#justin herbert fanfiction

[lyrenminth]

Playing at night

warnings: +18, oral sex, pre-consent activity.

You were nervous because you have never done this before. But you were excited too, so you woke up early than him, adjusting your eyes to the dark, and saw him sleeping on his side. Insecure of what to do, you grabbed his shoulder to roll him over his back. Slowly, you lifted the sheets, he moved a little bit but stay asleep. You left out a relieved sigh, a continue with the briefs. Carefully you took his cock out of the underwear, it was warm and soft. You looked at him, still sleeping peacefully and you felt so nervous and excited. You wanted to wake him up with the best oral he ever received. You got on your knees, and give him a few pumps, after that you put him in your mouth completely and you sucked you starting to feel how his cock started twitching and growing inside your mouth, you loved the sensation.

You heard him moan, still asleep. You took the head, swirling your tongue around the pink tip, in the sensitive spot. He jerked up his hips, he kept moaning softly and it was like music for you ears, you were so turned on at that point you wanted it to wake him up so he could fuck you senseless. You put your left hand around his shaft and started pumping while your mouth was still working on the tip. His legs moved, and the next thing you heard was a deep and sleepy groan of pleasure. When you looked up, blue eyes were staring at you, the sleepiness fading away being replaced by surprised, then a lustful gaze.

"Fuck, baby" he groaned, coming to his senses. "Yes, oh my God" You were so happy to had him like this, at your mercy. Your tongue ran from the tip to the bottom, he was frowning, completely focus on your work. "Take it all" he whispered, his voice in the morning was five times deeper, it was so hot. "Yes, just like that . You look so pretty" he continued. He didn't last so long after that, he came in your mouth with a grunt, you swallowed and show him your tongue."Good girl" he praised.He reached for you, so you could cuddle. "I didn't expect it" he said after a few moments in silence."You say you wanted to try this" you remind him. The only condition was not to do it during the season or closer to it because he didn't wanna mess with his sleeping hours."Yeah.."

"Did you like it?"

"I loved it"You laughed, pleased with yourself. "Next time I want to fuck you, alright?" he said.

"You can do it now" you suggested.He gave you The Look. Serious, but full of lust, like he was ready to punish you at any moment. "Alright" he said, pushing you onto the mattress, a knee between your legs. You started giggling, nervously.

I'm going to do this more often.

[boltupbitches]

One Day at a Time - Justin Herbert

Prompt:

Can you do a Justin Herbert one where let's say you have a situationship. You find out he's seeing someone else and you want a commitment. Says he's not ready then a few weeks after you find out you're pregnant and keep it from him. A friend accidentally shares your gender reveal on instagram and he does the math so he knows it's his daughter. He comes over and is mad at first but then yall argue it out. Happy ending please.

This entire situation was fucked from the get-go. Situationships, friends-with-benefits, fuck buddies.. Whatever label you wanted to use to describe a no-strings relationship. What ended up being a one night stand after meeting at a bar in Eugene turned into 6 months of hook ups and hangouts.

Yet, Justin never made the move to make it official with his ‘friend’ Alex. At least, she was very certain they weren’t even friends at all because friends don’t fuck every time they link up.

Justin’s constant dodging of the conversation she wanted to have with him reached a boiling point when she caught on to a rumor online about him hooking up with a reality tv star. The same night he avoided coming over, avoided her texts and calls, and essentially ghosted her.

Then, the news broke and the reality tv starlet leaked the private DMs he sent to the media.. Creating an even bigger frenzy.

Alex was heartbroken and mad. Mad that he was leading her on and mad that she gave him the opportunity to do so countless times.

That’s how they ended up here at her apartment, fighting over the situation.

She had sent him one final text saying ‘whatever this is is done.’

A half hour later he was at her door, acting shocked by her decision.

“I just want a straight answer from you for once!” She shouted at him as he turned his back towards her, running his hand through his hair in frustration.

“Stop yelling, Alex.” He demanded.

“No.. see what you’re not going to do is talk to me like a fucking child. I am not one and you are going to listen to me. I’m tired of the games, Justin. You’ve been playing games with my heart for months and we both fucking know it. I just want some transparency and you can’t be decent enough to give that to me! So, what is this officially and where do you see it going?” She demanded.

He was silent again, not looking at her.

“Well?” Her eyes were tearing up as she stared at his back. “Nothing? You can’t even fucking look at me when I’m talking to you?” She bit her lip, trying to fight back the tears.

He turns around and stares at her, his eyes impassive. “Alex.. I.. I’m not ready to commit to anything. I’m sorry, ok? I just.. I am young and I’m enjoying my career. Being settled down isn’t a priority to me at this point. Outside of football, I am not thinking about anything else commitment-wise.”

“Get out.”

“What?” He asked with a shocked expression.

“Get the fuck out of my apartment. Get the fuck out of my life. And fucking lose my number, you piece of shit!” She yelled at him, pointing her fingers towards her door. “Get out!”

He stares in shock once more. 

She doesn’t look at him and stares blankly down at the floor, schooling her face to not show anymore emotion to him.

“Alex..” He whispered pitifully.

“Just go.. Please.” She said back quietly, refusing to stare at him.

It was quiet for another moment or two and then she heard his footsteps pass her and go towards the door. She wished he had fought for her, but he didn’t.

The door closed behind her and when she heard his car start and pull out of her driveway, she finally collapsed to her knees, hugging herself tightly as she sobbed in heartbreak. 

She didn’t hear from him after that. Even though a small part of her hoped for him to come crawling back and to show he regretted it, she knew it was better he didn’t. What they had was unhealthy. Yet, she still held onto some hope that he would.

He didn’t.

A week later there would be another gossip column spreading around about Justin’s dating life, this time with a lingerie model. 

She was disappointed, but not surprised.

—---------------------------------------------------

A few months would pass and before Justin knew it, the season was over and with it a heartbreaking playoffs loss against the Jaguars.

He flew low after that, focusing on recovery post-surgery and keeping himself busy. And for once, that didn’t include dating.

Los Angeles had planted some habits in himself he swore he’d break free from before the pre-season training camp in the summer. One of those habits would be hookups and dating famous women. 

He found after the couple dates with the lingerie model that beyond their beauty, there wasn’t much substance to them. Instagram followers, brand endorsements, and sponsored trips were conversations he had with his business manager and PR specialist - not with a romantic interest.

He found also that his heart ached at times, his mind drifting to Alex and wondering how she was doing. She had blocked him on everything and from what he understood through mutual friends who remained oblivious to it all, she moved back to Eugene as well to live with her mom.

He missed her. He couldn’t deny that. Most of all, he regretted how he treated her and made her feel. The drive back from her place that evening she kicked him out was absolute hell. He couldn’t figure out what the deep pang in his chest was until he pulled into his driveway and put the car in park. There, he broke down crying.

He realized he loved her and then lost her all in the same day. It was his fault for leading her on and avoiding commitment. His stupid justifications were that if they remained in the situationship, the likelihood of hurting each other’s feelings would be less. 

Yet, looking back on it now, it made absolutely no fucking sense.

She was right - he led her on and broke her heart. And then she was done with his shit.

He ruined it. He didn’t even have the courage inside himself to go back and beg her for forgiveness, to take back what he said, and to apologize for hurting her.

No, instead he poured himself back into football, continued to go on dates with beautiful women that he had no interest in beyond surface level. Nights were lonely and he missed talking to Alex. Often, he’d pull up their text message threads, ignoring the most recent one and scrolling back to some of the good times they had.

Funny enough, thinking about her seemed to be a more common thing and Justin was certain God was now playing a cruel prank on him. Because what he came across next while scrolling Instagram was something he was NOT prepared for in any capacity. He sat in complete shock. It was as if every fiber in his being had turned to stone for those mere seconds his eyes scanned the images in front of him on his phone.

Snapping out of it, he quickly viewed the Instagram story again. It was from a mutual of his and his ex friend with benefits, Alex.

It was a gender reveal… for Alex... who was visibly pregnant and beautiful as the pink confetti from the poppers were floating around her.

And in that moment he knew. He had gotten her pregnant because there was no way she was out messing with other men. He knew better than to think that. She wasn’t that type.

But she apparently was the type to get pregnant and not fucking tell him.

The stirring of emotions in him at that very moment was more than he could comprehend. All he knew was that he was heading over to her place to talk whether she liked it or not. He wanted answers right then and there. And the two of them were both in Eugene. No better time than to pay a visit.

Justin could barely remember the drive to her mom’s house. He just knew she lived 25 minutes from him. By the time he came off auto pilot, he was in front of her door, knocking loudly.

There was no answer at first. Then, just as he attempted to knock again, the door swung open to reveal a sleepy Alex who had clearly just woken up. She was wearing a baggy sweatshirt, Oregon State pajama bottoms, and socks. Her hair was pulled up in a messy ponytail. 

She was rubbing her eyes and was just about to greet whoever was at the door when she realized who it was. 

They stared at each other in shock. Justin opened his mouth to say something when suddenly the door was being slammed in his face.

He stuck his foot in the doorway in just the split second he had and winced in pain at his foot being smashed in the doorway. “Fuck - wait Alex! Please!”

“No! Go away, Justin!” She yelled, using her own foot to try and nudge his out of the doorway, blocking her from shutting him completely out. “Seriously!?” She shouted as she felt him open the door wider with his good arm. Finally, she gave up and let go of the door, backing up to let him open it.

He did, proceeding into the house and bending down to rub his sore foot. “Fuck, Alex.. break my foot next time why don’t you..”

“Oh.. I gladly would. Who sticks their foot in the doorway like a dumbass?” She said rudely back.

He looked up at her, his expression showing how unimpressed he was with her attitude. “Well, clearly me because how else was I going to get you to talk to me?” He demanded. His eyes move instinctively to stare at the swell of her stomach showing beneath her baggy sweatshirt. “Alexandra.. We need to talk about this.” He nodded his head at her stomach.

She instinctively took a step back and wrapped her arms around her body. “There’s nothing to talk about.”

“There absolutely is.” He stood up, staring down at her with an upset expression. “When were you going to tell me that I got you pregnant?”

It was her turn to turn away from him and start walking to the living room. She ignored his calling of her name and waved her arm behind her, indicating for him to follow her. 

He did so without another word, still upset and still frustrated by everything. He didn’t know what to think or say. There was so much going on in his mind at that moment but anytime he tried to muster up the right words to convey the maelstrom going on in his mind, the words just wouldn’t string together and come out. 

She sat on the couch and gestured for him to do the same.

 He did, although he was unsure what she wanted him to do.

She reached forward towards a box he just now noticed that had his address on a shipping label. She was going to send him something.

Wordlessly, she handed the box over to him and watched as he used his house key to tear open the tape. He pulled the box open to find a beautiful wooden box with a cursive engraving that said, ‘Baby Girl Herbert. October 2023.’ He lifted the wooden box carefully out of its packaging and placed it gently on his lap.

His fingers traced the cursive lettering a few times as he stared at it. He knew what was inside it, but was stalling because the tears were already starting to form in his eyes. Justin looked up and made eye contact with Alex who smiled back at him tearfully, her eyes sad.

“Go on.” She urged gently.

And he did. He lifted the lid carefully and stared at the pink blanket that had patterns of ducklings on it. Carefully, he unraveled the blanket and found a copy of a sonogram, a baby onesie that said ‘dad’s #1 fan’, and a letter in an envelope. He didn’t know which to look at first, but his hand instinctively went to the letter.

He opened it and read it silently as Alex watched him with tearful, expectant eyes. 

Dear Justin,

I never imagined writing this letter to you - much less with how things ended between us. I want to get straight to the point. I am pregnant and she’s yours. I will gladly go through the court system and complete a DNA test if you’d prefer that for proof. I also would prefer this to remain quiet between us (including our legal counsel in the know and our immediate family) at this point because I am not interested in being in the news. 

I know this is shocking news to receive. I spent many nights trying to decide how I could even begin to approach you about this. I was terrified that you wouldn’t believe it given how we ended our situationship, and I was heartbroken. I told myself after finding out that I would take a few weeks to come to terms with this. It’s huge, Justin, we can’t deny that. 

Instead, time seemed to pass so rapidly and I just let time continue to pass. I am sorry you are finding out this way, and I’m sorry if this isn’t what you want. I plan to keep her, but I understand if you prefer a minimal role given how much football means to you at this point in your life. I certainly understand that.

Please feel free to give my home phone at my mom’s house a call. I listed it below in this letter.

Regards,

Alex

Justin gulped, tears now spilling down his chest as he folded the letter back up and stared down at the baby onesie in the box. His hand shakingly picked it up as he stared at it in wonder. He couldn’t believe such a tiny person could fit into this, much less a tiny person he helped make that would wear this. He wondered what she would look like. Would she have his eye color or hair color? Would she have the same smile as his? His nose or eye shape? The more he thought about it, the more the tears flowed.

