#maybe pedro pascal is too good at his job

[pascalsapunk]

joel saying “it wasn’t time that did it” while staring hopelessly at ellie literally ruined my entire life

[jobean12-blog]

A Place Made for Love

Pairing: Joel Miller x female reader (No-outbreak Joel)

Word Count: 5,081

Summary: You're new to the small town Joel's lived in all his life and just the sight of you has him feeling a certain way so when he learns that you've bought the old bookshop and you're moving into the apartment above, it turns his familiar world upside down.

Author's Note: This one got away from me. I love the idea of Joel just living his life and doing construction and being grumpy and then reader comes along and really gives him a run for his money. Had to include a bookshop for this because along with Joel, it's one of my favorite things. Thank you all so much for reading! Much love always!❤️❤️❤️Divider by the lovely @firefly-graphics Thank you Daisy! 🥰

PS Bold font means texts and anything italics is like an inner thought lol

Warnings: grumpy Joel, sassy reader, tension, flirting, softness and smiles, fluff and sweetness

Pedro Pascal Masterlist

You trudge down the canned food aisle feeling completely indecisive but hungry and growing more aggravated by the second.

As you round the next corner you’re sifting through the contents of your basket when you walk headfirst into what feels like the wall.

“Ow!” you yelp as you stumble back.

A strong arm wraps around your waist to steady you and you look up, blinking.

“Better watch where you’re goin’ there darlin’.”

Your body tenses at the feel of him pressed against you and you mutter something inaudible under your breath before slipping from his grasp.

“Not even a thank you,” he muses as he turns to follow you.

“Weren’t you going the other way?” you shoot back.

“Just realized I forgot the pasta,” he says, leaning over your shoulder to whisper the words close to your ear.

You force your betraying body to remain calm at his proximity and then ignore the comment.

“What the hell are you gonna make with that mish mosh?” he asks as he peeks into your basket.

“Why do you care?” you counter with a brittle smirk.

He shrugs as the corners of his mouth turn up into a grin.

“Maybe something to poison you with…that would be nice.”

Your sassy remark makes his whole face light up with a smile and it momentarily roots you to the spot.

With one last disgruntled glance you stomp off in the other direction. “Since I’m new here you’d think you’d be a little more neighborly!”

“Fuck,” Joel mutters as he follows you.

“Ok darlin’.”

“Ok what?” you ask as you turn to face him.

“Maybe…” and he paused, studying you. “I could be a bit more friendly.”

He looks back down at your basket.

“You know if you grab some beans and a pepper you’ll be well on your way to making a great chili.”

“Chili,” you repeat.

You look between him and the basket. “That works. Although…”

“You’ve never made it before?”

At his question you fight back a sigh.

“No. I haven’t. But I’m capable of looking up a recipe.”

“Or I could just tell you about some good take-out places.”

You roll your eyes.

“I can manage to cook my own dinner, thanks!”

At the sarcasm in your tone his grin widens before he starts to step around you, his arm brushing yours with the motion.

“Great darlin.’ Just don’t burn the place down or anything. It’s the only bookshop in the neighborhood and we all love it.”

He winks and saunters off.

The urge to turn around and watch him is almost overwhelming but you square your shoulder and keep your chin up. “I can make chili,” you assure yourself.

Joel sits across from Tommy and sips his beer, waiting for his brother to make a dinner choice.

If Tommy notices Joel glancing too many times at the small bookshop across the street, he doesn’t mention it.

“You’re quieter than usual,” Tommy remarks as he drops the menu and leans back. “What’s on your mind?”

Joel grunts before looking across the street again. “Work.”

“This new job we have is a big one. I want it to go perfectly so they hire us for the rest of it.” Joel continues.

Tommy nods in agreement but he’s battling a smile.

“Somethin’ you wanna say brother?” Joel asks.

Tommy grins. “I might have somethin’ to say.”

Joel grinds his teeth and tightens his grip on the beer bottle.

“Heard you had a little exchange with our new bookshop owner at the grocery store this mornin’.”

“Who said?” Joel asks, pinning Tommy with dark eyes.

“No one of importance,” Tommy shrugs. “You’re starin’ a hole through the window.”

Tommy’s eyes glitter. He’s clearly enjoying himself. “Heard she didn’t back down and run off over your…charm.”

“You’re worse than a school girl. Spreadin’ gossip around.”

That makes Tommy laugh and he takes a swig of his drink.

“Still,” Tommy says. “I can’t blame you…she’s real nice to look at and probably a lot of fun when you get her goin’…which you seem to enjoy doin’.”

“Tommy,” Joel warns as his jaw tightens. “Don’t go sniffin’ around any of that and don’t ask me to explain why.”

Tommy dips his head in understanding, his mouth tight in a straight line but his eyes bright with amusement.

“Not a single sniff. You’ve got my word brother…”

Tommy’s head swings around and his attention settles on something happening in the street. “What the hell…?”

Joel jerks his head in the same direction and in matter of seconds he’s out of his chair and charging through the door.

Without thinking he runs toward you and let’s out a breath when he looks you over, the large pot between your fingers and a garbage bag over your shoulder.

“Are you hurt?”

“No,” you breathe, staring at him. “Where the hell did you come from?”

His relief at the fact that you’re unharmed is obvious even as he takes the pot from you and grabs your wrists, turning your hands over to check.

His skin is warm and his fingers are calloused. The sensations cause your mind to go blank and you stand there motionless.

Once he’s satisfied he looks down at the pot and the black contents inside. He’s still holding your wrists.

“I burnt it,” you say quietly. “The whole upstairs apartment smells awful so I thought I’d better get rid of it quick before the shop started to stink.”

“I can take care…” Tommy begins to speak and Joel whips his head around just now realizing he was even standing there and glares so Tommy snaps his mouth shut.

Joel looks back at you and slowly releases you, the loss of his touch something you instantly feel.

Tommy covers a cough and you drag your eyes away from Joel to glance at his younger brother.

“Hey,” Tommy says and extends his hand.

You reach out and shake it to introduce yourself.

“I was saying I could help you out with that but I think my brother here has it under control,” Tommy quips.

“Damn right I do,” Joel says, hands on his hips.

“Thanks Tommy, I appreciate the offer,” you smile.

Tommy tips his head and walks back across the street to the bar.

Joel’s hard eyes turn to you in an assessing way but he remains silent.

“Aren’t you going to make some shitty remark about my cooking skills,” you snip.

His broad shoulders slump and he holds out his hand.

“Here, give me the bag.”

You hand the bag over and watch as he empties what he can of the contents and then stares down at it with pursed lips.

“Might have to…” he starts.

“You can just get rid…” you say at the same time.

He drops the pot into the bag with a laugh.

It catches you off guard and when he meets your eyes again the surprise is evident in your wide-eyed expression.

“No shitty remarks darlin.’ Just glad you’re ok…and you didn’t burn the place down.”

The last part of his comment trails off into quiet mumblings but you still catch it.

“Couldn’t help yourself huh?” you say but you’re fighting back a small smile.

The two of you stand there on the sidewalk for what feels like forever until Joel clears his throat and you look up at him through your lashes.

“Guess your dinner’s ruined,” he states.

“You could say that. I’ll have to go aimlessly walk around the grocery store some more in the hopes of finding food.”

His large hand runs through his already mussed hair before it settles on the back of his head and he shoves his free hand into his jeans pocket.

“Hey uh, listen darlin’…I’m sorry if I was rude earlier…at the store…and the other times before that. It was wrong of me.”

Your expression softens.

“Thank you, I accept.”

Joel hums and flicks his head toward the bar. “I had just ordered dinner before you came running out. Go in and eat it.”

When you stare at him he plays back his words and realizes they came out as a demand.

“If you want to,” he adds. “Join me. For food.”

You smile and slide past him. Your distinct and soft scent wafts up to his nose and he instinctively inhales, his eyes closing briefly before he starts to move to follow you.

He motions to the small table and pulls out your chair, waiting for you to sit before he does the same. His thick fingers wrap around the fork, making it look comically small, before he hands it to you and pushes the plate closer.

You stab a French fry and pop it in your mouth.

“So Tommy…you guys work together?”

“Yeah. Construction. We actually have a big project coming up in the city. Working on one of the new fancy hotel buildings.

“That sounds exciting. I guess it’s not really a 9-5 job then?”

“Nah, not really. Some days we spend doing small, odd jobs around the neighborhood and other times we’ll be on one job for weeks or months.”

You nod. “What do you do in your spare time? Besides follow women around the grocery store and make snarky comment on their food choices.”

“Gonna hold that over my head for long?” he asks.

You look him over and pretend to think about it. “Not sure yet.”

“Fair enough,” he sighs, noticing you stopped eating and nudging your arm with his elbow. “Eat.”

“Are you always this bossy?” you ask as you chew.

His eyes drop to your mouth and the way you lick the salt from your lips.

“Maybe,” he replies, the sides of his mouth twitching with a smile.

“Fair enough,” you tell him, mirroring his earlier words.

The whites of his teeth appear with his lopsided smile

“You plannin’ on trying to cook chili again?”

“Maybe,” you answer, loving the way his eyes crinkle at your repeated and mocking words.

“So now that you know a little more about me why not tell me why you’re here in our little town?”

He settles his forearms on the table and leans in, watching you with intense eyes.

“Well,” you start with a sigh. “I’ve always wanted to run or own a bookshop but my job in the city was keeping me so busy I barely had time to read and of course it’s easier said than done. For a while I didn’t mind…the work that is. Sure I was busy but I figured my life was just what it was supposed to be. Had a nice apartment, steady job, steady boyfriend…until I didn’t. He broke up with me over a text and then refused to answer my calls and explain why. After that, my job became less and less appealing as did living in the city so when his opportunity came up I had to jump on it as scary as all the change is.”

You wait and hold his gaze. “What are you thinking?” you ask.

“I’m thinking a lot of things,” he says quietly before stealing a fry off the plate.

“Like?” you ask.

Like where I can find your ex-boyfriend so I can give him a proper beating.

When he still doesn’t speak you continue talking. “I’m thinking about the renovations I want to make to the bookshop. It’s nothing crazy. Just some minor changes to make it more of a cozy space.”

“That sounds nice,” he answers. “It could use some upgrades.”

“Definitely. And the door to my apartment upstairs doesn’t even lock! I need to get that fixed first.”

Joel’s eyes narrow at your statement. “That’s not safe.”

You smirk and steal the next fry that’s dangling between his fingers as they hover over the plate.

“Maybe I’ll look up some cute contractors online to come help me.”

He sits back, crossing his arms over his chest and spreading his legs wider under the table. Your gaze moves to the way his biceps pop under the tight fabric of his shirt.

“You could. If you wanted the job done poorly.”

“Are you saying you’d be able to do a better job?”

“Damn right darlin.”

Was this still about renovations to the shop?

With that thought still floating around in his brain he watches you stand and pop one last fry into your mouth.

“Thank you for sharing your dinner with me,” you say before rounding the table. “I like it when you’re nice.”

And I even like it when you’re bossy. Maybe too much.

You kept that last thought tucked away and lean down to kiss him on the cheek before lightly brushing your hand over his shoulder and walking out the door.

Tommy drops into the now empty seat, grinning ear to ear.

“How’d that go boss?” he asks.

“Shut it,” Joel growls.

Later that week with the sun just peeking above the horizon you hear a knock at your door. It startles you into alertness and you sit up with a gasp, dropping your book to the bed.

Your feet hit the cool floor and you ask, “who’s there?,” hoping to keep the shakiness from your voice.

“It’s Joel.”

“Oh,” you whisper, now suddenly even more alert but much less jumpy.

Before you open the door you quickly run a hand over your face and scrub away the sleepiness. You turn the knob and have it halfway open before you realize you’re barely dressed, the only thing covering your body is the old tee shirt that hits way above your knees.

You stop and peek through.

“I’m um…I’m not really dressed. I was in bed reading.”

“Shit,” Joel mutters. “Sorry darlin.’ I didn’t even realize the time. I can wait till you’ve put somethin’ on.”

He doesn’t move away from the door and you open it a little wider before slipping away to grab shorts.

“Fuck,” he mutters quietly but not quietly enough and your lips turn up into a triumphant smile.

When you return you open the door invitingly and then notice the toolbox at his feet and meet his eyes.

His cheeks are dusted with pink and not even the scruff lining them can cover it. It’s hard to hide your smug satisfaction but you do your best.

“What’s that for?” you ask.

“I came to change the lock for you,” he explains hoarsely.

“Oh,” you answer, feeling your stomach erupt with nervous energy. “Why?”

“I’m leaving this morning. To go to the city and start on that hotel job. Won’t be back for a few days. I just…”

He kneels down and starts rummaging through the tool box, metal clanging against metal so you can barely hear him when he adds, “wanted to make sure this place was safe and secure.”

Your fingers fiddle with the hem of your old shirt.

“That’s really nice of you.”

“Well.” He stands and starts working on the door. “I saw you hadn’t done it yet and I didn’t want you calling any random guys.”

“Because you can do it better. Right?”

He doesn’t look up from his work and just grunts his acknowledgement.

You take the opportunity to move toward the small kitchen area and start making some coffee.

“Coffee?” you offer.

He looks up at you as you lean against the counter with your bare legs on display. His eyes drag down the length of them before he shakes his head no.

“Already had a cup thanks.”

He finishes the lock and puts his tools away before approaching. His hand moves to his back pocket and he pulls out some folded papers, setting them on the counter.

“I brought some take out menus.”

“It’s probably too early to be insulted.”

“This isn’t me telling you not to cook. These are just in case you don’t want to cook.”

“Ah,” you answer. “I could have just looked this up online.”

“Yeah well I don’t have your number so how would you know the best places to get take out.”

You stare at him from over the rim of your steaming mug.

“Maybe you should take it,” he says abruptly. “My number…in case…”

“I need cooking advice again?”

He makes an affirmative nod and smiles.

“Ok, what’s your number?” you ask as you reach for your phone.

The relief on his face doesn’t go unnoticed by you and he recites the digits as you punch them in.

When you hit dial on his contact his eyebrows draw together as if he’s trying to figure out where the sound is coming from.

“That’s you. Now you’ll have my number too.”

You giggle and the corner of his mouth lifts a little. “Right.”

You set your coffee down and push yourself up onto the countertop.

With one more almost imperceptible sweep of your legs he coughs into his fist and turns toward the door.

“Thanks Joel!” you call after him.

He waves with barely a turn and flies down the steps.

The rest of your day is spent figuring out the renovations for the bookshop space downstairs. You clean, declutter, and really start to map things out in your head. By the time the late afternoon sun is setting you realize you’ve missed lunch and you’re starving.

“I should try chili again,” you say to yourself.

After a quick and much less exciting visit to the grocery store you head back with a bag full of Joel’s recommended ingredients and get to work.

Two hours later you have a large pot of bubbling and unburnt chili on the stove.

Without thinking too much into it you snap a picture of the food and send it to Joel with the caption, “I did it! And it smells amazing!”

Before you even put your phone down his response dings in.

“Wow darlin.’ Looks amazing. Save me some.”

You’re about to reply that you definitely will when another text comes through.

“And I’m hoping you didn’t burn anything down?”

He follows it with a silly smiling emoji and you answer with, “nope! Everything and everyone is intact,” including your own smiley face emoji.

“Perfect. And I meant it. Save me some.”

“Please…” you type and then send another message saying, “so bossy!”

He responds quickly. “Save me some. Please.”

He adds a kissy smiley face and you giggle before sending one back with a thumbs up.

It’s easy to flirt over text. You aren’t overwhelmed by his masculine and sexy presence. By the smell of him. Woodsy and spicy. And his hands aren’t there teasing to touch you.

All you can think of while you enjoy your bowl of chili is how you can’t wait for him to come back this weekend.

When Joel returns from his trip he rushes home to shower and change. It’s already late but he needs to see you and you should have a bowl of chili waiting for him.

When he pulls up to the bookshop and parks his pickup he frowns at the darkened space.

Maybe you’re out? With someone…

Pushing the invasive thoughts aside he gets out and walks to the large windows, peering inside.

Nothing.

The scuffle of feet pulls his attention away and he catches sight of you sitting across the street by the park, your feet dangling along the pavement.

He approaches slowly, making noise so you don’t get scared. You look up and tense but instantly relax at the sight of him.

“Was wonderin’ where you were,” he murmurs.

“You’re back,” you say. “I have chili for you.”

You half smile but your eyes fall.

His chest tightens.

“Darlin’?” he asks before sitting down next to you.

His thigh brushes yours and his arm is close enough that you feel his warmth.

Your sniffle and hug your arms around your body.

Hesitantly he lifts his arm and rests it lightly across your shoulders.

“Hey, what’s wrong?”

When you don’t pull away and instead lean into his strength he tugs you closer.

“I tried to start doing some work on the bookshop. I just wanted to take off the old and peeling wall paper but I think I fucked things up. I’m not sure how to fix it and really I have no idea what I’m doing. It’s a mess.”

Your confession softens him and he runs his calloused fingertips along your smooth skin, sneaking them under the sleeve of your shirt.

“I’ll take a look at it. I’m sure we can fix it.”

You were so soft. It took everything in him not to pull you even closer and wrap you in his arms.

“It’s a mess. I’m a mess. I don’t know what the hell I’m doing!”

“Don’t do that,” he says. “Don’t put yourself down. It pisses me off.”

You look up at him and gasp. “You? Pissed off? That’s new.”

The corner of his lips lift and his eyes sparkle. “I deserve that.”

You wipe your nose and give him a smile.

“Maybe. But only a little.”

You lean your head on his shoulder and sigh.

“We’ll sort it out,” he assures you.

You look at him with soft eyes full of gratefulness. His gaze moves lower…to your mouth and his lips part as if to speak but the sound of a loud car horn makes you jump apart.

“How about that chili?” you ask as you start to stand.

