#wait no that reminds me of harper

[petpc]

:D ARE YOU FUCKING WITH ME????

[ccsainzleclerc5516]

His Biggest Prize

Pairing: Lewis Hamilton x reader

Warnings: smut!

After Australian GP, Lewis was counting down the seconds until he got home to you and the kids. It was not a good weekend for him. Not at all and now all he wanted, all he desperately needed was to find comfort in your arms.

It was late at night, close to midnight, when you heard the door of your shared home open. You and Roscoe were lying on the sofa in the living room under a blanket waiting for Lewis. Your two children, Harper and Miles, have been sleeping cause it was long past their bedtime, and your eyes were slowly closing too, but you knew that Lewis needed you and you wanted to be there for him, awake.

You quickly crawled out from under the blanket, waking a snoring Roscoe in the process, and hurried to the door.

"Baby" You welcome him in with a tight hug leaning your head on his shoulder and leaving a lot of soft kisses on his neck.

"Hey, love" He pulls you tighter to him breathing in your scent that calms him right away.

"How are you?" You ask, but he doesn't say anything. He gives you a smile, but his eyes look terribly sad. "I'm so sorry I couldn't be there with you. Do you want to talk about it?"

"Don't worry, baby, I'm okay now. I don't wanna talk about it, I just want to go to bed with you." He says taking your hands in his and softly kissing your knuckles. "Are the kids asleep?"

"Yeah, they wanted to wait for you, but I told them you'll be home late so they'll see you in the morning."

"Good, good."

"Let's go to bed, yeah?"

As soon as you got into bed Lewis pulled you all the way to him holding you tightly as if you were gonna slip out of his arms every second. He was so exhausted that it took him only minutes to drift of to sleep with his head resting on yours.

The next morning you were the first one to wake up, a bit earlier than usual. Your body was still pressed against Lewis' feeling his hot breath against the back of your neck and his morning erection unconsciously poking at your lower back.

One of Lewis' oversized t-shirts served as your nightgown every night under which you were wearing only panties so you pulled it up revealing your butt and rubbing it over the bulge in his boxers making him moan in his sleep.

Normally the kids wake you up every day, but since you got ahead of them this morning, you decided to use that time to show your man how much you missed him, how much he is loved, to show him that he is forever the champion in your eyes.

First you turned and placed a few short gentle kisses on his lips before straddling him, slowly grinding your hips against his crotch and running your hands over his firm tattooed chest.

A smile spread across his face when you leaned down and kissed him below his ear whispering "Good morning handsome" It took him a few seconds to open his eyes and realize your position.

"What a sight to wake up to..You on top of me," His hands find your waist pulling you closer into him. "If I'm not the luckiest man in the world, then I don't know who is. Good morning baby"

"Did you sleep well?" You ask still slowly grinding against him. Your panties were staring to soak with your wetness as you feel his rock hard cock through the thin material pressed against your folds.

"I sleep best next to you" He moans at the friction that you're creating between you two. His hand reaches for your, his, t-shirt pulling it up a little so he can have a better view to the junction of your body.

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. And what have I done to deserve such a special morning treatment?" He asks admiring you, his fingers pulling the strings of your panties up making your lips part and groan.

"Just wanted to remind you how much I love you before the kids wake up" You tug at the waistband of his boxers pulling them down his thighs and taking his thick cock into your hands stroking him up and down at, for him, excruciatingly slow pace.

"Fuckk, baby" He sighs running his hands over his face and through his hair. His hips raising up begging you to take him.

"Baby, don't tease" He pleads, but you can't help it. You bring your face dangerously close to his shaft swirling your tongue over his tip. He hisses squeezing his eyes shut as you start kissing it, sucking on it and collecting the pre-cum that started dripping out. "I swear I'm gonna cum in your mouth if you don't stop"

As soon as you move and straddle him again, he takes his cock in his hand giving it a few strokes and with the other he moves your panties aside. His fingers quickly glide over your wet slits stopping at your aching clit tapping it and rubbing small circles on it.

"You gonna ride me?" He asks and you nod impatiently. "C'mon baby, sit on my cock, show me how you do it" Before you slid yourself down on his length, he sat up and leaned his back against the headboard because this way it was much more intimate, he wanted to have you as close to him as possible while watching you ride him.

Lewis wasn't a loud guy, but he loved that you were. It drove him crazy listening to you whimper, moan, scream out his name in bed. But this time he had to make sure you were as quiet as you could be because you didn't want to wake up the kids. So when you sunk down on him, Lewis quickly covered your mouth with his hand shushing your whimpers.

"Shh, baby, you gotta be quiet okay? Can you do that for me?" He asked and you nodded. His thumb slips inside your mouth and you quickly get to work sucking in your cheeks his eyes never leaving yours. "Such a good girl. You're so hot, fuck"

His lips attack yours aggressively pushing his tongue inside while his hands grasp your butt guiding it up and down on his cock, setting the pace he wanted.

"You like that, baby? You like how I'm taking you?" You murmur against his lips. "So big Lew-uh"

"Yes, my girl riding me so good. Your pussy feels so good, so perfect for me." His teeth bite your nipple through your t-shirt making you wince as the pain and pleasure mingle.

You know that time is running fast and that the kids could wake up at any moment so the rhythm of your hips quickens and you start riding him faster and harder wrapping your arms around his neck.

"You gonna cum around me?" He grunts as he feels your walms clench around him. Before you can even confirm, your body trembles and your head falls into the crook of his neck biting your lip to stop yourself from screaming as you come undone around him.

"That's it, yes, yes, ahh. So pretty when you cum" He leans backwards so that he can lift you up and start thrusting himself hard inside you. The sight of you already worn out from his cock makes him twitch pushing him to the edge. "Shit, I'm gonna fill you up, shiiit baby"

As he finishes he doesn't pull out but stays buried deep inside you. You fall on his chest, both of you gasping for air he cooes you telling you how good his pretty girl did as his hands start rubbing your back.

"To be yours, that's the biggest prize" He says lifting up your chin to look you in the eyes and you smile shyly as your heart flutters at his comment.

"You're forever my champ Lew"

[pitchsidestories]

cheerleader II Grace Clinton x Reader

masterlist I word count: 1882

a/n: inspired by the request if we write for Grace Clinton, enjoy. 🤍

“Hurry up, Celin, I don’t want to be too late for the match.”, Grace Clinton told the fellow football player impatiently, the arms crossed over her chest. The rest of the friend’s group had already been ready to leave fifteen minutes ago.

The Norwegian meanwhile took a final glance at her bathroom mirror, checking if the curls she just made fell right, before announcing:” I’m coming.”

“Finally.”, Grace sighed relived.

Eyerolling Celin padded the shoulder of her friend: “Don’t be annoying. We’ll be on time.”

“Someone can’t wait to be the personal cheerleader of her girlfriend today.”, Khiara Keating teased the fellow Lionesses teammate with a huge grin on her face.  

When the goalkeeper mentioned you Grace cheeks turned immediately red which Charli Grant couldn’t help but to point out in a swooning voice:” I think it’s adorable. Look at how much she’s blushing!”

“Oh, shut up!”, your girlfriend begged annoyed who felt her face becoming even hotter than before.

Amused Celin commented: “Disgustingly cute.”

“Celin!”, she yelled at her.

The Norwegian looked innocently at her teammate:” What?”

“Stop it. No one said it was disgustingly cute when you got engaged.”, Grace reminded the woman who was only two years older than her.

Smiling at the memory Celin admitted: “ No, that’s true. Bethany was really annoying about it though like a mum. She asked me if I was sure about it? And that we’re still in the puppy love phase, blab la bla.”

“She just doesn’t want you to make a mistake.”, your girlfriend replied softly.

Dramatically the midfielder groaned:” Yes, and that’s sweet of her but she really needs to stop using dog metaphors all the time.”

The smile on Grace’s lips grew even bigger as she thought of Beth Englands golden retrievers who were adorable in her eyes and made her wish that you both would eventually get a puppy together, maybe the summer would be the perfect time for it:”  Everyone loves dogs though.”

“And her golden retrievers are so cute.”, Charli added in a tone she usually reserved for Harper.

The youngest of the four, Khiara was looking alarmed at the time on her phone:” Girls now we really got to hurry up!”

“Tell that to Celin.”, Grace scoffed.

She pouted: “It wasn’t my fault!”

“Yes, it was.”, your girlfriend laughed.

As they stepped out Charli was putting an arm on each of the best friends, while reminding them why they were heading out today: “Come on, girls. It’s time to watch some grassroots football, now.”

Your teammate Ava bumped her shoulder against yours as you walked out on the pitch together. With a smirk she commented: “Y/n, havd you spotted your cheerleader already?”

“Not yet. I fear they run a little late. She's bringing some friends with her today.”, you replied, your gaze wandering towards the entrance of the football pitch. But there was still no sign of Grace.

Avas eyes widened: “There's even more of them coming?!”

You nodded patiently: “Yeah, Celin, Charli and Khiara are coming as well.”

“Holy F-…”, Ava replied, stopping herself before your coach could hear her.

Your goalkeeper, Max, joined your conversation, lifting their eyebrow at you; “But you warned them that we do this just for fun and that we are not really good in our league, right?!”

Grimacing, you looked at your two teammates; “Uhm…”

“What the hell, y/n? We're totally going to embarrass ourselves in front of them!”, Ava yelled out, her voice rising with anxiety. She exchanged a panicked look with Max.

“Girls, calm down…”, you started, fighting back a smile.

The defender shook her head, her blonde ponytail swinging: “How?!”

You rolled your eyes with fondness: “You guys know Grace already and you never had a problem playing in front of her.”

“That’s different!”, Max interrupted you but the corners of their mouth curved into slight grin.

“Yeah, she’s only there to look at you with heart eyes during the match.”, Ava agreed, giggling.

You could feel your cheeks heat up: “Oh come on…”

Max shrugged nonchalantly: “She’s got a point.”

“Her friends are very nice, you’ll see.”, you promised them while you caught yourself looking for your girlfriend again.

Ava raised her eyebrows: “Let's hope so.”

“I guess we should start warming up.”, Max changed the topic and started to jog across the grass.

Ava clapped her hands: “Yes, let’s go.”

Max looked back over their shoulder towards you: “Come on!”

Laughing, you followed them: “I’m coming, children!”

“Children? You’re the child here!”, the goalkeeper laughed.

“Since she got into uni she thinks she’s an adult.”, Ava continued to tease.

“Hey!”, you protested. You were not even the youngest player on your team.

Max deliberately ignored you: “She wishes.”

Before you could reply, you were almost knocked off balance by someone jumping on your back and wrapping their hands around your shoulders.

“She’s still our baby!”, Rileys voice shouted right next to your ear.

You shook the redheaded midfielder off: “Ugh, stop it. I’m not.”

“Yeah, you are.”, Max countered smugly.

“At least I’m faster than you!”, you grinned and increased your pace, switching from a fast jog into a sprint.

The goalkeepers jaw dropped: “Without stretching! If we’d do that, we could go home right now.”

“Honestly, some things you can only do when you’re young.”, Ava shook her head.

Riley laughed: “My knees hurt from only watching her.”

“You sound like Lucy Bronze, Riley.”, you chuckled, remembering the phone call you had with Grace when she was away with the lionesses in Spain. Your girlfriend was happy about the fact that the English defender put her under her wings.

Even though the knee of the Barcelona player was hurting after she ran against Grace in training the older woman was still joking around with her like the pain was nothing.

Dropping the name of the famous lionesses Riley’s mouth dropped wide open: “Excuse me?!”  

“Yeah, it’s true but Luce wouldn’t just sat by and chat when she has to warm up.”, Khiara joined the conversation with a teasing smile on her lips.

Your teammate pouted, begging not all too serious: “Never ever bring your girlfriend and her friends again.”

“Riley, you got compared to Lucy Bronze that’s a compliment., you tried to cheer the older woman up before you turned around to kiss your girlfriend who was standing next to the Mancity goalkeeper, hi babe, glad you could make it.”

You were willing to ignore Celins fake gagging noises unlike Grace. She scolded the Norwegian for her reaction:” Celin!”

“Ignore her, Grace. Have fun watching the game, girls.”, you told her softly.

“We’ll.”

“Good luck.”, Khiara shouted after you, widely grinning.

Grateful for her support you mouthed: “Thank you, Khi.”

“You’re welcome.”, she replied.

During the match, Celin bit her lip, looking worried at what was happening in front of them:” Oh god, their team is bad.”

“Don’t be mean.”, Grace immediately defended you and your team.

With a mischievous grin Khiara reminded the Tottenham players:” You guys were bad too when we won against you 7:0.”

“You said you wouldn’t remind us anymore.”, your girlfriend whined.

The mancity goalkeeper countered: “At least it stopped Celin from being mean.”

“Grace, your girl scored!”, Celin excitedly interrupted them.

Proudly Grace said:” Not too bad, right?”

“It was a really nice goal.”, Charli admitted.

When Max celebrated your goal with you, she pulled you close to hum into your ear:” Little one tell your girlfriend she needs to come more often if her presence makes you score such bangers.”

“Oh, but you know she’s a busy girl.”, you answered grinning.

Confidently she shook her head:” Doesn’t matter. We need some wins.”

After the match, Ava announced to your girlfriend:” Grace, we need you to attend more games it works wonders on y/n’s performance.”

“I’ll try to come more often. But my weekends are pretty booked.”, Grace promised.

 In a reassuring tone you responded:” You don’t have too.”

“No, I want to come more often. I really enjoyed watching.”, your girlfriend looked at you lovingly.

“To be fair I enjoy watching you play too.”, you confessed sweetly.

She smirked while suggesting:” I think we could make a deal out of it.”

“Yes, we’ll try to see each other’s games as often as we can.”, you nodded eagerly.

The promise was sealed with a kiss from her on your lips:” That sounds fair.”

Two weeks later, the roles were reversed and you watched Grace and her team play against Manchester City in the FA Women’s Cup.

It was a suspenseful game that eventually went into a penalty shootout. You held your breath as Amy Turner converted the final penalty for Tottenham. You could not hide your joy for your girlfriends team while you watched them run towards each other and celebrate their win.

“Becky, you were amazing!“, Grace yelled at their goalkeeper who was able to save two of Manchester penalties.

Beth England pulled her two teammates into a hug: “I’m so proud of you, girls!“

“You really saved us with your goal in the last minute of stoppage time!“, Grace yelled happily at the striker. Her cheeks were still red from the game as her gaze drifted over the crowd of people applauding the win.

Beth shrugged with one shoulder: “They had to make a mistake at some point. She’s over there by the way if you’re looking for her.“

A new bright red flashed across Graces face: “Yes, I was searching for her.“

“Come on. Go to her, get your winners kiss and then we can celebrate together.“, Becky laughed and pushed the younger player in your direction.

Beth called after her: “Hurry up!“

“Trust me, I’m running as fast as I can.“, Grace laughed back at her as she made her way across the pitch.

She stopped right in front of you, a huge grin on her face.

“Hi, love. I’m so proud of you and your team.“, you greeted her and pulled her into a tight hug.

“Thanks. I’m glad you could be here.“, she replied.

As you pulled out of the hug, you held up your phone and presented your girlfriend your text messages: “Ava, Max and the whole team congratulate you and forgive me for missing training today.“

“That’s so sweet of them.“, Grace smiled, visibly moved by the thoughtfulness of your football team.

You nodded: “Yes, they are the best.“

“They are.“

“Go and celebrate with your team, babe, you deserve it.“, you laughed and gave her gentle push.

Grace held out her hand for you: “Join us.“

“Are you sure?“

“Absolutely.“

“Okay, I’m coming with you.“, you finally agreed and followed your girlfriend onto the grass.

Grace carefully took your hand in hers: “Good. The girls will be happy to see you.“

As soon as you reached the celebrating football players, you smiled: “Hi, girls.“

Charli beamed at you: “You’re here!“

“Gracies' lucky charm!“, Celin yelled with a slight tease in her voice.

“So that’s why we won.“, Charli concluded with a grin.

Grace pressed a kiss to your cheek: “Oh yes.“

Celin shot her a sceptical look: “Sure. It was probably her.“

Grace turned towards you, searching for your eyes: “Ignore the sceptic Celin. Love you, y/n.“

“I love you too.“, you replied and kissed her passionately.

[yeeterthek33per]

Surprise (Katrina Gorry x Reader)

A/n Jeez sorry guys, welcome back to me ay? Anyways, here's the first of many requests, I'm getting back into it, I swear.

Requested.

Warnings/summary: Fluff. Harper Gorry. Itty Bitty Bit suggestive at the end.

You swear, your arms feel like they might pop any second.

It would make sense if you were doing a workout, but it turns out dragging around a 15kg toddler all day is basically the same thing.

With your wife Katrina running around to do assigned media duties before the game tomorrow, you'd been left in charge of little Harper before her family came to get her for the night so you both could get an adequate amount of sleep for once.

There's a little squeal as you swing the small blonde girl up into onto your hip when she tries to make a break for the open doorway that leads onto the pavement outside.

"Mama noooo!"

"Mama yes! No running off like that baby. We stay together while we go out. You know that."

The small pout from her lips reminds you very much of her other mother as you tickle her slightly to elicit a small giggle.

"We goin to get ice cweem?"

You chuckle softly, running your fingers through her blonde locks.

"Yeah, we're getting some ice cream after we have a little walk alright?"

"Chacha coming?"

"Yes Hun, Chacha’s comin', we just gotta wait for her to come down so we can go."

Harper seemingly accepts that, leaning back fully into your hold to sit and play with the small silver necklace you have on, with your wife's and Harper's initials as the pendants.

It takes a very long five minutes as Charlie finally gets off the elevator ready to go, the little blonde in your arms getting much more fidgety as you stand and wait.

"Chacha!"

"Took you long enough, come on!"

She rolls her eyes before turning to the tiny girl you're holding and snatches her up to ride on her shoulders, your biceps screaming in relief finally.

Any other day of the week, you'd be used to it but after the intense gym session the day before, you weren't sure your arms wouldn't have fallen off by the end of today without your younger compatriot to take the younger version of herself off your hands.

The groan of relief you let out as she does so, has her laughing.

"Stop complaining, she's your kid, you should be used to this by now."

"Hush you, gym sessions and wandering toddlers don't mix, now let's go before we run out of time."

"Why are we out here again? It's supposed to be rest day today."

The bright, sunny warmth of the day is nothing compared to the day previous, leaving you feeling a little relieved at not having to deal with 27 odd degree temperatures and an impatient two-year-old.

"We're out here because I need one more thing for tomorrow and I just needed someone to give me an excuse to leave the hotel.

"Why do you need my help? You've known Mini longer. You're literally married to her."

"I know but it's our first game together as a married couple and I want it to be super special for her."

"Alright alright, so what are we picking out again?"

"It's a surprise for the game. I asked the uniformers if I could tweak my jersey a little."

"Okay? What does that have to do with- wait..."

She pauses a little, her hand coming up and making the stop motion.

"You're changing it to Gorry?"

Her eyes water a little as a massive grin stretches across your face with a chuckle and you nod.

Charlie bounces a little in excitement, the squeal she lets out startling the child on her shoulders.

"Is this an official name change?"

You hum in the affirmative, steadying the blonde as she bounces into you, careful not to let Harper fall from her perch.

"It's been a thought for a long while, we talked about it, but we never confirmed whether or not I'd change my name. She definitely wants to keep Gorry, though."

"So why are we going shopping then?"

