#listen before today i was at +3 authority per turn i was NOT worrying about that

[vonlipvig]

Oh stars above, I'm happy you managed to kiss your best friend that also in love with you since you were both kids. God the Voice of Rizia and Herald post gonna have an field day dissecting this royal scandal also i saw that stats on your royal authority sheesh you need a major help when the royal decree of decriminalizing homosexuality, yes you heard me right. There's a royal decree about that. So you got to gather royal authority in the future.

do not worry about that. no, really, it's all under control! because WHEN we get zille back, and WHEN we get our rightful half of the gas field from the traitorous hands of that palesian idiot, then it's all going to be fine! the international community will see that we are the ones who are right and true, and neither smolak or reinhart will be able to change that. and so, every rizian will look at what we've accomplished and go 'huh, that romus guy is actually pretty badass!', and boom. instant authority boost.

(^the desperate prayers of a cursed man)

...in the meantime, every decree that gives me authority is gonna get signed. i don't care if it's the 'send all poor children to be eaten by the witch that lives in the forests of montaklar' decree, IT'S GETTING SIGNED.

(and if not, this will be a beautiful tragedy lmao).

[mrs-march-ahs]

Fashion Show for Kai

🎶I hit 600 and I’m at my peak Let’s all get excited for my Kai Week🎶 sorry that there’s so much author’s note today

Summary- Kai is sick of you loitering and bothering him, so he gives you a one time offer to go shopping and buy anything you want. The type of clothing you chose makes him realise giving you his credit card was a good choice, for both of you.

Warnings- Soft Daddy! Kai, knife & blood kink, nerd alert (Words- 2.5k) (Tag list- @tatestripedsweater​) 

Requests- “ Can u do a kai x fem!reader smut where kai is actually a soft daddy?? I know it sounds kinda impossible for kai but it really makes me feel nice to imagine him as a soft daddy so yeah. And reader's not a virgin but it's her first time with kai. Maybe like after a cult meeting.” Yes miss girl <3

“#52 & a lil bit of knife play with divine ruler?😇 you’re so talented ily <3 - @daddyevanpeters​” I didn’t use the number prompt which I hope is okay, I think you’ll like this<3 no i love you

“CONGRATULATIONS ON 300 FOLLOWERS!!!! You are so inspiring and talented. I just joined the fandom recently, and you have been such an amazing person to look up to! I heard that you were taking requests, sooooooo do you think you could do a head cannon for James, Kai, or the Evans (if you want) on how the would react to seeing reader in lingerie for the first time!! THANK YOU!” I hope you’re still here! This request is clearly from a while ago, but this was the perfect opportunity! I love it, thank you you’re sooo sweet<3

you’ll need this picture for later, enjoy ;)

----

You slowly walk downstairs, and try to take a quick glance to see whether Kai’s cult meeting is coming to an end. Although you were almost always welcome, when it came to an upcoming murder, for some reason, Kai didn’t want you involved. And to keep you as safe and indifferent as possible, he didn’t tell you anything about it. But now that you were having a few days off work, you found yourself wandering around the house aimlessly, wanting to be with Kai even more than usual. You were usually welcome at the meetings, and it felt unnatural to you to have to avoid them. When you peaked your head around the corner of the bookshelf, Kai instantly notices you and hedges in his sentence, looking to the floor and sighing. He rubs his eyes before looking back up at you.

“I thought I was clear, can’t you keep yourself busy?”, he snaps at you. You walk over a little closer to him and sigh in exasperation.

“Can’t I just sit with you? I won’t even listen I swear-”, you don’t bother saying anything else when Kai stands up and burns you with his eyes.

“Go away”. You sulk at his words but continue to stand there, your eyes flicking around the floor, searching for something else to say and as you open your mouth to beg to stay yet again, another loud sigh interrupts you. He shakes his head and reaches into his pocket, before taking out his wallet and then credit card. He holds it in front of you and speaks with his regular authoritative tone of voice. He had to make sure that everybody at the meeting knew that he was completely in charge of you.

“Here. Don’t go crazy, but go somewhere and keep yourself busy”. You hesitantly take his credit card from his hand and nod at him, but when you pick your arms up to give him a grateful hug, he pushes them back down to deny it and snaps at you once last time.

“Do not come back here until I’m done with my meeting”

You nod and promptly leave, knowing that Kai doesn’t expect an answer, and just expects you to understand and follow every order he gives you. You quickly get dressed and leave the house, knowing Kai will get more mad if you sit around and don’t take advantage of what he gave you. Though he never particularly showered you with money, he always made sure he spoiled you some way or another so you would stay close to him.

You cautiously but happily spend Kai’s money, unsure how much you have or how much he is willing for you to spend, but in order to make sure that he wont regret giving you this gift, you decide to treat him too.

Within a little more than an hour, the very complicated plan of murder is clear to everybody in the cult and the meeting comes to an end. At that very second when most people begin to scatter, your phone in your pocket dings loudly, making sure you hear it. You’re in huge trouble if you don’t reply to Kai’s messages and calls, so to avoid having your phone taken away you never put it on silent or vibrate, and immediately read his messages. He asks when you’re planning to return home, and even though you were on your way for a coffee, mostly done with shopping, you don’t want to make him wait for you. Your thumbs dance around the keypad as you plan a message when your phone buzzes in your hand with another message from Kai.

‘Come home now’

Although his anger and fierce dominance strikes fear in others, and sometimes in you too, you go home with an innocent smirk on your face, already excited for angry Kai.

When you walk through the door Kai shuts it instantly after you, making you flinch, not having noticed him behind it. You attempt to hide your bags behind your back, but to no avail.

“I got a scam alert”, he says calmly, turning the key in the door to lock it.

“Uncharacteristic purchase from Victoria’s Secret”, he says quietly. Kai inches closer to you and puts his hands on your waist with a tight possessive grip, before looking over your shoulder at the bags behind your back. Most of them pink, one of them black. He exhales deeply in satisfaction at the sight of tissue paper, already excited for the show you’re going to put on for him.

Without a single word, he goes upstairs, and you follow him like a little lost puppy following its owner. He walks into a bedroom and sits on the end of the bed, facing the door. As you walk in behind him, he leans back on his arms and looks you up and down, examining your fully dressed body. When his eyes once again reach yours, he shakes his head to the side once, and you quickly nod.

“Yes, Divine Ruler, I’ll be right back”. You leave the room and go to the bathroom and weigh your options on which lingerie to show him first, but wanting to look as innocent as possible for him, you quickly rip your clothes off and jump into the shower for a minute, gently caressing your skin with body wash before dressing up for him.

As soon as Kai hears the water running, he sighs, and starts to look around the room, needy and already thinking of ways to punish you for wasting his time.

But soon enough, you gently step towards the bedroom Kai’s in and open the door, making Kai sit up when he hears the creak. You stand before him in your baby pink lacy underwear and bra and slowly walk over to him, making your steps as light as possible.

“I showered and oiled up for you, Divine Ruler”, you say seductively making Kai moan breathily at the sight of you glistening. When you get close enough, he puts his hands on your waist and slides them down to your thighs, one of his favorite places on your body, before putting his face to them. He runs his lips along your thighs and moans at how soft you feel under him. The soft sounds coming out of him turn you on immensely, and how his rough and dry lips slide along your thighs makes them tingle.

Kai’s hands rubbing over your ass makes your mind wander to the filthiest thoughts you have, ones you’d only share if Kai made you. A recent scenario that often came to your mind in the shower was one from a week ago, where Kai bent you over his desk as per usual, but instead of fucking you right away, he spread your cheeks and used his heavenly mouth on you, something he doesn’t do often. His hands on your thighs brought back every memory you have of him between them, making you cum over and over again until you grip his hair in the excitement, which always results in him putting you in handcuffs. Unexpectedly, Kai bites your thigh, making you gasp and break out of your trance of dirty thoughts.

“You’ve picked the perfect day to be sensitive, my love”. Kai’s new nickname for you instantly heals the temporary pain caused by his teeth, and you look at him, completely smitten and in love.

He stands up and kisses your lips once, very softly, before turning the two of you around and pushing you on the bed. But today, he does so gently, and you fall onto the mattress and feel the soft covers hug your skin and make you feel a way you never feel. Loved. It was obvious that Kai loved you, and even though he never said it, he showed it by prioritizing you over any other member of the cult, and trying to protect you from certain cruel things the world has to offer. He knew you were the strongest and most dedicated member and he always felt the devotion you gave him when you volunteered to do things for him that the other pussies were scared to do. Your heartless dedication to commit murder and crimes for him was what made gentle and innocent moments like this so special to him. Your naivety and trust for him made him hard.

He straddles you and looks at you beneath him. His eyes were as dark and lustful as always, so you put your hands up to the bed frame, all ready to be tied to up at his mercy. He smiles at your obedient actions ever so lovingly, before cupping your cheek and leaning down to you.

“Not today, little lamb”. You slowly put your hands back down confused by his words, almost worried by him not being as dominant as always, but all worries melt away when he kisses you once again, not forcing his tongue in and not making you feel like you must please him. Instead, kissing you so passionately that you are left breathless and occasionally forget to kiss back, enjoying your master taking care of you and kissing your gentle lips. He moves his attention to your neck, sucking on it gently leaving the tiniest bruises that will fade away within hours.

“Do you trust me?”, he whispers against your skin, giving you goosebumps.

“Of course, Divine Ruler”. Your instant response makes Kai smile against your neck and sit back up on you. He reaches into his pocket, and slowly takes out his pocketknife, flicking it open.

“I’m not going to tie you down, Y/N, so you need to stay still, you understand?”, he asks deeply. You look at the blade in his hand with pleading eyes and gulp at the idea of him hurting you.

“You want to… cut me?”. You ask, trying to sound as sure of yourself as possible. Divine Ruler hates weak girls.

“Of course not, I won’t cut you. If you don’t move”, he says as if it’s all so obvious. No matter how unsure you were about this, his confidence made you rely on him even more and you nod your head, willing to do whatever it is he wanted from you. His warm smile at your willingness to take whatever he does to you melts your heart and you take a deep breath before relaxing your body completely. You close your eyes and Kai shuffles down to sit over your legs, looking at your boobs and thighs in the gorgeous underwear you wore for him. Just for him.

He lays his blade against your boob, and slides it down your chest, making you open your eyes nervously but stay completely still. He hums as he slides it down your stomach, before getting to your panties and unexpectedly puts the blade under them.

“I like these”, he simply states, before in one quick motion slicing them off at one side.

“We’ll have to get some more”

He slices them off at the other side, and peels them away from you, making you bite your lip. No matter how many times Kai does a multitude of dirty things to you, your stomach fills with butterflies whenever you feel his eyes on your naked body.

He puts his knife against your lower abdomen and pushes it down slightly, making it dig into your skin without breaking it. He carefully inspects the dent in your skin as he moves it down your thigh, pushing the blade at an angle that won’t cut you. Kai is intoxicated at the incredible sight of you with your panties cut off, and staying still for him with fear behind your eyes. The vulnerability of you under his knife makes his cock harden, and he puts his other hand on your thigh with a tight grip. He gives it a harsh squeeze which not only sends a pool of arousal to your pussy, but also makes you gasp and move unintentionally, his blade digging into your skin making serious contact this time. But Kai continues to move it down, creating a slice in your thigh that begins to drool blood. You wince at the feeling but say nothing, willing to take it to see Kai pleased.

“Doing such a good job baby”, Kai mumbles under his breath, his eyes glued to the sight of you bleeding. The soft praise sticks in your mind, standing separate to the usual degrading you receive from Kai during sex. He puts the blade in front of his face and licks the blood off it, keeping strong eye contact with you, making you wet.

Just when you think you can’t get any more turned on by Kai’s sudden nurturing, as you feel your blood drip down almost to the bed sheet, he leans down and licks the blood up, then sucking the blood out of your scar. The stinging only adds to the pleasure, as you are far from new at pain and pleasure combined.

He continues sucking and kissing your thighs, getting dangerously close to where you yearn to feel his face, and starts mumbling sweet nothings against them.

“Took it like such a good girl, you know”

You lean your head back not being able to handle the praise, and bite your lip in excitement knowing you make Kai this happy.

“You’re gonna get a treat for this”. Kai sits up and puts his hands under your knees and picks up your thighs, taking a longing glance between your legs as he spreads them.

Although it takes everything from you to not sit and take the treat like a good girl, you hope the happier you make him the more he’ll do for you, and you use all the strength in your body to interrupt him.

“Kai, wait”, you say softly. “I have another outfit I think you might like”. He looks at you and considers your suggestion, before putting down your thighs. You quickly sit up and practically run to the bathroom, not only desperate to get your treat, but also knowing that the outfit will take a second to put on.

When you come back out to see Kai, his eyes widen and he resists the temptation to throw his mouth open, and clenches his jaw instead. He carefully examines you from top to bottom and back, soaking in your costume. You have a black sports bra with ropes on it, khaki shorts with a gun belt and a pistol, and your hair in a braid. Divine Ruler liked sweet obedient girls, but it was obvious the inner nerd in Kai would lose his mind at your outfit.

You walk over to him as confidently as possible, the hunger in his eyes giving you a huge ego boost, and he stands up to look down at you.

“Looks like you’re ready to be my naughty girl again, correct?”, he growls, and you nod at him. He smirks and walks over to the bed stand, taking out your handcuffs. But instead of following, you stay stood and look at him with a raised eyebrow, trying to look intimidating. He looks over at you and throws the handcuffs on the bed.

“Hurry up Lara, I have some digging and exploring to do”.

[grailfinders]

Fate and Phantasms #229

Today on Fate and Phantasms we're building the emperor of China and king of the Chinese Lostbelt, Qin Shi Huang! They're a Divine Soul Sorcerer to call down meteor strikes by the mandate of heaven, and a Monk. To hit people. Check out their build breakdown below the cut, or their character sheet over here!

Next up: Will Yu be my valen- op, nope, you're already married, huh? Okay, sorry.

Race and Background

"Zhenren" is not an official race in D&D, and neither is "Giant Robot in the Sky", so we're going Custom Lineage this time around. That gives you +2 Constitution, Medicine proficiency to make that fancy wheat and drugs, and the Skill Expert feat to get +1 Charisma, proficiency with Perception, and Expertise (doubling your proficiency) in Arcana. Don't worry, we'll get Arcana by level 1. I keep saying the Noble background is understating what you are, and it keeps being true. But it does give you proficiency with History and Persuasion, so I guess it's fine. When the giant robot talks, people listen.

Ability Scores

Your Charisma should be as high as possible. Your powers come from within, you don't worship a god, you are the mandate of heaven. After that is Dexterity. You're either a robot miles above the earth or a naked guy, either way you're hard to hit. Your Wisdom isn't bad though honestly I wish it could be lower. You're completely removed from your subjects' day-to-day lives, and you have a hard time hearing people when they whisper. But we need it for multiclassing, so it's staying at 13. Your Intelligence is next since you're literally a supercomputer, but it's hard to learn stuff when everyone else is stuck with a negative modifier. That means your Constitution is lower than we'd like. You're pretty hardy, we just needed other stuff more. Finally, dump Strength. You got into a fistfight with Gudao. You lost that fistfight.

Class Levels

Sorcerer 1: Starting at your first level you take up the mantle of heaven with your Divine Soul. This gives you Divine Magic to add cleric spells to the ones you can pick up (including picking up Bless for free.) You're also Favored by the Gods, letting you add 2d4 to a failed save or attack once per short rest. Oh right, you also learn some Spells that you cast with Charisma. For cantrips pick up Friends to further impress your glory on others, Message to send messages to your generals, and Resistance and Guidance to make yourself a little bit better than the commoners. For spells, Command lets you give orders to just about everyone, and Mage Armor will help you not die before you get your body. Also, you get proficiencies, like Constitution and Charisma saves, as well as Arcana (told'ya we'd get there) and Religion.

Sorcerer 2: Second level sorcerers become a Font of Magic, giving you sorcery points equal to your level that recharge on long rests. Right now you can spend them to make new spell slots, or burn spell slots for more points. The latter option will make more sense in like, one level. Also, you can cast Acid Stream now to spray mercury on people. As long as they keep the mercury on them it deals a bit of acid damage each turn. Turns out mercury isn't good for people. Wild.

Sorcerer 3: Third level sorcerers can use Metamagic to customize their spellcasting by spending sorcery points. Technically you're several miles up in the air, so Distant spellcasting will be a must. It doubles your spells' range. You can also cast a Heightened spell to force disadvantage on the first save you give a creature with your spell. You also pick up Aganazzar's Scorcher to throw phoenixes at people.

Sorcerer 4: Use your first Ability Score Improvement to bump up your Charisma for stronger spells and more authority. You can also turn your mercury into a Sword Burst for some melee attacks, or cast Shatter for a very small bombardment. We're getting there people.

Sorcerer 5: Fifth level sorcerers get Magical Guidance, spending sorcery points to re-roll failed skill checks. Emperors, am I right? You also get third level spells like Clairvoyance so you can spy on people anywhere within 1 mile of you (or two with distant spells). If you want maximum authenticity, be sure to place your sensors several yards in the air.

Sorcerer 6: Sixth level divine souls get Empowered Healing, spending a sorcery point to re-roll any number of dice on your healing spells. You also get Melf's Minute Meteors. They're meteors, they're minute, they're yours.

Sorcerer 7: Seventh level sorcerers get fourth level spells like Vitriolic Sphere. Mm hm hm, love that mercury. Turn it into a ball, throw it at people in a 20' radius and force a dexterity save. If they fail they take some damage now, then more damage at the end of their next turn.

Sorcerer 8: If you're using the standard array or are good at rolling, this ASI will be the one where you can max out your Charisma. This is also the asi where you can now cast Locate Creature, using your massive eye in the sky to find a creature within 1000 feet of you if you know what they look like. This one doesn't get improved by distant spell, so make sure you're in the right area.

Sorcerer 9: Ninth level sorcerers get fifth level spells, letting you Commune with your main body to receive answers about whatever you want. Your connection's pretty spotty though, so you only get three yes/no questions per casting, and casting more than once a day comes with a chance of dropped calls. Lousy wheat and wheat byproducts...

Sorcerer 10: Tenth level sorcerers get another metamagic option, and Extended Spell will keep your tracking info up for longer periods of time, doubling its duration for a maximum of 24 hours. Your surveillance is supposed to be constant, but we'll work with what we have. You also learn Fire Bolt for a cheaper phoenix, and Far Step to teleport around with your bonus action. Walking is for peasants.

Sorcerer 11: Sixth level spell time! Tasha's Otherworldly Guise gives you a literal mantle of heaven for up to a minute, making you immune to radiant and necrotic damage plus the charmed condition. You also get moth wings for a flying speed, a bonus to AC, and can use your Charisma to attack instead of strength or dexterity. On top of all that, you can attack twice per action instead of once. You're only doing 6 damage per hit right now, but we'll improve that in... nine levels, it's fine.

Sorcerer 12: Now that your charisma is (hopefully) at max, use this ASI to power up your Dexterity for a higher AC. If you're going to fight a child later, a thicker skin is very useful.

Sorcerer 13: Thirteenth level sorcerers get seventh level spells like Regenerate. Your body is going to be a literal work of art, let's make sure you can keep it in one piece. There's a big surge of healing when you cast the spell, then for an hour (or two) afterwards you get 1 HP at the start of each turn. On top of that, you can restore severed body parts after two minutes, or by holding the part to your body where it fell off. Gudao's got noodle arms, 1 HP per turn aught to keep them busy for a while. (And yes, we did just get your first healing spell more than halfway into the build.)

Sorcerer 14: Fourteenth level divine souls can use their Angelic Form as a bonus action to gain permanent moth wings, giving you a 30' flying speed. You can choose what they look like, so moth wings are 100% on the table, I will not hear otherwise.

Sorcerer 15: Fifteenth level sorcerers get eighth level spells, and Conjure Celestial will let you summon a servant of your own choosing to fight along side you. I'd pick Qin Liangyu, she's pretty good at just about everything.

Sorcerer 16: Use this ASI to pick up the Tough feat for an extra 32 HP now, and two more every time you level up. We can't invest in constitution as much as I'd like, so here's the fix.

Sorcerer 17: At seventeenth level you get your final Metamagic option, and since a lot of your magic comes from your main body rather than your zhenren form, Subtle magic makes sense. It gets rid of verbal and somatic components for spells. Spells like Meteor Swarm. I name-dropped it in the last build like twice, this shouldn't be a surprise. You drop four meteors on the ground, each one dealing damage in a 40' radius without overlapping. Creatures in that radius make a dexterity save or they take fire and bludgeoning damage, and the spell also destroys flammable objects. Weirdly enough you don't need to be in the open air to cast this spell, so those folks hiding in caves are just as screwed as the people in town.

Sorcerer 18: Eighteenth level divine souls get an Unearthly Recovery. If you're at half health or lower, you can use your bonus action to heal half your health back, once per day. The zhenren form really is a marvel to behold, and it's finally almost complete.

Monk 1: At ninteenth level your fleshy body is ready for a test run, giving you an Unarmored Defense equal to 10 plus your wisdom and dexterity modifiers (mage armor's better) and Martial Arts, which lets you use dexterity for monk weapons and punches, make an unarmed strike as a bonus action if you attack with your action, and your punches deal 1d4 damage. It's still pretty new, it'll get better.

Sorcerer 19: The reason we've waited so long for this feat is simple- orbital bombardments are cooler than punching, and we needed proficiency with a martial weapon to even think about getting this feat. Fortunately monks are good with shortswords, so now we can use our last ASI to pick up the Fighting Initiate feat, and more importantly get the Unarmed Fighting fighting style. Now your bare-knuckle attacks deal 1d6 damage, or 1d8 with both hands free. You can also deal a little damage to grappled creatures, if you want.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

With a maxed out charisma score and and ways to force disadvantage on saves, you're great at blowing shit up. And while I love to clown on fire and acid being commonly resisted, it's much rarer to find an enemy who resists both at the same time, so you've got options. And if you're up against one of the three creatures that are immune to both, you've always got your fists to fall back on. (They're all CR 30, so I hope you're fighting them at level 20.)

Meteor Swarm has a huge range, so it's great that you also come packing magical spotting techniques to aim it properly. Scry or commune to find the baddies, then turn their entire hideout to dust. No dungeon crawling required.

You're also surprisingly skilled for a sorcerer, with a maxed out charisma helping in social encounters and your Arcana skill plus Commune coming in clutch for figuring out the main plot or some puzzles. And while Meteor Swarm is best used for fighting, You can also totally use it to open a locked door. And every other locked door within 100 feet.

Cons:

You have a low AC, and it doesn't really get any better. Even at your best, you're only going to have an AC of 18, and that's with a concentration spell up.

You also got stuck with the lowest hit die in the game. Sorcerers are not meant to be brawlers. It's no wonder Gudao beat you up.

Despite being a sorcerer subclass that kind of likes healing, you don't do much healing. You have two major sources of health per day, and while they're powerful they'll run out very quickly. I hope your party didn't expect you to be the healer or else your campaign might turn into a lostbelt of its own.

[notebooknebula]

Flip Real Estate Virtually with Paul Lizell & Jay Conner, The Private Money Authority

https://www.jayconner.com/flip-real-estate-virtually-with-paul-lizell-jay-conner-the-private-money-authority/

Jay Conner and his special guest Paul Lizell talk about how to utilize systems and processes that simplify the buying process of real estate.

Paul is the founder of The Virtual Investor, JP Homes, Inc & www.housedealsamerica.com He has been flipping properties since 2001 and is the original virtual wholesaler having purchased all over the U.S. since 2009. He has bought and sold properties in 44 out of 50 states and will continue to look at expanding into new markets.

Paul is a graduate of Drexel University in 1998, holds a degree in Finance and a minor in Economics, he now teaches at www.ReoAuctionAcademy.com. He focused exclusively on online auctions, bank REO’s, buying off the MLS and wholesalers across the country since 2013.

Timestamps:

0:01 – Get Ready To Be Plugged Into The Money

1:42 – Jay’s New Book: “Where To Get The Money Now”- https://www.JayConner.com/Book

3:20 – Today’s guest: Paul Lizell

4:57 – How Paul Lizell gets started on the real estate business.

6:58 – What is wholesaling?

8:01 – What is the advantage of buying a house vs getting it under contract?

10:28 – When you buy a house in today’s market are you primarily selling them to other real estate investors at a profit or are you selling them to the people who are going to live in the property?

11:16 – What kinds of profit are you seeing in today’s market while doing your business virtually?

11:57 – Wholesaling vs. Wholesaling

13:01 – Do you think that Wholetailing is more popular now because of the lack of inventory?

13:58 – When you’re wholesaling a house to an end buyer, what’re your criteria for pricing that home versus a complete rehab?

14:52 – In today’s real estate market as long as it’s clean and smells good that property is okay.

15:34 – How do you find your buyer?

16:07 – How do you find deals given the low inventory in today’s real estate market?

17:35 – How do you get the leads?

19:29 – How to connect with Paul Lizell: https://www.REOauctionAcademy.com & https://www.FlipRealEstateVirtually.com

20:30 – How do you manage your people on the grounds to inspect the property?

24:21 – Do you give additional compensation to your bank-owned real estate agents?

25:23 – How do you find your REO agents?

26:56 – When you become the winner in the online auction how long do you have before you got a close? Do you make a house inspection before you take it down?

28:34 – Paul Lizell’s parting message: In my business model my time is my only marketing cost.

Private Money Academy Conference:

https://jaysliveevent.com/live/?oprid=&ref=42135

Have you read Jay’s new book: Where to Get The Money Now? It is available FREE (all you pay is the shipping and handling) at https://www.JayConner.com/Book

Free Webinar: http://bit.ly/jaymoneypodcast

Jay Conner is a proven real estate investment leader. Without using his own money or credit, Jay maximizes creative methods to buy and sell properties with profits averaging $64,000 per deal.

What is Real Estate Investing? Live Private Money Academy Conference

https://youtu.be/QyeBbDOF4wo

YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/c/RealEstateInvestingWithJayConner

iTunes:

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/private-money-academy-real-estate-investing-jay-conner/id1377723034

Listen to our Podcast:

https://realestateinvestingdeals.mypodcastworld.com/11279/flip-real-estate-virtually-with-paul-lizell-jay-conner-the-private-money-authority

Flip Real Estate Virtually with Paul Lizell & Jay Conner

Jay Conner

00:02:57

My guest is a good friend. We’re in a mastermind together. Well, he is the founder of The Virtual Investor. That’s right. He is a virtual investor and virtual wholesaler. He’s been flipping properties all the way back since 2001. And he actually is the original virtual wholesaler. And he’s purchased all over the US since 2009 virtually. In addition to that, my guest has bought and sold properties in 44 out of 50 states and continues to look at expanding into new markets. Now, in addition to that, he contributes his success to utilizing systems and processes that simplify the online buying process. He’s focused exclusively on online auctions bank REOs, buying off of the MLS, and wholesalers across the country since 2013. I’m so excited to have my friend and fellow mastermind member, Paul Lizell. Paul, welcome to the podcast.

Paul Lizell

00:04:32

Thanks for having me, man. I really appreciate it.

Jay Conner

00:04:34

Absolutely. I’m excited to have you on here, Paul. And of course, we’re going to be seeing each other again here pretty soon at one of our upcoming mastermind meetings. And today we want to hear all about what it’s like to be a virtual wholesaler. What in the world does that mean? And what’s that process look like? But before you get started on all that, tell us, how’d you get into real estate?

Paul Lizell

00:04:58

Interesting story. So let’s go back to the 1990s when I was in college. I was working for my uncle who’s a general contractor and he bought a quadplex, a 4-unit building. We fixed it up, renovated it. He turned around and rented it out. He was making pretty good profits on this property, too, and still had a lot of equity in it. So that kind of stoked my interest in real estate. And that point on, after he bought a few more and we renovated them and I was going through college, I decided this is something I got to get into. It’s gotta be my long-term goal. So I did and basically in 2001, I started my first property. Unlike his, it was a fix and flip. I got into that so I could build up some cash. Eventually, I did build up, got some rentals as well, but stuck with the wholesaling, the fix and flip game owner-finance game, and I’d been doing that ever since.

Jay Conner

00:05:46

That’s awesome. So, were you doing fix and flips a while before you started doing wholesaling? Or were you doing wholesaling and fixing flips simultaneously, like right out the gate?

Paul Lizell

00:05:59

Well, I really started in the fix and flip game and then when I had too many flip deals going on, I did a couple of wholesale deals. And I started to realize it was kind of easy doing these wholesale deals. So after the crash of 2008, 2009, when all the marketing was just tanking, and you probably remember that well, I’m sure, I decided, all right, let’s go more to the wholesale game and turn them and burn them, and we did that. And we still did fix and flips, don’t get me wrong. We kept those good deals, did fix and flips on them, kept some good deals, rentals, some owner-financing, but we basically became virtual wholesalers at that point. We started expanding. We started in Pennsylvania where I was originally from. I just moved here to Florida this past month, but originally I’m from about 45 minutes north of Philadelphia. And so I started in that market, expanded out, went to Pittsburgh, New Jersey, Delaware, Ohio, Indiana, the Carolinas, which I love and where you’re from. And then I started going down to Florida, Texas, before you know it, I bought and sold in 44 to 50 states.

Jay Conner

00:06:57

First of all, let’s make sure everybody understands what we’re talking about when we say wholesale a deal. There’s more than one way to wholesale a deal. So, what’s your definition of wholesaling? And what’s that look like?

Paul Lizell

00:07:11

So for most people, they think wholesaling is getting a property under contract from a seller and assigning that contract and collecting assignment fee. So for us buying bank-owned properties, and we do a few of those, don’t get me wrong. We do a few of those deals, we get some of those referrals. But, primarily, what we do with auction properties or bank-owned or HUD properties, we have to buy them, take them down and then resell them. So, it’s a wholesale, it’s just we actually have to take down the property. So we do need the funds to be able to purchase it, whether we use transactional funding, private lending, as you’re great at, at raising money, we do as well. We love the raising money game and using private lending for that. But yeah, it’s kind of the same deal as it is with assignment of contract, it’s  just we actually take it down so we show ownership at one point.

Jay Conner

00:07:59

So, what’s the advantage of actually buying the house instead of getting it under contract and then collecting an assignment fee?

Paul Lizell

00:08:09

You know in certain states there’s been a crackdown, I think Tennessee and Illinois have had a crackdown on wholesalers where they’re making them become licensed realtors. So I think this kind of negates that because you’re actually purchasing the property, right? You’re showing you have the vested interest, not just the vested interest or equitable interest, you actually purchased it and took it down. So you have the right to do what you want to afterwards, and nothing can come back. So from a legal standpoint, we’re probably the safest and best. I am licensed in Pennsylvania. I probably will get licensed in Florida. And occasionally we’ll do some of those assignment deals, but for the most part, we just take them down, resell them. And in this market, as you know, wholetailing has been unbelievable, just getting the property in decent enough shape to be mortgageable reselling it, not sitting on it for 6, 7 months while the rehab is getting done, while the showings are going on. It’s much quicker, you’re in and out 30 days at the most, and you’re hopefully selling it in 30 to 45 days in this market right now.

So, it’s been much quicker and better.

Jay Conner

00:09:08

Right. So the reason you actually buy the house and take ownership of it is, that way, regardless of where you’re doing business, you don’t have to worry about there being issues with just collecting an assignment fee. Am I hearing you right on that?

Paul Lizell

00:09:27

Yeah, absolutely. I mean, we would prefer to do it without having to have all the cash and buy it, but the banks don’t allow you. So if you buy a property from the bank, you can’t just assign it to another buyer, you must take it down in your name and you can do things with it. We’ve done things in trust. You know trusts are great. But the problem with that is, unless it’s an investor that’s a buyer investor, that trusts in you and understands what you’re doing, that they know what you’re doing, they usually don’t want to buy your trust, or if you put it in an LLC and sell them that LLC, they don’t usually want to buy it. And I totally understand that, they’re going to want to put it in their own name. We’ve run into that in the past with Fannie Mae. Fannie Mae had that anti-flipping where you couldn’t sell it for more than 20% of what you paid for. I think it was 90 days after the deed was recorded, not when you purchased, but when the deed was recorded. So with those properties, it either had to do something off the HUD, or we just had to wait those 90 days and then just sell it to them at that point, which has other risks. But, overall, if you’re making profits, I’m alright with that.

Jay Conner

00:10:26

There you go. So when you’re buying the houses in today’s market, are you primarily selling them to other real estate investors at a profit? Or are you selling them to people that are actually going to move in and own the home themselves and live in it?

Paul Lizell

00:10:44

In this market, we’ve done more to end-buyers. More people are going to live there than in the past. Typically, we sell to other investors for the most part, but in this market, the way it’s been and the kind of properties that we targeted, we’ve kind of pivoted and go on into less of the trainwreck properties, the ones that need everything and more to the ones that just need a little bit enhancing to get it back to become mortgageable and then resell them. So we’ve kind of pivoted a little bit just in this market to try to take advantage of what’s there. Go after the low-lying fruit rather than everything else.

Jay Conner

00:11:14

I got it. I know it’s going to depend on the market. I mean, you’re in all kinds of markets all over the nation, but what kind of profits are you seeing in today’s market doing the business the way you do it?

Paul Lizell

00:11:26

So our wholesale profits are generally around $12,000 per deal, and that’s your standard wholesale. If we’re wholetailing it, we’re around $32,000 and the full-scale fix and flip we’re into anywhere from probably close to your number, the $67,000, but we’ve had plenty of that have been $80,000, $100,000, even $120,000, especially in this market over the past year. So it’s been nice, but those are your full-scale rehabs. And those were the home runs, obviously, they’re not your average.

