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[crossfandomskylines]

In the Space Between: Chapter 20

OTHER CHAPTERS:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: Glen and Gabby enjoy a laid-back evening together, starting with burgers from a cozy local spot near Gabby’s apartment. Their casual dinner transitions into an intimate at-home date night filled with easy conversation and quiet moments of connection that deepen their bond. However, the peaceful night takes an unsettling turn when Gabby receives a late-night phone call from an ex.

Word Count: 7.1k

Warnings: Mild Language (words like "dammit" and other mild profanities), Themes of Emotional Distress (feelings of unease and discomfort related to previous relationships), Discussions of Safety and Boundaries (includes mentions of possible stalking or unwanted contact, which might be sensitive to some readers), Protective Behavior: Glen’s reaction, while supportive, includes heightened emotions and protectiveness that may feel intense for some readers.

A/N: Hey guys! So this chapter has a lot of upbeat, happy moments, and I do love that for Gabby but I also feel like real life and real relationships always have a few bumps so this chapter includes a bump for Gabby and Glen. This chapter does include a slightly different side of Glen than we've seen, but I think I did okay with conveying what he may be thinking or feeling in this situation. As always please let me know what you think with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs. I love seeing your thoughts on this story as it progresses!

As they wrapped up their leisurely walk through the park, Gabby’s stomach gave a soft, audible grumble, making her cheeks flush in embarrassment.

Glen, ever attuned to her, chuckled and said, “We should probably eat. Skipping lunch for... other activities wasn’t the most sustainable plan.” His teasing tone made Gabby’s face heat even more, and she swatted playfully at his arm.

“I wasn’t the one who suggested skipping lunch,” she shot back, her lips curling into a smirk despite herself.

Glen raised a brow, a grin appearing on his face. “Didn’t hear you complaining earlier when I was-”

Gabby groaned, covering her face with one hand as Glen laughed. “Alright, fine,” she said, peeking at him through her fingers. “I know a great burger place nearby. It’s become one of my favorite spots since moving here.”

“Burgers, huh?” Glen drawled, falling into step beside her as they exited the park. “Sounds perfect!”

“Are you sure…” Gabby teased, tilting her head as if considering something.

Glen grinned and then said "What?" with a chuckle.

"I mean have you seen your abs? Do you even eat burgers?”

He let out an exaggerated gasp this time, clutching his chest as if mortally wounded. “Now that’s just plain insulting. I’ll have you know I’m very experienced in the fine art of burger eating. Greasy hands and all.”

Gabby giggled, shaking her head at his theatrics. But as they reached the edge of the park and started down the sidewalk, she froze mid-step. “Oh. I forgot my purse back at the apartment.”

“It’s fine,” Glen said with a casual shrug. “I’ve got it.”

“No, no,” Gabby protested quickly, spinning on her heel to head back toward her place. “It’s my turn to buy. We’ll just swing by my place and grab it.”

But before she could take more than a few steps, Glen grabbed her hand, tugging her back toward the direction of the restaurant. 

“Not happening,” he said firmly, his southern drawl soft but resolute.

“Glen—”

“Gabby,” he interrupted, his tone gentle yet teasing as he gave her hand a tug. “I’m covering it. End of discussion.”

“But—”

He shot her a knowing look, his hand tightening around hers as he started leading her down the street. “You can fight me on this all you want, sweetheart, but you’re not going back to the apartment just to grab your purse. Besides, what kind of gentleman would I be if I let you pay?”

Gabby groaned, dragging her feet just enough to make a point, though her heart did a little flip at the way he called her sweetheart. “You’re insufferable, you know that?”

“Maybe,” Glen replied with a wide grin. “But you love it.”

She rolled her eyes but didn’t argue, letting him steer her toward the burger joint as her heart warmed at the thoughtfulness behind his insistence.

When they turned the corner onto the street where the burger place was, Gabby groaned softly. Despite the fact it was barely past four in the afternoon, a line had already formed outside, snaking down the sidewalk. 

Glen raised an eyebrow as he took in the scene. “Popular spot, huh?”

“Yeah,” Gabby said with a sheepish smile. “I wasn’t kidding when I said it’s a favorite of mine. It’s a local gem, but word must’ve gotten out. It’s not usually this packed.”

As they got closer, Glen glanced around, his posture shifting ever so slightly. Gabby followed his gaze and noticed a few people in line turning to look in their direction. Most didn’t say anything, but their glances lingered just a little too long, brows furrowing as if trying to place where they’d seen him before.

“Maybe we should get it to go,” Glen suggested, his voice low and calm. “Take it back to your place. Fewer people. Fewer eyes.”

Gabby didn’t hesitate. “Yeah, that works for me.”

But just as she finished speaking, a young woman broke away from the line and walked toward them, her phone already in hand. She was in her early twenties, wearing an oversized sweatshirt and sneakers, her eyes wide with excitement. 

“Oh my God, are you Glen Powell?” she asked, her voice tinged with nervous energy.

Glen offered a polite smile, the kind that came so naturally to him. “I am. Hi.”

“Can I… can I get a picture with you? I’m such a big fan,” she gushed, holding up her phone.

“Of course,” Glen said smoothly, already stepping a little to the side so she could position herself next to him.

Gabby, feeling a bit like an intruder, took a step back, giving them space. The fan snapped a selfie, her face practically glowing as she thanked him profusely.

As she walked back to the line, Glen turned to Gabby, pulling his wallet from his back pocket. He slipped a credit card into her hand, his fingers brushing hers for just a moment. 

“Go ahead and order for us while I handle this,” he said, nodding toward the growing cluster of people who had now started to edge closer, their expressions filled with recognition.

“Are you sure?” Gabby asked, glancing at the credit card and then back at him.

“Yeah,” he said, flashing her a quick grin. “Double burger, no cheese, with everything else, and fries. I’ll meet you inside if I can, or back at your place if I can’t.”

Slipping inside the restaurant, Gabby took a steadying breath. The warm smell of burgers and fries hit her instantly, a comforting contrast to the whirlwind of activity outside. She stepped up to the counter, placed their order, and then stood off to the side, watching through the window as Glen patiently interacted with his fans.

Even as she admired his kindness and easy charm, a small part of her couldn’t help but think about how different her life would look if she stayed in his world. It was thrilling in some ways, but also overwhelming.

As Gabby moved to the side with their order receipt in hand, she glanced out the window again. Glen was surrounded now, a small crowd forming around him as if he were a magnet. His smile never wavered, and he seemed at ease, laughing and chatting with his fans as he signed autographs and posed for photos.

Gabby shifted her gaze, focusing on the cheerful chaos of the restaurant instead. The sizzle of burgers on the griddle and the chatter of diners filled the air, grounding her in the moment. She leaned against the counter, her fingers absentmindedly fidgeting with the corner of the receipt.

She was happy for Glen’s success, for the way he connected with people, but moments like this also reminded her of the unique challenges that came with being close to someone like him.

Before she could dwell on it further, the cashier called her name, sliding a bag of food and two cups across the counter. Gabby grabbed them and headed toward the door, taking one last glance at Glen through the glass.

As Gabby pushed the door open, the warm air greeted her, along with the low murmur of voices blending with the hum of the city. Glen’s unmistakable figure was still surrounded, his broad shoulders towering above most of the fans who had gathered. She lingered just outside the restaurant, holding the bag of food in one hand and balancing the two drinks in the other.

Glen spotted her almost immediately. His eyes softened when they met hers, and for a moment, his signature grin was reserved just for her. He quickly returned his attention to the fans, posing for another picture and signing the back of someone’s phone case.

“Alright, guys,” Glen said, his southern drawl cutting through the chatter. “I hate to run, but I’ve gotta go.”

The crowd let out a mix of disappointed sighs and understanding smiles. “Thank you so much for stopping and saying hi,” he added, his charm in full effect. “I’m sorry I couldn’t get to everyone, but maybe next time.”

With a few more quick waves and apologies, Glen excused himself and began making his way toward Gabby. She watched him weave through the small crowd with an effortless ease that never failed to amaze her.

When he reached her, Glen immediately took the two drinks from her hands. “Let me get those,” he said, his voice soft as if they were the only two people on the street.

“Thanks,” she replied, handing them over gratefully.

He glanced at the bag in her other hand. “Got everything?”

Gabby nodded. “Yep, burgers, fries, the works. Just hope it lives up to the hype I gave it.”

They walked in comfortable silence for a moment, the buzz of the city fading into the background. Glen shifted the drinks to one hand and reached for her free one with the other, his fingers intertwining with hers as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

“You didn’t have to cut them off, you know,” Gabby said after a moment, glancing at him.

Glen shrugged, his thumb brushing lightly over her knuckles. “I didn’t want to keep you waiting. Besides, I don’t mind signing a few things or taking pictures, but I’d rather spend my time with you.”

Gabby’s cheeks warmed at his words, and she squeezed his hand gently. Glen grinned down at her, his expression so genuine it made her chest tighten.

Back at Gabby’s apartment, the comforting smell of grilled burgers and salty fries filled the air as they unpacked their to-go order. Gabby grabbed some napkins from the kitchen while Glen set the drinks down on the coffee table. The cozy familiarity of the space wrapped around them, a quiet sanctuary far from the prying eyes of the world.

She plopped down onto the couch, cross-legged, balancing her burger and fries in her lap. Glen joined her, sitting close enough that their knees brushed. He opened his own burger, the wrapper crinkling in the quiet apartment. For a moment, the only sounds were their contented sighs and the occasional clink of an ice cube in their drinks.

“This is nice,” Gabby said between bites, gesturing vaguely at the room.

Glen chuckled. “A burger on a couch?”

She nudged him playfully with her foot. “Hey, don’t knock it. You’re the one who said this would live up to the hype.”

“And you weren’t wrong,” he admitted, holding up his burger like a toast. “It’s good.”

They ate in comfortable silence for a while before Glen set his food aside and leaned back against the couch, his gaze flickering toward her. “You know,” he began, his voice soft, “I’m sorry we don’t get to go on more...real dates.”

Gabby looked up from her fries, her expression thoughtful. “Real dates? Like fancy restaurants and candlelit dinners?”

Glen nodded, a small, sheepish smile tugging at his lips. “Yeah, something like that. Something...normal.”

She tilted her head, considering his words. “Honestly? I kind of like this better.”

He raised an eyebrow, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. “Sitting on your couch eating burgers?”

“Exactly.” Gabby smiled, her tone warm. “It’s just...us. No cameras, no crowds, no worrying about what we’re supposed to wear or how we’re supposed to act. Just you, me, and a really good burger.”

Glen leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees as he studied her. “You really mean that?”

“Of course I do,” she replied, her smile softening. “Don’t get me wrong, the idea of you surprising me with some romantic, sweeping date is nice. And we'll get there. Eventually people will find out about us and then we can go out and do stuff together. But this? This feels real. It feels...right. At least for right now.”

A genuine grin spread across Glen’s face, his eyes lighting up. “You’re something else, you know that?”

Gabby shrugged, popping a fry into her mouth. “Yeah, but you like me anyway.”

Glen leaned back against the couch, a laugh rumbling low in his chest. “That I do,” he said, his grin lingering as he glanced at Gabby.

For a moment, he simply watched her. The way she picked up another fry and twirled it idly in her fingers, the light catching the soft curve of her smile, the way her eyes crinkled at the corners when she looked at him. How had he ever gotten so lucky? She was smart and funny, quick with a teasing remark but always knowing when to be gentle. She challenged him in ways that made him want to be better, and somehow, she fit into his life so seamlessly—getting along with his family, handling his whirlwind schedule, and being unbothered by the chaos that came with dating someone like him.

Glen wasn’t sure how long he’d been staring, lost in his thoughts, when Gabby caught his gaze. Her brow furrowed slightly as she tilted her head.

“What?” she asked, reaching for a napkin and swiping it across her mouth. “Do I have ketchup on my face or something?”

That broke his trance, and he chuckled softly, shaking his head. “No, nothing like that.”

“Then why are you looking at me like that?” she pressed, her tone light but curious as she crumpled the napkin in her hand.

Glen hesitated for a second, feeling a flush of vulnerability rise in his chest, but then he decided to just say it. “I was just thinking about how perfect you are.”

Gabby froze, the fry halfway to her mouth, her eyes widening. “What?”

“You’re perfect,” Glen said, his smile turning softer. “For me, anyway. You’re smart, funny, way too patient with me and my crazy life,” he added with a teasing grin.

Gabby blinked, her face turning a shade pinker as she shifted uncomfortably on the couch. She glanced down at the food in her lap, fiddling with the edge of the wrapper. “I... I don’t know what to say to that,” she admitted, her voice quieter now.

“You don’t have to say anything,” Glen assured her, leaning closer and nudging her knee with his. “I just wanted you to know.”

She lifted her gaze back to his, her lips twitching into a small, shy smile. “I’m not really good at... taking compliments like that,” she confessed.

“I’ve noticed,” Glen said, his tone teasing but fond. He reached out and gently tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “But I’ll keep giving them anyway.”

Gabby’s cheeks flushed deeper, but the warmth in his voice settled something inside her. “You’re impossible, you know that?” she said, trying to cover her shyness with humor.

“Yeah,” Glen replied, leaning back with a grin. “But you like me anyway.” He added, mocking her earlier words just minutes before.

Her soft laugh filled the space between them, and for a moment, the world felt small and perfect. Just them, a couple of burgers, and a quiet evening in the only place they both wanted to be.

By the time they finished their burgers, the golden light of early evening was spilling through the windows of Gabby’s apartment. Glen stretched his legs out in front of him, his socked feet propped up on the edge of her coffee table. Gabby stood, gathering up their empty wrappers and drink cups, and he couldn’t help but watch her again, this time admiring the ease with which they fit together, even in such an ordinary moment.

“So,” she said as she walked back from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel before tossing it onto the counter. “What now?”

Glen grinned, pulling her down onto the couch beside him. “Now, we watch a movie.”

Gabby raised a brow, settling into the crook of his arm. “Oh yeah? And what cinematic masterpiece are you gracing me with tonight?”

“Masterpiece is a strong word,” Glen teased, reaching for the remote. “But I’ve got one in mind. It’s a classic.”

“Classic as in ‘actual classic,’ or classic as in ‘one of those movies guys insist everyone has to see?’” Gabby asked, her lips quirking into a smirk.

Glen shot her a mock-offended look. “Hey, I have great taste. You’ll thank me for this one.”

Gabby laughed, curling her legs beneath her as Glen pulled up the movie. Her curiosity piqued as the title appeared on the screen. “Wait, you’re kidding,” she said, glancing up at him. “You’ve been telling me to watch this for how long now?”

“Too long,” Glen replied, pressing play. “It’s about time you finally listened to me, and watched it.”

Gabby rolled her eyes playfully but leaned into his side, her head resting against his shoulder as the opening credits began to roll. “This better be good,” she teased, though the warmth in her voice made it clear she was just happy to be there with him.

Glen smiled, draping his arm around her and pulling her closer. “Trust me,” he said softly.

As the movie began, Gabby shifted, trying to find a comfortable position. She tucked her feet beneath her, her knee brushing against Glen’s thigh. He didn’t seem to mind—in fact, he glanced down at her with a soft smile and adjusted his arm around her shoulders to give her more space.

A few minutes in, Gabby felt Glen’s hand begin to absentmindedly trace patterns along her arm. The motion was slow, soothing, and entirely distracting. She tried to focus on the screen, but the warmth of his touch sent a pleasant shiver down her spine. She glanced up at him, and he gave her a small, knowing smile, as if he was perfectly aware of the effect he was having on her.

