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fav-fanficssss · 13 hours ago

Note

routledge!reader x rafe, after big john comes back and finds out that both of his kids are dating the camerons, he gets mad, especially at his daughter, cause he thought that she wasn't thinking straight. After a few days, he throws a stupid comment about rafe when they were with the rest of the pogues and reader just snaps at him. pure angst now 🥰 she realises that he's never been a good father, only caring about treasures and yells that she wishes he never came back. Then goes to rafe, crying, for comfort 💕 (i love angst im sorry.)

hold me close

rafe cameron x routledge!reader

warnings: angst, swearing, a kiss, pretty safe !!

authors note: OKAY ik thats trevor n not rafe but erm, we’ll pretend bc that pic is what gives the energy for this oneshot. anyway hii, hope u guys enjoy this one. feel free to send any requests guys! n thank u for 1k followers yesterday. ilyasm <33

you sit in the backyard, the soft hum of cicadas filling the warm night air. the pogues are just behind you, laughing and talking in a huddle. it feels good to see them like this again—normal, for once, after everything.

after the chaos of the last year, of treasure hunts, betrayals, and close calls. you’ve always tried to stay out of it, letting john b and the others chase after the gold while you lived your life. but eventually, you couldn’t stay on the sidelines, not when rafe got involved, not when it became a matter of life and death.

it’s been hard, being stuck between two sides, torn between your brother and your boyfriend. but tonight, you just want peace.

you glance over at your dad, sitting a little ways away from the group, leaning back in his chair with a satisfied grin on his face. big john routledge—alive, after these three years. you still can’t believe it sometimes.

he looks different, a little more worn, a little rougher around the edges, but the way he carries himself hasn’t changed. he’s still larger than life, still full of stories, still your dad. and god, you missed him.

he catches your eye, and for a moment, it’s like nothing has changed. like you’re just a kid again, sitting with your dad, listening to him talk about his crazy ideas, his wild adventures.

“you know,” he starts, leaning forward, “i remember that time you and john b tried to catch that fish out by the dock, and you both fell in. i swear, i thought i was gonna have to drag you two out myself,” he says, chuckling to himself, shaking his head like the memory is some long-lost treasure of its own.

you smile, even though it feels a little bittersweet. “yeah,” you murmur under your breath.

you pull at a piece of grass by your feet, your fingers absentmindedly tearing at it. you’ve waited so long for this moment—for him to come back, for your family to feel whole again.

but now that he’s here, you don’t know what to do with it. you can’t shake the feeling that something’s changed, that he’s not just the dad you remember, but something else entirely. still, you can’t help but feel like the little girl who always looked up to him, who wanted nothing more than to make him proud.

“i never thought we’d see you again,” you mumble, your voice low, barely above a whisper. you don’t look up from the grass, your fingers still picking at the blades, but you can feel his gaze on you.

“i never thought i’d be back either,” he admits quietly. “but i couldn’t stop thinking about you two. every day out there . . . i thought about coming home.”

you scoff softly, a bitter smile pulling at your lips, even though you don’t mean for it to. “but you didn’t,” you say, barely above a whisper. “you didn’t come back for three years.”

he shifts in his seat, his fingers tapping against the arm of the chair. “it wasn’t that simple, y/n,” he says. “i was trying to protect you. there are dangerous people out there, people who want what we’re after. i couldn’t come back until i knew it was safe.”

you nod, but it’s a hollow gesture. you’ve heard it all before from other people—the excuses, the treasure, the danger. it always comes back to that.

you glance at your friends, laughing and sharing stories with each other. you’ve spent so long trying to push this life aside, to live outside of the mess of treasure hunts and betrayals. but it always pulls you back in.

“yeah, you always did put the treasure first,” you murmur as you face forward again. you’re not even sure if you mean to say it out loud. it’s more to yourself, just a thought that’s been living in the back of your mind for too long.

“don’t do that.” he leans forward, his voice soft, almost pleading. “i did it for you and john b,” he says, like it’s the most obvious thing in the world. “for our family. i wanted us to have something—something big, something that would change everything.”

“yeah, but we didn’t need that,” you say, your voice small, but firm. you’re still pulling at the grass, twisting it around your fingers. “we just needed you.”

he doesn’t say anything for a moment. it’s like he’s trying to figure out what to say, but there’s nothing that can fix the years of distance. nothing that can make up for what you lost when he left.

there’s a long silence, and for a moment, you think maybe this is as close as you’ll ever get to understanding each other. you don’t want to fight tonight. you just want to sit with him, to pretend that things could go back to how they were before.

“so,” he starts again, his tone shifting back to playful, like he’s trying to lighten the mood, “you and john b teaming up with the others to chase down treasure? guess it runs in the family.”

you laugh, but it’s a little forced. “yeah, well, i tried to stay out of it. but . . .”

“but what?” he presses, leaning forward with a smirk. “got a little taste of adventure, didn’t you?”

you glance up at the marsh, a faint smile on your lips. “something like that,” you mutter.

but you don’t mention rafe, don’t mention how he’s become a part of this tangled mess, how hard it’s been being caught between him and your family. you’ve already told your dad the day you reunited a few days ago in barbados. didn’t end well that time either. you don’t want to ruin the moment, don’t want to start another fight.

but, as if the universe is reading your mind, your dad shifts the conversation in a way that makes your stomach drop. “just promise me,” he says, suddenly serious, “you won’t let that rafe cameron kid get too close. he’s no good, y/n.”

the words hit you like a slap, and for a moment, you just sit there, staring at him. it takes you a second to process what he’s said, to even understand the casual way he’s dismissed rafe, like it’s nothing. like he’s nothing.

“and i hear john b’s with sarah now, too?” his tone shifts, bitter and disapproving. “so now both of my kids are wrapped up with the camerons. hell of a choice you both made.”

you freeze, your stomach tightening. there it is. you knew it was coming, but it still hits you like a punch to the gut. it’s not the first time he’s made a comment about rafe, and you thought you were doing the right thing confessing what’s changed since you last saw him, but now he’s dragging john b into it, and that makes it worse. so much worse.

“dad,” you start, trying to keep your voice steady, but there’s an edge to it, a warning. “don’t.”

he shakes his head like you’ve said something ridiculous. “no, i am gonna say something. sarah, rafe, they’re cameron’s kids. ward cameron’s kids. you’re smart enough to know better than to get mixed up with people like him. they’re bad news. always have been.”

“yeah, but they’re not like him,” you snap, your voice sharper than you intended. “sarah’s not ward. rafe’s not ward. they’re not their father.”

he just laughs, but there’s no humor in it. it’s harsh. “you really believe that?” he asks, shaking his head again. “they’re camerons. it’s in their blood. you think you’re any safer with rafe than you were without me here? because i’m telling you right now, you’re not.”

you stand up, your hands balled into fists at your sides. you’ve heard enough. for days now, you’ve listened to him make little digs about rafe, about the camerons, and you’ve kept your mouth shut. but tonight, it’s too much. you can’t keep it in anymore.

“three years, dad. three years you were gone, chasing your stupid treasure, while we were stuck here. john b and i had to figure it out on our own. so don’t stand there and act like you have any right to tell me who i should or shouldn’t be with.”

big john looks at you, stunned, like he’s seeing you for the first time. but you’re not done. there’s too much you’ve kept bottled up, and now it’s all spilling out.

“you care more about that gold than you ever did about us,” you say. “you care more about treasure than you do about being a father. you don’t know anything.”

big john’s face hardens, his jaw clenching as he stares at you. “i know enough,” he says, his voice cold. “i know who the camerons are.”

“yeah?” you snap, your voice breaking. “well, maybe if you’d been here, you’d actually know something about me too.”

you turn on your heel, ready to storm off, but the moment you move, you notice it.

the pogues are silent now, all of them watching. sarah, jj, pope, kie—they’re still, their conversations dropped as they stand there, wide-eyed and uneasy. john b, though, he’s just sitting there with his can of beer held low in his hands, lips pressed together. you can tell he’s heard it all before. he’s not going to step in because he knows you need to let it out.

you’re just done with it. you take a step forward, ready to leave this backyard and the suffocating tension behind. but something stops you, a feeling gnawing at your chest, pulling you back. you hesitate, turning just enough to glance at your dad over your shoulder.

he’s still staring at you, his expression set like stone, as if he’s waiting for you to say more, to take it all back, maybe. but you won’t. not now.

your voice wavers, but it’s steady enough. “i wish you never came back.”

his face doesn’t move, but something flickers in his eyes. you don’t wait for him to respond. you turn away for good this time and walk out, leaving the backyard behind.

before you know it, you’re at rafe’s house, your knuckles rapping against the door almost frantically. you pace, glancing down at your phone, watching as the notifications keep coming—texts from john b, a few from kie, and even jj. they're all asking the same thing: ‘ where are you? ’ or ‘ are you okay? ’

you drag your hand down your face, trying to ignore the tightness in your chest. before you can get lost in your thoughts, the door swings open, and there he is.

rafe stands in the doorway, his expression unreadable. he leans against the doorframe for a second, his lips slightly parted, taking you in. you know he’s already pieced together what’s happened from the voice messages you left on the way over. not that he’s the type to acknowledge it with some grand gesture or comforting words.

he doesn’t say anything, but he steps aside without much ceremony. you slip past him and leave your phone in the foyer, tossing it carelessly on the side table as you pass, the pinging of messages finally fading into the background.

you make your way down the hallway, not even sure where you’re going, but your feet carry you to the living room. rafe follows close behind, his presence looming, but not overbearing. his eyes are trained on you, watching as you take in the dimly lit room. there’s a bottle of whiskey sitting on the coffee table, a glass next to it, already finished. it’s so rafe—quiet, controlled chaos.

you stop, your breath shaky, your chest tight, and before you can hold it back, everything comes spilling out.

“he doesn’t get it, rafe. he just doesn’t fucking get anything,” you start, your voice louder than you intend. you turn to face him, your hands gesturing wildly as you try to make sense of the mess of emotions coursing through you. “i mean, he’s been gone for years, and he comes back, and suddenly he thinks he can just . . . control everything? like he gets to have an opinion about my life after everything he’s done. he doesn't even know me anymore.”

rafes eyes are fixed on you, and he’s listening, letting you get it out. his jaw twitches slightly, but he stays silent, just watching as you unravel in front of him.

“and it’s like . . . it’s like no matter what i do, no matter how hard i try, it’s never enough! not for him, not for john b, not for anyone!” your voice cracks, and you press your palms against your temples, trying to hold yourself together, but the tears are already brimming, threatening to spill over. “i didn’t ask for any of this. i didn’t ask to be stuck in the middle of all this shit with my family and you and . . . god, it’s too much.”

you turn away from him, your breath coming out in shallow gasps now as you try to steady yourself. but it’s no use. you’re falling apart, and it feels like the weight of everything is finally crushing you.

before you can say another word, rafe steps forward, his arms sliding around you in one swift motion. “alright, alright, c’mere,” he murmurs, his voice soft but firm. “c’mon.”

you collapse into him, burying your face into his chest, the tears coming freely now. he holds you tight, his chin resting lightly against the top of your head as his hand rubs slow circles on your back.

rafe’s not one for words, and you don’t expect him to be, but this—this is enough. the steady rise and fall of his chest, the way his arms keep you grounded, it’s enough to make the world stop spinning for just a moment.

you don’t say anything else. neither does he. the silence stretches on, but it’s not uncomfortable. for once, you feel like you can breathe.

even though he’s holding you, his mind seems elsewhere—his jaw clenched, muscles rigid beneath the surface. it’s not hard to guess where his thoughts have drifted, especially after everything you told him in those voice messages.

you can tell he’s upset. not just because you’re upset, but because of what your dad said—about him, about his family. his body is stiff as he holds you, and you know him well enough to see the silent anger simmering just beneath the surface. his eyes aren’t on you; they’re somewhere distant, staring past you as if he’s imagining your father’s words in his head.

“i’m sorry about what he said, rafe,” you whisper into his chest, feeling the way his breathing shifts, more shallow now, controlled. “he said something about sarah and john b, too.”

he doesn’t respond right away, but you feel his hand pause against your back, fingers pressing a little harder. for a moment, it feels like he might pull away, but instead, he just tightens his grip on you. his silence speaks volumes. rafe is the type to internalize everything, to let it fester until it boils over, but you can feel it now—the tension thrumming through his entire body.

“doesn’t matter,” he finally mutters, though you can tell by the way his voice is low, that it does. “it’s nothing i haven’t heard before.”

you pull back slightly, just enough to look up at him, and his eyes flick down to meet yours. they’re darker than usual, clouded with frustration, but he still tries to soften his expression for you.

“he doesn’t know what he’s talking about,” you say quietly. “he doesn’t know you.”

for a moment, neither of you speaks. rafe’s hand resumes its slow, steady motion against your back, though the tension hasn’t fully left his body. you can feel the war going on inside him—the part of him that’s angry, defensive, but also the part that’s trying to be here for you, to let go of his own frustration long enough to comfort you.

“fuck him,” rafe mutters after a long silence, his voice barely above a whisper. “he doesn’t get to talk about you like that. or me.”

there’s a dangerous edge to his voice now, but you know it’s not directed at you. he’s angry, not just at your dad, but at the situation—the impossible mess you’ve both found yourselves in, caught between your family and his.

“i don’t care what he thinks,” you murmur, holding onto him tighter. “i’m here with you. that’s all that matters.”

he doesn’t respond, but his hand moves to the back of your neck, his fingers curling gently into your hair as he exhales, long and slow, like he’s finally letting go of whatever was eating at him.

for the first time tonight, the room feels quiet as the two of you stand there, wrapped in each other’s arms.

you’re gazing up into his eyes, searching for something—comfort, understanding, maybe a little reassurance. your hands find their way up his shoulders, one resting gently on his collarbone while the other slides higher, rubbing the area around his ear and jaw.

“you know that i love you,” you murmur, your voice soft but steady, as if the confession can dissolve the tension still hanging in the air.

rafe stares down at you, and in that moment, you can see everything in his eyes. he’s never loved anyone more than he loves you—the way you stood your ground against your own dad tonight, defending yourself and defending him and his family. it’s a vulnerable space, one he doesn’t often let himself occupy, but with you, it feels different.

he nods, pressing his lips together as if trying to hold back a flood of emotion. then, with a sudden urgency, he leans down and kisses you deeply. the taste of whiskey lingers on his lips. it’s a kiss that speaks of everything unspoken.

but just as quickly as it begins, he pulls away and presses a soft kiss to your cheek. you close your eyes into the gesture, feeling the warmth of his lips linger against your skin.

rafe goes back to resting his chin on your head, his breath steady as he holds you close again. you breathe in his familiar scent, a mix of sea salt and something distinctly rafe, and let the silence wrap around you like a comforting blanket.

in this moment, nothing else matters. not the fights, not your dad’s harsh words, not the stupid tangled web of family and expectations.

just you and him, together, holding onto each other for as long as you can.

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fav-fanficssss · 15 hours ago

Text

take care of my girl

thornton!reader x rafe cameron

summary over the course of two years , you and rafe had been playing this god awful game of cat and mouse. it just so happens one day your boyfriend leaves you in the caring arms of his friend , and the game finally comes to an end.

warnings profanity , illusions to an emotionally distant boyfriend , cheating

18+ minors dni

you , your brother , and your mother were staying at topper’s house for the summer while she had the entire house’s tiling redone. you stayed in the spare bedroom right across the hall from topper’s room , and made no worry about making yourself comfortable. it was currently a perfect summer weekend , and both your mother and aunt decided to take the couple of days they had off and spent in the city.

when you came downstairs to start your day , rafe and kelce were already over , hanging out in the living room. in between topper and rafe sat your little brother. he was playing games with the older boys on the tv , and you couldn’t help but crack a smile at the sight.

you made your way behind the couch , grabbing alex’s head and pressing a kiss to his forehead. “good morning , my little angel,” you started , ruffling his hair without too much fuss from him, “hanging with the big kids today?”

“uh , mom says i can’t go on the boat without her , so she wanted me to tell you that you have to hang back and stay home with me,” alex explained , eyes never leaving the tv screen , where him and rafe were currently fighting against each other on.

you hummed , thinking about the plans you had for the day. rafe invited everyone out on the druthers for the day ; you , his friends , your boyfriend , a few girls. “well , i don’t see mom anywhere , do you?” you plotted , leaning down by his ear before whispering, “i think rafe’ll let ya on the druthers , right?”

at the sound of his name falling from your lips , rafe turned and looked at you. he took in your matching pajamas and the rollers in your hair. even not done up , you looked heaven-sent. you were untouchable , and that just made rafe want you more. “if y/n says it’s okay then i don’t see why not , kid,” rafe agreed , nudging the ten year old with his elbow before going back to the game, “it’s not like you’re a baby.”

“thank you!” alex hugged rafe from the side , kiddish smile on his lips to show off his little gap, “what do you guys do on boats anyway.”

“usually we just hangout , listen to music. same stuff we do here but on a boat,” topper explained , grabbing the controller from rafe and taking his turn on the game while alex passed his to kelce.

you moved to the kitchen , pouring yourself a cup of coffee and adding all of your extras when you felt someone come up behind you and grab your hips. “good morning to you too , rafe,” you grumbled , pushing him off of you.

“you look beautiful,” he sighed , moving to lean against the counter, “andy coming out today?”

“andrew is coming , yes,” you answered , correcting him at the same time.

“he gonna be a douchebag today?” rafe continued , eyeing you up and down from behind.

you turned entirely to give rafe a nasty look. “are you going to harass him? because if you are then most likely , yeah. he’ll be a douchebag,” you huffed , crossing your arms , coffee in hand, “i don’t even know how you two are friends. it’s like you hate each other but won’t say it even though you both know.”

rafe chuckled a little as he grabbed a beer from the fridge. “i don’t hate the kid,” he began , cracking the bottle open, “i just don’t like that he has something i want.” his blue eyes met yours , daring you to look away first.

you never did. you knew how rafe liked to play his little games. he liked them easy and fun with whatever girl he was trying to get fighting him just enough for it to add to the overall pride he’d feel when he finally scored.

“damn shame,” you hummed , staring back at him, “i should probably get ready.”

“you’re already perfect,” rafe complimented , hand reaching to feel the hem of your shorts. his touch matched the material : delicate.

you smacked his hand away. “we’re going on a boat. i’m not wearing this , idiot,” you hit his chest gently before moving away from him and going to the stairs , feeling his gaze on you the entire time. “we’re leaving at noon , booger! bring sunscreen!” you called out to your brother who just grunted in response.

a few hours had passed , and it was time for everyone to head out. andrew had facetimed you while you got ready , telling you he’d meet at topper’s first. when he arrived , he dapped all the guys up , including alex , before heading up to your room. of course , it wasn’t without glares from rafe and topper.

rafe didn’t like the guy because of you , and topper didn’t like him because he was often the one you cried to about him. andrew was none the wiser , thinking your friend group was one big , happy family.

“you look nice,” andrew smiled , pressing a kiss into your temple as he opened the front door for you. rafe was driving you , andrew , and alex. topper was driving with kelce and the girls they picked up.

“shoulda seen her this morning!” alex laughed , hopping in the front of rafe’s truck like he always did when rafe was chauffeur, “she had those rollers in her hair again. looked all crazy!”

“and you were drooling this morning when i went in to check on you,” you retorted , pushing at the back of his head, “i didn’t look that bad,” you muttered to andrew , sitting in the back next to him.

the drive wasn’t too far to get to the marina. rafe played eye spy with alex while you and andrew sat quiet in the back. “how much did your boat cost?” alex asked when the druthers came into view.

“alexander , you don’t ask people that,” you scolded him quickly , pinching his ear just a little to make him look at you. he did , rolling his eyes as you glared at him.

rafe’s laugh got you to soften before he answered your brother anyway, “way more than it should have.”

“i think i’d rather have my own plane,” alex decided , unbuckling his seatbelt prematurely. rafe reached over , grabbing the polyester before it retracted entirely and buckled it again. “we’re practically there!” your brother whined , clearly excited to go out on the water with everyone.

“somebody could easily be speeding through here , not seeing us , and then slam into my truck. if you’re not buckled? hate to break it to you , but you’re dead after you fly through my windshield,” rafe explained , pressing on his brakes lightly but enough to jostle you all around, “see? seatbelts.”

you glanced at andrew for a moment , seeing him on his phone. he seemed annoyed , but you couldn’t tell if it was you or work or something else. “hang up , hang out?” you asked , nudging your boyfriend as rafe pulled the truck to a stop.

“let the man work if he wants to , y/n,” rafe smiled from the front , giving you a look you knew all too well.

just when he turned around to get out of the truck , andrew locked his phone and smiled at you. “there. all done,” he assured you , getting out of the truck and letting you follow.

he helped rafe grab the necessities from the bed. alex stayed back with you despite grabbing a couple of fishing poles that rafe offered him. you grabbed your bag and a cooler full of drinks. “can we all agree that fishing is going to be stupid?” you asked aloud , knowing topper would groan behind you and andrew would whine.

“fishing is fun!” they both replied. even though topper wasn’t andrew’s biggest fan anymore , they grew up together. fishing was one of their things , and they’d defend it until they died.

once you had all hauled everything onto the boat , rafe took off. alex was right beside him , watching his every move. you sat next to andrew , pulling out your book of the week and started where you left off. andrew , despite being ‘all done’ , picked his phone up again.

“wait , wait!” he called out to rafe , listening to whoever was on the phone as he put his finger up, “i gotta go,” he rushed out , standing up and grabbing his things.

“are you serious?” you deadpanned , looking up at him like he’s the dumbest person you’d met, “like actually?” you heard rafe chuckle a little bit before covering it with a cough , so you shot him a glare.

“yeah , hon,” andrew grimaced. you did too ; you hated that nickname. “duty calls,” he shrugged kissing the top of your head before getting himself on the dock again. he stopped and turned , pointing at rafe , kelce , and topper. “take care of my girl.”

kelce and topper acknowledged their friend while rafe glanced at you. seriously? he thought. seriously. you rolled your eyes. “okay , then. see you later,” you waved at andrew from your spot on the boat , but he was already on the phone again, “rafe , just—“

“gotcha,” the driver nodded , pulling away from the dock and getting out to the water.

he took you all far enough out to where it wouldn’t be filled with people , anchoring down and telling alex to go grab the playing cards and get comfy. rafe had promised him that he would teach him poker , and alex suggested today.

everyone started setting up for whatever they planned to do for the day. topper cracked open a few beers for the girls , and rafe handed you a glass of wine from the bottle he brought just for you. “you heard your boy tell me to take care of you , right?” he smirked , hand lingering on yours a moment too long before you rolled your eyes.

“i can take care of myself,” you assured him , opening your book back up and starting again, “just make sure my brother doesn’t drown please.”

you knew you didn’t have to tell rafe to watch out for alex. every time he was around the older kids , he was constantly being watched by rafe. he made sure nothing was going to happen to your little brother. you hated that you loved it.

andrew hadn’t let you know that he’d made it home or anything like that so far. it’d been three hours. so , you decided to call him. rafe saw you stand up , grab your phone and move to the bedroom for some privacy. he watched you the whole way and gave you a few minutes by yourself.

“hey , it’s your girlfriend calling to say that it would be nice if you’d fucking let me know when you get home,” you rattled into the phone , having to leave a message because andrew didn’t pick up, “it’s been three hours , so , like , hopefully you’re not dead.”

you ended the call and flopped onto the bed you’d spent several nights in before. “fucking asshole,” you whispered , closing your eyes and trying to relax a little bit. you heard the door open and shut before you felt a dip next to you in the bed. one eye peeked open , confirming the fact that it was just rafe.

“you okay?” he quietly asked , copying you and laying down with his eyes closed.

“who’s with al?” you replied , hoping it was topper and not one of the girls you didn’t know that well. rafe assured you he was in good hands , and you were able to sink just a little bit more into the mattress. “andrew was in fact a douchebag today,” you sighed , rolling onto your side to face rafe completely.

rafe copied you , turning on his opposite side and looking into your eyes. usually , he didn’t maintain eye contact for too long , knowing that sparkle would make him weak in the knees. in moments like this , though , he took his time.

you weren’t bickering at each other , weren’t rolling your eyes , weren’t walking away. you were there ; entirely. he was able to study the colors that mixed in your irises and burn them into his memory. he was able to read your mind a little better when you were calm.

“he always is , baby,” rafe finally whispered back , hand coming up to fix a hair that was uncharacteristically out of place, “you deserve someone better. someone that knows you and takes care of you and cherishes you , y/n. i don’t know why you’re with that slob,” he added , bringing his hand down to your hip , and it wasn’t sexual at all. he just wanted to touch you however he could.

the pout on your lips deepened at his words. “throw three years of my life away? doesn’t sound too fun,” you shrugged.

“better than throwing the rest of your life away because you were scared,” he easily countered , thumb starting to move back and forth against the mesh of your coverup.

“and what do i do after?” you questioned , not ever actually thinking of leaving your boyfriend.

rafe chuckled and turned on his back again. “y/n , you would have a line all the way to charleston of guys waiting to fill andrew’s place,” he explained, “no doubt.”

“are you in line?”

his eyes flickered to you again , and a smile he only let appear when he was with you formed on his lips. “yeah,” he nodded, “i’m in line.”

your smile matched his , letting his words sink in. you had this game of cat and mouse , and for the first time , you’re thinking you might actually want to stop playing and just surrender. “so are you going to kiss me or not?”

“you gonna let me?” rafe’s voice was lower , daring you to do something. he wasn’t the type of guy to care too much about a girl’s relationship status , but with you , he wasn’t going to push it too far. he knew the line and stopped short of it every time.

but the answer was simple. you shifted closer to rafe , using your hand to turn his face to yours. “i’m letting you cut the line right now , rafe. take advantage of that,” you advised , voice quiet , like if you spoke any louder it would pop the bubble you two were in.

that was the green light for rafe. he quickly grabbed your face in his hands and kissed you deeply , like he had been waiting for the opportunity. and he had. you both waited two years for this exact moment. the moment you decided to stop playing around and let rafe have what he’d been wanting.

you pulled apart , eyes still closed , to catch your breath. rafe opened his eyes , taking a moment to look at you. your lips were slightly red from the kiss ; you looked perfect like always. “we should probably head back out,” rafe sighed , pulling you out of your trance.

“i don’t think i want to yet,” you admitted , a blush rising on your cheeks. you couldn’t remember the last time you were this flustered over one kiss. “i really don’t want to yet , rafe.”

“yeah , me neither,” rafe agreed with a light laugh , leaning in to peck your lips once again, “i was just trying to be… gentlemanly. i guess,” he rolled his eyes jokingly.

you laughed with him , pulling him in for another kiss. this was one softer than the first , slower. “i don’t need you to be a gentleman,” you shook your head, “just need you to stay you.”

taglist @p0isonb3rry @starkeydolly @edszn @hearts4suri @mylongshaft @fallout-girl219 @hey-itzjustana123

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fav-fanficssss · 3 days ago

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Ain't What It Is

Benny Cross x reader

Summary: You think you know your boyfriend better than anyone, but when Benny thinks you've cheated, you see a whole new side of him.

Notes/Warnings: angsty-ish, but fluff too. Cursing. Throwing things. Angry Benny. Drinking. Typos.

Words: 1800

Benny Cross Masterlist / Main Masterlist / Tag List

He’s home. And as thrilled as you are to see his bike parked in front of the house before midnight on a weekday, you’re just as confused. Excluding weekends, when riding during the day frees up Benny’s nights to give to you, it’s a rarity to see him between the dark hours of eight and three; a pattern so consistent that it’s almost silly to expect anything different.

You knew that when you met Benny. You knew exactly what you were getting into, and because of that, you don’t fault him for staying out late. Riding is important to Benny, it makes up a chunk of his soul, and because the other guys in the club—with their families and day jobs and grown-up responsibilities—can typically only meet after their kids are passed out from a bedtime story and their wives have finished screaming at them for daring to leave the house at such an ungodly hour, you let him be free to enjoy time with the club when he can.

If that time is given to you instead, you’re happy to have him for an entire night. However, now, as you enter through the front door, it’s not what you expected. The house is a pit of darkness; could be abandoned if you didn’t know the space you were stepping into.

“Benny?” you call, flicking on the nearest light. You toss your handbag onto the entryway table and make your way to the kitchen to check the fridge. If he’s already asleep, you hope he at least got to the leftovers you put away for him that he usually scarfs down before he comes to bed.

Turning the corner, you gasp, nearly jumping out of your skin at the shadowed figure sitting at the breakfast table. Your hand flies to your thumping heart.

“Jesus, honey, you scared me,” you breathe out. “Why are you sitting in the dark?”

A ray of moonlight streams through the window, surrounding your boyfriend and emphasizing his silhouette. He leans back in the chair and brings a bottle to his lips.

“Have you been drinking? How much? God, please tell me you didn’t ride the bike drunk,” you say. He doesn’t answer.

You sigh and move across the room with the intent to pull the silver chain of the small lamp on your counter—it’s a soft glow that won’t assault his eyes or yours after lingering in pitch black—but a strong hand wraps around your wrist as you pass by.

“Benny, wha–”

Your eyes adjust. You can finally make out his features as he looks up at you, and they’re as dark as the space you occupy. “You messin' around on me?” he asks.

If your eyebrows could lift above your forehead they would. If your jaw could unhinge itself, it’d be on the floor. “What?”

