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quinnsallow · 22 hours ago

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braver than me

pairing: sebastian sallow x f!mc

summary: sebastian is a coward. lucky for him, she’s not.

word count: 3.3k

warnings: fluff, friends to lovers, kissing, pining, no use of y/n, sebastian is a coward

a/n: there’s just something about writing sebastian being hopelessly in love. like yes yes pls brain more!! i think it’s all the angst i’ve piled up as wips in my gdocs. enjoy n have a good day my loves!

[ao3] [wattpad]

sebastian was by no means a bashful man.

he’s been called many things in his time, but bashful had never made the list—not like confident, brazen, or his favorite, audacious. better yet: arrogance with legs, as ominis often put it, though in his typically snide way. sebastian, for his part, didn't mind it. matter of fact, he wore it like a badge of honor, shiny and dazzling. to him, there was a certain satisfaction in standing out. if everyone else was scrambling to find their place, sebastian had already claimed his. carved it out of sheer determination.

so why—why in merlin’s name—was he suddenly so timid when she was near? why, when it came to her, did he suddenly lose all sense of the man he thought he was?

it wasn’t as if he hadn’t spent every waking moment in her company. their time together had become so familiar, so entwined in the fabric of his daily life, that he'd stopped counting the hours they'd spent laughing, bickering, teasing—just being. she had become a constant, more than a friend, really. though "friend" was probably the closest word, but now? it felt wide off the mark. especially since a friend didn’t become tongue-tied when talking to her. a friend didn’t feel his pulse race when her fingers brushed his in the corridors. and a friend certainly didn’t blush like a fool at the sound of her laugh.

and it’s not like sebastian wasn’t aware of it, of course. he wasn’t blind to his own shifting thoughts and feelings. he had enough sense to recognize the telltale signs: the quickened heartbeat, the constant wandering of his thoughts back to her, the way his chest felt too tight when she was near. schoolboy feelings—childish, ridiculous, and entirely beneath someone like him. yet here he was, drowning in them. but knowing didn’t make it any easier to deal with.

there were moments when he thought about just telling her outright. dropping the weight of his feelings at her feet and dealing with whatever came after. it seemed so simple in theory. but in practice? all that mettle goes flying out the window.

instead, he became an embarrassing, bumbling mess. words tumbled out of him awkwardly, half-formed and nonsensical, or worse, he’d overcorrect and lean too hard into teasing, only to feel an immediate sting of regret when her expression faltered ever so slightly. she deserved better than his idiocy, but merlin help him, he didn’t know how to be anything else when it came to her.

for someone who prided himself on his charm and quick wit, sebastian had never felt so completely, hopelessly out of his depth.

in fact, it had gotten so bad that he’d taken to actively avoiding her. hiding. the idea was absurd, really. he was sebastian sallow, for merlin's sake. avoiding her was something someone with far less nerve would do. but there he was, sneaking through corridors, ducking into alcoves. he’d even locked himself in his dorm on more than one occasion, feigning a headache or some other excuse when ominis inevitably called him out on it.

but eluding her was becoming a cruel joke—one hogwarts itself seemed eager to play along with. the castle, grand and labyrinthine, conspired against him in ways he couldn’t quite explain. it was as if every hallway, every twisting corridor, every hidden nook was designed to lead him straight to her.

sebastian was on his way to a secluded spot he'd claimed for himself—quiet, tucked away, the perfect refuge for the pages of a book that promised to keep his mind distracted. that was the plan, at least, but luck—his luck, at least—was as cruel as ever.

he turned the corner and, there she was. she sat on the wide sill of a stained-glass window, knees drawn to her chest, her chin resting on them as she stared out toward the lake. her hair caught the light just so, the golden afternoon sun casting a soft glow around her that made her look almost ethereal.

as if on instinct, his heart skipped in giddy betrayal at the sight of her. but even as his chest swelled, his mind betrayed him, blanking entirely—completely and utterly useless, as it always seemed to be when she was anywhere in his line of sight. if he didn’t move soon, she’d surely find him staring ridiculously at her. but he was rooted to the spot, staring like a fool. it's not too late to keep walking. he could just move past her, pretend he hadn’t seen her. it wasn’t like she’d spotted him yet…

“i know you’re there, sebastian. i can see your reflection in the glass.”

her voice shattered his internal debate, soft but laced with unmistakable amusement. she turned her head toward him, her lips quirking into the faintest curve, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

every plan of escape evaporated in an instant at the sight of her smile.

“where were you headed to?” she asked, tilting her head as if daring him to lie.

he swallowed hard, clearing his throat in an attempt to appear nonchalant, but his voice came out in a stammer. “i… uh, y’know, j-just around,” he mumbled, immediately cursing himself for how he sounded because not one single syllable of that had been nonchalant.

“by around, you mean away from me?” she accused, her tone light but sharp enough to cut through his feigned indifference. “you think i haven’t noticed how you’ve been avoiding me like the plague?”

his stomach dropped, panic bubbling to the surface. “w-what? no,” he blurted, far too quickly and far too loudly to even be remotely convincing. “why would i be avoiding you?”

she shrugged, one of her brow quirking upwards. “you tell me.”

“well, i’m not.” he insisted, gripping the leather-bound book in his hand like it was some kind of lifeline. he waved it slightly for emphasis. “i’m only… looking for a nice, quiet place to read my book.”

her eyes narrowed playfully, but there was something curious lingering in her gaze. “okay, prove it.”

“prove it?” he repeated, blinking at her as if she’d just asked him to duel her right there in the hallway.

“sit with me,” she said simply, shifting slightly to make room on the windowsill beside her. her smile widened puckishly as she patted the empty space next to her. “you know, i find this spot quite serene, nice for reading. there's even a great view of the lake, and the added bonus of my presence. isn’t that just what you're looking for? unless, of course, you really are running from me.”

sebastian froze, his mind racing as every excuse he could possibly muster flitted through his head. he could still walk away, couldn’t he? he could laugh it off, make some joke, anything to escape the situation before he made an even bigger fool of himself.

but the look in her eyes held him there, rooted in place, and something in him knew—she knew exactly what she was doing. she was testing him, waiting to see if he’d take the bait. and if he ran now, she’d never let him live it down. worse, he wasn’t sure he would.

gathering every ounce of composure he could muster (which, to be honest, wasn’t much), he crossed the short distance between them, his legs feeling like lead. slowly, he perched on the windowsill beside her, keeping just enough distance to keep himself from spiraling further but close enough that her warmth brushed faintly against him.

“there,” he muttered, keeping his gaze fixed firmly on the lake outside. “happy?”

her smile softened, though he couldn’t bring himself to look directly at her to see it. “very,” she said, her tone softer now, less teasing.

sbastian tried—really tried—to focus on his book, but it was pointless. her presence beside him was unbearable in the best and worst ways, every tiny shift she made pulling his attention away like a magnetic force. the soft brush of her shoulder against his, the faint scent of her perfume, the way her hair caught the light—it was maddening.

and just when he thought he couldn’t handle more, she scooted closer to him.

“sebastian, have i done something to upset you?” she asked, her voice gentle but tinged with an earnestness that made his chest tighten.

his fingers toyed with the edges of his book. “what makes you think that?” he asked, trying to sound casual but failing miserably.

“oh, really?” she dragged the word, sarcasm biting in her tone. “you hide from me, you don’t talk to me, and when you do, you can barely look at me. it’s… quite unsettling.”

that sounded like a challenge, and if anything, sebastian never backed down from a challenge. so with a sharp exhale, he forced himself to look at her directly. his dark eyes locked onto hers, and though his intention had been to put her at ease, his intensity clearly had the opposite effect.

she blinked, recoiling slightly as a blush spread on her cheeks. “nevermind, that’s even more unsettling. merlin.”

her words threw him, his brow furrowing as his mouth twitched into something between a scowl and a smirk. “i-i thought you wanted me to look at you,” he replied, his voice coming out higher than intended.

