#i just did like a 'perfect' run where i hung out with everyone and did the whole power of friendship thing. but it wasn't enough | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

signedkoko · 2 months

Note

Hi again~! Your first batch of valentines are super cute, you did a great job! Also, I would be honored to be 💙 Anon if you’d like! Sorry for responding late, but I didn’t want to clog up your inbox! Maybe one day I’ll be brave enough to come off anon. 😂

I have a fresh request for you too, I hope you’ll like it! Would you please do romantic headcanons or a little oneshot (I’ll let you decide which you feel like!) for Vox and f!reader going out dancing? I got the idea in my head recently and it won’t go away! Like just imagine him taking reader to one of those 1950s style nightclubs with the big ol’ dance floors for a night out—I think it’d be so cute! 😊

Thank you as always for all your hard work!

-💙

Rum Punch [Romantic]

In which on one random boring night you bring up how you miss dancing at clubs, and Vox only wants to make you happy. Reader is female.

Song - Don't Start Now x Hung Up Remix

There was nothing peculiar going on for you or your husband tonight; just normal days highlighted by seeing one another. There was nothing wrong with repetition, of course, you were both comfortable and happy as you were most nights.

But tonight, you couldn't help but feel inspired by the various songs switching as Vox scrolled through sinstagram.

"If you like staring at me so much, why not take a picture?" The voice blurted from your phone, and when you looked down at it, Vox's head had taken over the screen.

Rolling your eyes, you swiped the screen, which caused his visage to switch back to his main monitor.

"Not you, though I know you just love the idea of being my only focal point." Your neutral expression shifted into a smile, enjoying your usual teasing.

"I was just feeling..." As you trailed, the overlord leaned toward you expectantly. "Inspired?"

Reaching over, you pressed a button on the side of his screen, which immediately closed off his face and opened up his home screen. An angry grumbling came from your phone again, and you couldn't help but laugh as you used his monitor to look up the nearest club.

He swatted your hands away once you finished typing, and his face came back with a look of annoyance.

"Listen, if you want to party so bad, I'll take you to a party! Best of the best, every celebrity you could ever-"

"That's sweet and all, but I mean a real party—an old club with a big dance floor and shitty drinks!" You stood up, holding your hands far apart as you expressed the size of the dancefloor. Vox only sat back, sinking into the couch.

He looked up to the sky as you jokingly showed off some disco moves to exaggerate your point, though he stopped you when he held up a hand.

"Well, if my baby wants to party, then party we will! But I get to pick the place."

. . .

Only an hour later, the two of you were dressed and on your way. You argued that you didn't want to draw any attention, so he begrudgingly called a cab instead of his usual driver.

"So! Where are we going?"

"You'll see."

"Not even a hint?"

Vox only shook his head, though he laughed at your interest. Hell had a fuckton of bars, most shittier than the rest, so he made sure to pick a place he had minor ties to, that way he could ensure your safety.

Not that he would tell you that. He knew you liked the authenticity of being a stranger to others, but you should have thought of that before you said 'I do' to hell's most known man.

When you arrived, Vox could see the excitement creep onto your face upon seeing the club. It was run down, certainly, but it had a full parking lot and the music was blaring.

He seemed quite proud of himself, knowing he'd done a good job, but he quickly straightened himself out and offered a hand to you. In no time, the muffled music turned into a rhythm your heart could beat too, surrounded by friends and couples dancing together.

This was certainly old school—older than you expected—it was tacky, but it was perfect. Everyone's heels tapped on the waxed pine floor, which made every step louder than it seemed and filled the room with the drum of dozens dancing.

It looked to be some kind of tropical theme, with fake palm trees along the walls and many colourful cocktails with pineapple wedges or mini umbrellas.

All the chairs were wicker, along with the tables, though those had glass slabs on top of them to protect from the likely hundreds of spills this place saw per night. The seating surrounded the dance floor, most tables had a few people who would take turns on the dance floor. While you were interested in the warm-toned string lights hanging around the ceiling, Vox was interested in grabbing a drink.

"For the lady, a rum punch...and I'll go for the blue Hawaii." There were almost too many options, but you couldn't go wrong with the classics.

You were still distracted taking in the scene as he leant against the bar, glancing at you with a chuckle. He was sure he could have picked anywhere and you'd have been happy, but he liked to think he did a good job.

"You know, this sorta scene really reminds me of my startup in hell." A drink in each hand, Vox let you take a sip of both before handing you the one you enjoyed more. As always, you stared at him when he drank, probably still weirded out by how a monitor drank. Vox chose to ignore it as per usual.

When your gaze never left him, he figured he might as well continue.

"Val and I have known each other a long, long time. He got into business before me, and you know his thing. He'd go to every nightclub in the city, trying to find people who'd hear him out." Vox stiffed a laugh, seemingly amused, thinking of Valentino's struggle to fame.

"He needed a cameraman, and I was better than nothing. But cameramen were easy to hire, so quickly I was moved to handling the website, and you know the rest from there." He turned his monitor to the dancefloor, his now mostly empty drink placed on the table you were standing by.

"Places like these were all the hype. We went from scouting in them to blowing our paychecks in them to owning them." In his peripherals, he saw you down the last of your drink, sitting it next to his and pumping your first in the air.

"Here's to the past! And how much better it feels looking back on it than being in it." You dropped a lighthearted comment to pull him back to the present, grabbing his hand to drag him into the mingling hot bodies dancing as if they were going to die tomorrow.

He had to duck and squeeze between everyone, seeing as you were far smaller and could get through easier. But eventually, you were in the centre of the dance floor, facing each other.

"Are you sure it's okay to dance after chugging a drink?"

"I can't hear you! Just dance dumbass!" He could hear you just fine, but he shrugged it off with a grin, seeing you bust out the same moves you had in your living room just a few hours ago.

Only this time, he grabbed one of your hands and joined in.

Song after song, you two were never further than a few inches from each other. While Vox focused on keeping you close to him, you were busy singing out the lyrics to songs he didn't even know you knew. He made sure everyone saw that you were all over him, and he was just the same back, to make sure there were no incidents with stupid demons thinking they could take you away from him.

Even in the heat of dancing, Vox would always be jealous enough to worry about others looking at you.

But those thoughts were easily distracted when you'd pull him in for a kiss or push up against him, asking him to do a move with you.

A few drinks later and the night was a blur shaped vaguely like you, something that danced around his head until, eventually, he could remember that you both had work the next day and needed to leave.

When you left the building, there were only a few cars left in the parking lot, the building having mostly cleared during the handful of hours you'd both spent there.

Vox was holding you in his arms, bridal style, while you held loosely onto the heels you really shouldn't have worn.

This time, he called for his driver and let you comfortably lay in the back with your head in his lap, his claws carefully tracing through your hair and scratching your scalp. He could tell you were half asleep, but still coming down from the high of the club.

"Vox."

"Mhmm?"

"Thank you for taking me out," You paused as if you had something else to add, but when the pause continued for what felt like minutes, Vox realized you'd passed out on his lap.

For once, his grin was nothing but a careful smile, his hand leaving your head to rub circles into your shoulder.

"Thank you for reminding me what it felt like to be human."

Author's Note - This was SO HARD TO WRITE but not because of the story 😭I was so excited for this prompt, but I had a 7hr exam right before I started this, and then I finished it at 8 am after being awoken by the window cleaners PRESSURE WASHING MY WINDOW. Scared the hell outta me!

Anyways im rambling, tysm for requesting blue anon! I am so glad we have an indicator for you now 🖤

Word Count - 1,432

#koko writez #hazbin hotel #helluva boss #hazbin hotel x reader #helluva boss x reader #reader insert #x reader #vox #vox x reader

305 notes · View notes

avatar-anna · 1 year

Text

Just Called to Say I Love You

Harry looked down at his phone, surprised to see that he had an incoming call. He was at work, which meant he didn't typically get any calls during this time. His friends and family knew that when he was in the studio, he was pretty much off the grid; he couldn't have anything from the outside world bothering him.

So he was surprisied to see his phone light up.

"Hey, is everything okay?"

"Yep! I was just calling to say I love you!" you said, your voice tender and sweet in Harry's ear.

Frowning, he said, "That—That's it?"

"Yeah, I just haven't heard from you in a while, and you're always out of the house. It feels like I'm dating a ghost," you joked. "So, I was out and I passed that little bakery where we met, and I just felt compelled to call you and tell you that I love you. So...I love you."

Looking back, Harry realized how much of a complete and utter ass he had been to you. Your reasoning for calling was incredibly sweet, and he honestly didn't deserve your kindness. He should've said thank you, he should've told you she called at the perfect time, he should've said I love you back.

"Y/n...You know I don't like distractions while I'm at work."

You didn't say anything for a moment, perhaps too stunned to say anything in reply. Then, "You're right. I'm sorry."

Harry couldn't say anything before you hung up the phone, but he still heard a small sniffle just as the call ended. He'd known he fucked up the minute the words were out of his mouth, no amount of stress or frustration about his writing process should ever be taken out on you, and he just did exactly that in the worst way possible.

"I gotta go," Harry said, stepping into the room where everyone else was waiting for him to return.

"There an emergency?" one of his producers asked. Harry never left a session early.

"Kind of—I mean yeah. It's an emergency, so I have to run. Probably won't be in the rest of the week."

Harry didn't stick around the studio very long. He quickly gathered his things and rushed out to his car. He called you the minute he was on the road, but you didn't pick up any of the times he called. Cursing under his breath, he stepped on the gas a little harder.

When he got home, you were lounging on the couch watching a movie. The house was dark, so he couldn't see your expression, but he knew you well, and the way you were curled up into a ball and huddled under a blanket meant you weren't happy.

"I should've said it back, I'm sorry."

You knew Harry had come into the house, but you weren't ready to look at him let alone speak to him. So you ignored your boyfriend, staring blankly at the movie playing on the TV.

All you'd wanted today was a two minute conversation with Harry. You knew he was pretty strict about his work life and home life, but his work life had been taking over recently, and you knew he could get wrapped up in writing and recording, and you loved how hard he worked, but you just wanted to hear his voice. You just wanted to tell him you loved him.

"I was a dick on the phone, and I know you like your space when you're angry, so...I'm home, and I want to talk, but when you're ready."

He sounded like a kid who'd been scolded. Rolling your eyes, you said, "I didn't want space, that was the whole point of me calling you."

"I know. I'm so sorry, baby. You were just trying to be nice and I was horrible. I never want to make you upset, but I did today, and...I can't apologize enough for that."

You knew you couldn't stay mad at him forever. Harry was an ass earlier, but you knew he didn't mean it, that it really was him getting caught up in his work. He snapped at you, and in a few weeks, you would probably snap at him, and months from now you might have a big argument. You were in a relationship, it wasn't always perfect.

"I brought something home to 'sweeten' the deal in case you're still on the fence about letting me onto that couch."

You and Harry had had little tiffs before, which meant both of you knew how to be forgiven faster. At the mention of sweets, you perked up, even if you were still a little upset. Still not looking at him, you said, "I have to see it first."

Harry was there in seconds, handing a little pastry box over to you. Your eyes landed on the logo printed on the box. "You went."

"Course. Had to get the best for my best girl."

"And it's—"

"Your favorite. Go on," he said, motioning for you to open it.

It was from the same bakery you mentioned earlier, the one where you and Harry met. It was out of the way of the studio, which meant he added about an extra thirty minutes to his drive home to get it. You took a piece of the pastry out with your fingers and popped it in your mouth. Your eyes closed for a moment, taking in not just the taste but all the memories that came with it.

When your eyes opened, Harry was looking at you expectantly. Scoffing, you told him, "Yeah fucking right. But you can join me on the couch."

"I'll take it," he said, quickly getting under your blanket so that you were pressed up against each other. He squeezed you tight, kissing your temple repeatedly while you enjoyed your apology-treat. "I love you," he mumbled. "I love, love, love you."

"Babe, don't distract me. I'm eating."

Harry chuckled. "Okay. I deserve that."

#harry styles #boyfriendrry #harry styles one shot #harry styles oneshot #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles fic #harry styles fanfic #harry styles concept #harry styles blurb #harry styles fluff #harry styles writing #harry styles x you #harry styles angst

955 notes · View notes

simpforboys · 1 year

Note

may i request a lo’ak x reader where she’s the golden girl in the omatikayan clan? like there’s talk of her beauty and talent in the hunt? i would love lo’ak just pining for reader and being so in love with her, i can imagine her just being so kind and caring to lo’ak who only heard of insults and complaints before but now that reader is there, he feels so seen and loved and its just FLUFFY LO’AK FIC ACK

STOP BC I LITERALLY LOVE THIS

she looks just like a dream

lo’ak sully x fem!omatikaya!reader

summary: lo’ak finds comfort in you, the shining star.

warnings: mentions of jake being stern with lo’ak (our poor baby >:( ), minor name calling, you love lo’ak a lot, fluff fluff fluff

peyral is the woman who neytiri said was the best hunter in the first movie btw just for those who don’t know!!

the sun just seemed to shine on you, following you around anywhere you went.

you brightened anyone’s day up just by being near them, your elegance and kindness allowing them to instantly cheer up.

the omatikayas began to refer to you as, “y/n the shining star.”

daughter of peyral, being a naturally born hunter was bound to happen.

you were trained from a young age and eventually perfected the art of hunting. you knew how to hunt, loved to dance with your people during festivities, and sang wonderfully with the elders.

you were practically perfect in everyone’s eyes.

especially lo’ak’s.

the poor boy had been so helplessly drawn to you, being trapped in whatever trance you seemed to put him in.

he would have never expected you to fall for him.

you smiled widely as you called out a war cry, your people yelping behind you as your ikrans soared through the sky.

jake sully, the olo’eyktan, had been fond of your skills and wanted to you guide a group through the sky people attacks.

your ikran landed on the high camp as others followed. you jumped off the girl, petting her head as you unattached your queue.

“sìltsan (well done).” you praised.

the village came over to congratulate you on the successful attack, smiling brightly as your eyes wandered for lo’ak.

lo’ak was already looking at you, his ears down as his father began to scold him. but he wasn’t listening, because you just seemed so golden.

you looked just like a dream, the prettiest girl he’s ever seen.

neteyam nudged him with his shoulder, causing lo’ak to break out of his daze.

when you finally caught him, he was getting scolded by his father.

“irayo (thank you).” you nodded to your people, but all you wanted to do was rest with your mate.

you scurried out of the crowd, going over to where lo’ak stood with his head hung low.

“jake,” you bowed your head at the olo’eyktan.

“y/n.” he bowed his head back, a sign of respect.

“with your permission, may i help your son heal?” you grabbed lo’ak’s arm and held it gently, your three fingers running up and down his skin gently.

jake sighed, still disappointed in his son. but neytiri gave him a look, and jake nodded at you.

you pulled lo’ak away, a smile on his face now that he finally got to see you.

“what had happened?” you asked. the both of you began to walk into your secret area, a place within the forest.

“i wanted to help carry out the weapons with everyone else. of course, the sky people had come from above which caused neteyam to almost get blown up.” lo’ak frowned at his words.

you looked at the boy, cupping his face to make him stare at you.

“what did your father say?”

“called me a disappointment, yet again. how i put everyone in danger.”

“it is not your fault.” you comforted the boy.

he pulled you into his body, holding you tightly as his chest rose and fell against your own.

“i am proud of you, lo’ak.” you whispered in his ear, scratching his braided scalp as he purred against you.

“i don’t deserve you.” he said softly.

“you are insulting me by thinking that. you deserve me just as much as i deserve you.”

“i just don’t know why you would pick a skxawng (idiot) like me out of all the boys in the clan. i just mess everything up.”

the boy now pulled away from you, looking down at his feet as you looked at him with doe eyes. his tail hung down by his legs, a sign of sadness.

“ma lo’ak,” you grabbed his chin softly and guided him back to your face.

“oel ngati kameie (i see you). i have always seen you,” you placed your hand on his, holding it up so he could see as you interlocked it. his four fingers fit perfectly between your three.

“i did not know how much you could adore someone until i met you. you make me completely, and i hope i make you feel completed.”

lo’ak’s ears shifted up as he stared at you, eyes sparkling under the eclipse.

his heart was pounding in his chest, butterflies in his stomach with a blush to his blue cheeks.

he loved you so much.

“i love you, y/n.” he blurted out.

it was the first time you had said the special words.

you grinned widely, tail up in excitement.

“i love you, ma lo’ak.”

you grabbed the boy and pulled him into a kiss, his smile making your heart flutter as he pulled you closer to him.

————-

tags: @mayhemories

+ send me a message if you wanna be tagged in my works!!!

#simpforboys #lo’ak x y/n #loak x reader #loak imagine #loak angst #loak #loak x you #avatar loak #lo’ak fluff #lo’ak imagine #lo’ak x reader #avatar 2022 #free my boy #lo’ak sully #loak sully

855 notes · View notes

endlessdaydream · 2 months

Text

I get it, live actions aren’t for everybody and that’s totally fine. Not everyone’s gonna like it. But to shit on the stupidest things, or draw the dumbest conclusions??? Blocked. Y’all look dense as fuck. Views will be mixed as they always are, quit clogging up the tags with your negativity and find some chill 😂 The originals are still there to watch or read and enjoy…so go do that…it’s literally on the same app 👏🏻 I’m trying to be understanding I am, but some of y’all are so damn hung up you’re letting it completely destroy something you’d otherwise enjoy

Anyways!! Here’s some of the stuff I loved from the atla live action!

•cinematography, soundtrack, costumes - all on point

•getting to see the airbenders flourishing!!! Also the dude who played Gyatso?! Didn’t think I could love him more!! Even though it was painful as FUCKKKK getting to see the first invasion of the fire benders was an epic masterpiece

•speaking of, the first scene?? With the earthbender soldiers in the fire nation?? Iconic

•Omashu: unpop opinion I’m sure (bc y’all hate change but simultaneously hate when it’s carbon copy????????🤦🏼‍♀️) I loved how they incorporated like 3 or 4 episodes into one, and they flowed really well together. Jet is FOINEEE. Mechanist was perfect & his son is a freaking badass, amazing casting! Even though it was change, the secret tunnel scenes were still really freaking cool and the badgermoles were SICK AS FUCK. Also I love that Bumi was still cooky but not just randomly cooky? Like mans was run down from being king basically the entire war…which FAIR. And it made sense that he was peeved with Aang BECAUSE they were such good friends. Like the other avatars being mad at him? Yea that’s whatever. But for Bumi it was kinda personal. Also CABBAGE MAN WE MISSED YOU 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Oh! And the way they mentioned other episodes like they were lore when Zuko was trying to find Aang? That was an amazing way to tie back to the OG series

•I love how they incorporated the blue spirit, Koh, the fog of lost souls & parts of the ep where sokka and Katara got sick & Aang had to get them frogs - just reimagined it. Oh also Hei Bai! Yea, I loved that whole episode. Koh & Hei Bai were SCARY as fuck, it was awesome!!

•HAHN MY BELOVED…I ADORE YOU! Favorite character that they added/changed. Katara getting the other women involved in the battle?! Tui & La? The oasis?! 😭😭 stunning!!!! I also LOVEDDDDD Aangs avatar spirit that he turned into, literally perfect! And I loved the change that he gave himself over to the spirits wrath..fucking SICK. Also right before aang turned into the spirit/whatever that’s called, I was praying they’d do the line and thEY DIDDDD!!!

