to the corner of her mouth. The small action catches your attention almost immediately and the tension in the kitchen rises, the both of you being aware of it.

"Is there maybe another way I could pay you?" She asks in a husky tone that has your stomach flipping and before you know it, her lips are pressed against yours.

You're taken slightly aback with the kiss and the ferocity of it but you kissed her back with the same level passion. Wanda  pushed you against the kitchens counter, her arms moving up to wrap around your neck as yours find their place around her waist. The two of you battle for dominance but you manage to overpower her and you bite her tongue which has her eliciting a whine. Wanda pulls away from the heated kiss, her cheeks coated in a red tint  breath still ragged from the kiss the two of you just shared.

The both of you don't say anything to one another for a while and once Wanda starts speaking, you can't seem to pay attention because all you were thinking about was what was under the clothes she had on. When Wanda realizes that you weren't paying attention to what she was saying, because your dilated pupils were focused on her cleavage instead, she could not help the flutter of butterflies that erupted inside her stomach. The idea of someone wanting her after so long has her feeling different, almost as if she was finally being seen.

And when you see Wanda begin to unbottun her shirt, your eyes are fixated on her movements before they trail up to her face that has a smirk planted on it.

"Are you sure there isn't another way I can pay you y/n? I think you'd like this payemnet very much." Her tone was so sultry and fuck did it make you wet. All you could do was clear your throat, your mouth running dry as she slips her blouse off. Your hands twitch in response, the urge to reach out and touch her smooth skin so strong.

"You can touch if you'd like." She teases and you reach out to pull her in for a searing kiss. Wanda can't help the moan that escapes her lips as you reach over to touch her covered breasts. She hums in pleasure as your fingers trail to her shoulders, to pull the straps of her bra down. Wanda's eyes are dilated, her breathing has escalated and she now stares at you with a pleading look.

"Y/n... Touch me."

_

_

Another sunny day and Wanda was sitting outside on the pool chairs with her friend next to her. She watched as her boys played in the swimming pool, a water gun in Tommy's hand while Billy held a ball. Agnes, ever the talkative one between the two of them, continued to rant about her husband. Something about his mother coming into town and Agnes wanting nothing more than to run away. But Wanda couldn't pay attention to her.

Not when her thoughts were consumed by you and you only.

"Y/n and I are having sex." She said quietly but loud enough for Agnes to hear.

"Excuse me?"

"You heard what I said."

"Could you perhaps elaborate."

"What is there to elaborate, her and I are..."

"Fucking?"

"Not so loud." Wanda slaps her friend on the shoulder, her eyes scanning at the children before they're back on Agnes.

"But yes."

"How did this begin and... When?"

"It just... Happened."

You kissed Wanda again and again until you had no air to breathe. The older woman was now sprawled on her bed, her chest heaving with anticipation as you slowly slid her panties off. Wanda licked her lips in anticipation, her heart racing as she waited for your first move. And when you finally latched your tongue onto her bundle of nerves, her head was thrown back in pleasure.

"Oh.... Fuck!" The tatse of her sweet nectar had you humming in satisfaction before you greedily began to feast on the blonde woman's pussy.

Wanda's hands were locked in your hair, pulling the coils as her thighs wrapped around your head.

"god y/n just like that!"

"You tatse so amazing Wanda."

"Well it happened the day she helped me fix my sink."

"And when you say 'having sex' you mean that you two are still..."

"Yes."

Another day at the tennis club and instead of doing the actual sport, you were currently doing Wanda in the country clubs bathroom. With the older woman propped onto one of the sinks in one of the country clubs' luxurious bathroom, you had been eagerly eating her out for a long while. Wanda bit her lip in attempt to suppress her moans but with your skilled tongue swiping through her folds and collecting her wetness as if her slick was keeping you alive, and maybe it was.

"Y/n, please S-stop..." She whimpered as you brought her to her third orgasm in that bathroom. You hummed but when you you tried to move an inch away from the woman's pussy, her hand was grabbing your head, pushing you towards her pussy once again.

"You want me to move or stay?" You teased as a finger collected her slick before bringing it up to her face as proof of how wet she was.

"I don't think you want me to stop because your pussy sings otherwise Wanda." The woman groans and the smirk on your face grows before you slip your fingers inside her again.

"Well this is something I didn't expect." Agnes mumbles while downing the last of her drink.

"How is she?"

"She's... indescribable."

"Better than Vision?" The brunette woman asks with a teasing smile that has Wanda scoffing.

"What he did, y/n could probably do in her sleep."

"Well my dear, I just advice you to be careful Wanda. You know how people feel about well you know homosexuality. Besides her mother is a devil so the territory you're playing on is quite dangerous."

Wanda hums in agreement. She knew that Agnes was right but that didn't mean that she would even think about ending whatever it is that you two had. Not when she was having so much fun.

_

_

Sunday services weren't really your favorite thing to attend. That was until you met Wanda. Now it was somewhat tolerable. It's not that you didn't like the word but the environment around you was toxic. You could do without the remarks about homosexuality or the snark comments that were thrown your way at times, that's what you hated the most.

But there you sat, a few rows behind the older woman. Wanda looked as dashing as ever. With her blonde hair styled perfectly, a blue dress adoring her gorgeous figure to which she topped off with a diamond necklace. And right next to her, were her two children, who were dressed in suits. You could tell that it had been a hassle to get both Billy and Tommy into those suits since Tommy could not stop tugging at his tie whenever his mother wasn't looking at him. But nevertheless, they all looked like the perfect family.

"Y/n?" A somewhat familiar voice called your name from behind and you turned to see Sam, a girl who you had once shared intimacy with in the past.

"Sam? What are you doing here?"

"Why are you so shocked to see me huh?" She joked and you shook your head.

"You don't go to church."

"Touché. I'm actually here with my older sister. She thought it would be beneficial you know." You nodded your head in understanding before she moved over to you.

"Mind if I sit here?"

"Please, go ahead." She gave you a smile, and once upon a time you would have melted at the sight but now your heart was somewhere else.

Speaking of which, Wanda had been staring at the two of you for some time now. She tilted her head, trying to figure out what was going on between the two of you. And when Sam sat next to you, she couldn't help but frown at this. It seemed like the two of you knew each other. Especially with the Way Sam was practically undressing you with her eyes.

She should be shameful. Not because she was in a holy place but because she was stepping onto another woman's property. Not that Wanda saw you as property, but she didn't like this at all.

"So do you wanna go out sometime maybe?" Sam asked with her hand on your shoulder as the service had finally ended.

"Uh no." You pushed her hand away, in attempt of getting away from her.

"I'm seeing someone."

"Oh."

"I should go anyway."

_

_

Wanda had told you prior to meet her later that night. She had mentioned how she had wanted to surprise you with something that day a week ago and you could not help the giddy feeling that had been arising in you. Wanda had given you a key to her house some time ago, so it was easy for you to slip into her home without any hassle.

As you walked up the stairs with your hands inside your pocket, you could hear the faint noise of shuffling which you could only assume was from the master bedroom. And when you walked inside, you spotted the blonde woman seated on her bed, a silk robe covering her features.

"Hi." You spoke giddly and Wanda only offered a smile in acknowledgement before beckoning you over with that same smile on her face. You walked over to the woman, who slowly but surely got you to be situated onto your knees in front of her, her hand placing the small strand of hair behind your ear.

"Who was that girl you were with earlier on?" She asked and you frowned in confusion.

"Which girl?"

"Don't play coy with me y/n." You tilted your head, still confused as to what she had been talking about until it dawned you.

"Oh she was just someone."

"Uh huh." Wanda was quiet for a moment before humming.

"Do I look dumb malyshka?"

"W-what no."

"Let me tell you something y/n. I don't like it when someone touches what's mine and sweetie, that friend of yours was touching what was mine."

"Well i-"

"Did mommy say you could talk?" Woah.

"Now it might have been my own fault for letting that cute little head of yours think that you were in charge because my sweet girl, you aren't." Her tone was straight up condescending and you were taken aback by the women's sudden dominance but you'd be a fool if you said you didn't love it.

"I'm sorry." Was all you could mumble as you bowed your head.

"Oh mommy knows you are sweetheart, and you can always make it up to me, right?"

"Yes I can, I promise I can."

"Good girl. Now... " Wanda slipped her robe off, and you were borderline shocked to see a harness attached to her hips.

"Pretty right? And I'm sure it will look even better inside your pussy." She murmured and you couldn't help but let out a small whine.

"Falling into obedience so easily huh?" She chuckled darkly before her hands were in your hair.

"Why don't you get this wet for me huh?" She said while guiding the toy to your lips. And you now being the good girl you are, opened your mouth gladly accepting the toy inside.

"Oh what a precious sight this is." Wanda bit her lip as she watched you suck the red silicone toy in amazement. She was mesmerized with watching it disappear before it reappeared covered in a layer of your spit. Wanda let out a groan once she heard you gag around the toy, she had to hear it again, to see your face become ruined from her ministrations.

Wanda's hips began to raise on their own accord and she cooed as the strap hit the back of your throat countless times.

"That's okay, look how good you're doing for me." And she continued to fuck your mouth until she was satisfied with the results which was your teary half lidded eyes looking up at her.

"How pretty." Wanda commanded you to strip until you were bare before she instructed you to lay down onto her rather comfortable bed. She'd purposefully told you to leave your panties on because she wanted to be the one to slip the garments off. And when she ripped the material apart with a dark look in her eyes, you then realized that you were in for it all. Especially since you had no clue of what lengths Wanda was capable of.

Wanda wasted no time with her fingers. With your slick covered pussy, she maneuvered her two fingers inside before moving them at a moderate pace. Never did you think the woman you had secretly been seeing for almost two months, had this side to her. A feral, dominant and more sadistic side. But you fucking loved it.

"Look at this sweet pussy. What is it that you said huh? Your pussy sings for me..."She reiterated the words you had once told her as she scissored her two digits inside you.

Wanda was fucking you with her fingers. Hard. She just couldn't get the picture of that girl next to you. Wanda would make sure that you knew your body belonged to her. Whenever she would be around, your body would yearn for her subconsciously, your mind would need her. You would need her. She continued with her ministrations, watching as her once dry fingers were now soaked with your arousal.

She smiled to herself, her mind wheeling with all the possibilities she could do with you. And when her mouth latched onto your clit, you were practically gone. The older women fucked you as if she'd known your body for years. You were certain the women knew your body better than you did. You shuddered as her teeth grazed over your clit, a wanton moan escaping your lips from the sensation.

"Oh you like that don't you? Such a pretty girl." She cooed before doing it again. Wanda separated from your pussy, her fingers slipped out of your pussy and you whined which only made her smirk.

"Wanda-"

"Patience dear, you said you'd make it up to me didn't you?" She asked with a raised brow and you let out a huff.

"Don't worry, mommy knows was best for you." She lightly slapped your face before her slick covered fingers were placed inside your mouth.

"Suck. Clean your mess up." And you did. You sucked and licked her fingers as if your life was dependent on it.

"Good girl. If only you could see yourself. You look so fuckable." Wanda's teeth tugged at her lips as her fingers were pulled out of your mouth then slipped inside your pussy again. She began moving them slowly, and your hips started moving on their own accord, needing to feel her fingers slide deeper inside of you.

"Awwe pretty girl, do you want me to fuck you?" A frustrated eye roll was sent her way and within the blink of an eye, Wanda had her hand pressed against your throat, her eyes glimmering with anger, disappointment and lust.

"Don't be a brat now. I don't like brats." She said, her hand tightening around your neck, but not to the point where you couldn't breathe, just as a warning to you.

"M'sorry."

"I'm sure you are." Her hand was still on your neck as the fingers inside you quickened.

"Is this all that you want? To cum?" Her question made you stutter but you nodded your head. Wanda tutted but her fingers still continued to move inside of you.

"Pathetic." Her fingers hit that spongy spot inside you that had you babbling and begging to ask Wanda to cum. She smirked before she made a thinking face.

"You wanna cum detka? Cum for me then."

As the older woman made that final command, your body spasmed and you experienced one of the most toe curling orgasms you'd ever received in your life.

"Fuck."

"There we go, just let go yeah?" Wanda whispered inside your ear as she marked your neck. A reminder that you were hers and anyone that would see these marks would know that you belonged to someone, even if they didn't know it was her.

And when you finally came back from your high, Wanda had already been positioning the strap on inside of you,catching you off guard almost immediately.

"Look how easily it slides in?" She murmured as she slowly began to thrust the toy inside of you.

You could feel it tearing you apart. The silicone toy was longer and girthier than you had expected it to be. But with the way Wanda had been looking at you while her fingers played with your nipples the pain has soon subsided, slowly becoming pleasurable. You moaned and whimpered as Wanda took full control of your body, somehow fucking you into the bed.

"You're mine y/n, don't forget that." She said as she pounded into you. You didn't know what to do with yourself. This pleasure was overwhelming but in a good way.

"Say it."

"I'm yours." With gritted teeth, she continued rutting her hips inside of you and you could feel your orgasm approaching.

"Come on y/n, cum again. And you're gonna keep cumming until I tell you you can stop." Wanda mumbled, her hips never getting tired of pistoning in and out of you, especially with the way your pussy was gripping the toy. Or the way your arousal would spread all over the toy, god it was mesmerizing. And soon enough you had been succumbing the pleasure, your second orgasm of the night hitting you like a tidal wave.

But Wanda Maximoff was a woman of her word. And when she said you'd cum until she was satisfied, she meant it. She was adamant on making your body hers. From the marks to the bites and to your pussy singing for her. Just her.

By the end of the night, your body was hers and her body was yours.

_________________________________________

[hyunjincanraptoo]

hi baby ;)

prompt 10 pretty please 🥺

(guess who is iiiiiit)

Hi, baby!! I knew it was you just by the 'baby' haha. Lemme tell you, skz made something to me, cause after I saw that damn video of Chan and Lixie taking care of babies, I can't stop thinking about kids and look, I never wanted to be a mother 🤡 (why do they have to be so husband material 😭)

10. Baby, I'm late

Word count: 1.2k

Warnings: smut, breeding kink

Alexa, play Scorsese Baby Daddy by SZA

You were quiet for most of the morning.

Chan had noticed. You picked at your breakfast, stared off into space, laughed at the wrong times during your drama. When he reached for your hand on the couch, you laced your fingers through his, but your grip was too loose like your thoughts were somewhere else entirely.

He waited. He always did.

But around lunchtime as he was folding his clothes and humming some song in the bedroom, you finally said it.

“Baby, I’m late”

He looked up.

“Late for what?”

You turned to face with the lips parted like you were unsure if it was a joke or not

“You know what”

He stared. Then the air in the room changed, his blood pressure dropped straight to his feet.

“H-how late?”

“Five days”

“Fuck”, he whispered, then rubbed his face so hard his skin turned red.

“Five days is… well, that’s not like you!”

You nodded. Silent.

He stood there in the middle of the room like the walls were closing in.

“Did you… did you take a test?”

“Not yet. I wanted to tell you first”

“For God's sake, Yn”

The tone of his voice caught you off guard. It sounded like a mixture of disbelief, anger and regret.

“I didn’t do this on purpose, Chan”

“I know, I know. It’s just… this is a lot, okay? We’re not even… fuck, we never talked about this!”

A lump formed in your throat.

“So what? You regret sleeping with me?”

“No! Damn, I didn't say…”

He took a breath, lowering his voice, “I just… I need to think. I need to breathe”

And just like that, he grabbed his duffle bag, mumbled something about the studio, and left.

