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4drianaaaa · 5 months ago

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u should do hamzah and y/n meeting for the first time after being online “friends” and one thing leads to another if yk what i mean

ohhh ur a genius and I just know Hamzah would be so nervous and obnoxious AH

Skin 2 Skin | Hamzahthefantastic

cw; nsfw 18+ , & fem reader!

🤍: you looked at the window outside your Uber as you looked at the dusk sunset of the Toronto sky eager to finally meet the only person you came to this party/trip for, Hamzah

You and Hamzah have been friends since last year and would almost every night be on FaceTime or on call just listening to each others presence. You liked him a lot. And you’d often think about how things would be if you dated but obviously you always thought he just liked you as a friend and flirted with you just to not make him seem like an asshole. Obviously he likes you too.

He’d always space out to you yapping to him as his thoughts wondered into both of you living in the same apartment and him just wanting his hands all over you.

You anticipatedly hoped out of your Uber and into your hotel. You smooth sailed through the reservation desk as you entered what would be your new home for the next week. You finally got a message from the host making sure you got picked up and were in your room.

Half-a-hour later

You finished up your makeup and sprayed some perfume as you were now out the door into another Uber. This time the traffic caught up and you were gonna be a couple minutes late,

“Ya from here?” Your Uber driver questioned “hm, um no. Im just visiting friends!” You replied as he nodded his head “yeah the traffic gets bad here, especially in Toronto.” He added as you scoffed “I could tell”. After a couple small convos you finally made it to the house. You called Hamzah to walk you in the party.

“Hello? Are you okay? Are you here?” He yelled through the phone “yes I’m here- come outside it’s cold” you said as he hung up, you looked up as you saw him standing there. Your pupils expanded as you noticed how taller he was in person, how his curls laid perfectly around his hat, and how he would easily tower you. “Hamzah!” You exclaimed running towards him as you wrapped your arms around his neck as he placed his hands on your waist carrying you off the ground because of the height difference “you’re so tall! You looked so short on camera” you teased as he pat your back “whatever” He rolled his eyes as his stomach fluttered with butterflies just talking to you in person “okay get off me now” you said jokingly as you pushed him off of you “you know you love me y/n” he smirked as you thanked the amount of blush on your cheeks was covering the actual heat radiating off of your face “okay let me meet Martin now, I’ve had enough of you” you followed him into the party.

After meeting Martin and Mandy and talking for what seemed forever you and Hamzah decided to leave the party a bit early and going to walk around the city a bit just to get to know it a bit better

“Why did you even come here?” He questioned “I don’t know I should have stayed at home huh?” You said sarcastically as he blew raspberry “just say you wanted to come see me” he smirked “this is not rizz” you laughed “oh you wanna see rizz?” He joked “NO” you walked away from him as he chased you and wrapping his arm around you

You agreed to meeting Peter at Hamzah’s apartment as well as stealing a jacket or two just to survive in the chilly Toronto weather, he unlocked his door as he opened the door for you. He showed you around his apartment as he led you to his room scanning through his hoodies.

You were now laid on his bed as one of your legs hung from the edge of his bed. You looked at how his fingers slid through the hoodies and how his figure was huge, you bit your lip at the things you’d do to him as you squeezed your legs together trying your best to achieve some sort of friction. You couldn’t help but call his name “Hamzah-“ he cut you off “I got these two” he said setting the hoodies beside you, you fought over the fact you just wanted to tell this man how you felt about him. How you enjoyed conversations with him and how you wished for this day to come and just confess your feelings “what’s wrong? Are you okay?” He questioned sitting beside you as you sat up “Hamzah, I don’t know if this will ruin us but- I really like you, like a lot” you looked at his pink lips as they spread into a smile “I’m glad Im not the only one- I like you too.” He placed his hand on your thigh that slowly rode up to your waist, you looked down at his hand and back to his eyes and lips

His lips crashed into yours as you felt yourself getting hotter by the minute

He slid his hand up to your waist as you placed your hand on the side of his face. Your small groans and moans made his pants grow tighter as your lips parted from each other, “I- wanna keep going? I can stop if you want.” He panted as you nodded your head as you nipped at the apple of his cheek “I really want you inside of me please Hamzah” you whispered into his ear as he laid back onto the headboard of his bed as you crawled on top of him feeling how hard he was just by making out with you “fuck- you don’t know how long I’ve been wanting to do this” he whimpered as you took off your top leaving you in your bra as he practically drooled “then show me” you smirked as he kissed your exposed chest leaving passionate hickies all over your neck and chest. His hands traveled all over your back as he unclipped your bra as his eyes immediately turned to yours asking for permission as you nodded. He kissed your exposed tits as his tongue swirled around your nipple as you felt your self grinding on his lap “fuck!” You yelled as his hands slithered to your neck lightly gripping it, you felt your panties get wet as you ran your fingers through his curls

He picked you up and threw you under him as he left a trail of kisses down to your button on your pants. You impatiently watched him take your pants off slowly as you just him inside you. He throw your pants leaving you in your soaked panties as you turned red from embarrassment “mf-so wet” he licked his lips as he kissed your inner thigh “please, please Hamzah!” You whined as he giggled as his hot breath teased you even more.

He slipped the side of your panties off as the cool air sent shivers through out your whole body as you gripped on to the sheets of his bed. “Fuck y/n, you look so pretty from m’ere” he smirked as he kissed your wet dripping cunt making you curse under your breath. This man was sending you to a whirlwind of lust. His mouth did pleasures on your pussy as you felt yourself coming all over his lips and nose. “You taste so sweet baby” he licked his lips once again as his lips intertwined with yours. You tugged at his shirt wanting it off as he swiftly took off his shirt as well, he fidgeted with his pants as he slid off his boxers as well. Your eyes widened at the length of his aching member contemplating how he was gonna go all in on you. He pumped his aching cock as his spilling tip fondled over your heated core “you tell me when to stop. I’ll go slow ‘kay?” He grunted as you nodded as you wrapped your arms around his neck as he slowly entered inside of you causing you to already almost come undone as he was halfway down “how’s that?” He panted as your mouth widened “keep going”.

He finally thrusted into you fully as you dug your nails onto his back, “holy shit!” Your moans filled the room as he slowly thrusted in and out of you. His lips laid on top of you as his groans vibrated. You felt your self already riding your high as you panted under him with every thrust. “Want me to keep doing baby? Yeah?” He groaned as you whined under him. As you finally adjusted to his size he decided to start going faster as he repeatedly hit your spot “fuck- oh my god yes please Hamzah! Fuck” you left scratches on to his back, “yes! Fuck Hamzah I’m gonna fucking come!” At this point you didn’t care about the neighbors and how loud you were. You were seeing stars. “Yes baby just come all over my fucking cock like you’ve always wanted to- yes” he panted.

You came undone all over him as you felt his warm seed inside of you. He panted as he kissed your forehead “you did so good, so good” he groaned as he pulled out as your mixed come spilled out of you “how did we get here” you laughed as you covered your face with a pillow as he laid beside you “I don’t know but I don’t regret it” he teased as he laid on your chest slowly dozing off.

#hamzahthefantastic #hamzah x y/n #hamzahsmut #hamzah x reader #slushy noobz

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couldawouldashoulda50 · 2 months ago

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This is Part One of my entry for the wonderful @cellythefloshie's birthday BINGO, featuring Matthew Knies (I know he was past the 2018 cutoff but celly gave me the green light for him). Although I did get bingo with my 5 tropes (Virginity, Age Gap, Secret Lovers, Meet Cute, Pining), the 5 are spread across Part One and Two. I am finishing Part Two soon, and then there might be a smaller third part - I just haven't figured out the fine art of writing smaller fics yet but I'm working on it. Nevertheless HAPPY (early) BIRTHDAY CELLY! I hope you enjoy this ❤️

Warnings/Notes - profanity, toxic parenting, parent estrangement. This part mainly covers the initial development of Matthew and the OC

OC Face Claim - Anna Katharina

Approx Word Count - 5.7k

August, 2024

Well, this is a huge fucking mistake… Lana thought to herself, forcing a smile as she sat across from her date.

She chastised herself further in her mind. Shit—I can't even remember his name. Was it Terry…or Jerry? Wait…Phil? No, he was last week. Fuck.

Against her better judgment, Lana allowed her arm to be twisted by her beloved brother to go on yet another blind date.

"Just try, Lana—just try again," he'd say. Now, she was wasting away across from this person, who was blathering about a subject that she had already forgotten about, alongside his name.

Lana rotated the highball glass with her fingertips, as she pretended to show interest in the man's one-sided conversation. Although her eyes appeared to be focused on his face, she was actually gazing out the window, just over the man's shoulder. From the 51st floor of the ManuLife Centre, the view of that particular evening boasted a magnificent August sunset, which added to the magical twilight of the Toronto city skyline.

Lana pouted in her mind. Why can't I be sitting here admiring the view with someone I love? Or even like? Attracted to, maybe?

It was from these moments of desperation, or weakness—whichever it was—that she found herself in this blind date situation to begin with.

She loved her brother, Andrew, for trying to set her up with a decent guy to develop a connection with. Lana thought it was reasonable that he might know a little more about men and dating since Andrew was in a loving relationship with Jason, his long-time partner.

She thought it was reasonable mainly because Lana had never dated anyone.

As in never, ever, ever.

Based on the non-success of the past men that Andrew sent her way, Lana felt her relationship status would not be changing anytime soon either.

Lana snapped back to reality just in time to catch what's-his-name staring at her tits as he finished his sentence.