"Because I'm going out to pick up a preorder I made a couple weeks ago, it was supposed to be a wedding gift when we got married here but they couldn’t get it finished in time so I settled for the specialised necklaces and just made these the World Cup gift instead."

"So, what's the preorder then?"

"You'll see. Wait here"

You playfully wink and duck into the jewellery store to your left, right as she asks the question.

Returning just a few minutes later, bag in hand.

"Alright, let's go."

Charlie looks at you expectantly.

"You're not gonna show me?"

"Later. Harps, what do you say sweety, ice cream time?"

The toddler jumps up and down in her spot upon the older girl’s shoulders.

"Yes pleeeeease!"

Humming in contentment, you drag her down the street to a cold rock ice creamery, much to the protest of the twenty-two-year-old.

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

A loud grumble from the blonde laid across your bed makes you glance up from your spot at the desk with a chuckle.

"At least one little peak, come on Y/n/n. Pleeeeease? You dragged me all the way out to go get it. It's the least you could do."

You'd swear she was in fact Harper's older sister with the way she was giving you the puppy dog eyes.

"You can't wait for tomorrow to see it? Like everyone else?"

"No".

She deadpans and perches herself onto the desk next to where you're signing out papers to send off to the registry that you got married under.

'Alright alright alright. Pass me the bag. I need to hide the box anyways."

There's a small smile as you open up the ring box again, and it reminds you heavily of the ring box Katrina had so smoothly removed from her satchel at the beach the day you'd gotten engaged.

The mid thickness silver band shines under the small white desk lamp, the curved engravings on the underside of it glimmering as you carefully hand it to the blonde who's expression melts at the sight of it.

The little inscription of "our kind of love is the best kind. - (Y)G" and the little football symbol on the bottom matches perfectly with the style of writing.

"It matches our wedding rings. I'll give it to her to her tomorrow after the game."

"She's gonna love it. I love it. God, can you get me one?"

Rolling your eyes at her, you chuckle softly as she slips the ring back into the box and you tuck it away into safe corner of the room until it's needed.

"I'll be sure to let Lachlan know."

She smiles softly at the mention of her boyfriend before a small inquizzacal look appears on her face.

"So, how's this gonna pan out without her noticing again?"

"Well...."

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

Stepping down and off the bus, there's a nervousness in the air, not like the usual national games hold. You'd been to major tournaments before, hell you were in France for the 2019 world cup but there's nothing like the feeling you get now.

Walking into a home stadium, in your home uniform at a home world cup, and awaiting you is the eighty thousand strong crowd, the hopefully perfect condition pitch and your bouncing blonde toddler with her grandmother in the stands.

It's a feeling out of this world.

And it gets better knowing what's waiting for Katrina as well.

Not just a chance at redemption from the last World Cup.

Not just her sweet little harper, cheering and yelling for her mommy and her teammates the moment they step onto the pitch.

A hand on your shoulder jolts you a little, you'd paused in front of your cubby after hearing the ever so faint cheers of the crowd above the entrance to the player area.

"You alright?"

Your wife’s comforting hand gently squeezes your arm as you nod, giving her a reassuring smile.

“Feelin’ great, baby.”

Resting your hand on hers, you caress it with your thumb softly before gently nudging her back to her own cubby to get ready for pitch inspection.

Subtly making eye contact with the trainer across the room, you give him a nod as he slips away to grab the jersey, he’d made ready in time for the game.

Slipping on your training jersey, you duck out onto the pitch before warmups are due to start.

You end up making it quicker than usual in order to slip out to meet the trainer to grab your actual jersey which you leave in your cubby away from sight.

Waving to the already numerous fans in the stadium, you make your rounds of the pitch to get a proper feel of it, and when Sam spots herself on the big screen managing to sneak a selfie, you and your teammates are left chuckling.

Warmups go smoothly, and the atmosphere and tremendous crowd are both buzzing with enormous amounts of energy.

Breathing in the cool night air, your shots feel a little shaky in the leadup, but they quickly relax as you settle in amongst the encouragement and atsmosphere of your teammates.

Despite the devastation at finding out Sam won’t be playing for at least three games, the determination sets in hard and the moment you are all called back to the changerooms, a hardness sets about you and everything in your head calms in the moment, ready to get out there and play like it’s any other game, trying to ignore the already enormous amount of pressure on your shoulders.

Tony gives a quick speech before sending you all off to line up ready for the walkout.

The team are still in their training jackets when you walk out and it’s only when you slip off yours, and place it over the shoulders of the mascot in front of you after the national anthems, that she finally notices.

You’re number 24 while Katrina is number 19 so she isn’t directly next to you to see it, however a close up of your back on the big screen catches her attention when she realises it isn’t her number attached to the last name and she leans forward to catch your eye as you all move to huddle.

Winking at her, you smile and move stand next to her, arm slipping around her shoulders as Sam and Tony do the final send off.

The double take of a few of your teammates makes you laugh, and you press a kiss to your wife’s cheek with a small ‘Surprise.’ Spoken in her ear.

She grabs your face before you can go anywhere.

“Not so fast you.”

There’s a small hum of appreciation when she presses her lips to yours in a brief kiss and her eyes water a little up at you.

“I love you so much, Mrs L/n.”

“It’s Gorry now, baby.”

Her smile widens and right as you go to kiss her once more, a slap to the back startles you.

It’s a grinning Sam who urges you over to the rest of your waiting team who’ve been watching you both with amusement visibly plastered on all of their faces.

"Let’s do this, pretty girl."

With that, you feel more than ready to start this thing.

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

The first thing you feel the moment you're off the bus is Katrina's hand dragging you back inside the hotel and up the stairs, far too impatient to wait for the elevator to come down.

The moment you're both up the six flights of stairs, despite the immense exhaustion you're both exhibiting after the battle against Ireland, there's a giddiness in both of your steps and she quickly drags you into your room with the swipe of your keycard.

The soft giggle that leaves your lips the moment you're pressed back against the door makes her grin and her hands slipping under the hem of your hoodie leave shivers behind as you think back to the look she'd given you from the left of you across the locker room.

Full of love and adoration and a little hint of desire as they move to the name across your back.

Mouthing those three words you know sends warmth to her chest every time she hears them, she mouths them back with a small grin.

[hwadam-stories]

⊹ PHANTOM PAINS ⊹ PILOT EPISODE

(black!fem!) mea harper!reader x ceo boss!dhan tae-oh

ᴍɪɴᴏʀꜱ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴᴛᴇʀᴀᴄᴛ

I do not consent to my work being reposted, — stolen or translated anywhere else.

⊹ CW: long post, emotional cheating, unrequited love, depression, fluff, drama, etc.

⊹ SYNOPSIS: Celebrating his niece's birthday at a restaurant, Dhan recognizes you from across the room as his past lover from five hundred years ago and is determined to stop at nothing to be with you again.

⊹ A/N: this is my first serious fanfic, feedback on this pilot (comments, messages & reblogs only!) will help me consider continuing it with motivation. Canon divergent / somewhat canon compliant to the MEA CULPA (2024) film by Tyler Perry with some crossover aspects thrown in. I hope you enjoy!

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

"Does Your Majesty wish to meet again in our next lives?" You asked, wrapping your arms around him.

"Of course, were you considering abandoning me?" Dhan replied, chuckling.

"Okay then, when the time comes, I'll be your master once more." You promised. "Your love. Your pain. Even your very last breath, please give them all to me."

"They are all yours, y/n."

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

There was a time when those words meant everything to him.

A time when finding you meant everything to him.

But after his fifth life, Dhan had given up on his search and the phantom pains have haunted him ever since.

It was a pain that wasn't his, a pain that never faltered in reminding him of his failure despite the many times you two were reincarnated throughout the last five hundred years.

Your souls were connected after all and even though this pain has brought him a great deal of misery, part of him hoped you weren't feeling anything.

Presumably, because he was always reincarnated as a man, he assumed you would be reincarnated as a woman but other than that, he never really had any concrete way of finding you. It was safe to assume that since his ethnicity changed, yours did too.

Not that he particularly cared what race you were now, all that mattered was that he was reunited with you. But that promise has become nothing but a fleeting dream. A delusion Dhan couldn't completely let go of because this pain meant that you were alive, somewhere out there. Hopefully looking for him too.

In every lifetime after the first one, he always accumulated a great deal of wealth somewhere in his mid to late twenties under the name of Dan.

In this era, he was Dhan Tae-Oh, the boss of a CEO corporation in Korea and came from a long line of gangsters that reinforced the values of family and business to a rather high degree.

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

Tonight, he was celebrating his niece's 9th birthday and his sister-in-law's most recent promotion in the fashion industry.

His younger brother, Charles Kang, arranged everything at the finest Italian restaurant in all of Chicago, Illinois, called up Dhan three days before and here they all were.

"You know, we got lucky tonight." Charles set aside his fork and knife for a sip of wine.

"I initially planned to invite more people for Abby's dinner party but a larger group had already reserved a bigger table and I snagged us the only one they had left."

Now that Dhan gave it a second thought, Piccolo Sogno was unusually packed tonight and much busier than he had initially anticipated.

Even looking over his shoulder he could still see the glimpse of the same crowd he passed through, still waiting in line outside.

His assistant, Seon-woo, mentioned something about a on the rise celebrity artist being one of its more known customers over the last couple of years. No one Dhan had really heard of or cared to for that matter.

"Their celebrating their mum's birthday, I heard." Susan remarked, her posh accent gleaming through. She looked past her husband and over her shoulder, seeing the large the table behind them.

There were about five people and that one particular redheaded woman must've been the birthday mom. "Surely Abby won't mind sharing her special day when two cakes come out." Susan teased.

"You got me a cake?!" Abby gasped, beaming with a smile. "Is it a big one?"

"You can only have two slices, young lady." Susan tenderly pinched her daughter's cheek. "The last thing we need is you bouncin' off the walls at 2 o'clock in the mornin' on a school night."

Abby pouted and brought those puppy eyes straight to her uncle.

Dhan stifled a laugh, hiding that cheeky smile behind a half closed fist. "I'm sorry Abby, not even that can convince me to break your parents rules but I'll make it up to you when dessert arrives, I promise."

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

Dessert was served in the form of a double stacked white and pink frosted cake decorated with strawberries and red icing for the words "Happy 9th birthday, Abigail!"

Candles were blown and nine year old Abigail Kang became tonight's birthday girl that the staff (and some nearby tables) sang to. Pictures were taken and there were smiles all around.

The gift that Dhan purchased was a reasonably expensive one but not something he would ever think to showboat about. He simply had some connections here and there and thought to put them to good use for the short time he was going to be in Chicago.

"All fourteen of Taylor Swift's albums!?" Abby squealed, wrapping her arms around her Uncle Dhan and squeezing him tight. "I love it! I love it! I love it!"

Dhan laughed nervously, patting her head and squeezing her shoulder tenderly. "Your arms squishing my insides make that explicitly clear."

Everything was going great. Dhan was feeling great.

That is, until things weren't great anymore.

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

Dhan suddenly gripped the edge of the table to stop himself from keeling over on the floor of the restaurant.

His chest became uncomfortably tight and his head began throbbed with a splitting sensation.

The phantom pain had returned.

For the sake not wanting to make a scene or ruin what was already a perfect night, Dhan got his breathing under control, keeping some stoicism to his face to not alarm anyone.

The tightness in his chest seemed to lessen but the throbbing in his head wasn't going anywhere.

"Pumpkin, why don't me and you freshen up in the girls' room and leave the boys here, yeah?" As if on cue, Susan took her daughter by the hand and headed straight for the bathroom.

"Dhan." Charles sighed, addressing him in a somber tone of their birth language. Entirely oblivious to what his brother suffering with. "I know we haven't always seen eye to eye but I'm really glad you could make it tonight."

He listened to his brother -- or at least tried to.

The words were being drowned out by a sudden ringing in his ears, leaving him momentarily stunned that it almost felt like the world around him was going to spin.

But he wasn't feeling nauseous from the alcohol or a sudden fever. It felt more like ... resentment.

It put a bitter taste in his mouth and made him clench his fist at the end of the table until his knuckles went white.

His brother hadn't done anything wrong and yet Dhan was being swallowed whole by the sensation, not knowing where to place it.

It's just ... if his brother wasn't the problem, then who?

"Oh look! Her Majesty, The Queen has finally arrived." A woman's voice cackled in the air.

She was an older looking caucasian woman with red curly hair and wine red lipstick, belonging to the group that booked a table for a total of nine and judging by what the already opened and nearly empty wine bottle, she must've had a bit too much to drink.

That's when he saw you approach the table.

It was you. It was really you.

His soulmate.

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

"Don't worry son, your second wife will be on time." Azalia, your mother-in-law cackled, caressing the cheek of Kal, your husband.

His awkward shuffle of a smile made it crystal clear that whatever came out of her mouth tonight, he wasn't going to come to your defense anytime soon.

What can you expect from a man that holds his disrespectful mother over your marriage of three years?

What's worse is that Azalia had the nerve to invite the one woman she favored more.

Your husband's childhood friend, Jenna.

The same childhood friend that had become the topic of your marriage counseling session that your husband Kal had ditched midway through for this dinner party.

A session that you had to finish by yourself, making you the one who arrived late.

Jenna was a tall, light skinned woman with dark curly hair and a bright red dress with a V neck to show off a window of cleavage and a shortened skirt to show off her toned and slender legs.

And to add salt to fucking wound -- Azalia made sure Jenna sat next to your husband while you sat at the end of the table with your only friend and sister-in-law, Charlise.

"I'm sure you won't mind, y/n. You and Charlise probably wanna talk anyway."'

You looked at Kal, searching his gaze for something, any sign of him speaking up to his mother but to your utter disappointment he just let it happen.

You can only push down the intense feeling of resentment and agitation with a passive aggressive smile, taking your seat at the far end with Charlise.

This was going to be a long dinner to get through.

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

Apart from a brief exchange of words from your brother-in-law, Ray Hawthorne, and the couple sitting across from you, Charlise was the only saving grace at this table and frankly the only reason you kept it together as long as you did.

As much as you wanted to tear off that terrible red wig and burn it, you tuned out your mother-in-law whenever she made any more chide remarks about you.

Not much of a point in ignoring your husband, he was too focused on Jenna and giving Azalia one of the most expensive birthday gifts you had ever seen.

A silver and gold watch that you knew your unemployed husband didn't have the money for.

"Happy birthday mom, from me and y/n."

You scoffed in utter disbelief and stood up from your seat, grabbing your purse. "If you'll excuse me, I think I need some fresh air."

"Oh, well you take your time. We're doing fine here." Azalia insisted, smiling from ear to ear.

Kal was on the verge of getting out of his seat, expressing concern. "I can come with you babe--"

"No." You snapped coldly, barely sparing him a glance as you waved him off dismissively. "I'll be fine on my own, thank you."

Kal frowned, lowering himself back down with a defeated expression. "A-Alright, just don't stay out there too long."

You sighed into the night air, hands pressed against the metal railing while the people behind you carried on with their evening under the lit up patio roof. Glasses clanking, people laughing, wine pouring and plates clinking.

All of it was just background noise to drown out one particular thought that you couldn't run away from.

Maybe it's time to put this relationship on permanent leave.

It's not a pleasant thought. It never was. You and Kal had known each other for eight years and had been married for the last three of them. You've had your ups and downs like any other couple and got through it but this? This was too much. His mother was too much.

But that's probably what SHE wants. The sooner you're gone. The happier she'll be.

You only stuck it out this long because you genuinely loved Kal and Charlise was the anchor keeping you grounded.

As one of Chicago's most successful defense attorney's alongside your brother-in-law, you had everything and yet nothing at all with how your marriage was starting to fall apart, on top of shouldering the numerous bills since Kal lost his job as an anesthesiologist.

God, where did it all go wrong?

"Having a rough night?"

You were snapped out of your thoughts by the deep and smooth voice of a man walking up beside you. The cool night's breeze washing over you both.

He was a tall and handsome man of Korean decent. The darkness of his long hair making the crimson color of his eyes seem as though he were some beast straight out of a fairytale.

Alluring eyes that stared into you with a hint of sincerity and invitation.

You can barely hold in a chuckle, crossing one arm over the other to let your wedding ring glint in the moonlight. "That would be the understatement of tonight."

He sees this and can't hide the smirk on his face. "I don't blame you. In-laws can be infuriating like that sometimes. Especially mother-in-law's."

The restaurant wasn't exactly that big in terms of table arrangements so it makes sense one's antics would be overheard when they're standing around the biggest table in the room.

You chuckle again. The tightness in your chest starting to lighten but your smart enough to keep up you guard to shut down any potential flirting, even the harmless kind. "Can you expect anyone to act cordial on their birthday? I've been here all night without a single drink of my own and tolerating her has been exhausting."

You certainly weren't the type to open up like this to a stranger of all people but it felt good. Yes, you had your friend, Charlise, but there was something different about this man. Something oddly familiar.

"Because she's acting like a cunt towards you and only you and you feel that if you didn't step out when you did you would've tore her a new one right infront of her favorite son and the entire restaurant?" He guessed your exact feelings with a cheeky smile.

You exhale a baffled laugh.

It's like he knew exactly what you were feeling.

"Oh, so you're a mind reader now?"

He raises his right hand, jokingly. "Guilty as charged, your honor."

The both of you laugh.

"Dhan."

"Y/n."

Dhan smiled, staring longingly into your eyes. "A pleasure to meet you, y/n."

⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹ ⊹

Eventually, you were back inside the restaurant. Sitting comfortably beside Charlise and ignoring another passive aggressive comment from Azalia.

You had been gone for a solid eight, maybe ten minutes tops.

The dinner eventually ended and everyone was putting aside their plates and gathering up their coats and belongings while Ray generously secured the bill.

That's when the waiter approached with an expensive looking bottle of wine.

Ray dismissively waved his hand. "No need to send over anymore wine, sir. You can take that back, the dinner party is over."

The waiter shook his head. "I'm sorry sir this isn't for the table. I'm looking for a y/n, is there a y/n here?"

You raise your hand slightly to get the waiter's attention. "I'm y/n."

The waiter smiled at you, presenting the bottle. "Piccolo Sogno would like to formally gift you our most exclusive wine to enjoy right at home. On behalf of a generous courtesy from Mr. Tae-Oh, ma'am who wishes you a fine night. Thank you for you dining with us."

A bit stunned, you still accepted the bottle. That name alone already clued you in to who this was from.

Unaware of your husband's jealous gaze, you can't hide the smile on your lips as you read the note on the bottle.

A drink to wash away all your frustrations - Dhan.

[tragedybunny]

A Merry Little Solstice - Astarion x F!Reader - BG3HolidayFluffle23 - Prompt: Chosen Family

So excited to participate in the Challenge, not sure if I'll get to more than one piece but I love this one I did. Thanks to @rachelle-on-the-run for the Beta!

Summary: Even though you and Astarion have been together a few years, this is the first time you'll be celebrating Solstice together, for a very special reason. The two of you are doing your best to make it a warm and wonderful celebration.

“What do you think?” Astarion is fussing over the distribution of small, glass ornaments and candles on the large pine tree taking up most of your parlor. 

“I think it looks wonderful, Star.” You can already see his tendency for the grandiose creeping in, and don’t want him to worry about overdoing it. At least you’d convinced him to close down the bookshop, the two of you ran out of the building next door for a few days while you celebrate. It was a newer venture that you had taken on lately, as you’d settled down in Baldur’s Gate after a few years of adventuring. 

“I suppose, the tree could be a bit bigger, though,” he mumbles, shifting a few of the baubles around. All the effort, and probably a good amount of nerves, making him prickly. 