“Am I supposed to be watching the movie or getting distracted by you?” she teased, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Can’t it be both?” he murmured, his thumb brushing over the curve of her shoulder.

Gabby rolled her eyes but didn’t pull away. Instead, she nestled closer, letting her head rest against his chest. His heartbeat was steady beneath her ear, and she let the rhythm lull her into a state of utter contentment.

At some point during a particularly tense scene, Gabby shifted again, wrapping her arm around Glen’s middle. His hand slid from her arm to her waist, pulling her a fraction closer. She felt the press of his lips against her hair—gentle and fleeting, but enough to send her heart fluttering.

“You okay?” he asked, his voice soft.

“Mm-hmm,” she murmured, tilting her head to glance up at him. “Just getting comfortable.”

As the movie played on, Gabby found herself more focused on the little things—like the way Glen’s fingers never stopped moving, tracing idle patterns against her skin, or the way he’d glance down at her with a contented smile whenever she laughed at a particularly funny line.

At one point, when a suspenseful scene had her gripping his shirt without realizing it, he leaned down and whispered, “Relax, sweetheart. It’s just a movie.”

During the two hours of the movie, time slipped away. The movie played on, but for Glen, it wasn’t just about the story on the screen. It was about moments like this—Gabby’s quiet laughter at the funny parts, the way she tensed during the suspenseful scenes, and the little comments she whispered, keeping up her running commentary.

As the credits began to roll, Gabby looked up at him with a satisfied smile. “Okay, I’ll admit it. That was pretty good.”

“Pretty good?” Glen echoed, feigning insult. “That’s all you’ve got?”

“Don’t push it, cowboy,” Gabby teased, patting his chest.

Glen chuckled, dropping a kiss onto the top of her head. “Fine. I’ll take pretty good,” he murmured, his voice low and content.

For a moment, they stayed like that, the world outside quiet and still, as if time had slowed just for them.

The soft glow of the TV illuminated the living room as they lingered on the couch, neither in a rush to move. Outside, the sky had deepened to an inky black, dotted with stars visible even from the city. Gabby sighed contentedly, still leaning against Glen’s chest.

“It’s getting late,” she murmured, tilting her head back to look at him.

“Mm,” Glen agreed, his hand brushing up and down her arm. “Guess I should let you get some rest.”

Gabby hesitated for a beat, her fingers playing with the hem of his shirt. “You don’t have to go,” she said softly, her voice tentative but hopeful.

Glen stilled, his gaze locking with hers. “You want me to stay?”

She nodded, her cheeks warming slightly. “Yeah, I’d like that. If you don’t mind.”

“Gabby,” he said, his voice soft but firm, “there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

Her smile widened at his words, and she pushed herself up off the couch, holding out her hand to him. “Come on then,” she said, tugging him to his feet.

Glen followed her down the hall to her bedroom, the space cozy and familiar, just like the rest of her apartment. She flipped on a lamp, casting the room in a warm, golden light.

Gabby opened a drawer and pulled out a spare toothbrush, handing it to Glen with a small smile. “Figured you might need this,” she said, her tone light.

He chuckled, accepting it. “Always so thoughtful.”

They moved through the small routines of getting ready for bed with an ease that surprised Gabby. They stood side by side at the sink, brushing their teeth in companionable silence, the quiet intimacy of the moment grounding them both. Glen caught her gaze in the mirror and wiggled his eyebrows, earning a laugh that made her spit toothpaste into the sink.

She wasn’t used to sharing these intimate, quiet moments with someone else, but with Glen, it felt natural. By the time she returned to the bedroom, he was already there, pulling back the covers on her bed.

“Make yourself at home, why don’t you,” she teased, crossing her arms as she leaned against the doorframe.

He smirked, tossing her a playful look. “Don’t mind if I do.”

Gabby rolled her eyes, but her heart swelled at how effortlessly he fit into her space. She slid into bed beside him, pulling the blanket up over her shoulders. Glen turned off the lamp, plunging the room into darkness save for the faint glow from the streetlights outside the window.

As they settled, Glen wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close against his chest. She rested her head on his shoulder, her hand splayed across his chest, feeling the steady rise and fall of his breaths.

“Thanks for letting me stay,” he murmured, his voice low in the quiet room.

Gabby tilted her head up to look at him, her expression soft. “Thanks for wanting to.”

Glen pressed a kiss to her forehead, his lips lingering for a moment. “Always,” he said simply.

The stillness of the night wrapped around them as they lay there, their breaths evening out in sync. And for the first time in a long while, Gabby felt completely and utterly at peace.

* * * * *

Gabby stirred at the faint vibration of her phone on the nightstand, its soft buzz slicing through the stillness of the room. She blinked, her mind groggy as she reached for it, squinting at the sudden glow of the screen.

Her chest tightened when she saw the words No Caller ID.

She didn’t need to guess. She already knew.

Her thumb hovered over the screen, a cold knot forming in her stomach. She glanced at the time—11:47 p.m.—and sighed, the familiar sinking feeling taking hold. It was late back in Iowa. 2:47 to be exact.

It was Luke, her ex-boyfriend who she had been with for just under two years.

Luke’s late-night drunk calls had started a month after their breakup. They continued for another month before Gabby moved to Los Angeles, and now, six months after the breakup, they were still happening. It had been a few weeks, since the last time he'd called her, but the timing and reason for the call hadn’t changed.

He was drunk—he had to be. He wouldn’t be calling otherwise.

She could practically hear the slur in his voice before she even answered, the overconfident drawl that somehow still got under her skin.

Gabby’s jaw clenched, her body tense as she stared at the screen. She should let it go to voicemail. She knew she should. There was no reason to answer, not anymore. And yet…

Her thumb twitched.

Part of her wanted to pick up, even though she hated herself for it. There was a pull she couldn’t quite explain, like some small, destructive part of her still craved the chaos he brought into her life. Dammit. He always knew when to strike—when she was starting to find her footing, when she was beginning to move on. It was like he could sense it, somehow.

And now, of all times. Just when she’d finally found someone. Not just someone. Glen. Glen, who was still sleeping soundly behind her, his arm draped loosely over her waist, warm and grounding. Glen, who was the polar opposite of the man calling her right now. A stand-up guy who made her feel seen, cared for, safe.

Her heart twisted at the thought. Her ex knew nothing about Glen, but it didn’t matter. It was like he could somehow feel her happiness from a distance and just had to insert himself into it.

The phone buzzed again, insistent and unrelenting. He knew she’d pick up—he was sure of it. And the worst part? He was probably right.

Gabby glanced over her shoulder at Glen, still deeply asleep, his face relaxed in the faint moonlight. Her chest tightened with guilt as she carefully slid out from under his arm, moving as slowly and silently as possible. He shifted slightly but didn’t wake.

Phone in hand, she tiptoed out of the bedroom, closing the door softly behind her. The living room was dim, the faint glow of streetlights casting long shadows across the walls. She stood there for a moment, staring at the screen.

Her thumb hovered over the green button. She shouldn’t do this. She knew better. But as much as she hated it, a part of her still needed to hear whatever excuse he had this time. Maybe it was closure. Maybe it was habit.

Or maybe it was just him, always knowing exactly how to pull her back in.

Gabby took a deep breath and answered, lifting the phone to her ear. “Hello?”

Gabby pressed the phone to her ear, her heart pounding in the silence. For a moment, she thought he might have hung up. But then she heard it—his voice, low and slurred, dragging her back to a place she never wanted to revisit.

“Gabby.”

It wasn’t a question, just her name, drawn out like a plea.

Her throat tightened. “Why are you calling me at three in the morning?”

There was a pause, a long, heavy silence where she could almost hear him piecing together an answer. Then came the half-hearted, slurred response she’d been expecting. “Sorry.”

It wasn’t sincere. It never was.

Before she could say anything, he kept going, his voice softening, slipping into the tone that used to make her believe him. “I just… I’ve been thinking about you. How’ve you been?”

Her stomach churned. She could already see where this was heading, the same road they’d gone down too many times before. She swallowed hard, gripping the phone tighter. “I’ve been fine,” she said, keeping her voice steady.

“I miss you.” The words hit her like a weight, heavy and unwelcome.

Gabby closed her eyes, a bitter laugh caught in her throat. Of course, he did. He always missed her when he was drunk and alone, when it was convenient for him. She stayed silent, and when he spoke again, his voice cracked just slightly. “When are you coming home?”

Home. The word used to mean something when it came from him, but not anymore. 

Her gaze drifted to the bedroom door, just a few feet away. She thought of Glen, his warmth, his patience, the way he looked at her like she was the only thing that mattered in the world. A man who truly made her feel like she was home when she was with him.

And just like that, she felt it—the weight of all the years she’d wasted on a man who never deserved her. The tether he’d always had on her finally snapped.

“I’m not,” she said, her voice firmer than she expected.

There was a pause, and she could almost hear him processing her words. “What do you mean?”

“I mean I’m not coming back,” Gabby said, her resolve hardening. “My life is here now. In California. And I’m happy.”

Another silence, this one shorter, sharper. Then he asked, his tone shifting, edged with suspicion, “Are you seeing someone?”

Gabby’s chest tightened. She hesitated, just for a moment, but it was long enough for him to pounce.

“You are, aren’t you?” His voice was rising now, slurred anger bubbling to the surface. “I knew it. You’re lying, Gabby. You’ve got someone else.”

Her grip tightened on the phone as she stared at the closed door, her heart aching with both frustration and determination. Glen didn’t deserve to be dragged into this mess.

A part of her wanted to tell Luke about him—about the man who treated her with care and respect, who made her feel safe and loved in ways Luke never could. She wanted Luke to know that she wasn’t his to control anymore, that she was falling asleep next to someone else, waking up next to someone else, living a life he had no part in.

But she couldn’t. Luke couldn’t find out about Glen—not because she was afraid of Luke, but because of who Glen was. The moment Luke found out that Glen Powell was her boyfriend, he’d latch onto it, twisting it into a storm of anger and jealousy, a storm Glen didn’t deserve to weather. And she wouldn’t let Luke drag him into that chaos.

Glen had given her a new kind of peace, and she wasn’t going to let anyone take it away—not even Luke.

"No. There's no one else," she said sharply, cutting him off with the lie. "I'm just done, Luke."

Saying his name felt like a final step, severing the last thread between them.

He started to speak again, but she didn’t let him. “Don’t call me anymore. I mean it.”

Gabby ended the call with a quiet click, lowering the phone to her lap as the silence of the apartment closed in around her. Her heart was still racing, her mind tangled in a web of thoughts she didn’t want to examine too closely.

Luke’s voice lingered in her ears, even though she wished it wouldn’t. Why now? Why tonight? It was like he knew, somehow, that she’d finally moved on, that she’d finally found someone who treated her the way she’d always deserved.

Glen. Her chest tightened at the thought of him, still asleep in her bed, blissfully unaware of the storm that had just passed through her mind. She didn’t want to disturb him with this, didn’t want Luke’s presence to creep into the sanctuary she was building with Glen.

All she wanted to do was crawl back into the sanctuary of his arms, go back to sleep, and try to forget about Luke. But as much as she wanted to push it all away, Gabby knew she wouldn’t be able to fall back asleep. Not yet. She needed to clear her head first.

Sliding off the couch, she set her phone on the coffee table and grabbed a textbook from the nearby shelf. It wasn’t the most exciting option, but it was something. Something to focus on, something to fill the silence and the space in her mind where Luke’s words had tried to settle.

She flicked on the lamp next to the couch, its soft glow cutting through the darkness, and sat back down. Opening the book to a random page, she tried to focus on the words in front of her. But her thoughts kept wandering back to Luke.

It wasn’t the first time he’d called her like this, and she doubted it would be the last. He somehow always knew how to worm his way back in, to find her weakest moments and exploit them. For a while she had. She’d let him call her and she would talk to him for awhile each time, convincing herself that his late-night calls meant something. That he missed her. That he cared.

But tonight felt different. Tonight, she hadn’t felt the old pull, the old ache to answer his questions and ease his loneliness. Instead, she’d felt… anger. Frustration. Even a little pity.

And when she’d told him she wasn’t coming back, she’d meant it.

Gabby let out a slow breath, leaning her head back against the couch. For the first time in a long time, she felt like she was taking control. Like she was finally closing a door she should have shut a long time ago.

The creak of the bedroom door pulled Gabby from her spiraling thoughts. She looked up as Glen appeared, his hair sticking up in soft tufts from sleep and his shirt rumpled from lying in bed. He rubbed at his eyes as he shuffled toward her, concern already etching into his features when he saw the lamp on and Gabby sitting on the couch.

“Hey,” he murmured, his voice husky from sleep. “What’re you doing out here?”

Gabby straightened, quickly closing the textbook and placing it on the coffee table. “Oh, uh, nothing. Just couldn’t sleep.”

Glen’s gaze flicked to her phone on the table, the screen dark now but still holding weight in the silence. “You okay? Did something wake you up?”

She hesitated, then forced a small smile. “Just a spam call. You know how annoying those can be.”

Glen frowned, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied her. She was avoiding his gaze, her hands fidgeting with the corner of the textbook, and her teeth were tugging at her lower lip—a habit he’d learned she only fell into when she was deep in thought.

“Spam call, huh?” he said, moving to sit beside her. His voice was calm, but there was a note of skepticism in it. “At midnight?”

Gabby glanced at him, then back at her phone, as if debating what to say next. “Yeah. Weird timing, I know.”

Glen tilted his head, watching her carefully. “Gabby.” He reached out, gently placing his hand over hers to still her fidgeting. “What’s going on? Really.”

She sighed, her shoulders sinking under the weight of the question. “It’s nothing…” She trailed off, her voice faltering.

Glen waited, his thumb brushing lightly over her knuckles. 

When she didn’t continue, he pressed gently, his tone soft but firm. “It doesn’t seem like nothing. You’re biting your lip, you’re avoiding looking at me, and you’re way too awake for someone who’s ‘just fine.’ Talk to me.”

Gabby hesitated for a long moment, then finally relented, her voice barely above a whisper. “It was… Luke.”

“Who is Luke?”

“My ex.”

Glen’s brow furrowed. “Your ex called you? At midnight?”

She nodded, her gaze fixed on the coffee table. “Yeah. He’s… drunk, I’m sure. He always is when he calls this late.”

Glen sat back slightly, processing her words. “How often does this happen?”

Gabby shrugged, her tone too casual, too dismissive. “I don’t know. Once in a while. It’s not a big deal.”

But Glen wasn’t convinced. “Gabby.” His voice was sharper this time, not with anger but with concern. “How often is ‘once in a while’? Is this the first time? The second? The tenth?”

She sighed again, crossing her arms over her chest. “It doesn’t matter. He’s just… being drunk and stupid. He does this sometimes, but it’s harmless. I don’t answer most of the time.”

Glen’s jaw tightened. “And when you do answer?”

“This time I told him I’m not coming back to Iowa,” Gabby said simply, her voice steady but her gaze distant. “I told him my life is here now.”

Glen exhaled sharply through his nose, his jaw tightening. “Okay, but what if he doesn’t get the message? What if he keeps calling? Or worse—what if he shows up here?”

Gabby shook her head, her tone soft but resolute. “He won’t. He’s not… like that.”

“How do you know that?” Glen asked, his voice dropping to a low, measured tone that carried an edge of barely-contained tension. He reached up and ran a hand through his hair as he stood and began to pace in front of her couch.

Gabby frowned, watching him. “Glen—”

“No.” He turned to her, his expression serious, almost angry, but not at her—never at her. “This isn’t okay. Him calling you in the middle of the night like this. It’s not normal.”

