#my mama will get me paint or canvas

[autoneurotic]

my family is cute and funny. my dad got my a quarter of Very Good Weed for my birthday <3

[storiesforallfandoms]

by the lake ~ benedict bridgerton;bridgerton

word count: 2675

request?: no

description: in which she flees from a pushy suitor, only to find a lovely alternative painting by the lake

pairing: benedict bridgerton x female!reader

warnings: period accurate stuff, use of y/n

masterlist (one, two, three)

Whenever perpetual bachelors would moan about the courting season, I couldn't help but laugh. Sure, eager mamas trying to force a connection with their daughters could be tiring, but as a man it was fine to turn down potential wives and live a life of bachelordom. For women, that wasn't an option. The moment we come of age we are expected to find a husband and bare children. If we don't, we are spinsters that essentially become outcasted from society.

Not to mention that some male suitors can be just as pushy as the eager mamas.

One example of this was Lord Windsor, a middle aged Lord who had gone a number of seasons without finding a wife and had gotten noticeably desperate. Lord Windsor was okay on the eyes, but not overly handsome. He came from a prominent family, but was the youngest of the three brothers. And, the worst of all, he had the personality of a wet napkin. He was awkward and bored anyone he spoke to to tears.

And I was his current victim.

I was attending an event in town with my family when Lord Windsor's attention fell on me. He began talking to me - or rather at me - not noticing how desperately I was trying to escape him. I kept trying to make eye contact with anyone who passed by to try and silently ask for help. Some gave me a sympathetic look as they passed by, while others merely snickered at my misery.

I was becoming overwhelmed with his persistence. I would do anything to get away from him.

In a moment of desperation, I said, "Can you get me a drink? I am parched."

He seemed almost perturbed by my request, but went off to get me a drink anyways. Once he had mostly disappeared into the crowd, I turned and ran off. I had no idea where I was going, but I needed to get away. Not only from Lord Windsor, but from any other desperate and pushy suitor who would try and approach me.

I found myself stumbling down a trail and coming out by a lake. It was peaceful - the water bright blue and calm, and the area was empty. Well, almost empty. There was a gentleman sat facing the water, with a canvas set up in front of him, painting a lovely portrait of the calming lake. I gasped as he turned and I recognized who it was: Benedict Bridgerton.

"I-I am so sorry," I said. "I did not realize - "

"No need to apologize," he said, smiling at me. Oh my, his smile was so handsome. "This is a public place. I lay no claim to it. And I will not complain about the company of a beautiful lady."

I felt my cheeks light on fire at his compliment.

He glanced behind me, as if expecting someone else to be there. I realized then that by fleeing Lord Windsor, I had also left behind my mother, who was supposed to be my chaperon to the event. Now I was here, alone with a man, far away from the event. It would be a scandal if anyone found out, and the Bridgerton family had had enough scandals in the last year or so.

"I should go," I said, turning to leave.

"I don't mind some company," he said. "And perhaps a lady should not wander on her own."

"I suppose not."

Benedict gestured to a nearby bench. I sat down and watched as he returned to his painting. It was a truly beautiful creation. Better than some of the portraits mama had on her wall. It was a perfect recreation of the scene in front of him.

I had heard about Benedict's artistic abilities. The whole Ton had. It was quite the surprise when Benedict Bridgerton, one of the most sought after bachelors in the Ton, had decided to pursue art instead of a wife. Many hopeful debutantes thought that he would only do it for a short period of time before finally taking a wife. I could still hear mama ranting about it after reading that morning's Whistledown. But watching him now, I could see his talent and passion for the art. I didn't blame him for not wanting to give this up just to get married when he clearly had no desire to take a wife.

"What are you doing out here by yourself?"

I jumped when his voice broke the silence. He turned to smirk at me and I felt my face light on fire, as if he had caught me doing something wrong.

"I was attending the event in town but...I needed some space," I explained.

"Ah, I understand. Those events can be tiresome. Many people either gossiping or trying too hard to remain in some arbitrary social circles."

"You are one to speak when your family is part of the most respected social circle."

"I did call it arbitrary, did I not?"

I chuckled and nodded. "Yes, I suppose you are right. My biggest plight are the suitors, though."

Benedict paused with his hand raised to his canvas. He lowered the brush back into the paint to look at me again. "You are unmarried?"

I nodded. "Not for the lack of trying on my mother's part. I just haven't met anyone that I click with yet. Unfortunately, the marriage pool is becoming very shallow. I was being pursued by Lord Windsor today."

Benedict cringed. "Oh, I definitely understand your need to get away then. Lord Windsor is...a man...to say the least."

"That is one way to describe him."

He smiled. I watched him run his brush through the cup of water before drying it in a cloth and standing. I watched as he began to pack away his painting supplies. "What are you doing?"

"I have a carriage waiting by the road. I am going to bring my art supplied back there, then I will walk with you around the lake before returning you to your family in the town." I opened my mouth to protest, but he cut me off by saying, "I was finished with my painting anyways, and I must make an appearance there, no matter how brief it is. I would not mind arriving with such a beautiful lady on my arm."

He knew exactly how to shut me up and he had only met me moments prior. My mouth shut instantly and, for a third time in such a short period of time, I felt like I was blushing. Benedict smiled at me again, almost triumphant, before going to his carriage with his art supplies. I remained seated on the bench until his returned, in which he extended his arm to me and I took it.

Our sides were pressed firmly together as we began to walk. My arm, hip, nearly my legs if it were not for my dress, were pressed against his. The parts that were touching started to feel warm and fuzzy. I wondered for a moment if there was something wrong with me, until I looked up at Benedict and his eyes met mine, and suddenly that warm and fuzzy feeling was running through my entire body.

Of course I always knew Benedict Bridgerton was attractive. I had eyes that could see his beauty, and I had ears that could hear all the gossip from other mamas and debutantes about him. But being here, with my arm laced through his and our bodies so close together, was much different than observing him from afar.

"How many seasons have you been through?" he asked, breaking me from my thoughts.

"This is my third," I responded. He gave me a look that made me giggle. "What?"

"You were not married in your first season?"

"I believe that is what I said, yes. Why is that so hard to believe?"

"Well, forgive me for sounding like a broken record, but you are incredibly beautiful. If I know anything from my years observing the marriage markets, it is that beautiful women usually have a very easy time finding a husband."

"I am flattered by your compliments, and you would be right that I had no shortage of suitors asking to court me, but the thing is is that I am looking for something that many seem to think is impossible: a love match."

Benedict scoffed. "Impossible? I have three siblings that would argue with you there."

"They are exceptions, not the rules. Of course there are people who marry for love, but there are still others who only believe in marrying for looks and for titles. And it seems there are very few suitors who are looking for a love match. Most of them just want a beautiful lady who they can take to bed and produce heirs with, and once that job is done they will return to the brothels."

"You would get along exceptionally with my sister, Eloise."

I smiled. I squeezed his arm a little as I asked, "Why have you not married then, Mr. Bridgerton?"

"Please, call me Benedict," he said. "Which reminds me, I have no caught your name yet."

"(Y/N)," I told him. "And do not avoid my question."

"I would never!" he said in mock offense. "My answer is just more selfish than yours."

"That does not make me want to hear it any less."

He chuckled. "I have just never had the desire to take a wife. My older brother, Anthony, is the Viscount, he was the one expected to find a wife and produce little Viscount heirs. Daphne was the first daughter to come of age to join the season, and her love match has made our mother much more intent on having similar experiences for my other sisters. Colin, Gregory, and I are not under the same pressure as our other siblings. Colin had his travels, Gregory is far too young to consider marriage as it is, and I have my art. I thought Colin and I were in agreement about our thoughts on marriage, but it seems he has changed his mind."

"Have you?"

"Have I what?"

"Changed your mind?"

Benedict stopped walking a moment, pulling me to a halt next to him. He looked thoughtful for a moment before he said, "I have not decided."

We continued to walk in silence for a while. It was a beautiful day, and the lake was an ideal place to be. The water shimmered under the bright sun, still calm without a single ripple, and the sky was clear without a single cloud. It was a beautiful day, and I was walking with Benedict Bridgerton. It truly could not be a better day.

"Your painting was beautiful, by the way," I told him. "I understand why you would choose art. You have quite the talent for it."

"Thank you," he said. I could see a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. One that was genuine, maybe a bit flustered at the compliment.

"What do you do with your art? Do you sell it or hang it yourself?"

"Oh no, my mother usually takes whatever I paint and hangs it around the estate. I think most of the artwork in our house is all mine now. She loves to gush over what I have painted, almost embarrassingly so."

"Well, I would love to have one for my home, if you do not mind having another client."

He looked down at me. "Really?"

I nodded. "I believe your painting to be more beautiful than some of my own mama's choices of artwork. But keep that between us."

He smiled. "I will not tell a soul."

We began walking up a path that led back to the town, and suddenly I could heard the bustling of the event. The light and happy feeling I had since running into Benedict had slowly began to fade into dread as I realized what our arrival at the event meant. With any luck, my mother would want to leave the second she found me and I would not have to endure Lord Windsor for any longer.

I expected to be surrounded the second we came into view. I thought, for some reason, that mama would know of my disappearance and would be worried sick. I expected lots of questioning, and then for her to whisk me away quickly where she would likely continue to question me at home.

To my surprise, no one approached us at first. No one even noticed our arrival for a few moments, until one person glanced at Benedict and I as we walked past, and then did a double take to make sure they had seen correctly. Suddenly, there were dozens of prying eyes and hushed voices, with us at the centre of all their attention.

"I told you," Benedict whispered in my ear. "All gossiping."

"Seems we may find ourselves in the next issue of Whistledown," I said.

Benedict gave me a playful smile and said, "May as well make that count then."

He led me through the crowds of people, all whispering and watching us go. I was beginning to feel a little insecure under all their watchful eyes, until I noticed Lord Windsor as one of the many who was watching us. His face looked sullen as he watched us go by, holding two cups in his hand - he still had the drink I sent him to get. The thought of him standing around with it in his hand this whole time made me giggle to myself, and then I found myself standing up straighter and leaning into Benedict more. Lord Windsor seemed to have gotten the message loud and clear.

I found my mama with a group of other mothers, and when we began to approach they all fell silent. Mama looked at us and her eyes widened with shock.

"Mr. Bridgerton," she said, looking between myself and Benedict. "How lovely it is to see you."

"I hope you do not mind my borrowing of your daughter, my lady," Benedict said. "She was most excellent company for a walk around the lake nearby."

Mama looked to me like she was trying to figure out why I had left without telling her. I merely smiled at her, mentally willing her to leave that question until we returned home.

"Of course I do not mind at all, Mr. Bridgerton," mama said. "Although, next time I do hope there shall be a chaperone with you."

I opened my mouth to tell her there would be no next time, but Benedict cut me off by saying, "Of course. I was hoping to call on her tomorrow afternoon, if that is alright with you."

Mama seemed just as dazed as I was. She managed to stutter out an agreement, which amused Benedict to no end. She turned back to her friends as Benedict and I stepped away to speak once more.

"You are giving her some false hope," I told him.

"What do you mean?"

"You are making her believe that you are going to court me. She will be more heartbroken than I when she realizes that is not the case."

"Who said I do not intend to court you?"

It was my turn to be at a loss for words. I tried to form a coherent sentence, but I just stood there with my mouth open, no doubt looking tremendously stupid.

"You seem like a lovely lady, (Y/N)," Benedict said when I could not find the words to say. "I truly did enjoy our time together today. I would like to spend more time with you, if you would allow it. And I must bring that painting to you at some point, remember?"

I nodded. "Yes. Yes, I would very much like to spend more time with you as well."

His smile was bright and genuine once again. I couldn't help but smile back at him. "Perfect. I shall see you tomorrow afternoon then."

"Yes. I suppose you shall."

[mariclerc]

Dad and daughter moment | pg10

Summary: You decide to leave your boyfriend at home with your little girl and they had a little adventure.

Warning: none. Dedicated to @martaaairwin1994-blog

a/n: this is like a part 2 of "family cuddles" I hope u like it <3

It was a sunny afternoon and you decide to go buy some things for the house and some things that both you and little Lucille need.

“I can go with you bebé?” Pierre asks behind you.

You deny. “Obviously not, silly... Also, who is going to stay with Lulu?”

When you go out alone to shop or do anything you always take Lucille with you, the times you leave her with Pierre have not been so... encouraging, let's put it that way.

One time they almost burned down the kitchen making cookies, or one time he fell asleep and left Lulu on her own. In the same way, you had to give even a vote of confidence to your boyfriend, maybe he is a little bit clueless, but that doesn't mean he does it on purpose.

“It's okay honey, I'll take care of her, I promise!” He says and you give him a kiss on the cheek.

“Good boy!” you giggle and you head out of the room.

“Mama!” Lucille says hugging you.

“My little flower! You're going to stay with papa today, is that right?” you said while giving her a little kiss on her cheek. “He's going to take good care of you today!”

She nods happily and smiled. “Okay mama!”

***

“Well little princess, what do you want to do today with papa?” Pierre asks Lulu. “We can do what you like.”

“Paints papa!” She says between giggles.

“Oh, so you want to paint with papa? Let's get to it then!” He says as he carries her in his arms and goes to look for the materials for their colorful adventure in one of the closets.

After a while they had paints, brushes and canvases for their painting.

“Bright! Bright!” says Lucille jumping while pointing at the bright pink color.

Pierre chuckles. “Do you like bright pink? What do you plan to paint today mon petit artiste?” He says while smiling. (my little artist.)

She starts making strokes on the canvas. “Draw!” smiled.

After a while, what started with simple strokes on the canvas continued with clothes and hands stained with paint. But they didn't care because they were both laughing out loud and having lots of fun, it was a nice moment between father and daughter that they will both always remember.

They are not aware of your arrival at the house, you enter the hallway, laden with shopping bags. You kick the door shut with your foot and head towards the living room, a wry smile on your face.

In the living room, chaos reigns... Paint splatters adorn the coffee table, the floor, and most alarmingly, the pristine white wall, in the center of it all, sits Pierre his face a canvas of vibrant colors, a look of pure joy on it. Lucille sits next to him, similarly decorated and equally delighted.

You take a moment to take in the scene, a rollercoaster of emotions flitting across your face - exasperation, amusement, and a touch of awe.

Feigning exasperation. “Oh my god Pierre, what have you done?”

Pierre looks up, a sheepish grin spreading across his paint-streaked face. Lucille lets out a gleeful squeal.

“Surprise amour! We were... expressing ourselves artistically.” He says with his voice thick with paint.

You walk towards them, placing the bags down. “Looks more like a warzone to me.”

Lucille reaches out for you, her tiny hand covered in a rainbow of colors.

“Papa! Paint!” Lucille giggles.

“Woah there, little Picasso. Let's get you cleaned up before mommy has a meltdown, alright?” you scoop her up.

Pierre chuckles, wiping a hand (mostly clean) across his forehead.

“Meltdown? That's a bit dramatic, don't you think love?”

”But look around you, Mr. artsy pants. This is gonna take some scrubbing!” You say raising an eyebrow.

“Hey, it was her idea! I was just, uh, facilitating her artistic vision, you know, that helps with kids creativity.” He stands up.

“Ah yes, the renowned Gasly School of Modern Toddler Art. I should've known.” You say sarcastically.

Despite your teasing words, there's a warmth in your voice. You glance at Lucille, who's now giggling uncontrollably.

“Alright, alright. I admit, it does look like you two had a lot of fun.” You say with a soft voice.

“We always do when you're not around to boss us around.” He says as he puts his arm around you.

“Hey! I'm not a boss, I just keep things from descending into complete chaos you know?” you playfully swat his arm.

“Seems like you failed today, love.” he smiles.

“Oh, shut up you colourful boy.” you laugh a little.

You lean in and kiss Pierre, a hint of paint transferring to your lips. He pulls away, grinning.

“So, how about we clean up this little art project and order some takeout? Celebrate our success in the realm of abstract expressionism?” He says in a soft voice.

”Sounds like a plan. Just promise me finger paints are off-limits next time, alright?” You smile at his proposal.

“No promises, but I'll try my best chérie.” He hold his hands up in mock surrender.

Lucille lets out another gurgle, her eyes sparkling with mischief. You can't help but laugh, knowing that with these two around, a little chaos is always guaranteed in your life.

[frudoo]

Hubby Gaz pampering his baby mama <3

Warnings: Pregnancy, fem!reader, mildly sassy Kyle lol

Fluff ahead 🤍

“Love, just let me do this for you,” Kyle sighs, only slightly fed up with your whining.

You shake your head, lips pouty and tears threatening to spill. You were laying on the couch, attempting to put some pretty polish on your toenails despite being any day from giving birth. Your excuse? To make a good first impression on the baby. Kyle didn’t dare argue with your logic, but he’d be damned if he let you put more unnecessary strain on yourself.

“I can do it myself,” you insist, trying to contort your heavily pregnant body in a way that allows you to reach your toes.

Unsurprisingly, you can’t do it, and another frustrated sob escapes your throat. Kyle just places a second pillow under your head to get you comfy, taking his seat at the opposite end of the sofa and plopping your calves onto his lap. He massages your sore feet for a while, grinning at the content sniffle you let out.

“Gonna let me take care of you, now?” He questions with an amused hum, gently rubbing his way up to your swollen ankles.

You huff in response but nod anyway, fidgety hands finally taking rest on the curve of your belly. The baby inside rewards your touch with a strong kick to your palm, and you would find it cute if it wasn't for the jab to your ribs that followed. Kyle chuckles at your pained whimper, one hand coming up to rub your bump fondly.

“Just a while longer, my dove,” he coos, patting your tummy a couple of times before reaching for the bottle of nail polish you’d chosen earlier.

“Easy for you to say,” you roll your eyes, adjusting the pillow that you had placed beneath your back when you were sure you could do it on your own. “You don’t have to push a whole child out.”

“No, but I have to hear you whinin’ about it,” he shrugs, curving his lips into a sly smile when he feels your glare concentrated on him. “I’m only teasin’, love.”

Another huff escapes you before Kyle finally swipes the first coat of paint onto your toenail. He’s surprisingly precise, tongue bit between his teeth in concentration. Everything about his actions is calculated, each stroke of the polish-coated brush flawlessly coating its keratin canvas with ease. You giggle, and he finishes painting your pinky toe before looking up at you with a quirked eyebrow.

“Somethin’ funny, dove?” He questions, gently blowing cool air onto the fresh polish to encourage it to dry, which only makes you giggle more.

“You’re so focused. It’s cute,” you beam, watching as he dips the wand into the little glass bottle to collect more shiny polish in the bristles.

“Just makin’ sure you give the little one a good first impression, like you said,” he teases, one emollient palm cradling the base of your other foot to color your unpainted toenails.

You hum softly, eyes fluttering shut as your sweet, doting husband continues to tend to you, making sure that no spot is left unpolished because he knows it would just give you grief. Once he’s satisfied with his work, he glances up to see you fast asleep, chest and belly rising and falling in sync with your deep breaths. He grins, carefully shifting your legs off of his lap to stand, then leaning down to press a soft kiss to your forehead.

When you wake up, you’re in bed with a fresh, matching coat of shiny polish on your fingernails.

[dilfl0v3rss]

NAH CUZ THIS ONE CAME OUTTA NOWHERE BUT-

painter!Onyankopon 🧐🧐🧐🧐wat do we thinkkkkkkkk

who wanna paint his pretty lil girlfriend up as a bday gift but thingz start escalating-

you ATEEEEE

“you done?” you asked excitedly as you laid naked on the bed. ony sitting in front of you with a chair and painting set while he gave you a petty eye roll. “mama you only been sitting here for ten minutes. what you think?” he sighed, pencil in hand as he sketched your pretty body onto his cavas. your boyfriend was a very talented and well known artist. he’s had his work shown in many different art museums around the world and you couldn’t be any prouder of him.

people have paid unbelievable prices for his beautiful paintings and even more for customs. you’ve been with him through it all and even though you never said it, ony could always see how entranced you’d look when he’d bring you with him as his “assistant” and decided there was no better time to finally let you shine than your birthday.

“m’almost done wit the first part sexy. just need you to stay still f’me so i get get it done and start mixing my colors for your pretty skin ‘kay?” you nodded your head, apologizing for the movement as you sat as still as you could on your knees. back facing him as you kept your head to the side so he could get your side profile. another ten minutes when by and ony was finally done with the sketch. quietly pulling his paints out to mix them together for your beautiful complexion. “red? maybe lighter like orange? ma you know the color of your undertones?” he asked, while holding up the red and orange paint bottles.

you turned your head a little more so he could see your face, quizzical look already telling him everything he needed to know. “can you put on some music tho? if ima be sitting here like this, i wanna at least have sum playing” ony nodded his head before opening your phone and going to the first playlist he saw, but you already know what he chose when poison by brent faiyaz began to play through the speaker on the bed. the sex playlist.

you didn’t mind it though, humming along to the music as ony continued to work behind his large canvas.

as your music played it was suddenly getting harder for your man to focus. hands beginning to sweat at just the slightest glance of your oiled back. ‘wonder if she oiled the front of her body too’ dirty thoughts clouded ony’s brain as he watched you mindlessly move your hips to the music. “stay still mama. you making this hard f’me” he mumbled as he eyed your neck, then your beautiful shoulders down to your smooth back, stopping at the sight of your beautifully brown ass.

before he knew it, ony was slowly walking up behind you. lightly pushing your back down before rubbing with the swell of your ass. “you changed your mind againnn? now how long is it gon take for you to sketch thissss?” you whined, not thinking anything of his actions until you felt his print brush against your bare pussy. “you so pretty mama” his hands rubbed all over your back, letting the oil spread to his fingers and clothes as he leaned down to kiss from your back to your neck. “wanna put my dick in you, jus the tip ‘cause i still got work t’do”

you nodded your head, already in a lust filled daze as you felt him continue to rub against you with his clothed dick. ony lifted you off the bed slightly by the front of your neck. “can i mama? you gon let me make you feel good?” his whispers went straight to your core. legs already growing weak as you moaned out a weak “yes”. with that ony lightly bent you back over, freeing his dick from his sweats before lining up with your wet entrance.

“j-just the tip right?” your voice was small as you looked back at him. a small smirk made its way to his face as he watched your pretty face contort, dick sinking deep into you before he started thrusting at a steady pace. “you know better than to be believing shit like that ma. pussy too good for me to only let my tip fuck” ony chuckled as he listened to you whine into the sheets. hips already moving hungrily so you can fuck him back.