𔓶𑇓𝆬 ͙࿐𓈒ْ ㅤㅤ

Chan was bent over his desk, stuck on a chord progression that didn’t even match the track. His leg bounced uncontrollably. He hadn’t written a word. All he could think about was tiny shoes, baby formula prices, whether you’d even want to see him again after he just left you there alone.

“Hyung”

He looked up to see Felix in the doorway, arms crossed, brows furrowed in concern.

“You okay?”

Chan didn’t answer. Felix walked in, took one look at the empty snack wrappers and his half-finished lyrics

“Did someone die or…?”

Chan looked like he wanted to.

“It’s Yn. She’s late”

Felix processes it in half a second.

“Oh”

He leaned against Chan's desk, “Breathe, hyung. You like her. You love her. It’s not a death sentence*

Chan groans, burying his face in his hands, “I’m not ready to be a dad”

“You weren’t ready to lead a group either, but here we are with the best leader we could ever imagine”

Felix’s voice was warm, real, like he meant every word.

“Also you already act like a dad to seven grown men every day. You think you’d suck at raising one tiny version of someone you love?”

Chan exhaled

“I freaked out, okay?. I didn’t want her to think I didn’t want… us, you know?”

Felix placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Then go tell her that. Before she decides to raise that kid without you and your dramatic ass”

𔓶𑇓𝆬 ͙࿐𓈒ْ ㅤㅤ

Chan returned home around 6 pm.You didn’t even look up when he opened the door. Just kept sitting at the kitchen table, staring at an empty pregnancy test wrapper.

“It was a false alarm”, you said softly.

He stopped in his tracks.

“Really?”

“Yeah. I took the test an hour ago. Not pregnant. Try not to be too excited”.

You finally looked at him and saw the guilt all over his face.

He stepped forward.

“I’m sorry, I freaked out”

“I know. I was scared too”

He dropped to his knees beside your chair, resting his head on your lap.

“It… it wouldn’t be such a bad idea, though. Raising a little us with you”

Your fingers tangled in his hair.

“You’re lucky I can't resist when you beg for forgiveness”

He looked up at you, eyes softer and sure.

“Do you…. maybe want to try? For real?”

“You mean… have a baby?”

“Only if it’s with you”

You smiled.

“Do you want to try for real?”

“Let’s try it. Right now”

Your heart pounded hard against your ribcage

“Chan…”

He leaned in close, voice tender like velvet but his eyes locked on yours with fire.

“Let me put a baby in you”

That heat in your chest dropped straight between your thighs.

You didn’t answer. Just stood and took his hand, leading him to the bedroom quietly. The moment the door closed, his lips were on you, hungry as ever.

Chan kissed you like he meant every word. Like the apology was in his tongue. Like the promise was in his hands, smoothing under your shirt and down your spine.

The backs of your knees hit the mattress, and he followed you down immediately, hungry hands roaming your body. His lips dragged a line of heat down your stomach as he hooked his fingers into the waistband of your underwear, sliding it down your legs slowly, savoring the way you shivered beneath him.

When he pushed inside, it wasn’t rough— it was sure and deep. Like he wanted to carve himself into you.

He pinned your wrists above your head with one hand, the other gripping your hip to keep you steady as he moved inside you, unrelenting.

“You feel so fucking perfect", he panted, voice shaking against your ear, “like you were made to carry my baby"

You gasped his name, back arching off the bed, legs instinctively wrapping around his waist to pull him even deeper.

The words wrecked you more than they should’ve, but hearing them in a rasp tone, charged with love and need, sent heat straight between your legs.

“You want that?”, he whispered, teeth grazing your jaw, “Want to feel me dripping out after? Laying here, stuffed full of me?”

You whimpered, nodding frantically, every muscle in your body tightening around him.

“Say it, baby. Need to hear you say it", he urged, voice broken.

“I want it", you cried out, clinging to him, “Chan, please... give it to me…”

He groaned like he was falling apart, rhythm faltering as he started driving into you harder, deeper, chasing the edge for both of you.

“I’m close", he gasped into your mouth, forehead pressed to yours, “Gonna fill you up, babe. Every last drop"

His hand tightened in yours, anchoring you to him as you shattered around him, muscles spasming so hard it ripped a broken moan from his chest.

He followed with a shuddering cry, burying himself as deep as he could, spilling inside you with a heat that made your whole body tremble.

He stayed there, panting, forehead still pressed against yours like he couldn’t bear to let you go.

Later, he curled around you, chest pressed to your back, arms locking protectively around your waist with his softening cock still buried inside you.

"False alarm or not", he whispered against the shell of your ear, voice rough but still affectionate, "I think I wanna practice every night until it’s not"

His hand slid down, resting over your lower belly, fingers splaying wide like he was already protecting something precious.

And you knew, without a doubt, that he meant it

If you enjoyed it please consider liking and reblogging. Feedbacks, loves notes and requests are very much appreciated 😊

Taglist: @hyyunjinnn , @jehhskz , @mbioooo0000 , @nightmarenyxx , @rozsdascsaptelep @thatonegirlonhere , @notmedina127, @sweetlifeofjoy , @jeonginsleftcheek , @yelhsaa, @my-neurodivergent-world , @hyunles , @lexlikesbts , @imagine-all-the-imagines , @mysterysold , @teenagepeterpan , @hangonhyunjin

[alexiroflife]

"first day"

fluff, happy fushiguro family, slice of life, megs' first day of school send-off

Synopsis: you've been dating toji for a while now and megumi subconsciously calls you mom for the first time on his way out the door

to sum it up: you adore the little family you've come to be a part of

WC: 1,701

Warning(s): none

"Megs!" you call out, standing by the front door awaiting the dark-haired boy's arrival. He soon shuffles around the corner from his room, throwing a bag over his shoulder with a tired expression on his face.

His father turns to watch him walk in, crossing his arms as he leans against the counter. "The hell were you doing in there that took you so long?"

"Nothing," Megumi grumbles, moving to brush past the two of you to rush to the door. "I just wanted to look presentable, that's all."

"So you took thirty minutes to get ready?" Toji quirks a brow.

"Believe it or not, dad, some would say that's not enough time to get ready in the morning."

"Not at all, actually," you agree.

Toji tugs the corner of his mouth in judgment. " Well, you should know," he says to you. "You spend at least ten years in the bathroom when we have somewhere to go."

You scoff, rolling your eyes. "That's such an overreaction. I never take any longer than an hour." Megumi and his father exchange knowing looks and you place your hand on your hip. "What?"

"Don't worry baby," Toji assures you. "It's okay to be in denial."

"We've timed it before. The last time we all went out to dinner as a family, you took two and a half hours to get dressed," Megumi adds.

"That's only because I had to shower and pick out an outfit then do my hair and makeup," you defend.

"Isn't that a little overkill? It takes me half that time to shower, get dressed, eat breakfast, and get some homework done."

"Whatever. Your sister would understand," you sigh.

"Unfortunately, she may be worse than you."

"Women," Toji tsks. You slap his bicep and he pretends to flinch, smirking down at you playfully. "Ouch."

"Alright, well, I'm ready now. I don't wanna be late," the sixteen year old says, turning back to reach for the door handle.

"Ah ah ah, wait!" you stop him. "You're not going anywhere without me getting a good look at you. Turn around, I wanna see how the uniform fits."

Megumi lowers his head and complies, turning back around stiffly for you to admire him. You press your hand to your lips to conceal your smile, eyes gleaming with pride as you look over the sharp navy jacket and pants he adorns.

"Awwww," you coo. "It fits perfectly! How does it feel?"

"Pretty good," Megumi nods, moving his arm around slightly to show his mobility in the fabric. "It's comfortable too. It shouldn't be a problem during missions."

"I still can't believe how quickly time has gone by," you muse. "You're already going into your first year at Jujutsu High! Are you excited?"

"You better be," Toji grunts. "Your uncle Gojo hasn't gotten off my ass about your enrollment for years. At least now, he'll finally shut up."

"I still don't understand why I have to have him as a teacher. He's such a moron, I doubt he'll teach us anything useful," Megumi mumbles.

"Moron or not, he's the strongest sorcerer of the modern age and he's helped out so much. I'm sure he'll be able to give you a good experience," you say positively.

"We talkin' about the same Gojo here? The one who trashed my house playing tag with Megumi and the dogs in the living room?" Toji points out and his son grits his teeth at the memory.

"Oh come on, Satoru was like twenty one back then. I can only imagine the crazy shit you've with the kids when you were raising them," you tease.

"You don't even want to know," Megumi exhales.

"Please, you came out just fine, didn’t ya?” Toji says, reaching out his hand to ruffle at Megumi's spiky hair. The teen recoils, craning his head away and shielding himself with his arm.

"Quit it. I'm not five anymore."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. You're all grown up now, I know. Gonna be a first-grade sorcerer before I can even blink an eye."

"Who said that I would be first grade? I'm only a first year."

"Yeah, and look at who your pops is," Toji grins. "Plus, you got an advantage that I never had. You'll do just fine."

Megumi hums indifferently, doubting himself momentarily but accepting the words nonetheless. "Alright, are we ready?"

"No, not yet!" you pull out your phone quickly and open the camera. "I need to get pictures."

The blue-eyed boy slumps. "(Y/n), I gotta go."

"I know, I know, just a few," you promise, holding your camera up to capture his awkward figure in the frame. "Okay, smile."

Megumi doesn't, and of course you don't actually expect him to. Instead, he calmly stares at the camera with his arms at his sides, unsure of what to do with themselves. Toji moves to stand behind you, leaning down to take a peak at the million pictures you're snapping.

"Toji, go stand with him so I can get one with the both of you."

The two groan simultaneously. "Doll, can we just focus on gettin' the kid to school?"

"It's fine. His stuff is already moved into his dorm. We have time."

"But-"

"Shut up and go stand with your son, now," you glare firmly up at the green-eyed man and he huffs.

"Yes, ma'am."

Toji raises a hand to his hip and tilts his head boredly as he stands beside Megumi, the two of them sharing the exact same blank stare as they look into the camera. You squeal happily. "You two are so cuteee!"

"We done, now?"

"No, I wanna get one more with Megs, and then I'm good." The boys give you a look, but you wave them off. "I mean it! Gosh, here Toji. Take our picture."

Toji obliges, grabbing your phone from your hand as you rush over to the tall boy. His expression melts into serenity as you place your hands on his shoulders and lean your head against his arm, smiling widely at the camera as a hint of a smile touches Megumi's lips.

Toji's heart warms at the sight, watching the way his son grows comfortable in your presence. The picture of the two of you looks so natural t to him like you are meant to be a part of his family, which he knows you are.

He snaps the photo and nods. "Got it."

You exhale, turning to face Megumi. You brush your hands over his shoulders to straighten his jacket, ridding it of any lint and wrinkles. "Okay, Megumi, please remember to be safe."

"I know. I will," he nods.

"And don't be too reckless when it comes to training."

"I won't."

"And try to make friends. I know how easy it is for you to push others away."

"I'll try."

You press your lips together with a final sigh, looking over Megumi's face warmly. You wrap your arms safely around him into a hug, your emotions getting the best of you. You have spent the past year caring for Megumi like your own, and watching him head off to achieve his goals makes your heart swell with joy and fear all the same.

"Text me or your father or Tsumiki if you need anything. Anything at all," you tell him. He returns your hug gently.

"Okay," he chuckles lightly and you pull away. "Don't worry, I'll be fine."

"...I know you will..." you pout. "Okay, I'll let you go. Good luck. I hope you have an amazing first day. I'll see you at the end of the week, yeah?"

"Mhm. I'll call you to let you know how the day went later."

"Please do."

Toji hands you back your phone and walks toward the door with Megumi. "Let's get a move on," he says. He leans over quickly to peck your lips farewell. "I'll be back in a few."

"Don't speed, Toji."

"Speeding gets you places quicker," he winks and you suck your teeth disapprovingly. Megumi opens the door, his dad gripping the frame.

"Bye, boys. Stay out of trouble," you wave, eyes glassy as you watch Megumi walk out.

"See ya, doll."

"Bye, mum."

The three of you freeze the second the words hit the air, everyone stilling in their tracks.

You feel your heart burst as overwhelming happiness consumes you. Megumi keeps his face forward, hiding his reddening cheeks as he processes what he has just said. Toji stares at the back of his son's head, eyes wide, before he turns to look at you to find your shocked, giddy face.

You don't have any time to reply when Megumi clears his throat suddenly, sweat dotting his forehead, and he walks rigidly out of the house and swiftly down the hall without looking back.

Toji stays behind, keeping an eye on you when you look up at him, stunned. "Did he just...?" you murmur.

"Yep."

Your eyes immediately well with tears and your lips wobble, your hands flying over your mouth. "He sees me as his mom?" you whisper.

Toji chuckles, ducking down to you with his hand still gripping the door. "Of course he does. He's always adored you. Him and Tsumiki."

"I'm gonna cry."

The assassin chuckles softly, pressing his thumb to the corner of your eye gently. "You're already cryin.'"

"Shut up," you sniff. "God, I love those kids so much. I just wanna give him all the hugs in the world."

"And you'll be able to. There isn't a better woman on this planet to be there for the kids," he kisses your cheek. "That's why I plan t'marry you someday."

"Fuck you, Toj. You're gonna make me cry even more."

"Sorry, baby. Can't help talkin' about it," he leans back to the doorway. "Let me get the kid squared away and make sure he's not dyin' of embarrassment, then I'll be back to talk to ya about makin' this official."

"You're being for real?"

"Of course I am."

You lower your hands and beam. "Tell Megumi I love him and get back here soon."

"I will," he hums. "But I thought you said no speeding?"

"Just- make sure the two of you at least get to the school in one peace."

He smirks. "Will do, doll."

[be-xkyy]

How about the Yanderes training their little babies to be the perfect yanderes to keep an eye on their darling when they aren't around? And I'm talking them telling what you did down to how many breaths you take. Full on lil snitches to anything you do!!!

Hi dear anon, well I think everyone would have their kids keep an eye on reader in one way or another 🖤

Would the Yanderes train their children to watch over Reader?

Tagging list: @kthehoeforfictionalmen ★ @dreamlessnight ★ @riawrld ★ @darkuni63 ★

Masterlist

Yandere Farmer Link

Yes, this man would have his children watch you 24 hours a day. He would teach them from a young age to be completely aware of you when he is not around, he would train them to tell him everything, EVERYTHING, who comes home when he is not, if you talk to someone (whoever), who you call on the phone and he would even make sure his children inform him if you do something that he forbade you to do at some point and you did anyway thinking he wouldn't notice.

Every after he comes home with his older children following close behind after a long day of work on the farm, his younger children would already be waiting for him sitting on the porch steps, they jump to their feet when they see him approaching, they run up to him and start quickly telling him everything that happened while he was gone.

"Enough. Speak one at a time, we can't understand each other. So your mother was on the phone, huh? Well, everyone go feed the horses while I talk to your mother."

Yandere Cowboy Link

Yet another one who shamelessly makes his kids watch you, he finds it funny and might even joke about the fact that his kids watch you, he would call them "his little spies" but if you scold him he would tell you that it is a "cute" thing that his little ones care so much and that just shows how much he and the kids love you, he doesn't need anything else to convince you.

His older kids (four and five years old) come over to tell him everything you did that day, he listens intently while rocking his daughter (one year old) on his hip and kisses her chubby cheeks from time to time, he laughs as he hears his kids fight each other over who tells the "wrong" story, he ends up calming both kids down before they start fighting and get your attention.

"Come on, come on kids, stop fighting before mom finds out and scolds us all, how about we go see your beautiful mother and ask her what happened today?"