Finally, he placed it back gently into the box and lifted the sonogram next. In college he studied biology and always figured that if the NFL career didn’t work out, he would consider med school as his back up. Sonograms were interesting to him given the few he’d seen in passing.

His eyes studied the shape of the fetus, his eyes pouring over the details. 

“The technician said she’ll like by a long baby.” Alex’s voice broke him out of his spell.

He looked over to her, staring at her in interest as she continued to explain the current size of their unborn daughter. Justin listened - the one thing he wish he had done months ago. He listened as Alex listed off how far along she was, how many appointments she had been too, her expected due date, the heart burn she was suffering with currently, the nursery her mom set up in the spare room of the house. He listened to it all.

When it was quiet again, Justin slipped the sonogram back into the box and sat it gently on the coffee table in front of them.

Then, he slid to the ground gently, turning to kneel in front of Alex who was still sitting on the couch, staring at him in shock, unsure what he was doing.

Justin gently gripped knee and leaned forward to place his head in her lap. His large frame started to shake as he cried quietly into her lap.

Alex immediately started to sooth him, running one hand up and down his back as the other ran gently through his hair. “Justin.. It’s ok.” 

He shook his head gently and mumbled, but Alex couldn’t hear them.

“What?” She asked gently. “Please sit up. You’re going to hurt your knees kneeling like that.”

He stayed put for a few more seconds before lifting his head up and staring at her with red eyes. “I said.. I am so sorry for everything. I know this doesn’t fix things between us, nor does it take back how I treated you, but I truly, sincerely mean it. I am sorry for being such an asshole. I am sorry I hurt you and put myself first. I am sorry I haven’t been here. But, Alexandra? I am now,” He stared earnestly at her, “I am. I am not going anywhere. I want to be here for our daughter and I want to be here for you. Please, please allow me that chance.”

She nodded tearfully and cupped his face, her stomach making it a bit difficult to lean forward fully. “I will never ever keep you from her, Justin. No matter what happened or is going on between us.”

He nodded at that and looked down. “And us?” He asked hopefully.

She smiled at him, “One day at a time, ok?”

He smiled back sadly, knowing she was right. It would be one day at a time for them, but he was hell bent to build a better relationship for them going forward. It wouldn’t be easy - he knew that. It didn’t stop him from wanting to try however. He was going to make this work.

“One day at a time.” He agreed.

[hornyforherbert]

All The Time (Justin Herbert) ✧

CW: Angst, Fluff (Kind Of)

WC: 1038

Song: Back To December - Taylor Swift

The soft hum of the air conditioning filled the living room as I nervously fidgeted with the hem of my sweater. She stole a glance at the clock on the wall, each passing second feeling like an eternity. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. It had been three years since I had last seen Justin, but the memories of our time together still lingered in the corners of my mind.

Abruptly, a knock echoed through the room, causing me to jump. I quickly stood up, my hands trembling slightly as I made her way to the door. As I opened it, I was greeted by the sight of Justin standing on my doorstep. His hair was neatly styled, and there was a hint of nervousness in his eyes.

"Hi, y/n," Justin said softly, offering a hesitant smile.

"Justin," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. I was at a loss for words, my emotions swirling inside her like a tumultuous storm.

"I'm so glad you made time to see me," Justin continued, his gaze never leaving mine.

"Come in," I said, stepping aside to let him through. As he entered the familiar surroundings of my apartment, memories came flooding back to the both of us.

We sat down on the couch, the air heavy with unspoken words. Finally, I broke the silence. "How's life? Tell me, how's your family?” I asked, trying to keep my tone casual.

Justin let out a small sigh, running a hand through his hair. "They've been good. Just keeping busy," he replied, his eyes drifting to the floor.

The small talk continued, but there was an unspoken tension between them, like a rubber band ready to snap at any moment.

"You've been good, busier than ever," I remarked, my voice tinged with a hint of melancholy.

"Yeah, football has been keeping me busy" Justin replied, albeit distractedly. His mind was clearly elsewhere, wrestling with the words he wanted to say.

The conversation veered towards the weather, a safe topic neither of us needed to tiptoe around. But as the minutes ticked by, the elephant in the room became increasingly more difficult to ignore.

"The last time I saw you, is still burned in the back of my mind," Justin suddenly blurted out, his eyes locking with mine.

A heavy silence hung in the air, punctuated only by the sound of our breathing. Finally, I decided to speak. "I haven't forgotten either," I confessed, my voice shaking with raw emotion. a pained expression crossing his features. "I'm sorry, y/n. I messed up."

Tears welled up in my eyes as memories of the past flooded back. "This is me swallowing my pride standing in front of you, saying I'm sorry for that night," Justin continued, his voice filled with remorse.

The weight of his words hung heavy in the air, mingling with the raw emotions swirling between them. "I'd go back to December all the time," Justin whispered, his voice choked with regret.

Amid the sea of emotions crashing over us, I found myself fighting back tears. "It turns out freedom ain't nothing but missing you," I said softly, my heart laid bare for him.

"Wishing I'd realized what I had when you were mine," Justin confessed, his vulnerability laid bare for the first time in years. The walls he had carefully built around his heart began to crumble.

"I'd go back to December, turn around and make it all right," Justin murmured, his voice trembling with longing.

As the night unfolded, the weight of unspoken apologies and regrets began to lift from our shoulders, and a glimmer of hope emerged.

"I'm sorry for that night, for everything." Justin said, his voice determined.

Our hearts lay open and vulnerable as we navigated the tumultuous sea of emotions, searching for a path forward.

"I miss your tan skin, your sweet smile, so good to me, so right," Justin said, his voice filled with sadness .

"And how you held me in your arms that September night." i said, my voice filled with longing. The memories of our time together weaved a bittersweet tapestry, each thread a testament to the love we had once shared.

"Maybe this is wishful thinking, probably mindless dreaming," I murmured, my gaze locking with Justin's.

"If we loved again, I swear I'd love you right," Justin vowed, his voice brimming with sincerity. "I'd go back in time and change it, but I can't."

The passage of time had shaped them both, but beneath the scars of the past lay the possibility of a new beginning.

"So if the chain is on your door, I understand," Justin said, his expression pained yet accepting.

The night stretched on, filled with the echoes of our past and the tentative hope of our future.

As the first light of dawn painted the sky in hues of pink and gold, Justin and I found each other standing at the precipice of possibility.

"I wish I could turn back the clock and make things right," Justin confessed, his eyes filled with regret.

The echoes of our shared pain and longing merged in the stillness of the dawn, creating a canvas upon which they could begin anew.

"It's not too late," I said softly, a glimmer of hope in my eyes. "We can turn around and make it alright."

Justin's gaze met mine, and in that unspoken moment, we found the courage to rewrite our love story.

The weight of the past slowly began to lift, making way for our future. The dawn marked a new beginning, a chance to rebuild what had been fractured and lost.

With each whispered apology and shared regret, Justin and I found each other standing on the threshold of a new chapter.

"We're going to make things right," Justin said, his voice filled with newfound hope The sun rose in the sky, casting its warm glow over the world and illuminating the path forward.

As we gazed into each other's eyes, our past seemed to dissipate, replaced by the tentative promise of a love rekindled.

"I missed you," I whispered, my voice filled with crave.

“I missed you too.” Justin murmured back.

[herb10]

Justin as a Dad... (Part I)

Summary: headcanon list of Justin as a new father from pregnancy to birth Pairing(s): Justin Herbert x fem!reader Warning(s): mentions of pregnancy, mentions of childbirth, mentions of sex, swearing, etc.

Disclaimer: the following written work comprises "real person fanfiction" (RPF); any characters mentioned are entirely fictional or fictionalised versions of real people. Any dialogue, circumstance, and/or any other trait of this work that bears semblance to reality is coincidence.

[masterlist]

- Justin would be so excited to hear you're pregnant

- "are you serious?" "you're joking with me, right?"

- when you hand him the pregnancy test, he just stares at it with a soft little smile

- his smile would grow until he was beaming with joy as the realisation sinks in that, no, you're not joking, you really are pregnant

- he'd wrap you in his massive arms and give you the biggest bear hug

- he'd definitely get emotional and maybe even tear up, but would try to hide it by burying his face in your hair

- his voice would be all choked up when he tells you that he's so happy and that he loves you, clearing his throat to try and compose himself

- he would be so excited to tell all of your family and friends, but would definitely wait until you were both ready to make the news known however

- he would get so emotional when telling his mum and dad that they were going to be grandparents omg

- big hugs from his parents as they congratulate both of you on the happy news

- he would be so protective of you and your baby's privacy and wellbeing

- everyone would be under strict instructions not to advertise the pregnancy unless both of you were ready to make the news public

- he'd legit be furious if the news somehow broke on social media or in some article without his or your consent

- would probably speak in code to not reveal the news to anyone outside your trusted circle

- "taking our cat to the vet" = going to the doctor's with you lmao

- would sometimes forget that you're pregnant in the very stages until something reminds him that he's going to be a dad

- seeing a baby in a stroller in the supermarket? "Oh yeah, I'm gonna be a dad". Cute baby shoes at the Nike store? "I'm gonna be a dad!"

- would feel awful for you during the morning sickness phase

- he'd get up no matter the time to comfort you, hold your hair back, get you a glass of water, or whatever else you needed in that moment

- grabbing you food at the store on his way back from the facility or getting food delivered randomly when you have a sudden craving for taco bell

- he'd understand that being pregnant isn't a disability and that you could still do things for yourself, but he'd still kinda treat you like you were made of glass lol

- "I got it" would become his catchphrase and he'd use it whenever he saw you trying to do anything that involved bending, reaching...or moving lol

- Justin: "I got it!" You: "Justin, I can get myself a glass of water just fine 😅"

- he'd be in his Acts of Service element, taking care of you as best as he could

- he'd know that pregnancy is a big change for you, so would be as patient and as understanding as possible if you were experiencing mood swings

- however...don't expect him to be a pushover and bend to every whim or allow unreasonable behaviour just bc of pregnancy-induced hormones

- Justin: "babe, I get that you're pregnant and that you're going through a lot right now, but I'm doing my best"

- he'd still expect you to be his partner and that you could face the challenges of pregnancy together

- on a more happy note, this man would have his hands all over the bump when you start to show

- tbh he'd have his hands all over you fullstop

- he'd let you know every opportunity he got how sexy he thought you were, even if you didn't feel that way about yourself

- You: "I look like a beached whale...". Justin: "You look so fucking good..."

- back hugs with his arms around you, his hands on the bump, to show you the changes to your body don't detract from your beauty, only add to it

- the pregnancy sex would be so fire omfg

- he'd be so gentle and let you command the pace until you were crying out for him to pound you and oh boy would he oblige

- probably some of the best sex you ever had tbh bc he'd be trying so fucking hard to make you feel good

- he'd love any hormonal feral horniness from you too and would be practically running home to you after practice lmfao

- would be so fucking excited when you felt the first little kick

- would probably make kicker or punter jokes about the baby

- would probably come up with cute little nicknames for the baby, like "peanut" or "shrimp"

- would sneak daddy-and-bump time in the early morning before leaving for practice whilst you were asleep

- speaking to the bump, gently laying a warm hand on your belly to feel the baby kick in response

- he'd really treasure those quiet moments where he could connect with his child before the birth

- would be proactive in preparations for the baby

- helping you buy and build furniture for the baby's nursery, no matter how tired and bruised he was from football

- he'd help you organise and make an inventory of everything you could ever possibly need

- he'd have a birthing bag packed and by the door very early on (and probably a spare in the car, y'know, just in case)

- big gender reveals aren't his thing but he'd be ok with a small gathering and a more tame reveal idea, like a cake with a coloured filling, etc.

- kinda think he'd like the surprise and wouldn't mind not knowing the gender before the baby was born

- he'd be more than happy for you to have a baby shower if it was something you wanted tho

- he'd be a bit wary of any social media attention and probably would prefer if photos of the occasion were kept off social media however...

- as long as you had both talked and agreed on if/when you would go public with the news, he'd be fine with it

- would desperately want to be at all of your scans and antenatal classes and would make as much effort as possible to be there

- he'd work late some days so he could take time off to attend "baby stuff" with you; this man would not want to miss a single milestone

- he'd especially love going to scans bc he'd get to see his child, hear their strong heartbeat, and it would all feel a bit more real to him

- this nerd would be paying so much attention in antenatal classes omfg he'd practically be a TA again

- ...being real, football would definitely factor into the birth plan; you and Justin would have to decide on a plan of action for every possible outcome

- if you were due during the season, you'd have to be prepared to be induced during a bye week or between games

- he'd also arrange for someone you trust to be with you in his absence if something happened and you went into labour when he wasn't there

- if you did go into labour whilst he was at a game, I don't think he'd leave until the game was over ngl

- but he'd be stressed as balls not to be at your side

- you can bet your ass he would be running out of the stadium the moment the game ended (still in his cleats and uniform probably) to a waiting car or a private jet on standby so he could hightail it back to you

- anxious facetiming with you the entire way home, checking to make sure you were ok

- Justin's all about being prepared so he'd plan for every situation imaginable to avoid that tho

- he would absolutely want to be there to support you and welcome your baby into the world

- he'd want to be there to rub your back, hold you up when you needed to stand or lean on something, get you hot or cold compresses...