Benny shoots up, chair skidding back on the tile with an awful scraping sound. “Are you fuckin’ someone?” he spits out, leaning into you.

“What do you mean? I’m–”

He drops your wrist and groans, twisting on his heel and running his hand through already messy hair before turning back to you. And you don’t understand, because this, right here, is not your boyfriend. This is not how he acts. Rageful? Yes. One edge? Slightly inebriated? Yes and yes. But accusatory? Hot-tempered with you? Not for a single moment in the course of your time together.

“It’s that prick your ma’s tryin’ to set you up with, isn’t it!” he shouts. “I don’t get why she thinks he’s better than me!”

And then suddenly you know. You catch the anger trying to disguise the twinge of pain in his voice. Pain that is stemming from one thing and one thing only—your Mama’s bullshit.

She’s sly, that woman, and when you and Benny went to her house last week for dinner because you were exhausted of her complaints that she never sees you, who did you find in the seat assigned next to yours but her best friend’s son; a marking director in the city who makes an unnecessary amount of money and who expressed interest in you.

She knew you were bringing Benny. She knew because she requested that you bring Benny. You had plans to spare him the agony of an evening with the woman who hates him for his upbringing and unpredictable lifestyle, but when she asked for him, a glimmer of hope sparked. Maybe she was finally letting it go, turning over a new leaf by allowing your relationship to be your and Benny’s business and no one else’s. But you were so wrong.

An hour and a half of verbal jabs at your boyfriend were evened out by the plethora of compliments she had for her top pick as son-in-law. Benny was a trooper for your sake, but once the words ‘you two would make beautiful babies’ left her wrinkling lips, it was obvious the twig of his restraint was about to snap. And frankly, so was yours.

You took Benny by the hand, stormed out of your childhood home to ride back to your real home, and let Benny claim you however he wanted for the remainder of the night while you praised and soothed and reassured him of your feelings. And you thought those actions and words were enough for Benny to understand where your heart lies, but you’d be lying if you said he hasn’t seemed different over the last seven days.

You release a slow breath, “Honey…”

“So he wears a fuckin’ tie! So what!” His arm whips out and the bottle smashes against the wall, shards sprinkling the floor.

“Benny!”

“What!”

“Calm down!”

In two large steps, his body is looming over yours, your upper arms suddenly wrapped in his large hands, squeezing but not enough to hurt. “I know he ain’t like me, but that don't make him better for ya,” he says. “‘Sides, he can’t love ya like I do, so what do ya want him for?”

And that is the last straw because now you’re insulted. You shimmy your body out of his grasp and he glances down at his empty hands with wide eyes, brows knitted, lips parted as if you had simply vanished.

“I am not messing around!” you snap.

“Then where the fuck ya been tonight?” he demands. “Huh? Ya weren’t here. You’re always here. You’ve never not been here at this time’a night, so what am I supposed to be thinkin’?”

Your arms cross over your chest. Your jaw clenches. Your eyes burn. “Sit down.”

“Baby, you tell me right no–”

“Sit down, Benny!”

His head jerks back at the harshness you rarely exhibit, and though he briefly hesitates, he eventually complies, because you won’t use that tone unless he crosses a line and he knows it, and when you do have to use that tone because he has crossed a line, he knows he loses the things he likes. Sex; your homemade blueberry pie; your willingness to ride with him and go to picnics and bonfires with the club—all of it, for however long you decide. Benny doesn’t like to beg, but in those times, you can take him to his knees.

“Do you know how many nights I spend not knowing exactly where you are or when you’re going to be home?” you ask, bending at the waist until you’re at his eye level. “I knew going into this relationship that that's how things were going to be and I wanted you anyway. I understood how important it is for you to maintain your riding with the club, and I’ve always been happy that you have that. But you don’t know where I am once and suddenly I’m cheating on you?”

You straighten your spine and shake your head. “My cousin called. Needed me to watch her kid. I rang the bar but Joe said you guys were out riding.”

Benny’s huffs. His hand runs down his face, then in one final snippy effort, he says, “Well, you could’a left a note.”

Scoffing, you go over to the fridge and point to the piece of paper that in bright red lettering states: ‘Watching Teddy. I’ll be home late. Love you,” followed by your name and a little heart.

“Try again,” you say.

With that, he seems to sober up, both in his inebriation and attitude. As he should. It’s embarrassing to miss the note written in massive letters in an obnoxious color stuck to the fridge where you always leave notes for one another. In fact, you’re embarrassed for him, and you would tell him so were it not for the kicked-puppy look on his face that drains the irritation from yours.

“You love me,” you say.

Benny sighs. “I know.”

“And you can't trust me?”

He leans forward in his seat, elbows perching on knees and hands scrubbing his face as if it might erase the shame of his accusations. “I do, baby, I just…

You return to his side, and planting your hands on his shoulders, you push him back in the chair to take a seat on his lap. Your arms wrap around his neck.

“My mama doesn’t know what’s good for me if she thinks you're not it, but you can’t be treating me like this,” you tell him. “It's not fair. I don’t sit at home thinking you’re messing around on me.”

Benny’s eyes connect to yours as his hand curls at your waist. “I wouldn’t.”

“I know that,” you say. Your palm cups his scruffy cheek. “And you should know I wouldn’t either, so what happened? It’s not like you to be acting like this.”

He takes a second to collect his thoughts, then replies, “I was ridin’ and I missed you so I cut it short, but when I got home I couldn’t find you. And then I started thinkin’ and…” He shakes his head. “Baby, your ma's said shit before but she never shoved another guy in my face. I don’t give a fuck if she hates me, but– ”

“Benny, honey, there’s no way,” you swear to him, running your thumb over the sharp line of his cheekbone. “I mean, he wears a fucking tie.”

Benny’s lips part, eyes flicking back and forth between yours, before he softly chuckles in relief. His head falls forward, forehead resting on your collarbone. Your skin takes the heat of his heavy breaths, and then you feel the press of his lips. They make a gentle trail from your chest, up your neck, over your chin, before planting firmly on your mouth.

“You're mine. You’re it,” you say when the kiss breaks. “No other man but you, Benny Cross.”

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fav-fanficssss · 3 days ago

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steve falling in love with your gingerbread scented candles, with the fairy lights strung around your bedroom, with your constant need to watch the weather to see if it might snow, (it's only November but you've got your fingers crossed), with the way you steal his hoodies and jumpers, with the way you make him hot chocolate and always give him extra marshmallows, with the way you rush over to hug him when he comes over and his cheeks are flushed red from the cold (you're trying to warm him up) <3

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fav-fanficssss · 4 days ago

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can we see rafe with a pouge reader and they are dating. they go out to go grocery shopping and rafe sees that she has a calculator out and watches as she picks up an item then types it in the calculator and then puts it back and chooses a cheaper option and he has to tell her that she doesn’t need to do that

birds of a feather - rafe cameron

word count: 2.9k belongs to this universe

The grocery store is quiet for a saturday afternoon, a rarity that makes the experience almost peaceful. Fluorescent lights buzz softly overhead as Rafe pushes a cart lazily with one hand, his other hand draped comfortably around his girl, you.

He catches your eye and smiles, relishing the way you always lean into him, your bodies fitting together perfectly. Dating you was like finding the missing piece of himself—something he always knew he needed but never thought he’d find, let alone on the other side of the island.

Rafe grabs a box of cereal, tossing it into the cart without a second thought. “You good on milk, babe?” he asks, scanning the shelves for anything else that might catch his eye.

You nodded absentmindedly, focusing elsewhere. He notices that you are holding your phone in one hand and have a small calculator app open. His brow furrows as he watches you pick up a box of pasta, glance at the price, and then quickly type something into the calculator. After a moment of calculation, you place the box back on the shelf and reach for a cheaper brand.

Rafe's heart clenches. He hadn’t really thought about the differences between you in this way before. He knows you don't have the same privileges he does—didn’t grow up in a life of luxury as he had—but it’s moments like this that make him feel like a fucking entitled douche.

He watches you do it again, this time with a jar of tomato sauce. You compare the prices, calculate the difference, and opt for the less expensive one.

“Hey,” Rafe stops you as you reach for another item. “What’re you doing?”

You blink, as if coming out of a trance, and look up at him with almost embarrassed smile. “Just trying to make sure I stay within the budget. Groceries can add up, y’know?”

He can’t stand the idea of you worrying about something as basic as food. Sure, he understands budgeting—everyone has to do it to some extent—but this? This was different. This was a mindset.

He gently takes the phone from your hand and slips it into his back pocket, keeping your hand in his. “You don’t need to do that. I’ve got you, okay?”

“Rafe, I—”

“I’m serious,” he interrupted, “You don’t have to worry about the prices. Just get what you want. We’re fine.”

You are grateful—God, you were always grateful—but there’s something else, something that has kept you up at night.

You hate relying on him. Not because you don’t trust him or appreciate everything he does for you, but because it reminds you of the whispers you’ve been hearing ever since you started dating.

You can almost hear the voices now, like a nagging reminder in the back of your mind. “Gold digger,” they’d hiss. “Dirty Pogue. Look at her, clinging to him for the money. She’s got him wrapped around her finger, totally pussy-whipped.”

The rumors had messed with your head the first time you’d heard them, and even now, they still hurt, despite knowing they weren’t true. But the worst part is that a small, insecure part of you hates there might be some truth to what they said. You didn’t want Rafe to feel like he had to take care of you, or that you were using him for his money. You love him too much to ever want him to think that.

You glance at him, watching as he casually tosses another item into the cart without checking the price, without even a second thought. He’s so at ease, so unbothered by the things that you had worried about during your entire lifetime. You can’t help but feel guilty, like you’re dragging him down, making him take on responsibilities that should be yours alone.

A you walk down another aisle, you keep your eyes on the floor, as you force the words out. “I know you’re just trying to help, and I really appreciate it, but I don’t want you to feel like you have to take care of me.”

Rafe stops in his tracks, turning to face you fully. His brows knit together in concern like he genuinely can't grasp what you just said.

“I don’t feel like that,” he says,“I want to take care of you because I love you. It’s not about feeling like I have to—it’s because I want to.”

“But I hear what people say, Rafe—”

“They don’t know shit,” he scoffs, hand wrapping tightly around the cart, “They don’t know. Anyone who says otherwise can go fuck themselves.”

You sigh, your shoulders slumping as you lean into him, “It’s not that simple, baby. But I appreciate the thought.”

His other hand tilts your chin up so you’re looking directly at him, “It is that simple. I love you. You love me. That’s it.”

You know he means it, that he’s not just saying it to please you, but it doesn’t make the worries disappear. You nod, giving him a small smile, but he knows your brain is working double shifts, imagining all kinds of scenarios.

He sighs, knowing this conversation is far from over, and presses a gentle peck against your temple, all while murmuring, “Let’s finish up here and get out of this place.”

You agree, and the two of you continue down the aisle. Your hands are itching to take your phone out of his back pocket, and your brain scrambling to do simple math. You hate it. You automatically reach for the off-brand items, skip over the more expensive snacks, and choose the smaller sizes of products to stretch your budget. Rafe is abnormally quiet and you know it’s taking every will power in his body not to pick you up and lock you in his truck while he finishes shopping for you.

He pauses in front of the snacks aisle, his eyes catching on your favorite candy. It’s something he knows you love but rarely allow yourself to buy. Without hesitation, he grabs a couple of bags and tosses them into the cart.

“Rafe, those are expensive—” you start to protest, but he cuts you off with a playful grin.

“They’re my favorite too.”

You open your mouth to argue, but the way he looks at you, with so much affection, makes the words die on your lips. Instead, you shake your head huffing as he wraps his arm around your shoulders dragging you along, “You’re so annoying.”

“Don’t be mean, baby.”

You squeeze his waist in retaliation.

When you finally reach the checkout line, he watches as you nervously glance at the total on the screen. It’s a small thing, for him, but it’s enough to make him realize just how much it affects you. Without saying a word, he hands over his card to the cashier, ignoring the way you try to protest.

“Rafe, you don’t have to—” you start, but he shakes his head, cutting you off.

“I know,” he says firmly, “But I want to.”

You bite your lip, nodding reluctantly as he pays for the groceries. It’s a small gesture, but it means the world to him. He wants to take care of you, to make sure you never have to worry about something as basic as food ever again. He wants to give you the life you deserve, the one you never experienced on The Cut.

He opens the trunk of his car, starting to load the groceries while you stand there, too quiet. He hates not hearing the sound of your voice.

“Hey,” he closes the trunk and turning to face you. “What is it?”

“Nothing.”

He steps closer, his hand finding a home in your neck, thumb caressing your pulsing point, “Forget about them okay?”

You sigh, forehead touching his chin, “I’m trying. I just don’t want to be a burden to you. I don’t want you to feel like you have to take care of me.”

“You’re not a burden,” he says firmly, fingers pulling your head up, his blue eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that, no matter how often it happens, still takes your breath away. “You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. Now get that fine ass inside the car.”

You can’t help but laugh at the way he says it, so casually and with so much conviction that it leaves no room for you to second guess his thoughts. His confidence, his overwhelming trust in everything that he says, is one of the things you love most about him. He’s always been like that—bold, sure of himself, and unafraid to go after what he wants. And right now, what he wants is you.

“Why?” You tease, rolling your eyes but smiling as you let him guide you toward the car “You gonna make me if I don’t?”

You wish you could photograph the grin on his face, the way his beautiful eyes seem to drink you in like he’ll die if he doesn’t look at you all the time.

“Oh, you know I will,” he says as he steps closer, his hand slipping down to give your ass a firm but playful slap. The sound echoes through the quiet parking lot, and you gasp, more from surprise than anything else.

“Rafe!” you scold, though your laughter makes it known there’s no real annoyance. The smirk on his face only grows, clearly pleased with himself.

“Consider that a warning,” he leans in closer, his breath warm against your ear. “I’d hate to have to follow through.”

You try to hold back a grin, biting your lip as you tilt your head to look up at him.

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“Wouldn’t I?” His tone is a challenge.

For a moment, you consider pushing more just to see what he’d do, but the way he’s looking at you—like he’s ready to scoop you up and take you back to his bed right then and there—makes you rethink it. Instead, you play along, giving him a coy smile as you turn and head for the door.

“That’s what I thought,” he calls after you, his deep voice filled with a smug satisfaction that makes you roll your eyes again. Before you can reach for the door handle, he gently pulls it open for you. You slide into the passenger seat, and before you touch the seatbelt, Rafe is leaning in, his hands brushing over yours as he clicks the belt into place.

“Safe and sound,” he murmurs, as he pulls back slightly. It’s something so simple, yet so endearing he has insisted on doing ever since the two of you started dating.

You smile up at him, practically oozing in your love for him as your hand reaches up to brush a stray lock of hair from his forehead.

“Thank you."

His gaze softens as he leans down to press a tender kiss to your lips, “Anything for you,” he whispers, his thumb brushing lightly across your cheek before he finally steps back and closes the door.

As he rounds the front of the car to get in on his side, you can’t help but watch him. It still blows your mind that this is real. The way he looks at you, the way he takes care of you without making you feel small—it’s everything you never knew you needed. You’re still not used to someone loving you like this, so openly. You never imagined Rafe Cameron would be that someone.

He starts the engine, the low hum filling the silence between you. The radio automatically tunes to a soft indie station, one of your favorites, and Rafe reaches over to lace his fingers with yours.

“I’m cooking tonight.”

You turn to him, even though you know his attention is on the road, “Really?”

Rafe’s thumb absentmindedly rubs circles on the back of your hand, “Hmmm.”

“So you can burn down the kitchen again?”

“Baby, that was one time.”

You snort, the image of Rafe with a fire extinguisher still fresh in your memory, “What’s on the menu?”

He grins, “I was thinking we could make that pasta you like, with the garlic bread.”

Your heart swells a little at the thoughtfulness behind his choice. He remembers all the little things—your favorite foods, the way you like your coffee, the songs that make you smile.

“Are you trying to get laid?”

He laughs, loud and boisterous as he lifts your hand to his lips and presses a soft kiss to your knuckles, “So you don’t want desert?”

You hit his shoulder gently, all too aware you’re still in a moving vehicle, “Don’t be nasty.”

His touch moves to your thighs, squeezing gently, "Can't help it when I'm around you."

The smile tugging at your lips is impossible to hide. There's something so easy about being with Rafe, despite everything. Despite the whispers, the looks, the insecurities that sometimes creep in—he has a way of making you feel like none of it matters.

The city lights begin to twinkle on the horizon, the sun dipping low in the sky. It's peaceful, the kind of quiet that lets you sink into yourself. The idea of a cozy night in, just the two of you cooking dinner together, fills you with a warmth that has nothing to do with the summer heat outside.

Rafe glances over at you, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Penny for your thoughts?"

You shake your head, the smile widening on your face. "Just thinking about how lucky I am."

He quirks an eyebrow, "I think I'm the lucky one."

"Yeah, but you're also really annoying," you tease, earning a chuckle from him.

"Annoying but irresistible," he counters smoothly, pulling into the driveway of his house

He parks the car and quickly rounds the front to open your door, always the gentleman. As you step out, you look up at him, your heart swelling with a love so deep it almost overwhelms you. It's not just the grand gestures or the way he spoils you—it's the little things, the way he makes you feel cherished, the way he sees you for who you are and loves you anyway.

"Ready for our gourmet meal?" he asks as he takes your hand, leading you towards the front door.

You laugh, leaning into him as you walk. "If by gourmet you mean slightly burnt, then yes."

He chuckles, his arm slipping around your waist as he presses a kiss to the top of your head. "With you, it's always perfect."

Before you can walk through the front door, he stops all too suddenly, dragging you against him. You’re confused for a second, looking up to see him ogle you.

“What?” You stutter out, “Something’s wrong?”

Rafe shakes his head, a smile tugging at the corners of his pink lips as he looks down at you with that same adoring expression that never fails to make your heart stop. "No, nothing’s wrong.”

You blink up at him, still confused, “Rafe...”

“I know you worry sometimes. About what people say, about what they think. But I don’t give a fuck about any of that. I only care about you, about us.” His hand moves to cup your face, his thumb moving gently along your cheekbone. “I love you, y’know that? Right? Aways.”

Your breath hitches at the sudden emotion in his voice. It’s random moments like this that remind you why you fell in love with him in the first place—beneath the confident, cocky exterior, Rafe Cameron has a heart that beats fiercely for the people he cares about, especially for you.

“I love you,” you whisper, feeling the words settle between you like a vow.

“I love you more,” he replies, his voice full of conviction. Then, with a small grin, he adds, “And I’m gonna marry you someday. We’re gonna have our own place, our own life. Just you and me.”

It’s not the first time you’ve talked about the future, but hearing him say it so plainly, so confidently, sends a warmth spreading through your whole body.

“Is that a proposal, Cameron?” you tease, though your voice wavers just a little, eyes burning as you pathetically attempt not to cry.

“Not yet,” he smirks, leaning down to press a peck to the corner of your lips, “But when I do, you’ll know. It’s gonna be perfect. Just like you.”

You pull back slightly, resting your forehead against his as you take a deep breath, trying to calm the stupid fluttering in your chest. “You mean it?”

“More than anything,” he replies without hesitation. “I want to build a life with you, baby. The kind of life where you never have to worry about anything, where you can just be happy.”

Tears form at the corners of your eyes, but they’re the good kind, the kind that comes from being overwhelmed with love. So different from the ones you’d experienced as a kid, growing up. You nod, not sure how to explain how you’re feeling inside, so instead, you pull him down for another kiss, letting your lips show what your voice can’t.

You kiss each other like you have all the time in the world, which you have, savoring the way your lips fit perfectly against his. There’s no rush, no urgency—just you two.

When you pull apart, both of you slightly breathless, Rafe gives you a lopsided grin, his lips just barely grazing yours as he speaks, “So, how about we start with dinner?”

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fav-fanficssss · 5 days ago

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all that talk is killing me - rafe cameron

request here: Fighter!Pilot!Rafe AU x Sweet!Reader. word count: 6.5K (YIKES) warnings: tooth rooting fluff and rafe being too charming.

There was that god-awful distinct scent of jet fuel in the air, a reminder that you were in one of the Navy’s busiest air bases. The hum of roaring engines wasn’t anything new; it had become a part of your day-to-day existence. The bar you worked at, The Mirage, was a hotspot for pilots, flight crews, and pretty much anyone else who was stationed nearby. A quiet coastal town didn’t offer many options for a social life, and if you wanted to get a cold drink or unwind, The Mirage was the place to be.

You’d been working here for just over a year and a half, long enough to recognize the distinct swagger of a military man when he walked through the door. They were easy to spot – especially the pilots.

Sunglasses permanently glued to their faces, that stupid untouchable arrogance radiating from them, the knowledge that they were some of the best in the world at what they did. It was almost admirable, if it wasn’t so…predictable.

You had sworn off pilots. No, you’d sworn off men in a uniform all together.

It wasn’t like a hard rule or anything, but after what happened with your last boyfriend—who, shocker, also wore a uniform—you weren’t about to make the same mistake twice. You’d learned the hard way that guys like that came with way too much baggage.

Long deployments, their egos inflated to the size of fighter jets, and let’s be real, they weren’t exactly known for being faithful. Military men had a reputation, and in your experience, they earned it. You weren’t about to get your heart broken again.

You’d been there, done that, and had the emotional scars to prove it.

So yeah, working at a bar right next to a Navy air base wasn’t exactly ideal, but you weren’t here for the guys. The Mirage was just a job, a way to pay the bills while you figured your life out. It was a decent gig. Good tips, a steady flow of regulars, and every now and then, you’d get to watch a squadron of cocky, ego-driven fighter pilots try to charm their way into someone’s pants.

Fun to watch, but that was about it.

The first time Rafe walked into The Mirage, you felt it immediately—the shift in the air.

You had your back turned, trying to keep busy wiping down the bar, but you could practically feel his presence as he swaggered up, like the whole place had just taken notice of him at once. Lean and built like he was carved from the side of a mountain, with shoulders that filled out his flight suit just right, and a chest broad enough to make any woman’s heart skip a beat.

And when you finally turned around? He was standing there with that stupid, lopsided grin, a couple of dog tags peeking out from beneath his half-zipped flight suit, the sleeves pushed up like he had zero intention of playing by any rules but his own. He had this ridiculously good-looking, disheveled kind of vibe going on, like he’d just gotten off a jet and didn’t care that his hair was all over the place.

You almost hated how good he looked.

He didn’t even hesitate when he caught your eye. He walked right up to the bar and leaned on it like he owned the place.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he said, flashing you a panty-dropping smile that probably worked on most girls. “Can I get a beer?”

Sweetheart? Oh God, one of those guys. His voice had that low, southern drawl, smooth as Tennessee whiskey, dripping with charm. It was the kind of voice that could make anything sound like a compliment, even when he was teasing. And the way he leaned on the bar, just a little too close, just a little too familiar, like he’d been doing it his whole life and knew exactly what effect it had—it was almost criminal.

“Sure,” you said, not bothering to match his energy. You grabbed a bottle and slid it across the bar to him, intentionally keeping it short and sweet. You weren’t about to give him the satisfaction of a flirty smile or small talk. Guys like him lived for that.

“Thanks, darling.” He tipped the bottle to you, still grinning like he knew something you didn’t. You sighed, turning back to your work, already half-expecting him to hit on someone else.

But over the next few days, Rafe kept showing up.

Every night, like clockwork, he’d stroll in after his missions with that same laid-back swagger. You noticed how people gravitated toward him, like he had this magnetic pull. His squadron buddies? They idolized him. Girls? Yeah, they fell for him hard, like they didn’t see the giant walking red flag that he was.

But the worst part? He kept coming back to you.

Every time he walked into The Mirage, he’d make a beeline straight for the bar, leaning in with that smirk that was starting to get under your skin.

“You’re not like the other girls around here,” he said one night, lounging across the bar like he was settling in for the night.

So typical it gave you chills. He was a natural-born flirt, and he knew it. He wasn’t subtle; he didn’t have to be.

You snorted. “Oh yeah? How’s that?”

“They all like a guy in uniform.” He motioned to his flight suit, like he was showing off. “But you? You don’t seem impressed.”

You met his gaze and deadpanned, “I’m not.”

That should’ve been the end of it. Usually, when you gave guys the cold shoulder, they got the hint. But Rafe? He wasn’t so easily shaken. If anything, your disinterest seemed to make him more determined.

“Gotta say, I like the challenge,” he said, watching you like you were some kind of game he was about to win.

You rolled your eyes, but part of you couldn’t help but laugh. The guy had confidence, that much was clear. But you had to remind yourself why you’d sworn off pilots. This wasn’t your first rodeo. You’d been with a guy like Rafe before. The type who’d make you feel like you were the center of his universe—until you weren’t.

“I don’t date pilots,” you told him flat-out one night after he tried to get cute, leaning closer than necessary over the bar. You were done playing games, and he needed to know it wasn’t happening.

He just raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable for a second before that grin returned. “That a hard rule?”

“Pretty solid, yeah.”

“And why’s that?”

You raised an eyebrow, skeptical as hell, “You don’t even know my name.”

He leaned in slightly, that annoying grin never leaving his face as he took a sip of his beer, eyes never leaving yours. “You’re right,” he said casually, placing the bottle back down. “So, what’s your name, sweetheart?”

The audacity. Like his smooth confidence was supposed to melt away all your reservations like you were just another one of his conquests. You could see it so clearly now—the cocky smirk, the way his voice had that low, drawling quality that practically screamed “I get what I want.”

You let out a humorless laugh, shaking your head as you wiped down the counter. “I’m not giving you my name, Rafe.”

"But you know mine," He arched a brow, not even remotely phased. “Fair enough. Guess I’ll just have to earn it.”

“Not happening,” you shot back, trying to keep your tone firm.

But you could feel a tiny sliver of amusement creep into your voice despite yourself. He was relentless, and for some stupid reason, it was kind of fun to watch him keep trying.

There was something about a man in uniform that made women lose all sense of reason, and you weren’t about to be that girl again.

And yet, Rafe Cameron kept coming back.

Like a stray, relentless and impossible to ignore. And as much as you tried to play it cool, to not be another notch on his flight log, you couldn’t help but notice how his grin deepened every time you turned him down, like he was getting some kind of kick out of the challenge.

“You really don’t give up, do you?” you asked, throwing him a sideways glance as you refilled a couple of drinks for some regulars down the bar. You could feel his eyes on you the entire time.

He chuckled, that easy confidence still dripping from him. “Not when I see something I like.”

You fought the urge to roll your eyes, grabbing an empty glass and polishing it to distract yourself. “Well, you’re wasting your time,” you muttered, half-hoping that would be enough to shut him down for good.

But he didn’t take the hint. Instead, he leaned in a little closer, lowering his voice just enough to make it feel like the two of you were in on some kind of private conversation.

“Maybe. But something tells me you’re not as immune to my charm as you think.”

That did it.

You turned to face him, arms crossed over your chest, giving him the most unimpressed look you could muster. “I’ve met guys like you before. You roll into town, flash that cocky smile, and think you can get anyone in bed because you’re a hotshot pilot. You’re probably great at what you do, and I’m sure girls throw themselves at you left and right. But I’m not one of them.”

His posture faltered just a little, and you almost—almost—felt bad for bursting his bubble. But then he just laughed, “You really don’t hold back, do you?”

You shrugged, nonchalant, but you could feel a small sense of satisfaction. “Why should I? Guys like you are all the same.”

Rafe leaned back, studying you with a look that was half amused, half intrigued, like you were some kind of puzzle he couldn’t quite figure out.

“Nah, I don’t think we are,” he said, almost to himself. “But I guess you’ve got your reasons.”

That hit a little closer to home than you expected, and you felt your defenses kick back in full force. “Yeah, well, they’re good ones.”

“I don’t doubt that,” he said, his tone softer than before. He tapped his fingers against the bar, like he was considering his next move. “But just so you know, I’m not looking for an easy win here.”

You raised an eyebrow, skeptical. “Oh really? Because everything about you screams ‘I always win.’”

He laughed—more like he was in on a joke that only he understood. “True. But this feels different.”

Different. Sure, like every smooth-talking pilot didn’t say the same thing when they were trying to get a girl to let her guard down. You’d heard it all before.

“Look,” you started, leaning on the bar now, “I’m sure you’re a nice guy when you’re not playing the whole ‘bad boy in uniform’ thing. I’m not about to go down that road again. Especially not with someone who spends more time in the sky than on the ground.”

His eyes stayed on yours, unwavering. “But you don’t know me. Not really.”

“And you don’t know me either,” you shot back, feeling a bit defensive.

“That’s true.” He nodded, but there was a spark in his eyes that made you feel like he was more than ready to change that. “But I’d like to.”

You laughed, shaking your head. “You don’t give up, do you?”

“Nope.” His grin was back, but this time, it felt less like a game and more like a challenge. Not in the annoying, overconfident way, but in a way that made you almost—almost—want to see how far he’d go. “And I’m willing to take it slow, if that’s what you need.”

You weren’t used to guys like him offering to go slow. In your experience, they wanted everything fast—fast cars, fast planes, fast relationships. The fact that he was even suggesting the idea caught you off guard.

“I don’t need anything from you,” you said, though your voice wasn’t as firm as you wanted it to be.

“I know,” he said, his voice soft but steady. “But maybe you want to give me a shot. Maybe.”

You stared at him for a moment, trying to figure out if this was some kind of trick. But all you saw was that stupid grin and those frustratingly blue eyes that were starting to chip away at your resolve.