“yes, look at me—n-not bore holes into my soul.” she argued, crossing her arms defensively.

sebastian let out a frustrated laugh, dragging a hand through his already disheveled hair. “i don’t understand what you want from me.”

“just—be normal!” she exclaimed, throwing her hands up in exasperation. “merlin knows you haven't been in a while!"

she huffed, turning her face toward the window, as if the act could somehow hide the deep crimson spreading across her cheeks.

sebastian, on the other hand, rather than feel chastised, found himself even more endeared. it only proved her right—he hadn’t been normal (whatever normal meant) in a long while. a normal sebastian would’ve jumped at any opportunity to tease her, to throw a cheeky remark her way that would’ve left her rolling her eyes or swatting at him playfully. he would’ve poked at her for being so flustered, delighted in the way she tried to mask it with her sharp wit. but now? now he felt utterly and hopelessly unarmed.

was it possible to be both terrified and thrilled at the same time? because that was what she did to him—tied him in knots while making him feel like he could take on the world. and yet, every time he tried to find the words to express even a fraction of what was going on inside him, they tangled in his throat, leaving him helpless and, frankly, hysterical.

she bit her lip as she traced invisible lines on the frosted panes. “i can't believe it’s come to a point where i have to say this,” she muttered. “but i miss you, sebastian. i miss my friend.”

that would have made his heart stop, if only she hadn’t said the word “friend.” it seems that word haunted him more than it should. reminded him of his place—of his cowardice.

he could feel the way his chest subtly deflated, the way his shoulders drooped just a fraction, as though the weight of her words had suddenly doubled. had she noticed? he hoped not. it was humiliating enough to feel the sting of disappointment so fiercely; he couldn’t imagine how much worse it would be if she saw it, too. because then she’d ask. and if she asked, he’d have to tell her everything because, merlin help him, he wasn't sure he had the fortitude to resist her charms.

he opened his mouth, determined to say something—anything to reclaim a shred of normalcy—but all that came out was a pitiful, incoherent, “i…”

she turned to look at him then. “what is wrong with you lately?” she asked, her voice softer now, though still tinged with a hint of frustration. “you're not… you. you’re quiet and… iffy. you're driving me insane, sebastian.”

you’re driving me insane, too. he wanted to scream, but, of course, he didn’t say that. instead, he swallowed hard, his hands fidgeting awkwardly at the pages of the book on his lap, as though they could somehow express the things his mouth refused to.

“i—i don’t know what you’re talking about,” he finally managed, though it sounded weak, even to him.

her eyes narrowed, locking onto his as though she was trying to see straight through him. for a long beat, she didn’t say anything, and sebastian swore she’d hit him with a petrificus totalus. he couldn’t breathe, couldn’t think—he could only wait as she weighed whatever thoughts were swirling in her head.

she opened her mouth, hesitated, then closed it again. when she finally spoke, her voice was steadier. firmer. “oh, to hell with it.”

sebastian didn’t know she could scoot any closer, but she did. the small distance that had remained between them disappeared, and now their noses were practically touching. his pulse quickened, the heat from her proximity fraying every last one of his nerves. her gaze bore into his, and he could do nothing but sit frozen, utterly at her mercy.

“since you don’t have the courage to acknowledge it,” she began, her voice quieter but no less pointed, “i will.”

she gulped. "something’s changed between us, sebastian. don’t try to deny it—i know you feel it too. otherwise, you wouldn't be acting like this."

feel it? of course he felt it. it was all he did these days—feel everything where she was concerned. every stolen glance, every unspoken word, every lingering moment that left his heart racing long after it ended. it consumed him to a pathetic degree. and yet, despite the storm in his chest, he couldn’t seem to find his voice. his hands clenched the edges of his book, knuckles white, as he stared at her in wide-eyed silence.

she took his lack of response as an invitation to continue. “the lingering stares,” she pressed, her tone softening as her cheeks flushed deeper. “the buzz when our hands accidentally touch… it’s unnerving for me too, but that doesn’t make it right to run from me.”

the words pierced straight through him, guilt and longing twisting like a knife in his chest. she deserved better—better than his awkward, stilted avoidance. better than his cowardice.

“what are you saying?” he managed to croak, though his voice was hoarse, and his heart felt as though it might burst from his ribcage.

her cheeks burned brighter—adorable, if only the situation wasn't so utterly terrifying—and for a moment, she hesitated. but then she squared her shoulders, inhaled deeply, and met his gaze with unwavering determination.

“i’m saying, sebastian, that i like you, and i reckon you like me too,” she said, her words coming out in a single breath, as if rushing to get them out before her courage faltered. she exhaled sharply, as though trying to steady herself, and added, “and it’s about bloody time we talked about it.”

sebastian stared at her, utterly dumbfounded. the confession was so unexpected, so raw and vulnerable, that for a moment, he didn’t know if he’d imagined it.

she liked him? she liked him.

the words echoed in his mind, each repetition making his chest swell just a little more. for a fleeting second, he was over the moon. but then, just as quickly, he came crashing back down to earth.

this wasn’t how he’d imagined this conversation going. not even close.

in his head (where he’d been stuck too often lately), he’d planned it all out—he’d bring her a bouquet of wildflowers he’d picked himself, maybe something with those little blue ones she seemed to love so much. he would give a heartfelt speech, every word meticulously practiced, rehearsed so many times in his mind that it could rival a monologue from shakespeare’s plays. not to mention, he would be the one to confess, not the other way around.

but no. his backbone—if one could even call it that—had failed him time and time again, and now here he was, caught off guard and utterly useless in the moment he’d dreamed of for weeks.

her voice cut through his spiraling thoughts. “well, say something, damn it!” she huffed, nudging him hard enough in the shoulder to make him sway.

he exhaled slowly, the tension in his shoulders easing as the reality of her words sank in. His lips twitched into a small, almost disbelieving smile. “you’re right,” he admitted softly. “something has changed.”

her breath hitched slightly, her expression a mixture of hope and uncertainty. “and?”

“and… merlin’s beard, i’m terrible at this,” he muttered under his breath, running a hand through his face in frustration. he took a deep breath, forcing himself to meet her gaze, even though it felt like his heart was doing somersaults in his chest.

“i do like you,” he admitted finally, his voice quieter now, more vulnerable. “i like you more than i can even put into words. that’s probably why i've been such a wreck lately. i kept telling myself i’d tell you eventually, but every time i got close, i just panic and ruin it.” he gestured vaguely at the space—or lack thereof—between them. “and now… now you’ve gone and done it for me.”

a smile twitched at her lips, though she tried to suppress it. “so, what you’re saying is, this is my fault?”

“well, if you’d just waited a little longer—”

“oh, shut it, sebastian,” she interrupted, rolling her eyes but stepping closer nonetheless. “i don’t think either of us would’ve survived waiting any longer.”

“still,” he said, his tone softening, “you deserved something better than my stammering and sweating and… all this.”

“i don’t need much,” she said, her voice gentler now, her gaze softening. “i just need you. preferably not running from me next time, though.”