She smiled demurely as she studied his expression. She really had not heard a word he had said, and it did not appear that he was awaiting a response from her. Seizing the opportunity, she excused herself and headed off in the direction of the ladies' room.

She turned back around to glance at her date. He was already otherwise occupied, ogling a nearby female server.

In the confines of the washroom stall, Lana swiped open her phone to remind herself of the name of the man she regretted suggesting to meet at one of her favorite restaurants.

Upon finding it, she muttered "Darren."

Lana responded to a text her brother had sent her earlier, asking how things were going.

L - Do you think that Jason can start vetting these guys before you send them my way? Personality of a piece of cardboard. I think I actually may have lost consciousness while he rambled on…

Andrew must have been waiting for her message, as he promptly responded.

A- Jason and I love you but we're done with sending you men. Coming to breakfast tomorrow?

Lana smiled at her brother's message. He always teased her saying she wouldn't have the foggiest clue what to do with a man anyway.

L - Love you both too. Breakfast is a no-go. Taking a client to view some condos. TTYL

A- Msg me when you get home

Lana exited the stall and glanced at her reflection as she washed her hands. She pondered what method she would use this time to send Darren packing.

Interestingly, most men never bothered to call once she handed them her business card anyway.

They seemed to trip over the word "Owner", especially of one of the most prestigious real estate brokerages in Toronto.

As they wrapped up their date, Lana cordially offered her business card with her contact information. Darren glanced at her card and then back at her. His expression gave her all the information she needed to know about the man standing before her.

Other than "Owner", there was a second word that was a lingering fact about Lana. A word that had begun to plague her mind and body more and more. She always wondered how a man would react, if in fact they were ever able to look past the first word, and get to know her more.

That second word was virgin.

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Lana and her older brother Andrew grew up in a small, close-knit community approximately two hours northwest of Toronto.

Their parents were cold, strict, and controlling towards their children. Although they made sure Andrew and Lana had everything they needed, there were always strings attached with everything they were provided.

Andrew was intelligent, strong-willed, and independent from an early age. Being 5 years younger, Lana idolized her handsome older brother. In turn, he adored her and always pushed her to succeed in everything she tried. Their bond became even stronger as their parents became even more controlling with Lana as she approached her high school years.

Andrew clashed badly with their parents, experiencing constant conflict and turmoil while living under the same roof. Andrew was determined to leave as soon as he could. He worked multiple jobs while still managing to excel academically. After earning as much money as he could, Andrew left to study architecture abroad at 18.

Once Andrew departed, his parents no longer acknowledged his existence. Andrew always felt a tremendous amount of guilt and remorse knowing he had deserted his beloved little sister. From afar, he did his best to help his sister navigate their parents' increasingly stern and uncompromising attitude toward her.

Meanwhile, Lana was experiencing rapid growth spurts at the age of 13. She was long, lean, and had natural curves which enhanced her athletic build. Her mother often shunned her appearance, making her feel that her natural beauty and her blossoming figure were a detriment and a cross to bear.

As she entered high school, it would mark the hardest time of her life.

Lana's mother drowned her with archaic myths and cautionary tales about boys, sex, disease, and unplanned pregnancy. She would be forever "ruined" if she gave in to having relations out of wedlock. As the ever-dutiful daughter, Lana absorbed everything her parents said and never scrutinized or disobeyed them.

The teenage boys at her school, with their raging desires fueling their comments as she walked by them, did little to convince Lana that her mother might be wrong in her teachings.

Teenage girls were in some cases worse than the boys. The behavior of the girls at Lana's school was full of envy and competitiveness. She often felt ostracized and alone during her first weeks and months of high school.

Lana would message Andrew in tears in the stall of the girls' washroom between classes. He was always there for her with words of comfort but would only allow her just a few tears of pity. Andrew would then coach her on how she would need to rise above it all. Step by step, Lana put her head down, studied hard, and became active in student council and various athletic programs.

Lana developed a no-nonsense type of attitude which served her well in her secondary school years, as well as keeping the peace at home. She managed to forge a few solid friendships with those who were authentic, intelligent, and did not concern themselves with trends or being popular.

At the end of high school, Lana was rewarded for her diligence and focus by excelling in academics, athletics, and the arts. She received a full scholarship to enter the Law program at the University of Toronto.

Fast-forwarding through her first two years in university, she maintained the same steadfast and hard-working mentality that was part of her nature. However, Lana soon discovered that Law did not ignite her passion. With Andrew carving his own path in architectural design and serving as her constant guide and mentor, she uncovered an unexpected love for real estate.

She landed a paid internship with a brokerage firm owned by an older gentleman by the name of Reine Schmidt. Reine immediately recognized Lana's dogged determination, her intellect, and her willingness to learn.

Reine taught Lana everything he knew. He had a proven track record of understanding trends to predict future outcomes, alongside his charisma, sharp wit, and masterful negotiation skills. With the guidance of her brother, Lana eventually followed her instincts and dropped out of university to work alongside her older mentor.

Lana's parents were furious and, in a fit of true toxicity, they severed ties with their daughter completely as they had done with their son.

As the cloud of devastation from the estrangement dissipated, Reine became a much-needed father figure in Lana's life. He provided her with shelter, which was merely a back room of the brokerage office. He helped her with the bare minimum, just enough to set her off in the right direction. The rest, Lana would have to work on and figure out for herself.

And she did. As the years went on, Lana gained a reputation throughout the GTA, being touted as Reine Schmidt's brilliant and beautiful protégé. She was elegant and poised while being creative and shrewd in her negotiation tactics. By the time she was thirty, Lana had her own substantial property portfolio, worth millions of dollars as the Toronto real estate market exploded.

When Reine became too ill to fulfill his responsibilities at his firm, he appointed Lana to step in on an interim basis. She did not know it at the time, but Reine had already decided to will her the firm. He just needed to make doubly sure that she was ready.

Lana remained by Reine's side as his illness progressed. He had no family to speak of, and he always said that he was not in the business of making friends. But he had grown to love Lana like a daughter, and although he never said as much, he was grateful that she made sure he was not alone during his last moments on earth.

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Lana awoke the following morning with the memory of her near abysmal date from the night before all but washed away. Retrieving her cell from her nightstand, she broke her own rule about no screens until after she had completed her morning Pilates. She just wanted to check if what's-his-name had messaged.

He had not.

Her business card had become like a detection device which helped identify those that would waste her time. Moreover, she was pleased that she could still calculate risk and probability by simply observing someone's non-verbal cues and other subtle behaviors.

Lana laid back on her pillow and gazed out her floor-to-ceiling windows in her bedroom. Her panoramic view of the city displayed all the colors of the sunrise of a late summer's morning. But the sunrise triggered a pang of loneliness within her. The sunset had a similar effect on her last night, and now the sunrise was having a go. She wanted someone to lie with and enjoy the wondrous city views in the morning. She longed to have someone to sit with at dinner and have them witness the perfection of a sunset by her side. She wanted to feel what it's like to crave someone and have them equally yearn for her.

Pushing her lonely thoughts aside, Lana yawned and stretched and slid out of bed, turning her phone off until it was time to leave for the office.

Any other morning, Lana would have opted to take transit, walk, or even run to her office. She quickly realized the good fortune of driving to work that day in an air-conditioned vehicle. The humidex was already climbing and it was only just 7 a.m. Another sweltering summer day in the city had begun.

As she drove, she mentally pre-planned her morning. Yesterday, a last-minute request came in from a very important client-turned-friend to view some condo listings in the downtown area. What left Lana perplexed was who the request was from.

Lana's mind drifted to another thought while idling at a traffic light.

Just two more weeks—two more weeks until I'm off and I'll press pause on the whole "trying to find a mate" search. Maybe I'm just meant to be alone. Maybe you just need to sleep with someone once and that'll be enough… maybe he's just not out there…. Lana mulled over these thoughts as she ventured south on St. George Street.

It had become a custom for Lana to flee the city at the beginning of September and spend a few weeks at the expansive lakeside home that she co-owned with her brother. With 5+ acres and an exceptional lakefront, it was a place where Lana could experience quiet for a while. That is, quiet after their friends, colleagues, and in some cases clients, descended onto the property for a popular get-together for the Labor Day weekend.

Arriving at her office before 7:30, Lana slipped into her leather chair and dove into a landslide of unread emails.

As the office began to fill, she left her office to greet her assistant and enjoy a morning chat. To Lana, this was one of her most favorite times of the day. Despite her upbringing, Lana sought connection with her professional family and was nurturing and compassionate to all of her associates. In turn, her staff were fiercely loyal to her and it showed in their combined success at the firm.

Lana returned to her office to tie up a few loose ends before her appointment arrived.

Ainsley tapped on Lana's office door, letting her know her 9 a.m. had arrived, and asked if she would like them escorted to her office. In her mind, Lana tripped over the word "them" as she was only expecting one person. Shaking off the confusion, she declined Ainsley's offer and thanked her as she made her way down the corridor.

As she approached the reception area, she was prepared to see Aryne Tavares but not her handsome husband John and another even more striking man standing next to the couple.

Lana's professional-turned-friendly relationship with the Tavares' began with helping Aryne navigate the Toronto housing market when John was traded from the Islanders to Toronto. Although John was present during some of the preliminary preference discussions, Aryne always appreciated how Lana focused mainly on her and her needs during the conversation, as opposed to her husband. Oftentimes, it was the opposite with other firms and their agents who wanted to talk hockey or suck up to the player in the hopes they might be able to drum up more business for themselves.