•Fire lord Ozai?? 😳😚 nothing needed to be said - perfection

•Kyoshi?! The Kyoshi warriors?! SUKI?! - speechless

•I like that they’re making more of a point to show how smart Sokka is! Mechanist calling him an engineer…I hope they play more into that! Ik they did a bit in the show with the subs (cartoon), but still

•”~hE rAn~” seriously my favorite line, I was DYINGGGG!!! The scenes with Zuko and Iroh, Zuko before the war meeting, the leaves from the vine being in the background at the funeral….ARE YOU FUCKING WITH ME?! Zuko’s crew being the crew he SAVED?! And when they find out they all do the fire nation bows to their prINCE?! 😭😭😭😭

I’m being fair y’all - things I don’t love/hope they change:

•this one I’m 50/50 on - I don’t love that they tried to give Kuruk a reason for disappearing. They tried to pull shit from Korra to make him look meaningful & not useless as an avatar and it didn’t hit for me

•some of the wigs: obviously we won’t see Yue again, but I wanted her hair to be white. I didn’t love the wig but it wouldn’t have been as bad for me if it wasn’t so grey. Also do NOT love Azula, Tylee or Mai’s hair. Ik they look just like the show but whether that’s wigs or their actual hair (I’m clueless) it needs some serious improvement. Azula’s looks great down, I just don’t like how big the side pieces are that frame her face when it’s up.

•Katara, my love, I am PRAYING part of your development is also going to be her becoming more outspoken and badass, bc this season we saw the tiniest of glimpses of it, not a fan (unless it’s a part of her development…she did grow up in a tiny ass tribe so I’m giving them the benefit of the doubt)

• IK they’re going with a much more serious Aang, but pleaseeeee give us some actual moments of him being a kid. We saw that like twice 😭

•Dante is the PERFECT ZUKO, I will hear NO slander. However, I need him to be more of a dick. I’m hoping we’ll get that when he gets super desolate when they’re on the run & then we have Zuko alone & he has his inner battle. I need snarky dickhead Zuko, so you can truly see the big differences between what he’s fighting (himself vs. who his dad wants him to be)

Have fun kids!

In case I haven’t made it clear, idgaf if you disagree. I go so hard for these live actions because it’s fun! It’s just supposed to be fun and different and new. If you get so serious about it you’re ALWAYS going to be disappointed, there’s no way around it bc nothing is ever going to be as good as the original book, the original show, the original tale. OG atla is ALWAYS gonna be the winner, nothing will compare! So sit back ~relax~ and find some joy in the little things

107 notes · View notes

nancy-reads · 4 months

Text

am I the one you think about?

part 2!!

pairing: fred weasley x reader

summary: having your heart broken before love really blossomed hurts more than it should. but fred's flirty banter never quits. maybe your love story isn't quite over?

warnings: slightly angsty but with a happy ending

authors note: i am so sorry for how long this took! school got crazy and college applications are a nightmare. however, i hope you all had a good holiday season and enjoy this late christmas gift!

part one

CROSS-POSTED TO AO3

You refused to cry as you stomped back to your shop. Fred could do whatever he wanted. It wasn’t like the two of you were together or anything. He just flirted with you like crazy and you developed a massive crush on him.

And of course, the girl Fred was kissing was gorgeous. You couldn’t get her face out of your mind. Clear, gorgeous dark skin and eyes, black hair in a braided ponytail that looked effortless, and a tall figure that looked like she was meant to be a model for Quidditch robes.

You didn’t know how you even thought you could pull someone like him. Fred was gorgeous and strong and funny, and you were just…well, you. Not anything special.

You swore as you stepped into a massive puddle near your shop. Tears were beginning to prick your eyes, but you blinked them away. You would not cry over a man you knew not even twenty-four hours.

And it would be better if it didn’t work out, you thought. You were going to be very busy with your shop once it opened, and you wouldn’t have time for any sort of relationship. It would be an absolute logistical nightmare, and you had to focus on your business.

You nodded to yourself as you stepped inside your shop, decorated with candles, fairy lights, and plants. This was where you belonged. This was the important thing, not some stupid boy you met once.

MAGICAL HERBS AND HEALING GRAND OPENING!!!

You smiled to yourself as you lowered your wand and took in the exterior of your shop. Everything looked perfect. The plants were in place, the widow displays were shining, and best of all, the banner hung front and center, inviting anyone and everyone to come in.

People were beginning to trickle into Diagon Alley for some early morning shopping, so you rushed inside your shop and flicked the sign from open to closed. You bounced on your heels as you did some final checks to make sure that everything was in place.

You had already checked about seven times, but there wasn’t any harm in one more, was there?

Soon enough, you didn’t have time to check anything, too busy ringing up the barrage of customers who entered your store. The line was spread throughout the shop, and you couldn’t stop smiling as your products and potions flew off the shelves.

Your dreams were coming true. Everything was running smoothly, the customers were marveling at the aesthetics of your shop, and you’d gotten many promises to come back.

But the day couldn’t stay perfect forever, and your eyes widened as a familiar face entered the shop. You couldn’t help but notice Fred’s handsome face and body, but you cursed yourself. You would not be thirsting for a taken man.

Attempting to look as busy as possible, you straightened the boxes behind you and fussed with the register. You could feel his stare on your back, and it took every ounce of your will not to turn.

He is a taken man. He has a girlfriend.

And he is still staring at you.

After a generous amount of time, Fred cleared his throat. You sighed, closing your eyes for a moment, and finally began to turn around. As slowly as humanly possible.

“That excited to see me, huh?”

You ignored him.

“And what are you looking for today sir?”

His eyes widened. “Sir? You haven’t forgotten my name already, have you?”

Taken man. Taken man. Taken man.

This was going to be an exercise in self-control.

“Just-” you paused. “Come on, Fred-”

“I knew you remembered-”

“This isn’t a great time-”

“Well then tell me when is,” Fred said. “I’d be glad to arrange a date.”

Why did he have to say these things?

“Are you really going to make me do this now?” you asked, anger coloring your tone. “It's opening day, and I’d really rather you not ruin it.”

“Ruin it?” he asked, dumbfounded. “What do you mean?”

“You know what? Fine,” you snapped. “Come here after closing. We can talk then. I have customers to help, and I’m sure you do too.”

Fred’s eyebrows were scrunched together, and his mouth pulled into a frown. “I-” he paused when he looked at your face, and a defeated expression appeared on his face. “Okay.”

You stared at him as he left, and a part of you wondered if you’d hallucinated the whole thing. He seemed so earnest, like he actually wanted to talk to you. Like you were important, not some other girl he wanted to have on the side.

But you couldn’t think like that. He probably had some other ulterior motive.

You turned to the next customer in line. “Hi, how can I help you today?”

You had to give him credit, Fred was at your shop door at six pm sharp. You tried to ignore him for a while, but he eventually caught your eye as you wiped down the counters.

He gave you a big smile as you opened the door, and part of you wanted to melt. His smile was so bright and full of ardent hope. His freckles made him look younger, and it really added to the sweetness of his face.

“So,” Fred began after a moment. “Why didn’t you come see the shop? It’s been weeks.”

You sighed. “Look, Fred. I just don’t think us talking like this is appropriate.”

He scrunched his brows. “Appropriate? Why not?” his eyes widened. “I haven’t been impolite, have I? I swear I’ve never meant to say anything weird, I just like to have a laugh-”

“No! Nothing like that,” you said. “I’m not interested in the kind of relationship you want.” There you said it. You would not be someone’s side piece or a good fuck. You wanted something real.

You should have known he was too good to be true as soon as you hit him with those boxes.

“Oh,” Fred said, his face falling. “I’m so sorry that I assumed-” he paused, “I mean, yeah, sorry, you’re really busy so…yeah.” He forced a smile and stepped back. “I guess I’ll see you around?”

You nodded. “Yeah. I’ll see you.”

You ignored the disappointment in your chest as the bells rang, signifying Fred had left the shop.

The shop was still packed a few days later. You supposed word had spread about your low prices and fast wait times because potions were flying off the shelves. You’d begun to think about hiring someone else to help check people out while you brewed in the back.

Plus, people seemed to like the idea of a small A&E in the back, and you’d definitely need more help with that.

You’d just finished restocking some salves when he walked in. His brown eyes sparkled when they met yours, and that easy, earnest smile was back on his face. There was no hesitation or the anxiety you’d seen the other day. He was acting like nothing had happened.

You hesitatingly smiled when he reached the counter, but your jaw dropped when you noticed the bruise that had formed around his eye.

“Holy shit, Fred!” without thinking, you reached to touch his black eye. “What happened?”

He scoffed. “This is nothing. We just had a slight malfunction with one of our new products.”

“This doesn’t look very slight.”

“I’m fine. But,” he smirked. “I do appreciate your concern.”

“It’s professional concern,” you muttered as you searched for the anti-bruise cream behind the counter. “You’re not special.”

Fred’s jaw dropped dramatically. “You hurt me, dear lady.”

You snorted. “I think you can take it.”

Fred’s hand brushed yours as you handed him the cream and the anti-swelling potion. Your cheeks flushed, and he gave you a sweet smile as he left the shop.

You could feel yourself smiling throughout the rest of the day, and you cursed yourself every time.

He isn’t actually interested. He’s just a flirt.

The next time Fred came in was a week later, and this time he had a cut branching up his arm. Thankfully, it was nearly closing time and most of your customers had trickled out by then.

“What is this?” you fretted, grabbing his arm. “You hurt yourself again?”

“It was just a small incident with one of the pygmy puffs,” he chuckled. “They don’t like being told what to do.”

“Probably because they’re your orders,” you joked. “They can probably sense the stupidity from a mile away.”

“Hey!” he mock-yelled. “They don’t listen to George either.”

“My point still stands,” you said, tapping the cut with your wand. You held back a shiver as your thumb brushed his strong bicep. Was it just you, or did he have goosebumps?

“You don’t even know George.”

“He’s your brother, so if he’s anything like you, I’d be worried about his intelligence.”

Fred pouted. “They don’t listen to Angelina either, and she’s got a good head on her shoulders, so I think they just don’t listen to anyone.”

You paused your cleaning of his cut for a moment and tried to make your face as neutral as possible. “Who’s Angelina?” Could she be the girl he was kissing?

“Oh she’s George’s girlfriend,” he said, oblivious. You breathed a silent sigh of relief. “I don’t know how they’re still together, honestly she could do so much better, but she likes him, I suppose.”

You hummed, finally letting go of his arm to grab a potion. The cut was just barely a scratch now, but you wanted to make sure it didn’t get infected.

“Make sure you drink this, Fred, tonight and tomorrow morning. It’ll wash out any weird pygmy puff or whatever you call it infection from your body.”

“Yes ma’am!” he saluted and headed for the door. You couldn’t help but watch him make his way back from his shop, a spring in his step and a smile on his gorgeous face.

It kept happening. Fred came in with food poisoning, many more bruises, and even boils at one point. They were apparently from his inventions and experiments, but you were starting to get worried. Who gets injured this much?

The last straw was when he walked in with an injured leg. Your A&E hadn’t been opened yet, but you had hired a retired healer to run the counter so you could run in and out on occasion.

You were in the back, mixing a new potion when there was a loud commotion at the entrance. You had a sneaking suspicion of who it was but continued to stir the liquid until Martha poked her head into your office.

“It’s your boy,” she said. “And I think you’ll want to see this.”

That got you out of your seat immediately. Most of the time Fred’s injuries honestly seemed more like excuses to come see you, for what reason you didn’t know, but Martha’s tone made it seem much more serious.

“What’s wro-” fear shot through you as you saw the pain on Fred’s face, and the fact that he was leaning on….a direct copy of himself?

You weren’t sure whether to be more worried or confused. Had Fred somehow invented a cloning machine?

As you looked closer, you realized that they weren’t completely alike. The person next to Fred’s face was more rounded, and his nose was slightly bigger. His face was a bit uneven, and there was something off with his ear, but you couldn’t tell from far away.

Suddenly, it all clicked.

“You must be George!” you exclaimed. “Fred, you never told me that you had an identical twin!”

“Pleased to finally meet you,” George said, turning to Fred. “I can’t believe you never mentioned we were twins!” He glanced at you, mischief in his eyes. “It’s like you don’t care about me or something.”

“Shut up, George,” Fred said, turning your attention back to him. “I’m sorry to bother you again, darling-” your heart jumped, “-but I’m in quite a bit of pain and I was wondering if you could fix me up again?”

He is just a flirt. He is just a flirt. He is just a flirt.

“Yes, of course,” you scooped Fred’s other arm over your neck and helped George carry him into the patient room. “Martha! Can you hold down the fort for a bit?”

You didn’t wait to hear her affirmative before slowly and carefully lowering Fred down onto the patient bed. His face was contorted in pain, and you couldn’t help yourself from squeezing his shoulder in support once he was safely in bed.

“Drink this,” you said as you passed him a cup full of silver liquid. “It’ll make the pain go away for a bit.” Fred gulped it down, and a goofy smile filled his face when he finished.

“You’re so pretty,” he said lazily.

You could feel heat creeping up your face, but you ignored him.

“Sleep well.”

You cleared your throat and turned to George.

“Judging from the dirt and the Quidditch robes, I assume he fell off his broom?”

George nodded. “Yeah. He got distracted and a Bludger came flying toward him and…” he made a violent gesture, “Crash!”

You nodded. “Did he fall unconscious at any point, or hit his head?”

“He was a bit confused at first,” George said, hesitating. “He kept asking to come here though. My girlfriend kept trying to convince him to go to St. Mungos, but he wasn’t having it.” George smiled. “Are you two together? Because he kept asking specifically for you.”

Call the fire department, because your face was scorching. “I-” you stammered. “I thought he had a girlfriend or something?”

George snorted. “Fred? A girlfriend? He hasn’t dated anyone in a long time. I was honestly starting to wonder if he was gay and just afraid to tell me or something.”

“Really?” Your mind was spinning. Had you actually just hallucinated seeing Fred kiss someone outside of Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes? “I thought saw him kiss a girl outside your shop a few months ago.” You sighed for a moment. “They looked really happy, so I didn’t want to intervene or anything.”

“That would be news to me,” he paused for a moment, lost in thought. “Wait, what did she look like?”

There was an insistent knock on the door.

“Sorry, we’re busy right now!” you called. “Ask the counter if you need anything.”

The door burst open, and your jaw dropped when the women came crashing in. She was much less put together than the last time you’d seen her, her hair flying everywhere and her cheeks flushed. But she had the same dark skin and hair, and the same commanding appearance that made you see why Fred liked her.

“I’m sorry,” you said politely. “But I’m currently busy with a patient. Please wait outside or go to St. Mungos if you-”

“She's fine,” George interrupted. “This is Angelina, my girlfriend.”

Suddenly, it all clicked into place. It wasn’t Fred you’d seen kissing a girl, it was George. Who was kissing his girlfriend. Like a normal person.

You were completely and utterly stupid.

“Angelina, this is that girl that Fred won’t shut up about.”

“Oh excellent!” She strolled over to you and stared at you seriously. “Please go out with him. Just to put him out of his misery. All I hear about anymore is him whining that some beautiful girl from the shops won’t date him and I need it to stop,” Her eyes were wide and solemn. “Please.”

George snorted. “Way to expose Freddie there.”

Angelina grinned back at him. “I think he needs it.”

“Well,” you clasped your hands, ignoring the redness in your cheeks. “I’m just going to do a quick skull exam just in case he hit his head, and then I’ll set his leg and let him rest.”

You couldn’t believe you’d messed it up this bad. Of course, you’d just seen Fred’s identical twin kissing his girlfriend. How hadn’t you thought of it before?

You quickly began your work, murmuring spells to yourself as you ensured everything was fine. You winced at the loud crack that sounded when Fred’s leg was set, but a final “Episkey,” finally healed the break.

You turned to face George and Angelina, who were watching with rapt attention. “Fred needs to sleep for an hour or two, just to make sure he doesn’t feel all the pain right away. I’d prefer to keep him here, just to make sure he stays asleep and pain-free, and I’ll also be able to check him over again once he wakes,” you said. “But I’ll do whatever you guys want.”

Angelina elbowed George before he could speak. “I think Fred will be perfectly content with staying here for a few hours.”

“Yup,” George said. “He’ll be fine.”

You’d been running in to check on Fred for what probably was close to every 5 minutes for the past hour and a half. Martha had given you multiple suspicious nods and knowing looks every time you stepped out of the back room, and she winked at you as she left at the end of her shift.

The store was closed and empty after another long and busy day, and the urge to go check on Fred was already pulling at you.

Just in case.

It seemed your intuition had been correct, as he began to stir the moment you opened the door. His nose twitched adorably, and there was a small smile on his face as his eyes opened, the sleep still present in his stare.

Without thinking, you stroked his hair, but Fred didn’t seem to mind. He actually leaned into your touch, the smile on his face growing. It was all so domestic, and you couldn’t stop your own smile from spreading across your face.

“Your smile is so pretty,” Fred mumbled. “You should do that more.”

Warmth filled your face. “I like yours too,” you sat on the edge of his bed. “Does anything still hurt?”

“Not when I’m looking at someone as beautiful as you.”

“You are shameless!” you giggled, smacking him on the side.

“Are you slapping a patient?” Fred teased. “I’m gonna have to report you to the Ministry.”

“You’re making me wonder if you have brain damage that I missed somewhere.” You said as you helped Fred sit up on the side of the bed. “Let me check again.”

Fred, much to your surprise, passed all of his exams with flying colors.

“First time that’s happened,” he joked.

“I guess that means you’re sane enough for me to do this.”

You leaned in and brought your lips against his. Fred gasped into your mouth and responded eagerly, his hand rising to cup your face and bring you closer. His mouth was soft and gentle, and you almost wanted to cry with how sweet he was. One of your arms wrapped around his neck, while your other hand grabbed his bicep.

Fred leaned back for a moment, chuckling. “I guess you’re finally free to touch my arms now.”

“What do you mean?”

“Don’t pretend that you haven’t been thirsting over my arms the entire time we’ve known each other.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

He laughed again as he leaned back in, taking control of the kiss this time. He was more passionate now, and you let out a gasp as his tongue brushed against yours. Your heart was beating faster than it ever had before, and you had to break the kiss because you couldn’t stop smiling.

After you leaned back, Fred just stared at you for a moment, a soft smile on his face. Sure, he was already handsome, but that smile made him look ten times better, and even younger than before. His freckles made his smile boyish, and there was childlike joy in his face as he looked at you.

“What made you change your mind?” Fred asked after a moment, his brows furrowing. “I thought you didn’t want a relationship.”

“So here’s the thing,” you laughed nervously. “I thought you didn’t want a relationship.”

Fred’s eyes widened. “I think you’re the one who needs to get your brain checked, love. Because I think I was being pretty obvious.”

“Hey! You’re supposed to be nice to me now.” You poked his chest. “But remember when I told you I’d come over to see your shop the day after we met?”

“Vividly.”

“Yeah, so I ended up seeing George and Angelina kissing in front of the door to Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, and since someone,” you stared at him pointedly, “didn’t tell me he had an identical twin, I assumed it was you.”

Fred was silent for a moment. “I have been coming to your shop nonstop for months, and you still thought I had a girlfriend the whole time?”

“Well now it seems stupid-”

He kissed you lightly before you could finish. “You can never make fun of me for being clueless again.”

“Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll find a way to upstage me.”

Fred wrapped his arm around you and pulled you close. You couldn’t stop the stupid smile that was on your face, and you were sure Fred had a similar one right next to you. He squeezed your shoulder, and you leaned your head against him. Warmth enveloped you, and you’d never been so comfortable before.

“Don’t worry, love,” Fred said. “You’re the only one I think about.”