“I’ll think about it,” you muttered, not fully committing but not entirely rejecting him either.

Rafe’s grin widened like he’d just won a small victory. “That’s all I’m asking for.”

You rolled your eyes, turning back to the drinks you were supposed to be serving, but you couldn’t stop the smile tugging at the corner of your mouth. Damn it.

You weren’t ready to let him in, not yet, but maybe—just maybe—you didn’t mind the idea of him trying.

Because, against your better judgment, you kind of liked the way he made you feel.

Over the next few months, Rafe didn’t just disappear like the others.

He stuck around, but not in the way you expected. At first, you thought he was still working some angle—coming into The Mirage every night, sitting at the bar, chatting you up like he was trying to wear you down. But after a while, something changed. It wasn’t like he was chasing after you anymore. It was more…normal. Friendly, almost.

It started small. He’d ask you about your day, your shift, little things like that. He didn’t push for more. When he wasn’t in the bar, he’d still check in—he’d send these short, goofy texts from time to time. Just little updates, nothing deep.

“Heading out on a mission, don’t burn down the bar while I’m gone.”

Or, when he was away for a while:

“Bet the place is boring without me around, huh?”

It wasn’t anything serious. Just light, casual. And you liked it that way. It was enough to feel like he was there, but not so much that it freaked you out.

Sometimes he’d ask about your life outside of work—how your art classes were going or if you’d gotten your car fixed yet. He never let you walk home alone. You hadn’t expected that from him. Like, when you first met Rafe, you pegged him as the type of guy who only cared about himself. But he’d actually listened to you, remembered stuff you’d said, which was…surprising. And kind of nice.

Still, you kept your guard up. You weren’t about to let him in fully. Not after everything you’d been through before. But you couldn't deny that a part of you enjoyed his company.

One night, about six months in, he came into The Mirage after being away on a longer mission. He looked more exhausted than usual, but his grin was still there as he slid into his usual spot at the bar.

“Miss me?” he teased, tapping the counter as if he’d been gone for a year instead of a few weeks. That flight suit clung to him like a second skin, half-zipped just enough to reveal a sliver of tanned skin and a hint of a tattoo peeking out. The sleeves were rolled up, showing off forearms roped with muscle, veins running down like they were tracing a roadmap to all the trouble he’d been in. His dog tags swung carelessly against his chest, catching the dim light of the bar.

He looked good enough to eat.

“Not even a little,” you shot back with a smirk, pouring him his usual. But the truth was, things had felt kind of off when he wasn’t around.

He took a sip of his beer, watching you closely like he always did. “Sure about that?”

“Don’t flatter yourself, Cameron.”

You expected him to throw some cocky line back, but instead, he just chuckled. “You been good?”

It was such a simple question, but there was something in his voice that made you pause for a second. “Yeah,” you answered, nodding. “Same old, same old.”

“Good.” He nodded, his gaze lingering on you for a moment longer before he turned his attention to the rest of the bar.

Everything felt kind of…easy with him now. You didn’t really know how or when it happened, but somewhere along the way, you’d started to see Rafe as more than just a cocky pilot. He was still all of that, sure, but there was more to him than you thought. He wasn’t just the guy who flirted relentlessly; he was the guy who checked in, who listened, who made you laugh when you didn’t even feel like smiling.

It was nice.

That night, The Mirage was packed. The air was thick with cigarette smoke and loud laughter. The usual suspects were there—pilots unwinding, a few locals mixing in, and the occasional sailor trying his luck. You’d been running around non-stop, the orders coming faster than you could keep up. Rafe had disappeared to the bathroom a few minutes ago, and you were focused on getting through the rest of your shift.

That’s when someone came up behind you. You didn’t even see him coming—just felt the sudden press of a hand on your waist, fingers gripping too tight, a body too close. Your breath hitched in your throat, heart picking up speed as you twisted around to see who the hell thought they could just grab you like that.

It was some guy you hadn’t seen before, a stranger with bleary eyes and a stench of cheap whiskey rolling off of him. He leaned in, way too close, his breath hot against your cheek.

“Hey there, gorgeous,” he slurred, his hand sliding lower, and you felt your stomach twist.

“Get off me,” you snapped, trying to shove him away, but he didn’t budge. Instead, he grinned, like he thought this was some kind of game.

“Aw, come on, don’t be like that,” he drawled, his other hand moving to grab at your arm, pulling you back toward him.

Panic flared fast in your chest. You tried to twist out of his grip, but he tightened his hold, pulling you closer.

“I said, let go!” you shouted, shoving him harder this time, your voice cutting through the noise of the bar. Your heart was racing now, pounding in your ears.

You glanced around, hoping someone would see what was happening, maybe step in, but everyone seemed too caught up in their own worlds, too fucking drunk to notice.

The guy just laughed, a low, sleazy sound that made your skin crawl. His hand slipped lower, fingers pressing into your hip, and you felt a cold rush of fear. “Just want to have a little fun,” he murmured, his voice thick and rough.

You opened your mouth to scream, to shout for someone, anyone, but before the words could come out, you heard it—the sound of glass shattering. You blinked, confused for a second, and then you saw Rafe.

He was back, and he was livid.

You’d never seen him like this before, eyes dark and wild, his jaw clenched so tight you could see the muscles twitching. He shoved through the crowd like a storm, fists already balled at his sides, his whole body taut with rage.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” he snarled, voice low and dangerous, like he was barely holding himself back.

The guy barely had time to turn around before Rafe grabbed him by the collar, yanking him away from you with a force that sent him stumbling back into the bar.

“Get your hands off her,” He spat, his voice like gravel, his eyes blazing.

The guy looked stunned, confused for a moment, before his face twisted into a sneer. “Hey, man, relax—”

But Rafe didn’t let him finish.

“Don’t ‘hey man’ me,” he growled, stepping closer, his hands still clenched into fists. “You touch her again, and I’ll break every bone in your fuckin' hand.”

You were still trying to catch your breath, your pulse racing, adrenaline pumping through your veins. You’d seen him mad before, but this was something else entirely. His whole body was tense, like he was ready to pounce, and there was a look in his eyes that was almost… feral.

The guy seemed to sober up real quick, his eyes flicking nervously between you and Rafe. “Alright, alright, I’m going,” he muttered, hands up in surrender as he backed away, disappearing into the crowd.

Rafe watched him go, his chest heaving, his fists still clenched like he wasn’t quite done yet. He turned to you, his eyes softening a little, but his face still hard, still angry. “You okay?” he asked, his voice rough, breathless.

You nodded, swallowing hard, trying to steady your breathing.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” you managed, but your voice was shaky, betraying the fear still thrumming through you.

Rafe stepped closer, his hands reaching out to gently touch your arms, his fingers light against your skin.

“You sure?” he asked, his eyes searching yours, his face so close you could see the worry etched into his features.

You nodded again, feeling a little steadier now, your heart still racing but slowing down, your breath coming easier. “Yeah,” you whispered, “Thanks to you.”

“You don’t have to worry,” he said quietly, “Not with me around. I got you.”

You felt your heart stutter in your chest, and you realized—maybe, just maybe, you were really starting to trust him. And that thought, more than anything, scared you to death.

It's why it felt so hard to be around him from that day on. You were trying to balance between wanting to keep things normal with him and avoiding getting too close. After what happened that night, you were more on edge than ever, and it didn’t help that Rafe was still making his usual appearances, his cute texts and late night calls. His protective streak had only made things more complicated.

“Everything alright?” he asked, his tone casual like he was trying to read between the lines.

You shrugged, “Yeah, why wouldn’t it be?”

He didn’t buy it. “You seem off. Did something happen?”

“Nothing happened,” you said, a little too quickly. “Just a long night.”

Rafe didn’t push. Instead, he grabbed a drink and started chatting with you about mundane things—the kind of small talk that was meant to fill the space without digging too deep.

He casually mentioned his plans for the weekend, how he was heading out with some friends, making it clear that he was open to other social opportunities.

“Gonna be out of town for a bit,” he said with a shrug, almost as if he was testing the waters. “Thought I’d let you know.”

You looked at him, trying to keep your expression neutral. “Okay.”

He paused, a smirk playing at his lips as if he was waiting for a reaction. “You sure you’re okay with that?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?” you asked, trying to sound nonchalant, but the tightness in your voice gave you away.

Rafe’s smirk widened, clearly satisfied with the effect he was having. “Just checking. Didn’t know if you were going to miss me or somethin''.”

“I’m sure you’ll manage to find plenty of people who will,” you shot back, grimacing.

He chuckled, his eyes glinting with mischief. “You know, you’re more complicated than I thought.”

“That’s what makes life interesting,”

You finally let yourself admit it—his casual flirtation and the way he seemed to enjoy getting a rise out of you was starting to mess with your head. And that was exactly what he wanted.

So maybe, your petty self, doesn't answer to a single one of his texts while he's away. You figured if he wanted to play the game, you could play it too. It wasn’t like you were avoiding him or anything; you just wanted to make a point.

The first day, you didn’t think much of it. The second day, you told yourself it was no big deal. By the third day, you were trying not to obsess over the fact that your phone hadn’t buzzed with a message from him in the past twenty four hours. Like he'd given up. You kept yourself busy with shifts at The Mirage, catching up on sleep, and even dabbling in a new painting project.

When he finally came back, you were trying to act like it was just another day. You were behind the bar, pouring drinks and chatting away when he walked in.

Rafe’s usual swagger was in full force, but today, there was a hint of weariness in his eyes, like he’d been through the wringer. He slid onto his usual stool and flashed you that same charming grin, but this time, it felt a little more… tentative.

“Hey, stranger."

“Hey,” you replied, trying to sound casual, like you hadn’t been avoiding him. You set a beer in front of him and went back to wiping down the bar, giving yourself something to do so you wouldn’t have to meet his gaze.

Rafe took a sip of his beer, “So, you’ve been quiet lately. Everything alrigh'?”

“Just been busy, I guess.”

“Busy or just avoiding me?”

“Why would I be avoiding you?” you chuckled, trying to keep your voice steady. “I’ve been working and catching up on things.”

“Uh-huh,” he said, clearly not buying it. “Did I do something to piss you off?”

Uh, duh. He was making you fall for him. Recklessly.

“Nope,” you said, popping the ‘p’ with a little too much force. “Everything’s fine.”

Everything was not fine, especially not when a girl you'd never seen before decided to eagerly join him on the stool next to his.

You didn’t mean to be staring at them. You really didn’t.

But there she was, practically hanging off Rafe’s arm like some kind of human accessory, her giggle obnoxiously loud over the music in The Mirage. She had this glossy, perfect hair, one of those flirty little dresses that clung to all the right places, and legs for days. And she was touching him. All over. Laughing way too hard at whatever stupid joke he’d just made.

You could feel your stomach twist into a knot, and for the life of you, you couldn’t figure out why it bothered you so much. It’s not like you hadn’t seen this before—girls throwing themselves at him like he was the last guy on Earth. You’d watched it happen a dozen times. Maybe a hundred.

But today? Today it felt different. Today, it felt like there was a boulder lodged in your chest, and you could barely breathe around it.

God, this was so stupid. You didn’t even like him like that. He was just…a friend. A hot, annoyingly charming friend who maybe made your heart race a little bit every time he walked into the bar. Whatever. It didn’t matter. You were not—repeat, not—catching feelings. You couldn’t be.

Still, your hands were gripping the bar a little tighter than necessary, your smile plastered on your face as you poured drinks for some regulars, trying to pretend you weren’t glancing over at them every five seconds.

But then she had the audacity to look right at you, her big doe eyes blinking innocently, and ask, “Hey, could you get me another drink?”

Your fingers tightened around the beer tap, and you felt a jolt of irritation shoot through you. The girl was practically hanging off his arm, and here she was, smiling at you like you were her personal waitress.

You forced a smile, the kind that didn’t reach your eyes, and nodded. “Sure, what do you want?”

She twirled a strand of hair around her finger, leaning in even closer to Rafe as if she needed to be attached to his hip. “A tequila sunrise, please,” she chirped.

You had to grit your teeth to keep from rolling your eyes. “Coming right up,” you muttered through clenched teeth, turning your back to them as you reached for the tequila.

You could feel Rafe’s gaze burning into the back of your head, could practically hear the smirk in his voice without even looking. He was loving this. Watching you squirm, seeing you get all pissy while he played the charming flirt. God, he was such an asshole.

“Here you go,” you said, managing to keep your voice steady.

She beamed up at you, completely oblivious, and took a sip. “Thanks! You’re the best.”

He looked like he was having the time of his life. That stupid grin plastered on his face, his blue eyes sparkling as he leaned in close to hear whatever the girl was saying. And she was soaking it all up, practically melting into him, flipping her hair like she was auditioning for a shampoo commercial.

You felt this weird, hot sting in the back of your eyes and immediately blinked it away. Oh, hell no. You were not going to cry over this. Over him. No way.

But it was getting harder to hold it all together. You turned away, busied yourself with wiping down the counter, anything to stop looking at them.

And then it happened.

He looked over at you.

Just a quick glance, but enough to catch your eye. Enough to let you know that he knew you were watching. And damn it if he didn’t look like he was enjoying every second of it.

That did it. You felt the flush of heat creep up your neck, the anger boiling under your skin. You slammed a glass down a little harder than you meant to and mumbled something about taking a break.

“Hey, you okay?” one of your coworkers called after you, but you were already pushing through the back door, needing some fresh air, some space to get your head straight.

You ended up in the alleyway behind The Mirage, your back against the cool brick wall, eyes squeezed shut as you tried to keep it together. You felt so stupid, so ridiculous for even letting this get to you. He wasn’t yours. He was just…Rafe. And you were just you, the girl who’d sworn off guys like him a million times.

But it hurt. Way more than you wanted to admit. And before you knew it, a tear slipped down your cheek. You quickly swiped it away, cursing under your breath.

And that’s when you heard it—the creak of the door swinging open, footsteps on the gravel.

You didn’t even have to look to know who it was. Of course he followed you. Of course he did.

“What’s this?” Rafe’s voice was teasing, that familiar low drawl that usually made your heart flutter, but right now it just grated on your nerves. “Are you crying?”

You scoffed, keeping your back turned, hoping he’d take the hint and leave you alone. “No. Just…got something in my eye.”

“Sure you did.” You could hear the smirk in his voice, that stupid, smug grin that he always wore like some kind of armor. “You jealous or something, sweetheart?”

God, he was such an ass. “No,” you snapped, turning to glare at him. “Why would I be jealous? You can flirt with whoever you want. I don’t care.”

He stepped closer, still grinning like he’d won something. “Really? ‘Cause you looked pretty pissed back there.”

You felt another tear threatening to fall, and you bit down hard on your lip, willing it to stop. “I’m not pissed,” you lied, crossing your arms over your chest. “Just…busy. And you’re distracting.”

Rafe laughed softly, and you wanted to smack that grin off his face. “Distracting, huh?”

He was closer now, close enough that you could feel the warmth radiating off his body, and it just made everything worse.

“I’m serious,” you said, your voice shaking just a little. “Just…leave me alone."

But of course, he didn’t. Instead, he took another step closer, reaching out to tilt your chin up so you had to look at him. His thumb brushed against your jaw, and you hated how good it felt, how much you wanted to lean into his touch even though you were mad as hell.

“Hey,” he said, his voice softer now, all teasing gone. “Talk to me. What’s going on?”

You sniffed, trying to pull away, but he wouldn’t let you. His grip was gentle but firm, and for some stupid reason, that only made the tears come faster.

“It’s nothing,” you mumbled, hating how weak you sounded. “Just…go back to your fan club, okay?”

His eyes searched yours, and for a moment, you saw something there, something that wasn’t just amusement. “Fan club?” he echoed, his brow furrowing slightly.

“You mean that girl?”

You nodded, swallowing hard. “Yeah. That girl. You seemed pretty into her.”

He let out a low chuckle, but it wasn’t mocking. It was almost…gentle. “Sweetheart, you think I’m interested in her?”

You blinked, not trusting yourself to speak, so you just shrugged.

Rafe shook his head, his thumb still brushing your cheek. “Nah. I’m not. I was just…” He paused, a grin tugging at his lips. “I was just waiting to see how long it’d take you to get jealous.”

Your mouth dropped open. “You—what?”

He grinned, his eyes lighting up with mischief. “Oh, C'mon. You think I didn’t notice the way you were glaring at her? You looked like you wanted to rip her hair out.”

“I did not,” you protested, but the redness in your cheeks betrayed you.

Rafe’s grin widened. “Yeah, you did. And I gotta admit…kinda hot seeing ya all riled up over me, sugar.”

“Shut up,” you muttered, but there was no heat in your voice now. It was hard to stay mad when he was looking at you like that, like you were the only person in the world.

He laughed softly, but then his expression softened, and he cupped your face with both hands, pulling you closer. “Hey,” he murmured, his voice low and serious now. “For the record, there’s no one else. Just you, okay?”

Your heart did a stupid little flip at his words, and you wanted to be mad, you really did. But instead, you just felt relief flood through you.

“Okay,” you whispered, and before you knew it, you were in his arms, his lips pressing against your forehead, his hands wrapping around you like he was never letting go.

“You don’t have to pretend you don’t care, you know,” he murmured against your hair. “I kind of like that you do.”

You sighed, finally letting yourself lean into him, burying your face in his chest. “I hate you,” you mumbled, but your arms were wrapping around him all the same.

He chuckled, pulling you even closer. “Nah, you don’t.”

And damn it, he was right.

Then, you shifted back a little, looking up at him. His face was closer than you’d realized, his breath warm against your skin. You could see every fleck of gold in his eyes, the way his lips curved slightly like he was trying not to smile too much.

"You’re an asshole, y'know that?" you whispered, but your voice came out softer than you meant it to.

He laughed, a low rumble that you felt in your chest more than heard. "Yeah. But you kinda like that about me, don't ya?"

There was no hiding the grin tugging at your lips. "You think you’re so charming."

"That's 'cause I am," he shot back, but his voice had this low, husky tone to it now. His gaze dropped to your lips, lingering there a beat too long. You could feel your heart speeding up. It was like everything slowed down in that moment.

Before you could overthink it, he leaned in. Slowly, like he was giving you a chance to pull away, his eyes locked on yours, searching, waiting for any sign that you didn’t want this. But you did. More than anything, you wanted this.

So, you didn’t move. You let him come closer, closer until you could feel the warmth of his lips brushing against yours, so light at first it was barely there. A soft, testing touch, like he was still making sure this was okay. And then, when you didn’t pull back, he pressed his lips fully to yours.

It was gentle at first, careful, his hands still cupping your face, his thumbs brushing over your cheeks like he was memorizing every inch of you. You could taste the faint hint of beer on his lips, feel the scratch of his stubble against your skin, you felt something sweet, something that was just him.

You kissed him back, tentatively at first, but then something in you snapped. You sighed against his mouth, a soft, involuntary sound, and that was all it took for him to deepen the kiss. His tongue brushed against your lower lip, asking for permission, and you granted it without thinking, opening to him, meeting him halfway.

All the tension, all the months of pretending you didn’t feel anything, it all spilled out at once. You wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him closer, your fingers threading through his hair, deepening the kiss.

Rafe groaned softly, his hands moving to your waist, pulling you flush against him. And you kissed him back just as fiercely, letting yourself feel every bit of it. When you broke apart for just a second, gasping for air, but he didn’t go far. His lips hovered over yours, his breath warm, his eyes dark and intense, like he was seeing straight through you.

"God," he whispered, his voice ragged, "I’ve wanted to do that for so long."

You didn’t even have time to say something before he captured your mouth again, this time slower, deeper, like he wanted to savor every second. His hands were everywhere now—one in your hair, the other sliding down to the small of your back, holding you like he was never going to let go.

You broke apart again, both of you panting, his forehead pressed against yours. “Fuck,” he breathed out, a smile spreading across his face. "You sure you don't hate me?"

You laughed, breathless, your heart hammering against your ribs. "Maybe just a little," you teased, but there was no hiding the smile that was stretching across your face, the way your fingers still tangled in his hair, like you couldn’t let go.

He chuckled, leaning in to steal another quick kiss, softer this time, sweet and playful. "Well, I can live with that." he murmured against your lips.

And as he kissed you again, you realized that maybe you could, too.

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fav-fanficssss · 5 days ago

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I never saw you coming and I'll never be the same - S.H

Steve falls for a pretty girl in a coffee shop after she finds the cat he was supposed to be looking after

Steve Harrington x female!reader

A/n: friends to lovers, autumn

Warnings: strong language, small injury detail, kissing

Word count: 3.3k

October 21st,

She suddenly felt something brushing up against her tights, something warm and not too small but also not too big. She looked down to find nothing but fluff and the sweetest eyes looking up at her. Cats wandering the streets of Hawkins wasn’t uncommon but it looked like it might rain and this one somehow seemed lost.

“Where did you come from huh?” She wasn’t expecting an answer but for some reason she still asked. She bent down, reaching out her hand to let the cat sniff her first before she started petting it. It rubbed its head against her hand. It was brown with a little blonde here and there.

It felt horrible to leave it but she had to get to work. She took about two steps down the street and then she found herself looking back, but it was gone. Well not gone but not where it once was. The cat was right behind her, softly meowing by her feet again. If it wanted to follow her to work that was fine, but it would be quicker if she picked it up and walked it herself. Then after work she could find out who it belonged to, it was a plan. A rather good one really.

The coffee shop was quiet, it was most days. Hawkins wasn’t a busy town, no one was even in that much of a rush. She left the cat in a chair by the door, it fell asleep rather fast but it was warmer inside than it was outside. Autumn was settling in and the air was getting colder so a soft seat and an oven warmed room was probably rather nice for the cat. The smell of cinnamon rolls and green tea even made her sleepy after late nights.

After a while the bell above the door went. “Hey Maple. I’ve been looking for you.” She looked up. There was a boy, bent down by the chair, scratching behind the cat's ear. She seemed to know him and he obviously knew her name. Maple was a sweet name for a cat. “How the hell did you get in here?”

She wanted to laugh, at least she wasn’t the only one who asked animals questions when they couldn’t answer.

“I didn’t want to leave her out in the street, she looked lost.”

The boy turned around and she quickly realised it was Steve Harrington. They had gone to school together but he was the year above so she didn't really know him. She just knew his name and where he lived.

“Yeah, she wandered off last night through an open window.” He walked over to the counter, Maple jumped off the chair and closely followed him. She wished it was busy today, because she suddenly felt rather flustered. And a good excuse for that would be a crowd of customers. Steve leant on the counter. “I’ve been looking for her all morning. Thanks for bringing her in.” He smiled and his eyes kind of downturned. It was cute.

“That’s okay.”

“She’s not even mine, I’m looking after her for a neighbour so you saved me from getting murdered by Mrs Henderson.” He picked Maple up. They had the same eyes, both brown and soft like hot chocolate but with a little green around the edges. She felt something twist in her chest. Just don’t look in his eyes, she told herself. She focused on the two freckles on his cheek instead.

“I’m glad you found her then.” She said softly, reaching out to pet Maple one last time. It had just started to rain outside, she had thought it might. Maybe it held off until Steve had found her and could take her home.

“Yeah.” He said, just a bit quieter than before. “Me too.”

Steve pulled his jacket around Maple as much as he could and whispered a little ‘come on then’ to her before walking out the door. The second he stepped out he was wet, his hair turned darker and she could see the rain drops turning patches of his blue jeans darker then before.

He looked back through the glass door and she smiled sympathetically. He didn’t look too happy but then who would be getting soaking wet. He put his hand on the door and opened it half way back up. He was letting the cold in but she liked how fresh the air smelt now. Like Fall.

“I know you, right?” He said, his hands were turning red and she wanted to tell him to just run home but instead she nodded. “I thought I did.” He whispered mostly to himself. Possibly forgetting she could hear him.

“Steve-”

“You remember my name.”

“You're both getting all wet.” She softly told him.

“Shit.” Steve looked down and saw Maples' wet fur and his own wet clothes. He let the door close on him and tugged his brown jacket tighter, then he did a little shake of his head, just like a dog would.

Steve Harrington was not at all like she remembered. He had a nickname she couldn’t recall right now but she did remember that it wasn’t something sweet and endearing, and the boy who had just retrieved a cat was exactly that, sweet and endearing.

She didn’t know it yet, but today was just the first time she would be left thinking about his damned eyes.

October 26th,

Steve had returned Maple with a slight hitch in his story, he left out the part about him losing her and finding her in Hawkin’s coffee shop. But that didn’t mean he had forgotten it. He still felt a strange chill on the back of his neck when he thought about it, like he was standing in the rain all over again, talking to her.

Sweet didn’t feel like a good enough word but that’s what she was, sweet. And now, days later, when it rained again on his way home, he smelt cupcakes and cinnamon swirled into hot chocolate. He also saw her clearly in his mind.

They weren’t friends but he did know her name, he did see her around town now and then but that might’ve been their first real conversation and it had somehow escaped him just how pretty she was. How nice her smile was and how kind her eyes were.

He pulled his blue jacket tighter around him. At least before having Maple was like having a hot water bottle pressed to his chest. Now he was all on his own, freezing cold in the rain.

Steve crossed the street, his house wasn’t far now but god did he miss his car. It hadn’t been this bad when he left and he harmlessly through an Autumn walk would be nice, how stupid of him.

He was cursing himself under his breath until he saw the broken umbrella and the girl it belonged to.

The umbrella in question was red, red and very broken and the girl in question was of course the same girl from the coffee shop, because seeing him soaking wet once wasn;t enough apparently. She held the umbrella at her side, letting the rain drown her, if he thought he was cold, she looked colder.

He called her name and ran a little to catch up with her. Him and his white trainers went straight through a puddle but he could worry about that later.

“You okay?” Steve asked, looking her up and down and thinking that all he wanted to do right down was get her dry. It was an odd feeling, he was as caring as he could be with everyone but this felt more than just his usual kindness, he felt like he had to make sure she was okay.

“It broke.” She shrugged and pouted a little. It was the kind of sad look that was ridiculously adorable. That made him want to smile and fix it for her. They started walking together, with Steve on the road side and her on the safer side.

“They um, they do that sometimes.”

Steve wasn’t sure what to say as foolish as that sounded, he was a bit thrown by seeing her, he had been before too, he hadn’t really known what he was saying that day either. There was just something about her that made him forget how to talk to a girl, that made him forget all his premeditated lines and just kind of fall through his sentences. It was new for him and he was partly enjoying it.

What he wasn’t enjoying was that the rain was getting worse now, he could feel it on his back and hear it on the cars that passed them by. If he was alone he would’ve started running home about now, but he didn’t want to leave her and if he was sick tomorrow then so be it.

“Did you get your neighbour's cat home safely?” A car rushed past them and so she stepped a little closer so he could hear her clearly. Was this a busy street? He couldn’t remember ever taking much notice before but right now he hoped it was.

“Maple?” She nodded. “Yeah, she’s fine, she’s probably curled up on a blanket right now. All warm and dry.” He sounded like he wanted to switch places with a cat and maybe he did. If Mrs Henderson had the fire blazing then he definitely did.

“Are you jealous?” She laughed so softly it made him smile. He was soaking wet, probably getting a cold, smiling as he walked home much slower then he should have.

Steve shrugged. “A little.” What he meant was, A lot. But he was playing it cool. At least he liked to think he was.

The girl beside him shivered, she was already hugging herself, and her clothes, just like his, were wet through. Steve didn’t even think as he started to take his jacket off. He didn’t even hesitate. “Here, do you want my-”

“Oh, no.” She shook her head and stepped away.

He missed the closeness. And he realised it was a strange thing to miss since she was almost a stranger to him. But how long would it take until she wasn’t one? And didn’t living in the same town make them more than that?

“You’ll get wetter than you already are and you’re already very wet Steve.” She was too cute for him. Looking him up and down like he had no idea it was raining and she had to be the one to tell him.

“It’s okay.” She wouldn’t take his jacket off him, he knew that now. But he had to do something. He removed it anyway, partly ignoring her, but then holding it just above his head with outstretched arms. “Here, try and get under.”

She didn’t protest this time, she just stepped right under his jacket. She was at his side now, and he could oddly feel the warmth coming off her, reminding him that she was in fact a living breathing person, not a figment of his imagination. It was quite a shock for him actually.

Steve walked her all the way home, she only lived one street from him so it was on his way. He kept his arms up even when they started to ache, it was a short walk but in his defence he hadn't worked out since summer and a wet jacket was heavier than a dry one.

“Thanks.” She ducked out from under their missmade shelter when they stopped at the end of her pathway. Steve had actually thought she lived at the next house but he would remember it better for next time.

“I owed you anyway. For keeping me out of trouble with Mrs Henderson.”

Her nose scrunched up in the cutest way. “You’re getting all wet.” She said, eyes trailing up and down him. He was holding his jacket at his side in his right hand now, he just didn’t see the point using it as a very bad replacement for an umbrella anymore.

“You said that last time.” He wasn’t sure if he said that out loud until he watched her smile at him. He could remember their last conversation better than most that he had. It had just kind of stuck in his head.

“Bye Steve.”

Steve started to back away from her house, his own stupid smile on his face as he hoped he didn’t trip. He liked the way she said his name. He liked it a lot.

October 30th,

Halloween time in Hawkins was always special. Pumpkins on every porch, orange lights strung everywhere. That chill in the air that hadn’t turned frosty yet. She could just about see her breath fogging up like white smoke in front of her.