"yes, well," sebastian let out a shaky breath, his lips quirking into the faintest of smiles. “i think i’m done running.”

and for the first time in what felt like forever, his infamous brashness finally roared back to life. without overthinking it, without letting his nerves take hold, he lunged forward. his hands found her face, warm and soft beneath his fingers, and he kissed her. the book on his lap tumbled to the floor with a dull thud, but he didn’t care. it was clumsy, a little too eager, but he didn't care. he didn't care because he was kissing her.

the world tilted, narrowed, and then disappeared altogether. there was only the gentle press of her lips against his, the faint intake of her breath, and the way her hands instinctively gripped the front of his robes to steady herself. it was messy, impulsive, and absolutely him—no, them.

when the kiss broke only slightly, her breathless giggle sent a pleasant shiver down his spine. she leaned just far enough back to meet his gaze, her eyes dancing with amusement. “i suppose this makes us friends again?”

sebastian groaned, resting his forehead against hers. “please, gods, no,” he muttered against her lips, his voice dripping with mock horror.

her laughter bubbled up, light and free, and she tilted her head slightly, her smile almost mischievous. “what, you don’t want to be my friend, sebastian?”

“not even a little,” he said, grinning despite himself. his thumb brushed over the curve of her jaw, his gaze flickering between her lips and her eyes. “no, i’d much rather be whatever this is.”

her grin softened into something more tender, her hands sliding from his robes to rest lightly against his chest. “i think i’d rather like that too,” she admitted softly.

sebastian chuckled, a deep, relieved sound, and leaned in again, pressing his lips to hers once more. this time, it was slower, deliberate, like he was memorizing every second. then again, and again, each kiss growing lazier, sweeter, as if he had all the time in the world to be here, with her, like this.

between the kisses, he muttered softly, his voice thick with emotion. “thank you…” a kiss. “thank you…” another kiss. “for being braver than me.”

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quinnsallow · 1 day ago

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I absolutely loved this one from the start ♥️

Masterlist - Hidden Pleasures

Summary: Sebastian and MC doing naughty things, but still can't admit what they feel. Classic.

I’ve been having a lot of fun writing this story. It was initially going to be just a one-shot, but now I think I have a couple more chapters in me.

I’ll regularly update this masterlist whenever I add more stories but please keep an eye out 👀🙏

AO3 link Tumblr Links:

Chapter 1 - link

Chapter 2 - link

Chapter 3 - link

Chapter 4 - link

Chapter 5 - link

Chapter 6 - link

Chapter 7 - link

Chapter 8 - link

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quinnsallow · 1 day ago

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Eeee finally! ❤️‍🔥

Hidden Pleasures - Chapter 8

We're there. Masterlist link -> here AO3 link or read below

The silence between them stretched taut, threatening to snap. MC shifted on her feet, arms instinctively wrapping around herself as if bracing for a gust of wind. She nodded, her pulse hammering as she stepped aside, allowing Sebastian to step into her room. The soft click of the door shutting behind him seemed to reverberate through the space.

Sebastian’s gaze swept over her face. The dim glow from the lake outside cast soft, flickering light over her features, illuminating the faint shimmer of drying tears on her cheeks. His fingers twitched at his sides, aching to reach out, to wipe them away, but he hesitated, unsure if she would let him.

“Let’s sit,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

She gestured to the small, two-seater couch in the corner of her room, and he followed her lead, settling at one end while she curled up at the other, hugging her knees to her chest. The space between them was minuscule, yet it felt like miles. MC could feel the heat radiating from him, the sheer presence of him. The weight of the moment pressed against her ribs, tightening her breath.

Sebastian dragged a hand through his hair, the nervous gesture so familiar it made her chest ache. “I…” He exhaled, shaking his head. “I don’t even know where to start.”

MC swallowed, her throat tight. “Me neither.”

Sebastian’s breath came uneven, his usual confidence nowhere to be found. “I’m sorry,” he said suddenly, the words spilling from him in a rush. “For all of it. For hurting you. For making you feel like you were—like you were anything less than everything. I never meant to. And I know—I know—you can be with whoever you want, you—”

“I know.” MC cut him off gently, voice trembling. “And I’m sorry too. I said awful things. Things I wish I could take back.” She inhaled sharply. “I shouldn’t have ended things like that—shouldn’t have just left because I was scared.”

Sebastian frowned, eyes dark with confusion. “But you had every right to. After what I said, after—”

MC shook her head fiercely, blinking against the sting of fresh tears. “I know. But we both said things we didn’t mean, right?” Her voice wavered, and she pressed a hand to her chest as if trying to steady the erratic rhythm of her heart. “I think—I think I was just scared. Scared that no matter what, I’d lose you. And I couldn’t—” She let out a shuddering breath. “I couldn’t handle it.” She wiped at her face quickly, as if trying to erase the evidence of her emotions. As Sebastian's heart tightens at the sight of her tears. She continues with a strained voice, “I know how ridiculous that sounds because, in the end, I still lost you by leaving you like that—”

In an instant, he was pulling her against him, wrapping his arms around her as if he could anchor her there, as if he could undo all the space that had grown between them. A quiet sob broke from her lips, muffled against his chest, pressing his chin against her hair. One hand smoothed down her back, the other tangled in her hair as he whispered, “I don’t think you could ever lose me.” He continued with a teasing tone, "Unless you really don’t want me around, but we both know I'm too much of a pest." A muffled chuckle escaped from her lips. She trembled against him, fingers gripping the fabric of his shirt like a lifeline. He bit his lip, “I’m sorry I kept my distance. I thought—I thought I’d ruined things beyond repair, that you wouldn’t want me around. And I wanted to respect what you asked for, but—” He let out a sharp breath. “Merlin, MC, it was killing me.”

MC pulled back slightly. Her gaze flickered over his face, taking in the tight set of his jaw, the struggle behind his strained throat. His fingers twitched slightly against her back, as if unsure whether to hold her closer or let go. She shifted slightly, leaning into him. His grip tightened in response, no hesitation this time.

A quiet exhale left his lips as he relaxed against the couch, pulling her with him. A breath shuddered out of her, and the stiffness in her shoulders melted just a fraction, and Sebastian felt something settle deep inside him. Neither of them worried about what this meant—whether it was enough, whether it would last. They just were, holding onto each other like the world outside didn’t matter.

Then, Sebastian’s gaze flickered downward, landing on the crumpled parchment still clenched in MC’s hand against his chest. With a sniffle, he asked softly, “What’s that?” He nodded toward the paper.

Feeling self-conscious, MC's face flushed red as she tried to explain herself. “Oh, it’s… it’s nothing. Just some questions the girls thought I should ask you.” She mumbled, untangling herself from his arms and facing him with her legs crossed.

To her surprise, Sebastian let out a quiet, breathy chuckle—warm, rueful, something she’d missed hearing. “Ominis gave me something similar,” he admitted, reaching into his pocket and pulling out his own folded parchment.

MC's eyes darted between the crumpled paper in her hand and the one Sebastian had retrieved from his pocket. “Those sneaky—” She let out a small, amused exhale.

“I can’t tell if we’re idiots, or they’re all just menaces,” he muttered, attempting a smirk. His knee bounced once—quick, restless—before he stilled it.

She traced the edge of her parchment with her thumb. MC swallowed, forcing herself to hold his gaze. “Maybe…” she hesitated, then pushed forward. “Maybe we should actually ask each other these.” Her voice was lighter than she felt, but she forced a small smile, hoping it masked the nerves thrumming under her skin. “They seem to think we need to.”

His voice was low and serious now. "Yeah," he agreed with a nod. "Maybe they're right."

A silence stretched between them, both waiting for the other to make the first move.

Sebastian rolled his parchment between his fingers, avoiding MC's gaze as if considering tossing it into the fire instead. Across from him, MC fidgeted with the corner of her own parchment, unable to meet his eyes.