“It’s plenty big, and Jaheira didn’t have to grow it for us.” The pine had been a little seedling, given the growth of years in moments by Druid magic. 

“Well, it was Mother’s idea in the first, so we could celebrate Solstice properly.” Mother, he says sarcastically, like he doesn’t grin when she calls him nicknames or get teary-eyed when she hugs him good-bye to go out on Harper business. There wasn’t any grand declaration when Jaheira decided she was adopting Astarion with the rest of her brood, but there was no stopping her from embracing it when she’d made up her mind. Not that it hasn’t done him a world of good, even if he doesn’t always like to admit it. 

“My Love, it was your idea to actually celebrate Solstice this year.” Astarion had, until this year, not been very fond of Holidays. A stance you decided you could live with, as your own experiences hadn’t been very warm and wonderful. This year, though, things were different. “The tree looks wonderful,”  a sudden little squeal followed by soft babbling came from the bassinet behind you, “and Estelle thinks so too.” It was Estelle’s first Solstice, and you both had decided it was time to make some better Holiday memories. 

Astarion hurries to retrieve her before she can demand it. He’s notorious for baby hoarding, and sometimes you have to remind him it’s your turn to hold the child you gave birth too. “You’re hardly qualified to have an opinion, Sweetie.” He wags his finger in front of her nose, and she grabs it quickly in return with a happy little trill, refusing to let go. 

When you’d first been able to lay eyes on her, it was already apparent she was a miniature version of Astarion, his features, pale skin, and wispy white hair that had grown into the beginnings of lush curls. The only thing that looked like you were bright blue eyes, which had relieved him to no end. “Red eyes would mark her as different far too obviously.” It was nice to see one part of yourself in her, though you didn’t mind that she was so much of him. 

Estelle was now suckling on Astarion’s outstretched finger. “Close to feeding time, you’ll have to relinquish her for a little,” you give him a saucy smile and settle on the couch to prep. 

Apparently he didn’t move quick enough for your offspring, as he hisses and gives Estelle the weakest glare you’ve ever seen him make. “Everyone is always telling me biting without permission is rude, I hardly think it’s fair you get away with it, Little Lady.” 

“Think of it as repayment for past misdeed,” you laugh as you begin to open your shirt.

“Are you still holding that night against me, my dearest wife? That’s ruthlessly unfair,” he settles next to you, waiting for you to finish before putting Estelle in your arms. 

“I wouldn’t dream of it, darling husband” you bat your eyes at him and play innocent until you feel the stinging bite of the two tiny teeth she's recently grown.  Estelle is apparently equitably minded about causing pain this evening. “Ouch,” you whisper, not wanting to disturb her evening meal. 

Beside you, Astarion’s mood visibly falters. “What are we going to do when she grows fangs?”

You certainly aren't looking forward to it, but the love of your life was still considerably nervous about what the future would hold for your little Dhampir. “What we always do, get through it.”

“You're very confident.”

“Well, I did save the world once.”

He finally gives you a smile. “We, Darling, I was there too. I suppose you're right, though.” He turns his attention to intently watching his daughter nurse. “We've come this far.” Leaning in, he gives you a gentle kiss on the cheek, carefully not to upset her. “Besides the tree, how does everything else look?” 

The parlor, dining room, hallway, and library had all been draped in festive boughs of evergreen with golden ribbon and strands of silvery beads. It was just this side of too much, but it was very Astarion. “Everything looks fantastic, Love. It's going to be a wonderful holiday. Now we’ll just have to keep Scratch and Midnight out of it.” 

“Speak for your own mutt,” Scratch whined where he lay in front of the crackling fire place. “Midnight is a perfectly well-behaved tressym.” 

Midnight, the tressym that had prowled Szarr manor, the Spawn siblings had kept their fondness for the creature from Cazador. They’d decided not to take her into the Underdark, and she’d ended up in your custody along with Scratch. She was, despite Astarion’s protests, not perfect. “Oh, I’m sure, she’s never any trouble.” 

“Hush,” he pretended to pout before sighing. “Odd that I get to walk in the sun again, and now we're celebrating the longest night of the year.” He gave the room one last appraising glance. “Gods, we’re really going to squeeze everyone in here.”

“At least Halsin promised to leave the Owlbear behind.” Estelle had finished eating and Astarion passed you a cloth to burp her with. 

“Gale still insisted on coming early to cook. We could handle it, you know.” The complaints tell you he really is quite nervous. 

“We could, or we could spend more time with Little Lady here,” who punctuated your words with an undignified burp. 

“Point taken Sunlight.” You pass Estelle to his waiting arms so you can close your shirt.

In the soft candlelight of the winter evening, Astarion looks absolutely ethereal. For a precious few moments, you just study him and your daughter. Since the moment she was born, he'd absolutely adored her. Fear still haunted him, fear her life would be too difficult as a Dhampir, fear he would fail as a father, but he tried his best every day. And those days when he did falter, when bad memories surfaced, when his temper was short, you were by his side. Not that you didn't have your share of fears and shadows from your past, but you knew he'd be there for you the way you were for him. Your bond made you both stronger. 

Right now, though, everything felt perfect. It was going to be the happiest Solstice you'd even known. 

A few days later saw you up before dawn on the morning of Solstice. Estelle had decided it was play time at an ungodly hour and now you, Astarion, and Scratch, were all gathered around a blanket spread on your parlor rug entertaining her. Your attention wanders for a moment, and she squeals at you. “Oh, I know, you have to be the center of the universe. You're very much your Father’s daughter,” you reach down and tickle her tummy. 

“Or maybe she knows she's worth it, like her Mother,” he blows you a kiss and your heart flutters like the first time you let him sink his teeth into you. 

“Flattery…” an unexpected knock at the door interrupts you. 

Scratch lets out a quiet bark, careful not to startle Estelle. He learned quickly that a scared baby is a crying baby. “This early? The wizard has finally lost his mind.” 

You both get to your feet, exchanging looks, it is unexpectedly early for Gale. Taking Estelle, you hang back as Astarion opens the door, Scratch at his side, ever vigilant. 

Gale stands in pre-dawn darkness, one magical chest in his hand that contains everything you'll need for today. “You know, it's still dark out? We could've been asleep.” Astarion stares at him with narrowed eyes. 

“Ah, but I see you are all awake and in good spirits,” he smiles awkwardly, and you get the impression that he's working up to something. “Besides, it was entirely necessary to arrive before dawn…”

“Really?” Astarion crosses his arms, waiting for further explanation. 

“Astarion,” you kiss his cheek, “don't be so cross with him.”

“Give it a moment,” Gale mutters, and you both turn to him. “I mean that is…well…” 

“Hells Gale,” a pale figure steps into the doorway with him, one that you recognize. 

“Dal?” Astarion asks, and you can see confusion starting to give way to realization. 

“Hello Astarion.”

“Alright, no use you two standing out in the cold, come in.” You look directly at Dalyria, a little unsure if the invitation needs renewal every so often. “Both of you.” 

The two of them waste no time stepping inside and quickly closing the door behind them, shutting you off from the cold of the early morning.

Estelle coos happily at the company. “And hello to you too, my sweet little niece. She's getting so big.” Some of the siblings had made the trek up from the Underdark when Estelle was born, Dalyria among them. It was a strange dynamic of almost family that years after Cazador’s death they were still working out.

“Yes, yes, she's endlessly adorable. She is mine, after all. Now, what the bloody hell are the two of you doing here together?” His voice pitches up at the end, a sign he's exasperated. You almost lose your composure and giggle at his inability to see the obvious. 

“Well, as it happens…” Gale inhales like he's about to launch into a very long-winded explanation. 

“We've been seeing each other since your wedding. It felt like it was time to tell you.” To emphasize her point, she hooks her arm in Gale's.

“I see.” Astarion shoots you a look to see if you knew about this, and is evidently satisfied by your shrug. 

“Don't be cross brother,” Dalyria lets go of Gale to pull him into a sudden hug, that he returns after a moment. “We just wanted to wait until we were sure of things”

“Fine,” he sighs dramatically. “I suppose you're forgiven.”

She kisses his cheek and releases him. “Thank you. Now, to not take away from the little daylight you'll get today, is there a place I can wait it out?”

“Estelle and I can show you up to the guest room,” you motion for her to follow. All the rooms in your house had shutters thick enough to block out the sun, remnants of Astarion’s recently relieved nocturnal life. 

The guest room is a cozy little room tucked under the eves of the house, the last bedroom remaining after Estelle’s nursery was created out of the previous guest room. “Sorry, it’s a bit small.” 

“Still better than a night in the Kennels, I’d wager,” she laughs.

Her words make you wince, sometimes you forget they all shared in the same torment, maybe not as often as Astarion, but still. “I imagine. I’m-” 

“Don’t, I’m just making light of it.” You’ve never quite gotten to know her and the others all that well, your trips to the Underdark being sporadic at best, but now you glimpse that unbroken will that led her to look for a cure to her condition. “This is very nice of you, Gale and I will be perfectly comfortable.” 

“We’ll come back up and check in once I’ve turned Gale loose in the kitchen,” Estelle shouts her agreement. 

“Send my brother up if he needs a time-out from Gale.” The two of you laugh, and you head back downstairs, worried about that exact thing. 

Astarion doesn’t disappoint as you find him in the kitchen, the first pink light of dawn peeping  through the window, lending a flush to his skin as he pins Gale against a wall, dagger drawn. “And another thing, if ever even think of trying to compare her to Mystra...”

To his credit, Gale stands calmly, hands raised, and look imploringly at you. “I think you've gotten your point across, Love.”

“Fine,” he sighs dramatically and releases your wizard friend. The dagger quickly disappears, you've learned over time that he never really got out of the habit of keeping one hidden on himself. “And you owe me at least two books back, my shop is not a library.” 

“Right,” Gale straightens his clothing. “Now that's all settled, let's get started.” He hefts the small chest onto the kitchen table, and opens it. A space larger than the outside is contained within, a larder to do even the Grand Duke's shame. “I hope I remembered everything.”

The next several hours see the three of you prepping, roasting, sautéing, simmering, and baking. Although Gale truthfully does most of the heavy lifting, you and Astarion are both very much middling still when it comes to the kitchen. You take turns playing assistant, passing Estelle between the two of you, and Astarion pops up to visit Dal. 

The sun is just on its way down when there's another knock at the door. The first of the evening's guests, Astarion goes to answer it while you continue to stir the sauce Gale had declared a “flavor near divine”. 

“Bat pup!” The unmistakable voice of Jaheira fill the house.

“Hello Mother,” Astarion replies warmly. 

The Mother thing had actually begun as a joke. During the time trying to defeat the Absolute, one of Astarion’s petulant comments had prompted Jaheira to tell him if he was going to act like a child, she would put him over her knee like one. He’d responded with a sarcastic, “yes Mother”, and an eye roll. 

“Better, Cub,” Jaheira had laughed, unfazed by his antics. When he insisted she not call him Cub she looked at him and smiled. “You’re right, Bat Pup is much more suitable.” They’d been that way since, the tone of it softening over time. Despite his age, all the time spent as Cazador’s slave and not really living had left Astarion closer mentally to who he was at his time of death, where Jaheira was very much the sum total of her life experience. 

“And there’s my favorite little troublemaker.” You can hear Estelle’s excited trill for her “grandmother”. You’ll give them a few minutes to catch up.  

Involuntarily, you smile as you keep a close watch on the sauce. “A wonderful sound, isn’t it?” You turn to Gale, giving him a puzzled look at his words. “The sound of happiness,” his eyes twinkle at the words. “If you had told me years ago that Astarion would be happy and content as a family man with a bookshop, I would have laughed. But here we are.” 

“So would I, if we’re being honest.” A part of you remembers a clandestine confession from him, intentionally far away from Astarion’s hearing. Feelings you couldn’t return. “I’m glad you found someone too, Gale.” 

“Indeed. Sometimes the things we think we want most aren’t the things we need. A lesson I’ve learned more than a few times. Although it didn’t take me nearly as long to learn that as much as it seemed Astarion needed you, you needed him too.” For a moment, the two of you are lost in memories of that harrowing time. “Ah, but let me save myself from distraction and monitor this roast. The others will be arriving soon. And you should go visit with Jaheira before she has to go back to the other children.” He gives you a warm smile and shoos you away. 

“Helps with the pain of those little teeth coming in. I’ve got a few growing, I should be able to keep you stocked.” 

Reaching the parlor, you find Estelle, happily chewing on some plant leaf in Jaheira’s lap and Astarion looking like he’s fighting the urge to snatch her back. The two of you had a serious talk about this holiday celebration and letting other people hold her for more than a few seconds. “There’s my Cub, the famous hero.”

“Hello Crow,” you’d never been able to think of her in the same maternal sense as Astarion, your own motherly relationship was so messy it bled into any others. Truthfully it had made you nervous as to what it would be like to be a mother, but the sound of Estelle’s first cries had soothed away any lingering doubts, you may not be perfect at it, but you would fight for her happiness every day. “She looks like she’s having a good time,” you gesture to Estelle and the leaf. 

“That’s the best Solstice gift so far. It was a nightmare when the first two came through, and I know others will be starting soon. I see you’re managing to behave yourself, Love,” you kiss Astarion’s cheek to emphasize your approval as you sit next to him.

“As if she wouldn’t entangle me or some nonsense if I didn’t let her hold the grandchild. But then again, she is getting a bit old, maybe she’s slowed down.” 

“Watch yourself Astarion or you will find out what I’m still capable of.” 

The sun is sinking behind the horizon as the last of the shortest day of the year comes to a close. Dalyria descends to join you all, Midnight nestled in her arms, the tressym deigning to leave her attic kingdom for once. Astarion stokes the fireplace, leaving the room in a warm glow. Scratch immediately gives up on the vigil he’s been keeping at the kitchen door to lay in front of the fire. 

Underneath the tree, brightly colored presents wait for unwrapping. There’s a knock on the door as the next of your friends arrive. Over the next hour, they all show up. Lae’zel and Shadowheart, newly engaged and figuring out just what sort of wedding a Gith and Half-Elf should have. Wyll and Karlch, lovers and heroes of the Sword Coast now that they’ve returned permanently from Avernus. Minsc and Boo, very much in Holiday Spirit. And finally Halsin, unexpectedly with a shy looking Drow man on his arm. “I hope one more isn’t imposing,” he says with a nervous yet excited smile. “This is Veltris.” 

“We can make work,” truthfully you’re terribly intrigued by the man who has Halsin so clearly smitten and you lead them inside to join the others.

Someone has passed a wine bottle around the parlor now heating up with all the bodies gathered there. Astarion has a dosing Estelle back in his arms, who somehow is undisturbed by the chatter all around. “Try this,” Dalyria passes him a glass poured from a distinct blue bottle, “I’m preserving blood for long term storage.” 

He makes a face but keeps drinking. “I suppose it is better than nothing.” 

You settle back down next to him, taking a glass Wyll has passed you. “Always the gentleman,” you smile at him. 

“Does he do more than kiss your hand behind close doors?” You’ll never get over Lae’zel’s sense of humor. 

“Well, not always,” Karlach gives you a wink.

“Do tell?” Shadowheart teases.

“I’ll have you know…” Wyll tries to defend himself.

‘My daughter is right here!” Astarion huffs. “Gods, Gale had better finish dinner soon before you all get any more wine in you.” 

“As it just so happens,” the Wizard appears in the doorway of your dining room. 

“Finally,” Astarion huffs. 

The others get up and start making their toward the wafting scent of a mouthwatering feast. “Minsc hopes you have made enough for Boo’s tremendous appetite!”

“I had better go before the young ones burn the house down,” Jaheira leans over to give Astarion a hug. “Behave yourself Bat Pup, and you too Cub,” she gives you a last wave and heads to the door. 

You start to get up to follow the others, and Astarion grips your hand. “What is it?” For a moment, you worry something has gone wrong.

His head leans on your shoulder. “Nothing, it’s just…” The silence leaves your heart heavy with worry. “Everything is so perfect, more than I ever thought possible.” You can hear the tears in his voice, but don’t say anything, he doesn’t always like to draw attention to large emotions. “A holiday with you, and Estelle, and all of them, a family.” 

“Our family, Starry Sky, and this is the first of many to come.” 

The two of you take a quick moment for yourselves, basking in the glow of the fire, and the perfect Solstice evening with the ones you love. 

@micropoe10 @spacebarbarianweird @writingmysanity

Tag list, DM to be added:

 @mxxny-lupin @azu21 @tallymonster  @dependsonthedream

@sunfire-ancunin @bambamwolf87 @fayeriess @lumienyx

@lisrelly @elora-the-slutty-songstress @bhaalbaaby

@satanicspinosaurus

[jerzwriter]

A Novel Concept

Ethan Ramsey is in the dog house. It's apparently clear, and his buddy, Tobias, comes in with an assist. But will his advice help or hurt Ethan's chances of getting back in Kaycee's good graces?

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee MacClennan (F!MC) Characters: Tobias Carrick Rating: Teen Words: 1,778

A/N: Thank you, Nonny, for this ask from the @choicesaprilchallenge24 prompt “A picnic?! Have you swallowed a romance novel?”" It went a little longer than a drabble, I hope you don't mind! (Didn't have much time to edit... so hope it's all good!)

My Masterlist

The tension in the Diagnostic Team Office was almost palpable. So palpable that Harper retreated to her office nearly an hour before. But Tobias was braver than that – or just stupid; the jury was still out.

He remained behind, his eyes darting up from his laptop every time Ethan mumbled under his breath or Kaycee let out an exaggerated sigh. Both of them assumed Tobias was doing research on their recently admitted patient, blissfully unaware of the missive he was typing, all about professionalism in the workplace and why it’s ill-advised to date your colleagues. He’d shoot that to them in an e-mail once he was sure they were in better moods. But the truth was, Tobias Carrick was nosy and was not about to leave before he got the tea. And there had to be tea!

Tobias was in on the secret, but to most, Ethan and Kaycee were the worst-kept secret in Edenbrook. On a typical day, they were all heart eyes and butterflies, but today, they barely acknowledged each other during their morning meeting, and that hadn’t changed since its end. Even Kaycee incessantly tapping her pen against the conference table hadn’t earned any commentary from the stone-faced Dr. Ramsey. Not a single sarcastic comment, endearing remark, or complaint fell from his lips.

Kaycee was the one to finally break the standoff. Standing up with a huff, she pointedly looked at Tobias and announced she was going to make her rounds. With a side-eyed glance at Ethan, she slunk out the door without another word. Tobias waited patiently for his friend to open up... but that never occurred. If the man retained water as much as he did his emotions, he’d be their next patient, not to mention a sideshow act: Edenbrook’s human blowfish! Tobias laughed at the image in his mind, finally requiring his friend to acknowledge his presence.

“Care to share what’s so amusing?” He said after clearing his throat. “Did you finally figure out the knock-knock joke Dr. Lewis told at the conference two weeks ago, or are you imagining what your latest conquest’s reaction will be when she figures out how old you really are?”

Tobias pushed back from the table with a raised brow, “Really? Do you want to go there, Ramsey? Because according to my calculations, Kaycee is about three years younger than my latest... has she figured it out yet?”

Mouth agape, Ethan was eager to change the course of the conversation. “So... what were you laughing at.”

“I was imagining you as a human blowfish.”

“You know what... remind me to never ask you what’s on your mind again. It’s too dark and scary in there.”

“As if you could resist!” Tobias laughed. “But I want to know what’s on your mind. What’s with you and my buddy MacKlennan? You could cut the tension in here with a knife this morning.”

