pr1dek1ng

[pr1dek1ng]

so its just been sent to me that MORE of my works have been uploaded to AO3 and I swear if I find out which one of you sneaky rats is responsible...watch out. super close to just wiping all of my work from here and dipping from this space all together :))))) STOP. STEALING. CONTENT.

[pr1dek1ng]

“Let it hurt. Let it bleed. Let it heal. And let it go.”

— Nikita Gill

[pr1dek1ng]

These are SS I found on TT of one of the directors of DONTNOD. I 100% agree with what he had to say on here. And I’m severely disappointed and disgusted with the fans who are sending threats and think that’s okay. After reading what he said I think it made me love DE a lot more. But that’s just me and my opinion. I also dislike the fans that are harassing others for liking the game (I’ve experienced ALOT and it’s disappointing) it’s an opinion. You don’t have to like it but to attack another individual over it is ridiculous. I also love how he pointed out the hate over LIS2 because I’ll never forget the disgusting comments that were made about it because it wasn’t Max and Chloe centered. Please be respectful it’s not hard.

[pr1dek1ng]

These are SS I found on TT of one of the directors of DONTNOD. I 100% agree with what he had to say on here. And I’m severely disappointed and disgusted with the fans who are sending threats and think that’s okay. After reading what he said I think it made me love DE a lot more. But that’s just me and my opinion. I also dislike the fans that are harassing others for liking the game (I’ve experienced ALOT and it’s disappointing) it’s an opinion. You don’t have to like it but to attack another individual over it is ridiculous. I also love how he pointed out the hate over LIS2 because I’ll never forget the disgusting comments that were made about it because it wasn’t Max and Chloe centered. Please be respectful it’s not hard.

[pr1dek1ng]

These are SS I found on TT of one of the directors of DONTNOD. I 100% agree with what he had to say on here. And I’m severely disappointed and disgusted with the fans who are sending threats and think that’s okay. After reading what he said I think it made me love DE a lot more. But that’s just me and my opinion. I also dislike the fans that are harassing others for liking the game (I’ve experienced ALOT and it’s disappointing) it’s an opinion. You don’t have to like it but to attack another individual over it is ridiculous. I also love how he pointed out the hate over LIS2 because I’ll never forget the disgusting comments that were made about it because it wasn’t Max and Chloe centered. Please be respectful it’s not hard.

[pr1dek1ng]

Okay so this is my real review on the life is strange double exposure game. That original post I made was to troll

I went into it with an opened mind. I tried to stay away from much spoilers as I could but the internet made that impossible so I knew a little bit about things.

I thought the story was actually really good. I love a murder mystery type plot. I didn’t think it was to bad at all actually. The amount of twists and turns was awesome.

The characters were probably my favorite part about the game. I loved majority of the characters that max interacted with. The relationship dynamic between max, Safi and Moses was comforting gave me such sibling vibes.

Max and Amanda’s dynamic was really good and probably my favorite. I loved how they interacted and I loved how much Amanda cared for max.

Max and Reggie’s dynamic felt like big sister/little brother vibes. Reggie was absolutely hilarious and such a Comedic relief

Max and diamond’s dynamic was interesting to me. I loved diamond don’t get me wrong but I really couldn’t understand her very well. But that’s probably just me

Max and Vihn’s dynamic (prolly spelling his name wrong) was very interesting as well. I loved how we went from not liking him to him becoming apart of the gang and dating Reggie.

Gwen was like hot damn. Nothing else to be said. shoutout for trans representation ❤️ loved her

Lucas can just kick rocks tbh

Now the only problem I had with this game was how they did Chloe. I think what they did with Chloe was entirely stupid and a trash take. Like I personally would’ve been fine if she was in the game but interacting with max throughout it. Her not being present doesn’t bother me but the way they just trashed her relationship with max is wild to me.

But besides this I thought the game was a 9/10. Cannot wait for what they have next for max’s story 🤘❤️

Also happy Halloween 🎃 p.s please don’t harass and or trash on people who are like me and like the game! I feel like this shouldn’t have to be said but unfortunately it does.

[pr1dek1ng]

Outlast: Chapter Nine (Sam Giddings x Reader)

Series Masterlist

Word Count: 2.1K

4:07

Sam was usually the one that was put together, the one that everyone could rely on, but when it came to you, she was stressed out beyond repair.

She bites her nails as she anxiously awaits your return. She wasn’t a big fan of this idea—leaving Josh outside—anyway, and your being purposely vague was making it worse.

She knew you were hiding something, and as soon as you got back to the safety of the lodge she was going to wring it out of you.

Sam ignores Ashley’s whines behind her as she begins to pace back and forth, deep in her thoughts. She mentally checks over all of the events that have happened tonight.

Chased by a psycho who was actually their friend, and apparently another of their friends is dead and two more are still somewhere out in the woods—

Sam’s thoughts are cut off by a sob escaping Ashley’s lips.

She sighs. “Ash, honey,” Sam approaches Ashley’s shivering form, placing each hand on the other girl’s shoulders and rubs her thumbs along them in an attempt to calm her. “They’ll be fine. We’ll be fine. Okay? Just hang tight. Chris, Tex, and Mike will be back soon and we can figure out a plan.”

“I’m sorry,” Ash sobs, dropping her head in her hands. “It’s just—what the fuck is happening?”

Before Sam can respond, a sharp knock on the lodge door interrupts, drawing both girls’ attention to it. Sam turns back to Ashley, patting her arm. “See? Perfect timing. That’s probably them.” She moves to unlock and open the door, but her smile slowly vanishes as she sees only two people in front of her—and her girlfriend isn’t one of them.

“Where’s Tex.” It’s more of a statement than a question, and Chris awkwardly shuffles away from Sam and closer towards Ashley as Sam glares up at Mike.

“She wanted to stay,” he replies. 

Sam crosses her arms and her stare hardens even more.

Mike rolls his eyes. “Look, I tried to get her to come back, but you know how she gets.”

Aggravation seeps from Sam as she huffs out a quick fine towards Mike and turns away from the rest of the group.

God, why couldn’t you care about your own safety for once? You were really stressing her out.

And here she was supposed to be the adventurous one.

Sam doesn’t have much more time to think about what you’re up to when a banging on the door sounds.

A faint let me in! can be heard and the voice is without a doubt Emily.

Chris is the first to reach the door, opening it for Emily as she falls inside.

“Shut the door! Oh my God, shut the door!” she yells out, scooting as far as possible as she can away from it.

They guide her all to the Great Room, sitting her on one of the couches as she tries to compose herself.

“I didn’t think I’d make it,” she mutters.

“Em, are you okay?” Chris asks.

“The hell was that?” Mike pipes in.

“Oh my God, oh my God,” Ashley whispers.

“Guys!” Sam cuts in. “Let’s give her some space, okay?”

The three stop, and the pause allows Emily to continue.

“There was something out there!” She cries. “Like, something bad.”

Chris furrows his eyebrows. “Like what?”

Sam sighs. “Em, relax...it was Josh. It was all Josh.”

“That issue’s been fixed,” Mike adds in from behind Sam, and she glares back up at him.

“No, no. Guys, you’re not listening!” Emily yells out, frustration evident in her voice. “There’s something else out there. Something really bad. Like…a monster.”

4:18

The ropes around Josh are just nearly untied when the unmistakable screech of the creature—of the Wendigo—fills your ears.

And it’s not very far away.

“Oh, fuck,” you mutter.

You take in your surroundings. The shed is almost entirely one big open space, not giving you many places to hide. Josh is clearly still out of it, uttering random phrases that are unintelligible to you. He keeps swaying and squirming, and you know he’ll be instant bait for the Wendigo.

“I’m sorry, Josh.” You wince, both at what’s about to come and the pounding headache that still ruminates inside you.

“Huh?—”

You wind your fist back and knock Josh out with one swift punch.

“It’s for your own good,” you say, hoping he can hear you, but also for your own comfort.

You get to work quickly. Josh is a lot heavier than you expected, especially with the stuffed overalls he’s still wearing weighing him down. You maneuver your arms through his as you try to pull him to the side, somewhere out of the open so the Wendigo doesn’t see him. But the rustling that you hear causes you to drop him quickly and find your own corner to hide from the creature that had just entered the shed.

You stay as still as you can, holding your breath as the Wendigo crawls into the shed, its head swiveling back and forth. Josh’s body is still laying on display, and you fear that the Wendigo will take him, even if he is unconscious.

When the Wendigo turns its head away from where you hide against a small pile of junk, you slowly reach into your waistband for your gun. When your hand hits nothing, you mentally curse. Once again, another thing you desperately needed that you left at the lodge.

You can only watch helplessly as the Wendigo snatches up Josh’s body with ease.

But a glimpse of black on the Wendigo’s wrinkly, leathered shoulder has you doing a double take.

It was unmistakably that of a tattoo. One in the shape of the butterfly. The same design of your friend’s tattoo, your friend that you lost a year ago.

Hannah?

4:30

You’ve already been waiting a good couple of minutes when you hear the crunch of snow outside, alerting you to someone out there. You listen closely, and there are two things you notice. One, there are definitely two pairs of footsteps, and two, those are definitely humans—not a Wendigo.

“Fucking damn,” you mutter as you stand up from your crouched position, trying to go through as many possible plans you can in a couple of seconds to try to save who was out there. But what could you possibly do with no weapon on you?

You didn’t know who would be coming out here right now. Mike and Chris surely would’ve told the others that you voluntarily hung back to keep an eye on Josh.

Was it the two of them, back to retrieve you for some reason? Or—and it better not be—Sam coming out here, wanting to see you?

You tug at the roots of your hair in frustration, and soon you can hear the voice of Chris just outside the closed doors.

“Here!”

The doors swing open carelessly slamming against the walls, and it takes all of the power in you not to run up over there and throttle Chris.

His eyes widen as he sees the empty stool that Josh was once sitting on, and you jump out of your hiding spot before he has a chance to speak again.

You raise a finger to your lips and your eyes widen sternly, indicating to Chris that he needed to shut the fuck up. As you approach, you’re startled to see that the person with Chris is someone you don’t recognize. It’s an older man, and by the amount of equipment he has on, he’s someone who’s been hardened by this environment, not someone who was called here to save you all.

Someone who definitely knows about the Wendigos and the curse upon Blackwood Mountain.

There’s a glint of familiarity in his good eye as he gazes upon you, almost as if he knows of your knowledge, of all that your parents have told you. Does he know them?

You can’t even ask him before Chris interrupts.

“Where’s Josh?”

“Shut it!” You hiss, your tone much quieter than his. “He’s gone. We can’t leave here yet. It’s not safe.”

Chris ignores you and shakes his head stubbornly. “No, we need to go back and warn the others.” He turns to leave the shed, and the strange man follows, likely trying to pull him back in. But Chris stumbles back into the snow, the man right on his heels. You stay back in the safety of the shed, lingering as you hope the man can convince Chris to get back in.

But within seconds, the rustle of the trees causes the blood to rush from your face. You know the Wendigo is very near, and it is definitely not happy.

You see the man gesture for Chris to stay still, and all seems to be going well until the Wendigo jumps right in front of the two.

“Run! Go! Now, now!” The man yells at Chris, and he himself only gets a few steps forward until the Wendigo nimbly darts across the area, a gangly arm outspread as it slashes the man’s throat with ease.

He goes slack and his body drops to his knees, his head detached from his shoulders as the now detached part rolls away from the owner, and closer to you.

You wince as you turn your head away from the unseemly sight, catching as Chris clumsily raises the shotgun in his hands and aims it at the Wendigo that is now poised to jump and attack him. His shot miraculously hits, and the Wendigo goes tumbling back.

“Oh, shit!” Chris stumbles backwards, falling into the snow, but he eventually gets up and runs away, disappearing into the forest as the Wendigo chases after him.

Hurriedly, you run out of the shed and over the man’s body when the Wendigo is a safe distance away. You scour his person for anything that would be of use to you; you immediately go for his flamethrower, strapping it securely around yourself. You notice a flask on him and take a quick swig before placing it back where it came from.

Now armed, you follow the path that Chris took back to lodge. You can only hope that you make it back in time to help him, but the unexpected weight of the flamethrower has you slowing down as you struggle between both it and the weight of the heavy snow on your feet.

4:43

It takes longer than you expected to make it back to the lodge, and the sight that greets you is not a pretty one. The Wendigo is nowhere in sight, but neither is Chris’s body—only his head remains. 

You inhale shakily as you see the furious red of his blood stain the pure white snow beneath it. You run over and see Ashley standing in front of the door, one palm flat against the glass and another covering her mouth as she cries.

As you approach the disturbing scene, you have to avert your eyes as you can feel the tears pooling up. If you were just a minute faster, you could have saved him.

Mike appears from behind Ash, pulling her back as he quickly unlocks the door for you. He grabs your arm and pulls you inside, shutting the door behind you.

“Come on, we gotta get down to the basement. Now!” He ushers Ashley ahead and you follow the two behind, clinging to the flamethrower like a lifeline.

“What the fuck happened?” You ask them both, and you don’t even try to hide the anger in your tone. “Why the fuck did he leave the lodge?”

Ashley shuffles ahead down the stairs as Mike turns to you, and you’re startled by the pure anger in his eyes. “He told us everything,” he says, “and I have a good feeling I know what you’ve been hiding from us.”

You can feel all the color drain from your face and you feel utterly exposed under Mike’s gaze despite the many layers that cover you. There was no way out of this one. If that man knew just as much as your parents did and he told all of your friends all of what really lingered beneath the depths of Blackwood Mountain, you truly had nothing to hide anymore—your secrets were all exposed for them to know.

This was really not the way you wanted it all to turn out, but it seems as though the truth always found its way out, even if you weren’t ever ready for it.

It was time to fess up to your friends, and it was time to save them, and fast.

Character Traits: 

Honest: 4/10 

Charitable: 9/10 

Funny: 4/10  

Brave: 7/10 ↓

Romantic: 7/10 

Curious: 5/10 

Relationship Status:

Ashley: 6/10 

Chris: 7/10

Emily: 5/10

Jess: 3/10 

Josh: 7/10 

Matt: 7/10 

Mike: 5/10 ↓

Sam: 10/10

Chapter Eight || Chapter Ten

[pr1dek1ng]

Baby Bronze

Just something that suddenly hit me brain...

“Bubs come on... we're gonna be late” Lucy called down the hallway your little backpack in her hand

“I is coming” you chirped pressing the last butterfly sticker onto your face before you start toddling out your room and down the hallway

“What on earth...??” your sisters eyes widen when she saw the state of you

“I is buzzerfly” you grinned proudly

“I... I see that... Bubs you can't go to kindergarten like this” Lucy kneeled down so she was the same height as you

“But I...” your bottom lip started to tremble

“No Bubs.... you see Butterflies can't go to kindergarten... they need to fly around and do... Butterfly stuff...” Lucy tried to explain in a soft voice hoping you would accept that explanation and avoid a tearful breakdown

“I is no buzzerfly?” you asked tears already pooling in your eyes

“Not right now Bubs...” your sister said carefully before she got an idea “... but I tell you what... if your good today after training I'll help you train to be a Butterfly okay? We can start with small flying lessons okay?”

“Otay...” you sniffed being absolutely heartbroken

“Hey....” Lucy said softly wiping away your tears “... it takes training to become a Butterfly Bubs... small steps okay... you'll become a butterfly one day”

“But wanna now” you sobbed

“I know...” your sister said gently standing back up before she lifted your little three year old form up setting you down on her hip “... but right now you are my Bubs... so what do you say... we get the stickers out of your face and then we get you to kindergarten”

“I no wanna go there...” you cried as Lucy already walked down the hallway towards the bathroom to get your face cleaned

“Yesterday when I brought you there you loved kindergarten” Lucy said confused

“Wanna go Keiwa and yous” you sobbed harder when your sister placed you on the countertop next to the sink

“Bubs... I can't take you with me... Uni is no place for small Bubs” your sister started to clean your face from the stickers grabbing your little hands when you tried to smack her away “... no... stop it Bubs...”

“I's hate you” you cried hysterically as Lucy just held your hands down cleaning your face with a washcloth

“I know....” Lucy sighed “... sometimes I hate myself too”

“I's no want you” you kicked your feet getting your sisters thigh

“Bubs” your sister warned you after you kicked her thigh even tho she knew it was on accident

“Noooooooo” you cried trying to get away from her prying hands even trying to bite her at some point

“You stop that right now or I'll make sure you will go to bed the rest of the week without a story and no cuddle” Lucy said strictly looking down at you with a serious look on her face

“Wanna cuddles” you sobbed now trying to press yourself against Lucy

“Then behave” your sister said firmly seeing how you struggle to voice your feelings “... okay... are you ready to talk about what's bothering you?”

“Huggsies” you cried feeling lost and overwhelmed

“Come here” Lucy sighed as she picked you up and you immediately holding on to her like she was your lifeline as you sobbed into her neck

“Ssshh Bubs... calm down” your sister spoke softly while she rubbed over your back as you struggled to breath normally “... breath”

“No hate you” you hick upped into Lucys neck

“I know Bubs... I know you don't hate me” Lucy kept her voice soft “... but can you please tell me what the matter was?”

“No” you hick upped again

“Please Bubs... what do I always tell you?” your sister tried to pry you out of her neck already feeling your snodder on her skin

“Talkin imposant” you sniffled

“Talking is important exactly.... so I want you to talk to me” Lucy said picking up the washcloth again starting to clean your face of the tears and snot as good as she could

“Towi say I's no pwetty... buzzerfly is pretty” you mumbled pressing your face against your sisters neck

“Oh Bubs... you're the prettiest girl” your sister said softly “... you have the prettiest eyes and the most beautiful smile... but it doesn't matter what you look like Bubs... what's important is your character... because a person can be oh so fu...dging pretty if they have an ugly personality.. and you have the most unique and beautiful personality Bubs”

“But Towi saying I's no pwetty hair like shes” you hick upped again

“Fudge that Tori girl Bubs... no one cares about hair... even if you wanted to shave your head than that doesn't make you any less beautiful” Lucy huffed already feeling her annoyance towards another three year old

“Mum said you no sweawing” you lifted your head away from your little hiding spot

“I didn't...” your sister smirked as she finally was able to reach your whole face “... I said fudge and not the bad word”

“Can I's pwease come with you?” you asked shyly

“No Bubs... Uni is no place for Bubses... but I promise I'll pick you up later and you come to training with me okay... Jill and Tash already asked me when you visit again... and we have someone new too... her name is Georgia” Lucy said as she finished cleaning your face

“But Georgia there for whole time” you tilted your head in confusion

“Not Brougham Bubs... her name is Stanway... she came from Blackburn... like Keira” your sister explained as she carried you down the hallway to finally get going

“Keiwa” you looked around happily

“I swear you love that woman more that you love me” Lucy mumbled as she picked up your little dinosaur backpack and your little shoes

“Keiwa very soft” you said your toddler face as serious as it could get “very nice pillow”

“Oh and I'm not??” your sister exclaimed as she carried you to her blue Toyota Yaris

“You no soft... you bony” you huffed while you got strapped into your car seat

“I'm not bony... I'm fit...” Lucy mumbled as she tried to get the straps right

“You bony” you retorted as your sister finally clicked the belt close

“And you are a brat” your sister shot back as she pushed you your favourite book into your little hands so you would be occupied for the drive

“I no brats” you exclaimed bewildered but Lucy already closed the car door and walked around to get into the drivers seat

“You are...” Lucy smirked as she started the engine “... but you are my Brat”

“She did what??” Lucy asked flabbergasted into the phone listening to the person on the other end recalling the newest incidents

“Mhm... yeah... yeah I'll come and pick her up” your sister said already shoving her backpack into her locker grabbing her car key “15 Minutes? I'm at Uni at the moment but I try to be there as fast as possible... yeah... okay... thank you so much”

“What happen?” Lisa a classmate of your sister asked confused

“Apparently my little Sister chose violence today...” Lucy sighed “... can you please take notes for me I have to go and pick her up...”

“Sure...” Lisa smiled knowing how much you and Lucy mean to each other “... for a good pizza”

“Deal” Lucy smiled making her way out of the building

“Again... I’m SO sorry... I have no idea what she was thinking” your sister apologized for the umpteenth time to your kindergarten teacher while she held onto your collar tightly

“I know she’s usually not like this” Mrs. Evans says understanding “She’s a very well behaved kid and very polite so for her to snap like this is uncommon”

“I promise we will have a talk about it and there will be consequences” Lucy said as she pushed you forward harshly towards the exit

“Mrs. Bronze?” the elderly woman called out making your sister stop and turn around “I don’t think a punishment would help in this situation... I think a calm conversation will be more helpful”

“Thank you” Lucy smiled slightly knowing she would’ve definitely chosen the wrong way

“No problem... I was a young mother too... it can be overwhelming at times” Mrs. Evans smiled

“I’m not...” your sister started but the other woman just smiled and waved her off

“It’s okay... we know... I wanted you to know that we don’t judge and whenever you need you have our full support” the dark blonde smiled

“I.... I...” Lucy stuttered bewildered before collecting herself “...ehrm... yeah... thank you”

“Not a problem... at all” Mrs. Evans smiled kindly and Lucy chose not to discuss this topic any further and started to push you forward once again

“So...” Lucy started her eyes quickly checking you over through the rear mirror “... wanna tell me why you decked Sarah Axton?”

“No” you said grumpy

“We will talk about it...” your sister said strained trying to stay calm “... so you can either start talking and we solve the issue OR you can kiss the bedtime stories and desserts goodbye for a month and no football...”

“No” you said crossing your little arms over your chest sulking

“No what?” Lucy raised an eyebrow looking at your little sulking form through the mirror

“I is no talks” you snapped at her trying to turn away which didn’t really work since Lucy strapped you into your child seat quite tightly

“Okay.... then don’t...” your sister shrugged her shoulders “... but don’t come crying to me for bedtime stories”

“Me won’t” you huffed as you pulled up into the stadium parking lot

“Okay... seriously... what’s with that mood?” Lucy turned around in her seat to look at you directly after she killed the engine

“Go way” you snapped

“I’m not going anywhere...” your sister said firmly trying to get to the bottom of the problem “Come on Bubs... talk to me”

“I’s no want” you exploded tears springing to your eyes

“You know what... I don’t have the patience nor the time to do this right now” Lucy snapped getting out of the car making you think she’s leaving you behind which resulted in you absolutely losing it as you started to cry hysterically

“Woah hey....” your sister said stunned as she opened the hind door to get you out of the car “... hey... calm down...”

It wasn’t much use since you fell into a absolute state of anxiety your face already turning red from crying

“Bubs... HEY” Lucy yelled right into your red tear strained face trying to get your attention and to her surprise it worked and you got so frazzled that you sucked in some much needed air

“It’s okay... you’re okay...” your sister now said calmly as she started to unclip your seatbelt freeing you from the child seat “... you’re okay Bubs... keep breathing... that’s it... good... you’re doing good”

You continue to hick up as you breathed flatly tears still streaming down your face but calming down a tiny amount when Lucy picked you up and held you instead of putting you down

“Good heavens Bubs....” Lucy murmured as she picked up her kit bag you still placed on her hip feeling the distress that radiated off you

Lucy carried you inside while your head now laying on her shoulder your crying reduced to silent tears with the occasional hick up in between

“Hey Blitzen” you got greeted by Lucys teammate Steph as she came up behind your sister tilting her head to look at your face

“We’re not in the best mood...” your sister said as she turned halfway towards Steph while you turned your head to hide in Lucys neck

“Oh my... what happened?” the blonde asked stroking gently over the back of your head

“She decked a girl in kindergarten, doesn’t want to tell me why and got a complete breakdown when I left the car” Lucy recapped your morning

“That’s my girl!!” you recognized the voice if your Auntie Jill sounding extremely happy

“Jill no” your sister said unimpressed at the support of your Auntie “... we do NOT encourage her to hit people”

“I’m a 100% positive she had a good reason” Jill shrugged her shoulders

“Yeah well I wouldn’t know because she won’t talk to me” Lucy huffed feeling how you relaxed in her arms being surrounded by her teammates “... Bubs... I need to change for training... you need to let go”

“No...” immediately some fresh tears made it to your eyes “no leave”

“I’m not leaving... I just need to change into me trainings kit...” your sister said softly as she tried to peal you off her to place you onto the bench next to her cubby

“Nooooo” you cried out and grabbed her shirt tighter even going so far to bite into the fabric

“Bubs come on...” Lucy pleaded with you getting to her mental breaking point herself

“Lucy nooooo” you cried heartbreakingly your voice muffled by your sisters shirt

That was the moment Keira entered the locker room a shy young blonde girl following her like a puppy

“Look Bubs...” your sister immediately jumped on the opportunity to get you to let go of her “... Keira”

“Keiwa?” you sniffled looking up with your tear strained face

“Yes look... you wanna say hi?” Lucy said quickly already moving towards her girlfriend

“Hi Keiwa” you said shyly quickly hiding your face again

“Oh Bitsy... what’s wrong?” Keira asks concerned immediately seeing the tear strains

“People are’s tupid” you mumbled against your sisters collarbone

“Hear hear” Jill threw in smirking “Clever girl”

“Stop corrupting her” Lucy snapped but Jill just kept smirking “Bubs... why don’t you go over to Keira so I can change?”

“Otay...” you mumbled and extended your arms towards Keira

“I...” the blonde started but found herself with an arm full of Baby Bronze a second later “... never mind... what’s going on Bits?”

“Who that?” you looked over Keiras shoulder at the new girl that’s standing shyly in a corner her eyes trained to the floor

“That’s a new teammate...” Keira said as she sat down with you “... her name is Georgia”

The blonde girl in the corner quickly looked up hearing her name but just as quick looked down again noticing she wasn’t directly addressed

“She no talking?” you wondered loudly making Keira snort

“She’s shy... so Bitsy... what’s going on with you?” Keira asked

“People is mean and tupid” you mumble starting to pick at your trousers

“While I can confirm that people sometimes are stupid we still don’t call them stupid...” the blonde scolded you lightly while grabbing your hands to prevent you from tearing your pants apart

“But they ARE!” you screamed trying to wriggle away from Keira

“Bitsy” Keira warned you and tightened her hold on you

“Let I’s go” you screeched

“No” the blonde simply said holding your hand so you wouldn’t hit her in the face with your flailing arms

“Hand her back...” Lucy appeared in front of you two holding her arms out “... you still need to change”

“NOOOOO” you started crying again suddenly holding onto Keiras hand like your life depended on it

“What is wrong with you today?” your sister exclaimed confused

“Keiwa” you whimpered quietly

“Bubs come on.... don’t be a twat” Lucy rolled her eyes “... Keira comes out to the pitch in five minutes”

��Wannas stay” you sobbed

“No... you coming with me so Keira can change in peace...” your sister said sternly quickly pulling you away from her girlfriend which resulted in a heartbreakingly scream and kicking legs from you

As Lucy passed “the new one” you just kicked again getting the poor girl in the chest who just made a little groaning sound but other than that said nothing

“Did she kick you?” Keira appeared next to the young blonde girl

“Yeah... but it alright... really... nothing happened” Georgia said quickly not wanting to create a scene or anything

“Are you sure? I’m really sorry I really don’t know what’s going on with her today” Keira said apologetic softly squeezing the young girls shoulder

“We all have bad days?” the younger blonde mumbled quietly

“Yeah but normally she’s not THAT bad” Keira said shaking her head slightly “... I’ll get to the bottom of it later... now come on... you don’t wanna be late on your first day do you?”