For several years, Lana's name had become the number one recommended by the majority of Toronto WAGs who were either in search of shorter-term furnished rentals or more permanent homes. She understood and made it clear (while treading lightly) that where the player-husbands were often making the salary allowing the upscale and sometimes super luxurious homes, it was the wives and families that had to live in them day in and day out. As such, Lana's firm cornered the market for finding suitable homes for Toronto's professional athletes and their families. Due to the unique demands, she created a specialized team and trained them specifically to work with sports agents, significant others, and the player's surrounding support system.

Lana's eyes lit up, as did Aryne's, as they greeted each other and hugged warmly.

"What an amazing surprise! Good morning!" Lana gushed, first embracing Aryne and then John.

Lana approached the third individual standing slightly behind John. He was taller than the veteran player by a couple of inches, visibly younger, and was extremely broad and fit.

Lana thought she recognized his face but couldn't quite place it.

Aryne made the introductions. "This is Matthew Knies. Matthew, this is Lana — she's a friend and has been our real estate guru for a number of years."

Matthew's cheeks were already burning when he first glimpsed at Lana. He was positive he had never seen a woman nearly as beautiful as she was.

But when Lana turned and looked directly into his eyes while extending her hand, that's when his insides fell apart. He had difficulty swallowing, and he realized his mouth was slightly agape.

Lana squeezed his hand warmly. "I thought I recognized you. It's really wonderful to meet you, Matthew."

Trying to pull himself together, he shook her hand and with a dry throat, he squeaked out, "Nice to meet you too."

As Lana escorted the group towards her office, Aryne explained that she and John just wanted to help sort through some of the available condo listings for Matthew.

Lana smiled and explained to Aryne and John her initial confusion when the request for condo listings appeared under the "Tavares" file. After all, she had already helped Aryne find their ideal home twice as their family grew.

Matthew had resided with the Tavares family at the beginning of the 2023/24 season and later moved to a rental unit downtown mid-way through the season. Unfortunately, for various reasons, he was not at all happy in that building and wanted to start the upcoming season in more suitable place. Although it was not discussed in their meeting, the main reason being that Matthew and his now ex-girlfriend had parted ways in that same unit, and it was not an amicable ending to say the least.

Lana appreciated having John and Aryne there to assist Matthew. In recent years, other members of her sales team had primarily handled the real estate needs of younger male players. Time was ticking before the start of the season, and Lana wanted to be efficient in pinpointing exactly what would suit Matthew. John's input would be valuable in considering practical factors, especially regarding proximity to Scotiabank Arena and the practice rink in the southwest end of the city.

As Matthew sat diagonally across from Lana, he pretended to show interest in the selected listings which Lana walked them through on the large monitor mounted on her wall.

But it was only Lana that held his attention.

Matthew wanted to absorb every detail of her from head to toe. He wanted to stare and drink in every detail of her face.

Not wanting to appear obvious, he made sure his eyes didn't linger too long when they wandered to catch another glimpse of her as she pointed out various features in each listing.

Matthew had not even realized that his auto-pilot responses were in full swing. He barely recalled agreeing to see a handful of ready-to-show condos in the surrounding area and that it would be Lana herself giving him a tour of each unit.

Lana rose from her desk. "So Matthew, if you're alright for time now, it sounds like we'll be spending the morning together."

Matthew smiled as he silently willed his cock not to twitch at the very thought of being with Lana in any capacity, morning, noon, or night.

"Sure — absolutely… I'm all yours."

With the feeling that his heart was in his throat, Matthew realized how true those words had become in just half an hour after meeting this siren.

Lana stopped by Ainsley's desk and quietly gave some instructions for tasks that could be taken care of while she was out. Ainsley couldn't help but look past Lana ever so subtly at the handsome young player as she nodded her head.

Sensing that Matthew had caught her pretty assistant's eye, Lana gave Ainsley a knowing smile. "You want me to find out if he's dating anyone?" she quietly asked.

A bashful smile spanned Ainsley's face. "Oh my god, he's just so hot… I don't know… I guess it would be nice just to know if he's got a girlfriend?" she replied under her breath.

Ever so coolly, Lana gave Ainsley a discreet wink. "I'll see what I can find out and report back later, ok?"

Ainsley beamed, barely able to suppress her excitement as she nodded enthusiastically.

Lana joined the group as they meandered down the corridor towards the elevators. Little did she know that this little "meet cute" with Matthew Knies would soon change her entire world.

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Later in the day, Matthew arrived at the building of his close friend and teammate, Joseph Woll. He pressed the intercom button and within seconds, the door to the lobby clicked open and Matthew made his way towards the elevator.

Minutes later, Matthew was at Joe's door, which he had left propped slightly open inviting him just to come on through. Matthew always appreciated Joe's easy-going and considerate nature and felt grateful for his friend and how they both seemed to naturally anchor each other.

He walked through to the open living room and kitchen area where Joseph was working away assembling his most recent Lego project — the famous Concorde aircraft.

Joe glanced over the tail of his newest Lego set towards Matthew. "How did it go — see anything you liked?"

Fuck… yeah, only it wasn't a condo, Matthew mused to himself.

"Not sure… I guess nothing really stood out," Matthew replied as he flopped onto the nearby couch. "Might take a few more times… I just want to pick the right one."

Without looking up from snapping a series of small blocks together, Joe continued. "Too bad there's not anything available in this building…" He searched the table for the next appropriate piece before adding, "…but then again if you moved in, maybe there's such a thing as seeing someone too much…"

Matthew looked at his friend with a pained expression. "Ouch — fuck, bro… is that what you think?" he chuckled.

Joe shook his head laughing. "No… I just like getting a rise out of you. Oh—and just letting you know that we're meeting up with the rest of the guys at the bar around 8 tonight. I guess it's guys only now… the girlfriends opted to do something else."

"Who's all going? Mints, Cowboy…?"

Joe continued, "Me, you, Bobbo, Mints, Cowboy, but then there's a few vets coming — Max, Muzz… Doaner I think. It's shaping up to be a fun night."

Matthew stretched and yawned. "Sounds like it. Alright… fuck — I need a nap. Can I crash here for a bit? I don't feel like going back to my place."

Joe was concentrating on reading the instructions for the rudder for the plane. "Be my guest… we'll head out to the bar together then. I think you've even got a pair of shorts and a shirt here so you can change. Crash as long as you want."

Matthew traipsed down the hallway to the second bedroom and fell backward onto the mattress. He was tired, but his mind bounced in a million directions, wondering about what Lana was doing now and how her day would end. He wondered if she went home to a perfect husband or significant other who loved her and treated her right, or if she was with some prick who would never realize just how amazing she is.

Matthew's insides were starting to twist and flutter each time his memory pulled him back to the seemingly insignificant moments of that day. Sitting next to her in her car. Chatting seamlessly while stuck in traffic. Riding the elevator with her, or holding the door for her whenever they entered or exited a prospective condo.

His mind traveled back to the quick lunch they had, where Lana couldn't stop laughing after Matthew told her a story from his childhood. When she continued to chuckle about it for the rest of their time together, Matthew thought he might melt with desire right then.

Matthew finally pushed past the restlessness he had begun to feel and drifted off into a deep sleep.

Later that evening at an upscale sports bar, the table of hockey players cheered when the servers presented the group with the most bizarre and fascinating Caesar concoctions. The popular Canadian cocktail was adorned with everything from pulled pork sandwiches and burgers on skewers to tempura prawns and dessert options.

The group's boisterous laughter marked the upbeat and optimistic mood of the group with the start of a new season just around the corner.

Matthew tried to mimic the mood but he simply wasn't there in mind or spirit. He even ignored being chirped by a few of the rookies for nursing his Corona and avoiding the subsequent tequila shot altogether.

Matthew had a close friendship burgeoning with former rookie Bobby McMann, whom he sat next to at the table. Bobby noticed Matthew's glum demeanor but initially assumed it was over the demise of his recent relationship.

Bobby clinked the clear glass neck of his beer bottle against Matthew's, which was still virtually untouched. "It'll get better, man—try not to let it drag you down too far."

Matthew nodded and smiled to acknowledge his friend's support.

Joe, who was sitting across the table, silently wondered about the change in his friend's mood. Yes, Matthew had been through some turmoil in the past months with ending a relationship that had gone off the rails. However, after the dust had settled in the off-season, his mood and outlook were full of confidence once again. Joe knew Matthew was really geared up about finding a new place quickly, so perhaps his low mood was a result of not having any luck that day. It didn't quite compute in Joe's head, but he would keep his thoughts to himself, for now at least.

When Matthew quietly announced to those sitting nearest to him that he was done for the night and was heading home, Joe and Shane (Doan) walked him out just to make sure their good friend was alright before taking off. Matthew assured them he was, that he was just tired.

He ordered an Uber and was back home in no time, but the change in location to his quiet condo only exacerbated him more. Pulling out Lana's business card, adorned with her headshot that he couldn't avert his eyes from, he placed it on the coffee table. He picked up his guitar, a not-so-new hobby that Matthew freed his mind with, much like his buddy Joe did with Lego, and began to pick at the strings. He was pissed with himself as he tried, and failed, to think of anything else other than contacting his new and unexpected crush.

Setting the guitar aside, he picked up his phone, entered Lana's cell number into his contacts and sent her a brief message, beginning with an apology hoping it wasn't too late to reach out to her.

Matthew was pleasantly surprised that she responded within minutes. He asked Lana a series of questions, all about viewing more condos, but it was mostly to establish whether he could reach out to her specifically. She responded that indeed he could, and she would do her best to accommodate his schedule in the coming days. Matthew wasted no time in setting up a time with Lana for the following day, and then two days after that.

He breathed a sigh of relief and smiled.