#fred weasley x reader #writing #fanfic #fred weasley #harry potter #fluff #nancy's writing #fred weasley x y/n #fred weasely x yn #reader insert #nancy’s writing

140 notes · View notes

illicitlimerence-writes · 1 year

Text

a love story | m. schumacher

pairing: mick schumacher x reader word count: 3.4k words request: nopewarnings: fluuuuuuff and maybe some angst? kinda? this was inspired by a dream i had last night 🫣 a/n: me? actually posting something? no way!

my masterlist

(i'm so proud of my boy but honestly wtf did they put in the water during roc they were all INSANE)

the gray clouds looked threatening, they covered the sky completely, leaving the sun nowhere to be found. it was a cold morning, with the crisp air causing the curtains of her bedroom to dance, even if her window was open just a tad bit. she usually loved days like this, being bundled up in a cable knit sweater, watching the raindrops hitting the windows as soft music played in the background, a cup of warm tea in her hands and a good book on her lap.

but those days were usually accompanied by a warm embrace around her shoulders, a hard chest allowing her to rest her back against it, soft lips grazing her neck, her cheeks and lips.

today was not one of those days, for he was not with her, but hours and miles away. after years of being with him, she still couldn’t get used to the idea of him being gone. but she couldn’t be selfish, she had to support him and his dreams as much as he did for hers.

just two more days.

she started her morning as usual. shower, get dressed, light makeup, brush her hair, make breakfast and grab the lunch she made the previous night before leaving her apartment and going to work.

the small book shop downtown sat peacefully, waiting with its pastel yellow walls for customers to arrive. she ate her breakfast as she sat on the bus on her way there, a simple bagel with cream cheese and jam bought from the farmer’s market. she finished just in time for her to skip down the bus steps and onto the streetwalk.

she did her usual routine to open the book shop, like picking a quote from a book to write on the chalkboard wall by the kids’ section, checking that everything was in its right place, collecting the flowers from the shop next door, to brighten up the place. she was so lucky she found that spot for her book shop, with a café on one side, a flower shop on the other, it was quite possibly the perfect combination. every so often she’d receive customers with a coffee cup in their hands, looking for a book to enjoy while relaxing from the day. or people looking for a book as a gift, having already bought a bouquet of flowers.

once the clock turned its hands to tell her it was 9:00 am, she turned the lock on the door and flipped the sign that hung from it, now reading ‘open’.

it was a quiet morning, the rain started around an hour after opening and just picked up from there, with the winds picking up strength as well. she couldn’t spot a soul out there, the town she called home was a ghost town, everyone much preferred staying home than going out.

she wished she’d done so as well, that rest of the day was probably going to be just as slow as the morning.

but a few hours after midday, a young couple entered the book shop. they apologized profusely as they dried their shoes on the carpet she’d placed especially for that.

she smiled at them, waving their worries away as she informed them they could hang their jackets on the coat rack to dry and avoid making a mess. they thanked her, and she noticed how he was the first to reach for his girlfriend’s hand after having to separate to take off their jackets. she watched them walk further into the shop, and she grabbed her phone, opening the music app and changing the preloaded queue, adding a few soft, romantic tunes that fit well with the ambiance of the day, the bookshop, and the couple. songs that reminded her of him.

book shops had always been a special place for her, she could get lost for hours on end, reading the back cover of paperback books, running her fingers along the hardcover spines, sighing over beautiful covers and sprayed edges. but especially, she loved book shops because that’s where she met him.

she was in college, longing for ways to escape the real world. books provided just that, a chance to get lost in fictional places, with words that described endless possibilities and worlds where everything was possible.

the local bookstore was her most frequented place, the owners and workers knew her and trusted her, they knew that the books she took were safe and that she’d take care of them as if they were the most delicate rose petals.

she sat on a velvet sofa, her favorite. it fit two people, but she always claimed it as hers, and no one ever bothered her. not even on that day, when all the other available seats were taken. she was reading a poetry book. she had a lot on her mind and needed something that was quick to read and kept her mind occupied. she had her legs crossed beneath her, the book on one hand as she rested her head on the other. her eyes scanned the pages quickly, re-reading verses that caught her attention and often writing them down in her own notebook. she never was a fan of writing on books, but did like taking notes and scribbling down her thoughts.

her quiet peace was interrupted by a tall body standing in front of her.

“sorry-” she looked up, seeing blue eyes looking down at her. “is this seat taken? all the other chairs are busy and i- i haven’t seen anyone here, so-”

“yeah, it’s okay,” she answered, grabbing her bag and placing it on the floor beneath her.

“thank you,” he smiled at her as he sat, she did the same, returning to her book.

they didn’t speak more that day, he only thanked her again and said goodbye when he was ready to leave. he looked about her age, and she found herself staring at his frame as he left, with his back toward her.

two days later, he was there again. he had the same book he was reading the previous time, whilst she had already finished her poetry book and was now reading a classic tragedy. the routine was the same, none of them talking, simply sitting next to each other as they read and saying goodbye when it was their time to leave. unfortunately, she couldn’t go the rest of the week because of school work, but finally, after a hard week, she walked through the doors, breathing in the familiar scent of ink and pages. she walked straight to her spot, stopping in her tracks as she saw the same guy sitting there already, his backpack on her side of the sofa. he looked up, a smile on his face.

“you’re back,” he said, grabbing his bag and placing it on the floor, like she’d done for him that very first day. she smiled, unable to stop a light flush to rush to her cheeks as she walked to him.

“yeah, school was being a pain,” she said, dropping down beside him.

“well, i’m happy to see you again,” he placed a bookmark between the pages he was reading, closing the book to pay attention to her.

“thanks, i missed being here. this place… it’s like a home away from home.”

“i get it, i only found out about this place a week ago and felt an instant connection, and i’m not an avid reader. or, i wasn’t before coming here for the first time.”

she smiled, nodding her head, that was exactly how she felt.

“i’m mick, by the way,” he offered his hand. she sat up, shaking his hand. she told him her name, and looked down at the book he was reading.

“the great gatsby?”

“yeah, i saw you reading it last week and… you seemed so lost in the book and the pages, you gasped and your eyes widened every so often… you made me want to read it,” he spoke, hoping he didn’t sound like a creep. but he was an observant person, he noticed things.

“oh,” was all she said, crossing her legs beneath her, a position she often found herself in, it was comfortable and meant she was at ease. “and what do you think?” she asked, looking down at the way his fingers delicately tapped the cover of the book.

“it’s really good,” he chuckled, nodding his head to confirm his words. “i’d seen the movie but-”

“it doesn’t compare. it’s a good adaptation but… it’s not the same,”

“yeah,” he agreed.

and then he asked her a question, she answered. then she did, and he answered. and the hours passed but neither of them read the books, they got to know each other, talking and laughing and confessing their favorite tropes, books and even discussing their different stands on a controversial topic in one of their favorite books.

before they knew it, the day turned to night and the owners started getting ready to close the shop. she looked around, noticing they were the only two customers there.

“i’m guessing that’s our cue to leave,” she said, chuckling softly, but didn’t stand up.

“oh- yeah,” he replied, playing with the edges of his book. they both stood up, walking to the exit. she said goodbye to the owners, waving her hand.

“see you tomorrow,” she told them, the words she said every night. “i guess i’ll- see you tomorrow, too,” she smiled.

“yeah, i’d like that.”

“okay. good night,” she said, looking straight at him as she took a step back.

“good night.” he nodded his head, walking backward too, the other way.

after that day their afternoons were spent getting wrapped up in sentences, verses, rhymes, the times new roman font, and each other. they’d walk along the shelves, point to books they’d already read, book they recommended to each other, and books they promised to read together. at one point as the days passed, the distance between them disappeared, they now sat side by side, leaning into each other to read from the same book. other times, one of them would read aloud while the other stared at the ceiling, or at the person reading.

the bookstore was witness to their first meeting, the time they exchanged numbers, their first real goodbye… their first kiss.

their first goodbye. he explained that besides books, his biggest passion in life was racing. he explained the extent of his rising career, the stakes and responsibilities that came with it. and how he’d have to leave several weeks of the year. she remained quiet, taking in his words, understanding that his life was so different from hers. their first goodbye included soft smiles, a gentle touch of hands, a hug that neither of them wanted to end, and a tear streaming down her face as she turned her back to him as she walked away.

their first kiss happened two weeks later. two long weeks he’d been gone, and even though they could count on technology, it wasn’t the same as having him sitting next to her, feeling his warmth and hearing his laugh echoing through the wooden walls of their little nook in the bookshop. mick arrived unannounced, saying hi to the people behind the counter, asking for her. he walked to their spot, seeing her belongings there, but not her. he walked down the long corridor, one shelf after the other, and finally spotted her, leaning against the wall, book covering her face.

"the great gatsby?" he asked. she dropped the book, looking up at him as a smile broke on her face.

"you're here!" she got up, leaving the book forgotten on the floor as she flung herself towards him. "how are you? how did it go?" she said as she threw her arms around his neck. he wrapped his arms around her waist to pull her close against him.

"it was good, but i don't want to talk about that right now," he replied, putting her down, but she still kept her arms on his neck, he kept his hold of her waist. "you're re-reading the great gatsby already?" he raised an eyebrow.

"yeah, i… this was the first book you read because you saw me, and we started talking because of this book. it's… special."

"that feels so long ago," he said, turning so he had his back against the tall shelf.

"a month and a half."

"hmm…" he smiled, "and what have you been up to these past weeks?" he asked.

"oh! i found the perfect greek mythology retelling, it's about hades and persephone, and all of their struggles, and he loves her so much, it's so beautifully written and-" her rambling was cut short by a pair of soft lips on hers.

it was soft and slow and tender and so delicate, he moved his lips against hers as if they were a sugar cube that could break with the wrong movement. she was left breathless as he fully circled her middle with his arms, turning them so her back was against the hard wooden shelves.

their first kiss was perfect. there was no other way to describe it. it was shared in the place that had a special meaning for both of them, they were both eager and devoted to the kiss, not wanting it to end, loving the feeling, the rushing heartbeats and flushing cheeks, the shivers and goosebumps after a particular sensitive touch, it was magical, and no words could ever even begin to describe it.

they'd try to find poems, verses, lines, paragraphs that could put into words everything they felt at that moment, but nothing could ever come close to fully capture the electrifying energy that surrounded them.

and five years later, after endless kisses, touches, intimate moments, book after book, their love only grew larger and larger, deeper and deeper, an undeniable and undefiable connection that could overcome everything.

but sometimes that was easier said than done, and as she stared at the young couple, that reminded her so much of them, she couldn't help but wish he was there. she never said it, she didn't want to make him feel bad, but everytime he walked out the door was hard on her. he was her rock, the one person she could count on to always be there for her. and sometimes all she wanted was him. just his presence made her feel at ease.

and especially in slow days like this, when her mind was left free to wander and think endlessly, she couldn't help but wish she could just wrap her arms around him and keep him close forever. he was so kind, so gentle with her, everything she longed for in a partner and so much more, traits that only made sense because of him.

but she powered through it, picking a high fantasy novel to keep her mind busy, building the images on her head and creating the characters she was reading about. every so often her eyes would find the couple, sharing kisses and giggles as they scanned the books.

maybe that was the magic of bookshops, the chance to escape the real, rainy world outside and be consumed by the endless possibilities the stories inside had to offer.

once the rain died down, the couple left, they bought a couple of books and she dropped a couple of bookmarks in their bag as a gift. the rest of the day was the same, with only two or three more customers arriving and leaving quickly, not wanting to get caught under the rain once it started again.

with about an hour left until closing time, she decided it was enough. she highly doubted anyone else was coming anytime soon. so she flipped the sign on the door, locking it as she began to clean up. the playlist had finished playing, and the only sounds were that of her footsteps.

until a knock on the door startled her. she could only make out a tall body, head covered by the black hood of a jacket, her immediate stranger danger siren went off in her head, but she still approached the door, grabbing the nearest thing she could find as a weapon.

a hardcover copy of les mis.

she unlocked the door, opening it just wide enough for her to peek her head forward.

"sorry, we're closing early because of the weather." she explained, hands clutching the book against her chest.

"really? i wanted to buy that new emily henry book," the man said, looking up at her with a smile on his face.

"mick!" she said, dropping the copy of the french novel and skipping down the few steps leading up to the shop. she wrapped her legs around him, hands over his neck, pulling him close.

"get inside! you're not wearing a jacket," he laughed, walking with her on top of him. "it's nice to see your habit of dropping books when i stop by unannounced hasn't gone away."

"i've missed you so much," she said, keeping her face buried in his neck. "all day… all i wanted to do was be near you." she mumbled against his skin, feeling him walking with her in his arms.

"i'm here now," he placed her on the counter, beside the cash register, and softly placed his hands on her face, leaning back to look at her. he tilted her chin up, getting lost in her eyes.

"you're here." she whispered, her fingers playing with his hair. "how are you here?" she asked.

"got done early. took a flight. i was going to wait for you at home but… i wanted to see you. i missed you too much." she smiled at his words, feeling butterflies in her stomach as he ticked a strand of hair behind her ear. even after so many years together, he still made her feel like they were falling in love for the first time all over again.

"how was everything?" she asked, tentatively. she knew that sometimes he wasn't in the mood to talk about his job, he liked leaving racing on the paddock and just enjoy their time together.

"good, talks about next year are going well," he said, squeezing her hips. she smiled, knowing how much he deserved a seat on the f1 grid.

"i'm happy to hear that. did you get any reading done?" she asked, changing the subject.

"finished 'little women', started 'circe'."

"ooh, you really want to complete your reading challenge this year, don't you?"

"i only have two books left." he smiled, pressing a kiss to her cheek.

"well done, my love!" she said, kissing his cheek, too.

"and you? how many books did you finish?"

"night circus and i'm halfway through anna karenina."

"a big book?" he raised his eyebrows. "i'm proud of you, baby."

"thanks," she blushed under his stare, her hands finding his, locking their fingers together.

her eyes met his, soft smiles painted on their lips, chests rising up and down in sync. he leaned forward, pressing his forehead against hers softly. he rubbed his nose against hers, then placed his lips on top of hers.

the first kiss after a goodbye was always a special one. there was so much longing, love and pure emotion poured into a reunion kiss, it always brought them back to their very first kiss shared a few moons ago.

the first kiss after a goodbye always left her breathless after. it was like her body was getting used to having him close again, and no matter how many times they said goodbye and hello, it always felt like the first time.

"what do you think about going home… turn on the fireplace, make hot cocoa, and read a good book?" he suggested.

"i'd love that," she smiled against his lips, leaning forward once more. "what are you in the mood for?"

"hmm… a love story?" he raised an eyebrow.

she nodded, pushing him back to jump off the counter. she held his hand and led him to the first book that crossed her mind.

"how about a tragic love story?" she said, grabbing a copy of the blue paperback book. "quite possibly the greatest love story," she teased.

"impossible. ours is way better," mick said, grabbing the copy of 'the great gatsby' and holding her hand.

and he was right.

out of all the stories she'd read, theirs was her favorite one. and the best part was, it wasn't fictional, and more importantly, it didn't have to end.

-- take a shot each time you read the word 'book'

706 notes · View notes

angel-of-the-moons · 5 months

Note

uhm

Pavitr x wife f!reader: Pavitr noticed that the reader has been feeling really tired lately so he takes her to a love hotel 😌

The Escape

Pavitr x Wife!Reader

TW/CW: Fluff, NSFW, smut, established relationship, marriage, PiV sex, protected sex (condom), morning sex, somnophilia (pre-established consent), grinding

MINORS DNI I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR CONTENT YOU CONSUME

A/N: Pavitr is obviously an adult in this fic, so anons can stop screeching into my ask box

🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷

You had a very bad day at work today. First, your best mop broke while you were cleaning the main room of the building you were contracted to clean this week, then, you had to listen to your boss harp at you for taking too long when she said she wouldn't reimburse you or replace said mop you bought for work; the mop that was steam-powered and easier on your back to push around.

Now you were back to using a regular janitorial bucket and mop and god, you were hurting so bad.

You wanted to go home, crawl in bed, and sleep for a month.

You were just thankful today was the last day you'd have to clean that god-forsaken building, and you'd get to take two weeks to relax.

Of course, you'd do so with your golden retriever of a husband, Pavitr Prabhakar. His cuddles were some of the best ever, and you knew you'd be able to recharge the moment you snuggled up into him on your bed and drifted off to sleep.

What you weren't expecting to come home to, however, is packed suitcases neatly organized by the front door, Pavitr wearing an adorably dorky shirt with dog patterns on it, a big sunny grin on his face.

"Uh--Pav?" You blink.

"Okay, okay, I know this is weird!" He laughed, shaking his hands and rubbing the back of his neck. "But c'mon! I know you've been exhausted with work the past month, and now that you have a couple weeks to relax... We could take a trip!"

Your jaw hung agape as he continued. "I booked a hotel for us. It's on the edge of Mumbattan, but the view is amazing! I got lucky and scored some coupons in a raffle, so I only had to pay half price! It's one of those swanky hotels that normally cost like... two weeks worth of a paycheck. But I paid waaaaaaay less."

You felt your heart do a funny little flip at his gesture of love. "Pavitr..."

"I know." He smiled at you bashfully, holding your hands in his excitedly. "As soon as we get there, we can take a nice long nap, the two of us. Then we can order dinner or eat at the restaurant in the hotel!"

"What about.... Y'know. Your Spider-Man stuff?" You asked him.

"Well, things on the streets seem calm this past month, and I went on ahead and told Miguel what I was planning. He's not as scary as everyone says! He waved his hand off and told me to come home and take care of you. Cool, right?"

You made a mental note to bake some cookies for Miguel as a thank you for that.

"C'mon, lovie. Pretty please?" He said, sticking out his bottom lip and giving you his sweetest little puppy dog eyes.

You always caved when he did that...

"Okay, okay..."

"Yay! Now, I packed your suitcase for you so you don't have to do anything but sit and look pretty! Let's go!" He winked at you.

🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷

Pavitr was not lying, the hotel was gorgeous. It had an indoor pool with a waterfall, a hot tub, and two restaurants plus a bar surrounding the swimming areas.

You two ate at one of the restaurants, and despite your exhaustion, you were enjoying yourself. You were having a wonderful time and trip with your darling goofball of a husband (who tripped and fell in the pool because he wasn't watching where he was going, soaking his clothes all the way through.).

When you got back to the room, you and Pavitr took a nice long bath together, taking turns washing each other and running fingers through each other's hair.

When you dried off and flopped down onto the plush bed--you didn't even bother with nightclothes--you decided it was the perfect way to end the night.

But Pavitr had... other ideas. You felt his warm hand on the curve of your spine and you turned your head to look over at him, and his eyes were so warm and patient.

"Heyyy... I'm not done spoiling you, yet, lovie." He said softly to you

"Pav, I don't think you need to do more for me for the rest of my life. Today was amazing." You sigh sweetly with a smile.

"No, no, this is definitely something you need." He hummed, getting up off the edge of the bed and walking over to his suitcase, rummaging through it until he pulled out a small bottle.

He turned and wiggled it, a wide grin on his face. "Your back's been hurting, right? I wanted to massage it for you. Then we can sleep."

You blink a little dumbly at him as he walked back over to you. On one hand, you did want to cuddle up and sleep. On the other hand, a massage sounds heavenly on your sore shoulders and back...

You sigh and giggle, propping your arms beneath the pillow cushioning your head as you close your eyes. "Go ahead, hon."

You didn't need to have your eyes open to know he pumped his fist in victory, a happy twinkle in his eyes.

Not long after, you feel his weight straddle the backs of your thighs and then he dribbles the oil onto your skin it was warm, and the first scent that hits you is the vanilla, immediately chased by lavender.

When his hands smoothed the oil around, you sigh once more in bliss, before making a soft noise when you feet his thumbs begin to press soft circles into the tense muscles of your shoulders.

"Oh, my poor girl." He said, his voice sad as he introduced pressure from his other fingers. "My beautiful girl is all tense and hurting? Makes my heart hurt!"

You make a soft whimper when his nimble fingers, calloused from years of web-slinging and crime-fighting begin to massage the body oil into your skin as he works on each knot as slowly as possible, ensuring he eases it out completely before moving onto the next.

By the time he's moved onto your back, you're a squirming and whimpering mess. It was such a weird feeling; a mix of pleasure, pain, and almost a sensation of being tickled. It was a cocktail you found yourself getting drunk and sleepy off of. You weren't sure where one knot started and the other ended, because he was undoing them with such efficiency.

"Hey... you okay?" Pavitr asked you quietly, kissing your shoulder.

"Mhmm." You hummed against the pillow.

"You sound like you're falling asleep." He grinned.

"'m not." You deny, your tone completely betraying your lie. You really were on the verge of sleep, your mind foggy and dancing on the precipice of dreams.

"You're so cute. Go on ahead and sleep, babygirl." Pavitr hums, placing more kisses on your neck.

And before you knew it, you were out like a light.

🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷🪷

When you woke up, you were first made aware that Pavitr was pressed up against you, passed out and dressed in nothing but his boxers, with one of his knees brought firmly between your thighs.

You usually woke up this way, with Pavitr doing his best impression of a koala bear, snoring softly in his sleep. Normally, it was adorable.

But right now it was far from innocent and adorable.

You could feel the unmistakable outline of his cock throbbing against the swell of your ass. Whatever he was dreaming, it was certainly nice, judging by how he was rutting against you lazily, whimpering as his hot breath fanned against your neck in short, needy pants.

You felt a twinge of guilt; with your workload lately you and your darling husband hadn't had time to be intimate, really, so he must feel pretty pent up.

Almost as pent up as you are beginning to realize you are, actually. The sounds he was making, the way his bulge rubbed against you, and the way he'd mutter your name? It was like a fire was lit down low in your belly, the hot sticky mess between your legs pressing hard against his leg when he brought it higher.

If you didn't know any better, you knew he was awake and merely playing with you. But you knew Pavitr in every way possible. He was definitely asleep. He slept like a brick. It's why his alarms were loud enough to burst your eardrums, you teased him.

You bite your lip and roll your hips back against him, feeling his chest rise and fall with a stuttering breath as he whimpered into your hair.

Oh, poor Pavitr...

This was nice, but it wasn't enough for you.

It made you feel another snag of guilt as you pulled away to roll over and face him, but the moment your warmth left his, Pavitr rolled over onto his back, one hand rested on his belly as he breathed deeply, his face flushed with whatever erotic dream his subconscious kicked up for him to enjoy.

You smiled down at him as your eyes hungrily drank in his cute, messy hair, his needy expression and toned, fit body. He was a gorgeous man. Adorable yes, but also gorgeous. Every time he wore a tight shirt, you'd always catch women just staring oh so shamelessly at him.

You'd always feel a bit smug; special. Because you knew you were the only woman Pavitr would let touch him, the matching gold rings on your fingers solidified that knowledge, gave it physical shape.

You drag your fingers up one of his thighs in a feather-light caress slowly but surely making your way to the bulge straining so tight against his boxers.

You let out a satisfied hum, as you palm the thickness of it softly, stroking him through the cotton as you watched the swell of it twitch and strain against the stitching.

Biting your lip, you leaned over him, hooking your thumbs around the waistband of his boxers and slowly peeled them down, freeing the aching length of his dick to allow it to flop to the side a bit, the cool air making it twitch as it was finally given room to rise to full mast.

Your eyes flicked up to Pavitr's sleeping face as his expression relaxed, no doubt in relief that his poor cock wasn't being squished by his underwear any longer. He was still making those sounds, but still dreaming, you could tell, by the way his long black eyelashes fluttered against his cheeks.

You wrap your hand around his girth and give a few experimental pumps as you circle your clit with your fingers, idly toying with your own wetness as you try to decide the next course of action.

And that's when it hits you.

Grinning, you pull away, watching as the twitch of his cock laments the loss of your touch while you shimmy out of your ruined panties and carefully straddle his waist.

You stayed, your dripping heat hovering over his cock as you looked down at him, your hands braced on either side of his head as his face twisted while something in his dream shifted.

And oh, when you felt the velvety heat of his cock grind against your clit, it was wonderful. The prominent vein that ran the length of the underside of his cock added the perfect friction for you to rub against; your dripping slick adding perfect lubricant to allow you to glide on him effortlessly.

Your eyes roll back as your breathing gets heavy, feeling a tingle at the base of your spine slowly spread up, your toes curling slightly at just how hot this all is. You haven't done this in particular in a while, playing around with him while he slept. The first time you did it you thought he'd be upset, but he quickly assured you that it was the most amazing way to be woken up in the morning. A million times better than his favorite snack and coffee, first thing.

You make a soft noise as his hips rut upwards against you, adding extra stimulation whilst your breath gets caught in your throat.

Your eyes snap open when hands slide up your thighs to grip at your ass, pulling you down harder to grind on Pavitr's cock.

"Oh... 'm-morning to you, too." Pavitr panted up at you, a love-drunk smile on his face as his eyes blink drowsily up at you.

"Morning baby." You breathe, leaning down to kiss him.

"Don't stop." He groaned as your lips broke apart.

"I wasn't planning on it." You chuckle breathlessly and lean down to kiss his bobbing Adams apple.

"I... I put some condoms in the nightstand last night, if you wanna..."

You groan deeply in your chest. Yeah, yeah you definitely wanted him inside of you, right now.

"Right." You say, clearing your throat as you leaned away from him, stopping that delicious friction as you quickly rifle through the drawer, fishing out the needed foil packet.

You hastily tear it open and pull out the rubber item, and slowly, almost achingly so, roll it down his length until it was snug at the base of his cock.

"God--" He whimpered, hips stuttering up into your touch.

"I know, baby." You sigh, climbing on top of him again as his hands squeeze your thighs briefly, moving up to your hips while your delicate fingers line his cock up with your wanting hole.

"'M not gonna last long." You tell him, your voice trembling as you lower yourself down, sinking his cock all the way in one smooth stroke.

The sound that came from within his chest made your toes curl again. "I--I know." Pavitr groaned. "Me either."

You languidly rolled your hips, dragging his throbbing length through your tight, velvety walls, the ribs and bumps on the condom making your eyes roll back with a whimper.

Pavitr was definitely feeling more awake, now, because he was thrusting up into you with wanton desperation his feet bracing on the mattress as you drove yourself down to meet his hips, gyrating and rolling against him; the tip of his cock ramming against your sweet spot with every thrust, making you practically squeal.

"Right there?" He pants, his hand reaching up to grope at one of your breasts, squeezing the soft flesh gently in his palms, marveling at how the fat squishes beneath his fingers.

"Yes!" You whine, bracing your hands on his chest for support as you rode yourself closer to your orgasm.

God, you needed this. You both did. The two of you had been so stressed out and run taut that you felt you both were going to snap. Half the time, when you two finally met at home, you were too tired to do more than eat, shower, and sleep.

Yes, cuddles were nice, but sometimes a husband and his wife just absolutely needed to rail each other until their eyes crossed, y'know?

Yeah... you made a mental note to squeeze sex into your future schedules, after this. You were so drunk off this ecstasy that neither of you were sure you could go longer than a day or two without it ever again. The distance your schedules imposed on the two of you just made the euphoria that much stronger.

And god, when you came, it felt like all the stress of the past few weeks completely ebbed away with each contraction of your muscles around his hard length; your wet, needy walls milking him for everything his body promised he could give you.

"Gh--tight..." He groaned, tilting his head back and gritting his teeth, the hand that was groping at your chest joined the other at your hips, helping you rise and fall on him, helping you ride out your orgasm as he so desperately tried to pitch himself over that edge he was teetering on.

You were so thankful he thought ahead of time for condoms, whimpering as his hips slammed up into you, threatening to make you cum a second time in less than a minute.

Neither of you were ready for a baby just yet, and you hadn't found a birth control that didn't make you sick. It was Pavitr's idea you get off your birth control in the first place, because he hated how sick you'd get, how uncomfortable you were.

So... You both opted for condoms and emergency contraceptives in case something happened while you had sex.

And fuck. Were you worried you'd need to take some, right now, with how you felt the condom swell and strain as he pumped his thick load into the thin rubber.

You were worried it was going to burst, especially with how he was rabbiting his hips up into yours as he chased the waning flames of his coital haze as your tight hole milked him dry.

It didn't, and you were glad of the fact as you dropped down, laying across his chest as the two of you heaved for some fresh air, your lungs burning desperately with each drag.

"Good morning. Again." You mumble with a giggle against his sweaty skin.

"Oh, yeah. It definitely is, now." He grinned, his hand running up and down your back in a loving caress.

"I hope you know we're not leaving this room for the rest of the day, now, right?" Pavitr asked you.

Oh, your fluffy, doofy husband had some of the best ideas...

#🌙 answered #pavitr prabhakar #pavitr prabhakar x reader #pavitr prabhakar x you #pavitr x reader #pavitr x you #spiderverse smut

93 notes · View notes

aettuddae · 5 months

Text

hole in one — chapter 119.

⌕ synopsis: at one of the most prestigious universities in the country, where everyone is battling to be the center of attention, yu jimin is just a regular. people want her because of her beauty, but all she cares about is sharing her freaky stuff with her friends and passing her subjects. although there's one thing that might push her out of her comfort zone, revenge. when nakamura kazuha, one of the richest and most well-known students of NCU, starts to spread gossip about her for thousands of followers to see, jimin decides to get back by taking away the thing kazuha cares about the most: her perfect girlfriend, the young golf star, kwon haru.

masterlist | prev | next

[written chapter]

the door of karina's apartment was being brutally banged on, a violent and desperate demand to be opened.

the owner of the house was suddenly roused from her sleep by the noise. she sat up in bed, pulled back the blankets covering her and proceeded to climb out of it. dazed and in distress she searched for the robe she usually wore during her sleeping hours, but not finding it, she simply took a hoodie, belonging to haru, which hung from the foot of her mattress and then she threw it over her head, wearing it on top of her pajamas.

she took quick steps through her hallway and living room, running her hands through her loose hair to try to tidy it up so it wouldn't look chaotic when she met her guest, whoever it was. she turned to look at the clock that decorated one of her walls, it was barely 7:45 in the morning.

she grabbed the doorknob and finally opened the door, causing the knocking to stop. there, standing, was haru.

"hello, baby." mumbled the younger girl, still not fully aware of her surroundings.

she stretched her arms out in front of her and took a step forward. the sleep she felt blinded her ability to reason, so she had quickly forgotten about the aggressiveness with which haru woke her up.

just before she could hug the older girl, this one raised her own hands and used them to push jimin's. this act did wake her up more, causing her, confused, to start looking for answers to the refusal of contact in haru. it was then, as the girl entered her place without a word, passing her coldly, she could see that she had tears streaming down her cheeks and puffy, reddish-colored eyes.

"haru, what happened?"

kwon paced around the room as she gasped and cried, trying to decide what she should do. finally, she sat down on the couch, right on the edge, placing her hands on her thighs, staring at the television that was turned off, unable to calm herself.

jimin closed the door behind and ran to sit beside her, sliding her arms around her waist, and resting her cheek on her shoulder.

"what's wrong, haru? why are you like this? you scare me." she caressed up and down her back comforting her, the sadness of seeing her favorite person in such a state painting her voice.

"kazuha texted me." haru commented, her voice trembling and her eyes still lost.

"when?" karina raised her head, puzzled, and waited for an explanation to what she had just heard.

"a few hours ago, when i left from here." she rubbed her pants nervously.

"what did she want?"

"she..." remembering the conversation she'd had with her ex, she couldn't help but feel miserable again. "she..." she tried to finish the sentence, but the tears interrupted, welling up even stronger and more abundant, bringing with them an anguish that blocked her throat.

she lifted her hands from her legs to replace them with her elbows, then brought them up to her face to cover it with her palms and lean on them. seeing that reaction, karina tried to hold her tightly, but haru suddenly stood up.

she watched her, contemplating what she should do. kwon, again, began to move around the place as she had done when she first arrived. the air in her lungs seemed not to be enough and kept running out from time to time, so the girl desperately sought to get new oxygen into her lungs, but it was difficult for her to carry out that mission when she could not stop the water leaking from her tear ducts.

should she go comfort her even if she kept pushing her away?

"baby, what did she say to make you get like this?" she raised from the sofa. "you can tell me, yes? i'm going to help you, you know you can trust me." she stepped closer.

"no, i can't trust you." she dropped her arms to both sides of her body and stopped in place.

"what are you talking about?" jimin furrowed her eyebrows, not understanding haru's words.

"kazuha texted me today." she took a big breath of air, her pupils moving frantically to evade contact with her. "she found minhyuk."

"oh, that's great." she tried to lighten the mood.

"he was at a club on the outskirts of town, very drunk." she explained, calmer, but without spirit. "she picked him up and drove him to his apartment. then, texted me to let me know he was okay." she added.

"haru, i'm glad, but i don't understand, what's the part that has you so upset?" she asked disoriented.

"what minhyuk told her." she replied simply, then bit down hard, tensing her jaw from the anger she felt.

jimin was silent, in her mind analyzing all the things that maybe minhyuk could have said and had this repercussion on haru.

had he tried to flirt with kazuha? she didn't remember minhyuk being bisexual. what if it had something to do with that time they fought? but it had been months. did it have something to do with the boy's mental stability? but it didn't make sense for him to confess it to kazuha.

there was something in the back of her mind that tickled her, a vague idea of something minhyuk knew and could have confessed. but no, it couldn't be...

could it?

"what did he say?" she questioned cautiously, with some fear. it couldn't be that.

"look, kazuha..." she took a second to choose her words. "i know kazuha well." she nodded her head, reaffirming herself. "she only goes out to the club's or college parties, she's a jock after all, she has to take care of herself." her hands were shaking. "an hour trip to a club, on a wednesday... i know she went looking for something."

she pressed her lips together tightly against each other, and let her eyelids fall. the feeling that had plagued her now for a couple of hours, returned. she felt used, ridiculous, she felt anger, but most of all disappointment. it was like a broken faucet, which every now and then dripped again. she couldn't contain herself every time she remembered what had brought her to that place.

"and i'd like to be upset with her, in fact, i am, but i can't focus on that feeling," her chest heaved again. "because what she got is worse."

somehow, karina had confirmation that it was exactly what she imagined.

"does it have anything to do with me?" her words came out, but barely, she was intimidated to speak.

"what was the plan?"

jimin felt like she could die at that moment. she didn't quite understand how love worked, since this was the first person to awaken that feeling in her, but she could realize how painful the possibility of losing it was, that uncertainty that was hidden there underneath all the affection, all the kisses.

call it uncertainty, call it guilt.

jimin felt like someone was grabbing something that was hers, something she loved so much, that belonged to her to the point of feeling like another limb of her body, and was taking it away from her. she could run after it, but could she really be sure that she would catch it and make it stay?

above all, jimin felt responsible for instigating that possibility. perhaps if she had fallen in love with haru under different circumstances, love would have presented itself to her in a sweeter, less dark way. and that fell on the way she had met haru.

"the plan?" she reiterated to make sure, though it wasn't necessary.

"what was the plan you had against kazuha, karina?" she inquired frantically.

from princess to karina.

"haru, i-"

"what was the damn plan!?" she shouted in desperation.

"the plan..." now she was the one who was erratic, tears beginning to wet her cheeks. "what do you know?"

"that you and seungkwan entered the club with a plan to take revenge on kazuha." she clarified. "i want to know what the plan was." she continued, clearly annoyed. "and i hope you are honest because now i know that you haven't been."

"haru-"

"jimin!" she exclaimed, tired of the diverting to the question.

"when she started shit-talking about me, it bothered me so much that i wanted to get it back to her." she lowered her head in embarrassment. "with the guys we thought about what thing could pain her enough to regret hurting me," she swallowed hard to fade the knot that bothered her as she spoke. "and, sorry, but kazuha is so shallow and boring that we couldn't find anything." she took a moment to speak again, terrified. "except for one thing," she pointed her finger at the older. "you."

"and what does that mean?" haru couldn't think straight, she was too upset and sad, all her sentences were laden with hysteria and anger. "what did the plan have to do with me!?" she vociferated so loud that jimin thought the neighbors would hear.

"i had to make you fall in love." she admitted, raising her head and daring to make eye contact with the golfer. "i had to make you see how bad kazuha is and then make you fall in love with me, so you'd break up with her."

haru's attitude unraveled, leaving her stoic, mouth and eyes hanging in disbelief. she was frozen. how did she never see what was happening?

"but haru, after kazuha had me expelled, i was so scared of what she might do to me that i never resumed the plan, i swear. everything that happened after that had nothing to do with me." karina tried to explain, defending herself, the things she was saying coming fastly from her lips. "the relationship you and i have is not because of the plan, i never really carried out that idea." she took hurried steps towards her partner and took her clothes between her hands, intending to pull her closer, then rested her forehead against hers.

kwon didn't move, she stood for a moment static, taking in what she had just heard. until she pulled herself together, if only enough to move away from the girl.

"your intention was to use me to get revenge." she realized, still in shock.

"i know it sounds horrible, haru." she shook her head exaggeratedly, a mess from the flurry of emotions she was feeling. "but i didn't, i never carried out any part of the plan that included you." she ran her hands through her hair, pushing it back nervously. "you and i got along from the beginning, i realized that you are a person with a beautiful soul and if we got to where we are now it's because we actually care for each other, not because of the plan, our bond never had anything to do with the plan."

"sure, karina, but funny how everything went just the way you wanted it to!" she started walking across the room, heading down the hallway.

"that wasn't my fault, haru! i swear to you that after the expulsion i gave up all idea of the plan." followed the girl quickly. "kazuha was annoyed by me and that unleashed a lot of horrible events." she entered her room behind her. "i didn't do anything to make her act like that, if you realized what kind of person she was and broke up with her, it was her fault." she stopped in the middle of the room. "what are you doing?" she noticed as haru paced the room looking for something.

"there are things of mine in your apartment." she said casually as she opened the closet.

"haru, wait." she hurried toward her. "haru." she hugged the girl by the waist from behind, and when she had her in her grip, she gently pulled her back. "don't go, please leave your things where they are." sadness flooded her plea, she was hopeless.

"i don't want to have my things in your space, karina." she removed her hands from her body.

"stop calling me karina!" she demanded despondently.

"i never imagined you'd be able to do such a thing!" she turned to look at her sharply. "so i clearly don't know you."

"you and i are never going to be strangers." jimin took her cheeks between her fingertips tenderly. "you are my haru and i am your princess."

"by what argument do you define that?" she said expressionlessly. "if all we have is on the basis of lies." she removed her face from the girl's hold and continued to rummage around the room.

"no, haru, you and i really adore each other." she disapproved. "the reasons we met weren't honest, but what we have is." she reiterated. "as i told you, your breakup with kazuha wasn't my doing, it was just a result of what a bad person she is-"

"stop talking about her like that!" she ordered, again raising the volume of her voice. "in the end, you're not much different from her."

"you defend her?" she questioned astonished.

"she's my ex-girlfriend to whom i devoted years of my life." said nonchalantly.

"and just because she was your girlfriend i can't point out she's a bad person? the person who almost ruined my future, who spread shitty rumors about me, who physically attacked me? that person i have to respect, just because you were with her?" the annoyance displaced for a moment the pain inside her.

"kazuha is and did many terrible things, i know." she looked at karina seriously. "but she loved me and would never have intended to use me the way you pretended to." she threw on a chair next to her some clothes she had collected. "and now that i know what your true intentions were, i would have preferred you not to appear in my life."

her body looked listless, as if she needed to pass out to regain the strength that this discussion had drained from her. somehow she felt that the energy inside her was being returned to jimin, who was providing it. as if little by little the panorama that captured her vision was fading, and with it something inside her body. from colors to monochrome.

"kazuha is terrible. but i was fine, we had something good, and if i had never realized what she was really like, maybe i would have continued to have that one good thing, and i wouldn't be feeling the pain i'm feeling right now." she pressed her index finger against her chest, emphasizing her words. "so congratulations, jimin, your plan went well,"

the younger girl grimaced in displeasure, angry at haru's stubbornness to keep stating something she had already denied several times. but she understood, that was the worst part, that she understood why haru couldn't believe her.

"you managed to make me realize who kazuha is, but consequently you only proved that you are not the angel i thought you were." she acknowledged, anguished and disappointed. "you wanted to use me and you lied just to get revenge. if you ask me, that's something kazuha would do." she accused. "so how different are you really from her?" she took the clothes she had left earlier and a few other items and headed for the door.