- whatever you needed he'd want to be the one doing it for you

- during labour, he'd truly hate to see you in pain and would probably feel a little impotent

- for a man so used to being prepared and being in control, seeing you in pain and not really being able to help would absolutely cut him to his core

- the one thing he would be able to do was be the ultimate hype man when it came time to deliver your baby

- he'd speak words of encouragement to you like he was cheering on teammates from the sideline

- "you got this!" "you're almost there!" "you're doing awesome, babe, keep pushing!"

- he'd let you grip his hand so hard, he'd hold up your legs to help you push, he'd kiss your sweaty forehead and stroke your damp hair back from your face...

- literally anything to comfort you as you worked to bring your baby into the world

- would absolutely cry with joy when your baby was finally born and bundled up against your naked chest

- he'd be so damn proud of you and amazed by what you just accomplished

- would kiss you full on the lips and would put every ounce of love that he was feeling at that moment into it

- he'd just be so fixated on the blissful serenity of you and the baby, kissing you sweetly and placing his hand and yours on your baby's damp little head

- the chaos, pain, and anxiety of the moment, the buzz of the medical team working around you would be nonexistent to him in that moment

- he'd be so eager to hold your little baby boy or baby girl, but also slightly terrified by how tiny and vulnerable they seemed

- would spend forever just staring at them, marvelling at how you had both created something so utterly perfect

- he'd run a finger down their little button nose and count their tiny toes over and over, just to make sure they were all still there

- pure elation the moment those teeny fingers, with fingernails as small as a grain of rice, wrapped around one of his fingers

- this man is sentimental, so if your baby were a boy, I honestly think that he would love to honour his late Papa Schwab by naming his son for him

- and he would melt with love for you if you were the one to suggest the idea

- post-birth acts of service would include helping you up out of the bed, helping you wash yourself, changing the baby when you need rest, helping you with breastfeeding, etc.

- he'd encourage you to sleep for two reasons: 1) bc he loves you and you need the rest 2) bc it means time with the baby for himself

- would hold them, rock them, speak to them about literally anything and everything, maybe sing quietly (and badly probably lol) to them

- he'd especially love to do skin-to-skin with them and just have his baby bundled up against his bare chest, feeling their warmth and listening to their little grunts and squeaks

- would facetime family and probably get a bit emotional again but would do his best to keep it together lol

- watching him dress the baby for leaving the hospital would honestly be so cute and hilarious

- he'd be so damn gentle and cautious like he was defusing a bomb or something lmfao

- "just gonna move your arm over here, buddy" "sorry princess, daddy's gotta put your socks on" "jeez, when did clothes become so complicated?!"

- defensive driving the entire way home from the hospital bc he's got the most precious cargo in the back seat rn

- Justin: "doesn't anyone know how to drive anymore?!" You: "Justin, it's LA, no one knows how to drive"

- he'd be so excited to have friends and family to visit and introduce them to your baby bc he'd be so damn proud to show everyone what you ✨ made ✨

- but he'd want to make sure you were both settled first and adjusting to being new parents

- he'd have so much fun telling visiting family and friends about how amazing you were and teasing you affectionately

- Justin: "she was awesome, you should've seen her..." "could use her on my o-line!"

- as tired and as nervous as he'd be at times being a new dad, he'd be so happy to be home with you and your baby, both happy and healthy

- as someone who seems to be pretty family-oriented, he'd just love to be together with you as a newly expanded family of three, ready to face whatever parenthood threw your way...

༝༚༝༚

©2023 » HERB10 » All Rights Reserved. DO NOT Copy, Translate, Re-Upload, and/or Re-post ANY of my work. Thank You.

[denmeetssports]

pov: your camara roll but you’re Justin Herbert’s wife and have kids

[joe9cool]

Collide-Justin Herbert-25

A/N: Disclaimer. I do not know The Chargers or know anyone associated with The Chargers. This is all for fanfiction purposes only 

The Battle of Los Angeles.

As she settled into the suite with Joe, Alisha, and a couple of Joe's family members and even AnnSophie joined since her ex decided to take Lexi on a whim and she had a Guess fashion meeting.

It was a good day. The group took a limo to the stadium, and as usual, the drinks were flowing. Thankfully no one was hungover from their New Year's Eve festivities.

They had a great view of everything and everyone. Sara noticed AnnSophie was staring at the camera view of Joey running on the field. "gets ya all turned on doesn't it?" Annie broke from her trance. "Stop I'm just taking in my first NFL game."

"Looking at Joseph in his tight workout gear is a bonus isn't it?" She mocked her friend's voice."

"Just shut up and enjoy the game" a moment of silence then her friend stated. "He still has that amazing body."

Sara laughed and her friend joined in. "So listen, you know I love Justin but I have to ask. From what can you recall, how was Joey in the sack?"

She expected Annie to scold her since she was usually so reserved when it came to sex. However she was surprised. "The times we would get together. We'd fuck like rabbits. The first time I visited him at Ohio State we destroyed the dorm. Easily the best fuck I'd ever had."  Sara and AnnSophie were giggling. "Well based on what I've seen from you two it seems like you'd pick up right where you left off."

"Oh please, he doesn't want me now. I have a kid!" Sara rolled her eyes. "Which he knows about. Yet still seems to care enough to ask about you and what you're up to. Have you been talking to him?"

"We have been exchanging some pleasantries on instagram, but that's it. Just friends." Annie took a sip of her wine. 

Joe interrupted. "Every time Justin throws a touchdown pass we take a shot of tequila."

"How is your liver still intact?" Alisha told her husband. Joe shrugged. "Everyone underestimates Germans as drinkers. Right Annie?" The blonde nodded. However, according to Joe the Chargers first touchdown was worthy of a shot so they all took theirs.

Sara was going to miss this. She got the final arrangements for her flight Thursday. It was a morning flight, and despite Justin insisting that he drop her off at the airport. Her team arranged a car since they needed to be there on arrival. He was going to stay the night at her house so he could see her off. They both had a long talk, and discovered that Sara could see him during the times she was back in Los Angeles. She was coming back for the Fenty Savage show that was Feb 2nd. She'd be in town for a week of rehearsal and all that. So technically she could sneak out and see him. Hopefully he'd be getting ready for the SuperBowl..

"TOUCHDOWN CHARGERS!" The announcer yelled. Everyone cheered, and shots were handed out. Sara took hers and after she barely coughed it down. "I'm definitely riding Justin tonight."

The group laughed. Then Alisha started. "Annie come on, you know you wanna ride that fine piece of Italian ass!" She blushed while Joe yelled. "HEY!" 

Going into halftime, the Chargers had a comfortable lead. She was just hoping The Rams didn't get any momentum in the second half.

—--------------------------------------------------‐—-‐—-------------------

"You're lucky I love you babe." Jack dragged his boyfriend to the Chargers-Rams game. He found the last  tickets by the suites. In section 200, he was on a mission.

He had taken several bathroom breaks during the in-between periods. He had a press pass he could use to get into normally unauthorized areas. Jack had purposely went by the suites but he had no luck. Until halftime, or intermission or whatever the fuck football breaks were called.  He was coming down the steps to his seat when he decided to take out his phone to snap some photos for social media. Then he saw it.

 Sara standing in the window view next to Joe Grant, who was dressed in what looked like one of those hideous jerseys. She was casual in a white long sleeve shirt and some light washed jeans. Her dark hair was down and concealed by a Chargers beanie. Perfect.

As she turned to talk to Joe, Jack quickly got out his long lens camera and began snapping pictures. A few minutes later, a blonde woman was spotted hugging her. Just in case he took a few photos of her as well. 

He continued looking, but unfortunately the third period was going to start so he had to get back to his seat. As much as Jack didn't want to stay, he now knew where to keep an eye on the actress. Maybe he could catch some stuff.

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

"AND ANOTHER ONE! SHOTS EVERYONE!" 

Sara passed them to Carly and Isabelle, as well as Patrick. They made last minute plans to surprise them for the game. Once Sara found out they were there via text she invited them to the suite. Joe didn't care, the more the merrier. "Our cousin and her husband are here. I don't know where they are though and she's a little social media happy, so I don't think it'd be a good idea to have her up here." Patrick stated after they took their shots." Sara nodded in understanding.

Going into the fourth quarter the Chargers had a nice lead, so nice that Coach rested him after he took a hit and was in pain from what looked to be his leg. "I know he's upset." Sara mumbled to Carly and Isabelle, who both laughed in agreement. 

Sara left the game shortly after that. She needed to get to Justin's house to celebrate the win. Once again, she ordered their favorite pastas and waited for him to come home. Of course it'd be a while, since he had to say hi to his family and catch up with his cousin. 

So safe she was surprised when Justin came home ahead of schedule. "I thought you would say hi to your family." He kissed her. "I can see them anytime, I only have four days with you." She smiled. "Justin baby, I'm coming back at the end of January, then I'm doing the Oppenheimer promo at the end of February, and if all goes well I'll hopefully be back to celebrate your birthday."

He smiled and kissed her again. "You're right, it will go by fast." "And you will be in the playoffs. Did you know that you're predicted to have a deep run? You got Joey back!"

He smiled and scratched the back of his head. "Don't tell AnnSophie I said anything, but I may have caught them by his car as I was leaving." 

Sara's jaw dropped "what!" He laughed. "She got in his Tesla and they drove off together."

"That bitch! She told me she was at the house!" She turned around. "I should make a surprise stop and catch her." Before she could take a step further Justin's bit arms engulfed her and he lifted her up. "Oh no you're not." She laughed as he put her down on the couch." He got on top of her. "I'm keeping you here. In fact, I'm locking you up in my basement." 

She hummed. "See you keep saying that but you haven't done anything. I'm beginning to think you're all talk Herbert."

He growled. "You minx." He kissed her. 

"Hows your leg?" He groaned. "It's fine, I should have been allowed to play though."

She rubbed his back, "they want to rest you for the playoffs, it's a smart move, can't risk you getting hurt." He moaned as she rubbed her fingers through his hair. "You do need a cut, looking like a hobo begging for money." She giggled.

"I'm begging for something, but not money." Justin's big hand grabbed at her crotch through her leggings. She slapped the back of his head. "You pervert."

He kissed her, and she melted to the kiss. "I have an idea, he whispered into her lips." 

"What?" He got off of her. "Let's go to Jerry's!"

She got up. "Wait a minute, right now?" He nodded. "I may have called him yesterday to reserve the bar. Luckily he doesn't get too many customers on New Year's Day." She squealed, she had not seen the bar since Bella's birthday party. She refreshed her makeup and he changed into something else (more Nike sweats) and she decided to drive. 

Justin had to tell her to slow down as she was going way above the limit but she was so excited. In no time, they pulled in the lot. After exchanging pleasantries with Jerry and him disappearing, she started the jukebox and poured them drinks.

The couple sat in the booth in the corner of the dive bar. Sara wanted to play Justin her song with Lord Huron. It hadn't been formally released yet, but Ben sent her the audio for approval. As he listened to her voice, he was clingy. Holding her hand as she snuggled to him. "Your voice is beautiful when you sing." He mumbled. "Have you ever thought about recording music by yourself?"

"Hmm, I have thought about it. My team wants me too, and some fans I've sung for while in quarantine have asked for it. I just don't want to do all that touring stuff." 

She continued. "I'll just features and duets and some covers." He hummed. At one point she got up and dragged him to the floor to dance. He didn't object, he spent the whole time bending down to inhale her scent. The song, which was a slow song was by Nora Jones

Come away with me in the night.

Come away where they can't tear us apart with their lies.

Sara sang softly, enough so Justin couldn't hear her. Buried in his stomach, he couldn't see the tears in her eyes.

—----------------------------------------------------------

"Jack, I'm telling you she is single!"

Jack rubbed his face together. He was at home, he had just home from a long assignment and needed answers. There was already a deumoxi post saying Sara was in a relationship, it was vague enough to where the general public was pointing fingers at the American sweetheart. He needed to get his sources now.

And they were being stubborn. "Listen, I know you know Sara well enough to know if she is in a relationship or not. I need all the details!"

"And I'm telling you, she is just living her life. She has guy friends that are cordial. "

"What was the deumoxi post about?"

"That could be about anybody. You know this Jack, don't be stupid."

He had enough, it was time to play dirty. "Am I stupid enough to know about a quarterback who plays for the Los Angeles Chargers? Who goes by the name Justin Herbert?"