“I just... don’t know where to go” Georgia admitted shyly

“Come on then... I’ll show you around” Keira smiled friendly

Training went alright. Lucy sat you down in a corner of the pitch asking some of the staff to keep an eye on you since you apparently were “a tad difficult today”. You couldn’t disagree more. You weren’t difficult. People were just stupid and it wasn’t your fault. Sarah said some really mean things and Auntie Jill said poo bags deserve what they get. And Sarah was definitely a poo bag.

You sat quietly in your corner trying to decide the right colour for your bumblebee (black and yellow were just too mainstream for you) when a ball belted into the barrier next to you startling the absolute bejesus out of you. You shrieked and threw yourself to the ground covering your ears and pressing your eyes shut.

“I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m sorry” a totally panicked Georgia slid on her knees up to you not really knowing what to do

“It’s okay... she just got a scare” Lucy walked up slowly picking you up making you shriek again “she’s a little on edge today anyway”

“I’m really really sorry” Georgia said again not knowing how to react

“Don’t be... she’ll get over it” your sister waved off bouncing you in her arms gently pushing your face into her neck hoping you’ll calm down once you realize it was her

It took you another 5 minutes before you actually calmed down smearing your snotty nose against Lucys skin

“You feeling better now?” your sister asked softly

“Keiwa” you whined

“I swear you love that woman more than me” Lucys mumbled but took a look around for her girlfriend

“Lobe you too” you murmured suddenly feeling very tired

“I know Bubs” your sister rubbed your back “... someone is getting tired”

“No’s tired” you lifted your head from your sisters shoulder but Lucy saw right through you

“True... you’re absolutely knackered” Lucy said pushing your head back onto her shoulder

“I is no knacking” you mumbled against her trainings shirt

“Of course you’re not... wide awake” your sister mocked you softly starting to gently scratch your neck luring you to sleep.

“I seriously don’t know Kei...” you heard Lucy saying her voice uncharacteristically far away “... I got a call that she hit another girl”

“But do you know what happened?” you made out Keiras voice “... she isn’t someone going around hitting or bullying people”

“I tried... but first she refused to tell me and then she had these meltdowns” your sister said helplessly

“You’re doing nothing wrong Luce... she’s Three... sometimes they’ll have big feelings they can’t explain so they leash out” the blonde reassured her girlfriend softly

“But she can always talk to me...” Lucy sounded kind of concerned

“Just keep trying without pushing her....” Keira said seeing how it distressed Lucy

“Maybe you should try.... she loves you” your sister mumbled

“She loves you more...” the blonde snorted “... if you want we could talk to her together”

“I would like that a lot” Lucy nodded slowly

You decided to make yourself known by small quiet whining and a really harsh kick so the light blanket got pulled away

“Well... hello there” your sister appeared in your vision

“No” you whined tiredly bring unhappy

“Come on Bubs.... tea is nearly done...” Lucy groaned slightly as she picked you up your arms and legs immediately finding their way around her neck and waist

“No hungry” you yawned

“Keira cooked especially for you... there’s dino nuggets... and mashed potato... and gravy...” your sister told you while she carried you back to the kitchen “... doesn’t that sound yummy?”

“Mhm” you nodded tiredly just as Lucy sat you down on the pillow of books that were placed on the chair so you would be able to sit high enough to eat

“Hey Bitsy” Keira smiled softly gently stroking some lose hair out of your face

“Hi” you mumbled tiredly when a plate of food was placed in front of you

“What this?” you asked sceptically eying the greens on the plate

“Broccoli” your sister answered as she sat down “... you like Broccoli”

“No I’s don’t” you said pushing the plate away

“Since when?” your sister asked confused

“Auntie Jill said treeses of dooms... dangerous” you said in your childish naivety

“Dear Christ Scott...” Lucy groaned and Keira couldn’t help herself bursting out laughing

“Come on Bits....” Keira chuckled “... you know better than to listen to Jill... go eat your greens”

“But...” you whined

“No buts... Broccoli” the blonde answered pressing a soft kiss to your forehead

“Otay...” you sighed deeply

“Thank you” Lucy mouthed at her girlfriend who just smiled and winked

“So little miss...” your sister started later that evening after she bathed you and stuffed you in your PJs “... wanna explain what was going on today?”

“Nu-hu” you shook your head trying to basically crawl into Keiras side

“Mhm I think you do” Lucy said grabbing your ankles pulling you on tip of her making you shriek in joy

“No no” you laughed trying to get away from your sister again

“Oh but I KNOW you want to talk about it” your sister smirked suddenly standing up still a firm grip around your ankles letting you dangle upside down

“Lucyyyyyyy” you squealed

“Come on Bubs.... I need you to explain to me what was going on so we can find a solution so it doesn’t happen again because you can’t just punch people in the face...” Lucy said softly letting you back down on the couch

“But she was bein tupid” you grumbled as you got stuck between two cushions and Keira had to help you by pulling on your shirt a little bit

“I got THAT... but what did she say?” your sister asked sitting down next to you

“Saids that girls in footsball are no goods n playin no goods and boyses are better... I said it no true n dat you bestest playin in the wholes world...” it suddenly exploded out of you “... n Keiwa twoest bestest playin and then she saids you n Keiwa lovin each other’s and I saids yes and that yous gets marries and then...”

“Woah Bubs... breath” Lucy suddenly interrupted you seeing how your head already turns red from the lack of air

“... and then she saids you n Keiwa dis.... dis...” you kept on rambling “... dis... gushing and two girls no love each others because gods saids only boy n girl and you n Keiwa goings to hells and then I’s punched”

“Oh wow” your sister sat next to you looking at you shocked while Keira just looked horrified

“That’s...” your sister started but didn’t know what to say

“I’s no sowwy” you declared crossing your little arms in front of your chest

Lucy and Keira looked a you than at each other and just bursted out laughing

“You don’t need to be sorry Bubs...” Lucy said after she calmed down again “... but you also can’t punch people... ignore them or tell your Teacher... but you can’t use violence... violence is never the answer to solve problems”

Little did she know that a good placed right hook would solve the problem of the Spanish Women’s Nationalteam years later but that was a topic for the future

“Auntie Jill...” you started

“We don’t listen to Auntie Jill...” Keir said sweetly pulling you into her side grabbing the controller to start The Lion King – again.

“Auntie Jill said you love each others....” you looked up at the blonde

“That’s right... you still won’t listen to that mad woman” Keira smiled down at you pressing a kiss to your forehead “... now... do you want to watch Simba or do we bring you straight to bed?”

“Simba!!” you whined making Lucy laugh

“Then stop wriggling around” the blonde scolded you softly

“Otay” you froze up immediately and before you (or Keira and Lucy) could do anything against it you were snoring softly drool dribbling on Keiras shirt

[pr1dek1ng]

Court and Pitch

Alessia Russo x wnba!reader

Word count:Around 13k

Warning:angst, use of the word “soccer”, light homophobia.

Based on this request.

Ever since joining the Los Angeles Sparks not too long ago, your notoriety has only grown. At just 22, you’ve become one of the WNBA’s brightest stars, lighting up every court you step on.

The fans have embraced you as a basketball phenomenon, and your name is constantly buzzing in the sports world.

You’ve earned the reputation of being one of the most fierce competitors and rookie in the league. On the court, you’re known for your confidence—no, scratch that—your cockiness, and everyone loves it. It’s like you thrive on the attention.

The world sees you as this larger-than-life figure, strutting across the hardwood as if you own every inch of it. And to be fair, you kind of do.

There’s no shot you don’t believe you can make, no defender you think you can’t break down. When you're on the floor, there’s an undeniable swagger in your step, a smirk that lets everyone know you’re in charge.

Take tonight’s game, for example. The arena is packed, fans decked out in purple and gold, chanting your name as the clock ticks down. The Sparks are up by ten, but you're far from done making a statement.

“Hey, get ready to watch some magic,” you say to Cameron, one of your teammates and friends during a time-out, grinning as you catch your breath.

“Y/N, you know they hate it when you talk like that, right?” Cameron laughs, shaking her head.

You shrug with a playful smirk. “They hate it because they know it’s true.”

As you jog back onto the court, the crowd roars louder, and you can feel their eyes on you, expecting something spectacular.

With the ball in hand, you dribble up the court, staring down the defender in front of you. She’s been hounding you all game, but you can tell she’s losing steam.

“Is that all you got?” you tease, smirking as you cross the ball from one hand to the other. “This is about to get embarrassing for you.”

Without waiting for a response, you hit her with a quick crossover, your speed catching her off guard. You step back behind the three-point line, and with a fluid motion, you launch the shot. The crowd holds its breath.

Swish.

The crowd erupts, and you turn toward them, blowing a kiss with a wink as you jog back down the court. The other team calls for a timeout, clearly rattled, but you just laugh as you high-five your teammates.

One of your opponents walks by, shaking her head. “You’re too cocky for your own good.”

You flash her a grin. “Confidence, baby. You should try it sometime.”

This is what everyone sees—the confident, cocky Y/N who lights up the court and plays like she has something to prove.

The fans feed off your energy, loving every second of your fearless attitude. You know you’re good, and you don’t shy away from letting everyone know it.

You strut back to your bench with determination, pointing up at a section of fans holding signs with your name on them.

But off the court? That’s a whole different story. You’re not the larger-than-life, trash-talking superstar when the final whistle blows.

Away from the bright lights and roaring crowds, you’re quiet, reserved, and—if you’re being honest—kind of shy. But no one sees that. Everyone just assumes you’re as outgoing in real life as you are on the court.

Only a handful of people know the real Y/N. Your teammates, your family, and your close friends know that behind all the cockiness and confidence, you’re just someone who wants to be understood for who you are, not for the fame you’ve gained.

But for now, you play your part. “Good game,” you say with a grin after the final buzzer, slapping hands with the opposing team.

They know it’s all in the spirit of competition, and they walk away with smiles despite the loss.

As you head off the court, the media rushes to you, microphones and cameras shoved in your face. You flash your signature smile, the one everyone expects, and prepare to play your role once again.

——

“Do I really have to go?” you asked, frustration seeping into your tone as you adjusted your outfit for the sports event in London tonight.

“Yes, you do,” Emma snapped, not even looking up from her phone. “And stop making this harder than it needs to be. We need to maintain your image.”

You rolled your eyes. “I’m just not sure why I have to go to every single event. I’d rather stay home and relax.”

Emma sighed, finally glancing up at you. “Because it’s part of the job. You’re not just a player; you’re a brand. And brands need to be seen. Now, can you please smile and pose for these photos? We need content for social media.”

She thrust her phone at you, expecting you to strike a pose. You forced a smile, trying to ignore the growing frustration in your chest. “Do you ever think about what I want? I mean, I’m tired of all this. It’s like I’m just a product.”

Emma’s expression hardened. “This is part of the deal. You signed up for this. Your career depends on it. You know how much is riding on maintaining this image.”

“I get that,” you said, “but I’m not just a brand. I’m a person. And right now, it feels like I’m being suffocated by all this.”

Emma’s eyes narrowed as she fixed the angle of her phone. “Well, we can’t afford to let your personal issues affect your public image. People expect a certain persona from you, and it’s my job to make sure that’s what they get.”

“Even if it means I have to keep hiding who I really am?” you challenged.

Emma’s gaze was cold. “Yes, even if it means that. It’s about protecting your career, not your personal comfort. We have to think long-term here.”

You felt a pang of frustration and sadness. “But why does it have to be like this? Why can’t I just be myself?”

Emma didn’t miss a beat. “Because being yourself isn’t always marketable. And right now, we need to focus on what sells. Just play your part tonight, and we’ll get through this.”

You sighed, knowing there was no point in arguing further. “Fine. Let’s just get this over with.”

Emma nodded, her expression softening slightly. “Good. I’ll make sure to get some great shots. And remember, just smile and engage with the fans. That’s what they want to see.”

As you forced a smile for the camera, you couldn’t shake the feeling of being trapped in a role that wasn’t truly yours. The pressure to conform was weighing heavily on you, and the freedom to be yourself felt more elusive than ever.

Upon arriving at the event, you stick close to your teammates, hoping to avoid conversations with strangers. The room is buzzing with athletes, journalists, and influencers, making it feel overwhelming.

You long for the quiet comfort of your LA apartment, where you can be yourself without the weight of expectations pressing down on you.

Standing by the bar and absently swirling your drink, you notice someone approaching. Tall, blonde, and instantly recognizable—it’s Alessia Russo, the star of Arsenal’s women’s football team. You’ve seen her play and know she’s incredible. But why is she coming toward you?

“Hey, Y/N, right?” Alessia smiles warmly, her tone casual and friendly. You feel a surge of nerves.

“Um…Yeah…it’s me Y/N, um… hi,” you stuttered, and you mentally slapped yourself for being so awkward.

The confidence you project on the court seems to vanish in this unfamiliar setting.

Alessia’s eyes light up with curiosity. “I’m Alessia. I’ve heard so much about you. I just wanted to introduce myself. I’m a big fan.”

You shift uncomfortably, feeling the weight of her gaze. “Um….yes I heard about you too and thanks… I guess,” you reply, trying to muster a smile but feeling awkward.

You don’t typically open up easily, especially not to strangers who seem to be interested in you because of your fame.

Alessia looks at you with a hint of amusement. “I didn’t expect you to be so shy. On TV, you’re so confident and fierce.”

You raise an eyebrow, puzzled. “What- um.. What do you mean?”

“Well,” Alessia begins, leaning casually against the bar, “you seem more down-to-earth than what the media portrays. It’s refreshing to see someone so genuine. I get it, though. People have certain expectations of you, right?”

You find yourself relaxing slightly. She’s striking a chord. “Yeah, people definitely have expectations. Sometimes it feels like I’m just a product, not a person.”

Alessia’s smile widens. “I can imagine. It must be exhausting always being in the spotlight. I’m glad we’re having this chance to talk. You seem really different from how you’re presented in the media.”

As you start to open up, you realize Alessia isn’t just another fan; she’s actually interested in who you are beyond the public persona.

The conversation flows more easily, touching on sports, hobbies, and personal experiences. You find yourself laughing and sharing stories you usually keep to yourself.

Alessia asks about your life in LA and your favorite things to do when you’re not on the court. “What do you do to unwind after a tough game?” she inquires, genuinely interested.

“I usually just stay in,” you say, a bit hesitant. “Watch movies or read. I’m not really into the whole party scene.”

Alessia nods, understanding. “Me neither, honestly. I’d rather relax at home than deal with the chaos of events like this.”

The more you talk, the more at ease you feel. Alessia’s genuine interest and easygoing nature make it easier for you to let your guard down. You start to enjoy the conversation and find yourself opening up more than you anticipated.

As the evening progresses and the event starts winding down, Alessia leans closer. “I really enjoyed talking to you tonight. I’d love to stay in touch.”

You hesitate for a moment, unsure if you’re ready to let someone new into your life. But there’s something about Alessia’s kindness and sincerity that makes you want to take a chance. You hand her your phone, and she grins as she types in her number.

“Text me anytime,” she says with a twinkle in her eye. “I’d love to continue our conversation.”

You smile, feeling a mix of shyness and excitement. “Yeah, I will. Thanks for making tonight less overwhelming.”

As you watch Alessia walk away, you feel a flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, you’ve found someone who understands you beyond the facade.

——

You did end up texting Alessia the next day—or more accurately, Cameron did it for you. After you told her you’d exchanged numbers with Alessia Russo, she immediately raised an eyebrow and smirked.

“So… are you going to text her?” she asked, lounging on the couch of your hotel room with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

“Yeah, yeah, I’ll do it” you mumbled, fiddling with your phone but making no move to actually open the message app.

Cameron narrowed her eyes, catching on instantly. “Uh-huh, sure you will.” She stood up and stretched lazily. “Hand it over.”

You blinked. “What? No way. I’ve got it.”

She was too fast for you, though. Before you could react, Cameron swiped your phone right out of your hands and darted toward the bathroom. “Cameron, no! Give it back!”

“Trust me, Y/N! You’ll thank me later!” she called, slamming the bathroom door behind her with a loud click.

You rushed over, pounding on the door. “Cameron, I’m serious! Don’t—open the door! You can't just text her!”

Inside, you could hear her typing away furiously. “Oh, relax. I’m just being your wingwoman, you’ll appreciate it. “Hey, Alessia…” she began narrating, laughing to herself.

“Stop it! I’ll text her on my own! Cameron, come on!” You banged on the door again, but the sound of her laughing only grew louder.

After a minute, the door creaked open just a sliver, and Cameron’s hand emerged, holding your phone. “There. Done. You’re welcome,” she said smugly as she tossed the phone into your hands.

You grabbed it, scanning the message she’d sent in horror:

*Hey, Alessia! This is Y/N. Hope you’re doing well :)*

You groaned. “You didn’t—”

Cameron grinned. “Oh, I did. Now you just sit back and wait.” She flopped onto the couch again, crossing her arms like she’d just won a battle.

You stared at the phone, heart racing. Moments later, it buzzed with a new notification. Alessia had responded:

*Hey, Y/N! So glad you texted! How’s everything going?*

Cameron shot you a look that said, “I told you so.”

You sighed, a reluctant smile creeping onto your face. “Fine, you win this round.”

You spent the next hour texting with Alessia, heart racing the entire time. Every time your phone buzzed, you’d glance at Cameron, who was sitting beside you on the couch, eagerly reading over your shoulder.

She was your lifeline, occasionally feeding you responses when you didn’t know what to say.

At one point, Alessia messaged, *Are you free tonight? Maybe we could grab dinner?*

You froze, staring at the screen, unsure how to respond. Your heart felt like it was about to jump out of your chest. You turned to Cameron, who had the biggest grin on her face.

“Oh. My. God,” Cameron gasped dramatically, clutching your arm. “She just asked you on a date! Alessia Russo wants to take you out on a date!”

“It’s not a date, Cam,” you said, trying to play it cool even though your voice cracked. “She just wants to hang out, you know? As friends.” You rolled your eyes, but even you didn’t believe what you were saying.

Cameron looked at you like you had just said the dumbest thing imaginable. “Uh-huh. Sure. 'Friends.' Y/N, she didn’t ask you to go play video games or grab a quick coffee. She asked you to dinner.At night.That's a date, babe.”

You flushed, trying to brush her off. “Whatever. It’s not like that.”

Cameron nudged you hard, nearly making you drop your phone. “Oh, come on, you're so oblivious! She’s a world-class soccer player who could hang out with anyone in London, but she's choosing to spend her evening with you. She’s definitely into you.”

You blinked at her, feeling your nerves spike again. “I mean… I guess? But what if it’s not that? What if she just wants to, like, talk about sports or something?”

Cameron burst out laughing. “Y/N, literally no one asks someone they barely know to dinner to talk about sports. She’s interested. Just admit it!”

You sighed, knowing she wasn’t going to let this go. “Fine. Let’s say it is a date—what am I supposed to do? I barely even know her!”

Cameron grinned devilishly, “That’s the whole point of a date! You get to know each other. Just be yourself. Except, you know, maybe a little less awkward.”

You glared at her, feeling heat creep up your neck. “Thanks for the pep talk,” you muttered sarcastically.

Cameron waved her hand dismissively. “Oh, come on, you know what I mean. Now hurry up and reply before she thinks you're ignoring her!”

With a deep breath, you typed out your response, letting Cameron proofread it before hitting send.

*Yeah, I’m free tonight. Dinner sounds good!*you sent, feeling a knot of anxiety in your stomach.

A few moments later, your phone buzzed again. *Great! I'll pick you up around 7. Looking forward to it.*

Alessia had added a little smiley face at the end, and your heart skipped a beat.

Cameron let out a high-pitched squeal. “I can’t believe it! Y/N has a date with a hot soccer player!”

“Cameron, stop!” you groaned, burying your face in your hands. “And I’m pretty sure they call it football here, not soccer.”

Cameron waved her hand dramatically. “Who cares what they call it? The point is, shy little Y/N is going on a date with a total babe! I have to tell the girls!” She started to jump up from the couch.

Your eyes widened in panic. “NO, CAM, DON’T!” You lunged for her arm, but she was already bolting toward the door, giggling like a maniac.

“You can’t stop me! This is huge news!” she shouted, running out of the room, leaving you standing there, horrified.

“Cameron!” you called after her, but it was too late. You could already picture the team group chat exploding with messages about your “date.” You sighed, rubbing your temples.

“Why do I even tell you things?” you muttered under your breath, already bracing yourself for the endless teasing you knew was coming.

——

After what felt like hours of trying on different outfits, you finally stood in front of the mirror, surrounded by half your team, who were far too invested in getting you ready. Each of them had an opinion, and no one could agree on anything.

“She has to look hot. It’s Alessia Russo, for crying out loud,” Aari said, holding up a sleek dress.

“No, she needs to be comfortable and herself,” Briana argued, handing you a more casual skirt and top combo.

“That skirt is cute,” Lex added, tilting her head in approval.

“No way, this dress is definitely cuter,” Aari shot back, shaking her head.

The entire process was exhausting, with voices overlapping and opinions clashing. You stood in the middle of it all, watching the chaos unfold, but deep down, you appreciated how much they cared.

Eventually, after what seemed like an eternal debate, the team finally came to an agreement on a simple but cute outfit.

A soft, fitted top with jeans that weren’t too flashy, paired with a jacket. It was you—comfortable but still stylish.

“Alright, let me finish up your makeup,” Aari said, gently blending in the last bit of bronzer. “You’re almost ready.”

You took a deep breath, trying to calm the nerves that were creeping in. As soon as Aari finished, your phone buzzed on the counter. It was a message from Alessia:

*Hey, I’m here.*

Your heart skipped a beat. “She’s here,” you announced, your voice a little shaky as you stood up quickly.

Instantly, everyone sprang into action, helping you put on your jacket and offering last-minute advice.

“Okay, Y/N, you’ve got this!” Cam grinned, holding the door for you. “Good luck on your date.”

You narrowed your eyes at her. “It’s not a date,” you grumbled, tugging at your jacket nervously.

“Uh, yes, it totally is,” Briana said with a knowing smirk, while Lex added, “You’re literally going to dinner with a hot soccer player. If that’s not a date, I don’t know what is.”

Cam nodded emphatically. “Right?! I mean, it’s Alessia Russo. You’re going on a date with a superstar. How cool is that?”

You rolled your eyes, trying to suppress a smile. “You guys are impossible.”

“Just be yourself,” Aari added, giving you a soft smile as she handed you your bag. “That’s who she’s into anyway.”

“Exactly,” Briana chimed in. “No need to be nervous. You’re Y/N, the coolest, most badass rookie player in the WNBA. If she doesn’t fall for that, then she’s got bad taste.”

You couldn’t help but laugh at their supportive banter. Even though they were teasing you, their words meant a lot.

It reminded you that no matter how overwhelming the spotlight could be, you had a team of people who genuinely had your back.

As you stood by the door, the girls cheered you on with playful shouts of encouragement.

“Go get her!” Cam shouted, clapping her hands.

“Remember, confidence! But not too much of your court attitude, okay?” Aari teased with a wink.

Feeling slightly more confident, you smiled at them one last time before stepping out into the night.

Their cheers echoed down the hallway, and despite your nerves, you couldn’t help but grin as you made your way to meet Alessia.

As you stepped out of the hotel, you spotted Alessia leaning against her sleek car, scanning the area. When she saw you approaching, her face broke into a warm, welcoming smile.

“Hey,” she greeted softly, pulling you into a gentle hug.

“Hi,” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. She looked stunning, her long blonde hair cascading over her shoulders, and she was dressed similarly to you, wearing a puffy jacket to fend off the cold.

“Shall we go?” she asked, opening the car door for you. As she fumbled with the handle, she realized the door was locked and let out a nervous laugh. “Oops, looks like I locked the car,” she said, her cheeks flushing slightly as she tried again.

You couldn’t help but laugh at the situation. “No worries,” you said, trying to hide your amusement. “It happens.”

Alessia finally unlocked the door with a sheepish grin. “Thanks for being patient,” she said as you slid into the car.

The drive was smooth and relaxed. With soft music playing on the radio, you chatted casually. Alessia seemed to sense your nervousness and went out of her way to make you feel comfortable, easing the tension with her friendly demeanor and occasional playful comments.

——

The restaurant Alessia chose was perfect—a hidden gem that felt almost like a secret retreat from the world. The dim lighting, soft jazz music playing in the background, and the cozy ambiance created an intimate setting that immediately set you at ease.

As you both settled into your seats, Alessia flashed a warm, reassuring smile. “So, tell me something I don’t know about you,” she said, her tone light and inviting.

You chuckled nervously, “I’m not great at talking about myself. I usually prefer listening.”

Alessia raised an eyebrow playfully. “Oh, come on. I’m sure there’s more to you than what we see on the court. What’s something you’re passionate about outside of basketball?”

You hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath. “Well, I really enjoy painting. It’s a way for me to unwind after a tough game. Not many people know that.”

Alessia’s eyes lit up. “Painting? That’s awesome. What do you like to paint?”

You found yourself opening up more as the conversation flowed. “Landscapes mostly. It’s calming to recreate scenes from nature. It’s the complete opposite of the high-energy game.”

Alessia nodded, genuinely interested. “I get it. I have a similar escape with photography. It’s a different way to see the world and capture moments.”

The conversation effortlessly shifted between your shared passions and life experiences. Alessia was remarkably adept at making you feel comfortable, her genuine curiosity and empathy shining through.

As the evening wore on, you found yourself disclosing more than you’d planned. “You know, Emma, my manager, is really strict about my public image. She even told me I couldn’t come out or share anything personal.”

Alessia’s gaze softened. “That sounds really tough. I can imagine how exhausting it must be to constantly juggle who you really are with the persona you’re expected to maintain.”

You nodded, feeling a mix of relief and vulnerability. “It is. Sometimes it feels like I’m trapped in this persona that everyone expects, and it’s hard to be authentic.”

Alessia reached across the table, gently placing her hand over yours. “You don’t have to pretend with me. I see you for who you really are—an amazing person who’s just trying to find their way amidst all the noise.”

The warmth of her touch sent a comforting shiver through you. “Thank you, Alessia. It means a lot to hear that from someone who gets it.”

As she stroked your knuckles softly, you felt an incredible sense of ease and connection. “You know,” Alessia continued, “the person I see now is so different from the confident player I see on TV. You’re genuine and kind, and it’s refreshing.”

You smiled, feeling more relaxed than you had in a long time. “It’s strange, but it’s also nice. I feel like I can be myself around you.”

The night continued in this intimate, relaxed manner. Alessia’s ability to make you feel at ease, her genuine interest in your life, and the way she saw past the public facade made the evening unforgettable.

It wasn’t just a dinner; it was a rare opportunity to connect on a deeper level, away from the pressures and expectations of the outside world.

As the night drew to a close, Alessia drove you back to your hotel, and, to your surprise, she even accompanied you to the lobby.

“So, when are you leaving London?” Alessia asked, her voice gentle but tinged with nervousness.

You glanced at her, feeling a mix of warmth and unease. “The day after tomorrow,” you replied.

Alessia fidgeted with her keys, her eyes darting around as if searching for the right words. “Well, um… would you maybe want to have breakfast with me tomorrow? It could be a breakfast date, or just breakfast. You know, it doesn’t have to be a date if you’re not into it.”

You stumbled over your own words, your nerves palpable. “Um… yeah, I’d love to. Whether it’s a breakfast date or just breakfast... I mean, if it’s a date, then that’s, uh, great too!”