Yandere Dilf Link

I think in his case it's more about his worry, paranoia of losing you, something happening to you or you leaving him rather than really wanting to control you, his son and especially his daughters will tell everything about the day to their father since they hate seeing him so worried (he's a good father) if you are more reluctant to talk to him and still don't accept your new life, your children would try to keep their father in the loop.

When he comes back from work and steps foot inside the house his children would already be there ready to ease his worries about you, they would take him to the couch and he would start telling everything to their father who would relax when, he hears nothing strange or suspicious happened in his absence, he would pat his son on the head and kiss his daughters on the cheeks before getting up from the couch to look for you.

"Here you are, honey. The kids told me that today you planted the daisy seeds I gave you... I'll bring more for you tomorrow and if you want something special, just ask, okay, honey?"

Yandere Sugar Daddy Link

He has no shame as I said, he would have no qualms about putting security cameras all over the house so he can see everything you and the kids do when he is working in his office, he would even ask the kids in front of you what they did that day, what YOU did that day, even though he has already seen everything, of course. But he wants to see if they are honest.

His son is more vague with his answers, although the boy wants his father to feel proud of him, he does not want to betray you, his daughter on the contrary tells her father everything from what she did that day, what her brother did, what you did, what the maid did, what the neighbors did... she rants happily while her father listens attentively with a smile on his lips.

"Look at that dear, our little princess is quite an observer, she sees everything. And she would never hide anything from her daddy, right little princess?"

[mediocre-writing]

That it? | LN4

Summary: Y/n decides to trick her boyfriend with a fake hickey.

Pairing: Lando Norris X Fem!Reader

English is not my first language, requests are open!

Y/n controls herself from laughing out loud when looking at herself in the mirror, that hickey was very convincing.

She looks at the hidden camera next to the sink counter, which also takes up part of the room, and gives a small wave.

"Where are you kitty?"

She takes a deep breath as she hears Lando's voice calling her from downstairs.

"Here in the bedroom bathroom, love."

Y/n picks up a face brush and pretends to be finishing her makeup.

"Hi princess" Lando says entering the bedroom's bathroom and hugging his girlfriend from behind.

"Are you ready?" He says, looking at her admiringly through the mirror.

"I'm just going to finish putting on my lipstick."

"Okay." Lando says, stepping back a little and analyzing his girlfriend from head to toe. "I'm so excited, it's been a while since we-" He stops talking as soon as his eyes reach her neck.

"What?" She says looking at his terrified expression through the mirror.

Lando doesn't really know what to think, had he done that?

They haven't been out together for a few days, and they've both been so tired the past few days that they haven't had many intimate moments.

"What's that on your neck?" He says seriously, his eyes still fixed on his girlfriend's neck.

"That's it? You did that, love." This makes Lando look at her in disbelief.

"Me? No, it wasn't me."

"Yeah, you did that last night." Lando feels like he's two seconds away from losing his mind.

"No I didn't, I'm sure I didn't do that to you." He says getting angry.

"Okay Lando." Y/n says, dropping the brush and leaving the bathroom.

"'Okay Lando'? What the fuck does that mean?" He says following her, already a little upset.

"What do you want, Lando?" She stops in a part of the room where she knows the camera will catch it.

"I don't know, my girlfriend has a fucking hickey on her neck that I clearly didn't do, if it were me, how would you feel?" Y/n sees her boyfriend's eyes get brighter and she's one step away from abandoning this prank.

"You don't have to make such a big deal out of it."

Lando looks at her in disbelief.

"What did you do to my Y/n?" okay, that hurt a little.

"Land-"

"No, fuck no! My Y/n would never lie to me like that, and she would never throw my feelings out the window like you just did, you know what, just tell me who it is!" Lando says, speaking louder now.

"Fenty Beauty" Lando looks at her confused. "Is that a fucking rapper?"

"What the hell is that-"

" Fenty Beauty , the makeup brand I made this for." She says smiling at him and Lando just wants to throw himself out the window.

"Are you kidding?"

She runs her hand over her neck with the sleeve of her sweatshirt and shows it to him.

"It saw?"

"Holy shit." Lando says sighing and closing his eyes.

"Sorry love, I couldn't resist." Y/n says, getting closer to him and wrapping her arms around his neck.

"You almost killed me, babe." Lando says, leaning his head against hers with his eyes closed.

"Sorry, but you know I would never trade my favorite driver for anyone in this world, right?

"And you know I wouldn't accept that so easily, right?" He whispers in her ear.

"Oh my boyfriend is possessive?" She says kissing his cheek.

"Completely." Lando says kissing her neck. "How about we do a real one now?"

[harrysfolklore]

harry and yn styles read thirst tweets

omg she posted a harry fic! honestly i've been missing him sooo much lately, harry please come home. anyway hope you like this

MASTERLIST | MY PATREON

"Hey It's YN Styles."

"And I'm Harry Styles."

"And we're here to read your thirst tweets," you introduced, "I feel excited."

"I feel uncomfortable," Harry joked, making you throw your head back in laughter.

"Really? Already?"

"I'm just saying, if i I don't turn beat read by the end of this, we have failed."

THIRST TWEETS WITH HARRY AND YN STYLES

"What about I read the ones that are directed at you and you read the ones directed at me?" Harry asked, phone with the tweets ready in hand.

"Sounds perfect, babe."

"Okay, let's read thirst tweets strangers post about my wife," his eyes widened and he shook his head, "Thinking about YN's boobs again," he read, turning his gaze to you and shrugging "I relate, I guess."

"That's the whole tweet? Thinking about my boobs again?" he nodded, "I mean, I hope that doesn't distract you from your daily chores," you said to the camera as if you were talking to the person who posted the tweet.

"Yeah, that happens to me often."

"Thanks honey, I guess," you turned to look at the phone to read Harry's tweet, "Harry Styles can I kiss your cheek please it looks so soft and smoochable," you looked up with a frown in your brow, "So all of my tweets are going to be horny and his are going to be adorable."

Harry and the crew laughed as you shook your head, "I mean, love, my cheek is actually soft and smoochable," Harry said as he shrugged.

"Not right now tho, you need to shave," you said, running your finger through his cheek.

"My own wife doesn't like my facial hair, that's such a shame," he looked at his phone again, "YN, sexy and married to Harry Styles, she's literally winning and all I can do is watch and wish that was me. Whoa, thoughts baby?"

"I mean, I am really lucky," Harry smiled fondly, "Do your daily affirmations, friends, that's how I got this one," the crew laughed at this, "I would pay Harry Styles to punch me in the face," you read the next tweets and his eyes widened.

"Why do people say that? I would never punch anyone in the face, why would I do that?"

"It's an expression babe, it means that they think you're hot," you explained.

"Well, there are non violent ways to say that," he said, "Listen I am bisexual for a reason and that reason is strictly to be used in a threesome by YN and Harry Styles," he read and you instantly covered your face in embarrassment, "I mean, whoa, the things you kids post on the internet."

"I don't know what to say, honestly," you shook your head, looking down at your phone to cover your embarrassment, "Thinking about Harry Styles naked butt again," you read the tweet and Harry laughed, "How does that make you feel? That people can think about your naked butt thanks to My Policeman."

"I have a nice but, I'd like to think," he shrugged, "YN is a living, breathing wet dream," he read on his phone, "I mean, I concur, I have a song about it, It's called Watermelon Sugar."

"Oh thanks honey, glad to know romance isn't dead, and speaking about Watermelon Sugar," you glanced at your phone, "This one says, I want Harry Styles belly deep inside me or whatever he says in that watermelon song."

"Jesus Christ," Harry immediately said, "Not quite what that song says, but close I guess," he looked at another tweet, "I would let YN choke me with her thighs."

"That's nice considering most people want you to choke them with your thighs."

"How do you even know that?" Harry asked as he furrowed his brow.

"I lurk on twitter sometimes," you shrugged, "Are Harry and YN looking for a third right now? Cause I get horny by just looking at them."

"Our marriage is fine like this, but if we ever need a third we'll let you know," Harry spoke to the camera, "Okay last one, are yo ready?"

"Definitely not."

"I need YN to rail me more than I need air to breathe."

"Wow," you clasped your hands together, "I don't know if I should be flattered or worried."

"Flattered, love, we all want you to rail us."

"Harry! Control it!" you laughed and he shrugged, "Are we done?"

"We are," Harry turned to the camera, "Thank you buzzfeed and you thirsty fuckers, that was fun but we're never doing it again."

"Definitely, bye!"

[vanteguccir]

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤDRESS TO IMPRESS IN REAL LIFE * MATT STURNIOLO

SUMMARY　::　where Y/N, Matt's secret girlfriend, participates in the 'Dress to Impress in real life' video.

FEATURING　Matt Sturniolo x reader　REQUESTED?　yes.

WARNINGS　::　none.

AUTHOR'S NOTE　::　that is my work, I DON'T authorize any form of plagiarism; copy, "inspiration" or translation! | english isn't my first language, so I'm sorry if there's any grammar error.

The triplets were buzzing with energy, their house a hive of activity as they set up for their newest video; Dress to Impress, real-life edition. Each round had its own theme, and the first one was Summer Vacation. Y/N had been roped into joining as a surprise guest, and secretly, Matt couldn't have been more thrilled.

The boys had already pulled out all the stops with their outfits. Chris sported a chaotic ensemble: a bucket hat with panels of clashing colors, lime green slides, and denim cargo shorts.

Matt was rocking a relaxed, dad-on-vacation vibe, complete with an oversized straw hat, patterned swim trunks, and a shirt that screamed, 'I don’t care, I’m on island time'.

Nick had gone full beach prep with a striped tank top, sunglasses that were almost too tiny for his face, and a retro cooler box tucked under his arm like an accessory.

As the camera rolled, Y/N was still getting ready in Matt’s bathroom, leaving the boy's to discuss who went better between the three of them.

"Alright." Chris said, pointing a finger at Nick’s cooler. "I’m just saying, if you don’t actually have anything in there, that’s a waste of a prop."

"It’s called committing to the bit, Chris." Nick shot back, adjusting the towel draped over his shoulder. "The cooler is the vibe."

Matt, who was adjusting his sunglasses, glanced toward the bathroom door, his face lighting up as if he could sense Y/N’s presence through the walls.

"Y/N better bring it. I know she’s got something amazing up her sleeve."

Nick rolled his eyes, looking at Matt with a boring expression.

"Why do I feel like you’re already planning to give her every win, no matter what she’s wearing?"

"Because I am." Matt replied bluntly, grinning like the lovesick puppy he was.

The door finally creaked open, and all three boys turned as Y/N emerged. She had nailed the summer vacation aesthetic, wearing a flowy, tropical-patterned sundress, bikini top below it, oversized black Prada sunglasses perched on her nose, and sandals that matched her outfit perfectly. She’d even added a straw beach bag for good measure.

"Okay, Y/N, I see you!" Chris exclaimed, clapping his hands together.

Y/N laughed, grinning widely before twirling to show off her look.

"Alright, that’s tough competition. You actually look like you're ready to spend the day at your beach house." Nick gave a low whistle, his blue eyes traveling from her face to her feet and back again. "But I'd say you're in fourth place. You're ready for the beach, not for any summer vacation."

"Fair." Y/N shrugged, take a quick peak at her outfit again before looking at Matt. "What do you think?"

Matt's eyes seemed to be shining like the whole cadence of stars, wandering through every detail of her choice of clothes.

"Are you kidding? That’s... that’s so good. You look like you stepped out of a summer vacation catalog or something." His voice sounded slightly high-pitched with excitement. "Nick's just jealous."

"What? No, I'm not!"

Chris rolled his eyes, already sensing where this was going.

"Oh, here we go."

"Like, if I saw you on the beach." Matt continued, ignoring his brothers entirely. "I’d probably just pass out. That’s how good you look."

"Okay, Matt." Nick said, holding up a hand. "We get it. Obsessive fucker."

The room filled with laughter, Y/N shaking her head but unable to hide the grin spreading across her face, her cheeks heating up.

"Right, first round? I'm second." Matt declared, gesturing toward himself. "Obviously, Y/N was first because, you know, she's Y/N." He gave her a little smile. "Then Nick was third, and Chris was fourth. That’s the average."

"Yeah, unfortunately." Nick muttered, throwing his hands up.

"Well." Chris turned dramatically to the camera and pointed. "They can vote."

Nick, not missing a beat, leaned closer to the camera, his voice dripping with mock confidence.

"Oh, I already know they’re gonna vote for me. Mine’s obviously the best. Unless..." He paused for dramatic effect, raising an eyebrow. "These girls wanna sleep with Matt and vote for him."

"What?!" Matt’s eyes widened in pure shock as he whipped his head toward the camera, looking utterly scandalized.

Y/N’s eyes flicked between Nick and Matt, her lips tightening slightly trying to suppress a laugh. It was impossible not to be amused by Nick’s antics.

She knew Nick wasn’t wrong, Matt’s popularity with their audience also had to do with his charm and, let’s face it, how good he looked on camera. There probably were plenty of girls who’d vote for Matt purely because of his looks, even if one of the other boys dressed better.

Nick continued without missing a beat.

"It’s the straight man advantage! You guys..." He gestured wildly at the camera. "Are gonna discriminate against me because I’m gay, and I don't like 'yall back."

At that, Y/N couldn’t help but burst into laughter, shaking her head.

Matt, still recovering from Nick’s bold accusation, raised a hand defensively.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold on a second." He looked straight into the camera with that intense, sincere gaze that Y/N loved. "Just for the record, I’m completely off-limits. Completely."

The way he said it, firm and definitive, sent a wave of confidence through Y/N. Her lips twitched into a small smile as she crossed her arms, clearing her throat to contain her reactions, trying to play it cool.

Nick, however, wasn’t done.

"Oh, yeah? You really think they care about that?" He teased, smirking as Matt shook his head in disbelief.

Chris rolled his eyes, still laughing.

"Nick, stop trying to guilt-trip them into voting for you."

"I'm not doing anything." Nick replied with a wink, sending the group into another fit of laughter.

"Now, bring the runway on, boys!"

The camera cut to Chris, who had appointed himself the first to strut down their makeshift runway that started from the stairs.

He walked in quick steps before stopping in the center of their camera lens, dramatically fanning himself with an imaginary hand fan.

"Where did you even get the idea of the imaginary fan?" Y/N teased, laughing with the others.

"Shh, it’s part of the vibe." Chris replied, flipping his bucket hat backward with flair. He strolled toward the camera with exaggerated confidence, striking a series of ridiculous poses. "Yeah, you’re welcome." He said as he walked off-camera, leaving the other three in stitches.

Nick went next, cooler in hand.

"Get ready to witness greatness." He said, lifting the retro cooler above his head like it was the Holy Grail, showing it off.

"You go, queen!" Y/N cheered, nodding her head while watching him.

Nick smiled brightly, placing it down carefully and reached for the towel draped over his shoulder, unfolding it with slow, deliberate movements. Too slow.

"This is taking forever." Matt groaned, crossing his arms.

"Nick, it’s been 30 seconds. Just lay the towel down!" Chris yelled.

Nick ignored them, carefully smoothing out the towel on the floor, his face the picture of focus. Once he was satisfied, he walked down the "runway", throwing some expressions to the camera before almost gluing his face to the lens, taking his glasses off.

"Iconic." Y/N said between laughs.

"Thank you, thank you." Nick replied, bowing before dramatically kicking the towel aside as if to signal the end of his performance, his right hand fanning himself as the last act.

Matt was up next.