She bit her lip, unsure how to respond, but Glen wasn’t finished. He took a step closer, his voice still steady but tinged with urgency. “What if he’s not just calling? What if he decides to come out here and try to talk to you in person? Do you know how easily that could happen? Or what he might do if you don’t give him the answer he wants?”

“Glen, he’s not like that,” she insisted softly, though even she didn’t sound entirely convinced. "He wouldn't hurt me."

“You don’t know that,” Glen said firmly, his eyes locking onto hers. “You don’t know what someone’s capable of when they think they’re losing control. And the fact that you didn’t tell me this has been happening before tonight?” He shook his head, his frustration clear, though his voice softened as he added, “I wish you would’ve told me sooner, Gabby.”

Her defenses faltered under the weight of his concern. She crossed her arms, hugging herself as she looked down. “I know. I should’ve. I just… I didn’t want to make it a big deal. I thought I could handle it on my own.”

Glen’s shoulders rose and fell with a deep breath, and when he spoke again, his tone was gentler but no less resolute. “You shouldn’t have to handle this on your own. You don’t have to handle this on your own.”

She finally looked up at him, her voice barely above a whisper. “I know.”

Glen stepped closer, his hands resting on her knees as he kneeled down in front of her. “Gabby, this… this is serious.”

Her breath caught, and her eyes glistened with unshed tears. “I don’t want you to worry about me, Glen.”

“That’s not how it works,” he said, his voice softening even more. “When you care about someone, you worry about them. And I care about you, Gabby. More than I can even put into words.”

For a moment, the weight of his words hung in the air between them. Then, he gently cupped her face, his thumbs brushing lightly along her cheeks. “Please block his number. Tonight. Promise me.”

She nodded, leaning into his touch. “Okay. I promise.”

Glen exhaled, some of the tension easing from his shoulders as he kissed her forehead. “Thank you. And if he tries to contact you again—anything at all—you tell me. No more keeping this to yourself, okay?”

“Okay,” she whispered, her voice steady but her heart full.

Glen pulled back slightly, just enough to look into her eyes, and then he stood up, holding a hand out to her. “Come here,” he said softly.

Gabby hesitated for only a second before placing her hand in his. He gently tugged her to her feet and into his arms, wrapping them securely around her. The tension that had been simmering between them seemed to melt away as he held her close, one hand resting on the small of her back while the other cradled the back of her head. He kissed the top of her head, lingering there for a moment, and she leaned into him, her head resting against his chest as she wrapped her arms tightly around his waist.

“I’m sorry for getting upset,” Glen murmured, his voice low and filled with sincerity. “I didn’t mean to come off like that. I just… I care about you so much, Gabby. More than I can explain. And the thought of something happening to you—it drives me crazy.”

Her arms tightened around him in response, and she tilted her head just enough to look up at him. “I know. And I get it, Glen. I really do.”

Gabby closed her eyes and let herself relax completely in his arms, letting the warmth of his words and the strength of his embrace settle the unease that Luke’s call had stirred in her. For the first time since the call had woken her up, she felt a sense of peace she hadn’t realized she was craving—a peace that only Glen seemed to bring her.

[crossfandomskylines]

In the Space Between: Chapter 19

OTHER CHAPTERS:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: Gabby and Glen take a quiet stroll through a nearly empty park, enjoying the rare freedom to hold hands and show affection without the looming threat of paparazzi or fans. As they bask in the peacefulness of the moment, their conversation turns to the potential challenges of their relationship becoming public.

Word Count: 2.3k

Warnings: None

A/N: Please continue to let me know what you think with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs! Also if you'd like to be tagged please let me know, and I will get you added to the tag list!

Gabby stretched lazily, her arm draped across Glen's chest, her fingertips absentmindedly tracing patterns against his skin. The soft glow of the afternoon light filtered through the curtains, casting a golden warmth over the two of them as they lay tangled together on her bed. Every now and then, Glen’s hand would find its way to her back, his fingers drawing slow, deliberate circles that made her sigh in contentment.

“You know,” Glen said, breaking the comfortable silence, “we only have thirty-two hours left together.” His voice was soft, but there was a teasing edge to it, and Gabby could feel his gaze on her. “We can’t spend all of it in your apartment.”

Her grip on him tightened immediately, and she nestled her face against his chest. “Why not?” she mumbled, her voice muffled but playful. “This seems like the perfect way to spend thirty-two hours.”

Glen chuckled a deep sound that rumbled beneath her cheek. “As tempting as that sounds, you’ve gotta eat at some point, Gab.”

She finally tilted her head up to look at him, a sly smirk tugging at her lips. Her hand drifted down the length of his chest, slow and deliberate. “I don’t know,” she said, her voice dipping with a hint of mischief. “It sounds like a pretty great plan to me.”

Glen laughed, shaking his head. “You’re impossible, you know that?”

“Maybe,” she teased, her fingers stopping just above the waistband of his boxers, her eyes sparkling with challenge.

With a dramatic groan, Glen sat up, scooping her up along with him. She let out a playful squeal of protest, but he was quick to shift her off him and onto the mattress beside him. “Alright, no more distractions,” he declared, standing up and grabbing a shirt from the edge of the bed.

Gabby flopped back against the pillows with an exaggerated pout. “You’re no fun.”

He leaned down, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead. “You’ll thank me later,” he said with a grin, already tugging his shirt over his head. “Now, get up and get dressed. We’re not spending the rest of the day trapped in this apartment.”

She groaned dramatically, burying her face in the pillow. “You’re ruining my perfectly good plan, you know that?”

“You’ll survive.” He tossed a playful wink over his shoulder.

With a resigned sigh, Gabby finally swung her legs over the side of the bed, watching as Glen crossed the room to grab his shoes. She couldn’t help but admire the easy confidence in his movements, the way he seemed so at home in her space. And maybe, just maybe, she wasn’t entirely opposed to leaving the apartment if it meant spending the day with him.

Gabby stood in front of her mirror, running a brush through her hair and pouting slightly as Glen walked up behind her, already ready and looking far too pleased with himself. His reflection grinned at her, his hands finding their way to her shoulders as he leaned down, his chin brushing against her head.

“You know,” he said with mock seriousness, “I thought you looked perfectly fine before. We could’ve left twenty minutes ago if you didn’t insist on looking this gorgeous.”

She rolled her eyes, but her lips curved into a smile despite herself. “Oh, please. Twenty minutes is nothing compared to how long I could have taken. You should’ve seen the preparations that went into our first date.”

“You can tell me about it on the way. Now come on, let’s go, babe. There’s a whole world out there waiting for us.

Gabby chuckled, tossing her brush onto the dresser and following him out of the apartment. 

As they descended they stepped off the elevator and stepped outside, the warm early  afternoon breeze hit her cheeks, making her glad she decided not to bring her lightweight jacket. The streets were surprisingly quiet for a Saturday, the usual buzz of the city softened by the fading light. They chatted as they walked, their laughter echoing off the brick facades of the buildings. Gabby felt a little lighter with every step, her earlier reluctance to leave the apartment melting away as she soaked in the crisp air and Glen’s easy presence beside her.

When they turned the corner onto the park’s pathway, she couldn’t help but smile. The small, tree-lined space was one of her favorite spots in the neighborhood, and today it felt like they had it all to themselves. A lone jogger passed by, earbuds in and oblivious to anything but her rhythm, but otherwise, the park was silent.

“It’s perfect,” Glen said softly, giving her hand a gentle squeeze as they stepped off the main sidewalk and onto the path.

Gabby nodded, her gaze sweeping across the empty benches and the small fountain in the center of the park. It really was perfect—just the two of them and the peaceful hum of the city in the distance.

Glen’s fingers laced through hers as they strolled along the quiet park path, his thumb brushing over the back of her hand absentmindedly. It was such a simple thing—holding hands—but something about the moment felt special. No cameras, no fans, no whispered speculation. Just them.

“It’s nice,” Glen said, his voice low but filled with contentment. “Being able to do this without worrying about anything.”

Gabby smirked, glancing up at him. “Don’t jinx it. You know as soon as you say something, a crowd of fans or paparazzi will magically appear out of nowhere.”

Glen chuckled. “Let them. What are they going to do, take a picture of me holding hands with my girlfriend? Big scandal.”

Her heart skipped at the word girlfriend, but she kept her tone light. “You say that now, but it’d be a headache for you if pictures of you holding hands with some mystery woman made the front page of People Magazine.”

He stopped walking for a moment, turning to look at her, his brow raised. “Mystery woman?” he repeated, his voice warm with affection. “You’re not just some mystery woman, Gabby.”

Her cheeks flushed at his sincerity, and her smile faltered slightly as a more serious thought crept in. “But… what would you do? If someone did see us together?”

Glen tilted his head, studying her expression for a moment. “I’d do whatever you wanted me to do,” he said finally, his voice steady. “If you wanted me to brush it off, I’d say it was a casual date. People go on dates all the time—doesn’t have to mean anything serious.”

Gabby’s face scrunched in confusion, a flicker of hurt crossing her features. “You’d… lie about it?”

Glen’s hand tightened around hers as he immediately shook his head. “No, I wouldn’t lie,” he said quickly. “I’d just keep it vague. Not confirm or deny anything. But…” He hesitated, his eyes softening as he met her gaze. “If you wanted me to, or if you were okay with it, I could say I’m in a relationship during an interview or something. I’d never throw your name or identity out there—you don’t deserve to be thrown into the trenches of publicity. But I wouldn’t deny us. Not really.”

She looked up at him, her chest tightening at the weight of his words. It wasn’t just what he was saying—it was the way he said it, with such calm certainty, as if the world could throw whatever it wanted at him and he’d still be there, holding her hand.

“You’d really let me decide?”

“Of course.” Glen shrugged. “It’s not just my life that would change if people found out. I’d never force that on you. But if you wanted me to confirm it, my PR team or manager would type something up, post it, or write a script for me to say in an interview.”

Gabby blinked again, the reality of his words sinking in. Of course, Glen wasn’t just Glen. He was a brand, with an entire team of people behind the scenes carefully curating his image. It wasn’t something she thought about often, but now it loomed in the back of her mind.

She glanced at him as they walked, her fingers still loosely intertwined with his. He looked so at ease—messy hair, jeans that were slightly frayed at the cuffs, and a soft T-shirt that clung to his frame in just the right way. To her, this was her Glen. The one who made bad jokes over burnt toast, who sang off-key to her favorite songs, who pressed sleepy kisses to her temple in the early hours of the morning.

It was so easy to forget sometimes. Easy to forget that the same Glen she was walking hand-in-hand with had people waiting to tell him what to say, how to pose, and where to be. Easy to forget that there were strangers out there dissecting his every move, waiting for a glimpse into his life.

She had grown so used to the quiet version of him—the one who left his fame at the door when he was with her—that it rarely crossed her mind how big the “other” side of him was. The side that wasn’t just Glen, but Glen the actor, the rising star whose face was splashed across magazines and who had fans screaming his name at premieres.

Gabby frowned, a small crease forming between her brows. The idea of someone else deciding what Glen would say or how he would address their relationship made her uneasy. Not because she doubted him—she didn’t—but because it was a stark reminder that he didn’t fully control his own narrative. And by extension, neither would she if they went public.

It was a lot to take in, and for a moment, she felt a wave of doubt ripple through her. Not about him, but about whether she was ready for what being with him might mean in the long run. Did she want to risk losing this quiet, beautiful version of them to the noise and chaos of public scrutiny?

“Hey,” Glen’s voice softened as he gave her hand a gentle squeeze, pulling her from her thoughts. “You’ve gone quiet on me. What’s spinning around in that head of yours?”

Gabby glanced up at him, offering a small smile, but the slight tension in her features gave her away. She shook her head, trying to brush it off. “It’s nothing. Just… thinking.”

“Uh-huh,” Glen said, his lips quirking into a knowing smile. “And you’re thinking hard, too. I can tell.” He stopped walking, turning to face her fully. His hands slid to her hips, grounding her as his dark eyes searched hers. “Talk to me, Gab.”

She hesitated, glancing down at the grass beneath their feet. “I guess I’m just… wrapping my head around what it would mean if people found out about us.”

His expression softened, and he tilted his head slightly, waiting for her to go on.

“I mean, I know this is your life. The cameras, the fans, the press… it’s part of the package. And I’ve always known that. But it’s different when it’s us, you know?” Her voice faltered for a moment before she looked back up at him. “What if it changes things? What if all the noise ruins this?”

Glen’s thumbs brushed gently over her hips, a soothing motion that eased some of the tension coiled in her chest. “Gabby,” he said quietly, “it’s just you and me right now. No cameras, no questions, no pressure. And that’s how I want it to stay—for as long as we can keep it that way.”

She blinked, caught off guard by the steadiness in his tone.

“Look, I’m not saying it’ll never come up,” he continued. “Maybe one day we’ll have to make a call on how to handle things. But that doesn’t have to be today, or tomorrow, or anytime soon. Right now, we’ve got this—just us. And I don’t want you worrying about something that might not happen for awhile.”

Gabby’s shoulders relaxed slightly as his words sank in. She studied his face, the way his brows knit together in concern and the sincerity etched in every line of his expression. “You make it sound so simple.”

“Because it is.” He grinned, leaning down to press a quick kiss to her forehead. “I’m crazy about you, Gab. I don’t care what the world thinks, or if they even know. I care about what you think. What you want.”

Her heart swelled at his words, and she let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. “You’re really good at this whole comforting thing, you know that?”

“Years of practice,” he teased, a playful smirk tugging at his lips.

She rolled her eyes, but the warmth in her chest remained. Taking a deep breath, she nodded. “Okay. You’re right. Let’s just… focus on what we have right now.”

“Atta girl.” He gave her hips a gentle squeeze before slipping his hand back into hers. “Now, can we enjoy this walk without you spiraling into another existential crisis?”

Gabby laughed, the sound light and genuine this time. “I’ll do my best.”

“That’s all I ask.” Glen grinned, leading her back onto the path.

They continued their leisurely walk, the sound of their footsteps blending harmoniously with the stillness around them. Gabby tilted her face toward the sun, basking in its warmth as Glen watched her out of the corner of his eye, his chest tightening at the sight.

“Thanks for this,” she said after a moment, her voice soft.

“For what?”

“For just... being here. For making time.” She glanced up at him, her expression tender.

He stopped walking, pulling her to a halt with him. Turning to face her, he cupped her cheek with his free hand, his gaze steady and sincere. “Gabby, there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

She leaned into his touch, her heart swelling as the world around them seemed to fade. It was just them, and nothing else mattered.

[crossfandomskylines]

Hey everyone! 👋

I just wanted to give you all a quick update. I’ve had to take a bit of an unexpected break from writing this past week due to some family matters. My grandma had some health issues that required a hospital stay, and I’ve been helping her get settled back at home. Thankfully, things are looking better now, and I think we’re in the clear! 🙏💖

I’m so grateful for all the support and patience, and I’m excited to get back to writing. The next chapter of the In the Space Between series is on its way, and I’m hoping to have it up sometime this weekend! Thanks for sticking with me—your understanding means a lot.

Hope you all are doing well! ✨

[crossfandomskylines]

In the Space Between: Chapter 18

OTHER CHAPTERS:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: Glen and Gabby savor their long-awaited reunion, starting with a cozy coffee date where they reconnect over laughter and conversation. Back at Gabby’s apartment, Glen convinces her to focus on studying while he tackles some of her chores, finding joy in the normalcy of helping her. Their playful banter takes a turn when Gabby tries to stop him from folding laundry, leading to a lighthearted wrestling match that ends with them tangled together on the bed.

Word Count: 4.6k

Warnings: 18+ Minors DNI! Smut (Light hair pulling. Protected Sex. P in V.) I promise one day I'll right more interesting smut but I'm still new to writing smut so keeping it simple for now.