“Sounds great darlin’.”

You walk toward the building, tensing at his side the closer you get, knowing he’s going to see the disaster you’ve made.

He stops you with a hand over yours.

“For what it’s worth,” he whispers. “I think you’re really brave for comin’ here to start over.”

The tension slips from your shoulders and you take his hand, giving it a squeeze.

“You did it,” you murmur. “I’m still upset but…I feel better. More hopeful.”

He smiles before you turn to unlock the door and your hyperaware of the feel of his hard body behind you. It takes everything in you not to turn around and throw yourself at him but you manage to get the door open and offer him some chili.

The next day, being Sunday, should be a day of rest but your new-found determination has you up and out of bed bright and early, ready to conquer the wallpaper debacle and then some.

You’re saved from wondering where to start when the front door of the shop opens and in walks Joel with a tray of coffee and a bakery bag.

“Hey there darlin’,” he says. “Thought you’d be up and ready to work.”

“Hey back,” you wave.

He fills the doorway with his body and you try to focus on the smell of fresh coffee and sugar.

“That for me?” you ask and point to the tray in his hand.

“Yeah.”

He crosses the small distance and places the tray down on one of the old tables. You reach for the coffee and open the top, inspecting the contents of the cup.

“You know how I take my coffee?” you ask, raising a brow.

“I pay attention,” is all the answer you get.

You stood dumbfounded for a moment until you remembered that you had made coffee the other morning when he fixed the lock on the door upstairs.

“Thank you.”

Your gaze travels to his and there is some kind of silent communication between you. You can’t believe how much he can convey without actually speaking. Your breathing becomes shallower as he continues to look at you and you know, by the determined set of his jaw and confidence simmering in his gaze that things have really shifted.

When he finally pulls his eyes away you let out an audible breath and take a sip of your coffee.

“What’s happening here?” he asks as he looks over the mess of a wall. “You want to get rid of this?”

He moves closer and toys with the wallpaper.

“Yes and then I want to…”

You start rattling off your ideas in a long run-on rambling sentence without taking a break and when you’re finally done you find him eyeing you with both an amused and thoughtful expression.

“Right,” he said. “Well I know a good place to get lumber and all that so we can shop later but for now let’s get this cleaned up.”

He turns and strides for the exit, passing your trash bag from yesterday that was too heavy for you to lift.

“You want this out for pick up?” he asks.

“Yes, please,” you respond.

With zero effort, he tosses the bag over his shoulder and walks out. When he returns he’s carrying his toolbox.

You peer through the window and see his pickup truck and one trip at a time, he brings more supplies and tools.

Grabbing the back of his sweatshirt he drags it up and off, bringing his tee shirt underneath along with it, and you catch a glimpse of what’s beneath.

“Shit,” you mutter.

Now that he’s only in a tee shirt you can see the deep cut of his triceps and forearm muscles every time he lifts or handles something.

“Shit, shit, shit.”

“You alright there darlin’?” he asks when he hears your quiet reflections.

“Huh? Me? Oh yeah, just fine thanks. Um…I want to help so just tell me what to do…you know be bossy. You’re good at that.”

He steps closer with a sideways smirk, his warmth coasting over you, and his gaze falls to your mouth, taking it’s time before finding your eyes again.

“Keep ripping that wallpaper down. I know it looks a mess but you’re doing it right.”

The words themselves hold no sensuality at all but the way he says them, the way he leans in close and whispers them along your ear…it sends a shiver right down your spine.

As the days pass you continue to work and make progress on the shop. Some days it’s just you and Joel and other days Tommy joins you both to help. On the days when Joel has to work he gives you detailed instructions on what to do and how to do it. You’re proud of how much you’ve accomplished together but also on your own.

At the end of the week, with the late afternoon sun already making it’s way toward the horizon, you notice the shop is oddly quiet. No sound of the saw or hammer.

“I have something to show you.”

His low and gravelly voice pulls you from your current task of polishing the small table tops and your nerves fire up.

When you stand and walk closer he looks you over from head to toe. You’re covered in dust and your skin is glowing with a light sheen of sweat.

You look down at yourself then back up at him.

“Is it that bad?” you ask with a halfhearted smile.

“You look beautiful.”

He holds his hand out and you take it, letting him pull you toward the back of the shop.

You step behind the last row of bookshelves and stop short.

“Joel…”

The large bay window is now framed by two brand new floor to ceiling dark shelves. The polished wood gleams in the setting sun and every beautiful accent swirl and grain is highlighted.

“It’s amazing! I just…I love it. Thank you!”

He takes the rag from his back pocket and cleans his hands while he watches you from under the dark strands of hair that have fallen over his forehead.

“Glad you like it darlin’.”

“No. I love it Joel. How can I ever thank you.”

“Have dinner with me…and not here…on the floor of the shop like we do some days. A real date.”

You suck in a small breath and curl your fingers together. “Did you think you needed to build me this to convince me to go on a date with you?”

“No,” he says as he shoves his hands into his pockets. “I was workin’ up the nerve to ask you and this was a good distraction.”

“Oh…” You say the words and your mouth forms a little ‘o’ shape. “I…I mean…of course. I’d love to have dinner with you.”

He looks down at his feet and nods firmly, a smile playing on his lips. “Alright then.”

He starts to gather and pack up his tools. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow at six.”

You shake your head yes and realize you’re not speaking and as he turns to walk away you move forward while calling his name.

One second he’s holding the tool box and the next it’s on the ground next to him and he’s turning toward you. Your momentum brings you right into his chest and his arm wraps around your lower back.

He waits for you to speak, his eyes wandering over the features of your face before focusing in on your parted lips. His fingers splayed along your lower back dig into your skin and he tugs you closer as he dips his head.

Your palms land flat on his hard chest and slowly dance upward along his broad shoulders.

“Thank you.”

The words are just a whisper but you manage to get them passed your lips and he looks like he’s about to speak but instead covers your mouth with his.

The kiss is worshipful but you can feel his restraint in the tense and flexing muscles of his body and your fingers find purchase at the back of his neck and comb through his hair.

His hand slides up your back and he presses you closer as he lifts the other to cup your jaw. The callouses on the pad of his thumb scrape deliciously across your soft skin and he moans like you’re the best thing he’s ever tasted.

When the need for air finally takes over he releases your mouth just long enough to look into your eyes before he dives back in, stealing your breath all over again.

The door to the shop opens, the newly installed bell atop it ringing loud and clear through your kiss filled haze.

“Oh shit, sorry,” Tommy says sheepishly when he appears by the window.

Joel breaks the kiss, his chest heaving with harsh breaths and he stares at your mouth for a few long moments while you cling to him. His hand eventually drops away from your back and his fingers trace along your jaw and then down your neck to pull your ear to his lips.

“Tomorrow night,” he murmurs. “Six.”

@hiddles-rose @lorilane33 @lizette50 @littleseasiren @blackwidownat2814 @kmc1989

[creedslove]

POOL PARTY ☀️

Pedro Pascal x f!reader

Summary: Even though you're sick, you still went to Pedro's pool party - which you discovered was made only for you, you don't feel well, but you can't disappoint him by not taking a swim with him

Warnings: fluff with no plot, just fluff, a teeny tiny bit of angst and sexual tension, but again, fluff

A/N: this is silly and lame and definitely not the kind of story I usually love writing but I am sick and I need comfort so someone bring me pedro pascal over here so I can hug the hell outta him and tell him how precious he really is

2.4k words

You spent the whole morning thinking of a way you could say no to Pedro.

From the moment you woke up and felt your throat itchy at first, only to feel it burning and finally going completely sore in the symptoms of inflammation you were already so used to, to the sneezes that annoyed you every couple of minutes and the overall feeling you had just been hit by a truck made it pretty clear it was not the ideal day for a pool party.

You cursed yourself, the weather, your life, everything. Out of all the days in your life, why did you have to get sick exactly the day Pedro had invited you - and begged you to show up to a pool party?

You and Pedro were… complicated.

You were friends, like, real good friends at first. And then you became a couple, but you two decided being a couple wouldn't work. You hated the exposure he had, it wasn't his fault of course, but it baffled you how he handled going out for a coffee, for lunch, or simply walking down the street and being photographed and filmed all the time. You just didn't like the feeling you would have to watch your back every time so you could have a tiny bit of privacy. No holding hands, no kissing, just walking around like two acquaintances, either that or having your photo all over gossip websites, comments bombarding it all the time calling you and Pedro horrible things, fans claiming to being jealous and hating you for dating him, as he was supposed to be theirs and no one else's. It was too much.

On Pedro's part, it was hard to balance a relationship with his working schedule, he worked hard and that meant he was most of the time unavailable, unless you traveled with him to where he was shooting, which was impossible because you had your own life, your own job and as much as you would've become a trophy wife for him and only Pedro, you guys never got to this point.

The affection, the attraction and the spark was still there, so even after you broke up, you decided to be friends again.

But maybe, just maybe, you hugged too much, cuddled too much and kissed too much as friends.

And that was why most of his co-stars hated you.

Pedro always tried to be as discreet as possible, he never admitted bluntly though you never directly asked, you didn't have to, you knew him enough for that. He was a flirty little shit, he was handsome and sexy and they were always gorgeous. It was obvious he very often had affairs with them. And if he was in a near enough location and asked you to visit him, or if you bumped into each other at a restaurant or even if you went to a dinner party at his home and they happened to be there, they immediately hated you.

Not because of you though, you always acted nicely to anyone and it would be no exception to them, but you wouldn't kiss their ass just because they were famous either.

Of course you would keep your distance from Pedro if they were around. You wouldn't hug him as much or hold his hand but there was something there and neither of you could control it.

It was always exchanged glances, or inside jokes, it was obvious to everybody but the two of you, you were just two stubborn idiots in love.

You hadn't seen each other in over a month, he was all over the country working, shooting, attending events and you were on you well-deserved vacation, so when he finally went back home, he'd texted you about the pool party he was hosting.

Pedro knew you loved pool parties and you had spent countless hours swimming in his, so he was just so excited to have you over, he forgot to mention a small detail: you were his only guest.

You were also so eager to see him, you missed that man dearly and you thought he would be in Cannes enjoying the high life but when he told you he was back home you couldn't control your excitement. If it were up to you, you would've gone straight to his house or welcomed him at yours, it didn't matter, just to see each other. But the weekly appointments you had got the best of you and you forced yourself to wait for the weekend.

And then you woke up with a cold and you wanted to cry in frustration and sadness.

You could just not show up, but that was really not an option, and you could also tell him you were too sick to go, the only thing you'd have to face would be his puppy brown eyes looking at you as if you'd shattered his heart, and you didn't want that.

So you grabbed all the cold meds you had at home, took them in one dose, packed yourself a bag with your clothes and drove to his house. You figured Pedro would be distracted enough with his guests and he wouldn't mind if you just chilled on his couch, maybe watched something on TV and had some snacks before heading home, plus he would understand if you didn't dip yourself in the pool. Besides, if by any chance any co-star of his were there, he would probably pay much more attention to them in their tiny bikini than you anyways.

So when you arrived there and realized you were the only one, you thought you were too early or maybe you'd misread the invitation and screwed up the dates?

But there he was, Pedro in just his shorts and shirt, with a wide smile welcoming you to his place.

Your heart skipped a beat, he was so handsome and though he knew the effect he had on women - and men, and everybody really, you felt your heartache to know he didn't acknowledge how painfully handsome he was. He didn't see himself the way you did, and it was a shame because you saw him like the best thing that happened to you.

You couldn't help but smile back at him, grabbing your things and exiting the car.

He waited for you with his arms open, because Pedro didn't do formal greetings, he did hugs, and you loved it.

You flew to his arms and squealed as he wrapped his strong ones around your body, lifting you up softly and twirling you.

You giggled as he put you down and watched you. He really watched you. Taking his time observing you, as if you hadn't seen each other in years, when in reality it had been what? A month? Six weeks?

Still, you were so happy to be next to him you almost forgot about your cold. Almost, but eventually, you felt another sting on your throat and groaned frustrated, which made Pedro frown.

"I almost didn't make it, Pedro… I woke up like that" you said and pouted. He knew how much you hated getting sick. Not that anyone liked it, but you hated it, you often got so angry and cranky you couldn't even describe. You even avoided people when you were sick, as you didn't want to take down on them, but you could that to Pedro, you never avoided him and you were never rude to him.

He cupped his cheek and gave you such sweet lovely eyes.

"I'm so sorry to hear that, querida… you look a little pale, do you wanna lie down?" You chuckled how he offered you to lie down but didn't ask if you wanted to leave, because you knew there was no way he would let you leave.

You shook your head and entwined your fingers "it's alright, but I don't think I'll swim today" you smiled at him and looked around, looking for other cars, but there was only yours and Pedro's there. "Where's everybody?"

Pedro scratched the back of his neck and chuckled "well, you're the only one I invited…"

"Pedro, you do know the meaning of the word party, right? If it's just me, then why did you say there was a party?"

"Well, it is a party for my favorite girl…" he said adorably and you just couldn't resist him.

"Oh cariño" the nickname always brought a blush to his cheeks "if I weren't sick I would be kissing the shit outta you!" You laughed and walked inside with him.

Pedro's arm was tight wrapped around your waist as you eyed the pool and turned to him "you decorated the pool!!! You didn't have to do that!"

"Yes I did because it was supposed to be a pool party! I just didn't know you would be too sick to get inside" Pedro unconsciously stared at you with his puppy eyes and it made you feel guilty.

It was a very hot day, you were already sick, what could go wrong? It wouldn't get worse than that, would it?

So you sighed and smiled at him "fine, I guess I can't get sicker than this, so I'll get changed, will you wait for me to get inside?"

He nodded excitedly and grabbed himself a beer.

You ran to the bathroom, already familiar with his place and opened your bag, seeing the two options you brought: a bikini or a swimsuit. You went for the bikini, it usually made you shy to wear it among many people, but there was only you and Pedro there and well, since you'd seen each other naked many times, it wouldn't be a big deal.

You quickly changed and walked outside with your sunblock as Pedro had certainly forgotten his.

He was sat by the edge of the pool, feet dipped into water and wearing only his trunks.

You stood still and watched his body, he was looking so fine. He always did, but ever since he started the preparation for his new movie he got even more attractive.

You reminded yourself you were there to enjoy your friend's company and not lust after him.

You joined him and smiled "hey there handsome" you winked and coughed a little, feeling shy to be sick like that and got some sunblock on your hand, spreading it over his shoulder "you need to take care of your skin, handsome" you said sweetly and leaned in, which Pedro corresponded but frowned as you pecked his forehead instead.

He groaned softly and took some sunblock into his own hands and did the same on your back, mirroring your moves as you felt his big hands over your skin. And his hands were pretty big, almost as big as his…

You stopped yourself there and saw he was staring "maybe you should get this top off, you know, so you can get sunbathed properly" he suggested and you rolled your eyes.

Suddenly Pedro hugged you as tight as he could and threw himself into the water, dragging you with him as his weight caused you to fall.

He was so boyish you couldn't help yourself but laugh, seeing him swim towards you and wrap his arms again around your figure, pulling you closer.

Pedro was flirting with you as much as you flirted with him and though you shouldn't keep on doing that, you couldn't resist him. You wrapped your legs around his waist, your back to the edge of the pool so he could sustain your weight with no trouble. He laughed softly "I missed you a lot, princesa" he whispered and kissed your neck, making you groan, taking your hands to his cute wet hair and giggling.

"Fuck Pedro, don't tease me" you asked and saw him looking at you, he was admiring you and leaned towards you, but you quickly moved your head away, avoiding his lips and received disappointed eyes.

Your heart clenched, you didn't like seeing him like that, you would never refuse him, but you didn't want to kiss him, you were sick and he would get sick.

Pedro, on the other hand, felt disappointed. You'd been distant from him, you wouldn't kiss him and in his mind you had probably met someone better than him, even if your legs were wrapped around his body, sometimes it was so hard for him to believe you liked him.

His gripped around your body loosen and he sighed, letting go of you and looking down "sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable" he said in a low tone but your hands quickly held his head in place.

"No honey, it's just that I am sick, if you kiss me you'll get sick too, and it's gonna be a problem for you when you go to work again" you tried to reason him and saw how his eyes softened.

His hand cupped your cheek and he swam closer again, one arm around your waist and ready to kiss you…

When you started coughing and couldn't stop.

You quickly turned away, your body shook as you were positive you had a fever now. You thought you couldn't get worse than you already were, but guess what, you were wrong.

"Shit, baby girl, come here" Pedro said, as he had managed to get off the pool and held a towel, helping you climb up the steps and wrapped it around your body.

"You take a warm shower and you'll lie in bed, got it princesa?" You nodded, shivering and walked back to his room.

You didn't take long in the shower, though the warm water felt really good as it poured down your body.

You managed to put your clothes back on after drying yourself and smiled as Pedro waited for you.

He made sure to get you comfortable in your bed and joined you. His arms were wrapped around your body and no matter if you told him many times he should stay away so you'd get him sick, he still refused it.

He held you close and rubbed your back up and down, making sure you were covered and warm.

"I know you don't wanna kiss me, but I was wondering if we could maybe go on a date, like a proper one, what do you say?" He asked with a small blush spread across his cheeks and you couldn't believe how sweet Pedro was, and for a second, you wanted to be selfish and kiss him as deep as you could, even if it meant he'd get sick later.

So you did it.

If he got sick, you'd take care of him, like he was taking care of you.

_____

A/N: idk I am just sick and I want Pedro to take care of me 😭

[pedropascallme]

What about Pedro smut with a tattooed reader and maybe a hint of body worship on both ends? No one can tell me he wouldn’t be the most giving partner. (I’m also on board for it to be Din x reader if you’re not comfy writing smut for Pedro) 💕

AN: This isn't as smutty as I was intending for it to be originally, but I'm in the middle of writing a uuuhhhhh really intense Joel smut fic so. I promise I will make up for the lack of filth in this. Still, I hope you like it!!