"Alright, let me show you how it’s done." He said confidently. Grabbing his sunscreen, he opened the cap and squeezed a dollop onto his fingers, dabbing it on his cheeks like football player stripes.

"Well, you gotta stay protected, I guess." Y/N muttered, smiling with how Chris was rooting like crazy.

Laughter escaped her lips as Matt sauntered toward the camera, showing off the sunscreen like it was a designer handbag. He struck a confident pose, holding the product up, before walking back off the camera with an over-the-top smile.

Finally, it was Y/N’s turn.

"Your move, Y/N." Nick said, gesturing grandly toward the imaginary runway.

"Alright, alright, give me a second." She said, thinking fast.

She reached into her straw bag, pulling out the pair of oversized sunglasses that she had thrown there at some point, dramatically placing it on her face. Then, grabbing a small beach towel she had tucked inside the bag, she draped it over one arm like a sash.

"What’s happening here?" Matt asked, intrigued.

Y/N strolled onto the "runway" with slow, exaggerated movements like a madame arriving at a five-star resort. Halfway down, she pretended to feel the heat, pulling an actual bottle of water from her bag and taking a sip before fanning herself with her hand.

"It has to have the fan move!" Nick applauded, grinning to the scene before being interrupted by Chris’s comment.

"Of course, I created it."

At the end of the runway, Y/N stopped, tossed her sunglasses off dramatically at the ground, and struck a ridiculous pose with one hand on her hip and the other shielding her eyes as if she was shielding her face from the sun.

"That was solid!" Chris exclaimed, clapping.

Matt, meanwhile, was in awe, hands on his head.

"Are you kidding? That was really good. A thousand points. Game over. Y/N wins. Everyone go home."

Nick scoffed.

"Matt, stop simping for two seconds so we can keep this contest going."

"I’m not simping." Matt argued, clearly lying. "I'm just stating facts."

"Shut up, Matt."

　　　　　༻﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡༺

For the Mix-Matched Madness theme, the camera panned to the boys standing in a line, proudly displaying their chaotic ensembles.

Chris was clad in a bright red varsity jacket over a striped shirt, camo pink shorts, and mismatched knee-high socks with chunky boots.

Matt decided for plaid shorts layered over one plaid pant leg, a pastel blue and yellow sweater vest, and a floppy dog-ear cap.

Nick went to a plaid jacket layered over a striped shirt with a perfectly coordinated tie, and matching sweatpants and sneakers.

"Guys, I’m clearly superior." Nick started, raising his eyebrows as he adjusted his glasses. "My outfit is actually intentional, look at this synergy! It screams fashion-forward."

Matt groaned, rolling his eyes and looking at Chris with a 'is he serious?' expression.

"Nick, you’re wearing matchy-matchy plaid in a mix-matched challenge. You’ve missed the assignment!"

"It’s ironic." Nick shot back, crossing his arms. "I’m doing intentional matching. If I were in a real runway right now, people would actually like my outfit."

Chris scratched his head, looking between them.

"Isn’t that kind of cheating, though?"

Before the debate could escalate further, Y/N stepped into the frame, causing all three boys to give her their attention.

Her outfit was next level: a bright purple sequined crop top paired with one lime green legging on her right leg and a fluffy, neon orange sock on the other. She wore a skirt made of layered, clashing floral patterns that didn’t quite match the fuzzy checkered cardigan she threw on top. To finish it off, her accessories included a leopard-print beanie - the one she stole from Matt's closet -, oversized sunglasses, and two entirely different shoes, a silver stiletto on one foot and a Croc on the other.

The boys gawked.

"Okay, now that’s mix-matched madness." Chris said, pointing at her.

"Girl, you look like you fell into a thrift store... and it worked." Nick added, looking both impressed and slightly annoyed.

"How can you still look so good while wearing... that?" Matt asked, pointing at her outfit with his hand while shaking his head in disbelief.

Y/N twirled dramatically, holding out her skirt as she grinned at the camera.

"Thank you, boys. I like to call this 'chaos with confidence'." She invented the random name, throwing a quick kiss to the lens.

Chris threw his hands up.

"Alright, I’m officially placing second now."

Nick groaned, shaking his head dramatically.

"No way. She’s great, but I’m still winning. Look at this tie!"

Matt laughed.

"Nick, your tie doesn’t save you from breaking the theme. You’re disqualified."

The scene cut to the "runway", where each of them showcased their chaotic outfits with an equally chaotic performance.

First up was Nick. He confidently strutted forward, reaching for the end of his tie. With exaggerated flair, he lifted it as if someone were pulling him forward, his face a picture of mock shock and drama, stumbling forward.

"Ey, keep going!" Chris hollered, nodding enthusiastically.

The moment he reached the end of the runway, he grinned mischievously, running his hand dramatically through his hair and tossing a sultry look at the camera before taking off his pink glasses.

"Work it, Nick!" Y/N chimed in, her laughter mixing with the chaos.

Nick turned on his heel with a laugh, sauntering back to the start and throwing a praying gesture, ignoring how Matt laughed, mockingly imitating his act.

Next, Matt stepped up, adjusting his floppy dog-ear cap before suddenly spinning it backward.

"Showtime." He muttered under his breath, earning immediate chuckles from the others. He walked to the camera with a cocky stride, crossing his arms and bending slightly to the side.

For the final move, he pivoted and moonwalked his way back to the start, nearly slipping on his mismatched shoes but recovering with a grin.

"Did you see that? Effortless." Matt declared, earning boos and laughs from the rest.

"You almost ate it, Matt." Y/N teased, shaking her head.

Chris stepped up next. And, of course, he brought drama.

"Hold my jacket." He said, then immediately shook his head. "Actually, no. The floor will."

With exaggerated aggression, he ripped off one of his red lobster gloves, throwing it to the ground with flair. The glove was followed by his belt, which he unbuckled and tossed with equal energy.

"Oh my God." Y/N looked at the camera with wide eyes.

"What is happening?" Nick cackled, practically doubling over, slapping Y/N's arm.

Chris wasn’t done. He walked up to the camera with an intense expression, holding his hands out and touching the screen, acting as if zooming in.

"Enhance." He said, squinting into the lens. Then, as if the camera wasn’t worthy, he spun dramatically on his heel, walked back, and threw off his varsity jacket mid-stride before striking one final pose.

"Now that’s how you do it." Y/N joked, looking at the camera. "Like and subscribe if you want Chris to make a strip tea-"

"Y/N!"

For Y/N's turn, she adjusted her oversized leopard beanie with a dramatic flair and tilted her sunglasses low on her nose, revealing a dead-serious expression underneath. She strutted forward slowly, dragging her stiletto along the ground for added effect. When she reached the camera, she whipped her head to the side, making her orange fluffy sock the star of the moment.

But it didn’t end there. Y/N suddenly crouched down into a deep squat, raising one hand in the air and striking a pose like she was ready to pounce. The boys immediately broke into cheers and laughter.

"Yes, queen!" Nick shouted, jumping in the place and clapping, laughing loudly.

"She nailed it." Matt said with a proud grin, nodding his head.

Y/N slowly stood, turning to the side as if the camera had disappeared, and walked off like nothing had happened.

"Thank you." She said nonchalantly, tossing her hair over her shoulder as the others applauded.

"Alright, I officially retire." Nick said, throwing his arms to the air in a surrender gesture.

"Same." Chris picked up his lobster glove from the floor, grinning.

Matt sighed, smiling at Y/N's figure.

"She’s unbeatable. Let’s not do these challenges anymore if she’s in them."

　　　　　༻﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡༺

The scene cut to the next category: Rock Concert. The boys had gathered in front of the camera, each flaunting their edgy outfits.

Chris leaned casually against the wall, dressed in all black with his bandana tied around his head. His sunglasses were perfectly placed, and a Bluetooth speaker hung over his shoulder like a statement piece.

"Clearly, I’m the embodiment of rock concert aesthetic." He said confidently, adjusting his speaker strap.

Nick crossed his arms, giving Chris a side-eye. He was sporting his long-sleeved shirt adorned with skulls and intricate spiderweb patterns paired with black cargo pants and chunky boots.

"Please." Nick retorted. "I’ve got literal death on my shirt. That’s as metal as it gets."

Matt, standing in the middle, smirked. He wore a black leather jacket over a white shirt, complete with a silver skull belt buckle and leather pants that practically screamed rockstar.

"Yeah, but have you seen my belt?" He argued, lifting his white shirt slightly to show it off. "This is peak rock concert material. I even coordinated it with my jacket."

"Okay, but who do you think the crowd would look at first?" Chris challenged. "The guy with the bandana, all black, and sunglasses? Obviously me. The speaker only makes it better."

Nick rolled his eyes.

"You look like you’re trying to be a cool dad sneaking into a concert." He teased.

"Alright, alright." Y/N interrupted from off-screen, stepping into the camera frame and effectively stealing the show.

Y/N’s outfit was on another level. She wore a black 'Bon Jovi' cropped top with silver detailing that matched the chains on her leather mini skirt. Fishnet tights peeked out from under the skirt, leading down to a pair of knee-high combat boots that added an extra edge to the look. To top it off, she wore a cropped leather jacket with studs on the shoulders and accessorized with chunky silver jewelry and a black choker.

The boys fell silent for a second, staring.

Y/N smiled brightly at them before turning to the camera, raising her right arm and making the 'rock and roll' gesture by raising her pinky and index fingers and lowering the others.

"'Cause we all just wanna be big rockstars and live in hilltop houses driving 15 cars..."

"Girl, what the fuck?" Nick widened his eyes, looking from Y/N to the camera with a look that screamed 'are you guys seeing this?'

Matt laughed loudly, recognizing the song from one of the TikTok trends that Y/N had been obsessing over the past few weeks, being quick in imitating her position, and starting singing with her.

"... the girls come easy and the drugs come cheap, we'll all stay skinny 'cause we just won't eat-"

"Okay, that's enough of that." Chris interrupted the pair, gesturing to them while shaking his head in disbelief. "So, Y/N wins."

Nick groaned dramatically.

"Let's take her out right now. I don't wanna play with her anymore."

Matt couldn’t stop smiling.

"Can we just talk about how she’s nailing this? Like, can we get her to join the band we don’t have?"

Y/N laughed, giving a mock bow.

"Thank you, thank you. Now, let's just be clear, I already won." Y/N said with a sly grin, stepping forward. "You'll all lose time if you keep discussing who's the best between you three."

"How can you be so sure?" Chris crossed his arms, carrying a superior instance.

"Because I actually listen to rock." She said, shrugging like it was obvious. "AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Kansas, Asia... should I keep going?"

Nick groaned.

"Okay, that’s true, but it doesn’t count!"

"Doesn’t count?" Y/N repeated, feigning offense. "I think you’ll find that the fact I actually know rock makes me the winner by default." She turned to Chris. "Tell me. Have 'yall even listened to ‘Highway to Hell’ all the way through?"

Chris hesitated, playing with his earphones.

"Uh... I mean." He looked at Nick. "Probably?"

Y/N laughed, shaking her head.

"Thought so." She crossed her arms. "So, I don’t need a skull belt, all-black everything, or death on my chest. I’ve got the actual music taste. Rock is in my veins, boys."

Nick groaned dramatically, throwing his head back.

"She wins. I hate it, but she wins."

"Alright, fine." Chris muttered. "But we still look better."

"Not a chance." Y/N teased, spinning in place again and winking at the camera. "This outfit screams rock goddess."

　　　　　༻﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡﹡༺

The boys were now proudly sporting their "Zoom Meeting" outfits. Chris held up his MacBook, Matt adjusted his glasses with a goofy smile, and Nick tugged at his black tie, looking down at his bright heart-shaped boxer shorts with fake professionalism.

"Alright." Chris started, addressing the imaginary Zoom meeting in front of him. "Gentlemen, let’s get to business. As you can see, we’re all clearly dressed to impress."

"Except for Nick." Matt teased, nodding toward his brother's boxer shorts. "The hearts? A little too much, don’t you think?"

Nick scoffed, feigning offense.

"Excuse me, at least I have this tie that says I’m both professional and emotionally available. A winning combo."

Matt rolled his eyes and gestured to his own look.

"Meanwhile, I’ve got balance. Business on top, relaxation on the bottom."

"That’s literally the whole theme." Chris pointed out with a smirk. "You’re not special, Matt."

Y/N watched from her spot leaning against Matt's bathroom door, her legs crossed as she sipped from her mug of coffee that she made while waiting for them to get ready. She was dressed comfortably yet stylishly, rocking an oversized beige knit sweater that draped perfectly off one shoulder, paired with black leggings and fluffy white socks. Her hair was tied up in a loose bun, with a few strands framing her face. Despite the boys' chaotic energy, she was nailing the whole "effortlessly cool" vibe.

"Y/N, you’re way too cozy for a Zoom meeting." Chris said, pointing at her as he adjusted his loose white shirt.

"Well." Y/N said with a playful grin. "Unlike you guys, I know how to mix comfy with class. You all just look ridiculous."

Nick gasped, dramatically clutching the box in his hands.

"Ridiculous? Ridiculous?! Look at this tie! I’m the epitome of professionalism!"

Chris leaned toward Y/N, pointing at Matt.

"What about him? He’s literally in boxer shorts."

Y/N rolled her eyes, sipping from her mug to hide her smile.

"You're all wearing it, dumbass." Her eyes lingered on Matt's red boxer shorts for a moment too long. "It’s really interesting that someone would think boxer shorts are appropriate for a Zoom meeting, actually."

Matt smirked, striking a random pose.

"Are you jealous?"

"No?" She said quickly, shaking her head. "I mean, it’s not like anyone else on the Zoom would see them, right?"

The other two brothers caught on instantly, grinning like Cheshire cats.

"Y/N." Nick teased. "Are you saying you wouldn’t let your Zoom co-workers see your boxers?"

"Nick!" She exclaimed, throwing an exasperated look at him. "That’s not the point!"

Chris chimed in, laughing.

"Yeah, Matt. She’s definitely jealous. She wishes she could wear boxers to a meeting."

"I do not!" Y/N huffed, crossing her arms, though a smile tugged at her lips. "I just... don’t understand why he’d even bother wearing the shirt if he’s just going to go full casual anyway."

"It’s called commitment to the aesthetic." Matt said, walking over to her and placing a hand on her shoulder, discretely squeezing the exposed skin. "Something you clearly wouldn’t understand."

"Oh, I understand commitment." Y/N shot back with a smirk, meeting his eyes momentarily. "But let’s be honest, none of you are winning any awards for those outfits."

"Excuse me?" Nick said, pretending to be outraged. "I’m clearly the winner here."

"Winner?" Chris scoffed. "You’re wearing socks pulled up to your knees, bro. That’s not even close to a win."

Y/N chuckled as she watched them descend into a full argument over who had the best Zoom look, but she couldn’t stop her gaze from flickering back to Matt’s outfit. Something about the casual confidence he exuded - boxers and glasses - had her feeling just a little possessive and turned on.

"Alright." She announced, clapping her hands to get their attention. "If you’re all done arguing, let’s see who can really sell their look with a runway walk."

The boys' faces lit up, and they quickly got into character.

Nick was up first, confidently sliding across the wooden floor in his socks, arms spread wide like a figure skater. As he came to a stop, he reached for his boxer shorts and dramatically lowered them until they hit the ground, shouting a little "Oh!".

Matt immediately yelped.

"Nick!" He yelled before lunging forward to cover Y/N's eyes with both hands.

"Matt! What are you doing?!" Y/N laughed, trying to swat his hands away while Chris doubled over in hysterics.