There was dead silence on the other end of the line and he knew he had them. "You really think I didn't know about that? I was just trying to give you the benefit of the doubt. Now I need details, I can go to family or close friends and act like a friend. Or I can get it from the person who is the closest to them"

"Then why did you call me?" The voice shot back. "You could have just done that and saved yourself some time arguing with me."

Jack laughed. "Because I figured if you folded once at the check you would gladly do it again. Trust me toots, this story would be big since it's breaking. No one else has this information. Sara has been good at hiding things this time around I see."

"Look, we are a tight knit community, I won't give you any details. If I leak this, she will know it's me."

Jack rolled his eyes. "Oh nonsense, you know I am always good at being discreet." There was a pause, so he continued. "Look this paycheck will be huge, huge I tell you. If you change your mind let me know as soon as possible."

The silence on the other end told him everything.

—------------‐—------------------------------------------

Sara was on the phone with her manager confirming all the last minute tedious travel details. She had her script and her role down, she had the accommodations for her and her team. Her trailer was filled with her favorite things. She didn't like to be too demanding, but some things were a necessity to her. Especially being gone for a decent amount of time.

She and Justin had been staying at her house for the last couple of days. In this time, he found himself leaving practices as soon as the guys were dismissed. This was a drastic change to him usually staying longer than everyone else.

He watched and helped her go through her usual routine when she was going away for a while. Cleaning, scrubbing, washing her comforter and clothes. She told him she always did this so she could have a nice clean room when she returned home.

Which meant they spent the last few nights on an air mattress in her living room. Justin couldn't say anything. To him, this was like going through a pregame routine. 

He had his usual workouts and noticed his left shoulder felt awkward. Sara noticed it too, and began to take care of him when he was with her. He showed her how much he appreciated her. 

Erika was also with them too, she would be traveling with Sara for about a week, then head back to LA to watch over her house. Then they'd meet again for the fenty fashion show, then would be out with her while she did filming then promoting Oppenheimer. It put Sara and Justin's mind at ease that they could find time to see each other during those months she'd be gone.

She also had to speak with Katie and Brittany regarding financial and legal status. It helped having a family who worked in positions that can help her. While she was on the phone with Brittany, Justin sat next to her and listened in as she was updated on other members 

"We told dad you were leaving, and he seemed to show emotion, so maybe he will reach out." Brittany stated.

"How's mom been?" Her sister sighed on the  other end. "Her and dad are still fighting, he's spending more time at the office and taking on all of these projects. It's bad Sara, he skipped Eliza's daycare Christmas party. Mom chewed him out for it, saying there's no excuse."

"Yeah, I wished she did that when it came to my theater stuff." It was out of her mouth before she could stop herself. There was silence for a few moments.

"Sara, he had to work to put a roof over our heads. He was putting me and Katie through school." Sara made a fist. "Still daf made it to your volleyball tournaments didn't he?"

"Look, I'm not saying mom and dad are perfect. But you harbor so much underlying anger towards them. They did the best they could for all of us." 

Sara's face got red. She was mad. "Don't you think that was easy to say since you got the best  and I barely got the bare minimum."

"Well what do you want them to do? Turn back time? We all support you, you just want this big gesture."

She sighed and took off her glasses. She felt Justin's hand on her back."Look, they could at least care about what I'm doing. You remember the fenty fashion show at Thanksgiving?"

"Sara, I'm sorry but I don't think it's appropriate for the family to see you in lingerie."

"You know Britt? I don't know whose side you're on. But I'm sick of it, I'm never celebrated. Everything is your careers, weddings, and babies. One thing of mine is a big deal and I get pushed aside. That's been my whole fucking life. You know how hard it was coming out of an amazing theater performance and seeing all my friends hug their families and get roses? I'd be lost, looking around. Hoping that my eyes deceived me of an empty seat and that someone showed up but I'd get a text saying mom or dad got stuck and they were in route to pick me up. Or how I got my own car at sixteen so I can not rely on you guys for rides. Do you have any idea how I feel? How it still affects me? You guys got the best of mom and dad, and I didn't get shit."

There was silence. "Yeah, and you won't even apologize. Or try to put yourself in my shoes. You just think because I'm successful it gets swept under the rug. Call me when you find out what you're having." After referring to her sisters pregnancy she hung up. She didn't realize she had tears coming down her face. She also forgot that Justin witnessed that entire conversation. "I'm sorry you had to hear that." Erika was in the room too, looking at her with concern. Justin rubbed her back, he was a little uncomfortable witnessing his girlfriend fight with her family.

He had to be honest, the girls he was in relationships always had families like he did. They were supportive, had each other's back and were just loving. He couldn't put himself in Sara's shoes because he never had that. His mom was always at games, his dad encouraging him and attending games whenever he could. He couldn't imagine not having that support system. "I'm sorry, I don't know what to say" He admitted.

Sara shook her head and leaned into him. "You being here is enough." Erika looked at them for a moment before walking away. Justin continued to rub her back. "Can we go to the basement? I feel bad keeping out in the living room, especially since Erika and I used to do it. He nodded, "why don't we ask her to join us?" She smiled and he got up and found her friend in the other room.

"Hey me and Sara are going to sleep in the basement and watch some movies. Care to join?" 

Erika shook her head. "You got it down pat, I don't want to intrude."

Justin shook his head. "You're not intruding if we are asking."

"No I'm fine, goodnight." She went to her room. Justin was confused. Out of all of Sara's friends, he had a hard time getting along with Erika. It wasn't for lack of trying, when she was around he would also try to include her in conversations and be nice. She just had a standoff personality."

"She's all business, she has a hard time trusting people and she's a bit overprotective of me too." Sara explained to him one night. It did put him a bit at ease, thinking she'd come around eventually. So far, it hasn't happened yet. 

Nevertheless, his focus was on Sara. He had to soak up the few days he had left with her. 

—----------------------------------------------------------

1 day

Sara was on the treadmill at the facility. She had snuck in while the guys were outside. She wanted to get one last workout in, plus she was near Justin and his teammates.

While Justin was doing press, Mike came in to do some lifting, and she was talking to him about the trip. "What's the time difference between here and Abu Dhabi?"

Sara had to Google it. " They are twelve hours ahead of us. So it will be an adjustment. We do have a small scene that will be shot in Paris." Mike shook his head. "Herb better plan those phone calls properly."

Sara and Justin had a schedule somewhat down. Since there would be long filming days. She could facetime him during breaks.

"Hey, bring me back something." Sara laughed. "Do you think there will be time for me to go shopping? You are the seventh person to ask me to do that. I'm not making any promises." He laughed. "Well miss you Sara, trust us we aren't looking forward to sulking Herb."

She rolled her eyes. "Oh please, he will be locked in, since you guys made the playoffs. I'm calling it now, I'll be coming home to cheer you on in the Superbowl!"

"I hope so, that's the goal. When that happens you need to be on the field with us."

Sara smiled. "I hope so, but I don't think I'd want to reveal who I'm dating at the superbowl."

"Speaking of, are you and Herb going public anytime soon?" She looked around. "We've talked about it. I kinda want to, just get it out there once and leave it alone. But Justin is against that, and I agree with his points. We will probably talk more in depth when I get back."

Mike smiled. "I hope so. The guys and their girls would like to see you at some events supporting Justin. The wives you did meet really like you. I think everything thinks your too cool for him"

She laughed. "I mean duh. The dude won't even say turnt." They both started laughing at the thought of Justin saying anything along those lines. Before they could say anything else the man of the hour walked in. "What are you guys talking about?" He took a sip of his water.

Mike shrugged. "Your girl won't bring me anything from Dhabi." 

"I said I'd try. This isn't a vacation for me." Justin wrapped his arm around her. She tried to shove him off of her. "Ewwww your sweaty!" He just stayed firm and overpowered her for a hug. "Ewwww!" She wrinkled her nose up in disgust. "You need to shower. Please." He laughed.

Mike just smiled from a distance.

—------------------------------------------------------------

"Everything is ready?" Erika turned around to see Sara and Justin hugging. "Guys! We are going to miss the flight! Alex is waiting, (referring to her manager who was probably at the terminal.)

Justin kissed Sara one more time. She was still a little sore from the goodbye activities the night before.

"I'll miss you. Be careful please." He tucked her hair around her ear. She smiled. "Get to the superbowl." He laughed. "That's the goal" they kissed again.

The horn honked. He walked her to the car and she got in. "I love you."

"I love you too. I'll see you in three weeks." 

"I keep forgetting about that. It takes away the longing feeling." They kissed again. "I'll lock everything up, and I'll send you pictures of Nova."

Sara smiled. "I think I'll miss her the most." Justin laughed. "Brat." They kissed again, only to be interrupted by the horn honking. They looked over at Erika who was upfront next to the driver. "Sorry I'm excited to get to Abu Dhabi!."

"I'll text you when I land!" Justin closed the door and stepped back. Sara rolled down her tinted window and smiled. 

The car pulled away.

Justin walked back to his car to return to life without her for a few weeks.

He didn't like it one bit.

[tastaturean]

La víspera de las vacaciones de Pascua, Summerby se acerca a mí discretamente para solicitarme una reunión privada. Como sospecho de qué va la cosa, instintivamente lo llevo al rincón más alejado de los invernaderos, mi escondite sagrado, al que no había acudido desde aquel fatídico día.

Allí me cuenta que sus padres se irán de viaje unos días y él ha invitado a Fleet a quedarse con él en su casa. Los padres lo saben. Lo saben todo. Pero Summerby no sabe nada sobre sexo entre magos, y Fleet… No quiere dejar nada a la suerte. Necesita un experto en su misma posición, y sabe que yo soy su hombre.

“Aunque preferiría poder sentarme después, Justin.”

“Te aseguro que sigo sin arrepentirme de nada de lo que ocurrió aquel día. Ya descubrirás que hay momentos por los que merece la pena sufrir luego," le guiño un ojo. 

"Te creo, más de una vez hemos estado a punto," se sonroja. "Pero Herb es incapaz de hacerme daño, incluso a mi pesar."

"Je, es que ese chico te atesora. Por eso, empezaremos por lo más básico.”

A partir de ahí le hago un resumen de hechizos que recordar, precauciones que imitar y malas experiencias de las que aprender, y parece quedar satisfecho.

“¡No sabes cuánto te lo agradezco, Justin! Por cierto, este sitio está genial,” comenta al fin, contemplando el lago y las montañas. “Menudas vistas. ¿Cómo lo descubriste?”

“Me lo enseñó Cedric. Precisamente durante las vacaciones de Pascua de hace dos años.”

“¿Esas en las que enfermasteis los dos y fuisteis la comidilla de toda la casa?”

“Eeeh... sí,” me ruborizo al recordarlo.

“¿Lo hicisteis aquí, bajo la lluvia?”

“Eso es confidencial.”

“Eso es un sí,” sonríe con picardía. “Justin, no sé cómo lo haces. Tienes cara de no haber roto un plato y no haces más que tocar repetitivas canciones muggles pasadas de moda, pero tu vida de estudiante en Hogwarts ha sido de lo más emocionante.”

“Te diría que con gusto me habría ahorrado el basilisco, pero también trajo cosas buenas.”

Summerby se queda pensativo, embelesado con el paisaje, y al rato asiente, para luego exclamar:

“Justin, ¡qué ganas tengo de volver a casa! ¿Es normal sentirse tan ansioso cuando se está enamorado? ¡No dejo de pensar en él! Y en todo lo que quiero que hagamos juntos.”

“Es totalmente normal. Y apuesto a que él piensa tanto o más en ti. Ya me contarás a la vuelta,” me río, dándole un codazo amistoso.

Resulta entrañable pensar en la que será su primera vez. Estoy seguro de que Fleet le tratará como a un príncipe. ¡Hufflepuff Existe! Capítulo 18 - Un Hufflepuff es para siempre

[webtrinsic1122]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Re-Animator (Movies), Herbert West - Reanimator - H. P. Lovecraft Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Daniel Cain/Herbert West Characters: Herbert West (Re-Animator), Daniel Cain Additional Tags: Men Crying, Alternate Universe - Werewolf, Werewolves, Dan is a werewolf, Unhealthy Relationships, Worry, God Complex, Herbert West Being Creepy (Re-Animator), Possessive Behavior, Sad Daniel Cain, Melancholy, Self-Indulgent, Blue Moon, Anger, Fear, Naked Dan, Guilt, Herbert has feelings, Selene means moon Summary:

Herbert West's roommate Daniel Cain happens to suffer from lycanthropy. This greatly affects their relationship.

[lyrenminth]

i have you

As soon as Justin appeared at the door, you stomach knotted, and sadness spread all over your chest. Watching Justin looked defeated was something you dislike so much. You werenever going to get used to it. It was unbearable, for him and for you. He put his hoodie on covering his sandy hair and got into the car in a quick pace. You grabbed the steering wheel tightly, biting your lips nervously. He left out a tired sigh, without looking at you. You turned on the engine, insecure of what to say.