If he could, Pedro would live between your thighs; he’d spend every waking our between your legs, parting you with his tongue and feeling you squeeze yourself around his head, hand fisted in his hair. His hands grabbed your hips, holding you firmly down so he could continue his movements while you pulled the hair at the nap of his neck. 

“Taste so good.” He moaned into your core, the vibrations traveling through your body. He had made you cum once already, but he was desperate to make you do it again. He rutted into the mattress while he sucked on your clit, delirious with lust over the taste of you. “Please baby, gimme another.”

You arched your back, and he wrapped his lips around your clit once again, nipping and sucking at the swollen bud until he heard you gasping, felt your hand tighten in his hair and attempt to pull him off once it became too much. He couldn’t help the way he lingered, though; how he buried his nose and mouth into you before he finally brought himself up to you at face level. 

You were panting, your eyelids heavy as he began tracing a finger gently over the tattoo on your chest. He followed the curve of the linework over your breasts before switching gears and tracing a smaller one on your shoulder that fit into the sleeve you had been working on finishing for months now. 

“Felt good.” You whispered, looking up at him.

“Tasted good.” He smiled and you let out a contented hum. He pushed himself up and crawled over you, kissing your neck.

“Always taste so good,” He licked a stripe up your throat, “my perfect girl…” You sighed and brought your hands up and around him, grabbing at his back before sliding them back around to his stomach, chest, and then back to his stomach. Maybe it was corny the way you and Pedro were so passionate about each other; there was no question that the two of you were downright obsessed with the other on an emotional and physical level. There was just something that felt so right about worshipping each other, spending time and energy validating one another. 

“You always make me feel so good.” You smiled, and he put all his weight on top of you, kissing you behind your ear and using the tattoo behind your lobe as a target. “So pretty, Pedro.”

“Was thinking the same thing about you, baby.” You wrapped yourself around him, enjoying the pressure he was applying to you. “You need to get your sleeve finished. Need more shapes to trace over while you come down.”

“I’m going to. Eventually, I mean.”

“What if you just got my face tattooed really big on your elbow.”

“That would be so hot, I’m sure nobody would notice how fucked up the lines are as long as I told them it was meant to be Pedro Pascal.”

“Damn right.” He smiled wide, flipping you over so that you were lying on top of him; he squeezed you while you settled over him. 

“You make me feel so pretty.” You mumbled into his neck.

“Then I’m doing my job right.”

“Do I make you feel pretty?” You pondered aloud.

“So pretty, querida,” He chuckled, “So pretty.”

[avenging-fandoms]

hiii can i pls make a request for pedro pascal angst?? like maybe, pedro has been getting real distant to yn and yn is worried and tries to approach him but he ends up lashing out because he’s stressed out with work and stuff - and yn like has a moment of woah where they can’t swallow what he just said and pedro feels bad so he comforts them afterwards. thank uuu <3

You couldn't remember the last time Pedro slept in bed with you. He would come home late and fall asleep on the couch. He could make it to the bedroom, but he chooses not to. He doesn't even know how many nights you spent crying because he chose to do that.

You tried to give him the benefit of the doubt, knowing he's been working hard. But he's not the only one who works and wasn’t the only one who was tired. You just wanted your boyfriend back.

Pedro would make small talk, and kiss you maybe once a day. You didn't know what you did wrong. You tried so hard to not be in his way and even help out, but he didn't budge.

You had a great opportunity to talk to him. Pedro was sitting on the couch on his phone, he was calm. You took a deep breath and sat a few cushions away from him, and he just glanced from the side of his eye.

"Pedro.. can I talk to you about something?" you ask softly and he shrugged. "I don't know what I have done to make you not want to be around me.." your voice started to shake and your eyes welled. Fuck. You were never good with confrontation. "But I just want you to tell me so we can fix.."

"No, Yn. There is no discussion that needs to be had. I’m fine, you’re fine, it’s fine” he snapped and you look at him angrily with tears in your eyes as you sat up and his eyes were still on his phone.

"You don't get to tell me how I'm feeling, Pedro. I don't feel loved, you barely come to bed anymore. You don't kiss me, come home for lunch, anything. I'm hurt, Pedro. Why are you-"

His head snapped towards you, standing up as his fingers tightly holding his phone as he looked at you with cold, dark eyes.

"Enough!" he raised his voice. You flinched. This had never happened before, and you were terrified to see your sweet boyfriend being such an angry person. "You don't get it, do you? How fucking exhausting it is having to film different projects at the same time, interviews, people on the fucking internet talking about whatever you do. You work in an office, our jobs aren't the same. You will never get it. Stop blaming me for everything. A relationship has 2 people" he fell back on the couch. "Just.. leave me alone and stop annoying me"

You felt like you couldn't breathe. You got up from the couch and headed to the bedroom, slamming the door and falling on his pillow and sobbing. The smell of him is gone. It was like he was dead and you were living with his ghost.

You bawled quietly into his pillow, curled into a ball as everything hurt. You sat up, knowing that's now how you should be spoken to, no matter what.

You grabbed a bag from your closet, grabbing shirts and whatever off the hangers all while crying all over again about what he said. You squatted on the floor in front of the bed with a hand on your forehead, hand on the bed as you supported yourself.

You loved your job and Pedro knew you loved your job too. You always told him his lifestyle would never be for you but you loved supporting him whenever you could. He used it all against you.

As soon as you left the room, Pedro's eyes trained on the wall as his phone screen dimmed. Every word was poisoned from his mouth as he spoke to you, all while yelling. That's not how he wanted to react, but he was so over exhausted and sad he couldn't help it, his mouth moved faster than his brain.

Pedro left his phone on the couch as his bare feet carried him to your bedroom. He could hear your sobs from outside of the room and he closed his eyes. This was his fault. In your 5 years of being together, he never yelled at you. It wasn't Pedro, this wasn't Pedro.

He grabbed the handle and twisted it slowly, pushing it open and saw you sobbing next to a pile of your clothes stacked in your bag. His heart fell on the floor.

"Yn.." his voice was inaudible. You turn around and glare at him, standing up. His eyes warmed up, and his eyebrows furrowed with his puppy dog look.

"Don't. How dare you speak to me like that?" you cry and he bows his head, picking it up and stepping towards you. "You yelled at me like you were a prison guard. And attacked my job! Are you serious?" you couldn't catch a breath between words and sobs.

Pedro's arms wrap tightly around you as your hands cover your face. "I'm so sorry I yelled at you and I'm so sorry I said those things. I know it's no excuse but my brain was so full of everything I had to do the past couple of months." his hands rub your back and you drop your hands.

"I know that, Pedro. I understand. But why have you been treating me like I was just someone you live with?" your sticky cheeks held pieces of your hair and Pedro pulled them off as he held your face.

"I don't want you to see me like that. But I know how shitty I've been, and I'm so sorry for everything" the sadness in your eyes broke his heart and he softly kissed your nose. "I have a month break next week. Why don't we find somewhere beautiful to travel for 2 weeks of that month, hm?"

You nod, a soft pout still on your lips. "But for now, how can I make up for what I did?"

You smirk. "You put all my clothes away while I take a bath. And you have to make it" Pedro chuckles and kisses the corner of your mouth and you placed your hands on his stomach.

Pedro headed to the bathroom and you followed, sitting on the toilet seat cover as you watched him prepare your bath. His iPad with your favorite show, bubbles and bath bombs, even petals.

He turned around and still on his knees, grabbed the back of your thighs and kissed from above your knee to the hem of your shorts, never once breaking eye contact. "You are the most beautiful flower in the gardens of the Heavens" his voice was hoarse, and bit of a whimper slipping off certain letters.

"I'm very close to forgiving you" you let out a hum as you sigh when Pedro pushes up your shirt and kisses below your stomach. Your hand gripped the hair at the back of his neck as his nails scratch down your back.

Pedro stands up and takes off your shirt, mentally moaning at the sight of you wearing no bra. "Your bath awaits, princesa" he kisses your neck and holds your hand as you step in and relax, hitting play on your show. "Enjoy, my flower"

Pedro leaves the bathroom and leaves the door open just a crack. He put the pile of clothes on the bed and sorted them, humming songs as he hung up your shirts and put away pants and socks.

You finished your bath and dried off, leaving the bathroom with his iPad and he laid on the bed with new clothes waiting for you at the foot of the bed, glass of wine next to your side of the bed.

You smile as you get dressed, combing your hair and jumping in bed next to him. His arms wrap around your back and your face squishes in his chest. "I'm sorry, for everything"

Pedro's thumb touched your chin and you smile, pushing your nose against his. "I forgive you. Now, I need you to make up for all of those kisses I never got"

Pedro smirked and grabbed your face, kissing you over and over against as you giggle. Soon the kisses turn slow and your arms wrap around his neck. This is was you needed, craved for months. You waited for this Pedro to come back, your Pedro.

[writersblog20]

Captain crunch and the future

Pedro Pascal x reader

Summary: After a big and very exciting opportunity, you tried to unwind and relax a bit and how else would you do that other than hanging out with Pedro Pascal, a joint, some music and a box of captain crunch

Warnings: so much fluff, reader gets picked up by Pedro, weed, joints, edibles, mention of anxiety, age-gap (not mentioned tho but reader is in mid-twenties), friends to lovers

Words: 4,8K

A/N: I just wanted to make clear that I’m not sexualizing the word: Baby girl. It just makes my heart warm up and feel fuzzy inside. I just want to be Pedro’s baby girl

Captain crunch and the future

You were currently located in LA since your uncle was a famous DJ who you worked for as a videographer, photographer and graphic designer. You did also a lot of pr work for him as a part of your studies. Kind of like an internship but you knew that this was going to be a big part of your job which you were fine with. You loved your uncle and the work. You kind of had a brother and sister relationship. Besides, you both came from nothing and had to build up this career. You’ve been through a lot of shit together and he openly admitted that you kept him grounded. Reminded him of who he really was and where he came from.

But maybe the most part that you enjoyed a lot was that one of his good friends who is Pedro Pascal. You had a crush on him and loved when he would come over. But because you were both so busy, you hadn’t really had a lot of time to get to know each other. Yes you’ve drank some beers together but that was always with a group of people. He was always kind to you though, which always made your heart skip a beat. The soft glances that you both gave each other and would smile sweetly. You’ve caught him looking at you multiple times before and every time that you caught him, it brought butterflies to your stomach.

Tonight your uncle was giving a party but you had the opportunity to attend a festival, known as Coachella and photograph the artists on stage so for obvious reasons, you took the job. It was a big part of your dream and it made you extremely excited.

Pedro stayed at your uncles house for a while as well. He had a acting job close to your uncles house so your uncle invited him in and you couldn’t be more excited about that because that meant that you would see each other more often and interact with him. For some reason Pedro gave you so much comfort just by being near. You felt very attached to him, he made you feel safe and brought you for some unknown reason, peace. So that’s one of the many reasons that you liked him near you.

Today was the day that you would have that festival and you were almost jumping through the roof. This was such a huge opportunity that you couldn’t even believe it and you did it all yourself. Without any help from people who could easily get you in. No, you wanted them to want you for your talent and for your hard work. That felt the most fair for you. You didn’t want to be that person who got in because someone powerful. That just felt wrong to you. You wanted people to see you for your work and hire you for that reason.

You happily walked into the kitchen with a bright smile. “Good morning!” you cheered and Pedro and your uncle were laughing at your excitement. They were happy and excited for you too, matching your energy. And like I said, your uncle knew where you came from and look at you now.

Pedro was making pancakes while your uncle was working on something. “There you go princesa. You need some good breakfast before you go to work.” You felt flustered by the nickname. It was the first time he used a pet name for you and you felt all fuzzy from it. You smiled shyly, which he returned, and thanked him. You dug in the pancakes and they were some of the best pancakes you’ve ever had and before you knew it, your plate was empty. “That was really good! Thank you Pedge!” This was the first time you gave him a nickname as well and you could see Pedro blush and get flustered. His smile was as bright as the sun while he pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose. “You’re welcome sweetie.” He was anxiously standing around and this time your uncle looked up in suspicion from the interaction between the two of you.

You brought your plate and mug to the counter and grabbed your stuff and let out a deep shaky breath. “okay, I’m gonna go. Whish me good luck!” you told them and kissed your uncle on his cheek as they whished you all the best and gave you some encouraging words before you left.

~time skip~

It was 1 AM and you finally made your way home. This was the best experience you’ve ever had and you knew that it was going to be tough to get some sleep from all the adrenaline running through your body but you were still too tired to go to your uncles party right now. The thought of changing into something nice for the party while your whole body felt like it’s been hit by a truck (Ten times), you felt dirty from all the sweating and the idea of getting into some serious conversations was something that you’d rather skip for now.

You walked through a side door so you wouldn’t encounter any people on your way in. But Pedro saw you the moment you came into vision and all of a sudden, the party didn’t matter for him anymore. He wanted to hang and chill with you. Hear your stories about how it was. That was his favorite thing actually, hear you speak about things that you felt passionate about. The internet would call him a ray of sunshine but they would think different if they met you. Because you were the true sunshine in his mind. The way you shined was contagious and even though you never chilled just the two of you, you had that effect on everyone around you.

“Hey! Are you even listening to me right now?” Oscar joked as he swatted Pedro’s arm. He couldn’t look away from the spot where you were just seconds ago. Pedro snapped out of it “Ehh, sorry what?” he awkward chuckled. Oscar had met you too and loved you for obvious reasons but he could see that his best friend was falling head over heels for you. “You like her don’t you?” Oscar asked with a smile. Pedro started to blush and chuckle awkwardly. “I eh…. Yeah, I like to hang with her.” Of course Oscar immediately knew that he was skipping over the question. “Come on now Pedro.” Pedro shushed him a little while looking around, hoping that nobody heard them. Oscar chuckled “Then go to her. I bet she wants someone to talk to right now. She had a very eventful day I bet.” Oscar encouraged him. “Yeah, but I’m here with you.” Oscar waved him off. “I’m going to go home to my wife anyway so come on hot shot, go and talk to her.” Pedro hugged Oscar and made his way inside.

Pedro walked into the kitchen (Your uncle had such a big house that it had 2 kitchens. You could say it was two houses in one. So on the other side was the party and this side it was your space.) You weren’t there so he walked around a bit until he heard the shower. He found himself relax a little, knowing where you were right now. Pedro went to his own room and quickly changed into something more comfortable before walking downstairs again.

You got out of the shower and put on your oversized pajamas. You got your edibles, joint and your plushy with a heating pad inside and made your way downstairs. You were met with Pedro who was leaning on the counter, scrolling through, what you figured was Tiktok and eating some captain crunch straight from the box. His hair was a bit ruffled and he was wearing some funny, yet cute pajamas. He looked so comfy that you just wanted to cuddle with him. The familiar butterflies came back and you smiled softly.

“Don’t want to attend the party either?” you asked him with a soft smile playing upon your lips. He quickly looked up and the cutest smile appeared on his face when he looked at you. You felt your heart swell up and you quickly looked down. “I was there for a couple of hours but then I saw that you came home and I wanted to know how it went. If you want to talk about it of course!” He quickly added. You smiled and was so happy that you could tell someone. You nodded and walked over to him. You placed your plushy in the microwave and put on the tea kettle before sitting on the kitchen counter next to Pedro who was standing besides you and was following your moves.

You started telling him all about it and how you managed to connect with bigger artists. It was like your dream was about to come true. Pedro couldn’t wipe away the smile that was plastered permanently on his face from how passionate you talked about it.

You made yourself a cup of tea and one for Pedro. You popped an edible in your mouth and Pedro raised his eyebrow up in amusement. “What was that?” he asked you, knowing fully well what it was. You felt your cheeks heat up a little. “Eh… Edibles…. I just want to sleep and I know with the adrenaline I have right now, I won’t.” Pedro chuckled “So…. You have another one?” he asked you carefully. You looked up at him surprised. “Yeah, you want one?” you offered and got one out of your pocket, handing it to him. He smiled again. “Thank you very much.” He giggled a little, releasing sparks in your stomach. He ate the edible and you showed the joint to him. “So…. You want to get high right?” you asked him, holding the joint up. Pedro smirked “God I love you.”  you giggled at his reaction.

You got the tea and you both settled down in the lounge room where you could smoke. The room was softly lit with some neon lights and some salt lamps. You sat in the comfy couch, holding the heating plushy against your abdomen. Pedro put some music on and plopped next to you. You noticed that Pedro took the captain crunch with him and you chuckled when he got a hand full out of the box and offered you a couple, which you gladly took.

“Never expected to share a box of cereal with you while getting high.” You chuckled and Pedro as well when he thought about it. You lit the joint and leaned back more while Pedro looked at you, without you knowing it. He watched the way you inhaled the smoke, how your shoulders started to relax, how you leaned your head against the cushions while staring at the ceiling, how your lips got attached to the joint as you inhaled more smoke and slowly puffing it out before handing the joint to Pedro.

It was quiet but more like a comfortable silence with the music playing in the background. You were finally starting to relax as the adrenaline wore off and Pedro noticed since your head slowly started to lean against his shoulder. He had a soft and adoring smile as he took a puff from the joint. His head started to lean more against yours, both slumped into the couch. “Thank you Pedge.” You told him, taking him by surprise but yet the nickname you gave him started to flutter his heart. “For what baby girl?” the new nickname he gave you made you feel all the fuzzy feelings

“Just being here. With me.” Pedro readjusted his position and sat a little up. “It’s my pleasure. I like hanging out with you.” you couldn’t hide the smile that creeped up your face. “I like hanging out with you too. Even though, we never really hang out together. You know, just the two of us.” You told him and Pedro started to sing “Just the two of ussss.” He giggled as so did you and softly hit his arm while he laughed. Yeah, typical Pedro, but you wouldn’t have him any other way.