"Protecting your innocence!" Matt declared, keeping his hands firmly over her face.

Nick, unfazed, quickly pulled his boxers back up and began walking toward the camera with exaggerated confidence, tugging at his tie and making ridiculous faces as though he were a real model.

"You’re unbelievable!" Chris murmured through his laughter, wiping a tear from his eye.

"Well, we've got 2 strippers now-"

"Y/N!"

Nick turned dramatically to face her and winked.

"You’re welcome for the show."

Next, it was Matt’s turn. He walked to the middle of the floor, cracking his knuckles with a sly grin before suddenly dropping to his hands and knees.

"Uh, Matt?" Y/N asked, raising an eyebrow.

"What...?" Nick added, genuinely confused.

Then, without warning, Matt lifted his left leg to the side like a dog at a fire hydrant.

The realization hit everyone at once, recognizing the movement from one of the rounds of DTI that Matt and Chris played, and the room erupted into cheers and laughter.

"That was perfect!" Chris shouted, clapping his hands.

Matt stood up, brushing imaginary dirt off his shirt with a smirk, and walked toward the camera with crossed arms, striking a serious pose like a model in a high-fashion commercial.

"Okay, that was actually cool." Y/N admitted, giggling as he walked back to join them.

When it was Chris’s turn, he shook his head with a grin.

"I’m sitting this one out." He said.

"What? Why?" Nick asked, incredulous.

Chris shrugged.

"I’m already the main event. I’ll let Y/N steal the spotlight this time."

Y/N’s eyebrows shot up.

"Oh, so now I have to go?"

"You got this!" Matt encouraged, nudging her toward the runway.

"Fine." She said, standing up and straightening her oversized sweater dramatically.

Y/N walked off the camera and took the book she'd been reading the past few days from the coffee table, walking back to the frame before delicately putting it on her head like a balancing act. She strutted confidently toward the camera, balancing it all the way, then stopped to pull out her mug, striking a victorious pose before taking a slow, exaggerated sip. The boys erupted in applause.

"You can call me Barbie now." She started, turning to the boys while opening a wide smile before pretending that her hand was a microphone. "On top of the world where I can see everything before me reaching up to touch the sky-"

"Okay, singer girl, pipe down a bit." Nick raised his right hand, exchanging perplexed looks with Chris, who was laughing.

"Okay, she wins." The youngest admitted, shrugging in defeat.

"Unreal." Matt said, looking at her with obvious pride. "You’re way too good at this, Y/N."

"Okay, okay, she wins. No one can top that." Nick nodded at Y/N. "But I think Chris gets second place in this one."

"No, I give you number one." Chris insisted, pointing to Nick while Matt just observed.

"I can't accept that. I'm just happy Matt's wearing his blue light glasses again." Nick's voice turned dramatically high-pitched, clearly imitating the fandom.

Before anyone could react to him, Matt ripped his glasses off of his face, bending it backward until it snapped, small pieces flying everywhere.

"Matt, why would you do that?" Y/N yelled, looking at him with wide eyes and open mouth - just like the other two - before pouting, looking miserably at the shattered pieces. "I liked that one."

"I don't like those stupid jokes." Matt simply replied, looking unfazed at his brothers and Y/N.

Nick and Chris kept looking from Matt to the camera and back, their expressions full of shock.

"You're going to buy another one just like that one, I don't even care." Y/N ordered, crossing her arms and looking directly at Matt, raising her eyebrows as if to say 'dare disobey me.

"Fine." He sighed. "Sorry."

extra - comments:

"okay but can we talk about matt literally saying ‘I’m off limits’? someone tell me what’s going on here 🤡"

"nick casually calling out matt girls for voting on matt only bc they want to sleep with him had me SCREAMING 😭"

"why was Y/N blushing when matt said he was off limits? I SEE YOU, GIRL!!!!"

"the dynamic between Y/N and matt is giving major dating vibes"

"wait, why does matt always seem to hype Y/N up just a little more than chris and nick? like, we get it, dude. she’s awesome. but tone it down, or we’ll all start connecting dots 🤨"

"as a fellow rock fan, I have to say Y/N listening to AC/DC and bon jovi automatically makes her my fave"

"not Y/N convincing matt with zero effort to do the rockstar trend with her 🤧"

"I’m not saying I ship Y/N and matt... but I also kind of ship Y/N and matt. the way he looked at her with that dress??? man, I know that look"

"matt breaking his glasses and then Y/N ordering him to buy another one and him ACCEPTING IT???? and saying sorry???? omg that's just girl boss right there 🙏🏻"

© vanteguccir

[ama3003]

A Pawn Once More (3)

Character: Haymitch Abernathy

Requested: Again Sorta??? Lol I've been seeing all the love it's been getting and had to continue. Plus I love this story.

Type: Angst/ Fluff

Summary: The final moments leading up the 75th Hunger Games.

Part 1: Here

Part 2: Here

I'm not going to lie, this was the most fun I had writing, and I'm lowkey very proud of this. Let me know if you wanna read her her being in the games.

A.N: I haven't read Sunrise on the Reaping, so please, No Spoilers. It's a Female!Reader. Age Gap: Haymitch is 41 and Reader is in her 20s (preferably 25)

***************

Your nerves hit like a wave the second you stepped into the waiting room.

The air was tense—heavy with the kind of silence that only comes when everyone is pretending not to be afraid. The tributes were scattered around the room, each lost in their own thoughts, their own strategies, their own quiet dread.

You felt your stomach twist.

Last time you were in this position, you scored a seven. Clean, precise knife throws. It wasn’t spectacular, but it got the job done—just enough to earn some sponsors without making you a threat. It kept you safe.

But this wasn’t like last time.

This time, you were older. Sharper. Tired in a way you didn’t know how to explain. And despite all of it, you had no idea what you were going to do in there. No plan, no performance. You hadn’t let yourself think too hard about it, because thinking meant caring—and caring meant fear. And you were so tired of being afraid.

The Capitol had already taken everything. Your home. Your peace. Your sense of self. And now they were back for what little was left.

Your gaze drifted across the room and landed on the District 12 pair, sitting quietly in the far corner. They weren’t speaking, just watching. Watching you. Their expressions were unreadable—somewhere between wary and curious. You offered them a small nod and the faintest smile. They didn’t return it, but they didn’t look away either. That felt like enough.

Then, you saw him—Mason, cutting through the room with that quiet steadiness he always carried.

He slid into the seat beside you without a word, his presence warm and familiar.

“Hey,” he said gently, his voice low. “You ready?”

You nodded automatically, but your fingers betrayed you—tapping anxiously on your leg, tense and restless. Mason noticed. He always noticed.

Without saying anything more, he reached over and placed his hand on top of yours. It was steady. Grounding. You immediately stilled.

“You’re going to be alright,” he said, soft but certain. “We both are.”

You looked at him—and just like that, something inside you loosened.

Those eyes. You remembered them. The same ones you met when you were sixteen, standing awkwardly at your Victor’s party, trying not to be seen. He hadn’t mentored your Games, but he found you anyway. Quiet, lost, and not ready for any of it. He’d seen you for what you were—another broken kid trying to survive something you weren’t built for.

He knew that look. He’d worn it once, too.

And from that night on, Mason became something steady in your life. Maybe even something safe. He couldn’t stop the Capitol from throwing you into another nightmare, but if you had to go back in, you were glad it was with him.

“It’s going to be fine,” you murmured, offering a small, tired smile. And for a moment, you let yourself believe it. Mason would follow you anywhere. You didn’t have to question it. His loyalty wasn’t loud or showy—it was just there. Unshakable.

“Y/N. Mason.”

You turned at the sound of your names and saw Cashmere and Gloss approaching, their movements smooth and practiced like they were walking a red carpet instead of waiting to face death again. Behind them, Enobaria and Brutus stood from their seats, joining the group.

Cashmere slipped her arm around your shoulders like it was second nature. “You ready to make some jaws drop?” she asked with that signature smirk. Confident. Stunning. But under it, you could see the flicker of something else. That same tension that lived in all of you now.

“Always,” you said, letting the corners of your mouth lift. “I think I’m just gonna wing it. Do whatever feels right.”

Cashmere raised an eyebrow. “That’s either brilliant or reckless.”

“Maybe both,” you replied.

“As long as you scare them a little, you’ll land at least a nine,” Enobaria said, cracking her knuckles and flashing her sharpened teeth. “I’m thinking of stabbing a dummy and barring my teeth at the Gamemakers.”

Brutus rolled his eyes. “Yeah, and they’ll send you straight to the Capitol psych ward.”

Enobaria grinned wider. “Sounds like a vacation compared to what’s coming.”

You huffed out a quiet laugh before turning to the siblings.

“What about you two?”

Gloss shrugged, arms crossed over his chest. “Spear work. Something fast and clean—show them I haven’t slowed down. I’m not there to impress them. Just remind them what I can do.”

Cashmere spun a knife lazily between her fingers. “Knives, obviously. Hit the vitals, maybe throw in a flip or two if I feel like showing off. Nothing too wild—we’re aiming for tens, not twelves.”

She looked at Mason, nudging his leg with her foot. “What about you?”

Mason tilted his head, thoughtful. “Not much I can do solo. Might ask to use the moving targets—simulate a real fight. Or…” he glanced sideways at you, smiling faintly, “maybe someone here’s brave enough to volunteer.”

You rolled your eyes, smirking. “Keep dreaming.”

But before anyone could say anything else, a sharp voice echoed through the room:

“District One, Gloss Tanner. Report for individual assessment.”

Silence fell instantly. All eyes shifted to Gloss.

He stood slowly, rolling his shoulders once, then turned to his sister. Cashmere reached out and touched his arm, her expression softening.

Gloss gave her a quick squeeze on the shoulder and pressed a kiss to the top of her head. Then he looked at the rest of you, smiled like it was nothing, and said, “See you on the other side.”

And then he was gone.

No hesitation. No second glance.

The moment lingered in the air. Thick. Heavy. Real.

Enobaria was the first to break the silence. “We’ll head back to our seats,” she said, giving each of you a quick hug like she didn’t want to think too hard about it. Brutus did the same—no words, just a quiet presence—and then they were gone.

“We should, too,” Mason murmured, giving Cashmere’s shoulder a squeeze.

You turned to her and wrapped your arms around her tightly.

“He’s going to do great,” you whispered. “And so will you. Okay?”

Cashmere gave you a watery smile, blinking fast. “Good luck, Y/N.”

“You too.”

She held you for a second longer, then let go and sat down, folding her hands in her lap, eyes fixed on the door Gloss had disappeared through.

Before heading back to your seat, you squat down in front of Finnick and Mags. Grinning, you greet them with a playful, “Hello, my fishies.”

Finnick rolls his eyes dramatically, but there's a smile tugging at his lips. Mags, ever the nurturing figure, pats you on the head as if you were a child, her touch gentle and warm.

“I swear, before I die, I’m going to need a new nickname,” Finnick jokes, sounding far more serious than he probably intends. “I can’t die with ‘Fishy’ on my tombstone.”

You nudge his knee playfully. “Oh, don’t worry, Finnick. I wouldn’t do that to you. But I would say, ‘Best Swimmer in the Mighty Seas,’” you add with a wink, your tone light.

Mags laughs softly, her eyes crinkling with kindness. You turn toward her. “Ready to blow them away with your rope-tying skills?” You can’t help but tease, excited for the elderly woman you admire so much.

Mags gives you a thumbs up, her smile all the answer you need. Then she points to Finnick, mimicking the movement of a trident with her hands.

“Oh, yes. Finnick and his big fork,” you tease, ruffling his hair affectionately. You and Finnick had always been close—almost like siblings, really. You won your Games right after him, and to say you leaned on each other would be an understatement. There was an unspoken understanding between you two, born from the shared experience of surviving this hell.

You hear Cashmere’s name being called, and as she rises, she shoots you a reassuring smile before heading toward the door.

Turning back to Finnick and Mags, you see the stress hanging heavy on their shoulders. Without thinking, you rise to your feet and give them both tight hugs. “It’s going to be fine,” you say, your voice firm but kind. “I’ve never seen anyone handle a trident as well as you, Finnick. And no one—no one—can tie a knot as tight as you, Mags.”

Both of them smile up at you, their faces softening. They know exactly what you’re doing—trying to ease their tension, give them a little comfort. That’s why they love having you around.

“I’ll catch up with you two after, okay?” You give them both a final squeeze. “Good luck out there.”

They nod, their smiles a little more relaxed now. You return to your seat next to Mason, feeling a brief moment of relief as you settle beside him.

“You’re being a great motivator. I’m feeling inspired,” Mason says with a half-smile, his tone teasing as he nudges you lightly.

You can’t help but scoff, shaking your head. “These are our friends. And we’re supposed to kill them like it’s nothing?” You laugh softly, but it’s a bitter sound.

Mason’s smirk fades, and he turns to face you more seriously. “We all know how this is going to play out,” he says quietly, his voice laced with a mix of resignation and practicality. “And we promised we weren’t going to take it to heart. Quick and painless, remember?”

You exhale slowly, your chest heavy. “Doesn’t mean it’s not going to happen. And let’s say… in the off chance that we both make it to the end. Then what?” You meet his gaze, both of you silently acknowledging the truth between you. Neither of you would be able to kill the other. Not after everything.

Mason’s eyes soften, but his voice is firm as he shakes his head. “That’s never going to happen. You know that,” he says, his tone heavy with certainty. “It’ll be someone else, or… it’ll be me.”

You can’t argue with that. It’s the cruel reality you’re both facing, one that feels too dark to even consider. You drop your head into your hands, the weight of it all pushing down on you.

Mason doesn’t have any comforting words—he knows they won’t help. He just reaches over, ruffling your hair lightly before pulling you into his side. His presence, solid and steady, is the only thing that’s keeping you from shattering in that moment.

You watch the District Three pair go, followed by Finnick, and then Mags. Each one of them stepping into their fate, and each one leaving a piece of their heart in the room.

Time passes slowly. Your own thoughts are heavy, weighed down by the same unspoken question everyone in this room is carrying.

And then, you hear it.

“District Five, Mason Cover. Report for individual assessment.”

Your body freezes. Your heart skips a beat.

Mason feels it, too. The weight of the arena, the uncertainty of what’s to come, the fear—it’s all there, hanging between you two.

“Darling, it’s going to be fine,” he whispers in your ear, his voice calm, steady. He presses a kiss to the top of your head, the warmth of his lips a small comfort in the sea of tension.

You try to return the reassurance, offering him a soft smile. “Good luck,” you murmur, even though you’re not sure if either of you believe it.

He meets your gaze, his smile small but sincere. “You too,” he says, his voice softer now. He ruffles your hair one more time before standing up. “See you on the other side.” His words are light, basically mimicking Gloss. But you still teared up.

You nod, trying to swallow the lump in your throat as you watch him leave. He glances back once, offering you a final wave, and then he’s gone, heading toward the door with that same quiet confidence he always carries.

Now, the fear was real. The anxiety had a tight grip on you, and no matter how hard you tried to steady your breathing, it was a struggle. Your chest felt heavy, each breath an effort.

You closed your eyes, trying to center yourself. Ten minutes. That’s all you had. Ten minutes to somehow find a way to push past the panic, to focus, to prepare yourself.

You were so far inside your head that you didn’t even notice someone sitting down next to you until you heard a soft voice.

“Are you ready for your assessment?”

You jumped, startled, and turned to see Peeta sitting where Mason had just been. He gave you a small, sheepish smile. “Stupid question, I know. I’m sure you’ve been asked by everyone else. Should’ve said something else.”