A/N: Please continue to let me know what you think with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs! Also if you'd like to be tagged please let me know, and I will get you added to the tag list!

The sun was warm but not stifling as Glen and Gabby strolled down the quiet street toward her favorite coffee shop. The hum of the city filled the air—cars passing, a faint honk in the distance, and the occasional bark of a dog being walked by its owner. Gabby felt the corners of her mouth tug upward every time she glanced sideways at Glen. He was here, walking next to her, his hand brushing hers occasionally as they moved in sync. She had to resist the urge to pinch herself, still half-convinced this was all some vivid dream.

“You’re staring,” Glen said, his voice soft and teasing.

She glanced up at him and shrugged lightly. “I just… I can’t believe you’re here. This doesn’t feel real.”

Glen chuckled, and before she could pull her hand away, he caught it in his, lacing their fingers together. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “It’s real, Gabby. I’m here. And I’ve missed you like crazy. I had a small break in filming today and tomorrow and I knew that there wasn’t any other way I wanted to spend it.”

Her chest tightened, and she squeezed his hand back, not trusting herself to speak without her voice breaking.

When they reached the coffee shop, the warm scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods enveloped them like a hug. Gabby led the way to a cozy table in the corner, tucked away from the bustling counter. Glen pulled out her chair before taking the one across from her, leaning his forearms on the table as if closing the small space between them even more.

“This place is cute,” he said, glancing around at the mismatched wooden furniture and chalkboard menu above the counter.

“It’s my go-to,” Gabby said, scanning the menu. “The tea here is great, and they make this avocado toast  that’s ridiculously good. I’ve heard the coffee is good too, but you know how I feel about coffee.”

“I’ll be the judge of that,” Glen said with a smirk, leaning back in his chair. “Though I think I’d eat just about anything if it meant I could sit here with you.”

Gabby rolled her eyes playfully but couldn’t suppress the blush creeping up her neck. “You’re so cheesy.”

“Maybe,” he admitted, his grin widening.

When their food arrived—Gabby’s avocado toast and Glen’s bacon-and-egg sandwich—they dug in, the conversation flowing easily between bites. They talked about everything and nothing: Gabby’s classes, Glen’s time on set, and the small moments they had missed sharing during their weeks apart.

At one point, Glen reached across the table, brushing his thumb over her knuckles as he held her hand. “You know,” he said, his voice low enough that only she could hear, “I could sit here forever. Just talking to you.”

Her heart swelled, and she blinked back the tears threatening to form before taking another bite of her toast.

The walk back to Gabby’s apartment was slower, more leisurely. The comfortable silence between them was occasionally broken by Glen pointing out little things he noticed—the dog trotting by with its tongue lolling out, a family laughing on the steps of a brownstone, or the way the autumn leaves scattered across the sidewalk seemed to crunch louder underfoot. Gabby didn’t mind the quiet; it felt natural, like they were slipping back into a rhythm she hadn’t realized she missed so much.

When they reached her apartment, she unlocked the door and pushed it open, stepping aside so Glen could enter first. He barely made it two steps inside before a flash of orange fur darted toward him.

“Willow!” Gabby called, half in surprise, half in amusement.

The orange tabby cat skidded to a halt at Glen’s feet, her fluffy tail held high as she circled him. She gave a loud, insistent meow, then rubbed herself against his legs, purring like a tiny engine.

“Well, hey there,” Glen said, crouching down to her level. He reached out cautiously, but Willow wasn’t shy. She nuzzled into his hand, practically shoving her head into his palm as though she couldn’t get enough attention.

Gabby stood frozen in the doorway, watching the interaction with a mix of disbelief and humor. “She… she never does that.”

Glen glanced up at her, his hand still gently scratching behind the cat’s ears. “I mean I’m kind of her favorite. Didn’t you say she’s basically claimed my shirt as hers?”

The cat responded with another loud purr, pressing her face into his knee.

Gabby shook her head, a grin spreading across her face as she closed the door and leaned against it. “She’s really laying it on thick. I think she likes you more than me right now.”

Glen chuckled, standing back up as Willow weaved between his ankles. “What can I say? I’m irresistible.”

Gabby rolled her eyes playfully but couldn’t deny how much the sight warmed her heart. Willow was usually content to observe people from a distance, barely tolerating affection on her own terms.

Glen scooped up the cat effortlessly. Willow settled into his arms like she’d been there a thousand times, her head resting lazily against his chest.

Gabby’s heart ached in the best way as she watched them. How was it possible that he could make her fall for him even more just by holding her cat?

When Glen caught her staring, he gave her a knowing smile. “What?”

“Nothing,” she said quickly, though the warmth in her cheeks betrayed her. “I’m just… surprised, that’s all.”

He walked over, still holding Willow, and gave her a teasing grin. “What, you didn’t think I was a cat person?”

“No, it’s not that. I just didn’t think Willow was an anyone cat,” she shot back.

“Well, I guess we’re full of surprises today,” he said softly, brushing his lips against her forehead.

Willow gave a soft chirp, seemingly annoyed at being ignored, and Glen chuckled. “Alright, alright, I’ll put you down. You’re a little attention hog, aren’t you?”

As he set the cat down, she trotted off to her favorite spot on the windowsill, leaving Glen and Gabby alone again.

“Speaking of pets, where’s Brisket?” Gabby asked noticing that Glen hadn’t mentioned him and the dog clearly wasn’t with him.

“Les is watching him for me. Wasn’t sure what our plans would be…or how much attention he’d get. So she offered to take him until I fly out tomorrow.” Glen explained before changing the subject. “So what were your plans for the day?” he asked, glancing at the stack of textbooks and notebooks on the coffee table.

Gabby sighed. “Nothing exciting. I was going to study for a bit, maybe do some laundry, vacuum, and tidy up. The usual. But now…”

“But now?”

“Now?” she repeated, leaning back against the door and giving him a shy smile. “Now, I just want to spend time with you.”

His expression softened, and he closed the space between them, placing his hands gently on her hips. “I want to spend time with you too,” he said, his voice a low murmur, “but I don’t want you to fall behind because I showed up.”

“Glen-” she started, shaking her head.

“Listen,” he interrupted, his hands tightening ever so slightly. “How about this. You study for half an hour, and I’ll take care of some of the chores. Then we’ll have the rest of the day to do whatever you want.”

Her eyes widened, and she laughed softly. “You’re serious?”

“Absolutely.” His grin was teasing but sincere. 

“You want to spend your day off doing my chores?”

“It’s only for half an hour,” he reasoned. “Besides I like doing stuff like that. It makes me feel… normal, you know?”

Gabby tilted her head, studying him. “You’re really okay with it?”

“Gabby,” he said, leaning down to rest his forehead against hers, “if it makes your life a little easier and gives us more time together, I’m more than okay with it.”

Her chest ached with the kind of gratitude that made her eyes sting. She nodded. “Okay. But only if you let me help after I’m done studying.”

“We’ll see,” he teased, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead before stepping back. “Now, go. Books. Study. I’ll take care of the rest.”

Gabby smiled as she grabbed her textbooks and settled onto the couch, the sound of Glen rummaging in the kitchen grounding her in the moment. For the first time in weeks, everything felt right again.

Thirty minutes later the timer on Gabby’s phone buzzed softly, marking the end of her self-imposed study session. She closed her notebook with a sigh of relief, glad to escape the dry material she’d been slogging through.

“Half an hour exactly,” she muttered to herself with a grin, stretching her arms overhead as she stood. She tucked her books neatly back onto the shelf and wandered down the hallway toward her bedroom, curious to see what Glen had gotten himself into.

The sight that greeted her made her stop in her tracks and lean against the doorway with an incredulous smile. Glen was standing by her bed, a neatly folded stack of her laundry already on the corner, and another shirt in his hands that he was methodically folding.

“Glen,” she called out, crossing her arms as she stepped inside. “What are you doing?”

He glanced up at her, completely unbothered. “Folding laundry.”

She rolled her eyes, though the amusement in her voice was unmistakable. “You don’t have to do that. All I needed you to do was load the dishwasher. I can do all this once you leave.”

“I know,” he replied casually, shaking out another shirt and folding it with practiced ease. “But I want to.”

“Seriously,” she insisted, walking closer and trying to take the shirt from his hands. “You’ve done enough already. Let me finish it later.”

“Nope,” Glen said, stepping to the side and holding the shirt just out of her reach.

“Glen!” she exclaimed, laughing as she tried to grab it again.

He grinned, clearly enjoying himself. “What? I’m just being helpful.”

“You’re being ridiculous,” she said, standing on her tiptoes to swipe at the shirt, but he easily lifted it higher.

“Am I?” he teased, his voice light as he dodged her attempts to snatch it.

“Yes!” she said, giggling as she lunged for him. This time, she grabbed his arm in an effort to pull him down, but he was too strong, his stance too steady. Instead, he turned the tables, gently catching her wrist and spinning her around so that her back was to him.

“Careful,” he murmured in her ear, his voice dropping to a playful growl.

Gabby felt her heart skip at the proximity, her laughter trailing off into a breathless chuckle. “You’re impossible.”

“Maybe,” he admitted, releasing her wrist only to scoop her up with ease.

“Glen!” she yelped as he carried her the few steps to the bed, depositing her onto the mattress like she weighed nothing at all. Before she could sit up, he leaned over her, pinning her wrists gently to the bed.

“Say it,” he said, his grin wide and victorious.

“Say what?” she shot back, her voice a mix of mock indignation and delight.

“That I win,” he said, his tone teasing but his eyes locked on hers, warm and full of affection.

Gabby raised a brow, refusing to back down despite the fluttering in her chest. “Never.”

He chuckled softly, shaking his head. “You’re so stubborn.”

“And you’re—” Whatever retort she’d been about to make was lost as he leaned down, capturing her lips in a kiss that was firm yet achingly tender.

Gabby’s resolve melted instantly, her body relaxing beneath him as she kissed him back. His hands released her wrists, one sliding down to cup her cheek while the other braced against the mattress to support his weight.

When he finally pulled back, his forehead rested against hers, his breath warm against her lips. “You were saying?” he murmured, his grin returning.

She let out a soft laugh, her fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt. “Fine. You win.”

“That’s what I thought,” he said, his voice low and satisfied. He brushed his lips against hers once more, lingering as if neither of them wanted the moment to end.

Gabby sighed contentedly, her earlier protests forgotten as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him down beside her. The laundry could wait. For now, she just wanted to stay wrapped up in him.

Glen’s lips coaxed hers apart, his tongue sliding inside to explore with a slow, deliberate heat that made her heart race.

Gabby let out a soft, involuntary sigh, her hands gripping the fabric of his shirt as if she needed to anchor herself.

Just as she thought she couldn’t handle another second of the delicious pressure of his mouth on hers, Glen pulled back slightly, his breath warm against her damp lips. Before she could protest, he began to brush his lips along her jawline, each soft kiss igniting tiny sparks that raced down her spine.

“Glen…” she whispered, her voice barely audible, trembling with anticipation.

He didn’t answer, at least not right away. Instead, his mouth found the sensitive curve of her neck, his lips warm and soft against her skin. Gabby gasped quietly as his teeth scraped lightly, his tongue soothing the spot before he began to suck gently. It wasn’t hard enough to leave a mark—Glen knew better—but it was enough to send a shiver cascading through her body.

“I missed you so much,” he murmured against her neck, his voice low and husky, filled with a raw honesty that made her chest ache. His hand slid along her side, his touch warm and grounding, yet it only heightened the heat pooling in her stomach. “You have no idea how bad I’ve wanted this. Wanted you.”

His words sent a surge of confidence coursing through Gabby. She tilted her head back to look at him, her cheeks flushed and her eyes shining with need. For a moment, she just stared at him, taking in the way his eyes burned with the same longing that was consuming her.

“Then take me,” she said, her voice soft but steady, laced with a newfound boldness that left Glen momentarily stunned.

His gaze darkened, his jaw tightening as a slow, almost predatory smile spread across his lips. “Careful what you ask for,” he warned, though the teasing lilt in his tone only made her more sure of herself.

“I mean it,” she replied, her fingers threading through his hair and pulling him closer. “I’m yours, Glen. Just… take me.”

Glen’s hands slid under Gabby’s shirt, his palms warm and calloused against her bare skin. He moved slowly, deliberately, as if savoring every second of the moment. His fingers brushed over her ribs, making her shiver before he gently pushed the fabric up. Gabby raised her arms without hesitation, letting him pull the shirt over her head and toss it somewhere behind him.

His gaze dropped to her, and the way his eyes darkened made her stomach flip. “You’re so beautiful,” he murmured, his voice thick with awe and something deeper, something more primal.

Gabby felt her cheeks flush under his intense stare, but before she could get too self-conscious, Glen reached for the hem of his own shirt, pulling it over his head in one swift motion.

Her breath hitched as her eyes roamed over him, taking in the changes she hadn’t expected. The last time they’d been together, his chest had been smooth, but now, a fine dusting of hair covered his chest and trailed down to his abs, accentuating the defined lines of his body.

Her fingers reached out instinctively, tracing the new texture with curiosity. She let her palm glide over his chest, down to his stomach, where the muscle flexed beneath her touch. The sensation was different, but not unwelcome—it was grounding, a reminder of how much she’d missed him and how time hadn’t dulled their connection.

Glen watched her, his lips quirking into a soft smile. “Like what you see?” he teased, his voice low and edged with amusement.

Gabby glanced up at him, her hand still resting on his chest. She nodded, her lips curving into a shy smile before her confidence surged again. “I do,” she said honestly, tugging him gently back down to her. “Makes you more rugged.”

Their lipsthen met in a kiss that was hungrier this time, fueled by the heat building between them. His hands moved to cradle her face, holding her close as he poured everything he couldn’t say into the kiss.

Gabby’s hands slid up his chest and over his shoulders, her fingers curling around the nape of his neck as she pulled him even closer. The world around them disappeared again, and all that mattered was this—being together, feeling each other, and making up for every second they’d spent apart.

Glen’s lips moved across Gabby’s skin, lingering at her collarbone before he kissed his way back up to her mouth. Each touch of his lips sent shivers down her spine, igniting a fire that had been building since the moment he walked back into her life.

“Gabby,” he murmured, his voice heavy with desire as their foreheads touched. “You have no idea how much I’ve thought about this—about you.”

She swallowed hard, her heart racing. “Then don’t stop,” she whispered, her voice barely audible but filled with want.

He kissed her again, slow and deliberate, before his hands slid to the waistband of her leggings. Gabby arched into him as he gently tugged them down, his touch careful and reverent. When they joined her shirt on the floor, he leaned back slightly, letting his eyes take her in.

“You’re so beautiful,” he said, his voice rough but genuine, making her cheeks flush under his gaze.

Glen reached for the button on his jeans, but as much as he was swept up in the moment, a flicker of restraint passed over his face. He froze, his hands stilling as he took a deep breath.

“Wait,” he said, his voice steady but soft. He leaned back slightly, brushing a hand over her cheek as if to reassure her. “I just… I need to grab something first.”

Gabby blinked, momentarily confused, before realization dawned on her. A faint smile tugged at her lips as she nodded. “Okay,” she said softly, her voice carrying no trace of frustration or impatience.

Glen pressed a quick kiss to her forehead before climbing off the bed, his movements hurried but careful. He retrieved his wallet from his jeans, fumbling with it for a second before pulling out a small foil packet.

When he turned back to her, Gabby couldn’t help but smile at the sight of him—his hair mussed, his chest rising and falling a little faster than usual, his expression a mix of anticipation.

“Sorry,” he said with a sheepish grin as he climbed back onto the bed. “Didn’t mean to kill the mood.”