“Nothing is going on,” Ethan said, offering no genuine attempt at being convincing.

“You’re a shitty liar, Ramsey. What did you do?”

Ethan finally looked up from his notebook. “Why do you automatically assume I’m the one to blame?”

“Because you usually are,” Tobias smirked. “Now, what’s going on?”

Ethan took off his glasses, placing them on the table with a sigh as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. “Kaycee is mad at me because I forgot our six-month anniversary.”

“Man,” Tobias chuckled, “You suck.”

“That’s not the worst part. See, I didn’t forget. But it happened to coincide with me coming off my second double in three days. I was so tired. I truly thought it was still a day away.”

“But that’s understandable, and Kaycee is reasonable. Why would she be so upset with you over that?”

“Probably because I followed up with ‘who celebrates six-month anniversaries anyway? High school students and people who are certain they’ll never hit the year mark.”  

“Really?” Tobias glared. “All these years, and still none of my charm and charisma has rubbed off on you? What were you thinking?”

“I wasn’t!” Ethan protested. “I was exhausted and cranky.”

“YOU?” Tobias teased.

“I’ve apologized a half-dozen times, but she still barely speaks to me.”

“Well, in fairness, she’s worked a lot this week, too. I doubt either of you are your best selves right now.”

“Thank you, Mother Oprah. Now, do you have any wisdom to help me repair this situation?”

“As a matter of fact, I do, wiseass... but keep talking like that, and you can add me to the list of people barely speaking to you.”

“All right,” Ethan surrendered. “I’ll be nice...how do I fix this?”

“A sincere apology, not the half-assed shit I’m sure you’ve mustered so far... and then you’re going to have to go all out to celebrate your anniversary.”

“I’ve already made reservations at Mistral. I just don’t think she’ll want to join me at this point.”

Tobias waved a dismissive hand. “Anyone can make reservations at Mistral. You need to do something better than that,” he snapped his fingers as an idea came to mind. “A picnic! Show up at her place with a picnic basket filled with her favorite treats, then take her to a pretty, secluded spot... for a small fee, I can share some of my favorite places... you may even have to pick wildflowers for her, buddy.”

“A picnic?” Ethan sneered. “Have you swallowed a romance novel?”

“Fine!” Tobias said, shutting his laptop and rising to his feet. “If you don’t want my advice, figure it out on your own.”

“Wait, wait...” Ethan softened. “I’m sorry, did I mention the sleep deprivation?”

“You did... but face it, we all know you’re still an ass when fully rested.”

“A picnic?” Ethan asked, ignoring him. “Do you really think she’d like that?”

“Chicks, dig that shit,” Tobias insisted, pulling a pen from his lab coat to jot some notes. “Here... these are some very romantic spots within driving distance, and the name of a little gourmet deli in Cambridge that will make a great lunch and pair it with the perfect wine... I can write some of my go-to lines when I need to get out of the dog house if you like?”

“No... no... I’m good. If I’m honest, I don’t think you’ve had a relationship that lasted more than three months in the past decade, so I may need a different approach.”

“Yeah, but that’s not because they didn’t want them to last longer... I think you’re missing out.”

The sound of footsteps approaching caused the men’s heads to turn toward the door, where they saw Kaycee coming down the hall.

“Shh!” Tobias ordered. “She’s back! Here’s your chance.... turn on the charm, bro. I know you’ve got it in you.”

Oblivious to Tobias, Kaycee walked up to Ethan with a look of contrition. “Ethan, we have to talk.”

“No,” he said, reaching for her hand. “I have to talk. I am so sorry for being a jerk. It’s not an excuse, but I’ve been tired and more of a curmudgeon than usual. But of course our six-month anniversary is something to be celebrated. I hope you know how much each day I’m with you means to me, and I hope you’ll let me make it up to you.”

Kaycee let out a breath, and her lips twisted into a tender smile. “I mean, I kind of like the fact that you’re a curmudgeon... just not when it’s aimed directly at me.”

“I’m sorry,” he whispered, brushing a tendril away from her face. “If you’ll forgive me, I will make it up to you.”

“Oh, will you?” she simpered. “What do you have in mind?”

“Well,” Ethan glanced at silent Tobias, who gave him the thumbs up. “I know this quiet little spot on Spectacle Island. I thought we could go there for a picnic. I’ll get your favorite wine, some baguettes, a nice brie... chocolates for after. Maybe we can pick some flowers before, you know...”

“Really?” she asked, “That’s what you want to do? A picnic?”

“Why? Don’t you like the idea?”

“I do,” Kaycee insisted. “It’s just... it doesn’t sound like you. Did you swallow a romance novel or something?”

Ethan's eyes shoot to Tobias, who bursted into laughter.

“Tobias?” Kaycee said, finally noticing he was in the room.  

“I’m sorry! I’m leaving,” he grinned. “But you two need to work whatever you’ve got going on, and do it now... because, I swear,  you two... you’re perfect for each other.

Ethan smiled proudly and wrapped an arm around Kaycee’s shoulder as Tobias slunk out of the room. “He’s right, you know... we are.”

“He is,” she blushed. “But be honest... the picnic... that was his idea, not yours. Right?”

“What? Don’t you think I’m capable of planning a romantic date for you?”

“Of course you are! And you have, but did you come up with this idea?”

Ethan leaned back against his desk with a sigh, pulling Kaycee against him. “How did you know?”

“Hon, do you have any idea how many people he’s brought to Spectacle Island? The stories in the hospital are legendary.”

“Seriously?”

“Seriously! Nurses...doctors... the new PT assistant in pediatrics.... the communications director....”

“All right,” Ethan laughed. “I get it... so that means we won’t be making a spectacle of ourselves on Spectacle Island?”

“Well, it’s not that I’m opposed – but we can do it our way, not Tobias’s.”

“Then what do you say we go with the evening I had planned for us?”

“Oh?” She asked curiosity piqued. “And what did you have in mind?”

“I was thinking we could get all dressed up,” he said, placing a kiss behind her ear.

“Mmm... go on.”

“Dinner at Mistral?” he offered, brushing her hair away from her neck as his lips traced her newly exposed skin. “Maybe a little dancing after... so I can show you off?”

“Mmmhh,” she sighed. “And then?”

“Then we go back to my place... and we get to  take off all those fancy clothes...”

Kaycee pulled back with a playful smile. “To do what, exactly, Dr. Ramsey?”

“Things that will make you forget you were ever mad at me?” he winked.

“Now... how can I resist that. When will you be picking me up?”

“Saturday? Six o’clock?”

“It’s a date,” she beamed. “And Ethan?”

“Yes?”

“You’re pretty good at this romance thing all on your own.”

“Shhh,” he whispered in her ear. “Don’t let that get out. I have a reputation to uphold.”