It wasn’t what you expected—Peeta of all people sitting next to you. You glanced over at Katniss. She was watching you closely from a distance, eyes trained on both you and Peeta, her protective instincts sharp.

You turned back to Peeta, trying to shake off the unease. “I’m ready enough to just get it over with,” you replied, your voice steady, but you could feel the tension coiled deep inside you. “Are you?”

He nodded, though his smile was a little strained. “Yeah, it’s kind of crazy, you know? I was doing this exact thing a year ago. Not much has changed.”

You shook your head slightly. “Everything’s changed, Peeta. You’re a Victor now. That means something.”

Peeta met your eyes, his gaze serious. “We both know I wasn’t supposed to be one.”

“I could say that about all of us,” you said, your voice soft but firm. “None of us were supposed to be Victors, but here we are. And it’s important, Peeta, that you start believing that. It’s the only way you’re going to make it out of the arena.”

He didn’t speak for a moment, just looking at you like he was weighing your words. Finally, he broke the silence, his fingers fidgeting with a loose thread on his sleeve. “Haymitch says we should team up. I know enough to sense how important you are to him.”

You raised an eyebrow. “You’re trying to recruit me?” you asked, teasing but also a little touched by his honesty. You could tell he wasn’t exactly sure where this conversation was heading, but he was trying to find his footing.

He looked uncomfortable but pushed on, “I’m not saying we should be best friends or anything, but you’re important to Haymitch. I think you’re important to Katniss, too, even if she doesn’t show it.” His voice softened. “I’m just doing what I can. You know, trying to look out for her… and for us.”

You couldn’t help but smile. “I don’t think your fiancée would agree,” you said, your tone light, but there was an edge to it.

Peeta let out a small, dry chuckle. “And I don’t think your partner would be thrilled, either, but here we are.”

That made you smirk. He had a way with words, even when he was hesitant. “I’ve always been on your team, Peeta. I just need you to accept that you’re on mine, too.” Your voice was quieter now, more earnest. You met his gaze, not backing down. “I’m behind you a hundred percent. And I know Mason will be, too. But you have to trust us. Just like you want to protect Katniss, I do too. I’ll do whatever it takes to see her come out of this alive.”

You leaned in slightly, lowering your voice. “If you don’t trust my words, trust Haymitch’s. I’m on your side.”

Before Peeta could respond, the loudspeaker crackled, cutting through the tension.

“District Five, Y/N L/N. Report for individual assessment.”

You tensed, your heart skipping a beat, but you tried to keep your breathing steady. This was it. You stood up slowly, then turned to Peeta. With a light touch, you patted his leg.

“I’ll see you later, Peeta. Good luck to you both,” you said, your voice more confident than you felt.

Peeta watched you as you turned to leave, his eyes following you until you reached the door.

Once you were out of sight, Peeta made his way back to Katniss, who was still watching him closely, waiting for him to speak. He sat down beside her, his expression thoughtful.

“I think we should team up with District Five,” he said, his voice low but sure.

Katniss looked at him, skepticism written across her face. “Are you sure about this?”

Peeta met her gaze, his eyes steady. “Trust me.”

After a long moment of silence, Katniss finally nodded, her resolve firming. “Okay,” she said quietly.

************

You stared at yourself in the mirror, your reflection a ghost of someone you used to be. The makeup was heavy, transforming your features, and for a moment, you looked like you did nine years ago—before the Games, before all of this.

Tomorrow, you would be thrown back into the arena. Tomorrow, you’d have to fight your friends, leave your husband behind, and maybe die. And the weight of it made everything seem so much heavier.

You were scared during your first Games, but this fear—it was different. It was paralyzing. It settled deep in your chest, like something solid and cold, and you couldn’t breathe.

The sound of cheers rang out as Caesar Flickerman strutted onto the stage, his perfect, rehearsed smile beaming across the crowd. Your pulse quickened.

"There, absolutely perfection," your stylist said, patting her face to dry the tears you hadn't realized had begun to fall.

"Thank you," you whispered, blinking the haze from your eyes. You stepped onto the line between Mags and Mason, trying to steady your breath, your heart threatening to burst out of your chest.

"Breathe," Mason whispered, his voice low but steady. "You look beautiful."

A small, trembling smile pulled at your lips. "Thanks," you murmured, looking at Mags. "You look pretty," you added, hoping it would ease the tension in the air. Mags smiled, a soft, knowing look on her face. She pointed to your dress. "Thank you," you said. "It’s supposed to mimic my first Games."

You swallowed, looking around at the others, trying to block out the tightness in your chest. Nervous energy swirled around you. The others could feel it, too, but everyone was doing their best to keep it together.

You saw Gloss take his turn, then Cash, and then Brutus. One after another, they walked past you, their faces filled with the same mix of dread and determination.

"I can’t believe tomorrow is the day," Mason said, jumping up slightly, the nerves evident in his voice.

"You're telling me," Finnick said, giving a smirk that didn’t quite reach his eyes. "I’m about to perform my best acting yet—pretend I’m not already dead inside—and then I’m gonna die. Sounds like a real blast."

Mags shot him a disapproving look, but you could see the faintest hint of a smile tug at her lips.

"We just have to get through tonight. Tomorrow’s a whole other day," you said, trying to sound reassuring, though the words felt hollow even as you spoke them. "We’ll figure it out then."

The others fell silent at your words, each one lost in their own thoughts, the realization of what was coming settling in.

Finnick went next, followed by Mags. Then Mason.

"Wish me luck," Mason said, winking at you before stepping onto the stage, the Capitol audience erupting in applause.

"Good luck," you said, smirking, watching him stride out with the swagger only Mason could pull off.

"It’s annoying how charming that guy is," you muttered, half to yourself.

Johanna let out a short, dry laugh. "Do you think, before I die, he’ll grant me a death-wish kiss?" she joked, her usual biting humor still intact.

You nudged her with a grin. "Hey, I think the probability of that is extremely high."

Mason’s interview went off without a hitch. He played the ‘I’m about to die, and I never loved anyone’ card, and the Capitol ate it up. The single women in the crowd swooned as he strutted off the stage, bowing to his fellow tributes.

"And now, for one of the Capitol’s favorite girls, let’s hear it for Y/N L/N!" The announcement was loud, and the crowd roared in excitement.

You took a deep breath, forcing a smile as you walked onto the stage, the eyes of Panem on you. You knew how to work a crowd, how to present yourself as the confident, charming Victor everyone adored. But tonight, it felt like more of a mask than ever before.

Caesar Flickerman’s smile was as dazzling as always, his voice smooth as silk. "Oh, my dear girl, how are you?" He leaned in for air kisses, his theatrics just a little too perfect.

"Well, I’ve had better days," you said, a soft smile curling at the corner of your lips.

"Today is so emotional and hard for all of us, isn’t it?" Caesar continued, his tone dripping with faux sympathy. "But you—good news for you—you scored an eleven! Absolutely amazing!"

"Thank you," you replied, trying to keep the flatness from your voice. "Since I’m probably going to die tomorrow, I wanted to go out with a bang, I guess."

You saw Caesar’s smile falter for a moment, unsure how to handle your bluntness. But he recovered quickly, ever the professional.

"Well, a bang you did," he said, voice still upbeat. "Now, my dear, we’ve heard so much about those waiting for you back at home. Who’s there for you? Anyone special?"

You forced your gaze to drift across the audience, your eyes scanning the sea of faces before finding the one that anchored you—Haymitch. His eyes were locked onto you, steady and unwavering, like a lifeline in the chaos.

"I have my parents back at home, taking care of my younger brother," you said, your voice a little softer now. "It was definitely a surprise when these Games were announced."

"I’m sure they’re watching you now and cheering for you back in District 5," Caesar smiled warmly, his eyes glistening with false compassion.

You swallowed hard, your throat tightening. "I doubt they will. They promised me they won’t watch. Who would want to see their child get slaughtered?" The words left your lips, cold and harsh, but they were the truth. The crowd grew silent, and Caesar struggled to regain his composure.

"Uh…" He coughed awkwardly, glancing toward the camera. "Well, that’s unfortunate, I’m sure they’ll be missing a good game. Is there anyone else waiting for you? Maybe a man? A little boy toy?"

You didn’t even need to think. The words felt right, even as they left your lips. Your fingers moved instinctively to the necklace around your neck, slipping it off with a deliberate motion, and you looked back at Haymitch. His eyes widened as your fingers found the ring you’d been wearing around your neck. The same one you’d both always kept secret.

"I do, actually," you whispered, barely above the noise of the crowd. A ripple of surprise ran through the room. "I have someone waiting for me."

You slowly slid the ring onto your finger, letting it shine under the Capitol lights. For a moment, the crowd was dead silent. The world seemed to hold its breath. And then, the cheers exploded.

You could see Haymitch in the crowd, his expression unreadable at first. But then, something in his eyes softened. He didn’t hide his emotions, even if you couldn’t hear his voice. It was in the way his hand shook as he reached for his flask, eyes never leaving you.

"You’re married?" Caesar’s voice was full of excitement now, a gleam in his eyes. "What a surprise! Tell us, who is this lucky man?"

You met his gaze again, locking your eyes with Haymitch's. "I’m afraid I’m keeping that information to myself," you replied, your voice calm but firm. "Just in case I die tomorrow, I want him to move on, to find happiness. Obviously, without all the cameras and media .That’s all I’ve ever wanted for him."

You glanced down at the ring, your fingers brushing over it gently as you spoke. "My death will not be the end of him. He will mourn, but he will live. Live for me. Live for us. Live for the world. My death won’t erase our love. Our love will live on. These Games may take everything from me, but our love? That’s something that will last forever." You blinked rapidly, tears beginning to blur your vision. "I’ve loved and been loved in these few years more than some do in a lifetime," you whispered, your voice cracking slightly. "I’m one of the lucky ones."

The audience was silent for a moment before an overwhelming wave of applause broke through the air. You could see the tears welling in Caesar's eyes, his voice shaking with emotion. "That… that was beautiful," he said, his tone sincere. "I’m sure he knows how deeply you love him. And he’s lucky to have someone like you."

"Thank you," you said softly, your heart pounding.

The audience cheered again, but you only had eyes for Haymitch now. You blew him a kiss, a simple gesture, but one that felt like it carried everything you couldn’t say aloud.

"That was amazing," Mason said, wrapping you in a tight hug the second you stepped off the stage.

You cried in his arms, the weight of everything threatening to swallow you whole. "It’s going to be okay, darling girl," Mason whispered, his voice warm and comforting. "He knows you love him, and you know he loves you."

Johanna was next to you, rubbing your back. "You really did a good job. I think all of Panem’s crying right now."

You stopped crying, and only the sound of the following interview filled the room until Johanna spoke again, her voice annoyed.

"Really? A wedding dress?" She raised an eyebrow at Katniss’s dress, which looked suspiciously like a wedding gown.

"Snow made me wear it," Katniss said, her tone flat, not caring much for Johanna, but glanced at you. Haymitch trusted you, and so did Peeta.

"Make him pay for it," Johanna smirked, causing Katniss to smile faintly.

"Come on, let’s get you cleaned up," Mason said, wrapping an arm around you, guiding you away. But then Katniss reached for your wrist, stopping you.

Mason tensed but you turned towards her.

"You did good," Katniss said quietly, nodding at your ring. "I know he appreciates it."

"Thank you," you smiled at her, though it was strained.

"Plus, I’m sure you made Peeta cry," Katniss added with a rare smile.

You laughed softly, your heart lighter despite everything. "Good luck," you said, offering her a smile before following Mason out.

"So, we’re really teaming up with District 12, huh?" Mason said, rolling his eyes.

You nudged him, a small smile playing at your lips. "Yup."

*********

You found yourself staring out the window of the living area in your suite, the stars twinkling distantly in the night sky. Mason was sitting across from you, nose buried in a book, but you couldn't tear your eyes away from the vast darkness outside.

After the interviews, you all held hands, the gesture simple but filled with power, as if, for a brief moment, the Games could be stopped. But an hour ago, Abigail had come in and crushed that fragile hope, informing you that the Games would go on as planned.

You sighed, the weight of the news heavy in your chest.

"I know you're not reading," you said, breaking the silence as you turned to Mason. "You've been on the same page for the last six minutes. It usually takes you three."

He looked up at you, a sly smirk tugging at his lips before he closed the book, setting it down on the table with a soft thud. "True," he said, the humor gone from his eyes. "But it's hard to focus on anything when death is looming over us."

You didn’t respond. Instead, you stood and moved to the window, resting your hands on the cool glass. He followed you, his footsteps soft on the carpet.

"Did Cash seem fine when you told her we weren't joining the pack?" he asked, trying to shift the conversation.

Your shoulders tensed slightly, "She wasn’t happy, but she knew," You said with a nod. "They all knew we were going with District 12. Expected it, even." Then you turned to him, your heart pounding slightly. "Are you mad at me?"

Mason shook his head instantly, his expression softening. "No. Never." He sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. "I just… I just hope we're not making a mistake. That’s all."

You hesitated, then spoke the words that had been in your head. "You could always go with the Careers, you know."

The words barely left your mouth when Mason shot you a glare, his eyes darkening. "Shut up," he said, his voice sharp but filled with the raw edge of care. "I've been saying the whole time—it's you and me, always. If you want to team up with the newbies, we do it. If you want to team up with the Careers, we do it. Hell, if you want us to be on our own, we’ll do that too. I’m with you, partner, okay? You can't get rid of me that easily." He paused, a small, teasing smile creeping onto his lips. "I’ve been taking care of your ass for almost a decade. I’m not about to stop now."

A lump formed in your throat at his words, and you smiled, fighting back the emotions. "You're my best friend," you whispered, and he chuckled.

"Don’t let Cash hear that or she’ll make it her mission to have my head tomorrow." His voice was light, but there was something deeply affectionate in it.

"I’m serious, Mase," you nudged him, a little more forceful now, your voice cracking. "You’re my best friend. And this… this fucking sucks."

Without another word, Mason wrapped his arms around you tightly, his grip firm and warm. "Darling," he murmured into your hair, "no matter what happens tomorrow, know that you're my best friend. You’ve always been. And, I can’t really be mad at you. They're an alright team. The girl is good with those damn arrows. Plus, we get Finnick and Beetee. It could be worse."

You stayed like that for a long while, holding onto each other, the silent comfort of a friendship that had weathered more storms than anyone should ever have to. Then you heard a soft cough from the doorway, and you reluctantly pulled away.

You turned to see Haymitch standing there, leaning against the doorframe with a smirk. "Am I interrupting something?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

Mason rolled his eyes dramatically, his tone mockingly offended. "Dude," he said with a grin, "I just got told I’m her best friend, and you couldn’t wait five minutes to swoop in? That’s crazy."

Haymitch raised his hands in surrender, still grinning. "Ouch, I thought that was me." He turned to you with a feigned look of hurt on his face. "Sweetheart, you wound me."

You shot them both a tired, amused look. "Quiet, both of you." You turned to Mason, giving him a small, pleading glance. "Mase, can you leave us, please?"

He groaned, but there was affection in the sound. "Fiiiiiinnnneeeee." He dragged out the word in a mock pout, but then he wrapped his arms around you one more time, pulling you close. "I’ll see you tomorrow, okay? I’ll find you." He kissed your forehead softly, the gesture comforting despite the weight of everything.

He pulled back, moving toward Haymitch. Before he left, Haymitch stopped and whispered, "Take care of her in there, and I’ll take care of you both out here."