Finally, with a sharp exhale, Sebastian leaned back against the couch and tapped his knee with the parchment. "Alright," he muttered with reluctance. "I'll go first." He unfolded the parchment, eyes skimming over the questions. His stomach clenched. He hesitated for a moment too long before clearing his throat, trying to force a nonchalant tone that didn't quite match how he felt.

“What’s the story with the roses Hector gave you?”

Sebastian couldn't believe the words that had just left his mouth. He immediately regretted them as he watched MC's brows arch.

“What do you mean?” she asked. “Hector hasn’t given me flowers.”

A cold feeling twisted in Sebastian's stomach. Was she really going to pretend like nothing was going on?

He took a deep breath, trying to keep his voice steady and neutral. “I saw you two.”

MC looked genuinely bewildered. But the image of Hector handing her a bouquet and them walking into The Three Broomsticks together was etched into his mind. And the way she had looked... Sebastian swallowed hard, his grip tightening on the parchment in his hand. He forced himself to keep looking at her, even though it felt like his heart was breaking. “Yesterday, in Hogsmeade,” he said quietly. “I saw him give you flowers. You took it, and then—you two went into the Three Broomsticks together.”

MC's lips parted in surprise as if turning the words over in her head. “Oh,” she breathed. And to his absolute horror, she laughed.

Sebastian bristled and heat rose to his face, “Glad it's funny,” he muttered sarcastically. But before he could pull away from her, MC reached out and lightly touched his arm.

“No, Seb, I swear it's not what you might think.” She let out another breathy laugh, trying to contain her amusement. “Those weren’t from Hector. He just carried them. Professor Garlick asked me to bring them to Sirona.”

His brain stalled. “What?”

MC pressed her lips together, trying and failing to suppress her amusement. “She—Merlin, I can’t believe this—she asked me to bring them in for her. And Hector was also heading to The Three Broomsticks. We weren’t going together. I met with the girls, like I told you I would.”

Sebastian’s stomach flipped.

Oh.

Oh, fuck.

The realisation hit him like a bludgeoning hex.

He had been so sure. It had felt so obvious, that he hadn’t even questioned it. He had seen what he thought was happening, and—Merlin, he was a bloody idiot.

MC saw the slow, dawning horror on his face, so she gave him a small smile. “Seb, I would never see Hector that way. You have to believe me—please.”

The words knocked the wind out of him.

Sebastian stared into nothing, unable to speak, unable to process the complete fucking catastrophe of his own making. He had spent the last twenty-four hours tormenting himself over this. He let his head fall back against the couch, hand dragging down his face, an exhale spilling from his lips like he was trying to physically force the tension out of his body.

Then, he had another realisation.

It didn’t mean—

It couldn’t mean—

But what if—

What if he wasn’t imagining things?

What if all the times she looked at him like that—

What if every moment, every touch, every stolen glance—

What if he hadn’t been a fool to think she might—

She saw it, the relief and shock that flooded his expression and sank deep into his posture. It was unmistakable, palpable, like a weight lifted from his shoulders.

Sebastian had been… worried. About Hector. About her and Hector.

The thought sent her mind into a spiral of questions. She thought back to their fight, and how he berated her for dancing with Garreth, and made that accusation about her and Hector. Why would he look so—so wrecked at the idea of her with someone else? Unless... he had actually felt something for her too and felt jealous. The thought made her heartbeat quicken and her mouth go dry. But if he’d been jealous, if he’d really felt something like that—then what the hell had he been doing with Samantha at the party on Friday? With Cressida last night?

She forced herself to sit up straighter, shifting on the couch until she was facing him directly. Then, carefully—deliberately—she cleared her throat. Sebastian’s head tilted toward her, eyes flicking over her face, still somewhat dazed.

MC pursed her lips, then spoke up. "I'll go next," she murmured quietly.

Sebastian straightened slightly, nodding, his focus fully back on her now. She hesitated only a second before speaking.

“Why were you with Samantha at the party on Friday?”

Sebastian’s brow furrowed, his posture stiffening just a fraction, the remnants of relief fading from his features. Before he could answer, she followed up—

“And why were you with Cressida last night?”

His fingers twitched against his parchment. His breath caught, like he’d been thrown completely off balance. She held his gaze steadily, waiting for him to speak. Sebastian’s throat felt dry. He could lie. He could brush it off, twist the truth into something meaningless.

But he was so tired of lying to himself - to her.

He inhaled sharply, then, carefully, deliberately—he looked at her. Really looked at her. The way her brows furrowed slightly, tension lining her shoulders, like she wasn’t sure if she wanted to hear whatever came next. The way her lips pressed together, and how much he just wanted to kiss them senselessly. The way her eyes—Merlin, her eyes—had always undone him, whether he wanted them to or not.

He took the chance.

"Ominis was making fun of me at the party on Friday," he revealed in a low, hoarse voice.

MC's eyes widened in surprise. "What? Why?"

Sebastian exhaled, forcing himself to push forward. “I was watching you dance,” he said, his voice softer now, like he was confessing something fragile. “And Ominis noticed, somehow. He wouldn’t shut up about it— the prat. Kept saying I was staring too much. And I was—I mean, you know I think you’re stunning…” A rosy hue flushed her cheeks as she tried to suppress a grin. “But, he kept saying that I - that I liked you. That I had feelings for you.” He swallowed hard.

Sebastian rose from the couch and began to walk back and forth, avoiding eye contact with her. He knew he had to say this before he lost his courage. MC's thoughts froze as watched him and struggled to comprehend what he was saying.

“And that scared the hell out of me,” he admitted, voice barely above a whisper. “Because he was right. And it wasn't just some passing thought or crush, and I didn't know what to do with it. It wasn’t something I could just ignore. And you're my best friend, MC. I’d never want to lose you.”

He shook his head and looked down at his hands. "So I left and tried to ignore those feelings, but then..." he let out another humourless laugh, "Samantha came over to me…,” Sebastian continued, staring out her window. “And I tried.” He let out a sharp breath. “I really tried to flirt back, just to see if I could. To prove to myself that I didn’t - that I didn’t.. But I—” His voice dropped, rough. “I couldn’t.”

MC's heart raced as she sat on the couch, her feet planted firmly on the floor and her hands clutching the cushions tightly against her thighs. She watched him pace back and forth in her room.

Sebastian’s fingers folded and unfolded the parchment, keeping his hands busy as his mind was reeling. “I kept getting distracted. I kept thinking about you.” He dragged a hand through his hair, letting out a slow, shaky breath. “And I realised—I couldn’t do it. I didn’t want to… MC, It’s been harder and harder to go on with our arrangement—being just friends with you.” His voice cracked slightly as he admitted the truth that had been weighing on him for years. "I think I've been in love with you for a long time."

MC's breath caught in her throat, her heart pounding so loudly she was sure Sebastian could hear it. She opened her mouth to speak, but her voice came out as a strangled croak. "Seb, I—"

He held up a hand, his eyes pleading. "Please MC, let me finish. I need to get this all out." He took a deep breath, running a hand through his hair again. "And I suppose this leads me to answer your second question… I was ready to tell you yesterday in Hogsmeade," he revealed, his voice thick with emotion. "But then I saw you. I saw Hector—saw the flowers. I panicked. I jumped to the wrong conclusion and I'm so sorry for being such an idiot." He ran his hand over his face, clearly annoyed with himself. Then he plops down on the couch, resting his head in his hands and leaning his arms on his knees.

"It hurt...it hurt to see you with him." His jaw clenched as he remembered the pain he had felt. "And then Cressida came to me at the party..."