“You didn’t,” Gabby reassured him, reaching up to pull him down into another kiss. “I’m glad you’re responsible. It’s… kind of hot, actually.”

Glen chuckled and then his hands slid down Gabby’s sides, his touch leaving trails of fire in its wake as he positioned himself between her legs. He shifted his hips slightly and then slowly started to press himself into her.

The moment they connected, both of them let out simultaneous sounds—his a deep groan that rumbled in his chest, hers a soft moan that hitched midway, the sensation a mix of longing and adjustment.

Gabby's fingers clutched his shoulders, her breath catching at the sudden fullness after so much time apart. It wasn’t pain, but the unfamiliarity of it made her tense momentarily.

Glen froze the instant he noticed, his hand immediately finding her cheek. “Hey,” he whispered, his voice low and soothing. His forehead rested against hers as his thumb stroked her skin. “Are you okay?”

She nodded quickly, but her breathing was uneven, her chest rising and falling against his. “I’m fine,” she murmured, her voice barely audible. “I just… It’s been a while.”

His lips pressed a tender kiss to her temple as he stilled, giving her a moment to adjust. “I know, baby. I’ll take my time,” he assured her, his voice filled with nothing but patience and care. “Just tell me what you need.”

Gabby exhaled slowly, her hands relaxing their grip on his shoulders. She looked up at him, her gaze soft but determined. “I need you, Glen.”

His heart swelled at her words, and he brushed a strand of hair away from her face. “I’ll go slow, okay? Just tell me if you need me to stop.”

She nodded, her body gradually relaxing beneath him as his kisses trailed from her lips to her jaw, then down her neck. His hips shifted slightly, rocking gently to let her adjust at her own pace.

Gabby gasped softly, her body responding as the discomfort gave way to the ache of longing she’d been carrying for weeks. Her fingers slid into his hair, holding him close as her legs wrapped loosely around his waist.

“Better?” he asked, his lips brushing against the sensitive spot just below her ear.

“Much better,” she breathed, her voice carrying a newfound confidence.

Glen groaned softly as he felt her starting to clench around him. His movements started growing more confident and intentional. Gabby arched against him, her body responding instinctively to the rhythm he set, every fiber of her being focused on the way he made her feel.

His lips started trailing kisses down her jawline and back to her neck again. Her fingers threaded through his hair, tugging gently as her breaths turned into soft cries, uninhibited and full of longing.

The sounds coming from Gabby spurred Glen on, his pace quickening slightly as he continued to thrust in and out of her. He whispered her name like a prayer, his voice filled with both love and desire, as they reveled in the closeness they’d both been craving for weeks.

Gabby’s hands roamed over his back, her nails digging in lightly as her body moved with his, the tension building until it threatened to spill over. Glen lifted his head, locking eyes with her, and the intensity of his gaze sent a fresh wave of heat through her.

“Let go, Gabby,” he murmured, his voice thick with encouragement. “I’ve got you.”

Their movements grew faster, more desperate, as if neither wanted to waste a second of the precious time they had together. Gabby clung to Glen, her fingers tangled in his hair as her breath hitched, her body arching toward him as the heat coiled tightly inside her, ready to snap.

“Glen,” she gasped, his name breaking from her lips like a plea.

“I’m right here,” he murmured, his voice strained yet full of love, his forehead pressed to hers as they moved together. “Let go for me, baby.”

His words, paired with the way his body seemed to perfectly match hers, sent her over the edge. A cry escaped her, her body trembling beneath him as the waves of release coursed through her, pulling her under in the best way possible.

Glen followed moments later, a low groan rumbling from his chest as he buried his face in the curve of her neck, his body tensing and then shuddering as he found his own release. His arms wrapped tightly around her, holding her against him as they both rode out the moment together, connected in every possible way.

As the tension ebbed, Gabby melted into Glen, her body relaxing completely beneath him. She buried her face in his shoulder, her breaths coming out in soft, uneven pants as she clung to him, savoring the warmth of his body pressed against hers.

Glen shifted slightly, careful not to crush her, but he didn’t pull away. Instead, he collapsed onto the bed beside her, one arm still wrapped tightly around her waist as if he couldn’t bear to let her go.

“God, I missed you,” he said, his voice rough and full of sincerity as he nuzzled his face into her hair.

Gabby smiled against his chest, her fingers tracing lazy patterns over his skin as her breathing began to steady. “I missed you, too,” she whispered, her voice soft and full of emotion.

For a moment, neither of them moved, content to simply hold each other in the quiet aftermath. Glen’s thumb stroked soothing circles on her hip, and Gabby felt completely at ease, her worries melting away as she lay in his arms.

“You okay?” Glen asked after a while, his voice gentle as he tilted her chin up to look at her.

Gabby nodded, her green eyes sparkling with both happiness and contentment. “Better than okay,” she replied, her lips curving into a small smile.

Glen chuckled softly, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Good,” he said, his arm tightening around her.

They lay there for a while, wrapped up in the warmth of each other, the quiet stillness of the room making the moment feel even more intimate. Gabby traced her fingers lightly along Glen’s chest, marveling at how real and solid he felt beneath her touch. It was as if her body was trying to memorize every detail of him again after so much time apart.

Glen sighed contentedly, his hand combing gently through her hair. “This is nice,” he murmured, his voice soft, almost sleepy.

“Mmm,” Gabby agreed, her head resting over his heart. “I’ve missed this. Just being able to touch you. Hold you.”

“Me too,” he said, kissing the top of her head. “You have no idea.”

The peaceful quiet lingered until Glen shifted slightly beneath her, sitting up just enough to swing one leg over the side of the bed. Gabby’s eyes opened immediately, her arms tightening around his torso as she pulled him back toward her.

“Where are you going?” she mumbled, her voice still heavy with contentment and just a hint of sleepiness.

Glen chuckled softly, looking down at her. “Relax, I’m just getting a drink,” he teased, reaching for her hands as if to pry them loose, but Gabby clung tighter, nuzzling her face against his side.

“Don’t leave me,” she murmured, her voice muffled against his skin.

His teasing smirk faded, replaced by a look of tenderness that softened his entire expression. Glen turned back toward her, lying down again and pulling her into his arms without hesitation.

“I’m not going anywhere,” he whispered, his voice low and reassuring as he kissed the corner of her mouth. “You’re stuck with me, remember?”

Gabby smiled faintly, her face still buried against him. “Good,” she said, her fingers curling into his side as if she wanted to hold on to him forever.

Glen tilted her chin up gently, brushing a thumb across her cheek. “I’m here, baby. I promise.”

The sincerity in his tone melted Gabby’s heart, and she leaned up to kiss him softly, grateful for every second they had together. As they settled back into the quiet, Glen held her even closer, whispering little reassurances in her ear until she fully relaxed against him again.

“Can I go get that drink now?” he teased after a moment, his lips brushing against her hair.

“Not if it means letting go of you,” Gabby replied, her voice playful but honest.

Glen laughed quietly, his chest rumbling beneath her. “Alright, I’ll survive.” 

He pressed another kiss to her forehead, settling back into the bed with her nestled against him. It was moments like this that made the distance and the waiting worth it. Being here with her was everything.

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Awww glen dropping things to see her!!!

Right?? I feel like this would so be him in real life! I feel like he is the type that would do whatever he can to make it work, especially after a small bump like at the beginning of the chapter!

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Awwww i had wondered if he was going to surprise her at some point!!!

Glad you liked the update! I had a few different ways that I thought this chapter was going to go but Glen surprising her felt like the right thing for them and their relationship! Glad you enjoyed it!

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shorter chapters means sooner updates so i’m in

It looks like that was the majority of the responses so that's what I'm going to try to do! Hopefully that means updates will be every day or every other day, but we will see!

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In the Space Between: Chapter 17

OTHER CHAPTERS:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: The strain of long-distance hits a breaking point when Glen misses a planned call with Gabby, leaving her feeling hurt and forgotten. The emotional weight of their separation and the misstep creates a rift, but it's quickly bridged by Glen when he plans a surprise for Gabby.

Word Count: 2.2k

Warnings: None. A/N: Please continue to let me know what you think with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs! Also if you'd like to be tagged please let me know, and I will get you added to the tag list! Tag List: In Comments - Tumblr for some reason doesn't like linking more than 5 usernames so I'm just going to use the tags in the comments to make sure you get the notification!

The next day Gabby sat cross-legged on the couch, her laptop and notes from the day’s classes abandoned on the coffee table. Her phone rested beside her, the screen lighting up every now and then, but never with the name she was hoping for. 

Glen was supposed to FaceTime her at eight—his idea, she reminded herself with a soft smile. He had promised he’d be back at his apartment after filming, and they’d finally get to catch up. Now, the clock on her phone blinked 8:57.

She checked her messages again. Nothing.

Trying not to overthink, Gabby pulled her knees to her chest and stared out the window. It wasn’t like Glen to forget, but maybe he’d gotten caught up on set. She grabbed her phone and clicked to dial him. It rang, and rang, until eventually his voicemail picked up. Gabby frowned, hesitating before hanging up without leaving a message. Her fingers hovered over the screen, debating if she should text.

GABBY: Hey, did filming run late? Call me when you can. I miss you.

The message sent, and Gabby dropped the phone onto the couch cushion beside her. She pulled the throw blanket tighter around her shoulders, flipping absently through a notebook from class. For all her efforts, she couldn’t focus. Her eyes kept darting to her phone, watching for a notification—any sign that Glen had seen her text. It’s fine, she told herself. He’s probably on his way home.

When ten more minutes passed in silence, she sighed and picked up the phone again, deciding to scroll through Instagram to distract herself.

The photos popped up on her feed almost immediately—bright smiles, clinking glasses, and Glen’s familiar face staring back at her. Her breath caught as she clicked through the tagged pictures. Glen was at dinner with some of his co-stars, a group sprawled across a long table cluttered with half-empty wine glasses and shared plates. He was easy to spot in every photo, the center of attention, laughing with the same charm that made her fall for him.

She scrolled further, finding more snapshots from later in the evening—this time at a bar. Glen stood between two of his co-stars, both stunning women. One had an arm hooked around his waist, leaning in with a playful smile. The other held a drink and laughed, her face tilted close to his. Glen looked…happy. Relaxed.

Gabby’s thumb hovered over the screen as something cold settled in her chest. He missed our call for this? She blinked hard, trying to push away the bitterness threatening to creep in. She didn’t want to be that girlfriend—the one who picked apart every photo, overanalyzing things that didn’t matter. But it was hard not to notice how comfortable Glen seemed, like he belonged there with them.

Her eyes drifted to her unanswered text message, still sitting at the bottom of their conversation thread. He hadn’t even read it.

Gabby set the phone down carefully on the table, trying to ignore the hollow feeling in her stomach. She trusted Glen—she did. But the nagging thoughts were harder to push away tonight. The photos, the beautiful women, the ease in his smile—it all felt worlds away from the life she was living here, alone in her quiet apartment.

Wrapping the blanket tighter around herself, Gabby leaned back against the cushions and closed her eyes. It’s just one night, she thought. It doesn’t mean anything. But no matter how many times she repeated it, the ache in her chest lingered.

* * * *

The next morning, Glen stared at his phone, brows furrowed as he scrolled through his messages—or lack thereof. Normally, by this time, he’d have a “Good morning, handsome” text waiting for him, sometimes with a photo of Willow curled up on Gabby’s lap. But today? Nothing.

He tried to shake off the nagging feeling as he sipped his coffee, convincing himself she was just busy. But by lunchtime, the unease had settled deep in his chest. He stepped outside between takes and dialed her number, pacing along the edge of the set as the phone rang once, twice—then straight to voicemail.

Glen exhaled sharply and ran a hand through his hair. She’s probably in class, he thought. But the silence lingered longer than it should have, and Glen couldn’t ignore the sense that something was wrong.

Later that night, Gabby finally answered his call. Her voice was soft but distant, and Glen felt the shift immediately.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he said gently, hoping to coax her usual warmth back into her tone. “You okay? I didn’t hear from you all day.”

There was a pause on the other end before Gabby sighed. “I’m fine.”

“You sure about that?” Glen pushed, his concern deepening.

Gabby hesitated, chewing on her bottom lip as she curled into the corner of the couch. She knew Glen wasn’t trying to pick a fight, but the words she’d been holding in since last night tumbled out before she could stop them. “I don’t know, Glen. Last night kind of sucked.”

Glen’s heart sank. “Last night?”

“I waited for you, you know?” Her voice wavered, but she pressed on. “You said you’d call, and you didn’t. I tried calling, I texted, and I didn’t hear anything. Then I go on Instagram, and there you are—out at dinner, smiling and having the time of your life.”

Glen closed his eyes and rubbed his hand over his face. Shit. “Gabby, I—”

“I’m not mad at you,” she interrupted quickly, her voice softening. “I know you didn’t do it on purpose, but…it still hurt. I sat here all night, waiting for something. Anything. And then seeing you out, surrounded by…” She trailed off, biting her tongue. She didn’t want to sound jealous or petty, but the words were there.

“Gabby,” Glen said quietly, his voice steady but filled with regret. “I’m so sorry. I lost track of time after filming. We all went out to eat, and I thought I’d be home in time to call you. I wasn’t paying attention to my phone, and that’s on me. But I swear to you, I would never intentionally choose a night out over talking to you. I don’t care where I am or who I’m with—you’re the person I want to be with.”

Gabby swallowed hard, her eyes stinging. “It’s just hard, Glen,” she admitted. “I know we’ve done distance before, but this time feels different. I feel so…far away from you.”

Glen’s chest tightened. “It’s hard for me too, Gabby,” he confessed. “I’d trade every dinner, every night out, for five minutes sitting on that couch with you. This job, this schedule…it’s temporary. Just a few more weeks, and I’ll be there. I promise you.”

The sincerity in his voice eased the knot in Gabby’s chest. She wanted to believe him, and deep down, she did. “I just miss you,” she whispered.

“I miss you too,” Glen replied, his tone gentle. “And I’ll do better, okay? No more missed calls. If I’m going to be late or busy, I’ll let you know. I promise.”

Gabby nodded, her shoulders relaxing for the first time all day. “Okay.”

“Are we good?” Glen asked softly, his voice laced with hope.

A small smile tugged at Gabby’s lips. “Yeah. We’re good.”

“Good,” Glen breathed, relief washing over him. “Because I don’t think Willow could forgive me if I messed this up.”

That earned a quiet laugh from Gabby, and Glen grinned at the sound. “I’ll let you get some sleep,” he said. “But I love you, Gabby. You know that, right?”

“I know,” she whispered. “I love you too.”

“Goodnight, Gabs.”

“Goodnight, Glen.”

As they hung up, Gabby curled deeper into the couch, the ache in her chest a little lighter. The distance was still there, but Glen’s words gave her something to hold onto—something real and steady to get her through the nights alone.

* * * *

The next morning it was just after ten o’clock when Gabby stepped out of her apartment, tucking her phone into her pocket and adjusting the strap of her tote bag over her shoulder. 

Gabby locked her apartment door with a soft click and turned toward the elevator, her mind already focused on her plans for the day. 

She had her day planned: coffee run, a quick walk to clear her head after yesterday’s bump in the road with Glen, and then hours spent with her textbooks spread across her kitchen table.

Her breath caught as the elevator doors slid open, and a figure stepped out. For a second, she thought she was imagining it. The broad shoulders, the easy confidence in his stride, the familiar tousle of sandy brown hair—there was no mistaking it.

“Glen?” she whispered, her voice trembling as disbelief collided with a rush of joy.