Jay Conner

00:11:55

Right. And we’ve already said it, but I want to make sure our audience understands it. Tell everybody what wholetailing is versus wholesaling.

Paul Lizell

00:12:05

Yeah, great point. So wholetailing is more or less where you’re getting a property and it just needs some paint, some carpet, it doesn’t need a full kitchen gut. Maybe you just repaint the cabinets. Maybe you put new cabinet poles on them, or maybe put countertops on them. With bathrooms, you’re okay with them but maybe you just put a new toilet in, or a new vanity or even easier sometimes, just a new faucet on a sink. And then you’re reworking your painting and carpeting. Usually, you don’t have to do roof siding, windows, things like that. So wholetailing has really just been super profitable. It’s more so than the fix and flip, believe it or not, for us. When you look at it from a time standpoint, we’re selling those so quickly, as quickly as our full-scale fix and flip, but we’re putting less effort in, and our holding costs are so much lower. It’s been worthwhile for us and less management of contractors because it can be one of the most difficult, taxing things in this business.

Jay Conner

00:13:00

Do you think that wholetailing, or in other words, “not doing a full rehab,” but you just make it okay and nicer? Do you think wholetailing is so much more popular now and working so well because there’s just no inventory?

Paul Lizell

00:13:16

That’s it. You hit the nail on the head with that, Jay. We go back to 2009 when I was doing fix and flips. If I didn’t do a full-scale, redo everything, you didn’t have that many buyers interested in the property unless it was the first-time home buyer. But as the market has gotten hotter and hotter and has lesser and lesser inventory, people are being less picky figuring they’ll do some of the work themselves. So it’s really just kind of taking what the market gives you. We follow it in our business. We follow the “Keep it simple, stupid” theory, and I think that’s the best thing to do in any business. Whatever the market is giving you, take that, right? If you don’t need to do the full-scale rehab, don’t, unless it’s going to warrant you getting an additional $50,000 or $60,000 where it becomes worthwhile, just take what the market gives you.

Jay Conner

00:13:56

Yeah. So how do you determine how to price? Like if you’re wholetailing a house to an end-buyer, what’s your criteria for pricing that home at the stage you got it in versus a complete rehab?

Paul Lizell

00:14:15

So basically what we do now with the wholetailing, we’re discounting it at 10-15% off what the normal end, full-scale rehab would be, which is still giving some equity to the buyer, should they want to do something there. And still it makes them fly off the shelves, I tell you, they don’t last very long when you’re just doing the basics and people see it’s clean and easy. I can change the carpet. I can change the paint color or whatever, I can do this or that. So people aren’t as picky as they used to be because there’s just no inventory. It’s hard to be picky. You take what’s there, basically, more or less.

Jay Conner

00:14:50

So in this market, as long as it’s clean and it smells good, if it’s dated, that’s okay, right?

Paul Lizell

00:15:03

Yes, dated, okay. You go do the ’80s, ’90s style. People can live with that as long as things aren’t broken, right? As long as you don’t have holes in the roof and things like that. Roofing is definitely a big issue, HVAC system for people. We just did one in Laurinburg, North Carolina, and unfortunately it did need a new HVAC system, so we did install that. We’re still gonna do pretty well. His property is still gonna net around $32,000, even though we had to do the roof and the HVAC system and the rest of it was a wholetail.

Jay Conner

00:15:32

Gotcha. So when you’re wholetailing to an end-user, are you finding the buyer by listing it with a real estate agent in the MLS?

Paul Lizell

00:15:42

We are. So, 90% of the time we do that. And occasionally like we did in one in Charleston, Tennessee, which is a very rural area, I had my disposition manager reach out to a bunch of agents in that area to just let them know we have a property and we offered them 2% commission. And the only thing we had to do was put it in a hot water heater in that one. That was literally it.

Jay Conner

00:16:05

That’s amazing. So first of all, to be virtually wholesaling, you have to find these deals and there ain’t no inventory to speak of. So everybody wants to know, well, if there isn’t any inventory, how in the world are you finding the deals?

Paul Lizell

00:16:27

Well, we got a little bit of an advantage over a lot of other people in the market. Most real estate investors out there stick with certain territories, maybe one or two markets out there. Occasionally somebody does three or four, but for us, the whole country is our oyster, really. That’s what we look at. We got inventory anywhere. We have preferred states where we’d like to do business, don’t get me wrong, but if there’s a great deal in another state where we don’t typically do business, we will go there. Just to give you an example, we’ve done 5 deals in New Mexico this year. We hadn’t done a deal in New Mexico in I think the previous 6 years before that, so we just kind of take what the market gives you. If there’s a deal there, we’ll take it. And we also hit those tertiary markets, and the second-tier markets that if you’re looking at a town or a city like Charlotte, go an hour outside, like a town like Kannapolis, Gastonia, and then go another hour outside that loop there. And then you’re in like a third-tier market. We target those markets because people do want to live there, especially now with what’s going on with the pandemic and everything. People are looking to be more and more rural. So it kind of fits right into what we’ve done all these years, which is a big advantage for us.

Jay Conner

00:17:33

Right! So how do you get the leads?

Paul Lizell

00:17:35

So for us, it’s our own time. So we pay no marketing fees, right? We don’t have any marketing costs whatsoever. I had turned off the direct mail marketing in 2013 and I just buy exclusively off of these auctions. For me, it’s really looking at what’s on the auction sites right now. We use VAs. We have several VAs that do this for each different auction site, whether it’s Auction.com, Xome, the Hudson & Marshall, Hubzu, Realty Bid, Auction Network, HUD Home Store, Fannie and Freddie. We have them go through and they do what I call “First-level fig.” They look at it and we give them the criteria of what we look out for – square footage, repair amount – and then they’ll send me a spreadsheet on Excel. Yes, yes, no, no, no. So, let’s say there’s 250 properties on this particular auction that’s coming up.

We might weed that down to about 20 to 25 that we’ll actually bid on. And then as the bidding process goes, if we’re getting out there and we just let those go off and again, we pick the low-lying fruit there. We’re not going to get into a bidding war. Today, for example, there’s a property in Florida that was in Sarasota, which is a red-hot market. It’s a nice market. My maximum allowable offer is 141 because there’s a buyer’s premium on this property. So the most I would spend was 150 because the ARV was 350 tops. This thing ends up getting bid up to 203 with a buyer’s premium. It was over 210 that that person is purchasing a property for, plus it needed everything. This thing needed at least 125 and work. So basically whoever bought this is probably an end-buyer, but they’re going to be upside down when all is said and done. So we fall off that, we have our maximum viable offers that will go up to, and you can’t get emotional with it, right? That’s a nice market. I would have liked to have been in there, but it didn’t fit our criteria. So I let it go.

Jay Conner

00:19:27

Paul, in case we’ve got some listeners that need to leave the show a little early, go ahead and let folks know how they can get in contact with you and continue the conversation.

Paul Lizell

00:19:38

Sure, absolutely. So we have a couple of different websites. www.REOAuctionAcademy.com is one of them. And also FlipRealEstateVirtually.com is another one. Both URLs work. You can contact us, and if you want to learn more about our coaching program, which we teach people how to do exactly what we do. As a matter of fact, we teach a lot of other investors who do direct mail, postcards, and PPC. They want to learn this aspect of the business. They actually hire somebody or have somebody who doesn’t have as much going on and let them handle this whole new arm of the business for them.

Jay Conner

00:20:13

Again, those 2 websites are REOAuctionAcademy.com, and the other one is FlipRealEstateVirtually.com. All right, so you got the leads coming in. You got your VAs researching all the houses that are coming up on all these different auction sites. How in the world do you have boots on the ground, eyes on the ground, in all these different markets, taking a look at these houses to even know what a close estimation of repairs would be that you need to do? Because, obviously, you don’t want to bid on a property until you know what kind of repairs you’re looking at.

Paul Lizell

00:21:02

Absolutely. And this is one of the most important things. So how you develop these kinds of relationships and these relationships end up blossoming and give you more deals throughout the years. I’ll give you an example of it. So in Tucson, Arizona, there was an REO agent who I bought a bunch of properties through over the years from 2010, all the way through now, we still currently do. Basically, he saw I was a serious player in Tucson, Arizona. We wholesaled a bunch of them. And then he was starting to bring me deals and bring me leads and bring me properties. So he was my boots on the ground. And how that started was I just reached out to him initially after I was bidding on some properties, and this is what you need to do if you’re entering any new market, you need to contact the realtor or the REO agent for that property.

If it’s a bank-owned property, get some details. You’re trying to get the BPO, which is the “Broker’s Price Opinion” of the property. And if you can get that, that’ll tell you basically what they think the “as is value” is, the 30-day sale price, the 90-day sale price,  the 120-day sale price. And they’ll show comps on there, and that’s like, that’s gold. That’s gold when you get that. So you utilize them for that. You also try to get additional pictures from them. And then you’re trying to get what kind of repairs are needed because they generally know, again, the utilities usually aren’t on, but they know what repairs were needed. They know if the roof’s leaking, they know if the air conditioner or heater looks really bad and it looks like it needs replacing, the hot water heater. They’ll tell you if the kitchen needs to be replaced. And the best referrals I get for contractors, hands down, is from these agents.

And the big reason is these contractors who work for these agents get referrals and they get a lot of referrals. So they do not want to screw over these agents when they’re giving them, basically, free marketing. So the guys that we’ve used from all the agent referrals have all been good, and I’m going to knock on wood when I say that, the ones that I run into that have been bad are ones that I picked on my own. I’ve also gotten great ones, but the best referrals from people who are there, who have boots on our ground and have local people, you know how to do those repairs. So we relied big time on the agents on these properties. If there is no agent, we use a company called BPO Photo Flow that’ll go out there and take some pictures of the property.

And if we have a lockbox, they can usually get inside, take more pictures. And we kind of tell them what to look for, like take pictures of the exterior, make sure there’s no cracks in the foundation, take a picture of the basement, the systems, make sure the HVACs are right, hot water heater, kitchens and bathrooms are important. You know, anything that they noticed cracks or issues with flooring, whatever, anything off-level. We want to know that kind of thing. If there’s moisture in the basement, just so we know what we’re in for an aid, generally do a pretty good job and they’re fairly inexpensive to utilize.

Jay Conner

00:23:49

And what’s the name of that service? One more time.

Paul Lizell

00:23:54

It’s BPO Photo Flow, like “Broker’s Price Opinion.” BPOPhotoFlow.com. And they do a really good job. They’re not in every market, so sometimes we actually have to reach out to other local agents and send them out there. And then we just pay them basically more or less to go out there and take some pictures for us and then tell them if we buy it, we’re going to list it through you. We do offer that. And if we do buy, we do end up listing it with them or having them help us sell the property if they know some investors.

Jay Conner

00:24:20

So these REO real estate agents, also known as bank-owned real estate agents, have the listing for these properties that are going up for auction. So obviously if you buy it, you don’t have to pay them anything for the purchase because the bank, the REO, is paying their commission. But do you compensate these agents in any additional way other than when you make a purchase, the bank pays them?

Paul Lizell

00:24:46

We do at times, like if we know they’re going to be doing above and beyond, and they’re not going to get the listing, we will definitely pay them. We’ll say, “What do you want for this? Or what free one for that service?” They usually are very, very fair with the prices and we’re glad to do it. We just Venmo them most of the time. I’ve never really run into any issues with that. Most of the time, they’re really happy to just hand the listing for you. I even have thought of them managing my rehabs for me because they know the contractors, they kind of manage, oversee, and take pictures. They’re happy to go do that. They see the progress and they want it listed so that they can get their permission when all is said and done.

Jay Conner

00:25:21

Awesome. And how do you find these REO agents? I suppose one way you could find them is, well, your VAs are looking at auctions coming up. They go research the property and right there, they see who’s got the real estate listing on it. Right?

Paul Lizell

00:25:37

Absolutely. And you get a lot of these agents who will have 5, 10, 15, 20 different properties. And they’ll cover a huge geographical region, which is crazy. I mean, they’re running around all the time. Nobody works harder than an REO agent, that I can tell you. Those guys and gals, they work their butts off and they are good. Their numbers are so spot on. For example, on a property we had in Ohio a few years back, I was talking to the agent, “What do you think the value of this property is, as is?” And she’s like, it had to be somewhere between 17 and 20. Sure enough, we picked it up for like $7,500. We sold that for $17,500. She was just right on the money with it. And that happens time and time and time again, the only time, if you’re in with a newer agent, that’s where you want to be careful.

If it is a newer real estate agent, they’re not going to be as experienced. You’re going to want to try to lean on a secondary agent. Hopefully somebody that’s in one of these towns that has their own brokerage that’s been there for 10, 20 years and really knows the market. Well, those have been our best sources. Far and away, the people that are in small mom & pop shops, they just know the market. They know everybody in town. They usually know who lived in that property, especially if it’s a smaller town, like you live in, Jay, they know people, right? And they’ve been our greatest source all over every market that we’ve ever been in.

Jay Conner

00:26:55

Let’s say that you make a bid and you win the bid at the auction and all these auctions are online, right?

Paul Lizell

00:27:04

Yes. They’re all online.

Jay Conner

00:27:05

So you win the bid. So now you’re the winning bidder. On average, how long do you have before you get close? In addition to that, do you sometimes, or always get a home inspection before you take it down?

Paul Lizell

00:27:22

So, Jay, I’ll answer the first question first. 30 to 45 days usually is what you got, time-wise. Sometimes a little bit longer. If the title is a little cloudy or there’s past issues or where something wasn’t done right at the Sheriff’s sale. That’s the answer to the first question. The second one, we never get a home inspection. We’ll just send a contractor out there. I don’t have too much faith in the home inspection field, business, people. Most of these guys learn out of a book and never swung a hammer a day in their life. So the people I rely on are the contractors. I try to find general contractors that really know everything, as many aspects of it. And yeah, if they miss some stuff, sure, they’re gonna miss some stuff here and there, but they’re going to see the big stuff. And they’ve been a great source for me and are far less expensive because you’re just gonna pay $400 or $500 for these home inspections when I can send a guy out there for a hundred bucks to give me a pretty good inspection, you know.

Jay Conner

00:28:14

And again, as you said, you find these general contractors by referral from the bank-owned real estate agents, right?

Paul Lizell

00:28:21

Yup. And about 95% of the time, they don’t charge you a penny to go out there. They’re hoping to get the work.

Jay Conner

00:28:26

That’s fantastic. Well, this is a fantastic business model you’ve got, Paul. Any parting comments?

Paul Lizell

00:28:35

I love it. It’s a great business model. The one thing I really like about it is that I can turn a business on or off anytime I want, unlike the direct mail marketing or the PPC where you gotta be on those calls right away. On a PPC lead or direct mail, it’s constantly going. If I want to go on vacation, I shut down for 2 weeks or a month. If I want to go overseas, I can do that and just stop operations and start right back up when I get back. So I do love that. That is my favorite aspect of the business. I also don’t have to deal with home sellers 99% of the time. So those are 2 facets. I really like how it’s really simple. It’s not turnkey, but your time is your marketing costs, right? Your time and energy, which is your most valuable asset. Your time is all your costs involved.

[suchalonelysunflower]

“Entangled” (c.h) (h.s)

Pairing: Calum Hood X Reader / Harry Styles X Reader

Requested: Yes!

Summary: You never wanted to be caught up in a love triangle, you never asked to be entangled in this situation. Now you have a choice to make. You know it has to be one of them at the end but, who would it be? And why is it so hard?

Warnings: Love Triangle! Pinning, unrequited love, language, angsty with a little fluff, mentions of alcohol and some grammatical error (English is not my first language, I’m sorry)

Word Count: 7.2 k

Author’s Note: Requested by my darling @rime-warrior a few weeks ago, I decided to turn her wonderful promt into a series. This part serves as the intro of the series! It starts with the reader in the “present” (just go with it) and then it will follow their journey with the boys since 2014. Reblogs, comments and feedback are always welcome 💕 You can read my other works for Harry and 5SOS HERE. Hope you like it and happy reading 🦋✨

@rime-warrior : Hi! I’m back lol I loved the heather imagine and I was wondering if you could do a calum/reader/Harry imagine where they’re on tour and trying to get the readers attention by being goofballs

Part 1: The beginning.

Never in a million years did you think you would end up making a decision like this. Hell, never in a million years did you think you would be here in the first place! If somebody would’ve come to you a year ago to tell you that you would’ve been in one of the biggest reunion tours of one of the biggest boy bands that's ever existed and one of the greatest pop/alt bands of the new generation you’d call them crazy and probably pepper spray them as you run away. But here you are and, surprisingly, it’s the last place you want to be at.

You are currently sitting at the stairs outside the venue, it’s the last concert on the “Here We Go Again” One Direction/5 Seconds of Summer Reunion Tour. Tapping your feet relentlessly against the cold metal and regretting not bringing a jacket with you as you can hear the fans going crazy inside the stadium, and who could blame them? They waited so long to see their favorite people again, not only that but together! After almost six years apart. You would’ve been just like them if it weren’t for the stomach ache your nerves are giving to you at this exact moment.

You knew what you had to do. It was the right thing after all, but that didn’t mean it didn’t hurt like crazy. Somehow you were going to lose someone tonight and you weren’t ready for that, you’ll never be ready for that.

How the hell did this all start in the first place? How did you become so entangled in this mess without realizing? And how would you get out of it?

So many thoughts are running through your head, yet none of them seem to stick around for more than ten seconds before rushing onto another. Head spinning at a thousand miles per hour as you clenched your fists at the side of your body, knuckles turning white as they grasped the cold and dirty metal of the staircase.

You could run… you were kinda fast and they are all inside so they wouldn’t be able to catch you. Maybe you could move to Peru, you always wanted to visit Machu Picchu and its alpacas, plus the ponchos look really good on you. The problem was that 1. You didn’t know Spanish. 2. You had exactly 9.57 dollars left on one of your pockets because you left your wallet inside and 3. You weren’t a coward.

Well, you were. That's why you let it come this far. But you were not going to do that anymore. You need to make a decision and it has to be tonight. But why was it so hard though?

***************************************************

A few years ago

“Y/N! C’mon!” You heard your best friend say “We are going to be late again!”

Lottie was impatiently pacing around the hotel room once again, she had her bags around her shoulders as she considered leaving you behind.

“You know I have to start early today! There’s gonna be four more people to style and I don’t want to do it all rushed.” She whined, sitting on one of the beds.

You came out of the bathroom soon after, cheeks a little bit flushed because it wasn’t like you to slow things down, especially when it came to work. But you wanted to look cute today, well, more cute than usual.

The tour was about to start and you were lucky enough that management let you come with Lottie to work on the stylish team with her. Her older brother, Louis, was a close friend of yours as well, so when he proposed the idea a few months back, you just couldn’t resist.

“Sorry, love” you replied sheepishly “I lost track of time”

Lottie lifted her gaze towards you and rolled her eyes playfully “Oh, shush. You and I both know that you are bluffing. I know exactly what you’re doing wearing that outfit and honestly? Can’t blame ya”

She was right, she’s always right when it comes to these kinds of stuff.

It’s not like you’ve never met the guys! I mean, you know Louis and Zyan because of Lottie, you’ve never seen the other members of the band in person, yet. But it’s not like you don’t know them either, they are everywhere! It was impossible to escape from the impact One Direction had. And now you were going to work with them as a stylist, it seemed like a dream.

Not only that, but you were also in charge of styling the opening number: An Australian band called 5 Seconds of Summer that Louis likes. You don’t know much about them other than this is the second time they’ll open for One Direction and they’ll be around for the European and American leg of the tour. You googled them to have a reference of what they’d look like so you’ll know how to work around them and, honestly, where do they get those guys? They don’t even look like eighteen year olds! And they are also talented and successful at such a young age? You promised yourself that you were going to listen to some of their songs, but still haven’t gotten around to do it just yet, but tonight will definitely change that.

You were nervous. You could feel your hands get clammy just thinking about the pressure that’s on you to make those guys look like absolute gods on stage (though that wouldn’t be a challenge, knowing the nine of them are incredibly handsome already) But that thought didn’t ease you a bit. You wanted to be good. No, scratch that. You know you are good. You want to impress them, hence the cool outfit.

“Think you know it all?” You said, already grabbing a pillow and throwing it to Lottie’s face.

“I know it all, darling” She laughed, throwing it back at you “Now, move your ass. We need to ge to the stadium as soon as possible”

You could hear the fans from a mile away before you walked through the backstage doors. The adrenaline was contagious, everyone was moving around like crazy but you could feel the excitement in the air. You already knew this was where you were meant to be, haven’t even started but you love it already. This was meant to be.

Lottie was walking fast, easily leaving you behind as you stared in awe at your surroundings, not paying any attention towards where you were going until you felt something hard crashing into you, making you lose your balance and you fell to the floor with a massive weight crushing your lungs.

All you could feel was the painful sting that shocked your body as your ass touched the ground with a big “thud” Luckily, the person that knocked you down was quick enough to put a hand behind your head so you don’t hit it too harshly as it came in contact with the cement floors. You tried to curse but the weight in your chest made it almost impossible to talk, making you only gasp in surprise.

The person lying on top of you groaned in discomfort, they must’ve hurt themselves too when you both hit the ground. “Are you okay?” The deep voice said, trying to hide the pain. You opened your eyes at the sound of his voice and were shocked to find two green orbs staring right back at you.

Harry’s face was too close to yours. Noses almost brushing as you took in all the details on his panicked expression. He was beautiful. Breathtaking in the metaphorically and literally since he was still on top of you, crushing your chest with his.

You tapped on his arm trying to push him off you. He seemed to get the hint as he quickly apologized and stood up, offering you his hand to help you do the same. You gladly took it as the air came rushing back to your lungs, a little whine escaping your throat as you felt how your muscles ached after the impact.

“Oh shit, are you hurt?” Harry asked, faced filled with worry as he looked at you up and down, trying to make sure there were no visible injuries.

“Not really, but-“ You said bringing a hand to your lower back and rubbing it gently, hissing when you felt a hint of pain when you touched a certain spot “Definitely gonna bruise in a few hours”

“I am very, very sorry. I didn’t mean to- Do you need ice? I can get you some ice if you-“

“I’m fine” You raised your palm to cut him off, smiling as you saw how worried he actually was “Really, I’m fine. It could’ve been worse if it wasn’t for your hand working as a cushion for my head” You giggled “Are you okay, though?”

Harry nodded, smiling as well “I truly am sorry, I was not paying attention to where I was going”

“Well, that makes two of us. But why were you running?”

“Oh, ’m running away from my bodyguard. You see, they really don’t like it when you do that and steal the keys to the van” He said with mischievous eyes, flashing a smile as he showed you the key dangling in his finger. Soon after, you heard someone yell ‘Harry Styles come back here!’ You couldn’t help but laugh at how ridiculous the situation was. Harry stared at you for a little while, eyes gleaming at the sound of your giggles “Gotta go! Are you sure you’re okay…?”

“Y/N” You said, nodding your head.

“Y/N…” He repeated in a low voice, eyes scanning you once again as he backed away slowly “See yeh round, love” The last thing you saw was his flirty wink before he started running again.

You felt your cheeks get warmer but you were quick to hide it. This was your job, you need to be professional. Though, you gotta admit, having Harry Styles knocking you off your feet on your first day wasn’t bad at all. Really not bad at all.

“There you are!” You heard your best friend call from the other end of the hall “C´mon, we need to set everything up before they come here” Lottie came close to you, softly grabbing you by the hand and tugging it so you could follow her. She had an understanding smile on her face “Don´t worry, I was in the same position as you when I first visited the tour. It's amazing, isn't it?”

“Kinda intimidating, actually”

Lottie laughed and linked your arms together as you walked through the enormous hall downt to a small room.

You spent the next hour or so getting everything ready for when they come, laughing and joking around each other like you always do, making you almost forget that you were here to do a job and not just hang out. That's one of the many good things about the Tomlinsons, they make you feel so comfortable that you forget all your worries.

The playlist you chose was blasting on the small speaker you had brought to entertain yourselves while waiting for the boys. You were both laughing and jumping around with brushes in your hands, pretending they were microphones and you were having your own little concert with the Spice Girls. You were in the middle of your solo, already lost in the sound of Baby Spice´s voice when the door opened at the same time you were stretching your arm in an improvised dance move, accidentally hitting the person next to you with the heavy brush.

“Ouch!” The boy said as he quickly brought his hand to his nose, trying to make sure it wasn't bleeding.

You covered your mouth immediately and threw the brush into one of the cushions “Oh my- I´m so sorry. I'm so so so so sorry” You soon apologized and went over to him, trying to assess the damages and hoping you didn't break his nose “Are you okay? I really am sorry I didn´t-”

The boy opened his eyes, locking them with yours. You have never seen such an intense stare in your life, it was intriguing, magnetic. You could feel yourself blush, but you didn't know if it was because of the embarrassing situation or because you felt intimidated by those brown eyes.

“Uh.. Yeah” He said blinking when he realized he was staring at you for a little too long “I just wasn't expecting that” He chuckled to ease the tension. He had a beautiful smile, like the kind that's just so welcoming and warm, so you couldn't help but join in his laughter.

Out of the corner of your eye, you could see Lottie trying to hold herself together so she wouldn´t burst into fits of laughter at the scenario playing in front of her. You quickly cleared your throat and asked “Are you sure you are okay? Nothing's broken?”

“Nah, that's just his face” A voice with a thick accent said.

The boy rolled his eyes as you peeked over his shoulders. Leaning into the door frame were three other people, boys of apparently the same age, taller than life and equally amused by his hurt friend. You recognized them immediately (mostly thanks to the color haired boy) They were the opening act. They were 5 Seconds of Summer. And you just hit their bassist on the nose.

“Way to make an impression, Cal” Laughed the boy with the long curly hair. Ashton? or was that Luke?

Calum flipped them off as they made their way into the little room and you felt your cheeks get warmer again. The three of them went to say hi to Lottie, having already met her at the last tour, and started a whole new conversation with her.

“Uhmm, I can go get some ice. If you want?” You asked, feeling a little self conscious now that there were more people in the room.

Calum smiled.

“I´m good, but thanks sweetheart” He winked at you “I´m Calum, by the way” He extended his hand for you to shake.

“Y/N” You said with a smile.

“Beautiful” He said, barely even a whisper before his eyes met yours again and you swore your heart just skipped a beat right there and there.

“Hey, Calum!” Lottie greeted him with a hug “We are starting with you today, okay? Go grab a seat” Calum nodded and sat in front of one of the vanities. Lottie came closer to you and whispered “Talk about a meet cute” She teased.

You rolled your eyes and muttered a “Shut up” before you walked away and started to work with one of the other boys.

This was going to be an interesting first day.

For the next hour or so, you found yourself amazed at the fact of how much you had in common with the Aussie band. You bonded over music, fashion and you laughed at the same dumb jokes, and were genuelly surprised at how grounded they all were. They were just as excited as you for the tour, knowing what big of a chance it was and how lucky they were to be here, just like you. In a matter of minutes you were acting like old friends.

From time to time you would look at Calum over the mirror, only to find that he was already staring at you, flashing you a smile every time your eyes met. He wasn’t much of a chatter like his friends, but he still engaged in every conversation, especially if you were part of it.

When their time at “your office” as Lottie calls it, ended, he was the last one to go out. But before he stepped out the door, he gave one last look at you and said “You’ll be watching our set tonight, right?”

You smiled “Wouldn't miss it”

Calum's smile grew until it almost reached his ears, he muttered a last goodbye before closing the door.

“Well, someone has a crush” You turned around and saw Lottie wiggle her eyebrows in a suggestive way, pressing her lips into a teasing fine line. You just rolled your eyes.

��What are you talking about? He was just being friendly”

“Who was being friendly?” A familiar voice said.

You looked behind you and ran towards the slim figure that just opened the door, pulling him into a hug.

“Louis!” You squealed in excitement, circling your arms around his back as he held tighter to you.

Louis was the closest thing you had to an older brother. Growing up as Lottie’s best friend made you an unofficial member of their family and you loved them all as your own. He was always the life of the party, making jokes, teasing you and sometimes reprimanding you if you messed up. You couldn’t count how many times he took you both for a late night snack or let you hang out with him and his friends when you got bored. He also gave great advice, and you trusted him more than anything (besides Lottie, of course) The day that he went away to chase his dreams was one of the most bittersweet moments of your lives, for one part you were happy for him but you would miss him like crazy.

And now, almost five years later, here you were. The three of you, together again like old times but with a more busy schedule. And you wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Y/N/N! It’s so good to see you, love”

“What? No hug for me?” Said Lottie sarcastically, cocking an eyebrow to his older brother.

“Only if you tell me who was being friendly with Y/N” He said as he let you go and her in for a tight bear hug.

“Who’s being friendly with who?” Someone called out from the door.

The three of you turned around to see Harry leaning onto the door. His brows frowned as his eyes scanned the room until they met yours. If he was surprised to see you there then he didn’t show it. After all, you didn’t get to tell him what you were doing here.

“H!” Lottie gasped in delight as she pushed her brother away and went to hug the curly haired man.

Harry hugged her with the same energy, holding her close and muttering a sweet ‘hello’, just like Louis did with you.

“Oi, mate! Have you met Y/N? The new stylist and best friend anyone could have?” Asked Louis as he put his arm around your shoulder, showing you off like a proud big brother.

Harry looked at you and smiled “Yeah, we ran into each other earlier” He shared a knowing smirk with you and you couldn't help but chuckle a little bit.

“Quite literally, I must say”

He was about to say something when the door opened again, you realized no one here bothered to knock first, apparently. Niall, Liam and Zayn entered the room, ready to get themselves ready before the show. Lottie introduced you to each one of them and immediately started working when she noticed how knotted Niall’s hair was.

The conversations started flowing with ease, all of them genuinely curious to get to know you, convinced that any friend of Louis was a friend of them. They were all very sweet and welcoming, and, just like with the members of 5SOS, you bonded rather quickly. All the nerves you once had easily faded away as you felt more comfortable in this space, more convinced than ever that this was where you were meant to be.

“Oi, what about those pretty eyes you saw earlier, Harold?” Liam’s voice filled the room “Seen them again?”

Harry instantly lifted his gaze to watch his friend through the mirror and shot him a deathly glare “Don't know wha you’re talkin ’bout” He stated.

You could’ve swore he looked your way, just for a moment his green eyes met yours through the mirror. It was quick, almost like a reflex. Maybe you were just imagining things.

“Ooh, does Harry have a crush?” Lottie teased while applying some oils to his curls. He just rolled his eyes “Wouldn’t be the first one to catch feelings in this room”

You snapped your head towards your friend, knowing and dreading what she was going to say next.

“Spill” Said Louis, living for the drama.

“Well…” She started, searching for your face in the mirror. But you quickly averted your eyes, suddenly finding Zayn’s hair very interesting “Let’s just say that one of your Australian mates already started making eyes at our Y/N”

The room filled with “oooohs” and “aaawwws” from all of the boys. All except Harry, who was just staring straight at his reflection with a rather serious look.

You laughed and shook your head “Honestly, Lottie. You are just imagining things”

Staring at the mirror one more time, your eyes quickly met Harry’s green orbs, already staring at you from his seat. You shot him a smile and he returned it as the topic of the conversation changed once again.

Time flew without any of you really noticing it. All the boys were done with their hair and make up, ready to move on to the wardrobe department. Lottie tagged along with Louis, wanting to say hi to a few friends she made last year. You wanted to go too, but a quick glance at your phone made you aware of the time and the promise you had made.

“Oh shoot” You breathed, quickly grabbing your phone from the vanity as you rushed through the door.

“What’s the hurry, love?” Asked Harry, amused at your behavior. You didn’t notice that he was the only person left in the room.

“The show’s about to start and I kinda promise someone that I wouldn’t miss it” You smiled “But, now that I think about it, I don’t even know how to get to the side of the stage!”

Harry got up from his chair, wiping his palms onto his black skinny jeans “I could take you there, but only if you promise to stay there for our set as well”

“What? Are you kidding?” You laughed “You really think I wasn’t planning on doing that already?”

His eyes gleamed with joy at your words and you swore you saw a glimpse of his pink tinted cheeks as he nudged his head and asked you to follow him.

You followed Harry though a complicated mess of halls filled with people running around, making sure that everything was already set to start. You had to admit, he really knew how to navigate, not only on stage but backstage as well, you would’ve gotten lost the moment you stepped outside the door if it weren’t for him.

Once you reached the side of the stage, making sure that you stayed way out of the fans point of view, Harry said he had to go back and change.

“‘S not Ashton, is it?” He asked, just before he turned to leave.

“What?”

“The boy who was a crush on you” He stated, eyes locked to the stage, almost like he was trying too hard not to meet yours “‘s not him, right? Cos I’ve seen him look at my sister and I don’t-“

“Nobody has a crush on me!” You laughed as you rolled your eyes, reminding yourself to kill your friend right after the show. “Lottie was just teasing. Besides, I’m here to work, not to look for a relationship”

Harry nodded, seemingly pleased with your answer, making his way back to the maze called ‘backstage’

You watched him walk away with a soft smile on your face. Harry was not like everyone in the media said he was, and you were glad. You didn’t need more drama in your life, no boyfriends nor toxic relationships. You could feel that this was going to be your safe space, and who knows? maybe when the tour finishes you’ll have a new friend to lean on.