The mention of Cressida made MC's stomach twist unpleasantly. She knew what was coming next. "And I thought—stupidly—that if you were going out with someone else, then maybe I could, too." Sebastian admitted bitterly. "So I flirted back and ignored you. I feel terrible for doing that…” His hands clenched into fists on his lap.

“When I saw you with Garreth," he continued, the pain clear in his voice. "And it nearly broke me."

He ran a hand through his hair again, trying to hold himself together before turning to look directly at MC. "You’re everything to me, MC… I know this is a lot to take in," he said quietly. "And I know you might not feel the same way… but I really do love you.”

MC's breath caught in her throat. The world tilted, then stopped.

He loves her.

Her lips parted, but no words came. Her chest ached, rising and falling too fast, her fingers trembling against her lap. He had just handed her everything. Every secret longing, every whispered wish she had buried under fear. And it was real. Sebastian’s eyes flickered over her face, his jaw tight, his hands gripping the parchment as if it were the only thing holding him together.

She forced herself to breathe and thought about what to say. And then, before she lost her nerve— "Do you want to know why I went to Garreth last night, Sebastian?”

The look on Sebastian's face said it all - he was waiting for the other shoe to drop.

"Because I saw you with Cressida," she whispered, her voice breaking, “and it hurt. I thought...maybe that was it. That you never wanted this - whatever this is between us. I thought you were just moving on and I was the idiot who..." She stopped herself, shaking her head. MC let out a shaky breath, "So, like you, I got drunk," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. She picked at a thread of the hem of her nightdress, avoiding his gaze. "And I thought...if you were with Cressida, maybe I should find someone too. So I went for Garreth.” She turned her face towards him, “But I don't like Garreth that way, Seb. I never have. It was just...in that moment, I didn't know what else to do, because…"

MC's eyes bore into Sebastian's. Breathing heavily, they stand in the dimly lit room with emotions running high. The glimmer of light reflects off the tears welling up in MC's eyes. Gathering her courage, she takes a deep breath before speaking with a firm and steady voice,"The truth is, Seb, I am hopelessly and completely in love with you as well."

Sebastian froze, his eyes widening as her words sank in. For a moment, time seemed to stand still, the world narrowing to just the two of them on that small couch. The crackling of the fire, the soft lapping of the lake outside the window, even their own breathing—it all faded away, leaving nothing but the thundering of their hearts. Then, as if pulled by an invisible force, Sebastian surged forward. His hands cupped her face, fingers tangling in her hair as he crashed his lips against hers. The kiss was desperate, urgent, years of longing and denial pouring out in a single moment. MC responded instantly, her lips parting under his, matching his intensity with her own.

She tasted of salt and sweetness. Sebastian's thumb brushed across her cheekbone, wiping away a stray tear as he deepened the kiss. MC's hands fisted in the front of his shirt, pulling him closer until there was no space left between them. There was only the press of lips, the clash of teeth, the mingling of breath. Sebastian's hands slid down to her waist, fingers digging into the soft fabric of her nightdress. With a fluid motion, he pulled her onto his lap, guiding her legs to straddle him on the narrow couch. The thin material of her nightdress rode up her hips as she settled against him, the heat of his body seeping through the delicate fabric.

Sebastian's hand slid to the nape of her neck, angling her head to deepen the kiss further. MC gasped against his mouth, the sound sending shivers down his spine. She rolled her hips experimentally against his hard length, eliciting a low groan from Sebastian that vibrated through her entire body. They kissed like they were drowning and each other was air, like they were starving and only the other could satisfy their hunger. It was messy and desperate and perfect.

Sebastian broke away, resting his forehead against hers as they caught their breath. A breathless laugh escaped him. "We're such fools," he murmured, his thumb tracing her cheekbone.

"Complete idiots," MC agreed with a giddy smile. She pulled him back in, capturing his lips in another searing kiss.

Their kisses grew more heated, Sebastian's fingers skimmed down her sides, leaving trails of fire in their wake. MC arched into his touch, her own hands sliding under his shirt to trace the planes of his back. She nipped at his bottom lip, drawing a low groan from him. His lips left hers to trail along her jaw, down the column of her throat. MC tilted her head back, offering better access as she clung to his shoulders. The scrape of his teeth against her pulse point sent shivers down her spine, goosebumps erupting across her skin despite the warmth in between them.

"Merlin, MC," he breathed against her neck as he trailed kisses along her jaw. "I've wanted this - us - for so long."

She tilted her head, giving him better access as his lips found that sensitive spot below her ear. "Me too," she gasped, her nails scraping lightly down his back.

Sebastian's hand tangled in her hair, gently tugging to expose more of her neck. His tongue darted out, tasting the salt of her skin as he sucked gently. Sebastian's lips trailed lower, his tongue tracing the delicate curve of her collarbone. MC shivered, her fingers tangling in his hair as he lavished attention on every inch of exposed skin. His teeth grazed her shoulder, followed by soothing kisses that left her breathless.

With deliberate slowness, he pushed aside one thin strap of her nightdress. The silky fabric slipped down, revealing the soft swell of her breast. Sebastian's breath hitched, as he took in the sight of her. He pressed loving kisses along the newly exposed skin, mapping constellations with his lips. MC arched into his touch, a soft moan escaping her as his mouth found her nipple. His tongue swirled around the sensitive peak before he took it between his lips, sucking gently. Heat pooled low in her belly as he alternated between teasing licks and gentle suction.

Sebastian's hands roamed her body, tracing the curve of her waist, the dip of her spine. He couldn't get enough of her, wanting to taste and touch every inch. His lips found the soft underside of her breast, sucking a mark into the delicate skin. MC gasped, her hips rocking against him and he pressed himself up against her. He kissed his way back up to her throat, nipping and sucking as he went. Sebastian's teeth grazed her earlobe before he soothed it with his tongue, drawing a whimper from her lips, feeling herself get wetter by the second. Sebastian's hands splayed across her back, fingertips tracing idle patterns on her heated skin as they lost themselves in sensation.

"Seb," she panted, tugging at the hem of his shirt. "Off. Now."

He complied eagerly, breaking away just long enough to pull the garment over his head before diving back in to claim her lips once more. MC's hands roamed his bare chest, fingertips tracing every dip and curve.

"You're mine," she whispered against his lips. He smiled into the kiss, his hands sliding down to grip her hips. She broke away, as she held his gaze. Slowly, deliberately, she slid off his lap, as she sank to her knees on the plush rug. Sebastian's breath caught in his throat at the sight of her kneeling before him, her hair tousled from his fingers, lips swollen from his kisses.

With nimble fingers, she reached for his belt, the metal clinking softly as she unbuckled it. Sebastian's chest rose and fell rapidly, his muscles tensing. MC's fingers brushed against his stomach as she worked, leaving trails of fire in their wake. She glanced up at him through her lashes, a coy smile playing at her lips as she slowly, torturously, pulled the leather free from the loops. The belt fell to the floor with a soft thud. MC's hands moved to the button of his trousers, popping it open with practised ease. The rasp of the zipper seemed deafening in the quiet room. Sebastian lifted his hips, allowing her to tug the fabric down his legs.

Cool air hit his heated skin as his trousers pooled around his ankles. MC's gaze travelled up his legs, lingering on the obvious bulge straining against his boxers. Sebastian's breath hitched as she leaned forward, her warm breath fanning over his thigh. Her fingers traced the waistband of his boxers, teasing, exploring. Sebastian's hands fisted in the couch cushions, his knuckles white with the effort of restraining himself. MC looked up at him, a smirk playing on her lips as she took in his struggle for control.

"Merlin, you'll be the death of me," he groaned, his head falling back.