"Let's just go home. No need to talk" he said, sensing your internal battle. You nodded and drove in silence until you got home. You helped him to get his things inside. You noticed he touched his arm, opening and closing his big hand. An injury?

"What do you want to do?" you asked him. Standing close to the door of the living room.

"I wanna rest" he said, walking toward the couch. He didn't turned on the lights "If you are hungry..." you started. "Nah, come and sit with me" you obeyed, sitting with him, you searched for his hand. "This sucks" you whispered more for you than him. His little sad smile made you look at him. "Justin..." you started, his eyes were filling with tears. His face was tense and his jaw clenched, his pretty eyes staring at the floor.

Oh, you had never seen him cry before. And the ache your felt, you hugged him in response, speechless. "I... I'm tired. I try my best every time" he started in a shaky voice. He rubbed his face not-so-gently, showing how frustrated he was. "And it's never enough. What am I doing wrong?" you bite you lip hard, not able to speak. Because yes, he always tried his best, fighting until the last minute, working through injuries, and more. Since the minute one until the last seconds, he was fighting. "Justin, I... I'm sorry. I know you always do the best. And you played great... but" you made him look at you by grabbing his chin and lifting his face gently. His red eyes reflecting the sadness he felt, but he obliged paying attention to you "You know, is a team sport. It's not about Justin is about the Chargers. You know once a man said to me the faster you realize giving you all doesn't equal winning or achieving things, the better you will deal with those things. It doesn't mean to give up, just to be real"

He just stared at you, thinking about what you say. You were about to said "forget it" when he nodded. "You're young, and have a great career in front, please keep it up" you finished. He touched your hand, counting the fingers, and then intertwined your hands. "Thank God I have you" he whispered, pure devotion coming from his tone. You heart ached, and you felt so much love for him. "I love you Justin, through wins and losses, no matter what" he closed his eyes, and inhaled deeply.

"Thank you, that means a lot to me" he said and briefly brushed his lips against yours.

[lyrenminth]

Quiet love 1/?

Hello, this is a mini serie of Justin Herbert. More than whole chapters are like meaningful moments in their relatioship. I hope you like it.

You knew Justin since childhood, both of you were quiet souls that's why you got along. Despite some differences, your friendship was something stable until the last years of highschool when you move to another city. Even though, you still keep in contact with him. He kept you in knowledge of his family in Eugene, as well as your family. You talked to him about your career, you new friend, how cold it was during winter. Until he got drafted you messaged each other every day. Justin's life change a lot, and he was busy most of the time. He just sent you messages saying: "Sorry" "Meeting" "Sorry I'm busy" And you understood. You weren't a priority in his life. You saw him in person a couple of times before finishing your career, and he was bulkier, stronger and leaving the child-face you liked so much. Still, he was a freak clean, and avoided people like a plague. On the other hand, you were so introvert like you used to. He noticed and was happy for you but you could tell he felt uneasy about that. His childhood friend changed, and the woman talking to him was different. During a meeting between the two families because both of you were back in Eugene, you were almost finished with your career and a great job opportunity appeared in LA. So you were stressed out for the living cost, and talking about this with Mark and Holly they suggested to stay in Justin's house until you got on your feet and could afford an apartment. Justin who was listening in silence, gulped his food and raised and eyebrow. "I mean, she's your friend and you are never there" Holly argued, smiling "And you have extra bedrooms" You looked at Justin puzzled. He didn't look happy or mad about the idea, just pensative. Maybe would be uncomfortable for him? What if he has a girlfriend or fwb situation? You didn't want him to stop doing whatever he was doing. It was his house. For sure, you would struggle a little bit like you did in Michigan but you could cope. "I don't think that's..." "...yeah, sure..." you said at the same time. You looked at each other, and you giggled. "I don't want to bother" you replied, looking at Holly. Somehow looking at him was difficult. You were a single girl, you had eyes. You couldn't ignore how fucking big and handsome he was. During highschool he was somehow lanky, during college he started gaining muscle and fat but now? He was a wall. A strong, warm and nerdy wall. The way his back muscles move under that Nike shirt, his waist and pecs. His big calloused hands... You blinked those sinful thoughts away. Thinking that way led to nowhere. "It's going to be temporary" his mother argued. "Yeah, the house has an extra bedroom I don't use" he added, more convinced this time. You looked at your parents who were talking with Mark and his girlfriend on the other side of the table. They trusted Justin more than any other man in your life. "Are you sure?" you asked Justin. His slinted eyes under that light were blue. "Yeah, no problem" he said, but you noticed the way his throat bubbled.

***

The job was yours. And you cried and celebrate and cried again. Leaving your life in Michigan was the most difficult thing. You met wonderful people along the way and couldn't believe that chapter in your life was ending. Of course you cried when you arrived at L.A. According to Justin, it was the preseason so he could skip a meeting to go and pick you up. You refused arguing that you could take a taxi or Uber but he insisted. You were looking for the gate when you saw him. He was outstanding. He dressed casual, with his cap and sunglasses that belonged to a old man. You felt the urge to drop everything and ran into his arms like the movies but this blonde man was you childhood friend. Don't friends hug like that though? He didn't saw you until you were meters apart. Looking down, you saw the corners of his lips lift a little bit. "Hey" he said. "Hey" you smiled at him. And without thinking for a second you hug him tight. "I can't believe I'm here" you explained feeling emotional, you gave two step away to look at him. "I mean, I know I'm here but... it's been a long travel" A long time. A lot of change. A lot of everything. "It's seems. I'm happy you're here" he said, looking at your luggage. Three suitcases and your backpack. "Let's go" said taking your luggage from you. You didn't say anything more than thank you because you really didn't want to carry anything. You went to the parking lot and found his very nice car. He put the bigger suitcases in the back. L.A was sunny, looking like a beautiful day. You saw an airplane in the sky flying to who knows where. Surreal. You caught a glimpse of Justin who was looking at you. With his glasses on he was a mistery, so you just grinned at him. "You ready?" He croaked. "Yes, sir"

*** Justin house wasn't a mansion, but it was big for a man living alone. There was a pool, and the green doors and interior remind you to his parents' house in Oregon. Justin always needed something familiar around him to feel grounded. New places felt uneasy for him, and changed was something he always struggled as a child. You supposed that changed when he entered the league because every year was different. Apparently not. "This is your room" he said opening a door. It was spacious and the bed looked comfy "It has its on bathroom and closet" You nodded. "Thank you so much for letting me stay. I'll try to cause the least trouble possible" he frowned at your last words, but you ignore him. Looking at the window amazed by the sight of the pool and the garden. "The cleaning lady comes twice a week. I tell her you are here" he explained. "Can I use the pool?" You heard a "meow" and flinched. A bengal cat appeared between Justin's legs, purring. "Oh, sorry. This is Nova" he said fondly. The cat looked at you with her big green eyes and walked away, uninterested. "Yes, you can" he answered to your question. You lock eyes for a few seconds. "Thank you again" "No problem" he shrugged. "No, seriously. I'm invading your privacy and eating all your food" he snorted at you. "You're my friend" he replied, running his hand through his hair avoiding your gaze. "I'm happy to see you again" you stated. He didn't say a word. Only look at the floor for a few seconds before nodding. "I let you unpack. I'm going to order some sushi, it's that alright?" "Perfect" "Ok" He left, and you sat on the bed. You came back to live with your childhood friend. You couldn't believe it.

*** It was true that Justin was never in the house. He wake up early in the morning and arrived until seven pm. The season had just begun and he had to fly for the away games. You never noticed how erratic was his life style. Your job on the other hand leave you more time for you and your hobbies. In order to make friends you join a crochet club, and a baking club too. You video call your parents three times a week as well as your friends. You watched every Sunday game to see how the Chargers were doing, and Justin was an excellent quarterback. He succeeded at his position and was such a fun to see him play. You discovered so much about LA in your first month. Kath, a woman you met in your crochet classes was your personal tourist guide. She was very kind and chatty. One day, before going to sleep Justin knocked your door. He was wearing his pijamas, and looked tired. "Hello" you said from your bed. You were reading before going to sleep. "Do you need something?" "I- I want to apologize for being a terrible friend" he said. His eyes were sad, something your attribute to the loss last Sunday. "I haven't asked you anything about your job or how have you been" "Don't worry I know you're busy" you replied in a soft voice. "I never thought the NFL would be so rough" "Yeah, it is" he declared. "So you aren't not mad at me?" You frowned. "No, what makes you think I was?" "I just realized we speak less when we live in the same house" he pointed out. "I started my job, and I join two clubs" He raised his eyebrows, impressed. "Of what?" "Crochet and baking" "Well, I'm glad..." he pressed his lips together, insecure. "I'm going to try to be more in contact" "Don't bother, I know you don't even reply to your family texts during the season" you sighed. "I told you I'm gonna try not to be a burden... enough with you lending me a car" "You're not " he cut you off. "Don't say that" "I don't understand why would you take such efforts, Herbie" He looked at you for a few seconds. His posture was tense. You recognize his expression, he was unsure if tell the truth or not. "I think you believe you are less in my life of what I consider yourself to be..." he started, and sounded sad. He took a few steps until he was at the edge of your bed. And slowly sat down. He had fresh burns on his arms due to the turf. His hair was damp from the shower and he smelled incredibly well. "I realized that it would be alright if I have someone to talk to. Talk about things that are not work related. I know we have dinner some nights and it was great to talk to someone who knows me before all of this" he explained. "I would love to have more nights like that" "Dinner nights" you said, "ok, we can make that" "Yeah?" he said, smiling. "Yes! I can make something even though I'm not a MasterChef" "We can order...or I can cook too" "Not brisket..." He laughed. "Well, that reduces my options drastically" "You can always make a sandwich" He was smiling again. His bad mood disappearing. You stay in a comfortable silence until he looked at you abandoned book and grabbed it. "You still read" he says, reading the cover. "Yes" "It helps you to sleep" it wasn't a question. "Yeah" you said softly. "You can talk to me about your work too. You can talk to me, Justin. It's not good to keep the things for yourself" He didn't say anything. Only looked at you with those beautiful eyes of his and nodded. "I'm going to sleep" he declared "Yeah, I should too" He stood up, and walked to the door. He stopped and lingered a few seconds. "Good night" "Night" The butterflies in your stomach indicated trouble. It wasn't a good sign.

*** Justin: Dinner with the boys. Imma arriving late. There's still spaghetti on the fridge I think

You: Alright Nova and I are having a girls' night

You took a picture of Nova sitting comfortable next to you on the couch. He liked the picture.

Justin: Looks good

That was the last message he sent you. He arrived quite late, stumbling a little bit. He was giggling at his keys because he couldn't put them in the key-holder. You watched the show in silence, holding your laughter. "Mmmm mmm" he started mumbling the Star Wars theme and you completely lost it. He got scared and jumped on his place making you laugh harder. "Shit, what are you doing?" He hissed. "I-I thought..." You sneezed trying to catch your breath. "Nevermind. Are you...drunk?" "No" he replied shortly. "Oh, Justin. I know you, you are all pink" you said. "You are wasted" "I'm not" "Yes, you are" "No, I'm not" "Walk in a straight line then" "Nah" You turned on the lights of the hallway to see him better. You completely forgot about how you were dressing; a big shirt and panties. Nothing else. You caught him staring at your legs and boobs for a few seconds before you help him to get in the kitchen. "Drink lots of water. Why did you get drunk? You have to work tomorrow" you scolded him. He sat and drank a full watter bottle in three gulps. "We can arrive at midday. Since the team is performing well the coach want us to relax a bit" he explained, not sounding so drunk, his eyes wanderer again to your boobs. You felt a little exposed so crossed your arms. "Well, I'm going back to sleep" you said, making sure he was fine "Don't fall on the stairs, please. I can't carry you for dear life" He chuckled. "Okay" You walked pass him, but he held your wrist. That single touch set your skin on fire. You looked up to him, confused. His expression was serious, bright eyes full of determination. You stomach flipped and you were ready to do anything... anything he wanted. If he would look at you like that forever... You waited for him to say something, but he only stared at you. The mood shifted and you could feel the air changing around you. "Justin..." you whispered, one step closer. Then he blinked and all the emotion vanished from his face. He let you go quickly. "Sorry, I'm kinda drunk. Good night " You stared in disbelief for a few seconds. But he wasn't even looking at you. You felt your throat closed, and recognize the sick feeling. "Good night" Sometimes Justin could be so mean. You remembered the times were he would make you cry as kids, but now it's different. You went to your room, feeling sad. Why you were so sad about this? Justin was your friend, not something else. He was being polite. Besides, he was drunk. Maybe he was thinking about other girl. What keep you awake was the painful question: Am I falling in love with my best friend?