The sound of a guitar riff caught you off guard, pulling your attention away from the black background and into the stage. You could hear the fans go absolutely bonkers as the four Australians came into view, smiling as they took their places on stage.

Sharing one understanding look among each other, Ashton banged his drumsticks together, setting the pace for their first song. The crowd goes wild as they recognize the melody immediately, singing and jumping along the words of a song about a girl friendzoning one of the guys.

They sounded incredible. It was hard to imagine that they were still teenagers like yourself, like most of the people in the crowd, actually. The way they moved on stage was erratic, always walking around and messing with each other as they sang and played their instruments like it was nothing. It was easy to tell that they’ve been friends for a long time now and they feel comfortable with each other, having the most fun up there, seizing every moment like it was their last,

You, on the other hand, found yourself enjoying their set a little too much. Since you’ve never gotten the chance to actually listen to most of their songs before tonight, you were quite surprised at how much fun and kinda edgy they were, making you want to dance and jump like the rest of the fans. So you did. You didn’t care about if people around you were watching, you just let yourself go to the rhythm and enjoyed your night. This was the beginning of your new life, what better way to celebrate it than letting all your worries go while your new favorite band played on stage, just mere meters in front of you.

You were so lost in your own little world, completely immersed in the music, that you didn’t notice the looks Calum gave to you while onstage. Everytime he had the chance, his head spinned towards you, watching with joy as you danced along to their songs. Once you caught his eyes staring at you, you smiled at him and stuck your tongue out, mocking him. He just laughed wholeheartedly, bringing one finger to the side of his nose, the same one you punched a few hours ago. You did the same without questioning it, turning that little gesture into your first inside joke.

The guys played a few more songs before their set ended. Calum came to you as soon as they finished their bows.

“Hey!” He said, still pumped with adrenaline.

He was sweaty, very sweaty. But his energy was contagious as he flashed one of his beautiful smiles to you, eyes shining from excitement.

“You came!”

“Told ya I was going to!” You exclaimed “You guys are amazing!”

“You really think so?” Calum looked like a boy on Christmas, genuinely happy that you like how they sound like “Or are you just being nice because you almost broke my nose?”

“Almost! That’s the key word there” You chuckled “But no, I’m being honest. You killed it tonight!”

Calum’s smile almost reached his eyes, making all of his little dimples pop out as he looked at you softly.

“Hey… Uhm.. I need to get back to our dressing room, Wanna come with me?” He asked, suddenly shy.

“Sure!” You said, making his eyes sparkle “Then we can come back and watch the others perform”

Calum furrowed his eyebrows “Oh, you’re staying for that?” He sounded a little bit disappointed.

“Well, yeah? How could I miss it” You chuckled, but stopped once you saw his expression change “Why? You’re not staying for the whole show?”

“Management doesn’t let us stay long after our set”

You muttered a surprised ‘oh’ That wasn’t fair at all! Why couldn’t they enjoy the show like the rest of you? Or even just stay backstage and do nothing but chill until the show was done? You could see Calum was disappointed in that fact too, it must be a bummer for them not to have the full experience.

“But..” He said smiling, bringing his eyes up to meet with yours again “There is an after party at the hotel later tonight, will I see you there as well?”

You nodded “Of course! I’ll be there”

“Yes! Can’t wait!” He jumped in excitement as he took a step forward and started walking towards the dressing rooms. Not before turning back around and saying “See ya there, Y/N” Putting his finger to the side of his nose and smiling when you did the same.

A few minutes later Lottie showed up beside you, knowing the concert was about to start.

“How did the guys do?” She asked.

“Oh, they were amazing! I don´t know why I´ve never heard of them until a few weeks ago!”

She hummed “Yes, they are pretty good. How was Calum?”

You looked at her confused. Was this going to become a thing now? Couldn't you just have a friend without getting involved in some relationship drama? It was frustrating and it will only end up making things awkward for everyone. It has happened before and you were not ready to experience that again.

She seemed to notice your discomfort and immediately changed the topic. Not wanting to upset you. Clearing her throat she said “Uhm.. the boys really like you”

You snapped your head towards her direction.

“They´ve talked about you a little bit, they all say you are really nice and all the yadah yadah I already know” She smiled “Harry was especially pleased with your work. He says could come and stay with me permanently on the team”

You blushed at his compliment, but before you could even say anything you were interrupted by his voice.

“Straight off the plane to a new hotel..”

The fans go wild. Quite feral, you might add. But you couldn't blame them, not even a little bit. The five boys walking down the runway was truly a sight to behold.

You felt the goosebumps run around your body as the energy grew into something quite impossible to understand. This was it. This was the feeling everyone's been talking about, and now it was your turn to experience it every night.

As the music flew through the stadium. All five of them took over the stage like it was their home, and in some way, it was. They practically grew up there, being in the spotlight since a very young age and stealing the hearts of millions around the world. They were as professionals as they were goofy, always finding an excuse to have fun and tease each other in the middle of the songs and with the public, creating an atmosphere of pure bliss wherever they went on that huge structure in the middle of the stadium.

With every song they sang, Lottie grabbed your arm and started dancing and jumping like it's the first time she heard their music and you did the same, getting completely lost in the feeling, so much so that you didn't even notice how much time had passed and just before you know it, the concert was getting to an end.

When the last song came through, the guys were scattered around the stage, running around as they took in everything they could from this experience. At some point, Harry stood right in front of you, just like Calum did a few hours ago, and while he sang his heart out, his eyes connected with yours. His green eyes sparkled like stars when he met your gaze, only for a second too long before he joined his brothers in the middle of the runway, ready to give one final bow and exit the stage where he came from.

“C´mon!” Said Lottie, pulling you out of your trance “They are going to shower and get ready for the after party. We should get going now, because I am not going to show up there with this outfit!”

You laughed at her and followed her to grab a cab, feeling more than excited for the afterparty.

You walked along the lobby, Lottie right by your side. Both of you clean, fresh and looking hot as hell as you made your way to the venue. To say you were nervous was an understatement, you were downright terrified. This was your first VIP party celebrating, not only your first day, but also the first day of one of the biggest tours of the year.

“Hey,” Lottie calmed you down, placing her little hand on your shoulder. “We did an amazing job today, sweetie. It’s time to celebrate”

You nodded and let out a breath you didn’t know you were holding, trying to calm the stomach ache that your nerves created and opening the door of the hotel club.

You immediately got caught up in the dark atmosphere, flashing colored lights flying around the room and reflecting themselves onto the mirrored dance floor. Out of the corner of your eyes you spotted a few people sitting on the bar stools, some were already on the dance floor and others were just sitting on dark booths pulled against the walls, chilling as they watched the party go by. You recognize some of them, but most of them were strangers, elite people that came to celebrate and wish another successful tour for the boys.

The pressure on your chest became tighter. You grabbed Lottie‘s hand and felt some kind of comfort when she squeezed it for a second, at least you weren’t alone.

“LOTTIE!” Someone called from one of the dark booths. You could recognize Zayn’s thick accent anywhere. With one reassuring look, Lottie pulled your hand and guided you through the sea of people flooding the room.

Once you reached the booth it was easier to identify its occupants. Zayn was sitting next to Louis who, at the same time, was beside Ashton and Luke. You all exchanged your hellos as you took a seat next to Lottie.

“What’d think of the show?” Asked Louis, taming a sip of his beer.

The group started rambling on and on about the different parts of the show, their favorite moments and about the craziest fans they managed to see. You spend quite a bit talking and laughing with the guys, slowly getting more comfortable being there. It’s not like you didn’t enjoy parties at all, on the contrary, you loved them. The problem was that this was new territory, pleasure mixing with your responsibilities and you didn’t want to fuck this up. The sheer thought of that possibility made you feel ill again and you wanted nothing more than to breathe a little air into your lungs before you passed out from overthinking too much.

Scanning the room you spotted a glass door that led to some sort of balcony, you cheered internally “I’ll be right back” You whispered to Lottie, who was having a nice chat with Luke about his bone structure. She looked at you, worried. You smiled at her “I’m just going to get some air, keep talking. I won’t take long”

You almost sprinted to the door, heart racing at the thought of a moment alone to gather yourself. Once the cool air of the night grazed your skin, you felt like you could finally breathe properly. You always felt more like yourself when nighttime arrived, it was complicated to explain but it seemed like the stars could understand you better than anyone. They were your comfort and your confidants, because no matter what, you knew they wouldn't ever leave you alone.

“‘S nice to know ‘m not the only one who needed a break” You heard a familiar voice say next to you.

Harry was standing next to railing, green eyes fixed on you as you took a step closer.

“You’re not having fun?” You asked, resting your elbows on the cold metal of the balcony.

“Parties are all the same after a while,” He said absentmindedly “‘m just really tired”

“Well, that’s understandable. After the night you had? If I were you I would be sleeping until I turned 40!”

Harry laughed and shook his head at your comment “How’s your bum?”

“My what now?”

“Your ass” He said pointing at your backside “From the fall?”

“Oh! It’s fine, just a little bruised up. Which is surprising since I expected a lot worse from being run over by a six foot man”

He smiled “‘m sorry, love. If it makes you feel better I got my ass handed to me by a six foot five man right after that”

“Yeah, that does make me feel better” You chuckled, looking at the sky again “Still can’t believe I’m here”

Harry came closer to you, his arm barely inches from yours. You didn’t notice as he studied your face carefully, almost like he was trying to remember every detail “‘s like a dream, isn’t it?”

“It truly is. I-“ You turned your face to him, only to find his way closer than you remember “Is everything alright, Harry?”

He hummed, distancing himself from you as he laid his back to the railing “Just thinking”

“About?”

“That I might actually enjoy the parties if you’re around”

You were about to return the compliment when you heard the glass door open with a ferocious amount of force.

“Y/N!” Lottie yelled from the insides of the party “Get your little perky arse in here! They’re playing our song!”

You knew better than to say no to that. So you laughed as you made your way back inside, but not before saying bye to Harry.

“I’ll come and find you soon” He said with a dashing smile.

“As long as you don’t throw me to the ground, then that’s okay”

You grabbed Lottie’s hand and she pulled you over to the dance floor, not wasting any time before she started moving along to the song blasting from the stereos, you joined her almost instantly.

At that moment, you didn’t care who saw. You were having the time of your life dancing with your best friend in a party celebrating your new life. Your new beginning. Yes, you were scared. But why be scared now? Why don’t just enjoy the moment? Life’s too short to be moping around hypotheticals. Right now, you wanted to dance.

And you did, for five more songs you let all your worries go down the drain. Tonight you were living the dream and you silently promised yourself to cherish every moment like it’s the last one, no time for worries nor fears. Just fun.

“Ugh! I need a wee!” Lottie called over the music.

“I’m gonna grab some water!” You said to her before each of you made your way to your own destinations.

Once you reached the bar, you tried and failed to get the bartender’s attention. Them being to worried about the other clients waiting for a line of shots at the other side of the bar.

Wanting to rest your feet for a while, you decided to sit up on one of the tall stools they had, trying to catch your breath after that intense dance workout you just had. Your eyes began to wander across the room again out of curiosity, you wanted to know what your friends were up to at the moment.

You quickly found Liam and Niall on the dance floor, trying to copy some choreography they probably saw online and failing miserably while doing so. Louis, Zayn and Ashton were still at the booth, they were laughing hard at something that Josh had said, making Louis spill his drink onto the table. You scanned the room a little bit more, pretending like you were in a game of ‘Where’s Waldo?’ Without looking for anyone in particular. That’s when your eyes met Calum’s.

He was sitting at the other end of the bar, eyes already fixed at you when you met them. When he noticed you were staring, he quickly shot you a smile and brought his finger to the side of his nose, remembering your secret greeting from earlier. You smiled back and did the same, beckoning him to come talk to you.

He was by your side in a second

“Hey you!” He said excitedly “Was wondering where you went”

“I was just dancing with Lottie a few minutes ago” You pointed out the dance floor.

“Oh I know, hard to keep the eyes from ya” He smiled “Looks like karaoke is not your only talent”

“Oh shut up!” You laughed as you playfully punched him in the arm “I could still break your nose, you know?”

“I’m completely aware, darling. Wouldn’t mind it if you did, though”

You rolled your eyes at him “Are you having fun?”

“I am now”

You laughed again and Calum swore he had never listened to such a beautiful sound before. His brown eyes met yours again, trying to communicate everything you needed to know with just one gaze, just one moment. He was never a man of many words, but he hoped that this would be enough.

“So..” You said, trying not to get lost in his stare but failing miserably as you felt how his dark eyes took you in “What’ve you been doing, if you weren’t having fun?”

Calum smiled and shook his head “Trying to get Michael and Luke out of trouble-“

“CALUM” A voice was heard from across the room, probably Luke’s

“Like I said…” He pointed behind you at the two young men on the dance floor next to Liam and Niall, trying to balance some beer bottles onto Niall’s quiff “Cal! Come here!”

Calum sighed “I better go see what they’re doing”

“Make sure they don’t hurt themselves, I certainly don’t want to deal with covering them with make up tomorrow if they end up cutting their faces off” You joked.

“I’ll take that into account” He chuckled “I’ll find you later, Y/N” Calum said, turning around to their friends.

After a while, you decided to go over the booth and hang out with Louis, not wanting to be alone on a stool bar any longer.

“I can see you’re having fun, aren’t ya, love?” He said, putting his arm around your shoulder in a brotherly kind of way.

“I am, in fact. Thank you for asking”

“Been a bit flirty from what I can see as well, haven’t ya?”

You looked at him. He had a smug smile on his face, one brow raising teasingly as he waited for your answer. What did he mean by that?

“Uhm.. what? I haven’t been flirting with anyone” You state, confused by his question.

“Yeah? Do they know that?” Louis said, pointing behind you.

You turned your head to where he was pointing and you could see Calum and Harry, both coming from different sides of the room each one with two drinks in their hands, approaching the booth. Both of their eyes were fixed on you as they walked closer and closer, until they stopped completely in front of you.

It seemed like only then did they acknowledge each other, as they comically turned their heads to their side, looked down at each other’s drinks and then lifted their gaze to meet again face to face, mirroring each other’s movements and expressions.

“Guess you got a handful there, love” Louis whispered in your ear.

Oh, boy.

Part 2

[what-is-your-plan-today]

Stark Spangled Kinks: We’re Going For A Ride, Doll...

Summary: Steve’s been away for a few weeks running a mission, and whilst he’s been away Katie hasn’t exactly had a relaxing time. What better way to relieve a tension than a little night time bike ride…

Warning: SMUT SMUT SMUT- This entire series is SMUT so NSFW and NO UNDER 18s!!

Pairings: Steve Rogers x OFC Katie Stark.

A/N: Biker Steve smut…yeah..it’s a kink. Enjoy.

SSK Masterlist // WIYPT Masterlist

Katie let the scorching hot water cascade down her body, loosening her muscles and washing away the last of the tension from her meeting earlier that day. It had been frustrating, middle aged men in trousers trying to prove who had the longest dicks as per usual until her temper had snapped and she’d called time on the finance review, and told them to come back in a few days when they had finished trying to see who could piss up the walls the highest.

Pepper had smirked when she had stormed out of the meeting and declared she was flying back to DC and then her smirk had turned to a frown when she’d seen the look on Katie’s face, instead asking the youngest Stark if she was ok. Truth was she was far from it. She was exhausted having not slept properly for the best part of two weeks now. And the reason for the lack of sleep was that for the first time since she’d started dating Steve they’d been snapped out on a date and the offending photos splashed all over the internet.

Her flight in from DC had been smooth and, feeling rather refreshed actually all things considered, Katie clutched her coffee as she walked down the corridor, her Louboutins clicking on the tiles as she pressed her palm to the door and strode into the publishing office. She glanced around, nodding to a few people as she made her way to her office, frowning as she felt eyes following her. She turned her head over her shoulder and saw one of the junior admin assistants hastily avert their gaze. She paused for a moment before she shook her head, walking into her office and dropping her purse on her desk. No sooner had she done that, than JARVIS spoke.

“Miss Stark.” “Morning J.” “Mr Stark has asked you pop up to see him.” “Tell him to come here. I’m busy.”

“He said you would say that. He told me to tell you it’s important and he doesn’t want people listening in…he’s waiting in his office.” With a groan she grabbed her coffee and walked back the way she had come, ignoring the glances that were coming her way before heading to the elevator and selecting the floor that housed Tony’s office.

“What do you want?” she demanded as she walked into his office, to see Tony and Happy both looking at something on the screen.

“Hey Kiddo, morning to you too…”

“Tony, I’ve got meetings all day. I have a potential author coming in at 12 so…” Tony waved his hand and the screen he was looking at projected the image onto the holodisplay in front of her and her eyes widened. It was a photo of her and Steve sat in her car in the middle of quite a deep kiss. Steve’s hand was cupping her cheek as hers was tangled in his hair, and she knew exactly when it had been taken, the previous night when they’d been out on a date. Steve had been called right in the middle of their evening for an urgent mission so their meal cut short, she’d dropped him home and he was kissing her goodbye.

“Shit.” She groaned, and looked at Tony who grinned and shrugged.

“Yeah, you got papped…” he said, before he paused “Actually papped isn’t the right word seeing as it wasn’t a professional photographer, they know now to not even bother. This was some member of the public. First we saw was when our daily Social Media monitoring reports picked it up.”

“Are there anymore?”

“A few.” He said, flicking through the photos which basically were snapped in succession. There was one of them breaking from the kiss, Steve pressing his head to hers, then pecking her lips again, before climbing out of the car.

“Can we get rid of them?”

“Oh yeah.” Tony waved a hand, “We already deployed the algorithm, usual stuff…and I tracked down the person who took the original shot and offered him an obscene amount of money to hand over the rights. At first he wasn’t going to do it, but then I told him it was that or I fired a virus straight down the line to blow up his phone.” Katie rolled her eyes “And he believed you could actually do that?” Happy shrugged “Well, we can in a way…maybe not the blowing up bit but…” “Thing is we don’t know how far this has gone.” Tony shrugged “We can keep the photo off the net but…well, it was already trending when we saw it.” “Under what?”

Tony grinned and waved his hand, revealing the hashtag.

“Stark Spangled Man?” Katie groaned “Jesus Christ…”

“Yeah, I was tempted to leave it just for that tag.” Tony mused and Katie rubbed at her temple.

“If the guys at SHIELD have seen this…”

“Already had the Goth Pirate on the phone.” Tony shrugged “Told him I’d deal with it. It’s not like the public didn’t know you two were…you know.”

“Has Steve seen it?”

“How the fuck should I know?” Tony looked at her “He’s your boyfriend. You ask him.”

“I can’t, he’s on a mission and it’s radio silence.” She bit her lip and ran her hand through her hair. “I can’t see him being particularly pleased about it.” “Maybe he shouldn’t have been eating your face in the front of your Rangey then.” Tony shrugged.

“Oh piss off.” She snapped at her brother, show simply raised his eyebrow, smirking slightly.

“Kiddo, we can stop the photos…” Happy said, looking at her, “But the comments and tweets, it’s a huge job and…” “Yeah I know just…” she shrugged “Oh whatever, they’ll get bored eventually. Just make sure no fucking trashy tabloids get hold of it.” Thankfully they hadn’t. But the comments on social media had continued for a week. Most of them were actually pretty nice, saying it was cute and they made a nice couple. Some of them not so nice, commenting on Katie’s appearance and the like, not that she gave a fuck. She’d dealt with comments like that before, knowing full well it came from a place of jealousy most of the time, what she was struggling with was the fact she hadn’t managed to speak to Steve about it at all.

What his reaction was going to be was worrying her. Public interest in their relationship was a risk they knew they were running, having gone public in December at the New Years’ Eve gala, but up until that point they had been lucky. They were also careful in that when they were out, they kept to quiet places as much as possible and as Steve wasn’t huge on public displays of affection in general (holding hands and the odd quick kiss being as far as he went) there wasn’t really anything of interest to pap…until that night. And it wasn’t just the social media side of things. The gossip at the tower had also pissed her off. It was like some huge secret had been revealed which wasn’t the case. The fact they were dating was public knowledge, but it was more the fact that people had seen the photo in the way they had and she felt like it was undermining her authority at work, which is what had contributed to her lack of sleep and her outburst earlier that day.

With a heavy sigh she turned around and let her face soak in the stream one last time, then she turned off the water, stepped out and grabbed a towel before she headed back into her room.

Steve had been gone for three weeks, on an undercover mission. Something to do with some guy planning to flood the US with dirty drugs. She didn’t know much, no longer being at SHIELD she wasn’t party to the secrets and despite the fact Fury was actually pretty good at keeping her as updated as he could, she always felt stressed and anxious when he was away, not knowing if he was okay. It had been easier when she had been an Agent herself, something which made her sometimes question her decision to quit.

Especially on days like today, with meetings like that one.

Yeah, it had been a long three weeks.

Having dried off, she pulled on a pair of leggings before tossing one of Steve’s hoodies on which still vaguely smelt of him and quickly blasted her hair with the hair-drier, letting the waves naturally set before she wandered into the living room. It was nearing dinner time, and she couldn’t be bothered to cook, intending instead to indulge herself in a bottle of wine and a pizza from Seconds.

The pizza arrived when she was halfway through the bottle of wine and by the time she’d had her fill, she’d finished said bottle. She was just on her way to grab another when her phone rang, the familiar sounds of “Only One In Colour” hitting her ears, which was the tone she attributed to just one person.

She hastily ran back to the living and grabbed her phone which was on the sofa cushion, smiling as she saw the photo of her and Steve filling the screen.

“Hey!” she said a little breathlessly and she heard a chuckle on the other side.

“Am I glad to hear your voice” her soldier spoke and she felt herself tearing up.

“Me too.” She said, taking a deep breath “I take it the mission is done?”

“Yeah, took a little longer than we thought. I’m sorry I haven’t been able to call Doll.”

“It’s ok.” She smiled, “When are you home?”

“Yeah, about that…” he said softly, and she took a deep breath, bracing herself for bad news before he spoke again, a playful quality to his soothing voice “Look out the window baby girl.”

Katie felt a huge grin cross her face as that could only mean one thing. In a flash she yanked open the doors that led to her balcony and ran out, peering over the edge. And there he was, in all his glory, waving up at her from where he sat on his bike.

“What you down there for?” she teased as she looked down.

“We’re going for a ride Doll.” He replied simply and she grinned.

“I’ll be right down.”

“3 minutes. Captains Orders.” He shot back and she turned and headed into her penthouse.

“I love it when you get all masterful” she teased and he gave a little laugh.

“I know.”

She cut the call and headed quickly into her bedroom, pulling off the hoody and exchanging it instead for a long cashmere sweater that finished mid-thigh. It had been a gift from Steve not long before he had left and she knew he loved it on her. It was a deep green colour- “It matches your eyes, Doll”- The fabric was soft, and the turtle neck line scooped slightly so that you could see a flash of her collar bone at either side of her neck. She cinched the waist in with a tan belt and shoved her feet into a pair of matching ankle boots. Grabbing her biker jacket and her helmet, she grabbed her keys and ran to the elevator.  

She emerged onto the street and stopped as Steve turned to face her. She gave herself a second to take him in, scanning his dark jeans, white t-shirt and open jacket all set off with a distressed leather belt and matching boots, before she gave a squeal and ran towards him. Steve stood up off his bike and strode towards her, meeting her halfway as she threw herself into his arms.

“Hey…” he said softly, his face pressing into her hair as her legs circled his waist. “God I missed you.” “Missed you too.” She mumbled, before she pulled back and pressed a kiss to his lips. “Like, really missed you.”

And then she suddenly became conscious they were in the street. She threw a glance around, looking for any sly public amateur photographers and Steve frowned, spotting her change in demeanour.

“Sweetheart, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” She looked at him as he set her on her feet, his hands on her waist “Let’s get out of here.”

He didn’t press her further, simply led her back to the bike and she swung her legs over the back, clipping the straps of her helmet into place. He settled in front of her and she laced her arms around his waist, under his jacket as he fired up the bike with a roar. Steve took another glance over his shoulder, her eyes visible through the visor of her helmet and they were shining with excitement. Flashing her a smile he turned round and set the bike off, heading up the street.

He drove the familiar route to Rock Creek and after half an hour or so pulled the bike to a halt in the spot he always parked at, a hidden little clearing just off the main parking lot. It was deserted due to the hour, which suited him fine. Cutting the engine he felt Katie shift behind him and he set the stand on the bike before he turned to see his girl taking her helmet off. She fluffed her hair out slightly and then grinned at him as he patted the space between his legs. She jumped off the bike, hung her helmet over the handlebars before she climbed back up, this time facing Steve, her back to the handlebars of the bike.

The little wooded area was dark, bar the moon shining through the lattice of leaves above them and Katie took a deep breath, inhaling the rich scent of pine needles, fresh air and the slight smell of the early spring flowers. The babbling of the brook was loud in the quiet of night providing them with a little background noise as Steve reached out, his hands cupping her face as he drew her to him. Katie closed her eyes, allowing him to take the lead as his tongue slid across her bottom lip and she opened her mouth slightly, his movements smooth and graceful as he kissed her passionately before he pulled away, her bottom lip caught between both of his. He released it gently, pressing his forehead to hers, their noses bumping together slightly.

“What’s on your mind?” he asked her quietly. Katie sighed, and looked down at his long legs which were stretched towards her. Leaning her legs forward she hooked her calves around his, the denim of his jeans rustling as it bushed against her leggings. Her hands dropped to his knees and he ran them up the outside of his thighs, her fingers staking the strong muscles as they stretched the fabric of dark blue Levi’s slightly. “Katie?” he asked again and she took a deep breath before she reached for her phone in the pocket of her jacket.

“Someone papped us…well I say papped, it was more some nosey bastard member of the public…” she said, scrolling through to the photo. She handed it to him and he took it from her, fingers brushing hers gently. He glanced down at it and after a second he screwed up his face and let out a breath from his nose.

“Crap.” He muttered before he handed her phone back and looked at her, rolling his eyes.

“Tony managed to get rid of it from the net but…” she shrugged “It’s been a pain in the ass Steve, the fucking mumbled little comments in the office and…” she rubbed her neck slightly “Not being able to warn you either.”

“Warn me?” he cocked his head to one side “About what?”

“The fact you were all over the internet eating my face.” She shrugged and he gave a snort of laughter “Didn’t want you walking back into base and being blindsided. I know you’re not big into PDAs and I figured if the guys from STRIKE got hold of it, hell, if Nat got hold of it…” “You think I give a damned about that?” Steve frowned “Doll, I couldn’t care less.” Katie looked at him, blinking “You don’t?”

“No, well, I mean it’s not great but, well, I’m more pissed that you got a hard time in the office about it.”

“Nothing I can’t handle.” She shrugged, before she grinned “If they carry on I can just fire them all.” Steve chuckled, his hands dropping to hers as he laced their fingers together “Bet Tony had a field day.” “Yeah, he thought it was pretty funny, especially the hashtag it was all trending under.” “Which was?”

“Stark Spangled Man.” She said, raising an eyebrow. Steve paused for a second before he tipped his head back, his broad chest and shoulders shaking with the force of his laughter before he shook his head and peeked up at her slightly.“10 outta 10 for imagination, huh?” she shrugged, grinning herself.

“Well, they’re not wrong…” he said simply, his hands leaving hers and they slid under her ass as he pulled her forward so she was straddling his lap. “I am completely and utterly, Stark Spangled…”

“I never wanna hear you say that ever again.” She said, narrowing her eyes as her hands slid up his arms coming to rest on the firm planes of his chest, just below his collar bone.

“No?” he asked gently, his hands splaying on her back gently underneath her jacket.

“Not unless you want me to start singing an amended version of your chorus song.” She grinned.

“Shut up.” “Make me.” She retorted, a childish tone to her voice and arched an eyebrow as he looked up at her.

“Brat.” He mumbled, his hand sliding up to her neck, pulling her face down to his. The kiss was fierce, his lips warm on hers, the familiar tingle spreading up her spine making her shiver slightly and a soft moan escaped her mouth to his and she felt his lips curl into a smirk against hers before they moved gently from her mouth to her jaw line. He peppered soft, warm and wet pecks down her neck before he gently moved her sweater to the side a little more, exposing more of her shoulder.

The feel of his mouth on her skin was electric, and Katie let her head fall back, eyes closing as Steve’s hands splayed on her back, holding her in position as he kissed every inch of her skin he could find. Her breath caught in her throat and she swallowed, thickly as he paused his fingers digging into her back.

“You’re not wearing a bra.” He mumbled.

“Not wearing any panties either…” she said softly and he pulled back to look at her, a groan escaping his mouth.

“You’re killing me doll.” “Well I was in my comfy stuff and you gave me 3 minutes to get ready.” She shrugged “Captain’s orders, remember?”

“Because you always do exactly what I tell you…” he said sarcastically, looking at her with those baby blues which were now a dark midnight shade through desire.

“When it counts I do.” She said, rolling her hips, pushing down on his crotch. He hissed slightly, his hands gripping her tighter as he bit his lip. Steve took a look round the deserted clearing and his attention turned back to her, his eyes challenging.

“Don’t start something you’re not gonna finish Sweetheart.” He said sternly, his voice low and the tone he spoke with had her twitching even more. She wasn’t one to back down to a challenge, and he knew that, but despite the fact she knew he was playing games, she simply smirked and her hands slid down his chest to his belt, fingers made short work of the buckle before she moved her attentions to the button on his jeans, popping them easily before she slid down the zipper.

“Who says I wasn’t gonna finish it?” she shrugged, as her hand worked into his boxers and wrapped her palm around his warm cock and he gave a low moan, his head falling back as she began to work him.

Katie simply watched his face, his soft lips parting slightly, eyes fluttering shut. Long lashes lay against his rosy cheeks, his Adam’s apple bobbed and he gulped slightly when her movements and grip grew stronger. His eyes opened and locked onto hers, his pupils completely lust blown, speckles of moonlight reflecting in them gave her the impression she was looking at the starry sky and he leaned up and pressed his lips to hers in a hungry kiss, their teeth clashing slightly. She felt the heat pooling between her legs as his hands slid under the side of her long sweater, fingers gripping her skin tightly as he squirmed underneath her.

Katie moved her hand more rapidly, loving the effect she had on him. The fact she could undo the stoic, taciturn Captain in matter of minutes was a fucking turn on and she grinned as he buried his face into her neck, alternating between fast and hard, long and slow strokes. She felt him attempt to thrust desperately into her palm as he let out a low sigh of her name and she tilted his face back to hers with his spare hand and captured his mouth in a hard kiss as she gave him another slow stroke. At that, clearly done with the teasing, he growled into her mouth, standing up suddenly, spinning her round so her back was pressed to his chest. Katie let out a squeak of surprise as one hand kept her supported easily as it hooked over the front of her chest, the other pulling down one side of her leggings then the other. He sat back down, pulling her over him and in a single thrust upwards had buried himself inside her.

The sudden intrusion made Katie cry out as she felt him fill her, and once he was fully seated and she was stuffed as full as possible, he began to thrust upwards, controlling the speed completely. Her thighs were tight around him, and she was powerless to spread her legs apart much as they were clamped together thanks to the fact her leggings were bunched round her ankles, restricting her movement. Instead, she leaned back, arching her back, head falling to his shoulder, shifting the angle slightly which allowed him to drive up into her even deeper. His hands moved, sliding up her sweater to cup her breasts and as he gently tugged on her nipples she gave a loud wail as the sensation speared through her and she pushed down as hard as she could, rotating her hips slightly. Steve’s breath was hot on her ear as he pulled her down with every thrust up that he made, grinding right up against her spot.

“Such a needy little thing, aint you…” he said, his voice low and punctuated by his heavy breathing and she gave a low keen as he nipped at her neck, his fingers tugging her nipples harder.

“3 weeks Steve…” she panted, and he gave a dirty chuckle, pushing up again, bottoming out completely. It was a movement he repeated again and again, his mouth chaining kisses to her neck. One hand moved down from her chest, calloused fingers brushing lightly against her skin, over her stomach, and she shivered at his touch as he gently reached the spot between her legs. As he pushed up again he gently rubbed against her clit and she cried out, her head falling forwards slightly before his other hand moved upwards, gently wrapping around her neck as he pulled her back, his hand turning her face to his where he caught her mouth in a sloppy kiss.

The feeling of being manhandled like that, in the open air, one hand between her legs, the other round her neck, his cock thrusting slowly against her spot was almost too much, and she groaned, writhing on his lap, her mouth falling open, and when she finally found her voice it was raspy as she struggled to form her words.

“Please, Steve…I need…” her eyes locked onto his, her hand grasping the wrists of his hand which was between her legs, trying to speed him up. He looked back at her, his face contorted in a mix of pleasure and concentration, sweat beading on his brow.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah…” she nodded, and his fingers picked up their pace as did his hips. Her legs shuddered slightly as she felt the white, hot heat rising in her belly and she let out a low cry of his name.

“Come on Doll…” he murmured, “Come for me sweetheart.” And she did, with a force so intense she couldn’t stop herself letting out a loud “Fuck” as she shuddered, the world fading to dark around her, as the waves of pleasure racked her entire body.

“Shit, Katie…” Steve stuttered, his thrusts growing erratic as be bit down gently on her shoulder and he came with a groan, his hips slowing to an eventual stop as he sagged forward a little, forehead buried against her shoulder.