Glen’s lips curved into a smile the moment he saw her. He held a bouquet of various flowers in one hand, their cheerful color a sharp contrast to the deep, longing look in his eyes. 

“Hey,” he said softly, his voice filled with warmth.

Gabby didn’t even think. Her feet moved on their own as she closed the distance between them, her heart pounding wildly in her chest. The second she reached him, she threw her arms around his neck, holding him tightly as though she feared he might disappear if she let go.

Glen dropped the flowers onto the small table by the elevator, his hands coming up to wrap around her waist. He pulled her closer, burying his face in the crook of her neck. The faint scent of her shampoo and the warmth of her body against his nearly undid him. 

“I missed you so much,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion.

Gabby pulled back just enough to look up at him, her green eyes shimmering with unshed tears. “I can’t believe you’re here,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I couldn’t stay away any longer,” Glen replied, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. “I needed to see you.”

Her lips curved into a soft smile as her gaze flickered between his eyes and his mouth. The tension of the past weeks melted away as she closed the remaining distance, pressing her lips to his in a kiss that was both tender and fervent.

Glen responded instantly, his grip tightening around her waist as he kissed her back, pouring all of his longing and love into the moment. The world around them seemed to blur, leaving only the two of them in the quiet hallway. His lips were warm and firm, moving against hers as though she’d been waiting for this moment as desperately as he had.

Gabby’s hands slid from his shoulders to his chest, feeling the rapid beat of his heart beneath her palms. She tilted her head, deepening the kiss, and a soft sigh escaped her lips. Glen broke away for just a moment, resting his forehead against hers as they both caught their breath.

“I love you,” he said softly, his voice barely more than a whisper, but the weight of his words filled the air between them.

Gabby smiled, her cheeks flushed as she looked up at him. “I love you too,” she replied, her voice steady despite the emotion swirling inside her.

Glen’s fingers brushed against Gabby’s cheek as he cupped her face, his thumb tracing slow, reassuring circles over her skin. He didn’t want to break the moment, didn’t want to let go of her. 

“I really needed this,” he admitted, his voice soft but full of sincerity.

Gabby smiled up at him, her eyes still shimmering but brighter now, filled with a spark he hadn’t seen in weeks. “Me too,” she whispered, her hands lingering against his chest, as though grounding herself in the reality of him being here, with her, and not hundreds of miles away.

For a moment, the only sound in the hallway was the quiet hum of the elevator behind them. The weight of the past few weeks, the missed calls, the aching distance, melted away.

Glen leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead, lingering there as he murmured, “I’m here for the next thirty-six hours, and I plan to spend every second of it with you.”

Gabby laughed softly, her smile growing wider. “Thirty-six hours, huh?” she teased, her voice light for the first time in what felt like forever. “Guess I’ll have to clear my schedule.”

“Good,” Glen said with a playful grin, brushing his lips against hers once more before stepping back slightly. “But first, I believe I owe you for making my girlfriend sad yesterday. I was thinking coffee—and maybe breakfast, too.”

She tilted her head, arching a brow. “You think you can just show up out of nowhere, kiss me like that, and bribe me with coffee?”

“Absolutely,” Glen replied, his grin turning boyish and charming. He reached for the bouquet he’d left on the table, holding it out to her. “Besides, I brought flowers. That’s gotta count for something.”

Gabby rolled her eyes, but her laughter filled the hallway as she accepted the bouquet. “Fine. You win. But only because you’re here.”

Glen’s expression softened as he reached for her hand, lacing his fingers with hers. 

“I’m here,” he repeated, as if the words alone were enough to make up for all the time they’d spent apart.

And for Gabby, they were.

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Y’all I get so excited when I see you have a new chapter. I am so invested in Gabby and Glens relationship. When I’m waiting for the next chapter I feel like Gabby waiting for Glen to come home lol. Can’t wait to read more!

Honestly, same! I feel like these two have taken over my life at this point! When I'm at work I'm sitting at my desk thinking of what I want to happen next. I get so excited to finish a chapter and get it posted so that you guys can read it! I can't explain how much all of the support has meant to me!

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Want Your Guys' Opinions!

So, the next few scenes/events of this story are going to be a little bit shorter (1,500-2,000 words each). I'm curious to know your guys' opinions or preferences as readers would be. Because I can go one of two ways with it.

I can post them individually and break them up into 2 or 3 shorter chapters. With this option I would probably post them as I have them written and edited.

OR

I can group them together and wait until I finish them all and write them as one long chapter that is longer (5,000-7,000) words.

[crossfandomskylines]

aw glen is so kind and thoughtful!

He really is! He seems so sweet and caring that I can't imagine he wouldn't be like that in real life with his partner! Glad you are enjoying the story so far!

[crossfandomskylines]

In the Space Between Us: Chapter 16

OTHER CHAPTERS:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: In their first month apart, Gabby and Glen navigate the challenges of long-distance as she settles into college life and he dives into filming his new role. Gabby immerses herself in classes and coursework, but reminders of Glen pull her thoughts back to him throughout the day. Meanwhile, Glen struggles to find his rhythm on set, the distance between them heavier than he expected. As their busy schedules make it harder to stay connected, frustration and longing set in, but small gestures remind them both that they can get through the time and distance apart.

Word Count: 5.3k

Warnings: None. A/N: Please continue to let me know what you think with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs! Also if you'd like to be tagged please let me know, and I will get you added to the tag list! Tag List: In Comments - Tumblr for some reason doesn't like linking more than 5 usernames so I'm just going to use the tags in the comments to make sure you get the notification!

Gabby stepped off the plane, greeted by the chaos of LAX—the hum of engines, the hurried steps of travelers dragging suitcases, and the tinny voice of announcements echoing overhead. Normally, the energy of the city felt alive to her, buzzing with opportunity, but today it felt cold. Distant. Like it was waiting to swallow her whole.

She clutched the strap of her bag tightly as she made her way through the terminal, her eyes scanning the crowded space but not really seeing any of it. All she could think about was how quiet the past week had been—quiet in a way that felt peaceful. The Texas breeze, the sound of Glen’s laughter carrying across the ranch, the warmth of his arms around her. Now, it all felt a million miles away.

Her phone buzzed in her hand, and she glanced down at the message.

KAYLA: “We’re waiting outside by the Southwest pickup. See you soon!” 

Gabby quickly replied, her fingers stiff from the cool air-conditioning in the terminal. 

GABBY: On my way out now.

As she approached the sliding glass doors, the noise intensified—the blaring horns of impatient drivers, engines revving, and the occasional shout from someone waving down a rideshare. The air was warm and heavy, a stark contrast to the crispness of Texas mornings. 

Gabby spotted Kayla and Tanner’s car idling by the curb, Kayla leaning out of the passenger window with a wide grin and a wave.

“Welcome back!” Kayla called as Gabby slid into the backseat. Tanner turned around briefly from the driver’s seat, his usual easygoing smile in place.

“Missed you,” he said. “How was Texas? Did you saddle up and ride off into the sunset with Glen?”

Gabby managed a small smile, pulling her seatbelt across her chest. “Not quite, but it was amazing. I didn’t want to leave.”

“Well, duh,” Kayla said, twisting in her seat to face Gabby. “A week in Texas with Glen? That man was made for cowboy boots and open skies.” She nudged Tanner. “We really need to go back to visit his ranch someday.”

“Yeah, yeah. He wants us to come down for a Longhorns game this fall. I’ll talk to him and see if we can plan something,” Tanner stated.

Gabby barely registered their banter, her mind slipping back to the memory of Glen standing in the drop off lane of the airport as she walked away, his hands shoved deep in his pockets and that forced grin he always gave her when he was trying to be strong. She’d sent him a quick text before boarding her flight, and now, as Tanner merged onto the freeway, she opened her phone again to type another: 

GABBY: Just landed. Kayla and Tanner are driving me back to my apartment. Miss you already.

She stared at the message for a moment before pressing send. Almost immediately, the three little dots appeared on the screen, and her heart skipped a beat.

GLEN: Miss you too. Let me know when you get home safe. Love you.

Her throat tightened, and she quickly locked her phone, tucking it into her bag as if that might somehow make it easier to hold herself together.

“So, how’s Glen doing?” Kayla asked, glancing back at her.

“He’s good,” Gabby said softly. “He starts filming tomorrow, so he’s getting ready for that. He’s excited, but…” She hesitated, unsure how much to say.

“But what?” Kayla pressed.

“It’s just… it’s going to be a long couple of months,” Gabby admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Hey, you two are solid,” Tanner said, his tone reassuring. “I mean, you survived the whole long-distance thing before this when he was on that press tour, right? This is just another bump in the road.”

Gabby nodded, forcing a smile she didn’t quite feel. “Yeah.”

But she couldn’t help but think it wasn’t the same. The press tour only lasted a few weeks and he had breaks in between in Los Angeles. The most they were apart was five or six days. But this time around was different. Glen would be filming and since they would be on opposite coasts it didn’t really make sense for him to fly out for a night here or a night there just to go back the next day.

She hugged Tanner and Kayla goodbye, thanking them for the ride before heading upstairs to her apartment. The familiar space felt emptier than usual, and as she set her suitcase down by the door, the silence pressed in around her.

Gabby slipped off her shoes by the door, the soft padding of her socks muffled against the hardwood floor. She let out a slow breath, setting her keys and bag on the counter, when a familiar sound broke the silence—a quiet, inquisitive meow.

Turning toward the living room, she spotted Willow perched on the armrest of the couch, her fluffy tail flicking lazily as she studied Gabby with her wide green eyes.

“Hey, sweet girl,” Gabby said softly, crouching down and patting the edge of the couch. “Come here, I missed you.”

Willow didn’t make her usual show of hesitation, where she would sit and stare as if debating whether or not Gabby was worthy of her attention. Instead, she hopped down gracefully and padded over, brushing her soft fur against Gabby’s legs before leaping into her lap.

Gabby smiled, running her hand gently down Willow’s back. “Were you good while I was gone? Did Mrs. Keller spoil you?” she asked, thinking of her elderly neighbor who had kindly agreed to watch over Willow while she was in Texas.

The cat purred in response, her contentment vibrating under Gabby’s touch. For a moment, the loneliness that had been gnawing at her since leaving Texas eased.

As she scratched behind Willow’s ears, her thoughts drifted to Glen. Gabby chuckled softly, remembering how Willow, who normally regarded anyone besides Gabby as a nuisance at best and an intruder at worst, had immediately warmed to him.

The first time Glen had come over, Gabby had braced herself for the inevitable hissing or indifference, already preparing an apology. But to her surprise, Willow had cautiously approached him, sniffed his outstretched hand, and then plopped down beside him on the couch as though he’d been a part of their little household for years.

Gabby smiled at the memory, a warmth spreading through her chest. She had teased him about it for days afterward, but in truth, it had only made her fall for him harder. Glen wasn’t just good with people—he had a way of making anyone, even a notoriously standoffish cat, feel at ease.

Now, sitting in her empty apartment with Willow curled in her lap, the absence of Glen felt even sharper. She ran her fingers through Willow’s fur, her mind wandering back to their last kiss at the airport and the way he’d promised her that it wouldn’t always be like this.

“I wish you were here,” she whispered, more to herself than to Willow, though the cat flicked her ears as if she understood.

Gabby leaned back against the couch, letting the steady rhythm of Willow’s purring fill the quiet room. She knew the next few weeks would be busy, with school starting and Glen diving into his new project. But even with all the distractions, she wasn’t sure anything could truly make her stop counting down the days until she saw him again.

After a while, Gabby gently lifted Willow off her lap, murmuring a soft apology as the cat gave a groggy chirp of protest. She set her on the couch and stretched, the quiet hum of her apartment already beginning to feel stifling.

With a sigh, Gabby turned to her suitcase, still sitting by the door, and unzipped it. She pulled out a small pile of clothes, sorting them into two piles: one for laundry and one for the closet. Her mind wandered as she worked, replaying snippets of her week with Glen—the way he’d kissed her forehead every morning, how his laughter had echoed across the ranch, the way he’d held her so tightly their last night together.

Reaching the bottom of her suitcase, Gabby paused, her hands brushing against something she didn’t recognize. A soft smile tugged at her lips as she pulled out a flannel shirt. She held it up, immediately recognizing the worn fabric and faint woodsy scent that clung to it. Glen’s flannel.

“Oh, Glen,” she whispered, shaking her head.

But that wasn’t all. Beneath the flannel was a folded Texas Longhorns T-shirt she’d seen him wear during their trip and a gray sweatshirt that was unmistakably his. She grinned, already picturing the smirk on his face when he’d decided to sneak them into her bag.

As she laid the items on the counter, something else fell out of the flannel—a small envelope, tucked neatly into the breast pocket. Gabby’s heart skipped a beat as she picked it up. Her name was scrawled across the front in Glen’s familiar handwriting.

With trembling fingers, she slid her thumb under the flap and pulled out a folded piece of paper. The scent of his cologne clung faintly to it, and she felt a lump rise in her throat as she unfolded the letter.

The handwriting was slightly uneven, as though he’d written it quickly, but the words were unmistakably Glen.

Gabby,

I know how much you hate goodbyes, and if I’m honest, I hate them too. But this isn’t really goodbye—it’s just “see you later.”

I can’t tell you how much I loved having you at the ranch this week. Seeing you there—happy, relaxed, and so effortlessly you—it was like every piece of my world finally made sense. It feels impossible to put into words how much you mean to me, but I’ll try.

You’ve got my heart, Gabby. Every piece of it. And no matter how far apart we are, no matter how long it takes for us to see each other again, that won’t ever change. You’re it for me. I know it with everything I’ve got.

So while we’re apart, remember that. Hold on to it, even on the hard days. And when you’re missing me, just know that I’m missing you just as much. I’m counting down the days until I can hold you in my arms again.

I love you more than words can say, Gabs. Always. - Glen

Gabby’s vision blurred as she finished reading, her tears splashing onto the page. She clutched the letter to her chest, her heart aching with both the pain of his absence and the overwhelming love she felt for him.

She wiped at her cheeks, letting out a watery laugh as she glanced over at Willow. The cat had wandered over to the pile of Glen’s clothes, circling them with purpose. Finally, Willow plopped down on the Texas Longhorns T-shirt, her small body curling into a tight ball.

Gabby sniffled, shaking her head as Willow let out a soft meow and turned her gaze toward the door. It was almost as if the cat was waiting for Glen to walk through it.

“I know, girl,” Gabby murmured, stroking Willow’s back. “I miss him too.”

The apartment felt quieter than ever as Gabby leaned back against the counter, her gaze drifting toward the door. She clutched Glen’s sweatshirt to her chest, inhaling his familiar scent as she whispered, “Sixty-five days.”

Later that night, Gabby slipped into bed, the cool sheets feeling foreign after a week of sharing warmth and space with Glen. She tugged his sweatshirt over her head, the soft fabric and familiar scent bringing a small measure of comfort. It hung loose on her frame, the sleeves far too long, but she didn’t care. It was Glen’s, and for now, it was the closest she could get to having him near.

Willow hopped onto the bed and curled up at Gabby’s feet, her faint purring filling the quiet of the room. Gabby reached down to scratch behind her ears, but her mind was elsewhere—back in Texas, in Glen’s arms, where she wanted to be more than anything.

Her phone buzzed on the nightstand, and her heart leapt at the sight of Glen’s name on the screen. She swiped to answer, bringing the phone to her ear.

“Hey,” she said softly, her voice carrying both relief and longing.

“Hey, beautiful,” Glen replied, his warm, familiar drawl melting the edges of her sadness. “Figured I’d call before you fell asleep.”

“I’m glad you did,” Gabby admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “It’s been...a quiet night.”