Alessia let out a nervous laugh, her cheeks turning a soft pink. “Yes, it can be a breakfast date, just like tonight. Or, you know, like tonight’s dinner, but in the morning.”

You tilted your head, trying to decipher her words. “So, was tonight, like, a date?”

Her gaze dropped to the ground, and she mumbled, “Well, kind of. Or it could have been just dinner between friends. But, um, I was hoping it felt a bit more like a date?”

“Oh! No, it definitely felt like a date! ” you responded, your excitement bubbling over.

Alessia’s laughter was light and endearing, filled with nervous relief. “I’m glad you think so.”

A moment of awkward silence followed, with both of you avoiding eye contact. Finally, Alessia spoke up. “So, um, breakfast date tomorrow at 9? Is that good for you?”

You nodded eagerly, trying to mask your anxiety. “Yeah, 9 works great for me.”

“Perfect,” Alessia said, her eyes twinkling as she smiled. “I had a really lovely time tonight. I’ll pick you up at 9 then.”

She hesitated, leaning in slightly as if unsure, and then placed a soft, fleeting kiss on your cheek. Your face flushed bright red, and you could feel your heart racing.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Alessia!” you managed to say, your voice a bit unsteady.

She smiled again, a little more confidently this time. “See you tomorrow.” With one last lingering look, she turned and walked away.

You watched her go, feeling both giddy and nervous. As you made your way to the elevator, you let out a deep, relieved sigh, your mind already racing with anticipation for the next day.

As you opened the door to your hotel room, your friends rushed in, their excitement palpable.

“How did it go?” Cameron asked, practically bouncing on her toes.

You grinned, recounting every detail of the evening. “It was amazing. Alessia and I went to this cozy restaurant, and we talked about everything from basketball to our lives outside the spotlight. She even asked me out for breakfast tomorrow.”

Cameron’s eyes widened. “Oh my gosh, you have a breakfast date with her? That’s incredible!”

The rest of the team crowded around you, their faces lit up with genuine happiness. “Tell us everything!” one of them exclaimed.

You laughed, describing how Alessia had been both charming and nervous, and how the evening had felt surprisingly comfortable despite the initial awkwardness. “She asked if it could be a date, and I was so flustered. I ended up saying it could be a date breakfast or just a regular one. It was really sweet and… kind of adorable.”

The room burst into cheers and playful teasing. “Y/N’s got another date!” Aari shouted.

Cameron, beaming, added, “I told you it was a date! I’m so glad you had a great time.”

Their enthusiasm was infectious, and you felt a wave of relief and happiness wash over you. Despite the nerves and the awkward moments, it had turned out to be a memorable evening.

“I’m really excited for tomorrow,” you said, smiling as you looked at your friends. “Thanks for being so supportive.”

“Of course! Now go get some rest—you have a big breakfast date ahead!” Cameron said, giving you a thumbs-up.

As you settled in for the night, you couldn’t help but replay the evening’s highlights in your mind, feeling grateful for the support and the unexpected connection with Alessia.

——

When Alessia got home, she immediately grabbed her phone and called her best friend Ella. Her excitement was palpable as she spoke.

“Ella, you will not believe how tonight went!” Alessia gushed into the phone. “Y/N is nothing like I expected. She’s actually really shy and so adorable. We had such a great time, and we’re going to have breakfast together tomorrow!”

Ella’s voice was filled with teasing delight. “Oh wow, someone’s smitten! I’m so happy for you, Alessia. You’ve got to tell me everything—what did you two talk about? Was it as magical as it sounds?”

Alessia laughed, her enthusiasm undiminished. “It really was. We talked about so much—her life, her struggles with being in the spotlight. She opened up more than I thought she would. It felt so natural and comfortable. I just can’t wait to see her again.”

After hanging up, Alessia settled into her bed, her mind buzzing with thoughts of the evening. She replayed their conversation, the way Y/N’s eyes lit up, and the soft laughter they shared. The anticipation of their breakfast date tomorrow made her smile as she drifted off to sleep, feeling a mix of excitement and contentment.

——

The next morning, Alessia picked you up promptly at 9, and instead of driving, you both decided to walk to the charming café she had chosen.

The crisp morning air was invigorating, and the short stroll allowed for easy conversation, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

As you walked side by side, you noticed how Alessia seemed to be both graceful and clumsy at the same time. A few times, she almost tripped over her own feet, her balance wavering with each misstep.

Once, she was so engrossed in conversation with you that she accidentally bumped into someone on the sidewalk. You both laughed, finding her small mishaps endearing.

When you arrived at the café, the quaint atmosphere was warm and inviting. The café had a cozy, intimate vibe, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. As you both sat down, Alessia's playful demeanor continued.

While reaching for her menu, Alessia’s fork slipped from her hand and clattered to the floor. She quickly bent down to retrieve it, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “Oops, sorry about that,” she said, her voice tinged with a nervous laugh. “I guess I’m a bit of a klutz this morning.”

You couldn’t help but smile, finding her genuine and endearing. “It’s fine. It just makes the morning more memorable.”

Alessia laughed, clearly relieved by your easygoing reaction. “I’m glad you think so. It’s nice to be with someone who doesn’t mind my little mishaps.”

As you chatted over breakfast, you felt yourself becoming more comfortable. Alessia shared stories from her childhood and football career, her animated gestures and bright smile making her stories come alive. You found yourself laughing and relaxing more with each passing minute.

“Tell me more about your childhood,” you asked, intrigued by her stories. “What was it like growing up?”

Alessia’s eyes lit up. “Well, I grew up in a small town, and football was pretty much the center of my world. My family was always supportive, and I had a lot of fun playing with my friends.”

As the conversation flowed effortlessly, you began to feel more at ease, noticing how Alessia’s clumsiness seemed to add to her charm.

She dropped her fork again, this time catching it with a laugh. “I guess I’m just having one of those days,” she said, grinning.

You shook your head, amused. “Well, I think it just makes you even more endearing.”

Alessia leaned in, her gaze soft and sincere. “I’m really glad we’re getting to know each other like this. It feels so natural.”

You nodded, a smile spreading across your face. “Me too. It’s been a really great morning.”

After finishing breakfast, you both made your way back to the hotel. As you walked and talked, her hand brushed lightly against yours. You hesitated, feeling a flutter of anticipation.

You longed to take her hand, to feel the warmth of her touch. Tentatively, your fingers inched closer, and with a mix of hesitation and hope, you gently intertwined them with hers.

She looked at you with a soft, knowing smile, her fingers lacing securely with yours as she held your hand tightly.

The gentle pressure of her hand against yours felt both exhilarating and calming.

Your cheeks warmed with a soft blush, and you smiled tenderly as Alessia swayed your hands back and forth, a quiet rhythm that felt intimate and reassuring.

Arriving at the hotel, you walked Alessia to her car.

“I really enjoyed our date,” you said, your voice filled with genuine warmth, still holding her hand.

Alessia lifted your hand to her lips, pressing a gentle kiss on your knuckles before drawing you closer. Her eyes sparkled with affection as she spoke. “Me too. I don’t want this to end. I want to spend more time with you.” Her voice was a soft, earnest plea as she let go of your hand, wrapping her arms around your waist and pulling you against her.

“Is this okay?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper, her breath mingling with yours. You nodded, a bit shy but eager.

“I don’t want to leave either, but you have training and I have interviews,” you said, placing your hands tenderly on her shoulders.

She sighed softly, her gaze steady and hopeful. “Are you free tonight?”

“Yes,” you responded with a gentle nod.

“How about one last date before you leave for LA? I can’t cook, but we could order some food and watch a movie at my place,” she proposed, her confidence growing with every word.

You felt her fingers brush softly against your back, and you leaned into her embrace, feeling the warmth and comfort of her closeness.

“I’d love that,” you whispered, your voice filled with sincerity and affection.

Your faces were inches apart, and you could feel the warmth of her breath on your skin. She leaned in slowly, her eyes searching yours for permission. You nodded, and with a tender, deliberate motion, she closed the distance between you.

When your lips finally met, the kiss was soft and tentative, full of the unspoken emotions you both felt.

You wrapped your arms around her neck, pulling her closer, and felt her arms tighten around your waist in response. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you in that perfect, fleeting moment.

It was unexpected to share your first kiss in a parking lot, but the location didn’t matter as much as the connection between you.

When you finally pulled away, you gazed into each other’s eyes, sharing one last gentle kiss. You could feel her smile against your lips, a tender, shared joy.

“I’ll see you tonight,” you said softly, pulling away with a smile that mirrored hers.

“See you tonight,” she replied, holding your hand for a lingering moment before letting go. You walked back to the hotel, your heart full and your face lit up with a beaming grin.

——

“What about this one?” Alessia asked, scrolling through Netflix as you both looked for a movie to watch.

After breakfast this morning, you had faced Emma’s reprimand for not being where you were supposed to be.

You had lied about your whereabouts, and now you were overwhelmed with a schedule packed with interviews, photoshoots, and other work commitments for the rest of the afternoon.

You hadn’t even had a chance to fully revel in the joy of your amazing date and first kiss with Alessia before being bombarded with work and Emma's demands.

The girls had been curiously probing about your date, and when you shared the details, they erupted into cheers and squeals, especially when you mentioned the kiss.

Throughout the day, Alessia and you stayed in touch through texts and discreet phone calls whenever you found a quiet moment. Her messages and calls provided a welcome escape and made the day pass more smoothly.

Now, you were in her cozy living room, having taken an Uber to avoid burdening her after her grueling training session.

You had ordered sushi, and the two of you enjoyed it together, laughing and sharing stories. The ease of conversation and shared laughter made the evening feel special.

Currently, you were curled up on her couch, a soft blanket draped over your lap as you both searched for a movie to watch.

“Yeah, sure, why not,” you replied, settling in and getting more comfortable. You were nestled close to her, your mind lingering on the kiss you had shared.

As the movie played, Alessia inched closer, her arm sliding around your shoulders and drawing you nearer. You rested your head on her shoulder, feeling a deep sense of contentment and warmth.

You reached for her free hand resting in her lap and intertwined your fingers with hers. The simple touch was incredibly soothing, providing a comforting escape from the stress of your day.

When the movie ended, it was late, and you knew it was time to head back to the hotel.

“I’m going to call an Uber,” you said, pulling out your phone and preparing to arrange your ride.

“No, no, no, I’m driving you,” Alessia insisted, taking your phone from your hand and heading towards the front door to grab her car keys.

“Alessia, it’s really okay. You must be tired. I don’t want you to drive me; go rest,” you said, reaching out to retrieve your phone, but she slipped it behind her back, making it out of reach.

“It’s okay; I want to. Plus, it’ll give us a bit more time together,” she said softly, her eyes meeting yours with a gentle intensity.

She then cupped your face in her hands, leaning in and capturing your lips in a tender kiss. You responded by wrapping your arms around her waist, pulling her closer and deepening the kiss.

When you finally pulled apart, she looked at you with a smile and said, “Let’s go,” unlocking the front door and leading you outside to her car.

In the car, as you drove, the reality of parting ways began to sink in, leaving you with a bittersweet feeling. The time spent with Alessia had been a refreshing break from your usual struggles and unhappiness. She had seen the real you and made those few days in London unforgettable.

Noticing your somber mood, Alessia placed her hand gently on your thigh, her touch soothing. You couldn’t help but smile at her comforting gesture.

As you arrived at the hotel, Alessia parked the car and immediately pulled you into a warm embrace. You buried your face in the crook of her neck, savoring her warmth and the closeness.

“I’m going to miss you a lot,” you admitted, your voice muffled against her skin.

“Me too,” she replied softly, her voice filled with genuine emotion.

You pulled back slightly and kissed her. The kiss began tenderly but quickly grew more passionate as your lips and tongues danced together. The intensity of the kiss conveyed the depth of your feelings.

After a few moments, you pulled away, and she smiled at you with a mixture of sadness and affection.

“We’ll text and call each other, okay? It’ll be challenging because of the time difference, but remember, you can call me anytime. I’ll always be here,” Alessia said, her thumb caressing your cheek.

“Okay, and you can call me too. I’ll always answer,” you promised, leaning into her touch and giving her another gentle kiss.

After sharing a few more soft kisses, you reluctantly parted ways. It was getting late, and Alessia needed to return home to rest for her early morning training.

You began walking away, turning to wave at her. She waved back and blew you a kiss, which you caught with a smile.

Both of you were surprised by how difficult it was to say goodbye after only three days, but it was clear that these brief moments together had created a meaningful connection.

——

You’ve been back in Los Angeles for four weeks now, and saying that you miss Alessia doesn’t even begin to cover it.

You’ve been texting and FaceTiming every day since you returned, but it’s been tough because both of you are busy and the time difference is a constant challenge.

Still, you’ve made it work. You’ve managed to have virtual dates where she’s having dinner while you’re having lunch. It’s not ideal, but you’ve made it work.

“I think I prefer the ponytail,” you told Alessia as she got ready for her training session.

It was midnight for you and 9 a.m. for Alessia. You were laying in bed, feeling the heavy pull of sleep but wanting to stay awake to see her.

“Okay, ponytail it is,” she said with a playful grin, pulling her hair into a neat ponytail before turning back to the screen. “You know, I love how you always notice the little things.”

She smiled at you with that warm, familiar look. “You should really go to sleep, love. You look like you’re about to fall over. I don’t want you to be sleepy on my account.”

You both had started calling each other cute nicknames, though you weren’t exactly sure where things stood. It was casual for now, but there was a lot of affection between you.

“I don’t want to miss any chance to talk with you,” you said, your eyes fluttering closed despite your efforts to stay awake.

Alessia giggled softly, her laughter a comforting sound. “Well, when you wake up, you can call me and we’ll continue our little chat. I’ll be having dinner, and you’ll be having breakfast. It’s like we’re having a date across time zones.”

“That sounds perfect,” you said with a yawn. “Have a great morning, babe.”

“And you have a wonderful night, baby,” she said soothingly, her voice a gentle lullaby. “Sleep tight, and dream of me.”

You managed a sleepy smile before the call ended. As you drifted off, you felt a warm sense of connection, eagerly anticipating the next time you’d be together.

——

Tonight, you had a match and were warming up with your team. Alessia had wished you good luck earlier, but sadly, she wouldn’t be able to watch since it was too late in England.

On the court, you focused on giving a stellar performance, brimming with confidence and cockiness. Naturally, you won the game.

As soon as the final whistle blew, Emma pounced on you like a hawk. “Great game, but don’t get too comfortable,” she said sharply. “You need to sign autographs, take photos, and then we have the press conference.”

You tried to catch your breath, but Emma was relentless. “Seriously, Emma? Can I have a minute to breathe?” you asked, your frustration evident.

Emma fixed you with a hard stare. “No, you don’t get a minute. This is part of the job. The fans expect it, and the media demands it. You’re going to do it, and you’re going to do it now.”

You sighed heavily. “I’m exhausted. Can’t this wait?”

“No,” she snapped, her tone brooking no argument. “You’re the star player, and that means your time isn’t your own. Besides, think of it as practice for the bigger stage. We have to maintain appearances.”

Your patience was wearing thin. “I’ve got a few days off starting tonight. I really need this time to unwind.”

Emma’s expression hardened. “You can have your days off after you’ve done your duties. Want to enjoy that time? Then put in the work now and stop arguing with me.”

With a defeated nod, you headed off to handle the post-match obligations. The thought of those precious days off was the only thing keeping you going as you endured the endless rounds of autographs and photos.

——

“Congratulations on your win, baby! You were absolutely amazing,” Alessia’s voice came through, filled with admiration.

She had watched the game replay and was genuinely impressed by how well you played.

“You know,” she teased, “that cockiness on the court—it’s like you’re two different people. I love how you’re all fierce and confident out there, but so sweet and caring when you’re off the court.”

You smiled softly, feeling a wave of relief. “I can finally relax now. I have the whole week off.”

“That’s wonderful! What’s your plan?” she asked, stretching out comfortably on her bed.

You sighed playfully, “Well, my family is on vacation, so I’ll be on my own. I was thinking of just lounging in bed all week.”

Alessia’s eyes brightened as she suggested hesitantly, “Hey… maybe you could come to England? We could spend the week together. I only have one match and the rest of the week off… only if you want to, of course.

Your face lit up with excitement. “Yes! I’d love to come to England and see you play in person! That sounds perfect.”

Alessia’s smile mirrored yours. “I’d love that too, more than anything. I miss you so much, baby.”

“I miss you more, Alessia,” you said, admiring her through the phone. “Will you stay on the line until I fall asleep? I’ll book my plane ticket tomorrow.”

“Of course, I’ll stay with you,” she said warmly, turning onto her side as she gazed at you through the screen while you propped your phone up on your pillow.

“Goodnight, sweet dreams,” she whispered softly.

“Good morning,” you replied, knowing it was morning for her. She chuckled lightly as you drifted off, comforted by her presence on the phone.

——

You were navigating your way through the London airport, eager to meet Alessia. She had texted you that she was waiting for you in the parking lot, and you could hardly contain your excitement.

As you approached the parking area, you spotted her almost immediately—her bright blonde hair stood out even in the bustling lot. With a wide smile on your face, you called out her name. She looked up, her eyes lighting up as she saw you.

You quickened your pace, and she rushed to meet you halfway. She wrapped you in a warm, tight embrace, her arms holding you close as you giggled, feeling the weight of the past month apart melt away.

“It’s so wonderful to see you in person again” you murmured into her shoulder, pulling back slightly to look into her eyes. You pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek, and her cheeks flushed a lovely shade of pink.

“Wow, you’re even more stunning in real life than on my screen,” she teased playfully, her eyes twinkling with affection. You couldn’t help but laugh, her words making your heart flutter.

“Let’s head out,” she said, taking your suitcase with ease. You both walked to her car, and once you were inside, she started driving. The car was filled with a comfortable silence, only broken by the soft melodies of the radio.

As the car came to a red light, you felt Alessia’s gaze on you. You turned to her with a teasing smile, asking, “What’s on your mind?”

“Nothing much,” she replied softly, her voice full of warmth. “I’m just so happy you’re here with me.” Her words made your heart race, and you felt a shy blush creeping onto your cheeks.

Feeling a rush of affection, you leaned closer and asked, “Can I kiss you?” Alessia’s smile grew even wider as she nodded, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. You closed the gap between you, your lips meeting in a sweet, lingering kiss.

The kiss quickly grew more passionate, her tongue gently exploring yours. The moment was blissful until a sudden honk from another car startled you both. You pulled away, laughing together as you realized the light had turned green.

Arriving at her house, Alessia guided you to the guest bedroom you’d be sleeping in. You thanked her with a heartfelt hug before collapsing onto the bed, utterly exhausted from your journey.

Alessia chuckled softly and joined you on the bed, her presence comforting. As you settled beside her, you turned to face her, and she looked at you with such adoration.

You reached out, capturing her lips in a slow, tender kiss. Her hands traced soothing circles on your back beneath your shirt, and you felt a sense of contentment and love that you hadn’t felt in weeks.

After what seemed like an eternity of gentle kisses, you pulled back, feeling a bit uncomfortable from the long flight. “I think I really need a shower; I feel a bit gross,” you admitted with a sheepish smile.

Alessia laughed softly and guided you towards the bathroom. “Go freshen up, love. I’ll be here waiting for you,” she said, her voice filled with affection. As you walked away, you felt her eyes on you, and you knew that despite the exhaustion, this moment was everything you had been longing for.

That evening, you and Alessia were having dinner together. Of course, you had taken charge in the kitchen, since Alessia had admitted more than once that cooking wasn’t her strong suit.

The cozy atmosphere was perfect—the soft clinking of utensils, the warm lighting, and just the two of you enjoying a quiet evening. But there was something on your mind, a question you had been wanting to ask for a while.

As you played with your fork, gathering the courage, you finally spoke. “So... what are we?” you asked, your voice soft but curious, glancing up at her from across the table.

Alessia blinked, her face showing a moment of surprise as she considered your question. “Well... we can be whatever you want us to be, I guess?” she said, her tone gentle, though there was a hint of nervousness behind her smile.

You bit your lip, heart racing as you decided to go for it. “I was thinking... maybe we could be official?” You paused, feeling butterflies in your stomach. “Like... I’d be your girlfriend?”

For a brief second, Alessia’s eyes widened, but then her entire face softened into the sweetest smile. “I’d love that. I’d love to be your girlfriend,” she said, her voice filled with sincerity.

Your heart felt like it was soaring, and without thinking, you leaned across the table to give her a soft, lingering kiss, smiling against her lips. When you pulled away, you couldn’t help but whisper, “My girlfriend.”

Alessia’s cheeks flushed a soft pink, and she giggled shyly. “And you’re my girlfriend,” she whispered back, her eyes shining with happiness.

You both sat there, grinning like fools, the warmth of the moment wrapping around you. Then Alessia added, “I can’t believe this is real. I’ve been wanting to ask you the same thing, but... I didn’t want to rush you.”

You laughed softly, reaching for her hand across the table. “I guess we both wanted the same thing.”

She squeezed your hand gently, her thumb brushing over your knuckles. “Well, I’m glad you said something first. I’m so happy right now,” she said, her eyes never leaving yours.

Dinner was momentarily forgotten as the two of you sat there, basking in the joy of finally making things official, unable to stop smiling at each other.

——

“Okay, baby, I’m going to go now,” Alessia called out, hurrying through the living room, grabbing her bag and keys.

She was clearly in a rush, her shoes tapping against the floor as she moved back and forth, double-checking that she had everything.

Today was match day, and though the game wasn’t until the afternoon, Alessia had to leave early for team prep and meetings. Her excitement was clear, but so was the usual pre-game focus.

“Alright, love. I’ll see you at the match later,”you replied from your spot at the kitchen table, casually eating breakfast. A small smile played on your lips as you watched her buzz around the room.

Alessia paused for a second, turning toward you. She walked over and placed her warm hand gently on the back of your neck, tilting your head up to meet her gaze. “Come here,” she whispered, leaning down to kiss you softly, her lips brushing against yours in a few quick pecks.

“Text me when you get there, okay?”she murmured, her breath warm against your lips as she lingered just inches from your face.

You smiled, kissing her back a little longer this time before pulling away. “I will. Promise.”

With one last look, Alessia gave you a bright smile, kissed the top of your head, and dashed out the door, leaving the house feeling a little quieter in her absence. The sound of the door closing echoed, and you were left sitting there, lost in thought.

Being with Alessia always filled you with this sense of peace and contentment. It was like the rest of the world and all its stressors faded away—no more work pressure, no cameras, no dealing with negativity or drama, not even the lingering thoughts of Emma. Just you, Alessia, and the affection you shared.

The match wasn’t for a few more hours, so you decided to spend the morning downtown. After getting dressed, you called an Uber and left the house, heading into the heart of the city for a bit of exploring.

After walking around for a while, you unexpectedly found yourself in front of the Emirates Stadium.

The sheer size of it caught your attention, and you remembered Alessia mentioning it before—how proud she was that they played some of their matches there and how they’d broken attendance records. It was a special place for her.

Out of curiosity, you wandered into the stadium’s shop. The store was packed with merchandise—scarves, mugs, and jerseys from various players. Your eyes immediately caught sight of a familiar name: Russo. Alessia’s jersey was hanging right there in front of you.

You walked over, running your fingers across the fabric, admiring her name printed boldly across the back. You couldn’t help but smile, thinking of her out there on the pitch, doing what she loved.

But then you hesitated. Was it too soon to buy it? You hadn’t been together for that long. Would she find it cheesy? Or maybe she’d feel pressured? You weren't sure how she’d react to seeing you wear her jersey so early in the relationship.

Then again, you wanted to show her how proud you were, how much you supported her, not just as a girlfriend but as someone who admired her talent and passion. After a moment of deliberation, you picked the jersey off the rack, holding it up with a grin.

Screw it, you thought. You were buying it.

As you made your way to the register, you couldn't help but imagine Alessia’s reaction when she saw you wearing her name. Would she be surprised? Happy? You hoped it would make her smile the way she made you smile every day.

——

Arriving at the stadium, you were immediately struck by the electric atmosphere. The place was buzzing, packed with men, women, and children all decked out in various jerseys.

Some fans were singing team chants at the top of their lungs, others laughing and chatting with excitement. As you scanned the crowd, a few Russo jerseys caught your eye, and it brought a smile to your face, knowing how proud Alessia would be to see her name out there.

Sticking to your promise, you quickly sent Alessia a text: "I’m here!" before heading inside to find your seat. The stadium felt even larger from the inside, and the anticipation building in the crowd was contagious.

Settling into your seat, you began scrolling through your social media, casually passing the time.

Suddenly, the crowd erupted into cheers, and you looked up to see the Arsenal women’s team emerging from the tunnel for their warm-up. Your eyes immediately found Alessia, her figure unmistakable as she jogged to the center of the field.

There was something about her that captivated you in that moment. Dressed in her training kit, she looked completely in her element, focused yet calm.

Her hair was tied up in a neat ponytail, and the way she moved was almost hypnotic. You couldn’t take your eyes off her—she was stunning, both as an athlete and as your girlfriend.

As Alessia stretched and warmed up, you noticed her sneaking glances toward the stands, scanning the crowd. It was obvious she was looking for you.

When her eyes finally landed on you, her face lit up, and you waved, feeling your heart skip a beat as she waved back with a huge smile. Her gaze shifted to your jersey, and for a moment, you could see the curiosity in her expression as she squinted slightly, trying to make out the name on the back.

She pointed at your jersey with a grin, giving you a thumbs up, and you knew exactly what she was thinking—she was hoping it was her name you were wearing. You smiled back at her, standing up slightly to show off the back, and she gave a little fist pump, clearly pleased.

With a playful smile, she blew you a kiss, and even from the distance, she could you her cheeks flush slightly as you caught it with a laugh before returning to her warm-up routine.

It was a small, intimate moment in the middle of a crowded stadium, but it felt like it was just the two of you.

——

The final whistle echoed through the stadium, marking the end of the match. Arsenal had won, and Alessia had scored two breathtaking goals. The stands erupted in cheers, fans chanting for their heroes as the players exchanged handshakes on the pitch.

After the formalities, the Arsenal players began their lap around the stadium, waving to the fans and stopping for photos.

Alessia made her way closer to your section, taking the time to chat with fans, especially the young ones. It was heartwarming to watch her interact with them—so sweet and patient, laughing with them, even signing shirts and taking selfies.

The kids clearly idolized her, and seeing that made your heart swell with pride. You couldn’t help but feel lucky to be hers.

From where you stood, you debated whether you should go over and talk to her. Part of you wanted to be close, but you weren’t sure if Alessia wanted to be seen with you in front of all these people.

You’d been keeping a low profile, not wanting to attract too much attention. Wearing a hat was your attempt at blending in, though you weren’t sure how much it actually helped.

Then there was the Emma factor. If she found out you were at an Arsenal match in a Russo jersey, she would flip.

The dating rumors would undoubtedly blow up, and with Emma so intent to keep your sexuality hidden, it could lead to trouble. Not for you, but certainly for her. You didn’t want to complicate things.

Sighing, you decided not to approach. Instead, you started making your way out of the stadium, feeling a little disappointed but knowing it was probably the right decision. Before leaving, you quickly texted Alessia:

*Heading back to your place now. See you soon*

As Alessia continued signing autographs, her eyes scanned the crowd again, looking for you. But when she didn’t see you, a flicker of worry crossed her face.