They stayed still for a while, the silence of their surroundings bar the trickle of the stream providing a soothing background as they both recovered themselves. Katie tilted her head round to look at him. His expression was dazed, mouth open in supplication and she loved seeing him so utterly wrecked. A fresh fucked Steve was the most beautiful thing in the world to her. All golden haired, slack jawed, kiss swollen lips and long eyelashes framing . Taking a deep breath Steve pressed a soft kiss to her neck before he cracked his eyes open and gave her that beautiful smile she lived for.

���For the record…” she hummed into his mouth as she captured his lips in a small kiss. “I’m well aware you totally just played me.”

He gave a soft chuckle and looked up at her, his blue eyes sparkling “Guilty as charged.” His hands ran up her sides underneath her sweater, fingers gently trailing down her ribs. “But I did tell you we were going for a ride Doll…”

[entity9silvergen]

Oblique- Chapter 1 (Sanders Sides Fanfiction)

Chapter 1 of 3. Full story and summary here. Also find it here on Ao3.

Story Info:

Summary: Unable to experience romantic attraction, Remus feels incomplete. Unable to feel sexual attraction, Roman feels less than. Maybe as the King, they decide, they will feel whole again. Their partners and friends, however, know this isn’t the solution and seek to help them realize there’s nothing broken about them before it’s too late.

Fandom: Sanders Sides

Characters: Logan, Patton, Roman, Virgil, Nate, Remy, Emile, Seth, Toby, Janus, Remus, Unnamed Orange Side, Romulus, Dragon Witch 

Relationships: Logan/ Patton, Virgil/ Roman, Janus/ Remus, Remy/ Emile, Toby/ Seth, Nate/ Orange Side

Other Tags: AroWriMo, Aromantic Remus, Asexual Roman, Spider Virgil, Snake Janus, Orange Side, 7th Side, Additional Sides, No OCs, Short Vid Characters

Author’s Note: This was written for AroWriMo 2021. I’ve actually had it planned since April of last year but never wrote it until now. I originally intended for it to go with the Week 3 Prompt (Hope and Mirror) but it kind of drifted. 

This fic takes place in Thomas’s mind and there are four of each kind of Side (light, dark, neutral). 

The Light Sides live upstairs. They are Logan (Logic), Patton (Morality), Roman (Creativity/ Fantasy), and Emile (Self-Esteem) as well as Virgil (Anxiety) who left the Dark Sides to be with the Light Sides.

The Neutrals live on the main floor we see in videos. They are Nate (Patience/ Procrastination), Remy (Self-Care/ Sleep), Seth (Adaptability), and Toby (Courage).

The Dark Sides live downstairs. They are Janus (Deceit), Remus (Dark Creativity/ Intrusive Thoughts), and OJ (Spite). As mentioned, Virgil was previously a Dark Side.

None of these characters are OCs. Emile is Emile Picani from Cartoon Therapy, Nate is Nathan Christopher/ Slo-Mo Guy/ Procrastination from the short vids, Remy is Sleep from the short vids, Seth is Seth Ember/ September from the short vids, Toby is October from the shirt vids, and OJ is the currently unnamed 7th side (We call him orange juice on the Sanders Sides subreddit so OJ is an allusion to that).

Dark Sides also have animal attributes in this story. Janus is a snake, Remus is an octopus, Virgil is a spider, and OJ is a badger.

Warnings for this chapter: Fighting

=============

It was dark. Darker than it normally was.

There was a hum in the air. Eerie, mysterious. Almost like static. Something neither of them were used to but it was familiar deep down.

It was telling them they shouldn’t be here. Not right now.

They ignored it.

The lighter figure stumbled down the stairs, seeming almost surprised to see a darker shape slinking up from the basement, almost mirroring him. They stared at each other for a few moments but neither drew their weapons. They hadn’t seen each other in a long time and hadn’t been at peace for even longer but a mutual understanding ran between them.

Eyes watched them and the room seemed to listen. It made them uneasy, filling them with the need to leave or cower away. But they were more afraid of what would happen if they turned away and too curious to listen to the signs warning them away. The same thing was on each of their minds and it was almost too late to turn away.

Both were visibly upset but the shadows obscured any tear tracks and the static hid any sobs. Still, they could sense the distress within each other. And they knew how to make it stop.

There was hesitance on both sides. They knew what they were doing, what they had to do, and yet they held back. There were a million questions in the air and the answers to none.

It wasn’t until the lighter figure offered a hand that they reached a decision.

That he reached a decision.

=========================== 

Logan’s attention was drawn from his book by a loud crash.

It wasn’t an uncommon occurrence, living with so many others in the mind palace and all. Roman was always slashing things with his sword, OJ often swatted cups off tables out of passive aggression or just plain boredom, Toby and Remus were always wrestling, Nate was terrible at catching things and Seth never failed to forget, and Patton was just clumsy in general. Emile usually kept them calm and Virgil’s dislike for loud noises was often enough to keep the mind palace in one piece but the other Sides were always an endless distraction for Logan and his work.

Today, however, was not one of those times the noise seized quickly. 

In fact, it only seemed to get worse.

It got to the point that Logan had to get up and go downstairs to see what was making the racket, something he rarely did. Where was Patton? Or Emile? Keeping the others from destroying their home was their job, not his.

He expected to see Remus riding a roomba. Or Nate trying to steal Remy’s coffee. Or Toby and Roman jousting with mops instead of cleaning. He did not expect to see Janus and Virgil, fangs and arachnid legs out, full on brawling in the living room.

Shockingly, Patton and Emile weren’t trying to stop them. From Logan’s observation, Patton seemed quite distressed at the sight of Virgil in his spider form and Emile was trying to distract him. Logan’s colder side wanted to shake them and tell them to ignore their feelings to focus on what was important but his more human side could understand. Virgil was truly terrifying when he was like this: thick, hairy legs sprouted from his back, his eyes seemed to glow with something primal, and his mouth morphed into something truly grotesque to look at.  Janus too. His transformation was less extreme but his sharpened scales were still strange to look at. Eyes gleaming with yellow and hunger and movements faster and more serpentine, his presence was a bit disturbing. As much as Logan wanted to, he couldn’t blame them from keeping out of the fight.

He at least expected one of the others to step in. Not all of them weren’t fighters but they were at least more prepared than Patton and Emile. None of the neturals seemed concerned though. Actually, it looked like Nate, Seth, Remy, and Toby were taking bets. Logan would have scolded them if there weren’t more pressing matters at hand.

Logan looked around for Roman and Remus but the twins were nowhere to be seen so his gaze fell on OJ. The Side seemed disinterested from where he was seated casually on the staircase leading to the basement but his eyes betrayed him. The disinterest was a facade, his eyes were sharp with interest.

Logan met the Dark Side’s gaze, trying to convey his alarm and confusion. OJ simply shrugged and gestured loosely at the fight. Janus had his back pressed to the floor and his feet against Virgil’s chest, keeping him from punching or snapping at his face but the anxious side’s long spider legs were still free to batter his foe.

Janus was just starting to wrestle Virgil off him when Logan decided to step in. “Enough!”

Logan knew his voice could be enough to offset anyone if he wanted it to. He’d shouted enough falsehoods to know it was a tactic that would likely be successful. And it was this time as well. Virgil and Janus looked up, startled, and stopped long enough for Toby and Nate to step in and grab them by the shoulders, pulling them away from each other.

Both were still glaring and hissing. Logan put up a hand to silence them. “Can you breathe in for four seconds?”

“We don’t need to do breathing exercises, Logan,” Virgil snapped, voice distorted, as he wretched free from Toby’s grip. Thankfully, he didn’t move to attack Janus. “We know what we’re doing.”

“Then why were you fighting?” Logan asked. “Dark and Light Sides don’t usually come to the Neutral Zone at the same time.”

Janus’s face flashed with guilt while OJ feigned innocence. It wasn’t a set rule but Light and Dark Sides generally avoided mutual space if there were others there. If everyone was in a good mood, there were times they would share the space but it was rare. 

“Roman’s missing,” Virgil said, glaring at Janus and OJ. His arachnid qualities were receding but he still looked angry. “I’ve been looking for days. There’s no reason he’d disappear unless the Dark Sides did something.”

“And I’m telling you Remus is missing,” Janus responded. Nate let go of him and the snake crossed his arms. He still looked tense. “Why would we take Roman? We have better things to worry about. Quit blaming us for stuff and back off.”

Logan silently cursed himself for not being more observant. He hadn’t even noticed Roman and Remus were missing. Well, he wouldn’t have noticed Remus’s absence, being a Dark Side and all, but he would’ve noticed if Roman was gone. Should have noticed. How long had it been? What had he been doing?

“Oh this is what this is about?” Remy piped up, taking a long sip of his ever-present coffee before continuing. “They met up here a few days ago and went off to the dreamspace together.”

“...What?” Janus and Virgil said in unison, giving the recalcitrant Side hard stares.

“Um, yeah, gurls. It was, like, the middle of the night and they talked for a bit before going off,” Remy said, shrugging. “No need to get all hissy about it. They’re fine.”

“Why didn’t you say anything?” Virgil exploded but at least now he wasn’t trying to attack anyone. “We’ve been looking for days!”

“Chill, gurl. You never mentioned it. I thought you knew. Normally they tell you before they come to my domain.”

“Well, they didn’t tell us,” Janus said, sounding annoyed yet distracted. His face was wrinkled in thought and it took Logan a moment to catch on.

“Should we be concerned then?” Logan asked. The other Sides turned to look at him. As per usual, Logan felt pride well up in him knowing the others were listening but he tried to ignore it. “They left without warning, which normally wouldn’t be alarming but there has been no sign of them for days. Wouldn’t that imply something happened to them? Perhaps they went to Remy’s dreamspace to fight and rendered each other unable to continue.”

“Oh no! My poor kiddos!” Patton wailed, startling Logan. He’d almost forgotten the other Sides were there.

“Chances are they’re fine. Roman and Remus know how to avoid getting hurt and Remy didn’t say they sounded angry,” Emile pointed out. He was still frowning though. “But maybe we should send someone to check on them?”

“We should just leave them to duke it out. They’ll be fine,” OJ said, inspecting his fingernails boredly. He pointed in Patton’s direction, not even looking up to see the father figure’s excited expression. “No pun intended, daddio.” 

Logan ignored them and looked to Remy expectantly. The Side rolled his eyes and sighed. “Fine. I’ll take some of you to the dreamspace. Hissyfits, Lo-bitch, come on.”

Janus and Virgil looked a bit peeved by the nicknames but followed Remy without question. Logan sighed and spared the remaining Sides a glance. “Will one of you retrieve us if the twins return while we’re gone?”

“No.”

“Yes,” Toby responded, ignoring OJ. “Don’t stress it, man.”

Satisfied, Logan nodded and turned away, following Remy into the place of Thomas’s dreams.

==================

“Do you guys think Roman and Remus are getting along again?”

Patton’s voice sliced through the silence, drawing everyone’s attention. After Remy and the others left, the rest remained in the living room rather than returning to their rooms. They largely ignored each other but unspoken worry hovered among them. They would wait this out here.

“I didn’t see anything,” Seth spoke up, the other Neutral Sides humming their agreement. “Remy’s got a weird sleep schedule. He sees all kinds of stuff we don’t but I think he’d mention it if anything changed with the twins.”

“It’s probably a coincidence,” OJ added. “Janus and Remus were screwing that night. I doubt Remus would go to his brother after that. Weird.”

“How do you know that?”

“What is sc-”

“I think Roman and Virgil were just having a quiet night,” Emile interrupted before Patton could finish his question or OJ could respond to Seth. He really didn’t want to know. “I don’t really know what those two do but it’s unusual Roman would come downstairs in the middle of the night, isn’t it? Wouldn’t he stay with Virgil? Or return to his room?”

“I don’t think there’s much use thinking about it,” Toby said, pulling a device from his pocket. “Now, I’m going to play some Pokemon. We can ask Roman and Remus what’s up when they get back.”

The other Sides didn’t look satisfied but no one argued. The others would be back soon. They could figure it out then. Right?

=======================

Remy usually didn’t take people to the dreamspace.

It was his domain. Sure, Roman and Remus contributed a lot but they had their own spaces. They were in charge of Thomas’s imagination. Everything about sleep was Remy’s and no one else's. Logan and Patton had memories, Virgil and Toby patrolled the place of Thomas’s fears, each Side had their own thing. And Remy loved his. It was weird to have someone intrude on his space.

He understood the necessity though. Still, couldn’t the others be a bit nicer?

Janus and Virgil were bickering since the moment they entered and Logan wasn’t even trying to stop them. How rude.

“Hush up, gurls,” Remy said after a while. “You don’t want to be too loud here.”

“And why is that?”

A loud roar cut through the terrain.

“Because of that.”

Virgil, Janus, and Logan peered at the horizon, not seeing anything. The dreamspace looked very much like the Imagination or the real world but it had this fake, fuzzy quality that only the things of dreams could have. It was similar to reality and recognizable enough but it was different enough that it could be jarring to those who weren’t used to it. That was the only reason Remy was forgiving when the other Sides failed to see the approaching Dragon Witch until it was practically on top of them.

The beast screamed and plunged out of the sky, making the ground shake like an earthquake when she landed. A clean thirty feet tall, she towered over the Sides. Remy opened up his mouth to try to reason with her but a malicious glint in her eye told him that she wasn’t in a talking mood today.

Wings beat the air as claws scored the earth. Virgil’s spider form took over and he used his long spider legs to vault himself and the others to safety. “What the fuck is that?!”

“The Dragon Witch,” Remy responded as he slipped out of Virgil’s grip and began scrambling away. “She’s normally not like this!”

“I never would’ve guessed,” Janus snarked. His scales grew more prominent and his eyes became sharper as he prepared to fight. “We don’t have time for this.”

“Virgil, try to climb up her neck and onto her face. Blind her, at least partially,” Logan instructed, taking charge easily. “Janus, draw her attention and see if you can get some of your venom in her.”

Janus eyed the Dragon Witch’s scales dubiously. “I am not breaking my teeth on that thing.”

“Just fight, Deceit,” Virgil snapped as he launched himself into the air and grappled his way onto the Dragon Witch’s shoulder. She didn’t even notice his presence, allowing him to climb up her neck with no obstacles thrown his way.

Remy ducked behind a rock, dragging Logan with him, as Janus coiled around the dragon’s blows and tried to snake his way to her soft underbelly. Out of the four present Sides, Virgil and Janus were most suited for battle but even they didn’t have much of a chance against such a creature. The Dragon Witch was powerful, both as a dragon and a witch. Together, her two halves made her a formidable foe. 

“Is this a common occurrence?” Logan asked as he grabbed a small, sharp rock in his fist. Remy didn’t know what he planned to do with that but whatever made him feel better. “Do you frequently run into this, eh, Dragon Witch?”

Remy shook his head. “She’s one of Roman’s creations. Most of the time she keeps to herself or at least stays peaceful. I can’t remember the last time she got like this. I have no idea what’s got her so worked up.”

Logan looked like he wanted to comment but chose not to and refocused on the fight. The other Sides seemed to be doing well. As much as they hissed and spat at each other, they worked like a well oiled machine. Virgil was using his spiderlegs to jab the Dragon Witch in the eye, distracting her long enough to let Janus coil up her leg. He wasn’t doing much damage at the moment but soon he would have access to the vulnerable parts of her massive form.

It looked to be going well until it wasn’t.

Remy knew he should have expected that. The Sides were more than human but they were still far from equals to a mystical beast like a Dragon Witch. For all their efforts, they only seemed to be agitating her further and soon she grew too tired of them to bother any longer.

The Dragon Witch roared and bellowed before slapping her thick, scaly tail against the ground. A wave of magic radiated from her form and knocked the two Sides clean off her.

It hit Logan and Remy as well, shattering the rock they were hiding behind. Remy yelped as he was thrown back, shielding his face from stone shrapnel, and hit the ground roughly. Both his and Logan’s glasses were knocked from their faces. Logan flailed for them the moment, unable to see without them, while Remy just laid there, stunned, and blinked rapidly until his eyes adjusted to the bright sunlight. His eyes unused to being uncovered but he could survive without his sunglasses. He quickly scrambled up to try to see what happened to Janus and Virgil.

Janus and Virgil were on the ground, floored and disoriented. The Dragon Witch was looming over them, snarling and angry. Remy tried to get up and shout a warning but his voice broke and came out dry and hoarse. It surprised him, somewhat, but the shock from the blast was still ringing in his head too much for him to dwell on it.

A spike of fear pumped through Remy’s veins as the Dragon Witch lifted a paw, primed to strike. He got to his feet, mind and body screaming for him to get his friends to safety, but he knew he was too slow. The Dragon Witch was going to crush them.

Then, a battle cry sounded.

A human battle cry.

Remy looked up to see a figure standing on a cliff overlooking the battlefield. Momentarily blinded by the sun behind him, Remy couldn't quite make out any distinguishable features.  Without his sunglasses, he could really only see the flowing cape draped over his shoulders.

The man- it was definitely a man, Remy knew that much- drew a weapon in each hand and flung himself off the cliff. Remy wanted to scream but the man seemed to know what he was doing and landed flat on the Dragon Witch’s face.

The Dragon Witch roared and the man matched it. Remy watched them for a moment before his mind caught up with his body and he remembered his friends. He tore his gaze away and sprinted across the landscape. He reached Janus first, grabbing him by the back of the coat, and dragged him until he managed to get a grip on Virgil’s hoodie as well.

“Gurls, why are you so heavy?” Remy grunted as he tried his best to pull the two Sides to safety. They seemed dazed from the fall and Remy really hoped they weren’t concussed. He really didn’t want to deal with that right now. At least he had Logan here if they were but Logan could be concussed for all he knew.

“Roman,” Virgil groaned, head lolling a bit as Remy jostled him.

“Yeah, I know, gurl. We’ll find Roman soon.”

“No, I need to help him.” 

Remy didn’t pause to figure out what he meant by that until he’d reached Logan. The logical Side was sitting up and had his glasses back on, looking overall okay. Remy swiftly dropped Virgil and Janus beside them, making them both yelp, and turned back to the battlefield to confirm his suspicions. 

The man was tall and broad. Sturdier and better built than Remy or any of the other Sides on the ground around him. Maybe even more so than Roman and Remus. His clothes were a deep grey, an unusual color to see on someone in the mindscape, and he wielded both a sword and a morningstar. That made Remy uneasy. He didn’t quite know why but it felt wrong.

“Remus!” Janus called out, sitting up as the man ran across the beast’s snout to slam his morningstar into her eye. Remy opened his mouth to tell him that the man wasn’t Remus but the words died on his tongue. Who knew who he was? It could very well be the stinky Side for all he knew.

The man was fast and quite skilled. He scaled the dragon’s giant form and slammed down hard at various points on his way down. Remy didn’t know if Dragon Witches had pressure points but the man’s attacks seemed to be doing a fair amount of damage, judging by her roars. Remy really believed he might win this.

The Dragon Witch put up a fair fight, of course. She snarled and swiped but the man seemed to be holding on pretty well. It was only when she reared back and began swinging her wings that he lost his balance. Still, he managed to hold his own pretty well. Unlike Janus and Virgil, the fall didn’t seem to faze him. Maybe it was because he’d already managed to weaken the Dragon Witch so much.

Janus, Virgil, and Logan were on their feet by the time the newcomer managed to bring the Dragon Witch to his level. She was still fighting but she didn’t quite stand as tall anymore and Remy was pretty sure she knew she was losing.

Then the newcomer stopped.

He wasn’t giving up. No, that was clear. He was still in a fighting stance. But he didn’t seem to be fighting anymore? At least not with his weapons. He was just… looking at the Dragon Witch really intensely. And she was too. It was like they knew something the other Sides didn’t.

Reality seemed to ripple around them and the Dragon Witch suddenly vanished.

Remy sensed Janus and Virgil exchanging a confused glance behind him but he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the figure. Now alone on the former battlefield, Remy could see him much more clearly but he still couldn’t make out who he was. Was it Roman, with his sword? Or Remus, with his morningstar? It had to be one of them. Right?

“You need to be more careful,” a steady voice boomed as the figure turned around. Remy heard Logan gasp behind him but it took a moment for Remy to realize why. “You never know what you’ll run into here.”

The man began walking towards them and a feeling of recognition and dread flashed between the four Sides. It was only when the broad, bearded figure was standing right in front of them that any of them were able to stutter out his name.

“R-Romulus.” 

The King had returned. 

================

Author’s Note: This has multiple chapters. I planned to write and post them all this week but that didn’t happen so I will just be posting chapter 1 this week. Next chapter and the following one will focus more on the prompt and aspec themes.

Next Chapter

[wonderful-writer]

22 - It’s All Over

Summary: You played the waiting game with the rest of the 47 and some of the parents, including your father, while your people worked on getting everyone out, leading to you becoming injured and the departure of one of your best friends.

Word Count: 3.37k

Based Off: 02x14, “Bodyguard of Lies”, 02x15, “Blood Must Have Blood, Part One” & 02x16, “Blood Must Have Blood, Part Two”

Author’s Note: As per usual, the end of season two means that there will be no posts next week to give me enough time to get ahead in writing season 3, because school is starting up for me next week and things will be getting harder to manage. I hope you all understand if there is a lack in my scheduled posts, but I will be trying my hardest to get the chapters written on time

Feedback is always highly appreciated!

The waiting game you were playing had to be the worst game ever. You were stuffed into a hot, tight, vent with Harper, your only light shining through the slates in the cover. You could hear everything going on outside the vent but now it was just silence. You could only hear yours and Harper’s breaths as your left hand rested in hers and your right twisted your locket rapidly.

Your eyes spaced out as your brain thought of everything that could go wrong and everything that could go right. Of course, the bad had once again outweighed the good on a massive scale, and your heart was beating faster than ever. Not knowing was the worst possible thing for you; everyone could be dead by now and they just haven’t found you and Harper yet.

A shaky breath fell from your lips and Harper squeezed your hand, causing you to look over at her. In the quietest voice she could manage, she whispered, “We’ll be okay. They’ll save us, and we’ll get to go home.”

You nodded at her words, bringing a small amount of comfort to you. An unknown amount of time had passed, though for you it felt like forever, when the PA system from outside in the hall spoke. The two of you were able to understand the words that were coming from the speakers, as it flowed through the vents and into your ears.

“My fellow citizens,” Cage addressed the people. “This is your President speaking. I have news to share with you that will change all of our lives forever. For 97 years, Mount Weather has been our home.”

Your heart rate began to pick up once again at his voice. “It’s kept us alive, but it has also held us captive. Most of us have made peace with what we’ve had to do to survive. We’ve done these things for one reason-- so that our people could someday return to the ground. That day is today.”

Harper's hand squeezed yours and you reciprocated, fear striking your heart. “Before my friend, Lorelai Tsing, was murdered by the outsiders still at large in this mountain, she found a cure. It was in their bone marrow. This has been the dream of our people since the bombs, but to reach it now, I need your help.”

Your breaths were getting quicker by the second as you felt the air around you seem to diminish. He was going public, and you were going to die. “The 45 criminals that irradiated level 5, killing 15 of our people, are now keeping us from that dream. Although we’ve repaired our home, we can never replace the lives that were so viciously taken from us.”

“And as hard as it is to believe, there are those among us who would help the people who did this, and I am speaking to you now. If you truly want to end the blood treatments once and for all, then the 45 murderers you’re now hiding are the key to doing that.”

You felt your blood run cold as he tried to convince his rebels to hand over your friends and kill you all to live on the ground, even though it is not truly theirs. It belongs to everyone who survived the bombs, everyone who spent years upon years in space living dreadful lives with strict rules. The people of Mount Weather may have stayed on the ground in a bunker for 97 years, but they’ve had it easy.

“You have one hour to turn them in without punishment. After that, we’ll be forced to consider you enemies of the state.” He took a small pause. “I am asking you, please, do what’s right for your people, our people, so that we can all take our rightful place on the ground.”

“We’re almost home.” He finalized, and nothing else was heard from him.

You closed your eyes in fear of what the old couple hiding you were going to do, but they just smiled in your direction. After waiting and waiting some more, there was a knock at the couple’s front door. They hurried and opened the door to reveal two guards, asking to step inside. They were allowed, and the pair began to search the couple’s home.

After being asked questions, the couple denied every accusation the guards had posed, and you watched worriedly as one of them continued searching. As he neared the vent, you stopped breathing and backed away from the entrance, hitting your head on the top of it and creating a large bang in the process.

The guard put his hand on his gun and ripped the bent cover off, aiming the pistol at your now revealed form. “Get out of there! Now!”

You moved as quickly as you could, pulling Harper out with you. The guard that was near the couple radioed that they had found another pair of your people while the one that found you strapped handcuffs to yours and Harper’s wrists. You sent her an apologetic look as you were being dragged out of the room.

Surprisingly, this time as you went down the hall, instead of feeling fear or worry, you couldn’t feel anything. You supposed that was due to being in the face of death many times before, but you didn’t feel a thing. But you knew yourself; the reality of situations don’t set in until the very last second when you know something’s happening. When your father left, you didn’t feel the sadness or heartbreak of the situation until your first night without him, when he didn’t come say goodnight after your mother.

You trudged along until they found two more of your people, cuffing them and dragging them with you to wherever you were going to be taken. They brought you down the halls, and as you were about to reach the elevator, the power cut off. All of you looked around in confusion before you realized that they were here. The army was coming and you would go home.

And then the alarms went off again and an automated message came through the P.A. “Attention. Class one quarantine protocols are now in effect. All citizens must report to level 5 immediately. Hard seal lockdown in t-minus 30 seconds and counting. This is not a drill.”

The guards put you on the elevator and directed it to level 5, where you were brought back to the dorms. You took a glance around the room, seeing Miller, Raven, Wick, and the other delinquents, but not Bellamy, Jasper, or Monty. They directed you over to the left and put you behind Raven, taking the cuffs off your right hand and pulling it over the pipe to reconnect them, leaving you hanging from your arms.

You knew you could’ve just put up a fight when they left you partially cuffed, but that would result in you dying first, and despite basically having accepted your fate, you didn’t want it to end just yet. The teenager on the table was screaming and covered in blood, but you directed your focus to the door once it opened again after a few minutes.

The guards brought in more people, this time dressed in Ark clothing, and put them on their knees. They lifted the bags from their head, revealing Monroe, Miller’s father, Abby, and your dad. You pulled on your restraints to try to break free and get to your father, but it was a waste of energy. He saw you and relief seemed to flood his face at the fact that you were okay, but the circumstances weren’t anywhere near ideal.

All you seemed to do in trying to get to your father was rub your wrists to the point of bleeding. You gave up after the pain settled in and your father was cuffed to the wall with the others. Once the teen on the table was bled dry and dead, they removed him and decided that Raven was their new subject.

As soon as they came for her both you and Wick volunteered to be chosen instead of her, but they didn’t listen and tased her instead, uncuffing her and strapping her to the table to begin their twisted procedure. As the doctor began to pull the strap up near her face, she got close enough to bite a chunk of the man’s neck off.

She then decided to thrash around as much as possible, making sure she didn’t go down without a fight. However, it didn’t take long for her to stop, as they tased her long enough to get her to near passing out. The screams that escaped her lips as they drove the drill into her thigh were going to haunt you, the worry for your friends' safety coursing through you. As she screamed you began to beg that it was you they took first, but they didn’t listen.

You pulled on your restraints and screamed for them to take you, but Raven’s screams were still enough to drown you out until it sounded like you were just a whisper. At least until Cage entered the room again. He ordered for Raven to be taken off of the table, but the doctor said that they weren’t done yet, Cage demanded that she was taken off and the doctor reluctantly complied.

Cage turned and gave a sick smile to you, and then pointed. “Put her on it. You wanted to take her place so bad, so let’s hit them where it hurts.”

You immediately began your protest and so did the others, but you didn’t fight as hard as you should’ve. He was right, this is what you wanted, to spare Raven of the extra pain on top of what she was already struggling to deal with. So, you moved with the guards, sitting on the table. As you were being strapped in you nodded to your father and told him you were okay.

He and Abby were shouting at Cage to fix this, so people wouldn’t have to die for bone marrow. Everyone could just donate instead of dying for it, but Cage ignored him and told him to proceed with the drilling. The doctor turned it on and the whirring of the drill scared you a little bit, but you felt numb. This was your time, and you could accept that for now. As long as everyone else was safe, you could accept dying.

They tore a piece out of the thigh of your pant leg, where they started with Raven. The drilling got closer to you and the doctor put his hand on your thigh to steady it and hold down the torn fabric, shoving the drill into your flesh. It hurt, but the pain from the drill going directly into your bone was one thousand times worse. You could feel it digging deeper into your bone, and the vibrations of the drill were practically shaking your skeleton, making the pain spread throughout your entire body instead of just your thigh.

Your screams echoed through the room, the only sound that you could hear. Your eyes squeezed shut at an attempt to relieve some of the pain but it didn’t help. Clarke and Bellamy looked at you in worry and sadness as your pain was on display on the large monitor.

“Clarke, if we do this, there is no going back!” Bellamy yelled. The conflict she faced was shown in her features. If she irradiated the level, she could save her people; but in doing so she would kill countless people. If she didn’t, her mother, her friends, and you would die.

She looked at Monty. “Figure it out.” And away he went, typing on the computer to figure out a way to save his people.

By the time that Jasper had been brought into the room, you didn’t have enough fight to keep screaming. Your throat was raw and your energy dwindled quickly. You barely registered that they caught Jasper.

Back in the security room, Monty finished his task.

“Why are you stopping?” Clarke asked urgently.

“Because I did it,” Monty said, astonished. “All we have to do is pull this.” He pointed at the lever. “The vents and hatches will open, and the scrubbers will reverse, pulling in outside air.”

A beat of tense silence filled the security room as Bellamy watched Emerson try to get in through the monitors. Quickly, he pulled his weapon and aimed it at the door. “He’s gonna blow the door.”

“Clarke. We’re out of time.” Monty told the blonde, who put her hand on the lever.

Hesitantly, she looked up at the monitor, her friends and family tied up like animals and her close friend being drained of her bone marrow. Bellamy watched his sister and Maya being pinned to the ground. “My sister, my responsibility.”

Bellamy put his hand on the lever, right on top of Clarke’s. The burden she faced was a little lighter now that she didn’t have to do it all alone. “Together,”

Clarke nodded at her friend and slowly, their hands pulled the lever back, dooming everyone who lived in the mountain to death so their friends and family could live. Alarms started blaring and the yellow lights flashed, the guards in the dorm dropping to the floor in pain. Your vision was hazy as Jasper ran from the room and your father shouted at him.

You turned your head and looked at your father, tired. Then Octavia came into view, diving down and coming back up, unhooking your father and Abby from their cuffs, then moving onto the others. Your father ran towards you with Abby, the woman working on removing your leg restraints and your father pulling off the strap around your neck.

“Where’s… where are Clarke and Bellamy?”

Your father gave you no answer as he worked on getting your wrists free. As soon as he did so, you were pulled into his arms, weakly wrapping your own around his neck. “I told you coming back was a bad idea.”

With help, you sat up at the edge of the medical table, hugging Abby when Clarke and Bellamy came into the room with Monty. Everyone else was being freed, and to your surprise, Clarke came straight to your side to hug you.

“I thought you were dead,” She sobbed, the stress finally overcoming her.

“I’m okay, I always am.” You joked. “How many times do I have to tell everyone, death isn’t something I’m fit for.”

She laughed a little and pulled away, heading over to her mom. Not even 10 seconds after she had let go of you, Bellamy had his arms wrapped tightly around you. You hugged back just as tightly, tucking your face into Bellamy’s neck, just as he did. It took a moment to realize that the both of you were crying in relief that the other was okay.

“I knew you shouldn’t have come, I told you it wasn’t safe,” Bellamy solded lightly, more concerned with if you were completely okay than lecturing you. You chuckled at him and Smoothed the hair on the back of his head down.

“I’m never one to listen to people, Bell.” You reminded him.

He pulled away a little bit, just enough to look at you. He had tear streaks on his face, as did you, the relief that it was all over making everyone emotional. You kept your eyes on his as he pushed some hair out of your face, admiring you. His soft, brown eyes looked you over, checking for any other injuries aside from the one on your leg.

“Are you okay?” He asked, concern in his tone.

“I’m fine, Bell.”

“Good. Good.” He seemed to be thinking over something, the gears in his head turning as hard as ever as anxiety shone in his eyes. The hand that once pushed your hair wavy now rested partially on your cheek, and within seconds, Bellamy seemed to have made up his mind.

His eyes flickered towards your lips as he moved forward the smallest bit, eyelids fluttering. Acting on instinct, you moved closer to him, closing your eyes. His breath fanned on your lips as he moved closer, and the bundle of nerves in your stomach was tightening as the seconds passed. The buildup felt like it took centuries, not seconds.

Your mind seemed to be made up, and your hand went to the back of Bellamy’s neck, pulling him closer until his lips were on yours. He seemed a little stunned at the action but kissed back, moving his hands to rest on your waist as you wrapped your other arm around Bellamy’s neck. The need for air was increasing as the kiss continued, but you both ignored it for as long as possible, wanting to be close after everything.

Once you both decided that you needed air, you pulled away with a smile. “I’ve wanted to do that since the dropship.”

“Me too,” You agreed. He chuckled and pulled you back into a hug, though this time it felt very different, there was something else in it, something you couldn’t place, but it was nice.

A throat cleared from behind you, and you pulled away to see your father. “You did good, Bellamy,” He put a hand on his shoulder. “Now let’s get these people home.”

“Yes, sir.”