“I get it,” she said, stepping away and straightening her clothes. She was at the door when she turned with a smile. “We can’t have anyone thinking you swallowed a romance novel.”

~~~~~

@choicesficwriterscreations @choicesaprilchallenge24 @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[bronx-bomber87]

Happy Saturday Lovely Fandom. We’ve reached the S3 finale. I can’t believe it. I thought it would take forever to get to this point tbh. But here we are ha I mean the extended hiatus helped me get here since we've got non season time to fill lol Why I started these. Anyways LOTS of goodies in this one. After last couple of desert eps it is most welcome. We all know why this one is so damn good and iconic. So let’s not delay off we go.

3x14 Threshold

We start the ep out strong. Watching Lucy getting settled into her persona Nova Lin. It’s a great cold open. Harpers V.O paired with all these shots of Lucy. The V.O. is of her meet with Nyla before she went under. Going over her character and her current situation with Nova. Nyla saying her backstory will be fully papered. They won’t be a need to question where she’s been and why.

Having her camp at the grossest and most sketchy hotel in the city. This adds to her financial desperation she needs to sell. That she’s deep in student loan debt and recently released from prison. Needing a cash flow infusion ASAP. Harper asks Lucy what the number one rule is for UC? Lucy tells her no case is worth her life. She will always have the option and opportunity to pull the plug if needed.

If things go sideways to defend herself or run away. Then with some hesitance in her voice she says ’There is no shame in running away…’ her voice betraying the words she is saying. That no quit becoming very prevalent. Lucy very much does not like this option. Harper reminding her of what her objective is. That she must ignore misdemeanors around her unless it advances the case.

Harper also adding policy, procedure and the law are her objectives. She can use deadly force to defend herself and others. But it’s best to talk her way out of a sticky situation. Also letting her know that it’s possible nothing ever happens from this. That Salonga may never make contact. That she just got a paid vacation to the Hep C motel. That waiting around is tough, but even when she is bored and nothing is happening she can’t ever let her guard down.

I do love these shots of Lucy. She goes from adorable blanket burrito, to bored, to bad ass keeping up on her training, back to adorable Lucy. These were such a good set of flashes of her time waiting. Harper reminding her that if it ends up happening she will need to do everything right. One wrong word or look and she’ll be dead. How our cold open ends. Heavy but in the best way.

Lucy arrives back at her room and sees her safety tape has shifted. Someone is in her room. Looks like they’ve watched her long enough to know she’s legit. She enters the room and 3 men are there. Clearly Salonga’s men waiting in the wings. The main heavy is his brother Dahrio. Lucy tries to play it off like she doesn’t need them. That whatever their reason for being in her room is that it's a hard pass.

Smart of her to pretend like she doesn’t want to be involved again. That it isn’t worth the risk to her. Tells them she doesn’t want to be apart of the leaky operation. It got her arrested before so she’s good. They let her know the leak has been plugged. One of them spilling the beans it was Sato that was killed. Eesh ..Lucy keeps up the avoidance game saying she doesn’t want to know that…or them.

Dahrio says she most definitely wants to know them. Looking around the room noting the financial state she’s in. Knowing Nova needs the money after her arrest. Their backstory working beautifully for her. They’ve been watching her making sure she wasn’t a rat for the cops. Cooking for them will at least get her paid. Lucy doesn't budge much with her answer. They don’t give her much choice in the matter after that. Saying she’s going for a ride with them for business.

Lucy asks where? A tinge of nervousness in her voice. Dahrio doesn’t disclose where or what. They just point a gun at her and make her leave her own. Lucy being the smart human she is asks to grab a coat. It's in the closet where she has hidden her secondary piece. She pulls off hiding her second gun. Unfortunately her phone is taken. Her only contact to Harper is confiscated. Lucy tries to talk her way into keeping it. Sadly it doesn’t work. It’s turned off and left behind in the room. Leaving Lucy’s only contact to her life behind….

She is driving them to the undisclosed location. Letting them know how not ok this is. Dahrio telling her to relax. They’re only picking up what they need for the cook. Lucy knows that really means stealing it. She wants no part of this. Even tries to say she has a contact who can get them right stuff. It’ll just take a few days… They turn her down saying they don’t have that kind of time. Lucy is smart and speeds and makes a car swerve when she sees a shop. Begging for them to pull her over.

She has no idea it’s Tim and Jackson. Only that she knows it’s a fellow officer who can help. Once they're pulled over she see's it's Tim/Jackson. Her anxiety shooting through the roof for their safety. The worry is written all over Tim's face when they pull behind them. The way he says her name. *heart clutch* The instant worry in that sexy jawline is prevalent. Jackson asks what they’re gonna do? Tim says treat it like any other stop. But they’re not gonna run anyone in that car. Except we all know this isn’t going to be like any other stop.....

Some beautiful things about this scene other than the glorious touching and flirting (It’s shameless really and I LOVE it) First we get to watch how damn good Lucy Chen is under pressure. It’s flawless really. She assess's the situation really quickly. Then deescalates the gun happy psycho to her right. He wants to pop Tim and Jackson in broad daylight. Lucy tells them before they start shooting cops let her try something first. That she's never gotten a ticket with flirting. Lucy commands this moment. Has absolute control.

This is incredible to watch. Because both of their lives are at stake in this moment. Tim has no idea what he’s walking into. Only that it’s Lucy and he’s being as alert as possible. That's how put together she is. Tim doesn't even realize they want to hurt him. I talk a lot about how Tim has grown and he has. I’m so proud of him. I want to also commend Lucy and the growth she’s made as well.

To watch her go from an unconfident indecisive person to the calm bad ass in this scene is phenomenal. How making a decision under pressure used to send her into a tailspin of epic proportions. To this moment now. Lucy is calm through out the entire interaction. Communicates to Tim everything she needs while the two dopes in the car are none the wiser. Hell they're even a little impressed. Just so proud of our girl and how far she has come. Not only as a kick ass cop but as a person. Wonderful to watch her beautiful growth.

The second beautiful thing about this scene is the glorious silent communication going on here. It’s their go to. A default function between them. The one thing no one else can touch let alone understand but them. This beautiful bond they’ve built to this point saves them both. Lucy is communicating everything she needs through looks, touch and her double speak. Tim is understanding everything she’s throwing his way.

No confusion or him trying to catch up to her. It’s immediately understood what is going on and he rolls with it. Doesn’t miss a damn beat in this interaction. He is out of his mind with worry though. The jaw clenches he’s doing alone scream that. But don’t tell me he wasn’t enjoying this flirting of Lucy’s. Just like Lucy’s confession in 3x09 his replies here have a kernel of truth attached to them. The way she touches his hand and he looks down. Catching her play. I can not. This scene will always make me squee.

It’s that glorious smirk of his that is so telling to me. Like yeah if they gave into their attraction not a doubt in his mind they would have "Fun." Tim is totally ok rolling with flirting to keep her cover. He just has no idea him flirting back is saving his life. Just a natural reflex if you ask me. They flirt so much as is it's really second nature to them. So effortless and smooth.

I do love how he studies her every move in this scene. The way his eye flick to her hand on his. How he’s communicating right back with his own replies non verbally. If you needed further proof of the amazing chemistry Eric/Melissa have it’s right here. Soak it up and enjoy people. We could not be luckier they are our couple.

You can tell how much it’s killing Tim to leave her with these men. They can't drag this out any longer. So he tells her he's going to let her off with a warning. Look at the way he refuses to break eye contact her as he starts to leave. It's so intense and full of worry. The way he glares into that car afterwards. Phew lord. If looks could kill they’d all be dead. That wasn't gif'd but hot damn he wasn't happy about this situation. Lucy gloats to Dahrio after saying 'See Cops are easy. Just have to know how to play them.'

Tim immediately calls Nyla afterwards. Reporting exactly what they saw and who she was with. Harper deciphers Lucy’s code for Tim. Saying she was telling him she was with Salonga’s brother, the supplies clearly the ingredients for the cook. They have to let them rob their ingredients without interfering until it's done.

Tim finds out Harper has lost Lucy after the robbery at the warehouse. The airship arrived too late to track her. They even switched cars and left the other one behind. Nyla has to calm Tim down. (well she tries) He is in full panic mode with her missing. Harper attempts to calm him down with some logic. Letting him know if it's too much she'll pull the plug. Tim doesn't buy that logic for one moment. He knows Lucy too damn well.

Telling Harper even if she is in over her head she won’t quit. It’s not a gear she has and he knows it. Nyla tries to quell his panic again saying she will take her temperature at their check in. Tim telling her to call him right after. Not in a bit RIGHT after. Man is beyond worried and won’t let his anxiety rest till she calls him. I love him staying up till midnight just to hear about her check in. Not like he's going to sleep with all the worry/anxiety anyways. What either of them don’t know is her phone is gone…

We get us some more worried Tim and I’m here for it. Plus he’s in plain clothes. Please sir can I have some more? Mm mm. He is in full freak out mode now. Lucy missed her check in. No amount of logic is going to help. Not even Nyla can slow his roll now. He’s so very worried she’s dead and if not she’s cooking which isn’t good either. Meaning if they don’t get to her before it hits the streets she is in trouble. Breaking the law trouble.

Which Tim knows she won’t let happen. Which worries him further. Because Lucy is going to try to stop it herself then. Or die trying... You can see the worry and panic has now spread to Nyla too. Look at her face. Harper doesn't scare easily. Both of them are worried about Lucy. Even though she is a BAMF, that will only get her so far without resources or backup. Tim’s biggest UC fear for her. To be alone in a fight like this. Death breathing down her neck and having to battle her way out without him.

Lucy is trying to elongate the process of cooking. Buy herself some extra time for them to find her. Dahrio isn’t having it. Tells her to have product done by sunrise or she’s dead. Unfortunately that means she has to deliver. She’s in an absolute panic the next morning. She watches her product get loaded. Trying to find another way out. She reaches for her gun then sees a phone left out.

She grabs the phone but is interrupted by Dahrio. He complains the batch isn’t big enough. Lucy sasses him and says the lab he provided her with wasn’t big enough. He gets aggressive and asks why she’s telling him this now? Lucy continues to be mouthy. Telling him she didn’t feel like having this conversation. Then he hits her and I wanna straight kill him for it. Tells her he’s done with her. She back tracks and apologizes.

Says been a long night. That she’ll make him more if he needs it. He tells her fine but it’ll just be her and his right hand here. The rest needs to hit the street. Lucy says it should all go out together. He questions why? Before she can answer they hear gun shots. One of his men stumbles in and dies. Lucy grabs his phone uses Face ID to get to open. She gets ahold of Harper and lets her know her location. Tells her La Fiera is there before her men arrive.

Lucy holds her own really well with La Fiera. Telling her she has skills she will need. La Fiera is bemused by Lucy’s confidence. Asking her if she wants to work with her? Lucy replies it’s clearly her best option…She isn’t sold yet until Dahrio tells her Lucy is capable to make the rest.

La Fiera then looks at Lucy closer saying she recognizes her. Lucy tries to play it off. Saying she’s a nobody. They hear cavalry arrive and Lucy dispatches of her guard quickly. Such a bad ass god I love it. Tim is apart of the rescue effort. Love him saying ‘ I thought you said she needed to be rescued?’ LOL Trying to pretend he isn't worried.

When they arrive Lucy has her gun pointed at La Fiera. Her man incapacitated. Fantastic. She doesn't need rescuing but them showing up made it easier haha Lucy asks know they got to her so quickly? Not that she is complaining at all. Tim adds in when she didn’t check in they contacted the chief. 400 cops spent the night looking for her. Amazing.

We end our episode at Angela's wedding. Lucy comes up to Grey and Harper at their table. They both compliment how pretty she looks. Grey tells her triumph suits her. She thanks them both for believing in her. Harper tells her worst part is coming. The adrenaline crash. That Monday morning she’s back to patrol. Transients and noise complaints. Lucy says she kind of missed it. We then see her eyes pan to Tim. We all know he is part of what of she really missed. Let's be honest.

What cracks me up is how she bee-lines to Tim the minute she see's him. Abruptly leaving Grey and Harper in the dust. He takes top priority. Their reactions are the best part. Harper isn't in the least shocked about her shooting over to him. She's even a little amused. Grey seems a little confused then realizes where she is headed. These are the moments where EVERYONE knew before they did haha Straight bailing on her boss and mentor the minute she spots her person. She is in search of the tall drink of water that is her former T.O.

Can’t say I blame her look at that man. He is oozing sex in that black tux my god. He can wear the hell out of a suit and even more so out of deliciously fitted black tux. *fans self* Imma need a cold shower just looking at him. Love to climb him like a damn tree. Swing around up there. Sinfully handsome in black. *ahem* Anyways… They lock eyes and make their way over to one another. That raw magnetism they have for each other activated. Always drawing them to one another. Crowds be damned.

We then see the most blatant and obvious elevator gaze from Tim. I love that this flirtatious look was all Eric’s idea. Makes me so happy. Oh captain my captain. Doesn’t even bother hiding his attraction. Subtle as a hammer. The man is checking her out completely. Takes his time drinking her in. Has no shame in the game. This is a family event sir LOL Also your boss is mere feet away from you all. You’re literally having eye sex with Lucy in front of everyone Timothy. Everything from their looks to their dialogue is just dripping with innuendo and I'm here for it. Just look at them above.

You know part of his attraction is how damn impressed he is with her. Lucy being everything he always knew she could be is everything to him. Also we all know how attractive he finds her being a strong kick ass woman. It's a turn on for him he won't dare admit to. Lucy breaks his gaze and the flirting begins. Telling him nice suit. Nova would approve. Tim saying Nova was a little thirsty HA Yes she was but Tim you are looking mighty parched yourself right now.

Tim doesn’t miss a beat in his praise her of. (how far we've come with this kind of thing) Commending her for not only her first op, but taking down two major traffickers in the process. The sheer reverence in his tone. Goodness. The amount of heart eyes he is throwing her way while he says this. Phew lord. Once again you two are not alone Timothy. The amount of UST in this moment is unreal. They are both projecting it so much right now. The loaded looks and smiles I'll never be over it.

The ‘Not bad’ encompassing so much. Lucy takes it in stride for the most part. Also throwing massive heart eyes in reply. Telling him 'Thank you.' with a minor blush on her cheeks. Lucy is flushed by his compliment and walks away before she implodes with glee. Tim is clearly not done with her yet. Or this flirt of theirs. I love him being the one to go for it. Which we all know he does later on as well in s5.

He almost doesn’t say something then musters up the courage. You watch him take a beat first. Contemplating if he should. Tim represses himself for a moment then fights against it. He’s slick af asking her to save him a dance. Making sure to make eye contact with her. Then walks away leaving her giddy and stunned. Her smile when he asks is EVERYTHING. She’s not expecting it but is delighted about it. 🎵Started from bottom now we here 🎵 haha

Tim must’ve been riding high off this wedding, her accomplishments and that dress. Kinda like how I was when he was in plain clothes last ep. Made me compliment Nolan for god sakes LOL It’s making Tim bold af. Asking for her to save him a dance with that smoldering look. oh my. Setting up that electric hug in 4x01 with some flirty foreplay beforehand. Sweet lord. She’s so cute in her smile when she walks away. Melissa's expression is perfection. She's in shock at first then excited about the prospect. Fully accepting his flirty energy before rejoining the crowd. Gah SO GOOD. Quite the tease to end the season for them. Good precursor to S4.

Side notes-non chenford

Sad they don’t get to really have their wedding due to La Fiera.

Also VERY sad this is Jackson’s last ep. Will not be fun writing his departure.

Still can’t believe we’re done with s3. What a trip. Shall head into s4 next week. I love that season so very much. Thank you to all who support these reviews means the world to me. Every like, reblog, and comment bring me so much joy. Shall see you all in 4x01 :)

[megs-98]

I'm Aching for You

"My mind has been haunted by your visage. Everywhere I looked, there you were; smiling that sweet smile, putting others before yourself, fiercely protecting your friends. During the nights that I could not get you out of my mind, I would turn into a bear and run halfway through the forest, yet your smell still lingered in my nose. Everything about you has beckoned me to you yet I could not."

back with another halsin x oc fic! this one for @stinadrawsthings 's beautiful tav, gia! hope yall like it! :) also trying a slightly different way of formatting these posts

Pairings: Halsin x oc!f tav (Gia)

Summary: As the shadow curse has finally been lifted, and your party ready to start towards Baldur's Gate, Halsin has asked you to meet him at his room in The Last Light Inn for a much needed conversation.

Tags: Mutual pining, making out, lots of praise, m & f receiving oral, fingering, light fem dom, vaginal sex. Really these two just finally fully confessing their feelings and fuckin like the oak father intended

Word count: 5.4k words

The comforting lights of Last Light Inn washed over the party as you approached the courtyard. There was still a faint golden glow emanating through the air as the Shadow Curse lifted from the forest, springing forth a plethora of newly grown fauna where the darkness once was. As the party came into view of the inn, it was evident that the tieflings had made it back with Jaheira safely. You smiled to yourself as you saw Rolan embracing Cal and Lia, Dammon greeting his friends, and the children happy to see their guardians once again. 

“Aquilegia, a moment, please?” 

Halsin’s voice was soft, but carried sharply through the celebrations. He had strayed off to the edge of the courtyard, his attempt to keep the attention off of him and on your party who rescued the tieflings and defeated Ketheric and the God of the Dead, Myrkul, as well as the tieflings as they rejoiced seeing their loved ones again. 

You approached the elf as his hazel eyes trained on you. He was still covered in the viscera from the battle before, pushing his unkempt hair out of his face, greeting you with a soft smile as he looked down at you. It was a look that you were more than familiar with as it was often how he looked at you either talking to you or looking at you from across camp.  

 “There you are. You never cease to amaze me, Aquilegia. Watching you today was something to behold; I admire how wild your magic is at times, reminds me of myself. I can sense that we are two kindred spirits.” He said as he ran his hand down your arm, stopping at your hand, rubbing your wrist with his thumb. 

You couldn’t help but hold on to every word Halsin said to you. There was no doubt that both of you were attracted to each other upon first meeting. You had expressed your interest in getting to know him better during the tiefling party not long after you met; however he, begrudgingly, encouraged you to enjoy the evening with your companions instead. You encouraged him to do the same as you left his side, but you noticed how his gaze lingered on you for the rest of the night and the days that followed. 

As you smiled up at him, you saw the love and adoration in his eyes while he took you in. Halsin recognized the same look in your eyes as he took in a breath to start talking again. Just as he was, you both heard Jaheira shout to you that plans for leaving the next day need to be made as soon as possible. 

“I suppose this conversation will have to wait until later, my heart. Find me in my room after the meeting has finished.” Halsin chuckled as he shifted his feet and placed a hand on your lower back. Your eyes widened slightly hearing Halsin use a term of endearment for you for the first time; you smiled and agreed to come find him later. 

An hour or two had passed and Jaheira, the Harpers, and your party were satisfied with the logistics of the plan for the next day, the meeting finally coming to an end. You said goodnight to your companions as you made your way to Halsin’s room. 

“Tsk, tsk, darling. Tangling yourself up with a bear the night before we leave? I can’t say I’m not impressed. Do be sure to tell me all about it in the morning, and don’t spare any of the details.” Astarion said to you as he walked past you with a glass of wine in hand. He stopped mid step and looked over his shoulder. 

“My door is always open if the bear doesn’t give you what you need.” He said with a mischievous glint in his crimson eyes. Just as he finished his sentence, the door swung open, startling you both, as Halsin stood in the doorway, dressed in his camp clothes. A loose fitted linen shirt granted you access to see his muscular chest and chest hair that protruded from the edges of the garment. He wore linen trousers that were tied snuggly around his waist. You could see how his jaw was tense as he stared down Astarion before his features softened as he looked at you.

“Halsin!” You smiled at him. “I was just getting ready to knock.” 

You could hear Astarion laugh to himself as he walked away. Halsin moved to the side as you stepped through the threshold, closing the door behind the two of you. There was a tension in the air that you couldn’t place. You looked over to Halsin and saw that he was bracing the wardrobe next to the door with his eyes closed. As you walked over to him, you could see the tense muscles in his back and an ever so faint glow coming off him; you could recognize that it was the same glow that happened when he wild shaped into a bear. As you gently placed a hand on his shoulder, you moved closer to him to see his face. 

“Aquil-” You cut him off before he could finish his sentence. 

“Please, Halsin, just Gia. I appreciate the formality, but we don’t need that. The bond we share is much too special for formalities.” You said as you gave him a soft smile. You rubbed his shoulder and noticed how his muscles began to loosen. A thought formed in your head as you scanned the room and you moved from Halsin to the other side of the room, bringing the armchair in the corner forward as you moved behind it. Halsin let out a small groan at the loss of your touch, as he watched, trying to figure out what you were doing. 

“Come on, sit down.” You motioned for him over to the chair as you patted the seat of it. Halsin quirked his eyebrow at you as he strode over to the chair in just a few steps. He stood in front of the chair, looking between it and you.  

“I won’t tell you again, druid. Sit.. please.” You put a hand on your hip as you waited for Halsin to comply with your request. The two of you continued to stare at each other for what felt like forever until Halsin raised his hands in defeat. 

“As you wish, sorceress.” He said as he sat down, winking at you.  

Once Halsin was sat down, you began massaging his shoulders again, muttering to yourself about how much stress he must have been holding on to. 

Halsin cleared his throat. “Gia, do you remember at the tiefling party, outside of Emerald Grove? How you wished to know me better but I declined your offer?”

“I do recall that moment, yes. You encouraged me to enjoy the celebration. I do also distinctly remember encouraging you to do the same, but I didn’t hardly see you mingling with anyone except for Scratch and the owlbear cub. As well as some lingering glances that met my own.” You replied as you worked on an exceptionally tight knot.

Through a wince, Halsin laughed a bit. “Yes, it did seem as though I couldn’t keep my eyes off of you that night..” He said as he rolled his shoulder under your hand. “I invited you here tonight to tell you something important, something that has been on my mind since that night.”

You took your cue to move from his shoulders as you stood to the left of him, massaging his arm and hand now. You held Halsin’s gaze as you gave him a small nod, encouraging him to continue, smiling to yourself as you saw his eyes flutter shut as you massaged his forearm and hand.