It was later in the evening when she stepped back outside the town’s store and everything in front of her was covered in this starry glow, including Steve, who was standing just outside with his back to the glass windows with his breath fogging up too. Oh how she loved this time of year.

“Hi Steve.” He looked up at the sound of her voice, a cute slightly shocked but also not expression on his face. She looked down and saw that his hands were red and she wanted to give him her gloves that were somewhere in her coat pocket. She did owe him for the way he shared his jacket the other week.

“Hey. I waited if that’s okay. I saw you inside and thought you probably shouldn’t walk home alone when it’s dark.” Were all boys as sweet as Steve Harrington or was he just the exception. She thought she saw him at the check out inside but it was only the back of him and she wasn't sure until now that it actually had been him.

“No, you’re probably right.” He wasn’t, not really. Hawkins was the safest town she had ever known and she didn’t live far but Steve had waited. He had stood in the cold and waited for her, and the whole idea of that was making the blood rush to her cheeks. “Thanks for waiting.”

Steve took the bag from her hand, he looked inside, he was cute when he was being nosy. She had only brought chocolate. It was just heavy because there was a lot of it.

They crossed the street, it was much nicer walking with him without all that rain. Not that Steve didn’t look pretty all wet but the last two times she had seen him he had been wet and now seeing him, well, all dry, he was even prettier. How many times could she call a boy pretty in her head before she had to admit something to herself?

“It’s okay, I, um-” He paused and scratched the back of his neck with the hand that wasn’t holding her shopping. “I was hoping to see you anyway.”

“Oh.” Was he trying to kill her? Who just said something like that? She felt her pulse beating in her wrist and her neck, thumping against her skin. She tried to concentrate on something like she had when he came into the shop, wasn’t it his freckles she focused on that day, or was it something else.

“Yeah I was just wondering if at the end of the week you wanted to get a coffee or something.” Steve ran his hand along the fences as they walked down the street. He had pretty hands. “I mean I know you work at the coffee shop but maybe we could go somewhere else or we could go a day you’re no working and- fuck.”

Steve suddenly stopped and flinched his hand away from the wooden fence. He held his palm half closed to his chest and grimaced. She looked at the fence, there was a broken latch with a piece of it sticking out and it looked sharp.

She delicately pulled his hand away from his chest by his wrist so she could see better in the street light they were standing under. There was a cut right on the edge of his hand stopping just before the centre of his palm.

“Oh Steve.” She pressed her brows together, it looked like it hurt. He didn’t say anything or pull his hand back, he just seemed to be staring at her, waiting to see what she would do next. So, she pulled her jacket sleeve over her hand and dabbed at the blood as carefully as she could, trying to see how deep the cut was.

“You don’t have to.” He finally said. Smiling weakly and avoiding her eyes. She felt this awful tight feeling in her ribs. She wanted to help him so she ignored what he said.

“Does it hurt?” She asked, still holding his hand in hers. The sleeve of her light brown jacket was now a little stained with blood but she didn’t mind.

Steve swallowed down hard and her eyes couldn’t help but follow his throat. “Only a little.” He smiled, like he knew she didn’t believe him and he needed to prove he wasn’t lying. It was a good thing because she liked his smile. She liked his- well, everything.

“I have plasters and stuff at home if you want I could-”

Neither of his hands were free so there wasn’t any touch to her cheek to warm her about what he was about to do. One second she was offering to take him home and find him something for his hand, and the next Steve was kissing her.

He completely cut her off. Interpreting her in the sweetest way possible. Her eyes closed and she kissed him back before her mind even knew what was happening, somehow her body just knew to relax into it. Into him.

Steve pulled away just as suddenly as he had kissed her.

“Sorry, I don’t know- no. that’s I lie I do know why I did that.” He took his hand from her and placed it on his hip but then he screwed up his face as he remembered he had cut it.

“Steve-”

“No I know, I shouldn’t have kissed you. You were just being nice and I got caught up in it.” He was staring at the ground, pressing his brows together and talking to the pavement.

“Steve.”

He looked at her the second time she said his name. He had this look in his eyes that was different than before, there was something there that she couldn’t pinpoint a word for but she was pretty sure it was reflecting in her own.

She took in a sharp breath and then she kissed him. With her hand on his neck and her fingertips only just reaching into his hair. She noticed now that he tasted like hot chocolate with cream and a dash of vanilla. Possibly her new favourite hot drink.

Steve muttered something against her lips that she didn’t catch. “What?” She asked, a little dizzy for breath.

“I was just thanking that damn cat for running away, ignore me.” He shook his head and smiled at her. He must’ve forgotten about his hand again because he was pulling her into him by her jacket.

“Steve your h-hand.” She tripped over her words as his nose nudged her cheek. God they were close to each other.

He dropped his voice to a whisper, and just before leaning in again he said, “Doesn’t matter anymore.”

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fav-fanficssss · 6 days ago

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omg what about the forced marriage au! but sofia tries to flirt w rafe inspite of him being a married man infront of the reader and he sets his boundaries and makes it clear that he is only loyal to the reader

Eyes don’t lie || Rafe Cameron x fem!reader

A/n: I don't think i mentioned it in the background for this au but reader and her family are practically royalty in obx. I forgot to mention this in the other fic but readers siblings from oldest to youngest is as followed: William Astoria Edward Charlotte and reader

Warnings: nothing really!!

Word count: 1,609

MASTERLIST (forced marriage au masterlist)

divider by @h-aewo

Sofia’s eyes wandered around the grand ballroom, her gaze drifted appreciatively over the opulent surroundings. The architecture of the room was breathtaking, its grandeur perfectly fitting for the New Year’s Eve celebration, which was exclusive to the elite socialites of Outer Banks.

The high ceilings, adorned with sparkling chandeliers, cast a warm glow over the elegantly dressed guests. Sofia went about serving drinks to the guests, her eyes constantly scanning the crowd for a specific person. The ballroom was alive with chatter and laughter, but her attention was fixed on the grand staircase at the far end of the room.

Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted as the crowd’s clapping grew louder and more rhythmic. Sofia’s gaze followed the collective attention to the top of the grand staircase. Her breath caught in her throat when she saw your family make their entrance. First, your parents descended the stairs, radiating an air of effortless elegance.

They were followed by your siblings and their partners, each step meticulously coordinated, adding to the grandeur of the moment. And then, as if choreographed for a royal event, you and Rafe appeared, linked arm in arm. The sight was nothing short of breathtaking.

The way the crowd’s applause built to a crescendo as you both descended the stairs left Sofia in awe. The admiration etched on every guest’s face was palpable, a testament to the elevated status your family held. Sofia had known your family was influential, but seeing it up close was overwhelming.

The opulence and grace with which you and Rafe carried yourselves, combined with the sheer scale of the event, exceeded anything she had imagined. This elite socialite world was new to her; she had only been filling in for someone who couldn’t attend, and now she was witnessing a spectacle that felt almost surreal.

Sofia’s eyes followed you and Rafe as you navigated the room, your every movement drawing admiring glances from the guests. You both were effortlessly engaged in conversations, laughter dancing between you as you exchanged smiles. Sofia couldn’t help but notice how Rafe’s hand would rest possessively on your waist, his smile widening whenever he glanced down at you, clearly enjoying your company.

A pang of envy twisted in her stomach as she observed the closeness between you two. As the night wore on, you and Rafe made your way to the bar. Rafe took charge, ordering drinks for both of you while you chatted animatedly with your sisters. His hand lingered on the small of your back, a subtle but intimate gesture that spoke volume to Sofia.

Sofia watched this interaction with a mix of fascination and frustration. Determined to make her presence felt, Sofia stepped closer to the two from where she was behind the bar, her smile wide and her gaze fixed on Rafe. "It’s so beautiful here, isn’t it?" she said, her voice laced with a flirtatious tone.

Rafe gave a curt nod, his focus remaining squarely on you as he waits for his drinks. His body language was clear—he was fully engaged with you and had little interest in entertaining Sofia’s advances. Despite his lack of response, Sofia persisted, her smile unwavering as she tried to find another way to break through.

It was obvious to Rafe that Sofia had a liking towards him and she was not good at hiding it. Rafe’s gaze remained fixed on you, but his tone was firm and polite. “I'm just here to enjoy the evening with my wife,” he said, his words leaving little room for further flirtation. Sofia’s smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly recovered, trying to mask her disappointment.

“Well I hope you enjoying the rest of the party," she said, her tone still light but with a hint of frustration. Rafe offered a polite but distant smile before turning his attention back to you, his hand still resting protectively on the small of your back. Sofia, though slightly deflated by his lack of interest, couldn’t help but let her gaze linger on him throughout the night, her eyes trailing his every move.

As you and Rafe exchanged quiet words, you leaned in closer to him, your lips near his ear as you asked, “Do you know her?” Your tone was casual, but your curiosity was clear. Rafe’s brows furrowed slightly before he followed your gaze to where Sofia quickly averted her eyes, trying to look busy behind the bar. “Some pogue that works at the country club,” he replied flatly, his voice laced with boredom as he turned back to you.

You hummed in response, your eyes glinting with amusement. “She seems quite interested in you,” you mused, a small smirk playing on your lips as you observed Sofia’s poorly hidden attempts to steal glances at Rafe. He rolled his eyes, lifting his glass to his mouth, clearly unimpressed by the attention. “Find this amusing, do you?” he asked, his voice tinged with sarcasm as he took a sip of his drink.

You could see the faintest hint of a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. “Very,” you replied, your smirk widening as you watched him shake his head in mock exasperation. The easy banter between you both was laced with an intimacy that only deepened Sofia’s envy as she watched from afar, her efforts to catch Rafe’s eye futile.

“One minute till midnight!” a voice called out from the crowd, drawing Sofia’s attention. “Get ready for your New Year’s kiss!” The cheerful voice belonged to Astoria, whose playful tone sparked laughter among the guests. Sofia’s gaze instantly zeroed in on you and Rafe, standing close together with his hand resting possessively on your lower back, subtly guiding you closer.

She couldn’t tear her eyes away from the way Rafe seemed so effortlessly in control, his every movement a declaration of his claim on you. As the countdown began, Rafe gently turned you so that your back was to Sofia, shielding your shared moment from prying eyes. His gaze roamed over your face with an intensity that made Sofia’s chest tighten. “What are you doing?” you whispered, your voice barely audible amidst the growing excitement.

“What do you think I’m doing?” he murmured in response, his lips hovering dangerously close to yours. His breath fanned across your lips as he pulled you even closer, his touch both tender and possessive. “Ten! Nine! Eight! Seven!” The room chanted in unison, voices rising in anticipation as the new year approached.

As the numbers ticked down, Rafe’s hand slid up to rest on the back of your neck, his fingers lightly grazing your jawline in a way that sent shivers down your spine. At the stroke of midnight, Sofia watched with a mixture of longing and frustration as Rafe leaned in, pressing his lips firmly against yours. The world seemed to pause for her, the moment suspended in time as she took in the sight of the man she desired so deeply kissing someone else.

A camera flash illuminated the room, capturing the intimate moment between you and Rafe as you slightly pulled away, only for Rafe to keep you close against him. His hand remained firm on your back, refusing to let the moment slip away so easily. The room erupted into celebration—confetti rained down, fireworks burst outside, and the sound of cheers and clinking glasses filled the air.

But Sofia couldn’t focus on any of it. Her eyes were locked on Rafe, whose lips remained pressed against yours even as the celebrations continued around you. Then, something shifted. Rafe’s eyes opened, and as he kissed you, his gaze lifted over your head, locking onto Sofia’s. His cool blue eyes met hers, and in that instant, she felt as though the breath had been stolen from her lungs.

But instead of the cold indifference she might have expected, there was a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. It wasn’t a smile of invitation; it was a silent warning. His message was clear—back off. He was telling her without words that he was loyal to you, that there was no room for anyone else. Her heart pounded wildly, the sound of it echoing in her ears as she stood frozen, unable to look away.

Sofia felt her breath catch in her throat, her heart pounding harder as she realized the intent behind his gaze. She stood frozen, unable to look away, as that smirk told her everything she needed to know. Rafe was making it clear that she was wasting her time, that his commitment was to you and you alone.

Rafe held her gaze for a moment longer, his smirk lingering as if to drive the point home, before his eyes dropped back to you. The moment you broke the kiss, a smile spread across your face as you pressed your hands against his chest, turning your attention to the fireworks outside. Only then did Rafe’s expression shift, his smirk fading into a polished, aristocratic smile as he glanced around the room.

He clapped along with the crowd, though his enthusiasm was clearly feigned. After a few seconds, he snatched a flute of champagne from a floating tray, knocking it back in one swift motion. The gesture was casual, almost dismissive, as if the exchange with Sofia had been nothing more than a brief interruption in an otherwise perfect night.

Sofia, left standing in the shadows, could only watch as the man she coveted so dearly turned away, his focus entirely on you. The pit of envy in her stomach deepened, but now mingled with a bitter understanding—Rafe’s loyalty to you was unshakeable, and there was nothing she could do to change that.

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fav-fanficssss · 9 days ago

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California Autumn | Rooster x Reader

Summary: Bradley was drawn to you the minute you moved onto his street. You seemed to bump into one another everywhere, and each time he saw your smile or heard your laugh, he knew he had to ask you out. He wasn't expecting the answer you gave him, just as you weren't expecting to wish he could be the man for you.

Warnings: angst, fluff, adult language, mentions of accident/death, guardianship of child

Length: 3500 words

Pairing: Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x Female Reader

Check out my masterlist for more

Early September was brutal in southern California. Each day seemed hotter than the one before it, and even the smallest bit of yard work was enough to leave Bradley sweaty and miserable. He stood in the middle of his front yard, eyes closed, thinking about how beautiful autumn was in Virginia when he was a kid. He leaned against the handle of the rake, picturing a pumpkin patch, a corn maze and all the things he would never find in San Diego.

The sound of something bigger than a car coming down his quiet side street had him cracking his eyes open against the Saturday afternoon sun. A U-Haul lumbered to a stop in front of the house across the street and one door down. The engine settled to silence, and he craned his neck to get a better look. The property had been sitting there with a red and white SOLD sticker over the realty sign for what seemed like months, and now it would appear as though he finally had a new neighbor.

Bradley dropped the rake and had to lunge to grab the handle before it clattered against his stone pathway. The woman who climbed out of the truck, hopping down onto the street in some beat up sneakers, was beautiful. The sun seemed to illuminate her from the inside, and now Bradley was setting the rake down softly as she walked around the truck and slid the back open. It was filled with furniture and boxes, and he watched as an avalanche nearly flowed out as she tried to move one item.

"Shit," he grunted, running across the street as he wiped his dirty hands on the hem of his undershirt. "It looks like you could use a hand," he called out, hoping he wouldn't scare you when he came up behind you just in time to catch a dining chair that was teetering above your head. Then the neatly stacked boxes started to give out as well, and his left hand went to steady them.

You were ducking slightly, preparing for the worst when Bradley realized your back was pressed against his chest. If he moved, there would be a lot of broken furniture to contend with. But then you glanced at him over your shoulder as you stood to your full height, eyes wide and lips parted in surprise.

If you looked beautiful from across the street, then you looked stunning up close, trapped between his body and the truck. "Welcome to the neighborhood," he mumbled like an idiot, but he was rewarded by the smile that curled along your lips.

"Hey, you're pretty good at being neighborly," you replied, gesturing to his right hand holding the chair and his left securing the stack of boxes. His heartbeat quickened at the sound of your voice and how close you were as you told him your name and asked which house was his.

"I'm Bradley. The white cottage across the street." He nodded toward his mess of a front yard with his chin. "I moved in about six months ago."

What he didn't mention was the fact that he often still felt like a bit of an outsider in town, even though he attended all the neighborhood potlucks and still had some blond in his hair from hanging out on the local beaches all summer. At the moment, all he could do was fight the urge to tell you how pretty your eyes were.

"And you like the neighborhood?" you asked, fully facing him now with a smirk on your face.

He shrugged the best he could without moving too much. "I might like it better now."

Your eyes widened a bit before you ducked your head, looking up at him with a surprised smile like you couldn't quite believe what he'd just said. And that's when Bradley heard another vehicle pull up behind him. "That would be my friends. Here to help me unpack."

He wanted to joke that it looked like you needed all the help you could get with your furniture avalanche, but he heard several voices calling your name and rushing over to help. He was invited to stay, but when he was finally able to safely back away without anything falling, he realized four other people were there to help you out.

Your eyes were still focused on his as he started to back away. "I'll see you around?" you asked before chewing on your lip.

"I would count on it," he confirmed, turning back toward his house so you could get settled into yours.

But he did hear one of your friends ask, "Who is he?"

"Bradley," you replied, just barely loud enough for him to hear. "From the white cottage."

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

After that first encounter, he saw you everywhere. You were pulling into the parking spot next to his Bronco when he came out of the grocery store. When he asked how you liked your new house, it sparked a conversation about hardwood versus porcelain tile flooring, and Bradley's ice cream was completely melted by the time he got home.

Then there was the day you bumped into him coming out of the salon next to his barber, and he complimented your colorful nails at the same time you told him his haircut looked nice. He blushed, and you smiled before turning toward your car, glancing back at him a little expectantly.

Then he ran into you at the farmer's market where you were buying vegetables for the upcoming neighborhood potluck. You asked him what he thought you should make.

"Well, I'm the wrong person to ask," he replied, feeling a little lightheaded as his brain begged him to ask you out on a date.

"Why's that?" you asked, placing your hand on your hip while you held up a head of cabbage. "You're a picky eater?"

He shook his head and took a step closer to you. "The exact opposite. I love food. I will eat literally anything that is edible."

Your bright laughter cascaded across his skin as your head tipped back. The expanse of your neck looked smooth and perfect, and Bradley wanted to have your permission to put his lips there. And that was a startling thought since nobody had really caught his attention like this since he was first stationed in San Diego. Nobody made him feel like he was at home in his house before you started waving to him whenever you saw him outside.

"I guess it makes sense that you love food," you told him with a smile. "You're a big boy." Your gaze drifted down along his shoulders and chest before you started to look a little embarrassed. "I... yeah... I think I'll just grab whatever looks good and take it from there. See you on Friday night?"

"Yeah," he grunted as you walked toward an eggplant display. He would see you on Friday night. And he would be prepared ahead of time to ask you out.

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

"No," you gasped. Bradley recognized your voice and turned around to face you in Mrs. Diaz's kitchen. "That's what you brought to the potluck?" You sounded appalled, but you were clearly smiling as you looked at what he was holding.

"I told you I liked to eat food, not that I knew how to cook anything."

"Bradley," you groaned, shaking your head at the bag of chips and jar of salsa in his hands. "This is bad. Next time, I'll prepare two dishes so you can pretend you made one."

His heart skipped a beat at the idea of handing you things in his kitchen and watching you make something as nice as the lasagna you were holding. "It's useless," he replied with a frown. "After six months of bringing restaurant style tortilla chips and medium salsa, nobody would believe I cooked anything."

Once again, your laughter had him ready to drop what he was holding and reach for you. He had to ask you out tonight. It had been weeks already since you moved in, and you were definitely giving him a green light. He could think of a dozen different restaurants he wanted to take you to, and maybe you'd like the artsy little movie theater.

But he watched you get swept up in conversation after conversation, and then the opportunity slipped away when you ducked away from everyone to answer a call. You had a concerned look on your face with your phone pressed to your cheek, and then you were rushing out of Mrs. Diaz's house and along her front path before you disappeared from view.

Suddenly it was well into October, and he'd barely seen you at all. There were a few mornings that felt cool enough to coax him to buy some pumpkins for his front porch. He thought about taking one over to your house as an excuse to finally ask you out, but he figured you must be pretty busy right now. Maybe work got a little crazy. He tried not to imagine that someone else had asked you out and that was the reason why you were so scarce.

"Damn," he grunted when he drove his Bronco past your house on his way to get some takeout for dinner on a Saturday night. He just couldn't stop thinking about you. Why didn't he ask you out that first day when he saved you from your dining chair? He ran his hand over his face and groaned, parking in front of the restaurant and yanking his keys from the ignition. If he'd just asked you out that day, maybe he'd be picking up twice as much food and sharing it with you tonight.

A minute later, when he turned to leave the restaurant with his bag, he could not believe his luck. You were walking inside. "Hey."

You glanced up, and for the briefest second, you smiled at him like you always used to. "Bradley." But then your smile started to fade away slowly, and he would do anything to bring it back.

His heart was pounding, and his brain was screaming at him, so he squared his shoulders and did the only thing he could do. "Hey, if you're free tomorrow night, I was thinking maybe you and I could get dinner? Or hit up the movie theater on Pomona? The seats are uncomfortable, but they show some indie stuff which could be fun. Or maybe another night might work?"

The air was silent except for the muffled sound of food being prepared in the kitchen behind him. Your eyes looked so sad as you shook your head and pressed your lips together. "No. No, I'm sorry, Bradley."

Well, fuck.

He backed away from you until he bumped into the wall, and then he focused on getting to the door. "Right," he replied after he had a few more feet between your body and his. "Well, I'll see you around the neighborhood."

For the first time since he moved to California, the air outside was too cold. There was an uncomfortable knot in his stomach as he glanced over at your car. He shivered miserably as he saw the shadow of someone waiting in your passenger seat. Then he drove home and ate alone in his kitchen before going to bed.

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

Bradley tried his best not to think about you. One day last week, when he saw your front door swing open, he waited to step down from his porch so you wouldn't have to wave awkwardly to him. And yesterday, for lack of anything better to do, he bought more pumpkins, and he waited in his driveway to unload them until you carried all of your groceries inside your house.

Today was Halloween, and he spent over an hour carving some of the pumpkins to look like soccer balls before dressing in his usual costume. Handing candy out to the neighborhood kids and trying to guess what they were dressed as sounded like fun. He was determined to have a good night, even if he did have to angle the folding chair on his porch so he was facing slightly away from your house. He would enjoy himself no matter what.

Bradley lit the candles inside his pumpkins and dropped down into the chair with a bowl of candy as the afternoon sky turned dusky. It didn't take long until a toddler dressed as a witch made an appearance with her dad, and Bradley had a good laugh when she reached for three pieces of candy.

"Trick or treat!" shouted three kids dressed as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

"Where's Raphael?" he asked as they collected their candy.

Leonardo laughed and said, "Nobody wants to be Raphael. He's the lamest one."

"I would have to agree," Bradley replied, about to help himself to a piece of candy as they started to run to the next house.

But then he saw you. And you weren't alone. You were dressed as a soccer player, complete with knee socks and a soccer ball, and you were accompanied by an approximately ten year old kid who looked a lot like you. He was also dressed as a soccer player, and he smiled at Bradley as he said, "Trick or treat."

Bradley stood up, still holding onto the bowl of candy so the child could make his selection while he got a better look at you. "Hey."

"Hi," you replied immediately, looking from his mustache to the whistle around his neck and back up to his visor. "Are you seriously dressed as Ted Lasso?"

"I always dress as Ted Lasso," he told you, and he was rewarded with a smile that made him want to follow you around the neighborhood like a lost puppy.

"Of course you do," you said, letting your gaze drift toward the child who was currently looking closely at the soccer ball pumpkins while holding onto a Snickers bar. "Somehow you match with us."

The boy looked up at Bradley and asked, "Did you carve these yourself? They look pretty good."

"Yeah," he replied, wishing he actually had taken the time to drop a pumpkin or two off on your porch. "I have perfected the soccer ball technique, kiddo."

The kid nodded but said, "You need to call it a football."

Bradley found himself agreeing. "You're completely right. It's only proper."

When the kid turned back to explore the rest of the pumpkin display a little more, Bradley took a step closer to you. "I didn't know you had a son," he said softly.

Your eyes were alert, scrutinizing his expression as you said, "His name is Max. He's almost ten."

"He looks like you."

You went silent for a few seconds, fiddling with the soccer ball in your hands. When you finally spoke, you were looking at Bradley's feet. "I knew you didn't know about him. I mean, you did ask me out after all." You laughed even though nothing was funny and finally looked up at his face. Then Max started to walk back the way you and he came, and you followed him.

Bradley called your name. When you turned back, he said, "To be clear, I would have still asked you out if I'd known."

And then you looked so sad again.

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

To Bradley's amazement, the weather finally cooled to the perfect temperature in November, but he found he didn't want to be outside as much. It was a shame, because if he stood in the middle of his yard and closed his eyes, he could almost imagine he was in Virginia.

One Friday after work, he cleaned the slightly rotten pumpkins from his porch and dragged his trash bin to the curb. Your front door was open, and he paused to see if you or Max happened to walk past it before heading back inside his empty house.

There was another potluck tonight, but he just didn't even feel like going. He had the usual chips and salsa on his kitchen counter, but he had no desire to socialize with the neighbors. He was about to change into gym shorts and surrender to a cold beer and a basketball game on TV when there was a knock on his door.

When he glanced through the front window, he saw that it was you, and his heart seemed to drag him toward the door. He was turning the knob before he thought better of it, and he was met with your wide eyes and a crock pot in your hands.

"Hi. Bradley."

"Hey." He swallowed hard before he said your name, and your lips turned up into a soft smile. "Is that for the potluck?"

"Yeah," you said, reaching out to hand the crock pot to him. "Well, I actually made it for you to take. Max and I will be bringing lasagna again."

Whatever Bradley was holding smelled so good, his stomach started to growl. "I can't take this. Nobody will believe I made it," he murmured, nudging at the lid with his thumb.

"It's a spicy buffalo dip," you replied, smile growing. "I literally made it with chicken from a can. I'm pretty sure you could trick them into thinking it came from your kitchen. You can even take your tortilla chips, too."

His fingers tightened on the handles when you took a small step closer to him. This was agony, being so close to you when he really wanted to touch you, but knew he couldn't. He whispered your name at the same time you looked up at him and started talking.

"Max isn't my son. He's my nephew. But I'm his legal guardian now." Bradley's lips parted, but you shook your head and quickly added. "The night of the last potluck, I got a phone call that my brother and his wife were in a car accident. They both died before they reached the hospital. I had to pick Max up from soccer practice that night, and he's been with me ever since."

Tears were welling up in your eyes as Bradley tried to shuffle your crock pot to one hand. He knew how badly this kind of thing hurt from his own childhood. "Shit. I'm really sorry the two of you are going through this. But Max is lucky he has you." When you nodded and shrugged, you looked resigned to the way things were. "I'm also pretty sure Max prefers it when you call it football. Not soccer."

You laughed, maybe in spite of yourself, but Bradley still loved how it sounded. You briefly glanced over your shoulder toward your house and swiped at your tears as you said, "He absolutely does. He also keeps asking me about Ted Lasso across the street and his football pumpkins. I told him you're nice."

Bradley's heart had him dragging his feet closer to you, holding onto the warm pot of buffalo chicken dip for dear life. "Is that so?"

You nodded and stared at Bradley's chest for a few seconds before meeting his eyes again. Your lips parted several times before you whispered his name, and he leaned in a bit closer. After a few seconds, he started to step back, but your hand settled lightly on his shoulder, stopping him. Before he could react, you closed the remaining space, pressing your lips to his in a tentative kiss.

It was over almost as quickly as it started, and Bradley was ready to drop to his knees and beg you for more. But you were rambling now, and he was trying his best to focus. "I wanted you to ask me out so badly. But then everything changed, and I had to tell you no. Max has a lot he still needs to process, and I don't really have time to date someone who just wants to mess around with me."

For the first time in many weeks, Bradley felt lighter than air. He reached out with his free hand and let his knuckles trail gently along your cheek and down to your softly parted lips. "I'm forty years old. I'm kind of over the messing around stage," he promised. And then you were kissing him again.

The three of you walked to Mrs. Diaz's house together that evening. Bradley carried the crock pot, you carried the lasagna, and Max carried the tortilla chips. The conversation was mainly focused on how badly Max wanted to learn how to carve a football pumpkin.

Almost a year later, Bradley was standing in his front yard, smiling at the SOLD sticker placed on a realty sign in front of your house. It made sense to have you and Max move into the white cottage with him, because the porch was bigger. It was the perfect size for an elaborate Halloween display.

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

Thanks for reading this angsty yet fuzzy little fic. I hope your Halloween is sweeter than Bradley Bradshaw. Thanks @beyondthesefourwalls and @thedroneranger

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fav-fanficssss · 11 days ago

Text

She's My Always | Part 1

Summary: After a less than wonderful dating history Sara is ready to give up, convinced there are no good men left out there. That is, until her sister Ella meets Jake Seresin and he proves there are in deed good men left. Bradley Bradshaw is tired of the bar scene and tag chasers...he sees what Jake as and is ready for that. Ella and Jake decide to play matchmaker... deciding that Bradley and Sara would be perfect for one another. Perhaps they'll find their happily ever after?

NOTE: Spin Off to "She's My Forever"

Pairings: Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x OC Female Sara Kennedy, Jake "Hangman" Seresin x OC Single Mom Ella Kennedy, Luca, Daggers

Warnings: mentions of cheating (not Bradley), FLUFF

Word Count: 3432

A/N: I do not own Top Gun Maverick characters but all OC characters and storylines are my own. I do not give permission for my work to be copied, translated, or posted on any platform. I do NOT give permission for my work to be fed into an AI generator. Reblogs welcome!

Masterlist

“I have a date… tomorrow night.” Sara frantically told her sister as soon as she'd answered the phone.

“That’s great!” Ella replied, “As long as it’s with Bradley… the poor guy would be gutted if it’s not. He’s already got heart eyes for you.”