"haru, i love you." karina declared, causing the older woman to stop before stepping into the hallway. "i love you deeply, and i know i did things wrong, but my love for you is genuine, it doesn't stem from any lies or plans." she ran to where she was standing. "please don't go."

from behind her, she searched her eyes, only managing to catch a peek of her cheekbone, but she still looked at her pleadingly. haru didn't turn around one bit, she didn't dare to look her in the eye, not after she told her she loved her and was begging her to stay. she knew she wasn't that strong, that if she saw those brown orbs in which jimin kept all the stars from the sky, she wasn't going to be able to refuse. karina took the golfer's shirt between her fingers, frantic about any kind of contact that might hold her in place, but not daring to touch her like she usually did.

"if you let me, i will win back your trust and show you that what i feel is real. i will prioritize our relationship, i will prioritize you." she promised expectantly.

"karina," she named, still not daring to turn back to her. "regardless of whether you went through with that stupid plan or not, whether you completed it or not, nothing changes that you intended to do it, and lied to me about it." she detailed, vacantly, monotonously. "i don't think i'll ever trust you again." she sentenced.

haru moved forward, jimin's minimal grip on her loosened, and she continued on her way to the exit. the younger girl was unable to move, falling to her knees on the floor after hearing the front door close. she leaned against the frame of the entrance to her room, hugged her legs to her body and held herself as she got lost in her cry.

she didn't even imagine that in the hallway, just outside her apartment, haru was also standing with her forehead pressed against one of the walls, covering her face that was bathed in tears.

(!)

— taglist: @runawaymazola @chaenniefirst @livelaughchoerry @rinapomu @jeindall777 @petruchiosstuff @winieter @sewiouslyz @yvesismywife

130 notes · View notes

stargirlfics · 11 months

Text

The Gentleman Chapter 5: Éclosion

Alfred Pennyworth x Black Dancer!Reader

Summary: Harsh realities and a dangerous new enemy push you and Alfred to be upfront about your feelings

Warnings: 18+ ONLY, canon typical violence, chemical attack mentions, light angst, soft concerned bf!alfred vibes, romantic gestures galore, brief allusion to smut, fluff & feelings!

Word Count: 4.9k

Note: So happy to be bringing you all more of this story I know it’s been a minute! Hope you enjoy this one, it’s special in a lot of ways! The soundtrack for this chapter and the title come from Èclosion by Tony Anderson which I listened to while writing. It makes me think of what falling in love feels like!

[series masterlist] [series playlist]

Tension lay heavy over the city in the days after the fear toxin attack, people were wary and on edge, the weather even starting to turn cold and dreary while unease hung thick in the air.

Paulie’s Diner was now the site of a police investigation, the entire street blocked off, the news coverage of the attack on a twenty four hour cycle, just barely contained panic swirling over this fear toxin and what it could do.

You couldn’t lie that it was terrifying, hearing what those who’d been injured said about the toxic gas, what it did to them; hallucinations of a nightmarish hellscape drawing out everyone’s anger and fear, driving them mad.

It sounded awful and then there was Scarecrow’s chilling warning, the mystery of who he was and what his motives were bringing back eerie memories of the year before and how out of control things had gotten.

Worry twisted taut in your stomach, exhaustion in your limbs as you finished out your last show of the night, the fourth one in two days in fact, your body and mind run ragged.

Oz was a smart man but he was predictable.

The new late night hour dance slots added to the schedule weren’t a coincidence, you were sure he was using the distraction to make more money, every dancer working doubles late into the morning hours now, Madame Olena working quick to teach new choreography, a refresher on some pole tricks and sexier strip teases and dances added to the repertoire of shows.

There were bruises already blossoming on your shins from where you had to push against said pole as you climbed it, inching your way up so the audience could see you float and twirl around it, and as fun as it was, as much as you enjoyed getting to dance with your friends on stage beside you each night, you were tired and sore and just wanted to sleep for a year.

Certain rituals were getting you through the grueling hours though.

Sleepy phone calls with Alfred before you drifted off when you got home, his sweet encouragement texts and reminders for you throughout the day and how he’d stopped by every other day this week so far to see you even if just to say hello before heading back to the office.

You’d both been busy since the night of the attack, not finding much time inbetween work to spend the kind of time together that you wanted, a reluctance in both your voices when trying to soften the sting of it likely being the entire week and maybe even the next before you’d get to see each other properly.

That didn’t seem to sway Alfred much though, even when you insisted he didn’t have to go out of his way to come by if he was pressed for time, he showed up anyway, as often as he could.

You were grateful for it, relieved that he didn’t find your disappointment about your schedules selfish with everything going on, just as content to get any second spent with you that he could.

Reminders of him were everywhere now too.

The throw blanket on your sofa that smelled faintly like him, the new bouquet of fresh flowers he’d come by one afternoon with, the space near the front door made for his shoes and coat next to yours, like tiny little puzzle pieces were beginning to fill in, ones you didn’t even know you seemed to have all the perfect pieces for.

It made you laugh to yourself now, laid out on the floor in your living room, trying to ease the ache in your muscles, stretching each limb gently while pondering on how tangled up your heart was.

All these feelings were so intense, one part of you cautioning yourself to slow down, not get too invested when you’re not sure he even feels the same, or wants a relationship while another part felt sure about trusting the groundwork that had been laid so far.

So much was going on and you were sure a proper conversation would happen soon, when there was time—if it was Alfred that much you were sure of, knowing he’d never leave you wondering for too long but you did worry.

Maybe it just wasn’t a good time, with Scarecrow loose and wreaking havoc and the recent reminder that you were under Penguin’s thumb indefinitely; it didn’t bode well for fostering a relationship and in Gotham that was tricky enough on its own.

But you also couldn’t deny what you were feeling and experiencing.

Another half suppressed smile coming then, a dreamy breath sighed out at the memory of the previous evening, when Alfred had come by to drop off some takeout only to see you icing your shins, his immediate concern when you greeted him making you laugh, something he didn’t find as amusing in the moment.

His slightly stern but still soft, “Darling, what happened? Who did this?” made you squirm against the cushions while also making haste to explain before he got too upset.

The worry on his features faded just a touch after, as he fussed over you, though you didn’t miss his slight eyebrow raise of surprise and intrigue when you said “pole dance”, reminding yourself to circle back around to that subject at a later date…you wanted to see how far that interest went.

It’s just that he didn’t ever make you feel like these visits were a chore, that’s what you kept coming back to, remembering how his coat and cane were discarded to the side immediately so he could kneel down and take over icing your muscles, soothing hands kneading the stiffness from your calves, insisting that you start eating while he take care of you.

How could you ever get over that? The gentleness with which he touched you?

Wanting him felt like oxygen, just as normal as breathing and inevitable as falling asleep, his kisses tasting of hope and something sweet. Things felt different now that Alfred was in your life, the good kind of different, the exciting kind and it almost felt silly to be unsure if you could lean into this but the more you thought about it, the more clarity you came away with.

There was a reason he spoke to you with such respect, his thoughtfulness about your feelings present in everything, and god the way he looked at you with so much fondness, how his expression could go from sweet to simmering in seconds, leaving you aching, feeling special and adored at every turn, it had to mean something.

Lost in the web of your thoughts the chime of your phone’s alarm nearly startled you, the time letting you know you had to get ready for rehearsal, your focus now pulled in a different direction and you reasoned with yourself it was best not to overthink this if you could help it.

The pattering of rain hitting the windows made you wish you could stay in instead, a daydream already forming about curling up with Alfred on the couch, snuggled under the blanket, napping together for the whole evening.

Rushing out the door before traffic hit you couldn’t help but gaze out in the direction of Wayne Tower, wondering what he was up to, hoping his day was going okay and already counting down the hours until you could hear his voice again.

Just across the city, staring out at the winking lights of traffic on the streets below, Alfred paced the floor of his study, his thoughts and emotions a tangled mess.

He couldn’t remember the last time he felt this way, or felt this much about someone, realizing that he’d gotten swept up in it all, reality washing over him like ice now.

The past week had been stressful to say the least, things were already busy with certain projects and due diligence with investors and financial advisors at Wayne Enterprises, now this fear toxin attack had taken center priority as well, he and Bruce already starting to work around the clock to get a handle on things.

That meant there was less time available to be with you and even though it had only been a handful of days so far, and despite his frequent visits he still felt distant.

He missed you terribly when you weren’t around and it didn’t take much to see that his feelings for you were really entering serious territory.

He should be happy about that, he knows he should be, but all there is for him in the moment is fear, because this could only ever end one way and he knows it.

It was foolish to think he could have something proper with you, something not tainted by secrets that weren’t his to tell, tainted by a dangerous obligation he’d taken on to be at Bruce’s side in his mission as Batman.

That was an obligation he would never ever regret, all of it done out of love it’s just that most of his life had been spent with some proximity to danger and there had been many close calls.

Far too many tragedies had already happened he couldn’t let that become the case for you too. He wouldn’t allow it.

You were too important to him already and he couldn’t drag you down into all this, especially not now with this Scarecrow figure coming out of the woodwork.

It did hurt though, just the mere thought of ending things, his heart lurching painfully, not wanting to entertain the thought of letting you go for a single second.

A door he once thought was closed for good had opened the day you met and he let himself get close, captivated in every way, each time hoping it wouldn’t be the last time he would see you.

He was awestruck by how quickly you disarmed him, seeing him so clearly and the fact that you wanted him as well, that you wanted his attention?

He was helpless to do anything except be swept up, but now he had to understand he’d never be able to have that.

It’d be alright, it would rip him open but this wasn’t the first time he’d chosen duty over feelings, he’d have to find comfort in knowing he had experienced this with you no matter how brief it was, already knowing he wouldn’t quite ever forgive himself for hurting you this way.

“What’s wrong?”

The question catches him by surprise as Bruce makes his entrance out of Alfred’s peripheral, still drying the rain from his hair.

Perfect. Just in time for dinner.

“Nothing, just working on some numbers in my head. How did it go?”

His own question had been a deflection, one he’s not proud of but he just needed a second to get his bearings, to screw his head back on straight after thinking of you.

“Went alright. They don’t have much to go on, Gordon says they’re trying to get a read on the chemical mixture in the gas but that could take awhile. I’m going back to the diner tonight, I have to try and find some clues, whatever I can get.”

A rough hand passes over the scruff of his jaw as he considers the information, nodding after a moment.

“I’ll be on standby if you find anything. I’ve been doing some digging myself, nothing concrete so far but there may be more security footage we haven’t seen that could identify him.”

There's a moment after where it’s quiet, the two men moving around each other in comfortable silence before Bruce caves first, a light chuckle let loose, almost mixing with the downpour of the rain.

If Alfred were any older he was sure he wouldn’t have heard it but he did, flicking one of his pointed looks at the young man.

“Seriously, Alfred, what's wrong? Something’s on your mind.”

He resisted the urge to brush it off or get defensive, softened at this offer to discuss, treasuring these moments of depth with Bruce whenever they came.

All he had to do was say your name and Bruce was nodding, his heart tugging at the sound of it, sighing and pinching the bridge of his nose before explaining further.

“I think I may have to end things. I-I’m worried about keeping her safe through this and ultimately she’s just better off. I’d have to lie to keep her from finding out, from getting involved and I don’t want to have to do that, it’s what’s best.”

More silence, his heart sinking now that the words had been said out loud, the crushing reality setting in just a little more.

“But you don’t want to let her go right? You do have feelings for her?”

Alfred can sense the careful line of questioning, deciding to be truthful as vulnerable as it made him feel, nodding a yes.

“I do, I have feelings for her.”

“Good, I don’t think you should end things then.”

Oh that wasn’t what he was expecting to hear.

“Bruce…it’s not as simple as that, she doesn’t know, she can’t know, that could put her at risk, you at risk, we don’t know when there could be another attack, I can’t let-“ but the words are falling short with a placating hand.

“Look I see the way she makes you feel and I don’t think you should let that go. I can’t let you do that actually, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice that, Alfred,” there’s a moment in between, a look that says he wants to say something else but finding the words is hard, “I never actually told you this but before Selina left town, I met up with her, saw her one last time. She wanted me to come with her and I-”

Alfred’s eyes widen for a moment, a sympathetic nod given as the sentence trailed off because he understood now what he always suspected but never pried about.

He figured Bruce had feelings of some kind for Miss Kyle but of course, his boy had chosen duty over feelings, just as he was contemplating doing himself.

It was a clever way of calling him out on it he had to give him that.

“I know you’re worried she’ll get hurt and I know you’re scared she won’t want anything to do with us when she finds out but I see how much you trust her, so I trust her and I think she’s safest close to us. You don’t have to lie to her, tell her just enough for now and we can keep her protected from it for as long as possible, you can tell her on your own terms.”

His heart quickened, mulling it over, pacing again without realizing, struck by the sincerity in Bruce’s words.

The weight in telling him he didn’t need to make this sacrifice, carefully guiding a stubborn old man out of his head and setting him straight again, because the answer could be that simple for once even if everything else wasn’t.

He’d be an even greater fool not to try just because it might be hard, knowing already that he’d regret not giving you every bit that he had to give out of fear and his own self doubt, so with a cautious nod he was agreeing, ribs loosening with a breath he felt like he’d been holding in for ages.

Nightfall was approaching now and Bruce had since snuck off after a little more discussion and a flat toned promise to eat dinner before going anywhere else, leaving Alfred sat at his desk with a newfound clarity to things.

This made sense to him now, the swirl of thoughts racing through his brain.

He knew how he felt about you and could admit he wanted to be with you, hands buzzing as he racked his mind for how to tell you, because it had been weeks now and he didn’t want to waste anymore time, he needed you to know he was serious and wanted a relationship and by god he hoped you felt the same.

An idea came to mind on the tail end of his thoughts, Bruce’s earlier words echoing as he pulled out a few pages of his favorite writing paper, adjusting his glasses quickly before he picked up a pen and began writing.

The first snowfall in Gotham was just beginning to blanket the streets, snowflakes melting against the frosty windows while you got bundled up to go out on a date!

A small window of time opened up over the weekend and Alfred had taken the reins on it, telling you he wanted to take you out again, properly and his pick this time, promising to plan something he thinks you’d really enjoy.

You swear your heart skips when you see his sleek car pull up outside your apartment, feet already carrying you down the steps to meet him outside.

“Hello, love. You look beautiful!” that smooth, accented voice causing your cheeks to burn despite the chill of the snow falling around you.

Running into his arms he embraced you tight, pressing a chaste kiss to your temple before getting you tucked into the car.

“Thank you, same to you, handsome. I missed you.” your wistful sigh came softly as you put your seatbelt on, already trying to figure out where he was taking you.

“I missed you too, more than you know. Ready?” His warm hands caressed your knee for a moment, squeezing as you gave him an answering nod.

The car rumbled to life and you were off, the heat turned up comfortably while you slipped into an easy conversation that continued until he was pulling into a parking spot, one of the quieter downtown streets lit up and glittering through the window.

“Are you treating me to pastries and hot chocolate right now? Is that the date because if so please say yes!” your excited shiver earned you a laugh when you step out, his cane in one hand and your own clasped around his arm, squeezing his bicep as you walked towards the sweet smelling cafe up ahead.

“As many pastries as you’d like, darling…I also may have ordered us a special dessert ahead of time too.” his sheepish grin warming your heart.

He was so impossibly sweet there were times where you wondered what you ever did to deserve him.

“Ooh that sounds fancy, are we celebrating something?” the innocent question hung opened ended as he got the door for you.

“You could say that, yeah.”

Later, foamy whipped cream lined the edge of your lips from sipping on the hot chocolate you’d taken to-go, Alfred kissing away the sugar quickly after even when you giggled out a protest against his lips.

Rounding the street together, it felt so nice to be this close and receiving his affection, holding hands as you walked.

You found it so cute how he checked to make sure no one was watching before he ducked down for another quick kiss.

Just as cute as when he sat next to you at the cafe, a reassuring hand resting over your thigh, absentmindedly playing with your fingers and the hem of your outfit while you indulged your sweet tooth.

That special dessert he ordered turning out to be one he used to love when he was younger, his wish in sharing it here to make a new memory of it with you.

Oh, he couldn’t be real.

That effortless charm was getting him everywhere and the delight didn’t seem to stop because now you were in front of a quaint, cozy looking bookstore, his arm already at the small of your back guiding you inside.

The smell of ink and paper filled your nose, a homey feeling in your chest browsing over the shelves; your first bookstore date together.

You couldn’t have been more excited, glancing at Alfred every few seconds, all smiles and bright eyes pointing out familiar titles and old favorites, reading the descriptions of interesting looking novels together, a real and definite shift in the air.

Something in the eye contact was different…heavier, a weight to it that made you feel short of breath.

Almost achingly so, your body was acutely aware of his closeness to you, the soft wrap of his hand over your waist, how his shoulder bumped into yours when you wandered over to the romance novel section, it made you feel like your chest was caving in, and you weren’t even afraid.

No, you were happy to let yourself collapse into the feeling.

The bookstore made you feel a little like you were in a romance novel yourself, faded patterned rugs draping the wood floors, soft fairy lights hanging above you and the rows of books and haphazard stacks laid out in armchairs all felt whimsical, romantic; perfect for two bookworms turned lovers.

“This is part two of my date plans, you know. Whatever books catch your eye, I’ll buy for you, my treat.

As if he didn’t aready have the key to your heart.

“Even if the book is an erotic novel?” you beamed back at him, smiling at the one he’d picked up off the shelf you were peering at, recognizing the cover anywhere.

“Oh especially if it’s that.”

“How crass, Mr. Pennyworth, I would have thought you to be more of a Shakespeare guy!” you joke and pluck the book from his hands, thumbing through a few pages.

“I most certainly am but I do have skills in other areas too, darling. It’s important to be a well rounded reader.”

He says it with an edge to his voice that leaves you speechless, your brain lagging just a second behind as he leads you further into the store, a beeline made to the poetry section.

A short while later and both of your arms were balancing a stack of books each, you trailing behind Alfred as he lead him you to a secluded spot in one of the reading corners in the store’s second level so now you were sitting side by side, musing over your book picks for each other.

True to his words, he’d bought you all the books of your choosing along with some he’d gotten just for himself too; a photobook of the English countryside, another about hand to hand fighting and then a few books about chemical compounds finding their way into the mix too.

You didn’t know he had an interest in chemistry but didn’t question it, forgetting about it a moment later when he pulled out a book he found of different black burlesque dancers through history, a little gasp filling the quiet space when he told he got it as a gift for you.

As if you needed anymore reasons to fall for him further, all this was taking the cake.

Hours had gone by, the two of you huddled together sharing stolen kisses in between the last sips of hot chocolate and the turning of pages, truly feeling like you were in a world apart with him, like whatever was happening out there in the world couldn’t touch you, at least not here.

Heat tingled on your lips when you kissed him again, a little more soundly this time, showing him just how much you missed him.

It had been too long.

Remembering that the last time you’d been intimate like this was the morning of the attack, part of you wishing you could be in his bed right now, spread out underneath him, taking him until you were making a mess of his sheets but the other part of you didn’t want to leave this moment in time with him, a whole different level of intensity to this all on it’s own.

You’d never felt so connected, so close in your life, so much unspoken sentiment in the way his larger hands were grasping your much smaller ones, holding them warmly before his forehead was pressing against yours.

“I have one more thing to give to you, sweetheart.”

Your eyes fluttered open then, the gentleness in his whisper wrecking you, sitting patiently as he moved back a bit. Watching with bated breath, he fished an envelope out of the inside pocket of his coat and placed it in your hands, leaving the rest up to you.

The way your heart was clammoring in your chest and your own anticipation kept you from noticing the nervous jitter of his hands, seconds feelings like minutes while you unfolded the paper, realizing he’d written on it, recognizing his handwriting right away.

With trembling hands you brushed your fingers over where he had written your name, words beginning to sink in as you read the letter addressed to you.

My love,

I fear there will never be enough words to describe how dear you are to me but I will try my best to write them all here. I’ve never felt so sure about someone before, about the way you make me feel and how vast those feelings are. The morning we met I had a feeling that there must have been a reason we crossed paths and now I know there was. You must know I couldn’t sleep that night, because all I could think about was if you were okay and if you had made it home safely. I just couldn’t get you out of my head and then there you were again at The Magpie wanting to talk to me and I knew then I was the luckiest man in the world.