Where had you gone? Did something happen? Did you not enjoy the match? She tried to stay focused on the fans, but the nagging thoughts kept surfacing.

Once she finished up and made her way to her car, she switched on her phone and saw your message. Her brows furrowed as she read it.

You had left without saying goodbye. Confused and slightly concerned, she dialed your number immediately.

The phone barely rang before you picked up. “Hi, babe! Great match!” you said cheerfully, hoping to ease any tension.

“Thanks,” Alessia replied, though you could hear the worry in her voice. “But are you okay? Why did you leave so early? I wanted to see you after the match.”

Hearing her concern made your heart melt. “Oh… I didn’t know if you’d want me to come up to you with all those people around. You know how it is with rumors. I wasn’t sure how you’d feel.”

“Baby, of course I wanted to see you,” Alessia said, her voice softening. “I don’t care about rumors. Do you?”

“I mean, I don’t either… but with Emma and my contracts, I didn’t want to stir things up. You know how she is. I just didn’t want to get into trouble, but I really wanted to come up to you,” you admitted, feeling a bit guilty.

Alessia sighed, her voice affectionate. “I understand, love”

“I’ll make it up to you, I promise. I just didn’t want to cause any issues today.”

“It’s okay, I get it,” she reassured you. “I’m on my way home now, so I’ll see you soon, alright?”

“Yeah, okay. I’ll be waiting for you,” you replied with a smile.

“Good. And hey, next time, don’t hesitate, okay? I want you there,” she added softly, before hanging up.

As you hung up the phone, you couldn’t stop smiling. Hearing how much she wanted you there eased your worries, and you were already looking forward to seeing her again in just a little while.

——

When Alessia stepped through the door, she was immediately welcomed by the comforting smell of food cooking. Curiosity piqued, she wandered into the kitchen and found you standing by the stove, still dressed in her jersey, completely focused on preparing dinner.

You hadn’t noticed her yet, so with a mischievous smile, she quietly snuck up behind you, wrapping her arms around your waist. The sudden touch made you jump a little, nearly spilling what was in your hands.

“Ah! Alessia, you scared me!” you gasped, turning your head slightly to look at her.

She giggled softly, the sound warm and playful. “Sorry, love,” she mumbled with her chin now resting on your shoulder, her body gently pressed against yours. You were both the same height, and the way she fit perfectly against you felt natural, comforting.

Without missing a beat, she planted a soft kiss on your cheek. “By the way, my jersey looks so good on you,” she whispered teasingly, her breath warm against your skin.

You couldn’t help but grin. “Does it really?” you teased back, leaning into her slightly as she started to sway the two of you gently from side to side, like it was the most natural thing in the world.

“Mmm, yep,” she hummed. “But you know, you could’ve just asked, and I’d have given you one of my old jerseys,” she said with a cheeky smile against your cheek, her lips brushing against your skin.

You giggled, feeling your heart warm at her playfulness. “Too late for that,” you replied with a soft smile, enjoying the closeness.

“Well then, I’ll just have to get one of yours!” Alessia said, her voice full of excitement. “That way, when I come to the U.S. to watch one of your matches, I’ll wear it.”

Surprised, you turned your head slightly more to look at her. “You’d really come to one of my games?” you asked, the disbelief clear in your voice. None of your so-called friends—or even past partners—had ever made the effort to come to one of your matches.

Alessia pulled you in tighter, resting her chin on your shoulder again as she softly replied, “Of course I will. I want to see you play in person, not just on TV. We can be each other’s WAGs.” She laughed lightly, the sound making your heart flutter, as she nuzzled her nose against your neck.

You turned around fully in her arms, your face lighting up. “You really want to watch me play?” you asked, still amazed by how supportive she was.

She grinned, her eyes sparkling. “Absolutely. I can’t wait to see the cocky, confident Y/N on the field. Because the Y/N I know is shy and adorable.” She rubbed her nose against yours playfully, her gaze softening as she looked at you.

Your cheeks flushed at her words, feeling a little bashful. “You’re making me blush,” you said, lightly slapping her shoulder with a laugh, before leaning in to kiss her gently.

Alessia kissed you back softly, her hands resting on your waist as she smiled against your lips. When you pulled away, she brushed her thumb tenderly across your cheek. “You know, you don’t have to be nervous about me coming to your games. I’ll always be cheering for you.”

Her words melted your heart, and you leaned your forehead against hers, the warmth between you two undeniable. “I guess I just never expected anyone to actually want to come watch me play,” you admitted quietly.

“Well, I do,” she said softly, her gaze full of affection. “And I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Hearing that made you feel a kind of happiness you hadn’t felt in a long time. Knowing Alessia was willing to support you in such a meaningful way filled you with gratitude and joy. You were already looking forward to the day she’d be in the stands, proudly wearing your jersey, just as you had done for her today.

After dinner, you and Alessia settled on the couch, cozying up together to watch a movie. The warmth and comfort of the evening were abruptly interrupted when your phone rang. You glanced at the screen and saw Emma’s name, which immediately made you sit up, causing Alessia to look at you in confusion.

“What’s wrong?” Alessia asked, her voice filled with concern.

“It’s Emma,” you replied nervously. “She never calls me. She only texts, and when she calls, it’s usually bad news.”

You answered the call and put it on speaker, so Alessia could hear too. Emma’s voice blared through the speaker, sharp and accusing.

“Y/N!?” Emma’s voice was full of anger, making your eyes widen in alarm.

“Yes?” you answered, trying to sound calm.

Emma took a long, frustrated breath before launching into her tirade. “Can you explain to me why I woke up to rumors about you dating a woman soccer player? It’s all over social media! How did you manage to get yourself into this mess?”

Your gaze darted to Alessia, who looked equally shocked. You tried to maintain a calm demeanor, though you were clearly distressed.

“I… um, I don’t know,” you said, trying to play innocent.

“So you have no idea how you magically ended up at an Arsenal game wearing an Alessia Russo jersey? And don’t even get me started on the picture of her blowing you a kiss on the field!” Emma’s sarcasm was palpable, her frustration evident.

You glanced at Alessia, who looked as if she was struggling to remain composed. She squeezed your hand reassuringly, her support evident.

“Okay, yes, I went to the Arsenal game,” you admitted. “But nothing really happened. We barely interacted. People can still think we’re just friends. That kiss was the only thing that happened.”

Emma’s tone grew even more hostile. “Oh, really? Because if you’d bothered to check social media, you’d see that there’s a picture of you two making out in a parking lot! Not only did you flaunt this relationship during the day, but you also lied to me about where you were this morning!”

“I… I didn’t know,” you stammered, feeling the tears start to well up. Alessia’s hand was still in yours, and her grip tightened slightly in a gesture of comfort.

“Do you have any idea what this means for you?” Emma’s voice was now a sharp, cutting edge. “No contracts, no sponsors. Your career is in serious jeopardy. Do you realize how screwed you are?”

“I—” you began, but Emma cut you off with a cutting edge.

“Save it. Don’t say another word. Just let me handle this,” Emma snapped before ending the call abruptly.

The sudden silence in the room was heavy. Tears began to fall as you felt overwhelmed by the weight of Emma’s harsh words. Alessia’s heart broke for you. She pulled you into her arms, holding you tightly and rubbing your back soothingly. For a while, you just let her comfort you in silence, feeling the warmth of her embrace.

“I’m really sorry,” you whispered after a few moments, your voice muffled against her shoulder as you snifflled.

“For what?” Alessia asked softly, gently pulling your face away from her shoulder so she could see your eyes.

“Everyone knows now,” you said, your voice trembling with concern. “I didn’t know if you’d be okay with everyone knowing about us. We never talked about it.”

Alessia’s expression softened, her eyes filled with affection. “I don’t care that everyone knows. It’s nobody’s business but ours,” she reassured you with a tender smile.

She was truly unbothered by the public attention. Her happiness with you was what mattered most to her. Being out in the open didn’t change that.

“And it’s absolutely not your fault,” Alessia continued, her voice firm but gentle. “I’m the one who kissed you in the parking lot. If anyone should apologize, it’s me.” She caressed your cheek softly, her gaze full of sincerity.

“No, it’s not your fault either… I’m happy you kissed me,” you said, managing a small, grateful smile.

Alessia’s smile widened, her eyes sparkling with love. “I’m glad I kissed you too,” she said, leaning in to place the softest, most reassuring kiss on your lips.

She then took your phone and turned it off, placing it aside. “Let’s not worry about that tonight. Let’s just focus on being together and go to bed,” she suggested, gently helping you to your feet as you nodded and turned off the TV.

As you made your way to the hallway, Alessia paused and turned to you, a touch of nervousness in her voice. “Do you want to sleep with me?” she asked hesitantly.

You looked at her, a bit surprised by the question.

“I mean, just sleep together. Not anything else,” she rambled nervously, her cheeks flushing. “Though, yes, I’d like to… you know, in the future, if you want,of course! But for now, I just meant to sleep, to close our eyes together.”

You couldn’t help but smile at her endearing nervousness, finding her adorable. “Of course, I’d love to close my eyes with you,” you teased, making her giggle.

You followed her to her room, and as you both lay down facing each other, Alessia draped her arms around your waist, pulling you close. She kissed you softly. “Good night, baby,” she whispered, her hands soothingly rubbing your back.

Feeling completely relaxed, you whispered back, “Good night, babe,” before closing your eyes. You and Alessia drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other’s arms, feeling more connected and at peace than ever.

——

The next morning, you woke up to the gentle sensation of soft kisses being pressed all over your face. You let out a contented hum, still half-asleep.

"Good morning," Alessia’s raspy morning voice greeted you, her face beaming with a soft smile as your eyes fluttered open to meet hers.

“I made you breakfast… well, at least I tried,” she chuckled, clearly proud of her effort. You giggled in response, but as she leaned in for a kiss, you playfully turned your head, causing her lips to land on your cheek.

“Hey!” Alessia whined, pouting a little.

“Morning breath,” you teased, smirking as you kissed her cheek in return before slipping out of bed. Together, you made your way to the bathroom to freshen up.

“I’ll wait for you in the kitchen,” she said, flashing you another one of those soft smiles, and you nodded, watching her leave with a warm feeling in your chest.

After washing up, you found Alessia in the kitchen. She looked up at you with that hopeful gleam in her eyes. “Can I have my kiss now, please?” she asked, grinning. You giggled and leaned down to press a soft kiss on her lips before sitting down at the table.

“Thank you, Less. This looks really good,” you said, grateful for her effort. You both ate quietly, enjoying the moment, but a sense of calm was soon interrupted.

After breakfast, you turned on your phone, and immediately, it blew up with missed calls and texts, mostly from your teammates and, predictably, Emma.

Your social media was flooded with the picture of you and Alessia kissing in that parking lot. Some of the comments were harsh, filled with judgment and nastiness. You sighed, feeling the weight of it all.

Alessia, noticing the shift in your mood, slid her chair closer and gently placed a hand on your arm. “Please, don't read those comments,” she said softly, her eyes filled with concern. “Don’t let them dictate how you live your life. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.”

Her voice was steady but filled with emotion. “No matter what you decide, I’m here, always. I know we’ve only been officially together for less than a week, but I care so much about you. I don’t want to lose you over this.”

Her words hit you deeply, making your heart swell. She was right—you had spent too long letting others control your life, dictate your happiness, and stifle who you were. That needed to change, and it needed to happen now.

“You’re right,” you said, finally feeling that resolve settle in. Without hesitation, you dialed Emma’s number. It was past midnight in LA, but you didn’t care. You knew she was awake anyway, probably plotting her next move.

The call rang a few times before Emma answered, her voice harsh and impatient. “Finally, you pick up. I’ve been calling you a thousands times! Now listen—here’s what we’re going to do—”

You cut her off, your voice firm and steady. “No, you listen to me.”

There was silence on the other end as Emma, likely shocked by your tone, waited.

“I don’t care about the sponsors, the contracts, or what the media is going to say. Do you hear me? Here’s what’s going to happen: I’m coming out, and I’m doing it today.”

You could hear Emma start to protest, but you shut her down before she could even get a word in. “No, shut up and listen. I’m tired of you controlling my life. I’m 22, Emma. I’m an adult. I’m done with this.”

“You’re going to ruin your career!” Emma’s voice was sharp, dripping with scorn.

You took a deep breath, the weight of your words heavy but resolute. “I’d rather risk ruining my career and be happy than keep pretending to be someone I’m not and stay miserable.”

“As your manager—” she tried again, but this time, you didn’t let her finish.

“Oh, right. I almost forgot to mention: you’re not my manager anymore. You’re fired.” The words spilled out with finality, and before Emma could respond with more venom, you ended the call and tossed your phone onto the table.

For a moment, there was silence. Alessia, who had been quietly observing, was staring at you, her eyes wide in admiration and surprise.

“Um… was that okay? Did I go too far?” you asked nervously, suddenly second-guessing yourself.

Without hesitation, Alessia cupped your face in her hands and kissed you deeply, her lips warm and soft against yours. When she pulled away, she smiled. “You were absolutely perfect,” she whispered, her voice filled with pride.

You smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over you. You were finally in control of your own life, and Alessia was right there with you, every step of the way.

——

“You’re going to put on a show for your girl tonight,” Cam teased with a grin, watching as you blushed at her words.

“Absolutely,” you replied confidently, heading onto the court as the match was about to start. “I plan to make it unforgettable.”

It’s been about a month since you came out and fired Emma. Initially, it was tough to manage with brand deals, media attention, and people talking about your personal life.

But over time, things settled down, and people moved on. Although you and Alessia still occasionally receive hate, you’ve learned not to let it bother you.

As you took your position, you glanced to your right and immediately spotted Alessia in the front row, just as she had promised, wearing your jersey. She gave you a playful wink, and you responded by blowing her a kiss. Her grin widened, filled with excitement and pride as she caught the kiss.

The match began with intense energy. You played with a mix of flair and precision, showing off your skills and determination. Every move was calculated to impress not just the crowd, but especially Alessia. At one point, you executed a particularly stunning maneuver, and with a confident smirk, you glanced in Alessia’s direction. She caught your eye and winked back, her teasing smile clearly enjoying your performance.

By the end of the game, you had secured a decisive victory. Your performance was not just strong but spectacular, as you’d promised. The crowd was buzzing, but your main focus was on Alessia.

As you approached the sidelines, you locked eyes with her, giving her a playful wink. She responded with a wide, teasing smile and a little wave, clearly thrilled by your performance.

——

Back home, as you and Alessia snuggled on the couch, you couldn’t help but reflect on the evening’s events.

“You were absolutely amazing out there,” Alessia said, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

“Thanks,” you replied, your smile wide and satisfied. “I really wanted to make it a memorable night for you.”

Alessia nestled closer, her hand resting on yours. “You definitely did. I’ve never seen you play with such confidence and flair. It was like you were in your element.”

You sighed contentedly, looking into her eyes. “It feels incredible to hear you say that. I’ve worked so hard to get to this point, to be this person. And having you here, cheering me on, makes it all the more special.”

Alessia smiled softly. “You’ve always been amazing, but now you’re truly shining. It’s like you’ve found yourself, and it’s beautiful to see.”

You nodded, feeling a deep sense of fulfillment. “It’s true. For the longest time, I felt lost, trying to fit into other people’s expectations. But now, I’m finally being who I truly am. No more trying to live up to Emma’s standards or anyone else’s. I’m proud of who I’ve become, and I’m so happy to have you by my side.”

Alessia squeezed your hand. “I’m proud of you too. You deserve all this happiness and more. Seeing you so confident and joyful is everything to me.”

As you held her close, you felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Your life was exactly where you wanted it to be. You had a fantastic girlfriend who supported and admired you, you had embraced your true self, and there was no more negativity from the past.

For the first time in a long time, you felt genuinely happy and content, knowing you were living your life authentically.

FIN

[pr1dek1ng]

If You Need Me, Call Me

Alexia Putellas x Explorer!R Pt.2 in the 'I Would Climb Every Mountain With You' Universe.

Hi Guys, Thank you for all the love on the first part in this series. This is part 2 that I didn't expect to write. I have an inability to not write angst. TW: Claustrophobia. Injury. Events are not based on any real life events. Part two of I Would Climb Every Mountain With You. I would recommend you read that first, for some context. But you can do what you want really ;-)

You and Alexia had been together, happily, for a year. And it was happily. Though. ‘Together’ is probably being quite liberal with the word. And. You suppose. ‘Happily’ is also being quite liberal with the word. You loved Alexia. 

And Alexia loved you. 

That was clear to both of you. You admitted it early, before she’d even left UK soil after she’d come back with you from your first meeting. She’d rolled her eyes at you and the nerves on your face as you lay in bed together in your pokey Cumbrian flat, and kissed the words from your lips; ‘well duh, of course you do. And I love you.’ which made you laugh and fall into her lips again. But it wasn’t even 12 hours later that you’d had to separate with her season starting again and her need to be in Spain. Her teammates had teased her relentlessly on her return. How she’d U-Hauled with the Jefa de montaña and ran away to the rainey island she so famously disliked just to spend another day together. She'd rolled her eyes and slapped the back of a few heads but it was true. That is what she had done. She’d been overjoyed when she spotted you in the crowd on the first home game of the season. You’d made the surprise trip to Barcelona at the last minute, employing Ingrid to get a ticket in the friends and family section for you. The smile on the Captain's face as she spotted you could be seen from space. You had winked at her and proudly gestured to your brand new Barcelona jersey, Alexias number proudly splayed across your back. As the game ended, with a convincing win for the home team, she’d made a beeline for you in the stands. Jumping over the barrier and embracing you like you hadn’t seen each other for months (oh how used to that feeling you would become), rather than a couple of weeks. “I thought that you preferred rugby?” she had teased you. “Ah, I do, but no one told me how hot the captain in blue and red was” you’d replied, with a wink. Enjoying the blush you’d created on her face, before it was your turn to blush as Alexias eyes darted to your right and greeted, “Mami! Hola!” and embraced a small women in a shirt matching yours who was definitely standing within hearing distance. Just over her shoulder a carbon-copy of Alexia was lurking, a childlike grin on her face and twinkle in her eyes. “Ah, and this is mi hermana Alba!” she had introduced you. ‘Well, nothing like diving in headfirst’ you thought to yourself, as you were introduced to your apparently-new girlfriend's family, as that's what you had just been introduced as, with a squeeze of your hand and a kiss to the side of your head. The Putellas family embraced you with all the enthusiasm in the world. Alba kept you entertained and asked you a million and one questions as you waited for Alexia to be finished with her media and captain duties. Before you knew it you were at an impromptu meet-the-new-english-girlfriend party at the Putellas residence, sharing food with seemingly everyone who had ever been related to Alexia as well as their next door neighbours. Sharing wine, food, and lots of baby Alexia pictures. So yes. You had both moved fast. Maybe it was the speed which you were going that would soon become your downfall. You were moving a million miles an hour and the warning signs were a blur that you couldn’t quite make out. Of those first 6 months, you were on an exhibition for 4. You had travelled to Patagonia to climb some of the last unclaimed peaks on the planet with the National Geographic Society. They were unreachable by road or even yak. You had to sail to the bottom of South America and then move your way up on foot.  It was arduous, it was treacherous, but you found satisfaction and joy in the difficulty.

You become the first person and only woman to ever summit Orjos del Salado and, as you snapped a picture at the top, all you thought was how excited you were to share your achievement with Alexia. As you’d called her a week later from a dive-bar in a shanty town in central Argentina you could hear the pride and relief in her voice, even through the terrible connection. It was the first time you had been able to contact her in a month.

But you’d gone straight from there to leading some American businessmen through the Amazon on a 3 week river and hiking exhibition. It paid handsomely, you’d explained to the disappointed blonde, you couldn’t turn it down.

You returned to Barcelona in time to spend a week together before Alexia left for a two week international camp.  Which was then followed by a week long trip for her to Norway, as part of their group stage champions league campaign.

You’d joined her there, soaking as much time together as possible between her matches and training sessions. Maybe it was then that the cracks had begun to show. As you had woken early to pick her up from her hotel to go for an early morning walk and grab some coffee before her media duties. You had been walking hand in hand in the early morning sunshine. You had been half-way through a story from the day before, where you and Ingrid's mum had gone together to a lake outside of Oslo, when you felt her drop your hand suddenly and took a half step away from you. “Huh?” you looked at her and a look you hadn’t seen before took over her features, “What’s going on Ale?”. “Trust me” was all she’d replied, and then it had become apparent her problem as a swarm of fans suddenly engulfed her, asking for selfies and autographs, which she gave out, graciously. She skillfully extracted herself from the situation before you both continued on your way, but now, you noticed, you were at least a foot further apart and a weird atmosphere had taken over you both. It had been when you were both safely in the cafe that you’d addressed it, “are you ashamed of me?” you asked, unable to mask the hurt in your voice. Hands safely wrapped around your Tea. “No!” she’d replied, aghast, as she pulled your hands from your mug into her own. “mírame cariño” you did, and saw the heartbreaking look in her eyes. “I would never be ashamed of you. Do not think that for one moment.” she said it with such conviction that you couldn’t help but nod. “I am sorry, but it is easier. For you. The media. They will pry into your life. It’s happened before with… partners and… I don’t want that for you. For your family. I love you.” “I won’t hide Ale.” you replied. Firmly. You were a free spirit. It was not in your nature to hide yourself, any part of yourself, for anything or anyone. The thought of it made you claustrophobic. “I know you won’t.” she huffed out a laugh, “I do not want us to hide. I promise. But, maybe, if we do not make their job easy for them? Can we do that?”. The look of desperation on her face broke your heart. “Bueno Ale. Para ti. Yo también te amo.” You’d gone your separate ways from there, you had explorations to complete, she was busy with the team. She’d managed to visit England for a few days when her UCWL matches lined up, and you started to return to Barcelona, rather than Cumbria, as a home base between trips. And that's how it had gone for some time. Your birthday had passed, you’d spent it together in Barcelona, Ale having stolen your trusty-old boots and had them professionally repaired and re-waxed. As she presented them to you, on her balcony with a cute bow on top, your heart expanded in joy. She got you. She knew you didn’t want new-top of the range boots that she definitely could afford. This actually was harder, she’d had to research the dying-art of cobblers in the area. She had to sneak them out of your duffell bag, she must have distracted you every time you went for them as your go-to walking shoes in the week. With all her money and fame. She understood that wasn’t you. You loved what you had. And she got that. As you had turned the boots in your hands, taking in all of the familiarity in all their glory and feeling the waxy leather beneath your fingers she couldn’t read your face. “I hope you don’t mind” she’d taken them gently from your hands and she pulled back the tongue, which showed a piece of jersey sewn into the backing-fabric. Blue and red, with a white AP11 embroidered into it. “It's from my first champions league shirt. I cut a swatch off, and had them sew it in…” she whispered. The moment had been heavy. “I know we don’t get to spend time together like most couples, but this way, I’ll always be with you.” Your throat had burned with the effort to keep your tears at bay, you were unsuccessful when you felt her warm hand cup your face and wipe a tear away,

“I’m sorry, It’s probably way too intrusive and I shouldn’t have taken your stuff, I can ta…” You’d silenced her with a kiss. Intense and hungry. “This is the most thoughtful gift I have ever had. I love you Ale. I love you so much.”  “Good.”... you both take a moment to look into each other's eyes, then you feel a movement as she reaches into her pocket and presents proudly what she’s pulled out, eyes shining with mirth “Then maybe you will consider these laces too, no?” and you burst out laughing whilst you take in the Blaugrana coloured hiking laces. You’ve not got it in you to not agree. But love sometimes isn’t enough. Time passed. You continued your work and she continued hers. Valentines days spent on opposite sides of the globe. You weren’t there when she won the Champions League, instead spending it watching it in a bar in Jordan. She wasn’t there as you returned from reaching an undiscovered island as part of a research crew in the South Pacific, instead being in Munich to film a new Nike ad. When you were together you couldn’t walk the streets of Barcelona hand in hand. You’d kept your promise and she kept hers. You weren’t hidden, but you weren’t showcasing your relationship. When she came to England you had more freedom, the people of Cumbia didn’t know who the Spanish superstar was, they just knew her as your girlfriend. Your fit girlfriend according to the teenage boy who lived next door to your mum. You made it work though, between you. You would send her snaps every time you saw children playing football. Pictures from south pacific islands to the mountain villages of the Himalayas, and every time you would receive the same response; “See, el deporte del mundo, I told you <3” It was a perfect storm. What happened. You’d spent a month in Barcelona, more time that you had been able to spend together in the year you’d been a couple. You’d fallen into a domesticity that you hadn’t experienced before. 

Alexia would train, you would have dinner ready for her. She would wake you up with a cup of Tea from her new kettle she's bought especially for you. You would plan routes and give advice to your online contacts about expeditions they had planned. You would sleep wrapped in each other's arms, Alexia would even let you be the big spoon, very occasionally. 

It felt perfect.  Until one, simple comment.

“Ay, look at you, wifey!” Mapi had exclaimed from her place at the table as you brought in the dinner you had prepared for the group,  you had invited her and Ingrid for a couples night, “who would have thought, “La jefa de la montaña. Tamed!” “Shut up Maria.” Ingrid nudged her girlfriend, with a kind smile she turned to you, “This looks delicious! Thank you” As the group tucked in though, you were distracted. Suddenly, the weight of Alexia's hand on your thigh felt heavy. The walls, too constricting. For you, the heat of Barcelona started to become oppressive. Too predictable. You missed England, you missed not knowing what the weather would be hour by hour. The contact blue skies felt like a false--happiness was being forced on you. The ground at your feet, sun dried, felt harsh compared to the muddy grass you had grown up stomping on. Soft, flexible. The routine started to bore you. You missed the weight of your backpack and the freedom of slinging up your hammock. Alexia hadn’t missed the way you had clammed up, the tenseness in your posture, the way your laugh did not reach your eyes for the rest of that evening. For the weeks following she felt like keeping you was like trying to catch smoke. Like trying to hold sand in her bare hands. She could feel you escape through her fingers for the next few weeks.

Which is why she wasn’t surprised when she returned from an away trip to Mallorca to see you on the couch. Hands nervously twisting and unable to meet her eye.

“You’re going again, aren't you?” she asked, as she dropped her bag at the door and settled next to you, taking your hands in hers. You nodded.

“I’m sorry Ale. It's just. It's not me.” you’d explained then, how you had been feeling. And she listened. Even though she knew. Of course she already knew.

“It’s okay, carino.” you’d assured you. You’d look up then, “it is?”

“Si, Mi Vida. I would never ask you to change. And only you would be bored of the life of a professional footballer, and you must be the only English person to ever complain about the weather in Barcelona” she’d lightened the mood with her joke, and rolled her eyes good naturedly.

“Where are you going this time?” she’d continued, and she should have known from your pause that this wasn’t the usual goodbye.

“Everest.”