You could tell your dad was going to say something when Octavia came up to the three of you. “Where’s Cage?”

“He probably escaped, but if anything he’ll be dead within the week.” You assured them.

Though wary, the group nodded and Octavia hugged you. “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you, too, ‘Tavia.”

Once everyone was ready, Bellamy looped one arm around your waist and put yours around your neck, and Octavia did the same. Walking would be hard for you on the way back, but you insisted that Raven needed the stretcher more than you did, and you didn’t want to inconvenience anyone more than necessary.

At some point during the walk, your leg began to give way again and Bellamy just carried you the rest of the way. Your father was near the front with Abby, while you stayed with Bellamy at the gate, no longer being carried by him, making sure that everyone got in safely.

Your attention was brought to Clarke and Monty, who were hugging. Limping, you and Bellamy met her just outside the exit. “I think we deserve a drink.”

“More like a whole damn bottle,”

“Have one for me.” Clarke told you.

“Hey, if we can get through this--” Bellamy started.

“I’m not going in.” You looked sadly at your friend, understanding what she was saying.

Bellamy seemed to catch on too. “Look, if you need forgiveness, I’ll give that to you. You’re forgiven.”

“Please come inside, Clarke.” You asked.

“Take care of them for me,” She requested.

“Clarke--”

“No. Seeing their faces every day is just gonna remind me of what I did to get them here.”

“What we did.” Bellamy reminded her.

“You don’t have to do this alone, you know.” You assured her.

“I bear it so they don’t have to,” She cited, tearing up.

“Where are you gonna go?” Bellamy asked.

“I don’t know.” Clarke admitted.

Quickly, she kissed Bellamy’s cheek and pulled him into a hug. “May we meet again.”

She let go and moved to you, struggling to keep her emotions down as she did. “I love you, sister.”

You heard her struggle to suppress a sob at your words and smoothed down the hair on your head. “I love you, too, sister.”

With that, she took a step back and looked between the two of you. “Take care of each other,”

You watched as the girl that you had come to consider as your sister walked away from home and into the forest, where you had no clue where she would end up. Your leg started giving out again and you grabbed Bellamy’s arm, leading him to pick you up again and carry you towards medical so Abby could help you.

Now, all you could do was keep on living, and see where life would take you.

Taglist:  @soullessbabee​ | @hyperion-moonbabe-art3mis​ | @dummythiccwitch​ | @sireddobrev​ | @gxvrielle​ | @hurricane-abigail​| @holyhumorliteraturelight​

[chimswae]

BTS Caretaker  Ch1

Summary: She may think she has Bangtan Sonyeondan wrapped around her fingers. She may think it is easy to love the members equally without hurting any soul. She may think the boys wont fall head over heels for her. She assumes it is okay to show a little love and affection towards the boys, what if she gets it all wrong? What if it only brings more complication to her already complicated life? Can she survive their charms? Will she be able to resist them? What if they just wont let her go?

- Pairing: BTS x Oc ( Yoongi x OC, Jungkook x OC, Jikook~)

- Genre: Fluff, Slight Angst, Romance, Idol!au

- Word Count: 2,161

-Author Note: I crosspost this story from my Asianfanfic/Wattpadd account. Mind you, clicheness OVERLOADS.

Next

Chapter 1

“Ahjumma’s food. I can smell it from miles away. Yums..” the maknae line hollered excitedly as they made their way inside without even taking off their socks properly. Stood behind them in line were the hyung lines which only shook their head in amusement. They just got back from a 11-hour practice yet those boys still had some energy stored in them.

Age aint just a number for sure.

Taehyung and Jimin voice were so loud which could shake the whole building “AS EXPECTED AHJUMMA COOKED THE BEST FOOD” Jin smacked their back head lightly accompanied with soft grunt.

“Clean yourself first, this food need to be reheat first” as usual Jin would take charge when it came to kitchen issues. Taehyung puckered his lips in protest and shot the older boy a stern look sending there-is-no-way-im-listening-to-you message which only being ignored by him.

Jimin cracked a grin as his eyes sunk into his signature eyes smile “I will be here in 10 minutes” he paraded to his room happily. Jin watched his figure disappeared with a soft sigh “And, how about you?” turning to face hungry Jungkook, the younger guy only rolled his eyes earning a smack on his forearm.

“HYUNG WHAT WAS THAT FOR?” bewildered, he half-yelled.

“Manners Jeon Gukkie” said the leader. Jungkook pursed his lips looking awfully sulky as he made his way to his room to get changed before his hyungs goofed around making fun of him again. Like a routine, every time they reached their place, meals would already lay flat on the table for them to savour. Even though it was weird to eat something without knowing the caretaker lady’s face, they were aware the lady was like a mother to them.

Every single day without failed, the caretaker lady or they preferably called as “Ahjumma” would prepare a simple meal for the seven boys. However, due to the nature of her contract with Bighit the ahjumma is not allowed to perform her task when the boys were around. She would only be there early in the morning daily except in certain occasion whereby the boy had no schedule ahead then she would come as per requested by BTS manager.

Therefore, none of the boys had ever met the caretaker lady face to face. Entering to her third year working with the boys, the caretaker lady knew almost everything about them just by cleaning their dorm. Yes, the dorm would not be in a good shape if it weren’t for the caretaker lady. The place was big enough for everyone to stay in comparison to their old dorm back then.

Make it big or not, they are still guys. Some may take time to clean after their mess but the nature of their career restricts them to perform even a simplest task like doing their own laundry. Now and then Jungkook would be in charge doing their laundry however nowadays they were so cramped with awards shows and tours ahead.

There were lots of things to be prepared at once, and the guys barely got time to even shut their eyes properly in a day. Poor boys.

Like a flash, Jungkook and Jimin came running to the kitchen taking their seat looking all ready to gobble down the food. At time like this, they really missed homecooked food. They are grateful for caretaker Ahjumma’s food that kept them fit and healthy all these years. Unlike before their debut days, the company could only afford them simple snacks which were not enough for grown up boys like them.

“I wonder when will we ever get to meet this caretaker Ahjumma” the youngest one mumbled between his bite.

Jimin shrugged “According to Sejin hyung, she is not allowed to work when we are around. The nature of the contract I guess” he felt someone sank in a seat beside him lazily. Lazy but hungry Min Yoongi.

Yoongi picked up his chopsticks and shoved kimchi in his mouth hastily “The contract is made to protect us”

“The ahjumma is not a sasaeng. It has been 3 years, plus she has been nothing but awfully kind to us. She prepares food for us even though it is not in her job description. Aint that enough to prove she won’t cause any harm?” Jungkook argued with a slight pout.

Sprawled lazily on the couch, Hoseok nodded in agreement as he started to mumble incoherently most likely how it was unfair for not be able to meet the kind lady personally. It was all talk and they couldn’t stop wondering how kind the Ahjumma was in person.

The eldest in the group appeared looking squeaky clean with a gleeful smile plastered on his face “Jungkook, are you falling for this Ahjumma’s charms” he teased. The younger guy flustered in his seat sending a death glare to his hyung’s way.

Jin didn’t stop right there, he heard him continue “Maybe she is not that Ahjumma after all. What if Bang Pd is protecting us from a beautiful caretaker lady?” he hummed as he sat across Jungkook still with that playful smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

“Mmm.. I don’t think her notes sound so young after all. She used a lot of old words in her writing” Jimin scratched the back of his neck in confusion. How could a person be so clueless and oblivious? It supposed to be a mere tease but he indeed took things quite seriously. Judging by his expression, Jimin was racking his brain to find answer to the relevancy of this matter as per mentioned by Jin.

A soft sigh escaped from Yoongi’s lips in response to his friends’ irrelevant conversation “I am going to sleep. Clean up after eating, don’t put more loads on the ahjumma’s shoulder” he warned before leaving the group.

“Tch, how can he be full by eating kimchi!” Jin cringed in annoyance.

 ---------------------

Ji Seul, 22 years old, a college dropout.

Alright, cut that college dropout thing. She’s diligently working in a bubble tea shop and sometimes she would work at 7-eleven just to kill time. Another reason was that, to make more money.  Due to financial constraints a year ago, she had to give up her college in exchange to her little brother school fees. The fees on the other hand had hiked up crazily leaving her with no choice but to give up her future.

It was not easy for her mother to raise the siblings alone without external support. The condition of the economy nowadays was not favourable to family with low disposable income like them. Ji Seul worked when she was in college however it came to no avail. For some reason, she performed badly in her first semester. To add to that sappy story of hers, she almost got kicked out due to her poor performance.

If she were to work, she would perform so badly in her tests and projects.

However, if she decided to give up on having a part time job, she could not afford the college fees. And vice versa.

Some might think there was another way to resolve her so called issues. Scholarship? She tried it all, guess the competition was surprisingly high lately. Ji Seul had a decent result to apply for one, but there would always be another person who’s above you after all. That’s life.

She spent her youth time working hard like there is no tomorrow for the sake of her family. As much as she wanted to chase her dreams, she would rather work her ass off for her mother at least. The failure of her mother’s marriage literally messed up everything. Let’s not talk about her typical shitty life, Ji Seul preferred to let it buried deep in her brain. It was not worth talking anyways.

All she knew, her father was a real jerk for abandoning them.

Ji Seul loathed her father to the core.  She would never forgive him for all misery that he had caused to their life.

Placing the last ingredient in her stew, she smiled to herself feeling a little proud of her little accomplishment. Cooking was not easy, and if it weren’t for her annoying little brother, which was not that little, demanded a decent dinner tonight, she did not need to struggle with the recipe. He was old enough to cook a freaking ramen yet he chose to order her around just to piss her off.

“Where is my food?” Ji Hoon blinked with a sly smirk.

Ji Seul scoffed in disbelief “Here..” she kicked his calf as her eyes rolled in annoyance.

“OWW NUNA! THAT IS RUDE!”

“So, your nuna is being rude now? Don’t call me nuna, I am disowning you Hoon” she snickered. Bantering was a usual thing between the Ji’s, the world would be a better place without their existence for sure. The sound of front door being opened averted Ji Seul attention from her brother.

“Im back kids. No one is losing their teeth today, right? I hope” her mother closed the door behind her with a sarcastic remark. Pursing her lips, she took the bag from the older woman’s hand “Don’t worry, our teeth are still intact. But seems like Hoon will be losing his soon” Hoon puffed his cheeks.

“Can both of you behave for one day” she shook her head utterly speechless of her children’s childish behaviour. She went straight to check the food on the stove “Oh you cooked Seul-ah?” Seul broke a wide grin with a nod.

“If it weren’t for me, nuna would not be cooking that stew right now. Amazing, isn’t it?” Hoon replied chirpily.

Snorting under her breath, Seul retorted “For your information, the world does not revolve around you Ji Hoon. So, mother how’s work?” she watched the older woman taking a seat with a fatigue smile. Over years, she could see how older she got. It must not be easy for her to work as a caretaker lady. Her mother cherished her job as BTS’s caretaker because they paid her handsomely and the company really looked after her like a family.

She grew fond of the boys even though they did not have the chance to meet each other just yet. However, it was satisfying to look after the boys just like her own child. She loved her job. If she were given a chance to meet them in the future, she would shower them with lots of good food.

“The boys really made a huge mess. I think they were pretty busy” she chuckled.

She took a sip of the cold drinks as she continued “Jungkook piled up the laundry in his room again. He must have forgotten it while tending other important works like-“ Seul cut her off with a cringe.

“Like his games?” her mother nodded in response, ‘” Lazy bum” she claimed.

“Jungkook is just a kid Seul, let him be” her mother defended.

Seul crossed her arms disliking the fact that this Jungkook person made her mother worked extremely hard today “He is 20 and a grown-up man. He should have cleaned his own mess” Hoon pretended he did not listen to his sister complaints. It had always been like that. Ji Seul appeared to have a personal vendetta against Bangtan Sonyeondan. She knew they were pretty hot nowadays but sadly BTS did not meet her par.

Now and then, she would listen to their songs. Some of the songs are decent enough which gave colour to her already sorrowful life. Nevertheless, that was it. She had no idea who was who, all she knew there were 7 members.

If Ji Seul were like those fangirls, she would be the happiest human being alive for having a connection with BTS. Too bad, she was not into them. She had something better to do, like making money and keeping their stomach full.

“Do you like Jungkook hyung?” Hoon’s voice brought her out of her trance.

Ji Seul facepalmed upon listening to his absurd questions. She let out a low grunt “Jungkook hyung? Are you that friendly with him? Ew that is gross Hoon” she shot him a judgemental look.

“He is older by a year, and I am being polite. You seem to have lots of shitty complaints in your brain when it comes to BTS members. Especially Jungkook hyung” he purposely pressed the hyung part staring at the small girl in front of him.

“Because for some reason mother only talk about him and that other guy Chin?” she blurted out of annoyance.

“It is Jin..” her mother leaned back in her seat with a teasing smile. Now she’s teaming up with Ji Hoon to bring Seul down for good. She added before Seul could continue “He is a good cook..unlike someone” earning a low scowl from Ji Seul.

She had made up her mind to ignore them both.

Her stew needs her attention.

 This work belongs to  Chimswae © 2020. All Rights Reserved.

[komahinasecretexchange]

Title: Delicate Cycle

Author: @cellophanerose

For: @akito666us

Rating/Warnings: G/No warnings apply!

Prompt: Hinata helps Komaeda to recover from PTSD

Author’s notes: Hello!  It’s my first time writing fic, but I still hope you enjoy!  It’s more of “Hinata helps Komaeda recover” in general - I hope that’s ok!  Thanks for reading!

Hinata had already known that his past was indelible, even if he couldn’t remember it.  This was something that class 77-B all had in common – their lives in despair seemed like a hazy memory of a story someone once told, not the painful truth of how responsible they all were for the effective end of the world.  Ironically, most of the class more clearly remembered what had happened in the simulation, even though only the “survivors” left with their memories completely intact. Still, it wasn’t something easily brought up – asking a murder victim if they remembered how they died, or the blackened if they could still feel the phantom pains from their executions.  Because that was the thing – although no physical harm was carried over, the mental scars cut deeper than any murder weapon.

Despite all their attempts to move forward and forgive each other, Koizumi still flinched when she ran into Pekoyama alone, and Sainoji surreptitiously rubbed her throat when she thought no one was looking.   Hanamura froze up when his batter splashed onto him, and Tanaka clutched his fists hard enough to draw blood when loud stampeding sounded. Truly, even a fictional past was inescapable, but they all silently agreed that this would be their penance.

However, Hinata noted, Komaeda remained virtually unaffected.  No panic attacks when walking by the warehouse, no nervous sweating at the sight of ropes or fire, not even the spears they used for fishing or bright red containers..

“It was something I did to myself, Hinata-kun,” Komaeda once tried to explain.  “I knew exactly what to expect and prepared myself for that. Besides, I’ve been in plenty of other terrible accidents and trauma-inducing situations!” Komaeda tried laughing it off, but Hinata still felt he wasn’t getting the whole truth.  But, since he had nothing to go on save for a gut feeling, Hinata decided to let it go for now. Plenty of his classmates vocally asked for his guidance, so he wasn’t going to pull teeth trying to get Komaeda to reach out for help. He wouldn’t even worry about it!  At all!

Or so Hinata had told himself.  Until, one night, his mind was screaming at him that he wasn’t doing enough – that he would never be enough – that offering his entire being to the sacrificial altar of Hope’s Peak Academy for a chance to mean something still wasn’t enough – kept him awake.  (Between visions of a talentless reserve, a bored god, and a dead digital girl, he hardly ever slept through the night, but none of his friends needed to know this.) Tonight, however, instead of futilely chasing sleep that was never coming for him, Hinata slipped his sneakers on and stepped outside.  He figured he could do some preliminary work for the day ahead, namely making rounds and noting any malfunctioning equipment or depleted supplies, but truthfully he just felt the need to move.

Hinata left his cottage and headed towards the communal washing machines when he noticed the light was already on.  Not an odd thing, per se – several of his peers also had trouble sleeping, but the quiet music did pique his curiosity.  It was definitely a familiar song, but he didn’t connect the dots until he opened the door and found Komaeda kneeling on the ground, looking like a marionette whose strings had been cut.  It was then it all came together in Hinata’s mind – the heat from the fire, the smoke causing his eyes to tear, the pounding of feet and the shattering of bottles, and finally the sprinklers turning on, leaving only the overwhelming feeling of dread and anxiety for reasons he was too afraid to confront.  So many sensations had led up to that point, but when they pulled back the curtain, all Hinata could remember was ((despair)). The smell of blood, the look of terror permanently affixed to his face, the spear grotesquely impaling his stomach, every nauseating detail came giftwrapped in a single thought, a single moment, a single truth – Komaeda was dead.

Hinata snapped back into the present.

Komaeda was alive, and he needed Hinata’s help.  Hinata instinctually dashed to the radio and slammed the power button, then immediately pivoted and fell onto the floor beside Komaeda.  Komaeda’s usually crisp and clear eyes were faded and swirling with a slight darkness, and his façade was distressingly blank.

“Komaeda,” Hinata was shaking, but he still placed both of his hands on Komaeda’s shoulders in an effort to ground him.  His grip tightened when he received no answer.

“Komaeda!” he raised his voice, panic bubbling inside him, “It’s okay!  I’m here with you.” He couldn’t eloquently string words of comfort together, but he tried his best.  “You’re safe, you aren’t alone, you’re going to be fine, just please listen to me!”  Komaeda offered no reassurance that the words were reaching him and continued staring blankly through Hinata, to a place only he could see.

Hinata’s hands were still trembling when he wrapped his arms around Komaeda.  They had never been physically intimate like this, but at that moment, Hinata needed to feel Komaeda’s warmth just as much as Komaeda needed Hinata.  “I’m here,” Hinata mumbled, surprising himself when the words, “I’ll always be here,” slipped out. The most shocking part, Hinata found, was that he wanted it to be true.

Hinata had lost many of his friends during the killing game, and he cared about each one of them, but he would be lying if he said Komaeda’s death didn’t leave an especially strong impact on him.  Even after it was revealed that Komaeda had orchestrated his own death, Hinata felt a sadness and regret that he didn’t want to name at the time. Nanami paid the ultimate price for Komaeda’s actions when she didn’t get the choice, so it was easy to bury those earlier feelings under anger and frustration.  After everything had settled, and Hinata was reunited with their digital classmate in a moment of great distress, he couldn’t ignore those buried feelings.

Hinata didn’t want Komaeda to be alone.  Luck had constantly torn those who cared about Komaeda away from him, leaving him with no one who loved him.  Komaeda had told Hinata once that he was afraid of dying alone, and though Hinata at the time fell for Komaeda’s lie of “it was something I read in a book!” it wasn’t because Hinata truly believed it, but rather because it was easier to do so.  Komaeda had given him an out in the form of a flimsy lie, and Hinata had taken it.  Of course Komaeda was afraid of dying alone – after spending as much time as he had with Komaeda, it was an obvious conclusion for Hinata to reach.  And yet, Komaeda manufactured a situation where he would not only die alone, but also in such a horrific manner. He chose to die alone, and that was something Hinata could never accept.

So when Komaeda finally raised his arms to return Hinata’s embrace, Hinata felt such a wave of relief and calm that it nearly brought tears to his eyes.  

~

When Komaeda came to, he admonished himself for being so weak, and started brainstorming ways to explain his reaction away.  Telling Hinata he wasn’t having problems with his death, and yet here he was, putting on such an unsightly display. …Actually, what was Hinata doing here in the first place?  Embracing Komaeda, of all people? Maybe it had something to do with why Hinata was shaking, he thought. He might as well venture a guess (and buy himself some more time in the process.)

“Hinata-kun, why are you shaking so much?  Are you getting sick, maybe?” The question was asked in earnest, but Hinata reacted with anger.

“Don’t make light of this!  Do you really think I would be so heartless as to not react?” Hinata was still trembling, but he let his arms fall from Komaeda and balled his hands into fists.  Komaeda felt a flash of disappointment before curiosity returned. Maybe he was thinking of this the wrong way?

“…Are you angry with me, Hinata-kun?”  Komaeda felt a little silly trying to have a conversation while kneeling on the floor, but he wasn’t going to complain.

“Is it really that hard for you to imagine that I was worried about you, Komaeda?  That I feel things other than anger and boredom?” Hinata stood up, and Komaeda quickly followed.  Hinata looked directly into Komaeda’s eyes, but whatever he was searching for, he must not have been able to find.  “…Sorry,” Hinata continued, “this isn’t… I just was scared, all right? Hearing that music, and seeing you like that, I… Actually, it doesn’t matter.”  Komaeda was ready to refute that ‘No, it actually matters a great deal,’ but Hinata still continued.

“Are you ok, Komaeda?  Does that happen often?”  Hinata looked painfully earnest, so Komaeda held back his self-deprecating comments for now.

“Thank you for worrying about me, Hinata-kun, but I’m all right.   That song simply caught me off-guard. Up until today, I had completely forgotten it was part of my plan.  Only somebody totally useless like me would let such an insignificant thing shut them down!” Komaeda hoped Hinata would let his ‘useless’ slide for now.  Hinata sighed and placed his hand on Komaeda’s shoulder.

“It’s ok to not be all right, you know?  I know you don’t think you’re worth it, but we’re all here to support each other.  You went through something terrible. And don’t say it doesn’t count ‘cause you did it to yourself!  You wouldn’t be collapsed in front of a washing machine at 3 AM if you weren’t hurting. Maybe you don’t even realize it, but even if that pain isn’t on the surface, I want to remove it from you.”  Hinata held Komaeda’s robotic hand with both of his own. “I won’t let you get lost in despair again.”

Komaeda was deeply shaken by those words, and even if he wanted so badly to believe them, he just couldn’t bring himself to do so.  He ached to open up, to lay everything out to Hinata that he couldn’t even tell himself, but he knew he wasn’t brave enough to do so.  Instead, he fell back into his failsafe: being contentious.

“Haha…Tell me, Hinata-kun, what makes you think you have the power to do such a thing?  What could a failure of a reserve course guinea pig do to help someone like me?” He was on a dangerous line, he knew - already he had slipped up and admitted that he needed help.  But the faster he hurt Hinata and pushed him far enough away, the better. “I never asked for your pity.”

The words stung both of them, Komaeda realized.  He was so used to pushing away people he cared about, but hurting Hinata felt especially vile.  However, Hinata surprised him by doing the exact opposite of what he’d planned - instead of getting angry and storming off, he agreed.

“I guess I am pretty useless,” Hinata started.  “I’ve always known I was a failure, and you’ve never hidden your contempt for that part of me.  But I won’t let that stop me. Because I know you, and I know you want this,” Hinata laced his fingers with Komaeda’s, “And so do I.  You can’t push me away this time, Komaeda.”

Komaeda’s heart was pounding so loudly that he was afraid the roof would collapse from the sound.  He looked up into Hinata’s eyes and saw all stubborn determination and kindness and hope.  Komaeda’s lips trembled.

How long had he wanted this?  Someone to talk to him, someone to comfort him?  Someone to take his hand and make silly, irresponsible promises?

“…I guess if you’re going to be that stubborn, I won’t be able to stop you,” Komaeda tried saying nonchalantly, but a genuine smile was sneaking its way onto his face.  He still couldn’t bring himself to fully believe it, but looking at Hinata’s expression, he couldn’t not believe it either. Hinata relaxed in understanding of Komaeda’s thinly veiled acceptance.  He squeezed Komaeda’s hand once more before letting it drop. Suddenly, it was like the force that was keeping Hinata steady had vanished and his visage changed to one of pure exhaustion. He swayed towards Komaeda, who held him upright.

“Hey, Hinata-kun?  Have you been sleeping poorly lately, perhaps?”   He paused for a second before deciding to take it a step further.   “I’ve also had problems sleeping recently. Do you want to talk about it?”  Hinata looked like he wanted to object, but realized the hypocrisy of such and decided to answer honestly.

“A little bit.  Nightmares, y’know?  Sometimes I can’t get my brain to shut off,” Hinata admitted. “ A lot of the times I can’t remember if what I see in my dreams is real or not.”  Komaeda had a hunch on what Hinata was referring to, but didn’t interrupt. “…Sometimes, I dream about you.” Komaeda jolted to attention.

“Ah, my features are quite haunting, I suppose-” before Komaeda could spit any more vitriol, Hinata cut him off.

“About your death,” Hinata clarified.  Komaeda’s vision briefly flashed to visions of fire and blood and pain, but a quick squeeze of Hinata’s arm brought him back to reality.  Well, that was surprising. Komeada chalked it up to sleep deprivation that Hinata was admitting this, because the thought that he wanted Komaeda to know how much it affected him was too much to handle.  

“…Do you want to tell me?” Komaeda didn’t know how far he could push his boundaries.

“No- I mean - yes, but… I do want to talk with you eventually, but I’m not sure if I have enough energy for it right now.”  Was his death truly something that haunted Hinata to such a point? Komaeda had no reason to believe he was lying, but still…

“Let’s try getting some sleep, then,” Komaeda suggested instead.  “We can always talk more at a later time!” Komaeda gave Hinata a tired, but bright, smile.  He was elated when Hinata returned one in kind.

“Yeah, you’re right,” Hinata grinned.  Hinata was so bright, like a beacon of hope for Komaeda, but he was still so human and flawed.  He had felt a kinship with Hinata from the very first time they met, but through all the trials and tribulations they went through, Komaeda had found himself drawn to something more than a feeling of similarity.  He listened to Komaeda’s ramblings, and while he didn’t always agree, he always engaged. It felt like someone was finally seeing him, and that prickly kindness Hinata offered was ‘hope’ in his eyes.

Yes, to say Hinata was Komaeda’s hope wasn’t an exaggeration.  Every version of Hinata was dear to him, and the man standing before him despite all odds was the man he grew to love.

~

Hinata was dizzy with exhaustion and giddiness (at being heard, at finally reaching out and being honest with Komaeda, at Komaeda reaching back) that when Komaeda gave a small wave and turned to leave, he called out to him.

“Komaeda!”  Maybe Hinata didn’t want this bubble to pop because he was afraid that, even after tonight, nothing would change, or maybe he could blame sleep deprivation.  But when Komaeda turned around in response and Hinata pulled him into a hug and whispered, “thanks,” Hinata realized there wasn’t a reason - he just wanted to hold Komaeda. Hinata was treated to the sight of a slightly red-faced Komaeda, awkwardly deciding how to react.

“Nnnh…No problem?” Komaeda asked, clearly looking for an explanation from Hinata.  However, when Hinata dropped his arms and walked away, he left Komaeda with nothing but a ‘good night.’  If Hinata’s ears were burning by the time he got back to his cabin, Komaeda didn’t need to know.  

That night, he dreamt of soft touches and interlocking fingers, of white hair and pale eyes.

Hinata wasn’t naive enough to believe that this was the end of nightmares or breakdowns for either of them, but when Komaeda invited him to stargaze and air some more things out before they fell asleep, he had hope that both of them were healing.  Even when Komaeda’s luck inevitably brought a storm that covered the stars and drenched them both to the bone, Hinata had never felt as calm as he did when Komaeda dozed off while leaning his head against his shoulder. He spent a long time listening to the soft sound of Komaeda’s breathing and feeling the slight movements beside him before following Komaeda into sleep.

While it was still true that they couldn’t erase their pasts, they can still move towards a brighter future together.

[oumiyuki]

Kotori ends up gaining weight after being taken on far too many dinner dates with Honoka, and feeling super ashamed of herself, she tries and hide from Honoka for a bit while exercising in private. But when Honoka gets too lonely after a while, she asks Kotori about it, and tells her that she loves her no matter what!

KOTORI'S SECRETIVE DIET PLANS

Summary: Happy dating life means big smiles and laughs and lots of dates…and sometimes also gaining a little weight from all those dates. Kotori doesn’t like the number on the weighing machine or the excess squishiness on her belly. So she executes Kotori’s Secretive Diet Plans! 

Genre: Romance, Fluff

Words: 1.9k

Read me at fanfiction.net or AO3 too~

Author Notes

I LOVE KOTOHONO!!!!

*O* aahh, sometimes we just gotta shout out that love! Hehe~

I hope you like it, you who gave the prompt! ^w^

May you enjoy! XD

 "Uu..." Kotori worries at her bottom lip. Her golden eyes shimmering with sadness at the numbers displayed on the weighing scale.

A deeper frown as she places a hand on her belly to squeeze it.

"Honoka-chan...I think I'm gaining too much weight from all our dates..." The ash-brunette mumbles to herself since her Honoka was back in the gingerhead's own house, sure to be carefree and carelessly munching more snacks.

Kotori stares herself down in the mirror - worry morphing to determination as she slaps her cheeks twice. "I'm going to execute a secret plan to get back in shape so I can go on more dates with Honoka-chan!!"

The fluffy costume designer raises her balled fist to show her passion before she goes to her desk to pen down the schedule and diet plans.

Once done, she decides to add one more line on the top, with an asterisk and boxed up with cute orange ink, "[*A secret from Honoka-chan!]"

~~~

Week 1 Day 1

"Ko~to~ri~chan!!" The bubbly gingerhead hops by Kotori's table, smiles wide and absolutely endearing to the ash-brunette keeping away her study instruments.

"Yes, Honoka-chan?"

"Let's go on a date!" Honoka announces and Kotori's heart flutters.

"Ah, that..." Kotori was always quick to say yes to her girlfriend. But this time, she remembers that their dates tend to bring them to cafes, restaurants, picnics and snack shops and bakeries..!!

"Kotori-chan? Your hand froze." Honoka tilts her head to the side quizzically.

"Um! Honoka-chan...I just remembered I got something on so I can't go on a date with you today..." Kotori smiles sheepishly as she glanced at the clock; she should be carrying out her exercise regimen.

"Oh..." Honoka couldn't hide the disappointment as her smile fell from her face. It didn't take more than ten seconds for her to grin again though. "We can at least go home together?"

Kotori returns the smile and a nod. "Yes."

~~~

Week 1 Day 3

“Kotori-chan~” Honoka swings both Kotori and her hands up and down, spirits jolly and mind hopeful.

“Yes~?” Kotori responds with equal glee.

“Want to take a detour today? There’s this store-”

“Ah! I’m sorry, Honoka-chan…I promised my mum that I’ll help in the house…And I don’t want to get back late so…” Kotori wished she didn’t have to cut the gingerhead off. The sad puppy eyes Honoka gave her made her heart ache.

But this is all so she can keep up the diet plan! No additional calories just yet.

Honoka nods with a solemn smile. “Alright…I’ll try to ask you out another time then!”

Honoka pumps their joined hands up with determination and laughs. Kotori couldn’t help but join in before she was walked home.

 ~~~

Week 2 Day 2

“Aaahh!! I can’t take it anymore!!” Honoka whines and pouts at the mirror…and to her reflection as she was getting ready for school. “Kotori-chan…Why are you constantly too busy to go on dates with me!”

The gingerhead shakes her head, her hair fluttering about before it rests on her shoulders again and she adjusts her school ribbon.

“Did I do something wrong..?” Honoka hums thoughtfully before her lightbulb moment occurs – she’s going to sneakily follow Kotori to find out what her girlfriend has been up to!

.

.

.

After school rolls by and Honoka approaches her girlfriend’s table with what she thinks is a not-obviously-up-to-something-smile. “Kotori-chan~”

The ash-brunette smiles right back, always happy to see Honoka. “Yes?”

“Are you…free for a date or…shall we be on our usual?” Honoka straightens her back and positions her arm in a ninety degree angle meant for her partner to link arms with. “Knight Honoka escorting you home!”

Kotori giggles into her hand and slips her hand into Honoka’s waiting arms as she stands. “Mmm…~ Escort me home, dear Knight Honoka-chan.”

Honoka nods excitedly but as they were leaving the classroom – it hit her.

!! AAah!!! I should be following Kotori-chan not bringing her home!!

Kotori thankfully was looking straight ahead so she does not witness Honoka’s expressions changing all over the place.

Ah, but…if she immediately said escort her home, means Kotori-chan is just busy with household chores..?

Honoka tilts her head up in thought.

Even though she just did a big cleaning yesterday?

Honoka closes her eyes for deeper thoughts as they rounded the bend and exited school grounds. Thinking long enough with the help of fresh air and still blue skies, Honoka decides.

Alright! I’ll hang around on the outside and pop by inside after to surprise Kotori-chan!!

The ash-brunette’s soft giggles bring Honoka back down to Earth. “Kotori-chan..?”

Kotori smiles right at her girlfriend. “It’s nothing~ Just your lost in thoughts look is so charming too~”

Honoka’s cheeks flush. “Ah…T-thank you…” Sudden compliments from Kotori and that smile just gets the gingerhead’s heart to beat erratically and blushes to form.

Kotori was all smiles all the way home.

~~

Honoka is easily distracted.

“Aww, kitty~ cute kitty~” Honoka coos as she played with a neighbourhood cat not noticing how much time has passed after she brought Kotori home.

The cat meows happily from the friendly ginger’s pats and messing around with them. However, as how cats are, they sing their own tune and decided to let out a single meow like, “I’m done playing.” And walked off.

“Aww~ No more playing?” Honoka waves goodbye.

Surprisingly, the white-and-black cat turned to give one more meow before it jumped onto the wall and disappeared on the other side.

“Nya~” Honoka mimics and stands up to stretch. “Mm… Now what was I going to do- AH. Kotori-chan!”

The ditzy leader of Muse finally remembers her agenda but it was already so late. Right on cue, her phone rang and she panicky says she’s on the way home for dinner.

Ahhh, guess I should do a better job at following Kotori-chan tomorrow!!