Pedro got the captain crunch box and placed it between the two of you, eating some as he slumped back into the couch. Your eyelids started to feel heavy from how fuzzy you felt inside. The warmth radiating of off Pedro, your heating plushy, how the weed kicked in and just how comfortable and safe you felt around Pedro made you sleepy and finally relaxed. “Can we do this more often?” you mumbled tiredly. Pedro chuckled softly. “Of course we can sweetheart. I’d love to.” You leaned more against him but this time you didn’t do it subconsciously which took him by surprise. He got his arm from behind you and placed it over your shoulder, pulling you closer and placed a kiss on the top of your head.

You both listened to the music and you felt how your body started to ache when you finally relaxed a bit. You closed your eyes and didn’t knew when it happened but you fell asleep on Pedro’s shoulder.

Pedro was deep in thought about you. This all felt so natural and well, it felt like home. You felt like home. He was at peace when you were around and when you weren’t, it was like a big piece was missing. He was debating to tell you that he liked you but he was petrified to loose you. “I really like you baby girl…” he whispered, holding his breath from anxiety but when you didn’t respond to him, he looked over at you, fast asleep, drooling a tiny bit on his sweater. He smiled adoringly at you, sort of happy that you didn’t hear it and things were still the same but that also meant that the nagging feeling was still there.

Pedro let out a soft sigh from relief and figured he should bring you upstairs. He stood up carefully and placed his arm underneath your legs and your back, picking you up. He slightly groaned because of his back. He knew that his back was going to kill him but he didn’t have the heart to wake you up. You wrapped your arms around his shoulders and neck, still asleep and snuggled your face against his chest as you mumbled something in your sleep. His heart felt like it was going to burst from all the love he felt radiating for you.

You were stirring a bit but was still fast asleep until Pedro gently placed you on your bed. You immediately laid down on your side and Pedro carefully tucked you in and placed a kiss on your forehead, ready to exit your room until you quickly grabbed his hand. Pedro got startled for a minute, not expecting you to wake up or anything. “Please stay…” it almost sounded beggingly. Pedro looked into your heavy eyes, his heart and stomach going loose with butterflies. He nodded and without saying anything, crawled next to you in bed. You turned around, waiting for him to be comfortable.

“Come here baby girl.” He said with a raspy voice, hinting that he was comfortable. You immediately let your head rest on his chest with your arms wrapped around him. His hand was in your hair, comforting you while the other drew circles on your back and it didn’t take you long before you fell into a peaceful sleep again.

Pedro stared lovingly at you. It almost became unbearable to not tell you about how he truly felt. He wanted to shout it out on every roof that he was completely and utterly in love with you and how proud he would be if he could call you his girl. God the thought of it was bittersweet but he couldn’t stop thinking about it. Finally he convinced himself to tell you the next day. At the beach if you fell up for it and with that thought, he finally fell asleep himself.

You woke up, a little confused as to what happened. Your mind still foggy when you tried to gather every bit of information from the day before. The festival…. God the festival already felt like a dream as if it never happened. You felt a pair of arms tightening around your waist and got pulled towards a chest. You looked up and saw Pedro. You smiled and already felt calmer. Everything just felt safe when Pedro was around you. it scared you because no one ever felt safe but with Pedro… he was your home. You’ve never really had a feeling of a true home but you would bet money on it that it would feel like when you’re with Pedro.

The sun was shining through your curtains and a ray of sunshine fell on Pedro’s face, waking him up with a grumble. It was almost ironical. A sunshine on (a bit of a grumpy) sunshine. You chuckled when Pedro slowly woke up from the sun in his eyes. He turned towards you so he would be away from the sun and slowly opened his eyes, to find you already with a soft smile looking back at him. Pedro couldn’t help but smile back, you just had that effect on him. “Good morning.” You greeted him with a soft smile. “Good morning sweetheart.” He told you and pulled you closer to him and kissed the top of your head.

You were more than happy to oblige for the hug. Your head resting on his chest again with a permanent smile on your face. “I don’t mind waking up like this.” It slipped out before you realized. Pedro just chuckled and you hoped that he wouldn’t think too much about it and find out about your crush on him. But of course he did. Pedro was already far away in his mind, trying to figure out if you meant something with that or not. Your phone went off and you saw that Pedro had put your phone in the charger before he crawled next to you last night.

You got out, not expecting a phone call from anyone so it got you curious. Especially since it was a day after the festival and it might had something to do with that. You didn’t recognize the number and frowned but answered it. You looked at Pedro who sat up, leaning on his elbows. “Hello, good morning, Y/N/ Y/L/N speaking” you greeted the other person.

Pedro looked at how your aura was visible in the sun and how magical you looked at this moment. You always looked magical but now… with the sun shining down on you, it was like a fairytale, like magic. You were magic. He got abruptly out of his thoughts when you became extremely excited and silently started jumping around, while playing it cool on the telephone. “Yeah, that is amazing! I’d love to! Yeah….yeah I’ll see your email soon. Thank you. You too, bye!” You hang up and Pedro quickly got out of the bed, knowing that something amazing just happened.

“They asked me to do more festivals and I’ve been asked to be the photographer for multiple concert avenues and even artists want to work with me! Not only for photography but also with graphic designs!" Pedro was flabbergast just as you but so extremely happy for you. “Oh my god!” he told you and held out his arms open for you to jump in and you did. He twirled you around while you laughed, still from disbelieve. “I need to tell my uncle!” you told him abrupt and got out of the hug, way too excited as you ran down the stairs, alarming everyone who might have still been asleep. Your uncle quickly came to your side, thinking that something bad had happened. He looked up where you came from and saw Pedro. He was already frowning but the moment he saw your wide smile, he knew that you were okay and that you were just excited.

You told him the same thing and he picked you up from happiness and twirled you around as well. “I’m so proud of you! Look at us now!!” you both whipped away some happy tears and gave each other another hug. “Hey! You still going to work for me right???” you knew that he was scared that you would leave. “Of course I will! I might need some help so maybe I need to start a business and stuff” Your head already going three thousand per mile. “But yeah, yeah no I won’t leave! Unless you want me to but otherwise, no.” your uncle grabbed you in a hug again. “Good.” Was all he said, stopping you from rambeling.

~Time skip~

The morning was chaotic and you were completely running on adrenaline right now and when Pedro asked you to join him on a, more remote spot on the beach and get high you couldn’t say no. You would never say no to Pedro. The driver of your uncle dropped the both of you off. You and Pedro chatted while walking to his secret spot. When you arrived, it took your breath away. It was gorgeous. You just stood there for a minute, taking in the view when Pedro walked up to you and stood beside you.

“I understand why you come here so often. It’s gorgeous here.” You told him without looking away from the view. Pedro nodded, not saying anything. He wanted to tell you that you were a better view. That you are gorgeous and that he didn’t needed to go to this place when you are around because you are so much more breath taking than this view but he couldn’t. So he decided to just nod and say: “Yeah it’s pretty amazing.” He chuckled a bit nervously.

You both started unpacking and put some music on before diving into the water. You giggled when the cold water hit your skin. It was refreshing more than anything else. Pedro came walking up to you and stood next to you. You looked at him but he was already looking at you with a loving smile that made you feel all fuzzy inside and shy. You couldn’t help but giggle from nervousness that he also gave you. He chuckled as well and softly splashed some water on you.

You did it back and before you knew it you both had a whole water fight. You got more into the deeper part and Pedro started to swim. You looked a little around, feeling a bit nervous. You loved swimming but you were slightly afraid of what laid underneath the water. Just the thought of it made you wince. “Come on!” Pedro yelled excitedly. You took a step closer but that was the part where you needed to swim. Pedro immediately noticed your discomfort and swam towards you. “You can hold on to me and rest on my back.” he told you with a soft smile. He didn’t made you feel like you were overexaggerating or belittling you for being scared. No nothing like that, he would never. Instead he tried to help you out and well, it also gave you just another excuse to be closer to him. “Are you sure?” you asked because of his back pains. “We’re in the water baby girl. It’s okay.” He chuckled a bit and you agreed.

Your arms loosely hanging around his shoulder and your head resting on your arm and against the side of his head. You felt so fuzzy inside, from the man below you and the sun hitting your skin, it felt like you were walking on the 9th cloud.

After a while of swimming, you both laid down on the towels with the joint between your fingers and after a couple of hits, you passed it down to Pedro. You laid on your stomach with your face towards Pedro. “Thank you, Pedge. For this and last night ya know.” Pedro smiled shyly “Trust me it’s my pleasure darling.” You smiled and took the joint back when Pedro passed it down back to you. “We should really hang out more.” you told him and you saw sparks in his eyes, making you smile brightly. “I’d like that idea.” You nodded “Yeah I mean we’ve hung out before but never together. Well since last night that is.” Pedro smiled and thought back to the moment.

“Last night… you said something when I was half asleep… what did you say?” you asked him. You heard him but you weren’t sure if that was something that happened in your dream or if he really said it. Pedro looked shocked and that was almost all you need to know. Pedro became flustered, started blushing and stuttering a little, panic visible in his eyes. “So you do like me. I thought it was just a dream.” You told him softly. Pedro was too scared to say anything since you haven’t confirmed it or denied him. “I’m glad it wasn’t though.” You whispered softly as you played with your nails.

Relief, happiness, excitement washed over him and he immediately relaxed more. Pedro laid down on his stomach as well and softly grabbed your hand where you were playing with your nails. His digits softly going over them before placing a kiss on the back of your hand. You smiled and felt yourself grow a bit shy. “I’m glad you heard me in that case.” He chuckled softly, making you chuckle as well, both connecting your eyes.

The laughter slowly died down and all there was visible was adoration in each other’s eyes for one another. “I’m glad you told me.” your voice barely a whisper. Pedro looked down for a bit, blush visible on his cheeks again when he looked up, soft smile lingering on his face. He moved closer to you and cupped your face, his thumb softly rubbing your cheek. He looked down at your lips and licked his own before connecting his to you. It was soft and sensual, releasing all the butterflies in your stomach. Pedro took his time with kissing you, wanting to put all his love in the kiss and oh boy did he do that.  

When he pulled away you both started chuckling again. “Let’s not tell my uncle this yet.” You told him with a nervous chuckle which Pedro duplicated. “That sounds like a good idea right now. I’d like to spend some more time with you before he's going to kill me." he chuckled and gave you another sweet kiss. Yeah, you’re uncle is going to kill him. (not really but he won’t make it easy on Pedro either even though he is one of the best guys on this planet. He was dating you and boy was he overprotective.) “So… did he tell you about his new shows he’s going to?” you asked him amused and Pedro’s face fell a bit. “Oh no he didn’t. But that means you need to go too right?” he asked you, trying his best to hide the disappointment but you saw right through him.

“No silly. That’s why I asked. He’s gone for 5 days, working with other guys and gave me some time off.” you chuckled and sat up. Pedro’s eyes lighting up. “Really? That’s great! I can take you out on a proper date, we can go to the movies together, go to a museum, maybe even a concert….” You stopped Pedro from talking with a kiss and a chuckle from his rambling. “I’d love too. But I’d like to hang out with you at home as well. Just some quality time.” You told him with a soft smile and the adoration in his eyes had never reached this high. “God, how I like you baby girl.” You chuckled and pulled him in for a longer kiss, laying back on your back as he hang slightly above you.

You couldn’t help but pull him in for a hug. Your heat just ached for it and he chuckled, kissing your cheek and forehead. “I’ll always keep you safe, baby girl.” He told you and looked you in the eye. You smiled softly. “I know.” Pedro kissed your lips again and pulled back with a smile. “Good.” You smiled back and you couldn’t be more excited for the future. With everything coming up and to be able to share that with Pedro… that was what made it even better.

[honeyedmiller]

Hiiiii

I love your writing. I was wondering can you please write a pedro×reader when they realize that they're pregnant and it's just so sudden and unexpected and shock them both?

aww tysm, and yes omg. Pedro would be the sweetest dad ever 🥺

warnings: mentions of nausea and getting sick, unexpected pregnancy, little bit of angst, fluff. no use of y/n.

word count: <1k

“I don’t feel so good again.” You groan, slowly getting up from bed. Pedro watched you worriedly as you scurried to the bathroom to puke out all of the contents in your stomach, again.

You’d been feeling really nauseated and fatigued the past few weeks, and Pedro was getting really concerned about your well-being.

You felt him rub your back gently as he held your hair back, comforting you through your illness.

“Maybe it’s time we go to the doctors, honey. I’m getting really worried about you.” His voice is soft, full of concern.

You nod your head in agreement, tired of feeling like this nearly twenty-four seven now.

So, the next morning, Pedro took you to a private clinic near his house.

“Good morning Mr. Pascal, Mrs. Pascal,” The doctor said, and you blushed at the assumed last name. It made you blush even harder that Pedro didn’t even try to correct the doctor. “What brings you in today?”

“I’ve been feeling really ill recently. I’m constantly nauseated and so exhausted. I thought it was stress from work but I don’t get like this usually when it becomes tough-going.”

The doctor nodded at what you were telling him, and he hummed. “Have you taken any pregnancy tests lately?”

And just as fast as the color rushed to your face, it drained. “No.” You say meekly, looking over at Pedro who looked just as stunned.

You both tried to be so careful… there’s no way you could be pregnant. Right? Right?

“Well, let’s not be too hasty. Let’s run some tests but I will have you take the pregnancy test just to be sure.” The doctor said, and you nodded.

You proceeded to do a series of tests, but the doctor quickly came back with the shocking news.

“It seems you actually are pregnant, ma’am.” He confirmed, showing you the test results in black ink. You couldn’t believe it.

“But I– I don’t understand. I just had my period a few weeks ago.”

“That could’ve actually been implantation bleeding. I’ll give you two a couple of minutes before I get a sonographer in here to do an ultrasound on you, okay? Congratulations.” He smiled at you both, exiting the room.

It seemed like ages that both of you sat in silence before an overwhelming sense of panic surged over you, and you started to cry.

“I’m so sorry.” You kept muttering, covering your face with your hands. Pedro immediately pried your hands from your face as he embraced you tightly, kissing your head.

“You have nothing to be sorry for, honey. It takes two to make a baby, right? I have every much responsibility in this, too.”

“But, what are we going to do? You have filming coming up soon, I have my job… we’ve only been together for a year, Pedro. This is–”

“Sh sh, hey, it’s okay. It’s okay,” He cooed, rocking you back and forth slowly. “We’ll figure it out, okay? You can quit your job. I make plenty for the both of us. You can come with me to Vancouver, if that’s something you wanted to do. I’m in this with you every step of the way, baby.”

You cried in his arms for a bit before the sonographer came into the room, rolling in the ultrasound equipment.

She smiled sympathetically at the two of you before instructing you to lay back and lift up your shirt.

“The gel is going to be a bit cold. My apologies.” She says before squirting some onto you, taking the wand and moving it around. You could see a tiny figure in the darkness of what you presumed was your uterus.

“There’s baby,” The sonographer said with a soft smile, pointing to various parts of the body. “Looks like you’re about six weeks along.” She concludes, taking snapshots of the screen.

“Little baby Pascal.” Pedro whispered, looking at the screen and then down at you. His grip on your hand got tighter as he brought it to his lips, kissing the back of it.

The more you both stared at the screen in wonder, the more you both fell in love with your little creation. You knew it wouldn’t be easy with your hectic lives, but if you were to do this with anyone, you were so glad it was with Pedro.

[lokischocolatefountain]

Get ready to open your advent calendar (my tumblr page) for a new fic or drabble or characters played by Pedro Pascal beginning on the 1st of December. A lot of Javier Peña, a bit of Joel Miller and definitely maybe a character I’ve never written for before.

Masterlist

Dec 1: Guess (Din Djarin)

A game of guess goes right in every way both for you and Din, your kind of friend, sort of boss.

Dec 2: Picture (Joel Miller)

Joel knows he shouldn’t, especially with the guilt of his shameful secret sitting heavy in his chest. But there are so many pictures and he’s but a man. (Part 2 of Mr. Miller. Part 1: Secret)

Dec 3: For Old Time’s Sake (Javier Peña)

Chapter 1 of my new series ‘Red Tape, Red Line’

He’d won. Or at least that was what the ambassador had said. It was hard to feel victorious when crushed under the boot of DC bureaucracy. The job wouldn’t be finished. Not until the hearings ended. Not until he got key informants out. With his old friend nestled high up in bureaucracy, he wouldn’t complain if he got some help crossing the red tape. He sure wouldn’t complain if, in the process, they crossed some red lines.

Day 4: No fic. Took a mental health day.

Day 5: Setting Boundaries (Javier Peña)

Javi realizes he can’t have his cake and eat it too. (Part of the Married!Javi series, but can be read as a standalone)

Day 6: Daddy Issues (Din Djarin)

You and Din have Daddy Issues— your dad hates him— but you both get past it for now.

Day 7: Seven (Javier Peña)

You and Javi discuss children

Day ?: Vintage (Din Djarin)

In an alternate universe where Din Djarin is on Earth and the razor crest is his motorcycle that won’t stop breaking down, you offer your services as a mechanic. It doesn’t matter that it’s a piece of work. It doesn’t matter that it requires a lot of rare old parts. He pays well. And it doesn’t hurt that he looks good in a leather jacket.

[lionlena]

His Curls (PedroPascalxreader)

Inspired by this post from @pedrotonin​

I don't know if you expected this, but... I wrote it. It's short and a bit silly.

*

You loved your job and you were used to famous people. You were a hair stylist for models, singers, journalists... You were good at what you did and always kept the highest professionalism.

However, Pedro Pascal was your weakness. Your Achilles heel.

You told yourself it was because you were his new stylist. You had to get to know his hair, adjust the cut, select the best conditioners...

But that was a lie.