Glancing up from the page you locked eyes with Alfred for just a moment, a perfect mirror of your feelings reflected in them.

Never in a million years did I think I’d ever feel this way again but I do and I need you to know that being a man worthy of your affections is all that I want to be. You were meant to shine as brightly as you do, my darling, I never want you to feel as if you have to hide your talent or temper the big, wondrous ideas you have. They’re all I ever want to hear. You do in fact have my heart, love, as much of it as you want to take, it is yours.

Tears welled along your lashes as you kept reading, everything in you softened by each line, your heart opening, hatching, blooming at his words, hearing how much he felt for you too.

…things are less than ideal right now I know, and there are things you don’t know about me yet either, things in my past and certain things in the present that I want to tell you about but have to be careful of first, your safety is always a priority for me but I do plan to tell you in time. Darling, I know how I feel about you and I think and hope you feel the same about me. I cherish every second I get to spend with you, there’s so much I want to show you, so much I want to tell you and do with you by my side if you’ll have me.

There was one more page left, filled with more words that made your stomach flip with butterflies, those tears threatening to fall because what he was saying was everything you had hoped for and then some.

And you think you understood what he meant about needing to be careful with certain secrets before he could speak about them, thinking on your own situation with Penguin—you still hadn't told Alfred those men where his that had been sent to follow you.

It was wonder how your heart was still inside your chest at this rate, a tear breaking free to fall down your cheek as you finished reading, lingering where he signed his name.

Yours always,

x Alfred.

The letter lay in your lap as strong hands- no longer trembling- reached for you again, brushing the stray tear from your cheek.

Your face was cupped so tenderly in his hands you almost started to cry for real, never knowing it could be like this, that you could be told and shown in so many ways that you were wanted and adored.

“I know we haven't really discussed this yet and so much has gotten in the way but I want to say it here and now, I would really love it if you wanted to be mine. Admittedly it has been some time since I’ve dated anyone and I am rusty, you’ll have to forgive me if this could have been better but I do want to be with you, I have all this time.”

“Oh, Alfred. Yes, of course I want to be yours! I’d love nothing more. And shut up, this was a perfect way to tell me, you’re not rusty at all, old man.”

You sniffled with a laugh, leaning in to press your forehead against his again, both of you sinking into the moment together, feeling tethered to one another now, connected in a way you hadn’t been before.

Things had just gotten very real and for as much as you’d pondered and daydreamed of this moment, you didn’t feel an ounce of fear at the gravity of feelings before you.

Trusting in Alfred’s words, ones he’d actually taken the time to spell out to you on paper so you could keep the reminder of his devotion forever, the gesture easing any worry there might have been.

Snow was still falling outside as you sat together for just a little while longer, Alfred pretending not to notice you sneaking giddy glances at him while you gazed over the letter one more time before stowing it safely away in your bag.

Your hand finds his, fingers lacing together while you rest your head against his shoulder, closing your eyes contently for a moment when you feel his cheek press against you.

The odds still seemed grim, the whole city on edge with so much uncertainty left on the horizon, cause enough for isolation and the walls around people’s hearts to come up but not here, not with you and Alfred.

You felt stronger for it, having faith that whatever was coming your way in the time ahead, you’d have him by your side and that gave you all the hope in the world.

---

A/N: Soo they finally got their moment! I actually began this chapter with the ending of it in mind already, I was listening to the chapter title song in the playlist and was like oh this is where it would play, this is the moment where he admits his feelings and asks her to be his girl

There were times where writing this chapter was such a challenge but also really exciting and wholesome too! Hope it gives you all the feels it gave me and I'm giving kisses to those who pick up on all the little details in this too, thank you so much for your patience while I write this series and for all the love!

(dividers used are by the wonderful @saradika 💫 )

Let me know what you think!! Thank you for reading as always!

some tags, no pressure! @eupheme @squidlywiddly87 @the-eyes-of-andyserkis @tarabyte3 @tarrenterror25 @ozarkthedog @peachyteabuck @unrefinedmusings @aislupu @mariahthelioness29 @flamingdisputes @ayoarticulate @fluffyprettykitty @kneelforloki @allaboardthereadingrailroad @xoxovivarecs

#amalia writes #alfred pennyworth x black reader #alfred pennyworth x reader #alfred pennyworth fluff #alfred pennyworth imagine #alfred pennyworth #alfred pennyworth fanfiction #the batman fanfic #alfred pennyworth angst #alfred pennyworth fanfic

158 notes · View notes

ssadumba55 · 1 year

Text

Break (Bernard the Elf x Reader)

Request: Ok I've been brainstorming an idea for Bernard and ok here's what I got ok Reader is Santa's introverted kid and them and Bernard are in an established relationship and he's like the reader's emotional support so they follow him everywhere like an introvert dragged to a party but they would totally back off if he told them to

A/N: @fo-babes I believe this was your request ;) just in time for the holiday season and some new Bernard content next week. Part 1 of your birthday one shots. No matter how retired I am on this blog, I'll always room to post for you. This blog brought us together and I don't know what I'd do without you in my life, you've kept me sane this year when nothing else would. Here's to another 19 years of life for you, hopefully that I'll be able to tag along for! I wouldn't rather be anywhere else. Also, yes you did make me that gif I used of Bernard. Thanks!

“Make sure the painting gets done before Santa gets back or he’s going to freak out. Nice work though!”

Bernard stood up straight from where he’d been bent over, assessing one of the many jobs that needed to be done in the workshop. Christmas was still, thankfully, a ways off. Just over 100 days to be exact, they had time to perfect every little thing before it came. He was in good spirits today. There was a lot of time to get things ready and Santa was out, visiting the Millers, leaving him to run the workshop on his own.

He loved having Santa around, but sometimes it was nice to have him gone so he could keep all the elves on task.

Another reason for his good mood was the lack of Curtis, the keeper of the handbook. Normally he was attached at Bernard’s hip, talking his ear off and giving him a splintering headache. Today, however, it seemed he decided his talents would be better used elsewhere. Bernard was grateful for that, he began to continue on his way.

In Curtis’ place, was you. Santa’s eldest child, you’d made the move to the Pole with him when he came to stay here full time. Your relationship with the Millers from what he understood was rocky, you rarely left the Pole with your dad to visit. The only way you would come was if Charlie, your little brother, specifically requested your presence.

He wished he understood why. Laura and Neil had been a little too much when he’d encountered them, but they were generally harmless. In his opinion, at least. Santa enjoyed spending time with the family so that had to account for something.

He wouldn’t pressure you to tell him, though. Some things were just better left unsaid.

When Santa was gone, you always hung around him, even if you hated being around the workshop. The alternatives were hanging out with the other elves or sitting at home with Carol, who you were still getting used to and neither were super appealing to you.

Bernard had noticed when you first arrived here that people (or elves) were not your thing. In the beginning, being around anyone but Santa and Charlie would immediately cause you to shut down. He had been determined to win over both the Calvin kids, and his persistence was eventually rewarded tenfold. The two of you ended up becoming close friends, then later a couple. Everyone was really surprised you warmed up to him, none moreso than your father.

He felt extremely blessed to be in the fortunate few who got to see the real you.

You huffed behind him as he walked to the next table. The long hours in the workshop were starting to get to you, he knew. But there was no way you were going to leave, unless he told you to and he wasn’t about to force you out of the comfort that being near him brought.

He did feel a little guilty though, this was probably very exhausting to endure and he wasn’t about to be finished any time soon.

He smiled apologetically back at you as he bent down to oversee the teddy bear fluffing.

While he offered his advice, your gaze wandered around you to the bustling around you to get work done. The amount of elves here made your head spin, back in the regular world being in a place like this would be something you avoided, of course, you had to date a guy… an elf… who worked in one of the busiest places in the world.

“... we can go somewhere quieter.”

You came back to your senses when you realized Bernard was talking to you, his hand gently went up to rest on your forehead. You leaned into the touch, bringing yourself back to reality as his concerned eyes searched your face.

“I’m fine, you have work to do. You can’t leave the workshop,” you swallowed the lump in your throat. Soon dad would be back and then you could spend more time with Carol without feeling awkward. You could make it until then, but Bernard didn’t seem convinced.

He set what he’d picked up from the work table in his other hand back down, patted the elf seated there on the back and turned back to you. Taking your hand, he pulled you along with him to the front doors of the workshop.

“Bernard, what are you doing- you have work and dad-”

Stepping out into the cool air where there were less loud noises and bustling immediately calmed you inside. You still felt tired from the long exposure but at least your senses weren’t being constantly inundated with new stimuli.

He pointed to the edge of the little North Pole village. “Do you remember when we grabbed cocoa and snuck out here while Santa was busy being distracted by a mess Curtis made? And you still wouldn’t talk to me so I did most of the talking?”

You did remember that day. Back in those days, Bernard often looked for moments to steal away with you. He had been so determined to spend time with you, it didn’t seem to bother him in the slightest that you weren’t too keen on making friends. It had been a huge shock for you, so used to the people back in Lakeside. Back there, if you weren’t super extroverted and talkative you just kind of fell to the wayside.

You had never told him but you’d been super bummed that day, it was one of those rare days where you wondered if moving to the North Pole was a good idea. You missed your brother and weirdly, your mother and Neil. It had been a shock to find yourself missing them, considering you’d always been closer to your dad. During the divorce, you’d taken his side which had stung your mother. The relationship ever since had been rocky, but you knew she still wanted the best for you.

Sneaking out for cocoa with someone had been exactly what you had needed that day.

“Yeah. And dad found us hours later. He dragged you back to work, I’ve never seen him so annoyed with you,” you laughed as the two of you began a leisurely stroll.

His cheeks turned slightly red, as he looked away. “Not one of my brighter moments, I’ll admit. I’ve never had a Santa lecture me like that in the thousands of years I’ve been working here.”

There was comfortable silence between the two of you for a few moments after that as you thought about what he’d said and wondered why he’d brought it up.

“The next time we talked, you spoke to me for the first time outside of forced, curt introductions. I was ecstatic, I think getting in trouble really broke the ice.”

“I felt bad for getting you in trouble. After all, you only suggested leaving because you noticed I was getting uncomfortable in the workshop. And dad shouting orders wasn’t really helping. I felt like I owed you something,” you kicked the snow, smiling, “you just did it again. Risked your spot, even though dad’s not here, to comfort me.”

He looked at you. “It was worth it then and it’s worth it now. You’re worth it, I mean.”

You nudged him with your shoulder, not knowing what to say. After all, everyone here knows Bernard is proud of his position as Santa’s Head Elf. To hear him say he’d risk it any time for you, is a little surprising.

The shock must’ve been apparent on your face because he suddenly stopped walking. At his side, you stopped yourself from walking forward abruptly not expecting the sudden stop. The stop made you lose your balance and he reached out to steady you, realizing that he should’ve warned you vocally before randomly deciding to stop.

“Are you surprised?”

“To hear you’d prioritize anything over work? Surprised is an understatement. I know I can be a little much, especially when dad’s not around-”

Bernard nudged you with his shoulder. “You’re not a little much. You just need time and patience, the best things in life do.”

Your face heated up at his words, it was hard sometimes to be the way you were. To struggle with speaking to people, to fight the urge to isolate yourself from everyone. You had always assumed that was a burden to everyone around you, even the ones who managed to crack your hard shell.

To hear Bernard speak as if it was just perfectly normal…

“We should go get cocoa! On me!” You broke the weird mood that had temporarily settled over the two of you and before he could say anything, began to pull him along in the direction of the nearest spot for cocoa.

He let you drag him.

Sure, there were a lot of things about you that other people might find annoying but seeing you in moments like this made it all the worthwhile. He rushed to keep up with your pace, wrapping his arm around your shoulders as he caught up with you, no longer needing to be dragged.

You smiled and he felt his heart skip a beat.

He needed to take breaks more often.

#bernard the elf x reader #bernard imagine #the santa clause imagine #gender neutral reader #disney imagine #happy birthday luis!!!!#I love you so much

480 notes · View notes

teddysudeikis · 9 months

Text

Teddy Bear 🧸

Summary: I had a long day working at Keeley Jones’ PR firm and felt so overworked, stressed, and the instant need to cry my eyes out. I come home to find Ted who’s there to comfort me after a long day. He is the perfect boyfriend who knows how to cheer me up with comfort and cuddles.

Relationship: Ted Lasso x me (I inserted myself)

Before you read: It’s my first fic that I’ve written in awhile. I appreciate any feedback and love on it. It’s mostly fluff 🧸 so there’s a lot of cuddly Ted and some light NSFW (I’m so bad at writing those) 😭 but I needed something cuddly to be comforted.

🧸🧸🧸🧸🧸🧸

My thoughts spiraled into an endless pit of despair, full of anxiety. When’s the last time I hung out with Keeley and Rebecca? Why have I become so introverted and distant from everyone? What happened to me? And most importantly, what about Ted? Have I been tiring him out?

I felt guilty letting work take over my life being such a perfectionist but I really wanted to help Keeley with all that she’s been through. She’s the closest friend I have and I felt even more pressured to perform to the best of my ability with her as my boss. The last friend she hired let her down and I didn’t want her to think less of me, especially with how important this job was to me.

Feeling a slight tug at my heart with Ted on my mind, I felt so selfish. It’s been awhile since we’ve last went on a date and been intimate really. I know it’s not fair to keep doing this to him.

By the time I reached the door handle of my flat, my hands were shaking with the fear of Ted being home when I just wanted to cry myself to sleep. I didn’t want him to see me like this. I was so stressed and overworked, I couldn’t stop the tears from streaming down my face.

I heard footsteps by the door, hearing the doorknob twist before I could turn it myself. An excited Ted Lasso flashes a big smile my way, making my heart flutter at the sight of him.

His hair was disheveled, his little tendril of hair over his forehead, and chest hair peeking out from his unbuttoned white polo collar. He was wearing the signature AFC Richmond navy sweater on top of it. His sleeves were pushed up, exposing his forearms. He looked so handsome and cozy.

“Welcome home sweet cheeks, been wonderin’ where you were,” Ted beamed, his cute dimples showing.

Just like the day I fell head over heels for him, I was in a daze, taking in the sight of him. I just wanted to cry in his big warm chest to forget today even happened.

“How was your…” Ted started but stopped in his tracks when he noticed my red cheeks from crying.

He stood there for awhile, examining me with his big, bright brown eyes. His smile turned into a frown, wiping the tear from my cheek.

”Darlin’?” he asked concerned, his eyebrows bunched together. “What happened?”

My lip trembles, angry at myself for being so sensitive. “Ted, I…I…just…” I stammered, struggling to get the words out. “I…had a really…bad day.”

I felt even more embarrassed he had to see me like this and started crying again, feeling like I was falling apart right then and there.

Ted was so kind and compassionate, he never judged me like anyone else did. He was always there for me.

I just didn’t want to push him away too. My worst fear was him getting sick of me and leaving me when I needed him the most. I’ve known the feeling of abandonment from people all too well.

“Sweetie,” Ted says, holding his arms out for me. “Come here.” He pulls me into his warm arms.

Feeling so pathetic right now, I just kept crying more into his chest. He runs his hand in my hair, hoping it would comfort me. He kissed me on the head, whispering sweetly in my ear, “It’s okay, let it all out. I’m here now.”

He helps me out of my coat, placing it on the coatrack nearby. He then takes my hand, guiding me to the couch. He puts his arms around me tightly, letting me get comfortable and snuggle into his neck.

“I…just…feel like…I’m not good enough,” I manage to choke out between sniffles and cries. Ted listened as he rubs my back and arms tenderly to soothe me.

“Good enough for who? Me?” Ted asks, furrowing an eyebrow, saddened at the thought of me not being good enough for him.

“Darlin’, you’re everything to me, I love you,” he assured me, making me tear up.

“That…and…Keeley. I feel like a failure,” I cried out.

“Darlin’, you’re not a failure. Heck, you’re the best at everything,” he assures me with full confidence. “You’re the smartest and most hardworking gal I know. And she knows that too. She’s lucky to have you.”

“And you’re the best thing that’s happened to me,” he continues, making me instantly blush with the endless praise and heartwarming compliments to cheer me up. “I couldn’t imagine life without you.”

My breathing starts to relax a little at the comfort of his touch and words.

I tilt my face up at him, making his mustached lips curl into a warm smile. “Am I too much?” I shyly ask, feeling overwhelmed with all the love that I felt like I didn’t deserve.

“Baby cakes, of course you’re not. Why would you say that?”

“I just…well, I…” I stammered, getting lost in his pretty brown eyes.

“Sweetie, if you think I’m ever gonna give you up and let you down, then I’d be pretty darn stupid,” he says with a twinkle in his eye. “I love you so much, I’m not goin’ anywhere.”

He tenderly tucked my hair behind my ear, making my face flush red even more. I didn’t even tell him what was on my mind and he managed to heal every painful feeling in me.

He shushes me, feeling my hands being shaky again, hoping to calm me down, knowing a lot was on my mind and bothering me. “Just take a deep breath, it’ll be alright,” he whispers.

He could feel my heartbeat race, hoping to calm it down.

“Please don’t worry, it’s okay,” he whispers.

“In…out…” he nods, guiding me to follow.

I follow along with him, making him smile coaching me through it. “In…and out. There ya go.”

I take another deep breath, closing my eyes for an instant, trying to calm down. I was feeling so many bottled up emotions coming at me all at once.

I felt more at ease being there in his arms. A big, warm hand tickles me as it makes its way under my sweater against my back. He rubbed it in gentle strokes, the warm feeling making me less tense and more relaxed.

“How are ya feeling, sweet pea?” Ted asked gently, rubbing my back even more. “Better?”

I nodded in response, opening my eyes to see the beautiful sight of him again. “That’s my girl,” he beams with delight in his voice. “You’ve had a long day, you deserve some rest. I’m here now.”

My eyes traveled down his big puppy dog eyes to his handsome smile. Then they made their way to the unbuttoned shirt, eyeing the chest hairs poking out from the neckline.

He takes me by the hands, lowering them to my sides, raising one brow at me. “How about you get cozy and settled in while I finish up the batch of biscuits I whipped up for ya.”

I nodded, feeling flush red in the face for letting my mixed emotions get the best of me. I just needed him right now more than anything.

I could smell the sweetness of his warm biscuits nearby. “T-Ted, that’s really thoughtful of you,” I smiled.

He cups my chin in his hand, giving me a gentle kiss. “Let’s get you all warmed up too with a nice hot bath, how does that sound?” he suggests.

I nodded, smiling from the warm kiss. “C-Could you…” I stammered, feeling shy and anxious again.

“Mhmm?” he asks, patiently waiting.

“C-Could y-you…help me out of these clothes? I’ve had a long day,” I shyly asked, wanting to feel his warm touch again. I couldn’t stop thinking about his hands on my body. It made me feel so…good.

“Why of course,” his mustached lips curling into a playful smile.

Without hesitating, he pulls my pink sweater over my head, tossing it aside. His big hands then pull me by the hips making me squeak from our faces inches apart as he teasingly unzips my jeans while pulling them off my legs slowly.

He tossed my jeans aside next to my sweater, hungrily looking at me in my bra and underwear. “How’s that?” Ted smiles, gently massaging both of my thighs slowly.

I gulped, feeling my heart in my throat. The room felt like it was heated just with how intense it felt right now, drowning in his pretty brown orbs.

I smile as I look up at his big brown eyes, his lips leaning into mine for another kiss. “Perfect, Teddy.”

He smiles instantly at the nickname, feeling all warm and fuzzy inside everytime I said it.

“Do you need any other assistance today, ma’am?” he asks, his hands diving down into the loops of my underwear, playfully toying with the bands on my hips. He loved my curves so much.

Goosebumps rise up, making me lose my breath for an instant. “I-I’m okay for now.”

He chuckled to himself, knowing how nervous I get around him especially when it comes to sex.

I was so inexperienced to it still and he knew that. He never pressured me into it, he wanted me to be comfortable when it came to that. He loved every opportunity to be intimate though, he’s been craving it for the longest and so did I.