“seems like you agree wit me, don’t you baby? pussy so fucking wet” his pace quickened, making your moans become louder and more frequent as you reached your arm back. not for him to stop, but for him to hold to keep you grounded while he pounded away at your pretty pussy. “feel so good daddyyy…fuck go harder” ony smiled at the action, eagerly holding your hand in his while he started fucking into you deeper.

the both of your voices harmonized with each other as you continued to fuck each other the way you liked. bodies working together so both of you can reach the orgasms you’ve been wanting since you laid your naked body on the bed. “you so fucking sexy mama. got the most beautiful body i swear” his inked hands ran all over your back, thighs and neck. massaging you as he gave you words of love. “no painting can ever be enough to portray how beautiful you are baby. so glad you mine.”

his dick curved just right, hitting all the places you needed to make you a blabbering mess below him. “l-love you so much…so much daddy. happy t’be yours….yours forever” ony couldn’t help but smile as he listened to you run your pretty mouth. your walls sucking him in as you spoke, like the fact that you were saying you were his turned you on even more. “love you more, h-happy..fuck…happy birthday princess. sorry i can’t finish your painting.”

your body was getting to him. strong arm pushing your back down as he squeezed your hand a little tighter. “want you to fill me up daddy” you moaned, the feeling of his dick twitching already telling you that he was going to cum. ony’s brown eyes rolled to the back of his head, hips pistonning into you even harder as he felt his release on the tip of his tongue.

“gotta show you how much i love you right now”

[bluegalaxygirl]

Canvas (Zosan X Reader)

Thanks to @mrstrafalgardwater24 for the request on the first part. again i'm sorry for the wait.

Plot: Kuina and the crew paint your baby bump.

Warning: Bad language, extreme Fluff, Violence and Pregnancy stuff.

Reader is Female, Zoro X Sanji x Reader, Poly relationship, established relationship. Kuina is 5ish and has blonde hair, your eye's and skin color. Reader is about 6 to 7 months along.

You have no idea where Kuina got this idea but now that it's happening its hard to complain about it, you know the crew already loves your daughter and the baby still growing inside you but once the little girl mentioned painting on your stomach suddenly everyone wanted to do it all having different ideas of how to show their love and care for the baby. Its turned into more of a competition between a few of the crew member's so to stop any fighting and to let everyone have some fun Kuina decided to make into a contest lasting over the next week. Sitting on the deck of the sunny you can't help but smile as your daughter stands in front of you with several large tubes of different colored body paints, paintbrushes, plastic plates, pencils and paper all laid out on the grassy deck "Alright so the teams are, Luffy and Us opp, Robin and Nami, Chopper and Jibe, Franky and Brook and of course me and my dads" Kuina gives a big smile turning to her farther's who are next to her both giving her a confirming nod, Zoro can't help but smirk at his daughter taking charge as he sits cross-legged in grass facing his little girl while Sanji stands behind him mainly leaning on the swordsman's shoulder with hearts in his eyes. "Everyone will put their deigns down on paper and tomorrow we'll draw straws to see who goes first, i don't want anyone changing their designs after seeing anyone else's. We'll try and do one a day and if Mama needs a break then she gets a break" Kuina puffs out her cheeks making you giggle as Luffy, Usopp and Franky all bow their heads "Yes ma'am" the three say in unison making some of the other crew laugh seeing the hold the young girl has over her uncles. With a big smile your daughter starts handing out the pencils and paper letting the groups start to plan their designs and choosing their color scheme, "Hay wait a minute, who's going to judge?" Nami asks suddenly realizing, Usopp and Luffy are quick to look up from the paper their both sitting with to look at Kuina both realizing there isn't one.

Your daughter giggles taking a pencil and paper before rushing over to the bench your sitting soon followed by Sanji and Zoro "Mama of course" She states sitting down to you as you place a hand on her head and ruffle her hair "Hay thats not fair, of course Y/n is going to pick your design since your her daughter and partners" Usopp jumps up pointing his hand out at the four of you, Zoro lets out a chuckle letting a cheeky grin form on his face "Too bad for you long nose, just try your best then" Before an argument can break out you lightly slap the swordsman's arm then turn to the sniper "Your right, i would be biased so maybe we should have a point's system. Like 1 to 5 stars, I'll count them up so only i can see" You elbow Sanji slightly as he sits down next you his smile growing at the food reference you made "Oh my love thats so sweet" The cook sways slightly a blush appearing on his face making you giggle, Usopp sighs feeling more relaxed about things and nods his head along with Kuina who's happy that everything seems to be going well. Through the day the teams worked on their deigns most of the either measured your belly to work out proportions while others dragged you off to have a privet chat, it made you more curious about their designs since Chopper pulled you into the medical room and with the help of Jinbe placed a strange snail device on your stomach, they secretly talked before saying you could go while Brook and Franky did a lot of measurements even going as far as to get a drawing compass, a proctor and a drafter tool. None of them let you see their designs not even your own family who did most of their work in the kitchen discussing and some times arguing on what to do and coming up with an idea they could actually do instead of something big and complicated.

The next day came quickly and everyone was back outside eager to draw the straws and see what order they would be in, the plan was they would have the whole afternoon to do their work and then a photo would be taken before showing everyone who will then each secretly write down on a slip of paper how many stars which you would then count up and keep in a small book. Of course, you would be voting too but you made a mental note to not add your scores until the end as not to be tempted to add more or less to other peoples scores, with your pregnancy brain you will mostly likely forget what ever you wrote down the day before, last night you forgot what chapter you were up too in your book even though there was a bookmark on the page. "Ok, on three. One, Two… Three" Kuina yells as a member from each team pulls a straw out of your hand each a different length "Yessss" Luffy yells while holding the longest straw out of the bunch soon followed by Usopp who lifts his captain into the air as if they've won the whole contest "Calm down you two, geez" Nami sighs while pinching the bridge of her nose waiting for Robin to compare her straw with that of Chopper's and Brooks who were all the middle people "Looks like were going last" Kuina states holding the smallest straw, you thought she would be sad about it but instead she has a massive smile on her face while looking up at you and her two dads, Zoro nods sitting next to you on the bench and placing an arm around your shoulder "It'll give us more time to practice painting" the swordsman leans forward ruffling his daughters hair who groans and shoves his hand off earning a chuckle form her farther.

Sanji shakes his head while taking a seat on your work side placing his hand on your large stomach "If you ever need a break love just say so… I'll kick their asses out if i have too" The cook smirks, turning to face him you place your hand over his feeling your heart swell with love, you couldn't ask for better partners, the two are always so caring and eager to help you out when ever you need "Thanks darling" You whisper leaning in to place a light kiss on his lips which he happily leans into. "Alright gets get going, come on" Luffy and Usopp run over holding out their hands for you to take, in the past they would have just grabbed you and ran off but the first time that happened while you were pregnant with Kuina your two boys almost kicked them both off the ship and into the ocean then made them do all the chores and heavy lifting on the ship for a week, safe to say they learned their lesson. Standing up with the help of Zoro and Sanji you kiss the two goodbye before turning to your daughter who hands you your book and pen, placing a light kiss on Kuina's head you take the book and give her a looking look while running your hand over her cheek "See you later sweetie" With a wave to the others you head off with Luffy and Usopp who have already gathered what they needed and guided you to the aquarium bar. The once dim room was now light making it easier to see, a section of the large sofa lining the long fish tang was covered in a white sheet that flowed down onto the floor being held in place with white tape and two old tables on either side.

Luffy helps you get comfortable while Usopp sets up the paints and the paper they used to draw on, sitting down you sigh relaxing into the soft cuisines of the sofa "Do you need more cuisines? Water? Food?" Luffy asks hovering a little seeming a little nervous for some reason, taking his hand you give him a smile "A bottle of water would be nice but are you ok captain?" You look up at him with concern, Luffy gulps while rubbing the back of his neck "W-well, while Sanji and Zoro aren't here it's my job to look after you and.. I don't know what i'm doing, Usopp's here but.." The captain sighs looking over to his friend who is loft in thought while mixing colors together to get the right shade. Patting the captains hand you give him a big smile feeling your chest warm up at how much he cares for you and your health "Your doing great, if i need something I'll tell you, ok?" You ask getting Luffy to look at you, his eyes search yours before giving you a nod knowing your not lying to him, a large smile starts to from on his face before quick to rushing off to the bar area letting his arm stretch as to not pull you along. Letting out a little snort you can't help but start to laugh, your hand grips onto your belly as you lean forward finding the starching arm still holding your hand unbelievably funny, Luffy soon finds a bottle of water and rushes back over watching you wipe tears from your eyes before taking the bottle off him "T-thanks Lu" You giggle managing to calm from your laughing fit and let go of his hand, Usopp soon snaps out of his own little world and turns around going to speak when he see's the tears in your eyes, his body goes stiff in panic before lunging at Luffy grabbing his captain by the collar and shaking him "What did you do? Why is she gonna cry?" The captain raises an eyebrow at his friend letting his body be shaken back and forth "Usopp it's ok, Luffy made me laugh thats all" You reach out managing to stop the sniper from panicking.

With the room much calmer and Usopp apologizing to his captain the two get started on painting your belly, at first you have no idea what their making other than it being food related since Luffy kept saying how yummy it was going to look only to be hit by Usopp stating they can't eat it. The two kept you entertained or the next hour with banter, food jokes which lead Luffy to rush off for a few minutes to get snacks and the snipers adventure stories, it was so sweet seeing the long nosed man telling his obviously fake stories to your baby, It was also sweet to see Luffy look after you in a way he's never done so before, always checking if you needed anything, asking if your comfortable and helping you up if you ever needed to stretch. Two hours later they were done, after taking a photo and letting you have a look first they let the rest of the crew in to see the finished product "The great captain Usopp has created another fine master piece" Usopp smirks while pointing a thumb at himself clearly proud of his work, Kuina smiles wide while running up her uncle with big sparkling eyes "Wow, it looks so good" Chopper soon joins in on your daughters praising boosting the snipers ego more much to Nami and Zoro's dismay who both let out an annoyed sigh. Luffy groans with a pout some drool forming at the side of his mouth while laying on the floor his arm and head propped up onto the sofa next to you "It looks so yummy, now i really want cupcakes… Sanji" The captain whines while turning to look at the cook with puppy dog eyes only to be hit over the head by the cook "Don't you dare look at her like that and you can't have anything else, you've already had snacks" The blonde huff crossing his arms over his chest.

Letting out a giggle you look down at your tummy seeing the massive cupcake the two have done, the blue icing with sprinkles and a red cherry really does look yummy, the bow was also a very cute idea even though the two were slightly reluctant to use pink, no one knows what the gender is but the two are convinced it's going to be a boy. "Alright thats enough, lets vote so the two of you can get cleaned up, your both a mess" Nami sighs crossing her arms and handing out pieces of paper and pens letting each person write down how many stars "It really does look good Uncle Lu" Kuina gives the captain a big smile while handing you her piece of folded up paper "Thanks, it really does look yummy…. Quick let raid the fridge before your daddy finds out" Luffy whispers quickly passing you his piece of paper before picking your giggling daughter up and running to the kitchen, with a small laugh you watch as the cook makes his way over to you with a raised eyebrow handing you his piece of paper, all it took was one sorry look from you to know what was going on, in an instant the blonde goes from confused, to shock and then anger "Luffy, get your ass back here" Sanji yells with fury running off to stop his captain from raiding his kitchen and teaching his daughter bad habit's, with a chuckle Zoro plots down next to you and places his arm around your shoulders, the swordsman places his piece of paper on your lap before kissing your head which you lean into.

----- Team 2, Robin and Nami -----

The next day was Robin's and Nami's turn, again the aquarium bar was cleaned and set up so you could sit while they paint, luckily the paint was easy to wash off in the shower last night and didn't leave any residue so your stomach was a clean canvas for the two girls. Sitting down on the sofa you watch the two girls work together while chatting and filling you in on gossip you may have missed, it's a much calmer experience than yesterday which your glad for since after yesterdays antics your a little tired. As the two girls pause to get more paint you shift a little to rub your lower back only to feel two hands start to rub it for you, turning in surprise you see two hands attached to the sofa rubbing your lower back for you, knowing right away its robins doing you turn to the black haired woman and flash a thankful smile grateful for her kindness "We can take a break if you want" Robin smiles back putting down her paint and paint brush to clean her hands on a wet cloth, Nami quickly turns with slight concern not noticing you were unconformable but you don't blame her since you tried not to show it until now "Yes please" Pushing yourself up Nami is quick to rush over and take your arm helping you stand straight up "Do you want me to ask Sanji for some snack?" The navigator asks but you shake your head not feeling the need for food right now, starting to walk around Nami sticks next to you holding your arm while Robin continues with the paints and cleaning any mess they have made "I'm not an old lady Nam" You giggle taking the orange haired girls hand in yours happy to walk with her without assistance, Nami sighs before letting out a laugh gladly taking your hand and letting your arm go "Sorry"

Looking Nami over you let out a sigh wondering why she's so tense all of a sudden, before you can ask the navigator sighs seeing your giving her questioning eyes "I've never been in charge of looking after you while pregnant, i'm just… nervous that I'll do something wrong" Looking away from you Nami refuses to look you in the eyes even when you stop and take her chin bringing her face to look at you "Nami, your not doing anything wrong and i know you feel like you have too but you don't need to look after me, just because i'm pregnant doesn't mean i can't do things or tell you if i need something… Just having you around is helping me, your so caring and quick to jump to my aid either physically or verbally… mainly physically, i can't ask for anything else" You can't help but laugh at the last bit remembering how if someone made you cry or angry even by accident Nami would be so quick to hit who ever it is and make them apologies. The navigator looks up at you as you squeeze her hand in reassurance noticing the soft thankful look on your face, a small smile starts to spread across her lips while squeezing your hand back "I'll always come to your aid, if anyone hurts my girls their going to feel my wrath" The two of you laugh at her statement even though its true, all the girls on the ship feel the need to protect each other no matter what "I'm in safe hands" You hug the orange haired girls arm and lay your head on her shoulder as the two of you start walking again letting laughter fill the air.

Your greeted by Robin as the two of you get back to the sofa, the black haired woman sitting with one leg over the other while patting the place next to her for you to sit "Unfortunately were no where near done yet so to relieve your back pain i thought of an idea" Sitting down next to the woman you suddenly feel something press against your back that isn't the sofa, with a squeak you turn seeing 5 rows of hands with no wrists pressed into the sofa so you could lean back with comfort while so getting any benefits of a message. Letting out a laugh of relief you lean back against the hands, it's a strange feeling but as they start to lightly run circles over your back and shoulders you forget all about it "Thanks Robin, this is amazing but are you sure? i don't want you over working yourself" Robins sweet smile growls wider as she stands taking a plate of paint from Nami who has grabbed her own and kneels down to start working again " Thank you for your concern but I'll be fine, it's the least i can do for letting us do this" The black haired woman kneels down beside Nami starting her work again as you relax into the light massage revealing your back pain. Once the girls are done Robin takes a photo while Nami heads off to get the others, its clear now what the painting is and it brings a big smile to your face seeing the birds nest with flowers around it and three little eggs in the middle "Its so cute, my girls did so well" Sanji smiles wide while swaying from side to side, hearts appearing in his eyes making Robin giggle and Nami crosses her arms with pride "Three Egg's? Does that mean something?" Jinbe asks directing his question at Robin.

The black haired woman looks to Nami with a closed eye'd smile making the navigator blush and turn away "There were supposed to be five, one for each member of the family but… it would have been too small" Luffy is quick to run over and wrap his arms around the navigator trying to cheer her up with the help of Chopper and Kuina all telling her how good of an idea it was and that it's ok that it didn't work out that way. "Ah i see, so one for each parent" Franky states leaning down to look over the work, Brook stands behind him tilting his head to look around the cyborgs head "Its a lovely design, i'm starting to think ours is too sim-" Before the skeleton can finish his sentence Franky whips his head around an intense look on his face "Our's isn't simple" Zoro gives the two a cocky smile as he walks past them to sit next to you and wrap an arm around your shoulders "It doesn't matter if its simple or not" With a sigh you lightly hit the swordsman's secretly telling him to stop since you know where this was going, but he ignores you since Franky and Brook both turn to him with puzzled looks taking the bait with ease "Your not going to be the ones to win… I'm gonna win and there's nothing you can do about it… I have the judge on my side" That cocky smile gets bigger as the two growl at him, the swordsman's arm pulls you closer, so he can place a kiss on your head all while keeping his eyes on the two "That's not how this works" Franky yells with anger stepping a little closer, you would be scared it you didn't know he wasn't going to hurt Zoro, your too close to the green haired man so Franky won't risk it. Brook on the other hand tries to calm the situation down to the best of his ability soon having to get help from Robin and Sanji.

----- Team 3, Brook and Franky -----

Sitting once again in the aquarium bar you try not to laugh as Franky kneels in front of your talking to your stomach while Brook sets up everything on the floor, so they don't have to keep standing up. "This is very important little dude or dudette, were going to create the greatest masterpiece anyone has laid their eyes on but for this to work you have to keep as still as possible. I don't mind you moving around but please… i beg and plead with you to not push or kick towards us.. Ok?" The cyborg taps your exposed belly with his finger as if he's giving your baby a head pat before looking up at you with a big smile "Think they understand?" Letting out a laugh you place a hand on your belly and nod, with a sigh Franky leans back crossing his arms over his chest "And none of that either, you can't laugh or cough, this is delicate work" a pout forms on the cyborgs face making you throw your head back in laughter soon joined by a chuckle from Brook. After you manage to calm down and get comfortable the two start working on your stomach painting fine lines, Franky works on one said with Brook works on the other, its clear the two have been practicing in their spare time since their lines match each other perfectly, once in a while you would feel the baby shift so to stop the cyborg from panicking you would tell him about the slightest movement which he's quite thankful for.

Half an hour later you feel the baby getting fussy, its foot starting to press into your side, it doesn't hurt much its just a little uncomfortable and its probably best you get up and walk mainly to see if that will help the baby settle "Can we take a break?" You ask looking down at the two, Franky is lost on concentration his tongue peeking out the side of his mouth while Brook quickly look up at you and nods putting his stuff down before tapping the cyborg on the shoulder to get his attention "Of course, are you ok?" Brook asks standing up and offering his hand to you, taking his hand he helps you to your feet while Franky moves things out of the way for you "Yea, just a little uncomfortable, sorry the baby's being fussy" Brook shakes his head and links your arm with his while walking with you, its only now you realize someone always seems instant on walking with you, it makes you wonder if Sanji or Zoro said something or if your crew is just that concerned. "Don't be, its natural and you and your baby's comfort is more important… just don't tell Franky that" The skeleton whispers getting you to let out a little giggle, you know the cyborg cares but when he sets his mind to something its almost impossible to stop him, no wonder him and the captain get on so well. "So tiny" Brook whispers before a blush forms in his face realizing he said it out loud, raising an eyebrow you look between him and your belly noticing the tiny foot pressing into your side is now more visible than before.

Taking the Skeletons boney you lay his fingers over the foot knowing it won't move away now that the baby seems comfortable in this perspiration "I know right, its weird to think that one day they might be taller than me, stronger than me… i often wonder what adventures they might go on or what they will inspire to be, they have a lot of options and a lot of good teachers" A large smile forms on your face while looking up at the slightly teary eye'd skeleton as his fingers lightly run over the baby's foot "What ever they will be i know they will be amazing at it." Brook looks back to you with his smile getting bigger only for the moment to be interrupted by Franky "Hay be careful don't smug our work" The cyborg yells earning a sigh from the both of you, brooks hand is no where near the art work, but he removes his hand anyway and holds it up in the air in surrender. "The baby's settled now so hopefully it will be easier for you" You state walking back over to the sofa followed closely by the musician and being helped back down onto the sofa by Franky. Despite the design looking simple it takes almost three hours to do but once's its done and your handed the photo to see painting better your shocked at the thought and effort put into it. "I see you went for a mandala theme, it works perfect on her round stomach and the design also has pieces of each parent" Robin ponders once everyone has entered the room to have a look, Luffy and Chopper tilt their head in amazement and slight confusion while Usopp steps closer to get a better look "Its amazing, i can't tell whose work is who's and there's not a line out of place, no wonder this took almost four hours" The sniper states in amazement.

Raising an eyebrow at robins words you take another look at the photo before gasping in shock, Zoro is quick to rush to your side about to ask what's wrong but you turn to Brook and Franky with a giant grin that starts to hurt your face "Oh my gods, you didn't" A giggle leaves your lips getting the two to blush slightly and shy away a little, Zoro sighs in relief while placing a hand on your head "Don't do that to me" after shooting the swordsman a sorry look you see Kuina walk over to you and look over your belly also giving a gasp "Oh i see it now, Daddy your eyebrows are there and Dad so are your swords" Kuina pointing them out without touching the design, the two take a closer look noticing it too, Sanji's cheeks turn red as a smile forms on his face while Zoro flashes Brook and Franky a grin seeming to boost the two's ego's "Wait you said all the parents so where's Y/N?" Nami asks looking to the two artist's, Brook lets out a small chuckle since he did tell the cyborg that it was too subtle to notice, with a sigh Franky walks over to you and bends down while holding his palm out, the tiny hand inside his large one springs out before tracing over the image in different area's "We'll all the large curves mean hidden and the small circles surrounding them mean strength, so in other words hidden strength. The large flower like pattern means truth and these small things sticking out the stops mean joy, add that all together and its Y/n in a nut shell"

Your eyes tear up with his words as Kuina looks at him with stars in her eyes "You are such a sap" Nami giggle with a large smile on her face, Franky quickly turns to her blushing at her comment but doesn't have time to speak when you tackle him with a side hug "Oh Franky that is so sweet, i love it so much and thank you too Brook, you boys did an amazing job" You start to cry out of joy shocking the cyborg who puts an arm around you to try and comfort you, while holding his head back trying not to cry himself at your words, Sanji lets out a chuckle while taking Zoro's hand shooting his partner a cheeky grin which earns a cunning one from the swordsman both knowing there going to tease the cyborg about this later. Kuina giggles while rubbing your back happy to see how much love her mother is getting, she's soon pulled into the hug when you wave brook over wanting to thank him as well.