 ~~~

Week 2 Day 3

Honoka sleeps in. Snuggled under her blankets until Yukiho’s voice boomed loud and clear, her little sister’s head poked into her room. “Onee-chan, you’re gonna be late for school!”

“Uwaaa!!” Honoka wakes with a start and clumsily falls out of bed, kicks off the blankets still hugging her legs and hurried to get ready. “Thanks, Yukihoooo!!”

The younger redhead shakes her head with a smile. “When Kotori-san doesn’t wake you, this is what happens.”

 ~~

Honoka got to school alright and she went through the school day as per normal, smiling when the end of school arrives.

I’ll pretend to be the busy one today!

“Honoka-chan.” Kotori approaches first with a sheepish smile. “I have somewhere else to be, so you don’t have to escort me home today…”

“Ah! That isn’t a problem. I’ve…got something on too!” Honoka averts her gaze with a chuckle and scratched the back of head.

“That’s good.” Kotori was relieved to hear that Honoka had plans else she’d feel bad for leaving Honoka alone again. “See you tomorrow, Honoka-chan.”

“See you~” Honoka waves Kotori goodbye before following her.

~~~

“Eh?” Honoka blinks twice as she looked around and up the long flight of stairs.

Kanda Shrine?

Honoka walks along the wall and hides as she watched Kotori appear in gym clothes and begun stretching.

Kotori-chan…is this extra training? You could’ve called me along…

Honoka pouts as she continued observing the ash-brunette finish up her stretches and begun runs up and down the long stairway of Kanda Shrine. Honoka wasn’t counting but she’s quite sure an hour has passed before Kotori finishes up.

She’s working so hard…and here I am-

Honoka stops when she hears her girlfriend’s voice.

“Haa…Somehow it doesn’t seem like it’s working out yet…” Kotori touched her tummy as she mumbled softly to herself.

Honoka could hear because she was channelling all of her focus to listen.

What’s not working out..? The workout-

Honoka gets cut off another time when she hears her girlfriend speak once more.

“It’s just the beginning. Kotori, no giving up! This is so we can go on more dates with Honoka-chan!” The fluffy costume designer kept her pumped fist and went to pick up her bag.

For more dates with me…

Before Honoka could try to comprehend Kotori’s intentions of all the running and avoiding hanging out with her, the gingerhead hurried to follow Kotori again.

~~

Now standing before Kotori’s house, Honoka got a feeling she should confront Kotori today.

It’s now or never!

The Leader of Muse nods to herself and opened the doors with the spare keys Kotori gave her, saying she feels safe knowing Honoka can come find her anytime she likes.

“…One! …Two! …Three!”

Honoka could hear Kotori’s voice and she peeked into the ash-brunette’s room to find Kotori doing push-ups. And after a good twenty, the ash-brunette started other reps. Honoka’s jaw fell agape.

Is Kotori-chan trying to muscle build!?

The gingerhead wondered how to react to a muscular Kotori instead of her sweet, gentle looking one. Honoka shook her head and the image off.

R-Regardless…Kotori-chan should know I’ll support her decision.

Honoka doesn’t think twice and opens Kotori’s door just as the girl was taking a drink of her sports drink, seeing Honoka, she chokes on the liquid.

“Ahh, Kotori-chan!!” Honoka panics and rushes over to pat Kotori’s back. “Are you okay..? I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”

Hawawa, what do I do? What do I do?

Kotori shakes her head. “It’s okay…Honoka-chan. Why are you here though?”

Honoka looks into Kotori’s soft golden eyes, missing those long gazes. “Why I’m… OH!! Kotori-chan!! Please stop avoiding me!! I’ll die if I don’t get to spend more time with you, Kotori-chaaan!!”

I don’t want to only get to see you home. I need to get to spend hours on end with you!!

Kotori was surprised by the sudden outburst and cute, teary puppy dog eyes from her dear Honoka. Kotori smiles patiently. “Honoka-chan…”

Ah, and-

“You’ve got my full support to becoming buff and muscular!” Honoka takes her girlfriend’s hands into her own to squeeze. Her determined and supportive look on her face.

“B-Buff? Muscular..?” Kotori tilted her head to the side confused.

Honoka pursed her lips. “Isn’t that why you’re secretly training?”

“Ah, no! That’s not…” Kotori lowers her gaze to stare at the yoga mat. “It’s because…I gained weight from all the dates we’ve been on… And…”

Honoka gives Kotori’s hand another squeeze of encouragement.

“And I don’t want to be too dat that you won’t like-”

Honoka gently lets go and puts her hands on Kotori’s shoulder, her expression serious. “I’ll love you even if you’re fat. I know you’ll do the same for me…”

Honoka smiles softly, earnest ocean-blue eyes searches her favourite golden eyes for that assured gleam.

“Honoka-chan…”

“Plus, I still rather you’d tell me.” Honoka puts on an indignant pout. “I’ll do my best to help! Our dates don’t always have to be food and snuggles!” The gingerhead’s expression switches to a big dorky smile, shoulders relaxed.

It was infectious. Kotori smiled her sweet and gentle smile, the tense in her shoulders lost too. “Honoka-chan…~ (heart)”

Kotori wraps her arms around Honoka’s waist and Honoka does the same, leaning over, their foreheads touching. “I love you, Kotori-chan.”

“I love you too, Honoka-chan… (heart)”

They stayed close in each other’s arms for a long time, glad to be in each other’s warm love until Kotori decides they can indulge a little on dinner before they switch up from a solo diet plan to a Girlfriends Diet Plan.

 Author Notes

HonoKotoooooooo~~ *O*

I’m remembering more and more just how much I love this two lovebirds. TwT Not to say I forgot but I certainly was feeling worried about being unable to write! Be it due to some sort of magical force or because of the lack of time @v@

A-Anyways!! I hope y’all enjoyed this~ :D

Leave me a comment if you like!! :D That would help me BIG time~ hehe~

And catch you next chappie of Honoka and Kotori’s laifu (life)~ ^w^  

[mirkwoodshewolf]

The honeymoon; Jack Kline x reader

*Author’s note*

Okay so this can either go really good or really bad. Some of you may not know but I have actually written smut before (it’s just been awhile if anyones curious about a certain contest I once had with a friend of mine, fill free to send me a message) now I want to warn everyone under 18 SMUT IS MENTIONED. SO DO NOT READ THAT SECTION I WILL NOT GO TO JAIL FOR SOMETHING LIKE THIS!!!! So I apologize that the boys aren’t in this chapter but I needed a chapter like this for Jack and Rock Angel to have their private time together. But I hope you all enjoy it either way.

Warnings: SMUT!!! (protected, always wrap it before you tap it you crazy cats out there), fluff, romance. 

Taglist:

@onebigfangirlworld

@geek-and-proud

@queens-rose-garden

@mr-badguymercury

@starswin

@naturalswifty89

@5sos-wdw

@dj-lowkey

@isabella-bby

@labessieisallama

@psychosupernatural

@ixchel-9275

@plethora-of-things

___________________________________________________

*3rd Person POV*

It was now sunrise over the island of Capri. Jack was up against the railings of the Villa they had for the entire honeymoon (curtesy of Roger Taylor himself). It looked over the entire island almost and out into the sea where you could see the sunrise and set every morning and evening.  There was a calming breeze in the air as a new summer’s day was ready to come up.

“Well hello stranger.” Jack grinned as he heard a very familiar voice.  He turned and there wearing only her black and white night robe was his beautiful wife (Y/n) Kline.

Her once long (h/c) had now been cut up to her shoulders all because of yesterday when they ran into a small little beauty salon and the lady working there was offering free haircuts for the day.  Even though her once mid-back length hair was now up to her shoulders and was bedhead styled now, Jack still looked at her in awe like she was still the most beautiful thing he had ever seen.

“Would you happen to know where my husband is?” she teased.  Jack grinned as (y/n) walked towards him and she continued, “I wake up and he’s—” Jack softly shushed her pressing a finger to his lips.

“Give me your hand.” (Y/n) looked at her husband but extended her hand into his.  He gently pulled her close to him, the two of them locking eyes with each other. “Now close your eyes, go on.” She arched a brow skeptically at him but he silently urged her to close her eyes and she obeyed.

Jack came behind but kept hold of his wife’s hand as he told her to step up onto the main patio of the balcony telling her to keep her eyes closed.  He walked them up onto the railings and said to her.

“Step up onto the railing.” Slowly she put on foot on the railing before getting her other foot onto it as she held on.  “Hold on, hold on. Keep your eyes close, no peeking.” (y/n) laughed softly as Jack spoke as he got behind her.  “Do you trust me?”

“With my life, my love.” She then felt her hands being released from the railing as Jack brought them outward, extending her arms out like they were wings.  He wrapped his arms around his wife’s waist and leaned against her shoulder.  He kissed her neck before whispering into her ear, “Alright my angel; open your eyes.”  And the moment she did, she was greeted by a beautiful sight.

The sun was just rising over the ocean giving the sky that beautiful blue and goldish-orange color of the early dawn. The clouds almost a shape of lavender as they rolled by to make way for the sun coming up to greet the island. And with the wind blowing against them as it was, it almost made her feel like she was truly flying as she looked down at the entire island and out to the sea.

“I’m flying. Jack….” She said bewildered.  The two young lovers stood there in silence as Jack now took his hands from her waist and intertwined them with his own as his head rested against her own.  He then began to whisper the lyrics for ‘Spread your wings’.

Much like Deacy, Jack said that he couldn’t sing and when he tried to, he always opted for speaking as he sang cause he knew if he did, he’d just sound like a cat in a blender.  (Y/n) smiled at the lyrics as she felt his hands glide underneath her palm before switching from holding her palms to holding the top the top of her hands.

She turned toward him and he looked down at her. He brought their arms came down around her waist and they leaned toward each other until their lips met in soft yet passionate kiss.  Her right arm coming up and stroking underneath his chin up his jawline till finally she cupped the back of his head.

The two of them lost in the passion of their kiss.

*My POV*

It had only been three days since the wedding and since Jack and I had arrived here at Capri and already it felt like an eternity.  Capri was a nice honeymoon choice, not really anyone bothered us, no press to hound us as we were trying to relax, because now with the news of my wedding, everywhere worldwide knew that the Rock Angel was no longer a single gal anymore.

Only a handful of the locals knew who I was and that was a good thing, it saved me the stress of looking over my shoulder from being stalked by cameras or crazed fans wanting me to sign various things or body parts (much like what happened in Munich, but I’d rather not get into that).

Jack and I were cuddled up along one of the patio chaise lounge chairs with a bottle of champagne in our hands.

“I can’t believe it’s only been three days since we came here.” Said Jack.

“I know. But these have been the best three days of my life.” I said as I looked up at him.  He looked down at me smiling softly as he kissed my forehead and said.

“And to think we still have seven more weeks of this.”

“So Mr. Kline, what shall we do today?”

“Whatever you desire, Mrs. Kline.” We clanged our glasses together and doused down our champagne.

In the end we got dressed and decided to walk around the island for a bit.  Already the fish marketer was out and about selling his catch for the day, the flower cart was on the move and young children were playing soccer outside the church.

Jack and I were hooked arm to arm with each other and that’s when the flower cart owner said.

“Signor, compra fiori per la tua bella ragazza, no?” We stopped and there stood a senior Italian man dropping his cart and getting Jack’s attention.  We stopped and Jack said.

“I’m sorry?”

“Ahh American man. Flowers for your pretty girl, no?” Jack looked to me and tilted my head at him telling him it was his call. Jack trotted up to the cart and said.

“How much?”

“Roses and daisies are 5 Euros, carnations are 6.50 euros each, the sunflowers 8, and the lilacs and lilies 10.”

“Then I’ll take one white rose please.” The man nodded and handed Jack the white rose and Jack paid him the 5 euros.

“Enjoy and take Toni’s advice and settle down with that one eh?” the old man laughed which made Jack blush and I laughed behind my hand.

“Grazie signor.” I said as I wrapped my arms around Jack’s and the two of us walked ahead.  As we left the flower cart, Jack stopped and broke the stem off the rose, being careful of the thorns and tucked the rose behind my ear.

“There, a rose for my rose.” I laughed and said.

“That was so bad.”

“Can’t blame me right?”

“No, I suppose not. Good thing you’re cute.” I pecked his nose and we continued to walk around the small town.

All the while Deacy took pictures of the sights and of course me (most of them when I wasn’t looking, I even tried to push the camera away so some of the pictures were of the palm of my hand).  Although he did try to get in some pictures of us two together by holding the camera outward.

“It won’t work Jack.”

“Trust me just get in here.”

“I’m telling you it won’t work; you’re holding it to high.”

“I am not now just hold still.” He leaned his chin against my shoulder as he tried to adjust the camera once more and just before he clicked the button to take the photo, he kissed my cheek surprising me and he pushed the button and the picture began to develop.  He brought the camera down and shook the picture out and we saw the image come up.

“See I told you, you held it too low.”

“You said I was doing it too high.”

“Well I was right to a degree.” Jack pouted and I just awed at him and wrapped my arms around his neck and said, “Don’t worry love. Maybe one day they will make cameras available to do a ‘self-picture’ frame, but until then never trust you with a camera for that purpose.” He tickled my waist making me shriek so I raced off with him chasing after me.

After spending time in the town, we were now back at the villa in the bedroom.  The two of us lying on the bed together just staring at each other as the wind gently blew the white satin curtains since we decided to leave the backdoors open for the cool summer air to come in the house.

“Now what do you wish to do?” I asked him.

“Dance with me.” He whispered as he took my hand and kissed the back of it.

“Okay, what shall the song be? Our wedding song?”

“Nope, not this time.” He stood up and went over to the suitcase where I had put some of my records from home for us to listen to while we were here.  “Truthfully; you can thank Deacy for this song choice. He—told me during one of our bass lessons that he dances to this song with Veronica.”

He kept the record hidden from my eyes as he went over to the record player and set it in place before turning it on and he lifted the needle up.  However instead of placing it at the beginning of it, he placed the needle over a certain part of the record and soon the song began playing.

It was The Beatles “Something”.  I giggled and he walked up to me and extended his hand out silently.  I looked up at him and graciously took his hand and he helped me up to the center of the room and the two of us began swaying as the first verse came up.

Something in the way she moves Attracts me like no other lover Something in the way she woos me

I don't want to leave her now You know I believe and how

From going to formal dance position with our hands together and one arm around the other’s body, I transitioned my hands to wrap around his neck.  My fingers gently stroking through the back of his hair while his arms wrapped around my waist.  The two of us leaning our foreheads together.

Somewhere in her smile she knows That I don't need no other lover Something in her style that shows me

Don't want to leave her now You know I believe and how

You're asking me will my love grow I don't know, I don't know You stick around now it may show I don't know, I don't know

Our noses brushed against one another’s very gently as Jack leaned in and captured my lips in a tender kiss.  But then he slowly kissed the corner of my mouth, my jaw until he began kissing down my neck.

Even though Adam and I never really made out during our relationship, with Jack something just felt right as he kissed down my neck.  I exhaled breathlessly as I wove my hand through his hair and kept him there for a bit longer.  God never have I ever experienced pleasure such as this, it was all very new to me.

I liked it.

Something in the way she knows And all I have to do is think of her Something in the things she shows me

Don't want to leave her now You know I believe and how

I could hear him softly hum the last verse as his forehead rested on my shoulder, his lips still brushing against the joint of where my neck and shoulder met until by the end of the song he looked right up into my eyes.

As the next song began, I took his hand and lifted it up to my cheek and kissed the back of his hand.  We looked into each other’s eyes and he said.

*SMUT SMUT SMUT SMUT ALERT!!!!! ANYONE UNDER 18 STOP. READING. NOW. AND LOOK FOR THE NEXT BOLDFACED PRINT. ADVERT YOUR EYES CHILDREN*

“Are you sure?” I smiled at him and whispered.

“Yes.”  He then went over to the record player and turned it off before sitting down on the bed. He held out his hand and I took it and he gently set me down close beside him, the two of us sitting hip to hip staring at each other as our hands intertwined with each other’s once more.

“You nervous?” Truthfully I was.  I slightly nodded and whimpered out.

“A little.”

“I’ll be gentle, I promise. Promise me you’ll tell me if I go too far. I may be your husband but your body doesn’t belong to me.” I nodded in understandment before taking his fingers and I pressed kisses to his index, tall and ring finger.  I stared up at Jack and he stared down at me before he gently brushed some of the hair out of my face before leaning forward and captured my lips with his.

As we kissed, he lowered me onto the bed not once breaking our passionate kiss.  I felt both his hands cup the side of my face before trailing down my neck, across my shoulders and down my arms.  I wrapped both my arms around his neck and shoulders bringing him closer to me in order to deepen our kiss.

I felt his tongue asking for entrance so I immediately granted it to him and soon our tongues met in a passionate dance with one another.

My heart was racing so fast, that I felt like it would just explode right out of my chest.  The butterflies had evolved into flaming hot mad moths as my stomach twisted and churned far more than any other time than I had either kissed any previous boys or even my first kiss with Jack.

Finally air became such a burden as Jack fiddled with the buttons of my blouse.  He looked at me and I nodded to him and he proceeded to unbutton my shirt, slowly. Button by button.  When the last button was done and my upper body was exposed to the cool air.  I turned away but I felt Jack turn my face back toward him as he said.

“Don’t. You’re beautiful.” He leaned down and softly kissed me as he slowly pushed the shirt off of me.  The kiss slowly became more passionate as the two of us worked off his own shirt off.  Jack’s eyes drifted from my face down to my chest before he looked back up at me.  I took his hand and said as I stared right at him.

“Put your hands on me Jack.” I then guided his hand on top of my right breast which was still covered by my bra.

“Lift yourself up baby girl.” He whispered.  I arched my back and I felt him unhook my bra then slowly inch by inch as it gave me goosebumps, he slide the straps off my shoulders till my bra was off.

I felt his hand come back onto my breast as he kissed me softly, all the while his hand gently massaged my breast.  I moaned in the kiss as he gently squeezed and massaged it, and the while his other one was slowly sliding up my side toward my other breast.  Soon both of his hands were massaging my breasts.

I threw my head back exhaling a sigh mixed with a moan as I felt him kiss down my neck.

“That’s my Rock angel, tell me where’s your weak spot? Hmm?” He began searching around my neck for that one sweet spot that would make me go weak at the knees.  Since Roger the boys were always around us and eyeing us like hawks, we couldn’t get far beyond just a small make-out session.

It was then when he got to halfway up the right side of my neck that I let out a gasp.  At that sound Jack began to nip and suck that one spot.  As I felt his teeth nip at that spot I let out a squeak but then his tongue licked over it, like a cat licking a wound.

“God you’re so beautiful, I can’t believe you’re my wife.”

“I can’t believe—I’ve found someone like you….Jack.” I panted.  He soon hovered over me, our noses touching each other’s.

“I know I’ve said it before, I’m really glad I went to that club.” He kissed me softly and said, “Do you want to continue?” I nodded.  He kissed me deeply before moving down my neck slowly, across my collarbone and down to my chest.

He lifted his head and I felt him latch his mouth over my right breast.  Oh god! Never have I felt such pleasure as I felt his tongue peek out and tease around and at the tip of my nipple.  I buried my hands into his hair gently pulling on it, eliciting out a moan from him.

As he sucked and teased my right breast, his hand came up to my left breast and he fondled and tweaked my left nipple.  I arched my back and threw me back exhaling and moaning.  My feet digging into the sheets as I felt the wetness pool between my legs.  After what felt like an eternity, he switched his attention to my left breast and gave it the same affection and attention.

“Oh Jack…Jack….” I moaned out as I slowly scratched the back of my husband’s back urging moans out of him.  After he was done I suddenly had this urge of strength as I now had him pinned to his back.

“Whoa, where did this come from?”

“Inner lioness strength?” We both laughed softly and I kissed him and whispered against his lips.

“My turn my love.” I faintly kissed his lips before heading towards his ear and lightly bit his earlobe.  He hissed out a moan as I sucked on his earlobe all the while whispering in both English and French. “Oh mon amour; tu es si beau. My handsome American man. L'esprit si je revendique l’une des colonies au nom de l'Angleterre?” I kissed down his neck before reaching his chest.

I took his chin between my thumb and index finger so that he could look at me.  Then with my free hand, I used my manicured nails to lightly claw from his neck, to his collar bone, down his chest and his stomach.  His moans were mixed with chuckles as he muttered.

“That—that tickles.” I smirked and whispered.

“My little ticklish American. Now I know what to do when you tickle me.” I then lay myself out along his lower body so that my head was over his torso.

I kissed around his chest and much like he did with me, I used my tongue to gently flick and tease around his nipple. He groaned and moaned as he arched himself into me, wanting more.  And to even amp it up a notch, I began humming lowly and seductively as I would now circle around his nipple after licking them, sending more pleasure into him.

“God you—you truly are a siren.”

“And you are my jolly sailor boy.” I kissed his lips.  His arms wrapped around my back before I was once again back on my back.

“I don’t think I can hold back anymore; I need you (y/n).”

“I need you too Jack.” The two of us then struggled to get out of our jeans but once we were finally free, through his boxers I could see his bulge wanting to come out.  He took the waistline of my underwear and slowly slide them off my legs leaving me now naked as a wee baby before him.

“Goddamn…..so beautiful, so angelic. You truly are an angel.”

“But I am nothing compared to you, my angel.” I said as I cupped the side of his face, staring up into his eyes.  He then slowly took off his boxers and like I thought, his erection sprung out almost touching his stomach.

Suddenly my heart races and my nerves came back in full force.  We were actually about to do this.

“If you want to stop, we can. I won’t get offended.” He cupped both sides of my face.  “You sure you want to continue?”

“Yeah, just….will it hurt?”

“I remember it does the first time. But if you’re relaxed it hurts less. At least that’s what Jensen taught me.” I nodded. “I promise darling, I’ll be gentle. I won’t move until you say it’s okay.”

God Jack was just unreal.  He was willing to let me take control of the situation and go by my rules since I was the virgin out of the two of us (he had confessed that he had only slept with one other girl back in high school when he was 16, but it was a drug-sex situation and they never talked again).

“I’m gonna help prepare you first, so do I have your permission to touch you down there?” He said as he looked straight into my eyes.

“No one’s ever touched me there Jack.”

“I would be honored to be the first.” God with that cute head tilt he just did as he spoke that, how could I say no? I nodded but he said, “I need a verbal answer baby.”

“Yes Jack.” He took his hands away from my face and placed them on my thighs.  Slowly his fingers worked their way up towards the place where I longed to be touched. I let out a gasp as I felt his index finger slip inside.  “Oh god!”

“Well not quite.” I glared down at him and he smiled cheekily up at me.

“Cheeky.”

“You love me though.” Slowly he began to pump his finger in and out, stroking it along my walls and folds.  I gripped the sheets tightly until my knuckles were white. His free hand continued to just stroke my thigh as he kissed up and down my other one.

It was a slow as his finger kept pumping into me, then he added another finger inside of me making me throw my head back even more as I bit my lip to suppress my moans.

“Don’t hold back, sing for me my angel.” As I felt him pump his two fingers in and out fucking me with his fingers I let out a loud moan.

“Oh god….Jack. Jack I’m….ahh!” suddenly his fingers were replaced with his tongue.  And oh god did that send shivers up my spine.  “Please Jack….please.”

“Please what?” he said as he looked up at me with hooded eyes full-blown with lust.  My breathing became labored and heavy as I begged to him,

“Please….don’t….stop.”

“As my queen commands.” He continued to lick all around my pussy.  But the second I felt his tongue circle around my clit, jolts of electricity shot through me as I had felt pleasure unlike anything before.

“Jesus Christ Jack!” I felt a buildup in my lower stomach.  “Jack…Jack I-I think I’m…..” but before I could finish my statement he stopped and I let out a whine.

“Patience my love, I know something that’ll give you more pleasure.” I then saw him go into the dresser by his side of the bed and took out a package of condoms.  “You ready?”

“If you plan to leave me on the edge like this, I’ll kill you right here and now.” He chuckled before he took one out from the box and he placed the condom over his penis.  He crawled over me, his face hovering over mine and he asked me again.

“You sure you’re ready?”

“Yes my love.”

“Okay, this’ll hurt for a moment. Take a few deep breaths with me for a second.” We both breathed in through our noses before exhaling softly through our mouths.  After a couple of deep breaths, Jack kissed me and I wrapped my arms around his neck bringing him closer before I felt him enter inside me.  I let out a groan and he whispered, “Just look at me, relax baby. I’ve got you.” He stopped for a moment allowing me to adjust.  I breathed in before exhaling and we looked into each other’s eyes before I said.

“Okay, you can move Jack.” Slowly and with time and patience just a Jack said; after the pain there was just this absolute pleasure as we both gently rocked together.  “Oh Jack, Jack, Jack.” I moaned out as he not only rocked his hips sensually against mine burying his cock deeper into me, but he also kissed up and down my neck.

“God (y/n). Oh Mrs. Kline—you’re so beautiful. So t—tight. Oh god.” He would growl lustfully as he kept kissing my neck leaving hickies along my neck.

“Jack I……I think I’m….I’m g-gonna…..”

“I know, me too. Let’s cum together. Cum with me my rock angel. Please cum with me.” He went faster up against my G-spot and almost like a bolt of lightning I felt myself cum as I let go and just felt the orgasm wash over me.

Exhausted and in post-orgasmic relief, Jack and I remained chest to chest with each other as we looked at each other.  I felt him trembling and his skin was clammy with sweat just like mine.  His breathing was shallow and raspy as he refused to look away from me.

“You’re trembling.” I said as I cupped his face.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be alright.” He exhaled out a breath before he leaned down and kissed me as I felt him pull himself out of me. I whimpered from the loss which made him chuckle.

He disposed of the condom before rolling onto his back and brought me to his chest.  I rested my head over his heart to feel it beating so fast and so loud I thought it was one of Roger’s drums.

*OKAY NOW YOU CAN CONTINUE READING HERE*

“Thank god Roger’s not here to just bust in and catch us in the middle of it.” I looked up at him and sighed heavily and said. “Sorry. The first thing I say and I have to make it about the guys.”

“Just be lucky you didn’t mention or cry out the wrong name while we were doing it.”

“Oh god, that I can assure you would never happen. I’d rather jump off a cliff than say one of their names during sex with you.” We both laughed softly before looking at each other. “I mean I love those guys but, sometimes they can just be….” Jack kissed my forehead and he said.

“I know babe. I know.” He kissed my forehead once more before continuing, “You okay though? I didn’t hurt you right?”

“Jack you…..you did everything but hurt me.” I looked up at him smiling softly and I said as I softly drew random patterns along his chest, “Think we could go for round 2?” He smirked down at me and all that could be heard was the ruffling of sheets and my giggles.

For the next few weeks it was pretty much the same routine; Get up, go out on the town, romantic lunches/dinners, beach time, dances under the stars and then midnight sex.

At week five Jack and I were down at the beach and as I turned around I saw Jack with the video camera.

“And there she is, smile my lovely wife.”

“Ohh Jack turn it off!” I proclaimed.

“It is off.”

“No it is not what’s with the red light?”

“It’s the off light.” I looked at him with a ‘yeah right’ face.  “The beautiful island of Capri is nothing compared to this goddess right here.” I playfully flipped him off before heading to the water and splashing some water in is direction and he squealed out. “Oh that’s how you wanna play it? C’mere you!” I ran off and Jack set the camera down and chased after me.

I felt his arms wrap around me waist and the two of us spun around as I tried to escape but he soon held me chest to chest with him.  We smiled and I wrapped my arms around his shoulders burying my fingers through his sandy blonde hair before leaning in and kissed each other.

Some days when we weren’t out on the beach as we would be out on the town, some of the children would be playing hopscotch and they would urge us to come and play.  Of course I immediately jumped at the chance but Jack offered to just watch.

As I hopped along the square-block trail trying to pick up my rock, I looked to Jack to see him with this warm smile on his face and I winked at him as I picked up my rock and finished my run through. We’d take a walk through the gardens where famous painters and authors once sat to gain inspiration and just lay there and looked up at the sky and made art out of the clouds.

Unfortunately it soon came time for reality to set in as we came to our last night in Capri.  Our ferry would come to pick us up at 8am sharp so as Jack and I were packing up our luggage I said.

“I can’t believe it’s already been 8 weeks.”

“I know, sometimes I wish that time would just stop. That way I’d have a little more time with you.” Jack said as he reached over and took my hand.  I gave it a squeeze and said.

“I know how you feel. But hey maybe I can pull a Deacy and we can just screw my schedule and fly off to Bali for vacation if work gets to be too much.”

“Now are you sure you’re making the right decision?” Lately Jack and I had been discussing something very important.  We had talked and talked and really talked about this upcoming decision and I assured him.

“Yes. I’ve made it clear. I want this to happen, I just hope the guys will understand.”

“I’m sure they will.” He came over to me and gently wrapped his arms around me, my back pressed against his chest as we gently swayed with each other.  “I love you (y/n).”

“I love you too Jack.” I felt him press a kiss to my temple and he squeezed me a bit tighter as he whispered.

“May I have this last moonlight dance, my angel?” I smiled and said.

“Of course my love.” He then escorted me out to the balcony and underneath the half moon and the stars, Jack and I danced together. I hummed ‘Something’ and it brought me back to that night and I’m sure it did the same for Jack.

“I think that will forever be my favorite song. It reminds me of the best moment of my life.” Jack whispered.

“Me too.” We softly kissed each other and continued to sway under the stars.

[cruzrogue]

Ice Cream

#Fictober19 @fictober-event

————————————————————————

for fanfiction:

Prompt number: 3 “Now? Now you listen to me?”

Fandom (AU if applicable): #arrow fanfiction #olicity

Rating:G

Warnings/Tags: Just mostly some Fluff.

—

Title: Ice Cream

Summary: Cravings for the dairy product has Felicity on edge.

 The door slammed shut just to have it reopened a moment later. As Oliver enters behind Felicity. She is just so peeved. Heading to get her own car keys so she can go out and get exactly what she wants. She wants ice cream and she’s going to get some ice cream. There is no way a Neanderthal will stop her. He can keep his organic greens. She’s the one who is pregnant.

“Now? Now you listen to me?”

“Felicity?”

“Don’t you Felicity me. I’m the one who is carrying this baby. My body and I want ice cream.”

“Baby?”

“Oh, don’t you even try to sugar coat whatever you want to say.” She huffs loudly, “Not only am I this huge… You dare say something I will deck you.” She sees his hands raise in mock surrender. “It’s my birthday and it scorching outside and you think passing the dairy place and not stopping was a good idea?” She walks further into their home but before she steps into the living room she turns back towards her husband. “I don’t know what has gone through that mind of yours today. You’ve acted all weird since we left the house.”

“Felicity? Honey before…” No other words leave his mouth as they both stop when they hear her mother call out for her.

Felicity’s eyes are wide as some realization happens. It’s her birthday. Oliver somehow talked her into leaving the house when all she wanted was to enjoy the cool AC while reading the newest historical romance she ordered by one of her favorite authors. It is starting to click why he didn’t stop to indulge her cravings. Her face is flushed pink as her mom walks into the kitchen.

“Mom!”

“Hi baby girl, happy birthday.” Donna looking between the couple and somewhat feeling sorry for her son-in-law.

“You’re here. I thought you couldn’t get away?”

“A little fib sweetheart, we wanted to give you a surprise birthday party.”

Felicity turns to her husband as her eyes narrow. The man knows she hates surprises as much as she abhors mysteries.

“I know, I know. But, hear me out…”

“Oliver, honey.” Her voice dripping with a fake sweetness, “We have guests and they’ve heard enough of the crazy pregnant loon so we’ll talk about this later.” She’s placing a façade in place to greet any guest that is now privy to her insane rants. Leaving her mother and Oliver in the kitchen to look at each other knowing that the surprise baby shower is now off the table.

*************************space*******************************

The party to celebrate his wife’s birthday is coming along nicely. After Felicity gets over the fact that she is the center of attention for everyone here and relaxes a little. Oliver has been worried lately that she’s become withdrawn and rarely tries to leave the house.

Most of her business interactions at Smoak Tech have been over the webcam as the focus never dipped below her chest. He hopes that being among people who care about her makes a small difference at least.

As Felicity finishes saying hi to each individual guest. She knows she is worrying her husband. He’s been even reading books on natal depression. She doesn’t feel depressed per se; she is just losing the gusto to finish a task as fatigue will win over. It doesn’t help that she can’t see her feet. Most the time she wants to curl up with a good book and eventual talk to the little human within her and happily fall asleep in her husband’s arms. Everything except a good meal is more than what she craves.

Everything is perfect as Felicity is laughing at a weird tale from Quentin. The man almost died a few years ago and being that he doesn’t have family in Starling the Queens opened their residence to him. Quentin is holding John Jr. while little Sara is running to the kitchen to help her uncle Oliver with the cake.

In the kitchen Oliver is listening to his father-in-law’s tale about how Donna acted the same way towards the end of her pregnancy with Felicity. It helps him a little knowing that his wife isn’t going through an abnormal change. Having people who have gone through similar things makes this whole experience less frightening. Oliver is grateful to have any form of family. Not feeling alone anymore is truly a blessing and he can’t thank the heavens enough. It’s made all the struggles in his life seem to balance itself out as he remembers there are people who love him as he loves them back that are here celebrating with him in his home.