Mason nodded, just slightly, so you wouldn’t notice, before giving Haymitch a firm hug. He stepped back, his eyes lingering on you for a moment before he turned to leave. "Good luck, Mason," Haymitch said softly, patting his shoulder as he went.

Mason gave a small nod, trying to keep the tension from showing, and then he left the room.

The door closed behind him, and for a brief moment, the room was silent.

Haymitch walked toward you, his steps slower than usual, more weighted. You didn’t need him to say anything. You already knew.

This was goodbye.

Without a word, he wrapped his arms around you, holding you tightly like he was trying to memorize the way you fit against him. You buried your face into his chest, inhaling the scent of him—whiskey, pine, and something softer, something that always felt like home.

You wouldn’t see him tomorrow. As soon as you woke, the Peacekeepers would be there—no time for goodbyes, no time for holding each other like this. They’d tear you away from your bed, from this room, from him.

So this… this was it.

The two of you settled onto the couch in silence, your body curled into his, your face tucked into the crook of his neck, and his arms wrapped around you like armor. His hand moved up and down your back in a slow rhythm, steady and calming, though his heart beat loud and uneven against your cheek.

You could die like this, you thought.

God, you wished you would die like this.

"You know what I was thinking?" you said softly, your voice barely above a whisper.

Haymitch hummed in response, low and thoughtful, his fingers gently threading through your hair.

"I think we were meant to be with each other. In every universe. It's always you and I,” you breathed. “And I know... I know in another universe, we got to have a beautiful, long life together."

His lips twitched into a smile, pained but sincere. "You think so?"

"Oh, I know so," you said, the corner of your mouth lifting. “We have three kids. Two girls and one boy. They're perfect—just like we always dreamed. We live in this beautiful home with a white picket fence, big porch swing. You finally grow tomatoes that don’t taste like dirt. We grow old together. We see our kids have kids. We'd be cool grandparents."

"The best grandparents," he said quietly, still stroking your hair, his voice strained and cracked with longing. “Is it weird that I'm jealous of that us?”

"No... because so am I." You closed your eyes, the fantasy a cruel comfort. It felt so real. It should have been real.

Your voice broke as the grief crashed over you like a wave. “This isn’t fair.” The words came out as a sob, and you shoved your face deeper into his neck, clinging to him like he was the last safe thing in the world.

"I know, sweetheart. I know," he murmured, holding you tighter. His hand moved slowly over your back, as if he could rub the pain away, ease the break in your heart. "But I'm going to help you. You and Mase. It's going to be alright.”

He leaned back just enough to look you in the eyes, his own gaze sharp and urgent. “I just need you to stay with Katniss. No matter what—stay with her.”

You blinked, confused for a moment, but nodded. There was something in his tone, something just beneath the surface. You didn't know the full story, but you trusted him. You always had.

"I promise, Haymitch. I’ll try to protect them... for as long as I breathe."

He stilled. Completely.

His jaw clenched, and his grip on you tightened again.

He hadn’t meant for it to come across like that. God, no. He never wanted you to think you owed him that—your life for theirs. That wasn’t what this was.

"I just need you to breathe," he said, his voice rough and trembling. “That’s all I need, okay? Just breathe. Protect yourself. I’ll take care of the kids. I promise. But you—you look after you. No playing hero. No playing mama bear.”

You lifted your head to meet his eyes, your heart thudding. “You care for those kids, Haymitch Abernathy,” you said, voice firm. “I’m going to protect them as much as I can. Nothing’s happening to those kids if I’m there.”

He stared at you, the pain behind his eyes shining like glass ready to crack.

"And I care about you, Y/N Abernathy." His voice hitched. “So you're going to make sure you survive.”

Your bottom lip trembled. You looked at him—at the man you loved more than anything—and whispered, “Only one comes out alive, Mitch.”

Your voice cracked like a brittle bone.

“I’m not even in the top five of who should win.”

Tears welled in your eyes again, hot and burning, and his face crumpled just slightly as he pulled you back into him, his breath stuttering.

You could see it. The way he was unraveling. The storm brewing behind his eyes. He had been holding something in, and it was clawing its way out of him, ripping him apart from the inside.

You’d been accepting your fate quietly, trying not to make it harder for him. But he needed more from you now.

He needed you to fight.

He needed you to live.

He needed to say the thing that had been killing him since the moment he knew. There was this plan. A plan to get Katniss and all the other victors out of there. A plan that could save your life. And he wishes he could tell you scream it out.

But Plutarch didn’t want you to involved because of your close relationship with the careers. He said it could compromise the whole mission. But he needed to tell you. He needed to guarantee your safety. Plutarch be dammed. You’re his wife. You’re the only thing that matters.

"I—" he started, voice hoarse, his hands twitching at his sides. Just spit it out he thought to himself.

You turned to face him fully, one brow raised. He was spinning in his own mind, fighting every instinct. You could tell he wanted to say it, to scream it but there was something holding him back.

"There's thi—well, there's this... this plan... Plutarch—" Why couldn’t he just say it? His heart was screaming at him to spit it out.

You stepped in before he could finish, your heart stalling. You knew that look, the flickering indecision, the desperation caught behind his teeth.

"You're not supposed to tell me, right?" you asked gently, already knowing the answer.

He faltered, looking at you like you’d read the last page of a book he hadn’t finished. He wanted to tell you. So badly. And that’s what terrified you.

"There's this plan—"

"Stop." You raised your hand, voice quiet but firm. A small, tired smile tugged at your lips. "Don’t tell me."

He stared at you in disbelief, his brows furrowed like you’d just spoken in a language he didn’t understand. "What...?"

"There's a reason why you can’t tell me, right?"

He hesitated… and nodded.

"Then it’s probably a good reason.”

"It can save your life," he whispered, and that was when the first tear slipped from his eye. He was screaming at himself to tell you to save you. Why the hell isn’t he saying anything?

Your chest tightened, but you held your voice steady. "But it jeopardizes Katniss, doesn’t it?"

He didn’t answer. He didn’t have to. The silence was loud enough.

"Then don’t tell me."

"Sweetheart..."

"Don't tell me, Haymitch." You stepped closer, looking up at him with as much reassurance as you could muster. "I’m telling you not to tell me. You were going to—and now I’m saying no. So if anything happens, it’s on me. Not you. Never you."

You could already see it in his eyes—the guilt building like floodwater behind a dam. You couldn’t let it break him.

"You need to protect Katniss," you said softly.

His expression cracked as tears finally spilled freely, his voice breaking under the weight of his helplessness. "I need to protect you."

And that nearly broke you.

You had to look away, just for a second. "You’re putting her first," you said, your voice catching. "And that’s okay. You need to put her first. Always. You and I both know that. It’s for the greater cause—something bigger than just you and me."

He clenched his jaw. You both knew it was true. If the rebellion was going to work, it had to be Katniss. It had to be the Mockingjay.

"I need you safe," he said again, like if he repeated it enough, the universe would listen.

"And we need her alive." You were already shifting, already planning. Your voice quickened, desperate to be useful, to give him something to hold on to. "Both of them. Without Peeta, Katniss won’t want to do anything for the rebellion. Okay, I’ll look after Katniss and Mase can look after Peeta. Well of course I’ll also look after Peeta, but—"

You rambled, words spilling from you as your mind raced, building walls to keep the fear from crashing in. And he just looked at you.

God, he looked at you—like you were made of light and heartbreak and everything he could never deserve.

Then suddenly his hands were on your face, steadying you, grounding you. He needed to tell you. It was eating him alive.

You froze under his touch, your voice softening to a murmur. "Don’t tell me, Haymitch. I’m not mad. I won’t be mad. I’ll never make you choose between them or me. I care about them too."

He pulled you close, resting his forehead against yours, his breath trembling.

"It’s always been you," he choked, tears falling freely now. "It’s always going to be you."

You closed your eyes. If you could bottle this moment—this closeness, this certainty—you would have. You’d carry it into the arena like armor.

"This is more than just us, Mitch," you whispered. "If she survives… the districts' hope still lives."

He let out a bitter, shaking breath. "Damn it, woman, I want to tell you. I need to tell you."

You touched his cheek gently, tears stinging your eyes. "But you're holding back for her. And I'm telling you it’s okay."

You swallowed the lump in your throat and straightened your shoulders. "I told you since the beginning—I’m getting her out of that arena. Now you need to promise me you will too. Over Mags. Over Beetee. Over me."

Your voice didn’t shake this time. Not when it mattered most.

You looked into his eyes and saw the war in them—saw him silently screaming I can’t lose you.

But he knew you were right.

"I promise," he whispered, barely getting it out.

"It's going to be okay. We're going to be okay," you whispered, your voice thick with unshed tears as you pulled back, giving him a smile that trembled with hope and heartbreak. "And then one morning, you’ll wake up back in District 12… and you’re going to look out at the sky and feel it. Feel the peace. The Games will be gone. The children will be able to be children again. It’s what we’ve always wanted."

You smiled as you spoke, but he could see it—you weren’t just comforting him.

You were saying goodbye.

And Haymitch felt it. In the hollowness in his chest. In the way your voice cracked just slightly when you talked about a future you didn’t believe you’d see. You were accepting your death. Quietly. Gracefully. Willingly.

Even when the cause didn’t trust you enough to let you in.

And yet, here you were, dreaming about a life beyond the war—knowing you wouldn’t be part of it.

His hands clenched into fists at his sides.

“I feel like I’m making a mistake,” he said, voice raw, like it scraped his throat on the way out. Damn the cause. Damn Plutarch. Damn those District 12 kids. Damn this plan.

“You’re not,” you said gently. “You’re a mentor. We give our lives for those children. If I could’ve saved my tributes, I would’ve.”

You smiled through your tears, and it wrecked him.

“You’re the best mentor known to man. And an even better husband.”

That was the final blow.

“I love you,” he whispered like a confession, like a prayer. “So, so much. More than the moon loves the stars. More than the sun loves the ocean. I love you, Y/N.”

You cupped his face like he was fragile, precious. Like he wasn’t the broken man the world always thought him to be.

“And I love you, Haymitch,” you murmured. You nestled yourself back into his chest, fitting there like you were made for him. And maybe you were.

You both stared out the window as silence wrapped around you. Not a single word for an hour—just hearts beating in sync, like this moment could stretch forever.

But it couldn’t.

Eventually, you sat up slowly, blinking back the heaviness in your eyes. “You have to go check on the kids. The elevator locks soon… and I doubt you want to walk up seven flights of stairs.”

He clung to you a little tighter. “I’ll be fine. Come back here.”

You gave him that look. The one that always shut down every argument. Soft, patient, immovable.

He sighed. He knew. You were doing it for the kids. For him. If the Peacekeepers found you both here, alone, asleep—it would be over for him. You’d never let that happen.

“Fine. Fine.”

You walked him toward the elevator slowly, each step a thousand pounds heavier than the last.

Then you paused.

“Tell Effie I say that I love her… and that she needs to take care of you. No more than three whiskey bottles a week.”

He didn’t laugh.

He didn’t even smile.

He just pulled you into his arms like he was afraid you’d disappear the second he let go.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered, and he meant it for everything—for the plan, for the Capitol, for the years wasted, for the future he couldn’t give you.

“I’m not,” you said softly, holding his face like a lifeline. “I lived a beautiful life… with amazing friends and a perfect husband. I meant what I said. I felt more love in the years with you than most people ever feel in a lifetime. You made me happy. You make me proud. After everything you’ve been through, we’re finally going to be at peace.”

He was breaking. He didn’t care how pathetic it looked.

“I need you,” he choked, like the words themselves were ripping something loose in his chest.

“And you have me,” you whispered, “forever.”

You kissed his cheek, pulled him close again, memorized the shape of his body, the weight of him in your arms.

“I’ll be fine,” you lied. “Remember your promise.”

You stepped back, slowly pushing him toward the elevator. Your hands were shaking, but your face was steady. Because if you faltered—if you gave in—he would stay. And that was too dangerous.

The doors slid open.

And he didn’t move.

He couldn’t.

But you gave him a little push.

Because you had to.

He stepped inside. And as the doors started to close, you saw the panic take over his features.

"I love you," he said, the words tearing from his chest like a final breath. His heart physically ached. Like it was collapsing in on itself. Like maybe, just maybe, a person could die from a broken heart.

"And I love you too," you replied, the softest smile breaking through your tears. How could you smile when you were walking into your death?

Haymitch didn’t know.

But you always found light, even at the end of the world.

“I’ll see you in the next lifetime,” you said, and your voice cracked on the final word.

The doors slid shut.

And as the elevator descended, the last thing he heard was the sound of you sobbing.

And that was it.

That was the sound that shattered him.

This felt extremely long lol anyways thank y'all for reading! I also live for your comments they actually make my day.

Let me know what you want to see!!!!

Previous Chapter

Taglist (If I'm missing you I'm sorry still new at this)

@nikki-is-a-nerd @quantumorquanta @starvedhoe @it-was-all-a-beautiful-dream @andthevillainshallrises @how-am-i-serpose-to-know @honeybunnyboobear @dedicatedfangirl2001 @godwhyamionhere @yoursrosie @darylmysavior @crossfandomslut @passionkillerphil @fallout-girl219 @ramennudel @onlyrealjoy @rosieleej @narliesstuff @flornegrastuff @aylinbsx @briiiiiiiiiiizzzzzzzzzza @starkleila @fanboilingwriter @heidiland05 @escaping-reality8 @teenwolfbitches28 @notplutos @daisydark @velyssaraptor @fangirlbitch02 @needz1nk @mawwddu @chelseyyouraverageluigi

[alohajix]

𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐋𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦

Description: [Y/N] signed her son up for soccer to help him feel a little braver. She didn’t expect it to feel like she was the one learning how to start over. And she definitely didn’t expect the coach to start feeling like home.

Warnings: single parenthood, child anxiety, parental guilt, emotional vulnerability, fear of abandonment, slow-burn romance, eventual consensual smut (soft to intense).

Word count: TBD.

author’s note: this little mini-story is actually part of something a bit bigger! if you enjoyed part one, i’m planning to share the four other parts exclusively on my patreon as i write them. there’s zero pressure, of course—just knowing you’re here reading already means the world to me. but if you’d like to support my work even more and follow this story as it continues, you’ll be able to find the rest over there when they’re ready. thank you so much for reading. i appreciate you more than you know! 🫶🏻🫶🏻

Main Masterlist

Marked by Midnight’s Masterlist

***

Warnings: child nervousness, social overwhelm, parental self-doubt, references to past social exclusion, emotional tension, fear of letting someone in.

Word count: 3,748.

The field is busier than I expected. Parents already staking their claims with fold-out chairs along the sidelines, sipping from oversized thermoses, shouting to each other over the hum of kids in matching jerseys sprinting across the grass like it's the World Cup. My stomach pulls tight as I kill the engine, my hands still wrapped around the steering wheel like I'm not entirely sure if we should even be here.

I glance into the rearview mirror, catching Archie in the back seat, small hands fidgeting with the hem of his jersey again. He's been doing that since we left the apartment—rolling the fabric between his fingers like it might unravel if he stops. It's bright red, way too big on him. He'd wanted it that way. Said the bigger one felt safer. Like armor, he told me, with the kind of serious little face only a six-year-old could pull off. But looking at him now, all I can think is how small he really looks in it.

I let out a slow breath and glance toward the field again, already feeling the weight of every other parent who looks like they've done this a hundred times before. Like they belong here. Like they belong together.

I climb out of the car, shut my door gently, and walk around to his side. He doesn't move when I open it, just looks up at me with those wide, worried eyes I know too well. The same eyes I've seen every time we try something new. I crouch down so we're level, resting my elbows on my knees.