[lyrenminth]

The one who got away

Angst. Fwb situation with Justin.

In another life

I would be your girl

We keep all our promises

Be us against the world.

You didn't know how it began. These dirty feelings for him. The way your heartbeat increases watching him making you a sandwich after fucking the life out of you. It was unnatural, unwanted, unexpected.

It was unreasonable knowing damn well you weren't ready for a relationship. But you enjoyed the way the treated you, how smooth his skin was, how strong he was not having a problem fucking you standing up, how his hips connected with yours and how raspy and masculine his hands felt while touching your body.

And you didn't want to think about the other side. The side it that made your mind betray every rational thought. The side that made you dream of a house with a beautiful garden and little children with blond hair and slint eyes running all over the place. The side that made your heart hurt.

You had your life's plan already and that never include a 6'6 athletic man in the mix, and for once you wanted to follow your path after fighting for a ounce of independence with your family. You could hear Meg voice telling you "don't lose your mind for a dick" and she knew better than you in many aspects.

But you looked at him, all focused cutting the sandwich in a perfect half (like you like it) and pouring grape juice (your favorite) in a tall glass. You knew it was a dangerous territory to have this family dynamics with him, but you couldn't stop.

And Justin looked like he didn't want either. You saw each other at least twice a week, only to undress each other, but everything started when he asked to stay a little more time. Suddenly, you were having deep conversations about football and your deeply dislike of mac-and-cheese. Sharing silly stories from your childhoods, those he would never share with the media.

The mistake of Justin was paying attention to you like he actually care. And you mistake was believe that he actually care.

Now you were pondering in that horrible and hurtful question: are we fuck buddies or something else? And the answer was unclear for you too. Because you can't...you must not like him.

Your dreams were first. You were first. You traveling schedule, your clothing brand, your goal of becoming someone important by your own right. Having Justin in that equation with his almost-celebrity status tainted your purpose. You weren't Gisele Bündchen.

"Here you have" he said, giving you your plate and sitting next to you. He made two sandwiches for himself, you knew how much he liked to eat. He was a big foodie just like you.

You still felt the spams in your core, the emptiness of something missing. It was to early to fuck again? Your libido with him was always high. How annoying.

"Thank you" you started eating avoiding looking at his beautiful face.

"I was wondering if you are going to stay in LA for the next week?" he asked, cleaning his lips with a napkin.

"Yeah, I leave in two weeks" you put your sandwich down, feeling the butterflies in your stomach. You wanted to punch yourself. "Why?"

"Umm" he played with his napkin. Was he nervous? "I got an extra ticket for the game, and if you want it it's yours"

You frowned. How agressive were those damn butterflies?

"Someone in your family can't go?" it must be. It has to be.

"Yeah, something like that" he looked at you, and your eyes went to his lips as usual.

"We say no public sightings" it was a rule he proposed. "Technically, we are not going to be together" he said.

Stay true to yourself. You can deal with a broken heart, you can't live his ways. Stay true to yourself. Love come and goes.

You bit your lip, and lower your gaze. It was your fault for allowing these interactions. The truth was you were scared, you didn't want to lose yourself but you enjoyed his company.

"What do you say?" his tone was so kind and hopeful that made you want to run away and throwing yourself at him in happiness. All at the same time.

You didn't want to know how he felt about you. Maybe he was in love, maybe he wasn't.

You sighed, not hungry anymore. You turned around to face him.

"Justin, I can't" it was the truth, it was the painful truth. "I can't go to your games, and I can't keep doing this" you move your hand between your bodies "I-um...I-" you gasped for air, feeling the knot in your throat "We agree this was something casual"

Maybe in another life. In another moment of your life. But not that night.

"I know" was all he said, frowning.

"Then, let's keep it casual, ok?"

"Yeah" he sounded sad? It was your imagination.

"I mean...I don't want to catch feelings and going to your games and all that stuff" your shake your head "It's going to erase the lines. I need the lines, Justin"

"Okay"

"Maybe we need a time apart too" he laughed without fun at you proposal "I don't want to catch feelings" you repeated "And you have tons of choices, I mean there are girls throwing themselves at you. You aren't going to starve" you joked trying to light the mood.

Then you saw how he closed himself. His expression hardened and you swore his eyes lost all shine.

"If that's what you want" he said, serious.

I don't know what I want, dumbass.

"It's what I need"

He only nodded. Yup, he was mad. But why? He started cleaning the table, you noticed he didn't eat much too.

"I'm going to call an Uber" you stated, understanding he didn't want you there, you started looking for you phone.

"It's too late. I'm gonna take you to your house" he declared.

It's something you liked about him, he could be mad but he wasn't an asshole.

"You don't have to" you find your purse, and took out your phone.

"Don't argue with me. It's late, it's dangerous. I know you don't want to spend more time with me but at least let me take you to your house so I know you're safe" he sounded bitter, and sad.

Wow. You stopped what you were doing only to look at him. He turned around, avoiding your gaze, like looking at you was unbearable.

"Thank you" you whispered.

The car ride was silent. And you were doubting your decisions. Maybe it was too soon? Too harsh? When you building complex appeared in sight you were about to cry. Why? You were the one who asked for it. You looked at his hands, his strong thighs and his stern look...oh.

"Thank you for the ride" you said, clenching to your purse. A heavy energy settle between both. You noticed he was holding tight the steering wheel, his knuckles white.

"You're welcome"

"Thank you for everything" he shook his head slightly at your words. His Adam's apple moving up and down. "Good luck for the rest of you seasons. I truly believe you are a great athlete, and you must be proud of yourself"

He took a deep sigh. "You don't have to do this" he declared, you heart sank "Good night"

And that's how you knew it was over.

"Bye"

In the next month you spend trying to get rid of him. You told your friend to help you to keep your mind free of him. You avoid watching his games, or being closer to anything related to him. It was relatively easy since you never went public with him. But the ache you felt made you sleepless and weak. You cried whole nights, realizing that you miss him. His scent, his dry sense of humor, his warm body, his hugs after sex, how good he made you feel.

Your dreams were the only thing you clinched for dear life. It was the reason you took that decision. Somehow, you didn't find it enough at that moment.

The nail in the coffin was to block his number and unfollow him from social media. After that you become a workaholic, traveling here and there, meetings with others brands, designing new clothes. Efficiency was your second name.

Everything was falling into place, but during some nights you would miss him. The sex, the intimacy. You had to fight against some actions, including stalk him or watch interviews. It was bad because he was a quarterback, face of a franchise. One Subway commercial and you were ready to unblock him. It was pathetic.

You were too stubborn to call him. To admit it. To give a second chance. And you had to learn to live without him.

Because you were the one afraid. The one who got away.

[boltupbitches]

My Daughter Thinks I'm Ugly - Justin Herbert

Part 4 of the Layla Herbert series

Part 1 - One Day at a Time

Part 2 - Today's the Day

Part 3 - Cheer's To Us

Justin sighed as he walked into his house, carefully lugging his bag with one hand while he juggled his water bottle and phone in the other. He could imagine Alex’s reaction if she saw him carrying his bag on the side of his body where his injured hand was.

He sat his bag in the foyer on the bench next to the closet. He walked into the kitchen and sighed as his stomach growled. He should have eaten before leaving the facility, but he wanted to get home in time to surprise Alex and Layla, who were at a doctor’s appointment.

He wanted to attend, but after his panic over Layla’s last set of vaccines (she bawled - he got mad at the nurse irrationally for it), Alex decided to book her next appointment during a training day he couldn’t get out of since he had a rehab appointment and post-op with the team’s head doctor. He decided to stick around to watch practice for the upcoming Chiefs game - the last game of the season. It was bittersweet. 

Just as he pulled out the leftover grilled chicken he helped Alex make last night, he heard her car pull up. He quickly popped the lid off the container and put it in the microwave. When he made it to the front door he saw the door open. A surprised Alex was staring back at him with Layla’s car seat in one hand and her diaper bag in the other.

“When did you get home?” Alex asked in surprise, handing the car seat with a sleeping Layla in it over to an eager Justin.

“About 20 minutes ago. I wanted to get home early so I finished my stuff up at the facility as fast as I could.” He cooed at his sleeping daughter. “She do ok?” He moved out of  Alex’s way, following her into the living room where Alex sat her stuff down and plopped on the couch.

“She did,” Alex confirmed with a sigh. “Well, I mean, she cried again like last time. The second we got into the room, she was inconsolable. Thankfully I took her ducky with her so she was relaxed as soon as I gave it to her. That is… until the doctor had to check her ears to make sure the infection was gone.. She started to cry again.”

“Was she too rough maybe?” He asked with alarm.

Alex gave him a deadpan stare, still amazed at how irrational her boyfriend was over their daughter. This was a man who had medical professionals in his family and had considered the same profession as an alternative to pro football. “She was perfectly fine. Just cranky and tired. She didn’t take her nap before the appointment so she was already not in the mood going in.”

Justin nodded as he looked at his peacefully sleeping daughter. She was just a little over 2 months old and would be 3 months old on January 16th. He couldn’t believe how big she was getting - it was as if the last 2.5 months flashed by in an instant.

She could recognize her loved ones, smile, babble, and laugh among other things. She’d give him a squinty smile, something everyone loved to point out came from him. His heart fluttered with happiness every time he saw her flash him a gummy smile and laughter. Even when she was grabbing fistfuls of his hair and trying to gnaw on his nose when he gave her kisses.

Speaking of hair… he still had his baseball cap on from his haircut earlier this morning. His teammates and team staff were shocked at the cut. Alex and Layla had no idea about it. He knew he was about to shock his tired girlfriend.

“So… I don’t know if you noticed... But I got a haircut today.” Justin said shyly, peaking at Alex’s alarmed look.

She stared at him, taking in his ballcap that was hiding whatever he got done underneath. She could see some hair but not his usual long locks. She assumed he probably pulled his hair back in a bun or something as a new style. She was so tired she didn’t realize the possibility that he cut his hair.

“Please tell me it’s not a buzz like last time.” She said lowly, her eyes inspecting his cap as if it held the world’s biggest mystery.

“God no,” He said in disgust, almost offended she thought he’d consider that ever again. He learned his lesson and went to an actual professional this time. 

He sighed and lifted the cap off his head, showing Alex the shortcut he got done.

She stared in surprise at it, “Well… it’s much better than I imagined. Although you look a lot like a slightly older version of freshman you that your mom showed me.” She teased and then laughed at his unimpressed look. “You look very handsome.” She said softly, smiling at him.

“I didn’t know if you’d like it.” He admitted, a blush taking over his cheeks. “I know it’s different, but it’s almost off-season for me and I wanted something a little different just for a bit. At least until I grow it out over the summer.” He ran his hand throw the shortened locks at the top, causing a little curl to drop down against his forehead.

Alex squirmed as she felt herself heat up at the thought of rubbing her hands through his hair. Now wasn’t the time - not with her sleeping daughter just a foot away from them in her car seat. 

Justin smirked when he realized what she just did, “Well, we’ll see how much length you’ll have to pull on tonight.”

“Stop..” Alex whined as she pressed a pillow against her face. “Don’t get me started.”

“I’m not, I’m not.” Justin laughed. “I’ll stop. I promise.” He promised in his head he’ll get her going tonight once Layla was in bed.

Speaking of Layla, she picked the perfect time to announce her waking by making a loud “ahhhhhhhh” sound.

“She knows you’re here,” Alex chuckled at her daughter, who was very obviously a daddy’s girl. 

“Ahhhh!” she squealed again, her hands moving around as she searched for her parents.

Justin got into her view and reached in to get her out of her car seat, reaching up to smooth down the puff of brown hair on her head. “Hi, baby girl.” He cooed with a huge smile as he stared at his daughter with complete and utter adoration.

Layla stared back in confusion, a very clear “Who the fuck are you?” look on her face as she stared back at her dad. 

Alex pulled her phone out and silently recorded the interaction, she couldn’t hide her silent snicker at the two.

Justin stared back in confusion which morphed into concern the longer Layla stared at him. She was staring at him like a stranger. “Lay lay it’s me. It’s dada.” He leaned in to press a kiss to her right cheek, making an exaggerated “mawh” sound as he did so. That was something he recently learned would make her laugh.

She didn’t.

When he pulled back, he could see her dark blue eyes clouded with tears, her lip puckered out as it wobbled. She was about to cry.

And she did. With a loud wail, Layla proceeded to burst into tears at the confusing sight of her dad.

Justin tried to shush her and calm her down, but when she opened her eyes to look at him, she cried even worse. “Oh my god. What the hell is going on?” He turned to Alex with a panic.