“Yeah,” Glen said after a pause, his own tone quieter than usual. “It’s been strange not having you around.”

Gabby bit her lip, her throat tightening. She didn’t want to cry—not again. “Willow misses you too,” she said, forcing a small laugh. “She’s been lying on that Longhorns T-shirt you snuck into my bag. I tried putting it away, and she threw a full-on tantrum. I think she thinks it’s hers now.”

Glen’s laugh rumbled through the speaker, low and genuine, and Gabby’s chest ached at the sound.

“That cat, I swear,” he said, a smile evident in his voice. “You want me to send her another shirt? She can have her own Glen t-shirt if she needs it.”

“She’d love that. I think she’s got it in her head that you’re coming back any minute. She keeps staring at the door like she’s waiting for you.”

The silence stretched between them for a moment, heavy with unspoken emotion.

“I miss you,” Glen said finally, his voice softer now.

“I miss you too,” Gabby replied, her voice trembling despite her best efforts. “It’s only been nine hours, but it already feels...so far.”

“I know, sweetheart. I feel it too,” he said. “But it won’t always be like this. We’ll get through it. You and me.”

She nodded, even though he couldn’t see her. “You and me. Sixty-five days,” she whispered, clutching the phone tightly.

“Sixty-five days,” Glen echoed. “And I’m counting down every one of them.”

Another pause, this one filled with the weight of everything they wanted to say but couldn’t find the words for.

“You should try to get some sleep,” Glen said gently. “You’ve got a big day tomorrow, first day of classes and all.”

“I will,” Gabby said, though she didn’t feel the least bit tired. “You too. You’ve got a big day on set.”

“I’ll try,” he said with a small chuckle, though it lacked its usual warmth.

“I love you, Glen,” Gabby whispered, her voice barely audible.

“I love you too, Gabby. So much,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

“Goodnight,” she said, her chest tightening as she forced herself to hang up.

“Goodnight,” Glen replied, his voice lingering in her ears even after the call ended.

Gabby set the phone back on her nightstand, her hand lingering on it for a moment before she turned off the light. She pulled Glen’s sweatshirt closer, burying her face in the collar as tears slipped silently down her cheeks.

Willow shifted closer, curling against her side, and Gabby closed her eyes, letting the steady rhythm of the cat’s purring soothe her. It was going to be a long sixty-five days, but for now, she held on to the memory of Glen’s voice, his laughter, and the promise of the next time they’d be together.

* * * *

The following week, Gabby threw herself into her classes, her days filling quickly with lectures, assignments, and the bustling chaos of campus life. The familiar rhythms of academia were comforting, a structured escape from the ache of missing Glen, but no matter how busy she was, thoughts of him lingered at the edges of her mind.

Sitting in her first lecture of the day, Gabby listened to her professor discuss the syllabus and upcoming projects. She diligently took notes, but her gaze drifted out the window, where the sunlight streaming through the trees reminded her of the lazy mornings she’d spent with Glen on his ranch. She could almost hear his voice, teasing her for not being a morning person, and the memory brought a faint smile to her face before reality pulled her back.

Between classes, she stopped by a campus café to grab a coffee. As she stood in line, the buzz of conversations around her blurred into the background until a pair of students ahead of her mentioned Glen’s name.

“Did you see his new movie? Glen Powell looks so good in it,” one of them said, holding her phone up to show the screen. "That rain scene with the t-shirt!"

Gabby’s breath caught, her heart skipping a beat. She wanted to lean in, to hear more, but she forced herself to stay still, clutching her bag tighter.

They didn’t know he was her Glen, and part of her liked it that way—a small, private corner of her world that belonged only to the two of them.

She tried to brush it off, but the mention of his name stayed with her as she walked to her next class. She wondered if he was thinking about her too, if he missed her as much as she missed him.

Later that day, as she sat in the library with her laptop open and notes scattered across the table, her focus wavered again. A faint scent of leather from a nearby student’s jacket brought her back to Glen’s truck, the way the seats smelled faintly of leather and pine. She remembered sitting beside him as they drove through the Texas countryside, the windows down and his hand resting casually on her knee.

Shaking her head, Gabby forced herself to refocus on the assignment in front of her. It wasn’t like her to daydream, but Glen had a way of slipping into her thoughts when she wasn't even trying to think about him.

Across the country, Glen was finding it harder than expected to settle into his new role. The first week of filming for the Hulu series had started with the usual buzz of excitement—a new character to embody, a new world to step into. But something felt off.

Standing on set in full costume—a padded football jersey and cleats that clinked against the asphalt—he adjusted his helmet under his arm and waited for the next take. One of his co-stars cracked a joke, and Glen chuckled politely, but his heart wasn’t in it.

“Alright, let’s reset and try it again,” the director called from behind the monitor. Glen nodded.

This wasn’t like him. Normally, by the second take, he’d be in the zone, delivering lines with ease and instinctively hitting his marks. But today, every movement felt stiff, every line he delivered a beat off from the director’s vision. He ran a hand through his damp hair, frustration simmering just beneath the surface.

“Take five,” the director said, waving them off. “Glen, let’s loosen it up a bit, alright? Remember, this guy’s cocky but with a soft side. He’s not a robot.”

Glen nodded again, managing a tight smile as he walked off the field and toward the trailers. He grabbed a bottle of water and collapsed into a folding chair beneath a shade tent. The sound of crew members shouting instructions and adjusting equipment faded into the background as he pulled his phone from his pocket.

He unlocked it without thinking, his thumb automatically scrolling to his photo gallery. There she was—Gabby. Smiling, sunlight catching in her hair as she leaned against the fence at his ranch. It was a candid shot he’d taken just a few days ago, her cheeks pink from laughing at something he’d said.

Glen stared at the photo for a long moment, his chest tightening. He missed her more than he wanted to admit. The ache was a dull throb, but it was always there, just beneath the surface.

Switching to his messages, he reread her latest text.

GABBY: Made it to campus! First class was a little overwhelming, but I’m settling in. Miss you already.

He missed her too. More than words could say. He started to type a reply, hesitated, then erased it. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to talk to her—he just didn’t want to admit that he was struggling-or how much he was struggling.

Gabby was always so strong, diving headfirst into everything she did. The last thing he wanted was for her to worry about him when she was busy adjusting to her own new chapter of life.

The sound of the assistant director calling everyone back to set jolted him from his thoughts. Glen shoved his phone back into his pocket and stood, rolling his shoulders as he walked back to the field.

“You good, Powell?” one of the crew members asked, clapping him on the back.

“Yeah,” Glen replied, forcing a grin. “Just shaking off the rust.”

But as he lined up for another take, the image of Gabby’s face lingered in his mind, her smile anchoring him even as the world around him demanded his full attention.

* * * *

The first few days apart were filled with constant texts, late-night phone calls, and photo updates that made it feel like they were still sharing their lives with each other, even from miles away. Gabby would send Glen snapshots of her campus, the stack of books she was tackling, or even a selfie of her and Willow curled up on the couch. Glen, in turn, sent her pictures from the set—behind-the-scenes shots of his costume or goofy selfies with his castmates.

But as the weeks passed and their schedules grew busier, the steady rhythm they’d fallen into started to waver.

One evening, after a long day of classes and homework, Gabby curled up on her bed, clutching her phone. She typed out a message to Glen, trying to keep it light even though her chest ached with how much she missed him.

GABBY: Hope filming’s going well today. Willow still isn’t budging off your shirt—starting to think she’s claimed it for good. Miss you. Can’t wait to hear your voice tonight.

She stared at the screen for a moment before hitting send, her heart fluttering slightly at the thought of him reading it.

But hours passed with no reply. The little "delivered" notification sat there like a mocking reminder of the distance between them.

By the time Glen finished his last scene of the day, the set lights had been dimmed and the crew was packing up. Exhausted, he pulled out his phone and saw Gabby’s message. His heart twisted with guilt as he read it, knowing she’d been waiting for him to reply.

GLEN: Miss you too. Sorry I couldn’t text sooner. Today’s been nonstop. Hope you’re dreaming sweet dreams. Love you.

But when he hit send, he knew she wouldn’t see it until the morning. A glance at the clock confirmed it—it was well past midnight in L.A. He ran a hand over his face, the weight of the day settling heavily on his shoulders.

This wasn’t the first time it had happened. The past few days had been a cycle of missed texts and voicemail tags, with their busy schedules pulling them in opposite directions. Gabby would text him during breaks between her classes, only for Glen to miss them while he was on set. He’d call her after wrapping up a day of filming, only to find she’d already fallen asleep after a long evening of studying.

Neither of them blamed the other, but the distance was starting to feel heavier with each missed connection.

The next morning, Gabby woke to the soft buzz of her phone. She smiled faintly at Glen’s reply, but the ache in her chest hadn’t subsided. She tapped out a quick response as she got ready for class, her fingers lingering over the keyboard before hitting send.

GABBY: It’s okay, I know you’re busy. Hope today’s a little easier for you. Love you too.

Glen read her text during his first break of the day, the guilt gnawing at him again. He wanted to call her, to hear her voice and tell her how much she meant to him. But there wasn’t time. The assistant director was already motioning for him to come back to set.

The next evening, Gabby curled up on her bed, her laptop and books shoved to the far corner of her comforter. A single lamp cast a warm glow over the room, and Willow lay sprawled across Glen’s Longhorns T-shirt, purring faintly as Gabby scrolled aimlessly through her phone.

Her chest eased with relief when Glen’s name finally popped up on her screen. She didn’t even hesitate before answering.

“Hey,” she greeted softly, a smile tugging at her lips.

“Hey, sweetheart,” Glen’s voice rumbled back, deep and familiar in a way that sent warmth straight to her chest. There was something soothing about hearing him—like everything else faded for a little while. “I was worried I’d missed you again.”

“You almost did,” Gabby teased, pulling her knees to her chest. “I was this close to falling asleep.”

Glen chuckled on the other end, the sound like a balm for her nerves. “Glad I caught you, then. How’s your day been?”

“Long,” she admitted, leaning back against the pillows. “Classes were a lot, and I have a paper due next week, but I’m managing. How about you? How’s set?”

He sighed, and she could picture him running a hand through his hair. “Better today. I finally nailed a scene I’d been struggling with all week. Guess I just needed to get out of my own head.”

“I’m sure you nailed it,” Gabby said softly, and she meant it.

There was a beat of quiet, the kind that felt comfortable and heavy at the same time. She took a deep breath and noticed that the faint smell of Glen was now completely gone from the sweatshirt. Now it just smelled like her laundry detergent.

Finally, she broke it with a soft laugh, trying to keep things light. “I think I’ve worn your shirts too many times.”

“What?” Glen asked, amused. “How’s that possible?”

“They don’t smell like you anymore,” she admitted, a sheepish grin on her face. “It’s like they’ve finally given the scent up.”

Glen laughed, a real, rich sound that made her smile widen. “Well, we can’t have that, can we?”

“No,” she teased back. “We really can’t.”

“Guess I’ll just have to send you some fresh ones,” he said, and she could hear the smile in his voice. “Make sure Willow gets a new nest, too.”

Gabby glanced down at the cat curled up on the shirt. “She’ll appreciate that. She’s spoiled, you know. You did that.”

“Oh, so now it’s my fault your cat loves me?”

“Yes, she literally hates everyone but you.” Gabby said simply, laughing when Glen let out a dramatic groan.

They fell quiet again, but this time it wasn’t awkward or strained—it was just them. Together, in their own way, even with the distance. Gabby felt her chest tighten as she rested her head against her knees.

“I miss you, Glen,” she whispered, the words soft but full of meaning.

“I miss you too,” he replied, just as quietly. “More than I can explain.”

Her eyes burned as she swallowed hard. “How long until I see you again?”

“Thirty-nine days. But I’m hoping it will be sooner than that,” he said, his voice gentle but sure. “I promise I'll come see you as soon as I can.”

She closed her eyes, clinging to his words like a lifeline. “Okay.”

In her mind, thirty-nine days felt like a life sentence. The twenty-six days it had been since she’d last seen him felt like forever.

“I should let you go so you can get some rest,” Glen said after a moment, his voice a little rough around the edges. “You sound tired.”

“I am,” she admitted. “But I didn’t want to miss talking to you.”

"I'm glad I got to talk to you tonight," he admitted. "Even if it's just a quick call, you always make my day better."

Gabby smiled softly as she sank further into the pillows, her heart aching and full all at once. “Goodnight, Glen. Love you.”

“Goodnight, Gabby. Sleep tight, I love you.”

When the call ended, Gabby stared at her phone for a moment longer, the ache of missing him sitting heavy in her chest. But as she pulled on his sweatshirt and curled under the covers, she felt just a little closer to him, his promise lingering in her mind like a gentle whisper.

“Thirty-nine days,” she reminded herself. Thirty-nine days and then she’d be in his arms again.

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the windows of Gabby’s apartment as she sat cross-legged on the couch, her laptop balanced on one knee and a textbook open beside her. She absentmindedly chewed on the end of her pen, skimming over notes and trying to focus on her coursework. 

The sudden buzz of her apartment’s call button jolted her out of her daydreams. Gabby frowned, glancing up from her laptop. She wasn’t expecting anyone.

Sliding off the couch, she padded across the room and pressed the intercom button. “Hello?”

“Delivery for Gabby Summers,” a muffled voice crackled through the speaker.

Confusion furrowed her brow. “A delivery?”

“Yep. Package for you.”

Still puzzled, Gabby grabbed her keys and headed downstairs. When she stepped outside, the morning air was crisp, and a man in a navy delivery uniform stood by the door, holding a large bouquet of flowers and a brown gift bag.

“Gabby Summers?”

“That’s me,” she replied, her curiosity growing as she accepted the items. The flowers were gorgeous—full and bright, a mix of soft whites, yellows, and vibrant pinks and oranges.

“Have a good day,” the delivery driver said with a nod before heading back to his van.

“Thanks,” Gabby called after him, still bewildered as she tucked the bag under her arm and carried everything back upstairs.

Once inside, she set the flowers carefully on the kitchen counter, letting the scent of fresh blooms fill the space. She couldn’t help but smile as she admired them, knowing only one person would send something like this.

“Glen,” she murmured softly.

Willow, ever curious, hopped onto the counter and sniffed at the arrangement before turning her green eyes toward the gift bag Gabby had placed beside it.

“Yeah, I’m curious too,” Gabby said, grinning as she pulled the bag toward her.

Reaching inside, her smile grew wider as she pulled out several of her favorite snacks—bags of popcorn, chocolate-covered pretzels, sour candies—all things Glen knew she loved. But when her hand closed around something unexpected, she paused and pulled it out with a laugh.It was a bottle of cologne.

Willow let out a faint meow, pawing at the bag as though she, too, needed to know what else was inside. Gabby tipped the bag over, and a small folded note slipped out, landing softly on the counter.

Setting the cologne down, Gabby picked up the paper and unfolded it.

Gabby,Thought you could use some of your favorites to get through your studying. And I figured if my shirts aren’t smelling like me anymore, this might help. Just a couple spritzes, and it’ll be like I’m right there with you (and Willow). Miss you like crazy. I’ll talk to you tonight.

—Glen

Gabby pressed the note to her chest, her cheeks aching from how hard she was smiling. “You’re something else, Glen Powell,” she whispered.

Willow let out another small meow, batting at the bottle of cologne until it toppled onto its side.

“Okay, okay,” Gabby laughed, uncapping the bottle. She gave Glen’s Longhorns T-shirt—still Willow’s chosen nest—two light spritzes. The familiar scent filled the room, and Gabby closed her eyes for a moment, feeling like Glen was just a little closer.

When she looked back down, Willow had settled herself even more comfortably into the shirt, her purr audible.