----- Team 4, Chopper and Jinbe -----

You took a day off from all the painting before letting the next two have their turn, as much as your enjoying all the love and care your baby is getting it made you tired so you spent most of the day sleeping, only waking up to eat. When ever you woke up you weren't alone either Zoro was sleeping next to you his arm around your waist and head on your chest or Sanji was reading with his arm around you letting you cuddle into his side as he quietly reads, sometimes whispering parts of his book he thinks the baby will like, then theirs Kuina who would be either drawing or reading a children's book to your baby while laying as close as possible to your belly. After your rest day it was finally time for Chopper and Jinbe to start their work, this was one of the most confusing to figure out from the start, that strange device they used on your belly days before along with only picking black and white as their color's made it hard to figure out what they were going to do. During the process you kept looking at your belly seeing them paint a big black area and then start adding strokes white "You ok? You look uncomfortable" Chopper asks with a concerned tone not liking the strange face your pulling, snapping out of your thoughts you look to the doctor, your facial expression instantly softens at seeing white and black paint spots on his cheek and blue nose "No i'm ok, just can't make out what your design is, with most of the others i could make it out at least half-way through" You giggle grabbing a damp cloth and leaning forward slightly wipe the paint of Choppers face.

Jinbe returns from the table with a cleaned off brush and more white paint going back to kneeling in front of you "I'm actually glad you can't tell what it is" You raise an eyebrow at the fish man who lets out a small chuckle with a large smile, Chopper lets out a small laugh too letting you whip the paint off his nose before speaking "Don't worry, it's going to be great, i don't know if we'll win but i know it will make you, Zoro, Sanji and Kuina happy" Putting the damp cloth down you lean back into the sofa, being kept in the dark leaves you a little anxious but you trust the two and know that they mean what they say "We would like the family to come into the room before showing the rest of the crew, i feel the reveal should be shared with the parents and sibling" Jinbe rubs your arm giving you a comforting smile, letting out a breath you relax and nod deciding to watch the fish swimming around in the tank while the two get back to work, the fish man is somehow amazing at calming you down even when your partners can't, you don't know if it's his experiences that make him that way or the fact that you see him as the jolly and kind uncle figure. Their deign was simple but still took about an hour and a half the two constantly looking at the sheet of paper in front of them along with a photo they kept out of your sight but you tried not to pry thinking it would be best to wait until your partners and daughter are in the room before looking.

Kuina runs up to you with a large smile seeming super excited to see what is so special that only the four of you get to see first, Sanji and Zoro walk in behind her both giving you a smile before looking down at your belly, all their smiles drop making anxiety well up inside. Zoro tilts his head in confusion along with Kuina who squint her eyes trying to figure out what it is but Sanji slaps a hand over his mouth, his eyes welling up with tears. Jinbe lets out a jolly laugh before handing you the photo they took of the painting along with the photo they have been hiding from you, your jaw drops tears welling up in your eyes at the first image of your baby, while the painting on your belly was enlarged only showing the head and chest, the scan of your baby was a full body one showing off his little hands and feet. "Oh, Jinbe, Chopper… Thank you" Tears fall down your cheeks as you look to the two who both have big smiles on their faces, Sanji suddenly breaks seeing you cry, tears fall down his cheeks as he rushes over to you, standing as quickly as your can the two of you hug each other "Oh my love, their beautiful" The two of you happily cry into each the cooks arms around your waist rubbing your back and crying into your shoulder while your arms wrap around his neck, one hand running through his hair. The scene makes Zoro and Kuina even more confused, seeing this Chopper walks over taking both their hands and pulling the two over to you "I managed to find a all ultrasound machine, it lets you see inside a person's body and maps out organs and stuff, but we used it to see the baby inside" Pulling away from Sanji you look to the two and hand over the photo in your hands but its only Kuina who takes it in slight shock.

Zoro wraps his arms around you placing kisses on your cheek down to your neck and to your shoulder before pulling away to cup your face "Sanji's right, their beautiful, I love you so much" the swordsman's voice is shaky, but he holds back the tears "I love you all so much" You whisper back placing a kiss on his lips before turning to Sanji who pulls the two of you in for a quick three-way kisses "You're amazing my love, I love you and Zoro, thank you both for another beautiful gift" The cook starts to cry again getting a small chuckle out of the swordsman who pulls the two of you back in for a hug. The three of you can't help but grin like idiots feeling giddy and overly excited about seeing your baby before its even born. "So.. thats my baby brother or sister?" Kuina asks still in slight shock as Chopper points out things for her on the photo helping her see the baby better, placing a hand on your stomach being careful of the slightly smudged art work Zoro moves out-of-the-way so Kuina can have another look "Sorry about your work" The swordsman looks to Chopper and Jinbe feeling a little bad at ruining their work but the big fish man chuckles walking over to pat the green haired man on the back "Its fine, we knew this would happen, were just glad you all love it" Chopper nods at his friends words watching as your daughter walks up to your belly with a smile placing her hands either side of the art work "Hello, it so weird seeing you before your here"

Placing a hand on her head you lightly stroke her hair feeling your heart swell with warmth at seeing how excited she is "We have one more surprise if you want to hear it" Jinbe smirks moving to stand next to Chopper who's still holding the photo in his hand "We know the gender of the baby, do you want to know?" Chopper asks with a large smile slightly bouncing on his feet in excitement, Kuina looks up at you silently begging to know if it's a boy or a girl while you look to your boys, Zoro places a hand around your waist while his other hand goes of Kuina's on your stomach giving you a slight nod while Sanji places his hand over his daughter other hand, his other hand going through your hair before resting on your shoulder "Its up to you love but.. i would like to know" The cook whispers his giddy smile getting even bigger, "Ok.. Yea, we'd like to know" You state looking back to Chopper who jumps a little with joy "You're having a boy" Kuina lets out a loud gasp before hugging your waist not caring that the paint will smudge on her face "Your so cute baby brother" Your heart swell once again as tears from in your eyes, Sanji is quick to kiss your cheek wrapping his arms around you and Kuina, he honestly didn't care if it was a boy or a girl but at least now he can start calling the baby his little prince, Zoro finally lets a tear fall but shoves his head into your neck while rubbing his daughters back hoping to hide it, he didn't mind having another girl but now they would have one of each, for some reason it made him feel like the family is complete.

It took a while for the four of you to calm down enough to thank Chopper in Jinbe, you couldn't help but pull the two into a hug, Chopper let you keep the ultrasound photo while he kept the photo of the art work knowing now he needed to show it to the crew. Unfortunately with all the hugging, crying and touching the once beautiful artwork was now nothing more than a gray patch, you felt bad but the two artist were just happy that they could do this for you. As Chopper and Jinbe let the others in you sit down on the sofa next to Zoro who grabs wipes ready to get rid of the large patch while Sanji pulls Kuina onto his lap next to you wiping off the paint thats covering almost half her face. "That's it? a gray blob" Usopp comments looking thoroughly disappointed after all the hype it got while Robin lets out a chuckle already seeming to know what has happened "Judging by everyone covered in gray paint i think it just got smudged right?" The black haired woman smiles walking up to Chopper who hands her the photo of the finished painting before bringing it back to the others, Nami and Brook are quick to gasp already knowing what it is while the others tilt their heads in confusion. Letting out a laugh you lay your head on Zoro's shoulder as he continues to clean the gray mess on your belly "You two were right, it's a boy" Luffy and Usopp quickly look over at you then back to the photo letting their gears turn until it finally clicks "I told you so" The captain happily cheers hugging the sniper who happily hugs back while cheering as well.

----- Team 5, Kuina, Sanji and Zoro -----

Its the last day and even though your excited to see what your family has planned your also kinda sad its over so soon, the art work everyone has done has been amazing and the experience has been a whirlwind of emotions but above all you've felt so much love, seeing your crew so happy and invested in your children and family life has made any doubts about bringing another child into this world completely fade away. Walking into the aquarium bar with Zoro at your side your greeted by a sweet sight, Kuina and Sanji are mixing paints hoping to get the perfect shade of the color they want and testing it on each others skin, your daughter dips her finger into the light blue paint she's made and rubs it on the cooks cheek who lets out a small laugh as she examines it. The blondes cheeks are full of different shades of Pink's, blue's and light purple's making you hold back a laugh as to not disturb the moment, Zoro wraps an arm around your waist while shoving his head into your shoulder trying to hold back his own laugh "Perfect, we have all the shades now" Kuina gives a big smile while grabbing a damp cloth to help her daddy clean on his face "If i didn't know what you were doing i would say you look sick" Zoro chuckles walking you over to the two earning a growl and a glare from Sanji "Shut it moss head, i don't see you helping" The cook snaps but his expression softens when his daughter finishes cleaning his face for him giving her a thankful look and a small kiss on the cheek before glaring back at Zoro who helps you sit down on the sofa "Helping? While your getting your makeup done, i'm helping our girl get comfortable"

Quickly standing Sanji grabs the grinning swordsman by the Kimono pulling him closer to growl at it, the two bicker back and forth while Kuina hops off her chair and makes her way over with a piece of paper in her hands completely ignoring her two dads. "Even though we know it's a boy know i did say that no one can change their deigns so i hope it's ok that we're using pink" Your daughter looks down at the paper on her hands unsure of how to feel about this but you place a hand on her head giving her beautiful blonde hair a few strokes "What ever you make will be amazing, your so talented plus colors don't have to be gender specific." A smile forms on your daughters face as you pat the seat next to you, placing the paper aside so you can't see it the little girl hops up next to you as you grab a hair tie and start tying her hair up not wanting it to get to messy "Thanks Mama". After tying her hair up Kuina gives you a smile before wrapping her arms around you, hugging her back you place a tender kiss on her head while rubbing her back, the two of you stay like that for a while enjoying each others company and warmth all while Sanji and Zoro are still bickering, the two grabbing onto each other but soon turns flirtatious, both picking on each other while making cocky complements. With a sigh you pat Kuina's back before letter her go knowing you have to stop your partners before their cocky comments turn sexual "Sanji, Zoro, come on already i can't wait any longer" Your laugh and voice gets the two to look at you, Zoro's grip that was firmly around the cooks tie loosens while Sanji lets go of the swordsman's Kimono.

The cook glances at Zoro looking from the man to his tie then back to the man giving him a glare since the green haired man hasn't let go yet, with a cocky smile the swordsman leans closer placing a light kiss on the blondes lips before moving to his ear "We'll finish this later" Zoro whispers slowly pulling away and letting go of Sanji's tie before making his way over to you "I'll get the paints" Kuina happily cheers rushing over to the table and grabbing the plate of mixed paints and some paint brushes while Zoro leans over you running his hands over your clothed stomach before starting to lift up your shirt exposing the skin underneath "So beautiful" He whispers while bending down to place his lips on yours, reaching up you place a hand on his cheek letting your thumb run across his skin as his lips move with yours, Zoro's hands move your shirt up and under your breasts tucking it into the underside of your bar so it won't get paint on it. Slowly pulling away from the kiss the swordsman gives you a loving smile before looking down at your stomach letting his hands run over it while bending down further to place a kiss just above your belly button, the sight makes your heart pound in your chest while tears well up in your eyes knowing how much he loves you and his unborn baby boy. Sanji is snapped out of his flustered shock by Kuina who giggles while pulling on the arm of his jacket "You should really take this off dad, you'll get it dirty" The cook quickly looks down at his daughter than to his jacket managing to come back to reality "Thanks sweetie"

Taking off his jacket and putting it aside Sanji starts turning up the sleeves of his white button down shirt, it doesn't bother him it gets paint on it but it would mean less washing later. Kuina happily makes her way back over to the sofa sitting down next to you as Zoro steps away to take off the top part of his kimono, the little girl can't help but let out a laugh at your flustered face that goes much redder when Sanji walks over taking his black tie off "You two will be the death of me" It slips out before you can stop it causing a squeak to leave your lips as you slap a hand over your mouth, your partners let their grins widen while looking you over with loving and mischievous eyes while your daughter throws her head back on laughter. Throwing his tie to the side making it land on top of his jacket Sanji steps closer letting his hand run over your stomach "Oh my love, you flatter us too much" leaning down to your ear the cook places a kiss just under it as your body stiffens knowing he's going to say something that will make you even more flustered "But if that does happen, i will be more than happy to give you mouth-to-mouth" Your face blows up red as you slap his arm starting to stutter but unable to form a sentence trying to tell the cook to shut up, Sanji laugh while kissing your burning hot cheeks ignoring your halfhearted protests and light hits on his chest and arms. Luckily Kuina couldn't here what was said mainly because she's laughing too hard, it's always a joy to see you so flustered since it's a rare sight and its something over her farther's can achieve.

Zoro lets out a chuckle with a shake of his head while grabbing a plate of paints and a paint brush "Alright, lets get started" The swordsman states getting the rest of his family to calm down enough to start, using Kuina's drawing as a guide your daughter paints on your side while Sanji and Zoro work on the rest, the outline made it every clear what their making bringing a smile to your face, a giant ribbon and down cutting diagonal across your belly leaving a big gap on one side, your daughter kept stepping away once in a while to look at it from a different angle and some times going up to Zoro asking him to redo a line. The swordsman didn't mind since he knows he's not that good at drawing but would often grumble under his breath having to redo a line several times to get it the right way mainly being mad at himself, reaching your hand down while trying not to move too much you run your hand through his green hair helping to calm him down which he gives you a thankful look for. Sanji's lines are neat and tidy, but he would always have a damp cloth wrapped around one finger, so he can run it under the line he's made making sure its perfect. With the three focused on their work there isn't any kind of conversation leaving the room in a comfortable and relaxing silence other than a few words here and there and at least one of them checking to see if you need a break. It didn't take long for them to finish all three stepping back to admire their work "Its almost done" Kuina jumps a little with glee happy to see it looking just the way she wants it too.

A look of surprise crosses your face since it looks down to you "Really? It's already amazing" Your comment gets your daughter shaking her head while running over to the table and grabbing four different pastel colored paints, green, yellow, orange and purple. "Were gonna need your help for this one love" Sanji smirks holding his hands out for you to take as Zoro comes to your side the two helping you stand up, the swordsman stands behind you placing his chin on your shoulder placing kisses on your neck "Ok Dad is green and Daddy is yellow. Ready?" Kuina lifts up a paint brush covered in green paint, Zoro holds out one of his hands letting his daughter paint the palm of his hand as Sanji moves to stand behind you as well placing his chin on your other shoulder "What is going on?" You whisper but only earn a small laugh and a kiss on the cheek in response, once Zoro's hand is painted your daughter takes a different brush with yellow paint and starts painting Sanji's palm that the cook holds out for her "Don't worry baby, i know you'll love this" Zoro whispers placing a few more kisses on your neck which you lean into enjoying his touch "Ok make a heart" Kuina states putting the plate down before helping her farther's make a heart with their joined hands, she adjusts the thumbs to make it perfect before standing back to have a look. Leaning back into the two you can't help but smile now knowing what their doing, Zoro's other arm goes around Sanji's waist keeping you snug in between their arms all while trying not to smug their work since his arm is hovering over the painting on your belly.

Kuina moves her farther's hands into the perfect position before giving them a nod, In perfect unison your partners press their hands onto your belly and hold it there while peppering your cheeks and neck with kisses, lifting your hands up cup their cheeks pulling the two closer to you "You boys are too sweet" You giggle turning to look at Sanji who gives you a sweet loving look "Anything for you Mi Amour" The cook whispers his lips brushing against yours before locking fully, letting out a happy hum you lean into the kiss while stroking his cheek, after a few short kisses you turn to Zoro who has a smirk plastered on his face "I told you'd like it" Leaning in the two of you share a short kiss before fully locking lips hoping to draw the feeling of his lips against yours, as another happy hum leaves your lips the swordsman lets out a needy groan wanting more so you open your mouth a little, Zoro's tongue is quick to enter your mouth roaming around as your hand moves up to hair. Kuina lets out a sigh, she's glad that her parents are in love, but she doesn't want the art work to get ruined, the swordsman's arm is perfectly still but that might change if this goes on "You can move your hands now" Your daughter states managing to brake you and the green haired man apart giving the young girl a sorry look, slowly your partners lift their hands up and off your belly leaving perfect hand prints with their thumb and fingers making a heart in the middle, in the middle a strip of green and yellow meets blending together a little and making a very light lime color.

Zoro and Sanji give you one last Kiss on the cheek before stepping away to clean their hands while Kuina walks up to you getting a better look at the hand prints "This is an amazing idea, I'm guessing the next to paints are for me and you?" You ask getting your daughter to look up at you and nod "I know my hands a lot smaller, but we can make it work. I picked Purple for you and orange for me" The young girl picks up her plate again and grabs two more paint brushes showing you the colors, placing your hand on her head you ruffle her hair before offering your hand to her letting her paint your hand. As she paints you look over to your body's seeing Zoro cleaning up Sanji's hand with a damp cloth, the two don't speck but do share an intense loving look, the cooks the first to step closer placing a light kiss on the corner of the swordsman's lip earning a groan of annoyance from the man, with both their hands clean Zoro throws the cloth down on the table then grabs Sanji's shirt pulling him in before the blonde can react. Crashing his lips onto his partners the swordsman lets out a satisfied moan forcing his tongue into the cooks mouth who instantly gives up and melts into the kiss, his hands run up Zoro's arm and take the hand that is holding his shirt managing to pull it off and interlock their fingers. Your brought back to your daughter when she puts the paint brush down and turns to her dads going to ask for help painting her hand only to see the two kissing.

With another sigh she shakes her head "Dads please… Art first, kissing later" Letting out a laugh you watch your partners pull away and slightly pout at being scolded by their daughter, it's hard to say no to Kuina when she's so determined, so the two pull away from each other and walk over, Zoro takes the plate from his daughter and starts painting her hand while Sanji looks over your purple palm flashing you a sweet smile "That color suits you mi amour" The cook tucks some hair behind your ear while leaning in to give you a light kiss, you happily return it before looking back at Kuina who has now moves to your side, with the help of Zoro and Sanji you manage to make a heart despite the size difference, placing your hands on your stomach your daughter follows along as you wrap your arm around her shoulder keeping the little girl pressed to your side "Thank you sweetie, this was a great idea, I've had so much fun" The two of you smile at each other while pulling your hands off your belly leaving the art work complete. Kuina leaves your side to look at her work her smile bigger then ever as she bounces on her feet in happiness "It looks so good" She praises as Zoro chuckles lifting her up into the air and holding her close "Heck yea it is, my little artist" The swordsman nuzzles his daughters cheek before kissing it not caring that she's trying to push him away with a paint covered hand all while giggling her little head off. Sanji quickly grabs the camera taking a photo of your belly and placing it back on the side, so he can hold you, being careful of the arm work the cook holds you from the side wrapping his arms around your waist and under your belly while your hand comes up to meet his cheek so you can pull him into a kiss.

Zoro smirks at seeing the moment your having with the blonde cook so puts his daughter down and takes her hand "Come on lets get you cleaned up and then show the others" The swordsman states pulling her over to the painting table and grabbing another cloth to clean her hand off all while praising her work. With your lips locked with Sanji's you tilt your head back a little to get a better angle letting his tongue push into your mouth with no resistance, your tongues dance around each other as light hums and moans of happiness leave your lips, it warms your heart to feel how much love your family has for each other and the unborn baby boy they haven't even met yet, you can't ask for anything more. As you pull away Kuina flings the door open and yells out for the others that their finished, of course the first people to rush in are Chopper, Luffy and Usopp, your not sure if their excited to see the art or find out the results of the contest but it doesn't seem to both Kuina. "Arrr thats so cute" Chopper smiles looking up at your belly admiring your families work "I like the hand idea" Usopp comments patting your daughter on the head as she beams up with pride at the sniper. "Its simple but beautiful" Nami smiles walking in with the rest of the crew, Jinbe walks up to Kuina placing a hand on her shoulder with a proud smile "you have an amazing talent young lady, keep it up" His praise makes her eyes sparkle with glee her pride in her and her parents work growing by the second. "Perfectly gift wrapped, how thoughtful" Robin giggles making some of the others laugh too including you and Zoro, the swordsman grabs your book and pen handing it over to you while Kuina hands out pieces of paper and pens to the crew "I can't believe this is the last one, its gone so quick" Franky chuckles after writing on his paper and handing it to Sanji as Zoro helps you sit back down.

Once everyone has scored the last piece of work you add it all together in your book before pulling out a small envelope from another page "Do we get a prize?" Luffy, Usopp and Franky all yell their eyes shining like starts making you giggle even though your feeling a little bad "No, I'm sorry, there's are just my scores, I've been writing them down and put them in here so i'm not tempted to change my own scores, I've forgotten what I've put down already" The three pout only to be slapped across the head by Nami, placing her hands on her hips the navigator scolds them for not noticing, you never told anyone what you were doing but the others could guess since you didn't hide it. With all your scores down and Robin calming Nami down the crew looks to you for the verdict, reading through the scores you can't help but let out a laugh at how things ended up "The winners are Chopper and Jinbe while the rest of you all come in second" A large smile grows on your face as you turn your book around to show them the page, everyone is tied expect for the winner who won by 4 point. There's a collective "What?" full of different emotions, happiness, disbelief and confusion "I can't believe we won" Chopper cheers as Kuina tackles him in a hug the two laughing and cheering as Zoro picks the two up kissing the tops of their heads "Great Job Chopper and thanks again.. Thanks you too Jinbe" The swordsman puts the two down before turning to the large fish man who rubs the back of his head "Oh it was all Choppers idea" Sanji shakes his head placing a hand on Jinbe's shoulder "Still thank you, it means a lot"

Nodding you give Jinbe a smile agreeing with your boys, what they did was beyond sweet and thoughtful, you got to see your baby before it was even born and find out the gender something you couldn't do with Kuina, speaking of the young girl she walks over to you her hand gripping onto Choppers "I'm glad you liked it but i'm sorry you guys didn't win" The doctor gulps feeling a little bad about it but Kuina shakes her head and takes your hand with a big smile "I didn't really care if we won or not, it was really fun and made this week at sea go bay really fast… Did you enjoy it mama, it wasn't too much was it?" Your daughter asks with sudden concern, squeezing her hand you lean closer placing a kiss on her head "I loved every second of it and even though your baby brother was a little fussy at times i think he enjoyed it too" Patting the seats next to you the two hop up cuddling into your sides, your arms wrap around them holding the two close as Kuina places her hand over her hand print on your belly "I'm glad, i can't wait to meet him" Your little girl whispers, kissing the top of her head you nuzzle into her feeling your heart swell with happiness and love only for the moment to be broken by Luffy's loud yelling "I want a rematch" Zoro, Sanji and a slightly stressed out Franky who's going over your scores are quick to look at their captain with a glare "No way" The three yell in unison making Luffy groan with a big pout before flopping onto the sofa away from you, he looks up at the three with puppy dog eyes trying his best to get them to agree like how they do with Kuina, letting out a laugh your soon joined by the two at your sides and a few other crew members as the three groan trying to ignore their pouting captain.