“Of COURSE it’s with Bradley!” She exclaimed, “Which is why I want to look perfect and want the date to go perfectly, but I have NOTHING to wear, Els… NOTHING!”

“Bee, he’s gonna think you’re gorgeous in whatever you wear and the date will be perfect.” Ella reassured her, “But, Jake will be here in about twenty minutes. I’ll have him and Luca hang out and I’ll come help you.”

“You’re the best sister in the entire world.” Sara gushed, “I owe you! I will babysit any night … except tomorrow night… so that you and Jake can have a date night… I’ll even make it a sleepover!”

“Deep breath, Sara.” Ella laughed, “Be there soon.”

She tried not to get into her head too much. Bradley had been so incredibly sweet at the beach when they’d met last week. She’d had a lot of fun building castles in the sand with him and Luca. The way he’d played with Luca had melted her heart. The entire day had been incredible. They’d talked through text and a couple of phone calls that week and now they were going on their first official date.

To say she had bad luck in the dating department was an understatement. She’d just about given up hope a few years ago when she’d met Ryan. He’d been sweet and charming. In the beginning he’d been the perfect boyfriend… he made her feel like she was special, important to him, that the two of them were in the long game. She really thought that he was the one.

They’d been dating a little over a year when things started to change. It was subtle at first. He had to work late or was just so tired from the extra workload he didn’t feel up to going out. She believed him, telling him not to worry, she understood. One day after not seeing him in almost two weeks and after yet another canceled night of plans together, Sara decided to surprise him and take dinner to him at his apartment.

She let herself in with the key he’d given to her (he had a key to her apartment as well), but imagine her surprise when instead of finding him relaxing on the couch watching a movie, working on the huge project he said he had for work, she found him in bed, balls deep in the woman he had told you was the girlfriend of a colleague of his, who’d you been nice to and socialized with over the past year. Turned out the colleague was himself and he hadn’t been lying per say… she was his girlfriend. He had just forgotten the little detail that he already had a girlfriend and should have probably broken things off.

He’d tried begging at first, saying it wasn’t what it looked like, that it had just been a one time thing, that he loved her. When that didn’t work he flipped the narrative, blamed her, saying she had been the problem, that she was cold and unloveable. That she was lousy in bed, which is why he had to go looking for sex somewhere else. At that point she threw the still very hot soup at him, along with his key, told him she hoped he developed an STD where is dick fell off, not that it would matter much since he didn’t know what to do with it, and then stormed out.

After leaving Ryan’s she’d gone straight to Ella’s and spent the next several days crying miserably on her couch, not wanting to go home. Poor Luca had been in preschool and hadn’t had a clue what was wrong with his aunt. Just knew she was sad and needed comforting. So he brought his teddy bear that she’d gotten him as a baby down and cuddled on the couch with her.

While she’d gone on several dates since then, she’d pretty much given up on ever finding her happily ever after. She had Ella and Luca. She was fine. And then Ella had met Jake and had fallen in love. Jake had proven that there were in fact good guys out there. Now she was going on a date with his friend Bradley who also appeared to be one of the good ones. She just hoped that he didn’t turn out like all the others. She really liked him.

A half hour later, Ella was at her door as promised.

“Alright, let’s pick out an outfit for you.” Ella said, smiling.

“You’re seriously the best sister in the world.” She replied.

“If it makes you feel better, Jake said that Bradley was pretty much in the same head space today.” Ella laughed, “Asked him a million times for suggestions on what the wear, where he thought you’d like to go, tips on how to not fuck it up.”

“I really like him, Ells.” Sara said, “We’ve talked through text and a couple of times on the phone this week. He’s so funny… and sweet. I’m terrified.”

“I know, Bee.” She replied, gently, “But I promise you, Jake wouldn’t have encouraged this if he didn’t completely trust Bradley and believe he’s a good guy. He knows how much I love you and how important you are to me.”

“He’s such a good guy, Ells.” Sara said, “I’m so happy for you.”

“Thanks, Bee.” Ella replied, smiling, “Bradley is too… you’ll see.”

Forty five minutes and a tornado through her closet later, Sara had the perfect outfit for her date the next night with Bradley. The sisters agreed it was good it was a work day so Sara wouldn’t have too much time to think and worry.

After Ella left, Sara cleaned the mess that was her bedroom, then went to the kitchen to make herself some dinner. She’d just sat down to eat when her phone dinged with an incoming message.

Bradley: Hey, Honey. How was your day?

She smiled, warmth spreading through her as she read the text. It had pretty much been a daily thing since they’d met. He always asks about her day, then they start texting back and forth.

Sara: Hi, Bradley. It was good… until I got home. How was yours?

Bradley: Long… but good. What happened when you got home? You ok??? 😟

Sara: I had a … minor clothing crisis… panicked a little… 🤦 Called Ella, it’s sorted now.

Bradley: If it’s anything like the crisis I needed Jake to talk me down from…. Then I think we’re quite the pair, Honey. 💗 I have a confession…

Sara: Uh oh… 😨

Rather than another message coming through, your phone rang this time.

“Hi.” She said, smiling, despite her apprehension now over a confession he needed to make.

“Hearing your voice is so much better than texting.” Bradley replied.She could hear the smile in his voice, which just brightened her own.

“I like hearing your voice too.” She admitted.

“Then I guess we’ll just have to make phone calls and FaceTime the preferred communication.” He replied.

“I’d be ok with that.” She said, “So… what’s your confession?”

“I’m actually nervous as hell for our date tomorrow night.” He confessed, “Just because for the first time in… I don’t even know how long… maybe ever… I really don’t want to fuck this up. I really like you.”

“I’m nervous too.” She admitted softly, “It’s why I made Ella come and go through my entire closet with me… I… haven’t had a great track record with dating and I really like you too.”

“I have an idea.” Bradley suggested. “I think we need to both get out of our heads and take the pressure off for tomorrow, or we’re going to make ourselves crazy.”

“How do we do that?” She asked.

“What are you doing right now?” He asked

“Talking to you?” She laughed.

“Ok, Miss Smartypants.” He chuckled, “Other than that.”

“I had just heated my dinner up when we started texting, then you called… so it’s cold now.” She replied, “So probably going to reheat it again.”

“Perfect!” He exclaimed, “You reheat your dinner… mine just got delivered… We can FaceTime and eat dinner together and count this as our first date. That way tomorrow night, the pressure is off.”

“I think that’s cheating, but worth a shot.” She agreed, getting up to go reheat her dinner. Then glanced down at her outfit. After trying on her whole closet, she’d changed into a vintage San Diego Padres T-shirt and a pair of leggings. Her hair was pulled up into a messy bun, and she had next to no makeup on.

“Still there, Honey?” Bradley asked when she’d gone quiet.

“Yea, I’m here.” She replied, “Heading back to the microwave now. What did you order?”

“I just ordered a pizza.” He replied, “I promise I can cook… I just wasn’t feeling it tonight. What are you having?”

“I reheated leftover garlic butter chicken and parmesan rice.” She replied. “It was slightly better the first time.”

“That sounds really good.” He chuckled, “I don’t know that I can cook that well. That sounds maybe more than I’m capable of.”

“It’s pretty easy.” She laughed, “I could probably teach you this one.”

“I’d like that.” He said, “Maybe we can add cooking dinner together to the list of future dates.”

“I like that you’re already making a list of future dates…” She said

“I’m pretty positive there’s going to be a lot of dates in our future, Honey.” He promised, “Ready to FaceTime?”

“Ready as I’ll ever be.” She replied, a wave of butterflies hitting her. They’d FaceTimed before, but not with the added pressure of it being classified as a date.

Her phone notified her that he had invited her to switch to a FaceTime call. She accepted it and waited until his face appeared on the screen.

“Hi.” She said, smiling softly. He looked good, wearing a tye-dye Grateful Dead shirt.

“Hi, Honey.” He replied, smiling back at her. “I don’t think I’ll ever get used to how absolutely gorgeous you are.”

“I’m a literal mess, B.” She said, blushing.

“And so cute when you blush.” He chuckled.

The two of them had propped their phones and were able to eat while talking about their days. They got on the topic of baseball, discovering they both very much loved going to games, and were Padre’s fans. Bradley said they’d have to make that one of their dates.

By the time they’re both done eating they’re relaxed and the anxiety is eased.

“This was a good idea.” She said, “I’m feeling a lot better… I'm really excited for tomorrow.”

“Me too, Honey.” He replied. “It’ll be a good second date.”

“It could be classified as a third date…” She said,

“Third?” He asked, smirking,

“If we say the beach is the first… tonight would be second…” She clarified, “Then tomorrow night…”

“Would be the third.” He finished. “I like how you think.”

“Even less reason to be nervous tomorrow.” She said,

“You want to know the part I’m looking forward to most?” he asked, smiling softly, almost looking a little sheepish.

“What part?” You asked, smiling back at him.

“I’m looking forward to kissing you goodnight at the end of the date,” he replied. “If … if that’s ok with you? If you want me to, that is.”

“I want you to.” You replied, softly chuckling at how nervous he got. You had butterflies swarming in your belly at the idea of getting to kiss him. “I very much want to.”

“Can I be honest?” Bradley asked.

“I’d prefer it if you were.” You said.

“Just spending the day on the beach with you and then talking with you this past week…. Sara, I really like you.” He admitted, “I’ve never been very good at this whole dating thing adm I’m terrified I’m going to fuck this up… especially since for the first time… it matters. I want to get this right.”

“Bradley, I feel the same way… and honestly… it kinda scares me.” You said, then quickly continued when you saw panic cross his features, “I’m not scared of you or anything like that… I’m just… the thing is… I’ve been a little scared to jump back into the whole dating thing. I’ve had… really bad experiences, and honestly, I’d given up until my sister and Jake decided to play matchmaker. I’m scared because I already really like you… a lot. I think you’re different from any other guy I’ve met …in a good way… and… I’m scared…”

“Scared that if you let yourself trust that this is different it’ll end up being like all the other bad experiences?” He asked, “That I won’t be different from the others?”

“Yeah.” You whispered, ducking your head, avoiding eye contact.

“Hey…” He said softly, pulling your attention back up. He had a soft smile on his lips. “I get it. I promise, we can go at whatever pace will make you the most comfortable. I just wanted to be forthcoming and let you know that this matters to me…”

“That means a lot Bradley.” She replied, smiling softly, “I’ve enjoyed this past week. I’m looking forward to tomorrow night… I think we can take it from there?”

“Absolutely.” He agreed. Glancing at the clock, he winced, realizing he still needed to get laundry thrown in and go over the flight maneuver plans for morning. “I have to get some laundry done and look over flight info for the morning, Honey. Can I call you at lunch tomorrow? I don’t know if I can make it to our date tomorrow night without talking to you beforehand.”

“Yes.” She laughed, looking at him with a look of amazement. “I’ve got a flexible day tomorrow, so I can take lunch whenever. Fly safe tomorrow.”

“I will, Honey. Talk to you tomorrow.” He replied, “Sweet Dreams.”

*******

The next morning she woke to a “good morning” text from Bradley. Smiling, she sent a quick reply before getting up to get ready for work. The nice thing about working from home, was she could be comfortable while doing it.

Armed with an iced coffee and her laptop, Sara decided to set up on the little balcony to work so she could at least enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

She was on a roll with answering emails and working on the project with an upcoming deadline when her phone started to ring with an incoming FaceTime Call. She glanced down and smiled when she saw it was Bradley.

“Hey, Handsome.” She said, smiling when she answered. “Is it lunchtime already?”

“Hi, Beautiful.” He replied, looking like he’d been through the wringer already today. “Honey it’s 12:45… it’s definitely lunchtime.”

“I swear I just sat down a minute ago to start working…” She mused, “Must have been in the zone.” She looked at him and smiled softly, “Tough day?”

“That obvious?” He chuckled, running a hand over his face. “Just… frustrating. Nothing has gone right. Until now… seeing your face has helped.”

She smiled, feeling her cheeks heat up, “I’m glad I could help.” She said, “What are you having for lunch?”

“Honestly… probably just going to grab sometime from the vending machine.” He admitted, “No time to run to the officer’s dining hall and I didn’t bring anything.”

“Bradley…” She scolded, “You cannot function and fly multimillion dollar jets safely on food you find in a vending machine! I swear, I will send you with meals frozen so you can thaw them and take them to work. No more vending machine lunches!”

“Honey, I promise…this isn’t normal.” he chuckled, “Although… I wouldn’t turn down home cooked meals…”

“Even crappy cafeteria food is not acceptable...nor is reheated takeout.” She added.

“Well… that’s the end of my resources.” He teased. “Kidding… I can cook.”

“Might have to make you prove it so that I know if I need to send meals with you.” She smirked.

“We can make that happen.” He replied, “If we keep adding to the list of date ideas, before we know it, I’ll have you in a whole relationship….”

“So now I know your evil plan, huh?” She laughed, “Or … maybe that’s my secret plan.”

“Regardless who’s plan it is, we’d both win.” He pointed out, smiling.

“You’re right… we would.” She responded. “I can’t wait until tonight.”

“Me either, Honey.” He replied, his voice slightly raspy, “Me either.”

****

After her lunch “date” with Bradley, Sara had jumped back into work for several more hours before calling it a day and logging off. She could have been done earlier but decided to keep working so she’d stay busy. Sitting and watching the clock tick would not have been good for her nerves.

She headed upstairs to start getting ready. She took a shower to feel refreshed and clean, taking time to shave…while she wasn’t necessarily planning on anything happening that night… one never knew. She wasn’t opposed to something happening either…better to be prepared. She lathered on lotion when she got out of the shower and pulled on a lacy matching bra and panty set…again…just in case. The dress that Ella had helped her pick out could allow for her hair to be up or down. She decided to leave that decision until after she did her makeup and put the dress on. It was an off the shoulder flutter sleeve, shirred waist dress, with an ankle length skirt in a soft pastel floral print. Once her makeup was done and the dress was on, she tackled her hair, deciding to take a curling iron to it, giving more definition to her already natural waves and then just pinned back the sides. Letting the rest fall around her shoulders.

She’d just slipped on her shoes and was putting on her necklace when the doorbell rang. She smiled, butterflies instantly swarmed in her belly. She was filled with nervous excitement. She took a deep breath and headed out of her room towards the door.

She opened the door and Bradley was standing there with a bright smile on his face, holding a bouquet of yellow sunflowers and red tulips, which she’d mentioned being her favorite flowers in passing one time.

“You look beautiful.” He smiled softly, his whiskey colored eyes tracking over her. “These are for you…” he handed her the flowers.

“Thank you.” She blushed, ducking her head to smell the flowers. “They’re perfect, Bradley…and you remembered.”

“Honey.. I remember everything you tell me.” He said, looking straight into her soul.

“How are you so perfect?” She asked, in awe.

“I’m far from perfect, Beautiful.” He chuckled.

“Let me put these in water and then I’m ready.” She said, “Come on in.”

She walked to the kitchen to grab a vase and filled it with water. She put the flowers into the vase after smelling them one more time and admiring them. It wasn’t a common combination but it had always been her favorite. The fact that he not only remembered but had taken the time to find them, set her heart fluttering.

“They’re absolutely gorgeous.” She said, setting them on her kitchen island. “Thank you, Bradley.”

“You’re welcome, Honey.” He smiled. “You ready?”

“Yeah.” She replied, grabbing her purse and apartment keys. “Am I allowed to know where we’re going yet?”

“It’s a surprise.” He smiled, winking, “You’ll like it though. Ella assured me.”

“I can only imagine what El suggested.” She laughed. “My sister can be a menace.”

“She’s been fantastic,” He chuckled, “The day we all went to the beach… I was having a fruit snack existential crisis in the grocery store…I wanted to make sure that I picked the perfect one that Luca would love… really, wanting to make a good first impression on you. She talked me off the ledge when I FaceTimed Jake in a panic. Then when trying to plan this date… I might have been back on the ledge…and Jake just called her and handed me the phone.”

“Bradley…” She said, smiling, “Nobody has ever cared enough to put that much effort into anything with me before… How… how are you real?”

A blush spread up his neck to his face. “Honey, this is just the bare minimum…” he said, “You deserve so much more.”

***

A/N: Thoughts????? Part 2 coming soon........

***

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fav-fanficssss · 11 days ago

Text

She's My Forever | Part 2

Summary: After a chance encounter at game and puzzle store Jake and Ella have been dating for three months. Knowing that she’s the one makes Jake approach this relationship differently than every relationship he’s had in the past.

Pairings: Jake “Hangman” Seresin x Single Mom OC Ella Kennedy, OC son Luca Kennedy

WC: 8.8k

Warnings: Fluff, Kissing, Mentions of shitty parents, Deadbeat dad (Not Jake)

Masterlist Part 1

Jake threw a bag with everything he’d need for the weekend into his truck the next morning so he could head straight to Ella’s after work. Thankfully the day was fairly easy and went smoothly. He’d gone online to order Luca a Texas Longhorns hat to go with his T-shirt over his lunch break. He’d been tempted to order a bunch of other things he’d seen too but figured he’d wait. He knew Luca’s birthday was coming up soon so he’d just go all out then.

When they were leaving work Jae heard Bradley yell for him in the parking lot. He paused at his truck, waiting for him to jog over.

“What’s up?” Jake asked, “You’re not allowed to cancel on me for tomorrow. Ella and Luca are excited to meet you and Ella already talked to Sara about you who is also excited to meet you.”

“No! I’m not canceling,” Bradley said, “I just wanted to know if I should bring anything… and If you have any last minute words of wisdom. At the risk of never living this down… I’m kinda nervous.”

“Penny said her and Mav are bringing stuff to grill behind the bar. So if you want to grab some chips or something and then whatever you wanna drink.” Jake said, “You have nothing to be nervous about, man. Trust me… she’s going to like you. Would you feel better meeting her without the pressure of the whole squad being around? I can see if Ella can call her and have her come over tonight. We can all do pizza or something and play board games.”

“No, I’m not going to have you do that, Jake.” Bradley said, his cheeks flushed, “You need time with Ella and Luca. It’s fine, I’ll meet her tomorrow. I’m being stupid. I’ll pick up chips and some other snack foods or something. Just text me what Luca likes so I can make sure to grab something he’ll eat.”

“Are you sure?” Jake asked, “It’s really not a problem…you’re not being stupid.”

“I’m sure.” Bradley assured him, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow.” Jake replied, “Try not to overthink it, Rooster.”

He’d already turned and was heading to his Bronco, but waved over his head to acknowledge that he’d heard him.

Jake shook his head before getting into this truck and heading towards Ella’s house. Traffic wasn’t too bad, despite it being a Friday and everyone trying to get home to start their weekend. Truthfully, Ella’s house was only a little bit further from base than Jake’s apartment.

As always, Luca was waiting on him and bolted out to the porch when Jake pulled in, hopping up and down excitedly.

“Jake!” He exclaimed when Jake got out of his truck, slinging his duffle bag with his stuff over his shoulder.

“Hey, Bud!” Jake replied, smiling. He hugged Luca with his free hand when he got to the porch then the two of them headed inside.

“I have to show you what I made at school!” Luca said, running off towards his room.

“Hi, Handsome.” Ella said, greeting him at the entryway with a smile.

“Hi, Beautiful.” Jake replied, dropping his bag and setting his keys on the table next to yours. He reached for her hand and pulled her into his arms, hugging her close to him. “Missed you.” He dropped his head down to steal a quick kiss.

“I missed you too,” She replied, “But very happy we get to keep you for at least a couple of days.”

“I’m all yours, Darlin’.” He chuckled, “You might change your mind when you realize I take up a lot of room in the bed.”

“I think I can deal with that.” She smirked, “I can always just sleep on top of you, use you for a pillow.”

“You’ll get no complaints from me if you do.” Jake teased, nibbling at her neck before kissing his way back to her lips.

“Behave for now.” She warned, smirking.

“Here it is!” Luca said, skipping back into the room with a paper similar to the one he’d drawn the family picture on. “Ta-da!” He flipped it around and it was a very rudimentary drawing of a plane with a stick person in front on what looked to be a large boat.

“Wow! Luca, that's a fantastic drawing!” Jake said, “Is that an f-18 on a carrier?”

“Yes!” He said proudly, “And that’s you!” He pointed to the person. “Today was career day! My teacher told us to draw what we want to be when we grow up.”

“And you want to be a Naval Aviator?” Jake asked, getting clarification.

“Yup! Just like you!” He said, “Wyatt said he wanted to be a superhero, but I told him that Fighter Pilots are way better than superheroes, because they keep real people safe, not fake people. Miss Sanchez said that lots of people have jobs that could be thought of as superheroes and that it wasn’t nice to say Wyatt would only save fake people but I didn’t say he would save fake people.”

“I think Miss. Sanchez meant that it’s not nice to make other people feel bad about the job they picked or their dream, Bubs.” Ella clarified, “It’s sweet that you want to fly jets like Jake. That’s a big dream and you would feel sad if someone made fun of it right?”

“Yeah…” He replied, “But I wasn’t making fun of Wyatt. I just think flying real jets is cooler than the fake ones.”

“Until you met me and knew all about the cool jets, did you like superheroes and their jets?” Jake asked him, “And that they saved people from the bad guys?”

“Yeah… I guess.” Luca shrugged.

“Well maybe Wyatt just hasn’t been introduced to super cool real jets.” Jake said, “And that’s cool too. Wanna know something? One of my friends you’re gonna meet tomorrow… he’s REALLY into superheroes and Star Wars and all that stuff….. AND he’s a Naval Aviator. His callsign is Fanboy because he’s such a fan of Marvel and Star Wars.”

“Maybe I can tell Wyatt all about the real jets and then he can like both too.” Luca reasoned.

“That’s a very good idea.” Jake said, ruffling his hair, “In the meantime, I think this is a fantastic picture and I am so honored that you want to be like me… I love you, Little Man.”

“I love you too, Jake!” Luca said, hugging him. “OH! Can you come to school for Career show and tell?”

“When is it?” Jake asked, “I’d have to check and get it cleared with the admirals, Bud. I’d love to come though, and if I can make it happen, I will be there.”

“A paper came home about it, I think it's still in his folder.” Ella said, “Bubs, go get your folder, while Jake gets settled. He probably wants out of his uniform.”

Ella led him up to her bedroom. There was a master bath attached and a small walk-in closet. She’d cleared a drawer for him as well as made space in the closet for him to hang up anything he needed to.

“Go ahead and shower or whatever you need to do.” She said, stealing a quick kiss after showing him where everything was, “I’ll go ahead and order some pizzas.”

“Perfect.” He replied, kissing her back, “I’ll be down shortly.”

“No rush.” She said, “Relax, it’s weekend time now.”

Later that night after Luca was tucked into bed, Jake and Ella sat on the couch, his feet propped up on the coffee table, her laying against him with her feet tucked behind her. They had started to watch a movie but had long since paused it and just sat cuddled together, talking about their days and enjoying one another’s company.

“Bradley stopped me in the parking lot after work.” He told her, “I’ve never seen him so nervous about meeting someone or making a good first impression… normally he’s so confident… hell the man can get the entire bar singing along and entertain them playing the damn piano.”

“It’s sweet he’s so nervous.” Ella said, smiling up at him. “It means he’s really serious about wanting something meaningful and ready for something long term. Honestly, I’d be more worried if he wasn’t nervous.”

“I offered to see if Sara was free tonight to have them both over for pizza… a more low key, smaller setting to meet.” Jake said, “But I think me always giving him a hard time in the past may have made him a little self-conscious about letting himself appear vulnerable… which, I guess is fair. I felt kinda bad.”

“Baby steps.” She said, “I think you setting this up between him and Sara and letting him know that out of all your squadmates, he’s the one that you tagged as being a good fit and someone you’d trust to introduce in that capacity… will go a long way in repairing some of those squeaky boards on your friendship bridge.”

“How did you get to be so good at this?” He asked, pulling her closer and dropping a kiss down on her forehead.

“Just a gift.” She laughed, “Or getting thrown into the deep end of single parenthood at the ripe age of 24.”

“You’re an amazing mom, El.” Jake said, “I know it can’t have been easy, but you truly are amazing. Luca is such a good kid. He’s so sweet and probably the coolest kid I’ve ever met. Don’t tell my niece and nephew that though.”

“Your secret is safe.” She promised, “But thank you. It definitely wasn’t easy. It’s still not, even though I’ve got a lot more figured out.”

“I’m just guessing, but I don’t think parenting is something someone ever really figures out.” Jake said, “I think some come closer than others for sure. Some people are definitely meant to be parents over others. But no parent in the history of parents has ever nailed it perfectly 100% of the time.”

“Now look, who is the wise one?” Ella asked, smiling “I think you’re right though.”

“We should head to bed, Beautiful.” He said, “We have a big day tomorrow.”

*******

The next morning, Jake woke up to sun streaming through the window, casting a warm glow over everything. Ella was still nestled against him, her backside pressed up to his front, his arm still wrapped around her. He smiled, feeling content and well rested. It was the first night in a very long time he hadn’t woken up in the middle of the night from a nightmare, or struggled to sleep. He gently brushed her hair away from her face and off her shoulder, leaning down to place soft kisses to the places he’d just exposed.

“Mmm, morning, Handsome.” Ella mumbled, still half asleep. She stretched out against him before flipping around so she was facing him, a groggy smile on her face.

“Morning Beautiful.” He replied, smiling back. He leaned forward and placed a kiss on her nose.

“I think I like waking up like this.” She said, tipping her face up to his and kissing him. “Definitely loved sleeping in your arms.”

“Beautiful, I can’t tell you the last time I actually slept so well.” Jake admitted, pulling you closer, “I actually normally wake up at least once… or struggle to just sleep in general.”

“Jake, you can stay over whenever you want, as often as you need.” She said, reaching up to brush the hair from his face, “So that you can get a good and restful sleep. Can’t have you flying tired, you’re precious to me.”

“Careful, Darlin’.” He smiled softly at her, “I might end up here more than at my own place… but then I’d be scared you’d get sick of me.”

“I think I’d be more than happy to have you here all the time.” She said, kissing him, “I know Luca would. As for getting sick of you… Jake, I’m more scared you’ll wake up one day and be sick of us.”

“El, there is no chance in hell I will ever wake up one day and be sick of you or Luca.” Jake said, with as much finality in his tone as he could to let her know he was absolutely serious. “I love you both so damn much and I’m telling you right here, right now…laying all my cards on the table… you’re my endgame, Darlin’. I want forever. I’ll go as slow as we need to as long as we’re on the same page…on the same road. I don’t think I could handle one day finding out I’m on a different road or took a wrong turn.”

“We’re right here with you, Jake.” She promised, tears of happiness in her eyes, “I want all of that with you… I love you. We love you. We don’t need to go too slow. I think that when you meet the one, you just know. You’re the one for me Jake. You’re the one for Luca.”

He dipped his head, capturing her lips in an unhurried kiss, that focused less on conveying passion and more on communicating all of the love that he was feeling for her in that moment. Eventually they had to separate enough so they could both breathe, but Jake kept his forehead resting on hers and they tried to regulate their breathing again.

“Let’s introduce our families to one another and then we can talk about when your lease is up.” Ella said, smiling into Jake’s green eyes.

“Yeah?” Jake asked, his dimples popping when he smiled at her, “I should warn you, El, it’s closer than you might think…or be ready for.”

“You say that like it’s a bad thing.” She replied, rolling off and getting out of bed. “Luca will be up any minute, we should get a move on.”

Ella went downstairs to start breakfast and to start getting things ready for the beach. Jake jumped in the shower and got dressed, pulling on his swim trunks and his Texas Longhorns t-shirt that would match the one Luca had picked out.

When Jake got down to the kitchen Luca was up and at the table eating French toast. She set a plate on the table for him and a cup of coffee next to it. He stole a quick kiss from her before sitting down next to Luca.

“Sit down and eat while it’s hot, El.” Jake said, “After breakfast, Luca and I will help with clean up and then we can all get stuff ready for the beach.”

“Yeah, Mommy.” Luca said, “Jake and me can clean up like last time!”

Jake smiled at Luca, winking at him. Ella grabbed a plate and came to join them at the table.

“It is kinda nice to eat the French toast while it’s hot for once.” She laughed, taking a bite.

“You know, Darlin’, I can cook…” Jake said. “Not nearly as well as you, or as fancy, but you don’t always have to do all the cooking. Breakfast I can for sure handle.”

“I don’t mind cooking for you.” She assured him, smiling, “It’s kinda nice to cook for more than just Luca and me.”

“I appreciate it, more than I can put into words.” Jake said, smiling, “But I want to be able to take care of you too, Beautiful.”

“You do, Jake.” She replied, offering a warm smile, “You have no idea how much you add to our lives.”

“Mommy is a lot more happy since you came.” Luca said, with the honesty that only a child can give, “She smiles more. I like it better too.”

“I like my life a whole lot better with the two of you in it too.” Jake replied, his heart feeling so full. He knew it was way too soon to propose but he already knew he wanted forever with Ella and wanted to be Luca’s dad. It was taking everything in him to take this one step at a time.

After breakfast, Jake sent Ella up to shower and get ready while he and Luca cleaned up the kitchen. Once breakfast dishes were done, Jake had Luca go get his swim shorts on while he started pulling stuff out that they’d need to take to the beach.

While he was getting the grapes washed, his phone rang with a FaceTime call. He wiped his hands off on the towel and quickly answered.

“Everything good, Bradley?” He asked, smirking at his friend.