The truth was that when Pedro first walked through your door, you were immediately struck by the light and warmth emanating from him. This man was just a walking sun. A human golden retriever puppy.

It was impossible not to love him. He was kind, modest, and smelled so good. He talked to you about all sorts of things and made you laugh with his silly jokes.

You tried to be very careful while combing his hair. You made sure not to do or say anything inappropriate.

But today Pedro told you he had a bad night and you told him to take a nap. It wasn't anything out of the ordinary for you. People working in show business were overworked and often fell asleep in your chair.

He told you that you are an angel and you tried to hide your blush.

You're used to Pedro not closing his mouth.

Silence was also bad for your mind. Your thoughts began to revolve around Pedro. You wondered why he was having a bad night.

Did he have nightmares?

Oh, you imagined hugging him and whispering comforting words.

Or was he at a party?

A video of Pedro dancing appeared in your head.

Oh, his moves were so sexy.

You bit your lip and shook your head. You had to focus.

You started to massage his soft curls with conditioner when another intrusive thought took over your mind.

Or maybe he had an intimate night with some woman.

Images of Pedro, shirtless with his hair disheveled, flashed through your mind. Your hand sank into his hair. You grabbed his curls and pulled him towards you.

You heard his moan and...

 Oh my god! You understood what you did. Your cheeks turned a deep red blush.

" Pedro, oh god... I'm sorry, I... I..."

You dared to look at him and then you noticed it. Pedro was blushing too.

One sec! The moan you heard... Was it a moan of pain or...

Oh god, oh god, oh god!!!

He covered his crotch with his hand. He cleared his throat and smiled shyly at you.

"Maybe next time before we get into the hair-pulling thing, you'll let me invite you to dinner?"

"With pleasure."

Pedro gave you his sweetest smile. He sat down more comfortably in the chair and said:

"Wonderful. I can't wait."

You nodded and went back to gently styling his hair. The smile never left your face.

*

Taglist: @deansgirl79​

Part 2: https://www.tumblr.com/lionlena/717577458143117312/his-curls-pedropascalxreader-part-2?source=share

Part 3: https://www.tumblr.com/lionlena/717696242092769280/his-curls-pedropacalxreader-part-3?source=share

[softpascalito]

Pedro Pascal Kinktober Day Twentysix (SFW)

Tying a tie - Javier Peña/F!Reader

Summary: Javier resigns from the DEA. You both reflect on your life in Colombia while you help him get ready. You also discuss what is about to follow.

Relationships: Javier Peña x F!Reader

WC: 1600

Tags/Warnings: Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Trauma, Anxiety, Established Relationship, Crying, Moving On, This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things, Sad Javier Peña (Narcos), Javier Peña Needs a Hug (Narcos), no beta we die like colonel carrillo

AO3 LINK

notes: my apologies for two sad days in a row. if you want to listen to a song while reading, i highly recommend swan song by lana del rey (bc what would a javi fic be without lana).

_________________________________________

Your hands smooth over the striped tie, tracing the lines that run across it. When your hands reach the edge of the soft fabric, they don't stop, instead continuing a now invisible line on the white dress shirt. You've touched it up this morning, making sure to remove the little crinkles that somehow return after every wear and usually seem impossible to get rid of.

Today, the shirt sits perfectly on him, a little strained by his broad shoulder, a tight fit, like all his clothes.

Your finger reaches his side, stopping at the seam that runs down from his arms. As you stretch your hand, gently placing your palm against the white fabric, you finally register movement below it, a gentle shift as a sigh leaves the man in front of you. The vibration of it carries through his body and you can feel it in your hand.

For a moment, you just stand there, considering if it's possible to transfer the stress that the body below your fingers holds onto you, if you can take any of it away. He carries it so well but he's been carrying it for so long and you know he's tired. So are you.

You refuse to lower your palm, pressing it into his skin a little harder, his soft stomach below adjusting to accommodate your hand as it stays firmly pressed against him.

It must be possible, to take the sadness, the anger, to extract it from the form that holds it. If you'd just find an opening, the one that holds the floodgates, you're certain it would come out in waves, pouring down on you.

“Querida.”

Javier's voice is gentle as he speaks, low like he doesn't want to disturb anyone. Not that there's anyone to disturb, except maybe the cat that is stretched out on the windowsill, half asleep, half watching the two people who are standing in the middle of the room.

“Maybe I should go with the other tie,” he mutters and you shake your head, moving your hand back and forth slightly so that it caresses his stomach, “I'm not letting you wear a clip-on tie to your resignation.”

He seems to see your point because his head droops a tiny bit as he nods, looking down at his chest once more. His chocolate brown eyes watch your hand, back and forth, back and forth.

“Okay,” he almost whispers and your eyes meet as you watch him carefully, already recognizing the signs of slight panic in his form. His jaw clenched to one side, his hand hanging down next to his body and nervously twitching, the movements of his eyes a little faster than usual.

“What if we're making the wrong choice? If the money runs out-” His voice breaks and you're almost certain your heart breaks with it.

You're awfully aware of the things he's considering, the pros and cons of leaving the DEA behind for good, of returning home. With you. And a cat.

You haven't talked about it, about the after. It has always been about leaving. It has never been about arriving.

Noone could blame Javi if he didn't want children. Blame either of you, really. But you have a feeling that the worries about making a living back home has something to do with that possibility. There was always going to be another bad guy, another cartel to take down, another big player to hunt. There was always money to be made in his job. It's just that the price of making that money has become too high.

You sigh a little, bringing up your free hand to caress his cheek, “Then I'll find something. Well be okay, Javi.” 

You really do believe it. You think.

“I know, it's just-” You wait patiently as Javi tries to find the right words, his gaze searching your face as if the answer is hidden somewhere in it, “It just feels so final.”

It takes all the strength in you to keep a neutral face, to not let the tears win. You just nod, fingers tracing the mustache above Javis lips.

“Because it is, hermoso,” you mumble, inching a tiny bit closer. The close touch of your other hand is replaced with that of your body as you rest your body against his, connecting as much skin as you possibly can in this moment. The other hand moves steadily over his mustache, stroking the fine, dark hairs that feel just the right amount of scratchy.

“You never have to go back there.”

You lean forward, placing the most gentle kiss on Javis lips as he lowers his gaze, just in time to see your hand fly up and cup his face, another kiss placed on his cheek.

After a moment, he brings his strong arms around you, pulling you in and you do the same, wrapping your arms around his torso, one hand stroking his back.

You pretend not to notice that he cries while you stand there. 

Instead, your grip tightens a little, holding him close, silently thanking all the gods of this world that you've made it here, that he is in your arms, that he is yours, all yours. No longer a chess piece for any of his higher-ups, no longer government property. Just yours.

Both of you lose track of time, just staying in each other's arms until you nudge him a little, “I think it's time to go.” His voice is a bit hoarse as he agrees and again, you pretend not to notice.

“That fucking cat is staring at us again,” Javi mutters and a small chuckle escapes you at that as you pull back, beginning to properly bind his tie. Your hands seem to have memorized the motions of it by now, easily placing one piece of fabric over the other, “She's curious. She knows something is happening.”

“Oh, you think?” Javi asks sarcastically but there's a playful note in his tone, “Maybe the two dozen cartons that you've stacked throughout the apartment gave something away.” You gently slap his chest before finishing up the tie, making sure to not pull it too tight.

“There,” you say gently, looking Javier once over and nodding in approval. With a sideway glance at one of the mentioned stacks of cartons that hold parts of your life, you feel a small tug in your chest. And, despite putting on your best, bravest face, through all this, of course Javi instantly sees.

“What is it?” His voice is soft, his gaze back on you as he reaches out to place his hands on your waist, “Did I say something stupid?”

You're quick to shake your head. The last thing you want is for him to worry about you today or worse, to blame himself for yet another thing. Still, he doesn't let up, nudging you a little until you soften enough for the words to tumble out.

“It's weird,” you say quietly, “deciding what to pack, what to leave behind.” He nods and this time it's he who waits patiently for you to continue, “How do you decide which parts of your life are worth taking back?”

The hands on your sides tighten a bit at that and you turn your head back towards him, soft eyes watching you. He seems to consider his words for a moment before speaking.

“I've decided which part I wanna take back.”

It's too honest. So, you shrug a little, trying to make light of it, “You mean the cat, don't you?”

He doesn't go for it. It would be an easy way out, one to avoid digging up those emotions inside both of you that are becoming increasingly harder to push down. Javi's never been one for the easy way.

“You know I wasn't talking about the cat. Even though, yes, she's coming too,” he mumbles and then adds, even more softly, “You know I was talking about you. You're the only part of this godforsaken shitshow I wanna bring home.”

Javi brings his lips forward, resting them against your forehead, letting them linger there. It's like he, too, is trying to exchange something inside of you, trying to let his love seep into your body, warming you from the inside out, filling all the holes, the cracks that the last years have left gaping inside of you.

A soft, strangled noise escapes you at the thought and you're back in his arms in an instant, your face pressed into his chest.

“Querida,” he whispers again and you just pull him closer at that. It's practically guaranteed that you're ruining the shirt, no doubt creating another of those wrinkles that never seem to ease up. Neither of you care.

Javi doesn't pretend not to see your tears. He dries them, patiently, under the watchful eyes of the cat that doesn't seem to understand why its two humans keep crying. You're not sure you humans understand either.

You dry Javier's tears too, after the official resignation. You dry them during the last night in your apartment, when his moans turn into sobs. You dry them on the plane.

And finally, you dry them in Laredo, in the kitchen of Chuchos farm, as you prepare dinner and Javier comes up behind you, crying into your shoulder until you turn around and kiss his tears away and hold him until he stops shaking, taking the sadness and trauma and grief from his body and taking it into your own, whispering into his ear that he's here, that he's home.

Whispering into his ear that he never has to go back.

[latoyalestrange]

THE FOOL

p. pascal x f!oc

Masterlist | Playlist

the long awaited chapter eight! apologies for the delay folks. i just started a new job and my husband is in the process of finding a new job as well so things have been very stressful. but its here!

Summary: Things weren't as 'fine' as Josh had led Naela to believe. She seeks Pedro's company for comfort.

Words: 3.4k

Warnings: mutual pining, toxic!bf, sexist words, steamy makeout dream w pedro, toxic relationship, hurt and comfort, bad spanish, major angst and self-esteem issues, not edited

Taglist: @marvel-sw-lover , @lokislittle , @red-red-rogue , @babukat , @joels-darlin , @weho2kcmo , @violac0la , @poodlebae , @darleneslane

comment if you want to be added to the taglist!

CHAPTER EIGHT -- WILD DREAMS

"Te sientes tan bien," You feel so good.

Naela wasn't sure how she got here, but when she felt his hands grasp at her hips, she couldn't care less. He trapped her frame beneath him on her bed, letting his hands roam her body. Their bodies rolled together, making her desperate for more. It was almost pathetic with how good his hands felt as they greedily pulled her closer.

"Eres todo mio, Naela." You're all mine. He growled, his lips grazing her ear before they attatched to her neck, leaving love bites scattered across the skin. Slowly his lips traveled down her chest, across her stomach and down to the hem of her underwear. He lingered there for a moment, peppering kisses on the lowest part of her stomach and toying with the sides of her underwear. She felt her heart drop as he slowly pulled the fabric down, leaving her exposed.

She looked down at him with a nervous, but needy look in her eye. A wide, hungry smile spread across his lips as he took in the sight of her. He wasted no time dipping his head under the duvet and draping it over her lower half to comfort her. She shivered as she felt his hands guide her knees apart. His lips were back on her skin in an instant, this time starting at her knee, and working up toward her center. His scruff pricked the iside of her thighs as he grew closer, closer...

Before she could get any once of relief, her eyes flew open and were instantly blinded by the morning sun glaring in her eyes. She groaned, covering her eyes and curling up under the warm covers. She felt around for her phone and found it underneath her back. She brought it up to her face, squinting at the blurry numbers on her lock screen. Seven fifty-one. She let her device fall onto the pillow and rubbed her eyes, blinking her strange dream away. She debated going back to sleep, in fact she tried. But something, maybe her intuition, maybe her need to use the restroom, told her to get up. She listened to that voice and rose to her feet, but not before she stretched out her tense back. After a few moments of yawning, she planted her feet on the cold floorboards and made her way out of her bedroom and into the hallway that the bathroom was connected to.

She knew her boyfriend was likely getting ready to leave for his job at a smaller-scale bank, so she wasn't surprised by the glow and the steam that rolled through the narrow opening in the door. However, she was surprised to hear him talking to someone. Not thinking too deeply into it, she casually advanced to go inside, but instantly halted once she heard her name. His voice was muffled at first, but now that she was touching the door, she could hear his words clearly.

"Yeah, did you see the trailer that came out yesterday? The show is practically a porno."

Her face instantly fell. She recalled watching the trailer at her mother's house with him and her family the night before.

Naela held her breath as she let the trailer play. She knew what it would show, and she tried to explain it to her mother. Unfortunately, the woman only insisted, and she wasn't backing down. She was going to watch that trailer and celebrate with her daughter whether she liked it or not.

As the dreaded clip played, though, Naela was regretting giving in. She avoided eye contact with everyone as she saw the scene she had tried so hard to forget. Pedro's muscular arms trapping her beneath him, their bodies moving in perfect rhythm together, and her all-to-convincing expression as he peppered kisses along her neck. As quickly as the scene appeared, it was replaced by more clips showing off the action in the show. Before she knew it, the trailer was over.

"Oh, wow, Mija! My baby is a star!" Mrs. Rivera exclaimed, clutching her chest with the widest smile on her face. She pulled her daughter in for a tight hug, giggles escaping her mouth as they swayed back and forth on the couch.

Relief.

Once they released, Naela finally got a good look at her boyfriend's expression; deadpan as he stared at the paused TV. She frowned; she was completely transparent with him once she got the full script. She distinctly remembered detailing that specific scene.

"What did you think, Josh?" Sebastian prodded as he sat next to Josh, urging him to be supportive. Josh unclenched his jaw and smiled unenthusiastically.

"Looks cool," he responded casually. "I think people are gonna like it." His comment eased her a bit, but for the rest of the night, she was on edge, just waiting for him to say something or start a fight. But he didn't. She begged for him to tell he what was wrong when they got home, but he assured her again and again that he was fine.

So, what was the problem?

"Nah, she won't dump me. She doesn't have the confidence." His laugh was maniacal, almost cruel. Naela froze. How are you supposed to react to something like this?

"Listen bro, I gotta get off of here. I have to get to work." Like switch flipped, she broke out of her trance and ran back to the safety of her bedroom. If she knew Josh, she knew he would find a way to spin in around on her for listening to his phone call. She sat quietly on her bed until she heard her door open and close again. Tears instantly started trickling down her face and she slowly let the hurt wash over her.

Naela wasn't crying because she knew her relationship with Josh was over. She wasn't ready to accept that yet. Josh was her first boyfriend, her first everything for that matter. She'd spent so much time trying to help him be better and changing herself to make him happy. To her virtue and her fault, she was irrevocably committed to him.

Who the hell was she kidding with Pedro anyway? He could have any girl he wanted. In fact, his manager probably already had the next publicity stunt lined up. Someone prettier, more mature, more of everything Naela wasn't.

So in that moment, Naela decided to stay. She would stay quiet to keep him. He wasn't the best option, but he was safe.

A while later, when Naela had stopped crying and had resorted to staring at the wall, her phone began to buzz.

Mike Manager

Naela rolled her eyes and audibly voiced her disgust before reluctantly answering the call.

"What, Michael?" Her voice gave away her hurt with a nasally tone.

"I--...You okay?"

She scoffed, "I'm fine, what is it?"

"Just don't forget to meet Pedro for lunch today, okay?"

Of course. The day after the trailer came out, they were meant to be spotted at a cafe in downtown. Although it wasn't directly her manager's fault, she felt like she had every right to take out some of her frustration on him. Before he could get out another word, she hung up on him.

She took a deep breath and wiped her eyes. She sincerely debated not going, but ultimately decided it was better to go out than to cry in bed all day. Eventually, she convinced herself to stand up and get ready. She put on some light makeup, and for clothes, a pair of cream corduroy pants with a mauve fitted top.

She stopped to look at herself in her full length mirror. Putting on a a good outfit always seemed to cheer her up, albeit a very small amount this time. She sighed and reached over to her bedside table and plucked her favorite perfume from the display. She sprayed all of her pressure points and noticed her phone buzzing again as she put the bottle away. This time, the name on the screen tugged at the corners of her mouth.

Incoming FaceTime

Pedro

She scrambled to hold her phone up at the right angle and fixed her hair before accepting the call. Suddenly his face appeared, a new even scruff coming in across his his sharp jaw. His dark, wavy hair was dripping wet, and his bare chest was glistening with water droplets as he stood in what looked like his bathroom.

Naela could’ve sworn her best was beating out of her chest as the sight. Did he know what this was doing to her?

“Oooh, you look pretty.” A cheeky smile spread across his face as he took in the sight of her.

She tried to play it cool, responding with “Aw, thank you!” and repositioning her phone so her blush was cut off.

“I just wanted to see what you were wearing so you don’t look all gorgeous and I’m just— there,” he chuckled, running his fingers through his hair. Naela had to remind herself that it wasn't a real date as she propped her phone up on her perfume and posed for him.

"Okay, okay," She could see his eyes move up and down her body. "So, no matter what I wear, you'll look much better than me. Got it." She let her head fall back with laughter, feeling her pain wash away by the second.

"I think your fans would disagree," she shot back, unable to hide her flushed cheeks from the frame.

“Well don’t listen to the handful of people that say that. They don’t know what they’re talking about.” His tone grew sincere, then angry. He clenched his jaw and averted his eyes, subconsciously hiding the rage he felt every time he thought about those comments. (we love a quick to anger aries king)

“I appreciate that, Pedro.” Her sweet voice pulled him back to reality. In an instant, he was back to smiling and gazing adoringly at her.