Following a silent moment, Matthew then shook his head and muttered to himself to get a fucking grip and that he was acting completely ridiculous by already pining over a woman that he didn't even know.

▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊▣◊

As the end of August approached, Lana and Matthew had spent a considerable amount of time sorting through listings and narrowing down options to view. Lana encouraged Matthew to be selective, as it was important for him to be happy in the space where he would spend the majority of the next eight or nine months.

On the other hand, she knew the start of the season was sneaking up quickly and she hoped, for his sake, that he would find a place before training camp, media days and everything else that goes with it was upon him.

Matthew secretly knew this and sometimes felt he was playing with fire, appearing either indecisive or hard to please with the places Lana showed him. With this in mind, Matthew quickly finalized his decision on a place and chose a second one as a backup.

He also wanted to take the plunge and ask Lana out for dinner to say thank-you.

The following afternoon, Matthew sat next to Lana on the sleek, white sofa in her office as she walked him through the paperwork. The air between them was comfortable and relaxed, but the professional nature of their relationship was still very prominent. While initialing and signing wherever Lana indicated with her elegantly simple manicured nails, Matthew tried to ignore the anxiousness that was swirling in his mind.

Lana had consumed his every thought since he first met her. Whether he was in the midst of strength training or skate drills, he imagined what it would feel like if she was there watching him. He thought about her in traffic, in the shower, or running out to get food. He continuously caught himself having these harmless daydreams and did his best to shoo them away in order to refocus his mind, but often he was fighting a losing battle.

With his last initial inked on the page, Lana smiled widely and extended her hand. "Congratulations, Mr. Knies—I think you'll be very happy in your new place. It really is such a great neighborhood."

"Well, thanks… yeah, I know I will. And thank you for all your help. And for being patient with me. I hope it didn't feel like I was never going to choose one… you just gave me so many great options," Matthew smiled as he shook her hand.

As they stood, Lana felt a little disappointed that this might be the last time her and Matthew crossed paths. Her initial impressions of him and his frat boy exterior had almost immediately dissolved and she found him to be very mature and he spoke with an intelligence that was far beyond his years. Oftentimes, Lana found that she genuinely looked forward to seeing him, especially the times when they decided to walk to each destination instead of fighting traffic. She had only felt this level of comfort, ease and enjoyment with a select group of people, and although she never would have expected it, she considered Matthew a friend.

If she was really being totally honest with herself, she had thought about him as a little bit more than a friend as her base female urges had only increased since she met him. Lana often fell asleep feeling frustrated, squeezing her thighs together to try and get relief from the pressure building in her core.

Lana moved towards the door, knowing she had limited time before her next meeting. “I hope you won’t be a stranger but I can only imagine how busy you’ll be once the season starts. Oh - and all the best…I hope you guys have a really great year ahead.”

Feeling that time was not on his side, Matthew’s adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed nervously and stepped in close to Lana.

“Hey - well, I kind of felt like I was being a bit of a pain in the ass with monopolizing your time, so to say thanks, I - I was wondering if maybe you’d let me take you out to dinner sometime?

Lana’s eyes softened as she smiled, feeling flushed at Matthew’s invite. “Absolut - “

“Sorry to interrupt,” Ainsley appeared at the door, her eyes darted between the expression on Lana and Matthew faces. “Your 3:00 is here.” The curtness in Ainsley's voice would be unrecognizable to most, but Lana picked up on it quickly. She had all but forgotten that Ainsley had developed a crush on the young hockey player. Normally, her attractive assistant caught the attention of most guys around Matthew's age and type, but any interactions she had with Matthew thus far were strictly polite and professional.

Lana thanked her and said she would be out momentarily. She made a mental note to check in with Ainsley later, as she noticed her pursed lips before she walked stiffly down the hallway.

Lana turned back to Matthew. “How about this, I send you a note once I’m home from work and we can get something arranged, ok?

“Perfect - I guess until then…” Matthew postured for a hug which Lana gladly accepted.

For a split second in his embrace, she imagined how it would feel if his hands held her a little more firmly. Pulled her in a little more tightly.

She watched as he sauntered out into the reception area, quietly mumbling as she chastised herself.

“He’s 21…you're 32. Get your mind off of this notion, Lana.”

But for the remainder of the day, she couldn't stop the fluttery sensation in her stomach. It mystified and excited her but it was a feeling that also terrified her.

After her last meeting had wrapped up for the day, she hurriedly sent a message to Andrew and Jason. She flagged it as urgent for good measure.

L - Are either of you home tonight? Desperately needing advice - can I come by?

Jason responded first.

J - Are you ok? Already setting a place for you at the dinner table.

Andrew responded asking the same question.

Lana paused, held her breath and typed in each letter slowly.

L - I think I'm interested in someone.

There was a silence that could be felt, even over the phone.

Andrew eventually responded.

A- Jason probably fainted. You might want to pick up something stronger to drink than wine.

#cellysbingo2024 #matthew knies imagine #matthew knies #toronto maple leafs #nhl fanfiction #nhl imagine #hockey fic #hockey romance #matthew x lana

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toasttt11 · 7 months ago

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missed you

May 18, 2022

Livia rubbed her eyes leaning her head off the glass of the plane window. She was heading back home after the Stars had gotten out of the playoffs during game seven.

She was excited to be home and she did just get to see her parents and brother as they came out to see a few of her playoffs games but she was most exicted to see her best friend Wyatt, as she hasn’t seen him since she played in Toronto in March but that was the only time she saw him since she left for Dallas in September. It’s the longest they have ever went of not seeing each other.

Livia had seen Luke in January when she played the red wings but she only saw him that once since August.

Livia also hasn’t seen her two best friends together and the three all being together in a long time and she truly misses the days she saw them everyday and spent all day together, she misses her boys and facetime can only do so much.

Livia stood up as the plane as landed and threw on her back pack and purse and grabbed her suitcase from the overhead and walked down the aisle of the plane.

She had a hoodie on and a hat so no one was recognizing her, while she does love the fans but she’s not the biggest social person so it’s not something she loves all the time.

Livia walked through the airport and to the pick up lot where her parents told her they would be. She looked over and her mouth dropped in shock as she realized they weren’t here to pick her up but Wyatt was.

“Livy!” Wyatt grinned widely seeing his best friend and the girl he’s been in love with since the first day of kindergarten.

Livia let out a giggle and hurried over to him she dropped her suitcase handle and quickly wrapped her arms around his neck tightly. Wyatt’s hands automatically wrapped around her and spun them around both of them laughing happily.

Wyatt gently set her back down on the floor and she looked up through her lashes and Wyatt was just in awe, he has always known she’s absolutely beautiful but she seems to get more beautiful every time he sees her.

“Hi.” Livia beamed at her best happily, her nose scrunching from her smile being so wide.

“Hi.” Wyatt happily chuckled out just staring at her with a large smile.

Wyatt gently pulled her into another hug, “I missed you Livy.” Wyatt whispered softly resting his chin on her shoulder and closing his eyes.

Wyatt hated this season and hated playing hockey with out his best friend and it was so odd to play on not be on the ice with Livia, he couldn’t wait till he joined her in Dallas and they get to play together again.

“I missed you too.” Livia softly whispered back, She had missed Luke terribly when he moved away and stopped playing with Wyatt and her but not playing with Wyatt was like playing with out a hand and she hated how there was always a void where she wanted Wyatt to be, she didn’t understand why she misses Wyatt more than she does Luke.

“Come on, let’s get you home Livy.” Wyatt smile couldn’t have left his face since he saw her. He threw his arm around her shoulder and grabbed her suitcase. Livia smiled happily leaned her head on his shoulder as they walked and Wyatt leaned down pressing a soft kiss of the top of her head that’s covered from her hoodie.

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yuzurujenn · 17 days ago

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[2024.10.15] BRUTUS November 1, 2024 issue No. 1018 - Beautiful Architecture and Windows

OPEN MY WINDOW Open your own window. Hanyu Yuzuru special photoshoot.

Yuzuru Hanyu Hanyu Yuzuru / Born in Miyagi Prefecture in 1994. He won two consecutive gold medals in men's singles figure skating at the Sochi 2014 and Pyeongchang 2018 Olympics. He has also won numerous World Championships and Grand Prix Finals. In 2018, he received the People’s Honor Award. After turning professional in July 2022, he became a producer and held three solo shows, including "GIFT" and "RE_PRAY." He also has a picture book titled "GIFT" (text: Yuzuru Hanyu, illustrations: CLAMP).

What do you see from your window, Hanyu-san?

One summer day in a house studio, Yuzuru Hanyu was sitting by the window. He gazed at the garden, which glistens in the quiet sunlight shining through the trees. Behind the sound of the shutter, Erik Satie’s "Gymnopédie No. 1," which he had selected from his iPhone playlist, was playing on the portable speaker.

"During shoots, I always choose a song that suits the situation and the intention for each shot. Since turning professional, I've had more opportunities to be photographed not just as an athlete, but as a person and an artist, and each time I am reminded of how many people put in a lot of time and effort to create a single photograph. When I heard that today’s theme from BRUTUS was 'windows,' I approached the shoot as if I were trying to fit myself into a crafted story."

At the beginning of the score for "Gymnopédie No. 1," the performance instructions read, "Slowly, with sorrow." The gentle yet melancholic melody resonates with the struggles a skater must have faced both physically and mentally, before and after achieving glory. Hanyu-san, what do you see from your window?