“Umm, yeah.” Bradley replied, “I’m at the grocery store and I just wanted to double check on chips or snacks for the little dude. I was gonna grab some dino fruit snacks but then saw like a million different characters and shapes and flavors and kinda panicked. There weren’t this many options when I was a kid.”

“They all taste the same, Man.” Jake laughed, “Doesn’t matter what shape they’re in.”

“They do not all taste the same.” Bradley insisted. “Some are fruit filled, then there are berry, tropical, all strawberry, all cherry, and don’t get me started on the sour options.”

“Everything ok?” Ella asked, coming into the kitchen. She had put on her bathing suit but pulled a yellow sundress over it so only the part of the suit that tied around her neck was showing.

“Bradley is having an existential crisis over fruit snacks.” Jake laughed, pointing the phone to her so she could see him. “Can you please help the man out before he gives himself a pulmonary embolism?”

“Hi Bradley.” She said, waving at him.

“Hi, Ella.” He replied, smiling, “Nice to meet you?”

“You too.” She laughed, “We’ll formally meet shortly, in the meantime, are you picking fruit snacks for yourself?

“No… I wanted to bring snacks for Luca.” He replied, a blush creeping up his neck and into his cheeks. “I know the others are bringing food but I wasn’t sure if they’d bring anything kid friendly… not exactly used to having kids with us on beach day.”

“You’re very sweet.” She said, smiling, already liking the man. Now she definitely couldn’t wait for Sara to meet him. “Luca loves the dinosaur fruit snacks or the fruit filled ones. He’s also a big fan of sour gummi worms but I only get those for him on special occasions… so if you really wanna win him over, that’s your best bet.”

“I’ll grab a variety.” He replied, “Now that I’m in the aisle, the dino fruit snacks are kinda callin’ my name. Any snacks that you like? Jake, you need anything? I’m already here, might as well crab it all.”

“Get chips and salsa!” Jake said, then added,“Please!”

“If you’re already going to be in the candy aisle, can you grab sour patch kids too, please?” Ella asked.

“Absolutely.” Bradley replied. “I’ll finish up here and then head over to The Hard Deck to help Mav set up the awning for some shade. I’ll see you both over there soon. Thanks for the help.”

‘You’re welcome!” Ella said cheerfully, “See you soon, Bradley!”

“We’ll head over soon to help too.” Jake promised, “See you, Man.”

After hanging up, Jake set his phone down and pulled you into his arms.

“See what I mean?” He laughed, “He’s a nervous wreck.”

“He’s adorable.” Ella defended the man. “I like him. Besides, Sara FaceTimed me while I was upstairs getting dressed, asking me a million questions and for my opinion on which bathing suit she should wear and if she should wear a dress or regular clothes over it. She’s as much of a wreck as he is.”

“They’re perfect for one another.” Jake chuckled. “It’s gonna be a great day.”

“I’m ready!” Luca said, coming into the kitchen. “Jake, now we match!”

“We sure do, Little Man!” He replied, smiling at him, “It looks so good on you, kid!”

“Thanks!” Luca beamed, “Is it time to go yet?”

“Almost.” Ella said, “Can you run to the hall closet by the bathroom and get the big beach towels? We need 3.”

“Yes!” Luca said, running off down the hall.

“Damn, I love that kid.” Jake said, a wide smile on his face.

“He loves you too, Handsome.” She replied.

Thirty minutes later they were ready and loaded into Jake’s truck. When Ella had gone to grab Luca’s booster seat from her car, Jake had let her know that he’d actually bought one for his truck, and was rewarded with a kiss.

They pulled into the parking lot to The Hard Deck a little while later. Jake parked next to Bradley’s Bronco and turned off the truck.

Bradley came around the corner of the building off the beach, as Jake was getting out of the Truck.

“Hey, perfect timing.” Jake said, “Gonna need some help hauling stuff down.”

“Sure.” He replied, “Mav and Penny are already down there. Nat and Bob are on their way.”

“Hi!” Luca said coming up and sliding his hand into Jake’s. “I’m Luca!”

“Hey, Luca.” Bradley said, crouching down to his level, “I’m Bradley, or Rooster. It’s nice to meet you, Bud.”

“Nice to meet you!” He replied, “Do you fly jets with Jake?”

“I sure do.” Bradley answered, smiling, “We’re on the same squadron… It's like a team.”

“Cool!” Luca exclaimed, “I wanna fly jets too!”

“I bet you will when you grow up.” Bradley chuckled, “You can come fly with us when you’re big.”

“OK!” Luca said, enthusiastically.

“See, you didn’t even need the dinosaur fruit snacks or sour gummy worms.” Ella said, coming over with a smile. “You won him over just being yourself…and a pilot.”

“I’ll keep those as an ace in the hole.” He laughed, standing back up. He reached out to take the large beach bag she was carrying. “It’s nice to meet you in person, Ella. Let me get that for you.”

“You too, Bradley.” She replied, handing over the bag, “Thank you.”

“Hey Little Man,” Jake said, “Come grab your bucket and bag of toys.”

“Sure!” Luca said, running over to Jake.

Bradley followed, grabbing the beach chairs and umbrella, so that Jake only had to carry the cooler. The four of them headed around to where everything was being set up. Jake made the introductions between Penny, Mav and Ella and Luca. Bradley set up the beach umbrella and chairs for them.

“Thanks, Man.” Jake said, when he came over.

“No problem.” Bradley replied. “I brought a frisbee and Nerf football if you want to toss it around with Luca while we wait on the others.”

Jake looked over to Ella questioningly, who just smiled and shooed them off.

“Go.” She said, smiling, “I’m going to sit in the sun and relax for a bit.”

Jake leaned over and kissed her, smiling. “Yell if you need anything, Beautiful.”

“Luca, wanna toss a ball around with Bradley and me?” Jake asked the boy, who had already sat down in the sand to start digging.

“Yeah!” He cheered, abandoning his bucket and shovel and hopping up. He ran over to Jake and Bradley, immediately slipping his hand into Jake’s as they walked down the beach a ways so as not to hit anyone with the ball. Bradley watched Jake with Luca and smiled. He seemed to have such a natural bond with the kid, and it really had been good for him.

The three of them spread out and tossed the ball around, running around and “tackling” each other to the ground. In reality it was Bradley helping Luca tackle Jake and then Jake retaliating by helping Luca tackle Bradley, before finally both adults playfully tackled Luca, making him erupt into a fit of giggles.

While they’d been engrossed in their game, Sara had arrived and sat down with her sister, watching the men play with her nephew. She already adored Jake for how happy he made her sister and how he treated both Ella and Luca.

“That’s Bradley.” Ella told her sister. “Isn’t he adorable?”

“I was going to say hot.” Sara replied, “It’s adorable that he’s playing with Luca like a big kid, but the man himself… yeah… he’s hot.”

“Want me to call them over?” Ella asked, “Probably better to meet before the whole gang gets here.”

“Looks like you won’t have to.” She replied, standing up, “They’re headed back this way and Luca has spotted me.”

“AUNTY BEE!” Luca yelled, running towards her as fast as his little legs could carry him. She braced for impact knowing that even though he wasn’t overly big, he could still plow her over when he was excited.

“LUCA!” she called to him happily, a big smile on your face. When he got to her, he threw his arms around her and she scooped him up into a hug, twirling him around, making him laugh. “I missed you, Little Bear.”

“I missed you too, Aunty Bee!” He said, “Do you wanna build a castle with me?”

“I absolutely want to build a castle with you.” Sara said, “Can you start digging and looking for some cool shells we can use and I’ll be right there?”

“Yup!” He said then moved to go to his buckets before Jake intercepted him.

“Hold up, Little Man.” He said, “Let’s get some sunscreen on you first.” He led the boy to the bag with all the stuff and set to work getting sunscreen on him.

“Bradley, this is my sister Sara.” Ella said, making the introductions, “Sara, this is Bradley, Jake’s friend and wingman, I guess it would be?” She looked at Bradley for confirmation. He nodded, smiling.

“It’s nice to meet you, Sara.” Bradley said, smiling, holding his hand out to her. She slipped her much smaller hand into his, smiling back at him.

“It’s nice to meet you too, Bradley.” She replied. They stood there for a couple of seconds, neither letting go, before realizing they’d held one another’s hand too long and both released at the same time. “Looks like you’ve already made friends with Luca.”

“Yeah.” He replied, chuckling, “He’s an awesome kid.”

“Bradley hedged his bets and brought dino fruit snacks and Sour gummy worms just in case.” Ella said, “So either way he’d be solid with Luca.”

“Smart man.” Sara laughed, looking at him, her eyes sparkling in amusement. Bradley felt like all of the air had been knocked from him at how absolutely beautiful she was, and how perfect her laugh was. “Luca will be your best friend for life now.”

“Fruit snacks and gummy worms.” He chuckled, “That’s easy enough.”

“The rest of the squad is pulling in, El.” Jake said, walking back over and putting his arm around her.

“I’ll stay with Luca if you want to meet everyone first before introducing him.” Sara suggested, “I promised to build sand castles anyway.”

“That sounds good.” Ella said, “If you don’t mind… I don’t want to overwhelm him right away.”

“I never mind time with my favorite nephew.” Sara laughed.

“Nevermind the fact he’s your only nephew.” Ella pointed out, laughing.

“Minor detail.” Sara said dismissively.. “Go. Meet and greet, mingle, all that fun stuff. I’m about to become a castle building extraordinaire.”

“Want a backup castle builder?” Bradley asked, “I’ve got some experience… could probably find some references if you need them.”

“I’d love the back up.” She laughed, “I trust your skills. I’m sure Luca will love having extra help… but maybe grab the snacks just in case.”

“Just don’t ruin his appetite for lunch.” Ella cautioned.

“I think we can help him work up an appetite, playing in the water and chasing around the squad.” Jake promised, “A few fruit snacks and gummy worms will be fine. It’s beach day!”

“You’re in charge of wearing him out then tonight too.” Ella laughed.

“I think we can handle that.” Bradley promised. “We’ll have lots of help today.”

“Come on, Beautiful.” Jake said, taking Ella’s hand, “Let me introduce you to the rest of the family.”

He led her towards where Mav and Penny had set up a table for all the food and everyone was congregating.

“I hope they like me.” Ella said, nerves starting to kick in.

“Darlin’ they’re going to love you, almost as much as me.” Jake promised, “You have nothing to worry about.”

When they got to the group, Nat was the first to come over, which Jake was grateful for, knowing she’d put Ella at ease. Even if it ended up being at his expense, which was very likely, it would be worth it.

“So I’m very pissed at Jake here for keeping you hidden for months.” Nat said, smiling “Knowing how hard it is being surrounded by so much testosterone on the daily and that he could have given me another female to talk to and become friends with… it’s criminal. I’m Natasha, or Phoenix. But I answer to all variations of either.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” Ella laughed, “I’m Ella. I’m sorry for the delay in our meeting… we wanted to take things slow… and then there’s Luca.”

“Oh, we’re fully blaming Hangman.” Nat laughed, “And Javy because he knew about you too.”

“Why am I being blamed?” Javy asked, coming over. He enveloped Ella into a hug, which she returned comfortably, “Hey, Ella.”

“Hi Javy.” She replied.

“You could have told me at least about Ella.” Nat insisted, rolling her eyes, “But it’s whatever. Joke’s on them because you and I are gonna be best friends and I’m gonna tell you all the embarrassing stories about Jake.”

“I don’t have embarrassing stories, Nix.” Jake said, smirking.

“Oh, I don’t know about that.” Penny laughed, from where her and Mav were finishing up with the food. “Even I’ve got some good stories I can contribute to that.”

“I look forward to them all.” Ella said, smiling, then looking at Nat added, “And to becoming best friends. Besides, my sister, I don’t really have any of those.”

The rest of the squad introduced themselves to Ella, all of whom took an instant liking to her and made her feel like she was already one of them.

“Luca is down a bit playing in the sand with my sister and Bradley.” Ella said, then looked at Reuban’s nephew, “Do you want to go play with him? I can take you over to him if you’d like.”

He nodded shyly, smiling, you took him over to where Luca was busy building not only a castle but what looked like a sand kingdom with Sara and Bradley.

Ella introduced him to Luca and the two instantly hit it off, starting to play, giving the adults a chance to sneak away.

The guys started a game of football, not their normal dogfight football, since there weren't quite enough people. The women sat in the chairs set up and watched, talking while the kids played. Ella was relieved that talking to Penny and Nat was so easy and that they were so nice. She really had worried about everyone liking her as this was Jake’s family.

“Mommy, I’m hungry.” Luca said, a while later coming over from where they’d been building.

“Worked up an appetite?” Ella asked, smiling at her sand covered son. “Let’s get you cleaned up, bubs. Are you hungry too, Gavin?”

“Yes, ma’am.” He replied, smiling

“You ready for some lunch, kiddos?” Penny asked, “We have some hot dogs and hamburgers.”

“Get the kids settled with food before we wrangle the men.” Nat said, “They’re like locusts. Once they get here the food will be gone.”

“Alright, I’ll get the boys cleaned up quickly if you want to start getting their plates ready with Penny.” Sara said.

Ella and Penny went over and started making plates for the boys while Nat went to get the bigger boys.

“I’ve never seen Jake as content and happy as I have the last few months.” Penny said, “I didn’t know the reason until this week when he told us about you and Luca. You’re really good for him, Ella.”

“He’s so amazing.” Ella gushed, “I’ve never met a better man than that one. I was so nervous to tell him about Luca when we started dating but he never even batted an eye. He suggested a zoo date without even having to think and immediately was so incredible with Luca. It kills me that he doesn’t understand how incredibly wonderful he is.”

“And that,” Penny beamed, “tells me everything I need to know. Mav has taken Jake under his wing… sees him as his own surrogate son in a sense. While the change in Jake that we’ve seen has been for the better…meaning he’s happier… as a parent, you always worry. I’ll let him know there’s nothing to worry about.”

“Thank you.” Ella replied, smiling softly, “Honestly, I told Jake before coming here that I was terrified that y’all wouldn’t like me. He sees you all as his family. We’re wanting to take the next step and go all in but that would be hard if his family hates me.”

“I can promise you, everyone loves you.” Penny said, “And by the end of the day you and Luca will be officially part of the family.”

“I’ve got two hungry boys all cleaned up and ready to eat.” Sara said, bringing the boys up to the tables that had been set up with food.

“We’ve got their plates!” Penny said. “How about we have you eat on the blanket like a picnic?”

“Coo!” Luca said, “Aunty Bee, can you and Bradley eat with us too?”

Ella shot Sara an amused look, loving that her sister was blushing.

“I’ll definitely come join you.” She told her nephew, “You can ask Bradley when he gets up here from playing football, but he might want to sit with his friends, Little Bear.”

“Ok!” Luca replied following Penny to the blanket with the plates of food.

“I take it that things went well building sand castles?” Ella asked her sister, smiling. The two started making plates of food for themselves.

“OK, but seriously, where does the Navy find these guys?” Sara asked her sister, smiling dreamily, “He’s… I have no words, El. I thought for sure that Jake was just a fluke… like one a kind, literally the last decent man on the face of the EARTH because Lord KNOWS I have not encountered any decent ones while out there dating… but Bradley is… he was adorable playing with Luca, and funny…and so sweet… and good GOD he’s hot.”

“So…Jake and I were right that the two of you would be perfect for one another?” Ella asked, smirking.

“I mean… I just met him, but so far, I REALLY like what I know.” Sara replied.

The rest of the men and Nat came back, making their way to the table. Jake’s eyes immediately landed on Ella, smiling, he worked his way over to her.

“Hi, Beautiful.” He said, sliding his arms around her from behind and dropping his head down to kiss her shoulder. “Let me grab a plate and we can grab space on the sand to eat by Luca.”

“I don’t know that we’re invited.” Ella laughed, “He asked that Aunty Bee and Bradley sit with him.”

“Wow…” Jake said, “I mean I can understand Sara… but I’m being replaced by Bradley?”

“I don’t think you’re being replaced, Babe.” Ella assured him, smiling, “Luca thinks you hung the moon.”

“I am starving.” Bradley said, walking up and accepting the bottle of water Nat handed him as she got into the makeshift line for food behind him. “Fruit snacks and Gummy worms wore off.”

“Plenty of food.” Penny said, laughing at Mav who was brushing sand off of himself, “If anyone goes hungry today it’s their own fault.”

“Or they didn’t get to the table before Rooster and Hangman.” Fanboy called from behind them.

“I’m a growing boy.” Bradley called back, “I need to eat!”

“Bradley, you stopped growing a long time ago, Sweetheart.” Penny laughed, “Good thing too! You and Payback are about the tallest pilots I’ve ever encountered.”

“I just slid through the height limit.” Payback said proudly, “But I’m with Rooster, it takes a lot of calories to keep us nourished!”

“I had a couple inches to spare.” Bradley said, “I just like food.”

“I do not eat as much as these fools.” Jake defended himself. “I’ve got a figure to maintain.”

“Uh huh.” Ella laughed, calling him out, “I’ve seen you put away some serious food, Handsome.”

“I can back her up on that one.” Sara smirked, earning a playful pout from Jake. She just laughed and headed over to Luca as promised to sit with him. Ella smiled, watching as Bradley watched her go.

“That’s it, I’m gonna go sit with my Little Man.” Jake said, “He still loves me.”

Ella smiled at Jake like he was the entire world, all of her emotions bubbling up. It felt so good to hear Jake refer to Luca as ‘HIS’ Little Man.

“Bradley, Luca asked if you’d sit with him to eat too.” Ella said, “He actually asked that Aunty Bee and you sit with him, so I’m passing that info on.”

“I will happily go sit with that awesome dude.” Bradley smiled at her, “We had fun building the sand city earlier.”

“That’s what I heard.” Ella replied, smiling back at him.

Ella ended up convincing Jake to sit with the rest of the group to let Sara and Bradley have time to talk and get to know each other, even if they were currently being chaperoned by two kiddos. It also helped Ella get to know everyone and made her feel better having Jake there for moral support. Nat asked how they met so Jake launched into the tale of how he’d mistaken Ella for a sales person at the puzzle and game store, causing everyone to tease him relentlessly. Bob came to his defense though and said it was sweet, like a real life meet cute.

After lunch, the kids decided they wanted to head into the water for a bit, despite the water not being the warmest yet. They only lasted a little while before they were shivering and ready to come out.

“Come here, Little Man,” Jake chuckled, holding out a towel to wrap Luca up in. Once the towel was wrapped around him, he sat on the beach chair with Luca on his lap, another towel draped over him like a blanket to warm him up. “Told you the water was cold, Buddy.”

“It w-wasn’t c-cold.” He said, still shivering, then admitted “M-maybe just a l-little.”

Jake just laughed and held him tighter, rubbing his little arms under the towel to get his blood circulating to warm him up faster.

“Guess we should have thought to bring hot chocolate.” Ella said, looking lovingly on at her two favorite guys. Unable to resist, she grabbed her phone and snapped a picture.

“Aww cold, Little Bear?” Sara asked, coming over. She’d been sitting with Nat, watching a lively game of football.

“N-no.” He said, burrowing further into Jake, causing him to laugh, “J-Jake is warm. I’m g-good.”

“I can tell by the way you’re still shivering.” Sara laughed, “The sunshine and being wrapped in towels should help.”

“And the fact that Jake is literally a human space heater.” Ella added, laughing. “How was the football game?”

“Very lively.” Sara said, looking at Jake, she added,“Y’all are a competitive bunch. I thought we were going to need an intervention at one point.”

“You should see Dogfight Football.” Jake laughed, “This is nothing compared to that. We do have a referee when we play that game. Hondo has his work cut out for him when we get going.”

“Do I even want to know what Dogfight Football is?” Sara asked

“It’s like regular football except you’re running defense and offense at the same time…both teams have a ball at once.” Jake explained, “It’s intense.”

“And nobody dies when you play?” Ella asked, having caught glimpses of the football game while keeping an eye on Luca in the water.

“No.” Jake laughed, “I mean there’ve been some injuries sustained, but no deaths.”

“Yet.” Penny said, coming up to them, “No deaths yet. I’m running inside to grab some more ice for the coolers, does anyone need anything?”

“I think we’re good, Pen.” Jake said, “Do you need help though? I can come help with the ice.”

“No, Pete’s coming up with me.” She smiled, “You stay right there with that precious little guy.”

Jake smiled, his hand rubbing over Luca’s back. His shivering had stopped and his breathing had become slow and even. Jake was pretty sure he’d fallen asleep. He would happily sit in the beach chair all afternoon holding him.

Before Sara could sit down, Bradley came over, the football game finished, and asked her if she wanted to take a walk. The two of them headed off down the beach, Jake and Ella smiling at each other, happy that their matchmaking attempt seemed to be working.

Ella sat in the beach chair next to Jake, glancing over at her son, and smiled.

“He’s out, you know.” She told him, “You could lay him under the umbrella and he wouldn't even stir.”

“I like holding him.” Jake said, smiling over at her, “I really love that he is comfortable enough with me that he cuddled right up and fell asleep.”

“Babe, he loves you…so much.” Ella reminded him softly, “Of course he’s comfortable cuddling up to you and falling asleep.”

“It’s an incredible feeling, having a child put so much blind faith in you…love you unconditionally…” Jake said, “It makes me want to be better…to be worth it.”

Ella turned in her chair so she was looking directly at Jake, reaching over, she gently cupped his cheek in her palm, softly guiding him to look at her.

“Jake Seresin, you already are worthy.” She said, her voice leaving no room for arguments, “You are an amazing man and we are both so lucky to have you in our lives. Don’t ever doubt that. I love you. Luca loves you. And even though they give you a hard time, it’s clear that your friends… your family… They love you so much.”

“I love you too, Ella.” Jake replied, his voice dropping and raspy from emotion, “I love Luca so much… I can’t even imagine my life now without the two of you. I don’t want to imagine it because just the idea of it makes my heart stop.”

“You said earlier that your lease is up sooner than I’d think.” She said, “How soon is it up?”

“The end of next month.” Jake replied, “My landlord has been asking if I am renewing. I was going to look for something closer to you.”

“How about we solve that issue and you move in with us.” She suggested, “I know Luca would absolutely love having you there full time. I would love having you there full time. If it’s something you’d want and don’t think it’s too soon.”

“Darlin’ I would love nothing more than to move in with you and Luca.” He assured her, “If you’re completely sure. And we’d need to talk to Luca and make sure he’s on board.”

“We can talk to him tonight.” Ella said, smiling, “But I am telling you, he’ll be so excited. I’m definitely happy about it. Sleeping in your arms last night was perfect… I’d love to do it everyday.”

“I would too, Beautiful.” Jake agreed.

A little later, Ella talked Jake into setting Luca onto the blanket under the umbrella so the two of them could socialize with his friends and also Jake had looked like he was getting really hot holding Luca.

Bradley and Sara came back from walking down the beach looking like things were really going well between them. The rest of the afternoon went by quickly. By late afternoon, everyone was ready to call it a day, exhausted from being in the sun all day. Penny had left early to go home so she could shower and come back to open the bar.

Everyone helped with cleaning up the food, folding up tables, and carrying everything to cars.

“It was really nice to meet you, Ella.” Nat said once they were in the parking lot, “Jake, you’re not allowed to keep her to yourself anymore.”

“It was nice to meet you too!” Ella replied. “It’s not always easy finding a sitter but maybe some night I’ll come with … here… to hang out. It looks fun.”

“Penny has a really great daughter who is good with kids.” Bradley said, “She’s in high school, very dependable.”

“Shit, I don’t even know why I didn’t think of that before.” Jake said, “Amelia is awesome. Luca would love her.”

“Then I guess going out might be easier.” Ella smiled, “If she’s interested in babysitting.”

“I’m always down for time with my nephew too.” Sara reminded her, “Just saying.”

“But if you’re babysitting Luca, then you can’t come out and have fun.” Nat pointed out.

“Yeah! And when was the last time we were able to go out together?” Ella asked.

“Ok, ok!” Sara laughed, ‘I surrender.”

“Luca, it was great to meet you, Bud.” Bradley said, bending down to talk to the boy, “Thanks for building a super awesome sand city with me.”

“It was fun!” Luca said, happily, but sleepy from being outside all day, “Can you come over and play with me more?”

“I will definitely come hang out with you and we can play sometime soon, ok?” Bradley promised, “But you had a super big day in the sun and you’re looking a little tired. I know I’m beat. I need a nap.”

“Ok!” Luca agreed, then hugged Bradley. He smiled, surprised, but quickly hugged him back. “Bye, Bradley!”

“Bye, Bud.” Bradley said, before standing back up.

“It was great meeting you, Bradley.” Ella said, smiling “I have a feeling I’ll be seeing a lot more of you.”

“You too, Ella.” He replied, a blush creeping over his neck up to his face. “You’ve got an awesome kid. I had fun with him today.”

“He had fun with you too.” She smirked, “And with his Aunty Bee.”

“Kid has good taste.” Bradley said, smiling and looking over at Sara, who ducked her head smiling, a blush visible on her cheeks. “I had fun with his Aunty Bee too.”

“We need to get this Little Man home.” Jake said, “He’s about to fall asleep on his feet. I’ll see y’all on Monday. Thank you for coming today.”

“Of course, man.” Javy said, “Nobody turns down a beach day. El, it was good to see you again. Little Dude, I’ll see you soon, ok?”

“Ok, Bye Javy.” Luca said, tiredly moving to give him a hug. Javy scooped him up, hugging him back. Rather than set him back down, Javy handed him to Jake, who carried him to the truck and buckled him into his carseat.

“It was good to see you Javy.” Ella said, “Stay out of trouble.”

“I’ll try.” He promised, laughing.

“It was nice to meet you, Ella.” Bob said, “Hopefully we’ll get to see you soon.”

“It was nice to meet you too, Bob.” Ella smiled, “We’ll definitely get together soon.”

“We will definitely do a girl’s day without these yahoos.” Nat said, “Jake can have a boy’s day with Luca and the rest of the guys.”

“Sounds good.” Ella smiled, “Just let me know when.”

“I’ll bully Jake into giving me your number.” She laughed.

When everything was loaded, they headed out of the parking lot. Ella noticed Sara was talking to Bradley by his Bronco and smiled happily. By the time they got home Luca could barely keep his eyes open. They were able to get him inside and changed into pajamas, and Jake sat with him at the table, getting some dinner for him.

“Ok, Little Man,” Jake said, once Luca had finished, “Let’s get you up to bed.”

“Will you tuck me in?” He asked Jake.

“Of course.” Jake smiled, “Give Momma hugs and say goodnight.”

Luca went over to Ella and gave her hugs. “Night, Mommy. Love you.” He said.

“Good night, Bubs.” She replied, hugging him and kissing the top of his head, “Sweet Dreams.”

Jake smiled at you, winking before picking Luca up and carrying up to bed. Inside his room, Jake laid Luca down on his bed and tucked his covers around him.

“Good night, Little Man.” Jake said, leaning over to kiss his forehead, “I’ll see you in the morning, OK?”

“Jake?” Luca asked, his eyes drooping, “Will you be my Daddy someday? I really wish you were my Daddy.”

Jake swallowed hard, blinking back the tears that suddenly stung his eyes. When glanced down he saw that Luca was already asleep. He crouched down, softly brushing the hair from Luca’s face.

“Luca, I would love to be your Daddy someday.” Jake whispered, “I wish you were my son.”

He gently kissed his forehead again, turned on his little nightlight, and then went back out to the living room to find Ella, still in a daze over what happened.

“You ok, Babe?” Ella asked, seeing the look on his face, she started to worry.. “Come here, Jake.”

He walked over sitting down on the couch next to her. She wrapped her arms around him, letting him collect his thoughts.

“I’m ok.” He finally whispered, reaching up to wipe a tear that had escaped. “I don’t think Luca is gonna have a problem when we talk to him about me moving in.”

“Well that I already knew.” She smiled gently, “Did something happen when you tucked him in? You kinda looked like your whole foundation had been shaken when you came out. Truthfully… I was kinda worried you were having second thoughts about moving in.”

“Oh God no!” He was quick to assure her, “Not at all, Beautiful. I want to move in with you and Luca…more than anything.” Jake paused, gathering his thoughts, unsure if he should tell Ella about what Luca said. He didn’t want to make her uncomfortable or spook her, but at the same time, he didn’t want any secrets between them either. “When I tucked Luca in, right as he was falling asleep… he asked me if I would be his Daddy someday… that he wished I was his Daddy.”

Ella took a minute to process what Jake had before noticing the worried look on his face.

“Jake… how do you feel about that?” She asked, wanting to get his thoughts before she shared her feelings on it.

“I…I’m afraid to scare you off or move too fast.” Jake sighed, “But I’d be lying if I said the idea of being Luca’s daddy didn’t sound fucking amazing, El.” He said, “I would love to be lucky enough to call him my son.”

“Jake, my love… my sweet, handsome man.” Ella said, tears shining in her own eyes, as she climbed into his lap. His arms quickly came around her, hands settling on her hips. Ella framed his face with her hands and gently tipped his head back to look at her, “First of all, you are not going to scare me off and I am perfectly ok with the pace of things. Secondly… Baby, the idea of you being Luca’s Daddy makes me nothing but happy. You are everything I’ve always wanted for him…I just never thought I’d find someone like you… but then it was you that found me.”

Jake leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss, pouring everything he was feeling but unable to articulate into the kiss. Ella kissed him back with just as much feeling, her hands threading into his hair. His hands moved up to her back, holding her close to him as they continued to kiss.