“Everest.”  She’d reperated. Joy in her voice, she knew it was your life’s ambition to climb the world's highest summit. “...and Denali, and Elbrus...” you had continued to name the 7 highest summits on each continent that you would spend the next 18 months climbing, without oxygen, as part of an international exploration. Silence filled the apartment. “I….” “No.” “No?” you asked, shock in your voice. “No, what?” “No, you can’t do that. It's too dangerous.” “But Ale…” “No. No ‘but Ale’. I get it. I have been your partner now for long enough. I understand. But this is too much. No oxygen, so many climbs… there is too much danger. No.” her tone firm. Final. Her Captain's voice. And that had made the walls feel like they were closing in for you. And you responded like a wild animal, backed into a corner, defensive. “I wasn’t asking.” She let out a frustrated groan, hands covering her face. “Carino, please no. Listen to me. Being with you…” a huff again… “it is hard.” “Oh well, I am sorry Alexia, if being with me is such a chore…” you started. “No, stop, you are not letting me speak…” but you had started at that point. “You are not the one who is hidden away, you aren’t one who has had to move countries, to miss her family, your life hasn’t changed! You’ve given up nothing for this relationship.” you hiss out at her, hardly recognising your own voice. You're speaking just to hurt her. To make this easier for both of you. And that final sentence, seems to be what breaks the usually cool and calm exterior of your girlfriend and she stands and points her finger at you. “Nothing! ¡nada! ¿Cómo te atreves?” she spits out at you, the anger in her tone surprises you, you have never heard her speak like this, “I have sat here and waited. For months I have waited. For anything from you. Being with you is not like a long-distance relationship. You go, for months at a time, you go. And you expect me to sit here and wait. And I do. You do not text, you do not call. I understand that you cannot but do not say I have made no sacrifice for this relationship. When you got lost in the Gobi desert for weeks, what do you think I was doing? Sitting here! Jumping out of my skin every time the phone rang in case it was your Mami telling me you had been found dead. I did not play in The Copa De La Reinga final because I was so sick with worry. He hecho sacrificio. mi equipo, mi familia ha hecho sacrificio and I will not let you disrespect me or them and let you say otherwise.” 

Alexia doesn’t lose any of her anger in her tirade. And the silence that settles over the apartment is heavy. She seems to have surprised herself, as her eyes go wide and she opens her mouth again… but you interrupt her. “No Ale. Do not apologise.” you hold your hand up. “I didn’t think. I'm sorry. You are right. I am not good for you.” This is why you didn’t do relationships. You were a bad partner. You needed to be free, outside, exploring. You lived for adventure. It wasn’t fair.

“No! No Carino, that is not what I said!” tears are in her eyes now, and you knew this would be hard, but you didn’t know it would be this hard. “I love you...” “I love you too,” she quickly replies. Neither of you had even been shy with your affirmations to each other. “I love you so much Ale. But I have to go and do this. I have too. It is who I am. It is my dream. It.. It is my world cup.” She huffs out a laugh as she gently nudges herself into your arms, your attempt at speaking in a way she would understand humouring her. “I know.” she replies, sadly, “but I cannot go through that for 18 months mi amor. I cannot.” “And I won’t ask you to, love.” You move a strand of hair from her face as you kiss her lips, gently, there's a finality in it, you open your mouth again but she cuts in. “I can’t say anything that will stop you, can i?” she asks, as you shake your head, sadly. “When do you leave?” You cringe as you confirm her worst thoughts, “tomorrow.” She takes a deep breath and presses her face into your neck. “Can we do one thing before you go?” she asks you. 

Anything. You would give this woman in your arms anything she asked for at that moment. Apart from stay. And that's how you found yourself swinging on your old lightweight hammock. 

Strung up securely in the Putellas back yard. As you lay on your (ex?) girlfriend's chest, as you both looked up at the stars. You chatted into the night, you laughed and you cried. You fumbled under the blankets like horny teenagers. She asked you to promise to contact when you could. And you asked her to not worry, to concentrate on the Olympics and move on from you. You kept it to yourself that there was no way you were moving on from her.  You didn't know she was keeping the same thing to herself as she promised you she would try.

It was the weirdest break up anyone had ever had.

And, 17 months later, as you lay, trapped, entombed in your own coffin of ice,  you were sure that you could still feel the sway of that hammock, feel the heat of that Barcelona evening and hear the cicadas chirping. As the ice pressed all around you, all you could dream of was being back in that back yard in Barcelona, in the arms of Alexia.

—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Denali. Done. Vinson. Done.

Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Puncak Jaya . Done, Done, Done and Done. You’d faced the heat of Africa, the remoteness of Antarctica, the desolation of Russia. And here you were, finally, on your final summit. Everest. It was somewhat of a dichotomy between the mountaineering community. Everest had become a commercial hub. Have-a-go mountaineers paying big bucks to get a free ride to the highest mountain in the world. But to you, it had always been sacred. You had imagined it, as you climbed hills in the English lakes as a teenager, of one day scaling the iconic mountain. So, why? As you stood on the highest point of earth. After 3 months of acclimatisation. Were you thinking of your ex-girlfriend? Who were you kidding? You knew why. 

Alexia hadn’t been far from your thoughts on any of your summits. Her face popping into your mind at each peak. As you pocketed some rock as had become your tradition you would imagine her face as your hand touched the earth. The same earth she was on, thousands of miles away, probably in lush, manicured grass, kicking a ball around and entertaining thousands. Your group had become your family, and you had grown as close as one. Arguing when tensions got high but snuggling together to share warmth when in survival mode. Joking in bars across the globe and playing so many games of gin rummy that you sure a record had been broken. They teased you relentlessly for the old boots with silly laces you wore on the lower reaches of each summit, before you reached heights that you all had to wear mountaineering boots. Alexia, unknowingly, with you every step of the way. They had even made a game in each country you entered, to help you pick the rudest or funniest postcard to send to Barcelona, snippets of your time you sent to Alexia, keeping the promise you made over a year ago. You could have rang, you know you could. But you didn’t know if you heard her voice you wouldn’t high-tail it to Barcelona. So you sent postcards. It felt old-fashioned. It felt romantic. And you think that really, you liked that she couldn’t reply. It felt anonymous. You took off your snow goggles as you stood at the peak. You had 3 minutes on the highest point on earth without your goggles before you would become snow blind. The sun being about 60% stronger at this elevation. You could see the curvature of the earth.  It reminded you of the curvature of Alexia's shoulders as you held her from behind.

You took in a deep breath of thin air.

Your lung capacity feels like it has doubled since you left Europe.

You have done it. Without oxygen. 7 summits. Your life goal. Complete.

And now. You wanted to go home. 

“Congratulations English Sherpa! You have done it!” Arjan, clamps a heavily gloved hand on your shoulder, his wide smile visible even beneath his snood. Ice hanging from his moustache. He had to shout for you to hear him over the wind. He was a sherpa, he had travelled all around the world with you being one of the experts in the group, he’d affectionately nicknamed you the English Sherpa after he had seen your climbing prowess on your first summit. “We have done nothing yet, my friend. You know you’ve only climbed Everest once you get back down safely” you reply, glee in your voice, fixing your goggles back to your face. “Spoken like a true Sherpa.” he replied, and you both embraced at the top of the world. You didn’t hang around for long. Your entire expedition made it to the top of your final summit and you quickly pictured the moment before making your way down. The biggest risk on Everest is getting stuck in a crowd. It is not as technically difficult as other summits you have done. But without oxygen, a minute can feel like an hour on the highest point on earth. You heard once, it is easier to be saved from the surface of the moon than it is to be saved from the surface of Everest. Luck, however, seemed to be on your side. You had made good progress up, and were making even better progress down. With each step you became more and more gleeful, past 8,000 metres you started to finally feel safer. 7,000 metres, you let the excitement of your achievement settle into your bones. 6,000 metres you let your mind wander to finally going home but why was home seeming more like a sundrenched balcony in Barcelona rather than a green field of England? 5,000 metres, you promised yourself that you would use the satellite phone in your pocket to ring Alexia once you got back to base camp. Tell her you’d done it. Maybe even beg her forgiveness. You were alone on the mountain, ahead of most of your group and low enough now to be unattached to any guidelines, it was a usual affair.  Until it wasn’t.

You felt the ground rumble beneath you. It was barely noticeable. It felt more like the feeling you get when you’re lying in bed and a large truck drives past your house.

But it was enough to instil fear in you as you looked up and saw a wall of moving snow hurtling towards you. It was a slab avalanche, probably caused by the movement of the climbers above, and paired with the lateness of the day, the snow that had fallen and compacted overnight had melted enough to loosen into a wall of ice that was directed your way.

You had about 30 seconds.

You knew to go sideways, do not outrun an avalanche. It's like trying to outrun a cheetah. But this wall of ice looked wide, you ran to your side, moving slowly in the deep snow. As you ran you pulled your goggles back onto your face.

You could feel the earth beneath you falling away as the snow you trod on was unearthed by the vibrations of the snow above.

You ran. You ran for your life, but you knew this wasn’t good. Your training kicked in.

You saw a boulder in front of you and you threw yourself behind it, you created a ball with your body, making sure that you created a hole around your face you would be able to use to breathe. You pulled your ice pole from your back and stuck it into the ground next to you, that would help when you were covered by snow and you didn't know which way was up. Which way you would need to dig. You put one hand in your pocket and pulled the satellite phone in front of your face.

A thunderous rumble. 

And then. 

Silence. Darkness.  —----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alexia didn’t have her phone on at half time. She never paid it any attention - playing or not she was too focussed on the game.

Today, though, she didn’t know why. But she did.

She felt her phone vibrate in the bag at her feet.

And something compelled her to actually make the effort to dig into her bag and pull it out.

The number looked weird. Not a Spanish number, or an English one, she had gotten used to all the +44’s that had rang her over the year spent with you.

She stepped out of the unfamiliar changing room into the impressive corridors of Old Trafford. A post-season friendly. Barcelona Vs Manchester United. The game didn’t mean anything but it was always exciting to check another famous stadium off the list. A sold out crowd and an evening game. Can’t get much better.

She found a disused office room and managed to press accept on the call.

“Hola?”

At first she thought she’d missed it. Nothing on the line responded to her, as she pulled the phone away to check she saw the call had connected… ‘Scammers’ she cursed in her mind, moving to hang up. But just before she did…

“Hola, Ale.” She couldn’t believe it. Your voice. She dropped her weight onto the table behind her and held a hand to her chest that suddenly felt like it was torn in two. Heart beating faster than any 45 minutes of running could cause.

“¿eres realmente tú?”

“Yes, It’s me Ale.”

Tears brimmed in her eyes and even after everything she felt just the same as she did when she stepped out of that minibus nearly 3 years ago and first set eyes on you.

“Are you okay carino? Did you do it?”  she asked, breathlessly. “I did it, love.” was the response. In her pride at your accomplishment she missed how you hadn’t addressed her first question.

“Nunca tuve ninguna duda, I am so relieved to hear from you. The line is so quiet, are you still there?”

“Si…” a pause which Alexia attributes to the poor connection, “It must be the signal.” she notices you move on, quickly, “Can… can you just talk to me?”. Alexia smiles despite herself, you used to always ask her to talk you to sleep when your mind was whirring, completing your greatest accomplishment must be in that category and she can imagine you fidgeting in pent up adrenaline.

“I can amor, I have a few minutes. I am in Manchester. We are at half time at Old Trafford.”

“Old Trafford, hey?” she hears you laugh, “Finally, a football ground I’ve heard of.” She's missed your teasing lilt.

“Si, even you. It is raining. Why is it always raining here? I imagine you have better weather even at your camp.” Alexia jokes, innocently. The laugh you let out feels a little… forced? But she lets it go.

“I had lunch with your Mami today. We are only an hour or so away from yours, why did you never tell me we were so close?” Again, that laugh that she loves so much, but it felt more tired that she’d heard it before, more muffled. Though. She supposed, you must be exhausted.

“Because then, my love, you would have made us go and watch football matches and I much preferred to spend our time together in my bed.”

“Ah, Si, I remember, you did.” she responds, blushing and not missing a beat. 

“Your Mami is doing well. She is in the stands….” “Tell her I love her, Ale.” you cut in. There's a desperate edge to your voice that sends shivers down Alexia's spine. She stands, “I will. Of course I will. Carino, are you okay?” she realises now, you never answered her first question. “I stood on the top of Everest today, Ale.” you reply. You haven’t answered her question. She opens her mouth to ask it again but you continue, “I stood on the top of Everest and all I could think of was you.” Your words force her to sit again, her spare hand to her mouth, keeping in a muffled sob. “Don’t you think that's insane? That today, Ale. You were in Manchester and someone. On top of the world. The highest point on this Earth. The highest person on this planet. Only about 4 spacemen floating around above me. Had only you in their mind? I think that means you’ve been to the top of the world, Ale. En la cima del mundo conmigo. You were there with me, every step.” You sound drunk, she wouldn’t blame you, thin air for months it wouldn’t take more than half a pint to see you off, the thought of your ramblings makes her smile despite herself, she knows she shouldn’t, but she leans into it. “Everyone here talks like you….” she pauses, “In Manchester. Only me and Ona can understand them. With your flat vowels. It made me think of you more today. Miss you more than normal today. And now you call.” There's a knock on the office door, “Ale, Vamos!” half time has ended. She has never wanted to play football less than right now. “Because we’re soulmates” your voice definitely had a slur to it now, “and I miss you too. I’ll always miss you, my Ale.” you always got soppier when you drank. “You won’t miss me for long, Carino. You will be home soon. I don’t care if you decide that it's England or Spain. Whichever. I will be there. Si?... We will be together soon. We can sort all this out.” “Hopefully, n..to..oo soon.” she struggles to hear you, the connection starting to fail. “Pardon? Amor?” another knock at the door. She feels like she's being pulled in half as she presses the phone closer to her ear. “Amor. I have to go. Well done, Estoy tan orgullosa de ti. Call me when you can.” “I love you, Ale…” “I lo…” beep beep beep. The call drops before she has a chance to respond. —-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You feel pain all over your body. You had never felt pain like it. It was like every sinew in your body was screaming out in pain. You opened your eyes and immediately closed them again. Blinding white. You heard voices. Alarmed voices. 

Shouting voices. “HERE, HERE!!!” You felt yourself being moved. It made the pain worse. You tried to tell them to stop. 

Your throat couldn't make a sound. And then all you knew was black. 

—-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- More darkness. You felt something covering your face. Your body being stripped. Water. Boiling water. It burned. You were submerged. “No no no no no no…” was all you could try to vocalise. A calming hand in your hair. “It is lukewarm water, we are trying to bring your body temperature up…” 

No, no. They were lying. The voice was lying. You thrashed. A pain in your arm. A needle? Darkness took you again. —--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “There is no chance, Arjan.” “Bu….” “No. You are an experienced Sherpa. You are letting yourself get lost. There is no chance. She is too far gone. Air evac is the only way. No Nepalese pilot will fly at this altitude. We need to make her comfortable…” —--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You felt yourself being moved.

Less painful this time.

You felt wind on your face.

This wasn’t natural wind.

The sound of blades. Air moving unnaturally. Choppily.

Your face is covered again. 

The wind gets louder. More mechanical. You feel yourself being lifted up. “You’ve some friends in high places, English Sherpa.” you hear whispered to you, a hand on your forehead. Arjan? Your friend is speaking to you. You feel less alone. You try to open your eyes but the effort feels herculean. And then nothingness. —------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This time, when you wake up. You stay awake. You’re in an unfamiliar room. It’s obvious it's a hospital room. But you’re alone. You look around and see yourself wired up to all sorts of machines. But that's it. You try to move to sit up but your shoulder screams in protest. You take stock of your body. You feel a bandage wrapped around your head. Your head is banging now you think about it. Your right arm is completely immobile. Your arm wrapped across your chest and hand completely covered by bandages. You try to wiggle your fingers but. Nothing. God. You hope they’re still there. Before you had too long to spiral the door burst open and you were faced with a smiling, familiar face. “Arjan!” you try to exclaim, voice rough from underuse. “She’s awake. My friend!” his sun-soaked face suits his smile. His bushy eyebrows make his eyes almost invisible as he crinkles them in joy. Arjan settles next to you and fills you in on everything you were present for, but missed out on account of being buried alive or completely unconscious. Your choice to hide behind the boulder had been the first thing to save your life. It had protected you from being swept away by the avalanche and was easier to locate. Before you had called Alexia you had contacted base camp. But your GPS had been knocked off so all they knew was that you were alive. And where you told them you had last been. You’d lost consciousness fairley quickly. Brain starved of oxygen in the small air pocket you had created. Hypothermia had set in slowly.

Your hand had been left exposed after using the phone, and you remember wiggling your fingers, seeing them slowly turn black as they succumbed to frostbite. It had taken 3 days to find you. Luckily, you had been the only person caught up in the snow. You remember, now, coming in and out of consciousness. You even recall a bad spell of seeing Alexias face in the boulder your head rested against and talking to it. Maybe you’d keep that you yourself. Bit embarrassing really. Your legs were pinned down by snow. You had used your last piece of strength to thrust your ice pole upwards. You'd chosen the direction based on the way your tears fell. That was the second thing that had saved your life. Arjan had spotted the pole in the ice field. Days after everyone else had given up on ever finding you. You’d been dragged to base camp and they started to treat hypothermia. You were more than halfway to dead. You resembled a corpse. Arjan had told you he'd never seen anyone literally blue. “Pulled it off tho, my friend” he’d tried to joke. “Of course, always” you’d winked back in reply. You'd have no chance of survival whilst still on the mountain. The air was still too thin and your were suffering from hypoxia. Problem was, the air was too thin for an air evacuation and. Well. As you knew. It was easier to be saved from the surface of the moon than it was to be saved from the surface of Everest. The third thing that had saved you. Was Alexia. “You have someone who’s gone to the moon and back for you, my friend.” Once she’d found out you had gone missing she had gone to the UK embassy in London to start a search and rescue campaign. When they hadn’t moved quickly enough she had involved the Spanish government. She’d used her resources and status to launch a media campaign which had pressured both governments. She’d flown to Kathmandu herself and was trying to hire a plane to Lukla when you’d been found. Then her attention turned to locating a pilot crazy enough to fly at such an altitude. Turns out anyone was crazy enough for the right price. And many, many euros later, the highest ever search flight took off from the surface of Everest, with you on board. “She’s a force to be reckoned with, your girl.”

He told you, as he reached to the ground below you, “...and you’ll be happy to hear, I saved your precious boots” he dumped your familiar old tattered boots at the bottom of your bed.

“And some stuff from your tent. But I had to hike it out so I left some of the smellier clothes.” he joked, as you thanked him, he really was a good man. “... Wait… hike it out? How long have I been here?” “You’ve been unconscious for a week my friend. I always told you you were lazy.” You took a moment to take stock. A week. Well. That meant that even if Alexia had been in Kathmandu, she was a million miles away now. The door opens again and you’re too lost in your own thoughts to give any care to the nurse whos been coming in every now and again checking charts whilst you and Arjan chatted. “Ah here she is. La Reina herself!” You turned your head quickly and took in the face that had been the last image in your mind every night, and the first every morning, since the day you had parted. “Ale…” you breathed. Here. She was here. In Kathmandu. In the same room as you. 

She looked as beautiful as ever, hair flowing over her shoulders, blonder than the last time you had seen her. She had gained muscle and her features had sharpened. But everything else was the same. Her smell invaded your senses. That smell that mosquitoes loved so much. You got it. Her eyes were sharp, and directed firmly at you. They looked tired. She held a sense of exhaustion. You wanted her to fall into your arms, but she stood at the door, and you couldn't open them to welcome her in. The moment was heavy and Arjan broke the silence and stood… “I’ll leave you both to it. See you around English Sherpa.” and with a squeeze of your foot he was gone. Leaving you both in a heavy silence. “Thank You Ale.” you said, breaking the silence.

After all Arjan told you, you owed her your life. She didn't respond. But her eyes had moved from your face and were now directed at the boots still on your bed. As battered as ever, Blaugrana laces snapped and re-tied in several places, swatch still visible on the tongue. Maybe you thought that your meeting would be a bit more romantic, not as…tense? She stroked one of the boots gently with her finger, seemingly lost in a trance. “Ale…?” “You have a habit of not telling me important things.” Whatever you expected it wasnt that. “Qué?” “That you speak Spanish, how you feel, I don’t know… that your trapped in a fucking avalanche.” you’d seen her angry before, you’d seen that anger directed at you, but this felt worse. It was directed through you. She kept her distance when all you wanted to do was hold her close. “How could you do that? How could you let us speak knowing that you were about to freeze to death and just chat to me, like it was a normal Sunday afternoon?” “I…I didn’t want to worry you…” you croaked out, you felt like a school child who was being told off by the head teacher. And you deserved it, you supposed. “I will always worry about you, por el amor de dios!!” She started to pace around the bottom of your bed, your eyes moving like they were taking in a tennis match watching her wear the ground down. “...and to think I finished that game. I slept that night at your flat. Happy, finally feeling like I almost had you back. Your mami took me home. And then, the next morning, I walked into the kitchen. And there she was, crying at the table. She could hardly tell me what had happened. And then it all fell into place. You’d called me when you thought you were already in your grave, didn’t you?” All you could do was nod, arms desperate to dry the tears tracking down her face. “I’m glad to see you.” you let out. Unsure of what else to say. “You won’t be. I am so, so angry at you.” “I know you are bu…” 

“No, you did your speaking on that Mountain. Now you listen” Her tears are dry now and the anger is back in her face. “I have sorted a medical flight. We leave tonight. We’re going back to Barcelona. I don’t care if you want to go back to that rainey island or not. It’s not your choice, it's mine. You almost froze to death, you need the sun. The warm. You will come with me every day to the doctors at the club. They will monitor you. Your family will come to visit. You will go to a therapist. You will take your medication. You will not ignore your medication because you think its better to treat yourself with whatever crushed bug or mashed-up leaves you think is better….” She stops for breath. “That was one time…” you mumbled, referring back to the time you insisted that a crushed cucumber was better than antiseptic cream to treat a bee sting. “Nope. You are still listening.” She stopped you, firmly again, but you felt her eyes sharpening as she took you in, “... and when we get home and you get better, we will talk. We will decide where we are building our life together, but that is one non-negotiable. It will be together. Okay?” She seems to be finished. And she's moved closer to you, close enough for you to reach out and grab her hand with your good one. You nod, and pull her hand to cup your face. “I just have one question.” you ask, seeking permission to speak. She nods as she strokes your face, tired and burnt from over-exposure. “Are these fingers still attached?” you ask, shaking your injured arm at her, “they’re kind of important for my plans, if you know what I mean” you wiggle your eyebrows suggestively. Her laugh makes you think maybe you did die on that mountain, because surely, here, with her, you’re in heaven. “Te amo, idiota” —-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You awoke surrounded by soft sheets and sleep-warm pillows. Your once-injured arm tweaked in pain slightly as you stretched out. You had physio later this afternoon, you thought to yourself, you had better mention it. You rolled out of bed and stumbled into the kitchen, still covered in blankets, bed hair resembling a yeti. You almost tripped up over your rucksack which was laying in the hall. Where it had been since your return to Barcelona, months ago. You hadn’t been ready to unpack it quite yet. You could hear Alexia on the phone out on the balcony, and you gestured the international, ‘want a drink’ sign to her, which she shook her head at. You shrugged. God, sometimes she was so Spanish. A good Brit would never let a hot kettle go to waste. It had been months of reconnection, Alexia finally letting go of her anger as soon as you entered the flat. She broke down in your arms that first night, simultaneously telling you how angry she was at you and how much she loved you at the same time. You just dealt with it by pressing kisses into her hairline.

She'd made you sit in the sun of the balcony every chance she got. Morning, Noon and Night. Moving you around to chase the rays. Insisting that you needed the warmth and vitamins of the sun to recover. The image of you pale, cold and frozen in the hospital in Nepal seared into her mind. When Mapi and Ingrid visited Mapi teased you, and had taken to calling you Bagheera. She said you resembled her cat, chasing the sun to lounge in at every occasion. She quickly stopped when Alexia slapped the back of her head. You no longer had to hide your relationship. Alexia had blown the doors off that as she went to the media in order to get the resources to save you. The feeling of claustrophobia that had made you flee from Barcelona had gone. You knew what being trapped really felt like now. And how you ever thought the love of your life and a shared life in this sun-drenched city was suffocating. Well. That was a different person to who you were now. Yeah, you would always love the outdoors. But you had an anchor now. Something that made you maybe not scale that next peak, and instead be excited to share a recipe with. Maybe not stay on the trail for an extra week, and instead pick out a good film to settle down to. Your mum was over the moon. She’d been a regular visitor. You thought she’d be upset, when you decided to stay in Spain instead of going back to England but she seemed offended by the idea. “That girl saved your life you stupid woman, of course will stay here with her.” Alexia didn’t accept it so easily. She was worried you would feel trapped again, that she wasn’t compromising. She would rather move with you than lose you. “Ale. Barna is your life.” you had replied, simply, “...and you are mine.” “It is not!” she had refused, aghast at the suggestion until you said, “United will have me, so will City, my agent has checked, I would even go to the Championship and play for Newcastle, I look great in black!” “Ale, you literally have a floor tile tattooed on your back. We’re staying here.” you said, deadpan. And she couldn’t say much to that. So, much to the despair of every football fan in England. She signed a new contract with Barcelona not two weeks ago. Maybe it was how settled you felt this morning, as the kettle boiled. The soreness in your muscles after the night you spent together in bed, which must be why your shoulder was straining now. Maybe you'd keep that away from the physio. Though, maybe he’d be happy to hear that your fingers were definitely fully recovered. Not as happy as Alexia was though, you'd bet. But something about this morning made you brave enough to finally open that rucksack in the hallway. As you zipped it open your fingers caught on a single piece of cardboard. A postcard. You flipped it over as arms encircled your waist and gentle lips kissed your shoulder. “Carino?” she asked, looking at the postcard in your hands. “I never got to give you this.” you whispered, as you held the postcard over your shoulder, she let you go as she turned it in her hands. She let out a barking laugh as she moved towards the fridge where 6 other postcards sat proudly, waiting for their 7th to complete the set. A woman in a bikini, sat on a yak wearing a cowboy hat, the imposing structure of Everest in the background. A speech bubble coming out of her mouth ‘I’ve seen bigger’. Alexia rolled her eyes at you as she stuck it to the fridge with a magnet showing the message you wrote all those months ago.

“Ale, I’m here. 

One more summit and I’ll be on my way back to you. For good. How can I say it in your language? ‘It’s coming home’. 

fin. 

[pr1dek1ng]

"You don't have to decide anything now okay? Just...think about it."

[pr1dek1ng]

Telling Tales (Katrina Gorry x Reader)

“Ladies, this is Kyra. Please make her feel welcome” Jonas announced as Kyra entered the gym alongside him.

You were off in the corner with Jen and Katie when the young Aussie came in. Caitlin and Steph were the first ones beside her, knowing her well from the national team.

“Morning, pest” Steph teased, patting her head before Caitlin pulled her into a headlock.

“Mum do something” Kyra shouted towards Steph who cupped her own ear, pretending like she couldn’t hear. Katie re-hit play on the music as it pumped through the speaker and you all began to lift weights again.

“I thought this was The Arsenal not The Ausenal?” Katie laughed.

“Jesus Christ” Jen groaned.

“How long have you been sitting on that one?” Caitlin asked.

“Since I heard she was signin’” Katie smirked, almost like she was proud of herself for coining that term.

“I’m Y/n” you said as you dropped the weights and smiled, sticking your hand out to Kyra for her to shake.

“Kyra” she smiled back.

You shocked the young girl, your intimidating demeanour had never matched your bubbly, friendly personality.

“Nice to meet you” you shook her hand with a firm grip on her hand and turned back to the weights to start lifting again.

“Always so polite” Katie laughed sarcastically as you rolled your eyes, continuing to lift.

“Is there anybody else you want to meet today?” Steph asked Kyra.