Close to an hour later, he was doing the same thing as he saw her approaching the patio of the restaurant. He put out the cigarette he was smoking on the concrete and stood to pull out her chair as she neared. The first thing she noticed was his outfit, a cream sweater and dusty purple dress pants to match her. She chuckled and shook her head.

"What, you don't like the outfit?" He asked with a confident smirk. She lowered herself into the chair, looking up at him with an amorous stare, a cheeky smile peeking through.

“You look great, Pedro.” He seemingly brushed it off, pushing in her chair for her without another comment.

“So how much time do we have before this cafe turns into a zoo exhibit?” She continued, earning a hearty laugh from him as he took his seat across from her.

“Not sure,” he replied quickly before changing the subject. “How was your morning?” He instantly noticed a shift in her expression as she hesitated to answer.

“It was fine,” she answered unconvincingly.

Pedro raised his eyebrows, “Really?” Before she could come up with a smart reply, they suddenly noticed the waitress joining them at the edge of the table.

“Hello, how are you guys?” Throughout her mandatory speech, Naela noticed her ogling Pedro and refusing to look at anyone else.

“Can I just get a black coffee, and the lady will have the frozen mango lemonade,” he answered confidently, a polite smile on his face. Naela blinked, taken aback by the way he spoke for her.

“Did you just— how did you even know I liked mango?”

He looked confused as well, almost like it was casual, “Oh, I saw you at the airport drinking something similar. I can ask for something else—“

“No, no, it sounds good,” she trailed off, returning his smile before averting her eyes to her lap.

“Don’t think I forgot you dodged my question, Rivera.” His tone turned sultry, more serious, but his teasing smirk implied otherwise. She rolled her eyes, unable to surpress the rouge creeping up her neck and onto her cheeks.

“Josh and I had a bit of a fight this morning, I guess. It’s nothing,” she brushed it off, giving him the most convincing expression she could muster.

“Okay, I won’t press. If you ever need someone to talk to, though…” He didn’t even have to finish.

“Yeah, yeah. I know,” She agreed just above a whisper, bringing her hands up to massage her temples. After a moment of comfortable silence, she felt his hand gently curl around her own and rub circles on the inside of her wrist as it rested on the table. He looked endearingly into her eyes, making it hard to keep eye contact. Instead she looked around at the bustling street the cafe was on, seeing no sign of any fans or paparazzi. Her heart fluttered as she turned back to him, who’s eyes had never shifted.

“They’re not here yet, you don’t have to—“

“Naela,” he said abruptly, gazing deeply into her eyes.

“Yes?” she responded, chuckling akwardly.

“No one’s coming.” His smile turned sheepish as her eyes widened. “I told them we were going to a different cafe,” he continued.

“You don’t think we’ll get in trouble?” She couldn’t help but ask.

“Don’t worry about that. I’ll tell ‘em it was all my idea. Let’s just enjoy the time we have before they notice, yeah?” She nodded, savoring how their hands lingered, intertwined at the center of the table.

Pedro’s ruse bought them until the end of their meal to be alone. Only a handful of photographers showed up, but it was still enough to make her feel like the entertainment. Luckily, they were already on their way out.

“I'm parked close. Don't answer any questions, just get to the car." Pedro linked his arm across her back, and gently pulled her into his chest as they neared the door. She nodded, too distracted by the small crowd pressed up against the door to notice his protective gesture.

"I've got you, okay?" He reassured her after clocking her nervous expression. She tried to force the corners of her moth down, but to no avail. She nodded once more, avoiding his eyes.

"Okay," he braced himself before hoisting the heavy door open and exposing them to the flashing lights and invasive questions.

"How long have you been together?"

"Was the chemistry on camera real?"

"How does it feel going from zero to being Pedro Pascal's girlfriend?"

Okay, rude. She wasn't a zero. Maybe a two and a half.

Pedro used his arm as a shield as he pushed through the cesspool of thirsty reporters. After some resistance, Pedro was able to push through to the passenger door of his car, instantly opening it for her. Naela climbed in not-so-gracefully, practically falling into the seat. She had a moment to glance around the vehicle as Pedro made his way to the opposite side. It was impressively clean, with only a gym bag in the backseat and lip balm in the middle console. She found a faint familiarity in the scent, a ghost of him filing her senses. It was soon replaced by the real thing as he jumped into the car as well. With his chest heaving, he smiled over at her, holding back laughter.

"Holy shit," he huffed, "I'm getting too old for this."

Naela laughed, "Step on it, Grandpa!" Pedro wheezed at her teasing before buckling in and driving away, careful not to hurt anyone that crowded around the car. There was comfortable silence for a moment as he started on the route to Naela's apartment complex. Naela gazed absentmindedly out the window, a soft smile lingering on her lips. She felt safe, and content for the first time in a while.

"I'm sorry again, Naela." She instantly turned toward him, shaken out of her daydream to see his fallen expression and his adorable brown doe-eyes glaring sympathetically back at her.

"Sorry?" She quirked her head to the side, taken aback by his sudden apology.

"I'm sorry you have to do all of this. That you didn't get the choice," he confessed, unable to face her comforting look.

"Pedro--" She was cut off by the dull ringing of the bluetooth on his car. The caller ID Manager popped up on the screen. Pedro glanced over at her before answering it.

"What's up, Nick?" He asked cautiously.

"So you decided to go somewhere different last minute, huh?" The man said in a knowing tone.

"Yeah, the waitlist was like two hours at the first place." Pedro couldn't help but break a smile as he lied. He looked to Naela, who was covering her mouth to keep herself from chuckling.

"Sure, sure...just know the studio isn't gonna let it fly a second time, Pedro." He warned him. It was clear he was slightly amused by the situation.

"Gotcha. Thanks for covering for me."

"Yeah, yeah." Then, the line disconnected, leaving them a giggling mess.

"Guess that's the last private date we're getting." She didn't realize she used the "D" word at first, but she wasn't about to take it back. He furrowed his brow, scoffing at her words.

"No one said that," he teased, smirking over at her. He kept it to himself, but he could definitely get used to the sight of her in his passenger seat. She suppressed her smile by biting the inside of her cheek, then turned away once it failed. Flustered, she stayed mostly quiet for the rest of the drive. Soon, they reached her building, and Pedro was getting out of the car with her. She found herself scouring her memory to find out of Josh would be in her apartment, which brought her back to the events of that morning. Even if Josh weren't home, it would be wrong to invite Pedro in, no matter how badly she wanted to.

"This one's me," she said awkwardly, her eyes glued to her keys as she fumbled her keychain in her hands. She eventually found the right key and stuck it in the door, starting to step in before Pedro's hand grasped her arm.

"Hey--" he started, trailing off as she turned to face him. He gazed down at his grip on her and quickly dropped it, realizing he overstepped. God, he hated this phase. He wanted to skip to the end where she told him she was leaving that stupid boy.

"When can I see you again?" he asked honestly, that was all he cared about. She was stunned for a second, trying to choose between saying what she wanted or what she should say.

"Um...the premier is in two weeks. I'll see you then?" She answered, more in the tone of a question. He sighed, but hid his disappointment with a final, pained smile.

"Sure, yeah...a car is probably gonna come at a time, I don't know what time..." he stammered out.

Damn. Hurting him was proving to be the worst side effect of facing the truth. She told herself over and over in her head; it was all business. He could have anyone he wanted, and there was no way he would choose the naive twenty-five-year-old. At least she knew where she stood with Josh.

She thanked him with the look in her eyes as she gently stroked his cheek. It took all of the restraint in Pedro's body not to stop her again as she finally retreated inside her apartment. He stood outside her door for a long moment, denying that he needed to leave for as long as possible. Eventually, after cursing himself under his breath, he walked away, sulking to the elevator.

On the other side of the same door, Naela hesitated as well. If she was doing what was right, why did it have to hurt so much? Why did she hate every minute he was gone?

He didn't love her, not really. He never would have looked her way if they weren't forced together.

Right?

reblog if you made it to the end!

[bi-bard]

Taylor Swift Songs That Would Describe a Relationship with Joel Miller - Joel Miller Imagine [HBO's The Last of Us]

Title: Taylor Swift Songs That Would Describe a Relationship with Joel Miller

Pairing: Joel Miller X Reader

Word Count: 2,441 words

Warning(s): fear of commitment, argument, mention of fight

Author's Note: I'm think there's a pattern of me using "cowboy like me" for stories involving Pedro Pascal characters.

Also, just a quick reminder that I write for a gender-neutral reader, so no matter the plot line, anyone can enjoy this.

**Not intentionally written in chronological order**

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

Daylight

I don't wanna look at anything else now that I saw you I don't wanna think of anything else now that I thought of you I've been sleeping so long in a twenty-year dark night And now I see daylight, I only see daylight

It had all been a bit of a blur.

One moment, I was walking with Joel. We were talking about the jobs we had been assigned. Relaxed and calm and as close to normal as we could get in the current world.

The next moment, my memories get lost in a huge jumble of yelling and fighting and fear. It was all such a mess. A terrifying mess.

My next clear moment was dragging Joel down the road with me. I didn't stop moving until we had gotten inside and the door was locked.

"I'm so sorry," I mumbled as Joel sat at my dining table.

It had been my fault. At least, partially.

It was all a long and very messy story.

Joel knew the whole thing. I think that's why he was so fast to entertain the whole fight.

Not that I ever wanted him involved. In all honesty, my life would have been so much easier without ever thinking about any of my life before the outbreak... as backwards as that sounds.

"Not your fault," he muttered, looking down at his knuckles.

"Except it is," I moved to sit in the chair next to him. "This wouldn't have happened if you never met me or if I just kept my fucking mouth shut. Now, you're hurt and fuck knows what we're gonna have to deal with now. Shit, I should've been smarter about this-"

"Stop it," he cut me off. "You did nothing wrong. Your ex having his head stuck up his ass is nowhere near your fault."

I let out a sigh as my eyes closed. I shook my head before pushing myself up. I grabbed my little first-aid kit and made my way back to the table.

I grabbed his hand.

"Why'd you do that," I asked. "Nothing good can come from shit like that."

"I doubt he would've let me walk away without getting a few blows in."

I did my best to clean the small cuts along his hand.

He didn't speak up again until I was wrapping the bandage around his hand.

"Y'know...," he started and trailed off. I looked back at him. "Never mind. It's nothing."

"Tell me," I pushed.

Maybe some part of me knew what he was going to say. Maybe I was desperate to hear it out loud. I would like to think that this is why I pushed him to say it out loud.

He let out a small sigh as he seemingly weighed the consequences of his actions.

"There's something else," I continued as I placed his bandaged hand on the table. "You just told me. Why did you do it?"

"Because I love you," he admitted.

I had to bite my lip to keep my smile from getting obnoxiously big.

We had been together for a while now. We had gotten through many days in the hell that was the modern world today. But in all that time, those words hadn't found a place in our lives.

I felt like a teenager again for a few moments.

"Did you get stuck like that-"

I reached forward and smacked his arm in response. He grinned at me.

"I love you too," I said after a pause.

He looked down at the table to hide his smile.

I reached over and placed my hand on his.

For just a moment, it felt like real peace was more than just a far-off dream.

The Way I Loved You

Breaking down and coming undone It's a roller coaster kind of rush And I never knew I could feel that much And that's the way I loved you

It was all such a mess of a situation.

I had never planned on interacting with Joel again after we had separated. I knew that it would've been unrealistic to try to never see him again, but I could always turn the other way and leave.

Now, I was being forced into a situation where the only person I could interact with was Joel.

It was like the universe was attempting to play some stupid practical joke on me and I was failing to see the punchline.

I followed Joel and Ellie back to Joel's place. The only thing we could do at the time was wait for the time to pass.

I dropped my bag on the floor next to the couch before plopping on the seat that pretty much used to be designated as mine. I tried to keep an eye on Ellie without making it seem like I was staring. She went to sit by the window while Joel sat right next to me.

"Kid," I spoke up. She looked at me. "You should get some rest now. You aren't gonna get much of it later."

"Where," she asked.

I pointed behind me. "Mattress in the back."

"She's not sleeping on my bed," Joel interjected.

"I don't wanna sleep on his bed," she replied, crossing her arms over her chest. "He probably stinks."

I rolled my eyes before grabbing the spare blanket and throwing it to her. "To prevent the spread of germs... and protect against the smell. Now go."

She walked into the back without another word.

I sighed and relaxed into the couch.

"You should take your own advice," Joel muttered after a minute or two. I shook my head. "I'm serious, (Y/n)."

"I am just fine," I looked at him. "Never needed much sleep to function anyway."

He ran his hand over his face. "Always so damn stubborn."

"Can we not start this," I asked. "We've got enough to worry about without biting each other's heads off."

He sighed and looked away.

"You used to appreciate my stubbornness, anyway," I added.

I heard him chuckle. I felt a small grin pulling at the corner of my lips.

"You think we can do this?"

"Don't know," he shrugged. "I doubt we have much of a choice. Just gotta be ready to go."

I nodded. "You're scared, aren't you?"

"Scared? No. Annoyed."

"It's okay if you are," I said. "That's not a bad thing. It's just human."

He looked over at me. "Don't assume that you know how my mind works."

"For fuck's sake," I mumbled. It was my turn to run my hand over my face. "I just asked if we could avoid doing this. I was trying to comfort you. Be helpful. You have no reason to snap at me like that."

"No reason?"

"Yeah, no reason."

"What about you leaving?"

My jaw clenched. "You told me to go."

"You made no attempt to stay."

"I made an attempt every fucking day," I snapped before quickly lowering my voice, glancing back to make sure Ellie wasn't shifting around. "I fucking loved you, Joel. I fought to hold onto you with everything I had. You got scared and threw me out. After everything you promised me, after everything we did."

He didn't reply as I deflated into the couch cushion.

"Don't try to claim that I didn't try to hold on. I still feel like I'm clinging onto any part of you that I can find."

I looked out the window to the sun. I wanted to focus on anything else.

I missed him. God knows that I had missed Joel. Every day. Waking up without him was awful. Having to turn around and walk away because it was all I could do to keep myself from crumbling was hell. I just wanted what we had back.

"(Y/n)," he muttered.

I closed my eyes for a moment, not turning my head.

I felt the couch shift as he moved.

His hand touched my leg. "Please, look at me."

I turned my head back to him.

There was a pause.

One where we were sitting in silence, watching each other's reactions.

Joel seemed to hesitate for a moment before he leaned forward.

I froze for a moment as he kissed me. It was such a soft moment, yet it completely overwhelmed me. I had missed him so much that it hurt. That wasn't new. I had known about that pain for a long time now.

But what I didn't know was the way that the pain could be numbed. It was like a warmth spread through my chest, pushing away any pain, even if it was just for a little while.

I slowly kissed him back, feeling muscle memory take over as my hands reached out to touch his sides. Too long. It had been far too long since I experienced something as monumental as this moment.

I leaned back slowly, only moving far enough away to speak, "I love you."

He paused for a moment. I watched his eyes scan every part of my face. I couldn't tell if he was trying to see if I was lying or if he was trying to confirm that I wasn't some illusion his mind had created.

"I love you too," he muttered after a bit. I smiled at him.

His forehead rested against mine. We just sat there for a little while.

Through all of the chaos and the bullshit, I knew that I would always want him.

I just needed to keep a hold of him.

cowboy like me

And the skeletons in both our closets Plotted hard to fuck this up And the old men that I've swindled Really did believe I was the one And the ladies lunching have their stories about When you passed through town But that was all before I locked it down

Neither one of us planned to have that conversation that night.

It was late. Really late.

It was one of the first times that I had stayed with him for the night.

It was nice. Being around him usually was. But no matter how nice it was, I could not get myself to fall asleep.

It wasn't a new thing for me to not feel comfortable falling asleep. I didn't expect lying next to Joel to change that.

I let out a sigh as I rolled over.

My head ended up on Joel's chest as I let one of my arms fall over his torso. I didn't even realize that I had brushed a scar until he flinched. I pulled my hand away, moving my head so I could look at him.

"You okay," I asked.

"Yeah," he muttered.

"Did I hit a fresh wound or something?"

"No," he shook his head. "You just have cold hands."

"Never bothered you before."

He chuckled.

I sat up and looked at him. "Are you sure that you're okay?"

He sighed. "(Y/n)..."

"I'm just worried about you."

He didn't respond.

He made no effort to stop me as I reached forward and moved the blanket off of him. I furrowed my eyebrows at him as I tried to figure out what I had bothered.

It took me a second, but I eventually moved my hand to lightly touch a scar on his side. He tensed.

"Sorry," I muttered. I pulled my hand away. "What... What's it from?"

I felt like I was watching the scales tip in his mind. Pros and cons changing the balance.

"I'll... I'll tell you my story if you tell me yours," I offered.

He reached out and touched my leg. I placed my hand on his.

"Deal?"

He nodded. "Deal."

I grinned and shifted to get comfortable.

That's when I first found out about Sarah. He told me everything about the day of the outbreak. The panic and the crash and the soldier. I held his hand through all of it. I felt a need to commit every sentence he spoke to memory. I needed to know this all because that was the only way I would be able to properly help him.

"Your turn," he muttered after a moment of silence.

I blinked at him a few times before slowly nodding. "Right."

I took a deep breath. I felt him tapping his fingers against my hand.

"You... are not gonna like this sentence," I started. His eyebrows furrowed. "Technically... I am... married."

"What-"

"Let me get through the story first," I stopped him. "It was a while ago now. I... I was convinced that we were in love. The day that the outbreak happened, we had been inside all day. Our neighbor had broken in... he was infected. I just remember the angry look on his face. It made me sick.

"My husband and I took off. We drove for a while. I can barely remember where we were even trying to get to. I just remember ditching the car in the traffic and taking off on foot.