"When I used to live in Toronto, my house was on a high floor of a building, so I could see the whole city. It was raining in the areas covered by clouds, but I often saw rainbows in the gaps between the clouds where it wasn’t raining at all. That scene left a strong impression on me. I also can’t forget the view I saw from the airplane window during overseas trips. Whether it was on my way to Europe or coming back, I can’t recall clearly, but the plane was flying above the clouds, and only the moon shone brightly amidst the surrounding darkness. The brightness of the moon made it impossible to see the stars, and that scene was so beautiful that I rested my forehead against the window and gazed at it for a long time."

A town in the rain and with a rainbow. Darkness and moonlight. Even these scenes seem to suggest the journey he has taken so far. During the photo shoot, Hanyu was photographed from both inside and outside the window, but which side does he prefer?

"Personality-wise, I guess I'm the type who likes to keep to myself. I'm an introspective person, and I've often thought deeply about myself and people since I was little, so in that sense I might be the type of person who prefers to close the window and focus on being alone. However, I believe that even the most sociable and cheerful people need personal space and sometimes want to close all the windows. But those windows must have handles on them, so that when the time comes, someone else can open it for them, or they can open it themselves… That's what I was hoping to express in that window-shoot I did earlier."

He announced his transition to a professional career in July 2022. It was a declaration of his unwavering commitment to move forward. Although he stepped away from the competitive world where he compared himself to others, his battle with himself continues as he strives for even greater heights. He has already achieved three solo shows, a first in the figure skating world, all of which were a huge success. If we were to compare Hanyu to a house, would it be that he didn’t move to a new house when he turned professional; rather, the house itself remains the same, but the direction the window opens and the view from it have changed?

"Well, it’s true that my fundamental personality hasn't changed at all from before I started skating to the present. I have always been inquisitive and curious, often wondering, 'What is a human being?' In that sense, it is the same house. I probably have windows facing all directions, and I probably hang blackout curtains over them. Sometimes I want to feel the morning sun coming through the east-facing window, and other times I don't want to see anything and keep all the curtains closed. I think humans, myself included, are very selfish and interesting, and sometimes we wish to be part of society, and sometimes we just want to shut ourselves away in solitude. When I'm on tour, I might close the curtains. I want to block out the noise around me, concentrate on myself, and deliver a good performance. Afterwards, I'll secretly lift the curtains to see how the audience reacts (laughs)."

In his solo performance tour "RE_PRAY" from 2023 to 2024, Hanyu himself became the protagonist of a role-playing game, blending skating performances and videos to express a world of opposites, such as success and failure, life and death, light and darkness, and game-over and continue. This unprecedented ice show struck a universal chord with audiences from all walks of life, touching their hearts. What’s next for Hanyu, who always exceeds the expectations of his fans?

“I can’t reveal the details... but I’m constantly thinking about new songs and programs. I said earlier that I haven't changed, but since I became a professional, the way I spend my time has obviously changed, and I don't have time to just sit idle anymore. This year I turn 30, and every day I reflect deeply on what I’ve worked hard for nearly 30 years and the meaning of my existence now.”

After the interview, we returned to the studio for the rest of the shoot, where we could hear Matsutoya Yumi's "Yasashisa ni Tsutsumareta Nara" playing in the background. "Open the curtains..." Perhaps now is the time to open windows in various directions and take in new input in anticipation of the next step. I tell myself that everything I see is a message.

Source: BRUTUS November 1, 2024 issue No. 1018, pg 65 Info: https://brutus.jp/magazine/issue/1018/ https://x.com/gucci_jp/status/1846128889573032006 BTS: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_MEmG5MwL0g / https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lAnWsArkHYw

#hanyu yuzuru #yuzuru hanyu #羽生結弦 #gucci #figure skater #magazine #interview #machine #translation

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trulybetty · 1 year ago

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oct' 31 x trick or treat

Prompt: trick or treat (something sweet this way comes p.III) Pairing: marcus pike x f!Reader Word Count: 2,524 Warnings: barely beta'd is the name of the game, all mistakes are my own. mentions of baking, a tiny dash of spice, no spoilers here 💕 Summary: maplewood, a small town nestled in northern bc where people flock to see the changing blossom trees and celebrate the fall season. after losing your job you find yourself a part of the community which includes the towns baker who left a less than stellar impression on you. AO3: coming soon

A/N: It's here! The conclusion to this terribly sweet Marcus Pike story and my October prompts!

x. masterlist x. something sweet this way comes part I x. something sweet this way comes part II

As October inched towards its end, the energy in Maplewood shifted towards an almost palpable excitement. Fairy lights had been strung up between the buildings, ghosts and witches dangled from the trees, and pumpkins of all shapes and sizes sat proudly in shop windows.

You had thrown yourself with full vigour into your job search, declaring that your sabbatical in Maplewood would need to come to an end at some point. So you’d dusted off your resume, worked on cover letters and created many alerts of vacancies between Toronto and Vancouver.

And then, the offer came. A job back in Toronto. On paper, it was everything you had been working towards: good pay, room for advancement, a chance to move back to the bustling metropolis you knew so well.

Just two months ago, you would have snatched it up without a second thought. But things had changed. Maplewood had seeped into your bones; the small-town charm, the sense of community, and the friendships you'd formed had given you a newfound perspective on what ‘home’ could mean.

Adding another layer to your already complicated emotional landscape, was Libby.

“You know,” she said one evening, “the tourism board has an opening. It's in digital marketing,” Libby continued as you both sat in the living room above the bookstore, you with a new mystery novel and her with a cup of herbal tea. “They're expanding their team, and I thought of you immediately. You'd be perfect for it.”

You looked up from your book, “That does sound interesting,” you admitted, your mind racing as you weighed the options.

“Just think about it,” Libby advised, noting your indecision. “You don't have to make up your mind right away.”

But time was not a luxury you had. The job in Toronto needed an answer soon, and the Trick or Treat Parade was just around the corner, a reminder that life in Maplewood moved at its own pace, whether you were ready or not.

And then there was Marcus.

Amidst the excitement for the end of the month Trick or Treat Parade, you had successfully managed to avoid Marcus for the most part since your stint at the bakery.

Whether by luck or meticulous planning, you had kept your interactions brief and formal, a kind of self-imposed exile to protect yourself from... well, you still weren't exactly sure what you were protecting yourself from.

It wasn’t without his efforts either - he’d turned up the afternoon of the Jack-o-Lantern hunt. Libby had been sitting at the counter when she’d glanced up at the store's window seeing Marcus look both ways before jogging across the street. Eyebrows raised, she turned to you, “Marcus is coming over. Do you want me to—”

“Yes,” you interrupted, not even needing to hear the rest, “Libby, you just have to promise me, if Marcus asks for me, say I'm not here, okay?”

Libby chuckled but nodded. “You got it.”

You retreated to the back of the shop, behind rows of bookshelves and out of sight. Moments later, you heard the chime of the front door bell, announcing Marcus' arrival.

“Hey Libby, is—ah, never mind,” Marcus started, seeming to catch himself mid-sentence.

“She's not here,” Libby confirmed, her voice carrying to your hiding spot. “Can I help you with something?”

“Ah, just wanted to drop these off,” Marcus replied. You could almost hear the crinkling of paper, imagining him setting down one of his signature boxes of baked goods on the counter. “For both of you. Consider it a thank you for the help last week.”

“Sure, I'll let her know,” Libby said, slightly hesitant, as if balancing on a tightrope of truth and discretion.

Just as you were thinking you might've pulled off the perfect vanishing act, you accidentally knocked over a stack of newly arrived books with a loud crash. You winced, cursing your clumsiness under your breath.

Back at the front of the store, Marcus raised an eyebrow. “What was that?”

Libby cleared her throat, a little flushed, “Oh, it must be the mice. I've been meaning to deal with that.”

Marcus' voice floated back, laced with a knowing skepticism. “Mice?”

“Uh huh,” Libby nodded.

He gave her a pointed look, “It sounds like a rather large mouse.”

Libby stuttered a response, “I mean, did you see that picture of that rat eating pizza in that New York subway?”

With a departing chime of the bell, Marcus finally left after his conversation with Libby finished, and you waited a full minute before emerging from your hiding spot, guilt written all over your face.

Libby looked at you, then at the box Marcus had left on the counter. “So, what gives? Why are we avoiding Marcus?”

You sighed, finally letting your guard down. “I almost kissed him.”

Libby's eyes widened, her expression shifting from surprise to excitement and then she let out made you wince, “I knew it! I knew you two would be good for each other.”

“Libby, it's complicated,” you said, hoping to dial down her enthusiasm a notch or two.

“What's so complicated?” She nudged the box toward you, lifting the lid to reveal an array of doughnuts and pastries, each more inviting than the last. “The guy leaves you doughnuts, and you're practically swooning. Sounds pretty straightforward to me.”

“It's not about the doughnuts, or the almost-kiss, or any of that,” you said, searching for the right words. "It's about me. I'm confused. I came here to escape my old life, remember? To take a break and figure things out. And suddenly, I'm considering jobs here, thinking about staying in Maplewood, and—”

“Marcus Pike.” Libby finished for you, her eyes softening.

“And Marcus Pike,” you conceded, feeling a weight lift off your shoulders as you admitted it out loud. “Everything was straightforward, come here and take a break, find a job and get back to life, and now? Now it’s like my compass is spinning in every direction and I have no clue what I’m doing.”

Libby moved closer, her eyes sincere. “Look, life doesn’t always fit into neat boxes, and that’s okay. Sometimes the messy parts are what leads us to the most beautiful things.”

“You’re such a romantic, you’ve been hanging around these books too long,” you said, half-teasing but also touched by her words.

“And you’re a realist,” she said with a grin, “That’s why we get along. But sometimes, realists need to let their guard down and see where life takes them,” she replied, pushing the box of pastries closer to you.