He sees Lyla’s head pop into the kitchen. “Are you gentlemen ready to bring the cake out?” She looking at the few men gathered around the really pretty decorated cake. Her own husband holding their daughter in his arms.

“Mommy, auntie Felicity is having a baby!”

Lyla just nods as that is quite obvious for a few months now. “Yes, she is baby. Come on. Let’s wait in the dining room while your dad helps so we can have cake soon.”

“Yes, I want cake!” Lyla gladly takes her daughter onto her arms and as they pass Oliver he swipes some frosting onto the little girl’s nose inflicting a giggle. “Is cold!”

“It’s ice-cream cake.”

That make the little even more ecstatic for the cake as she calls out the word. “Yummy!”

Within moments the lights dim and everyone begins to sing Happy Birthday. Soon after they wait for the birthday girl to blow her candles out as some of the party goers tell her to make a wish.

Felicity looks around at the faces among her. Stopping first at her step-son she gives a warm smile and then to her mother who has a flashy camera and she makes sure to have a big grin to record how happy she really is and then to her husband who is taking the sight of her. Her husband that takes her breath away that she needs to refocus so she can blow the candles. She closes her eyes and thinks of all the good in her life as she extinguishes the little flames on the candles. So far life has been good. She is thankful for what she has. Like a patient husband who understands and handles her mood swings. A step-son who enjoys their time together. Her parents that are here but thankfully live miles away. Her friends that make life interesting.

When the cheers subside and the cake begins to be cut Oliver makes his way back to stand beside his wife. “Happy birthday baby.”

“Thank you. This has been a sweet little get-together.”

“I am glad you like.”

“I do.” She kisses him placing the knife back on the table. She makes sure to whisper, “And I am so looking forward to the left over ice-cream that will be festive for a party-of-two later.” Pulling away from her husband when she hears moans. “Okay, Okay. Who wants cake?” People want their cake. She’s super glad that finally she’s getting the ice-cream she’s been craving. All-in-all she already has all she can wish for and it really is a wonderful birthday.

[gotboredwrote]

Chapter 1: The Enticing Introduction of the American

[[The American Publicist // JRD]]

Pairing: John Richard Deacon x Reader Word Count: 1.8K (yeah kinda short, but they’ll get longer, I promise) Style: Multi-Chapter Warnings: Nothing yet, one mention of body shape, but in a completely positive way (it’s Roger, who are we kidding?) Summary: Y/N was just hired to become a co-manager and publicist for the band Queen. The boys had never travelled abroad, so meeting an American was . . . intriguing, to say the least. Permanent Author’s Note: To clarify, I write because I get bored. Nothing is meant to be professional in any way, nor is meant to offend, cause anxiety, cause anger, cause sadness, or promote disagreement among readers in any sort of (semi)permanent way. A/N: 1. Warnings will be per chapter, so as to know what to expect in each chapter (just seems easier that way). 2. Summary is for the entire story, so don’t expect that to change throughout the chapters. 3. Word count will be per chapter, so as to know just how much you can expect to get into (again, seems easier). 4. Don’t expect anything to move too fast in this story – I want to make this have some juicy (ew why did I choose that word) buildup. 5. I’m sorry if you aren’t American and you’re reading this, I hope that isn’t awkward for you!

Masterlist // Previous Chapter // Next Chapter // Masterpost

~

Queen had only been formed in the last year and a half, John Richard Deacon having joined exactly one year prior to today, hence why the boys, mainly Freddie, decided to throw a small affair for the shy man. It was not so much that they wanted to celebrate him, even though they did, but they also wanted to celebrate two huge accomplishments - getting a song played on the radio, and getting signed to a label! Things seemed to be looking up, and John began to realize that maybe this was not going to be a “side project” after all. As if that feeling had not kicked in enough, Miami crashed the party with some news.

“Boys, I just got off the horn with the label, and they feel that Queen is going to be huge. Too huge, in fact, for one person to manage alone. They’ve decided that it is critical that I have a partner in crime who can also double as a publicist of sorts. I brought said individual with me because I would like you all to meet and decide if this is going to work.”

Miami gestured to the door, and all the boys gaped. “Hi there! I’m Y/N, it is so great to finally meet you! I am so excited to watch you all work and make real names for yourselves!”

The boys listened intently to the individual’s words, collectively looked back at Miami, then back at the individual. Roger piped up first, followed quickly by Brian.

“You’re a girl?”

“And American?”

~

“I’m sorry, is that a real problem?” You had not worked with a British band before, and you have never experienced backlash like this from any other band. You actually could not tell if they were genuinely distressed or if there was a hint of mere confusion in their tones.

“Oh, no that’s not it,” Brian replied. “I think the way to put it is that we were not expecting to need a publicist, let alone a second manager. That is the reason for our response, well, um, be-besides the obvious.”

So, it was just confusion. That make you feel slightly better. After Brian’s response, you got a few minutes to really take all of them in because they had started chattering among themselves while Miami showed you around the studio. You would steal glances their way while Miami would discuss a small detail about a particular item hanging on the wall. Freddie Mercury was clearly the most flamboyant of the bunch, hand gestures accompanied every word that slipped past his lips. He also wore tight fitting clothes of extremely bright colors, and that is saying something considering this is the early seventies. He seemed like the kind of guy that people would either love or hate, and you find yourself falling into the prior without really having spoken any words to him. Seated to his left was the one that had spoken the most to you since you walked in – Brian May. You had heard some rumors about all of them, but the one thing about Brian that surprised you the most was that he went to school for astrophysics. He truly did not strike you as someone who would pick that as a major, but he definitely appeared smart, so at the same time, it did not surprise you. He also looked like he was attempting to reach hair-band-status hair, and you thought he was doing a mighty fine job. Across from the soon-to-be doctor was the band’s drummer, Roger Taylor. The rumors swirling around him were not your favorite things, but you decided to not pass judgement until you actually sat down and chatted with him. You had heard that he was a womanizer of sorts, and by his shaggy clothes and fluffed-out blonde hair, you could not help but assume something to that affect was true. Otherwise he actually seemed soft-spoken, and like he genuinely cared about his friends. Before you could get a look at the fourth member of the band, Miami escorted you by the arm out of the booth and into the control room, where there were a couple couches, a bunch of scattered pieces of sheet music, and a large, looming control panel that helped mix all recorded pieces of music. Miami said that you could sit right here for two minutes while he went and grabbed something for the both of you from the vending machine, and before you could even say thank you, he was out the door. Initially, you had completely forgotten to glance back over to the band to get your initial look at the fourth member and was just looking around the booth, since you would be spending more time here than in the booth with them. You got up to take a better look at the control panel, since you were genuinely curious if it was different than an American one. Eventually you had finished grazing over it, satisfied with finding out they are almost exactly the same. You were about to make your way back to the couch and you felt that weird sensation of someone drilling holes into you by staring seated deep in your core. You looked through the large, glass pane atop the control panel to find that the fourth member of the band was, in fact, staring at you, but not in the drilling-holes kind of way. It was almost nostalgic. The fourth one was the shy bassist whom they were partially celebrating this afternoon John Deacon. He was the quiet type around ninety-five percent of people, the other five percent were the members of Queen, their staff, and his family. He had been playing the bass for years, and it came as a bit of a shock when they were told they got a record deal and this would no longer be “just a hobby.” From what you were told, he was patient, friendly, kind, quiet, and basically, if you look up “good” in the dictionary, his face would appear right there. You made eye contact with the man, and his cheeks turned up and revealed the most adorable smile you had seen in your entire life. He had the sweetest crinkles to either side of his eyes that made his whole face light up, nearly as bright as the sun. It caught you by surprise that he was looking at you and not paying attention to his bandmates, and the smile was just icing on top of the cake. It was not intentional, but Miami swung the control room door open right at this moment unfolded, which made you visibly jump.

“Oh gosh, dear, I’m sorry. Not exactly sure what you were doing that made that scare you, but I am sorry.”

“It’s okay, no worries, Miami.” You were clutching your hand to your chest attempting to catch your breath and looked back through the panel. You saw John chuckling under his breath a little, and you shot him a small glare accompanied by a warm smile.

“Ms. Y/N, if you would so kindly follow me, I want to take you back into the booth with them, allow you to meet them one-on-one, and just briefly get to know each other.

Miami bent his arm as to allow you to take it, and he escorted you back into the booth. You and Miami made your entrance, and they boys concluded their little conversation. They all went to stand up as if they needed to address you in such a proper manner, and you simply started to laugh.

“Guys, please. You all know I’m not the queen, nor am I royalty in any version of the word. If we are gonna get to know each other, I would much rather just sit and talk. If that isn’t your style, I totally get it, but I don’t see a need for such formalities if we are going to be seeing a lot of each other.”

“You heard the lady, sit your bums down and let’s get down to business.” It seemed like Miami would be on your side throughout this whole endeavor, and honestly, a wingman did not sound like a terrible idea.

The boys resumed their positions in their little circle, Miami sat down next to Roger, and you plopped yourself between Miami and John, a little closer to John than Miami. “Unless anyone has anything critically important they would like to start this conversation with, I would like to properly introduce myself and give my oral resume.” You were given some small nods and smiles, John giving you the same one as before. Freddie piped in with an “Of course, darling, we are all ears!” and you felt like they were actually intrigued by you.

“Alright, so. As I mentioned before, my name is Y/N Y/L/N, and I have been working with record labels since I was sixteen years old. I have gotten lucky enough to work with a number of big, American rock bands, including The Who, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and The Rolling Stones, and have even helped a few of the bands I’ve worked with earn Grammy awards. I love what I do, and have the utmost confidence that I can help you guys achieve global status, assuming that you are willing to work with me.”

The boys were all looking at you and taking in each word you said with intense concentration. At first, they did not say anything to you. It was a little unnerving, honestly. They exchanged glances, and the smiles came back to their faces. Freddie then jumped up, grabbing your wrists in the process, and yanked you into a bone-crushing hug. “Of course we are, darling! Miami’s great, but it will be fabulous having two minds working together!”

“You’re also pretty fantastic to look at, different from British girls, so-”

“Roger! Be nice!” That was another thing about Brian – he did strike you as extremely respecting, as well, and it was coming out full force.

You all sat back down, and a number of things began to happen. Roger, Brian, and Freddie started a conversation amongst themselves, but Miami shushed them. He wanted to get started on the game plan for the new album, now that you had been officially accepted into the group. Freddie was mimicking Miami’s gestures, since Miami was a very serious person, which elicited a chuckle from both yourself and Roger, and an eye-roll from Brian. Meanwhile, John being the quiet soul he is, simply showed you that he accepted you by placing his hand right above your knee and lightly rubbing small circles there, accompanied by his signature smile. You would have to ask the boys if that was normal at some point.

[devilatmydoor]

I Like Me Better- Chapter 15

***Authors note- I AM SO SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG- I had a severe case of writer's block!!! I kept going back and forth on ideas and I couldn’t think of what to do with this chapter- so many ideas and I couldn’t get them on paper! I hope you love it as much as I do! ***

Previous Chapters 

10  11  12  13  14

Warning- Physical fighting 

Calum POV- 

I tried to focus on how beautiful Jade was and not what was underneath her clothes but it was so hard since I already knew what she was wearing. She was stunning, as per usual. She had no idea where I was taking her tonight and that was the plan, I put in the directions to an Italian restaurant called Olio e Piú and drove. My hand on her thigh and she played Coldplay. “Where are we going Cal?” “That’s for me to know, and you to find out baby.” I taunted.  “Mysterious, I like it.” She winked and I winked, she squeezed my hand.  I continued to drive and tried to focus on the road but her hands were so soft against my calloused hands from training all week. When we were a block away, I entreated “You like Italian right babe?” “I love it, why?” She pointed out, smiling. “Because we're going to Olio e Piú.” I exposed. “No way. I’ve always wanted to go there!” she squealed, squeezing my hand. “Now you will.” I grabbed her hand up to my face and kissed it. I pulled up to the closest parking spot I could find. I let go of Jade’s hand so I could cut the engine and park the car better. I unbuckled my seatbelt and I insisted, “Princess, please let me get your door for you.” 

“Oh fine, I’ll let you get it.” She agreed and unbuckled her seatbelt and waited patiently.

I got out of my seat and closed the door and walked to her side of the car and opened the door for her and she got out, I grabbed her hand and she closed the door. We walked to the restaurant together, holding hands and she leaned in and whispered in my ear, “You smell amazing by the way.”

“Oh yeah? So do you! Did you get new perfume?” I questioned, knowing the answer already.

“I did, you see the girls took me to Victoria’s Secret on Friday after school where I got my lingerie and I got the perfume there. Want to know what it’s called?” She hinted.

I smiled at her and nodded, “Yeah, I’m curious.”

“Pure Seduction.” She blurted and then she turned bright red.

That was not what I was expecting.

“Princess, you know you don’t need that perfume to seduce me you know.” I pulled her in closer to me, she blushed even more.

“Your so sweet, what cologne do you even wear? I swear you always smell good.” She requested, she looked up to me and fluttered her eyelashes.  

I looked down at her, “You think I’m going to give away my secrets?” I’d joke, we continued to walk and she giggled.

She looked up at me and rolled her eyes and shook her head, she muttered: “Fuck you too then.”

“Babe, we did that already remember? Our date is a little backward. Usually, people do that after the date.” I pointed out and then I realized we were almost to the restaurant.

“And? I didn’t see you complaining!” She observed.

“No baby  I didn’t,” I said and I let go of her hand as we got to the place and I opened the door, “For my lady” I proclaimed.

“You're so dorky.” She acknowledged and smiled as she walked into the restaurant.

I followed behind her and closed the door, ‘You are just noticing that now?’

She nodded her head and rolled her eyes, “Oh no, I’ve known.”

“Good,” I smiled at her and then my eyes met the hostess of the restaurant. “Dinner for 2?”

“Perfect, There’s a table for two of you right over here!” She said and then grabbed two menus and then led us to our table.

Jade sat down and I sat down across from her and then the hostess handed us the menu’s, “A waitress will be with you shortly.”

“Thank you!” Jade cooed, looking at her.

I looked at the menu and Jade wasn’t even looking at the menu, she was looking at me. “Babe, why aren’t you looking at the menu?”

“Maybe because I can’t get over how handsome you are?” She gushed.

I’m pretty sure I blushed, “Thanks for making me blush, your too kind pretty girl. Aren’t you hungry?” I cooed 

“Of course I am, can’t I just admire my man?” She beamed, smiling brightly.

“I never said you couldn’t but look at the menu, get anything you want.” I insisted and winked at her.

She scrunched her face at me and then opened the menu to look, and I looked back at the menu. Since I was driving I decided not to just get a Coke. We waited for our waiter and she kept looking up at me and she thought I didn’t notice, but I did. I couldn’t stop staring at her either. The outfit she had on was so incredible. Every time I think she couldn’t get any more stylish, she proves me wrong.

By the time we got our drinks I think Jade had realized I couldn’t keep my eyes off of her, “Hey Cal, you might want to take a picture it lasts longer.” She whispered.

I shrugged and grabbed my phone, listening to her and I took a picture and then she covered her face.

“Cal! I was kidding!” She shrieked, continuing to cover her beautiful face.

“Babe! Move your hands this instance, I wasn’t done!” I demanded, taking my free hand to move her hands and snapping a picture before she could fight me. “There! I got two- not the best pics but I got a pic of you.”

“Why Cal? I wasn’t even ready!” She argued.

“Uh, you told me to! Princess, That’s why.” I explained, smiling at her.

“You really are such a dork. Whatever will I do with you?” She guessed.

“Pose next time and not cover your face? It’s a simple request babe. All I ask.” I teased, smirking at her.

She laughed and then our waiter came and we ordered our food and I felt my phone vibrate and I didn’t even want to look at it and then a couple minutes later, Jade grabbed her phone and looked at it groaned “Damn it, it’s Johnny.”

I grabbed my phone and then looked to see that it was, he texted me.

Hey Calum! I forgot to mention this today, a friend of mine is going to stop by the gym on Wednesday (he’s also a boxer, he works in Long Island) to see you fight you are okay with that.

I looked back at Jade, “Apparently, his friend  is stopping by the gym on Wednesday to see me fight if I’m okay with it.”

“And are you okay with it?” She wondered,

“I’m not sure. I mean I don’t like, know who he is. And it’s random as hell you know?” I supposed, confused why he even wanted him to see me fighting.

“I don’t blame you! You can say no Calum, It’s so random and out of the blue! He hasn’t even mentioned it to me about someone coming over or anything.” She doubted.

“Yeah, that is weird! Usually when people visit do they stay with you?” I asked, taking a sip of my coke.

“It depends on where they are visiting from, where is the guy from?” She asked.

“Long Island.” I shared, putting my phone away.

“Weird, I don’t remember Johnny having any friends from there..” She trailed off.

“Don’t worry about it babe, I’ll talk to him tomorrow and I’ll sort it out,” I assured, grabbing her hand and she put her phone away.

“Good, I actually was going to ask you if you’d like to come to see me and my theater group, which luckily has Charlotte in it rehearse after class on Tuesday?” She asked, looking at me with her puppy eyes.

“Of course, what play are you guys doing?” I questioned, smiling at her.

“Shakespeare Macbeth, my favorite. We were assigned Shakespeare but the idiot in my class wanted to do Romeo and Juliet but everyone does that. So I suggested Macbeth because we have three girls because of the 3 witches.”

“Oh right, that’s a good play. I like that one better than Romeo and Juliet.” I asserted.

“Me too, I love Lady Macbeth. She’s a boss.” Jade proclaimed and then giggled.

“Yeah, she is! Until she loses her mind.” I implored.

“Well so does Macbeth, guilt takes over their conscious.” She indicated.

If you told me a year ago, I’d be sitting in an Italian restaurant talking about Macbeth with a beautiful girlfriend, I would’ve said you were crazy.

Mainly because I didn’t think I’d be in a relationship this soon into moving to New York.

But here I am.

And I didn’t care at all. It was perfect. 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

Tuesday came sooner than I anticipated, it was busier than I planned. I went to the gym to train with Johnny at 10 and had plans to go see Jade rehearse Macbeth with her group. I had no idea why she invited me but I was excited to see her in her element. Then work at 5, what a day.

After an intense training with Johnny, I was on my way to go shower, Johnny interjected, “So about tomorrow. Are you good with my friend coming to see how you fight?”

“Yeah sure, that’s fine.” I guessed, realizing I just agreed to let some stranger coming in tomorrow to watch me fight Jasper.

“Okay perfect, remember you fighting Jasper is just a practice round. He won’t take it personally.” Johnny reassured me for like the 8th time and then he let me go take a shower.

I tried not to think about tomorrow but it was all I could think about. I washed my body and then I quickly washed my hair. I dried off and changed into my work clothes so I wouldn’t have to worry about it later. I grabbed my duffle bag from my locker and then I left the gym. I walked to my car and unlocked it, I opened the door and put my duffle bag in the passenger seat and I sat down in the driver's seat. I put my seatbelt in and put the key in the ignition and put directions into the Marymount Manhattan Theater. That’s where Jade said they were rehearsing, their teacher had reserved the building after class for them.

As I drove I tried to not think about how hungry I was, as I got close to the theatre I realized there was a sushi place literally right across the way from her theatre building. I was actually early so I parked and ran across the street to the sushi place and got sushi. I ran across the street and I got my phone out of my pocket and texted Jade, I’m here!

Moments later I got a reply, Okay! I’m on my way, you can walk inside the door should be open!

I opened the front door and I waited knowing If I started walking I’d get lost and I didn’t want to get lost. Before I knew it, I saw Jade running down the hallway, “CALUM!!!” She yelled.

“Jade!” I yelled back, running to meet her halfway.

I opened my arms for her to run into and she gave me a huge hug and I held her tightly against me.

I didn’t want to let her go but she let go of me and she held my face in her hands and looked at me, “How was your day handsome?”

“Good now that I’m with you, how were your classes?” I asked, looking into her beautiful eyes.

“We learned how to do wounds Today, Scarlet was the volunteer. She’s in her other class, she looks intense.” Jade grabs my hand and we walk together and she leads me into a classroom with a group of college kids and Charlotte.

There were two other girls and three other guys, I sat down next to Jade and they looked at their scripts and ran through their lines again.

“Wait, who's this again?” A random guy asked.

“Josh, we told you already. This is Calum, Jade’s boyfriend.” Charlotte informed.

“Why is he here?” Josh asked, and I wanted to punch him in his face.

“Because he wanted to see me act, is that okay with you?” Jade barked, holding my hand tighter.

“No.” Josh argued, making it hard for me to not want to punch him. Jade looked at me and she rubbed her thumb on my hand to calm me down.

“We didn’t ask you if you wanted him here. Does anyone else have an issue with my boyfriend being here?” Jade fumed, looking at her group. No one spoke up and she sighed, “Good, now we can go back to our project.”

They ran through their lines and the let go of my hand and kissed my forehead, “We need to stage the scene, I’ll be right back.” She winked and everyone in her group got up and I watched them all get-up and they started figuring out how they were going to do their scene. It was definitely different to see how a play comes together, it was interesting too because there wasn’t a stereotypical director there to direct them so they had to figure it out themselves. I decided to finally eat my sushi since I had time.

After about 20 minutes they finally figured it out and they started to go through their scene with staging. It was really cool to see Jade acting, even if she didn’t have as many lines as I wanted her to have.

When they finished, they figured out when was a good time to practice again and decided to just do it again next Tuesday after class. Everyone left except Charlotte and Jade. They turned around to face me and I stood up and threw my trash away and walked up to them. “How did it go?” I asked.

“It went okay, sorry about Josh.” Jade sympathized, looking at me.

“Don’t worry about it princess. Is he always like that?” I urged, grabbing Jade's hand.

“Well no, we think he has a crush on Jade.” Charlotte implored.

“That’s why I invited you. I didn’t feel comfortable in here with him.” Jade added.

And that’s why he was so hostile towards me.

“I’m glad you invited me, I didn’t like the vibe I was getting from him anyway,” I remarked as we left the room and went down the hallway.

“I’m glad she did too, he’s annoying,” Charlotte commented.

“Yeah, thanks for coming Cal.” Jade continued.

“Anytime babe,” I promised, kissing Jade’s hand as I walked them out of the building.

Jade POV-

As I walked towards the gym, I tried not to think about the fact that Calum was going to be fighting Jasper. I know it was only to see how he was as a fighter but I was still nervous. Not for Calum, but for Jasper. I still had no idea who was coming to the gym to see Calum fight and Johnny hadn’t mentioned it at all to me.

Thankfully I didn’t have to work, My dad messed up on the schedule and he scheduled someone else to work my shift so I decided to just come in when Calum was coming in to fight.

I opened the front door, I saw Andy talking to my coworker Danielle. “Hey girls, Is Jonathan here with Calum?” I inquired.

“Yeah, they are all upstairs!” Andy answered, smiling.

“Including Johnny’s mystery friend?” I marveled, hoping he’d be here already.

“Yeah, he’s hot!” Danielle added.

I rolled my eyes and Andy laughed, “Yeah, they are all upstairs waiting for you.” Andy pleaded

“Okay, Send good vibes for Cal!” I cheered and I made my way upstairs. As I walked I felt my phone vibrate and I grabbed it from my pocket.

It was Calum, Hey babe! Where are you?

Before I could respond I had reached the top of the stairs. I was about to reply before I heard a familiar voice say.

“Jade?”

I looked up and it wasn’t Calum, Johnny or Jasper.

It was the last person I thought I’d be seeing, Cameron.

My brothers best friend since elementary school. I hadn’t seen him since I was a senior in High School.

Ever since my freshman year of high school and he told me he was going to protect me from the other seniors, I had a huge crush on him. Johnny had no clue I had a crush on him, but Jasper always knew. The one thing Jasper and Johnny didn’t know about Jasper was that I lost my virginity to Cameron. I was 17. Charlotte and Scarlet knew because they were my best friends

He walked up to me and stated, “Jade! Don’t act like you don’t know me!”

I faked a smile, and opened my arms for a hug, “Cameron!”

He hugged me tighter than I expected and I noticed Calum’s eyes on me faster than ever before and I let go of Cameron and he let go of me getting the hint.

“What are you doing here Jade?” Cameron questioned, tilting his head and narrowing his eyes.  

“My boyfriend Calum, is the boxer you're here to see fight Cam!” I proclaimed, pressing my lips together.

“Oh, he’s your boyfriend?” Cameron marveled, crossing his arms. I looked over to Calum who was on his way over to us, thank God.

“Yeah he is, that’s why I’m here.” I indicated, putting my hands in my back pockets of my jeans.

Calum smiled when he made eye contact with me and when he reached us he interjected, “Cameron you know Jade?”

“Oh yeah, Jade and I go way back! Don’t we Jade?” Cameron teased, winking.

Calum clenched his jaw and looked at me. Before he could say anything Johnny interrupted, “We gonna fight or what?”

“Yeah, I’m coming Johnny!” Calum replied leaving Cameron and I and we walked over to the boxing ring where Jasper and Johnny were waiting for Calum.

“So Calum huh? How long has that been going on?” Cameron questioned, looking at me through those gorgeous eyes I tried so hard to forget.

“What the? Where did that even come from Cam?” I answered his question, with another.

“Last time I saw you, you were dating a guy named...Austin? Aidan? What the hell was his name?” Cameron thought out loud.

“You mean Alex?” I guessed, wondering how in the hell he knew about him.

“Yeah! That’s him! Did you forget I met him at your mom’s funeral?” He remembered.

Oh fuck. That’s right. Alex hated Cameron. Mainly because I was so infatuated with Cameron in high school.

“Oh shit! You were there! Oh my god, Cam! Honestly- I blurred that day out of my memory for so many reasons. I even forgot he was there if it makes you feel any better.” I defended, raising my eyebrows. I can’t believe Cameron AND Alex were both at my Mom’s funeral and I completely forgot.

“Don’t worry about it, that oddly makes me feel better. So you still won’t box?” He asked.

“No, you know me, Cam. I’m not athletic like Jasper and Johnny.” I argued.

He leaned in and whispered in my ear, “Of course I do, I’ve seen you naked Jade.”

I glared at him and whispered back “Fucking shit Cameron! You just had to mention that! Not here. Calum and Johnny are right there.”

“You still haven’t told Johnny?” Cameron whispered, widening his eyes at me.

I looked at Calum who was getting in position to fight Jasper, “No I haven’t. The subject of my virginity hasn’t come up.” I whispered.

He’d laughed “You still friends with those crazy girls Charlotte and Scarlet?” Cameron asked.  

“Of course, those are my girls.” I continued, watching Calum throw the first punch at Jasper and Jasper not even trying to stop him.

“I remember them quite vividly.” He insinuated, Calum did an overhand punch and Jasper still didn’t try to block him.

“They hate you, don’t take it personally. They don’t like most guys who ghost me after sleeping with me.” I spat at him.

“Ooooh, that’s how it’s going to be now?” Cameron remarked, his eyes glued to the fight.

“Yeah, Cam it is. Will, you shut up so I can watch Calum fight?” I ordered, leaning in to watch Calum.

“Feisty, not much has changed has it, Jade?” He pleaded.

I ignored him and watched Calum fight Jasper, which he was winning. I knew he would win. I leaned forward to get a better look. Cameron noticed and leaned forward as well.

“Your man’s good, he knows how to fight.” He muttered.

“Of course he does, Johnny is training him.” I scolded and thankfully they were on their last round.

I waited for the round to finish so I could ditch Cameron for Calum. I was so done with talking to him. When they finished, I got in the ring to congratulate Calum and of course, Cameron followed me.

I ran to hug sweaty Calum,  I screamed “Cal!”

“Baby!” He yelled back, running up to me and giving me a hug holding me close to him.

“You did so good Calum!!” I cheered and he let me go to look at me.

“Yeah, baby?” He beamed, his eyes lighting up.

“Of course!” I gushed, smiling at him.

“You did really good Calum!” Cameron interrupted, and Calum shook his hand.

“Thanks, Man!” Calum grinned,

“Of course! Johnny wasn’t kidding! You’re definitely his new champion!” Cameron praised, funny. I didn’t think he was even paying attention to him.

Calum’s smile got even bigger, “Thank you so much, Johnny said your coming Saturday- is that true?” He asked. 

Oh god please be wrong.

Please.

“Yeah, I’ll be there!” Cameron confirmed and he smiled at us.

Of course.

“Great! We’ll see you then,” Calum mentioned and then grabbed my hand, “Jade and I are gonna go to lunch, aren’t we love?”

“Yes, we are. Let’s go.” I agreed and lead the way and we got out of the ring and we went downstairs.

“So what was up with that Cameron guy? You guys know each other?” Calum pointed out as we got to the end of the stairs.

I knew this was coming. But not so damn soon.

“I’ll explain later? Let’s focus on you, okay baby?” I assured and kissed his cheek before we got to the locker rooms.

“Okay babe, let me change and we’ll go,” Calum suggested, kissed my forehead and went into the locker room to change.

“Okay, I’ll be waiting,” I stated.

As I stood to wait. I heard Johnny and Cameron coming downstairs. I ran into the bathroom so I wouldn’t have to deal with them. I grabbed my phone and I texted Charlotte.Guess who’s in town? Cameron. He’s coming to Calum’s fight on Saturday.

I texted Scarlet - Cameron showed up to Cal’s thing today. He’s coming to Calum’s fight on Saturday too. #FML

I put my phone in my pocket and looked at the mirror to make sure I looked somewhat decent. I fixed my hair and I left the bathroom to see Calum talking to Johnny and Cameron.

“There you are babe! Ready to go?” Calum, smiling when he saw me come out of the bathroom.

“Yes, I’m starving!’ I informed and he grabbed my hand and we waved goodbye and left the gym in record time.

“Thanks for coming today babe to see me fight.” Calum purred in my ear as we walked arm in arm to his car

“Of course babe, I wasn't going to miss it.” I reassured looking up at him.

“I know, but you had the day off and you could’ve worked on homework and not came into the gym. But you did anyway.” Calum beamed 

“I barely have homework Calum, Plus I wasn’t going to miss our lunch date.” I expressed, holding on to him tightly.

“Good, I wouldn’t want to miss that either. You are coming home for dinner right? Ashton wants to see you.” Calum insisted.

“Of course Cal, I haven’t seen him in forever,” I revealed, Calum got his car keys out and unlocked his car.

“Good, I wanna cook for you. It’s been too long baby.” Calum promised and opened the door for me.

“It has, I can’t wait.” I agreed and I got in the car and he closed the door. I got my seatbelt on and I waited for him to get in the car.

*************

Lunch with Calum was like it normally was, we went to visit Luke and he came out to see us since it’s always slow on Wednesdays. Calum told him he won his fight and Luke expressed how excited he was for Calum’s fight on Saturday. I was so excited about Calum’s fight. Just not to see Cameron again.

I was sitting on Calum’s couch while Calum was in the bathroom, my stomach in knots knowing I had to tell him about Cameron at some point. Hopefully before Ashton showed up but I had no idea when he was coming home and I didn’t want Calum to be mad. It was way before we even met or even knew about each other.

“You okay princess?” Calum observed, sitting on the couch noticing I was lost in my thoughts.

“Sorry, I must’ve zoned out.” I fretted and shook my head.

“It’s okay babe, do you wanna talk about what happened at the gym today?” He asked, grabbing my hands.

“Yeah, can we go in your room just in case Ashton comes?” I wondered, looking at him.

“Of course,” He reassured and got up grabbing my hand and I got up to follow him down the hall and he led me into his room.  He led me to his bed and he let go of my hand so he could sit on his bed and I sat down next to him.

“So, as you already know Cameron is Johnny’s best friend,” I sighed and took a deep breath, “But what you don’t know is that he isn’t from Long Island. He’s from New York City. Johnny has been his best friend since middle school. So I’ve known him since I was a kid.”

“Oh okay, is that it baby?” Calum guessed.

“I wish. I had a massive crush on Cameron when I was a freshman in high school to senior year. I came in very awkward and clueless, my only friends Charlotte, Scar, and Jasper and he protected me from all of the bullies along with Johnny of course but he was also making sure Jasper was okay. “

“That’s nice of him, I’m assuming there's more baby?” Calum speculated.

I nodded, and took a deep breath, “When I was 17,  My parents went out of town. Johnny decided to be so damn cliche and throw a party, Jasper and I decided to go along with it and not tell my parents if we could invite our friends at the time. Which was Charlotte and Scarlet and Jasper invited his girlfriend at the time. So, it was a rager. Cameron of course came, when I was 17- Johnny was 20 and he had friends who were obviously of age. I didn’t drink because I didn’t want too.” I took a deep breath and looked at Calum who was being very patient, “I was in my room and Cameron came to check on me because Johnny had noticed I went missing. I confessed to having an innocent crush on him in high school because he was always so nice to me and protecting me from assholes. He told me he had a crush on me too but never did anything because of Johnny.”

I took another deep breath, “Now this you can’t tell Johnny or Jasper, they don’t even know this. But that night. Cameron and I had sex. He actually took my virginity. It was completely consensual. I just never told them because I knew they’d freak out. He never talked to me afterward, I got my period afterward and life went on.”