"We... We got cornered by one of the infected. There was this hole in the ceiling of this building. He climbed up first and I couldn't get up there and instead of helping me up... he thanked me for saving him and took off."

There was a pause between us.

"He sounds like an ass," Joel commented. I chuckled. "How did you get out?"

"I found this old bat. A solid one. I had never fought anything, really. I yelled when I hit the thing over the head. Screamed. I kept thinking about how that person had a family and friends and how many of them could be dead. After that, I hid away until I could safely get to a QZ."

Joel nodded. "Did you ever find out what happened to your husband?"

I shook my head. "And I don't want to. I hate to wish death on someone, but... he kinda did that to me... to my face, so... I hope he got his ass kicked."

"So, you're only married..."

"Because the government's been a little too busy to figure out divorce court right now," I shrugged. "And I have no desire to track the bastard down again."

"Good," he mumbled.

I furrowed my eyebrows.

"If you stuck with that guy, then we would've never happened," he explained.

"I see."

Joel pushed himself to sit up.

"I'm sorry that I didn't tell you any of this before," I said.

"Can't say that I'm too upset," he replied.

He slowly leaned over and pressed his lips to mine. I slowly kissed him back, grinning against his lips.

Maybe, just maybe, there was something that I could let myself hold onto in this shitty world.

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

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[nerdieforpedro]

Weekend Update

12/03/2023

Nerdie, you’re making this a thing now?

Yes! I have to keep ya’ll updated on what’s going on.

Well, what did you read this week?

Many wonderful things:

I will again sing the praises of @ramblers-lets-get-ramblin three part series “When My Time Comes Around.” You’ll feel all the emotions and be thankful that you read something that touches you deep in your soul. 😭 She also attacked my heart again on Frankie Friday with bittersweet angst in Tender is the Night. I'm a fan of the melancholic greatness that is Angie.

So...you like reading about sad things?

There's more to it than that. Just go read her fics! Then you'll know.

Tommy Miller fans unite! @musings-of-a-rose is continuing to feed our younger Miller brother delusions with her series “Falling Slowly.” The slow burn romance is one of the trope I really dig. And Gabriel Luna always. 🫠 Dig into some Tommy…

Nerdie, you’re doing so well, don’t jinx it.

I mean, I'm not wrong. Whatever, moving on...

I also read Honey Stained Hands by the sweet and deceptively naughty @undercoverpena too. Seems to be a Joel fix this week. Post-outbreak. The reader manages to make honey and different sweets in Jackson. Telling ya’ll anymore is a spoiler. Go read it!

There’s also another grizzled man this week. Tim Rockford who in the capable hands of the same writer @secretelephanttattoo who brought us Marcus Pike (Doughnut Debauchery) and the reason I’ll never look at doughnuts the same, I’m sure she’ll find many a use for his gun holsters. She began her new series “Undercover.” I’m throughly looking forward diving into more of the chapters as she releases them.

@linzels-blog wrote another Din Djarin fic that is equal parts sensual and sweet. It’s called Safe to Touch. I’m rather fond of our intrepid Mendalorian and him exploring his body with someone he loves is a treat.

Speaking of which, who doesn’t like baked goods? We’re also being fed by @avastrasposts as she starts her A Baker’s Dozen series with Pedro Pascal characters. Her first one is about our favorite trash cuddle panda Dieter Bravo. It’s adorable. 🥰 Such fluff.

Nerdie, you actually read fluff? This is surprising.

What do ya’ll take me for? I told you, 80% smut. This is in the 20%. Geez. 🙄

I will say though, this next one, 100% smut, not watered down, will burn your throat and you’ll love it and want more. You’ll want it other places. 😘

Welp, we knew it was gonna end here eventually.

Yes! @morallyinept had me removing my socks and pants in an effort to cool down, it did not help. I will think of this version of Dieter Bravo when I’m out at night. Heck, maybe as I walk across the parking lot to get in my car after a shift. That honestly would be the perfect time… long story short, wild back alley sex with both Dieter and the reader being complete and utter lust filled humans. It is called, Back Alley Bang if you enjoy Pedro Pascal characters smut, it’s required reading or at least highly recommended.

Anything new for you this week Nerdie?

Session Two of my “Sard’ika Sessions” will be out on early Wednesday AM in EST. Session One and all sessions will be linked to the Sard’ika Sessions Masterlist. I’m currently writing sessions 3 and 4 from my notebook because I wrote them down. Wild what you think of between the hours of 12 mid and 4am.

I finally started writing for our Pickled Peña prompt! I might even have it in on time. If you’d like to join in, see all the details here. I’m on the fence about smut, odd I know. 🤨

I also started a Benny Miller fic (likely fluff with food) and a Christmas fic with Joel and Layla (on OFC I wrote three fics on a few months ago - I love them very much ❤️). Joel and Layla are on my Masterlist.

Anything outside of fanfiction Nerdie? Please say that’s not the only thing you do. 🙄

I have a job you know. I actually worked this weekend. I visited my mom while she had a cold earlier this week. She’s very into Tom Hiddleston. Not a bad choice, I too appreciate his accent and baritone voice. She enjoys his dancing. 🕺🏽 I’d watching Loki with her and finally got her to watch Andor - she liked it but called it “low budget Star Wars” because she didn’t know any of the actors. I swear she’s so goofy. I love her. She also said that Andor grew on her like The Mandalorian and she wants to see more. I may be able to get her on board with both Lunas eventually. 😝

I’ve been working on my Statistics class. It’s difficult but I’m pushing through. 😵

Finally watched two Garrett Hedland movies this week! Country Strong and Four Brothers. The first was bittersweet but I liked it. He did sing a lot which was wonderful. The second one I’ve seen multiple times with little brother (he loved the movie when we were younger.) Garrett looked so young! It was from 2005 though.

Well Nerdie, your week sounds full. Good luck!

Have a great week everyone!

I jammed to while some music while looking at a picture of Gabriel Luna that @musings-of-a-rose sent me because she knows me well and is always willing to share: 😍

One of the songs was:

Stay safe and feel better to all those who are feeling under the weather,

Love Nerdie ❤️

[guacala]

Hey if it's ok maybe a fluff pre!outbreak joel/pedro x reader? I got rejected after an interview for work and I feel so down and was wondering how joel/pedro would comfort the reader, thank you so much! 😊

if it's meant to be it will be, pedro pascal

masterlist pairing: pedro pascal x reader summary: pedro comforts you when you feel down after another rejection word count: 508 warnings: super fluffy, a bit angsty a/n: hiii, i'm so sorry about your interview,and i really hope that you find a job and that you feel better soon <3

you and Pedro are so in tune with each other that the second that he walks through the door, he instantly realizes that something is wrong. he sees the mess that you left behind when you came in, and being ever the protective husband, Pedro immediately starts looking for you to make sure that you're okay. 

he goes up the stairs two steps at a time, and when he finally reaches your shared bedroom he's met with the sight of you under a pile of blankets and pillows, completely passed out.

he lets out a breath that he didn't even know that he was holding and slowly walks over to sit on the bed as you begin to wake up. 

“hi,” you say simply, sitting up and rubbing your eyes, forcing yourself to give him your full attention.

“hi my love,” he says while pressing a light kiss on your forehead and pulling you closer to him. “how was your day?”

you let out a small sigh as your head fell onto his shoulder. “not good. i’m just so tired of being rejected,” you say into his shoulder as he wraps his arm around you. you were talking about the job interview that you had gone to earlier in the day. you loved what you did, and when the company you previously worked for shut down, you reluctantly had to start looking for a new job. it wasn’t going well and you were starting to question what you had done wrong to make them not choose you, which you know isn't healthy, but that doesn’t stop you from doubting yourself.

“it’s okay mi vida, you’ve been stressing yourself out too much,” he takes your face in his hands forcing you to look at his brown eyes as he continues to talk. “if it’s meant to be, it will be. take this as a sign to slow down and take a breath.”

you nod as he brings you onto his lap and you wrap your legs around his waist. “i’m just so overwhelmed right now,” you say and you can feel your voice crack and a tear roll onto your cheek.

“no, don't cry my love,” he says softly, brushing a tear away. “there’s nothing to worry about. what do you need from me right now? how can i help you?”

“just stay here with me,” you say, burying your face in his neck once again. he pulls you tighter into his chest and leaves a trail of soft kisses along your hairline. 

you feel him bring his mouth to your ear as if he was telling you a secret. “i brought McDonald’s,” he says.

you immediately pull away and your excited expression made him laugh. “with extra fries?” you question, and when he nods a smile finally makes its way onto your face.  still clinging onto him like a monkey as he gets up, you let yourself melt further into him. he always knew exactly what you needed and that is more than you could ever ask for.

[pascaloverx]

Rewrite The Stars

Chapter Ten

Summary: One photo changes your whole life, when you accidentally bump into a celebrity and the world starts to believe that you are a couple.

Notes:

In this chapter, we have an extra character, whom I'd like you to imagine as the actor Enzo Vogrincic. And for those who enjoy the fanfic, I appreciate if you reblog or like. Thank you to everyone who is following the fic.

chapter nine chapter eleven

Dinner is too quiet. It's as if everyone is afraid to say something. Your mother is keeping an eye on Pedro Pascal as if he were a criminal suspect. Enzo is watching you like he wants something. 

"Are you planning to marry my daughter?" Your mother asks between bites. Her pie is still in her mouth when you almost choke upon hearing the question she posed to Pascal. He, in turn, takes a good sip of wine, trying to find a good answer.

"Your daughter and I are exploring what the future holds for us. Marriage isn't out of the question, but right now our priority is to be each other's partners." Pedro responds, then takes another long sip of wine. He may be an actor, but he seems somewhat unsure at the moment.

"And how does this partnership work? She's unemployed, with no prospects for the future, being exposed to the world of fame as a scammer, and you, my dear, are working and getting rich. It doesn't seem right to me." Your mother says, staring at Pascal. You feel like you need to put an end to the situation.

"And I lost my job but I'm looking for another one. Not to mention I had savings, and I'm not living off what Pedro earns. Mom, I'm sorry, but my life with Pedro is only our business. You may like it or not, but I won't leave him because it doesn't seem right for us to be together. And I also won't go back to being with Enzo. He's handsome, probably a man you've always dreamed of for me, but he's not what I want. I want to be with Pascal. Whether you believe it or not." You basically defending your relationship with Pascal. And the Oscar should be yours because your mother seems to have believed everything. Maybe even Pedro is believing in what you're saying.

"I hope you know what you're doing. Leaving the sure thing for the doubtful one at your age could mean living the rest of your life alone." Your mother replies, and you feel apprehensive. She's not entirely wrong about this, but you have an agreement with Pedro and you will fulfill it.

"Mom, I hate to disappoint you, but Enzo isn't my person. He's not even close. He's attractive, yes. Have you seen his face? He's extraordinary. He's a good person, yes. Maybe one of the best people I've already met. But he and I have no chemistry. Do you want me to prove it? I taste you." You almost scream and get up going towards Enzo. You impulsively kiss him. And you regret the moment you do it. But in your defense, it's the only way to get your mother to stop all this. A kiss that is neither too long nor too short. Enzo's lips are so soft as much as you remembered. But really between you and him, there is no chemistry.

"I'm not sure if this is the best way to convince your mother, but I'm at your disposal if you want to try again." Enzo says as soon as we break the kiss, and you feel embarrassed. You gently step back from him while observing Pascal's face, who is sitting in front of you. He seems angry. But you're not sure if he's not pretending.

"Before my daughter takes any other impulsive action, I'd like to say that I got the message. You must really be crazy about Mr. Pascal. To the point of kissing your ex in front of your mother and him to prove that you no longer have feelings for your ex." Your mother says and takes a sip of wine. She seems embarrassed. Yay, you ruined dinner.

"Despite disapproving of the way my girlfriend chose to prove that she has no chance of getting back with her ex, I must say that I am also crazy about her. Not to the point of kissing Enzo, but I trust that your daughter and I, Mrs. Y/M/N, have something special." Pedro says, sounding a bit upset but maybe it's just in your head. He gently holds your hand and you both lock eyes, perhaps to convince your mother.

"I think it's time for me to leave. It was great seeing you again, Y/N. A pleasure to meet you Mr. Pascal, I'm a big fan of your work . I'll see you, Mrs. Y/M/N, at church." Enzo says, getting up and heading home. In the moments that followed, you finished the meal, and your mother even tried to wash the dishes, but you and Pascal insisted she go to bed. Before retiring, she stopped near both of you while he was washing the dishes and you were clearing the table.

"Despite everything that happened here, I hope you two will be happy together, for however long this real or fake relationship lasts. Obviously, the guest room is available for you both. There's a double bed in there, but remember that this is a respectable house and you're not married. Have a good night." Your mother speaks, seeming more convinced of your relationship with Pascal. You both bid her good night, and then you're alone in the kitchen.

"If you want, I can sleep in my old room and leave the guest room for you. I'm sure my mom will believe that we're respecting the sanctity of this house." You speak, watching Pascal, who doesn't seem very pleased.

"If I were Enzo, would this conversation even exist?" Pedro asks, dropping a nearly clean plate into the sink and appearing irritated. You don't quite understand why he's asking that.

"Is this about the kiss?" You ask defensively. It seems Mr. Pascal forgot that we're not really dating.

"Of course. You kissed your ex in front of me. And now you don't even want to share the bed with me." Pedro says, trying not to raise his voice, but you can tell he's pretty upset.

"Mr. Pascal, I have to say that from where I'm standing, it seems like you forgot that this isn't a real relationship and that it's not fair for you to demand anything from me after our last conversation where you talked about boundaries; if you're so afraid that I'll cross boundaries beyond a fake relationship, how can you be here complaining about a kiss?" You speak, getting closer to Pedro, who seems a bit confused.

"What does it matter? Isn't that what a boyfriend should do? Tell his girlfriend not to kiss her ex in front of him? Ask her to sleep beside him instead of in another room?" Pedro speaks, and you feel a little happy. He's almost too cute while arguing with you.

"So all you have to do is tell me that you'd like to sleep with me and that you prefer I don't kiss other people while we're falsely together." You say as you stare at Pedro, who is no longer washing dishes. In fact, he's coming towards you, and then he gently grabs your waist. You're surprised, but too enchanted to ask questions. And then you close your eyes, waiting for a kiss.

"I want to sleep with you, and I would like to be the only person you will kiss while we're together. Satisfied?" Pedro asks, and then he kisses you. And you know you could kiss him for a century and still feel butterflies in your stomach. It's as if he has a power over you.

"Satisfied." You respond between kisses, and then continue kissing your fake boyfriend. In the middle of your mother's kitchen, while the two of you are doing anything but pretending to be attracted to each other. At the beginning of all this, you thought only you were in trouble, but it seems Mr. Pascal also doesn't know how to avoid catching feelings.

tag: @wanniiieeee , @hungrhay and @leilanixx

[psychedelic-ink]

bound for carnage (i)

pairing: dave york x plus size fem!reader

genre: smut, romance, angst

word count: 4.4k

summary: Dave lost everything: His divorce has been finalized. He sees his daughters only on the weekends. He has nothing except for the horrific job he keeps on doing just so he can give his children the best life that he can in such conditions.

But then, well, he meets you.

He tells himself it's nothing serious. It's clear that you like him and he flirts a little, some harmless fun. Never once did he think of taking you back to his place, he knows that if you seep through the cracks of his armor he's as good as gone.

But what happens when the little paper he receives has your name written inside of it instead of someone else?

chapter warnings: dave kidnaps reader (reader is blindfolded and tied up for a while) canon typical violence, +18 themes, nothing explicit in this chapter, dave having dark thoughts, POV switch, swearing, dave pressing a gun to readers head (but he doesn't harm reader or anything)

requests open for pedro pascal characters, moon knight & peter parker 💌

main masterlist | playlist | read on ao3 | series masterlist

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Dave doesn’t allow himself many things. 

Where many people with a similar lifestyle as him would indulge, he didn’t. He likes to think that this particular habit he has sets him apart from the rest. It makes his life easier, and makes him better at his job. When he’s having a bad day, Dave doesn’t try to find the solution at the end of a bottle, he doesn’t go to have his favorite meal just to put a smile on his face.  He does none of that. He never had. Not even when his wife left him, and not even when he lost custody of his daughters to only see them on weekends. He endured it all. The only thing that Dave did allow himself was his apology to Carol but that was more for the sake of her rather than his. 

But after a year of loneliness, a year of gazing into the eyes of death over and over again, his armor begins to crack. 

Dave allows himself his favorite meal. He allows himself a drink or two, maybe even the whole bottle if he feels like it. He allows himself to fuck the women that seem interested in him. He decides that he isn’t human anymore. He’s an incarnation of evil and everything rotten in the world. The grim reaper in the flesh. He assumes that this is his punishment for everything he’s done and now, he’s cursed to live an empty life. 

He thought about quitting his job a couple of times. Leaving this world of bloodshed behind in order to get a normal job, something that pays enough to put both her daughters into a decent enough college. Some naive part of him believed that if he did quit, his life would return to normal. He could have his family again. The job he had at the CIA had a decent enough pay.

But, like many things in life, it isn’t that simple. 

Dave needs the money. He needs it to pay child support, which he does happily, his daughters deserve the best but that means he can’t quit. 

So he continues to do what he does best, killing whoever was written on that tiny piece of paper. 

The only thing that brings his life some form of normalcy is when he gets his morning coffee from a coffee house near to his apartment. The coffee is subpar, he’s positive that he can make a better one at home, but the average testing beverage isn’t why he goes there. 

He goes there to see you. 

You’re ridiculously kind to him, having his coffee ready before he even arrives. You talk to him, laugh at his jokes– which, he thought, were a bit too dark to make the first thing in the morning but he enjoys hearing your laughter nonetheless. You just make his day a little bit better with just being in it. When he talks to you he remembers what it's like to be human, he remembers the thrill of conversing with another person that’s unaware of his many many flaws. 