“Win” she giggled.

“As in, the dog?” Caitlin laughed as Kyra nodded.

“Y/n” Steph shouted as you finished a rep and put the weights back. You jogged over to the Aussie trio and Steph wrapped her arms around your waist and yours fell across her shoulders. “Is Win with you?” She asked as you smiled and nodded. It was your turn to watch the new Arsenal superstar this week.

“Kyra wants to meet him” Caitlin laughed.

“I’m having people over for dinner tonight, would you maybe like to come?” You asked the girl as Steph and Caitlin looked at you dumbfounded.

“Where’s our invite?” Steph groaned.

“I put it in the groupchat” you laughed defensively, taking out your phone to prove the point that you had actually put it in the chat several days ago. You shoved your phone into both of their faces as they now read your message and shrugged their shoulders. “Did Katie not tell you? She helped me organise it” you laughed at Caitlin.

“Katie McCabe” Caitlin shouted, stomping over to her girlfriend whose face dropped at the usage of her full name.

“Come on then kid, we get you started” you put your arm around Kyra’s shoulder and brought her over towards the weight equipment.

“Perfect, you can take over as her mother” Steph shouted after you, making you both laugh.

-

It was later that evening when the squad had came over. A few of your teammates, that you considered close friends, Caitlin, Leah, Katie, Viv and Beth had come over to help you clean and cook before everyone else arrived. Steph was on Kyra duty, so had text you to say she wouldn’t be over at the normal time, which was usually earlier than everyone else, except for Katie who practically lived in your house. You’d been really good friends with Steph since you met each other, but you’d been best friends with Katie since you signed for Arsenal a few years ago. You greeted everyone as they came in, and Steph arrived last, with an overexcited Kyra beside her.

“Kyra, hey” you shouted waving at the girl who came bouncing towards you. “Win” you whistled, as the dog came to sit by your side. “Win, this is Kyra” you introduced them, probably the opposite way around to what other people expected. Usually, the human would be introduced to the dog. “Win, say hello” you patted her head as she stuck her paw in the air for Kyra to take it.

“How the hell?” Leah look bewildered.

“Win never wants to leave her. Always crying if someone else has to take her” Katie explained with a laugh. You’d had her all week but only had her three weeks prior to that too. It was great because you could bring her to training with you and she was familiar with the environment. You just hated when you had to bring her back, and she hated it too. Sometimes she’d take a run for it and sit in the passenger seat of your car, waiting to go home with you.

Kyra dropped down to the ground to start rubbing and patting her, and you knew she was loving all the attention she was getting from the young Aussie midfielder.

“Right everyone in for a photo with Win” Jen shouted as she set a timer on her phone and placed it on the counter, being held up by your kettle.

“Up” you said as the dog jumped into your arms and you caught her with ease. You all smiled for the photo and a lot of you had shared the post to Instagram later in the evening. Kyra had shared the picture, captioning it best night ever with my new family. You were stood right beside the girl, catching the attention of another player, on her nightly Instagram scrolling, that you’d yet to meet. It was late before people started to head out. You’d invited a few people to stay the night and a couple took you up on the offer, the early crew gang along with Lia, Steph and Kyra.

“How are you finding England?” You asked Kyra, who you were sat shoulder to shoulder with, although you were slouched down, nearly lying fully on the floor while everyone else was trapped in some game you’d both been knocked out of.

“I’m loving it so far. It’s great to have Caitlin and Steph here and then Katrina is just at West Ham and Charli is at Spurs, so it’s really all coming together” she smiled.

“You’ll be a great asset to the team” you patted her shoulder as she eventually settled her head on yours. She was like the little sister that you never had, although she viewed you more like a mum, and you only grew closer from there.

-

“Mum, I’m telling you” Kyra squealed the next night at the dinner table.

“Okay, I’ve had this conversation with both of you already, please stop calling me mum, it’s confusing Harper” Katrina laughed slapping Kyra and Charli’s heads.

“Let her explain” Charli whined, while Harper continued to play with a toy in her lap, oblivious to the conversation happening.

“She is so your type. She’s smart, she’s funny, she’s attractive and she’s got her shit together” Kyra rambled and Katrina slapped her once again for swearing infront of Harper.

“Please just agree to meet her so this can stop” Charli said, covering Harper’s ears.

“Fine” Katrina snapped, rolling her eyes. In truth, since Katrina saw the Instagram story Kyra shared of you, Katrina had the same opinion as Kyra had just rambled on about. You were her type, you were attractive and from what she’d heard from Steph, you very much so had your shit together.

Overjoyed with the news that Katrina was comfortable enough to meet you, Kyra slipped into training the next morning and grabbed Caitlin and Steph to help hatch a plan. Kyra explained her thoughts to Caitlin and Steph about how she thought the two of you would suit eachother really well.

“Holy shit” Steph gasped.

“How have we not realised this before?” Caitlin said, punching Steph’s arm lightly.

“They’re like, perfect for eachother!” Steph shouted.

“Who is?” Jen asked.

“Y/n and Katrina” Kyra explained.

“From West Ham?” She asked as all three nodded. “Yeah, I can see that” Jen laughed.

“So, how do we introduce them?” Caitlin asked as all three sat puzzled. Jen had been pulled away to make a tiktok with Leah while you and Katie were stuffed into a corner of the canteen, whispering secretively about something.

“I’ve got it” Kyra shouted as all three of them huddled closer together and Kyra explained the plan.

-

The whole Arsenal squad, plus a few London based Aussie’s and their friends and partners, filtered into Caitlin and Katie’s house during a league break.

The music was loud and the house was dark, apart from some type of strobe lighting that you and Katie had impulsively bought during Covid. You instantly found your best friend and worked your way out to the shed in the garden where you could both talk. You and Katie had practically built that shed and made it a man-cave type place where you hung out, alone, in peace. It had a sofa bed, a TV, a PlayStation and a mini fridge. What more could you ask for?

“This is a set up, by the way” Katie told you as you both sipped on your drinks, sitting on the sofa in the man cave.

“What do you mean?” You asked, a frown taking over your face.

“They’re tryin’ to set ye up with someone from the Australian team” Katie laughed as you joined in.

“Which one?” You tried to ask but she shrugged, Caitlin had left out that part. “Australians” you said as you playfully rolled your eyes.

“How long do ye think we can hide out here?” Katie asked.

“Hopefully the whole night” you said flicking on the TV and PlayStation.

It had been a good long while, but eventually Caitlin found you both and an angry expression covered her face as she stood in the doorway.

“There you both are! We have been looking for you” she snapped.

“We’ve been out here since Y/n/n got here” Katie replied, not looking away from the screen.

“Which was?” Caitlin asked while you quickly checked your watch, before going back to the screen.

“Two hours ago” you replied, aggressively pressing buttons on your controller.

“Get inside, now” Caitlin sternly said as Katie paused the game.

“That is her serious voice” Katie whispered as you nodded and both stood up, following Katie’s angry girlfriend inside. You walked behind Katie, who flung the door open, stepping aside so you could go through first. Only, she didn’t see on the opposite side of the door someone was leaning against it, clearly not expecting it to fly open. You were quick to react, catching the falling woman and helping her back to her feet.

“Thank you” she smiled as she turned to face you.

“It’s cool” you replied nonchalantly. You tried to keep your cool in that moment, but you couldn’t take your eyes off the woman.

“I don’t think we’ve met properly? I’m Katrina I play for-” she began.

“West Han” you interrupted, voice creeping a bit high as you coughed. “I know. It’s Y/n” you smiled.

“I know” she said as she looked you up and down.

“Can I get you another drink?” You asked, looking toward the empty cup in her hand. Steph and Caitlin smirked at the other as you and Katrina wandered off to the fridge to get another drink.

“Okay, so the plan” Kyra began.

“Shut up you pest” Steph groaned. “We didn’t actually need the plan” she whispered, pointing over at the two of you talking, far away from anybody else at the party.

You spend the rest of the night with Katrina. You were beer pong buddies, you danced to some songs that played and eventually, you found yourselves alone in the living room. You were both deep in conversation about everything and anything when you were interrupted by people leaving, coming to say goodbye. Katrina noticed Kyra looked tired and decided to be a good adopted mother and take her home.

“I’m really sorry, but seeming as that one thinks I’m her mum, I should probably get her home” Katrina smiled as you looked over towards Kyra, who was pouting like a child and rubbing her eyes. You nodded at the woman while she beckoned Kyra over, and things went silent for a few seconds.

“I’m sorry if this is a bit forward, but I had a really nice time tonight. Could I maybe get your number?” You asked in a whisper as a smile lit up her face. She took your phone and typed her number in before reaching up, almost needing to jump, to kiss your cheek before heading off with a tired KCC, that you got a fist bump off. You slumped down on the couch hovering your thumbs over your new contact before eventually closing your phone and your eyes.

The next morning you were woken by Katie after you’d passed out on the couch.

“Get up ye big fuckin’ lump” Katie shouted pushing your shoulder. She’d always referred to you as a big lump. You stood at 6’2, almost an entire foot taller than her. She burst out laughing when you groaned, rubbing your eyes and began adjusting to your surroundings. The house was in a state. Caitlin was frantically moving around to clean while Katie passed you a mug of tea and sat beside you on the couch. You took a quick sip, placing it on a coaster and got up to help Caitlin without speaking to your best friend. You’d taken packed, heavy, black bags out of her hands and took them outside to put in the bin

“Why can’t you be as helpful as Y/n?” Caitlin asked Katie who just smirked and shrugged.

“Maybe go out with Y/n then” Katie laughed, going back to scrolling on her phone.

“Thank you” Caitlin whispered as you got back in from taking bags to the bin.

“Hey Cait?” You asked as you were putting away dishes from the dishwasher and Caitlin was sweeping the floor.

“Yeah?” She replied, stopping for a minute, sensing the tone in your voice was urgent.

“Your friend, Katrina. What’s her-” you stopped yourself, trying to phrase it correctly.

“She’s single” Caitlin blurted out as you nodded. “And then she’s got Harper” Caitlin added.

“Harper?” You asked.

“Someone clearly didn’t watch our documentary” Caitlin teased before continuing. “Harper, as in her three year old child” Caitlin explained as you nodded.

“You’re tryin’ to set up Y/n/n with someone who has a kid?” Katie laughed from the door which made you turn your body to join in laughing. “She hates kids” Katie continued as Caitlin scowled.

“I don’t hate them” you said seriously, before both of you broke into a laugh again.

“You two infuriate me” Caitlin snapped and stormed out of the room.

“That’s my queue” you chuckled, patting Katie on the shoulder, wishing her good luck with her angry girlfriend, and heading out of the house.

When you got home you sat on the couch, opting to just have an easy day to cure the tiredness and slight hangover you had. You were scrolling through some platforms trying to find something to watch, when you came by something that caught your eye.

Matildas: The World at Our Feet

You got comfortable and clicked play. You ended up watching every single episode. Katrina’s storyline was pretty emotional to say the least. You thought about texting her, but did you really want to get into a situationship, or worse, a relationship with someone who had a kid? It’s not a lie that you and kids would probably never be put in the same sentence. You truly despised them. The constant crying, the screaming and shouting, the thoughts of you being responsible for another human, no. Absolutely not.

But you liked Katrina, it was tough. You thought about it for a few hours, before finally caving.

Y/n

Hey, it’s Y/n, from last night. I was wondering if you maybe wanted to get dinner when you’re free?

Katrina saw your message come through and couldn’t help the smile that settled on her face.

Katrina

I’d love that, when would you be free?

It took a few days for your schedules to match up to when you were both free, but you were finally heading out for dinner tonight.

Charli and Kyra were in charge of minding Harper in Katrina’s absence, but Steph had also made a magical appearance to their house. Unbeknownst to them, Steph was there to watch them and Harper.

“Who are you going out with?” Steph asked Katrina as she got ready, leaving the children, Charli and Kyra included, downstairs playing Mario-Kart.

“Just, you know, a friend of a friend” Katrina smirked as Steph nodded and smiled. There was a knock on the door that halted the conversation and Steph waved Katrina off who was heading to answer it.

“You finish up getting ready, I’ll get it. It’s probably their pizza” Steph said as she got off the bed. Katrina didn’t push, she knew you were collecting her but not for another half an hour and you told her you’d text when you were outside.

“Oh, hey Steph” you smiled when your friend swung the door open.

“Y/n?” Steph said, looking at you up and down until she focused on the flowers in your hand. “No way”.

“What?” You frowned.

“When she said a friend of a friend I didn’t know the friend she was talking about was me and the friend of mine she was dating was you” she poked at your chest. “Why didn’t you tell me?” She was whisper shouting at you, to not alert the trio in the living room or the woman upstairs.

“Well, it’s our first date” you laughed. “I haven’t told anybody”

“Steph, who’s at the door?” Katrina barked as she swung it open to get a view. “Oh, hi” she smiled.

“Hey” you smiled back. “Uh, these are for you” you handed her the flowers as Steph raised her eyebrows at you, you’d never been a flower-buyer type for previous girls.

“Thank you so much. Can you just give me two seconds and I’ll meet you in the car?” She asked as you nodded.

“I’ll see you tomorrow, Steffy” you poked Steph’s nose before you walked back to the car.

“Mini, why didn’t you invite her in?” Steph asked as she closed the door, following Katrina into the kitchen who was putting the flowers into a vase.

“I don’t want Harper seeing someone new and getting attached. What if it doesn’t work out and then Harper gets upset?” Katrina breathed out as Steph nodded in understanding.

“I’ll take good care of all three of your kids” Steph said softly, squeezing her shoulder almost as if she was telling Katrina she was proud of her for putting herself out there.

“We share custody of Kyra” Katrina laughed before hugging the defender and saying goodbye to all three children in the living room. It wasn’t long until she got into the car and you began driving. “I’m sorry if it came across rude I didn’t invite you in, it’s just-” she tried to explain, but you shook your head.

“I get it. Dating with a kid must be hard” you smiled softly and she felt like you took the words out of her mouth. She replayed the conversation you had at the party, and she remembered she never once brought up Harper.

“How did you know I have a kid? Stalker” Katrina teased as you laughed.

“Well, Caitlin told me and then gave me shit I didn’t watch your World Cup documentary” you explained as Katrina laughed. “So, I watched it” you added.

“Oh yeah? What did you think?” She asked.

“You’re uh, very inspirational” you coughed, staring at the road straight ahead of you with both your hands tightening their grip of the steering wheel.

“Why? Because of Harper?” She asked, stroking your arm softly with her fingertips and feeling how tense you were.

“Well, yeah” you nodded. “But also how you manage to deal with Kyra on a regular basis” you chuckled as she slapped your arm lightly and laughed at you.

Dinner went nicer than you had expected it to, you took her to a fancy London restaurant and paid. Your conversation was almost as if you’d known each other for years, and you don’t remember dating someone being this easy before. She showed you pictures of Harper now and how much bigger she was than in the docu-series. You also made her realise you had no clue about kids, which was meant to worry her, but instead she found cute.

“She’s grown” you pointed out as Katrina showed you a recent photo of the two of them.

“Yeah, they do that” Katrina laughed as you playfully rolled your eyes back at her.

Katrina had offered to get herself home, but you immediately shook your head at her and opened the passenger door for her to get in the car. When you arrived back to her house you brought the car to a stop.

“Tonight was really nice” you smiled.

“I thought so too” she smiled back.

“Would you, maybe, want to do something again?” You asked as she nodded and leaned over to kiss your cheek.

“Text me, okay?” she replied before getting out of the car and walking up the path to the house. You realised you were already deep when you didn’t take your eyes off the girl until the front door shut.

“Mummy, I missed you” Harper squealed when Katrina got in.

“I missed you too monkey. Did auntie Steph not put you to bed?” Katrina frowned, scooping the toddler into her arms.

“Let me go” Kyra shouted.

“You cheated” Charli shouted back.

“There is only meant to be one child in this house, and neither of you are it!” Steph groaned, trying desperately to pull the pair apart.

“Hey!” Katrina shouted as all three of them stopped in their tracks.

“She-” Kyra tried to explain.

“Don’t” Katrina warned. “Charli, put Harper to bed” she added, handing the baby over to the blonde.

“Go help her, and try not kill each other” Steph pushed Kyra to follow the Spurs player up the stairs.

“You did cheat” Charli whispered.

“Charli” Katrina shouted in a warning tone again, before it went silent and two older Australian duo let out a shared laugh.

“So, how’d it go?” Steph asked.

“I really like her” Katrina smiled as Steph almost leapt at her out of excitement.

“I knew you would” Steph added with a squeal.

-

You’d been on a few more dates before you made it official. You eventually got the honour of being introduced to Harper and had fully respected Katrina’s decision to wait until it was official until you met her. Surprisingly, you actually really enjoyed when Harper tagged along on dates now. You’d always plan something fun for all three of you, like the zoo or the cinema. Harper became very comfortable around you, often wanting you to put her on your shoulders or hold your hand. Apart from her own mum, you were her new favourite person, and apart from her mum, she was yours.

Eventually, after a few months, things became so serious with Katrina that you were collecting Harper from pre-school if she couldn’t, or bringing her to Katrina’s match if you didn’t have one yourself that day. Your friends all knew you too were dating, but you’d never thought of taking her out with you due to Harper needing to be minded. You gave a hand with babysitting duties now too when Katrina needed a night with her friends, although, you didn’t view it as babysitting. In fact, you yourself were opting a lot more lately for a night in with Katrina and Harper than a night out with your team mates. But after taking enough shit from Katie that you never do anything anymore, you decided to invite Katrina out to do something with them.

“Would you maybe want to go out with my friends some evening? I’d like to introduce you properly to them” you smiled across from her at the dinner table, where only three two of you were sitting.

“We can ask Charli if she’ll mind Harper?” Katrina beamed.

“Charli” you shouted as she came crashing through the door, Harper following in behind her and jumping into your lap, poking you in the face making you laugh. “Would you mind looking after Harps one evening this week?” You asked as she giggled and put her hands out for Harper to run back to her. You helped the toddler back to the ground to run back towards her big sister.

“I’ll take that as a yes” Katrina laughed.

-

The night rolled around for you to bring Katrina out, and Kyra was buzzing to introduce her two mums to the team as her mums. As Katrina headed outside with Kyra to get into the taxi, you sat at the bottom of the stairs fixing your shoes.

“I’ll be out in two seconds” you shouted after them. “Charlotte” you said from the living room door with your arms folded.

“I know, I know, bed by 9pm, no sweets, no scary movies and nobody in or out” she recited like a hymn.

“Harps, I’ll see you later, yeah?” You smiled as the little toddler came running towards you, wrapping her arms around your legs. You bent down to give her a fist bump before patting Win’s head, and heading out to the taxi.

“Love you” Harper shouted as she ran back towards Charli, whose head shot to your eyes beaming out of your head.

“Has she ever-” Charli asked as you shook your head, still speechless. “Say it back, don’t upset her” Charli whispered.

“I love you too, Harper” you eventually got out, and smiled as the toddler waved goodbye to you.

“Have a nice night” Charli said softly as you walked out of the living room and towards the door, with a massive grin on your face.

“Everything okay?” Katrina asked as you got in and you nodded with a smile.

“You’ll never believe-” you tried to say.

“Party time, yeah!” Kyra shouted.

“Shut it, you pest” Katrina groaned as Kyra started playing with the LED lights that the taxi had inside them.

The night was going really good, Katrina and your mates were getting along really well. Caitlin and Steph just kept giving you thumbs up from the other side of the table, delighted their plan had worked out. You and Katie were sat beside each other, bickering about something that happened in training the other day.

“Fine” you shouted, eventually rising from the table and storming off.

“What’s happened now?” Caitlin asked with a roll of the eyes.

“I proved her wrong and she owes me a drink” Katie laughed.

“You’ll get used to those pair acting like children when they’re together” Caitlin informed Katrina who laughed.

“I still can’t believe ye’s set up Y/n with someone who has a kid” Katie laughed, as Katrina turned her head to look at her.

“Katie” Caitlin warned.

“What do you mean?” Katrina asked, frown still ever present on her face.

“I just mean, Y/n hates kids. Never showed any desire to have any, so I don’t know why they thought settin’ her up to play happy families with ye was goin’ to work. No offence” Katie grinned.

“Enough now” Caitlin sternly said as Katrina got up from her seat.

“Mini” Steph sighed. Without another word, Katrina left the bar and got a taxi home, Kyra quickly following her outside and jumping in too. When you got back to the table, a lot of the girls had worried expressions on their faces after hearing the interaction play out between your girlfriend and your best friend. Caitlin was giving Katie an earful while Steph sat with her head in her hands.

“What’s gone on?” You asked, slamming the drink in front of your best mate. “Where’s Katrina?” You frowned, looking around, presuming they would say in the bathroom. Caitlin gave Katie the angry eyes you were all too familiar with seeing your best friend getting from her girlfriend.

“Yeah, look-” Katie began.

“The fuck did you say?” You dragged the girl up by the collar, forcing her off the chair. Leah and Viv quickly rose to their feet to separate the two of you as Katie just held her hands up in surrender.

“I just may have mentioned your hatred for kids” Katie said with a guilty look on your face. “I was tryin’ to make a point of how, ye know, ye must really like her if you’re willin’ to put up with her kid” Katie shrugged in Viv’s grip. Leah was still firmly holding onto you and taking a tighter grip as you lunged forward.

“You are a fucking idiot” you spat out in anger. “Do you know how protective over Harper she is? Do you not realise how much effort I’ve put in to make her feel comfortable having me around her?” You snapped as she put her eyes to the floor. “Let me go” you shouted at Leah as you grabbed your jacket and stormed out. Viv finally released Katie as the Irish girl slumped back into her chair.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Y/n so angry” Leah said to Viv as they walked back to their seats.

“You need to apologise to her, and Katrina” Caitlin scowled as Katie nodded. You forgot about the concept of ordering or flagging down a taxi, instead opting to walk to Katrina’s house. A walk that would usually take 45 minutes took you 20, as you practically ran there. You knocked on the door, and Charli answered with Harper in her arms.

“Oh, shit” Charli said

“Shit” Harper repeated. You raised your eyebrows at Charli as Harper made grabby hands for you. The blond handed Harper off to you and she let you inside, knowing if she did, you wouldn’t repeat the curse word she just taught Harper to her mother.

“Where’s mummy?” You asked the toddler as she pointed towards the stairs. You placed her down in the living room, patting Win’s head once again before heading upstairs towards Katrina’s bedroom. Win was your dog now, although she was the Arsenal mascot, it was decided she could live with you full time. You knocked before letting yourself in, watching on as Katrina was sitting on the edge of the bed, in floods of tears and Kyra was sat beside her. “Crossy, can you give us a minute?” You asked as the young girl quickly left the room. You were a giant in comparison to her, and were slightly intimidating so she was not willing to debate. “Katrina-” you began the second Kyra left, but your girlfriend raised her hand to stop you.

“I think enough has been said tonight” Katrina managed to get out, holding back a sob.

“No, I don’t think so” you disagreed.

“What was your main objective of this relationship? If you hate kids so much why did you do this to me? Has this all been some type of game to you or something?” She was whispering, so as to not let any of the three hear that you were arguing.

“This hasn’t been- darlin’ I-” you tried to plead your case once again.

“She told me exactly how you felt and she’s your best friend, Y/n. So don’t tell me it’s not how you feel, why would our situation be any different?” She put her head in her hands and finally allowed herself to cry.

“I don’t know” you shrugged as silence filled the air, until you spoke again. “Well, actually, I do” you said. “I knew from the moment we met that night that I really liked you and I knew what I was getting into when I asked you out. I knew you had Harper, I knew how much she meant to you, and it’s different with you because-” you hesitated “I’m in love with you” you breathed out. “And I love Harper. I love our little life together and the little family vibe we have going. My favourite part of the week is when you ask me to collect her from pre school” you sighed.

“Y/n-” Katrina took a breath of relief.

“I don’t care if you want to believe Katie, because what she said is true. But it’s past tense, my perspective changed the second you came into my life. I wouldn’t change anything we have and it certainly would not be Harper” you pulled her into a tight hug, making sure she felt completely reassured. “If I could change one thing, it would be our two older kids” you chuckled as you felt her tears fall against you as she laughed against your chest.

“I’m so sorry” she squeezed you tighter

“You have nothing to apologise for. I understand she is your priority and you don’t just let anybody at random into her life, but you are both my priority too” you informed her. You both stood for awhile, wrapped up in eachother.

“I’m going to go get Harper and put her to bed” Katrina said as you nodded.

“I’ll go make some tea” you mumbled as you finally parted and walked downstairs together. You headed straight to the kitchen as Katrina scooped Harper up off the ground.

“Time for bed monkey” she said as Harper protested. “Fine, five minutes” Katrina sighed as she took off in a run towards you in the kitchen, a bundle of laughter coming from the two of you as Katrina smiled.

“All sorted then?” Kyra said as Katrina nodded

“We could have told you she loved Harper” Charli laughed and Kyra rolled her eyes but eventually starting to laugh too.

“What do you mean?” Katrina asked.

“Well firstly, she told Harper she loved her earlier infront of me, because Harper told her she loved her” Charli smiled as Katrina’s heart melted at the sound of you messing in the kitchen.

“When we’re babysitting Harper, she gives you the same protective talk before she goes” Kyra giggled. “Nobody in our out Kyra, do I make myself clear?” Kyra added, mimicking you

“Bed before 9pm” Charli joined in, also mocking your voice. You entered the room with Harper clung to your back.

“Which clearly wasn’t listened to tonight” you frowned, looking at the time which read 11:27pm.

“Come on Harps, bed time” Katrina said as the toddler finally gave in. You gave Katrina a look, which told her you could take her up as the woman just smiled back.

“Will I take you to bed?” You asked the toddler as you got smacked in the face, which was her way of saying yes, and being excited about it.

“Shit” Harper shouted from the staircase as Katrina’s draw dropped to the floor. Kyra immediately looked at Charli who had a look of guilt on her face.

“Charlotte Grant you are never babysitting again” you shouted.

“Angey mum is so angry with you” Kyra shoved her blonde friend, standing up off the couch.

“No, no Kyra, don’t call Y/n mum now too” Katrina warned.

“Damn it, scary mum is going to shout at me, isn’t she?” Charli whined, walking after Kyra into the kitchen.

“We are not your parents” Katrina shouted, to no avail.

Meanwhile, upstairs you were wrestling with a toddler, trying to get her to go to sleep. After multiple arguments, she’d got dressed into one of your Arsenal jerseys and you’d agreed to read her a story. After about 25 minutes when you still hadn’t made an appearance downstairs, Katrina tiptoed upstairs to look for you. Sure enough, the story worked wonders for you and Harper, and you were both asleep, snuggled into eachother with your legs hanging off the little princess bed. Katrina snapped a photo of the moment, before she gently woke you up to bring you to her bedroom.

“Love you” you mumbled as you rested your head on her chest and her fingernails scraped the back of your neck.

“Love you too” Katrina smiled, pulling you a little bit tighter against her.

Your hatred of children was long gone, now you were loved up and had two grown up daughters and a toddler.

[pr1dek1ng]

Nah for real 💀

[pr1dek1ng]

moved

[pr1dek1ng]

Oh Captain, Mi Capitana // Jennifer Hermoso x Reader

Summary: You're a yacht captain with a past, and there's a flirtatious footballer who seems intent on bringing up all of the emotions you've sought to bury.