[lescraze]

In this oil on canvas painting by Criselda Vasquez, she uses her parents to reinterpret and contemporize the iconic 1930 painting by Grant Wood, American Gothic.

My parents were young migrant workers, my dad was brought into migrant work at a very young age, he dropped out of school when he was in middle high to do so. He was brought into migrant work by his mom and his moms mom, and so on. Migrant work is all my dad knew, on the other hand, my mom finished school, and attended university prior to getting pregnant, which pushed her into working in such conditions. Still was very interested in continuing to educate herself in any way possible. In the early 2000’s my parents officially decided to stay in Colorado, even though they could have chosen from California, New Mexico, Arizona, or Colorado, my parents were set on Colorado. My mom, still wanting to expand her knowledge , began taking English classes at our local Migrant Head Start, a head start that was for migrant families in the summer to provide child care services and early childhood education. My mom has no ESL (English as a second language) degree whatsoever, but, my mom took time out of her day and energy to not only teach herself English, but to help her 5 year old daughter with her english. My dad on the other hand didn't bother learning the language, and soon after getting basic knowledge on the language, I became my dads personal interpreter. 

Now growing up in a strictly spanish speaking household, even after learning english. My parents made it more of a priority to speak Spanish at home as much as possible, because they believed that in not doing so, we would lose our spanish my dad would go off and yell, “No no no en esta casa se abla Espanol, nada de ese engl-eesh” or “Na nada de eso, espanol por favor”, Making it hard to practice my english at times outside of school, but still very much grateful for this decision now. In school I strictly spoke english, because besides being the only place I could practice, my teachers would make it a priority we only spoke english as school, especially those in the ESL program. This is what always confused me about the situation. I wasn't allowed to speak Spanish at school, but I became my school's interpreter on almost every occasion, so you know, I kinda had to speak Spanish for that. Same at home, I was not allowed to speak English to or around my parents inside the house or outside, but yet I was always told "Mija diles esto…” and I went off speaking english. At the time, it made it hard to be encouraged in being the bilingual student or the interpreter everywhere I go, but now thinking back, I wouldn't have it any other way. Boy was that annoying, but no one else would do it.  Even though there were times where I wished I only knew one language and cried, because other children and peers would make fun of my accent, in which now, I am extremely thankful. Everytime I felt like not wanting to speak because I said ‘Cinnamon’ instead of ‘synonym’ (say it out loud and tell me it doesn't sound the same) I always had my momma cheering me on. Times where I felt frustrated because  I couldn't understand a concept, my mom was also there reminding me that being bilingual is an honor, and should be embraced and would tell me, “Nunca te avergüences por tu lenguaje! Puedes conquistar el mundo sabiendo dos lenguajes , nunca te avergüences mija” (Never be ashamed for your language. You can rule the world knowing 2 languages). Boy, my mama couldn't be more right…

[cowgurrrl]

I Wish I Was

Pairing: Joel Miller x fem!reader

Author’s note: yay for creative energy coming back!!

Summary: Murphy’s Law dictates… [3.1k]

Warnings: art talk, discussions of a deceased parent, probably incorrect blueprint talk, a cliff hanger 😈

Temperatures rarely dip below the thirties in Central Texas. It's not impossible, as evidenced by the below-freezing temperatures ravaging much of the South in the final days before returning to school, but it's still rare. Nobody really knows what to do when there's the threat of the roads icing over, so they just decide to shut most things down, including your bar. You feigned disappointment when your manager called to tell you when, in reality, you were digging through your box of acrylic paints to find the one shade that's been calling your name. With the sudden free time, you get to work on your half-finished canvases and listen to the same record repeatedly in the hopes that your brain will zone out enough for you to make something good. 

It could be The Mamas and The Papas record spinning or the dark blue winter light shining through your blinds, but you actually like the piece of art unfolding on your canvas. It's undeniably different, a little more vibrant and a little more abstract, but it feels good— sustainable, at the very least. You feel less self-conscious about them and even snap pictures to show them off to Andie. You've finished three other canvases and sent in images of them to a local art collective that takes gallery submissions twice a year, and they've moved you on to the next part of the acceptance process. It's not a definite yes, but it's not an immediate no. You haven't told Joel about the submission or anything, really. You've just holed yourself up in your apartment to paint and sporadically respond to his texts with lots of apologies typed with yellow or purple fingertips.

He knows you're not ignoring him, and you know he's a busy guy. He has better things to do than sit around and wait for you to text him back, but you feel bad about not being as present as you were before. "It's all part of the process, I promise," you said. "Then, when I get my own gallery, you can hear all about it while you fix up my classroom." He reminded you that "pride goeth before the fall" but didn't doubt or pressure you to break your flow. The only thing he consistently texts you about is making sure you're drinking water, stretching your wrists, and, at least, looking at a vegetable during your long sessions. Otherwise, he leaves you alone to work. Everyone else, including the stack of looming emails in your inbox, gets deliberately ignored so you can live in your bubble for just a little longer before school drags you back into session. 

That's why you jumped and furrowed your eyebrows at your ringing phone when his contact photo appeared unexpectedly, breaking you out of your concentration. You wipe your hands on your old pair of too-big jeans (universally known as your work pants because they're covered in different colored hand prints) and swipe to answer him before the silly picture of him with one of your scarves on his head can go away. You hear him shuffling around when you put it on speaker and almost hang up, thinking it's a butt dial before you finally hear his voice.

"Hello?" He greets.

"Hey, what's up?" 

"Did I leave my jacket there?" He asks. You let out a relieved sigh that it's nothing too dramatic, but the lingering panic his phone call caused sits in the back of your head as you glance down at said jacket. You adjust the palette in your hand, suddenly hyper-aware of the wet paint and thanking whatever God is out there for not getting any on his clothes. You can't imagine things would go over well with the guys if he suddenly showed up to job sites with pink paint on the sleeve of his jacket.

"No..." you say, extending the vowel, and he chuckles. 

"Do me a favor. See if there's a ring of keys in the front pocket?" He says. You gently put the palette on your coffee table and wipe your hands again to ensure there's no wet paint on them before digging into both front pockets and feeling the keys in his left pocket. You pull them out and find the set of keys with a baseball keychain and a keychain with a picture of him and the girls on it. 

"I've got 'em," you say. "The Astros? Really?"

"D'you mind bringin' 'em to the office? I forgot I needed 'em." He ignores your jab, and you look down at your outfit. Clad in your work pants, a sports bra, Joel's Carhartt jacket, and your unwashed hair in a clip, you are not prepared to leave the house today, let alone go see Joel.

"Um..." 

"Somethin' wrong?" He asks, and you wince. What are you gonna say? Sorry, I know you have to do your job and all, but I look and feel like shit, so I can't bring your keys to you? He's already seen you in disarray from the school day, but that was a cuter, more socially acceptable version of disarray. This version gives credence to the messy, mentally ill artist stereotype Freud introduced however many years ago. 

"No, nothing's wrong. I just..." you sigh and rub your face. "I wasn't expecting to see you today. I kinda look crazy." 

"That's it?" He asks, and you can hear the smile in his voice. "Baby, I don't care how you look. You could show up in a potato sack, and I wouldn't care." 

"Well, lucky for you, I don't own a potato sack, but I'm pretty sure that would look better than this."

"If it makes you feel better, the office is empty."

"Then, why are you in? It's fucking freezing."

"I needed to make sure the pipes didn't freeze over, and I left some blueprints here," he says. "I can grab 'em from you and just come back to the office."

"No, I don't want you driving more than you have to," you say, already stretching out your stiff legs. Your knees creak in protest, and fatigue seeps into your bones. God, how long have you been sitting here? "Just don't say I didn't warn you."

"I think it'll take a lot more than some messy clothes to scare me off, darlin'," he says, and you roll your eyes at his charm. With a quick goodbye, you throw on a clean enough sweater and leggings. You debate running a brush through your hair before remembering what he said about the empty office and decide you don't have the energy. If he really doesn't care what you look like, then you're not going to stress about it. 

You're a little worried about driving in the weather, even you aren't immune to Southern weather panic, but the roadways are mostly clear, and things aren't expected to get really bad until later on. Still, you drive slowly and white-knuckle the wheel against strong, frigid winds. By the time you get to Joel's office, the sky is more grey than blue, and radio announcers warn you that there might be flurries within the next forty-eight hours. You doubt they'll stick to the ground and amount to nothing more than some black ice, inconveniencing everyone in the state, but still. You leave the relative warmth of your car and walk as fast as you can into the building, clutching Joel's jacket close to your body and sending a wave of his smell over you. 

The office itself is small, with a couple of desks here and there, mostly for meeting with clients and explaining building plans. A coffee pot and water cooler sit in the corner next to the receptionist's desk, which is currently empty. It's eerily quiet in the space except for the sound of the heat rumbling somewhere in the walls, and you almost wonder if Joel left without telling you when you hear grumbling and the tell-tale sound of his boots against the tile. He doesn't notice you at first. Instead, he scowls at a paper like it owes him money and mutters under his breath. Whatever is annoying him is wiped away the second he sees you there. 

"Hey, baby," he lights up as he walks over to you and kisses you, abandoning the paper on one of the desks so he can hold you close. He tastes like coffee and the beeswax chapstick Ellie got him for Christmas. You didn't realize how much you missed him until now, and you smile against his lips. "You got my keys?" He asks as he turns to walk into his office, grabbing your hand and bringing you with him. He lets go of you to close the door behind him, and you dig the keys out of your pocket and toss them at him. He catches them in mid-air easily and walks over to the filing cabinet.

"You intentionally leave your keys with me, or is this just a happy accident?" You ask, and he smirks. 

"Maybe I just wanted to see you again."

"Sneaky," you say as you walk around his space while he searches for the correct blueprint. 

It's a relatively normal office with eggshell walls and bad fluorescent lighting, but once you step behind his desk, you get a good idea of the man who works here. His desk is old and made of some type of wood he probably knows more about than you do. It's filled with little knick-knacks and things that get him through the day: family pictures, a painted gecko from Terlingua, stress balls, and a desk calendar with his all-caps handwriting. There are even some drawings done by Ellie pinned on the corkboard behind his chair, her skill visibly improving as she gets older. 

One particular picture on his desk catches your eye. It's older than the rest, and it takes you a minute to recognize Joel's eyes in the greying man. Joel, Tommy, and their dad smile at the camera with identical grins. Tommy can't be older than ten while Joel towers over them both, his broad shoulders taking up lots of space. You pick it up to look at it closer and Joel doesn't stop you. Instead, he comes up behind you and wraps his arms around your waist, resting his chin on your shoulder. 

"'S this your dad?" you ask, and he nods. "You guys look a lot alike." 

"You think?" He asks like he doesn't see it, and you look at him. You take a second or two to let your eyes trace his features and compare them to his dad's before nodding.

"Yeah. Same eyes," you say as you look back down. "And smile." He hums happily at that. Joel's face hasn't changed much now that he's a grown man. If anything, he looks more like his dad, with the grey at the temples and the beard framing his face. You see bits of their father in Tommy, too, but you assume he probably looks more like their mother. "How old were you in this?"

"Mm, fifteen? Maybe sixteen." Right before his dad died, you think. You wonder if he's thinking the same thing or reliving the day over again. Before the clutches of grief can sink you both, you smile to yourself and hold the picture a little closer.

"I would've been obsessed with you if we'd gone to high school together." 

"Really?" He asks incredulously, and you giggle at the thought. 

"Oh, for sure. Look at you!" You point to his little broody half-smile as if it's evidence. "Those eyes, that hair, the attitude. I mean, c'mon, Joel!" He laughs at your praise and takes the photo out of your hands.

"Alright, alright, that's enough objectification for teenage Joel." 

"I'm not objectifying you! I'm just stating the obvious." 

"Mhm," he hums, and you laugh. You continue walking around and looking at his things as he frowns at the blueprint he trekked through the cold to get. "Shit." He mumbles, reaches for a pencil, and scribbles something on the plans. 

"What's wrong?" You ask, perching yourself on the edge of his desk and leaning over to look at the intricate design. It looks like a big house with lots of elaborate details written on the margins. It's a big build. No wonder he needed to get this copy.  

"This client decided they wanted a bigger kitchen, but I don't know how to do that without eatin' into another room and changin' the whole plan," he sighs. "We're supposed to be back on the site once this storm blows over, and I gotta have an idea of how we're gonna do this by then." 

"Can't you just tell them no?" You ask, and he chuckles.

"Can’t you just tell your principal no?

"Point taken," you say. "What about pushing it into the backyard a little? Then you could use this area over here to make a sunroom or something," you suggest, gesturing to the weird leftover space that would make the house look wonky. His eyebrows knit together as he thinks.

"Then what should I do here?" He asks. Together, you go back and forth, discussing dimensions, perspectives, and measurements. You never realized how similar these designs are to art. They have to have more of a purpose and fit specific parameters, but other than that, they have the same idea: create something out of nothing. It's cool to see Joel in his own element, doing mental math and estimates that would take you ages to do and writing down his findings as you figure them out together. He's not just good at math, he's good at sketching the new designs. 

Almost seamlessly, he flips through the floor plans and layouts, adding a window there or changing the flow of a room with a singular erasure. He adds the perfect depth to see the idea clearly without crowding the space and making it seem too busy, allowing the clients to picture their furniture in the home. When you bring up an idea, he's quick to rotate the plans upside down to imagine how it would look and if it would impact the building process, his brain running through every possible solution and flipping it without even thinking. Ellie does the same thing when she gets stuck on a drawing. You see where she gets her skill from, even if he'll never admit it. 

For someone who has always struggled with math, you enjoy the balance between math, engineering, and art in the plans, but you like working with Joel the most. It's nice to feel like you're helping instead of distracting him. You're not sure how long you worked together, reconfiguring things this way and that, before you finally reached a viable solution, but you know that Joel has the biggest smile on his face when he looks away from the blueprints. 

"You mighta missed a callin', my dear." He says, and you laugh, shaking your head.

"My college algebra professor might disagree, but I do think this is interesting." 

"Well, if you ever want a job..." he trails off as he rolls the blueprints back up and secures it with a rubber band. You smirk and tug at his belt loops to bring him closer to where you're sitting on his desk. 

"You just want me to get more tattoos." You accuse, and he chuckles as he tosses the prints somewhere behind you, his hands coming up to frame your face. 

"I'm just sayin', Miller Contracting don't have a policy against it like the school district does."

"Mm, what about dating? That might get a little dicey." 

"Is sleepin' with your boss better or worse than sleepin' with a student's parent?" He asks, and you laugh. 

"They're probably in the same realm of bad."

"Then, we've got nothin' to lose." He says as he leans down to kiss you. You open your legs just enough for him to step in between your knees and get as close as he can. He's trimmed his beard since the last time you saw him, but the stubble still scratches deliciously against your skin, making you sigh. He breaks away enough to tip you back onto his desk, narrowly missing his clutter, and you giggle when he kisses your neck.

"How long have you been plannin' this one?" you ask, your years in Texas showing through in your breathless voice. He smiles as he meets your eyes. 

"I dunno what you're talkin' bout."

"Oh, so getting me alone and on top of your desk was just a coincidence?"

"Happy accident." He muses, sliding his hands up your shirt as he gets lower and lower. Your hands play with his hair, occasionally tugging on the strands just to hear the sound he makes. You would've been happy to do that all day if your phone ringing through the suddenly too-warm air of his office didn't interrupt. Joel groans and drops his head to your sternum, his hands pausing their journey up your body as you wiggle your phone out of your back pocket. Your heart drops the second you recognize the phone number.

"Who is it?" Joel asks like he's reading your mind. You sit up slowly, and he takes his hands off you without malice or frustration. You're stuck staring at the number until it disappears off your screen and goes to voicemail. 

"Um... someone from work. I should probably call them back." You say, unsure of yourself as the words fall from your mouth. Joel looks confused but doesn't push. 

"Oh. Right, yeah. School starts back up on Monday, right?" 

"Yeah, she probably just wants to talk about lesson plans or something," you say, standing from your spot on the desk. The air has changed between you, and suddenly, things feel clunky and awkward. This is the worst possible timing. "Can I call you later?"

"Yeah, of course. I'll walk you out." He says sheepishly. You don't say anything as he opens the doors for you and gives you a quick kiss and a reminder to text him when you get home. You just nod and immediately speed walk to your car even though you're not that cold. Joel watches you pull out from your parking spot and leave the strip mall, waving before you can turn out of sight. 

You wait until you're five minutes down the road before you dial the number back as if Joel would be able to hear the crackly voice through your speaker if you were any closer. Your heart beats fast in your chest, and your palms are sweaty on the wheel as the phone rings. When the dial tone finally ends, and your call is answered, the anxiety is replaced with frustration.

"What’s up?" You ask through gritted teeth, and you hear her take a breath.

"We need to talk about Ellie’s dad."

TAGLIST: @abbyhaslongshorts @kiwiharrykiwi @sumsworldz @myloveistoolittle @anavatazes @marantha @cosmoscoffeee @shyminnie07 @beezusvreeland @eddiemunsonsbedroom @harriedandharassed @doodlebob-mp3 @ignorethisplz2004 @buckyispunk @d1lf-loverrr @vee-bees-blog @moel-jiller @anoverwhelmingdin @casssiopeia @maried01 @acupofhollie

[blacklesbothatlovestowrite]

On My Mama Pt. 4

Tags: @mixedfandxms @shurislover @sweetalittleselfish-honey @desswright29 @cutttteeee @onyxstones-world @katymae12344 @doramilaj233 @sweetalittleselfish-honey @6-noir @khara876 @she-is-my-unrequited-love34 @teadah18 @un-deniable-me3

So I took a bit of a hiatus but I’m back. I started a new story on Wattpad under my username NeomaMona (QueenNeoma) called You & Me. It’s a Jamaican fic with a straight main couple and Lesbian/gay side characters. Remember I write for everyone so no one is left out. Original characters w/ pics. This update is a bit of a roller coaster but I hope you guys enjoy. 🤎

A few weeks went by with you ignoring Shuri and Riri. You didn’t acknowledge their presence, you were either locked in your room when they were home or you were out.

While you felt slightly guilty for ignoring Riri as she didn’t do anything besides befriend an immoral person. You couldn’t bring yourself to talk to her. You hated to admit after the talk where you’d both shared such private and painful memories; you liked her.

You didn’t like anyone. Well, except Shuri before you’d found out what she’d done. However that didn’t count. As you never met her when you were crushing on her. You were just another girl behind a screen, admiring her while she knew nothing of your existence.

Riri’s words constantly played in your head. You scrutinized Bria’s every move and action, but so far she hadn’t done anything. She seemed genuine.

She kept you in a constant state of bliss. She loved making you cum in your room, whilst the duo were home. And while you knew she did it with the motivation of getting under their skin. You were sure at this point you liked fucking her but that was it. Your crush had worn off after the first two weeks.

In the past few weeks, Riri made it harder for you to ignore her. She brought you breakfast and iced coffee, she did your laundry and folded it, she waited up for you each night with dinner despite not receiving any thanks.

Each interaction made the guilt grow stronger. It was obvious she was trying. You’d never had anyone pay you any mind continuously, that felt genuine. She did things without being asked to. If you felt frustrated about something, she was quickly finding a way to help you. It was unspoken. She seemed to pay close attention to you. She noticed the small things.

One of the things that warmed you up to her slightly was when you’d fallen asleep in your room with the door open as you worked on your assignment. She placed your bonnet on your head and removed your makeup. You’d woken slightly when she placed your comforter over you, and whispered goodnight.

You couldn’t ignore how much she seemed to care about you.

-

“Hey.” You looked up from your textbook to see Riri in your doorway. Her hair was freshly braided back in cane rows styled into two space buns. She seemed nervous as she fidgeted with her hands.

“Hi.” You replied, biting your bottom lip. You felt just as nervous as she looked.

“I want to show you something. If you have the time?” She seemed unsure and you could hardly blame her. You’d said nothing to her in weeks despite all she’d done for you.

“Sure.” You nodded, closing your textbook and placing it on your nightstand before standing. You followed her out to the living room, your brows furrowing as she stopped in front of a canvas.

“I’m not sure how you’re going to take this but I remember when I lost my dad how much keeping his memory alive helped me.” Riri cleared her throat as she looked at you. Her eyes sparkled as you raised a brow, confused.

She turned the canvas around and you gasped. She’d painted a picture of your father and you. You were 3 in the portrait, sitting on your father’s shoulder as you cheered. A look of love on both of your faces. You swallowed as you recalled exactly where the picture she’d used had been taken.

Your mother was walking for the House of Woo. She was the first dark skin woman of color to ever grace the big stage. She single-handedly paved the way for dark skin women in the industry before the Woo show, however Woo was a coveted event for any black woman as they kept to lighter complexions only.

You remember being so in awe of her, seeing her walk. The only model who looked like you, not because of features but skin tone. All the other models were European, Latin/Hispanic, Biracial or Lightskin. You remember your father whistling and cheering loud as she sauntered on.

“Thank you.” The words were hard to release. You felt tears prick your eyes as you stared at the portrait. You wondered why she chose that picture of the many of your family online. If she’d known the backstory of the picture. Regardless you were grateful for it nonetheless. It captured your father in one of his happiest moments.

“I didn’t mean to make you cry, Y/n.” Riri frowned but you shook your head.

“You didn’t.”

“How about some food? You’ve been studying all day.” Riri suggested.

You nodded.

Riri took you to her favorite diner. There were a few students you knew from your college in the packed diner. As you were seated, Riri broke the silence. Her fingers playing with her gold necklace.

“I hope I didn’t make you uncomfortable.” Riri muttered, her voice low.

“I’m okay. I love it, really.” You said slowly. Hoping you conveyed just how much you enjoyed her gift.

“Why’d you do it ?” You asked.

“Everyone should have something of importance in their home.” She shrugged. “You had no pictures in your room. Yet your IG is full of pictures of you and your dad.”

“I locked away my photo albums.” You admitted. You’d even locked your album in your photo’s with picture of your dad.

“I hope you don’t think I overstepped.” She swallowed, you watched as she swiped her tongue against her bottom lip. You noticed she did that a lot when she was nervous or she was concentrating. 

“I appreciate it. I’ve been trying to pretend like if I don’t see things that remind me of him that I’ll stop being sad. But It hurts more.” Your eyes were watery.

“We aren’t the same. I know that but if you ever want to talk, I’m here. Even if it’s just to listen. Keeping things bottled inside won’t help you. I know that from experience.” She emphasized. She placed her hand over mine on the table.

“I’m sorry for ignoring you.” You changed the subject.

“You’re good.” Riri waved you off. “Shuri was out of line. And I pushed you too much.”