After months of seeing each other every morning, his conversations with you goes from one minute to ten. When there’s no one else behind him, he allows himself to listen to your worries, your dreams, the things you want to accomplish– You’re full of life. It’s a complete contrast from those who beg him for their lives, he enjoys this change in atmosphere.

But after a while Dave notices the change in your attitude. You start to look at him differently, your eyes glassy and dazed. He catches your shy looks while you prepare his coffee, he feels the lingering touches against his skin, he sees the way your chest stutters when he walks through the door. Sometimes you put a chocolate croissant in his tray, saying that it’s on the house, which he takes with a smile of gratitude. 

He would be lying if he said he didn’t relish in it. 

In return, Dave teases you constantly. He watches like a hawk as you fluster at his flirtatious jokes, he reels at the way you frown when he talks about his late night endeavors with others. It’s all a game for him. This, he indulges in. Dave’s confident that this harms no one: You get an adrenaline rush when talking to him and he gets a nice ego boost first thing in the morning. It’s an innocent transaction. He never actually gave you any signs that this relationship was anything other than friendly, a mere customer employee relation. 

Dave was always a good liar. It's as easy as breathing, and if he laces enough truth into them, anyone would believe him, even himself. When he stares at his reflection in the morning, beads of water mixed with facewash dripping down the frame of his face, threatening to burn his eyes, he tells himself that this is nothing other than innocent fun, and he believes it. Dave goes there only to have his fill of attention, he never intends on doing anything with you, not even a casual fuck. He thinks that it would be cruel for him to do that. You deserve better. 

He only realizes his lie as night falls, when the only thing brightening up his bedroom is the lights of the city. It’s a horrific truth he discerns when he’s stroking his cock, thoughts of your sweet pussy and plush tighs wrapped around him invade his tortured mind. 

Dave comes with your name falling from his lips. 

The next day he forgets– Or rather he doesn’t think about it. Dave brews his coffee at home that morning and heads for the door, he sighs upon seeing an envelope laying idly on his doormat that says “Go Away” with an annoyed looking cat. He smiles everytime he sees it, reminded of the time his daughter’s gifted to him on father’s day. Dave’s smile wavers, however, when he picks the letter up and closes the door with the push of his heel, heading back to the kitchen he peels it open. Pulling out the piece of paper, his eyes quickly glances over the name. His eyes go wide and his mouth becomes incredibly dry. 

You’re his next victim. 

You don’t remember much. 

You remember it being night, you remember your speedy steps as you tried to arrive at your apartment as soon as possible, but the rest is lost to you. Thickly swallowing around the knot in your throat, you wiggle your arms and legs. The harsh material of the ropes digs into your skin and a silent sob escapes your parched lips. Your vision has also been taken away from you, a blindfold snug around your damp eyes. Usually you’re careful after a late night shift. You don't listen to music and you always have your keys sticking out from between your knuckles. When someone follows you, you could feel the unwanted gazes crawling up your spine and act accordingly, either taking shelter in a gas station or calling up a friend. But this time…this time you felt nothing. You didn’t even see anyone. The mystery only adds to your fear and confusion, you want to go home. 

A door creaks open, the sound makes your heart nearly leap out from your throat. Your palms are sweaty. Fear coates your tongue as the taste of bile. Your head turns towards the source of the noise and hoping that the ropes had loosen up, you tug at them again. Much to your disappointment, they hadn’t. 

Heavy footsteps inch closer and closer, you push back the chair along with yourself. The wood skimmed across the surface of the floor, the sound makes your skin crawl. 

Your journey is short lived, however, when a wall stops you from moving further back. 

The steps come to a halt right in front of you. The man’s warmth overwhelms you, his presence sending jolts of fear even if you can’t see him. He smells like pine and cinnamon. His knees brush against your own as he stoops down, you gasp when his knuckles come in contact with your skin. They skate along the frame of your face, goosebumps rising across your skin as he presses a thumb against your bottom lip. The tenderness confuses you. If this was any other situation you would think that this person cared for you. Adrenaline rushing through your veins, you violently shake your head to remove his hand from your skin. 

“Who are you?” you’re startled by your own question, you look down but see only darkness thanks to the blindfold. “Please let me go,” 

The man doesn’t say a word, instead he stands up, moving away from you. Your cheek feels cold. His silence unnerves you. 

“I have…money,” You don’t. “Just– I won’t tell anyone. I promise.” 

Complete silence. 

You want him– No, you need him to speak. You’re scared, a tremble raking across your body as a tear gets caught by the blindfold, the fabric soaking up the wetness. You’re in a state of loss. Was he going to kill you? Rape you? Who was he? A customer? A random person in the street? You still have so much you want to do. Shit– 

You think about what else to say. His gaze burns into your skin, your heart trembles. Why won’t he react? Pressing your knees together, you think about the people that might take notice of your absence and go to the police. You just moved so you didn’t know a lot of people, your coworkers would only notice that you’re gone in the morning. Your eyes widen underneath the blindfold as another name pops into your mind. 

“Dave…” 

You said it silently. It was barely audible to your own ears. But he hears you. The air lays thick against your shivering skin, something changes in the atmosphere. You can’t quite pinpoint what it is and you’re not sure if you want to find out. 

The eerie silence continues and you rest the back of your head against the wall, breathing heavily. It was human nature to fear the unknown. You want to know what’s going to happen to you, you hope that knowing will calm your nerves but whoever this person is, he didn’t seem like the talkative type. Fear still thrums in your ears and as a response your mind drifts off to things that eases you, one of those things being Dave York. You’ve only known him for a short amount of time and it took you an equally short amount of it to grow attached to him. You realize that you hadn’t seen him this morning. Now you wish that you have, you will probably never see him again. 

“Please let me go,” you beg again. “I won’t tell anyone, really. If you don’t you’ll have to deal with the police, my friends won’t let this go you know, they’ll be looking for me,” 

He scoffs. Actually scoffs. Your blood freezes. This man is toying with you. He had probably watched you for days, he knew you basically had no one which made you a perfect target. A sob makes its way out of your throat, your head falls, defeated. 

“Please,” you repeat. “Please, please, please–” 

“Shut up! Just fucking shut up already–” 

A shallow scream rips from your throat as you feel the blunt tip of a gun pressing against your forehead. You didn’t even hear him move, just how high up in the food chain was he?

He presses the gun further into your skin and tears fill your eyes, your bottom lip trembles. The cold metal stings as it leaves a circular mark. Chest heaving, a whimper follows. He’s going to kill you. You can feel the claws of death curling around your shoulders, it surrounds your very being. 

“Why did it have to be you?” he sneers, sounding almost hurt. “Why, among the seven-fucking-billion people on earth did it have to be you?” 

So this person did know you. 

You part your lips to speak but only a dry, choked out noise follows. You’re too scared. The gun weighs heavy against your damp skin, you’re unbelievably cold. He sounded so angry, but beneath that anger you could hear hurt. Closing your lips, your nostrils flare as the gears in your head begin to turn. This man knows you so this must mean you know him too. He says nothing else, only breathes heavily. His scent floods your nostrils, what was it again? Pine and cinnamon. It’s a scent that you’re familiar with and you follow it. 

Ignoring the threat of death biting into your skin, you imagine an open door and walk through it. The scent guides you to the coffee house, looking up you see that the sun has barely risen. Noticing a hurried movement, your eyes shift back down. You see yourself rushing to open up the shop. You feel as if floating above the concrete as you follow a past image of yourself. Hands placed on the glass, you watch. Soon customers begin to arrive and you see Dave, he talks to you, smiles at you. 

Suddenly you’re behind the cashier register, talking to him, smiling as you think if he likes you back or not. For a moment you forget everything, it’s only you and him. You look up, but as a familiar scent brings you back to your senses your eyes go wide. Everything narrows down. The fear is back. Your head spins but you’re frozen in place. He stares you up and down with a raise of an eyebrow. 

“Are you alright?” 

His voice. Despite lacking the anger, the sweet tremor of it is familiar. Your lips part as you look up to him, the background has faded into a blur, the scent pushes you down into a sense of unspeakable darkness. 

“It’s you,” 

You’re not aware that you’ve actually muttered the words out loud until the gun disappears from your skin. You count two steps and assume that he’s backing away. 

“Dave?” you call out just to be sure, voice weak and clipped. “Is it really you?” 

“It is,” 

“You– You kidnapped me?” 

You sound more surprised than afraid. The air crackles between the two of you. Signs of a storm approaching. You hear him breathe in and out, you imagine him counting to five before speaking. When he does, he talks softly, slowly, as if he’s afraid that you’ll run, even if it’s impossible at this given moment. 

“Yes,” 

“Why?” 

“It’s…complicated,” 

“Are you going to kill me?” 

The silence confirms to you that he is. The fear comes crawling back, it sinks into your skin and circulates your heart, your breath falters. 

“Look,” his voice pulls you back. “I’m going to untie you now, just…stay calm so I can explain. Can you promise me that?” 

You nod, thinking that this is your chance. Again, without making a sound, he approaches you and tugs off the blindfold. He kneels down before you can lay your eyes upon him. He starts to untie the ropes around your ankles. At first your vision is blurry, rapidly blinking, you wait for it to return to normal. Dave moves to your back, you feel his fingers grazing against the exposed skin around your wrists. Your pulse quickens. Before you’re free you quickly examine your surroundings. You expected to be in a dungeon, or a dark basement that you’ve seen multiple times in horror films. Instead, you realize that you’re in his living room. He owns a simple decor, nothing fancy or extra. You take notes of the dark green plastic chair you’re currently sitting on, the vase on top of a coffee table with sharp edges, the red comfortable looking couch. 

The ropes fall to the carpeted part floor and with that, you spring into action. Heart racing in your chest, adrenaline ringing in your ears, you grab the vase and point it to him. He doesn’t seem surprised, only disappointed. 

“I told you to stay calm,” his tone is threateningly low, enough to send a shiver down your spine. “You promised,” 

“I didn’t, I nodded,” 

He takes a step forward and without even thinking you smash the vase against the table. The sound gets absorbed by the carpet, glass shards flying everywhere, leaving you with a decent enough weapon. Your brows pull together when he doesn’t even flinch. Dave only stares, an amused glint shimmering in his eyes. Your stomach rolls, he looks like he’s holding back a chuckle.

“Smart girl,” he hums, stopping in his tracks. He tilts his head. “That’s an oddly fast reaction for someone who doesn’t know what’s going on,” 

You raise the broken vase, the sharp edges directed to his neck. Tears flood your eyes as your chest lurches. There was a reason why you knew you had to move fast, a reason you weren’t inclined to tell a man who’s planning on killing you. 

“I’m not going to kill you,” he says as if reading your mind. “Just put the vase down and we can talk about it. I’m actually trying to help you out,” 

“You’re lying,” you hiss between clenched teeth. “Why should I trust you?” 

“Because you know me,” 

The softness in his voice lulls you in a false sense of security, you take a sharp breath. 

“But I don’t. Not really,” 

“Yes you do,” he replies, raising his hands. “You know that my name is Dave. You know I’ve been through a divorce. You know I have two daughters: Molly and Alice.” A sudden chuckle falls from his lips. Your eyes follow as he takes a step forward. “You know how I like my coffee. You know where I live. You know me–” 

It’s only a split second. You lower your guard, the hand that holds the vase starting to shake. It only lasts a second before you attempt to recover but that second is all that he needs. 

Dave lunges forward, his hand quickly immobilizing yours as he gets behind you. The vase falls, the rest of it shattering. He has you in a chokehold loose enough that it allows you to breathe, but the pressure is still there. You fear that if you make any sudden movements he’ll strangle you right then and there. His chest is flushed against your back, face pressed against the side of yours. Your breathing comes in quick, shallow pants, you feel death lurking at the same place Dave is. 

“I’m not going to kill you,” he repeats. “But the people who hired me want you dead.” 

“Then why didn’t you just refuse the job?” your voice is meak, heart beating fast and short. 

“Because,” his lips move against the side of your chin. “If I hadn’t accepted it someone else would and they– Well needless to say, they would kill you,” 

You shudder. The thought of someone else other than Dave being here with you terrifies you to the core. His lips burn your skin and your stomach rolls with anxiety. Slowly you nod, deciding that you don’t have much of a choice other than to trust him. 

“I’m not going to try anything else,” you whisper. “You can let me go,” 

“Promise?” 

“Promise.” 

He laughs, his breath warm and wet against your skin. 

“You said it this time. If you try anything I won’t be as nice,” 

Tight-lipped, you take a deep breath. His voice is like molten caramel, it intoxicates you. Dave doesn’t release you right away, his lips still ghosting over your warm skin. You feel your stomach dipping at the sensation. His grip around your neck suffocates you, but despite all of that you can’t help but feel the excitement of having him so close. His chest is solid behind you, arms strong around your body. Your ears ring. 

Then he let’s go and the world around you, somewhat, returns to normal. 

You stumble forward, barely catching yourself before you fall. When you meet his gaze, Dave gestures towards the couch. You obediently take a seat but he remains standing with his arms crossed against his broad chest. 

“What now?” you ask, hugging yourself. 

This is a nightmare, it has to be. 

Dave knows he can’t complete the assignment when you utter his name. It’s so silent, barely audible, but he hears you anyway. According to you, these are your last moments, and what do you do? 

Call out for him. 

He already had his reservations about what to do with you. His mind became a mess as soon as he saw your name written on the paper with the most fancy cursive he’s ever laid his eyes on. Killing random people was easy. He didn’t know them, therefore, he lacked the emotional capacity to actually care when they cried out for their loved ones, or begged for his mercy.

However, this isn’t the case when it comes to you. It breaks his heart to see you so afraid, but also, a sick thrill strikes it at the same time. He feels elevated, yet, disgusted by what he feels watching you cowering in front of him. 

Dave’s rage comes out of nowhere. He knows that this anger is mostly directed at himself and not you. Sadly, you can’t read minds so you have no idea. To you, he’s a crazy person pressing a gun to your head. 

Ironically enough his role in your story quickly changes from crazy kidnapper to possible hero. 

He winces at the thought. He’s not a hero. Heroes didn’t think about the millions of possible ways to hurt the people that wanted you dead. Only villains did that. 

While you take a seat, his eyes linger at the shards of glass. Quick thinking indeed. This certainly isn’t your first life and death experience. His darkness grows behind him, standing tall as his shadow. The thought of what might’ve happened to you in your past makes this darkness flicker violently like an uncontrollable flame. Vivid images of hurting the people who hurt you flashes before his eyes a second time today. It feeds the fire.

“Well, we don’t have much of an option,” Dave replies nonchalantly. He became an expert in clogging up the holes in his voice so that his emotions wouldn’t show. “Do you have any idea who might want to get you killed?” 

He grits his teeth, skin taut around his cheek bones. Again, anger fills his gut. Inhaling, he forces his face to be as stoic as possible. 

You shake your head, “No…I mean, sure I probably pissed a couple of people off but I don’t think any of them would go to the lengths of hiring a hitman– You are a hitman right?” 

“More of a freelance assassin but sure basically a hitman,” 

Shit, he shouldn’t have said that. Dave sees the way terror comes rushing back with the way your eyes go wide. To calm you, he comes down to his knees, hands hovering right above your kneecaps. He meets your gaze before placing them, hoping that the gesture assures you that he doesn’t have the intention of harming you. With a sigh, Dave begins to draw languid circles with his thumbs. The way you fill your lungs up with air doesn’t go unnoticed by him. 

“Sorry,” he says. “I guess this isn’t the time to be technical when it comes to terms. So, you know no one that might want to harm you. That makes my job a bit more difficult but we’ll find a way around it,” 

“I thought your job was to kill me?” 

The air between the two chills. He perceives it ghosting across his skin, the distrust you feel towards him envelopes his very being and forces him to move his hands away. However, he remains kneeling, his gaze searching yours for any hints that might indicate that you’re lying. Dave doesn’t find any but he’s positive you’re not being completely honest with him. 

“Right now my job is to protect you,” he answers, voice low as he gets up. 

“Why?” 

Dave looks down at you with a raise of an eyebrow. The tone you use for him constantly shifts between sudden bursts of bravado and brokenness. He examines your form, plush thighs pressed against one another as you look down, your breasts rising up which every long breath you take. A rush of arousal spikes from the depths of his stomach. Swallowing, he forcefully pushes the tainted thoughts back. 

“Because you’re nice and you make a decent enough cup of coffee,” 

His heart skips a beat when the living room lights up with your bittersweet laughter. For a moment, he thought he would never be able to hear that sound again. A smile tugs at his lips. Dave’s joy is short lived, however, when your laughter dies down and the chill returns. He really should crank up the metaphorical heat. 

“So what do we do now? Just wait for your employer to ask about me?” 

“That’s not quite how it works sweetheart,” he grins when your eyes widen at the nickname. “Usually I send them proof. I’ve never actually had a job gone bad so I’m not sure what happens after. I assume they send in another assassin to finish off you and the first person they hired– These people don’t exactly brief us on how all of this works.” 

“You’re a target now too then, because of me,” 

“Don’t worry yourself, this is my doing. Though, we should probably change locations. I have a safehouse up in the mountains. It’s pretty remote, especially designed for a scenario like this, so we’ll be safe there for a while. It’ll give us time to figure out who hired me. We’ll head out–” he eyes the clock on the wall. It’s 12 AM. “–Around seven. And hey, maybe something will jog your memory on the way? Wouldn’t that be nice?” 

He keeps his tone deliberately light hearted, it’s his way of telling you that he knows that you’re keeping something from him. That he knows you don’t trust him. You must’ve picked up on the message because he notices the slight hollow in your left cheek, you’re probably gnawing it raw on the inside. 

“Alright,” you reply, not being able to hide the tremble in your voice.

“Seven it is.” 

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