“As you are familiar with my history, the last 100 years I have committed myself to fixing my mistake that caused the shadow curse and helping Thaniel, as well as leading the Emerald Grove. I did not allow for any frivolity, no matter how much I wished to.”

Halsin grabbed your hand in his and ever so slightly tugged at your arm, leading you to stand in front of him between his tensed thighs. As he took your form in, a thoughtful look on his face as he mulled over his words. You took your free hand and cupped his cheek.

“Whatever it is you need to talk about, I’m here for you. Are you having regrets about the devotion you showed?” You asked Halsin as you ran a thumb over his cheek. You felt as he leaned into your touch, a bittersweet smile on his lips.

“No, Gia, I do not have any regrets about serving the Oak Father as I did. Perhaps I wish that I had met you before everything happened so you were well and truly mine. My mind has been haunted by your visage. Everywhere I looked, there you were; smiling that sweet smile, putting others before yourself, fiercely protecting your friends. During the nights that I could not get you out of my mind, I would turn into a bear and run halfway through the forest, yet your smell still lingered in my nose. Everything about you has beckoned me to you yet I could not. I am thankful that you were patient with me and allowed me to stay by your side.”

With bated breath, you watched as Halsin spoke. You could feel the heat in your cheeks, turning them a darker shade of pink, as well as the heat you felt pooling in your stomach as you listened to the large elf’s words. The thought of Halsin being tormented by not being with you had not crossed your mind. You remembered how he had flirted with you openly but he did that with others as well, just as the rest of your companions flirted with you from time to time. However, the only person you flirted back with was Halsin. While he was a large and attractive elf, it was his humble attitude and soft nature that attracted you most to him. Halsin had told you early on in your travels with him that he was bound by a previous promise to Thaniel and could not pursue anything else until that promise was fulfilled. You had respected his wishes and believed his flirting to be for fun and nothing serious. When you flirted with him, though, that was because he was the individual you desired most and wanted him to know, even if you had to wait for him. 

“I didn’t realize that you felt that way about me, Halsin. I thought the flirty banter and everything else was your small way to have fun amongst all the stress in your life.” Your hand had fallen from Halsin’s cheek at this point, having placed it on his shoulder as you listened to him speak. Halsin was leaning against the back of the chair as you had stepped closer to him. 

“Gia, I am 350 years old. My heart does not stir lightly, but it does now. My body, mind, and soul yearn for you. Just as you yearn for me.” Halsin’s voice went low, just above a growl and filled with desire. “Or have I misinterpreted the way your cheeks flush when you watch me tend to things around camp? How a shiver runs down your spine every time I touch you? The lingering glances, your lust blown pupils watching my every move?” 

You squeezed your thighs together, not caring to be subtle as you were desperate to have Halsin in every way that you could. It was obvious the way his hands gripped the arms of the chair and the subtle gold ripples that traveled through his eyes that Halsin was having a difficult time keeping his primal desires restrained. You didn't need to be able to see into Halsin’s mind to know exactly what he’s thinking. How he wants to grab a handful of your thighs, forcing you to sit on his lap. How he wants to tease your hardened nipples through the fabric of your dress, making you writhe under his touch as you try to roll your hips against his, your soaked core desperate for his length. You knew this because it was the exact thing that you were wanting as well and you were more than ready to become one with the man in front of you.

You placed your hand against Halsin’s neck, watching him shudder as you stroked the outer shell of his ear. A sultry smile spread across your lips as you watched how the slightest touch from you was the start of him coming undone. 

“You are correct in your observations, Halsin. It’s hard not to bow to my desires when I am around you.” You watched as Halsin’s arms tightened even more, gripping the chair harder, waiting for you to allow him to touch your plush body. “Halsin… you have been the object of my desires from the first moment we met. I need you. I’m aching for you.”

Halsin’s eyes darkened more as he listened to your words. You quickly felt the warmth of his hands on the curve of your hips and how his thighs tightened around your knees. You found yourself trapped by the druid and you were right where you wanted to be. As Halsin began kneading the soft, supple skin at your hips, your hands found purchase on his shoulders. Halsin was still leaning back against the back of the chair, watching you with a smile on his face. He looked at you as if you were the only woman in the world, just as you looked at him in the same regard. You watched as Halsin’s eyes followed your hands, watching them run down the length of his broad chest, along his forearms, and as they went to the fabric of your dress hanging around your thighs. You watched as Halsin subtly licked his lips watching as you pulled your dress up around the top of your thighs, as one leg slowly came up at a time as you straddled him. 

Halsin’s hands cupped your ass as you settled against his lap, feeling his hardened length as it pressed against your core. You placed his chin between your thumb and index finger which brought his eyes from your exposed thighs to your own gaze. As you cupped the sides of his face, you could feel his cock pulse against you in anticipation. A small smile pulled at the corner of your mouth as you finally placed a kiss against Halsin’s lips. The two of you sighed into each other's mouths, both having wanted this for weeks now. The light, chaste kiss soon turned into a more passionate moment as the kiss continued. Halsin’s grip on your ass would no doubt leave bruises as you worked your way down, moving from his lips to peppering kisses across his jaw and down his neck. You nibbled and sucked on his neck, leaving hickeys in your wake. Halsin’s hands continued to roam your body as you relished in his, finding the hem of your dress and finally finding your skin, hot to the touch with desire. 

The feel of Halsin’s calloused hands against your body, the oaky, woodsy smell of him in your nose, the way his lips felt against yours, it was becoming overwhelming and you knew you needed more of the druid. You pulled back away from him, leaning back on his spread thighs. 

“Be a good boy and take this off for me.” You said as you pulled at the fabric of his shirt. Halsin quirked an eyebrow as he looked at you and a mischievous smile formed on his lips. He quickly removed his shirt, discarding it across the room. Your hands found his body, running down the length of his torso as you began to plant kisses against his collarbone and down his chest. As you continued your work on Halsin’s body, your hands slowly found their way to his waist and you played with the hem of his pants. You heard him groan, his grip tightened on your thighs, as your hands danced lower and lower, stopping just before you reached his aching cock. 

“Please, Gia, I need you to touch me more. I need to feel your skin against mine,  I want to take you every way possible. I need to make you mine. Please..” 

You could hear the whimper in his voice and could feel the desperation in the way he pawed at your thighs and hips. You smiled to yourself as you planted a kiss against his lips, your tongue having quickly found its way into Halsin’s mouth. The elf moaned into your mouth as you rolled your hips against his, causing his hips to buck into yours. The tips of your fingers made their way back to the hem of his pants, where they were tied shut, you could feel as Halsin tensed under your touch, desperately wanting you to finally take out his cock. You made quick work of the strings and slowly pulled the garment away from his body. 

As you pulled your mouth away from Halsin’s, you got on your feet motioning for him to stand as well. He was quick to do so and his hands found your body again, one hand on your clothed breast and the other at the base of your neck, fingers tangled in your hair, as he gave you another passionate kiss. Gripping his waist, you steadied yourself as he continued kissing and grinding his hips against you. Your free hand returned to his pants as you continued to pull them off the man, with him quick to help you so he could go back to kneading your tit. As your hand gave his cock a light touch, you could feel Halsin shudder under your touch. He lifted his head to catch your gaze just as he rested his forehead against yours. You could see the want and desire in his eyes while you took the tip of his cock in your hand, giving it a slow stroke as you spread precum down the length of it. The hand he had on the back of your neck gripped your hair tight and his eyes rolled back as he felt your soft hand finally on his cock. You placed both hands on his chest, eyes going from the chair back to his eyes, as you pressed against him. Halsin recognized your silent request and immediately sat down, hooking his arms around your thighs to pull you back to him. As you ran your hands down Halsin’s thighs and over his knees, you sank to the floor in front of him and began stroking his cock again.

“I don’t want you to cum until I tell you too.” 

“Oak father preserve me..” Halsin muttered under his breath as he cupped your cheek, running his thumb across your bottom lip. You kept your eyes on Halsin as you moved his hand and began kissing his thighs, adoring how you could feel his body tremor for you, silently begging you to take his throbbing cock in his mouth. It was a request you could no longer deny him nor yourself. Your eyes still on him, you sank your mouth around him, only able to take him halfway as you accommodated his size. You felt as Halsin pulled your hair back to keep it out of the way for you as you used one of your hands to stroke his cock as you began bobbing your head. It wasn’t long before you were able to speed up and take him farther down your throat, feeling as he twitched against you whenever you gagged on his thick cock. As you continued your work on him, you savored the way his breath became ragged and how he pulled your hair the closer and closer you brought him to the edge. You could see the way his core tightened every time your tongue ran across the tip and underside of him, how he attempted to will himself not to cum yet. 

You continued your work on the elf, feeling how he was clenching your hair in his fist and how he arched his back off the chair, you knew that he was close. You pulled both your hand and mouth away from him, watching as his face contorted in a disheartened manner at the loss of you against him. 

“I didn’t tell you you could cum yet, did I? Can you be good and beg for it?” You ran your hands down his thighs as you looked at him through your lashes. 

“Gia, please. Please, I want you to make me cum. Gods, please.” He grabbed your hand, lacing his fingers between yours, as he begged for his release. 

You sat up on your knees, bringing his face to yours as you gave him a kiss. “How could I say no to such a good boy?” You felt as he leaned into your touch, his eyes full of reverence as he watched you level with his cock again and take him back into your mouth. You took him as deep as you could, slowly sucking his cock as tears came to your eyes as you tried to take him all the way to the hilt. You hollowed your cheeks and began bobbing your head up and down again. It wasn’t long before he was close again as he squeezed your hand tightly in his hand. You continued your pace, your free finding his balls as you rolled them in your hands, adding to the ecstasy he was already overwhelmed with. With one last gag around his cock as you took him as deep as you could, you felt him release his cum down your throat as he moaned your name like a prayer. 

Halsin was breathing hard as he leaned down to catch your lips against his, the taste of his own finish still on your breath. He pulled you up with him as he stood, his hands finding their way under your ass as he picked you up, guiding your legs around his hips. You let out a small yelp as he lifted you, grabbing onto his shoulders. You were quick to realize that he was walking over to the bed as you looked over your shoulder. 

Halsin laid you against the creaky mattress, keeping his frame on you as his mouth made its way back to yours while his hands trailed up your thighs. You moaned into his mouth as he felt his fingers hook into your small clothes, pulling at them. Halsin pulled away from you, sitting on his knees, as he lifted your dress up around your waist.  

“Little dove, I want to make you feel as you make me feel. I need to taste you. I need to feel my tongue against you.. I need to feel you cum around my fingers.” Halsin said as he looked at you with a desperation you hadn’t seen from someone before. He leaned down, bringing his face closer to yours as he waited for you to answer.  

“I want nothing more than that, Halsin. I want you to make me yours.” You said to your lover as you returned to pressing a passionate kiss against him while you raised your hips to help him get your small clothes off quicker. Halsin moved from kissing your soft lips to moving down to your jawline peppering it with featherlight kisses as he moved lower to your neck. You felt as his lips became more hungry, his tongue lavishing the same areas his lips were, feeling as he sucked down on your neck, feeling his canines nip your skin. You hissed out a moan that only spurred the man on, feeling his fingers grab your hip tighter. He moved lower now, reaching your still clothed tits. You sat up on your elbows and helped as he finally took off your dress. 

“Gods, you’re more beautiful than anything I have imagined, my heart.” Halsin said to you as he took one of your hardened nipples in his mouth, sucking on it, leaving another one of his marks on you, before he released it with a loud pop as he grabbed your other tit and rolled your nipple between two of his fingers. As you whined and writhed under his touch, you moaned and felt as you clenched your cunt around nothing, beginning to feel desperate to feel Halsin where you needed him most. You could hear Halsin groan into your chest as he went between both of your breasts, as he interchanged biting, sucking, and fondling them. 

After Halsin showed your tits more than enough attention, he continued down your body as he kept showering you in kisses and muffled praises. Once he reached your core, he laid himself down between your thighs and brought them over his shoulders. You watched in anticipation as he kissed your folds then placed one long, broad lick from your wet entrance to your clit. Your head fell back as a groan of pure pleasure and bucked into Halsin’s face. You felt as his mouth closed around your clit, swirling his tongue around the bundle of nerves before he started sucking on it. Your fingers tightly threaded through his hair as your hand made its way down to his head, causing him to moan into you. 

Your breath had quickened and you could see yourself falling over the edge soon if Halsin kept the merciless pace against your clit. Before you could voice a request to him, you felt one of Halsin’s fingers was sliding between your folds, getting it wet before he slowly stuck it in. Your eyes rolled back as a breathy moan escaped you and you could feel Halsin smiling against you, pleased with your reaction to his intrusion. You continued to moan Halsin’s name as he pumped his finger in and out of you and as he added a second finger. You gripped his hair even tighter and tried to scoot away from him as you were, once again, overwhelmed by having him in almost all your senses. Halsin finally pulled away from your overstimulated clit, giving it one last flick with his tongue as your whole body shuddered in response. He moved beside you and used his free hand to grab your jaw as he rested his forehead against yours, all while his other hand was still thrusting in and out of you and curling into your sweet spot. 

“That’s it, my heart. Just like that.. You’re doing so well for me. Cum on my fingers, let go for me.” Halsin said to you as he looked into your eyes. He only felt more spurred in this moment, finally able to see how completely and utterly fucked out you looked and you hadn’t even had your first orgasm yet. He wrapped his free arm around your waist, pulling you close to him as he continued fucking you with his fingers. It wasn’t long before your nails were dug into his forearm and chest as you begged him not to stop. Halsin watched as came completely undone, moaning his name while you clenched around his fingers as your orgasm ripped through you. He kept thrusting his fingers, pace slowing down, as you caught your breath before he pulled his hand away from you. The bed shifted as he hovered above you again, placing a kiss against your temple. 

“The oak father blesses me this day.. You are the most beautiful of all of nature’s bounties.” Halsin sat back on his heels as he took in your form. He ran his hands down your body as he mapped out every curve of your body, committing it to his memory. Once he was content that you had recovered from your orgasm, Halsin spread your legs open wider with his thighs as he lined his cock up to your pussy. He put his cock in you with shallow thrusts as you both moaned in unison. He did this for a moment before he heard you ask for more through waves of pleasure. Halsin pulled out as he put your ankles on his shoulders and leaned forward, caging your head between his elbows with your knees pulled as high as they would go. 

“Oh, gods, Halsin. Please. I need you to make me yours.” You said to him, desperation and lust dripping off your words. You heard a growl come from Halsin as he sank himself back into you all the way to the hilt. He slowly began thrusting in and out of you, the new position he put you in allowed him to hit just the right spot, causing you to quickly come close to another orgasm. Halsin began thrusting faster and harder as he felt your cunt clench around his cock as he leaned down to take a nipple in his mouth again. You came at the sensation, moaning Halsin’s name as you did. He didn’t stop, though, fucking you harder now as he brought your thighs together using them for this hand to find purchase on as he sat up. His other hand wandered to the side of your throat as he applied just the right amount of pressure for you to get the most pleasure as he continued his fast pace, chasing after his own orgasm. 

As you encroached on your 4th orgasm, you could do little more than moan and whine from overstimulation as Halsin continued fucking into you. He brought your legs down, snaking them around his waist and he leaned into you again as he cupped your face, stroking your cheekbone.

“I just need one more, little dove. Can you do that for me? Or we can stop if that is what you’d like.” Halsin looked at you with such adoration your heart melted as you furiously shook your head, encouraging him to keep going. Halsin began kissing you again as he started rutting into you again. You kept him close to you this time, your body tired from Halsin’s relentless pace and multiple orgasms. He kept his face buried in the crock of your neck as you wrapped your arms around his shoulders, digging your nails into him as you held on. He could feel that you were close as your thighs tightened around him. He moved one of his hands between the two of you as the pad of his thumb found your clit. You let out a cry of his name as he moved his thumb in circles over the sensitive bundle of nerves. 

“Oohhnh, Halsin! I’m close.. ‘M so close.” You moaned into his ear as your nails left indents in his flesh. 

“There you go, my heart, there you go. Just one more.. Be a good girl for me.” As Halsin’s words fell on your ears, you felt as the taut cord in you snapped once more. You peppered kisses on Halsin’s ear as you came down from your high. Halsin’s pace stuttered, his own edge nearing. With his face still buried in your neck, you felt him kissing your neck and shoulder as his pace continued to get even sloppier. Halsin gave you a couple more hard thrusts before he came in your pussy with a loud moan of your name. He fucked you slow as he rode out his high, pulling out once he knew you had taken all of his cum. 

Halsin left your side as you laid there, trying to catch your breath. You could hear water pouring before his footsteps made their way back to the bed. He placed a cool cloth between your legs, causing you to jump and close your legs tight. He reassured you that it was just him and that he was cleaning you up and gently as he could. You conceded and let your legs fall back open as you felt the cloth run across your overstimulated body. Once Halsin had finished, he placed the cloth on the side table and laid down next to you, wrapping you in his arms and pulling you close as you yawned. 

“We can talk more tomorrow, my heart, rest now. Just now that I am yours; mind, body, and soul as long as you’ll have me.” He said to you before placing one last passionate kiss against your lips. You returned his kiss and hummed in acknowledgement, now too exhausted as sleep too over you to give a proper answer. As you fell asleep in Halsin’s warm embrace, you knew that this was the start of something beautiful and that you would cherish this night for the rest of your life.

[akitasimblr]

DAVID HARPER, ERNEST HARPER, QUEENIE HARPER & ALANA WEST-HARPER - FOR @flocy-sims LEGACY

i am sending you the twins david harper & ernest harper, queenie harper and alana west-harper for your legacy, let's hope they behave! more about them below.

david is a rebel. He does not have a determined direction; he goes where the wind takes him. It’s easy to find him crashing at his sister or twin brother’s house after some crazy night in san myshuno. He will settle eventually, just not sure when. He is not drawn to romantic relationships, it actually requires a lot of friendship and intimacy (and not strictly in the physical sense) for him to fall for someone. David does not believe in love at first sight, for him love has to be nurtured and cared for in the long run. He’s not a one-night stand kind of guy. Right now he still lives at his parents’ house in Britechester and after much parental pressure he finally got a part-time job as barista. You can say he is not the ambitious type. He loves a good laugh and a bit of mischief to color our lives. He is a geek for video games and he - might - indulge in some hacking as well. Which reminds me of a story he usually boasts about of when he got inside the landgraab’s system… oh! wait! that’s a secret!

ernest is an acclaimed musician. He has an identical twin named David. He is a virtuoso pianist and violinist and plays in the worldwide known Simsonian Orchestra. Ernest loves all classic and baroque music and it’s hard to find anything he loves just as much. For an outsider, Ernest has an enviable life, he has achieved professional realization, he travels all around the simlish world with the orchestra, he does what he loves but Ernest Harper is a sad, unhappy soul. He had his heart broken and he has never been able to fall in love again. He has been a loner. Ernest has a timid, gloomy character. But Ernest’s gloomy soul hides the most tender, sensitive and loving character, if only one knows how to break his walls…

queenie was born amongst the rich and famous society of del sol with both of her parents being renowned actors. she was always very pampered as a kid and everyone thought she’d follow her parents’ example and become an actor. but no. her tastes and talents led her to another branch of the movie industry: designs and wardrobes.  queenie has an exquisite obsession with anything fashion related and she is brilliant at what she does.  sweet queenie might be vain and perhaps too self-conscious of her public image; but she’s a kind soul with the patience of a saint. mark my words, this girl knows how to keep a secret, she’s the best confidant you’ll ever find, if only you show she can trust you. 

alana west-harper is the mischievous kind. she got that from her dad, i bet! alana is an expert in all fandoms you can think of. even those underground, alternative, sketchy fandoms no one knows about? well, she knows! alana is the ultimate geek. alana went to foxbury university to study villainy and oh my watcher! she graduated with honors. i expect great things from this girl... like worldwide robery kind of greatness, you know? but don't get me wrong, she is not evil, okay? she just likes to do things her way. and sometimes 'her way' does not exactly mean lawful... but hey! she gets things done in the end of the day!

[incorrectbatfam]

Batfam interacting and bonding with Bernard, if it's not too much to ask?

Dick: Hey, Bernard! Tim's not here right now. Bernard: That's fine, I can come back late— Dick: *drags Bernard inside* Dick: Sorry I didn't get around to it sooner, but I've been meaning to ask, what do you do? Bernard: Huh? Dick: What do you do for a living? How do you plan on paying for that engagement ring that you'll be getting Tim in ten years? Bernard: Ten years is a long— Dick: Speaking of rings, have you seen that new Lord of the Rings show? Barbara said I should skip it, but there's something weirdly amusing about bad shows, you know? Bernard: I've heard of— Dick: *tightens his grip on Bernard's shoulder* Dick: What's your favorite bad media, Bernie? Can I call you Bernie? Bernard: Actually, I prefer— Dick: Sweet. Anyway, Bernie, lemme show you my collection of Dreamworks movies that people claim are flops but are actually cinematic masterpieces. —————