She sat the phone down after stopping the video and moved to collect her dramatic daughter. “She might not recognize you with your haircut, babe.” She cooed at her daughter and rocked her back and forth. “It’s just dada, baby girl. It’s dada,” she pointed at her devastated boyfriend. “He just looks different but it’s him.” She pressed a kiss to her daughter’s forehead, listening to her sniffle as Layla stared at her dad while laying her head against her mom’s shoulder.

“My daughter thinks I’m ugly,” Justin mourned as he lowered his head into his hands. 

“Oh my god.” Alex playfully rolled her eyes, “No she doesn’t. You just look different to her with a haircut. Like when Patrick shaved his beard a week ago. She doesn’t understand.”

Justin lifted his head and stared with misty eyes at his daughter who stared back at him. She had the fisted material of her mom’s shirt now in her mouth as she continued to stare back at him.

Justin got up slowly and approached the two. “It’s me, Lay Lay, it’s dada.” He reached gently out to touch her hand and smiled softly at his daughter.

She cooed at him and flexed her hand in her mouth. 

“Sorry, I scared you, pretty girl.” He said softly, “dada needed a haircut.”

Layla continued to coo and even made a soft shrill sound as she reached her hand out toward his face.

Justin leaned in, letting her press her little fingers against his bearded jaw. He cringed slightly at the feeling of her wet fingers wiping her drool on his face.

Layla made another loud shrill and laughed at the feeling of her dad’s face. 

He looked at her as she smiled her gums at him, her eyes doing their famous squinty-eye thing that his did.

Justin grinned at that, his own eyes squinting with the smile as he stared back at his little mini-me.

“See, she’s ok and she doesn’t think you’re ugly,” Alex said gently. 

“No, but she does think Patrick’s ugly,” Justin quipped back with a smirk.

“Don’t let your mom hear that,” Alex laughed, “Or Patrick because he’ll be blowing up your phone with all sorts of insults.”

“We’re not afraid of him, right Lay Lay?” Justin gently scooped his baby up and pressed a kiss to her cheek, doing his signature “mawh” sound to hear her laugh again.

Layla cooed and pressed her wet, drool-covered hands on her dad’s nose, digging her nails in. 

“Ouch,” Justin winced, gently grabbing her hand on his nose. “Those talons are sharp.”

Layla just sighed in response and pressed her head deeper into his neck. 

“She seems to dig the surprise now,” Alex mused. “Let’s hope I feel the same.”

“You will after tonight,” Justin grinned, flashing her a knowing look. “Still enough to pull.”

“Oh my god,” Alex rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop the smile from spreading. She headed for the kitchen.

“It’s true,” Justin called after her with a grin. He suddenly remembered his long-forgotten lunch. “Can you grab my food babe?”

“Only if you do all the work tonight because I’m not lifting a finger.” Alex was in the kitchen at that point.

“Deal,” Justin called back. 

Layla dosed once more against her dad, oblivious to the conversation her parents were having. All was fine once more in the Herbert house - as long as Justin didn’t buzz the rest of his hair off. He wasn’t certain Alex or Layla would forgive him if he did.

[lyrenminth]

Here for you

Hey, this format is less personal, so if you are a Joe’s stand or a Justin’s stand you still can read it, it’s good they are both white lol 

“Hey, how are you feeling?” you got closer to him, analizing his expression. Brows furrowed, eyes staring at the wall fully focused. “You did your best”

He raised his hand, signaling “stop”

“Do not, I played like shit, stop it” he said. You pressed your lips together, a big sigh left your body.

“Yeah”

“Do you agree then?”

You shrugged. “For me you always play godly good, I’m biased” he sank more into the couch “Don’t be so hard with yourself”

“I failed”

“You’ll learn from this” he nodded, his posture told you to leave the topic for once. "I think you need something from me"

He looked at you, curious. His eyes got a little bigger when he was sad. You got closer, and straddle him. One leg each side, and you hugged him. Tight. Your face hidden in the curvature of his neck. As always, he smelled delicious. He stayed still for a couple of minutes, slowly he hugged you back.

You stayed like that, holding each other.

Nobody tells you how hard is to play a sports at this level. Everyone is going to judge you, criticize your performance. A mistake can cost you games, seasons even. You saw it first hand with him the sore body, the bruises...the pain. The weight on their shoulders, if they don't play well, the paycheck can disappear. Every year a new player could substitute another one. It was exhausting for him, for you.

"I'm proud of you, no matter what" you whispered in his ear. He tightened his grab, and left out a sigh.

"Thank you, thank you" he said back, and kissed your cheek.

You moved your head to catch his lips, he smiled against yours. His hand grabbed your hair, pulling you closer. The kiss was slow and passionate, like you had all the time in the world to explore each other. You broke the kiss to catch some air.

"How are you feeling?" You asked, touching his face. Trying to read his thoughts through his eyes.

"Better" he said, grabbing your waist with one hand, the other exploring your body under your shirt. His big hand traveling to your stomach and ribs, only to stop over your breasts made you start breathing heavier.

"I don't like to see you sad" you declared, slightly moving your hips against his crotch. His eyebrows raised, expecting more. You kissed his jaw, down his neck...biting softly his earlobe. "Let me cheer you up"

Something inside his pants started vibrating, you went still.

"Ugh, my phone" he said, annoyed. You lifted yourself a little bit. It might be important. He took out his phone. "It's my agent"

"Pick up" you prompt him.

"But we were ..."

"It can be later" you interrupted him. "Pick up"

He left out a sigh, got up and started walking away with the phone on his ear. What you thought it would be a short conversation lasted half and hour. After he finished his call he came back, looking for you. He put his head on your lap. if people only saw him like this...

“Can you play with my hair?” he asked. You laughed. “It relaxes me”

“Okay” you started running your fingers through his scalp, he closed his eyes “is everything ok?”

“Yeah” he murmured, “it is now”

[boltupbitches]

Today's the Day - Justin Herbert

Sequel to One Day at a Time

Justin knew his game was off. He could feel it. It wasn’t just the painful left-hand injury indicating so, but the way his brain couldn’t stop thinking about Alex who was back at his house in Irvine, likely watching the game along with his mother who insisted on staying with her since she was so close to her due date. 

In two weeks, Justin would finally meet his daughter, Layla Grace Herbert. Every day since finding out about Alex’s pregnancy has been an emotional rollercoaster for him. One filled with a lot of excitement, anticipation, and fear. The fear on some days was stronger than the other emotions. Not because he was afraid of losing his time for himself - no it was fear of messing up.

He was scared of failing. Scared of not being there for Alex or Layla. He was scared of Layla finding out how he treated her mother once upon a time. He was scared that Layla might find something innately wrong with him and not want him to hold her, feed her, or rock her to sleep.

He didn’t realize how irrational those fears were until Alex found him crying in the shower one morning after he was working out in the gym. He didn’t realize Alex had come to check up on him, having heard his whimpers when she peaked in the bathroom to ask him a question.

He had confessed then, while wrapped in a fluffy robe she handed him, what he felt.

He was surprised when Alex wrapped her arms around him, cradling him against her bump as he cried into her shoulder. He had relaxed against her, leaning into her warmth as he calmed down.

“Justin, the one thing you should know is that Layla is going to love you so much when she gets here. Just as you will love her the same. And about our past? That’s a conversation we’ll worry about years down the road when it gets here. Right now, let’s focus on getting through this birth, okay?” Alex smoothed her hand through his soaked strands, brushing them from his eyes.

Justin was thinking about those words while he watched the D-line scramble to target Prescott. 

Today’s game was going to shit. So much so that he couldn’t even bring himself to stay focused for a few moments. His hand was throbbing badly and his neck hurt from the tackle earlier in the game. Yet, he couldn’t concentrate for long because his mind kept wandering back to Alex. He wished he could call her and ask how she was at that moment. 

Lately, she was having false contractions and he hated leaving her alone. Once the doctor put her on bed rest a few days ago, Justin struggled with leaving the house and going to practice. His own mom had to step in and fly down to look after Alex since she had the vacation time to do so. 

“Bro.” Justin blinked for a moment. “Bro!” He felt someone shake his shoulder and he came to, blinking quickly and staring at Keenan. “Justin, I been calling your name. What’s up with you today, man?” The older man looked concerned.

Justin blinked again before shaking his head slightly, “Sorry.. It’s just that Alex is due soon and today, before I left, she was suffering with false contractions again. Her doctor advised that she stay on bed rest and call if there is no improvement. Which makes no fucking sense. I told her she needs to go to the ER so we can be sure it’s not the real thing, but she’s certain her OBGYN knows best..” He frowned.

Keenan smirked at that and nodded his head. “Listen, my wife was no different. Anytime I suggested anything or disagreed about something she’d gladly remind me who was carrying the baby and who the expert was between me and the doctor. Is she good though? Her due date is soon right? Y’all are expectin’ a little girl?”

Justin nodded, absentmindedly rubbing his arm as he thought about Alex giving birth without him there to support her. “Yeah. In the next two weeks. But we think it’ll happen sooner. My mom’s there with her right now at our house, and Alex’s mom is planning to fly down when the baby is born. Her work schedule doesn’t let her have off so often. With Alex moving down here with me during pre-season, it’s really just been the two of us.”

“Y’all on better terms now?” Keenan asked as he observed Justin’s expression.

Justin grimaced and looked down for a moment before looking back up with a slight squint under the sunlight. “We are. I mean, we’re friends and we’re co-parenting…”

“But you want your lady back?” Keenan finished for him.

“Yeah. I guess I never got the chance to ask her officially to be my girlfriend before I blew that to shit… Right now I don’t want to lovebomb her with that shit. So, I’m just satisfied that we’re living together, she’s letting me help her and provide for her, and that the baby is going to be healthy in a two-parent home even if we’re not together.” ‘Yet.’ He finished in his head. ‘Not yet, but we will be together again someday.’

“Take one day at a time, bro. That’s all you can do.” Keenan tapped him on the back. “Alex is a kickass girl. She sees what you’re doing. Keep at it and y’all be back to being loved up together in no time.”

Justin’s face turned a little red as he laughed a bit at that. “I hope so!”

They didn’t get the chance to continue on about it because the defense was coming off the field and it was their time to get out there and play.

—--

They had lost 20-17 at home.

The team’s morale was low. The locker room was tense. Justin was packing his stuff away after speaking to the media, his face grim and his head kept low to keep from making eye contact with anyone.

A couple of his teammates tapped his shoulder and back in solidarity as they passed by him. He appreciated it, but after today’s game, he just wanted to go home to Alex and take his mind off football for the next day or so until he was due back for training. 

Just as he had finished up packing the last of his stuff in his duffle bag, his phone started vibrating and he immediately dug it out of his pants pocket and hastily accepted the call when he saw his mom was the caller.

“Is Alex ok?” He asked immediately, not even greeting her.

He had stopped what he was doing and waited with bated breath for her answer.

“Hello, mom. Thanks for calling. I hope you’re well,” his mom started sarcastically, “to answer your question - yes Alex is fine. We’re at the hospital now and she’s being admitted. Get down here, but don’t speed!” His mom warned quickly, knowing he was going to cut her off and take off for the hospital.

“For real?” Justin asked in disbelief. “You guys are playing a joke on me are you?”

“Justin Patrick Herbert! No, I am not joking! The OBGYN is on the way to the hospital and Alex’s water broke at the house during the end of the game. We just got here a little bit ago.”

Justin hoisted his bag and sped past everyone, weaving between people as he hurried to get to his car, ignoring the calls from others. “Why didn’t you take an ambulance?”

“Justin.. She was fine. She didn’t want to go in wet clothes so she took a quick shower, got dressed and I drove her there. We got the diaper bag and all the necessities. Just get here.” His mom said, exasperated with her son’s hard-headedness.

“Right, right. I’m leaving now. Love you. See you soon.” He hung up as he tossed his duffle in his car and got in. He pulled up the address of the hospital on his phone and drove off immediately, not wasting any more time.

He just prayed he’d make it in time.

—---

And he did. 

Alex was preparing to push, having dilated enough, and was ready to get it over with as long as the epidural was lasting in her system. Holly Herbert was god sent. She held Alex’s hand and stuck by her, giving her tidbits of knowledge from her own time raising three kids.

Justin was escorted into the delivery room and almost cried at the sight of his mom dabbing a cold wash cloth on Alex’s head. He didn’t know what he’d do without either woman in his life.

Alex made eye contact with him and weakly smiled, the nerves showing on her face as she waved him over.

Justin approached her side quickly, careful to be out of the way of the nurse’s fretting around the room, preparing it for delivery.

His mom gave him a hug and a kiss on his cheek. “Stay with her. I’ll be waiting out in the waiting room.”

He nodded and smiled his thanks to her, his eyes going back to Alex who was staring up at him with tearful eyes. “Hey..” he greeted weakly.

“Hey.” She said back with a chuckle, “It’s almost time. She’s almost here.”

“I know. It’s.. it’s unbelievable.” Justin marveled at the reality of that statement. “Are you ok? Do you need anything?” He asked her as he took a seat.