Warnings: Mentions of trauma, mentions of past military (American), swearing

Word count: 5.9k

A/N: Requested by @codiemarin -- i hope that i've done your request justice :) i don't quite know how to feel about this one.

As you listened to the noises of excited screeching and loud, pounding music, you only had two thoughts.

Your first thought, as you tried to figure out where the hell you’d put your map, was that these Spanish women sure knew how to celebrate. 

Despite having lost out on gold during the Olympics, the women weren’t short on spirit. They seemed to be basking in the glory of it all, of even getting to the Olympics in the first place. They screamed out and danced as though the entire world hadn’t been watching them only a few days ago.

Your second thought, as you nearly ran into one of the aforementioned women, was that the Spanish were very, very hot. 

Well, at least the women were. 

“Ayúdame, por favor.” Someones’ voice rasped, right into your ear. You weren’t familiar with football, nor many other sports. 

Realistically, you were somewhat of a recluse. You didn’t pay attention to the news other than political news stories and articles. Even then, you hardly paid any mind to everything that was going on. It was more peaceful that way.

To you, there was always something going to hell in the world– someone being kidnapped, or killed, or sentenced to life in jail. Something was unfair, and someone was being sued, and some corporation was exploiting the poor. You felt helpless to stop any of it, and so you tried not to think too hard about the atrocities that others were experiencing.

You didn’t feel the need to watch it all go down after experiencing your very own hell in the army. You liked your world as plain as possible, as you’d experienced far too much in the years you’d lived thus far. In this world at sea, on a yacht in a known vacation island, you felt as though you were hiding away from the cruelties of the world around you.

Therefore, you were only able to recognize the person you’d run into from the newspaper articles and social media websites. You remembered hearing about them from the World Cup, and from some coaching scandal. 

The person that you’d run into was Jenni Hermoso. Her long black hair was wet and tied back into a sleek bun, which made it harder for you to identify her at first.

It was hard to come up with a cognizant third thought, given the fact that the woman was wearing a bikini. The piece showed off several miles of tanned, toned legs and abdomen– and raised your hand up to your mouth, only to make sure that you weren’t drooling. 

“Um– sorry, what?” You managed to cough out, backing up a step to get her to take her hand off of your shoulder. You cursed yourself for the fact that you could hardly think with this womans’ eyes on you, nevermind her hands. 

“Oh– hablas español o inglés?” The womans’ voice was faster than you can keep track of, and that was when you finally had your third thought. 

You really should have learned Spanish, or at least a bit of it, when you had started working as a captain of a yacht in Ibiza… It really would have made your job a lot easier. In your defense, you were still rather new to the position, having only just gotten out of the American military. 

Perhaps your new occupation was a way of you distancing yourself from the harsh realities you’d experienced at war, but you certainly preferred the Spanish women on the yacht to some of the things you’d experienced in the last few years. 

“Um… Spanish- no, wait. English. I speak English, not Spanish. Please, no Spanish.”  Your eyes widened as you stumbled over your words, internally cursing yourself for your one true weakness– pretty women. 

“Oh- I can speak English, yes?” Hermoso said, and you nodded quite quickly, once again internally reprimanding yourself for your behavior. 

“Do you know where we are?” The girl asked, and you furrowed your brows. It was rather uncommon for people on your yachts to ask you where they were, given that they were usually carefree and happily vacationing. 

“Um… would you like the coordinates, or…?” The woman blushed, and it took you another second for you to realize that she had been looking for a reason to ask you a question. You blushed, and then immediately cursed yourself for blushing. 

“No, está bien. It is fine, but did you know that your hand taps your thigh when you are nervous? Are you nervous ahora?” Jenni took a step forward, into your personal space, and your mind went haywire. 

You weren’t sure whether you wanted to step forward, too, or step back and get far, far away from this woman and the feelings that she was conjuring up within you. They were feelings that you hadn’t felt in a very, very long time… probably since before your second tour. 

You immediately stopped tapping your thigh with the index finger of your left hand, biting down hard on your bottom lip as you finally took a step back.

“Um, nervous? Me? No. Why would I be nervous?” You really were digging the hole deeper for yourself, your voice wavering as you pronounced the words on your thick tongue, struggling to figure out how to speak. 

“Mmm… perhaps you think that I am pretty, no?” The womans’ eyes were dark, and they reminded you of almonds, or of a very…, pretty-

“You? Pretty? No, what?” The other womans’ gorgeous, pink lips turned downward into a frown, and you immediately felt terrible. “I mean, no– you are very pretty, it’s not that-”

“Ah, así…, so you do think that I am pretty… Hermosa, perhaps?” You realized, then, that the woman had caught you right up in her trap. You blushed, shaking your head, unable to come up with something to say. 

“I mean, I- I don’t-” 

“Jenni! Deja en paz la capitana, venga aquí!” You glanced back towards the front of the boat, grateful for the woman who had shouted over to the two of you. 

You recognized that woman, too. She was one of the captains of the Spanish team and had made herself a name in Spain– Alessia Puss-in-Boots or something. 

No, that definitely wasn’t right. 

Jenni responded in quickfire Spanish, words which you couldn’t decipher and which remained scrambled. Even as you tried to interpret them whilst simultaneously trying to remember the captain’s name, everything seemed to come up blank.

You found it hard to think with this woman so close to you.

As suddenly as the black-haired woman was invading your space, she was backing right back out of it. Her hand found your shoulder again, and she gave you a small smile before her hand carefully drifted down the expanse of your arm, picking up your hand.

Despite how bold and cocky the footballer came off, her hands were incredibly slow and gentle, giving you plenty of opportunity to pull away. Later, you would replay this moment in your mind– now, however, you stared at the woman as she brought your hand up to her lips.

Her lips grazed the skin of the back of your hand, only a little bit wet and very soft against your skin. If you hadn’t already been blushing, you certainly were, now. 

Then, the woman was gone, and you were left trying to figure out what the hell had just happened. 

-----

That wasn’t your only run-in with the Spanish striker, of course. The woman seemed intent on finding you and embarrassing you throughout the few days that they had rented out your yacht. 

Each time you weren’t working, you seemed to run into Jenni. The girl was always just a little bit touchier with you, just a little bit flirtier. She always managed to leave you flustered, and confused… and a bit sad, if you were going to be honest. 

It wasn’t that you didn’t realize that Jenni was attractive, but you couldn’t flirt back. You knew that plenty of your staff and coworkers didn’t stick to the rules as you did, but you couldn’t find it in yourself to break them. 

Perhaps it was all your years spent in the military, but your moral compass would never allow you to break the rules which had been set in your contract in captaining the yacht. 

Despite it all, the Spanish woman kept coming back for more. Sometimes, she would talk to you about the sun, and about how nice the water was, and how much calmer she felt out at sea. Other times, she would ask you about yourself, and you would always give her short, gruff answers. 

The girl wasn’t turned off by your rejections, however. Instead, you only seemed to intrigue her more, and she only kept coming back. It was as though the two of you were trapped in some constantly-spinning circle, where the universe kept bringing the two of you back together. 

Even now, as you were trying to finish up your dinner before you got back to work, she was there. You weren’t sure whether to groan or to smile as Jenni slid into a seat across from you. You also didn’t know whether you should get up and walk away, or sit there and listen to what the woman had to say. 

Everything about her, and about you, were at odds with each other. Something about this footballer captivated you and pulled you in, but every single instinctual part of yourself also screamed at you– to pull away, to run and never go back. 

“Aha, mi capitana favorita… do not tell Ale, por favor. Cómo estás?” The other woman was always chipper and excited, even when she met your colder, sadder exterior. 

The two of you couldn’t be more different– she was off, celebrating some kind of football victory at the height of her career, where you were off, running away from all of the mental problems that your own career and failures had brought down upon you. 

Jenni seemed intent on breaking all of the rules that she could, jumping off of platforms which weren’t meant to be jumped off of, sneaking around the yacht to come find you while you were working. She broke your rules, too– the ones you’d created the last time you’d found yourself heartbroken. 

You found yourself smiling more with her, aching for something more than the small, flirtatious conversations that the two of you had. You wanted to ask her why she was the way that she was, why she’d chosen football, of all things. You found yourself thinking about her in your evenings, wondering if she’d turn up as she usually would. 

You found that you missed her when she wasn’t beside you. 

“English, please.” You reminded the black-haired woman, somewhat plainly.

She just grinned at you. This was somewhat of a routine with the two of you.

Something told you that she used her words intentionally, to see if she could bother you, or make you squirm. You found that, like her love for treading the line between rules, she had a passion for trying to test you.

The girl giggled, and you found yourself biting down on your lip to keep yourself from smiling. Jenni Hermoso leaned forward in her seat, and you refrain yourself from looking downward– she was wearing a red bikini set, which showed off wide expanses of tanned skin and muscle. 

She had on a flowy white top, but had left it unbuttoned down the middle. You met her eyes from across the table, and tried to ignore the way she bit her lip at you– rather seductively, if you did say so yourself. 

You thought you were melting in your pristine white uniform, and continued to gaze directly into her eyes. Perhaps, if you met her gaze, she’d leave you alone.

“Tienes ojos bonitos, amor.” Jenni said, and you rolled your eyes, shifting and leaving back into your seat. You crossed your arms over your chest and shook your head at her, but there was a smile on your face.

You’d been around Jenni enough to pick up on certain Spanish words that she used more than others. You were able to understand that particular sentence quite well, and hated how your cheeks reddened in spite of it all. 

“Ahaaa, you smile! You should do that more. You have a very pretty smile, bonita.” Jenni said, leaving even further forward and whispering to you, as though it was a secret which she was rewarding you with instead of a simple sentence. 

In more ways than one, it did feel like a secret. The way the two of you interacted– it was everything that you wanted, and everything that you couldn’t have. You hadn’t had such a lighthearted crush in so long that you felt like Jenni herself had gone into your soul and dusted off all of the edges of your heart. 

“You’re driving me crazy.” You confessed, shaking your head again. While Jenni shifted, you stayed in place, watching her as she leaned back herself, mirroring your position in a way which you knew to be intentional. Everything she did seemed to leak with intention, and with a cockiness that you’d only ever associated with professional athletes who knew that they were attractive and heavily wanted. 

You used to hate those kinds of people, the ones who acted like they were hot shit. Jenni, however, wore it like it was a second skin. She knew that she was wanted because it was a fact, and that was attractive as well. That, or maybe you were just incredibly lonely. 

Either way, you’d finished your meal. You got up, plate in one hand, and gave a small nod of goodbye to Jenni before you began to walk off. 

Jenni’s hand on your wrist tugged you back, albeit gently. She pulled you close to her, voicing her thoughts as she did so.

“Ah, so I am always in your mind, yes? I drive you crazy, but I think that you like it.” Jenni let go, then, winking at you before turning away. Just as suddenly as her eyes had been on you, they were back to her food and her phone. 

Your eyes were still on the dark-haired woman, however. Your mind was spinning, and your cheeks were even more burnt than before. You weren’t sure how to respond, or if you should. You shuffled away, then, awkwardly. 

You tried arduously to ignore the heat in your cheeks and the ache in your chest.

-----

It took only a few hours for Jenni to find you again, albeit this time in a less social space. You’d finished your shift for the day and had gone to your room on the yacht, trying to settle in for a good night’s rest at sea. 

You hadn’t been able to rest, however. 

Every part of you was uneasy and restless, and it didn’t take long before you were shrugging on a loose shirt and shorts and shuffling back out of your room. 

You had been working on the yacht for a while, and there was a place on the boat which always seemed to settle your mind. 

You made your way back to the front of the yacht, above deck, and found the space which you occupied on nights where your mind refused to calm. It was at the very front of the boat, a place which was relatively quiet and peaceful. 

It was the place that allowed you to look out at whatever lay in front of the boat, which was why you liked it so much. Even now, you could see dark shapes on the land as you settled your bare forearms against the metal bars of the yacht. 

Almost as soon as you leaned against the boat, you began to settle down once more. Your heart beat steadily in your chest, and your shoulders began to relax. Your eyes gazed longingly across the sea and at the land which lay far ahead of you.

Your eyes caught sight of deep, rolling hills colored varying shades of gray, black, and brown. These hills were topped by patches of grass and long, winding vines and weeds, and covered with endless green trees.

You wondered how something so beautiful could hide the most treacherous of secrets. You wondered how the planet could hold things as terrible and dark as murder and betrayal, whilst also housing beautiful things such as the land before you. 

You couldn’t understand how the people of your world could suffer the most dire of situations and outcomes. You couldn’t wrap your mind around the fact that there were people starving, people who didn’t know how they were going to make it to tomorrow, and people who were haunted by the deeds of their past and, meanwhile, these gorgeous hills just rolled… on and on and on. 

The world still spun, even when your own world stopped, and that very thought was as hauntingly beautiful as the landscape which lay before you.

“Aye, mi capitana– stás bien?” You startled at the sound of a familiar voice, arms slipping against the metal. You banged your elbow against one of the rungs and hissed out in pain, spinning around with your hands up defensively. 

“Ay, lo siento. I did not mean to startle you. I mean you no harm-?” Jenni stood in front of you, her hands up and her palms out as though to prove that she didn’t mean to hurt you. 

Speaking of beautiful things, Jenni wore one of her old Spanish jerseys and a pair of loose shorts. Her hair was combed back and loose, tumbling down her back and shoulders, and you swore that she captivated you just as easily as the land around you. 

“It’s okay,” You said, voice unbelievably hoarse. You shook out your shoulders and hands, shivering a little as a breeze picked up. “Um… What are you doing here? It’s late.”

“It is? Oh- I did not notice.” Slowly, Jenni took another step towards you. There was that twinkle in her eye again, the one that told you that she was being facetious. It was something which she carried as though it were a second skin– cockiness, flirtatiousness… and endless jokes.

But now, she was treating you like some feral animal, speaking and moving slowly so that you could track her with your eyes. Finally, she was next to you, practically breathing the same air as you. 

If you reached out, you could have touched her skin with your hand. You could smell her perfume, and the conditioner that she used in her hair– it smelled fruity and sweet, whilst also calming… like coconut. 

“It’s… Three in the morning.” You said, your mouth quirking up at the corner just the slightest bit. 

Jenni fixed you with a ridiculously bewildered look, with that twinkle in her eye that you swore would never be extinguished. The stars above echoed in her gaze, and you swore that Jenni herself could have been a star. “It is? I did not notice!” Jenni said, smiling at you. Her smile was just as intoxicating as her attention, and you couldn’t help but smile along with her. “Ah, there she is. Your smile is quite pretty.” 

You were blushing again, shaking your head slowly as you leaned back against the rails, still facing the black haired woman. “Even at three in the morning, you do not stop flirting, no?” You asked, laughing a little bit. 

“Ah, but how could I not flirt with someone as gorgeous as you,” You blushed, which seemed to be what Jenni was trying to accomplish. The girl just smirked, gorgeous lips quirking up on one side rather crookedly. “It is late, though, so why are you awake?” 

Jenni asked the question, moving so that she, too, was leaning against the bars of the yacht. 

Your smile disappeared as you remembered why you were awake. You weren’t sure how to phrase it, however, and so you shrugged. 

“I’m not sure. I couldn’t sleep, I suppose.” You answered, sounding rather distant, even to your own ears. 

Jenni frowned as well, and her left hand moved from where it rested at her side. She was, once again, intentionally slow as her arm rose up and her hand reached out towards your face. Her fingers poked out, and she slowly pushed a strand of hair from out of your eyes.

Her knuckles brushed against the heated skin of your cheeks, and you couldn’t bring it upon yourself to look her in the eyes. You thought that Jenni would let go of you, then, but she didn’t. She was oh-so slow as she turned her hand.

Before you knew it, she was cupping your jaw in the very same hand that she’d used to push away your hair. Her thumb stroked against your cheek– once, twice, and then your eyes met hers. 

“Puedo… Can I… kiss you, please?” Jenni asked, and your heart stopped. 

It was rather unexpected in some ways, but you’d still been waiting for it. After days of telling yourself that your attraction towards the woman was one-sided and wrong, you were faced with your dreams.

After all of the time that you’d spent resisting and rejecting Jenni, the Spanish woman had not given up. Your heart had been resilient, but Jenni had been more resilient. You weren’t sure what had come over you– you’d been about to say no, eager to shove her away so that you could continue to protect your battered heart. 

Instead, you found yourself whispering, albeit slowly and contemplatively.

“Yes, please. Kiss me.” 

Jenni did. 

You would be lying if you said that you hadn’t thought about this very same situation. You’d dreamed about how she’d feel against you, and how she’d taste and smell. You’d wonder how she’d approach you– would she be more dominant, or would she let you initiate the kiss and take over the moment? Would she be handsy, or would she simply kiss you with everything that she had, keeping her hands off of you to wonder what they would feel like. 

You were struck by how complete you felt when Jenni’s lips touched yours. It was everything that you had denied yourself, and had chastised yourself for even considering and yet it felt… so, incredibly good.

Once again, you found yourself marveling at the beauty of the world. The most beautiful of all, however, was her lips against your own. Jenni was soft as she kissed you, tentatively at first before kissing you fully and encapsulating your bottom lip between her own. Her lips were soft, and pillowy, as though she’d applied chapstick on them just before she’d come to find you.

Her breath tasted of a minty toothpaste, and you wondered if you used the same one. 

You were surrounded by the sound of water lapping against the sides of the boat, as well as the distant voices and laughter of mischievous couples stealing away on vacation. It never dawned on you that, to the naked eye, you and Jenni were one of those couples, sneaking away to kiss each other in the darkened night. 

Besides, you could hardly hear or sense anything other than Jenni. Everything was Jenni. 

Her touch lit you on fire, her hands on you were so incredibly soft. You felt alive, possibly for the first time in years. One of her hands had shifted from where it cupped your cheek to the nape of your neck, and her fingers had gently tangled into the roots of your hair, there. 

She’d taken control of the kiss before you could even ponder it, backing you up against the metal railing of your yacht. Her other hand found its home at your side, pressing you against the metal whilst exploring your torso over your thin nightshirt. 

You weren’t quite used to being treated this way– dominated, ever so gently. You were used to initiating the contact, and the kisses, and you weren’t sure if you thought that it was a bad thing that Jenni had taken the role in this circumstance. 

Even the way that Jenni held you was at odds with everything you thought yourself worthy of. She treated you like a treasure, and her touches were soft and comforting. Her fingers tugged gently at the roots of your hair as she deepened the kiss, and you found yourself groaning into her mouth as she did so. 

You couldn’t get it out of your head, though. This was forbidden, and you weren’t enough for her, but you also couldn’t stand to push her away. You wanted this, so, so badly, and perhaps you’d deprived yourself of the wonders of life for far too long. 

You weren’t enough, but you couldn’t get enough of her, either. 

You fell into the kiss despite yourself, closing your eyes and shutting off your thoughts. You allowed yourself to bask in and appreciate everything that was Jenni Hermoso, and you allowed your own hands to glide over her muscular body.

You appreciated her muscular abdomen, and her curves and muscles as she pushed you further against the yacht. Your lower back hurt and stung from the force, but you couldn’t find yourself to care. Everything felt far too good for you to pay much attention to the pain. 

Your hands groped and slip along her body, as her did to yours. You explored the sun-kissed skin which she allowed you to bare to the night, and you closed your eyes as her hands ventured below your loose night shirt.

Then, you had a bit of an idea. You shifted, just barely, and felt Jenni step and shuffle to try to continue kissing you. It was just the shift of balance that you needed, and you used your hands on her stomach to push her away.

You twisted the two of you around, walking her backwards until she was pressed up against the guard railing of the boat. As you pressed your lips back against Jenni’s, you felt her smile against your own lips. 

You smiled, too, and pulled away. You watched as Jenni’s eyes fluttered open, and felt a swirling of butterflies in your stomach as she looked directly into your gaze. It was, perhaps, the first time that the two of you had looked at each other with intent, and with desire, and you didn’t think you’d ever forget it. 

“You’re gorgeous,” You whispered, quickly planting another kiss against Jenni’s lips. “Is this okay?”

“More than okay. Besame, kiss me like you mean it.” Jenni whispered, and it struck you just how quiet she was. Her words were meant for you, and you only, and there was something so special about sharing such an intimate moment with someone who you hardly knew. 

And so you kissed her again. And again. And again. You kissed her to make up for lost time, for how long you had spent desiring her and never acting on that desire. You kissed her to show her how badly you yearned for her, and her hands around your back just pulled you in, deeper and deeper, until you thought that there was no way of leaving.

You didn’t want to leave, anyway. 

Her groans and whimpers against your lips were your undoing, and then her leg was between yours and you were trying not to make those same noises. Every part of you knew that it was wrong, but you couldn’t help but fall into the other woman. 

You kissed her for a long time, until you knew nothing other than her touch, her scent, and her taste. Only then did you pull away. 

You fell back against the railings, watching Jenni with a measuring gaze. Her clothes were ruffled from where you’d been pulling and grabbing at them, and her. Her shoulders were heaving, and you wondered if you had left her out of breath. A part of you felt smug about that. 

Her fingers touched gingerly at her lips, and you saw her smile. Then, she opened her eyes. 

“I cannot believe it took me that long to kiss you.” Jenni said, voice lilting and accented as always. You smiled.

“It’s not like I made it easy for you.” You reminded her, and now it was Jenni’s turn to smile at your words.

“It is okay. I like a good challenge, and the reward was worth it.” Jenni winked at you, and you hated yourself for blushing.

It was then that you realized something.

“You leave tomorrow, yes?” You asked her. Suddenly, you felt cold. Jenni nodded, and her smile faded just as quickly as yours had.

You knew that it was just some silly summer vacation fling, and yet a part of you had hoped that it would be more. That part of you was foolish, you knew, and felt your heart shattering in your chest at the thought.

“Si, I go back to Mexico.” Jenni said, sounding sad. You wondered if that was all you were to her, though. Were you just some fun on vacation? 

Jenni shifted uncomfortably against the yacht, and then shook her head slowly.

“Ah, I have to go.” The woman whispered, and you had a feeling that she was saying goodbye. You couldn’t believe that you’d received such a good thing and had to let it go in such a short time.

The pain you felt was unexpected as the woman walked away. You didn’t realize how much you’d appreciated her teasing remarks, and her stubborn jokes and flirting. You didn’t realize how much you liked Jenni, until she was gone.

You hated yourself, then, more than you ever had. No pain you’d felt in your militaristic past had ever compared to what you felt now. You felt deprived of joy and oxygen, and you had no idea how you were supposed to just… exist without Jenni there. 

You allowed yourself to break down, then. Your fingers gripped the metal yacht railings until your knuckles were white, and until the sun had begun to rise. Only then did you allow yourself to retire to your room and try to sleep.

-----

You only managed to sleep for a few hours before you had to get up for your shift. 

The irony of your shift was not lost on you. The fact that you were driving the yacht to shore so that your favorite Spanish woman could leave would have been laughable, if it weren’t so upsetting. You wore shades with your outfit that day, so that your darkened, red eyes could not be seen by any of the people on the boat, or your fellow staff. 

You were, however, grateful for how busy your job kept you. Between people dropping things, someone falling overboard, and your coworkers having drama, you were kept busy and entertained. 

You were able to completely immerse yourself in your job for the next few hours, keeping your mind off of the dreadful moment. 

Until you were almost too late. 

You saw Jenni walking off of the boat and startled. You’d tried so hard not to think about her that you had nearly forgotten about her. Kind of.

It was hard to completely forget about someone that you were falling in love with. Was this what love felt like? Like you were being deprived of oxygen when they weren’t there? Like you were some flightless bird who only gained wings when they were looking at you? 

Well, love fucking sucked. 

You forced yourself not to move as Jenni and her party began to depart, stepping off the yacht steps and onto the wooden deck of the Ibiza port. Jenni was wearing a tank top which showed off her muscular arms as well as a pair of black shorts, as well as a Spain national team hat. 

You tried to look anywhere but at that hat, tried to redirect your gaze, but you found yourself watching longingly as Jenni walked away from you.

But, then, Jenni spun around. Her head moved rapidly, as though she were looking for something, and then she was striding back towards the boat. Everything seemed to be in slow motion as she walked, leaving her teammates to look on as she made her way right back onto the yacht.

And right back to you. 

She held her arms open, and you allowed yourself to step into your embrace. She still smelled of coconut and of eucalyptus, and you couldn’t believe this would be the last time you felt her, and smelled her, and basked in her. 

As Jenni stepped away from you, her hand grabbed yours. You didn’t realize that she had slipped something into your hand until she was pulling away again, and you knew that she was intentionally keeping the interaction short so that you wouldn’t be outed to those who watched on. 

You slipped her note into your pocket, and your heart hammered into your chest. Despite the fact that you had a job to do, you snuck into the bathroom to read the note.

Printed in neat, looping letters were Jenni’s name and phone number. 

Below that? Nos volveremos a encontrar. Llamame, amorcito. Te esperare. 

We will meet again. Call me, I will wait. 

You felt it again, then. That great, exponential soaring feeling– like you were so high that you would never fall. You felt invincible, and you felt incredibly hopeful.

This wasn’t the end. 

You would see her again. 

-----

And see her again, you did.

Many times, actually.

A few weeks later, you were seated in the friends and family section of a stadium in Mexico. You donned a jersey with the last name of “Hermoso” on the back, and you never felt more proud. 

A few months later found you in Jenni’s house, which was now your own. You were wearing your own pair of shorts, but Jenni’s shirt once more. The two of you were gossiping in a prattling Spanglish, giggling and sharing a meal together.

Two years later found Jenni knelt before you, on the rocks of the very beach you’d been staring at the night you’d first kissed. She had a ring in her hands and the most beautiful speech prepared for you. Without hesitating, you’d said yes. There was nowhere that you’d rather have been than with Jenni, and you couldn’t imagine a life where that didn’t happen. 

The night that you were married found you and Jenni in bed, with Jenni wrapped around you. The other woman was asleep, but you were wide awake. 

You couldn’t believe how far you’d come– as a couple and as a person. You could trust again, and you could love again. You’d never trusted and loved anyone as much as you did with Jenni.

You knew, now, that every risk you’d taken had been worth it. You’d found your safe place and your home in Jenni and her arms.

[pr1dek1ng]

lemonade - part 1

lemonade || leah williamson x alessia russo x child!reader

Summary: When something bad happens to your Mummy and Daddy, you end up living with your Aunty Lessi and Aunty Leah.  But is there room for you considering they have a new baby on the way?

Warnings: death, pregnancy, mentions of stillbirth, house fire, hospitals & doctors

a/n: In this universe Alessia has a fictional older sister

also, this is pretty much the first thing I’ve ever written.  I would very much appreciate constructive feedback, including if I need to add any more warnings or tags or whatnot. I'm not sure if it's good enough to keep posting, so please let me know.  

--

You didn’t fully remember what had happened that night.

It had all started off very typical.  You’d had tea and a bath and watched a bit of telly before heading upstairs to your room for bed.  You were 7 now and a big girl, and certain you didn’t need tucking in anymore, so you gave your Mummy and Daddy kisses and cuddles before you went to brush your teeth and then snuggled under your bed covers to keep reading your current library book, Matilda. 

At some point you must have dozed off, because you woke up as your Daddy popped his head in through your door to check on you.

“You alright, Bunny?” he asked.  Your nickname had been Bunny for as long as you could remember.  You had been given a bunny stuffie named Arthur by your Nana on the day you were born, and he had been your trusty companion ever since.  Bunnies were also your favourite animal, however you weren’t allowed one as a pet because Daddy was allergic.  Apparently that meant he came up in big bright red spots whenever he got near one.  Surely there was some kind of cream that though.