Jason: This is the kitchen. It's where we keep the knives. Bernard: *sweats* ————— Damian: You must be my brother's lover. Bernard: Yeah, I guess. Damian: Do better. ————— Bernard: Wait, so everyone in your family is a vigilante? Duke: Pretty much. Even Jarro. Bernard: Who's Jarro? Duke, whispering: We don't talk about Jarro. ————— Bernard: Let me get this straight. Cullen: I've tried. It's best not to fight it. ————— Stephanie: You must be Bernard! I'm Steph. Bernard: You're Tim's ex, right? Stephanie: Oh, yeah, but don't worry, it won't be awkward. 'Cause you know what we got in common? Bernard: What? Stephanie: We're the only two people who know about eight-year-old Tim's Honey Boo Boo parody where he puts on his mom's dress and pretends to be a pageant princess called Timmy Toot Toot. Bernard: Proof or it didn't happen. Stephanie: *pulls out her phone* ————— Cassandra: *stares* Bernard: Um, hi? Cassandra: *stares* Bernard: Can I help you? Cassandra: *stares* Bernard: Oh, you must be Cass! I'm Bernard. Cassandra: *stares* Bernard: Cassandra: *stares* Bernard: *visibly uncomfortable* Cassandra: *stares* Bernard: I think I'll head out... ————— Bernard: Hey, sorry I'm late. Barbara, in front of her laptop: No worries, Bernard Dowd of 8255 Cypress Avenue, it's not your fault your Uber surreptitiously stopped at the Ben and Jerry's on Main Street for 11 minutes. That must have been frustrating, but at least you could use your 50% off coupon for a Cherry Garcia and only had to charge $2.65 to your MasterCard ending in 3363. ————— Harper: You know how to use a blowtorch? Bernard: No. Harper, handing him a blowtorch: You do now. ————— Carrie: Your name's Bernard? Bernard: Yep. Carrie: Why? ————— Kate: As an elder gay, I've always felt a tug of responsibility to protect my kin, and there's no baby gay more precious to me than Tim. Bernard: I'll treat him well. Kate: I know you will. But just in case, have you ever heard of the Secret Union of Toolbox Lesbians? Bernard: Can't say I have. What exactly, uh, do they do? Kate: Normally they go around fixing things. Cars, door hinges, you name it. But sometimes they'll take on... additional duties. Bernard, nervously: Like what? Kate: *squeezes his shoulder* Kate: I hear you're a fan of unsolved mysteries. Bernard: ————— Alfred: Take a seat. Master Tim will be out shortly. Bernard: Thanks. What are you cooking? It smells good? Alfred: Oh, just a traditional English soup. A diplomat once told me it was the best thing he ever had. Bernard: Really? Alfred: Indeed. Alfred, whispering: The secret is a little touch of arsenic. ————— Selina: You like cats. Bernard: Sure. Selina: This one's a keeper. ————— Bruce: You be good to Tim, or else. Bernard: I will, I promise. No need to gut me with a batarang. Bruce, confused: What are you talking about? Bernard: Nothing, don't worry about it. Bruce: I won't. Bernard: Phew. Bruce, sipping his coffee: But you should. ————— Tim: I'm so sorry about my family. Bernard: They're a lot, but it's okay. They remind me of you. Tim: Aw, I love you. Bernard: I love you too... Timmy Toot Toot.

[e-nonsense]

𝐚𝐬𝐤 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲

⇢ ᴊᴀꜱᴏɴ ᴛᴏᴅᴅ x ɢɴ!ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ {ᴀɴʏ!ᴠᴇʀꜱᴇ}

⇢ ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢꜱ » ʟᴀɴɢᴜᴀɢᴇ

⇢ *ɪɴꜱᴇʀᴛ ᴡᴇᴅᴅɪɴɢ ʙᴇʟʟꜱ*

You had no idea where Jason had slipped off to. It would be pretty hard to just disappear, especially when this whole gala was for and about him.

16th of August, had come around fast and you found yourself in need of a gift for your boyfriend. You wanted something special and meaningful, something that would last and remind him that he is loved.

You two had been dating before his death and resurrection and when he came back thing were a little rocky, neither of them really coming to term with his death. But that had been a year ago and now you two were stable and happy, never fighting - a small argument here and there - he made sure to come back to you every night, worrying when you stopped sleeping because of nightmares and worry.

Back to the gift topic, you knew he hated grand gestures so Bruce and Dick were a no, Tim sucked at relationships and Damian was to young to know anything about that stuff, you would’ve asked Alfred but he had a lot on his shoulders.

So naturally you went to his best friend Roy Harper. Things between the two of you had been awkward, you to had hooked up once at a bar, both apparently sober enough to remember everything that happened that night - yes you both got over it and told Jason, he was shocked and didn’t talk to either of you for a couple of days. But you still got lots of okay advice, in the end you brought a ring, black with a singular red line and red on the inside.

After minutes that felt like an eternity, you found him in the garden on the grass with Ace’s head on his thigh, Jason’s hand scratching his head. It was the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen, the moonlight making his green eyes sparkling, the lighting from the moon made his hair look shiny, his jacket discarded behind him, he was breath taking.

You walked softly, bending down a little to pick up his jacket, nervously playing with the small ring box in hand. You lowered yourself tot the floor beside him, his head coming down onto your shoulder, inhaling your scent. “Hi sweetheart”

“Hi baby” your voice low and soft, turning your head softly to kiss his head. “Didn’t get to see you all night”

“sorry, running from the questions ,you know” wrapping his free arm around your waist.

You hummed in acknowledgment “well I have a question, you don’t have to answer it, now or we can pretend it never happened, don’t wanna make it awkward. Jay, oh god-”

“Sweetheart it’s alright, ask away”

“How do I do this- right okay, Jay look at me please”

He lifted his head and looked towards you, soft smile showing you how tired he was.

Okay this is it- fuck I forgot to ask Bruce for permission, oh yeah I asked Alfred

Sliding the back towards yourself from under his suit jacket, opening the box to see the red and black ring “Jason Todd, I love you so much and I’m not entirely sure what I’m doing, but I know whatever it is I what to do it with you. So will you marry me?”

Now it was his turn to stumble over his words going speechless.

“Sorry, I knew this was a bad idea” before you could start insulting Roy and yourself Jason had pulled you into a kiss, it didn’t last very long but it told you everything you needed to know. Breaking away from him, you pulled the ring out of the box took his hand in yours and slipped the ring onto his ring finger.

ʙᴏɴᴜꜱ:

“They what?!” Bruce’s voice echoed louder than usual causing all the Wayne resident to come into the kitchen.

“They proposed- wait they didn’t ask you?”

“No-”

“Who proposed?” Damian asked

“Fuck-” all their heads turned to you. All of a sudden your slippers seemed interesting.

“Y/n explain” Bruce’s words stern as ever

You had never been this happy to see and hear Alfred as you were now “They asked for my permission”

“And why is that Y/n?”

“Well Jay’s always been closer to Alfred so I asked him before I asked Jason to marry me”

You were in for a big talk from every single one of Jason’s family.

© ᴜɴᴏꜰꜰɪᴄɪᴀʟ-ᴊᴀʏᴛᴏᴅᴅ-ᴡɪꜰᴇ. ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ᴄᴏᴘʏ/ꜱᴛᴇᴀʟ/ᴛʀᴀɴꜱʟᴀᴛᴇ

[karahalloway]

(Less Than) Noble Intentions: Chapter 19 - Field Day

Fandom: TRR

Pairing: Drake Walker x F!OC (Harper Gale)

Series Summary: The social season may be over, but Harper Gale’s problems are just beginning. With everyone at court a potential suspect, can she and Drake survive the engagement tour and get to the bottom of the plot against her and clear her name? An AU take of TRR2 featuring my OTP - Harper & Drake.

Masterlist: (Less Than) Noble Intentions

Chapter Summary: It's off to the bridal boutique, but Harper and Olivia have a secondary agenda...

Word Count: 6,200

Rating/Warnings: M (royal bitchiness, possible emotional abuse, kidnapping, threats of murder)

Chapter theme song:

A/N: So, I have tried to keep everything as realistic and accurate as possible in terms of the locations that are touched on in this chapter. The only thing that is made up is the antique store. As usual, translations for the French and Italian are at the end.

Chapter 19 - Field Day

The five-minute drive to the bridal boutique is every bit as excruciatingly awkward as can be expected.

"What part of we are already running late is so difficult to comprehend?" derides Madeleine before the limo door even shuts. "When I tell you to hurry, I expect you to do exactly that!"

"I'm sorry, Lady Madeleine," stammers Penelope tearfully. "The heel of my shoe became caught on—"

"Save it!" the Countess of Fydelia snaps. "If you cannot do something as simple as totter down a corridor without breaking your neck, then frankly, I do not see how you are supposed to be of use to me."

Penelope's face turns whiter than a sheet. "I—"

"As lest you forget, I took you on as a lady-in-waiting as a favour to your family, given the historically close personal relationship between our fathers," Madeleine reminds her with a steely edge to her voice. "But that does not mean that I cannot send you packing just as easily. And if you do not get your act together, then that is exactly what will happen. Am I clear!"

"Yes," Penelope whimpers, lowering her gaze.

"What was that?" demands Madeleine imperiously.

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"And the same goes for the rest of you," adds Madeleine, casting the haughty gleam of her gaze over the limo. "One misstep — proverbial or otherwise — and you are gone. Not just from my employ, but from court as well."

Shifting my gaze over to Hana, I see that she is just as perturbed as I am about this borderline psychotic power-trip.

Talk about being a queen bitch...

Olivia scoffs from her seat in the corner. "How about you try making a threat you can actually carry out..."

Madeleine bristles. "As Queen I will have the authority to—"

"Do exactly what Christian permits you to do," Olivia interjects flatly, examining her nails. "As lest you forget, you will only ever be a queen consort — not queen regnant."

The Countess of Fydelia's eyes narrow. "That is but a technicality."

"I still wouldn't overplay my hand," Olivia cautions with a smile. "Wouldn't want to get caught out on a technicality now, would you?"

Madeleine glares down the length of the limo like a viscous viper.

"Didn't think so," smirks the Duchess of Lythikos as the driver pulls the vehicle to a stop...

...and the paps immediately descend on us like a swarm of black flies.

"What the—?" I blurt, catching the flash of the cameras through the blacked-out windows. "When did they get here?"

"Five minutes ago," replies Madeleine tartly, slotting a pair of shades on.

My jaw drops. "You... told them where we were going?"

"Of course," she affirms as the Royal Guard who had been riding shotgun manages to squeeze his way through the human press to open the door. "Royal patronage elevates the esteem and profile of any institution. It is only right that the press should be invited to cover the visit."

"Like that's the only reason..." I mutter as Madeleine steps out of the limo and the roar of the crowd becomes deafening.

"Contessa!" several people shout. "Contessa Maddalena! Quaggiù, per favore!"

"It's horse shite, by the way," Olivia advises as she slides past me. "The only thing she is looking to promote is herself."

"Well, she definitely seems to be succeeding..." I admit, watching the Guards struggle to hold the photographers back as Madeleine sashays her way towards the doors of the boutique.

Olivia scoffs. "It's an act of desperation. Nothing more. She knows she is on thin footing with Christian... and the public."

"Great..." I groan, pulling Drake's blue aviators from my clutch as I, too, exit the limo.

Rather than being an unfortunate one-off, it seems like yesterday's altercation at the Apple Harvest Festival was actually the opening salvo in a concerted campaign of media brinksmanship that Madeleine is determined to win.... at my expense.

Yet, I'm just not sure I have it in me to play her contrived publicity game. The paps have already up-ended my life more completely than I would've ever thought possible, so the last thing I want to do is pander to their voracious appetite for scandal.

"Duchessa Harper! Duchessa Harper!" the photographers shout as I step out onto the sidewalk. "You made it to Italy! What do you think of the city so far?"

"You did not travel with the King and future Queen! Were you forced to make alternative arrangements because of your argument?"

"Will you attend the opera tonight?"

"When was the last time you spoke to your family? Is it true you cut all ties with them?"

Gritting my teeth, I force myself to keep my head down and my feet moving forward as the invasive questions zing over my head like bullets. Camera bulbs flash in my face as the photographers press in, trying to get that front page close-up...

...and that's when I spot him.

My heart skips an uncomfortable beat as recognition hits me like a punch in the chest.

Oh, my God, the photographer from Applewood!

He's standing in the second row, regarding me almost casually, like a tourist at a zoo, faded red baseball cap slung backwards over his head, just as in the picture Ana de Luca had saved on the flash drive.

Our eyes meet and I stumble to a stop, unable to tear my gaze away, my morbid curiosity overpowering my senses even as the paps close in around me...

...but then I feel the warmth of a hand on my back and the sound of a familiar voice brings me back to earth.

"Nous vous tienons, Demoiselle," Allard assures me, appearing at my side to shield me from the press invasion.

Glancing up, I see that Schweitzer has taken up position in front of me, using his body like a blocker to force a path through the crush.

Curling into the safety offered by my Guard's no-nonsense attitude, I let them whisk me into the boutique.

"Thank you..." I say sincerely as we pass through the doorway into the foyer.

Allard relinquishes his hold on me with a nod. "Certainement. Vous allez bien?"

"Yeah..." I reply, heart pounding as I try to recollect my bearings. "I just—"

"Oh, my gosh!" gasps Hana, stumbling into the boutique behind us. "That was horrible!"

"C'est le bordel!" agrees Kiara as she and Penelope manage to squeeze themselves through the press before the Guards shut the door. "Qu'est-ce qu'elle croyait?"

"She wasn't," Olivia replies flatly, shooting an accusatory glance over her shoulder at Madeleine, who is already being given a queen's welcome by the boutique's owner.

A tense silence descends as we all process this assessment.

"I... I suppose we should go through," Hana suggests eventually.

"Oui," Kiara affirms with a huff, smoothing the front of her dress. "Sa Majesté expects our assistance."

Penelope glances uncertainly towards the fuss being made over Madeleine. "I don't think she's expecting mine..."

"Don't be silly!" Kiara admonishes, looping her arm through her friend's to tug her forward. "She just had a petite éclat. Every bride gets nervous and she is under a lot of pressure to maintain constant perfection. But that is why we need to help her, non?"

Penelope looks like she's about to disagree, before finally acquiescing with a sigh. "I just miss Merlin and Morgana..."

"J'sais..." consoles Kiara, patting her reassuringly on the back of the hand. "Hopefully once the tour is finished, Madeleine will allow you to send for them."

"I doubt it..." Penelope mutters meekly as they join Madeleine in the store proper. "She said she hates yappy little dogs. You don't suppose they have anything here with poodles on them, do you?"

"I don't think this boutique specialises in that type of lingerie..."

"Oh..."

"I'm sure they have some pretty floral designs, though!" Hana offers encouragingly. "Italian lace is known around the world for its intricate rebrodè detailing."

"Yes, because that's what men care about on the wedding night..." Olivia mutters dryly, turning towards me. "You coming, or what?"

"Huh?" I ask, snapping my head up. "Umm... Yeah. Sorry."

"You better be," she snips disdainfully as she starts down the foyer as well. "I refuse to be the only sane participant in this clown show..."

I glance warily back towards the front of the boutique, where the paps were still battling each other, trying to snap a shot of us through the tastefully curated window displays.

"What?" Olivia objects after a beat. "No snide comment? No wry clap-back? You're not conveniently coming down with a sudden fever, are you?"

"I... I saw him," I admit, tearing my gaze away from the feeding frenzy outside.

Olivia grabs my wrist to yank me to a stop. "Saw who?"

"The photographer," I say tightly, pulling my arms around myself in a bid to stop myself from shivering, despite the record-breaking temperatures outside. "From Applewood."

"Dion Guillard..." clarifies Olivia, staring at me intently. "Are you sure?"

"Yes," I nod.

Olivia purses her lips. "He could be here on his own volition, or because someone invited him. Either way, we should make use of this opportunity."

"How?"

"By making him an offer he can't refuse," she replies slyly, pulling her phone out.

My eyes widen. "You mean right now? But Madeleine—"

"Has enough sycophants coddling her already," she counters flippantly as she quickly types up a text. "We only have one chance to do this. Do you want the truth, or not?"

I swallow down the lump in my throat. "I do."

"Good," she nods, slotting her phone away again. "You don't mind if I borrow your hunks, do you?"

"Umm..."

"I'll take that as a 'yes'," she responds, clicking her fingers authoritatively at Allard and Schweitzer. "Meet me in the back in fifteen minutes."

Before I have a chance to respond, Olivia has already spun on her heel and is striding towards the rear of the store, my two Guards in tow.

"'Kay..." I mutter under my breath.

I have no idea what Olivia's plan is... much less how she thinks to arrange a clandestine meeting with the photographer under Madeleine's nose while there's an entire army of paps parked outside watching our every move.

But I've learned during the course of the social season that the Scarlet Duchess is as enterprising as she is resourceful, having pulled a number of successful ploys in a bid to advance herself in the competition. And Drake seems to trust her implicitly, otherwise, he wouldn't have asked her to keep an eye on me while he's off in Dubai.

So, it looks like I'm just going to have to trust her, too.

Taking a deep breath, I move towards the other end of the shop floor, pretending to peruse the various items on offer while I wait for the allotted time to tick down.

Luckily, Madeleine is busy loudly shooting down each and every lingerie option that is presented to her by both the boutique staff and her increasingly frazzled ladies-in-waiting, so nobody really notices when I announce a pretend visit to the restroom.

Slipping back out into the foyer, I move as casually as possible towards the back of the store, knowing that the paps are still watching me like hawks through the windows.

Rounding the corner, I allow myself to speed up a bit, casting my gaze left and right, looking for Olivia...

...when I'm suddenly yanked into a dimly-lit storeroom stacked with cardboard boxes and plastic-wrapped veils and dresses.

"Hey! What the—?" I protest as the door is shut promptly behind me.

"You're late," Olivia informs me dryly, clicking the lone light bulb on above us.

"Sorry, I had t—"

I reel back in horror as my eyes land on the bound and gagged form of Dion Guillard perched on top of a box of lingerie.

"Oh, my God!" I gasp. "When the heck did this turn into a kidnapping?"

"Ten minutes ago," she replies breezily.

I drop my head in my hands. "I am going to jail... I am literally going to jail..."

"Oh, ye of little faith..." Olivia admonishes, stepping over to the photographer.

He shrinks instantly back from her.

My brows shoot skywards. "Jesus Christ... What did you do to him?"

"Nothing," she shrugs. "Yet..."

A chill runs down my spine. Apparently, Olivia's reputation is more than well deserved...

"I presume you know who we are?" she asks Dion levelly, coming to a stop in front of him.

The man nods tightly, brows bunched together beneath the line of his baseball cap.

"And your current circumstances leave you under no illusions as to the lengths we're willing to go to obtain — by force, or otherwise — the clear and unvarnished truth?"

His gaze slips to meet mine for a second before sliding back to Olivia's to give her the barest of nods.

"Good," she smiles, reaching towards him. "Then this will go that much faster."

In one quick motion, she yanks the scrunched-up handkerchief from the photographer's mouth, making him wheeze.

"Sa mère la pute de—"

"Who are you working for?" Olivia demands, folding her arms.

Dion spits on the floor next to her feet. "I'm a freelancer. I work for—"

"We know who you are," Olivia interjects with a wave of her hand. "You're a lowlife slug who's willing to do anything to make a name for himself. You demonstrated as much when you sold compromising photos of my friend here to the press. The question is, who hired you?"

Dion scoffs. "Nobody hired me. I work for myself! That is what I've been trying to—!"

"Liar," Olivia accuses. "We know you didn't just stumble upon this by yourself. Who's your client?"

"Nom de dieu..." he disparages under his breath. "I told you already, I—"

Olivia is suddenly up in his face, knife pressed to his throat. "And I didn't like your answer."

Dion jerks back instinctively. "Your petite friend is correct... You are going to jail..."

"They'll have to find your body first," she tells him silkily. "What little will be left of it, anyway... Because no one here is going to the police. And I'm sure that your so-called friends out the front will secretly be glad for your unexplained loss. The freelance photography business is oh-so cutthroat, after all..."

"Tu es une salle grace..." he snarls through clenched teeth.

Olivia presses the knife tighter. "Then you should know that it's not in your interest to test what's left of my patience..."

Dion laughs bitterly. "À quoi ça rime? You say already that you will just—"

"What if we paid you?" I interject, stepping forward.

Olivia's head snaps angrily around. "Harper, stay out of—!"

"Paid me?" the photographer cuts in, eyes swirling to meet mine with interest.

"To give us the information we're after... voluntarily," I clarify, in a bid to avoid the impending bloodshed. "And to sell us the photos from Applewood."

Dion frowns. "I already sold the pictures to the papers..."

"Not all of them," I correct, hoping against hope that my gut instinct is correct and I haven't just torpedoed Olivia's interrogation for nothing. "You only sold the ones you were told to sell — the ones that fit your client's narrative."

Dion seems to assess me in a new light. "You come prepared... Fine. I'll do as you ask... for five million."

"Ducats?" asks Olivia.

"Euros."

I very narrowly catch my jaw from falling to the floor at the sound of the obscene price tag.

"You've been paid once already," counters Olivia. "The highest we can go is one million."

"Four," insists Dion, somehow managing to find the balls to negotiate even with a knife pressed to his throat. "There are a lot of pictures."

"Which no one else is willing to buy, so two is our best and final offer."

"Three," declares Dion. "And I'll forget this conversation ever happened."

Olivia purses her lips for a moment, before whipping the knife away with a flourish. "Fine. Start talking."

Dion lets out a low exhale. "I received a call some days before the Jamboree. The person had a tip on one of the Prince's suitors, and said it would make big news if it got out. Naturally, I was interested."

"Who was this person?" I ask.

"I don't have a name," he replies. "The tip was anonymous, and the call came from a hidden number."

"Was it a man or a woman?" Olivia queries.

"A man."

Olivia and I exchange a glance. Tariq or Godfrey.

"How did you get into Applewood?" I ask, turning back to Dion.

"A security pass was delivered to my apartment. No return address," he adds before either of us can ask.

"And that didn't seem suspicious?" I press.

"Demoiselle," he scoffs. "I am a paparazzo. I am not going to... How you Américans say? Count the teeth of a dog?"

"Look a gift horse in the mouth..." I correct dryly.

"Once on the estate, I took some pictures of the Jamboree — in the event, you know... nothing came of the tip — but then I received a message on my phone that the suitor in question was on her way back to her room with her paramour, andI should make myself ready."

"How did you know which room to go to?" I cut in.

"There was a blueprint of the manor included in the same envelope that provided me my security pass," Dion explains. "It was your room that was marked."

His words hit me like a kick to the guts.

It's been clear for a while that my run-in with Tariq has been anything but chance. But to learn the malicious extent of the planning that had gone into setting it up makes me want to actually puke.

Who was sick enough to even think up something so twisted?

"What then?" asks Olivia, diverting Dion's attention from my momentary muteness.

He shrugs. "I took the photos, and left."

"How?" I croak in disbelief. "How could you just stand there while—?"

"I am a journalist," he shrugs apathetically. "My business is to be impartial..."

"You watched me get assaulted," I hiss through trembling lips. "There is nothing impartial about that!"

He shrugs again. "Affairs are messy. Maybe you should choose your lovers more carefully."

I feel my fists clench at my sides as I take a step forward. "He is not—"

Olivia's hand pulls me back. "How did you deliver the photos?"

"There was no delivery," Dion counters with the same level of nonchalance that he's exhibited since he started talking. "I selected the best pictures and put them out to offer to the newspapers. The Sun offered the most for them, so I sold to them the exclusive rights to publish."

"That's it?" queries Olivia. "No one else was given copies?"

Dion scoffs. "Absolutement pas! Selling copies to anyone else would violate the license agreement with the most influential tabloid newspaper in the country! Why would I put myself out of business? I am not an idiot..."

"You didn't send any samples to the person who tipped you off?" I press, having finally managed to regain my composure somewhat.

"Non," he insists. "I said before — he was not a client. I have no obligation for him. And even if I did, I have no way to contact him because—"

"—the conversations were anonymous," I finish wearily.

Apart from lending credence to our suspicions that Godfrey may have had a hand in the set-up, this conversation has confirmed literally nothing.

The people involved in the plot have been too careful in covering up their tracks.

Which means that all our hopes now rest with Tariq... and Drake's ability to find him.

Dion nods. "C'est correct. And I told you everything you asked. We still have a deal, yes?"

"On the condition that you hand over all the remaining photographs — including any digital and backup copies — and disappear off to a godforsaken island somewhere," Olivia clarifies.