"Alright, champ... you ready?"

His feet swing nervously over the edge of the seat. His voice is so soft I almost miss it.

"Do I have to go with them by myself?"

God, how many times have I heard that question in one form or another? First days of school, new babysitters, birthday parties where he doesn't know anyone but me. The same fear, every time. The same knot in my stomach when I have to lie just a little to make him believe this time will be different.

I reach for his hand, curling my fingers around his.

"You don't have to do anything you don't want to," I tell him quietly, brushing a piece of hair off his forehead. "But remember what we said? About trying? About being brave enough to see if it feels a little better once you get started?"

He bites his lip hard enough to leave a mark, glancing toward the field. I follow his gaze, taking in the kids already spread out in messy clusters, parents shouting encouragement like this is the most important thing in the world. My throat feels tight just looking at it.

"I'll be right here," I add softly. "The whole time. You can look for me whenever you want."

His chin wobbles just a little, but after a second, he nods. It's barely there, but it's enough. I press a quick kiss to his temple, breathing him in like it might settle something in me, too. That familiar scent of shampoo and syrup and him. My safe place, even when I'm the one who's supposed to be his.

I hold out my hand.

"Come on. Let's go check it out."

He slips his hand into mine without saying another word, holding on tight. Tighter than usual. We start walking toward the noise. And even though I've already promised him it's going to be okay, I'm not sure I believe it yet.

The closer we get, the more it feels like my skin's been pulled too tight. Like every step drags me further into a place I'm not convinced we belong. Archie's fingers are sweaty in mine, small and tense, and I can feel the tiny tremble in them with every squeeze. He's walking slower now, half a step behind, like if he keeps dragging his feet long enough, maybe I'll turn us around and call the whole thing off.

I want to. God, I want to. But I don't.

We stop at the edge of the field, just shy of the first line of folding chairs. I shift my weight, standing tall enough to look like I know what I'm doing, even though the truth feels like it's unraveling by the second.

Parents are everywhere—chatting over the hum of thermoses being popped open, stretching their legs out toward the grass like they've claimed this territory a dozen times before. Some of them are wearing team hoodies. Some already know each other's kids by name. You can tell by the way they laugh like it's nothing new.

I tuck Archie in a little closer to my side, scanning the field until I find the group in red jerseys forming near the far goalpost. A man's standing in front of them, clipboard tucked under one arm, whistle hanging loose from his neck. His sleeves are already shoved up to his elbows, hands gesturing casually as he calls the group to attention.

"All right, Red Rockets, let's bring it in!"

The way he says it catches me off guard—not sharp, not impatient, not the way I expected someone to rally a group of six-year-olds on a cold Saturday morning. It's... soft. Confident, but not loud. Like he already knows they'll listen without needing to shout.

I feel Archie flinch just a little beside me, his body shrinking closer to mine like the sound spooked him. I glance down, smoothing my thumb across the back of his hand.

"It's okay," I whisper, even though I have no idea if that's true.

When I look back up, the man's moving. Walking toward the group of kids gathering into a loose circle in front of him. I catch the edge of his voice again—lower this time, more focused on the ones who haven't settled yet.

Archie stiffens all over again, frozen like he's deciding whether to bolt or hide. And all I can think is please don't shut down. Not yet.

I'm already running through my backup plan in my head—how to peel him off the sidelines gently if he refuses to move, how to keep my voice from cracking when I tell him it's okay, we can try again another week—when I catch movement from the corner of my eye. He's walking toward us. Steady. Unbothered. No clipboard this time, no whistle in his hand. Just easy steps like he's done this before. Like he's not in a rush to fix anything.

Archie stiffens even more, his little body locking up next to mine like he's bracing for impact. I lean down toward his ear, lowering my voice to that quiet, steady hum I've learned works better than anything else.

"It's okay, baby. Just breathe. I'm right here."

He stops a couple of steps away, leaving space like he knows better than to crowd us. His hands are loose in his jacket pockets, his mouth tipping into the kind of smile that feels... patient. The kind that makes it look like this isn't a problem to solve—it's just a moment to walk through.

"Hey there," he says, nodding once like it's the most normal thing in the world to approach strangers this way. "First day nerves?"

I shift my weight, pulling Archie a little closer to my side.

"Yeah," I answer softly, my voice rougher than I mean for it to sound. "We just moved here. Still trying to find our place."

He nods like that makes perfect sense. Like he's heard it before.

"'S a lot, isn't it?" he murmurs, glancing toward the field again like he remembers exactly what it feels like to stand on the outside of something. "Is that your little one, then? Number five?"

I look down at Archie, who's still clinging to me, eyes wide but curious now.

"Yeah. Archer. We... we call him Archie."

Harry crouches down slowly, resting his elbows on his knees. He doesn't reach for Archie. Doesn't try to pull him out of hiding. He just lowers himself to his level and lets his voice drop even softer.

"Hiya, Archie. I'm Harry. Coach Harry, technically, but that feels a bit too serious for six-year-olds, don't you think?"

Archie doesn't answer, but his grip on my sweater loosens just a little. His eyes flick to Harry's shoes, then to his face, then back to me like he's checking if I'm still here. Harry keeps going, easy as anything.

"Y'know, we've got a job open today," he adds with a quiet grin. "Someone needs to help me set up all those cones over there before the team comes in. Think you might be able to help me with that?"

Archie shifts his weight, biting his lip, and for a second I'm sure he's going to shut down again. But then—so small I almost miss it—he nods. Just once. Harry doesn't make a big deal out of it. Doesn't whoop or cheer or make it a moment bigger than it needs to be. He just leans back on his heels, pushes to his feet, and tips his head toward the pile of cones on the grass.

"We'll just be over here," he says to me softly. "Promise I'll bring him right back."

I stay frozen where I am, arms wrapped tight around myself like I might actually fall apart if I move too fast.

Archie follows him. Slowly, yeah—but he follows. Two tiny steps at first. Then one more. He's a full body length behind, but he's moving. Moving toward something without me. My throat feels like it's closing up just watching it happen.

I hover at the edge of the chairs, not daring to sit down. My eyes flick to the other parents spread out along the sidelines, already swapping stories about school pickups and carpool schedules like this is just another weekend. Some of them aren't even watching the field. Some are already halfway through their second cup of coffee, shouting out names like they've done this a hundred times.

It's strange, standing here alone. My arms wrapped around myself like I'm bracing for something, like I'm waiting for a punch that never comes. I glance up at the sky for no reason at all, noting the gray clouds stretching low and heavy over the trees at the far end of the field. One gust of wind, and it'll probably rain.

Of course, I didn't bring an umbrella. I didn't think that far ahead. I'd been too busy worrying about Archie. About whether or not I could even get him this far.

I shift again, pressing my tongue to the back of my teeth to stop myself from calling Archie back. My fingers itch to reach for him, to pull him out of the spotlight and hide him somewhere safer. Somewhere smaller. Somewhere where he doesn't have to try so hard. But I don't. I stay planted. I watch Harry kneel beside the pile of cones, picking them up one by one and laying them out on the grass like he's got all the time in the world. He doesn't even glance back to see if Archie's still following. He just... waits.

Archie shifts his weight from foot to foot, looking back toward me like he's asking permission without saying it out loud. My chest tightens, but I nod once, small and steady, like I'm not terrified he's about to fall apart in front of everyone. And then he moves again. Steps right up to the pile and crouches awkwardly, his little fingers fumbling to grab a cone. Harry leans in a little, points to a spot on the field, and Archie starts walking toward it, arms stiff like he's afraid to drop it.

I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. My throat stings with it. Like I've been holding that breath for longer than just today. It's small. So small. But it's more than I expected. I've seen people give up on him before. I've watched them get impatient when he freezes or takes too long to answer or hides behind me when they try to pull him out of his shell too fast. I've heard the tight, strained "it's okay, some kids just aren't social" more times than I can count. Always laced with that disappointed edge like they've already decided he's too much work.

I've seen the way they check their watches. The way they glance toward me with that half-frown, half-smile that really means "he's slowing us down." I've walked Archie back to the car more times than I can count with his head on my shoulder, whispering it's not his fault even when I know he doesn't believe me.

And every time it happens, I feel that weight in my chest. That bitter little voice in the back of my head that says see? This is why you keep your circle small. This is why you don't expect people to stay.

But Harry doesn't flinch. Doesn't push. He just lets Archie take his time, moving one cone at a time like there's nothing else to do today but wait for him to figure it out.

I glance down at the ground by my feet, kicking at the grass with the tip of my shoe like that might ground me somehow. It doesn't. All I can do is watch. All I can do is hope. I feel my heart catch in my throat because I already know I shouldn't let myself get used to that. He's just doing his job. And it's nothing. But the way it feels settling in my chest tells me I'm lying to myself already.

The rest of practice passes in a blur. I barely register what the other kids are doing. I don't hear a single word the parents around me say. I'm too locked in on Archie. On the way he stays close to Harry, watching every move like he's afraid he might miss something important.

And somehow, somehow, he stays. He doesn't run back to me. He doesn't shut down. He doesn't quit.

By the time Harry claps his hands together and calls the team in one last time, Archie's cheeks are flushed, curls sticking to his forehead, his little hands tugging on the bottom of his jersey again—but his shoulders aren't hunched the way they were when we got here. He's tired, but he's still standing.

I push off the fence and start toward the edge of the field, hugging my arms around myself again like it's going to hold me together for the next thirty seconds.

Harry crouches down to Archie's level again, says something low that makes Archie nod. Then he stands, turns toward me, and starts walking over with that same easy pace like we aren't two strangers standing on opposite sides of a life we haven't figured out yet.

"He did great," Harry says when he reaches us, nodding toward Archie like he means it. "Took a little warming up, but he stuck it out."

I swallow the knot in my throat, brushing Archie's hair off his forehead again.

"Thanks for being patient with him. I know he's... a lot sometimes."

Harry frowns a little—just for a second—like he doesn't like hearing that.

"He's not a lot," he says quietly, like it's a fact. "He's a kid. Kids move at their own pace."

And just like that, something in my chest pulls tight again. Because no one ever says it like that. Not without sounding like they're trying to convince themselves. But Harry says it like he actually believes it.

I shift my weight, blinking hard to keep my expression neutral. My mouth opens to thank him again, but nothing comes out. I chew the inside of my cheek instead, heat creeping up the back of my neck.

Before I can embarrass myself further, he clears his throat, rocking back on his heels.

"Listen, uh—would it be alright if I grabbed your number? Just in case we have to reschedule or... if Archie forgets anything?"

I freeze for a second longer than I probably should. I shouldn't. I shouldn't. That little voice in my head kicks in fast, warning me not to blur the lines. Not to give anyone even an inch closer than they need to be. But he's looking at me with that same steady patience I've watched him give to Archie all morning. Like I have a choice. Like he'll back off if I say no.

I nod. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out his phone, already unlocked to a blank contact screen. I take it carefully, fingers brushing his. His skin is warm. Calloused, like he works with his hands for real. I feel it all the way down to my wrist, like something I shouldn't notice but do anyway.

I stare at the screen longer than I need to. I could fake it. I could type a number off by one digit and let this stay exactly what it is. Professional. Detached. Easy to forget.

But my thumb moves before I can stop it. I type my real name—[Y/N]. My real number.

When I hand it back, Harry glances at the screen, then up at me again with that easy, unreadable smile.

"Perfect. Thanks [Y/N]." God help me, I don't trust myself not to read too much into it.

Archie shifts beside me, tugging lightly on the hem of my sleeve like he's working up to something. He's got that scrunched-up little look on his face—the one he gets when he's thinking too hard. His cheeks are still flushed from running around, curls sticking to his damp forehead, but his eyes are darting between me and Harry like he's trying to figure something out.

Harry tucks his phone back into his jacket pocket and gives Archie one last ruffle of his hair, starting to turn back toward the rest of the kids when Archie blurts it out—loud enough for half the field to hear.

"Mama... can Coach Harry come to dinner sometime?"

The words hit me like a slap to the chest. Quick. Sharp. Immediate. My stomach drops. My throat closes. I freeze.

Harry doesn't. He doesn't laugh. He doesn't flinch. He doesn't even blink, really. His smile doesn't falter for a second. He just crouches down to Archie's level again, his voice dropping low and soft, like it's just for him.

"Maybe one day, little man," Harry says, reaching out to tap two fingers lightly against Archie's tiny fist. "Gotta keep practicin' those kicks first, yeah? That's the deal."

Archie beams like he's just been promised Disneyland. I, on the other hand, feel like my face is on fire. My heart slams so hard I swear I can hear it in my ears. I glance around like I'm half-expecting someone to be standing there listening, but no one is. No one's paying attention to us at all.

Except me. Except Harry. Except Archie, who's already moved on like it's the most normal thing in the world to invite a complete stranger to dinner.

I clear my throat, tightening my grip on the strap of my bag.

"Alright, bud... let's grab your stuff."

Harry stands again, brushing his palms against his thighs like he's shaking off the grass. His eyes meet mine for one last second, and there's something there I can't quite name. Not teasing. Not pity. Just... something steady. Something that feels like he already knows I'm going to overthink this all night.

"See you next week?" I ask before I can stop myself, my voice tighter than I mean for it to be.

Harry nods, rocking back on his heels again.

"Wouldn't miss it."

And just like that, he's gone—turning back toward the pile of equipment like the last five minutes didn't knock the air clean out of my lungs.

Archie talks the whole walk back to the car. Little bursts of excitement tumbling over each other—how he kicked the ball once, how Coach Harry let him carry the cones, how next week he's going to run even faster. He's out of breath before we even make it across the parking lot, his tiny hand swinging in mine like all the fear from earlier never happened.

I keep nodding, making all the right noises, but it feels like my head is full of static. Like I can't get my feet back under me, no matter how many steps I take.

I get him buckled into his booster seat, double-check the straps even though I know they're fine. I lean in, pressing a kiss to his temple like I always do, breathing him in for just a second longer than necessary. He giggles, pushing at my face with one small hand.

"Mamaaa," he laughs, like I'm embarrassing him. Like it's funny. Like his heart isn't still tangled up in my hands the way mine is in his.

I shut the door quietly and lean back against the car, staring out at the emptying parking lot. Most of the families are gone already. The folding chairs are packed up, the chatter's faded, and the breeze is colder now than it was an hour ago. I wrap my arms around myself, digging my nails into my sleeves like that might stop the way my chest feels like it's caving in.

I don't know what I expected today to be. But it wasn't this. It wasn't the way Archie actually stayed. The way he looked—pink-cheeked and almost proud—for the first time in God knows how long. And it sure as hell wasn't the way Harry spoke to him. Or to me. Like we weren't some charity case. Like he wasn't performing patience for points. Like he actually... saw us. Both of us.

I shove my hand into my pocket, pulling out my phone before I can stop myself. My thumb hovers over the screen for half a breath too long before I swipe it open and scroll to my contacts.

Harry.

I lock the screen again and stuff it deep into my jacket like I can hide from it if I don't look too long.

"Okay," I whisper to myself, pushing off the car and moving toward the driver's side.

I'm already overthinking it.

***

@cloudyluun @gem1712 @dipmeinhoneyh @idk1990 @harrrrystylesslut @sparxx27 @likea-silhouette @fangirl509east @starryhaze-crystal @mads3502 @run-for-the-hills @twinklaei @belgianblondee @pbandnutella @maudie-duan @cat-loves-music @harrysgirl2003 @harrystyleshotwife @secretands-blog @dutchtheatrelore @angeldavis777 @idkidcfuboh @maddiesalvatore1839