“You didn’t.” Your assured her.

“Thank you for everything you did. I should have said that before now. You didn’t have to do-“

“I wanted to.” She smiled.

“What are you getting?” A girl with a puff and laid edges said as she walked over. She was full of attitude. You looked her up and down, before rolling your eyes.

“What do you want, mama?” Riri asked.

“Whatever you get is fine.” You shrugged. You knew you and Riri liked the same food, after all the takeout she’d gotten you and the meals she’d made for you.

“We’ll have two medium well provolone mushroom burgers, with the thin fries and strawberry milk shakes.” Riri ordered. The girl hissed her teeth before writing it down.

“April, drop the attitude. I’ve never led you on, we were never together so I don’t appreciate your energy.” Riri lowered her voice so only you, her and the waitress heard.

“Good luck with that.” April directed towards me, tilting her head towards Riri.

“Friend of yours?” You smirked.

“No. We messed around but I told her what I tell everyone. I wasn’t looking for anything serious. I’m single. I have no need to lie, cheat or play with people’s emotions. I’m straightforward.” Riri clarified.

“Wasn’t?” You raised a brow.

“No one has captured my attention like you.” Riri admitted, her eyes locked with yours.

“Bold.” You giggled.

“I never lie. I have no reason to. No girl has ever made me like them enough to want to do anything for them beyond sex.” She shrugged and you bit your lip to keep from smiling. As hard as you tried not to like her, she was getting under your skin. While Bria had you hooked sexually, Riri was able to get under your skin with just her actions, her words.

You knew she was being honest because you’d heard stories of how she was never interested in going on dates with other girls. How she ‘loved them and leaved them’ she was solely focused on school and making her money.

“Why’d you get strawberry milkshakes.” Deciding to change the subject again.

“You hate chocolate and you think vanilla is too plain for a milkshake unless there are things added but you love strawberry milkshakes like you love strawberry cake.” Riri noted. “I know you only drunk the shakes I bought you because you were being nice. I saw the cringe on your face when you drank them so I deduced you had to like strawberry since you’d said you loved milkshakes on your snap one day.”

“Uhhhh.” You were shocked she paid such close attention to that.

“How cozy…” You look up to see Bria walking towards you. You could see her friend from the day in the courtyard sitting at a nearby table with her phone in her hand and figured she’d alerted her to where you were and with whom.

“Bria.” You warned. The more you got to know her, the more you realized while she despised both Shuri and Riri; she absolutely hated Riri. You were all for her being rude to Shuri but Riri didn’t deserve it.

“I missed you, babe.” She smiled, leaning down and kissing me. She thrusted her tongue into my mouth and sucked on it, as she moaned out. The kiss wasn’t like her usual ones. You could tell she was angry underneath the sweet demeanor. You pulled away, staring at her in confusion.

“What are you doing her?” You asked.

“I could ask you the same question, babe.” She narrowed her eyes at you.

“Riri and I are hanging out.” You informed her, watching as her eye slightly twitched.

“That’s interesting. I thought you hated her.” She swung her eyes towards Riri, before looking back at you.

“I never said I hated Riri.” I stared at her in shock that she’d so blatantly lie.

“Y/n, you said you hated her. That your skin crawled every time you were around her.” Bria gloated and you scowled. You couldn’t believe she was lying. Sure you’d said that about Shuri but never about Riri. Sure you found her annoying in the beginning but you were starting to like her. “You literally said she needed to go back to Chicago where her pops and Natalie were buried because you couldn’t stand the sight of her.”

“Bria!” You couldn’t believe she’d say something so heinous.

“That’s how it is?” Riri scoffed, her eyes showing how hurt she was. You felt sick at the way her voice cracked and her eyes got glossy.

“Riri I did—“

“Stop lying Y/n. Be honest, tell her how you planned on telling the whole school how she’d gotten her father and friend killed by going to that park.” Bria grinned.

“What the fuck is your problem?!” You shouted, as the whole diner got quiet.

“You told her what I told you…” Riri rasped, as tears fell down her cheeks. You looked at her with empathy. She wasn’t one to cry.

“I promise you I didn’t…” You swear.

“How would she know? I’ve never told anyone besides you and Shuri. And Shuri would never tell anyone that. I know that for a fact!” Riri hissed.

“I may be a bitch. But I’m not heartless I didn’t tell her that. I swear.” You pleaded.

“I thought you weren’t. I told myself you were hurt and angry and lashing out, that you were a good person but who was I kidding. You talk about Shuri being a horrible person but she did what she did with a willing participant that did not let her know she was married or in a relationship. You two are NOT the same.” Riri declared before getting out of the booth and storming off.

You sat in silence as you stared. Watching her leave, feeling like you wanted to throw up. Having people dislike you was one thing but Riri was different. She was sweet, caring, generous.

“Oops.” Bria smirked.

“I never told you about her father or Natalie… And I never said those disgusting things.” You hissed. “Why would you lie?”

She moved close until her lips were by your ear and you tensed. You felt disgusted by her. Having her near you was too much.

“You think you’re all that because you had Riri’s attention? Riri was mine first. You’re nothing compared to me.” She hissed, before standing and flipping her hair in your face.

-

What the fuck?

You hadn’t seen Riri since the night before. She was nowhere to be found. You’d spent the whole day texting, calling and looking for her. She’d missed all her classes. You were frustrated. Shuri was no help as she came in drunk again and passed out on the couch.

You made your way over to Bria’s apartment, and banged on her door. You wanted to know what the fuck she was on. From her words it was clear she wanted Shuri and Riri which made no sense since she’d left them.

And if she was so jealous of you why did she fuck you? She clearly was obsessed with you to be eating your pussy as much as she did.

You had your phone recording from your pocket because you planned to clear your name to Riri. You couldn’t stomach her hating you.

“What?” She snapped as she flung the door open.

“What the fuck was that?” You matched her tone.

“Y/n, aren’t you a genius ?” She mocked.

“Why did you lie to Riri?” You demand.

“The questions should be why did she believe me? Why was she so quick to believe me over you?” She smirked.

“You had details not many people know I don’t blame her for not believing me. But I never told you any of that.” You crossed your arms over your chest. “Where did you hear about her Dad and Natalie?”

“Who cares?”

“I do, now tell me you classless hating ass bitch.” You barked, your tone conveying just how much you wanted to play ‘Whack A Bitch’.

“I saw you two when you were talking. I heard her tell you about them.” She rolled her eyes.

“Why do you hate her so much?” You wondered.

“I wanted Riri.” She snapped. “I’ve always wanted Riri. It’s the only reason I became friends with Shuri and fed her the idea of us being a throuple because they were close. Riri never seemed into it and at a certain point she decided to drop me like I was nothing when I told her I loved her and wanted to be with just her.”

“Are you serious right now? I can’t believe this shit!” You wanted to beat her ass so bad.

“Don’t act like you didn’t like me eating your pussy and fucking you while Riri listened.” Bria gloated. “You and I both know you wanted to get a reaction out of her.”

“Riri was right. You are a manipulative bitch.” You scoffed, walking away. She wasn’t worth your energy. You ended the recording and headed towards the only place you hadn’t looked. The lab.

After demanding to be let in, you were disappointed when you saw that Riri wasn’t there. You had no idea where else to look. You sighed before sending the recording to Riri’s number, her snap and her dms hoping she didn’t block you.

As you opened your apartment door you heard moans. You furrowed your brows as you locked the door behind you and headed towards your room, figuring Shuri had a girl over. Neither She or Riri had ever had anyone over so it was off putting but not surprising.

You tossed your keys and bag on the kitchen counter before seeing two people in the couch going at it. You couldn’t believe your eyes at first. But the longer you stared the more real it became.

You froze as you saw Riri fucking Nina on the couch. Your eyes were wide as you took in the scene in front of you. Nina was face down in the couch while Riri drove her strap into her. She was moaning and wailing as Riri pounded into her.

You couldn’t move as you watched in horror. You thought Nina was your friend. How could she fuck with someone she thought you ‘disliked’ and Riri? Of all the people she had to choose your ‘friend’.

“Fuck, you have the best pussy.” Riri groaned as she yanked Nina’s hair. “Look how you’re creaming for me mama.”

You cringed as she called her the nickname she only called you. You felt hurt. Bria turning out to be a fucked up person was one thing, but Riri? How could she go so low without even talking to you and letting you explain yourself or even defend yourself?

“Ay, mami! I love how you’re fucking me!” Nina cried out as Riri thrusted harder. You felt disgusted, angering building in you.

“Cum for me, mama.” Riri demanded, smacking Nina on the ass. And as if on command, Nina came. Her annoying ass voice screeching.

You crossed your arms.

“Are you done?” You asked.

“I mean not really but we probably should take this to my bedroom.” Riri smirked, as she moved away from Nina and stood. You narrowed your eyes as Nina got up and stared at you.

“I hope you don’t mind Riri invited me over? I couldn’t say no…” Nina smiled, and I bit back the urge to yell. I was about to turn to go into the room when Riri grabbed something from off the couch. Your heart dropped when you realized it was the canvas of your father and you.

“You’re disgusting!” You cried, as she walked it over to you with a smirk.

“It was fuck me, Natalie and my dad right?” Riri scoffed. “Well fuck you and your daddy.”

You watched as she took a lighter from off the nightstand and lit the canvas stained with their juices on fire. Your body shook as you watched her burn the canvas.

“Riri! That’s so mean.” Nina laughed.

“Never speak to me again. I will never forgive you for this. You were right. Shuri wasn’t to blame for anything. She was an uninformed willing participant. But you…” You sobbed. “You’re so much worse. Go to fucking hell Williams!”

You grabbed a vase with flowers and dumped the water into the burning canvas before grabbing your keys and bag and heading back out the door.



[crazyunsexycool]

My little love

Mother’s Day celebration

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x reader

Word count: 2.3k

Warnings: fluff that is it!

Series Masterlist

A/N: if you can’t tell by now I’m horrible with with writing one shots round holidays and such but fortunately writing for our favorite family comes easy. In the U.S today is Mother’s Day so I wanted to do something to celebrate. Happy Mother’s Day to anyone that follows me or might come across this one shot!

“Wake up mama.” A little voice starts to pull you from your sleep. “No seeping mama.” You hear in a sing-song tone then you feel a kiss on your cheek.

Little hands put pressure on your chest as kisses continue to rain down on your face. You try to keep from smiling as the door opens.

“Baby is she awake?” Henry whispered.

“No wake up, bubba.” Lottie complains to her brother who promptly gets up on the bed. He starts to play with your hair the same way you do when you’re waking him up.

“Maybe we should tickle her instead.”

“Tic-kle?” Lottie tried to sound it out.

“Yeah tickle, like this.”

By the sound of Charlotte’s giggling you know Henry was giving her a demonstration. This was the perfect time to join in.

“Did someone say tickle?”

Both of them jumped at the sound of your voice and started laughing before you grabbed them and flipped over on the bed. They both squirmed and laughed as they tried but failed to get away from you. It quickly turned into a pile of hugs and kisses.

“I missed you mama.” Henry says once you’ve all settled. You had been on a mission for the past three days and when you came back they were already sleeping.

“Yeah, missed you mama.”

“Well I missed both of you very much.”

“You have to get up, we have a surprise for you.” Henry said as he got out of bed. Lottie followed his lead.

“Uppies mama. We habe suwpwise.”

“You do?” You ask as you get out of bed. “Why am I getting a surprise?”

Henry turned to you with a confused look on his face. “Because it’s Mother’s Day. Daddy said we get to celebrate having the best mama ever today.”

His words caught you so off guard. Of course you knew it was Mother’s Day but you didn’t think you’d be part of the celebration.

“You think that I’m the best mom?”

“Of course, mama.” He says as if it’s the most obvious thing in the world. “Why are you sad?”

A few stray tears rolled down your cheeks.

“I’m not sad, my sweet boy. These are happy tears.”

“So do you want to see the surprise?”

You nod and let him take your hand while Lottie led you to the living room. Bucky was there waiting for the three of you. The first surprise was a collage of pictures hung on the wall, all individually framed and arranged perfectly. They ranged from the day of the petting zoo up until your stay in Wakanda.

“When did you hang all of these up?”

“While you were sleeping.” Bucky said, sounding very proud of himself. You hugged him and then the kids.

“It’s perfect, I love it.”

“There’s more mama.” Henry speaks up from the couch where he and Lottie are now sitting. They’re each holding a small canvas which they presented to you. Henry had painted some flowers while Lottie was more abstract. She was very proud to display it for you and gave you a beaming smile when you told her you loved it. On the couch next to them there is a garment bag and some gift bags and boxes.

“Go ahead and open everything.”

The garment bag held a beautiful green dress. The boxes and gift bags held some shoes, a purse, a perfume you really wanted and a beautiful pair of earrings with a matching bracelet.

“Everything is perfect. I can’t wait to wear it.”

“Good because,” as if on queue there’s a knock on the door and Wanda and Nat both saunter in. “You’re going to go get ready with the girls. We have another surprise when you’re done.” Bucky says.

“Come on momma, let us pamper you.”

You smiled and stood, heading towards the door before turning.

“Wait, where are we going?”

“Is a suwpwise mama.” Lottie answered and she waved at you. “Bye bye.”

You laughed as you let Nat and Wanda take you away to Nat’s apartment where there was a whole makeshift spa set up.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

You spent about an hour with Nat and Wanda before some guests arrived. There was Sarah, invited by Sam. Laura, Clint’s wife and Pepper who just wanted to join in on the fun. She brought with her May, she was the aunt of Tony’s new intern. It was a great time between just the small group. You talked about life in between doing face masks, doing your nails, sharing lunch, drinking champagne and eating sweets.

After spending time with the group you all got dressed. It was clear that if you had a child, there was a surprise waiting for you. Only Nat, Wanda and Pepper knew what was going on. Wanda made sure you had the new dress Bucky and the kids got for you as well as all the accessories and sent you on your way.

Right outside of Nat’s apartment you were surprised to find Bucky and the kids. You smiled brightly when you realized that not only had he gotten you the dress you were wearing, he bought coordinating outfits for himself, Charlotte and Henry. They all wore some variation of green, with Lottie wearing a dress while Henry and Bucky wore a button up and jeans.

“I know how much you love matching outfits.” He said as you bounced on the balls of your feet.

“So pweety mama.”

“You’re so pretty sweet Angel, and my boys look so handsome.” You gushed.

“Ok Henry, why don’t you go ahead with Lottie and find uncle Steve.”

“Come on baby.” Henry takes Lottie’s hand and they walk down the hallway together.

Your arms wrap around Bucky’s neck and you pull him down for a quick kiss.

“Today has been amazing thanks to you.”

“Well, I have one more thing to give you.” He pulls out a long slim box from his back pocket and hands it to you. “Clint and Sam both said it’s a cheesy tradition that at least for one Mother’s Day you get something that represents the kids. I hope this isn’t too cheesy for you.”

He says as you open the box. Inside sat a delicate necklace, the circular pendant had an etching of a rose and a chrysanthemum. There were two stones hanging separately from each other, one was a pearl and the other was a topaz.

“The flowers represent their birth month and those are their birthstones.”

“I love it.” You smiled up at him. It was simple and understated. “Will you put it on for me?”

“Of course.”

You turned around and held the necklace out for him to take. He unclasped it and gently brought it around your neck. Once he was done he kissed the base of your neck. Bucky’s hands settle on your hips and he turns you to face him again. Bucky’s lips are on yours, the kiss is soft and sweet.

“Let’s go celebrate.”

~~~~~~~~~~

Just like when Tony brought in a petting zoo for Lottie, there was an area outside of the main building setup with chairs, tables, a stage with a live band and even a dance floor. The sun was just beginning to set and the perimeter was outlined by strings of soft white lights. The poles that held up the lights were decorated with the same flowers that were on the tables. The place was full of agents with their families. Bucky led you to what you assumed was the main table, reserved for the avengers and their families.

That’s where you found Steve talking with Henry while Lottie was dancing around along with the music. Steve spots you first and gets up, opening his arms to embrace you.

“Happy Mother’s Day.” He says as he pulls away. Grabbing a bouquet of your favorite flowers, Steve presents them to you. “These are for you and so is this.” It’s a gift bag. You open it to find a frame.

When you pull it out you realize it was one of his drawings that he never let you see. The drawing itself was of the four of you and you’re sure he drew it from memory because you don’t have a picture of the four of you interacting like this. You hugged him again.

“It’s beautiful, thank you Steve. I know exactly where I want to hang it up too.”

“Where is it going?”

“In my office, right across my desk so that I can look at it all the time.” Your cheeks were going to hurt from smiling so much.

The rest of the team begins to take their places. All the families together with their kids. Charlotte sat between you and Steve to your left. Bucky was at your right with Henry next to him, who was chatting away with Sam’s nephews Cass and AJ.

“If I can have everyone’s attention for just a moment. Thank you.” Tony stood on stage with the microphone in one hand and a drink in the other. “I’ll keep this short, I just wanted to wish all moms here a happy

Mother’s Day. I know it’s not easy to have this job and raise a family so for everything you do, cheers.” He raises his glass and everyone else follows suit. He gives the microphone back and walks over to the table you’re all sharing.

Dinner is served shortly after and you’re all talking amongst yourselves. Lottie giggles as she offers Steve a bite of her dinner and he makes exaggerated nomming noises. Their interaction makes you smile before your attention is brought back to Bucky, who is running his hand up and down your arm absentmindedly. You lean into him and kiss his cheek. He smiles at you and the two of you just enjoy the moment surrounded by family and friends.

As the night goes on the music gets lively and the dance floor is actually being used. There’s a tap on your shoulder and you turn to find Henry at your side.

“Would you like to dance mama?” He holds out his hand.

“I would love to.”

He walks with you to the dance floor. With both of your hands in his hands Henry begins to lead you, following the upbeat rhythm. Lottie joins both of you as soon as she realizes what’s going on. The three of you laugh as you spin and Henry dips Lottie. Once the song fades into a slower song Bucky joins you. He picks up Henry and you pick up Charlotte and the four of you huddle together as you sway from side to side.

You can’t help the smile on your face as you look at Bucky. The kids have one arm wrapped around him and one around you the best they can. Bucky leans down and pecks your lips. Charlotte copied her dad and kissed one cheek and Henry did the same.

“Wove you mama.” Lottie says as she rests her head on your shoulder.

“Oh I love you too my sweet Angel. And I love you, my sweet boy.”

“What about me?” Bucky pouts.

“I love you too, honey.”

“I love you right back, sugar.”

~~~~~~~~

The night quickly came to a close. All the moms left the party with a gift bag, courtesy of Tony of course, full of really expensive items. Charlotte and Henry were already half asleep once you got to your apartment so changing them into pajamas and putting them to bed wasn’t that difficult.

As soon as the door to your room was shut Bucky had you pinned against it. His body pressed up against yours as his lips traveled down your neck. He carried you toward the bed and laid you down. Just when Bucky was about to take the dress off there was a knock on the door.

“These little cockblockers.” Bucky mutters as he gets up. He shoots you a glare when you laugh. Bucky opens the door to find both Charlotte and Henry standing there holding on to their teddy bears. The former blinked owlishly up at her father.

“Can habe seepover dada?” Lottie asks.

“Doll you can have a sleepover with Henry, you don’t have to ask.”

“No, we want to have a sleepover with you and mama.” Henry corrects Bucky.

“Oh, bubs-“

“Come on in you two.” You cut Bucky off because you know they’ll get their way anyway so why fight it.

Bucky opens the door wider to reluctantly let them in. You scoop up Charlotte and set her down on the bed while Henry climbs up and gets comfortable. Bucky grabs some pajamas from his drawers and you do the same, both of you going to the bathroom to change.

You can see Bucky’s pouty expression through the mirror as you wash your makeup off and change. Once you’re done you stop him from walking back into the room and you bring him down so that you can kiss him one more time.

“Take them to Steve’s tomorrow morning and you come back so that we can finish what we started.” You say against his lips.

“You don’t have to ask me twice.”

In your bed the kids are already falling asleep. Bucky settles down on his side, pulling Charlotte into his chest.

Tomorrow you would get a text from Steve asking why Henry was asking what a cockblocker was. But tonight you lay down on your side so that you can look at the three of them. The love of your life and your two kids.

You had stopped thinking a long time ago that having a family was a possibility but here you are watching as they cuddle. There would be times where you would mess up, get frustrated, forget something important or make them do their chores. But you’d also wipe away tears, chase nightmares and monsters away, give extra kisses and love them unconditionally.

And if anyone were to ask them in twenty, thirty or even forty years from now, they’d still think you’re the best mama ever.

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[lokisrealpurpous]

hiii ‼️‼️ i was wondering if i could request these two prompts:

“your eyes are really pretty up close.” and “you’re not okay, you’re shaking. what can i do? please, let me help you.” for loki ?

you absolutely don’t have to do both and can just take ur pick from the two also :)

ty 🫶🫶 !!

all I need is you

loki x female!reader

warnings: none really, fluff, reader gets ill from being out in a snowstorm

description

(y/n) and her todler, "Aroura Lokisdottir" go to the shop during a snow storm to get dinner and some snacks for a Christmas movie marathon. When they come out, the car has broke from being out in the frostbitten weathers leaving the only choice but for the two to walk home. Aroura was lucky to have her fathers Jotun genes however (y/n) wasn't as fortunate.

prompts:

"your eyes are really pretty up close"

"you're not okay, you're shaking. what can I do? please let me help you."

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Loki had been at the compound all day leaving you with your little girl at home. The harsh winds gushed outside and the scene from the window was as white as a canvas, the heating was failing you as you sat huddled in blankets, 3 hot water bottles by your sides. Your jaw ached from chattering and goosebumps painted your pale, frozen skin.

"mama what's for dinner?"

a soft voice broke through the room.

"and remember it's movie night!"

aroura squealed as she ran up to my side, frantic hands attempting to climb the sofa that loomed over her tiny frame. You grabbed her from under her arms and she crawled onto your lap, kissing your foread as she giggled childishly.

"mama you's cold!"

she grabbed more blankets of the floor and chucked them onto the chair, then started to scrunch her nose

"a...achoo!"

as she sneezed her small character pained blue, her crimson eyes glowing in the dark room. It wasn't long before this first happened. You and loki has figured that as the weather grew colder every cough and sneeze switched Aroura into her frostgiant form, you found it absoloutly adorable having a mini ice cube running around the house from time to time. Loki worried of it, but loved his little Jotun to pieces.