Dion nods eagerly. "Naturellement. I always desired early retirement."

"Good," she approves, cutting the bonds from his wrists with a cold smile. "Otherwise I will personally ensure that you don't live to spend a single Euro of your newly acquired millions."

The flash of the wicked-looking blade so close to his groin causes the photographer to blanch involuntarily. "Je le jure."

Olivia flashes him a cold smile. "We'll be in touch..."

"You're just letting him go?" I hiss into Olivia's ear as Dion pushes himself up.

"Unless you would prefer to dump him in the Tiber?"

I reel back. "What! No! I just—"

"Your instinct was right," she advises softly, as Dion gathers his bag and Allard escorts him back out. "He is an opportunistic shark. He just had to be made to believe that he was fleecing us."

My eyes widen. "So, you played bad cop deliberately."

"As you said, this is my area of expertise," she smirks. "And I knew you would not be able to keep your sentimentality at the door."

"Umm, thanks... I think..." I mutter. "But where are we supposed to get three million Euros from? We may both be aristos, but neither of us is Jeff Bezos..."

"The Palace has a designated slush fund set aside for these sorts of expenditures," Olivia assures me breezily, slotting her knife away. "Since you are now a member of the royal family, we'll just send the bill to Jonathan."

I slant her a wry look. "I'm pretty sure that's not what either he or Christian had in mind when they decided to clean up my image..."

"Oh, please!" she admonishes, stepping back out into the corridor as well. "As recently as last year, Constantine was authorising expenditures of five to ten million Euros to stop pictures of Leo shagging B-list actresses on top of various vehicles making it onto the front pages. Three million Euros is trump change for the Rys."

"If you say so," I concede, my mind still reeling from astronomical sums of money that had been so casually bandied about. "Let's just hope Dion doesn't screw us over..."

"He won't," she assures me. "Nobody is stupid enough to cross a Nevrakis."

"The people who blackmailed you did..." I remind her cautiously.

Olivia's mouth tightens as we reach the end of the corridor. "Which was their first mistake. And one that they will pay for dearly."

"You never actually told me what they threatened you with on the night of the Coronation Ball..."

Olivia glances at me sharply. "The less you know the better."

"But—"

"It is for your own protection," she insists. "You haven't played this game long enough to know how to handle something so... explosive."

My eyes widen. "What? More explosive than—?"

Olivia clamps her hand over my mouth. "What did I tell you on the plane?"

"Sorry..." I mumble through her fingers.

She withdraws her hand. "If — on the very slim chance — I require assistance, I'll ask for it. In the meantime, you should rejoin the bridal parade."

"Why? Where are you going?" I ask as Olivia moves towards the back loading doors.

"None of your business," she ripostes, disappearing outside.

"Bye to you, too..." I snip as the door slams closed in her wake.

Olivia may now be on my side, but she is still as caustic as ever.

Turning back towards the main part of the boutique. I barely make it four steps before Madeleine's shrieks of outrage — and the sound of breaking glass — echo down the hallway.

"How many times do I have to tell you, no thongs! They are ribald and tasteless!"

"Yeah, no..." I mutter under my breath as I promptly spin on my heel to head back towards the rear of the store.

I don't care what Kiara may have said earlier; I have no interest in spending the rest of the morning being trapped in a bridal boutique, being screamed at by Madeleine. I have much better things to do with my time... and sanity, especially given that I'm still trying to mentally and emotionally process what the photographer had said. And after everything else that's happened in the past twenty-four hours, a small break would definitely go a long way in diffusing my pent-up stress.

Admittedly, a part of me feels bad for leaving Hana behind to suffer the full brunt of Madeleine's tirade, but trying to pull her away as well would only jeopardise my chances of making a successful getaway. I'll just have to think of some other way to make it up to her.

Not wanting her to get into any unwarranted trouble on my account, I decide to pull out my phone to send her a quick text letting her know that I'm not feeling well, and that I'll hopefully see her at the opera in the evening.

Slotting my phone back into my clutch, I push the back doors of the boutique open with a decisive shove, and step out into the sunshine.

Letting my eyes adjust to the brightness outside, I find myself in a small courtyard. On a whim, I turn back towards my Guards.

"Which way to the Trevi Fountain?" I ask, pulling my sunglasses back down over my face.

Allard and Schweitzer trade glances, clearly uneasy with this request.

"Demoiselle, that is not a prudent—"

"—way to get lost in the crowd?" I counter. "I can't think of a better one. If I don't advertise myself, no one will know I'm even there. Especially while the paps are tied up on the other side of the building."

My Guards don't seem convinced. "Commandant Walker left specific instructions to—"

"I'm not planning on disappearing on you," I assure them. "I just want to make a quick detour to grab some pastries, and check out the fountain. So, which way is it?"

Perhaps seeing that I'm not going to be swayed by any cautionary counter-argument, Schweitzer gives Allard a one-shouldered shrug of acquiescence.

Allard pulls a face before finally resigning himself as well. "Par ici," he says, indicating the far side of the courtyard.

"Thanks," I chirp with a smile, setting out across the cobblestones...

...and promptly get the heel of my stiletto pumps stuck in a crack between the stones.

"Eugh," I grumble, as I manage to wrench myself free after a brief battle. "I really didn't think this through..."

"Would Demoiselle require a taxi?" asks Schweitzer as he helps steady me from behind.

"I was hoping to walk..." I admit sheepishly.

"Via Borgognona is nearby," Allard suggests. "It is a well-known shopping street, though quieter than the more famous Via Condotti. Demoiselle might find more... comfortable footwear there."

"Not to mention some more appropriate clothes in general," I gripe, already feeling the tight fabric of my pencil dress start to stick to me. "How far away is it?"

"Just around the corner."

I flash him a bright smile. "Perfect!"

With Allard leading the way, and Schweitzer holding my hand, we manage to cross the courtyard without further incident, and sneak past the paps still thronging the front of the bridal boutique without getting spotted.

Crossing the pedestrianised thoroughfare, my Guards usher me down a narrower street that is lined on either side by cream-coloured buildings casting some welcome shade in the midday heat.

We pass a smattering of tourists and locals, but luckily everyone seems to be too absorbed in their phones or personal conversations to pay any specific attention to me.

And — more importantly — as Allard promised, the street is composed entirely of fashionable-looking independent boutiques.

"Let's try this one," I suggest, indicating the arched entryway of a store with an Italian name that I do not recognise, but which nevertheless seems to have several options for sandals on offer. And — given the scalding nature of the weather — an open-toe option is definitely appealing right now!

Stepping into the air-conditioned entranceway, I am immediately greeted by an immaculately made up woman with a severe ponytail, who starts questioning me in rapid-fire Italian.

"Umm..."

Luckily, I am saved from the embarrassment of trying to cobble together some kind of inappropriate response with the very limited — and wholly unhelpful — Italian that Bertrand had managed to teach me on the plane by Allard, who steps deftly up to my side.

"Lei è alla ricerca di alcune nuove scarpe."

"Che tipo de scarpe?"

"Sandals," I say, having understood the gist of the question. "No heel."

"Prego," the assistant says, flicking her hand towards some minimalist shelving.

"Gracia," I acknowledge with a smile.

Moving over to the indicated section, I quickly assess the options...

...and nearly die when I lay eyes on the price tags.

"Almost a thousand Euros...?" I gripe under my breath "For a few scraps of leather...?"

But then my eyes land on a pair bejewelled, gladiator-style sandals.

Given my limited window of opportunity to sneak in some sight-seeing before people start to question my absence, I don't have the luxury of being able to hunt for a bargain. And if I'm going to end up forking out this much money on a pair of shoes, I'm at least going to spend it on something that I like the look of.

And these sandals definitely fit the bill.

Decision made, I pull out my phone to quickly find out how my normal US shoe size converts to the vastly different European sizing, and turn back to the patiently waiting assistant.

"Size 36, please."

With a nod, she disappears 'round the back.

While she's gone, I take the opportunity to look up the location of the little pastry shop that the President had mentioned.

Since I'm heading towards the Trevi Fountain anyway, and Madeleine had pulled us out of this morning's meeting before the refreshments could be served, I had been serious when I told my Guards of my intent to tackle two birds with one stone. Especially since it's nearly lunchtime, and chances are I won't otherwise see food until the opera this evening.

The assistant reappears with my selection, and after a quick try-on, I give her a nod to ring up the extortionate purchase, being excessively grateful that I still have cash left in my US account, given that I don't actually have access to my new Cordonian accounts yet.

Stepping back out onto the street, I change out my shoes, slotting my pumps away into the high-end bag that I've been given, and dumping the shoebox in a nearby trash can.

My toes flex gratefully in their newfound freedom as I cross the street to the clothing boutique, wondering how much a top and pair of jean shorts is going to set me back...

In the end, however, I am pleasantly surprised to emerge back onto the street in a simple, white wrap-dress, a straw Panama hat, and a matching straw bucket bag in which I've stowed my old dress and shoes, all for under two hundred Euros, which means I was able to make recourse to the money Drake had given me, and still have plenty of cash left over for other potential emergencies.

"Thanks for the suggestion," I tell Allard sincerely. "It has definitely saved me from melting into the pavement!"

"De rien, Demoiselle," he acknowledges with a smile. "Are you ready to continue?"

"Lead the way, Monsieur!" I tell him with a grin.

Taking up poll position with a scoff — with Schweitzer bringing up the rear — Allard takes us left at the next intersection to zig-zag us down various side streets, presumably in a bid to avoid both the ferocity of the midday sun, and the chances of me being recognised on the busier avenues.

But, the back route pays off, and within ten minutes, I find myself standing on the edge of the crowded plaza that serves as the gateway to the romantic monument.

"Wow..." I breathe, taking it all in. "It sure is busy!"

Allard and Schweitzer exchange a tense look, no doubt worried about the prospect of being able to keep tabs on me in the press.

"I'll be fine," I assure them. "Just a quick peek and then we can get moving."

Neither of them look convinced, but they don't try to dissuade me as I plunge into the crowd.

Skirting around wedding parties, tour groups, and other miscellaneous sightseers, I manage to work my way to the front of the throng, and my mouth parts with a gasp at the sight spread out before me.

The four-storey monument rises up from the base of the fountain, framing the dynamically positioned statues from under whose feet the water gushes into the aquamarine pool.

It's like a Renaissance painting brought to life.

But, while I'm glad to have made the trip out here to see it in person, I can't help but feel my chest tighten morosely as I gaze up at the beauty of the world-famous landmark.

I didn't necessarily realise it at the time, but part of the reason why I enjoyed my outing in the Cordonian capital so much was because I had Drake to share the adventure with. And it was the same in Avignon — his wry quips and local knowledge had definitely brought the whole experience to life, making me see the city through different eyes than I probably would have had I been by myself... like I am now.

Eugh... I miss him...

Reaching for the ties of my bag on impulse, I pull the fastenings apart just enough to plunge my hand inside. Finding my purse, I snap it open and extract a Euro from the coin pouch.

Squeezing my fingers 'round the warmth of the metal, I clench my eyes shut with a heartfelt wish as I turn back towards the fountain...

...before sending the coin flipping through the air to land in the water before me with a soft plop.

Blinking my eyes open, I am somewhat disappointed to find myself still standing solo by the railing, and Drake has not magically appeared before me like the hot Italian guy did in The Lizzy McGuire Movie.

"Worth a shot..." I console myself somewhat dejectedly as I reach back into my bag to extract my phone so I could snap a couple of pictures to send to my mom.

Mission accomplished, I turn away from the fountain to make my way back to the edge of the square, Allard and Schweitzer falling into step behind me as I scan the various store-fronts clustered around the fountain, searching for the bakery with the pistachio croissants.

My eyes suddenly land on something in one of the window displays...

...and without really thinking about it, I let my feet carry me inside.

The little brass bell above the door jingles as I step into the cramped confines of what appears to be a shop selling a motley collection of antiques and touristy knick-knacks. A wizened old man sporting glasses and a thick head of white hair looks up at the sound of my arrival.

"Buon pomeriggio, signorina," he greets. "Posso aiutarla a cercare?"

"Umm... sì," I say hesitantly. "Hai avo... in the window?" I point at the item that had caught my eye with an embarrassed flush.

The man's face cracks into a grin. "Ah, certamente!"

Stepping out from behind the counter, he ambles his way over to the window display, to pull back the protective glass. Reaching in, he lifts up the silver chain and holds it out to me.

I run the tip of my finger across the edge of the pendant with a smile. "It's perfect."

"For you?" he asks, lifting the chain up to my neck indicatively.

"No," I laugh. "It's a present... Por mi amore?"

His eyes light up. "Ah, bellissimo! Lo avvolgerò in su per voi!"

"Gracia," I say as he scuttles excitedly back behind the counter in search of a box.

Pulling one out with a conspiratorial flourish, he sets about packaging up the piece as if he were swaddling a precious child for a hazardous journey, even managing to dig out a slightly dusty ribbon to tie on top.

"Cento euro," he declares, presenting the completed ensemble to me.

Pulling my wallet out, I extract my card. "Visa?"

"Sì! Ovviamente!" he proclaims, slapping a brand new Square card machine onto the counter, that was starkly at odds with the otherwise Ollivander-esque décor of the place.

Slotting my card into the reader, I complete the purchase, and am just about to reach for the box to stow it away in my bag when I feel a sudden presence behind me.

"This is becoming a bad habit with you..."

I freeze at the sound of the familiar voice.

No way...

The story continues in Chapter 20 - Steal Me Away

A/N: As per usual, translations below:

Nous vous tienons, Demoiselle - We got you, m'lady

At the bridal boutique:

Contessa! Contessa Maddalena! Quaggiù, per favore! - Countess! Countess! Over here, please!

Certainement. Vous allez bien? - Certainly. Are you alright?

C'est le bordel! Qu'est-ce qu'elle croyait?" - What mess! What was she thinking?

Sa mère la pute de— - Your mother is a whore of a—

Nom de dieu - Oh, my God!

Tu es une salle grace - You're a real bitch

Absolutement pas! - Absolutely not!

Je le jure - I swear

Lei è alla ricerca di alcune nuove scarpe - She is looking for some new shoes.

Out and About

Par ici - This way

Che tipo de scarpe? - What kind of shoes?

Prego - Please

Gracia - Thanks

De rien, Demoiselle - No problem, m'lady

Buon pomeriggio, signorina. Posso aiutarla a cercare? - Good afternoon, miss. Can I help you find anything?

Ah, bellissimo! Lo avvolgerò in su per voi! - Ah, lovely! I will wrap it up for you!

Por mi amore?* - For my love?

*This is a completely butchered attempt at Italian. The grammatically correct way to say it would be 'È per il mio amore'. However, Harper is improvising, so she's not going to get things completely correct 😇

Cento euro - One hundred Euros

Sì! Ovviamente! - Yes! Of course!

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(Less Than) Noble Intentions only (let me know if you want to be added!)

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[b0ng05]

Celina Juarez x fem reader

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Word Count: 1090

Prompt:

“God. I missed that.”

“Missed what?”

“Your aura. I- it um- it sounds kinda dorky, but your aura lights up the room.”

Summary: What happens when John Nolan and Lucy Chen notice some similarities between their rookies? What if they decided to play match maker?

Master list/ Request list

Part 2.

————————————————————

John walked into the bullpen, Celina in tow. Celina has been staying with John and Bailey on and off for a few weeks now.

“-I’m just saying, you should consider burning sage in your house.” Celina rambled as John tuned her out.

John just let out a small ‘maybe’, before sitting next to Lucy. As he sat, he let out a heavy sigh in irritation, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“What’s got you all grumpy?” Lucy teasingly asked, a playful smile itching to show.

“I think I need to set Celina up with someone.” John stated before glancing up at Lucy.

“And why exactly do you need to do that?” Nyla piped in while taking a seat on his left.

“Celina is an amazing girl, but Bailey and I haven’t been alone in weeks. Reminds me of when Henry was little.” John admitted while raising his hand to toy with the brim of his coffee cup.

“Just tell her that you need space.” Bradford suggested as he made his presence behind Lucy known.

“What are we talking about?” Angela asked as she took a seat on the edge of the table.

“Celina, John wants to set her up with someone.” Nyla replied while giving Angela a small smile.

Angela instantly perked up, “Isn’t there supposed to be a new officer transferring today? Set her up with the newbie.”

“Wait, is that her?” Lucy inquired while looking through the window of the pen to see Sergeant Grey and a woman.

The others followed Lucy’s sightline to a short woman chuckling at something Grey said.

“More importantly, is that Grey smiling?” John retorted, his eyes squinting in confusion as his head tilted.

Grey started walking to the bullpen door, the woman following closely behind.

When the woman walked in, Celina’s brain turned to mush. A bright pink, violet, and green aura followed the woman. Celina could feel her heart racing in her chest, something about this woman was different.

As Grey starts his debriefing, he pausing looking at you with a grin,

“This is officer Y/l/n, transferring from SDPD.” Grey introduced before continuing his speech.

The whole meeting, Celina’s face grew red. Her eyes kept stealing glances at Y/n. She was awestruck by this beautiful woman. Y/n was ethereal to Celina.

After a few minutes after the meeting ended, Celina still sat there. Her mind trying to rationalize how a woman could be that gorgeous and have such a sweet aura.

“Celina!” John called out, drawing her away from her daydream.

“Oh! I- uh, haha, hey!” Celina stuttered out, her eyes widen after seeing Bradford, Lopez, Chen, and Harper watching their interaction.

“You doin’ okay?” Concern coating John’s tone like honey.

“I- I um- Yeah, I’ll go get the war bag.” Celina said, her eyes focused on her shoes to hide her reddening cheeks from the nosy officers.

Celina quickly walked off, having felt embarrassed. The four other officers call John back over to them.

“Okay, you can definitely set Y/n and Celina up.” Lucy stated with a goofy grin on her lips.

“What?” John asked, confusion overtaking his features.

“Did you not see how Celina looked at her?” Nyla deadpanned, her hand falling to the table dumbfounded.

John shook his head, his eyebrows furrowing. His cluelessness even has Bradford dumbstruck.

“It’s obvious that Celina finds Y/n attractive. She was practically drooling when she saw her.” Bradford explained before shaking his head and walking off to his desk.

Angela laughed teasingly at John.

“Geez, aren’t you supposed to be an insightful cop?” Nyla harped with a playful smile.

“I was paying attention to Grey, not my rookie’s crush.” He defended with a small smile, his hands raised in surrender.

“The real question is how do we get them together?” Nyla inquired with a raised brow, she lifted her coffee to her lips taking a long sip.

“I could try to talk Y/n today. Get some intel and then we can text and try to plan things from there,” Angela suggested with a mischievous smile.

With that, they all started going their separate ways to start their jobs.

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

“Okay! So maybe I think she’s pretty.” Celina confessed after being grilled by Aaron and Lucy all lunch.

“See! I knew it!” Lucy cheered while holding out her hand towards Aaron.

Aaron scoffed and grabbed his wallet from his pocket, dropping a crisp bill into Lucy’s awaiting hand.

“I’m sorry, did you place a bet on that?” Celina’s eyes widen and she bites back an annoyed scoff. But secretly loving that they could see just how much of an affect you had on her.

“Oh absolutely. After I saw you gawking at her in the bullpen, I bet Aaron 10 bucks that you like her.” Lucy explained while flexing the bill between her fingers.

“Uh- I- I wasn’t gawking!” Celina defended, her cheeks glowing red at the embarrassment of being caught.

“Oh I saw it, you were totally gawking.” Lucy stated with a cheeky grin.

“I- whatever.” Celina turned away from them, trying to hide her red cheeks.

“Hey is that her?” Aaron teased while glancing over Celina’s shoulder.

Celina whips her head around trying to see what he saw. Only to hear the two laughing at her oblivion.

“This is why I normally sit with Nolan.” Celina mumbles as she takes a sip of her coffee.

Lucy and Aaron laugh at her words, Aaron nudges Celina’s shoulder.

“C’mon, you know you love us.” Aaron teases with a grin.

Celina shakes her head as her brown eyes wander their surroundings. Eyes catching on Y/n eating lunch with Angela and Nyla. The women laugh and crack jokes, but Celina can only focus on how radiant Y/n looks. Celina finds herself admiring the soft look on the new officer’s face. The way her hair sits so perfectly, the soft slope of her nose, and her smiling lips. Imagining how sweet they would feel against hers, how delicate the woman’s touch would feel. God, Celina was swooning for the woman and she hadn’t even talked to her yet.

“Earth to Celina- Finally!” Lucy laughs as she finally catches the woman’s attention.

“We’re about to head out, we’ll see you later.” Lucy smiles as she and Aaron get up from the table to get back to work.

Celina nods and sits at the table waiting for Nolan to finish his lunch. But she notices that Angela and Nyla are leaving their table, leaving you at the table by yourself….

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[bat-stuff]

Batfam as things my friends/teachers/random people I know have said:

Alfred: I'm not old, just built different

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Stephanie: I'm gonna snort the goldfish dust

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Tim, days after asking Bernard out: Yo, that pumpkin’s staring at me weird. He wants to Marvin Gaye and get it on and i’m just like dude, stop. I have a boyfriend now.

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*Talking about some actor*

Stephanie: Well, is he hot?

Kate: Honestly, as a lesbian yeah

Duke: Wait, he's a lesbian?

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

Jason: I like watching paternity court because it reminds me of what I could've had

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

Dick: Is Bruce Wayne- IS BATMAN A RIZZMIESTER?

Damian: Definitely not

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

Cullen: Yo, why is there no blond kronk? I wish I was blonde Kronk

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

Barbara: If we can talk about Superman's pheromones, we can talk about little british boys

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

Harper: Can we talk about how Jesus would totally have a dad bod

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Dick, trying to explain the family: I mean, we saw Bruce buy a child. Then we sold Tim to him as a child. Then Jason did some freaky drug shit, I don't know man...

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Damian: See this stuff, it doesn't stick together. Just like my family

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Bruce: Words hurt? Well so does my fist

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Jason, about Bruce: The truth is that he doesn't love us

Bruce: Just because I embarrass you does not mean I don't love you.

Jason: If what you just said is your definition of "embarrassing me" I'd prefer it if you didn't love me

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

Cass, about every single family member: They're a brilliant idiot, we love them. But they scare me sometimes.

[lena-in-a-red-dress]

I'm listening to Seraphina by Rachel Hartman, and it's mentioned a guildsman, which got me thinking about guilds, which reminds me of Tamora Pierce's Provost's Dog trilogy, which reminds me of my fave character from that series, Lady Sabine the lady knight.

Which in turn has me thinking about an au where Lena is a lady knight for House Luthor, and Kara is the star of the music guild. Harpers guild? No wait, thats Pern. Performers guild? What would they be called? I don't like those options.... needs to be more lyrical.

Anyway. Kara's the songbird and Lena's the lady knight who falls in love with her. Send tweet.