“Can I come sleep in your bed with you and Mummy?” You had made sure to use your biggest, pleading eyes to try and convince him.

“Ohh alright.  But you have to remember to be careful of Mummy’s leg, okay?”

Mummy had hurt her leg a couple of weeks before.  She had been playing netball when someone on the other team had crashed into her and she landed poorly.  You weren’t totally sure what was wrong, but you knew that it was apparently worse than whatever Aunty Leah had done to her leg.  But it was also not as bad because your Mummy wasn’t a professional at netball, she just played for fun, and you think maybe they also won some wine sometimes but you’re not 100% sure.  Anyways, she had to go to hospital and have an operation and now she was on crutches (which you weren’t allowed to play on) and you had to help around the house a bit more because it was tricky for Mummy to get around.  You didn’t mind though, you were happy to be her little helper.

As you reached your parents room (Arthur clutched tightly under your arm), you found your Mummy already in the bed, her leg propped up on a pillow under the blanket.  Before she had a chance to ask what you were doing there, you quickly rattled out “Daddy said I could come sleep with you, please please please!”

Your Mummy just laughed and patted the spot beside her on the bed.  A few moments later you and Arthur were snuggled under the covers between your Mummy and Daddy and drifting soundly back to sleep.

The next time you awoke it was to a screeching alarm, one you recognised from when Daddy had tried to bake Mummy a birthday cake but had burned it really, really badly.

“Bunny!  Sweetie, wake up!”

As you opened your eyes you realised you were surrounded by thick black smoke.  Your chest felt tight, and the smoke stung your eyes so badly you couldn’t keep them open.  Everything felt foggy and faint and you could feel yourself quickly falling back asleep.

“Just take her! Save her! Get her out!”

You heard your Mummy’s screams over the blaring of the alarm.  You would hear those screams in your nightmares for the rest of your life.

The next thing you remember was being outside your house and your neighbour Mrs Green was passing you to an ambulance man.  You had Arthur clutched in your hand by his ear as the man lay you down on a wheely bed and put a funny smelling mask over your nose and mouth.

Then you were at the hospital and there was lots of nurses and doctors scrambling around, poking and prodding you.  You had still had the mask on your face that was filling your mouth and nose with funny smelling air.  There was a big needle sticking into your arm connected to a bag on a pole that kind of hurt a bit.  But worst of all, at some point you had lost hold of Arthur, and you could see him lying sadly on a bench across the room.

“She’s awake.”

“Y/N.  Hi, my name is Doctor Smith.  We’re just looking over you to make sure you’re doing okay.  We’ll get you back to a room really soon and then you can see your family, okay?”

Your family was here!  Thank goodness.  Whatever had happened, your Mummy and Daddy were fine and you would see them real soon.

You breathed a small sigh of relief but still reached out instinctively for Arthur.  A nice nurse with dark hair and big, round glasses noticed and looked over at the bunny.

“Is he your special friend?”

You nodded frantically.

“He’s very dirty at the moment, so he’s going to need a bath before you get him back for cuddles, I think.”

You realised that his normally light purple fur was closer to an dark grey colour, but you couldn’t understand how he got so dirty.  Surely a bit of smoke doesn’t get a bunny that dirty.  

And then it hit you. 

Smoke.

You’d only seen smoke come from a few things in real life before:

When your Daddy had burned that birthday cake

From the cigarettes the old ladies who sat outside the newsagents smoked

When there was lots of pretty fireworks and sparklers after Aunty Leah and Lessi won a big trophy

After you blew your birthday candles out

Smoke came from burning things.  Had Arthur been burned?

Before you could ask any questions, you were being wheeled into a room where your Nana and Aunty Lessi were.  You loved your Nana and your Aunty Lessi, but you wanted your Mummy and Daddy.  Where were your Mummy and Daddy?

“Oh Y/N, oh sweetie.  Oh, thank God you’re okay.”  Your Nana was crying as she reached for your hand and kissed your forehead.

You tuned out your Nana and the doctor’s conversation as out of the corner of your eye you spotted the nice nurse with the big, round glasses hand over Arthur, who had now been put in a plastic zippy bag, to your Aunty Lessi.  She whispered something to her you didn’t hear and Aunty Lessi nodded and put him carefully in a big sleepover bag she had with her.  You wondered why she had a sleepover bag with her here at the hospital.

“Does she know about…?”

“No.  We thought it best that she heard it from family.”

You snapped back to the conversation going on over your head at these words, catching your Nana nodding as she wiped some more tears away from the corner of her eye.

“We’ll leave you be to have some privacy.  One of the nurses will be back in a while to check on her, but of course, don’t hesitate to press the buzzer if you need anything.”

As all the hospital staff left, your Aunty Lessi came around to the other side of the bed and gave you a hug as best as she could, trying not to bump your mask or the big needle in your arm.

“Nan-” you attempted to talk, but the smelly mask on your face was making your words sound all mumbly jumbly.  You also noticed that it hurt a bit in your chest and throat when you tried to speak, your hand automatically coming up to rest on your neck.

“It’s okay sweetheart, you don’t need to speak.  You just rest, okay?”

You nodded, aware that there was something going on.  Something definitely wasn’t right.  Your eyes flicked between the two women, noticing that their eyes were red and puffy as though they’d been doing lots of crying.  

After a long, awkward silence that seemed to stretch on forever and ever, your Aunty Lessi finally started to speak.  

“Bunny, sweetie, there was a fire at your house.  We don’t know how or where it started, but there was a very bad fire, and it looks like it has destroyed the whole house.”

Your eyes widened as you began to put it all together – the smoke, the alarm, your Mummy screaming…

“Sweetheart, your Mummy and Daddy didn’t make it out.  We don’t know a whole lot yet, but we know that your Daddy ran out of the house with you and gave you to a neighbour.  You were very poorly and not breathing very well, and that’s why you’ve got to wear this mask to help you breathe.  He went back into the house, we can only assume to try and help your Mummy because she can’t… umm couldn’t move around too well because of her leg.  But they never made it out of the house.”

You didn’t really understand.  What did she mean they never made it out of the house?  Where did they go?  Where are they now?

“Bunny, do you understand what I’m saying?”

You shook your head furiously.  You just wanted to see your Mummy and Daddy.  Why weren’t they here?  Were they hurt?  Were they lying in beds somewhere with masks on their faces and needles in their arms? 

Your Nana stood up from her chair and sat down gently on the bed beside you.  She stroked her hand over your face a few times before cupping your cheek.

“I’m so sorry, Bun… Your Mummy and Daddy, they… oh Less, I can’t.  I can’t say it…”

Your Nana pulled away from you, burying her head in her hands as she stood up and turned away slightly.

“It’s okay, Mum.  I’ve… I’ve got it.”

Your Aunty Lessi swopped in and scooped your face gently into her hands, running her thumbs soothingly over your cheeks.

“Bunny sweetie, your Mummy and Daddy… d-died.”

You think your Aunty Lessi kept talking but her words just faded into background noise as you tuned out everything around you.  You were there, but not really.  Your body was, but your brain was just running over the words “Mummy and Daddy died” over and over and over and over until they lost all meaning.

Mummy died.

Daddy died.

Mummy and Daddy died.

You felt sad, but mostly you just felt kind of… nothing.  It felt almost like the sadness was a balloon that grew too big, too fast and it had popped and now all you were left with was nothing.

In the movies and in your books when people died, their family cried lots and lots.  Your Nana was crying, and it seemed like your Aunty had been crying.  But you didn’t feel like crying.  You did really, really feel like rubbing the soft fur of Arthurs ear across your cheek over and over and over though.

--

You had stayed in the hospital for a few nights before they let you go home.  

Well, not really home.

But your new home.

You were going to live with your Aunty Lessi and Aunty Leah.  Your Aunty Lessi was your Mummy’s sister and Aunty Leah was her wife.  They both played football for their jobs and travelled a lot.  Before… well, before, you would go and visit them, or they would come visit and you would tell them all about the books you’d been reading and what you’d been learning in school and show them all the different breeds of rabbits there were in the big scrap book you’d been putting together.  That scrapbook was gone now though.  You weren’t sure if you would start making a new one.

Your Aunty Lessi had the most beautiful smile, and she always seemed to be able to make everyone laugh and be happy.  And your Aunty Leah was always a really good listener, and she gave the most excellent hugs.  Sometimes you would go and watch them play football, but you weren’t really interested in sports.  It was always exciting when your Aunty Lessi would score a goal though, because if she knew you were in the crowd, she would point in your direction and make a heart with her hands.

You liked your Aunties. You loved them.  But you’d never spent the night at their house or had a sleepover with them.  You didn’t know any of the rules, and you didn’t have your Mummy to remind you of them before you went.  You wanted to be on your bestest behaviour, having read far too many stories and seen too many shows about children whose parents died and then their new families treated them poorly.  You didn’t think you’d do very well in an orphanage or living on the streets.

You’re not quite sure what to think of your new room at your Aunty Lessi and Leah’s house.  It’s very… adult.  A bit boring to be honest.  Just a big adult bed, a dresser and two bedside tables.  There is a big window however that overlooks the back garden that you quite like.  But you’re just grateful for somewhere to sleep really, thankful that your Aunties are letting you stay here at all.  You’d happily sleep on the loungeroom floor.  

“We will pretty it up and get you lots of new toys and decorate it however you want, Bun.”  Your Aunty Lessi was stroking your hair as you cuddled into her side.  “This is just temporary until your new bed and furniture arrives and we get you all settled in, okay?”

You nodded gently, not really knowing how else to respond.  You were a bit shocked that they’d ordered you a new bed and were going to get you new toys. 

“We did get you a few things to start you off with, just until we can all get down to the shops together to pick out some stuff.  I hope they’re okay…” Your Aunty Leah gestured towards the corner where you could see a few boxes and some brightly coloured stuffies peeking out through the handles of some shopping bags.  You looked up at her and blinked, unsure as to whether you were meant to thank her or go and inspect the items or what.

“We can go through that stuff later if you like?” Aunty Lessi suggested, squeezing your shoulder.  “How about we grab something to eat for lunch?”

You clung to your toy bunny Arthur as the three of you made your way down the hall towards the stairs.

“Oh, and remember that is mine and Aunty Lessi’s room,” Aunty Leah gestured towards a door on the right of the hall, pushing it open with her foot.  “If you ever need anything during the night, please don’t hesitate to come and get us.  I’m up and down all throughout the night going to the loo anyways because of this one,” she smirked as she rubbed her growing belly.

“Does it hurt? Growing a baby?”

You don’t really know why you asked.  You were curious, sure.  Your own tummy hurt a bit when you ate too much food, so surely having a baby in there hurt lots.  But surely now wasn’t the time to ask that kind of question.  Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.  However your Aunty Leah just chuckled and nodded at you.

“It doesn’t exactly hurt, but it is rather uncomfortable at times, especially if the baby moves into an awkward position or kicks a weird spot.”

“The baby kicks you?”

“Oh yeah!  They’re gonna be a striker just like your Aunty Less, I’m sure of it!”

Aunty Lessi nudged you and pointed at your hand.  “You might actually be able to feel the baby move some time, Bunny”

“Really? Could I?”

Your Aunty Leah’s smile was a big and bright as you’d ever seen it.  “They’re moving around now.  Do you want to try and feel?”

You nodded excitedly.  You had always wanted a baby brother or sister.  Your Mummy and Daddy had told you once that there was one on the way, but then a while later when they’d gone to the hospital, they came home really sad and said that baby brother was born sleeping.  

You had only just turned 4 when that happened, and you didn’t understand why they didn’t just wake him up.  But Daddy explained that that is what people sometimes say when they baby isn’t born alive. 

Mummy had been sad for what seemed like years after that.  She spent a lot of time in bed, and she cried more than you’d ever seen her cry before in your life.  You’d tried to cheer her up by drawing her pictures and singing her songs and giving her your biggest, bestest cuddles.  But Daddy said the only thing that would make Mummy better was time.  He was right.  She had slowly returned to her normal self.  You were very grateful, because you had missed the little things like the silly songs she would sing when she would wash your hair, and the smiley faces she would make out of blueberries in your pancakes.

Your Aunty Leah gently cradled your hand and brought it up to her swollen tummy.  As you rested your hand softly against her belly, you felt a whooshing feeling under your little hand.

“Did you feel that?”

You nodded quickly, your gaze meeting your Aunty Leah’s as she smiled gently at you.  You couldn’t believe you could feel the baby moving in her tummy.  It all started to feel very real.

“They’re moving around quite a bit tonight.  I think they’re quite excited to have you here with us, Bun.”

“Do you know if it’s a boy or girl?”

“No, we decided to wait until the baby is born to find out and let it be a surprise.  We really don’t mind what their gender is, we’re just excited for them to be here and to meet them.  Oh, there they go again, did you feel that kick?”

You nodded again, pulling your hand away from your Aunty Leah’s tummy as a sinking feeling began settling in your own.

You knew you weren’t a part of your Aunties plan.  They were having a baby, and becoming Mums, which you were sure was something new and super exciting for them.  But now they also have you to look after as well, which they weren’t expecting and had probably changed so many things for them.  Surely, surely they would be much happier without you here ruining their perfect new little family?  

[pr1dek1ng]

no one speaks to you like that

r deals with a cruel coach at the world cup. misa makes it better. feat. the girls finding out that their friends are together.

The door slammed shut behind him, and you exhaled a deep breath, collapsing back onto the bed. You'd never been more unhappy to have your own room than at that moment.

You'd stepped out of the bathroom post shower, just barely throwing on clothes, when you'd heard a knock at your door. You were hoping it was Misa, but when the door opened to reveal Vilda on the other side, you felt your heart sink. He had his characteristic scowl on his face as he stepped past you.

The following 15 minutes were what could only be categorized as verbal abuse. He went after everything; your skills, how hard you were trying, how fast you were, how you were "clearly not" following the meal plan he arbitrarily changed whenever he felt like it. You stood, completely still, looking just over his shoulder, taking it. You wouldn't argue, that never ended well. You didn't let yourself cry either, because he never appreciated tears. Instead, you let the words wash over you, and dug your nails into your palm.

You thought of Misa the whole time. How if she heard what he was saying she'd probably do something to get herself more than benched this time; maybe sent home. The last time Vilda had gone after you like this, he had made the mistake of doing it in view of Misa, who completely lost it at him. Now, she was unlikely to play the rest of the tournament, and Vilda seemed to enjoy screaming at you more than anyone else.

No one knew about the two of you, even if Vilda suspected. No one else had witnessed her reaction to his cruel words directed at you; everyone just knew she'd argued with him, and she would be riding the bench no matter how far we got. The division within the team was stark, and although Misa was a Real Madrid player, she mostly hung out with the Barcelona girls; with you. You'd gotten together a few months ago, and decided to keep it to yourselves, not wanting to deal with her club teammates finding another reason to dislike her.

When Vilda finished, you just wanted Misa. You wanted to wrap yourself up in her strong arms, bury your whole body in her larger one. You never felt safer than when Misa held you tightly to her. You knew that you should probably find Alexia or Irene and tell them what happened, but you didn't want to make a big deal out of it. You pulled out your phone, intending to see if Misa was alone, so you could go to her. You needed to get out of this room; the scent of Vilda's aftershave hung in the room like a fog, and it felt like it was suffocating you.

-Are you by yourself?

-Yes. Do you need me?

You could practically see the smirk lighting up the goalkeepers face as you read her response; you did need her, just not in the way she was implying.

-Can I come up? Vilda just left.

The little bubble that let you know she was typing appeared and disappeared a few times, before her reply came through.

-Dick. Yes, of course, please come up.

With that, you slipped your phone into your pocket, grabbing your room key, and headed out the door. You yanked your hood up, trying to hide the tears leaking out of your eyes. You walked down the hall, trying to keep yourself from crying until you got to Misa's room.

You heard voices coming from the direction of the elevator you were headed too, unmistakably those of Alexia and Jenni. Fuck. You had nowhere to go, and as soon as they saw you, they wouldn't let you out of their sight until you told them what was wrong. You had no choice but to keep walking towards them, turning the corner, hoping they'd be too wrapped up in conversation to notice you.

"Y/n!! We're gonna watch a movie in Mario and Ale's room, come with," Jenni called the minute she spotted you. You didn't know how to say no, so you said nothing, trying to walk past them.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Alexia asked, putting a hand on your shoulder to stop your movements. Again, you didn't say anything, continuing to stare at the ground. A gentle hand came to tug your hood off your head, before lifting your chin up. Your watery eyes met the older girls.

"What happened?" Jenni questioned, looking overly protective even though she didn't know what happened. She kept her hand under your chin, not allowing you to drop your gaze again.

"Nothing, I'm fine, I'm just going to hangout with Ona," you lied, trying to shake off their hands.

"What happened," Alexia asked, in a firmer voice. It wasn't mean, or harsh, but it still reminded you of the verbal lashing you'd just endured, and more tears were flooding your eyes before you could stop them.

"Vilda," you started, before a sob escaped your lips.

"Fucking hell," Jenni swore, pulling you tightly against her. "What did he say?"

"Come on, bring her to my room," Alexia said quietly, looking furious, realizing you weren't going to respond. Jenni maneuvered you down the hall, never letting go, through the door to Alexia's room, before pushing you to sit down on the edge of her bed. You wanted to pull your phone out and tell Misa that you'd been intercepted, but you couldn't do that without arising suspicion. Also, you couldn't really see clearly through the tears blurring your vision.

Alexia spoke a few words to Mariona, who looked equally as murderous as the other 2 girls, and you knew you needed to pull it together and make sure none of them did something stupid. They were all older than you, and were quite protective. It wouldn't be the first time they clashed with Vilda over him mistreating younger players, but with the semifinals coming up, you knew you couldn't risk anyone else getting benched.

The problem was that you were only getting more worked up, even as Jenni wrapped an arm around your shoulders, and began talking quietly in your ear.

"Whatever he said isn't true, I promise. You're an important member of this team, and you haven't done anything wrong," she told you.

You nodded, but the tears wouldn't stop. The embarrassment you felt was only making you cry harder. Alexia took a seat on the other side of you, placing a hand on your back.

"Jenni's right, you haven't done any-" her words were cut off by a frantic knock at the door. You knew who it was, even as the other girls exchanged confused looks. Mariona went to answer it, as Jenni and Alexia looked curiously after her.

No sooner had Mariona opened the door, than Misa's panicked voice was filling the room.

"Have you seen y/n? She texted me that Vilda..." She trailed off as Mariona stepped to the side, revealing your shaking form sitting in between your captains. The other girls watched as Misa's face melted from one of panic into one of pure adoration; one they'd never seen on her face before.

"Y/n, baby," she said, seemingly forgetting that you weren't alone. Your teammates exchanged looks, Mariona and Jenni mouthing “baby??” at each other, as Misa crossed the room, tugging you out from under the arms of Jenni and Alexia, pulling you into hers. They were just as surprised to see you wrap your arms around Misa, clutching tightly to her sweatshirt. Your tears immediately slowed as Misa held you tight, the feel of her around you calming you down instantly.

"I'll kill him," Misa said through clenched teeth, addressing no one in particular.

"Easy there, why don't you tell us what the hell is going on before you go kill him," Jenni said, glaring at Misa. Your Barca teammates had clearly connected the dots, and did not appreciate that you were clearly keeping a secret from them. Misa made to let go of you, make this more of a conversation had with you, rather than one spoken over your head, but you only tightened your grip on her, shaking your head into her chest. Her attention was, again, solely on you as she pulled you over to the other bed, tucking you under one arm as she sat down.

Misa was still gazing at you, fingers scratching lightly at your scalp as you emerged from her chest, wiping harshly at your face. Her hands pushed yours out of the way, ridding your face of tears much more gently than you had been doing. The simple gesture was so sweet, so intimate, and Alexia cleared her throat, drawing both of yours attention back to her.

"Well? How long has this been going on?" She asked, voice no longer the soft tone she had been using with you, instead replaced by what can only be described as her authoritative voice. Misa retreated to the rather quiet version of herself that most people experienced, and you spoke up. Still, her arm remained protectively wrapped around you and no one missed the way you leaned into her unconsciously.

"Since May,"

"And you didn't think you should maybe tell us that you were in a relationship with someone on the team? A relationship that appears to be pretty important to you?" Jenni asked. Her jaw was clenched, but she didn't look like mad Jenni, she looked like sad Jenni. You realized the three of them were not necessarily angry, but hurt that you'd kept this from them. You paused, unsure how to respond to that. In truth, Misa had asked to keep it to yourselves, but you didn't want to throw her under the bus. She had no such reservations.

"I asked her to not tell you guys. I didn't want anyone to know anything until I figured out how serious y/n was about me. And by the time I figured that out, we were at camp, and I didn't want to give my club teammates another reason to be... the way they are with me."

The other girls stared at the pair of you, somewhat stunned at the vulnerability just shown by Misa in admitting all of that. She was a reserved person, a private person, someone much happier to help her friends than allow them in at all.

"Well... that makes sense," Alexia said decisively. "We won't tell anyone."

Misa nodded once, a small smile gracing her lips, before she turned to look down at you.

"What did Vilda say?" She asked, eyeing you carefully. In response, you just shrugged, refusing to make eye contact. You absolutely did not want to discuss what he'd said in front of the rest of your teammates; you trusted them, but the things he had said were humiliating. Misa seemed to pick up on this, as did Alexia, as they quickly made eye contact, and Misa stood, pulling you with her.

"Let's go back to my room, yeah?" She asked quietly, and you smiled gratefully at her. Mariona and Jenni both voiced their disapproval at that idea.

"I have like 15 more questions for the two of you," Jenni protested.

"Yeah, what are we supposed to do, just let you go back to Misa's room all alone? We have a game tomorrow, girls." Mariona said teasingly.

"Alright, let them go." Alexia said, hiding a smirk at Mariona's comment. It really hadn't been that funny, but the way you and Misa immediately blushed, and looked anywhere but at your friends was amusing.

You and Misa walked out of the room, ignoring the suggestive jokes that Jenni and Mariona were making. You walked in complete silence to the elevator and up to Misa's room. You'd broken apart the minute you'd exited the room, and Misa longed to take your hand. Now that you were away from your friends and their teasing, it seemed the weight of whatever Vilda had said to you was settling back on top of you.

You allowed Misa to pull you into her room, nudging you to sit on the bed, as she took a seat next to you. You were distracted, caught up in your own head, only looking up at her worried brown eyes when she said your name softly.

"Are you okay?" She asked, feeling like she probably knew the answer. You shook your head slightly, leaning to lean more against the brunette. "Tell me what he said," she requested, and you sighed.

"More of the usual. I'm not playing hard enough, I'm not fast enough, not good enough," you paused. You looked up at your girlfriend, not sure if you should continue and tell her the worst part. She smiled encouragingly, a smile you only saw on her face when it was just the two of you. "He told me I need to start following the meal plan better, because 'it's clear' that I'm not," you finished quietly.

Misa's hands clenched into fists once again, knowing exactly how those words would effect you. She, more than anyone, knew that you struggled with keeping your habits around eating and working out healthy, and not letting them become obsessive. The goalkeeper reigned in her anger, though, realizing that it was clearly not what you needed from her.

She lifted your chin with one of her large hands, her touch gentler than you thought possible. "He's wrong, baby. You're having an incredible tournament. We're as far as we are partially because of you," she said earnestly.

"And yes, you aren't following his stupid meal plans, because he isn't a dietician, and you need to be careful with how you keep track of what you're putting in your body. You're doing what you need to do to stay healthy, and that is what's important."

You were still looking at her with so much doubt, as though you desperately wanted to believe her, but weren't sure if you could. Deciding that maybe words had taken her as far as they could, she leaned in, pressing her lips to yours, hard, in what she hoped was a reassuring way. You met her with enthusiasm, relaxing into the kiss as your mouths moved in sync with each other.

After a few moments, she pulled back pressing her forehead to yours. You looked slightly dazed, and Misa bit back a smirk at the effect she had on you.

"You are beautiful" she whispered, "you are strong, and you are fueling your body in the way you need to, in order to do your job. And I am so proud of you."

Misa often shocked you with how gentle, how kind and soft she could be. She put on such a hard exterior, all harsh frowns and flexed muscles on the pitch. Off the pitch, she was only slightly less intimidating, opting often to remain quiet and listen, her hard expression only wavering when she was around people she was comfortable with.

She was so different when you were alone with her though, the severe expression that normally rested on her face melting away to soft lips that pressed gentle kisses to your forehead, and wide eyes that looked at you with so much love.

It hadn't started off that way; it had started as passionate, rough hookups. Slowly though, you wore her down. She couldn't get enough of you, and she eventually stopped trying to.

She was enamored with you, and you with her. Privately, she felt that you made her a better person, a kinder person. You felt like she had a unique ability to make you laugh when nothing seemed funny, and hold you together when you felt like you were minutes from falling apart. Like right now. She knew exactly what to say, what to tell you.

"I'll say something to him," she said quietly, and you pushed her off of you, sitting up.

"No, Misa, you can't," you argued. She looked determined, a familiar smoldering look on her face, one she got when she was getting ready to save a penalty.

"Baby, he can't speak to you in that way," she began.

"No!" you responded, almost shouting. She looked at you in surprise, startled to see an incredibly panicked expression on your face.

"Calm down, y/n-"

"No, you can't say something to him. Promise me you won't. Please," you interrupted, almost begging.

"Why? I'm already benched what else could he do?" she wondered.

"He could send you home, Misa. And if you left, I couldn't... I couldn't do this, not without you," you responded, looking at her desperately. Misa brought you back into her arms before responding, holding you tight.

"Alright, baby. I won't say anything. I'm not going anywhere, and you don't have to do this without me," she promised.

"Thank you," you murmured. The goalkeeper smiled at you softly, rubbing your cheek gently with her thumb. You still looked nervous, still upset, biting the inside of your cheek like you were thinking hard. She waited patiently, content to sit in silence until you were ready to say what was on your mind.

"I'm sorry they found out. I just kind of freaked out when I ran into them, and I wanted to find you but they were in the hall..."

"Don't worry about that. I don't care that they found out. I don't care if everyone knows i'm with you. I just care that you're okay," she told you. "Anyway, now that Jenni has probably told the entire team, I can stay in here tonight with you."

You leaned closer against her, more relieved at her saying she'd stay than you'd like to admit.

"But you have a big game tomorrow, and you need to rest. What can I do to get you to sleep?" she asked, knowing you were likely too anxious to be able to sleep right away. Again, you marveled at how well she knew you.

"Hmm," you said, scooting down the bed and rolling onto your stomach. Misa was looking at you adoringly, and you grabbed one of her hands, placing it on your back. She laughed in response, beginning to run her nails lightly up and down. You sighed happily, and she scooted down too, kissing just above your eyebrow, before resting her head on the pillow, continuing her motions. You were drifting off, but still, the thoughts of Vilda and what he'd said to you still bounced around in your head.

"Do you think he'll yell at me again?" you asked groggily, blinking your eyes open just enough to see the girl opposite you.

"No. I won't let him," she responded, sounding completely sure. You nodded, shutting your eyes again. You believed her, inexplicably. Her tone was so confident, and more than that, you trusted her. More than you'd ever trusted anyone before. You fell asleep easily, feeling completely protected with the strong girl next to you, watching as you drifted off.

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