“Figures you’d get dibs,” Gabby teased, scratching behind the cat’s ears.

[crossfandomskylines]

I feel like you’re going have us all sobbing with their reunion

I do have a few ideas for the reunion already. I think I'm going to write a chapter or two covering their time apart first, but the reunion will definitely be emotional when we get there!

[crossfandomskylines]

awwww that made me tear up, so excited for them to be back together already 😞

Thanks for reading and supporting! And right? Part of me just wants to skip to the good part and jump ahead the 9 weeks and let them be back together again already! I appreciate you stopping by to send a message!

[crossfandomskylines]

aw😞😞 i know they’re both strong amd will survive the distance i feel for them i really do

such a good chapter!!!

Thank you so much for reading! This chapter was definitely hard to write because I really am falling in love with these two and the relationship they've built!

[crossfandomskylines]

In the Space Between Us: Chapter 15

OTHER CHAPTERS:

Chapter 1 I Chapter 2 I Chapter 3 I Chapter 4 I Chapter 5

Chapter 6 I Chapter 7 I Chapter 8 I Chapter 9 I Chapter 10

Chapter 11 I Chapter 12 I Chapter 13 I Chapter 14 I Chapter 15

Chapter 16 I Chapter 17 I Chapter 18 I Chapter 19 I Chapter 20

Pairing: Glen Powell x OC

Summary: Gabby and Glen spend one last night together before she heads back to Los Angeles and he prepares to start filming his next project. The next day they both struggle to say goodbye at the airport knowing it will be weeks until they see each other again.

Word Count: 2.8k

Warnings: None.

A/N: Please continue to let me know what you think with Hearts, Comments, and Reblogs! Also if you'd like to be tagged please let me know, and I will get you added to the tag list!

Tag List: In Comments - Tumblr for some reason doesn't like linking more than 5 usernames so I'm just going to use the tags in the comments to make sure you get the notification!

The next few days that followed were a blur of easy laughter and quiet moments, a rhythm of life that felt natural to Gabby in a way she hadn’t experienced in years. Austin welcomed her with its laid-back charm, but it was Glen’s presence that made everything feel effortless.

Mornings were spent lingering over coffee in Glen’s kitchen, where sunlight poured through the windows, casting golden light over the wooden countertops. Gabby loved watching him cook breakfast, his movements unhurried yet precise as he scrambled eggs or flipped pancakes. They talked about everything and nothing, trading stories and teasing each other in a way that left Gabby’s cheeks sore from smiling.

Afternoons were reserved for exploring Austin. Glen took her to his favorite taco stand tucked away in the heart of the city, where Gabby insisted on trying every salsa they offered. He laughed when her face flushed after sampling the spiciest one, quickly handing her his drink to cool her down.

Evenings were slower and more intimate. One night, they curled up on the couch, a movie playing in the background as Gabby’s head rested on Glen’s shoulder. She had almost fallen asleep when she felt him press a soft kiss to the top of her head, and though she didn’t say anything, the unspoken tenderness in the gesture filled her chest with warmth. Another night, they sat on Glen’s back porch with a couple of beers, watching the stars and letting the comfortable silence stretch between them.

It was simple, and exactly what Gabby needed. For the first time in a long time, she felt herself letting go of the weight she’d been carrying. She didn’t just exist anymore—she was living, and she couldn’t deny that Glen had a lot to do with that.

On the night before Gabby was set to go back to Los Angeles, they were in Glen’s room. Gabby lay nestled in his arms, her head resting against his chest as they stretched out on his bed. The room was dark, illuminated only by the faint glow of the moonlight streaming through the partially open blinds. Glen’s steady heartbeat beneath her ear was comforting, but she could tell something was off.

He’d been quiet all day. At first, she assumed it was just the weight of her leaving tomorrow, but the longer the silence stretched on, the more it gnawed at her. It wasn’t like Glen to retreat into himself, not with her.

She shifted slightly, propping herself up on one elbow so she could look at him better. His gaze was fixed on the ceiling, his brow furrowed in thought. The subtle crease between his eyebrows tugged at her heart.

“You’ve been quiet today,” she murmured, her voice soft in the stillness of the room.

His eyes flicked down to meet hers, and he forced a small smile, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Just been thinking,” he replied, his voice low.

Gabby tilted her head, studying him. “About?”

He hesitated, his gaze fixed on the ceiling as though the words he was looking for were written there. “About tomorrow. About us.”

Gabby’s stomach tightened at the admission, but she forced herself to stay calm. “I know it’s going to be hard,” she said, threading her fingers through his. “But we’ll figure it out, right? We’ve already talked about how we’ll stay in touch—texts, FaceTimes, maybe we can plan some visits or something—”

“It’s not that,” Glen interrupted, his voice quiet but firm.

She frowned, sitting up slightly so she could look at him more closely. “Then what is it?”

He propped himself up on his elbow, his free hand running through his hair in a gesture that told her just how much this was weighing on him. “It’s just... I know what I signed up for with you, Gabby. But sometimes I wonder if you knew what you signed up for with me. I wonder if you’d be better off with someone... I don’t know... someone more normal.”

Gabby blinked, stunned into silence for a moment. “Normal?” she echoed, her tone disbelieving. "Better off? What are you talking about, Glen?"

“Yeah,” he said, his gaze dropping to the space between them. “What if you'd be better off with someone who has a normal job and a normal life. Someone who doesn’t have to be gone all the time for work. Someone who isn’t constantly in the spotlight. Someone who can give you the kind of stability you deserve.”

“Don’t do that,” she said firmly, her voice cutting through the heavy air between them. She reached out, cupping his face in her hands and forcing him to meet her eyes. “Don’t start giving me an out before we’ve even had a chance to face this. I’m here because I want to be here. I know your life isn’t normal, Glen. I knew that when I met you. I know it comes with challenges, but I’m not scared of them. You’re worth it, okay?”

His eyes softened, and his hand came up to cover hers, holding it against his cheek. “You say that now,” he murmured. “But I just... I don’t ever want to make you feel like you’re settling, or like you’re giving things up to be with me.”

Gabby’s expression softened as she leaned closer, her forehead resting against his. “I’m not settling with you, Glen. You’re giving me something I didn’t think I’d find again—something real.” She paused, her forehead gently resting against his. “For so long, I told myself I’d never let anyone in like this again. It wasn’t worth the risk of being hurt. But you... you’ve made me believe in relationships again, in us. That’s not settling.”

“Gabby...” he started, but she pressed a finger to his lips, silencing him.

“I don’t want ‘normal,’” she continued, her voice steady as her hands slipped down to his chest. “I want you. I don’t care what your job is, what your crazy schedule is like, the spotlight that’s on you all the time. I don’t care about any of that stuff. I care about you.”

Glen stared at her for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, slowly, he reached up and covered her hands with his, pulling them away from his face just enough so he could press a kiss to her knuckles. 

“You’re something else, you know that?” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

Gabby smiled, the tension in her chest easing slightly. “You knew what you were signing up for,” she teased gently, echoing the words he’d said to her earlier.

He chuckled, the sound low and warm, and tugged her back down into his arms. “Guess I did,” he murmured, his lips brushing against her forehead.

They lay there in silence for a while, the only sound the faint rustle of the sheets as he held her close. Gabby felt his grip tighten slightly, as though he was trying to memorize the feel of her in his arms before the world pulled them apart again.

“You’re stuck with me, Glen,” she said softly.

He smiled against her hair, his heart swelling at her words. “Good,” he whispered. “Because I don’t want it any other way.”

A silence fell between them that felt comfortable, the earlier tension eased by Gabby’s words. Her fingers absently traced patterns over the soft cotton of his shirt. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear was soothing, grounding her in the moment.

For Glen, though, the stillness wasn’t quite the same. His gaze was fixed on the ceiling, but his thoughts were entirely on the woman in his arms. How had he gotten so lucky? How had someone like her walked into his life? And how was he supposed to let her go tomorrow, even for just a little while?

“Gabby,” he said softly, his voice cutting through the quiet.

She stirred against him, lifting her head just enough to meet his gaze. “Hmm?”

He didn’t answer right away. Instead, he just looked at her, taking in every detail—the gentle slope of her nose, the curve of her lips, the way her eyes seemed to hold a thousand emotions all at once. A slow smile spread across his face, one that made her own lips twitch upward in response.

“What?” she asked, her voice light but tinged with curiosity.

Glen reached up, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear before letting his hand linger against her cheek. “I love you,” he said simply, his voice steady but full of meaning.

Gabby’s heart skipped a beat, her smile growing as warmth spread through her chest. “I love you too,” she replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper but no less sincere.

The way she said it—without hesitation, without fear—made Glen’s chest tighten in the best possible way. He watched as she leaned up, her hand resting lightly on his shoulder for balance as she pressed her lips to his.

When they finally broke apart, both were breathing hard, their foreheads pressed together as they tried to steady themselves. Gabby’s eyes fluttered open, meeting Glen’s, and the intensity in his gaze made her stomach flip.

“I’m going to miss you,” she murmured, her voice soft but laced with emotion.

Glen’s thumb brushed over her cheek, his touch lingering as he studied her like he was trying to commit every detail of her face to memory. “You don’t even know,” he replied, his voice low and rough.

* * * *

The morning sun streamed through the truck’s windows as Glen navigated the road toward the airport. The drive was quieter than their usual conversations, the air heavy with unspoken emotions. Gabby sat beside him, her head resting against the window, her fingers laced tightly with his on the center console.

Glen glanced over at her, his chest tightening at the sight of her subdued expression. Gabby was rarely this quiet. Normally, she’d be teasing him about his music choices or recounting some random story from her day, but today… she seemed lost in her thoughts.

“Hey,” he said softly, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. “You okay?”

She turned to him, offering a small smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Yeah. Just… thinking.”

“About?”

She shrugged, her thumb idly brushing against his knuckles. “Everything. You leaving. The next few months.” Her voice wavered slightly, and she looked out the window again, blinking rapidly.

Glen’s grip on her hand tightened, his jaw clenching as he forced himself to focus on the road. He hated seeing her like this, knowing there was only so much he could do to ease her worries. But he’d be damned if he didn’t try.

“Listen,” he began, his voice steady but soft. “I know this isn’t going to be easy. For either of us. But I need you to remember that we’re still in this together, okay?

Gabby turned back to him, her green eyes shining with unshed tears. “I know.”

He nodded, his throat tightening. “It’s like you said yesterday, we’ll make it work. We can call, text, Facetime. Hell, I’ll send you a hundred cheesy memes a day if that’s what it takes to make you laugh.”

A small laugh escaped her, breaking through the tension in her chest. “You already do that.”

“Good,” he said with a grin. “Then I’m just gonna keep doing what I do best.”

Her smile grew, and for a moment, the weight in the air seemed to lift. Glen glanced at her again, his gaze lingering as he tried to memorize the way the sunlight caught her hair, the way her lips curved even when she was trying to hold back a smile.

“You know,” he continued, his tone softening, “it’s okay to be upset about this. I don’t want you to feel like you have to be strong all the time, Gabby. I want you to talk to me about how you're feeling. I know this is hard."

Gabby’s fingers tightened around his as she nodded. “I just… hate the idea of you being so far away.”

“I hate it too,” Glen admitted, his voice thick with emotion. “But I’m coming back to you. Don’t ever doubt that.”

She didn’t respond, but the way her hand stayed firmly in his spoke volumes.

Glen pulled his truck up to the Southwest gate, the rumble of the engine quieting as he shifted into park. Gabby opened her door, stepping out into the cool morning air, the smell of jet fuel faint in the distance. For a moment, she stood there, her gaze fixed on the busy airport entrance ahead of her, the weight of reality pressing down harder than it had all week.

Glen climbed out and walked around to the back of the truck, pulling her suitcase out of the bed. The sound of the bag’s wheels hitting the pavement snapped Gabby out of her thoughts, and she turned to watch him.

As he set her suitcase down beside her, it hit her all at once. Sixty-five days. Nine weeks and two days. That’s how long it would be until she saw him again. It sounded so manageable when they talked about it before, but now, standing here, staring at the terminal that would take her away from him, it felt impossibly long.

Glen stepped closer to her, noticing the way her eyes had glossed over with unshed tears. 

“Hey,” he said softly, his voice steady but warm. “It won’t always be like this.”

Gabby nodded, but the lump in her throat made it impossible to respond. She glanced at the planes lined up along the runway, her gaze landing on the 737 she assumed was hers. It sat there like a cruel, unmoving promise, ready to take her thousands of miles away, away from Glen, away from the warmth of his arms. But the 2,175 miles that was going to be separating them for the next two months may as well be a million miles apart, because that’s what it felt like in her heart.

“Come here,” he said, closing the distance between them. He cupped her face in his hands, his thumbs brushing gently over her cheeks. “Give me one last kiss before you go.”

Her breath hitched, but she leaned up on her toes, her lips meeting his in a kiss that was sweet, slow, and filled with everything they couldn’t put into words. Glen’s hands slid down to her waist, holding her as if he could memorize the way she felt against him in these fleeting moments.

As their lips parted, Gabby’s eyes fluttered open, the tears she’d been holding back finally spilling over. She hadn’t even noticed them pooling, but now they were streaming freely, hot and unrelenting. Glen saw the first tear roll down her cheek, and it nearly shattered him.

“Gabs,” he whispered the nickname he'd given her, his voice breaking just slightly.

He pulled her into his chest, wrapping his arms tightly around her. One hand cradled the back of her head, holding it gently to his chest as he rested his chin on her hair. She clung to him, her fingers fisting in the fabric of his shirt as if she could keep him here, just like this, for a little longer.

“It’s gonna be okay, I promise. We’re gonna get through this,” he murmured, his lips pressing a tender kiss to the crown of her head.

Gabby nodded against him, her breaths coming in uneven gasps as she tried to rein in her emotions. Glen held her until she stilled, his hand rubbing slow circles on her back.

Finally, he leaned back, just enough to look at her. His own eyes were glassy now, but he managed a small, reassuring smile. 

“You should probably get going,” he said gently, his voice thick with reluctance.

Gabby wiped at her cheeks, nodding as she stepped back. But before she could reach for her suitcase, Glen leaned in one last time, capturing her lips in a lingering goodbye kiss. This one was different—filled with longing, with love, with the quiet ache of goodbye.

When they pulled apart, Gabby’s heart felt heavier than ever, but she reached for her suitcase, her fingers brushing against the handle.

“Text me as soon as you land, okay?” Glen said, his voice steady again, though the slight crack at the end gave him away.

“I will,” she promised, her voice trembling as she met his gaze.

“I love you,” he said, the words both an anchor and a plea.

“I love you too,” she whispered back, her voice barely audible over the bustle of the airport around them.

He stood there as she turned toward the entrance, his hands stuffed deep in his pockets to keep from reaching for her again. She glanced back once, her lips pressed into a wobbly smile, before disappearing into the crowd.

Glen stayed rooted to the spot, watching until he couldn’t see her anymore. The ache in his chest was sharp, almost unbearable, but he refused to move, as if staying there just a little longer might make the distance feel less real.

Finally, with a heavy sigh, he climbed back into his truck. As he pulled away from the curb, he glanced at the terminal one last time, silently willing the next sixty-five days to pass a little faster.

[crossfandomskylines]

Protective glen >>>>

loved the new chapter !

Glad you enjoyed the chapter! Thought we needed to see a slightly different side of Glen since he seems like he's always laid back and easygoing. But I remember him doing a podcast (I think it was Therapuss with Jake Shane) where he talked about he has a pretty long fuse but he will defend and protect other people, it seemed like this kind of situation would bring out that other side of Glen!