“Well hop on to it then,” he gets up and winks at me, lightly smacking my upper thigh making me squeak and jump. He gestured me to follow him but I just sat there in amazement and stared at him from afar on the couch.

He happily strides his way over to the bathroom, drawing a nice hot bath for me. He stands in the doorway with his hands on his hips, raising an eyebrow at me. “Well don’t just sit there, c’mon in when it’s hot and ready, babygirl.”

I got up, blushing bad from head to toe when he’s in Coach Lasso mode.

He watches me undress, smiling from ear to ear when he catches a glimpse of my breasts and shaved mound. He picks up my undergarments watching me get in the tub slowly.

I stop for an instant holding the sides of the tub before sitting down fully, seeing him in the doorway enjoying the view.

“Teddy Bear,” I innocently say.

“Mhmm?”

“Could you get my phone?” I asked, biting my lip. “I think I left it in my bag.”

Ted crosses his arms, knowing me better than anyone else. “What for?”

“To check what time I need to…” I started but before I could finish my sentence, Ted shakes his head knowing it’s about work.

“Sabrina, if you don’t get in that bathtub I’ll throw you in there myself,” he says in his stern coach voice. “Don’t make me get the whistle now.”

My cheeks turned pink and I instantly slide my way into the tub till my butt hit the hot water.

I don’t know if it was me or the water but I felt like I became wet the minute he went into coach mode. I wonder if he would really bring the whistle if I…

“Don’t take too long darlin’, I’ll be in the kitchen if ya need me,” he smiled widely as he exits the room carrying my bra and panties.

I could hear him whistling from afar. He throws my stuff into the laundry hamper, making his way to the kitchen, tying back his apron on, getting back to biscuit business.

I giggled at the thought of him becoming full Coach Lasso especially in the bedroom. It helped my body unwind as the thought of anything Ted made me forget about what kind of day I had.

A few minutes passed by and I could feel his presence by the door, his disheveled hair over his brow again. “What’s all that gigglin’ I hear?”

Blushing bad I giggled a little too loud for him to hear, I covered my mouth in embarrassment.

“Having fun without me now?” he teases, hinting I might’ve been doing something sneaky in there.

Caught off-guard by the thought of it, I was blushing even more. “I-I wasn’t doing…” I started, trying to defend myself.

“Mhmm hmm, sure, miss gigglypuff,” he chuckled in his Southern drawl. “Don’t take too long, sugar, or I’ll make you run twenty laps.”

He slowly walks back to the kitchen, unable to keep his eyes off of me as he exits the room again, letting me know he was onto me.

Comfort was his number one priority and he always made sure I was pampered with kisses, cuddles, and biscuits.

A half hour goes by and I turn off the water, getting out to dry off. I throw on one of Ted’s grey sweaters with the signature AFC Richmond greyhound stitching. I slid under the navy bedsheets making myself comfortable.

Ted enters the room with the biggest smile on his face, carrying a plate of his biscuits baked to perfection.

“Well aren’t you snug as a bug?” Ted jokes with a big grin, setting the batch of biscuits down on the bedside table.

I let out another giggle, blushing from head to toe everytime he made me laugh.

“I’m glad you’re feeling better. Seeing you gigglin’ and all. Been missin’ that gorgeous smile of yours,” Ted smiled widely, his gorgeous dimples showing.

“I don’t think I’ve ever felt this relaxed and happy in awhile,” I admitted, feeling much better. He really knew how to loosen me up.

“Ain’t that good to hear,” he smiles, lightly booping me on the nose with his finger.

I grab one of his biscuits, putting it in my mouth. That hit the spot. I softly moaned chewing it.

I blushed, feeling his soft watchful eyes on me.

“And I missed hearing that sound too,” he winks.

He walks out of the room, untying his apron and setting it on the chair.

I sit up on the bed, pouting seeing him walk off again. “I need my Teddy Bear to cuddle with,” I insisted, making him spin around to face me.

“Awe sweet pea, I’ll only be a minute. I gotta hop on out of these clothes unless you want to snuggle with the Pillsbury Doughboy,” he jokes, kissing me on the head.

He had sugar and dough on his pants and apron after baking biscuits.

He pulls out another biscuit, putting it in my mouth to taste. “Good, ain’t it?” he smiles.

“Mhmm,” I softly moan into the biscuit, biting into it.

“Help yourself, sugar,” he says to me. He walks over to the foot of the bed, taking off his clothes one by one.

I slowly stop chewing, taking in the sight of his strong forearms slowly pulling the sleeves off his sweater.

He’s doing this for me I know it. It was torture.

I bit my lower lip in anticipation, seeing his white polo shirt ride up enough to expose his soft tummy and happy trail as he takes his sweater off.

He has no idea what he’s doing to me. Unless he does know…

He sets it aside on the chair next to the apron, going for the polo next.

My eyes traveled up to the top of his polo, where most of the buttons were already undone and I caught another glimpse of the chest hair peeking out that made me feral. I always admired his dadbod but something about his chest hair was just so masculine and sexy. It was what made him such a cuddle bear too, it was soft and furry to the touch.

My brain is racing, making me giggle at the thought of taking him out of those clothes, pulling down those khakis to see…

“You’re having a blast over there, gigglypuff,” he joked, getting another irresistible smile from me.

“I think I caught you drifting off again like you did in that tub earlier,” Ted teased with a smile. I blushed hard.

“I…” I stammered, nervously sweating when his big hands reached for the zipper on his khakis.

“I’ve been putting on a little show for you, huh, sugar plum?” he chuckled, making my heart melt the more he lowered the pants off his legs.

I blushed so bad, I could feel my face burning red. I covered my face in the sheets, hiding my face for him to not see. “I-I don’t know what you’re talking about, Ted.”

He wiggled out of his khakis, smiling at me hiding from him. “It’s nothing to be embarrassed about,” he smiles, pulling back the sheet to meet my eyes. “I don’t mind one bit.”

He’s in his boxer briefs and polo, crawling next to me in the bed. His strong arms pull me towards him from behind, resting his hands on my belly.

I felt his warm chest on my back, making me blush and smile again. I could smell his cologne on his shirt, making me feel more relaxed and at home than ever.

I nuzzle against his neck, feeling his arm around me, lowering down to rest at my hip.

“Thank you, Teddy. For doing this for me,” I gently whisper.

He looks down at me, giving me gentle kisses on my neck. “That’s what Teddy Bear is here for, I’m just glad to see you smilin’ again. I’ve missed that,” he replied.

I pouted, feeling like something else was missing. I still wanted the snuggle bear I’ve been craving. And by that I mean his warm snuggly chest hairs.

Ted was sometimes self-conscious about his body and even though I loved his dadbod, he still felt like he had to hide his belly and love handles when around me.

I wanted him to be comfortable too. I loved this man too much to hide the most beautiful parts about him.

I sat up in the bed, feeling his arms drop down next to me. He cocks his head to the side, wondering what I was up to now.

“Everything alright, darlin’?”

I turn to face him, rubbing my hands affectionally on his chest, making him grin a little.

I rub the chest hair poking out of his shirt, making his manhood harden in his boxers.

“Can I cuddle with my furry Teddy Bear?” I innocently requested, hoping he’d say yes. “Chest hair and all…I think it would help me sleep better. You’re so cozy.”

“Mhmm, you know I can’t say no to that, now can I, honey bunch?” he chuckled, equally blushing unable to resist my pouting. “I’ll let you do the honors.”

I excitedly bounce in the bed, giddily making my way to pull off his polo shirt. I grab the sides of his shirt, pulling it off his head to be face to face with his broad shoulders and chest.

Without thinking, I run my fingers from his belly to his chest hair, purring at the feel of it.

My nails dig at it, pulling a few of the chest hairs as I ran my fingers through it, somewhat clawing at them, pulling him closer to me.

Ted struggles to keep up with me and tries to catch his breath, surprised by how feral his body made me.

“Woah easy now,” he says.

I continued by planting small kisses from his chest to his happy trail. My hands caressed his strong, warm chest while praising him more, making him feel good about himself.

“I love you…you’re so perfect,” I whisper, kissing him on the lips.

He softly grunts into my mouth, craving the love and affection.

Unable to let go of him, I run small circles through his chest hair with the twirl of my fingers.

His tongue teases my lips and I tease him back by biting his bottom lip, making another giggle escape my mouth. After the kiss deepens for another moment, he pulls back, admiring me.

“Aren’t you the gigglin’ girl today?” he smiles.

“Mhmm. You’re hairy…so beary hairy,” I giggled.

He raises an eyebrow, liking the sound of this. “Am I now?” he grins. “I should take my shirt off more if I knew how much it would make you grin like a possum eating a sweet potato.”

Ted’s tongue traces my lips, then trails down my jaw, neck, and collar bone making me purr in response.

“How’s that?” he asks, hoping to satisfy me.

“Mhmm, so good,” I softly moaned, craving his warm touch.

My hands move up his chest, then to his broad shoulders.

His big, warm hands work around my waist, exploring my curves while pulling me closer to him. He caresses my cheek, pulling me into another kiss that had our mouths moving in perfect unison.

Feeling breathless, I reached up to his hair, running my fingers through them. He growls into my mouth, making me tug onto it in response.

When his lips move down my neck again, I couldn’t help but let out a moan I’ve been holding in, feeling a wave of ecstasy rush over me, coating my panties instantly.

His warm hands rub my protruding nipples sticking out of his grey sweater, making him smile enough for his dimples to graze my neck.

“Oh my god,” I murmured, feeling lost for words.

“How are you feeling?” he asks, his warm breath against my skin.

“M-Much b-better, T-Teddy,” I said, feeling my body tingle with his hands slowly massaging my breasts.

He pulls back, his brown eyes dark and full of lust. “Any other requests for Teddy Bear?” he grinned, hoping to pleasure me some more.

I blushed, feeling my heart race. “C-Cuddles,” I said, struggling to get the words out.

My eyes trailed over to his bedside table, spotting the pair of aviators, whistle, and white visor hat he left out, thinking it’s something he’s been saving for a special occasion: Coach Lasso. If I kept on teasing him, he would find a way to torture me with it somehow and he knew I would love it. He wanted me to feel good and he knew how to make me feel good.

“Anything for you, darlin’,” he whispers, kissing me on the cheek.

He tucked himself again in behind me, pulling the bedsheets over us, wrapping his arms tightly around me. He playfully nibbles on my ear, getting another playful giggle out of me.

“That’s my girl,” he smiles, running his hands up and down my arms. His hands explore my hips and upper thighs, making me blush even more.

He felt so warm and snuggly I couldn’t stop smiling around him. His legs are wrapped behind mine, tangling our bodies even closer together.

“I love you so much,” he whispers gently, giving me more tender kisses on my neck. His breath tickled against my ear.

“I would do anything for you, you know that?”

I giggled, feeling his impressive bulge rub against me. “I know you would,” I smiled.

“You’ve got a case of the giggles today, don’t you?” he chuckled, hoping to hear more of it.

“I can’t help myself when I’m around you,” I shyly admitted, feeling embarrassed he noticed the small details about me. But he loved it so much.

“I can’t either,” he whispered, making my heart feel full.

“I love you Tedbear,” I reply, feeling so comfortable in his arms.

He smiled, giving me more of a bear hug by squeezing me tighter. His hands felt so warm against mine, letting my body melt into his as he kept caressing my curves to help me drift off to sleep.

The more comforting and loving he was, the more my eyes fluttered into dreamland.

“I love you too,” he whispers in my ear, smiling and enjoying the beautiful silence around us. Worn out himself, Ted fell asleep holding me tightly against him smiling ear to ear knowing he made my horrible day better with him around.

#selfship fic #self insert #ted lasso x reader #ted lasso reader insert #ted lasso fanfiction #ted lasso fanfic #fluff #ted lasso fluff #ted lasso smut #my tedbear fic

65 notes · View notes

shyvioletcat · 9 months

Text

A/N: Look what's back! Think I'll just say PROGRESS and leave it at that.

~ Made of Ashes Masterlist ~

~~~~~

The fourth trimester was a valid title given to the months that followed birthing a child. Nine months of pregnancy was just the beginning, once the baby was on the outside it was like entering a whole new world. Through the steep learning curve and every life altering change, Aelin had made it. Elsie was officially three months and ten days old and as happy as could be. She had smiles for everyone, especially her mother, and the most darling laugh that was infectious. Sleeping through the night was rare and the sheer amount of nappies was ridiculous, but that was all part of the job. As far as Aelin could tell, her daughter was perfect and she knew she was incredibly biassed. She was allowed to be, it came with being a mother. Life with a newborn hadn’t been easy but there wasn’t anything in the world Aelin would trade her daughter for.

Right now they were sitting by the couch, Elsie in her bouncer and Aelin sitting cross legged in front of her. Elsie cooed at her mother, her eyes wide as she watched whatever was going on to keep her entertained. Which was currently reading a book, the tenth changeup in however many minutes. Aelin held the book in front of her, giving her best animation to the words despite how tired she was, but it did no good. Elsie was too distracted to pay attention to the book, preferring to watch her mother instead.

“You aren’t even listening, are you? How am I supposed to instil you with a love of reading when you’re just obsessed with me?” Aelin put the book down and tickled Elsie's sides.

She giggled, the sound so sweet Aelin’s cheeks hurt from how hard it made her smile. Eyes that were most definitely leaning towards green watched her every move. When the murky blue of Elsie's newborn eyes had started to lighten and shift towards emeralds rather than sapphires, Aelin had been in denial for a long time. She was adamant that there was still time, the colour could still change—and technically it still could. But it looked like no matter what they would be a shade of green in one way or the other. It wasn’t such a bad thing, it would never be held as a flaw.

“Now you wait here, I have to check on the mousse,” Aelin said, tapping her daughter’s nose. “It is from a packet but with you keeping me up half the night our friends can’t really ask for more.”

She went to the fridge where the mousse was setting in individual glasses. The Lochan’s were on their way over for dinner and she was providing dessert. They were bringing the main course as per Elide’s insistence. Taking out one of the glasses Aelin poked a skewer right into the middle. Pleased with the progress she licked the end clean as her phone started buzzing in her pocket. She pulled it out, the caller ID telling her it was Lorcan who was trying to reach her.

Aelin answered, putting the phone to ear. “Let me guess, you’re running late,”

“Not exactly,” Lorcan said. “Korby is sick and Elide thought it best to keep him at home.”

“Oh, no,” Aelin cringed. Elsie was yet to get sick, but she’d seen enough of Rue and Korby being unwell to know it was a feat. “But that’s fine. I’ll see you guys another time.”

“Here’s the other thing, Elide also thought it best to bring you dinner so you can eat because we cancelled last minute,” Lorcan explained.

Aelin stopped her pottering in readiness to give her all to this fight over the phone. “You don’t have to.”

Lorcan let out a short laugh. “I did, and before you say anything else I’m halfway to your place, so...”

“Elide,” Aelin said, withholding her own laugh.

“Elide.” If she could see Lorcan she was sure he would be nodding. “I’ll see you in about ten.”

“Yep, bye,” Aelin said and hung up.

Elsie started announcing her displeasure at being left alone, so with hands on her hips Aelin walked back to the living room. “Did you know your Aunty Elide might be more stubborn than I am, and that’s saying something.”

The baby just grinned, legs kicking. Aelin dropped back on the floor putting on some music and holding onto Elsie’s hands to make her dance. They kept that up until there was a knock on the door. Elsie wasn’t happy about it but she let her mother go after holding on as long as she physically could. Knowing her time was limited, Aelin practically jogged over and opened the door of her apartment, revealing Lorcan waiting with a wrapped up casserole dish under his arm. She didn’t say anything, just swept her arm out in a gesture that told him he was welcome to step in whenever he was ready.

“Pork chops and vegetables,” Lorcan said, heading for the kitchen. “About fifteen minutes in the oven should do it.”

“You didn’t have to bring anything over, we would have survived,” Aelin said, following after she flicked the door shut. “I do know how to use a phone or even cook for that matter.”

“I know, but Elide felt so bad that she wanted to make sure you had dinner for tonight. And there should be enough leftovers for the late night hungers,” Lorcan said.

He was referring to the phenomenon of being perpetually hungry while breastfeeding. Aelin’s pantry was currently a treasure trove of snacks that she could grab and eat when she needed to. Which was often. In fact, she might be hungry now. Lorcan left the dish on the bench and Aelin went to the pantry and chose a honey covered nut bar.

“How’s Korby?” she asked.

“He’s a mean little bastard when he’s sick, and I mean that with all the love in my heart,” Lorcan said. “And he’s such a Mama’s boy that he wants nothing to do with me.”

“Feeling a bit lonely?” Aelin teased.

There was an impatient squeal from the living area where Elsie was reclined in her bouncer, her kicks setting it in motion. Her eyes were on the man who hadn’t even bothered to say hello, and from the cross look on her face she was very offended by it.

“Oh I’m sorry, Elsie-girl,” Lorcan said, using the nickname that had slowly but surely settled on her. “Did I not pay you any attention?”

As Lorcan got closer Elsie’s expression changed, her fists knocking against each other as she smiled up at him. It was still so odd to see this side of Lorcan. He was so much softer with the kids, and that was to be expected with his own but the way it had extended to Elsie had taken Aelin by surprise. Lorcan scooped up Elsie, holding her close to his chest. He was such a gentle giant.

“There, is that better?” Lorcan asked her. Elsie just reached her tiny hands for his face.

“But he’s alright, isn’t he?” Aelin called from the kitchen.

Lorcan walked to the counter and pulled out a stool. “Yeah, he’s just expelling so much snot.”

“That’s kind of gross,” Aelin said, turning her back so she could return the kindness of dinner with the dessert in the fridge. There was a hiccup followed by a wet sound. She turned around in time to beige slime running down Lorcan’s hand.

“Your kid just vomited on me, I’d say that’s pretty gross too.”

Aelin snatched a tea towel that was hanging from the oven door and threw it to Lorcan. He caught it while keeping hold of Elsie with the vomit covered hand. Having children tended to desensitise a person to such things and Lorcan only looked very mildly repulsed as cleaned the both of them up. He left the dirty towel on the counter looking down as he pinched one of Elsie’s chubby cheeks. She chased his hand with her mouth, her hands desperately trying to coordinate to catch him. Lorcan gave in, letting Elsie hold his hand and chew on a knuckle.

“Take some of these,” Aelin said. “Or I will literally eat them all and she’ll be drinking chocolate milk.”

“Well, if that’s the case,” Lorcan added, heavy on the sarcasm.

Aelin decided that packing the mousse into a plastic container would be the easiest way to send it with Lorcan. She scooped three servings out and then licked the spoon. This would definitely be gone, and soon, it tasted too good. Maybe it would be her very early morning breakfast when she would be dragged from sleep by a hungry baby and the sugar would help wake her up.

“You take this and I’ll take my baby so you can return to your family who is desperately missing you right now,” Aelin said, sliding the box across the bench.

“Elide maybe, not Korby,” Lorcan said while he passed the baby over.

Once she had a good hold on her daughter Aelin picked up Elsie’s arm, making her wave. “Say bye to Uncle Lorcan.”

“Bye Elsie-girl.” Lorcan waved back.

He let himself out of the apartment, and the new silence made Aelin realise how disappointed she was that her dinner guest had to bail. Socialising as a new mother was hard. Sometimes she missed interacting with adults instead of being caught in her own little family bubble. Emrys had been more than generous with her maternity leave and she wasn’t due back to work until next month. Aelin had considered going back early just for more interaction with people. And Elsie would be coming with her anyway, so it wasn’t exactly a terrible idea.

Aelin sighed, hefting her daughter up a little higher so that she could kiss her cheek. “Well, it’s just you and me, babe.”

~~~~~

Weddings were a family obligation Rowan could do without. He never understood how the Whitethorns could make such a thing out of every occasion. Maybe it was just the sheer number of them, and the fact that they just kept multiplying. His plethora of cousins were more than happy to make miniature versions of themselves. Many of whom were causing a ruckus as Rowan tried to make himself as inconspicuous as possible.