You sat slowly up on the chair and then walked over to your daughter, lifting her onto your shoulders and using your magic to wrap her in a hat, scarf, coat and gloves, as some for yourself, and grabbed the keys before leaving the house. Aroura clung onto your hair as she giggled on your shoulders before you lifted her into her baby seat in the car, strapping her in securely then walking to get in the front.

The car faulted as you twisted the keys, but you shrugged it of, driving across the icey roads to the shop a few streets down.

Once you got out you were quick to get Aroura back on your shoulders, she was getting tired as she rested her head against the top of yours, her small hands wrapped around your hair and neck gently. She picked out her favourite snacks and threw them in the basket, and chose pizza and star chips for her dinner, which was the best dinner for an evening like this. (y/n) brought some lemon sip for her aching throat and stuffed nose and then walked to the till, placing aroura on the bench next to the bagging area.

She was eager to grab all the items, begging you to let her scan the doritos, which you did in the end give in to, then she helped take the bags to the car, in the end needing you to take it as she dragged the items across the frost coated floors.

When you were both finally settled in the car you let out a sigh of relief, but as you turned the keys to hear a screeching, unpleasant sound from the engine your head fell onto the horn.

"Mama what are you doing!"

Aroura shouted over the loud beeping noise, her fathers attitude twisted in her voice. However grew worried as she watched her mother run her hands through her hair anxiously, muttering as she kicked and hit the car.

"Blasted weather!"

You groaned, opening the door and getting attacked once again by the deadly weather that penetrated you to your bones.

"Come on angel, we gotta walk home"

you say in a gentle however exhausted tone, holding onto your daughters small hand in one hand and 3 bags of shopping in the other.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

You slammed the door behind you, your little girl clinging onto your arm. The freezing wind had taken its toll on your body, but you mustered a smile for your daughter's sake. As you entered the warmth of home, your legs trembled with exhaustion. You tried to hide your growing weakness, not wanting to worry your precious girl. She giggled and kicked off her snow-covered boots, completely oblivious to your struggle.

You watched as she ran off to play, her laughter filling the room with joy. However, as you started preparing dinner, you couldn't ignore the worsening fever and flu symptoms that were taking a toll on your body. Your head throbbed, and a chill ran through your weakened frame. You glanced at the clock, hoping that your husband Loki would arrive soon, wanting to hold him tight and snuggle up to him in the warmth of your bed. You continued chopping vegetables, pushing through the discomfort, it was just a bit of cold.

As you continued to prepare dinner, a throbbing headache began to intensify, adding to your already weakened state. Just as you were starting to feel overwhelmed, you heard the familiar jingle of keys and the creaking of the front door. Relief washed over you as Loki entered the house, bringing in a gust of cold air. The chill served as a reminder of the harsh winter outside, but it also brought a sense of comfort knowing he was home.

"Hey there, sweetheart!"

Loki called out, his voice filled with warmth and affection. Aroura, who had been waiting eagerly for her fathers return, rushed into the hallway, her arms wrapping around his legs as he chuckled deeply

Loki made his way to the kitchen, his eyes full of concern as he noticed the fatigue etched on your face. Without a word, he wrapped his arms around you, knowing how much comfort you seemed from his embrace.

"I'm here, love. How was your day?"

he asked, his voice gently as he rocked your frozen body side to side, gently kissing your neck as you hummed in his arms.

"m.. the car broke at the shop.. m. me and aroura had to walk home and... c..cold."

You took a moment to lean into his comforting presence, grateful for his understanding.

"It's been a long day lo."

you replied, feeling a sense of solace in his arms.

Together, you and Loki finished preparing dinner, the aroma of the meal filling the house. As you all gathered around the table to enjoy the delicious food, you couldn't help but notice Loki's caring gaze on you, he looked worried yet loving, just wanting to make sure you were okay, in his own sweet way.

But in the midst of his gaze, our daughter couldn't resist having some fun. She started playing with her food, making silly faces and creating a mess. I couldn't help but laugh at the sight, trying to balance Loki's watchful eye on me while also keeping an eye on our mischievous little one.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Aroura had gone of to her room to read as you and loki tidied, you went to go wash the cutlery until some playful hands stoped you in your tracks, resting on you tense shoulders.

"Go prepare the movies pumpkin, I'll clean up."

loki hummed as he wrapped your in his jumper, going of to begin cleaning.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

The clock next to the bed wrote "22:20" and you rested your head against the tall stack of pillows behind you. Loki had just gone to put Aroura into her crib who had just fallen asleep during the 4th movie, throughout the hours your body grew weaker and colder, loki rubbing you thigh with every sniffle and shiver thay escaped your ill form.

After Aroura was huddled up in blankets loki came back into our room and lifted your cold body, resting you in between his legs and kissing you forehead, wiping you teary eyes as he began to braid a few strands of your hair. You looked up at his gentle eyes.

"you're eyes are so pretty up close"

he whispered as he gazed back at you. Loki has always admired your eyes, a beautiful rainbow of pastels.

He couldn't do much to help your shivering state, being a frost giant, however he piled you in blankets and hot water bottles and had made you a lemon sip which sat on the beside table, he stroked you hair as your bead rested against his chest, every shake his heart ached.

"my love are you truly well"

he asked knowing the answer

you simply hummed in response, till shaking in his strong arms.

"you're not okay, you're shaking. what can I do? please let me help you."

he practically begged as he drowned you in affection and kisses.

"all I need is you"

you whispered, turning as you wrapped your arms around his waist, a hand on his chest beside you head, tangled around your lovers form.

"you'll always have me my darling.."

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

[nattinatalia]

Jack Harlow x Reader : VALENTINES DAY WITH MIA

“Oh mama are you otay?”

You nod, you spit out the mouth wash and dry your hands. “Yes baby thank you.”

“Why are you sicky?” Mia asks confused and worried.

You smile, “Your baby brother doesn’t like the smell of ketchup.”

“But ketchup is the best.” She sounds offended.

She goes towards you and places her little hands on your small bump “EZ, chup is the best with nuggets and fries.”

“It’s okay baby, it’s just for now.” You brush her hair out of her face.

You hear the front door being closed and Mia looks up at you excitedly. “Daddy?”

You nod in confirmation, he had texted you he was five minutes away so you knew it’ll be him and no one else.

“Where are my girls?” He calls out.

Mia runs towards him “Daddy hi- wow that’s pretty.”

“Not as pretty as you.” Jack says.

“You silly daddy.” Mia chuckles, covering her mouth.

“I am, aren't I?”

Mia nods, and admires what Jack had come home with. “Lloons.” She points at the balloons.

“These are for you Mia bug, and these flowers as well.” He hands her the balloons and the little bucket filled with pink roses. “And these are for mama.”

“Thank you baby, Happy Valentine’s Day.” You go and peck his lips and admire the roses.

“Oh thanks yous daddy.” She hugs her dad and looks at you. “You like yours mama?”

You nod. “I really do, they're gorgeous.”

“So this is the plan, we’ll have a paint date with you Bug, then your tío Clay will come over and babysit you, so mommy and I can go on a date.”

Mia furrows her eyebrows. “I go with yous.”

“It’ll be past your bedtime baby.”

“But mama sicky, I take care of her.” She then walks to you. “Mama I go?”

You smile at that, you lower yourself so you can be eye level with your daughter. “Princess, daddy and I will go have dinner and we’ll be back so fast. We’ll cuddle in bed and watch movies with you. But you’ll have to be a good girl for tío Clay.”

“Okay.” She answers sadly.

“I bought lots of color paints Mia, we can go in the backyard and do lots of paintings and make some for your little brother.” Jack says, coming to hold her and help you back up.

“Okay deal.”

“Go get your brushes and I’ll set everything up outside.”

She nods and runs off to her playroom.

Jack turns to you and raises his eyebrows. “You got sick?”

“She was eating chicken nuggets, and you know how crazy she goes with the ketchup. The smell has never been my favorite, but this time around it made me nauseous. Little dude doesn’t like the smell apparently.”

“Our daughter is just like you, thoughtful, caring and nurturing.”

“She worries her little heart out about everyone, she just wants to make sure we’re all good.” You smile at that.

“We’re doing an amazing job with her huh?”

You nod. “We should be proud. Now go set up her painting section before she comes.”

“You go rest, dinner is at seven.” He gives you a kiss and caresses your bump. “Let your mama get a nap in little man.”

“But I want to see my babies paint.” You pout.

“Fine, but the moment I see you’re about to get sick, I’m sending your ass upstairs.” He goes to grab the bags and the big canvas so they can paint.

“Yesss sir.” You smirk.

“Don’t get me started now.” He smacks your ass. “Thank you for the gifts, I loved them baby”

“Go, I’ll wait for the princess.”

You walk towards the playroom to see what was taking Mia so long to get her brushes. “What’s going on bug?”

“I wanted to take some blankies so you can sit wif us.”

“I think daddy has all of that. Come on.”

You both hand in hand walk to the backyard and see the set up Jack has begun. He has blankets all over the grass, snacks, paints and a canvas.

“So pretty daddy nice job”

“Thank you baby, now come on let’s get to painting.”

That’s how you spend your Valentine’s Day afternoon, with your husband and your daughter. Lots of laughs, some pizza and you even got in a nap with them.

Valentine’s Day will always be different for you and Jack, but good different because now you’ll have little ones to celebrate with too and you couldn’t wait until your little boy was born and witness how great his daddy and sister are.

••••••••••

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[tumblingdownthefoxden]

"The Assistant and The Star"

Chapter 1: Standard Routine

*11 years later

It was shortly after dawn and the sun was rising. Atop a grand hill stood Asha and another girl. Before them stood easels with canvases where they painted the sunrise.

Asha looked over at the other girl's painting. "Oh, Bazeema. That is an excellent shade of pink. How did you get it?"

Bazeema showed Asha her wooden palette. Using a clean brush, she took a dab of red paint, a dab of white and a touch of yellow before mixing it all in the center. "Oh, I see." Said Asha before she repeated the process. Asha places a few strokes of pink on her canvas before stepping back to admire her work. She thought it was grand. Asha looked around the forest and back to the sunrise before releasing a light sigh. "You were right Bazeema. I do feel better. I really needed this after last night."

The previous night, Bazeema and her mother were working late to finish tending the royal garden when they came across someone trespassing through the moss trees. When asked about their whereabouts, the person simply said they were looking for someone who owed them a favor and tried to push past them. The gardeners kicked out the heckler and would later find Asha hiding under a moss tree. She was hiding from a heckler that was chasing her near the castle. The same heckler that they just kicked out. Bazeema helped Asha get home and invited to take her uphill to paint the horizon before they went to work.

"Hmm. Do you want to leave now? We're a long way from the castle and I don't want to make you late for work." Asked Asha.

"It's still pretty early but we could leave if you want to. I'm finished with my painting anyway."

Asha added her signature onto her canvas before packing up her art supplies. They traveled for 30 minutes before reaching Asha's home. Outside the house, sat Mama Sakina brushing the fur of a baby goat. The goat noticed the two and bounced over to the pair. Excitedly braying as he pawed (hooved?) Asha's legs.

Asha giggled. "Good morning, Valentino. Happy you're awake as well."

"Good morning Asha. Hi Bazeema. How was the sunrise?" Greeted Sakina. "Good morning, mama. It was beautiful. I'm getting better at painting as well." She said as she lowered the canvas to Valentino's eye level. "What do you think buddy?"

Valentino cocked his head and paced side to side in critical thought before giving an approving bah. "Thank you very much." Replied Asha. She raised her canvas and looked back to Sakina. "We're just going to set these to dry and go to the castle." They placed their paintings against the wall of the house.

"You're going into the city now?" Sakina asked, concerned. "Can't you take the day off today? It's the middle of the Summer festival and there's a Wish Ceremony is today. It's going to be crowded in town square. It could be dangerous."

As she said this, Saba Sabino came outside. "Here's some food for thought. Why don't you celebrate your Saba's 100th birthday all afternoon and evening? Take a break from everything happening in the city."

Asha paused at the offer. Two years ago, she was interviewed and accepted to become the King's assistant. A role that allows her to help manage the wishes, prepare magic ingredients, and many other things. Rumor has it that the King's assistant will not only have their wish granted sooner than most, but can get other peoples' wishes granted.

Asha is quite famous in Rosas, but it is a perverted form of fame. Asha had more than her fair share of hecklers and fake friends. It only got worse during the solstice and equinox festivals. Today would be one of the few times that the King will grant wishes on the same night as a Wish Ceremony, and people will do whatever it takes to be sure that the "insurance" will deliver their wish that night.

"I know but this is the most demanding day and I have to help the King. He needs me to help choose the wishes to be granted and test the performance of his new spells." She began stroking her locs. "I know yesterday was… dramatic, but I can find another route and Bazeema can help me get home without anyone noticing."

Sabino sighed, a little sad. "Okay, if you must. But if I may suggest, that soldier fellow you know. The one near the castle. You can ask him to take you home as well."

"Simon? He's a castle guard, not a soldier. And he's on the night shift, I can't ask him to take me home."

"You get off of work near sundown. Simon's shift starts at midnight. He should have time." Bazeema rebutted.

"But he's asleep around that time. It's a long way to and from the castle and it would be rude to interrupt the little rest he gets to-"

"He will not mind." Sakina placed a firm hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Simon is one of your oldest and truest friends. He will not antagonize you for needing his help. He won't ask for anything in return." She smiled.

Asha sighed in defeat. "Okay. I'll ask him." She said before going inside the house. Entering her room and opening her closet, she searched through a set of 10 masquerade masks to wear on her trip. They were a gift from Magnifico to help her travel unrecognized. She picked a golden ibex mask and changed into her assistant's uniform. Asha grabbed her leather bag from a nearby chair and put on a dark hooded cloak over everything.

Walking out to the living room, she heard a gasp from Sabino.

"Oh, stars above! La muerte?! Oh, is it my grand daughter's time already?" He knelt down, trying not to smile. "Oh, please. Have mercy on her. Take me instead."

Asha laughed and rolled her eyes. "I'm not dead yet, Saba."

"You will be if you keep working yourself like a mule." He teased, standing up. "But if you're going into the city, maybe I can take advantage of crowd and play my music for them to hear." -He went to open a cabinet and pulled out a mandolin case- "Maybe, they will pay attention this time." He whispered to himself.

"You know, I could try to get your wish granted tonight." Asha offered. "Maybe find out what it was." Sabino chuckled. "No need to stress over finding it. I wrote it down before I gave it to the King. Now I wait for it and attempt to achieve."

"Oh." Went Asha. "What did you write?"

"It's a secret." He whispered with a smirk.

"Saba!"

Sabino just laughed at her frustration. "Well, what would like for a present?" Asha asked.

"If you find a little trinket in the market that I could add to my collection, that would a great bonus. But all I need is for you to come home in time for cake." He said with a smile.

Asha hugged her Saba goodbye and left the house. She hugged her mama and walked up to Bazeema. "Hey Valentino? Are you coming?" Asha called. Valentino hopped up to follow but Sakina picked up before he could approached. "Hold on there, mister. We can't have you go into that chilly castle without your pajamas, can we?" Sakina sat down on the grass criss crossed and positioned the little goat back on her lap. She pulled tiny pajamas from her pocket and fitted them over his head. "There you go." She chimed as Valentino ran over to Asha and Bazeema. "Watch over her, please. I love you all." She called to them. "We love you too. Goodbye." Asha called back as they made their way through the forest.

A while later and the trio made it to the outskirts of the forest, just outside the city. Asha stood in admiration of the festival decor around the area. Streamers of red and yellow. Banners for the rising and setting sun. Blue, unlit lanterns strung above the street. The streets weren't filled with people yet but enough to dissuade going through town square. They had not noticed a hunter at the edge of the forest looking their way in suspicion. Something about the cloaked figure seemed familiar but they weren't sure why. Then it hit them.

"Hey, are you the veiled assistant?" They called out. "I want to ask you something!" Valentino took notice and headbutted Bazeema's leg to see the hunter approaching. In a mild panic, Bazeema took Asha's hand and they bolted down the outskirts towards the docks. "Hey, where are you going?" The hunter cried after them.

After a short while, they made it to the docks. "Are... Are we... still being followed?" Asha panted, hanging onto her knees. Bazeema looked back and saw no sign of pursuit. "No, we're safe. But we need to find Dahlia and Hal. They can take us down a new route at the docks."

"Okay. Woo... Let me catch my breathe first."

After a good 7 seconds, Asha straightened her back. "Wait, you didn't tell Dahlia about last night, did you?" Bazeema was silent and only interlocked her fingers. "Oh no! Bazeema! She's going to be all over me!"

"But she can ensure you get in and out of the castle!" Bazeema beamed.

They approach the city where two other girls stood by. One with a crutch and anxious look. The other with a basket looking out at the nearby ships on the horizon. The anxious girl looked their way and squealed. 'Oh boy,' thought Asha. "Hi Dahlia. How are y-" Dahlia tackled Asha in a bear hug before she finish speaking. "Great Heavens! Great Heavens! Great Heavens! Please take off your mask!" Was all the girl said. Asha complied with the request and lifted the mask from her face. Dahlia spared no time before taking her face into hands, turning it side to side to check for any bruises. "You're not hurt? They didn't reach you? Oh, I should've been there with you!" Dahlia panicked.

"I'm alright, Dahlia." Asha reassured. "They grabbed my cloak but I got away." The last sentence did anything but reassure Dahlia. "THEY TOUCHED YOU!? Oh ho! No! Do you remember their face? What they wore? Do you have their name?"

Hal came up and tugged at Dahlia's dress with her free hand. "Go easy on the lady, Doc. We still need to take her to the door." Dahlia took a deep breathe and let go of Asha's face. "Sorry. Okay. It should be this way." Dahlia led them past the great bell tower to a large wooden door that she swiftly unlocked with a key hanging on her belt. "This is the delivery route. The cooks use it to quickly bring in new shipments of food and herbs into the royal pantry." She opened the door to a dark hallway. "There are wall windows further down but it's stained glass so people should only see your shadow."

Asha looked inside, worried. "What if I get lost in there?"

"It's a one way path. Wherever it's too dark to see, just feel for the wall and follow it."

The 5 of them jumped as the great bell tower rang out to announce new arrivals coming to Rosas. Hal looked out to the ships about dock. "It's time, Dahlia!" She said. "You'll be fine Asha. See you tonight! And remember, you're the Goat!" She praised with a finger gun. Valentino brayed annoyed. "Oh, right! You too Valentino!" She said, petting his head. Asha placed her mask back over her face and the two entered the hallway, closing the door behind them. Dahlia will lock it once they're inside the castle. The three remaining girls returned to the gate to meet the approaching newcomers.

"Good morning and welcome. Glad you could make it here. My name is Dahlia Akaboshi and I will be your tour guide for today. These are my friends, Bazeema and Hal." She took the basket from Hal's hand. "Would you care for a muffin. Gratuity from my parents, the royal bakers." The guests took a few muffins and looked around. "So, shall we begin? Come this way." Dahlia looked back at the now open gate and the three girls led the new comers into Rosas.

A/N: Tumblr freaked out on me and this got deleted 2 times but things came out better. The story became much more extra than I anticipated but I like how it's coming along. I'm giving my girl a major internal conflict. I'm hoping to draw out my rewrite of "Welcome to Rosas".

@annymation @signed-sapphire @wings-of-sapphire @chillwildwave @kstarsarts @rascalentertainments @emillyverse @uva124 @oh-shtars

[seenoversundown]

End of Summer Blurb; Josh & Quinn ✧˚

I’m awoken suddenly by the sound of gulls outside and flip over in bed to look at Quinn. The dawn light filters in through our window and Quinn looks angelic, sleeping comfortably, waiting for the day to greet them.  God, I can’t believe I get to wake up to this every day. I lean over and brush my fingers along their face, tracing their features. Committing them to memory. I continue to trace their features, thinking about how this is one of our last free weekends before school is back in session and they’re forced to be away from me, molding young minds through their art. I watch as their nose starts to crinkle because of the feel of my fingers against their skin and their eyes snap open. 

“Hi, baby,” they greet me in their sleepy voice.  “Good morning, bug,” I whisper, pressing a kiss to the bridge of their nose, “Let’s get up. We have a big day.” Quinn lets out a huff but swings their legs over the edge of the bed and stands up. “Gimme a minute to become a human, Starlight,” They say through a yawn. I get up from the bed and walk around to give them a light pat on the ass. I toss a quick “Coffee’ll be up in a minute” over my shoulder as I walk out.

After we’re up and moving, we decide to head over to Hobby Lobby. Quinn needs to get a few items before the start of the school year, and this is the last Saturday before school goes back in session. Their first year teaching on their own, I could not be more proud of them. 

We walk through the aisles of the store together, Quinn placing item after item in their cart. Chalk, pastels, acrylic paints, water colors, colored pencils, the list goes on. I can see their brain working overtime, trying to calculate how much they’ll have to shell out. It may have previously been a concern for them, but it never would be again, I think as I break off from them to walk toward the Hobby Lobby Lobby to see if my girl is still there. I reach the entrance to Hobby Lobby and immediately spot Bessie. My cow portrait, with a beautiful, beautiful yellow clearance sticker. I smile to myself, giggling a bit as I pick her up. I knew she’d go on sale eventually. I walk back into the store and see Quinn lined up, unloading their basket onto the conveyor belt. I walk up behind them, placing Bessie in with their items. “Oh, you think I’m made of money, huh?” They ask with a chuckle, but  reach  into their canvas bag to retrieve their wallet anyway. I bat their hand away, and quickly pull my debit card from the pocket of my jacket. “No, but I am,” I hand my card to the cashier without even hearing the total, “That’s the benefit of picking your own salary.” I place a kiss on the top of their head and grab Bessie before walking out the door.  “Hey! Slow down,” They call after me, bags swishing with every step. “Sorry, Bug,” I laugh, “But, I made lunch reservations. Gotta speed up if you wanna get there on time.”

I love how supportive Josh is of Quinn's passion and career. Owie. Also.. Here's Bessie! Of course Josh would love her!

ATS Masterpost | The Caravel Tavern Series | Masterlist

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[pinkydevil16]

Benedict Bridgerton x reader: part 3

Part 1 Part 2

Benedict was in pieces as he gripped the paint brush, replaying the events of each encounter with Y/n. Each detail working it's way into his painting as he sketched her at lunch, the dark blue dress against the floral garden, her hands lightly holding a plate with a little cake on. His hands coated in charcoal and red raw from drawing and erasing over and over, the light not perfect or the colour not bright enough. His annoyance spiking as he pushed his hand through his hair, letting out a puff of air before dropping into his seat and staring at the painting. Surely this was a form of torture, to constantly be harassed by his mind and body to draw her, to sketch her into existence when the day before she'd been so close he could smell the scent of her perfume. Never feeling like it was enough, every detail was too blurry, not clear enough that he could reach into the canvas and pull her out. He wanted to watch it come to life as his muse became more life like yet never correct, he was a tortured artist like so many before him yet he was sure he was the only one to feel this way. 