You picked one up and took a tentative bite, your thoughts swirling almost as much as the cinnamon in the pastry. As you chewed, you found yourself reflecting on Libby’s words. There was a truth to them that resonated deep within you.

“So, what’s your plan?” Libby finally asked after you’d savoured your bite.

“Plan? Who says I have a plan?” you retorted, a smile creeping onto your face.

“That’s the spirit,” Libby cheered, raising her tea cup in a mock toast.

You clinked your doughnut against her cup.

But as the evening wore on, and you found yourself scrolling through job listings again, your cursor hovered over the tab with the Maplewood tourism board job. What would it be like to build a life here? To become part of this community, to wake up every morning in this sleepy but charming town, and possibly, to explore what it and its residents had to offer?

It was the night of the Trick or Treat parade in the town square.

The evening air was crisp, filled with the smell of autumn leaves and the sugary scent of candy. The Maplewood Town Square had been transformed into a wonderland of Halloween festivities, with strings of orange lights illuminating the dusk, and tables adorned with pumpkins and fall decorations. Kids in costumes scurried about, their laughter and the chatter of their parents filling the air.

You adjusted your witch's hat, the extent of your commitment to dressing up for the occasion. Libby, in contrast, had gone all out, embodying Where's Waldo with red-and-white stripes and a matching beanie. She looked at you and chuckled, "You could've tried a little harder than just a hat."

“I'm wearing all black. That counts for something,” you said, defending your minimalistic approach.

The two of you mingled through the crowd, stopping at various tables to admire the creativity of your neighbors. Your heart thumped a little harder when you saw Marcus’s booth up ahead. He was standing behind a table, handing out intricately designed Halloween sugar cookies to a line of eager children.

“I suppose,” Libby mused, her eyes scanning the crowd as she munched on a caramel apple.

You felt a flutter of nerves in your stomach. You'd run into Marcus a couple days earlier when you’d both awkwardly bumped into each other at the grocery store. Just when you thought you might be able to say something, Ella, who owned the diner, popped between the two of you, asking Marcus about his glazed doughnuts, and you'd taken that as your cue to leave, losing your nerve.

Since then, you'd been keeping an eye out for him but with the town's festivities in full swing for the end of the month it was one missed opportunity after the other and left you feeling that the universe seemed to be giving you every sign that maybe, just maybe, it wasn't meant to be.

And tonight seemed like it was going down the same road.

Marcus looked engrossed now in a conversation with another parent, and you felt that familiar tension creep back in. Just as you thought of moving on, he looked up, catching your eye. For a moment, it was as if the world paused, his gaze locking onto yours. Your heart picked up speed, a sense of anticipation rising.

And then someone screamed, which was followed by the sound of laughter.

All eyes snapped to the spectacle of the haunted house across the way, the moment shattered. When you looked back at Marcus, he was once again absorbed in his work, handing out cookies to a trio of young witches.

“Damn it,” you muttered under your breath.

Libby glanced at you, then over at Marcus surrounded by children eager to fill their bags with treats, “Come on,” she said softly as she hooked arms with you, “Let’s go get some hot cider.”

As the evening wore on, you felt a series of missed chances piling up. It was almost getting humorous. Every time you managed to get close to Marcus's table, he, or you were pulled away—including Sarah, who’d shown up with her arm in a sling wanting to know about your week in the bakery, and then by the Mayor, who wanted to thank Marcus for his contribution to the event.

Finally, resigning yourself to another missed opportunity, you told yourself it was for the best. It was easier this way—easier to keep Marcus at a distance, safely contained within the realm of 'what could have been' rather than risk the messiness of 'what could be.'

As the clock neared the end of the evening, you and Libby began the trek back to her apartment above the bookstore. Libby looked at you, her expression thoughtful. “You know, sometimes when the universe gives you signs, it's not to deter you but to test how much you really want something—or someone.”

You paused, letting her words sink in. Maybe she was right. Maybe these obstacles weren't stop signs but hurdles, gauging whether you'd leap or turn back.

Once you were inside, you looked out the window across the street to Marcus's bakery, now dark but for a single light on in the back.

You didn’t stop to think it through.

Instead you grabbed your jacket, telling Libby to lock up and you'd be back and headed out the door.

As you stepped out into the cool night, a newfound resolve settled in. If the universe was testing you, then it was time to pass with flying colours. And with that, you walked towards the bakery, not knowing what awaited you but ready to find out.

Standing outside the bakery door you paused for a moment, if only to take a deep breath before you knocked the door, hoping it was loud enough to be heard out back.

You heard him shout from the back, “I've got nothing left Bill, Frank will have to go without!”

You knocked again.

When the sound of hurried footsteps drew nearer, Marcus appeared with a perturbed look until he saw you standing there. His eyes widened with surprise as he opened the door.

“Hey,” you said, your voice tinged with a nervous energy you couldn't quite suppress. “Do you have a minute?”

“Of course,” Marcus said, stepping back to let you in.

The bakery felt cozy, its lingering scent of baked goods filling the air as you stepped inside, closing the door behind you.

You hesitated, your gaze falling on the miniature decorative ghosts that decorated the now empty display case. “I think I owe you an apology,” you started.

“What for?”

You licked your lips nervously before turning back to him, “For avoiding you.”

He smiled knowingly, “I had noticed your lack of presence every time I happened to come into the bookstore. I think Libby was starting to run out reasons for your absence.”

You laughed, “Despite living and breathing books, surprisingly creativity is not always her strongest suit.”

“That it's not.”

You smiled and continued, “I guess…” you trailed off trying to find the words, “we almost kissed…” you stuttered, still trying to find the right words.

“And why would that be a reason to avoid me? It felt like you wanted to as much as I did?”

“I did,” you admitted, “but it was complicated.”

“Complicated?”

You chewed at your lip, “Because I've had an offer to take a job back in Toronto.”

“Oh,” the disappointment in his voice was impossible to miss.

“Yeah.”

“Congratulations,” he started, trying to sound more upbeat, “you've always said it was your plan.”

You paused, “Well, it was.”

He cocked an eyebrow in confusion, “Was?”

You offered him a bashful smile, “You're looking at the newest digital marketing coordinator for the Maplewood tourism board.”

“Congratulations again,” he laughed.

“Thank you.”

Another silence fell between you, the tension in the room palpable.

Marcus looked at you, his eyes full of something you couldn’t quite put your finger on, but it felt like hope. “So, where does that leave us?”

You took a step closer. “I think that leaves us at the beginning of something. Something I’m willing to explore, that is if you are?”

Marcus closed the gap, his hands finding your face, his touch warm and grounding. “Then let’s start at the beginning.”

As your lips met, it felt like the answer to an unspoken question, a missing piece slotting into place.

And as you kissed, soft and tentative, as if both of you were testing the waters, the uncertainties and what-ifs seemed to melt away, leaving only the palpable sense of a new chapter unfolding.

#october x 500 #autumnal offerings #something sweet this way comes #marcus pike #marcus pike fanfic #marcus pike fanfiction #marcus pike x you #marcus pike x reader #marcus pike x f!reader

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nicoledrapery-blog · 3 months ago

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#blinds toronto #window blinds toronto #window coverings toronto

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texeurodrapery · 3 months ago

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https://texeurodraperyltd.com/motorized-window-treatments-a-solution-for-accessibility-challenges/

Motorized Window Treatments: Solving Accessibility Challenges

Discover how motorized window treatments can solve accessibility challenges in your home. Enhance convenience and style with this modern solution.

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lernerinteriors · 11 months ago

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Want to add Christmas cheer to your Toronto home’s windows? Learn how to decorate with window treatments and other ideas this holiday season.

#window treatments Toronto #window coverings #window shades and blinds #luxury window coverings

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thesugarclubs-blog · 5 months ago

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Clouds - Wanda Maximoff x OC

warnings: strangers to lovers, paniked flyer, scared/comfort

word count: 4.1k

WP: https://www.wattpad.com/1451146701-clouds-bailey

vibe: “Ha ha,” She rolled her eyes playfully. “You brought this on yourself really, could’ve left me to suffer in silence the whole plane ride.”

“And miss the chance to see that smile? I could never.” The red head cood as she tucked a stray hair behind Bailey’s ear, the soft touch sending sparks all over her body.

Masterlist

“How long is this flight again?” Bailey asked her sister over the phone as she dug through her purse for her kindle with shaking hands.

“Seven hours,” her sister said between bossing around someone on the other end of the phone. “You would think it’s this florist's first wedding.” She scoffed.

The silence was deafening when Bailey didn’t answer with something sarcastic or mean.

“B,” Tess said, “did I mention how much I love you for doing this? I know how much flying scars you, but I really needed you this weekend. This wedding wouldn’t be the same without you.”

Tess was marrying her fiance Josh in London where they met six years ago. And despite Bailey begging on her knees for them to get married in Toronto, closer to home, Tess wanted the romantic get away.

“It’ll be over before you know it,” Tess encouraged. “And I stocked the wine bar for you in your hotel room.”

“Now you’re speaking my language,” Bailey laughed a soft, nervous laugh. “I should go, the flight attendant keeps giving me dirty looks.”

“I love you, try to relax. I’ll see you soon.” She cooed and ended the call.

“Try to relax,” Bailey mocked with her head down. “Easier said than done when you’ve reached talking to yourself status…” she sighed and turned to look out the window.

She made an exaggerated play of turning off her phone, mentally giving the stewardess the bird. She might be terrified but she was terrified with attitude.