When the need to breathe caused them to separate, they sat with their foreheads resting on one another, trying to pull air back into their lungs.

“So that it’s one hundred percent clear and we’re on the same page.” Jake said, pulling back so he could look into her eyes, “I need you to know that you and Luca are my forever. One day… probably in the not so distant future because I have lost all ability to go slow… I fully intend to ask you to marry me El. And I would very much like to adopt Luca once we are married…if that’s ok with you and him.”

“We are completely on the same page, handsome.” Ella replied, tears of happiness threatening to spill from her eyes, “The future has never looked so good.”

A/N: Phew... That one got away from me but I adore Jake and Ella! Stay tuned for Bradley and Sara's story, coming soon!

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fav-fanficssss · 11 days ago

Text

She's My Forever | Part 1

Summary: After a chance encounter at game and puzzle store Jake and Ella have been dating for three months. Knowing that she's the one makes Jake approach this relationship differently than every relationship he's had in the past.

Pairings: Jake "Hangman" Seresin x Single Mom OC Ella Kennedy, OC son Luca Kennedy

WC:5668 (will have part 2 because it was getting WAY too long for a one shot... once again I have zero chill)

Warnings: Fluff, Kissing, Mentions of shitty parents, Deadbeat dad (Not Jake)

Masterlist

“Heading to the Hard Deck tonight, you coming?” Bradley asked him as they all walked out of the hangar.

“Not tonight.” He replied, “I’ve got plans, maybe later in the week or this weekend.”

“Again?” Phoenix asked, suspiciously eyeing him.

“Dude you’ve said that the last like 4 times we’ve all gone out…” Fanboy said.

“You good, Hangman?” Bradley asked, looking a little worried.

“Too good to be true.” He replied back, smirking, pulling out his truck keys he added, “See y’all tomorrow.”

He unlocked his truck and threw his bag in before getting into the driver’s seat and starting it, blasting the AC.

With a small wave to the still stunned group (minus Javy who stood there with a knowing smile on his face), he pulled out of the parking lot heading home to shower and change before making his way to his girlfriend’s house. He hadn’t told anyone on the squad yet outside of Javy. He’d known from the moment he’d met her that this one would be different and because of that he’d done everything different than he normally did. He took things slowly, took the time to really get to know her. It wasn’t until the third date with her that he’d found out just how different things would be from his “normal”.

They’d finished their third date and decided to go for a walk along the beach, neither ready to call it a night just yet. Jake had confessed that he was starting to really fall for her and would love to go all in, seeing where this could go. When she’d gotten a panicked almost sad look in her eyes, Jake’s heart had plummeted, thinking he’d read it all wrong. She told him that she felt the same way, but she had to tell him something and she’d understand if changed his mind after. While he had not been expecting to hear she had a 5 year old son, he was quick to reassure her that he hadn’t changed his mind. Several dates later, she asked if he’d like to meet him and he’d immediately said yes. They’d made plans to go to the zoo and then dinner that night. That had been the first invite to The Hard Deck he’d turned down. They’d been dating for almost three months now and Jake was feeling pretty good about things.

He sent her a quick text , letting her know he was on the way before grabbing the toy F-18 super hornet he’d found and heading out the door.

“Jake!” Luca exclaimed,flying out the door and flinging himself into his arms when he climbed the front steps.

“Hey, Buddy.” Jake chuckled, crouching down to his height to hug him back. “I brought you something.”

He pulled back a bit before handing Luca the toy jet. “This is just like the one that I fly.”

“I love it!” Luca said, taking the toy, “Thank you, Jake!”

“You’re welcome.” He replied, “Let’s head in and see what your momma is up to.”

“She’s making pasgetti.” Luca declared, leading the way inside. “MOMMY, Jake is here! And he brought me a jet just like his!”

“That was very sweet of him,did you tell him thank you?” She asked, smiling Luca bounded into the kitchen with the energy that only a little boy seems to muster.

“He did.” He assured her, smiling, “Smells amazing in here, El.”

“Thank you.” She replied, wiping her hands off on the towel, “Bubs, go wash your hands. Dinner is ready.”

Luca headed towards the bathroom, making jet noises as he flew his plane along the way. She smiled, looking at Jake and walking over to wrap her arms around his neck.

“You didn’t have to do that.” She assured him, “He’s already firmly, Team Jake.”

“I know, but I saw it and I had zero self control.” He admitted, leaned down to kiss her. “And I’m glad because I’m already firmly Luca and that would be awkward otherwise. Also very much Team Ella in case you were wondering.”

“I could be persuaded to be Team Jake.” She teased, between kisses. Laughing when he started tickling her sides. “Ok, ok, I’m already there!”

“That’s better.” He replied, placing a final kiss on her lips before pulling away to ask, “Can I help with anything?”

“Wanna grab the plates and put them on the table?” She asked, “Dinner is all finished, just have to bring it all to the table.”

“Sure can.” He said, stepping over to the cupboards to grab the plates.

“Can I help, Mommy?” Luca asked, coming back in.

“Can you carry the basket of bread to the table for me, Bubs?” She asked him, handing him the basket.

Luca took it and carefully walked it to the table.

“Good job, little man.” Jake praised him, “After dinner we’re gonna send your Momma to relax and you and I are gonna take care of clean up.”

“Ok!” Luca agreed, excited to get one on one time with Jake. He didn’t even care that it would be helping to clean up the kitchen. Ella smiled at the two of them, heart near bursting at how close the two of them had become. She knew it would most likely be Jake doing the majority of the clean up but he’d make sure that Luca felt important and included.

“Alright, hope my favorite guys are hungry.” She said, bringing the pot with the spaghetti over to the table. It was simple, but it was one of Luca’s favorites and easy to throw together after a busy day.

“Starving.” Jake said, helping Luca get settled at the table, then pulled your chair out for you to sit down, kissing your cheek, before he finally settled into his chair.

After dinner, true to his word, Jake sent Ella to the living room to relax and took care of clean up with Luca. Once they had the table cleared off and leftovers put away, Jake showed him how to rinse dishes and put them in the dishwasher. Then he handed Luca a wet rag and had him wipe down the table, while he wiped down the stove and counters. The whole time, Luca told Jake about his day at school and asked a million questions about flying. Jake was happy to answer every question and to hear all about Luca’s day.

Later, they played a game of Trouble (Bluey edition) and then watched a movie before it was time for Luca to get ready for bed.

“Jake, will you tuck me in and read me a story?” Luca asked Jake once he was in his PJs and had finished brushing his teeth.

Jake looked at Ella to make sure it was ok before saying, “Of course, Little Man. Give your Momma great big hugs first though.”

“Night, Mommy.” He said, “Love you!”

“Sleep tight and sweet dreams, Bubs.” She replied, hugging him tight and kissing his cheek.

Luca slipped his hand into Jake’s and they headed to his room. Luca climbed into bed but before Jake could pull the covers up, Luca bolted back up.

“Wait!” He said, jumping back off his bed and running over to his backpack that sat by his closet, “I forgot! I made you something at school today!” He pulled out a folder and then the picture he’d drawn. He put the folder back in his bag and ran back over to jump into bed again handing the picture proudly over to Jake.

“Thank you, Bud.” Jake smiled, taking the picture and turning it over to look at it. He can feel his heart melt and tears sting the backs of his eyes. He has to take a deep breath before he can trust himself to speak, “Wow, this is incredible, Luca. I love this so much. I am absolutely going to tape this in my cockpit so I see it when I fly. Thank you.”

“You really like it?” He asked, scooting over to where Jake was sitting on the bed. “We read a story about families and then my teacher told us to draw our family.”

“I love it so very much, Luca.” He assured him, reaching his arm around him to pull him into a hug. “This means the world to me. You and your momma mean the world to me.”

“I love you Jake.” Luca said, hugging him back tightly, “Can we go to the beach this weekend again? Can your friend Javy come too?”

“I love you too, Little Man.” He replied, tucking him in, “I’ll talk to your mom and I’ll have to see if Javy is busy or not.”

“Ok!” He agreed, snuggling into the covers. “Can you read Dragon’s Love Tacos?”

“Sure can.” Jake said.

After finishing the story, Jake made sure Luca’s covers were tucked up against him and his night light was on before he leaned over to kiss his forehead, “Night, Bud.”

When he got out to the living room, Ella was sitting on the couch, looking at something on her phone. She glanced up when he walked in.

“Whatcha got there?” She asked, smiling when he sat down next to her.

“Luca made me a picture at school.” He replied, handing it to you, with a soft smile, his voice raspy with emotion again, “He said his teacher asked them to draw their families.”

“Wow… Jake,” She replied, her eyes flying to his, “This is… I know it’s… we’ve only been…” She was stumbling trying to get her thoughts out, “I understand if this is too much too soon… I can talk to him.”

“NO!” Jake exclaimed quickly, then took a deep breath before continuing more calmly, “No, I love the picture, El. It means more to me than I can even put into words. I absolutely love that Luca sees us as a family, because even though it’s only been a few months, I’m all in El. In a very short time you and Luca have changed my life for the better and I don’t want to go back to a life that doesn’t have the two of you in it. I love you…and I love Luca.”

“I love you too, Jake.” She replied, shifting so her whole body was turned towards him,, “Luca and I are all in too… honestly we have been since the night you dropped everything and came over after buying out the whole pharmacy when I had to cancel our date because Luca was sick. You sitting up with him and holding him when you didn’t have to…and when you had to be up at work the next day… hell, Jake, that’s more than Luca’s biological father has ever done for him. So if you’re ok with Luca claiming you and you’re positive our little ready made family is what you want… we’re yours.”

He carefully placed the drawing onto the coffee table before pulling her onto his lap so that she was straddling him. His hands moved to cup the sides of her face before gently pulling her down into a slow, deep kiss, pouring everything he was feeling into it. When the need to breathe prevailed, they separated, only so far as Jake resting his forehead against hers.

“I’m more than ok with him claiming me, Sweetheart.” Jake said, his voice thick, “I’m 100% positive that this little family is what I want.”

“So, what now?” She asked, smiling, “You’ve met my sister, Sara already… she’s really the only family that Luca and I have, other than a few cousins. We’ve met your best friend, Javy.”

“I think it’s time to introduce you to the rest of my family.” Jake agreed, smiling, “My squadron has become my family…we’re kind of a misfit group. Some orphans, toss aways, fully functioning families, and everything in between, but we’ve become each other’s family. I kinda fall into the toss away group… nothing I ever did was right or enough for my parents. I didn’t measure up to their expectations, so after trying and failing enough, I gave up. I stopped going home on leaves, stopped calling to check in. My sister, Rebecca, calls occasionally to make sure I’m still alive, and I’ll call her to check in…see how my niece and nephew are.”

“Jake, your parents are idiots.” Ella declared, fire flashing in her eyes, “Anyone that can toss you away and not see the absolute gem that you are doesn’t deserve to even be in the same airspace as you. THEY weren’t good enough, THEY failed to meet expectations. You Jacob Seresin are EVERYTHING.”

She leaned down to seal her words with a kiss, making sure he listened to what she said, putting the force and passion of her belief in what she said behind the kiss.

“I love you.” He whispered when they pulled up for air again.

“I love you too.” She whispered back, smiling.

“Luca asked about a beach day with Javy this weekend.” Jake said, “How about if I invite the squad and you invite Sara and we just go for it.”

“You don’t want to ease in?” She laughed, “Maybe I get a sitter before then and we go to The Hard Deck?”

“If that would make you more comfortable.” Jake agreed, “I just figured the beach day would be low key but a good place for them to all meet you and Luca at the same time.”

“I’m ok with a beach day.” She said, “Luca as a buffer might actually help.”

“They’re going to love you both.” Jake promised, “They’ll ask you a million times why you’re with me, or how I managed to land you… or if you’re sure you know what you’re getting into…. But they’ll love you.”

“And these are your friends and family?” She laughed, “I’d hate to meet your enemies.”

“It’s all in good fun.” He assured her, “There was a time when I really was kind of an asshole and their questions would have been serious… and maybe justified… but that’s all in the past and we’ve all grown up.”

“I’ll call Sara tomorrow then to see if she’s available.” Ella said, “Although when I tell her it’s to hang on a beach full of Navy guys, she’ll make sure she’s available.”

“I actually think her and Bradley might hit it off…” Jake suggested, “I was going to suggest trying to set them up, this might be a good way to test the waters?”

“From what you’ve said he’s a really nice guy.” She said, “And Lord KNOWS my sister has had more than her fair share of dickheads, so I’d love it if we can play matchmaker for her.”

“Leave it to me, Sweetheart.” Jake said, leaning forward to steal another kiss. “It’s getting late, and I’ve got an early start tomorrow. I’ll talk to the squad though first thing and we’ll set up the beach day, OK?”

“OK.” She pouted, “You know, if you leave some stuff here, you could always spend the night sometimes.”

“I wasn’t sure if you were ready for that… or if it would confuse Luca.” Jake said, smiling, “I’d love nothing more than to stay and get to hold you all night.”

“I’m ready.” She assured him, “I think if we explain to Luca in a way that’s appropriate for his age, that there will be times you stay over…it’ll be fine. Maybe we can try it out this weekend?”

“I’ll follow your lead, El.” He replied, smiling, “I’m looking forward to the weekend even more now.”

After several more kisses, Jake finally managed to get up and head out, making sure he had his picture with him of course. He’d been serious about it going in his cockpit.

The next day when they’re heading out to their jets to run maneuvers, Jake pulls the picture that Luca had made for him out of his flight suit, smiling as he looks at it.

“What’s that?” Javy asked, coming up on his side, and glancing over his shoulder.

“Luca drew it for me at school.” Jake said proudly, “It’s going in my cockpit.”

“Wow, he’s drawing you as his family, man.” Javy said. “That’s serious… what did Ella say?”

“We actually talked last night.” Jake replied, “We’re on the same page. Both of us are all in… this is the real deal, Javy. I love both of them…my life is better because of them.”

“I’m happy for you, Jake.” He said, smiling, “So can we finally let the rest of the crew in on this? It’s been hell keeping this from Nat. She’s relentless, man. I’m only so strong.”

“Yeah.” Jake laughed, knowing how Phoenix could be, and with Javy she could be even more persuasive being that they were together. “Ella and I were thinking of a beach day on Saturday with everyone. Low key… they can get to know both Ell and Luca in a laid back setting. El’s sister Sara will hopefully be there too.”

“I’m in.” Javy replied, “I’ll make sure Nat is there too.”

“Perfect.” Jake said, as they reached their jets, “Let’s get on up there.”

The day went smoothly, they flew through several maneuvers and then in the afternoon took turns going up in pairs to dogfight with the new class of Top Gun recruits. By the time they were back on the ground for the day, everyone was ready to hit the showers and grab a drink on their way home.

“Meet y’all there.” Jake said heading to his truck on their way out of the building.

“You mean you’re actually coming?” Nat asked, looking skeptical. “No mysterious plans to run off to?”

“I’ll be there.” Jake assured, rolling his eyes. “I’ve only missed a few nights out, it’s not that big of a deal.”

“No… except you’re… different.” Bradley said, quickly adding, “But not in a bad way.”

“Thanks…” Jake smirked, “I think?”

“Alright, stop giving him grief, he’s coming to the bar… he’ll buy the first round to make it up to us.” Javy intervened, playfully shoving Jake.

Jake narrowed his eyes at his friend who just laughed and shrugged, heading with Nat towards his car.

When he got The Hard Deck, he sent Ella a quick text letting her know he’d call later that night and that he’d gone to get a drink with the squad after work.

E 💗: Have fun! Tell Javy ‘hi’! FaceTime later? Luca picked out a new t-shirt that he made me order…it came today and he’s dying to show you. 💋 Love you!

Jake: I can’t wait to see it! I won’t be out too long. I’ll FaceTime as soon as I get home. Love you too, Sweetheart. Tell Luca I love him. 💗

Shoving his phone in his pocket, Jake hopped out of the truck and headed inside. The others were already in their normal corner of the bar, so he headed straight for Penny to buy the round that Javy had been nice enough to volunteer him to buy. He didn’t mind all that much, truth be told. He’d been telling the truth to Ella the night before when he said this group really was his family.

“Well, hey stranger.” Penny teased when he got to the bar. “Long time no see.”

“Not you too, Pen.” He groaned, “I was literally just in here last week.”

“I know.” She laughed, “Just been listening to your friends whine about you not being here. It’s good to see you, Jake. What can I get for you?”

“I need a round for everyone, please.” He said, smiling, “It’s good to see you too, Pen. Are you and Mav busy on Saturday?”

“I don’t believe so.” She said, looking curious as she grabbed several beers and popped the tops off of them, before pouring a coke for Bob. “What’s happening Saturday?”

“I’m organizing a beach day for the squad…”Jake said, “I want to introduce you all…my family… to my girlfriend Ella and her son Luca…who I very much want to be my family.”

“Wow…Jake.” Penny said, a soft smile on her lips as she looked at him, “Sweetheart, how long have you been seeing this girl?”

“We’ve been dating just shy of three months.” He admitted, “She’s the one, Pen. I’m so in love. And I love Luca so damn much.”

“I’m happy for you, Jake.” Penny said smiling. “Mav and I will happily be there. Just let us know the details.”

“Thanks, Pen.” He replied with a bright smile, then handed over his card to open a tab and grabbed everyone’s drinks.

“First round, as coerced.” Jake joked, handing out the drinks to everyone. “For the record, I will not be buying a round every time I miss a night out… that will get too damn expensive.”

“Planning on missing more?” Nat asked, raising an eyebrow in question.

“Yup.” Jake replied, honestly, “I will try to at least grab a drink with y’all once a week at least though…or maybe every couple of weeks.”

“What the hell, Man?” Payback asked, “What gives?”

“Are y’all free on Saturday for a beach day?” Jake asked, ignoring the question for a moment.

“Are you?” Nat asked, then glared at Javy when he nudged her under the table and shot her a look.

“We’re in.” Javy said, answering for him and Nat.

“I’m free. Beach day sounds fun.” Bradley shrugged, looking confused, “Any special occasion?”

“Just wanted to introduce my girlfriend and her son to my family.” He replied casually, taking a sip of his beer.

“Um, excuse you, GIRLFRIEND?” Nat exclaimed, “Since WHEN?”

“She’s a MOM?” Fanboy asked, shocked. “You’re dating a single mom?”

“She’s dating Jake, she’s clearly not single anymore, Fanboy.” Javy jumped in. “Keep up.”

“Ella and I have been dating for just shy of three months.” Jake said, “Because she has a son, Luca, we took things slow… but I knew pretty early on that she was going to be different than any other woman I’ve dated and I didn’t want to fuck it up…so we kept it quiet and built our relationship on a solid base.”

“That’s the change.” Bradley pointed out, smiling, “You’re more settled… happier. It looks good on you, Jake. Congrats. I’d love to meet them.”

“Thanks, Man…” Jake replied, smiling back at the man who’d become his second closest friend. “That means a lot.”

“Of course.” He shrugged, “You said we’re your family. I’m assuming that means if you’re asking us to meet them that this is serious… long haul serious, being that there’s a kid involved… So I can’t wait to meet them, just tell me the time.”

“I second that.” Bob said, smiling, “I think it’s really great, and I can’t wait to meet them, Jake.”

“Congrats, Jake.” Payback said, “I’ll be there, Man. How old is Luca? I can bring my nephew to give him someone to play with.”

“Thanks guys.” He smiled, “Luca is 5. He’s the cutest. Such a sweet boy. He’s gonna be so excited to meet you all. He’s very inquisitive about all things flying. Ella said it’s just since he’s met me. I imagine it’ll magnify when he meets the rest of you.”

“My nephew is 6 so that’s perfect.” Payback said, smiling, “It’ll also win me brownie points with my sister and my nephew will think I’m the coolest uncle ever.”

“I’m impressed, Hangman.” Nat said, smiling, “Not sure how you managed to slip this one by me for three months… I must be slipping. Bradshaw’s right though, you are more settled and happier… it makes sense there’s a woman behind it. I’m happy for you.” When Javy nudged her she added, “And we’ll absolutely be there on Saturday. I imagine she’ll be a little more comfortable with at least one other female present.”

“Thank you, Nat.” Jake said, laughing. “Actually, her sister Sara is coming too. We figured we’d have both of our families meet at once. Ella only has her sister… and a few cousins sprinkled around the state. Another reason we fit.”

“Is she cute?” Fanboy asked, perking up, “And single?”

“Back off, Mickey.” Jake said, narrowing his eyes. “Don’t even think about it.”

“Dude, you’re literally going on a second date with the girl from the coffee shop tomorrow night.” Payback reminded him, rolling his eyes.

“Hold up.” Nat said, eyeing her boyfriend, a thought suddenly hitting her. “You seem very chill, and suspiciously unsurprised by all of this.”

“Go easy on him, Nat.” Jake said, jumping to Javy’s defense. “He’s been my best friend since the first day of flight school. He was my first phone call after I went out with Ella… and talked me through how not to fuck this up. He also met them already… we were easing into things.”

“That’s fair.” Bob reasoned, “You can’t get mad at him for that, Nat. Especially with a kid being involved.”

“I’m impressed my boyfriend managed to keep it from me and not burst,” Nat laughed, “I’m not mad at all. I’m proud of you, Babe.”

“You have no idea how hard it was.” Javy complained, “I’m so glad y’all know now!”

“Now that everyone is in the loop… anyone feel like a game of pool?” Jake asked.

“Wrack ‘em.” Nat said. “Bradshaw and me against you and Javy?”

“Oh, hell no!” Javy protested, “You’re not gonna use your flirty wiles against me this time, Darlin’. You’re on my team.”

“Ready to wipe the floor with them, Rooster?” Jake asked, “Loser buys next round?”

“I’m in.” Bradley laughed, seeing the look on Nat’s face.

“Fine.” Nat said, “Don’t get so cocky though…”

“Go ahead and break, Nix.” Jake offered, winking.

“And he’s back.” Nat said, rolling her eyes playfully.

It ended up being close, but Jake and Bradley did indeed end up winning so Nat and Javy had to buy the round. Jake stayed for the second drink then decided to head out so he’d have time to FaceTime with Luca. He didn’t want it to get too late.

“I’m gonna head out guys,” Jake said, “I promised I’d FaceTime with Luca tonight. Ella said he had something to show me.”

“Why not just go over there?” Javy asked, surprised.

“We have an early morning tomorrow and I told y’all I’d come out with you tonight.” Jake shrugged, “It’s fine, I’ll head there after work tomorrow.”

“I’ll walk out with you.” Bradley said, taking the last gulp of his beer and setting the bottle down. “I’m actually worn out.”

Jake stopped at the bar on the way to the parking lot to say goodbye to Penny and close his tab. Then him and Bradley left the bar.

“I’m surprised you’re calling it a night so early.” Jake said as they walked to their vehicles, “You’re usually one of the last ones to roll out.”

“Honestly… I’m kinda over the bar scene.” Bradley sighed, “And I saw a group of tag chasers about to make their way over. Wanted zero part of that. Can I ask you something?”

“Sure.” Jake said, pausing at his truck. “What’s up?”

“How and where did you meet Ella?” Bradley asked, “I only seem to meet women at the bar and we both know what they want. I’ve tried the apps but… useless.”

“I met her at that new game and puzzle store next to the coffee shop Bob got us all hooked on.” Jake chuckled, “I was in looking for stuff to send my niece and nephew but was kinda clueless. El had stopped in to pick up a new game for Luca and I must have looked like a fish outta water because she came over and offered to help. Me, being the idiot I am, thought she worked there.”

“That’s actually kinda perfect.” Bradley laughed, “It’s sweet. Did you end up finding something to send the kids?”

“Yeah I did.” Jake replied, “And figured out El didn’t work there when I went to the check out and she was also in line to check out. We walked out together and I admitted my mistake to her, which she found funny. I figured I had nothing to lose so I asked her out. It took until the third date until she told me about Luca. She thought I’d bolt I guess, but she already had me at that point and honestly, once I met Luca… Man, I was a goner.”

“So I just need to hang out in game stores… coffee shops? Bradley asked, looking hopeless.

“Nah, just come to the beach on Saturday.” Jake said, “Ella’s sister, Sara… I think you’ll really like her, Man.”

“Jake you literally just about jumped Fanboy for asking about her.” Bradley said, puzzled.

“Yeah, because El and I were just talking last night and I told her I think you and Sara would hit it off. She’s a sweetheart, she’s intelligent so you’ll be able to have an actual conversation with her, funny as hell once she comes out of her shell. She also loves baseball…and brace yourself, Man…Ella said her dream cars are…for whatever ungodly reason…vintage Broncos.She actually owns one of the new ones, but according to her it was just ‘settling’.”

“Holy shit.” Bradley breathed, before chuckling “She legit sounds like my dream girl.”

“That’s what I’m saying!” Jake said, “So, show up on Saturday and be your normal, decently awesome self, and your days of having to worry about picking up girls in bars or on apps will be over.”

“Thanks, Jake.” Bradley said, “Go FaceTime Luca. I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Have a good night, Man.” Jake said.

Jake got home and changed out of his uniform before sitting down at his kitchen table to FaceTime with Ella and Luca while his dinner heated up.

“Hey, handsome.” Ella said, connecting the FaceTime call, “How was the bar?”

“Hi, Beautiful.” Jake replied, smiling, “It was good. Would have preferred to be with you and Luca though.”

“Bring some stuff and come over after work tomorrow?” Ella suggested, “Stay over… then we’ll have the beach day on Saturday?”

“That sounds perfect, El.” He replied, “Everyone is on board and excited to meet you and Luca. I think they were all too shocked to ask many questions, so those will come Saturday. Bradley asked how we met, but that was when we were leaving. He left when I did. He’s over the bar scene and ready for more. I told him about Sara. He’s looking forward to meeting her.”

“Good!” Ella said excitedly, “I talked to Sara today and told her what you’d told me about Bradley and she’s very intrigued… especially sold on the fact that he drives a vintage Bronco.”

“I told Bradley that might be his in.” Jake laughed, “Where’s my favorite Little Man?”

“He just finished his bath, I told him he could put his Tshirt on over his PJs to show you.” You replied, smiling. She turned and called for Luca to come out to talk. “He’s so excited.”

“Make him close his eyes!” Luca yelled in the background. Jake laughed, closing his eyes.

“Ok, Bubs, they’re closed.” Ella told him.

Jake could hear rustling and footsteps, he smiled, curious what shirt Luca picked out.

“OK, you can open your eyes.” Ella said. She’d turned the camera to show Luca standing next to her, proudly sporting a burnt orange Texas Longhorns T-shirt with the white logo on it.

“It’s just like yours!” Luca said, a big smile on his face.

“Oh, wow, Bud!” Jake said, a huge smile stretching across his face. He had to quickly blink because he could feel tears stinging behind his eyes. “Luca, that’s perfect! I love it. It looks good on you, Little Man!”

“Can we wear them to the beach on Saturday?” He asked, “We’re going right?”

“We are going.” Jake promised, “And we absolutely can wear them to the beach.”

“Yay!” He exclaimed, “I can’t wait! Is Javy going to be there too?”

“He will be.” Jake confirmed, “And, your mom and I were thinking it’s time for you to meet some more of my family. You think you’re up for that? My family here is like Javy… they’re part of my squadron and we’ve just become so close we formed our own family.”

“Yeah, I wanna meet them.” He nodded, “Will there be any other kids?”

“Reuban is bringing his nephew who’s just a tiny bit older than you.” Jake said. “Sometime soon I’ll see if my sister Rebecca can fly out with her kids to come visit.”

“Ok!” Luca chirped, “Mommy said I have to go finish getting ready for bed now. Are you coming over tomorrow?”

“I’ll be there after work, Bud.” He promised.

“Jake’s going to stay over tomorrow, Bubs.” Ella told him, “Is that ok?”

“Yes! Sleepover!” Luca exclaimed.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Bud.” Jake smiled, “Love you. Sweet Dreams.”

“Love you too, Jake.” Luca said, smiling before running off to finish getting ready for bed.

“He’s amazing, El.” Jake said when she was back on the screen. “That little Longhorns shirt… damn, that got me.”

“It was so hard for him to keep that secret.” She replied, smiling softly, “He thinks the world of you.”

“It’s mutual.” Jake assured her, “Feel the same about his Momma too. I can’t wait for tomorrow…and this weekend.”

“It’ll be nice to have you here, and to get to wake up with you.” She told him, her voice getting softer, “And everything in between.”

“I’m definitely looking forward to the ‘everything in between’ part.” He smirked, “But getting to hold you all night and wake up with you in the morning… cook you and Luca breakfast… that’s what I’ve been dreaming about.”

“I love you Jake.” Ella said, “Go eat your dinner, I know you haven’t yet. Then after work tomorrow, get your sexy ass over here.”

“I love you too, El.” Jake laughed, “Yes, ma’am. Give Luca a hug for me. Sweet dreams, Darlin’.”

***********************

A/N- hope you liked this! Started as a one shot but once again, I lack restraint....so it will be a 2 part!

**********************

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fav-fanficssss · 11 days ago

Text

Patched Up// S.H x Reader

a/n: Man I'm a bit rusty on the smut but hopefully it's good!! Also, y/n and Steve are severely injured but that won't stop them from getting freaky apparently

word count: 6.5k

WARNINGS: THIS FIC CONTAINS SMUT SO MINORS DO NOT INTERACT. ALSO UNPROTECTED SEX.

request:

Hii can you please write a fic for steve harrington. Where reader and Steve used to be together and broke up. And in the battle with vecna she patches him up and he patches her up and they end up getting back together. Also could it please be a mix of Angst and then smut and fluff.