It was another situation of Rowan causing more of a fuss and getting more attention if he didn’t turn up. So here he was, a chair dragged to the wall and waiting until the guests were given the okay to leave. He was more than happy for his cousin Enda who’s wedding this was. From what he could tell the man he’d chosen to spend the rest of his life with was the perfect choice for him. Rowan’s enthusiasm hadn’t been forced throughout the ceremony and toasts, but now it was time for dancing—something he was not enthusiastic about.

He could see his parents on the dance floor, happy as could be amongst the other couples. Dateless and alone, it might only be his mother who could convince him to go out there. Rowan was just checking the time and his emails when he was abruptly interrupted.

“Claudia, would you look at this,” Sellene, his most meddlesome of cousins, said with her daughter perched on her hip. “Remember this day because this might be the first and last time you even see cousin Rowan.”

“You’re hilarious,” Rowan replied, tucking his phone back into the inside chest pocket of his jacket.

Sellene took the seat in front of him that was still relatively associated with a table. “That sounds like you doubt my hilarity, which I find offensive.”

Rowan ignored that piece of bait and redirected. “I have met her before. Many times.”

“Yeah, but this is the time that counts because she’ll remember it,” Sellene said.

Rowan sighed and chose to humour his cousin. “Hello, Claudia. Pleased to meet you.”

He stuck out his hand for the girl to shake and to her credit she didn’t hesitate to take up the offer. “Hi. Mummy says you’re grumpy.”

Sellene laughed and nodded, and even Rowan cracked a smile at the declaration. Claudia must have been about three now, maybe four, if he was remembering correctly. She definitely was carrying on the Whithorn genes with her silver hair and green eyes.

“But you can be grumpy and nice, are you nice Rowan?” Claudia asked.

“Well, that depends on who you ask,” Rowan replied. He could have given the little girl a long list of people who thought he was a bastard.

Claudia tilted her head, like she was analysing him, or trying to read into his soul. Maybe she was, and maybe she found something there that wasn’t bleak and bitter because she said, “Yeah, you’re nice. Do you want to dance with me?”

“Ah,” Rowan didn’t know how to turn down a kid. What if she started crying?

Thankfully his cousin took pity on him. “Come on Claudia, I think your dad wanted the next dance.”

Sellene shifted Claudia off her lap and stood up, taking the girl’s hand. “It was good to see you, Rowan. Until the next family gathering.”

The two of them walked away, Claudia turning to wave at him three times before they were out of sight. Rowan had waved back, it would have been rude not to after all.

Children liked him, and it was a strange phenomenon because he hadn’t really given them much thought other than the fact that he didn’t want that for his life. When Lyria had gotten pregnant all those years ago he had been entirely unprepared. They had been too young and Rowan hadn’t wanted that life for himself. It had put a wedge between them from the very moment she had told him. She had been his first serious relationship, and if things had happened differently maybe they would have married one day. Lyria might be the one next to him and not an empty chair. But the unexpected announcement had caught him by surprise and forced him to confront things he wasn’t ready for. He had just started at Stone City Advertising and his goal had been to prove himself as quickly as possible. Caring for a child hadn’t factored into that.

To distract himself from the sense of impending doom he had thrown himself into work, a habit that still lingered today. When things got hard, he just worked harder. He and Lyria had the arduous conversations, and she tried to hold them together. But when she miscarried, Rowan’s relief had just about broken her heart and they fell apart from there.

Shaking off the shadows of the past, Rowan looked out on the dance floor and saw Sellene dancing with her family. Her husband had Claudia on one arm while he spun Sellene with the other. It was a picturesque sight, something right out of a movie with how they laughed and effortlessly seemed to move so in sync with each other. It was enough to draw that dormant loneliness to the surface.

If, if, Rowan had ever decided he wanted children there was only one woman that his imagination ever entertained. As he watched the happy family he had a fleeting moment of what if. What if he and Aelin were still together, would he have changed his mind about wanting kids of his own?

Rowan shook his head, stopping those thoughts before they could gain any more clarity. He had been haunted by the past enough for one evening. There was no point in them, any future he had with Aelin was gone. What was the use of thinking of it now?

~~~~~

A day off was meant to be at least the tiniest bit relaxing. Unless your car needed a service and your child had gone through a sudden growth spurt. That was how Aelin found herself at the mall, her car at the mechanics in the same complex and wandering around looking at clothes for a small human. It was a convenient system for her, especially when she had a little tag along. In classic toddler style, the pram was full of bags while Elsie walked. It made things slower but there was time to kill until Aelin got the call that her car was ready. Although they would have to stop for lunch soon.

Right now they were looking through racks of dresses, something in Elsie’s size for her upcoming birthday. They might not quite be the right term. Elsie was hiding in the middle of the racks, shoulders up obscured by clothes. Every once and a while Aelin split the row of dresses to keep her daughter stationary and within her immediate vicinity. If they made this into a game of peek-a-boo Aelin could keep her in *this rack instead of wandering off.

“My goodness, Elsie just keeps disappearing,” Aelin said, keeping the game alive. The answer was a giggle. “Ah-ha! There you are.”

Aelin slid across some tulle monstrosities to see her daughter who let out a very loud squeal at being discovered. Elsie covered her face like that would hide her and Aelin went back to browsing. She pulled out two options, not particularly sold on either but she’d ask anyway.

“Elsie, do you like these?”

Too lost in her own little world, Elsie didn’t bother to look over, choosing to babble away to herself instead. That sound had Aelin’s lips tilting into a crooked smile. The mind of a child — what her imagination must paint her surroundings into. There was nothing here that was worth the fight that came with forcing a toddler to wear something not by choice.

Aelin managed to easily lead Elsie out by the hand. “Come on, let's go somewhere else, none of these are speaking to you or me.”

Aelin decided to try one more store, but there was still no luck. On the way out Elsie caught sight of the toy section and she was gone before Aelin could even think the word no. They spent a while wandering the aisles, no now being said more times than could be counted. Elsie was looking at toys that made far too much noise when she sneezed, a long line of snot shooting out of her nose.

“Damnit,” Aelin muttered, practically diving into her bag for a tissue. She found one a few seconds later and wiped away the mucus. It was clear, which was a good sign, but the snot situation would have to be monitored in case that led to something more.

Elsie was not phased in the slightest, she just scrambled through the bottom basket of the pram demanding snacks. Not wanting everything thrown on the floor, Aelin picked out a packet of fruit flavoured puffs and opened them before handing them to her daughter. That was enough to indicate that it was time for lunch.

The walk to the restaurant enclosed courtyard was slow going, and Aelin had to apologise to the other people in the elevator when Elsie pushed all the buttons, but they eventually made it to the courtyard filled with restaurants. Aelin already knew which one they’d be going to because toddlers were notorious for only choosing to eat certain things. Elsie would want noodles from the Japanese place and Aelin would get something with rice. A ping from her phone distracted her, automatically pulling it out of her pocket to check the text. It was in that split second when she took her eyes off her daughter for the smallest moment that she lost track of her. Because when Aelin looked over to where Elsie had been standing next to the pram… now she was gone.

~~~~~

Rowan’s parents' time in Orynth was coming to an end and it was time for them to move on. That was why he found himself at an overcrowded shopping mall on a Sunday, a place he tried to avoid on the weekends if he could help it. But his mother had asked him to come along to help since they’d returned their rental car, something Rowan had no issues with. He would have offered to drive them if she hadn’t asked him first. She had promised him lunch though, even if he would make sure he would be the one paying.

They were currently in a luggage store while his father looked for a new backpack. Rowan was idling browsing the suitcases, not really looking for something for himself, the one he brought with him was absolutely fine. Maybe just in case it busted a wheel or something, he’d have an idea of what to get next. Even then he’d be more likely to fix it himself before he spent money on something new. Rowan was not a browser, never had been. He was boring himself with his own inner ramblings.

Moving on, Rowan ended up in front of the children’s suitcases. Most of them were little hardcases that barely reached past his knees, decked out in bright colours and all kinds of characters on them. He had very little knowledge of such things and could only assume which might be princesses from popular franchises. What he did find himself considering is which one Elspeth might choose if she was here. Did she have a favourite movie? A favourite character? Maybe she was into animals rather than princesses.

“So,” Iris said, appearing next to him. “Yesterday went well, didn’t it?”

Ah, yes. The now infamous park meet up.

“As well as it could,” Rowan replied. “It was nice to have less hostility stewing.”

They were both quiet for a moment and then his mother asked, “What will you do when we’re gone?”

Rowan had spent most of last night thinking about it. His parents, especially his mother, allowed him access to Elspeth that he couldn’t quite manage himself. It was still a challenge to break through the cool indifference Aelin had towards him. Without that advocacy into Elspeth’s life, Rowan wasn’t quite sure how he was going to manage his new resolution to prove himself.

“I don’t know,” he said honestly. “I guess I’ll just have to play it by ear, wait on Aelin’s whims.”

Iris made a disapproving sound. “You’ll have to stop that.”

Rowan shot his mother a look. “What?”

“The animosity, that won’t be good for Elsie,” Iris explained.

He managed to hold in his sigh, flashes of Elspeth’s stricken face when she’d been caught in the middle of all those arguments still haunting him. “To be fair, we’ve cut down on it quite a bit because we did notice that.”

“Well, look at that. You can work together,” Iris said, the slight sarcasm carrying a healthy dose of truth.

Rowan’s laugh was humourless, his mother still had a point.

“Right, time for lunch?” Evander announced, his new purchase in his hand.

“Sure,” Rowan said. “What do we feel like?”

“Not sure, why don’t we head to the food court and see what’s there,” his father said.

Although it had been a few years and there were some recent renovations, Rowan remembered his way to the courtyard that held the restaurants rather than the fast food options.

“Any updates on what we feel like?” Rowan asked, surveying what was on offer.

“Well, I—oh my,” Iris said, apparently stumbling forward on nothing. For a heartstopping moment Rowan was flooded with concern, until he saw his mother look down and smile. “Hello there.”

“Iris!”

Head snapping to the sound of that little voice, Rowan was more than surprised to find that his daughter had once again been conjured out of nowhere.

“Elsie, where did you come from?” Iris asked, putting a hand on her messy curls.

Elspeth spoke quickly and Rowan managed to catch something about ‘mama’ and ‘lunch’. He looked around, and Aelin was easy to spot, hurriedly pushing a pram filled with bags towards them.

“Hi, sorry,” she sounded a little breathless. “Gods, she’s quick. Nearly gave me a heart attack.”

“That’s what children were made for,” Evander said.

Aelin laughed, and Rowan could have sworn it was out of nervousness and the flush on her cheeks was from embarrassment. “I swear I don’t lose her like that often.”

Iris reached out and put a hand on Aelin’s forearm. “Don’t worry about it, I lost Rowan for a solid hour when he was little.”

“You did?” Rowan asked.

His mother nodded. “Not my finest moment.”

Elspeth let her grandmother go and transferred her grip to her mother’s legs. “Noodles, Mama?”

“Sure thing.” Aelin looked at the three Whitethorns, her eyes quickly darting over Rowan. “We were about to get lunch. Have you guys eaten?”

Rowan couldn’t quite believe what he was hearing. Unless he was about to be corrected Aelin had invited them all to lunch. Including him. This was miles beyond a meet up in the park.

“We were just considering what to eat ourselves,” Iris said. “Is there anywhere you like to go in particular?”

“Yeah, Elsie loves the noodles from the Japanese place over there,” Aelin pointed behind them. “If you don’t mind.”

“Of course,” Evander said. “Whatever the Princess wants.”

Aelin laughed. “Words I live by. Come on Elsie, time for noodles.”

To everyone’s astonishment, especially his, Elspeth grabbed onto Rowan's hand and started leading the way.

“‘Tum on, Rowan,” her pronunciation of his name was still a little off. “Noodles this way.”

He just let it happen and tried not to think too hard about it, rather than whether or not it should be happening. Rowan didn’t know what restaurant they were going to so he walked slow enough that Elspeth kept in front of him directing him where to go. She was in another tutu today, this one with yellow with thin straps and a long t-shirt underneath. The tulle always seemed impractical to him, but he wasn’t a little girl. There had to be some underlying appeal that was beyond him. They stopped outside a tidy looking restaurant, the interior filled with dark furniture and sleek lines.

A waiter came forward and as the first one there it was up to him to sort out their seating. “Table for four, well five actually.”

“Right this way,” the waiter said.

Rowan spent most of lunch seated at the end of the table on the padded bench observing. Aelin and Elspeth were at the other end of the table and they kept the conversation going up there. He certainly felt like an outsider, watching as Elspeth just fell into place with her grandparents. They loved her so much already, he could see it in the way they looked at her, how they were so gentle and couldn’t help but hang on every word she said. Rowan was glad he’d been brave enough to initiate this for them. When Elspeth finished her lunch she got restless and Aelin freed her from the high chair.

His mother immediately got her attention, beckoning Elsie onto the bench seat next to her. The new seat was apparently the most amazing thing she had ever seen from the way proudly sat there by herself. Amazing, and fleeting, because the next moment she was dashing to the pram to retrieve a stuffed dog. She showed her grandparents and they fawned over it, much to Elspeth’s delight. It made Rowan smile.

“Do you mind? I can’t hear in here,” Aelin said, holding up her phone.

Iris nodded. “Go ahead, we’ve got her.”

Aelin was gone a few moments later, phone pressed to her ear. Elspeth didn’t notice at first, too busy patting down the ears of the toy dog that had her attention. She wandered down the length of the table, softly humming to herself and mumbling nonsense to her puppy. Then she looked up and Rowan saw the moment that she realised Aelin wasn’t there. Elspeth looked devastated.

“Mama?” she asked him.

“She’s just outside on the phone, sweetheart,” Rowan told her. “Come stand up here and you can see.”

He patted the bench seat next to him and Elspeth took his invitation. When she struggled Rowan helped her up, keeping hold of her hand as she stood. And then she lent on his shoulder too, her curls tickling his nose as she peered out the window trying to look for her mother. When she spotted her she gave an excited gasp and started waving. By some kind of motherly intuition Aelin turned, seeing Elspeth and waved back.

Content with her mother's closeness, Elspeth went back to playing. “Puppy, Rowan. See?”

“I do,” Rowan told her. “It’s very pretty.”

Elspeth nodded enthusiastically. “Yep, yep.”

Having her this close made something in Rowan’s chest ache. She hadn’t been quick to move after waving to her mother, and she still clung to him. It was hard not to get swept away with how adorable she was, it was hard for him to look away. When he did, he caught his mother looking at him, she was smiling but he didn’t miss the emotion in her eyes.

Elspeth sneezed, so sudden and forcefully that Rowan actually jumped. Snot dribbled out of her nose and without a second thought he picked up a napkin to wipe it away. Face clean, she decided it was time to sit down, and she started playing with her dog right next to him.

“How was everything?” the waiter asked, appearing again to clear away the plates.

“Fantastic, thank you,” Rowan said. “Can we get the bill?”

As expected there was some discussion over who would be paying, Rowan made sure he was the one to get the cheque and slip his card in with the receipt. All the while Elspeth continued playing beside him while Aelin was still outside on the phone. Then things unexpectedly went still and quiet. To his everlasting surprise he looked down to see that Elspeth had fallen asleep, her head resting on his thigh as her arms hugged her toy.

Holy Gods, Rowan didn’t know what to do except sit perfectly still.

And he did, right up until Aelin came back in, eyes darting around for her daughter.

“Ah, over here,” Rowan said, awkwardly pointing down next to him.

With brows furrowed in confusion, Aelin came over. The confusion changed to surprise, but she didn't comment on it. “I’ll get the pram.”

Rowan kept up with his frozen state, not wanting to move and disturb the sleeping child while Aelin got the pram ready. She pushed a button and a whole section fell backwards, making it so there was a flat surface for Elspeth to lie on. He had no idea that prams could do such things. Then Aelin came over and very carefully picked Elspeth up. Once safely in her arms, she whispered softly to the girl, kissing her cheeks before lowering her down into the pram.

“Sorry, apparently my car needs more work than I thought so it will be a few days,” Aelin explained, then shrugged. “What can you do? And I should probably get Sleeping Beauty home.”

“Well, we’re ready to go,” Iris said.

“The bill?” Aelin said.

Before Rowan could say anything, his father spoke up. “Don’t worry about it.”

Outside, Rowan gave his parents and Aelin some privacy to say goodbye. They wouldn’t see each other before they flew out tomorrow evening. He wasn’t too far away, close enough that he could still hear the hum of their conversation, but not what was being said. There was laughing and joking, but there were tears lining his mother’s eyes as she turned away. They made their way over to Rowan while Aelin checked her phone again. With a deep breath Rowan took a chance and walked towards her. She didn’t move, even when she saw him coming. He stopped a healthy distance away, second guessing himself.

“Aelin, I…” Rowan sighed, frustrated at himself over his inability to just say the words. “Thank you for that.”

For a moment Aelin just eyed him assessingly, then said, “It was nothing.”

“It wasn’t and we both know it,” Rowan said.

Aelin looked down at Elspeth, still blissfully asleep in her pram. “I did it for her.”

That was a loaded statement, it could refer to lunch or it could apply to everything Aelin had done for the sake of her daughter over the past three years. Rowan was too much of a coward to question it further but he did have other things he needed to say. With a drama free meal creating such a positive environment, he might as well do it now.

“I’m sorry,” he said simply, some of that anger that plagued him dissipating.

But for Aelin it seemed to have the opposite effect. She stood straighter, her gaze turning harder. “For what exactly?”

This wasn’t going how he thought, he hadn’t meant to piss her off. So Rowan went on, dousing the flames instead of incensing them.

“For my behaviour since I arrived. There was a right way to go about this and I didn’t choose it,” Rowan said. “It was unfair to Elspeth for me to disrupt her life like that because of my own feelings. She’s so young, she doesn’t understand.”

Aelin cleared her throat. “You had every right to be angry.”

That admission took Rowan by surprise, but this wasn’t the time or place to start unpacking that. This was only going to work if he took it one step at a time, and he had one more thing he wanted to apologise for before he used up all his luck. “I’m sorry about punching Fenrys in the face.”

“You sure about that?” Aelin was fighting a smile.

Rowan let out a humourless laugh. “Like I said, a right way and a wrong way. Whatever he did, Fenrys didn’t deserve that.”

“Alright,” Aelin said after a few pensive moments. “Thank you. I accept your apologies and I appreciate you offering them.”

Rowan nodded, slipping his hands into his pockets—the vulnerability of this situation making him feel uncomfortable. Right now he didn’t expect anything more from Aelin. He knew that if they delved any deeper into the situation between them they would risk things fleeing hard and fast from civility.

“This feels never ending,” there was resignation in Aelin's voice, like she truly believed they would be stuck in this limbo of emotions and tension forever.

“Did you need a ride? Because your car isn’t ready?” Rowan offered after a few more moments of heavy silence.

Aelin shook her head, holding up her phone. “Fenrys is coming to get us, and you don’t have a carseat anyway.”

“Right, of course.” Rowan hadn’t even considered that, it hadn’t even entered his mind in the slightest. They didn’t just let two year olds rattle around in cars these days. If he were to have some kind of future with Elspeth in his life these were things he would have to consider.

“See you around,” Aelin said, turning and pushing the pram away, not bothering to wait for him to return the goodbye. She had never seen the point to maintaining a conversation past pointlessness.

Iris and Evander were waiting for him and without a word his mother wrapped Rowan in a hug. Pulling back, she gave him a small smile, something a little sad about it. “I’m so proud of you, Rowan.”

Swallowing against the tightness building in his chest he just said, “Thanks, Mum.”

“You can only go up from here,” Iris said as they started back to the car.

Gods, he hoped she was right. Rowan felt like he was finally catching his breath, and he couldn’t be sure, but he felt like he was seeing his first glimmers of true hope.

~~~~~

Thank you so much for reading! I know it's been a while... sorry.

#Tumblr has done something weird with the tags and I'm trying to figure my way around it...

64 notes · View notes