"Benedict! We must make haste!" He jumped as Eloise seemed so close but he could hear her voice echo off the walls as she screamed at the base of the stairs, his body feeling exhausted as he covered his art and left the room. Leaning against the stairs as he looked down at his family, Anthony and Daphne arguing over her choice of suitor whilst their mother told off Eloise for screaming and being unladylike.

"I apologise however i cannot attend tonight Mother, send my apologies." Benedict could feel the dark circles under his eyes, his fingers cramping from the lack of took between them, the exhaustion hitting him as he barely held himself up. It had not been 48 hours since he had seen her and it felt like he hadn't slept for 12 years, the life had been sucked out of him as she left with a small goodbye. 

"No! You get your butt down here right now!" Eloise stomped her foot as she spoke, she despised balls and with Penelope unable to attend she needed Benedict to be her buffer from other Mama's or god forbid a potential suitor to speak to her. Benedict gave her a lazy smile as he shook his head, Anthony now paying attention as he scowled at his brother. 

"Yes, get dressed we are almost late." Benedict went to argue but Colin was quick to shake his head as he drank from his glass, Benedict sighing as he entered his room.

"No, no, no! This is not nearly the correct colour for tonight Y/n. You have a suitor now, and he must be unable to look away. No dark colours, how about this?" Y/n looked away from the window to where her Mama held a pale pink dress, her nose scrunching up as she looked at the embellishments.

"I prefer blues and purples Mama, pink is beautiful however you once told me it washes me out under the lights." A gasp came from the older lady as she recalled the mild insult, nodding as she tutted at the hand maid pushing the pink dresses into her arms as she began sorting through the purple dresses. Y/n looking back towards the window as her Mama fussed, setting out a new dress along with a necklace and matching earrings, humming to herself as she smiled at her vision.

"Come, try this on and let me see. Oh i do hope he asks you to dance again, a Bridgerton! It is such an achievement, although most Mama's would not be happy about the second son but he is a handsome man." Y/n stood, allowing Maria to tighten her stays before placing the baby blue dress over her head and begin to button the back, her Mama speaking as she was pulled tight.

"Mama, he is a friend." Y/n's Mama waved her off as she continued speaking of how handsome and gentlemanly Benedict Bridgerton was, how sweet his mother was and each comment made Y/n's mind swirl. She liked Benedict, enjoyed his company and loved his art but she didn't want to marry, she wanted to do as much as she could before she would be sold off to some Lord or old man who wanted her to birth his babes. Her Mama, much like Violet, believed in love matches however she wasn't such a patient woman, she wanted to a love match to happen instantly and for her daughter to be wed by the end of the season. Any Mama's dream, a practical dream which suited the societal pressure of women. 

"Has this gown gotten lower?" Y/n mumbled as she looked in this mirror, Maria pinning her hair back as Y/n frowned before her Mama waved Maria off and began placing jewels in her hair.

"I had some modified, it is nothing to be blushing about, i have heard of the Bridgerton men and how their eyes wander. I am simply ensuring that his eyes stay on you, do not give me that look. When i was younger women wore full corsets and their busts were barely contained." Y/n rolled her eyes as she adjusted her dress, her Mama lightly hitting her hand before Maria informed them of the time.

"Ahh! We cannot be late, come come." Y/n sighed as she followed her chaotic Mama, her Father standing by the door with a whiskey as he waited. Smiling at his wife and daughter before being hurried to the carriage by the older woman. 

Benedict stood next to Eloise, a drink in his hand as always during a ball however now his eyes darted between the dancing couples and entry way, every minute ticking by making his hands grow clammy.

"You look tortured brother. Do try to not act so love sick around her." Eloise commented as she scowled at another man, making his eyebrows raise before turning away and hurrying back where he came from. Benedict almost choking on his drink before covering it with a cough, Eloise grinning as she watched her brother turn red.

"I am not love sick, the only one love sick around here is Daphne unless you count Anthony being sick of love." Eloise rolled her eyes as she leaned agains the wall, looking at her eldest Brother as he once again interrupted Daphne and the Duke.

"I do not see the interest in being married or being a show pony for the ton." Eloise sneered as Benedict rolled his eyes taking a drink.

"I agree, it truly is awful being poked and prodded." Benedict once against tried not to choke on his drink as Y/n appeared next to Eloise, a grin on her face as she watched Benedict, his neck and ears still bright red from Eloise's comment. 

"Finally someone who has a brain!" Eloise almost shouted, watching Y/n as she grabbed a drink with a small eyebrow wiggle to Benedict to mock him.

"If i am the first person you've met with a brain then you should get better company Eloise." Benedict playfully shook his head as Y/n stood between the siblings, the heat of her body seeping into his as he contained the urger to shift and touch his covered arm to her naked one. Although it was warm he could see the small goosebumps along her arms from exiting the carriage, the slight blush to her skin from the change in temperature and windswept hair which looked beautiful against her skin. His eyes suddenly drawn to her chest as he watched her breathe, the dress tightening against her breasts with each inhale, his mind racing as he was sure it was lower than before. He was staring again, but he couldn't stop himself, his eyes slowly covering each part of her body until she spoke and broke his trance.

"Is Cressida glaring at me or you Eloise?" Benedict turned his head to see Cressida glaring in their direction, although he could see her glare was more on Y/n, most likely for being able to find a suitor compared to the blonde girl whose Mama seemed to scare any man away. 

"I believe she glaring at you, it makes a change from the constant glare i receive." Y/n let out a snort making Eloise giggle as Benedict tried to contain his blush, everything she did was like the best drug to him. 

"Hmm well it will be interesting to see how much she will glare when Benedict asks me to dance." Y/n turned to Benedict as he placed down his drink, a big grin on his face as he held out his hand.

"Would you have this dance with me Miss L/n?" Y/n gave him a playful grin as she took his hand, the pair gliding onto the dance floor for the third time since they'd met, and now it was easy, his hands didn't hover or waiver as he confidently placed them against her waist. Her hand fitting against his as he pulled her closer, reminding himself of the proper etiquette although he wanted to feel her pressed against him.

"I can feel the angry eyes of Mama's and daughters putting holes in my head." Y/n whispered, making Benedict laugh as he looked around seeing Cressida and her group of ladies all watching and whispering, although he could see the jealousy. It wasn't because she was dancing with him, it was because she was dancing with someone for the third time unlike many of the other ladies of the ton who had debuted this season. 

"You should try feeling the glares from the men who you turned down last season, i sometimes think i'll be set ablaze by the looks." Y/n let out another snort as she playfully rolled her eyes, making Benedict grin as he watched her, amongst the glares and burning jealousy was Violet and Mrs L/n who were gushing over their children. Two happy Mama's who were conspiring to encourage the pair to admit feelings only one was sure they had, whilst the other was adamant not to feel it. As the dance came to an end the pair bowed, Benedict offering his arm which Y/n took with a small smile, collecting a drink each as they walked around talking quietly. Benedict taking in every little comments, each smile and laugh as well as each quirk of the brow or twitch of an eye. Almost cataloguing her movements to keep in his mind when he wasn't near her, drinking in everything he could. 

"I need some air, i shall meet you in a few moments." Benedict nodded as Y/n walked through the double doors, her glass half empty as she placed it on a tray and disappeared from his sight. Forcing himself to stand by Eloise as he stopped himself from following Y/n and drinking in how she looked under the moonlight. It was heavenly in his mind, but he knew it would be ethereal in real life, potentially maddening. 

Y/n let out a sigh as she leaned against the garden wall, the cold air helping her hot body, when she had been dancing it was like she was on fire. His hand on her waist was burning through her fabric and making her skin, but she didn't want to pull away, she wanted to be closer. Shaking her head Y/n played with her necklace, pulling it side to side as she calmed her nerves. She had danced with many different people and yet none had made her heart pound or body heat the way Benedict did, infact no one had ever made her feel so out of control. 

"Miss L/n, are you alright?" Flinching slightly Y/n turned to see a previous suitor who she could not recall, placing a smile on her face as she nodded and moved slightly away from where he stood too close.

"I am fine thank you, a bit flustered from all the excitement of dancing. Excuse me." Y/n went to pass as he side stepped her, forcing her to stop as he blocked her way, a grin on his face as he looked down at her. 

"You look beautiful tonight, the gown is exquisite, a lovely cut for your body if i might say." She could feel her lip twitch at his comment as she tried to keep her polite smile although she could see his eyes were only staring down at her chest and she cursed her Mama inwardly for modifying it to entice such men like the one before her.

"Thank you for the comment, i should get back before my Mama becomes concerned." The man didn't move instead he stepped closer, Y/n stepping back as she felt the cool garden wall against the back of her legs, her hands coming to steady herself as she gripped the wall to stop herself being rash.

"I am sure if a Mama allows their daughter to wear such dresses she would not mind you being here." The man stepping even closer so his chest almost touched hers as she dropped her polite smile and glared up at him, her hands fisting against the wall as she stood proud.

"A gentleman would never be so inappropriate, i suggest you step back sir." The man let out a laugh as he quickly looked over his shoulder before leaning down to place his hand on her waist, her hand coming to grab onto his, her nails in his skin as he let out a small hiss but didn't remove his hand. Matching her glare as he stared down at her with a sneer.

"You don't even remember my name, i tried to court you for weeks, i sent you flowers and each time i was turned away. Now you're entertaining a second son, an artist whilst i am cast aside. I am owed Miss L/n, and i intend to collect." Y/n closed her eyes as he got closer, her nails breaking the skin of his hand as he pressed into her waist, the alcohol on his breath making her want to gag.

"Marcus! Get the hell away from her." The man was pulled away, leaving scratches along his hand from where her nails had dug in, Benedict pushing his back as the pair glared at each other.

"Ahh if it isn't the lucky Bridgerton." Benedict stood in front of Y/n as she collected herself, watching the door as she feared this becoming a scandal, which would not only ruin her but her whole family.

"You reek of alcohol Marcus, leave before i knock you to the ground." The man let out a laugh as he shook his hand, small droplets of blood coming off as he did making Benedict smirk slightly before stepping forward as the drunken man stepped back.

"She's not worth all this. Don't worry Benedict you'll get knocked down once she throws you on the streets like the rest of us." Y/n could feel tears in her eyes as Marcus walked off, his hand hidden in his pocket before Benedict stood in her line of vision. Squaring her shoulder Y/n nodded and moved to walk around him, Benedict turning and grasping her arm gently as she did, her body turning towards him as he looked down at her.

"You're shaking, please just take a moment Y/n. Are you alright? I'm so sorry i should have come with you." Y/n shook her head, she could feel her hands shaking as she avoided Benedicts eyes, his hand barely holding her arm as he moved to touch her cheek softly. Flinching away from his hand Y/n finally looked up, she could see his heart break as she pulled her arm free and stepped back slightly.

"I am fine Mr Bridgerton, thank you for helping me but i really must return to somewhere far less private. This has already been a close call for a scandal and i do not wish for it to be found out." Benedict wanted to pull her into him and hold her until she didn't feel so afraid, her whole body shook gently as she took a shaky breath, his hand stayed close to her skin before he took a small step forward.

"Take a deep breathe in." Y/n nodded as she followed his instruction, his hand making contact with her skin as she closed her eyes, feeling him closer to her as he moved a step forward. His other hand taking hold of her cheek as he held her face, her eyes closed as he stroked her cheeks helping her to calm down.

"And breathe out." Again she followed his instruction, her body warm from his touch as she moved her hands to hold his wrists, opening her eyes to stare up at him.

"Good, just breathe okay? You're safe with me. I would never...you're safe." Y/n nodded, his thumbs brushing over the apple of her cheeks as he pushed a tear away, her hands barely holding his wrists as she inhaled deeply, holding it before letting it go. Benedict let his eyes drift from her closed ones, dropping to her lips as he continued to caress her face, his thumb moving to touch her lip as her eyes opened. His thump grazing across her bottom lip as he made eye contact, watching the emotion flash across her eyes, concern, fear, want. The latter made his heart skip as he leaned forward slightly, barely an inch but it was close enough that he could hear her inhale sharply, see individual lashes and how they sat along her eyeline. His thumb now moving across her bottom lip to the corner as he cupped her face and moved another inch closer, transfixed by her doe eyes and how her mouth opened a fraction to allow a gasp to escape. Her hands suddenly tightening on his wrists as she pulled away, stepping back and holding his hands away from her face, her lip between her teeth as she took a deep breathe. Cheeks red and hot although in the moonlight he could barely tell the difference, her eyes wide and filled with an emotion he couldn't understand.

"Thank you Benedict." Without another word she was gone, back inside where the music suddenly seemed to deafen him as he leaned against the garden wall, letting out a shaky breathe as he thought about how close he had come to kissing her. He'd been truly possessed, unable to pull away and he was sure if she had not moved he would have kissed her until her lips were red. 

part 4

[buckysgrace]

8. Cowboys Never Cry

Part Eight of Every Little Thing!

CW: Semi public unprotected sex!

“What do you mean you’re not going?” Daphne asked in dismay, crossing the living room frantically as she watched Noelle gather her things up. Birdie followed shortly behind her, nudging his soft nose against her leg as he walked.

“I have to get my hair done,” Noelle said as she held her palms out in mock innocence, “My extensions are looking like a mess. Look at it.” She replied as she pushed her blonde hair out, trying to explain why it was so important to go right now. 

“You’re not going to my dress fitting with me?” Daphne asked again, trying to clarify that was what her sister was saying. Noelle dropped her shoulders and tilted her head, like she was frustrated with Daphne’s question. 

“Ask mama,” Noelle whined, “I got stuff to do.” She defended herself quickly as she picked up her purse. Daphne shook her head, feeling a little hurt as Noelle placed her second again. Daphne would ask Ruby to go, but she already had been resting after a bad migraine episode. She didn’t want to pull her away from that and risk Bruce getting mad at her again. 

“You always got stuff to do.” Daphne pointed out, beginning to pout her bottom lip out in hopes that it may sway Noelle’s decision. It had before. She didn’t want to drive all the way there on her own.

“Oh don’t be a big baby,” She rolled her eyes softly, “Daddy’s not fleshing out all this money for me. I’m paying to get my own hair done, just like anyone else.” She said bitterly, like Daphne had done something wrong. She huffed underneath her breath, not at all surprised that it had come back to money. 

“He would pay for your wedding too,” Daphne defended herself quickly, “Come on. I don’t want to go alone. Mama’s sick and the friends I have are busy.” She begged softly as she reached for Noelle’s arm again. 

“Sounds like a you problem,” Noelle shrugged her shoulders, knocking Daphne’s hand away as she walked around the table, “Maybe Hugh will want to go. Send me a picture when you’re finished.” She dismissed Daphne one last time before she headed towards the door, leaving Daphne with a bitter feeling in her chest. She wanted to shout a bunch of profanities at Noelle but kept her lips clamped together, knowing it was better to drown her anger and hurt feelings than try to get through to Noelle.

She bent to give Birdie a reassuring scratch, understanding that he would join her if he was able to. She didn’t necessarily like the idea of Hugh seeing her dress before the wedding, but perhaps he really would like to go. She just didn’t want to spend the whole day on her own. 

“Hey,” Daphne approached the room slowly, ensuring to leave it open just in case Bruce happened to pass through, “I’m going to get my fitting today.” She said softly, resting against the doorknob as she looked at the way Hugh was positioned in front of the window. She twisted her head for a moment, looking at what he was starting to work on. 

“That sounds fun.” He said briefly, his eyes peeled to the canvas in front of him. She looked at his hand, noticing that it was stained with different colors. She supposed it was good that he was actually allowed to work on his art, rather than be forced to whatever hard labor Bruce could whip up. 

“I was thinking that maybe you’d want to join?” She asked him hopefully, “You don’t have to see the dress of course, but it’s in one of the bigger cities here. I could show you around.” She told him enthusiastically as she joined him on her knees on the floor. It wasn’t the same as Marseille, but it was different than staying on the ranch.  

“Oh,” Hugh paused, “I sort of had a flow going. I’d hate to interrupt it.” He replied, giving her a brief smile before turning back to his painting. Daphne huffed underneath her breath, her bangs moving in the process. She knew all too well about Hugh and his flow. Sometimes it would be long stretches of days and nights with bright lights blinding her as she twisted and turned in bed, just to get comfortable. 

“Right,” Daphne nodded her head in agreement, “It’s fine. I totally understand what you mean.” She said, glancing down at the way the carpet molded against her fingertips. She thought about it for a moment, wondering if she should just cancel the appointment and reschedule it for another day. 

“Have fun though.” Hugh replied, his attention solely on his painting. She rolled her eyes, knowing that he wouldn’t see as she pushed herself back onto her feet. She rolled her shoulders, trying to stand a little straighter as she left the room. 

She was sure she’d be fine. She did a lot of things on her own when she traveled, there was nothing different about it now. She tugged her purse in her hand, trying to ignore the frustration that was bubbling within her stomach. She thought about asking Daisy, but doubted that she’d be able to do it. She was always busy. Lucia would’ve been an option, had she not been down south visiting relatives. 

She walked out the front door, doing her best to keep from slamming it shut behind her. She dangled her keys back and forth between her fingertips inhaling sharply as she headed towards where her little beat up truck was parked. She stalled for a moment, sure that she was imagining something. 

“What are you doing?” She asked softly, her eyes widening as Gator shut his truck door behind him. She crossed her arms over her chest, hoping that he couldn’t see the obvious outline of how her heart was thumping roughly inside of her chest. She’d almost hated to shower, fearing that she wouldn’t be able to remember his skin on hers. 

She felt like he looked like a dream with his slicked back hair and cocky smirk as he leaned against his larger truck. She let her eyes drift for just a moment, taking in his brown cargo pants and black athletic shirt that hugged him snuggly. He looked handsome. She’d say that much. 

“Wanted to see you.” He said simply, taking a deep inhale as he wrapped his lips around his vape, blowing out a cloud of smoke towards her. She drew her eyes away shyly, wondering if he hadn’t been able to stop thinking about her either. It was like he was carved in her mind, deep into the etches of her soul.

“Gator-,” She turned her gaze back towards him softly, trying to find the words to say. She wished she could feel guilty, to feel ashamed over what she had done. Perhaps that was the worst part, knowing that she didn’t regret any of her heinous actions. If anything, she wanted more of him. 

“Where are you going?” He asked her instead, tilting his head as his eyes dropped to the keys in her hands. She paused for a second, still feeling awkward when she brought up her wedding to him. 

“Wedding dress shopping,” She mumbled softly, “Well, mostly a fitting. I found one in France that I liked. They should be sending it, but I want to see all of my options.” She nodded her head softly, feeling content with her answer. 

“You’re going alone?” He furrowed his eyebrows as he looked at her in disbelief. She shrugged her shoulders, feeling like part of her would always be labeled as the pesky little sister, “Get in.”

“It’s out of town,” She shook her head, feeling like it was bad for the both of them to be alone, “I’m going to Bismarck.” She said sternly as she nodded her head, hoping that he would agree with her. She didn’t have much leverage when it came to him. 

“So? That’s not even two hours away.” He looked at her in confusion, tilting his head as he waited for her response. She chewed on her bottom lip, knowing they’d gone on far longer road trips before. Far enough that they’d once lost phone signal and ended up spending hours trying to dig and push his truck out of thick, muddy backroads. 

“You don’t have anything better to do?” She asked him curiously, observing that he was clearly out of his uniform. She wondered if he was off, or if he had worked last night. 

“Not today,” He grinned as he stood up a little straighter, then pat the side of his truck, “I was planning on bothering you anyways.” He mused, sending her a sly smile as he followed her around to the passenger seat and pulled the door open for her. 

“How lucky am I,” She clambered into the seat, ignoring how his large hands felt on her hips as he gave her a boost. She paused for a moment, turning in her seat to face him, “You really don’t mind?” She asked him softly, hoping that he wasn’t doing this because he felt like he had to.

“Not at all,” Mischief flooded his brown eyes as he spoke, making her believe that this really was a bad idea, “It’ll be fun.” He reassured her as he gently shut the door. She watched the way he crossed the front of the truck, the way he roughly spit before he crawled inside. 

“Thank you,” She responded gently as she held her hands over her flowery skirt. She stared at the material, trying to decide if it was an off white or a very soft pink. She looked at the flowers next, taking in the different colors and designs before she turned towards him again, “I figured you would’ve had a fancy date or something.”

“Me?” He laughed, glancing over at her as he placed a hand behind her seat to reverse out of the driveway, “Not in that manner.” He said a second later, amusement dancing across his features as he slowly met her eye. He moved his arm away a second later, turning the truck in the right direction. 

“What, does Tinder keep you occupied?” She teased him gently, but felt a burning sense of jealousy fill her stomach. She knew it was dumb. Gator could be with anyone he wanted to be with, just like she was with Hugh. 

However, their situations were certainly different. She was about to be married, but it was to someone who she had barely experimented with. She had yet to put his tongue inside of his mouth or just to kiss him in the same manner that she did with Gator for hours. 

Hugh insisted that it had to do with wanting to save it for marriage, but she’d grown inquisitive more than once. He certainly didn’t speak like a saint, nor act like one in other manners. He wasn’t very religious either, not in the way that Daphne had been raised.

 She’d panicked the first time he’d brought it up, swore up and down that she was a virgin as well. Which was about as far from the truth as she could get. Daphne and Gator’s history had been adventurous. They’d tried all kinds of positions, kinks and fetishes, more than she could count on two hands. She supposed the good thing about her lie was that no one knew the truth, well, besides Gator. 

“Something like that,” Gator’s lips curled up oh so gently as he drove them down the long road, “Does your guy ask about me?” He asked casually, digging for information the same way she had been when she suggested that he may have a date. 

“Hugh,” She reminded him softly, knowing that he was only pretending not to remember, “He hasn’t said a whole lot actually. I think he’s processing everything.” She lied, speaking with her hands for a quick second. She quickly stopped herself, moving her hands underneath her thighs to keep from being obvious. 

Hugh hated him. He hadn’t said it directly, but spoke about Gator with enough dislike and a curl of his lip that she knew the truth. He’d complained about Gator shoulder checking him, then at the engagement party he had insisted that Gator was purposely eating all of the Pâte de fruits. Daphne was still unsure about the second statement, knowing that Gator didn’t care for candied fruits that much nor were they sweet enough for his liking. 