Tyyy 💜💜💜

The air was suffocating, thick with the acrid tang of smoke, blood, and the metallic scent of fear. It clung to your skin, worming its way into your lungs as you crouched next to the crumbling remnants of a building, the world around you still smoldering in the aftermath of the battle. Every breath felt like swallowing ash, and the oppressive silence, broken only by distant crumbling and the faint crackle of flames, was as unsettling as the chaos that had just ended.

Your hands shook as you pressed a tattered cloth to Steve's side, feeling the sticky warmth of his blood soaking through your fingers. His skin was clammy beneath your touch, and the sound of his sharp, labored breathing punctuated the heavy silence. You dared a glance at his face—he was pale, sweat glistening on his forehead, strands of his hair matted down with blood and dirt. His jaw was clenched in pain, his lips pressed into a tight, thin line, but even through the agony, he tried to meet your gaze, forcing a strained smile.

"Just like old times, huh?" His voice was rough, almost hoarse, and despite the weak attempt at humor, there was an edge to it—an underlying bitterness that stung more than the wound you were trying to heal.

Your heart clenched painfully in your chest. Old times. The words hit you like a punch to the gut, stirring up a storm of memories you had tried so hard to bury. Back when you and Steve were inseparable, two halves of a whole, tangled in a relationship that was messy, beautiful, and broken in all the ways that mattered. But that was before everything changed. Before you walked away.

The hurt still simmered beneath the surface, the wounds from your breakup never fully healed. You had told yourself it was for the best, that walking away from him was the right thing, that it was easier to let go than to keep fighting for something that felt doomed from the start. But now, with Steve bleeding out in your arms, every decision you made felt like a lie. You had never really let him go.

Your throat tightened, and you tore your gaze away from his, focusing on the task at hand. "Yeah," you whispered, barely able to keep your voice steady. "Except this time, we don’t get a happy ending, do we?"

Steve’s face flickered with something—a flash of hurt, maybe regret—but he held your gaze now, searching for something in your eyes. You weren’t sure what he was looking for, and you were too scared to offer anything. The silence stretched between you, thick with words unspoken, until the distant rumble of debris breaking apart reminded you of where you were. And who you were with.

Slowly, almost hesitantly, Steve’s hand moved to cover yours, his touch warm despite the coolness creeping into his skin from blood loss. His fingers brushed over your knuckles, and that small, simple gesture shattered the fragile wall you’d tried to build around your heart.

"You really think that?" His voice was softer now, more vulnerable than you’d heard in a long time. It wavered slightly, like he was afraid of your answer, afraid of where this conversation might lead. He looked at you with those familiar brown eyes, the same ones that used to make you feel like you were the only person in the world. Now, they just made everything hurt more.

You swallowed, feeling the weight of everything unsaid pressing down on you, suffocating. It wasn’t just the battles that tore you apart—it was fear, the insecurity that gnawed at you both. You were afraid of what loving him meant, of how the world you were thrown into was far more dangerous than you could have ever imagined. The monsters weren’t just in the Upside Down—they were inside you, inside him, inside both of you, festering in the doubts and the heartbreak.

You blinked hard, trying to clear your thoughts, your vision blurring for a moment as you kept pressing the cloth to his side, as though if you just focused on that, you could ignore everything else. "I don’t know, Steve," you breathed, your voice barely audible. "I don’t know what to think anymore."

His fingers tightened slightly around yours, grounding you in that moment. His touch wasn’t desperate, but there was a quiet urgency to it—a plea, maybe, that you couldn’t ignore.

"We’re still here, aren’t we?" he said, his jaw clenched through the pain. His voice was a mix of determination and vulnerability, a crack in the armor of the Steve Harrington you once knew. "We can figure this out. We can fix it… We have to."

His words sliced through you, fragile and raw. You couldn’t tell if he meant the gash on his side or the rift between the two of you—maybe both. The tension between you felt like a taut wire, ready to snap at any moment. His eyes were locked on yours, and for the first time in a long time, you let yourself really look at him. Not as the boy you used to love, not as the boy who broke your heart, but as the man who had fought beside you, bled beside you, and now, even in his brokenness, wanted to stand with you.

Your heart raced, and you couldn’t tell if it was from the adrenaline, from the exhaustion, or from the way his thumb traced the back of your hand. You’d been running from this— from him—for so long. You didn’t know if you had it in you to stop.

But his words lingered in the air, wrapping around you like a lifeline. And in that moment, as the world burned around you, neither of you had walked away.

The world was still crumbling around you—buildings reduced to rubble, fires crackling in the distance, and the air thick with ash and dust—but for a moment, none of that mattered. You and Steve had found a quiet corner in the chaos, leaning against the jagged remains of a wall. The weight of exhaustion pressed down on your shoulders, and every breath felt like a struggle. Your hands trembled from the effort of patching him up, the adrenaline slowly ebbing away to make room for the dull ache of your own injuries.

Steve shifted beside you, his head lolling back against the stone. His face was pale, the color drained from his cheeks, and despite the hastily bandaged wound on his side, he was still bleeding—just less than before. You had done everything you could for him with what little you had, but every time you looked at the blood-stained fabric, your heart squeezed in your chest.

"I’ll be fine," Steve rasped, his voice rough, though his eyes were soft when they flickered over to you. "I’ve been through worse."

You forced a weak smile, though the knot in your stomach didn’t loosen. "You always say that."

He chuckled, but it was cut short by a grimace, his hand flying to his side, clutching the wound. The sound of his pain was enough to break you all over again.

"We should rest," you murmured, trying to convince yourself as much as him. You pressed your back against the cold stone behind you, wincing as you felt your own bruises scream in protest.

But Steve wasn’t having it. He turned, his eyes scanning over you in the dim light, his expression hardening when he noticed the blood seeping through the tears in your shirt. "You’re hurt."

You waved it off, trying to play it down, though every muscle in your body throbbed. "It’s nothing."

Steve’s gaze narrowed, and before you could protest, he was shifting onto his knees, ignoring the pain that clearly still wracked his own body. "Let me see," he insisted, his voice low but firm.

You sighed, too tired to argue, and pulled back the torn fabric to reveal the gash along your arm, jagged and ugly from the battle. You hadn’t even noticed how bad it was until now, the adrenaline masking the pain that was now starting to pulse steadily through your veins.

Steve’s jaw clenched, his brow furrowing as he took in the sight of the wound. "You should’ve said something," he muttered, more to himself than to you. His hands, though roughened from fighting, were gentle as they touched your skin. He worked carefully, almost delicately, as if afraid he might break you if he applied too much pressure. He used what was left of the supplies—an old, dirty rag that he dampened with water from a flask—to clean the blood from your arm, his focus unwavering.

You watched him, your chest tightening with a mix of emotions you couldn’t untangle. He was so close, his face inches from yours, and you could see the concentration etched into every line of his features. His lips were pressed into a thin line, his eyes dark with worry as he tended to your wounds. Despite everything—despite the years, the distance, the heartbreak—Steve Harrington still took care of you as if nothing had ever changed. As if he never stopped caring.

"You don’t have to do this," you whispered, your voice barely audible over the crackling in the distance. But the truth was, his touch was comforting. It was like you were transported back to a time when things between you were simple, when his touch didn’t make your heart ache with memories.

Steve didn’t look up, but you saw the way his jaw tightened, his hands stilling for a moment before resuming their careful work. "I want to," he said, his voice rough with a kind of determination you hadn’t heard in a long time.

He wrapped the cloth around your arm, tying it with a gentle but firm knot. You winced as the pressure sent a sharp sting up your arm, but you bit your lip, refusing to let it show. Steve noticed anyway. His thumb brushed your skin, a soft, fleeting touch, and for a brief second, the pain didn’t seem so bad.

When he was done, he finally looked up at you. His fingers lingered on your skin, the warmth of his touch spreading through you like fire. You met his gaze, and in that moment, everything else—the battle, the blood, the hurt—faded away. There was only him, the boy who had once held your heart in the palm of his hand, now looking at you like you were the only thing left in his world.

"I never stopped caring about you, you know," he said softly, his voice low and rough, as if it pained him to admit it. His eyes searched yours, as though he was trying to find some hint of what you were feeling—trying to find the part of you that still belonged to him.

Your breath caught in your throat. The words you had longed to hear, words you never thought would come again, hung in the air between you. You felt your chest tighten, a rush of emotion swelling up inside you. And suddenly, without thinking, you leaned in, your lips brushing his in a tentative kiss.

It was soft at first, almost hesitant, like neither of you wanted to admit how much you needed it. But then Steve kissed you back, and all the restraint, all the distance between you melted away. His hand came up to cup your face, pulling you closer, deepening the kiss. Every ounce of love, regret, and longing that had been bottled up inside you both spilled out in that kiss, desperate and hungry.

When you finally pulled away, both of you were breathless. Your forehead rested against his, your eyes fluttering shut as you let the reality of the moment sink in. Steve’s hand remained on your cheek, his thumb brushing lightly over your skin.

"We don’t have to figure everything out tonight," he whispered, his voice shaky but certain. "But I’m not letting you walk away again."

Your heart swelled at his words, and you knew, deep down, that you didn’t want to walk away either. Not this time. Not ever again.

"I’m not going anywhere," you murmured, your voice soft but sure.

And in that moment, amidst the ruin and the darkness, you found each other again—two broken people, patching each other up, piece by piece.

---

The quiet hum of nightfall had settled over the wreckage, the world outside now eerily still, as if holding its breath in the aftermath of the storm. You and Steve had found a fragile kind of solace in each other’s arms. The fires that had raged, the battles that had left you both scarred, felt distant now, reduced to faint embers in the back of your minds. The silence between you was heavy but not uncomfortable—it was loaded with unspoken words, emotions that were too big for either of you to voice.

The adrenaline had finally drained from your bodies, leaving behind an aching exhaustion. After the makeshift bandages, the blood, and the rawness of survival, you both ended up back at Steve’s place. The journey home had been quiet, both of you too lost in your thoughts, too caught up in the weight of everything that had happened. There were no words for the things you had seen, for the battles fought, for the way your heart ached in his presence even now.

But once inside, the silence transformed into something else. There was no need for words after that first kiss. It was as if all the brokenness between you could be healed with a touch, a caress, a look. Your bodies spoke where your voices couldn’t, and it was all so familiar. Steve’s hands roamed over your skin as if they remembered every inch of you, and you found yourself leaning into his touch, the years between you fading like a distant dream. His touch was both desperate and tender, filled with a longing that neither of you had been able to put into words.

The night stretched out slowly, each second heavy with anticipation. Steve’s lips found yours again, and this time the kiss was deeper, more urgent, filled with all the things he couldn’t say. His hands slid beneath your shirt, fingers grazing your skin in a way that made your breath catch. You could feel the hunger in him, the way his chest rose and fell against yours, the way his breath hitched every time your hands brushed over him.

"Tell me if you need me to stop," he whispered against your ear, his voice a low, gravelly murmur that sent shivers down your spine. His breath was hot against your neck, the closeness of him igniting a fire in your belly.

Your heart raced, and you shook your head, already pulling him closer, feeling his warmth seeping into you. "Don’t stop," you breathed, your voice shaky with need. "Please."

And he didn’t.

His hands found the hem of your shirt, tugging it over your head, and in the dim light, you could see the way his eyes darkened, filled with something primal, something that had been simmering beneath the surface for too long. His fingers traced along your skin, slow, deliberate, as if memorizing every curve, every scar. When his lips followed the path his hands had made, kissing a trail down your neck, across your collarbone, a soft gasp escaped your lips, your fingers tangling in his hair.

There was no rush, no urgency to get it over with. The night was slow, deliberate, a mix of gentle touches and desperate need. You felt his hands grip your waist, pulling you closer until there was no space between you, his body pressed tightly against yours, skin against skin. Every kiss he placed on your skin felt like a promise, every touch a silent apology for the time you had spent apart.

When his lips found yours again, the kiss was different—deeper, more consuming. His tongue brushed against yours, and you could taste the desperation on his lips, the way he needed you, the way he had always needed you. You could feel him trembling beneath your touch, his body taut with tension, but he was careful. So careful. His fingers skimmed over your skin, mapping every inch of you as if afraid you’d disappear if he wasn’t gentle enough.

Your hands slid down his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath your palm, before finding their way lower. His breath caught as you reached for him, your fingers brushing over the growing hardness beneath his jeans. He jumped slightly at the contact, his muscles tensing under your touch, but he didn’t pull away. Instead, he leaned into you, his forehead resting against yours as a low, breathless groan escaped his throat.

You wasted no time, your fingers working to free him from the confines of his jeans, pulling them down just enough to feel him fully. When your hand wrapped around him, slow and deliberate, Steve let out a shuddering breath, his head falling back slightly, eyes squeezed shut in barely contained pleasure.

His skin was warm, the heat of him almost scalding in your palm as you began to stroke him slowly, teasingly. His lips parted, and you could hear the way his breath faltered, could feel the tension coiling in his body as he tried to keep his composure. But with each slow stroke, you could see him unraveling—his composure slipping with every press of your hand.

His pale skin flushed, a deep shade of red creeping up his neck, and you watched, entranced, as he gave in to the pleasure. His hands gripped your hips, his fingers digging into your skin, but his touch was still tender, still filled with the care you had always known from him. He watched you with dark, hooded eyes as you worked him, his breath coming in short, ragged gasps, and you felt a surge of power in the way his body responded to you.

You pressed your thumb against the prominent vein running along the underside of his cock, and Steve groaned, his hips jerking slightly against your hand. His eyes fluttered shut, his mouth falling open in a soft moan, and you couldn’t help but smile at the way he was coming undone beneath you.

“God,” he breathed, his voice rough, barely a whisper. “You’re gonna kill me.”

But he didn’t pull away. Instead, his hands found your face, pulling you into a desperate kiss, his lips moving against yours with a kind of hunger that made your knees weak. And in that moment, there was nothing else. Just you and Steve, lost in the heat of each other, every touch, every kiss a reminder of what you had lost—and what you had found again.

“Come here.” The words left your lips, a gentle command, yet charged with an intensity that had Steve immediately following your lead. You slid off the bed, your knees sinking into the plush carpet beneath you as you knelt before him, gazing up into his darkened eyes. He obeyed without hesitation, positioning himself at the edge of the bed, his breath already shallow with anticipation.

You could see the way his chest rose and fell, the way his muscles tensed as you brought your mouth closer to him. His cock was hard, flushed with need, and the sight of him made your heart race. Without breaking eye contact, you leaned in, pressing your lips to his tip, and a low, guttural groan tore from his throat.

Your tongue flicked out, teasing him, swirling around his sensitive head, tasting the saltiness of his arousal. You watched as his head fell back, the cords in his neck tightening as he gripped the edge of the bed. The tension in the air was thick, almost palpable, as you slowly dipped your head lower, taking more of him into your mouth inch by inch. You could feel the stretch of your lips, the way his cock twitched against your tongue, and it only made you more eager.

Steve’s hand found its way into your hair, his fingers curling into the strands, tugging gently at first as if trying to maintain some semblance of control. But when you began to speed up, hollowing your cheeks and taking him deeper, his restraint shattered. His grip tightened, gathering your hair into a makeshift ponytail, and his hips bucked forward involuntarily, thrusting deeper into your mouth.

“Fuck,” Steve hissed, his voice rough, strained with desire as his cock slid further down your throat. You gagged slightly at the intrusion, but the sensation only spurred you on. You gripped his thighs, your nails digging into the soft flesh as you took him as deep as you could, the pressure and the fullness overwhelming but intoxicating all the same.

Steve's hips began to move in sync with your mouth, each thrust pushing him further into the heat of your throat. His fingers tugged at your hair, guiding you, and you moaned around him, the vibrations of your voice sending shudders up his cock. His quiet grunts filled the room, punctuated by your soft, wet sounds, and the air around you buzzed with the tension of his impending release.

Your eyes watered as Steve’s movements became more erratic, his hips jerking forward with reckless abandon. Each time the head of his cock hit the back of your throat, you gagged around him, the sensation both overwhelming and thrilling. You flattened your tongue against the underside of his length, relishing the way his body tensed, how his cock twitched as you brought him closer to the edge.

“Shit,” he groaned, his voice breaking, his hand tightening in your hair as he struggled to maintain control. His breathing was ragged, labored, his body trembling with the force of holding back. But you could feel it—he was so close.

“Come back on the bed,” he panted, his voice strained with urgency. “I won’t last much longer if you keep this up.”

You slowly pulled away, your lips releasing him with a soft, wet pop, and you couldn’t help the smirk that tugged at your lips when you saw how wrecked he looked—his cheeks flushed, his chest heaving, his cock glistening with your saliva. Without a word, you climbed back onto the bed, settling yourself down as Steve shifted to make room for you. His eyes were locked on yours, dark with a hunger that sent a shiver down your spine.

Once you were comfortable, Steve wasted no time. His eyes devoured the sight of you, and his hands moved with a gentleness that contrasted the earlier urgency. He cupped your breasts, his thumbs brushing over your nipples, and the soft moan that escaped your lips only seemed to encourage him.

His gaze flicked up to meet yours, and there was something almost reverent in the way he looked at you, like he couldn’t quite believe you were here with him again. Slowly, he leaned down, his lips trailing a path of hot, open-mouthed kisses down your chest, over the curve of your abdomen, until he reached the waistband of your shorts.

With one smooth motion, he unzipped them, pulling them off and discarding them carelessly to the floor. His eyes darkened further as he took in the sight of your lace panties, a wicked grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.

“God, you’re beautiful,” he murmured, his voice low, almost like a growl as he looped a finger through the waistband of your panties. The anticipation made your pulse quicken, your body humming with need as he slowly pulled them down, exposing every inch of you to his gaze.

You were bare before him now, vulnerable and open, and yet the way Steve looked at you made you feel powerful. His eyes never left yours as he moved forward, his body shifting until his head was level with your thighs. The warmth of his breath ghosted over your skin, and you couldn’t help the way your hips instinctively lifted, seeking more of his touch, more of him.

Steve’s lips curled into a smirk as he leaned in closer, his breath hot against your core. His eyes stayed locked with yours, and the tension between you both was electric, a coil wound so tight it was ready to snap. When his mouth finally descended, pressing a soft kiss to your aching heat, the sensation was so overwhelming it made your back arch off the bed.

“You taste incredible,” he murmured, his voice sending a jolt of desire straight through you. His tongue flicked out, teasing your clit in slow, torturous circles, and the pleasure that coursed through your body was enough to make you gasp, your hands flying to grip the sheets beneath you.

Steve’s fingers dug into your hips, holding you firmly in place as he began to devour you, his mouth moving with a precision that left you breathless. Each flick of his tongue, each gentle suck, had you spiraling closer and closer to the edge. Your moans filled the room, mingling with the soft sound of his mouth working you, the air thick with the heady scent of sex and the tension between you.

Your legs trembled as his tongue worked you over, his pace building, each movement sending waves of pleasure crashing through you. You were barely able to think, your mind clouded with desire, your body completely at his mercy as he pushed you closer and closer to the brink.

And all the while, Steve’s eyes never left yours, watching every reaction, every gasp, every moan as you came undone beneath him. Steve took a moment to admire her, his gaze lingering on her flushed cheeks, her lips parted in anticipation. The sight of her like this—vulnerable, waiting, with her skin glowing in the dim light—was enough to send a surge of desire coursing through him. He could feel her trembling beneath him, her body taut with need, every breath she took coming out in shallow, shaky exhales.

And then he moved, lowering his head between her thighs, his lips finding her swollen clit. He latched onto it with a fierceness that had her gasping, sucking harshly before smoothing it over with the soft, deliberate strokes of his tongue. The pleasure rippled through her, waves crashing against every nerve as he took his time, dragging it out, building her up slowly, almost teasingly. He knew exactly what he was doing, bringing her closer to the edge but never quite letting her fall.

Her hands flew to his hair, fingers tangling in the dark strands, nails scratching lightly against his scalp as she held him against her, wordlessly begging for more. Her body writhed beneath him, hips bucking up to meet his mouth, but Steve was in control. His hands roamed over her body, exploring every inch of her skin, and when his fingers found her nipples, he couldn’t help but pinch them, rolling the sensitive buds between his fingers as his tongue continued to work her over.

He moved lower, his tongue slipping down to her entrance, teasing her with soft, languid strokes. The mewling noises that escaped her lips only spurred him on, each sound like fuel to the fire burning inside him. He pushed his tongue inside her, and she let out a choked gasp, her back arching off the bed as she pulled him closer, urging him deeper.

“Please,” she whimpered, her voice shaky, desperate. “I’m so close.”

The way she bucked her hips against his mouth, her body trembling with the need for release, was all the encouragement he needed. He picked up the pace, his tongue moving faster, his fingers pinching her nipples in rhythm with his movements. The tension in her body built and built, until finally, she let out a loud, breathless moan as her orgasm crashed over her, her thighs shaking around his head as she came all over his tongue.

Steve stayed there, nestled between her legs, his tongue lapping at her softly, helping her ride out the waves of her orgasm. Her body was trembling, her breath coming in ragged gasps, but she didn’t pull away. Instead, she reached for him, her fingers wrapping around his arm as she tugged him up toward her, desperate for his kiss.

“Steve…” she panted, her voice still breathless. “Fuck me. Please.”

The words alone nearly sent him over the edge. His cock twitched at the sound of her begging, her voice raw and filled with desire, and it took everything in him not to lose control right then and there. But he steadied himself, his hands bracing on either side of her as he repositioned himself above her, his body hovering just inches away. He searched her eyes, waiting for her to give him the slightest nod, the sign that she was ready for him.

And when she did, her eyes half-lidded and lips parted, he moved. Slowly, carefully, he began to enter her, sliding into her inch by inch, his breath hitching at the overwhelming sensation of her tight, wet heat around him. It was almost too much, the feeling of her body clenching around him, pulling him deeper, and Steve swore he could’ve died happy in that moment. The way her body responded to him, the soft, breathy moans spilling from her lips, sent his head spinning.

When he was fully inside her, he paused, savoring the feeling, letting her adjust to the stretch of him before he began to move. His hips rolled slowly at first, drawing out each thrust, watching the way her body arched beneath him, the way her hands gripped his shoulders, nails digging into his skin. The sounds coming from her—those sweet, breathless moans—only made him want her more.

He could feel the tension building inside him, his control slipping with each slow thrust. The slick sound of their bodies moving together filled the room, mingling with her soft whimpers and his quiet grunts. He couldn’t tear his eyes away from her, watching the way her chest rose and fell, the way her lips parted in pleasure. Every thrust sent a shudder through her body, and he could tell by the way her breathing faltered, the way her grip on his shoulders tightened, that she was close again.

“Faster,” she panted, her voice thick with need, her pupils blown wide with lust. Her legs wrapped around his waist, pulling him deeper, and Steve obeyed, quickening his pace, his hips snapping against hers in a desperate rhythm.

“I’m close,” she moaned, her voice high-pitched, the pleasure overtaking her as she gripped his shoulders even tighter.

“Me too,” he groaned, his voice low and rough, the fire in his belly growing hotter with each thrust. His own release was rapidly approaching, but he held on, determined to push her over the edge first. His hand slipped down between their bodies, his fingers finding her clit and rubbing tight, firm circles over it.

The effect was immediate. Y/N let out a guttural moan, her body tightening around him as her second orgasm tore through her, her thighs trembling as she came hard. The sensation of her walls pulsing around him was enough to send him spiraling. With one last thrust, Steve pulled out of her, his hand moving to his cock, giving himself a few quick pumps as he reached his release. He came with a shuddering groan, his hips jerking as thick ropes of cum spilled over his hands.

For a moment, the room was filled with the sound of heavy breathing, their bodies slick with sweat, hearts pounding in time with each other. Steve collapsed onto the bed beside her, his chest heaving, still reeling from the intensity of it all.

Y/N turned her head to look at him, her eyes still glazed over from the aftershocks of her orgasm, a lazy smile playing on her lips. She reached out, brushing her fingers through his damp hair, and Steve turned his head, meeting her gaze.

Neither of them said anything for a long moment, but they didn’t need to. The connection between them was electric, the air still charged with the heat of their passion. Steve reached out, pulling her closer until her head was resting on his chest, his hand idly stroking her hair as their breathing finally began to even out.

And in the quiet aftermath, with the warmth of her body pressed against his, Steve knew that this moment—this connection—was something he would never let go of.

The world seemed to slow down. The only sounds in the room were the faint rustling of sheets and the soft cadence of your breaths, mingling together in the stillness. Tangled in each other’s arms, you lay in silence, the heat of your bodies slowly dissipating as the room cooled. Your head rested on Steve’s chest, rising and falling with each steady breath he took. His heart beat strong beneath your ear, a rhythm that soothed you in ways you hadn’t realized you needed.

Steve’s fingers lazily traced patterns on your skin, gentle swirls and lines that sent soft shivers down your spine. His touch was delicate, almost reverent, as though he was memorizing every inch of you all over again. The warmth of his hand lingered wherever he touched, grounding you in the present moment. It was a stark contrast to the urgency from earlier—the passion that had left both of you breathless and trembling. Now, it was just the two of you, wrapped in a cocoon of tenderness.

You shifted slightly, turning to face him, catching the soft smile tugging at the corners of his lips. His hair was tousled, sticking up in places, and his eyes were half-lidded with exhaustion, but there was something else there—contentment, maybe even peace. You hadn’t seen that look on him in so long, and it made your chest tighten with an overwhelming sense of longing.

“I never thought we’d get here,” you whispered, your voice barely audible, like you were afraid saying it too loud might break the spell of the moment.

Steve’s smile widened just a fraction, his eyes softening as he met your gaze. His hand slid down from your arm to find yours, his fingers intertwining with yours as his thumb brushed gently over your knuckles. “Neither did I,” he admitted, his voice low, but filled with a sincerity that made your heart ache.

He leaned in slowly, pressing a feather-light kiss to your forehead. The gesture was so simple, yet it felt like a promise—a silent reassurance that this time, things could be different. That the broken pieces between you could be mended.

“I missed this,” Steve murmured, his breath warm against your skin. “I missed you.” There was a raw honesty in his voice that made your throat tighten. “I tried telling myself I didn’t, that we were better off apart, but I couldn’t… I couldn’t stop thinking about you. About us.”

Your chest tightened as his words sank in, the vulnerability in them echoing your own feelings. You’d missed him too—more than you could ever admit to yourself. The space between you had felt endless, the weight of your decision to walk away a constant ache you carried. But now, lying beside him, the ache was replaced by something else—hope.

“I missed us too,” you whispered, your voice catching slightly as you spoke. You tightened your grip on his hand, pulling him a little closer, needing to feel him next to you. “I kept trying to forget… but I couldn’t. I didn’t want to.”

Steve’s hand found its way to your cheek, cupping it gently as he studied your face, his eyes filled with a softness that made your heart swell. “You don’t have to anymore,” he said quietly, his thumb brushing across your cheekbone in a tender caress. “We don’t have to pretend. Not anymore.”

Your eyes fluttered shut at his touch, a warmth blooming in your chest that chased away the last remnants of doubt. His words wrapped around you like a safety net, catching you before the fear of losing him could take hold again. When you opened your eyes, you found him staring at you with that same unwavering gaze, as if you were the only thing that mattered in the world at that moment.

“I’m not going anywhere this time,” he whispered, his voice filled with quiet determination. “I don’t want you to either. We can make this work, I know we can.”

His words were a balm to the wounds you had both carried, soothing the hurt that had lingered between you for so long. Your heart swelled as you looked at him, seeing the boy you had fallen in love with, the man he had become, and the hope that still lingered between you. The road ahead wouldn’t be easy; you both knew that. But in this moment, wrapped in each other’s arms, the weight of the past didn’t feel so heavy anymore.

You leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his lips, your fingers brushing the side of his face as if to anchor yourself to this moment. “I’m not leaving, Steve,” you murmured against his lips. “Not this time.”

His smile was small, but full of relief, and you felt his arms tighten around you, pulling you closer until there wasn’t a single inch of space left between you. He pressed his forehead against yours, his breath warm on your skin, and for a long moment, neither of you spoke. You didn’t need to. The silence was comfortable, filled with the quiet understanding that you had found your way back to each other.

“Do you think… we can really do this?” you asked softly, your voice laced with both hope and hesitation.

Steve chuckled softly, the sound vibrating through your chest. “We’ve faced worse things, haven’t we?” His fingers threaded through your hair, gently tugging you closer. “I think we can handle a second chance.”

You couldn’t help but smile, a sense of lightness washing over you as you curled into his side, your head resting on his chest. His heartbeat, steady and sure, lulled you into a sense of peace you hadn’t felt in what felt like forever.

“Promise me something,” you said quietly, your voice barely above a whisper as you traced patterns on his skin.

“Anything,” Steve replied without hesitation, his voice soft and full of affection.

“Promise me we won’t let go of this again.”

Steve’s hand came to rest over yours, his grip firm but gentle. “I promise,” he whispered, his lips brushing the top of your head. “We won’t let go. Not this time.”

And as the night stretched on, the weight of the world slowly fading away, you held each other close, knowing that while the road ahead wouldn’t be easy, you were ready to face it—together, patched up, healing, but never alone.

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