Calum’s eyes were widened and his brows were creased, his jaw was slacked and but he didn’t say anything. For the first time, he was silent.

“Say something Cal. Anything.” I voiced.

“I’m happy you felt comfortable enough to tell me, baby, you didn’t have to tell me but you did anyway. Thank you so much for explaining all of that baby.” He mused, holding my hands.

“I had to tell you Calum, you needed to know. Especially after meeting him and him coming on Saturday.” I commented.

“Fuck, that’s right. Good thing all the boys are gonna be there. I’m sorry baby.” He comforted and kissed my hands.

I heard the front door close, Ashton yell “Calum? Jade? You guys here?”

“Yeah Ash, Were in my room! We’ll be out in a minute!” Calum yelled, and then looked at me. “We can go out whenever you want babe.”

“I’m okay to go out Cal, thank you for being so understanding.” I thanked, looking into his beautiful brown eyes.

“Anytime sweetheart. I don’t know about you but I am starving.” He resounded and grabbed my hand and we got off of his bed and we left his room and walked down the hall and into the kitchen and Ashton was leaning against the counter waiting for us.

“Hey lovebirds, how was lunch with Lu?” He questioned.

“It was good, he’s excited for Saturday! How was work?” I replied. 

“Amazing, I suppose Calum hasn’t told but I asked out my coworker Grace out! She’s coming to the fight on Saturday!” Ashton praised.

“Oh yeah? What she like?” I asked, hoping he would distract me from thinking about Cameron and what happened today.

Ashton has had a crush on her since the day he met with her, he’s had many shifts with her and I stayed in the kitchen hearing about her while Calum grilled our steaks. I chopped up asparagus and made mashed potatoes. Ashton set the table and Calum grabbed the asparagus to grill. When Calum finished the steaks and asparagus and Ashton and I were starving. 

We sat down at the table and I sat next to Calum across from Ashton, “So what are you guys doing for guys night tomorrow?”

“I literally have no idea, I think Luke’s in charge. Right, Ash?” Calum supposed.

“Yeah he is, he’s thinking of something to distract you from your fight Saturday.” Ashton

“That’s good, the girls and I are studying, which means we aren’t.” I giggled and the boys laughed and we finished dinner.

As Calum drove me home, his hand in mine I started to close my eyes completely relaxed in his car listening to Bon Iver.

“Baby, you okay?” He cooed.

“Hmm? Sorry, I’m just so relaxed Cal.” I emphasized.

“Your okay babe, I just don’t want you to fall asleep. We’re almost to your house.” He rubbed his thumb on my hand the rest of the way to keep me awake. I watched him drive and changed the music so I wouldn’t fall asleep. Calum parked in the front of my house and walked me to my door, like the gentleman that he is, his hand in mine

“Okay babe, I’ll let you know how it goes tomorrow with the boys. Have fun with your girls.” Calum pleaded, looking at me with puppy eyes.

“You're going to miss me huh?” I supposed, cupping his face with my hand.

Calum leaned into my touch, “Of course I will, I always do when we’re apart.”

“It won’t be long, remember? I’m coming over Friday night after work and when you train to help distract you from the fight so you can sleep.” I reminded connecting our lips together and his tongue licked my bottom lip asserting his dominance and I let him win and we stood on my front step making out for who knows how long.

He pressed his forehead against mine, “That’s right babe. I’ll survive tomorrow.” He commented and kissed my forehead I opened the front door and he left.

                      * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

“Wait, you mean- Cameron the super hot asshole who popped your cherry from Senior year- was at the gym yesterday?” Charlotte blurted, shaking her head.

“Didn’t he ignore you after the whole thing?” Scarlet added, massaging her temples.

“Yes and yes,” I confirmed, laying on my bed.

“Why did Johnny invite him to the gym? Why not any of his other boxing friends? I mean he’s in Long Island now right?” Scarlet wondered.

“I wish I had an answer for why he invited Cameron of all of his friends, and yes he’s in Long Island.” I disclosed.

“This is just insane, out of all the times to invite Cameron back- he picks NOW when you have the best boyfriend you’ve ever had.” Charlotte objected.

“It’s not like Johnny knows Char! Cam was at my moms funeral and I didn’t even remember.” I admitted.

“Oh yeah, we remember that. Don’t we Scar?” Charlotte cowered.

“Of course I do. I remember seeing him and wanting to punch him in the balls. But I didn’t. Enough about him, what movie were we going to watch?” Scarlet began getting off of my bed.

“I think we were going to watch Clueless” Charlotte encouraged.

“That’s right, it’s been forever since we’ve watched that!” I announced and sat up in my bed.

Scarlet put it in and came back on my bed and Charlet left my room and went to my kitchen to make popcorn since we ran out. I was tempted to text Calum and see how his boys night was going but I knew I would get in trouble for touching my phone during girls night. It was a good thing I was seeing him tomorrow after work. We had plans to watch movies to keep him distracted from being nervous for the fight. 

                     * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

The day of the fight came faster than any of us ever expected. Cameron was planning on staying at my house after the fight, and I did not want to be in the house with him. So I decided to stay at Calum’s apartment. Ashton asked the day off on Saturday so he could be with Calum and thankfully I didn’t have to work until 6 pm. Charlotte and Scarlet and I came over because they were planning on going to fight and they didn’t want me to have to deal with Cameron on my own. Luke was picking up Michael for the fight, so Charlotte picked Scarlet up on the way and then went to my house. Thankfully Cameron was at the gym with Johnny when they came over.

“I can’t believe he’s staying here.” Scarlet spat, looking through my perfumes.

“Don’t remind me. I don’t even want to think about him being in my house.” I muttered, grabbing my work clothes for Sunday and a set of pajamas.

“I hope he doesn’t come in here.” Charlotte fretted, sitting on my bed.

“He’s not some creepy stalker. He’s not gonna go through my underwear drawer or some shit.” I sneered and grabbed my deodorant, my tennis shoes, toothbrush, and toothpaste.

“You don’t know that! What if he does!” Charlotte asserted.

“Both of you watch too many scary movies, he’s not going to.” Scarlet assessed, turning around and put a pair of my sunglasses on.

“You’re just jealous we can watch them!” I imitated, and remembered she hadn’t returned my last pair, “You better return that pair of sunglasses, you sunglasses thief!”

“What can I say you have good taste!” Scarlet professed.

I heard my doorbell ring, and I looked at the girls and furrowed my eyebrows. “You don’t think.”

“Calum?” Scarlet guessed.

“It better fucking be him.” I spat and left my room and the girls followed, we went down the stairs and I went to the front door and opened it.

“Hi baby, Sorry I couldn’t wait to see you.” Calum blurted. He had his boxing outfit on and I was still in my sweats.

“Get your adorable ass in here.” I mused, motioning him to come inside.

“Why did all of you answer the door?” Calum asked, looking at the girls as we moved out of the way for him to get inside.

“Well, you see we were talking about-” Scarlet started.

“I know all about Cameron, and that he’s staying here.” Calum huffed.

“Oh well yeah, we were talking about him and we freaked out,” Charlotte whined, looking at Scarlet who was blushing.

“I wish he could stay at a damn hotel or something. Not at my girlfriend's house. How long is he supposed to stay?” Calum asked, looking at me.

“I think only Sunday, I’m hoping. He should be going back to work. Whatever he’s doing.” I answered.

“King of the douchebags,” Charlotte recalled and we all laughed.

“Are you wearing that to work babe? Don’t you have to wear something special for my match?” Calum asked looking at me up and down.

“Thanks for reminding me, I should go change since it’s getting close to that time anyway.” I sighed and walked up the stairs and into my room to change into my outfit for tonight. I changed into my work out leggings and crop top. I put on my Nikes and grabbed my backpack and purse.

I walked downstairs to see Calum, Charlotte and Scarlet having a serious conversation in the kitchen. I walked over to them and cleared my throat. They all stopped talking and looked at me as if nothing was going on.

“Hi babe, you ready?” Calum greeted.

“What were you guys talking about?” I inquired.

“Don’t worry about it, let’s get you to work.” Charlotte smiled.

“Yeah, are you going to ride with Calum?” Scarlet asked.

“Probably, that okay?” I put in, looking at Charlotte.

“Don’t worry about it. He probably needs your calming music to get him calm before his big match anyways.” Charlotte mentioned and Calum walked up to me grabbing my hand.

“Yeah, I definitely do.” Calum agreed and kissed my cheek and the girls went out the front door and I walked out the front door and Calum followed and I locked up and he rubbed his thumb on my hand.

“You gonna tell me what you and the girls were talking about?” I pressed as we walked to his car.

“Hey nosey, don’t worry about it. Let’s focus on the now okay?” He maintained and unlocked his door, “Backpack please babe.” and I handed him my backpack and he opened the backdoor and put it in the backseat. He opened the passenger door for me.

“Thanks, Calum, you know you don’t have to get the door all the time for me.” I cooed, kissing his cheek before getting inside of his car.

I put my seatbelt on and grabbed my phone from my purse and plugged it in and waited for him to start the car to play my calming playlist.

He got in and put his seatbelt on, he lit a cigarette and started the car and I turned on my playlist and he rolled down the window and smoked his cigarette and drove as I played City and Colour.

“I think your music might be calming me more down than this cigarette babe.” Calum breathed as he exhaled from his cigarette.

“Oh yeah? Good.” I confided.

As he drove, I played more City and Color and Coldplay. When we reached the gym I could feel my chest tightening and I could only imagine how Calum was feeling.

Calum pulled into the parking lot in the back of the gym and I tried not to think about Cameron. I was more worried about what Cameron might say to him.

“You going to be okay Calum?” I asked, looking at him as he parked the car.

“Yeah babe, I will. Don’t worry about me.” Calum encouraged, grabbing my hand and kissing it.

“I know but you know I will,” I added, grabbing his hand and kissing it.

I unbuckled my seatbelt and grabbed his face and kissing his lips, tasting like nicotine. I loved kissing his soft yet rough plump lips. His lips were so perfect and he knew how to always dominate mine whenever I’d try to be the one kissing him.

I breathed on his lips, “Not fair Calum”

He breathed on mine, the smell of nicotine enveloping my lungs. “What’s your point princess?” He unbuckled his seatbelt to get closer to me. His rough callused hand on my face as he kissed me. I could’ve sat in his car for hours if it wasn’t for his fight.

I sighed, “I wish I didn’t have to work.” I shrugged and pecked his lips softly.

“Tell me about it, I could kiss you for hours, babe.” He sighed and opened his door and I opened mine and got out to meet him. He grabbed his duffle bag and then closed the door. He put the duffle bag over his shoulder and grabbed my hand.

“Do I have to go?” I groaned as we got closer to the gym.

Calum chuckled and leaned in to kiss my forehead, “Babe, it’s a little late to turn back now babe.”

I giggled, I admitted “Yeah you have a point. As much as I want to see you win your first fight Calum- the last person I want to see is Cameron.”

“Join the club baby. I hope he doesn’t annoy you. I’d rather him annoy me over you.” He cooed, kissing my cheek before I grabbed my keys and opening the back door. As we walked in people were high fiving Calum and cheering him on. Johnny, my dad, and uncle were talking to Cameron and I could feel Calum’s hand squeezing mine.

I walked up to the front desk and was so relieved when I saw Andy sitting there with my coworker Danielle.

“Boy am I happy to see you two!” Andy beckoned and Calum let go of my hand and I turned to face him.

“It’s too late to turn back now?” I muttered.

He smiled and kissed my lips softly, “Way too late babe. I’ll see you in the ring love.” And he left and Danielle left the front desk and I went behind the desk.

“You two are literally so perfect.” Andy sighed.

I sat down on the chair and I smiled “Oh yeah? Are you living vicariously through me too?” I asked, putting my purse under the desk.

“Maybe. I’m so excited for his first fight tonight. I wish Cameron wasn’t here.” Andy groaned as he walked by us winking at her.

“Oh god, Don’t remind me,” I grunted and rolled my eyes thinking of him.

“What’s with you two anyways? He was asking me when you came in.” She stated and I could feel a lump in my throat and my stomach turning into knots.

“Okay so way back when I was like 17, Johnny had a party when my parents were out of town. Cameron popped my cherry. Johnny and Jasper have no idea.” I revealed and then put my index finger in front of my mouth.

“Holy shit! That’s why he’s been all tense! Does Calum know?” She gasped.

“Yeah, I told him on Wednesday after I saw him. Cameron’s spending the night at my house tonight and I’m going to Calum’s after the fight.” I explained realizing Cameron was walking up to the desk.

“Speak of the devil.” She muttered and he cleared his throat.

“Hey ladies. About time you showed up for work Jade Buddha.” Cameron teased.

“Oh fuck off Cam. No one calls me that.” I spat, rolling my eyes at him.

“Right, what does Calum call you? His princess. Gag me.” Cameron retorted pretending to gag.

“Oh go somewhere else would you Cam? We’ve got things to do here Cameron.” Andy fumed and smacked him on the arm.

“Alright, I’m going. See you, ladies, later.” Cameron shook his head and Calum came out of the locker room.

He looked at me and I could tell he could read my facial expression, “You okay babe?”

“Cameron was just here, Being his charming self as usual.” Andy conceded.

“Fuck I hate him. Guess who I just got off of the phone with?” Calum asked.

“Ashton? Luke?” I guessed.

“Ashton. Grace and Luke are on their way here. Hella early. Where the hell did Charlotte and Scarlet go..” Calum trailed off.

“Probably went to get food or something. They like to snack during fights. Are you worried about them?” I questioned.

“Maybe. I’m allowed to worry about your friends!” Calum grinned. 

“Well, I think it’s cute,” I observed. 

“You're cute.” He flirted, winking at me. 

“You two are literally so cute.” Andy chimed. 

We both laughed and Calum left to go answer his phone and we went back to work and the hours dragged on. Charlotte, Scarlet finally showed up with snacks and Luke, Ashton and Grace showed up right before the fight was going to start and I was itching for it to begin. Johnny and I were in the Men's Locker room with Calum and it was weird seeing Calum get his hands wrapped with Johnny. I was so used to Alex and Johnny, but this time it wasn’t.

I put the water bottle in the bucket with towels in the bucket and then got the door for Calum and we got out to the ring and the crowd was going crazy. I followed Johnny and Calum and I could feel my chest tighten up as we got closer. I tried not to think about the worst-case scenario; which was Calum getting hurt.

I knew he could fight. My dad and Johnny believed in him. They wouldn’t put him out there if they didn’t. But I was still worried. I love him more than I’ve ever loved anyone and I was so scared he was going to get hurt.

They introduced his opponent and then Calum talking about his weight and where he was from and my chest pain was getting worse. I could see Calum’s facial expression getting completely different as he was focusing. Johnny was getting his gloves on and it felt like my heart was beating out of its chest.

Round one.

Calum went straight for a jab to his face and he didn’t stand a chance. Calum wasn’t going to take a chance at losing. His opponent was realizing how serious Calum was and was trying to fight back with an uppercut and Calum fought back with a right cross and he fell right to the floor. Calum won that round hands down.

Calum came back to Johnny and me and I got the stool for him to sit down and I got the water for him and Johnny yelled “Doing amazing, you are taking no prisoners! Great right cross! You got him on the floor on the first round! He’s not going to be happy about that Cal. Second round lookout.”

His break was over and Calum knew his opponent was out for blood.

Round two.

His opponent came in strong with a jab and Calum got hit and I flinched for the first time and Johnny noticed and then went back to looking. Calum rolled it off his back and counter-punched him and his opponent attempted to do a right hook and Calum wasn’t haven’t it and gave him a left hook. His opponent came back with a left jab and Calum defended it and gave him a right hook and he was on the floor, again.

Of course, Calum won.

He came back and I got the stool for him, Johnny was smiling from ear to ear “Calum! You are doing fantastic!” He wiped the blood from his face and then threw it in the bucket. “One hit is nothing! You shook it off! You got it in the bag!”

His break was over and it was his final round.

Round three.

His opponent looked tired from losing to Calum and Calum looked like he was ready to throw him to the ground from getting hit. Calum came in strong and gave him two right jabs in a row and he hit the ropes instead of the floor and bounced back with a left uppercut and hit Calum. I flinched, with no shock to Johnny. He shook it off and hit him with two right crosses and he was on the floor, knocked out.

And to no one's surprise, Calum won. The gym went wild and Johnny and I were probably the loudest of them all. Calum and his opponent shook hands after his opponent.  Johnny congratulated him first as his coach and trainer and cleaned him up and got him water, then I let him breathe. I ran up to him sweaty and hugged him, his arms so tight around my body.

“Baby!” He cooed in my ear.

“I knew you’d win!” I purred.

“Oh yeah?” He said, letting go of me looking in my eyes.

“Of course, You’ve got some adoring fans who want to see you.” I cheered.

He grabbed my hand tightly and I leaned into him as we left the ring, cheers going crazy as people congratulated Calum on his triumphant win. I ignored Cameron as he shook his hand and Andy hugged him. We finally got to Luke, Ashton. Mikey and the girls, including Grace who was overwhelmed

“I can’t believe this is how you decided to have her meet Calum and I!” I declared, holding onto Calum’s hand.

“She wanted to see a boxing match!” Ashton insisted, and Grace nodded.

“I did, I promise! That was intense!” Grace noted, grabbing Ashton’s hand.

“Yeah it was, I knew he’d win.” I mused and kissed his cheek.

“We should celebrate!!!” Luke cheered and Scarlet and Charlotte all cheered.

I looked at Calum, and then at Ashton and Grace. “I have to be here until we clean up but we can after if you guys want to wait?” I suggested.

“I need to shower anyway, no one wants to around me when I’m sweaty babe,” Calum advised.

“Yeah so we all might as well, we can go hang out at your place!” Luke marveled, and to my surprise, everyone was game for waiting for us at Ashton and Calum’s place.

“Okay, I’m gonna go back to work. I’ll see you guys later!” I informed and I kissed Calum’s cheek and then let go of his hand and went back into the ring to clean up.

Calum POV-

I didn’t want to let go of Jade’s hand but I knew she had to go back to work. I almost forgot she was working. It was crazy that I met her here and now I’m a boxer here working with her brother.

Before I could make it to the locker rooms, her Father yelled “Calum!” and I turned around to face him.

“Mr. Reynolds!” I remarked and he stretched his hand to give me a firm handshake.

“Great job on your first fight! I haven’t seen the first fight like that since… I don’t know when!” He congratulated

“Really? I know you hated Alex but wasn’t he a good fighter?” I theorized, crossing my arms.

“He’s not as good at you, between you and me I think they just gave him opponents that weren’t that good. He has rich parents. That’s what I think.” He revealed, looking around.

“Really? I had no idea.” I explained.

“Yeah enough about him. Good job, I look forward to your next fight!” He beamed.

“Thank you, Sir! Have a good night!” I replied and then turned to walk to the locker room to grab my duffle bag. As I opened my locker and grabbed my body wash, shampoo and conditioner.

I went to the showers and took off my clothes and washed my body first since I was so sweaty from fighting. The warm water felt so good against my skin and I tried not clear my head. I finished washing my body and washed my hair and then used conditioner. I turned off the shower and grabbed a towel and dried off my body and hair. I put on a pair of shocks, I put on a new pair of underwear and then sweatpants and then a tee shirt. I put my dirty clothes and towel in my duffle bag and zipped it up. I walked out of the locker room and I saw Cameron talking to Jasper.

“So, do you need me to clean up the living room?” Jasper asked.

Cameron saw me walk by him, “I thought I was sleeping in Jade's bed?” He speculated.

I turned around to face him, “Don’t. You. Dare.” I spat.

Cameron stepped closer to me, I could feel his breath on me. “Why Calum? Do you have a problem with that?” He spat, crossing his arms.

Jasper cleared his throat, “I don’t know what’s going on with you Cameron. I was told you were sleeping on the couch.”

Within seconds, Jade walked by us with a giant trash bag and she dropped it when she saw us standing so close together.

“Cameron, what the fuck?” She fretted as she walked up to us, trying to figure out what was going on.

“I was just discussing my sleeping arrangements for tonight and your boyfriend here intruded,” Cameron said, slyly.

“He wouldn’t interrupt unless he had a reason to.” She shared, shook her head.

“Cameron said he was going to sleep in your bed tonight when Johnny told me he was sleeping on the couch. And Calum got mad.” Jasper revealed.

“Oh well that makes sense, Cameron stop being an asshole. Calum go hang out with your friends.” She commented and then grabbed the trash by the water fountain and winked at me.

Cameron glared at me and I grabbed my phone and noticed I got a ton of messages.

Luke (3)

Ashton (2)

Mali (2)

Fuck. I’d better text them back.

Luke - Hey! Scarlet, Charlotte and I went to Chipotle to get food. They were starving.

Charlotte has to go home because of her mom, she’s totally wasted and her siblings are too young to be alone without her.

She went home- Can you let Jade know?

Ashton - Charlotte went home, Lu and Scarlet went to my house with Michael.

Grace and I are heading back to our place- We’ll see you there?

Mali- Hey! How did your fight go?!

Call me bro! Ashton called me!

Fuck. She never wants me to call her.

I called Mali first. She answered after the second ring, “Calum??”

“Mali!” I answered.

“I’m assuming you got my texts!” She asserted.

“Yeah I did, I won my fight,” I revealed, walking towards the back of the gym and opening the back door and I leaned against the wall.

“Oh, that’s amazing Calum! I knew you’d win!” She cheered.

“Thanks, Mali!” I replied.

“Your welcome. Is there anything else you’d like to tell me, little brother?” She asked me, in a curious tone.

I heard the back door open and Jade came out with the trash bags and threw it in the dumpster. She smiled at me.

“What are you talking about Mali?” I asked her, confused.

“That you have a girlfriend! C’mon Cal! How long were you going to keep that from me!” She yelled. I looked over at Jade who looked at me, confused. Trying to figure out who I was talking about.

“Mali- did Ashton tell you about it?” I snorted, and Jade stepped closer to me turning her head.

“Of course he did! How come he had to tell me and not you?” Mali pleaded.

“I don’t know Mali! I wish I would’ve been the one to tell you. She’s amazing Mali. I met her through the gym I’m working out at. Her brother is training me, he’s my coach.” I explained.

“That’s great Calum but it’s been two months. How much longer would it have been before you told me?” Mali fretted.

“Don’t get upset about it. I didn’t know when the right time was. You’ve been so busy with work and taking care of Duke. I didn’t want you to worry about me like you did when I was in LA.” I insisted.

“I’m always going to worry about you, I’m your older sister. As long as she makes you happy that’s all that matters. I want to meet her of course.” Mali declared.

“Well, of course, I want you to meet her. Are you planning on coming here at some point?” I asked, and Jade’s eyes widened.

“Yeah, I want to see you fight and bring you, Duke! I’ll sort the details out later. I just wanted to check in with you. I love you, little brother!” Mali comforted.

“I love you Mali!” I grinned and she hung up.

Jade’s eyes widened, “Who in the hell?”

“My sister. She wanted to see if I won the fight. Ashton told her about you and I. Before you get mad;  I was planning on telling her. I didn’t tell her because I knew she’d worry about me. ” I explained.

“Oh, that’s right. You told me you had a sister. She’s coming here?” She asked nervously.

“At some point. Not anytime soon. Don’t worry about it, babe.” I insisted and kissed her lips sweetly.

“I won't, that was just so random. Where did everyone go?” She asked.

“Charlotte went home, something about her mom being drunk. Luke, Scarlet, Grace, Ashton and Mikey are all at my place. Which honestly. I don’t even want to go there.” I groaned.

“You don’t? Why not?” She asked.

“Because of fucking Cameron. I don’t trust him.” I conceded.

“Maybe we can just go to your apartment for a little while, get some clothes and then go to my place?” She suggested.

“That’s a good idea.” I realized and she smiled.

“I come up with them once and awhile.” She agreed and She went back to work and I went into my car and waited for her to finish up.

***************

“Wait, Mali is coming here?” Luke asked, taking a sip of his beer.

“Yes, that’s what I just said,” I confirmed.

“When?” Ashton gasped.

“How the hell should I know?” I rolled my eyes at him and took a sip of my Bud light and looked around for Jade who was supposed to be packing my clothes up.

“I can’t believe she’s actually going to come here.” Mikey divulged.

“Me neither. I thought she hated New York.” Luke blurted, running his hands through his curls.

“Yeah, me too but she wants to meet Jade.” I spat, glaring at Ashton.

“She knows about her?” Luke cautioned, his eyes widening.

“Nothing’s getting past you tonight is it, Hemmings. Yes, Mali knows about her. Hence why she’s coming.” I addressed and took another sip of my Bud Light.

“Take it easy on the Bud light Cal, that’s your second. Aren’t you going to Jade’s?” Ashton retorted.

“Don’t tell me what to do, Irwin.” I spat and walked away from him, looking for Jade.

I passed by Grace and Scarlet who were talking about God knows what and walked to my room, I opened the door and Jade was sitting on my bed.

“Jade?” I asked.

“Hey, sorry. I just needed to sit down. I didn’t really want to go out there with all of them. I’m angry with Ashton and I don’t want to talk to the girls.” She admitted.

“S’okay babe. We can just go. I’m so tired from the fight and I’m already on my second beer, I’m feeling a little bit tipsy now.” I confessed, sitting down on my bed next to her.

“Want me to drive us to my place?” She asked, looking at me.

“Sure babe, that would be great. I feel bad getting here and just leaving when they wanna celebrate my win. But I’m so tired from it all.” I sighed, putting my head on her shoulder.

“I know babe. Fights take a lot out of you.” She comforted.

“Calum? Where did you go?” Luke yelled.

Of course. Just as I lay my head on her shoulder.

“IN MY ROOM!” I yell and I hear footsteps down the hallway.

The door opens, “Awwh you two are so cute. You two lovebirds going to come out and say goodbye to us or just sit here and be antisocial?” Luke announced

“I guess we’d better, huh Cal?” Grace decided.

“Damn it. We have to.” I groaned

“Yeah we do, since we are leaving.” Jade smiled and we got up from my bed and she grabbed my hand and Luke left my bedroom doorway and we left my room to say our goodbyes.

Ashton and Grace kept their distance from us since he caught on as to why I was angry with him. I said goodbye to Michael and Luke giving them hugs. Jade hugged Grace and Scarlet. She hugged Luke and Michael and then waved to Ashton. She grabbed my keys and she decided it was safer for her to drive my car to her house.

When we got to her house, Cameron was passed out on the couch and we snuck by him and everyone else must’ve been asleep because it was quiet.

We snuck up the stairs into Jade’s room and she grabbed a tank top and pair of shorts and started to change before I knew it. I opened my duffle bag and grabbed a pair of pajama bottoms and a tank top and put them on her bed. I put my duffle bag on the side of her bed. I took off my sweat pants and sweater and I put my tank top on and then my pants on. Jade looked at me and asked, “Are you, hungry babe?”

“Starving babe.” I answered.

“You wanna order pizza?” She suggested, her eyes lighting up.

“That sounds amazing, but I can’t.” I sighed. Sitting on her bed shrugging.

“Oh because of your diet. You just won a fight! What Johnny won’t know won’t hurt him. If he asks, it’s my pizza.” She appealed, and then winked  sitting down next to me.

“Okay babe, I’ll eat anything. As long as it doesn’t have anchovies.” I explained, grabbing her hand.

“Okay babe. You want any sides?” She beamed, looking at me.

“Whatever you want princess, I’ll eat anything you get,” I answered, kissing her cheek.

“Except anchovies.” She smiled and grabbed her phone out of her purse which was lying on the bed and she ordered pizza for us. I watched her order and I let go of her hand and I went to grab my wallet from my duffle bag and sat back down on the bed and before I knew it Jade had already finished ordering Pizza.

“Hey!” I hesitated, realizing she paid for the pizza.

“What? You didn’t honestly think that you’d pay for the pizza did you Calum?” She shared, kissing my cheek and winking at me.

“I was planning on it but I guess not!” I fretted.

“It was my idea, so therefore I’m paying for it. I ordered garlic twists and cheesy bread.” She informed, smiling at me putting her phone down.

I groaned, looking at her pursing my lips. “That sounds expensive.”

“And? You won your first fight. So, therefore, you get pizza.” She mused.

I agreed, “Fine. Whatever you say, babe.”

As we waited for the pizza, she turned on her T.V and she checked for updates on the food every so often. When the pizza arrived, we both ran down the stairs and then we snuck back up the stairs to eat our pizza and we watched a scary movie before she passed out in my arms. 

@calumhampton @calumspeachy @bbycal @sublimehood @dontstopisagoodsongchangemymind @c-dizzle-swizzlex @sinfulcth @toofadedtofight @gem-calum @lashtoncurls @lukescherrypie

[blogthepandasthumb]

HW4

Question 1

I am still interested in the idea of a short story based in the future, so the following is an excerpt. If I were to pursue the short story idea, the next step would be to create a storyboard.

           “Why? Why did we have to end up with this planet?”, asked Tate. “Everything that lives here is tiny, and boring.” As Tate pressed his face against the viewing port, fog formed across the clear composite covering the opening. As far as his eyes could see, there was nothing but a deep, dark black. Only when he warped his neck away from the planet’s surface could he make out the soft glow of the unfamiliar galaxy’s stars. “How much longer do we have here?”, he asked bitterly. “We are free to leave as soon as we have completed collecting our data. Have you even started analyzing the audio files from today?”, snapped Rita. Tate sulks off as Cole enters the room jovially. “The radiation data is analyzed and ready to be added to the report, Boss.” Cole chimed. “Anything strange?” Rita asked. “No, although it seems high, the levels stay relatively constant until we approach the crater, then they spike as expected.”, he replied.  “Okay great, I am going to check on Marliese.”, Rita said as she headed to the laboratory bay. “How’s it going Marly?” Marliese, with a puzzled look, looks up from her monitor. “Well I think I found something work checking out. As the planet rotates away from the star, tiny infrared signatures appear and begin to grow, only to disappear again right before the star’s light hits the locations.” “Hmmm, let’s go ahead and plan for field expedition soon.”, said Rita. As she turned to leave the lab, Tate comes running into the hallway. “I need extra ears for verification immediately”, Tate said, exasperated. “What’s wrong?”, asked Rita. “I already uploaded the file to the rec bay. Cole is meeting us there.” As the small team gathered into the bay, there was a taste of tangible uneasiness in the air around them. “What’s going on?” they demanded of Tate. “Okay everyone, before you ask, yes I have triple checked the data. I have scrapped the analysis three times and started over, only to get the same result.” As Tate pressed the play button, the ship was silent, for everyone was holding their breath in anticipation. However, slowly but surely, the sound of silence gave way to a haunting noise. At first the crew all sat in disbelief, but one by one the crew members came to the same unmistakable conclusion. Music. Something was playing music on the surface.

 Question 2

Intrade was a prediction market company they would allow users to track and bet on the probabilities that certain events would happen. It was ordered to shut down in 2013 due to “financial irregularities.” This was following a Commodity Trade Futures Commission lawsuit that sued Intrade to stop Americans from betting on the exchange, due to a rule that futures contracts could only be sold to Americans on a registered exchange or by exemption. Per the Intrade website, it seems efforts are underway to decentralize the prediction markets, with the aide of blockchain cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum. If I would have to make a guess as to whether the article provided was true or false, I would say it is true. The lack of information about what exactly happened with the Intrade fiasco seems suspect, and a CEO suicide is far from the most suspicious thing that occurred during Intrade debacle.

 Question 3

No, in its original form my Delphi question would not work. It would need to be reworded to: Will the number of people that consider the singularity upon us exceed 50% in the year 2100?

Question 4

This prediction market contract is being made between (Customer Name) located at (Address) and (Brokerage Name) located at (Address) on this date (Date). This agreement will become effective on (Date). The customer agrees to wager 1.2 Million Dogecoin for the confirmation of the first female president of the United States on January 6, 2025. Once the completion of the wager has been confirmed, the customer can exchange the holding coins supplied by (Company) in exchange for the 1.2 Million Dogecoin. If the bet is cancelled, the Dogecoin is returned and the exchange tokens are destroyed.

Question 5

A)   The ways Randy Pausch suggested to help achieve your childhood dreams are to manage your time well, getting to know your inner thoughts, and to listen to feedback from others. I agree with Pausch, for all advice that has helped me in my life can be categorized withing these three parameters. His suggestions hold universal truths and will never not apply to the lives of people.

B)   Although I am sure my outlook on life will continue to evolve, currently I subscribe to the philosophy of Epicurus, that happiness should be the main pursuit of life, for happiness can be characterized simply as the absence of pain. Although helping others is a sure way to produce happiness for oneself, what does that mean for the lone hermit? What does that mean for the solo backpacker, or the stranded ship captain? Does happiness not exist but for the presence of others? Or can happiness be pursued and achieve in solitude? I for one feel my happiest when I am alone, with my thoughts, in vast expanse of nature, in the absence of responsibility or pain.

Question 6

The title for the sections in pages 20-40 in the book Homo Deus are “The Last Days of Death” and “The Right to Happiness,” with the latter especially relevant given part b of question 5 of HW4. During the first 20 pages, I was quite skeptical of the position the author was coming from, based on the criticism of some of the reviewers. However, as Harari proceeds through the introduction of his book, I am becoming more and more on board. So far, Harari presents his arguments more as a thought exercise, as opposed to a conclusionary examination. Harari points out that over time, death has morphed from something we view as inevitable or Holy, to something that can be beaten. He argues that instead of immortal, soon humans will become amortal, for without outside intervention, our bodies can continuously be rejuvenated and restored. Of course, things like car accidents and lightning strikes will still be deadly, but at some point risking one’s life during a nighttime stroll will not be worth betting against when the risk of cancer, heart disease, and an aging body are now zero. I can very well see today’s inequality dialed up to a hypothetical eleven, with the rich living in their hermetically sealed amortal bubbles, looking down longingly on the carefree children of the poor playing catch and riding bicycles in the streets, for if death is inevitable, why squander what life you have life worrying?