“You’re a shit liar.” He said at last, laughing as he pulled his vape up to his lips. She shook her head as the fruity flavor hit her nose, but then remembered how bad the smell had been when he had insisted that he was going to smoke cigars like their fathers.

“He thinks you’re an asshole,” She responded with a soft laugh as she spoke the truth, “But he said maybe we need to do some kind of group dinner to bond.” She relayed slowly, not mentioning that Hugh had thought it would be best if the two men had gone alone. Gator snorted in response, beginning to play with the radio until his loud music blared through the stereos. 

“When is this dumb wedding anyways?” He mumbled a few minutes later, genuinely looking disgruntled as he glanced over towards Daphne again. She pushed her hair behind her shoulders, enjoying the sensation of the cool air that shot up against her neck. 

“It’s not dumb,” She said as she shoved at him softly, “You didn’t read it on the invitation?” She asked him instead, feeling a little nervous to bring it up with him. She didn’t know why it bothered her. She brushed it off on her lack of guilt. 

“You didn’t know?” He asked her curiously, glancing over at her as he wrinkled his eyebrows together, “I can’t read.” He said at last, a grin forming on his lips from his own joke. She couldn’t help but roll her eyes this time, her own smile plastered onto her lips as she shook her head. 

“You’re an idiot.” She said at last, shaking her head as she watched the pretty scenery disappear around them. She glanced towards him a second later, wondering if he’d ever be brave enough to leave this town. 

“You love me anyway.” He replied a second later, making her heart pump roughly inside of her chest. She couldn’t recall how many times they’d muttered those silly words to one another. Whether it was as kids, or through hushed moans when they clawed at each other’s skin. She knew he didn’t mean it in that manner. It was in a friendly manner between them, as it always had been. They were just words and they were only friends. 

“October,” She said finally as she turned to face him, “The fifth. It’s on a Saturday. Can you get off?” She asked him softly, almost feeling dumb for bringing up that question. She held onto her breath, hoping that he would say yes. 

“Huh,” He leaned forward a bit, adjusting how he was sitting, “That’s pretty quick. He trying to get his citizenship?” He questioned her. She watched the way his eyebrows knitted together, how his tongue slid out just enough to brush against his bottom lip. 

“He will be my husband, so that would be helpful.” She teased him softly, but was slightly afraid of what his reaction would be. She knew how it would sound to him, but it wasn’t like that at all. She was going to make a life with Hugh here. 

“So what’s in it for you?” He asked her casually, looking like he genuinely wanted to know the answer. She blinked, slightly taken aback as to why he would ask such a thing. 

“Uh,” She paused for a moment, “I guess having my husband live with me?” She asked him, feeling her eyebrows knitting together tightly. She didn’t really know what to tell him, or how to explain why she was doing this. She did care for Hugh and despite what people might think, she wasn’t marrying him just to make someone else jealous. She wasn’t that desperate. Gator may not be ready to marry someone, but she was. 

“I mean he doesn’t kiss you, he doesn’t buy you flowers,” Gator said slowly, “He doesn’t even post about you on that dumb app.” She opened her mouth, prepared to fight off how offended she suddenly felt. It all blew away in a matter of seconds at his last statement. She turned towards him quickly. 

“You looked at my instagram?” She asked him pointedly, her eyebrows raising as she watched the way he shifted in his seat again. He glanced towards her, his cheeks slightly flushed as he quickly turned back towards the road. She chewed on her bottom lip, using everything inside of her to keep from giggling. She hoped he couldn’t hear how hard her heart was beating over the music. 

“I just wanted to see if he was good for you or not,” Gator said quickly in defense of himself, his cheeks flushing a deeper shade, “He clearly isn’t.” He replied a little sternly, giving his head a little shake. She grinned this time, feeling a question lingering on her tongue. She wanted to know who was good for her then, who Gator would be happy seeing her with.

She didn’t ask, letting the question slowly die on her tongue even though she knew this conversation wasn’t done. She’d come back to it eventually, when the time was right and when she was sure that he wouldn’t try and avoid the topic. She wanted to know what he truly thought. 

The rest of the car ride was nice, normal. It was hard to feel like there was something missing between the two of them when they fell back together so easily. She missed the way he spoke, his funny little expressions and how he’d mindlessly tap his fingers to the beat of his music.

“It’s this one?” He looked over curiously, shifting forward a bit to peer into the large windows. She bit down on her bottom lip, nodding her head softly as she pulled her purse over her shoulder.

“Something wrong with it?” She asked, her cheeks feeling a little hot at the way he exhaled and shook his head. He turned towards her amused, giving his shoulders a soft shrug as he unbuckled his seat belt.

“Sometimes I just forget how rich your daddy is.” He snorted to himself, cocking an eyebrow like he wanted her to challenge him. She rolled her eyes playfully, watching as he quickly got out of the truck and crossed the front of it to open the door for her. 

“Hey,” She said softly as she opened the door before he could, “It’s not just my daddy. Mama comes from money too.” She reminded him playfully. The Tillman’s may have money, but both of her parents were rooted in old money that went way back. Bruce had not so politely reminded her that it was his money. She didn’t get any of it when she was traveling. 

“Oh my mistake,” He snorted as he pulled the door open for her. He held a hand out, reaching towards her as she shifted to wiggle out of the high seats. She paused for only a second before she gripped his rough hand and bounded out of the seat, “Little rich bitch.”

“Ha,” Daphne laughed playfully, smiling gently as she slowly released his hand. She chewed on her bottom lip, sure that his eyes were on her hips as she walked up the steps, “You coming?” She glanced back towards him, noticing the way he was still leaning against the truck.

“Yeah,” He brushed himself off quickly, his cheeks looking red this time as he jogged forward, “I’m ready.” He mumbled underneath his breath, shaking his head to himself as he pulled the door open for her.

She couldn’t fight the grin on her face as she stepped forward, checking herself into the front desk as she glanced around the room. She was growing nervous again, almost to the point where she wanted to grab Gator and drag him out of the building with her. Suddenly, everything felt too real. 

“And who is your guest?” Lisa, the one who was checking her in, questioned as she wrote down a few things down in the book she had in front of her. Daphne paused, opening her mouth and then shutting it again. She was momentarily stalled, not expecting that she would have to explain who Gator was. 

“This is Gator,” She breathed out, “He’s my-,” She held her hand up towards him, blanking for another second. It didn’t feel right to call him a friend, but anything else would be too suspicious. 

“Groom,” He finished for her, smiling wildly as he jumped at the opportunity, “She wanted my opinion.” He shrugged his shoulders, giving Daphne a cocky grin as her eyes grew three sizes. She parted her lips, trying to think of a way to discreetly protest. 

“Oh, how nice,” Linda smiled, “Follow me back this way. I’ll get you set up in this area, let you get comfortable for a minute.” She walked around the desk, giving them both a quick wave as she walked ahead. 

“I can’t believe you said that.” Daphne whispered underneath her breath, trying to fight off a nervous laugh that was building in her stomach. She feared that someone might find out, but that was silly. They were too far away from home. 

“We won’t ever see her again,” He mumbled as he smacked her ass, “Keep going, mama. They might get suspicious.” He sent her a sly wink, looking rather pleased at the way she flushed and stumbled ahead. 

“Did you wanna do the fitting first, or try some on?” Lisa questioned, all too oblivious at the turmoil that was growing inside of Daphne. Gator strolled up next to her, brushing his shoulder against hers all too softly. It was still enough to make sparks spread down from the side of her arm.

“Can I try some on first?” She asked hopefully, trying to erase the feeling of his skin against her own, “Just in case there’s something else I like.” She asked, trying to act like it wasn’t an excuse to try on a bunch of pretty dresses. 

“Sure,” Lisa smiled again, “Is there anything you need help finding?” She asked curiously as she tilted her head. Daphne shook her head quickly, knowing that she really didn’t have anything in mind. She just liked seeing herself dressed up.

“I think I just want to try a few on,” She said as she played with her fingers, “Nothing really special.” Lisa nodded, bringing her forward again as she began to point out the various ways the dresses were ordered. She excused herself after that, ensuring that she would be close by when Daphne was ready. 

“What do you think?” Daphne asked, popping her hip out as she pulled out a rather large and floofy gown, “Too much?” She asked him playfully, noticing the way his nose just oh so gently curled up. 

“Yeah,” Gator grinned at her, “You’d uh, look like those princesses you used to pretend to be.” He responded, his hands buried in his pockets as he watched the way she examined them. She nodded her head, bringing her hand over the rather large skirt. 

“I always wanted to be a princess.” She sighed softly, thinking about how she used to force Gator to be her knight, even when he didn’t want to be. 

“Aren’t you one?” He teased her softly, “I mean you’re rich and marrying some handsome fella, what’s the other requirements?” He asked her truthfully, raising one eyebrow as he waited for her to respond. She pressed her lips together as she shook her head. 

“I guess that makes you a prince,” She paused as she turned to face him, “Or a frog waiting to be kissed.” She teased him back, waiting for his response as she shuffled through the dresses again. There always seemed to be something off about them. She’d find one that she thought she liked, but then there was just something about it. 

“You were the one handling the frogs.” He brushed his thumb across his bottom lip, covering the smirk that was forming on his lips. She chewed on her inner cheek, shaking his remark off as she went back to looking for another dress to try on. 

“What do you think about this one?” She questioned him as she pulled a more form fitting one out, “Too low cut?” She asked as she held it up, a little curious as to what it would look like on her. Gator gave his shoulders a soft shrug.

“Try it on.” He encouraged her as he pulled it off the rack for her. She grinned, her heart thumping softly in her chest. She liked that he genuinely wanted to be involved in what she was doing.

It was a while later after she rounded up Lisa and got herself squeezed inside of the dress. She nearly didn’t want to go out with it on, once she realized just how tightly the dress squeezed her. She inhaled, taking a breath of confidence as she waddled her way out towards where he was sitting. 

“That’s-,” Gator huffed, his cheeks red as he slowly traced his eyes over her curves, “S’nice.” He managed at last, choking up on his words a bit. He shifted in his seat, cursing as his phone slid off of his lap and down into the couch cushions. 

“There’s no way my dad would let me wear this.” She said at last, trying to ignore the flush that was nearly down to her collarbones. She didn’t know why she was suddenly shy as Gator had seen her with far less on. 

“You really care about what he thinks?” Gator grumbled, sitting back up as he picked his phone back up. He moved a hand over his hair, slicking it back again as his eyes danced back towards her chest. 

“Considering I’m on pretty thin ice for marrying a French man,” Daphne drew in slowly, “Yeah, I’m a little concerned with what he wants.” She nodded her head quickly, thinking about how it had been like walking on ice around him recently. 

“Sounds like you’re marrying your daddy.” He told her pointedly as he kicked his long legs out in front of himself and crossed them at his ankles. She looked at him unamused in the mirror as she shook her head. She wasn’t the only one that went above and beyond to impress a parent. 

She went through a handful of other dresses, each one gaining a slightly different reaction from Gator. She could tell that he liked a little more skin to be revealed, but she wasn’t sure how Hugh would react to that. 

“Do you wanna see the one I bought in France now?” She asked him, feeling a little eager at the thought. It truly was the prettiest one that she had seen thus far. 

“Sure,” Gator said as he tapped his fingertips against the side of the chair, still interested in what she was doing, “Does it look better than that last one?” He asked her, his eyes rising slightly in amusement. 

“Funny,” She told him softly as she walked with Lisa back to the changing room, “I really like this one.” She said a second later, grinning as she felt his eyes following behind her. 

“This one is really pretty,” Lisa commented once Daphne was all dressed up, “I think he’ll love it.” Daphne drew her eyes down softly, feeling a little bad as Lisa spoke. She shook those thoughts away, instead focusing on how much better the dress fit her this time. 

She liked the lace and the sheer sleeves that held little flowered stitching on them. The front of the dress was a v-line shaped, dipping down just far enough to show off the swell of her boobs without revealing too much. It was snug around her waist, but then branched off loosely against her hips. It filled her with fresh excitement.

“So,” Lisa dragged out slowly as she fixed the back of Daphne’s train to sit nicely behind her, “It’s pretty, isn’t it?” She smiled as she stood, turning to face Gator. Daphne pressed her fingertips together, feeling a little nervous as she met Gator’s expression in the mirror. 

His lips were parted, slightly slack as his eyes wandered over her body again. She swore that her heart stopped when his brown eyes met hers in the mirror. He gulped hard before he nodded his head slowly. 

“I think that’s the one,” He mumbled softly, “You look really pretty.” He added a second later, his lips curling into a genuine smile as he watched her. She grinned, turning to face him in excitement. It was all a bit silly, but she really did care about what his opinion was. 

“Thank you,” She mused softly, still grinning as she turned towards Lisa, “Can I take this today then?” She asked curiously, feeling like it already fit her like a glove. She hoped that she wouldn’t need any more fittings. 

“Of course,” Lisa smiled again in return, “Let’s get this off and you’ll be all set.” She ushered Daphne along again, but her footsteps suddenly felt heavier as she tried to keep her focus on anything but Gator. She could still feel him watching her and she wondered if he felt the same warmth spreading through his body. 

“So,” Gator grinned as he followed her into the room once Lisa had left her dressed in her robe, “When do I see what you’re wearing underneath?” He smirked, his eyes dark and filled with lust as he stared at her. She looked up at him surprised, flushing at the way he quickly shut the curtain behind him. 

“You can’t be in-,” She was cut off by the rough way his lips fell onto hers. She moaned, closing her eyes as she pressed her lips against his just as urgently, “Gator.” She moaned against his mouth, sighing as he stole the breath from her lungs. 

He dragged his fingers across her shoulders, bunching up the material of her robe as he went. He pressed his teeth against her bottom lip gently, biting down softly as he unhooked the front of her robe and let it fall to her feet. 

“Wait,” She giggled softly against his lips as his warm hands pressed into her waist. Her nipples hardened from the crisp, cool air that swirled from the vent behind them, “Mhm, need to pick that up.” She mumbled, not wanting their robe to get dirty

“S’fine,” He reassured her, gripping the back of her thighs as he lifted her into the air. She bit back a squeal, not wanting to alert anybody as he stumbled back and positioned himself on the little bench. It was almost funny, how much bigger he looked in comparison to it, “Wanna feel you.” He breathed out, his eyes heavy as he drew his large hands up her soft curves.

His rough palms fell to her boobs, cupping them as a soft gasp left her lips. The feeling of his skin against hers made her eyelids flutter. He felt so rough and warm, so similar to what she’d been missing for so long.

She pressed her lips against his, kissing him deeply as he pinched softly at her pink nipples. She moaned as his tongue pressed into her parted lips, licking away her gentle sounds as he brought one hand down to her wet folds. She jumped at the sensation, gasping as he pressed his thumb against her clit.

“Gator,” She moaned softly after flicking her tongue against his own. She sighed blissfully as she moved her hands down to his hips, roughly beginning to tug his belt off. He lifted his hips, shimming the material of his pants and boxers down just enough to free him. She felt like her mouth was beginning to water as she stared at his thick cock. She admired the way it curved, how long and thick he was, “I want you.” She said softly, bringing her eyes back up towards him. She wondered if he could tell that she meant it in more than one way.

He covered his own groan with her lips, melting their skin together as he gripped her hips and pulled her closer to him. She whined at the sensation, enjoying the rough way his fingers dug into her thighs before he pressed his tip against her slick hole.

She slid down on him with ease, her lips parting widely in silent pleasure as her walls stretched around his thick cock. He fit in perfectly, like he was a missing puzzle piece. She pressed her forehead against his, inhaling the taste of his fruity breath as a whine left his mouth. She paused her movements for just a second, shooting him a warning look.

“Gotta be quiet,” She whispered softly, reminding him before she began to roll her hips further down the length of his cock, “Someone will hear.” She mumbled gently, sighing as she slid down the remainder of his cock. She breathed in deeply, feeling stuffed full from his girth.

He nodded his head, his forehead brushing against hers as he groaned lowly against her mouth. His fingers fell to her hips, squeezing her flesh tightly to push her deeper against his cock. She gasped at the stretch, biting back her own whine as she glanced towards the curtain to ensure it wasn’t being disturbed.

“Little slut,” He spit out a second later, groaning as she began to rock herself up and down the length of his dick. She chewed on her bottom lip, trying to hide her own moans as his cock pressed into her deepest crevices. She closed her eyes, enjoying the sensation as his lips fell to the crook of her neck, “My little whore, aren’t you?” 

“Yeah,” She whispered, crooning softly as he leaned forward to drag his lips against hers hotly. Her boobs pressed up against his shirt, her sensitive nipples dragging against the material of his shirt as he pulled her closer to him, “All yours, daddy. Your little whore.”

He groaned, his eyes dark as he looked up at her in bliss. He parted his pink lips, his groans tickling her ears as he began to roll his hips up to meet her movements. She sighed, enjoying the way his cock dragged along her wet walls. She was doing her best to be slow, to take it easy. But part of her wanted him to grip her roughly and take her however he wanted. 

He cupped her chin harshly, squeezing her flesh as he brought her face down towards him. She whimpered lowly, enjoying the desperate look in his gaze as his fingers fell upon her lips. He huffed softly, parting her lips before he leaned forward and spit into her mouth.

She whined loudly, licking away his saliva in her mouth. Pleasure raced up her back, tickling her nerves as she swallowed his spit harshly. She began to move herself harder along his cock, sighing as she shut her eyes tightly as the waves crashed over her. 

Their movements were desperate and rough, both of them searching for their release as they clung to one another. She could feel herself dripping along his cock, feeling how each time he slid in easier and easier. She enjoyed the way his large hand fell to her ass, slapping her flesh harshly as it echoed in the room.

“God,” She whined, jolting at the sting as she continued to grind her hips down against his throbbing cock, “Feels so good.” She praised him, gasping as his tip pressed against her bundle of nerves. She could feel a whimper slipping free, sure that she would be addicted to him once again. Three years of trying to forget him had been pointless.

He nipped at the corner of her neck, biting softly before flicking his tongue across the sore area. She pulled him closer, her mouth falling open against his slicked back hair as he bounced her faster along his cock. She could feel her face heating up at the sound of their bodies meeting in a continuous melody.

Her eyes fell to the left, accidentally meeting her gaze in the mirror as Gator continued to mark up her collarbone. Her face was flushed, her features contorted into pleasure as she suddenly felt urged to ride his cock even harder. It was wrong, all of it so wrong. She couldn’t deny how good it felt, or how badly she missed doing this with Gator. She turned away from the mirror, not ready to accept that there wasn’t an ounce of regret in her eyes. 

She gripped his chin, enjoying the soft stubble against her palm as she brought her mouth down upon his. He whined again, the sound vibrating across her lips as she moved her mouth against his harshly. She still liked kissing him and slightly feared that she wouldn’t ever enjoy kissing someone else. 

“Such a dirty bitch,” He groaned against her lips as his thrusts became more sporadic, his balls slapping against her flesh with each deep movement, “You’re so bad.” He replied huskily, mirroring her own pleasure as he knitted his eyebrows together. 

“Your bad girl,” She grinned breathlessly, her eyebrows furrowing as the pleasure raced up her spine, “S’all for you.” She sputtered out, feeling like her eyes were close to rolling into the back of her head. Her clit was throbbing, walls pulsing as she clenched around him. 

Her toes began to curl as she clung to him, desperately trying to pull him closer as she felt her climax approaching. She licked at his parted lips again, enjoying the whine that fell free from his mouth. He was always so vocal, so carnal when they were together. 

Her lips fell to his in a desperate way to hide her moans, to hide how good she felt as she approached her high. She gripped a hold of his bicep, squeezing tightly as his tongue flicked against her own. It was sloppy, wet as she came with a loud moan against his mouth. 

He covered his own grunts, his sounds coming out just a bit higher pitched as he pressed his cock deep inside of her. She whined, her walls throbbing as he came deep inside of her. She whimpered at the sensation of his warm spunk coating her cunt. 

He was breathing to the same temp she was, his fingertips lightly dragging against her skin as he peppered kisses along her mouth. Something about it felt domestic, even though she knew it wasn’t. He’d always had a habit to do this after. Still, it brought a smile to her lips. 

“So,” Gator drew out softly, glancing up at her with his warm brown eyes, “How are you going to explain this?” He mumbled, pressing his thumb into her soft hip. She looked down in surprise, flushing at the little lettered tattoo he covered.

“You have a matching one.” She pointed out quickly, feeling a little defensive of herself. She took special measurements to ensure that Hugh never saw it. Not that he had tried to see much of her bare skin anyways. 

“I’m not getting married.” He replied as he drew his finger across the G shape on her skin. She shrugged her shoulders a second later, suddenly feeling like she was on the spot. She wasn’t sure how she’d explain all of this to Hugh or if she even needed to. 

“Just a G,” She said as she raised her chin, “It could mean anything.” She said at last, peering her eyes up to meet his. They were warm, soft. She felt like she was melting instantly as they seemed to engulf her into a warm hug. 

“But it’s for something specific,” He pointed out, “Just like mine stands for something too.” He mumbled underneath his breath. She brought her fingers up to his cheek softly, pressing against his smooth skin gently. She felt like her tongue was suddenly tangled, filled with the words that she wanted to say but didn’t know how to. 

“I thought that was just a friendly bet.” She challenged him instead, forcing his cards onto the table instead. She waited, holding her breath in hopes that he would be the one to reveal what he wanted. 

“Maybe.” He spoke instead, his eyes trailing across her lips before he gazed up towards her again. She waited and waited, wishing she had a way to will him to speak his truth. He was confusing, just like always. 

“Are you hungry?” She asked instead, not wanting to leave heart out in the open to be crushed again. She’d revealed herself once before. He’d have to be the one to do it this time. 

“There’s an Olive Garden here.” He said softly, looking interested in her chest as he brought his thumb against her soft nipple. She enjoyed the sensation, feeling goosebumps beginning to spread across her skin. 

“Oh,” She grinned as she pursed her lips together, “Isn’t that your date spot?” She teased him, thinking about how proud he used to be when he’d brag about having dates there. It was cute. 

“You are my fiancée for the day,” He grinned at her, “I should spoil you.” He mumbled as moved his hand away from her boob and placed it on her soft hip instead. She hoped he couldn’t see her shivering from the sensation. 

“With Olive Garden,” She teased him, puckering her lips out softly, “Sounds delicious. You’re paying then.” She told him truthfully, beginning to realize that she really would enjoy pretending that he was her fiancé for the day. 

“All on me,” He grinned, “They got that all you can eat pasta deal. Order from there and you can have as much as your little heart desires.” He replied as he smacked her ass, making a grin spread across her lips.