Bailey settled back into her seat, fastening her seatbelt and wishing they were in the air already when she felt weight in the neighbouring seat and a brush of pressure against her arm.

"I'm sorry, did I disturb you?" the red head smiled apologetically to her as she adjusted her position, "I forget how little space you actually get in these tin cans."

Bailey glanced over, her eyes meeting the most perfect shade of green she’s ever seen and almost stumbling over her words because of them. “Tin can?” She asked.

The woman grinned and looked over at her. “That’s practically what these are.” She said gesturing to the plane. “Giant metal tubes with wings.”

Unease filled Bailey’s stomach as the woman grinned. “Great.” Bailey whispered.

“Oh,” her seat-mate said, “you’re a nervous flyer. I’m sorry.” Her hand covered her mouth apologetically but her green eyes sparked with the hint of a smile. “Please feel free to ignore me.”

“It’s fine, honestly,” Bailey grimaced, swallowing past the knot of nausea and hoping her face wasn’t as green as she felt. “If I could have been anywhere else but here I would have been.”

She fiddled with the rings on her fingers nervously, twisting one way and the other in hopes that it would soothe her some.

“I imagine you must have a pretty good reason to get out of your comfort zone then?” her neighbor asked, her voice laced in a curious tone. “I’m Wanda, by the way.” She added reaching a hand out towards Bailey.

She reached a hand out in response and as soon as the red head’s hand closed around hers a sense of comfort hit her nerves.

“Bailey,” she answered with awkward smile as she reluctantly pulled her hand back to her lap, “and yeah, its my sister’s wedding.”

“Well I think it’s very sweet of you to get on a plane for her, Bailey.”

“It might be fuelled by more guilt over missing it than sweetness but,” Bailey offered the sarcasm up expecting Wanda to miss it.

“At least it’s not because you’re in love with her fiancé?” Wanda raised an eyebrow. She was incredibly pretty and a rush of nervousness caught Bailey by the tongue.

Is she flirting with me?

“He’s not my type,” Bailey said, hoping that she hadn’t read the room… plane…wrong.

“Well then,” Wanda’s soft laughter filled the cabin and it blanketed the short circuiting nerves Bailey couldn’t control. “Lucky me.”

As the last passengers boarded and took their seats, Bailey smiled back, blushing slightly, feeling more calm than she had been in the days since she'd booked the flight.

Turning back to her kindle, (What? She didn't want to come across as desperate) she switched off whilst the cabin crew performed their safety ritual and the plane started taxiing to the runway.

The seatbelt signs lit and the Captain's voice filled the cabin as the plane's engines gained in momentum and volume.

Bailey felt her whole body tense, gripping her seat rests and closing her eyes. "Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god..." she chanted under her breath.

Her eyes slid closed as she tried to suck in any air she could to keep herself calm but the cabin air was thick with pressure making it hard to do anything. Bailey felt soft fingers curl over her own as she breathed and a warm scent of cinnamon and vanilla wash over her as Wanda leaned in. "You gotta breathe Bailey," Wanda whispered. "We're almost up in the air."

Bailey's eyes opened and flickered over to the woman with the beaming smile.

"There she is." Wanda rasped, "Breathe in... and out... there you go."

“How thanks you do that…” Bailey stammered, flushing at Wanda’s tinkling giggle. “No. I mean….thanks. I don’t know how you managed to calm me down but you did.”

“Maybe I’m magic.” Wanda smiled, her nose crinkling sweetly as she wiggled her fingers in Bailey’s direction.

“You sure are something,” Bailey murmured in response, trying not to kick herself when she realised she’d uttered the words out loud.

“How about you let me buy you a drink to calm your nerves a little more?” Wanda nodded her head towards the back of the plane, where the hostess had begun her journey down the aisle with the drinks trolley.

“Oh, you don’t-” Bailey began, breath hitching in her throat as Wanda’s hand fell atop hers once more.

“Please?” She whispered with a soft bat of her eyelashes that did nothing to coax the words out of Bailey’s brain which she was sure had finally short-circuited. “I know I don’t have to, but I want to. Whatever you want, really.”

“Thank you, again.” Bailey smiled bashfully.

Wanda smiled as she reached for the button to call the flight attendant, “Anytime, beautiful. We are gonna be together for a while here, if I can do at least one thing to make your flight even a little more bearable, I will.”

She could feel the heat rising to her cheeks yet again at Wanda’s compliment. What was this woman doing to her? It had rolled so naturally from her lips in that sweet voice almost like she’d called her that a thousand times before.

“I’d like that,” She finally responded, a soft smile on her face as she settled back in her seat.

Bailey watched Wanda flirt with the flight attendant, her smooth voice and pretty smile won a favor and the attendant was quick to bring them back two drinks. Their fingers brushed momentarily together as Bailey took her cup and pressed it to her lips.

"Are these doubles?" Bailey could smell the whiskey brimming in the cup. "Are they even allowed to do that on a plane?"

"Probably not but uh..." Wanda peered over her shoulder to wave her fingers at the woman who had served us, "Amanda there was easily swayed."

"You're very good at making people feel comfortable," Bailey said, downing some of her drink and letting it warm her chest.

"Are you comfortable now?" She asked her as she sipped on her own drink.

"A little yeah, it's going to be a long seven hours though." Bailey admitted.

"How about we play a game?" Wanda shifted in her seat and curled a leg up beneath her. "Twenty questions, first person to not answer one buys the next round?"

"Alright," Bailey smiled, "Why are you going to London?"

"Quick on the draw," Wanda laughed. "uh..."

She took a sip of her drink before turning back to Bailey, "it's a long story," she began. "and not one I can get into in a public place. Looks like the next round is on me."

"Don't worry," Bailey replied.

"So," Wanda continued, "question two, what do you do?"

"As in?" Bailey prompted.

"Your choice," Wanda replied.

"Okay, well, I've just finished grad school, and I'm moving to Washington next month to start my job."

"Washington, DC?" Wanda asked. If Bailey wasn't mistaken there was a hint of hopeful in her tone.

She couldn't help the smile that formed on her face as she nodded. "Yeah, are you from there?"

Wanda grinned over the edge of her cup. "Not from, but I frequent there often for work. Was that one of your questions?"

Bailey laughed softly, "I guess so."

“Ok, my turn. Have you ever been to London before?” Wanda’s head tilted adorably as she waited for Bailey’s answer.

“No, I haven’t. I’ve got a fair bit of time after the wedding though. I wanted to make the most of my trip so I thought to explore a little.”

“An excellent plan,” Wanda hummed agreeably. “I would have done the same.”

“How about you?” Bailey asked. “Is this your first visit to London?”

“Oh no,” the redhead smiled, reaching over to rest her fingers delicately on Bailey’s arm. “My brother lives there so I’ve stayed with him quite a few times.” She leaned closer to whisper conspiratorially, her closeness sending a thrill down Bailey’s spine. “I don’t much care for his wife though, so this time I rented a little apartment.”

"That would have been smart," Bailey scrunched her nose up. "I'm in a hotel downtown."

"Less cozy," Wanda noted, "Did something happen to you that made you so scared of flying?"

"Oh were getting into it now," Bailey laughed, a little uncomfortable. "No, never. I don't do very good in tight spaces, and being in one suspended in the air..." Heat flushed her cheeks as Wanda leaned across the arm rest to listen, her pretty face cupped carefully in her hand, laden with rings and red nail polish. "Do you and your brother get along?"

"We're twins, it's always been just me and him for as long as I can remember and we're mega close, and then he met his wife. She doesn't understand the connection we have, the way we can tell what the other is thinking just with a glance. So that's had a bit of an effect on our relationship. That and of course the fact that he's now relocated to London so she can be near her family." Wanda explained.

"I'm sorry," Bailey replied. "That must be so hard." She reached out and placed her hand on Wanda's. "What about your parents?"

A flicker of something sadder shines in Wanda's eyes for a moment before she recovers and smiles leaning back into the chair again. "We lost them when were were teens." The smile falters for a moment. Bailey's hand curls over Wanda's again and she offers her a soft smile.

"I'm sorry." She whispered.

Wanda shook her head softly but still gave Bailey's hand a squeeze. "It was a long time ago." She sucked in a soft breath before regaining that same smile.

Bailey gestured to the passing hostess, indicating for a refill on their drinks, but she kept her attention on the attractive woman before her.

“Your turn,” she murmured with a soft smile.

“Ok,” Wanda said, her expression fond and a little grateful. “What do you do for work?”

“I’m a photographer,” Bailey replied. “Mainly architecture, but I stray into the realms of portraiture when I need to bolster the bank account.” She grinned and lifted up her hands, setting her fingers as if she were putting Wanda in the centre of a frame. “Just as I thought,” she hummed. “Pretty as a picture.”

"That whiskey is sinking in," Wanda laughed.

"Do you like to read?" Bailey looked down at the forgotten kindle in her lap.

"Do you consider dirty smut romance reading?" Wanda cheeks blushed.

"I think I just fell in love," Bailey swooned. "Tell me everything."

"I can't give away my secrets just yet." Wanda winked.

Bailey chuckled, "fair enough." She said running her hand over the kindle. "I don't think I could get through life without this thing attached to me."

"Why's that?" Wanda asked looking over at her.

"It's just nice to be able to hide away in a fantasy world sometimes." Bailey said softly, "to put a pause on real life for a few minutes or a few hours."

"I understand," The red head mused, reaching a hand to her lap, fingers hovering just above hers before she dragged a fingernail across her hand. "Reading has been a refuge for me as well many a times in my life. Especially soon after we lost our parents. Books and my brother are all I had left."