MC laughed breathlessly,"What a way to go," she teased. She rose slowly, her fingers trailing up Sebastian's thighs as she stood. His eyes followed her every movement, darkening with desire. She took a small step back, just out of reach. Sebastian's hands twitched, aching to touch her, but he remained still, transfixed.

With deliberate slowness, MC reached for the thin straps of her nightdress. She held Sebastian's gaze as she slid them off her shoulders, letting the silky fabric whisper down her body. It pooled at her feet, leaving her in nothing but a pair of lace panties.

The soft glow from the lake outside painted her skin in shades of silver and blue. Sebastian's breath caught in his throat as his eyes roamed over her form. The gentle swell of her breasts, the dip of her waist, the curve of her hips - he'd seen it all before, touched and tasted every inch. But now, knowing she loved him too, it felt like he was truly seeing her for the first time again.

MC's fingers hooked into the waistband of her panties. She slid them down her legs with agonising slowness, never breaking eye contact. As she stepped out of them, she stood before him completely bare.

Sebastian's eyes traced the familiar lines of her body, drinking in every detail so that he would never forget. The soft slope of her shoulders, the delicate arch of her collarbones. The way the firelight danced across her skin, casting flickering shadows in the valley between her breasts. The gentle rise and fall of her chest as she breathed.

His gaze travelled lower, over the plane of her stomach to the curve of her hips. He admired the elegant lines of her legs, the graceful arch of her feet. Every freckle, every scar, every imperfection - he cherished it all. From his seated position, Sebastian had a perfect view of the junction between her thighs. Her mound was neatly trimmed, a soft triangle of dark curls framing her most intimate area. The firelight caught on the glistening folds of her sex. A sheen of wetness coated the top of her inner thighs, making them shine in the dim light. Sebastian's mouth went dry at the sight, his fingers itching to reach out and touch. He could see the soft pink of her inner lips peeking out, swollen with desire. The small bud of her clit was just visible, flushed and begging for attention. Sebastian swallowed hard, overcome with the urge to taste her, to bury his face between her thighs and drink in her essence.

Sebastian's eyes locked with MC's, the intensity of his gaze making her breath catch. Without breaking eye contact, he rose slowly from the couch. He crawled over to her, until he was kneeling right in front of her. MC's heart raced as Sebastian inched closer, his hands ghosting over her calves. His lips brushed her ankle, feather-light. "I love you," he murmured against her skin. He trailed kisses up her calf, worshipping every inch. "I love everything about you." His hands caressed her legs as he moved higher, alternating between soft kisses and gentle nips.

Sebastian's lips found the sensitive skin behind her knee, making her gasp. "I love the way you laugh," he whispered, his breath hot against her thigh. His tongue darted out, tasting her skin. "I love how brilliant you are." He kissed his way up her inner thigh, his stubble scraping deliciously against her sensitive flesh. MC's fingers tangled in his hair as Sebastian neared the apex of her thighs. He paused, his warm breath fanning over her centre. Their eyes met once more, Sebastian's gaze burning with desire and adoration. Slowly, deliberately, he leaned in. The first swipe of his tongue through her folds drew a sharp gasp from MC's lips, and she widened her stance instinctively.

Sebastian groaned, “I love the way you taste.” His tongue delved deeper. He lapped at her entrance before moving higher, circling her clit with the tip of his tongue. MC's grip on his hair tightened as pleasure coursed through her. Sebastian's eyes never left hers, watching every flicker of ecstasy cross her face.

Sebastian's tongue delved deeper, exploring every fold and slit with attention. He traced lazy circles around her entrance before dipping inside. MC's legs trembled as waves of pleasure washed over her. Sebastian's hands gripped her thighs, steadying her. His lips closed around her sensitive bud, sucking gently as his tongue flicked rapidly. MC's head fell back, a breathy moan escaping her. Sebastian hummed in approval, the vibrations sending shockwaves through her core. He alternated between broad, flat strokes of his tongue and quick, teasing flicks, never letting her anticipate his next move. Her fingers buried into his hair, pulling him closer but also holding on for dear life.

Sebastian's hands roamed her body as he worked, kneading the soft flesh of her hips and thighs. His hands pulled her closer as he buried his face deeper between her legs. MC's hips rocked against his mouth, chasing the feeling.

He pulled back slightly, peppering kisses along her inner thighs after he nipped and sucked them, leaving a trail of marks in his wake. MC whimpered at the loss of contact where she needed it most.

Sebastian smirked against her skin before diving back in with renewed passion. His tongue swirled around her clit before flattening against it, providing delicious friction. Two fingers teased at her entrance before slowly pressing inside. MC cried out as he curled them. He set a steady rhythm, his fingers pumping in and out as his tongue danced over her most sensitive areas. MC's thighs quivered around his head, her breathy moans filling the air. Sebastian looked up at her through his lashes, drinking in the sight of her lost in ecstasy. Her head was thrown back, a light shimmer of sweat glistened on her skin in the firelight.

Sebastian doubled his efforts, determined to bring her to the heights of pleasure. He crooked his fingers inside her, massaging that spot that made her toes curl as he sucked her clit between his lips. MC's hips grinding against his face as she chased her release.

Sebastian's words were a seductive whisper against her skin, his voice low and husky. "I need you to cum for me, my love," he demanded, his lips trailing down her neck as his fingers dug into her hips. "Cum on my face."

His words pushed her over, her orgasm crashing over her in waves of white-hot pleasure. Her legs trembled violently as she cried out, her fingers tightening in Sebastian's hair. His mouth never left her centre, drinking in her essence as she came undone. His tongue lapped at her folds, gathering every drop of her arousal. MC's hips bucked against his face, grinding desperately as aftershocks rippled through her. As her legs threatened to give out, Sebastian's grip on her hips tightened. He steadied her with his strong hands on her hips, holding her in place as she shook against him. MC leaned heavily on him, one hand fisted in his hair while the other gripped his shoulder for balance. Her nails dug into his skin as she rode out the intense orgasm.

As her orgasm began to ebb, Sebastian gentled his touch. He placed soft, reverent kisses along her folds, soothing the overstimulated flesh. His hands kneaded her hips and thighs, grounding her as she came down from her high. MC's fingers loosened their grip on his hair, instead carding through the messy strands affectionately.

Sebastian looked up at her through his lashes, his eyes dark with desire and adoration. His lips and chin glistened with the evidence of her pleasure. Slowly, he rose to his feet, never breaking eye contact as he straightened. His hands remained on her hips, steadying her as she swayed slightly. She leaned in, capturing his lips in a deep kiss. MC tasted herself on his mouth, moaning softly. Her arms wound around his neck as she pressed herself against him, relishing the feeling of skin on skin.

As they broke apart, both breathing heavily, Sebastian rested his forehead against hers, staring into her blissed out eyes. "I love you," she whispered, "So much." MC pressed herself against Sebastian, her lips finding his once more. Her hands roamed his bare chest, fingertips tracing his muscles. Sebastian's hands glided over her curves, relishing the feeling of her soft skin beneath his palms.

As their kisses grew more heated, MC's fingers trailed lower, toying with the waistband of Sebastian's boxers. She broke the kiss, looking up at him through her lashes. Slowly, teasingly, she began to push the fabric down his hips until it dropped on the floor. Sebastian's breath hitched as the cool air hit his heated skin. MC leaned in, capturing Sebastian's lips again. Her fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer. Slowly, teasingly, MC broke the kiss, her lips trailing along his jaw. Sebastian's breath hitched as she nipped at his earlobe, her warm breath sending shivers down his spine. She traced the shell of his ear with her tongue before moving lower, peppering kisses down the column of his throat.