“No,” she shook her head. “I’m good. All drugged up and ready to go.” She joked. 

“They give you the good stuff?” He teased.

“The best they had to offer. Can’t wait to see the bill for it all.” she joked back.

“Let me worry about that, Alex. You focus on you and Layla. I got the other stuff.” He promised, stroking her hand that was resting in his. “You got this.” 

“I know. You’re here so we’re ready to go now.” She smiled back.

Justin opened his mouth to say something, but the doctor had interrupted them to announce it was time.

Justin listened to instructions and stayed next to Alex’s side, keeping an eye on her expression and letting her squeeze the living hell on his non-injured hand as he watched her push with all her might. Even with the pain-numbing medicine she received, it was still a challenge.

Justin felt like he was to blame for that a bit. Layla was after all going to be a slightly above average-sized baby and Alex was not the tallest of women. 

Yet, she championed through it all and Justin watched in complete shock as Layla Herbert entered the world, screaming loudly for all to hear within the room.

He never experienced love at first sight before, but as a newfound father, the moment his eyes laid on his newborn daughter, his heart was a goner. She was everything to him and more.

He didn’t realize he was crying until the nurse tapped his arm and asked, “Would you like to cut the umbilical cord, dad?”

He nodded dumbly and approached his squirming daughter as the doctor instructed him where to snip the cord. 

He was worried for a brief moment that it would cause Layla pain, but the nurse saw his hesitation and reassured him. “She’s okay, dad. She’s just cold, wet, and angry we disturbed her nap with momma.” 

Justin nodded again, still not able to coherently form words, and snipped the umbilical cord.

He was certain, although still in shock, that he’d never forget this day as long as he lived.

—--------

Things had settled a bit. His phone was going insane with family, friends, teammates, and all sorts of other people congratulating him or wanting to talk.

His mom took his phone and shut it all down immediately, informing him that his publicist would be helping her field the questions at this time. He just needed to worry about his newborn daughter and Alex.

Justin's hands trembled as he reached out to gently cradle the back of Layla's head. She was wiggling slightly in Alex's arm, her tiny face scrunching in displeasure at the cool sensation of the room. Justin made a note to ask the nurse to turn the room temperature up a bit.

He looked up from Layla to the tired and tear-stained face of Alex, who looked up at him as well, a smile pulling at her face. They stared at one another in that moment, neither saying a word, but communicating just enough through their gaze.

"Thank you." Justin whispered. "Thank you so much, Alexandra... I.." He was at a loss for words, stopping to blink away the tears as he felt his heart swell at the sight of his newborn daughter in the arms of the love of his life. 'I love you.' He wanted to say in that moment, but he didn't want to ruin the moment if she didn't feel the same.

'Coward.' Hos conscious accused against him, 'You're nothing but a coward.'

"I love you." He blurts out in a rush, tears flowing now. "I love you so much and I love Layla. Thank you for bringing her into this world, Alexandra."

She stared back, equally teary-eyed as she smiled at him, the warmth in her eyes making him feel like he was enveloped in her love. It was hard to explain beyond the strong blooming sensation taking over his chest and spreading throughout him. “I love you too. So much, Justin Patrick Herbert. Even when you piss me off and don’t listen to me, I still love you whole-heartedly.” She hiccuped.

He gently leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her lips, careful to not squish a now-sleeping Layla. Alex returned his kiss eagerly, not wanting their moment to end.

Justin pulled back and leaned his forehead against her’s. “I never imagined this would happen to me. I never considered kids before you… before this. But I’m so glad it happened. Thank you, so much Alexandra.” He repeated his thanks. “I can’t believe we made her.” He marveled at the baby in how lover’s arms. “She’s perfect.”

“She is.” Alex agreed. “Although she’s very pushy like her daddy.” She teased him with a smirk. “I barely got my boob out of my gown when she was attempting to latch on and feed earlier.”

“Ah, yes. I can relate to that.” He joked. “I too am angry when hungry.”

She gently shoved his shoulder. “You’re so lame.”

“But I’m lame for you.” He countered. “Only for you.” He promised.

She knew what he had meant. Since the pregnancy discovery a few months back, Justin had been hypervigilant of Alex’s health and activities. He had hired her a nutritionist, and searched for the best OBGYNs in not only Eugene but also Los Angeles. He set up a nursery in his home in Eugene, helped set one up in her mom’s house where she was staying at the time, and had taken a few trips down during the off-season to Los Angeles with his brothers and dad to build a nursery in his home there.

He kept in contact with Alex regularly, going on walks with her, taking her grocery shopping, and even joining a pottery class on weekends with her.

She knew he was serious about rebuilding their relationship - this time the right way and this time more healthier than their situationship like the last time. 

She saw it and was thankful. As time went on they grew closer and closer. When preseason started, they agreed that it would be best if Alex stayed with him in Los Angeles as she got closer to her due date.

Justin remained steadfast in taking care of her and keeping up with his commitment. Each day, Alex found herself loving him more and more. Even when they disagreed and got angry. 

Justin stopped dating months ago and continued to make it clear that he wanted a proper relationship with Alex. One they could build long-term and show their daughter.

Looking at it all now, he knew he was one step closer to that goal. Work still needed to be done, but in that moment of tired, euphoric bliss, he could only thank God for Alex’s healthy pregnancy and Layla’s health. The game today? The issues at the facility? What critics had to say? None of that mattered to him right now.

It could wait for another day. Today’s the day he finally got his family.

[lyrenminth]

Wedding entrance

When you started walking through the altar, all the heads turned to see you. For a moment it felt unreal. Until you saw him, standing there. Tall and handsome as hell in his black suit and polished shoes. His brothers next to him, smiling fondly.

Justin bit his lips, his chin quivered. His green eyes turned glossy, and you saw the first tears fell, running through his cheeks. He wasn't fast enough to wipe them. More tears continue flowing, and Mitch got closer to him, offering his support and a tissue. Nobody has seen Justin this emotional, and it was because of you. Unexpected but we'll received.

You gulped, trying to avoid crying and ruining your make up. You couldn't believe today was the day you would become Mrs. Herbert officially. When you arrived to his side, he was wiping more tears.

"Sorry, I don't know what's going on" he apologize, a little embarrassed. You laughed as everyone else. "You look gorgeous, truly" he whispered, his hand touching the fabric of your dress for a second.

"You too" you offered a reassuring smile. "Are you ok?" you searched for his hands, holding them intertwined. He nodded, more calm. His eyes revealed all the emotions his mouth couldn't put into words. You felt like the most beautiful woman under his gaze. The priest, who was standing quietly with a big smile, spoke for the first time.

"Let's start this ceremony" he said.

Everything went well. His vows were very traditional but honest. "I promise to take care of you, to be a good husband, a good friend, and a good man for our family. I love you, and I'm blessed to call you my wife from this day and on"

Yours were a little bit more intense. And he held the tears this time. When the priest said the words you were waiting, you stood on your tip-toes as he leaned in to kiss your lips. It was something modest, but that was the beginning of wonderful years together.

"Mrs. and Mr. Herbert" the man announce as you walked through the aisle holding hands and smiling like idiots.

You felt his hand squeeze yours, and you knew everything will be alright. He was the love of your life after all.

[boltupbitches]

Team Photographer - Justin Herbert

It was the first OTA of the off-season and Justin was excited to start. The idea of seeing his teammates and working with the new staff in the building was something he looked forward to. Change was needed, and he was optimistic about the future for the Chargers.

He wouldn’t lie though - he was also hoping to see the rookie team photographer hired last season. Since the day they met, he couldn’t stop his eyes from always looking for her during practice and games. A few times, he would try to approach her on the sidelines, discrete as he could be, but he never seemed to have an opportunity to talk to her.

The few times at the facility he tried to find her and engage in conversation, but something was always getting in the way of his efforts. More often than not, he was stuck watching her back disappear around corners and down halls as whoever stopped him from talking was chatting away without realizing what Justin was trying to do.

When he walked into the building and said a brief hello, he had to duck his head from the social media team to avoid showing his disappointment. He had hoped Caroline, the photographer, would be there, but she wasn’t.

He sat for a few team meetings, his mind still wondering about Caroline, as he tried to remain as engaged as possible, yet again, his eyes would wander to the door or even the windows outside, hoping to catch a glimpse of his favorite photographer, but no such luck.

Justin just wanted to talk to her alone, without the social media team, staff, and other players around them. He wanted to hear her laugh at one of his lame dad jokes, or ask her about her favorite kind of photography to shoot. He wanted to ask her where she was from, what she liked to do on days off, what her favorite ice cream flavor was, and if she liked going to the movies.

It wouldn’t be until lunchtime, when he was eating in the cafeteria with his teammates, that he finally saw Caroline.

His heart skipped a beat and he was frozen in place as he stared at her. 

She had cut her hair, something he noticed right away. Her locks, once down to the middle of her back, were now shoulder-length. She was wearing a team polo shirt, athletic pants, and sneakers. Her camera bag was tucked to her side like one would with a purse, and she was grabbing a tray in the line.

Most importantly, she was alone.

As Derwin continued telling a joke that made everyone at the table laugh, Caroline looked over at the noise and smiled when she made eye contact with Justin.

He smiled shyly back, his heart pounding in his ears as he felt the blood rush to his cheeks. He was on cloud nine from a simple smile. What was wrong with him?

His eyes watched as she got her food and took a seat by herself, a few tables away. 

He wanted so badly to go over there and eat with her.

Seconds ticked by before Justin finally stood suddenly, causing his teammates to turn to him in confusion. “I.. um… I need to go talk to someone. I’ll see you guys in a bit.” He nervously scooped his tray up and walked quickly over to Caroline’s table, not even caring to see his teammates’ reactions.

“I see you, Herbo!” Derwin called out.

He could have died on the spot when Caroline turned to see the commotion. 

“Hi, um… can I sit with you?” He asked quietly.

“Oh? Uh, yeah. Sure!” Caroline smiled brightly.

Justin sat his tray down and tried to will the blush on his face to calm down. He was for sure red all over. He just knew it.

What he didn’t realize was that Caroline was smiling at him, endeared by his shyness. “So, how has your off-season, been?”

“Good. Played some golf, visited family and friends in Eugene, and did a little traveling.” Justin gulped his water before asking, “What about you?”

“I went on a trip with my mom to Yellowstone and spent some time photographing landscapes,” Caroline answered with a smile.

“Do you enjoy the outdoors?” Justin asked curiously.

“I do! Especially the national parks. I’ve been to Yosemite, Yellowstone, Biscayne, the Grand Canyon, and next on my list is to see Crater Lake.”

“I’ve always wanted to see Crater Lake,” Justin admitted. “Maybe someday.”

They spoke for a while about travel and where they would love to visit someday. Justin mostly listened, enraptured by her words.

“There’s so much of the world and its beauty we don’t get to see when living in the city,” Caroline pondered as she looked outside the window, “I love my job and I’m thankful for what I can do with it, but I am envious of those who can see the world.”

“I know what you mean,” Justin agreed as he stared at her, unable to look away as the light from the sun made her eyes brighter, “There’s so much beauty out there. So much to see.” ‘Like you,’ he thought dreamily.

“Right?” She turned and smiled at him, “So what brought you over to my table today, Mr. Herbert?”

“I um…” He was getting red again, he could feel it, “I was wondering if maybe you’d like to get dinner with me sometime?”

Caroline stared at him in surprise as she blinked a few times while processing what he said, “D-dinner? With me?”

“Yeah, I mean if you’d like to of course. You’re decision.” He couldn’t help but cringe at his word choice. ‘Of course it’s her decision, idiot. Who else is going to decide but her?’

It was Caroline’s turn to be flustered. “Yeah.. Yeah let’s do dinner. I’d like that a lot.” She smiled shyly.

“Ok. Yeah, um, would tomorrow night be too short of a notice?”

“No, that’ll be fine. 7pm?” She suggested.

“Yeah that’s perfect. I’ll pick you up.” He reached for his phone and handed it to her after unlocking it, “Can you put your phone number in for me please?”

“Sure!” Caroline took it and entered her number in. She pressed call and hung up, making sure to save his number in her own phone.

Justin was relieved and excited. She said yes. He couldn’t believe she said yes to a date with him. Was this a dream?

“Maybe you could show me some of your landscape photography?” Justin suggested as he began to get up from his seat. His lunch break was almost over afterall. “I’d love to see them.”

“I’ll bring my camera,” Caroline promised, “See you later, Justin.” She winked.

He nodded and couldn’t hide the cheesy grin on his face as he went to dump his tray. 

He couldn’t hide that same grin on his face as he walked into the fitness center, ignoring the good-natured jabs of his teammates who saw him flirting at the table with the team’s newer photographer. He didn’t care though.

He did it. He asked her out. Holy shit.

Justin couldn’t wait for tomorrow night.