Bailey turned her hand over and laced her fingers tentatively with Wanda's. Sparks lit up at her nerve endings when she closed their hands together with a smile.

"Maybe we can give each other some reading recommendations some time?" The brunette asked.

"I'd love that," She answered green eyes sparkling with hope, "and not just because that means you don't wanna forget me the minute we make it to that terminal."

"I don't think I could," Bailey smiled.

"Who's question-" Wanda started but the plane jumped and whiskey spilled from their glasses onto their laps.

Bailey's heart pounded in her chest as the plane leveled back out and she found her hand trapping Wanda's in a death grip. "I'm sorry," she apologized and pulled their hands apart.

"Why don't we watch a movie? Take our minds off things, we can share headphones?" Wanda wiggled an ear bud at Bailey who nodded. "Alright, your pick."

She could feel Wanda’s gaze on her as she scrolled through the selections, shaking her head at the choice, flicking rapidly from one to the next.

"What are you in the mood for?" Wanda asked, a clear effort to keep the brunette's mind on her. "There's usually something good on these flights. What about a comedy?"

The plane lurched again as another gust of turbulence took hold of it. Bailey couldn't help the squeal that erupted from her lips. She felt all color drain from her face as her chest heaved harshly.

She felt Wanda’s fingers curl into hers and closed her eyes, taking in a trembling breath.

“You’re ok, we’re ok Bailey. Just breathe, I’ve got you.” Voice soft and calming just inches away from Bailey’s ear.

“Just focus on your breathing, I’ll choose for us.”

Bailey did just that as she willed herself to shut out any noise other than Wanda’s voice and focused on the soft brush of her thumb against her skin as she breathed.

Wanda picked a rom-com, Sleepless in Seattle and once it was going she turned her focus back on Bailey. "How you doing?" She asked in a soft voice and Bailey counted herself through each stuttered breath.

"I hate planes," she laughed nervously but stopped when Wanda wound their hands together once again. "A little less with you around."

"Don't flirt too much, it'll go to my head." Wanda joked and cuddled in tight to Bailey, settling the warmest feeling over her almost as if she had covered her in a blanket. "Have you ever seen this one?"

Bailey knew what Wanda was doing, distraction had never seemed to work before but when the red head looked at her like that, the world faded into a dull roar. It made Bailey feel invincible.

"No never," she answered honestly.

"Oh my god, are you serious?" Wanda feigned shock.

Bailey let out a breathy stuttering laugh, "book worm remember?"

"Right," Wanda smiled softly, her eyes raking over Bailey's features. "You okay now?"

She nodded and gave a small smile as Wanda leaned closer over the armrest, giving her hand a soft squeeze. "Y-yeah," Bailey stuttered out softly taking the headphone Wanda held out for her. "Thanks."

"Anytime," Wanda whispered softly.

Once her breaths had calmed and her heartbeats had settled Bailey lifted Wanda’s arm, her hold on her hand unfaltering she reached her free hand under to lift the armrest completely.

“Hey,” The red head whispered, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “you stole my move.” She finished with a smile.

A giggle slipped through the brunette’s lips before she settled her head comfortably on her shoulder. Wanda leaned down a touch, reaching for the blanket tucked into the pocket of the seat in front of her and settled it over them before resting her cheek on Bailey’s head.

Sleep found Bailey easier than expected and when the stewardess gently shook them awake she had a soft, comforting smile on her face because of it. Wanda's hair was messy and her cheek was warm from where it had been rested on Bailey.

"Oh I hope I didn't drool on you," Wanda said in the cutest sleepy voice as the stewardess set the food on their trays. It looked about as delicious as airplane food could but her stomach rumbled all the same.

"My sweater is soaked," Bailey teased with a smile.

“Look at her she’s all comfortable and she’s got jokes now,” Wanda teased back.

“Ha ha,” She rolled her eyes playfully. “You brought this on yourself really, could’ve left me to suffer in silence the whole plane ride.”

“And miss the chance to see that smile? I could never.” The red head cood as she tucked a stray hair behind Bailey’s ear, the soft touch sending sparks all over her body.

Bailey indicated to the screen, "so yet another time I've not watched Sleepless in Seattle," she smiled. "Seems I'm destined never to watch it."

Wanda traced her thumb along Bailey's cheek, following the crease which had formed during her rest on the red head's shoulder. Bailey's breath hitched at the touch, her gaze drawn to her companion's and she realised she was biting her bottom lip.

"That's ok," Wanda murmured, "I'm sure we could find it if we get chance to Netflix and chill."

“I’m still not convinced I’d see the whole movie,” Bailey smirked slyly. “I think there’d be more chilling than actual Netflix.”

It was Wanda’s turn to blush at Bailey’s obvious flirting and the brunette popped a bite of dubious-looking chicken casserole into her mouth to try and hide her satisfied grin.

The pair continued their conversation over their meals, with Wanda suggesting some restaurants and pubs that she thought Bailey might appreciate during her time in the UK.

“You know, though,” Wanda said, gesturing with her fork, “most of these places are far more enjoyable with company. It’s a shame you don’t know anyone over there other than the bride-to-be…”

Bailey’s heart pounded a little faster in her chest at what she thought Wanda was trying to imply and her breath hitched as she waited for her to finish her sentence.

“Maybe our calendars will align and we could enjoy a glass of wine and some food?”

"Get me through the landing first?" Bailey asked and Wanda nodded. "If we survive, I'll buy you dinner."

"Sounds like a rigged bet," Wanda smiled as their trays were taken and the seatbelt light popped on. The warning to prepare for landing came over the cabin and Bailey exhaled a shaky breath. "Hold my hand?" She asked her.

"If it'll make you feel safe," Bailey winked at her and linked their hands together as the plane dropped into a lower altitude. Bailey sucked in nervous breath and Wanda gave her hand a little squeeze.

"Fish and Chips." Wanda said quietly, "highly underrated, that's where you can take me."

"So confident," Bailey said between soft murmurs of counting her breathing.

"No ketchup though, vinegar on the chips."

"You don't like ketchup?" Bailey laughed nervously as the plane rumbled and the wheels dropped.

"Can't stand it," Wanda smiled. Bailey knew that she was just trying to distract her from the way the plane swept through the air getting closer to the runway but it was working and each silly remark from her pouty lips was enough to make everything else in the cabin fade to nothing.

“Well now I’m terrified to know your feelings on Ranch.” Bailey laughed.

Wanda squeezed her hand gently with a grin as the wheels hit tarmac. “Let’s save that conversation for the third date.”

A bright shade of pink spread over Bailey’s cheeks. Her stomach flipped at the promise and Wanda’s ability to turn her from a shaky mess to a melting puddle with only a few words. “Third date?” She choked out.

Wanda shrugged. “I’m being optimistic.” She winked.

"So far so good," Bailey smiled, "and it looks like we've failed to die so I owe you at least one date."

"Where are you staying?" Wanda asked.

"Kensington," Bailey replied, "the wedding's at Fulham Palace so it made sense to stay somewhere close and central. The whole wedding party's booked in there for the big day on Saturday."

Wanda stood, passing Bailey her bag from the overhead locker before retrieving her own.

“A lovely part of London,” she nodded, looking impressed. “I’ve never been to Fulham Palace but I’m sure it’s going to look beautiful all decorated.”

Bailey gazed thoughtfully at Wanda, warring internally with herself before deciding to take the bull by the horns.

“Would you…would you like to see it in person? I have a plus one and…never mind. I know it’s lot to ask and we’ve only just met and-“

Her ramble was cut off by a gentle finger on her lips.

"I have the perfect outfit," Wanda smiled and Bailey felt it down into her toes. She couldn't believe she had even had the nerve to ask but she felt lighter for doing so. Wanda stood staring at her, eyes dancing around her face like she wanted to ask her something but they were pushed forward by the flow of the traffic and off the plane.

Bailey lost her in the crowd as they entered the terminal and swore to herself when she realized she hadn't gotten her number.

"Shit," she swore she could feel her heart breaking. She had really liked Wanda. She wandered around in a panicked circle, searching the crowd for a fleck of red hair or that pretty, tantalizing smile but came short. "There goes the girl of my dreams..." Bailey rolled her eyes, trying to compose herself as the disappointed emotions bubbled up.

"What's wrong?" Wanda's voice floated over her and Bailey turned to see her standing the middle of the packed airport.

That smile drowning out every other bit of noise around them, the bodies became blurred and the voices hushed as Wanda stared at her.

“Thought I lost you there for a second,” Bailey laughed shyly.

“I’m not going anywhere love,” Wanda said, reaching for her free hand and giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Besides, I was promised a date and I’m not missing a chance to see those pretty eyes again.”

Bailey smiled brightly as butterflies swarmed her insides and warmth flooded her body at her words. Her capacity to both calm her and make her blush astonished her. She never thought she’s be grateful for a being on a plane but she felt damn grateful now and if it was next to Wanda, she’d get on a thousand more because she knew she’d be okay.

The sound of her sweet voice and gentle brush of her knuckles pulled her from her thoughts.

“There you are,” she cooed, “Let’s go find a cab pretty girl, we gotta get you to your sister so I can whine about missing you and wanting to kiss you again.”

“Again?” The brunette questioned in a whisper.

“Can I?” Wanda answered, green-eyes glinting with desire as she bit the corner of her lip.

Bailey had barely nodded before she pulled her flush to her and her lips found hers in a tender kiss. She felt her smile into the kiss and she all but melted against her as she hummed, “even sweeter than I’d imagined.”

The brunette flushed, her lips still tingling from their kiss as Wanda led them through the sea of people. She was really gonna have to thank her sister for wanting a London wedding.