MC's lips found that sensitive spot just behind his neck, and Sebastian let out a low groan. She smiled against his skin, focusing her attention there. Her teeth grazed the tender flesh before soothing it with her tongue. Sebastian's hands tightened on her hips, pulling her flush against him as she lavished attention on his neck. When she reached the juncture where his neck met his shoulder, MC paused. She looked up at Sebastian through her lashes, a mischievous glint in her eye. Without warning, she bit down, sucking hard enough to leave a mark. Sebastian's hips bucked involuntarily, a strangled moan escaping his lips. MC soothed the spot with her tongue, admiring the reddening flesh. She trailed kisses back up his neck, nipping and sucking as she went. By the time she reached his lips again, she wrapped her hand around his length, her touch feather-light as she stroked him from base to tip. Sebastian groaned, his head falling forward as pleasure coursed through him. With her free hand on his chest, MC began to guide Sebastian backwards towards the bed. Her fingers never stopped their teasing caresses as they moved. The backs of Sebastian's knees hit the edge of the mattress and he fell onto it with a soft thud. MC stood between his legs, drinking in the sight of him sprawled before her.

Sebastian propped himself up on his elbows, his eyes roaming over MC's naked form. She was breathtaking in the soft glow of the firelight, all smooth curves and soft shadows. MC climbed onto the bed, straddling his thighs as she leaned in to kiss him once more. Sebastian sat up fully, wrapping his arms around MC's waist to pull her flush against him. She moaned softly at the feeling, her breasts pressed against his chest, her core rubbing against his hard cock. Her fingers tangled in his hair as she deepened the kiss, pouring all of her love and desire into it.

MC broke away, trailing kisses along Sebastian's jaw and down his neck. She began to move lower, pressing open-mouthed kisses down his chest and stomach. Sebastian's muscles tensed beneath her touch, anticipation building. MC looked up at him through her lashes as she settled between his legs. "Let me take care of you for a bit," she whispered, her breath ghosting over his length.

MC's lips brushed against Sebastian's inner thigh, her warm breath making him shiver. She trailed feather-light kisses up his leg, purposefully avoiding where he wanted her most. Sebastian's fingers twisted in the sheets as she neared his aching cock. Her tongue darted out, tracing the crease where his thigh met his hip. Sebastian sucked in a sharp breath, his hips lifting slightly off the bed. MC smiled against his skin, rejoicing in his reactions. She pressed a soft kiss to the base of his shaft before slowly dragging her tongue up his length.

Sebastian groaned, low and deep in his throat. The wet heat of her mouth was exquisite torture as she teased him with gentle licks and kisses. Her fingers wrapped around him, stroking slowly as her tongue swirled around the sensitive head. MC looked up at him through her lashes as she took him into her mouth. Sebastian's breath hitched at the sight - her lips stretched around him, cheeks hollowed as she sucked. She held his gaze as she began to bob her head, taking him deeper with each downward stroke.

"Fuuuck," Sebastian panted, fighting to keep his hips still.

She hummed in response, the vibrations sending jolts of pleasure through him. Her tongue pressed firmly against the underside of his cock as she moved, tracing the thick vein there as she felt him throb in her mouth. Sebastian's hand came to rest on the back of her head, not pushing, just a gentle touch.

MC pulled back until just the tip remained in her mouth. Her tongue danced around the head, dipping into the slit to gather the beads of precum there. Sebastian's thighs tensed as she focused on that sensitive spot, alternating between quick flicks of her tongue and gentle suction.

She took him deep again, relaxing her throat to take him all the way in. Sebastian cursed under his breath as he felt the tight clutch of her throat around him. MC swallowed around him, her throat constricting deliciously.

"That's it, love," Sebastian groaned. "Take all of me."

MC moaned softly, the sound muffled by his cock. She loved pleasuring him this way, loved watching him come undone because of her. Sebastian's hips began to rock slightly, unable to stay still any longer. MC placed her hands on his hips, encouraging him to move. She looked up at him, giving a small nod. Understanding dawned in Sebastian's eyes.

Sebastian’s eyes searched MC's face. "Are you sure?" he asked softly, stroking her cheek. She nodded with a moan, as he could feel her lick the underside of his cock again.

He swallowed, trying to control himself, and moved to kneel in the middle of the bed. MC shifted to kneel before him and rested her hands on his thighs for balance. She looked up at him, her lips parted in anticipation.

"If it's too much, tap my leg twice," Sebastian instructed, his voice husky with arousal. MC nodded again, her fingers digging slightly into his thighs. Sebastian tangled one hand in her hair, guiding her mouth to his length. The other cupped her cheek tenderly as she took him between her lips. His fingers tightened slightly in her hair as he began to thrust shallowly into her mouth. MC relaxed her jaw, letting him set the pace.

"Merlin, MC," Sebastian panted. "You're so fucking perfect. I love you so much."

Sebastian started slow, shallow thrusts into the wet heat of her mouth. MC moaned softly, the vibrations sending shivers through him. Gradually, he increased his pace, pushing deeper with each stroke. Her eyes watered slightly as she suppressed her gag reflex, but she didn't pull away. Sebastian's grip tightened in her hair as he felt the tight clutch of her throat around him. His hips snapped forward, burying himself to the hilt. MC swallowed around him, her throat squeezing him wickedly. Sebastian held her there for a moment before pulling back, allowing her to catch her breath.

They found a rhythm, Sebastian's hips thrusting as MC took him deep. Saliva dripped down her chin as he fucked her mouth, the obscene sounds of wet suction filling the room. MC's nails dug into Sebastian's thighs, spurring him on. Sebastian looked down at her, drinking in the sight of her lips stretched around his cock, her cheeks hollowed as she sucked. Her hungry eyes were watery as she gazed up at him.

"You’re taking me so well. So, so well." Sebastian panted.

MC hummed in response, sending vibrations through his length. Sebastian's head fell back, a low moan escaping him as pleasure coursed through his body. His hips stuttered as he felt the familiar tightening in his lower abdomen. The wet heat of MC's mouth, the sight of her taking him so eagerly - it was almost too much. He was close, so close. But as the pressure built, something shifted inside him. This wasn't how he wanted this to end. Not tonight.

With a herculean effort, Sebastian gently pulled away, his cock slipping from MC's lips with a soft 'pop'. She looked up at him, confusion and concern in her eyes.

"What's wrong?" she asked, her voice slightly hoarse.

Sebastian cupped her face in his hands, thumbs stroking her cheeks as he gazed into her eyes. "Nothing's wrong," he assured her softly. "I just... I want to be inside you when I cum. I want to feel you around me, to see your face."

MC's expression softened, understanding dawning in her eyes. She rose up on her knees, bringing her face level with his. "I want that too," she whispered, her fingers tracing the line of his jaw.

Sebastian leaned in, capturing her lips in a tender kiss. It was softer than before, less urgent but no less passionate. As they kissed, the reality of the moment washed over them both. This wasn't just another hookup, another night of their arrangement. This was different.

Sebastian broke the kiss, resting his forehead against hers. His voice was thick with emotion when he spoke. "I love you, MC. I've loved you for so long, and I... I want this to be special."

Tears pricked at the corners of MC's eyes. She blinked them back, a watery smile spreading across her face. "It already is special, Seb," she murmured. "Because it's you. Because it's us."

Sebastian's heart swelled at her words. He kissed her again, pouring all of his love and adoration into it. His hands roamed her body, learning every curve and plane as if it was the first time. MC's fingers tangled in his hair, holding him close as she returned the kiss with equal fervour.

Gently, Sebastian lowered MC onto her back, never breaking the kiss. He hovered over her, his weight supported on his forearms. MC's legs parted, cradling his hips between her thighs. The heat of her core pressed against his length, drawing a low groan from his throat. Sebastian pulled back slightly, his eyes roaming MC's face. She was breathtaking like this - hair splayed across the pillow, cheeks flushed, eyes bright with love and want. He traced the curve of her cheek with his fingertips, marvelling at the softness of her skin.

"I can't believe you're mine," he murmured, his voice filled with awe.

MC's hand came up to cup Sebastian's face, her thumb tracing his lower lip. "I've always been yours," she whispered. "And you've always been mine."

Sebastian's breath caught at her words. He leaned down, capturing her lips in a deep, passionate kiss. He reached between them, lining himself up with her entrance. Slowly, he began to push inside. MC gasped against his mouth as he filled her, stretching and completing her in a way only he could. Sebastian paused when he was fully seated, giving her time to adjust. Their eyes locked, a thousand unspoken words passing between them at that moment.

"I love you," Sebastian murmured, pressing soft kisses along her jaw.

"I love you too," MC breathed, her fingers trailing down his back.

Sebastian began to move, setting a slow, deep rhythm. Each thrust was deliberate, angled to hit that spot inside her that he knew she loved. MC's legs wrapped around his waist, pulling him closer, deeper. Sebastian's hand slid down MC's side, gripping her thigh as he hitched it higher on his hip. The new angle allowed him to sink even deeper, drawing a low moan from both of them.

MC's nails scraped lightly down Sebastian's back as pleasure built within her. Her hips rose to meet his thrusts, grinding against him. Sebastian's lips found her pulse point, sucking gently as he picked up the pace.

"Seb," MC gasped, her head falling back against the pillow. "More, please."

Sebastian obliged, his hips snapping forward with more force. The room filled with the sounds of their passion - skin against skin, breathless moans, whispered words of love and devotion. Wanting to see more of her, Sebastian sat back on his heels, pulling MC up with him until she was straddling his lap. She sank down onto him with a soft cry, taking him impossibly deep. Her arms wound around his neck as she began to ride him, rising and falling in a steady rhythm.

Sebastian's hands roamed her body, cupping her breasts, kneading the soft flesh. His thumb brushed over her nipple, drawing a sharp gasp from her lips. MC arched into his touch, her head falling back as waves of pleasure washed over her. One of Sebastian's hands slid down her stomach, his fingers finding her clit. He circled the sensitive bud with practiced ease, applying just the right amount of pressure. MC's hips jerked at the added stimulation, a breathy moan escaping her.

"That's it, love," Sebastian murmured against her throat. "Let me hear you."

MC's movements became more erratic as she chased her release. Sebastian's fingers worked tirelessly at her clit, his fingers moved in tight circles over MC's clit as she rode him, her movements becoming more frantic. She clung to his shoulders, gasping with each downward thrust. Heat coiled low in her belly, pleasure building with each roll of her hips. Sebastian lavished attention on her breasts, his lips and tongue teasing her sensitive nipples.

"That's it, my love," he murmured against her skin. "Just let go for me."

MC's thighs began to tremble as she neared her peak. Sebastian increased the pressure on her clit, his fingers moving faster. With a sharp cry, MC came undone. Her inner walls clenched around him as waves of pleasure crashed over her. She collapsed against Sebastian's chest, shuddering in his arms as aftershocks rippled through her.

Sebastian held her close, peppering soft kisses along her shoulder as she came down from her high. When her breathing steadied, he gently lowered her onto her back. Sebastian's form loomed over MC, he hooked her legs over his shoulders as he drove into her with long, deep strokes. The position folded her nearly in half, her thighs pressed against her chest. Their faces were mere inches apart, eyes locked in an intense gaze as they moved together.

Sweat glistened on Sebastian's brow, his muscles flexing with each thrust. MC's fingers dug into his biceps, desperately clinging to him as waves of pleasure washed over her. The new angle allowed Sebastian to hit that perfect spot deep inside her with each stroke. And MC knew exactly how to clench around him to draw those delicious groans from deep in his chest.

Their breaths mingled in the scant space between them, hot and heavy. Sebastian's lips brushed against MC's with each thrust, not quite kissing but sharing the same air. His eyes never left hers, drinking in every flutter of her lashes, every gasp that escaped her parted lips.

The position opened MC up completely to Sebastian's gaze. He could see every reaction, every twitch of pleasure that crossed her face. Her breasts bounced with each powerful thrust, drawing his attention momentarily before his eyes locked back onto hers.

Sebastian's hands gripped MC's thighs, holding her legs in place as he drove into her. The muscles in his back rippled with the effort, making his skin glisten in the dim light. MC's hands roamed what parts of him she could reach - his shoulders, his arms, the nape of his neck.

The room filled with the sounds of their lovemaking - skin against skin, breathless moans, whispered words of adoration. The headboard knocked rhythmically against the wall with each powerful thrust.

Sebastian's pace increased, his control slipping as he chased his release. MC could feel the tension building in his body, see it in the set of his jaw and the intensity of his gaze. Her own pleasure coiled tighter with each stroke, threatening to overflow at any moment.

"Seb," she gasped, her voice breathy and desperate. "I'm close. So close."

Sebastian nodded, unable to form words as he focused on maintaining his rhythm. One hand left her thigh, snaking between their bodies to find her clit. His fingers circled the sensitive bud with practised ease, applying just the right amount of pressure. MC's back arched off the bed as much as her position allowed, a strangled cry escaping her lips. Sebastian swallowed the sound with a searing kiss, his tongue tangling with hers as he pushed her closer to the edge.

With a few more well-aimed thrusts and strokes of his fingers, MC shattered. MC cried out Sebastian's name, her voice raw and desperate. Her back arched off the bed, pressing her chest against his as waves of pleasure crashed over her. Her legs trembled where they rested on his shoulders, toes curling as her orgasm intensified. As her inner walls clenched around him, he buried himself to the hilt with a final, powerful thrust. His body tensed, muscles quivering as pleasure coursed through him. Sebastian's face contorted in ecstasy, his jaw clenched and brow furrowed as he came inside her. Sebastian's hips jerked erratically, grinding against her as he rode out his release. His arms shook with the effort of holding himself up, not wanting to crush her beneath his weight. He gasped MC's name, his voice breaking. Their faces were barely apart, breath mingling in the scant space between them. MC's eyes fluttered open, locking onto Sebastian's glazed over eyes. Sebastian's lips crashed against MC's in a searing kiss, swallowing each other's moans as they came down from their shared high. Their bodies moved together in perfect synchronicity, hips rocking gently to prolong the sensation.

"I love you," Sebastian breathed against MC's lips, his voice thick with emotion. "I love you so much."

"I love you too," MC gasped, her fingers tangling in his sweat-dampened hair.

They clung to each other, bodies trembling with aftershocks. Sebastian carefully lowered MC's legs from his shoulders, allowing her to wrap them around his waist. He buried his face in the crook of her neck, pressing soft kisses to her flushed skin as their breathing slowly returned to normal.

As their breathing steadied, Sebastian carefully eased out of MC, both of them gasping softly at the loss of connection. She could feel the evidence of their love spill from inside of her, but she couldn’t care less and neither could he. He rolled onto his side, pulling her with him so they lay face to face. Their limbs tangled together, skin still flushed and slick with sweat. Sebastian's hand came up to cup MC's cheek, his thumb tracing the curve of her cheekbone with reverence.

In the aftermath of their passion, the room fell quiet save for the gentle lapping of the lake against the window and the soft crackling of the dying fire. MC's fingers traced idle patterns on Sebastian's chest, feeling the steady thrum of his heartbeat beneath her palm. Sebastian's free hand skimmed down her side, coming to rest on the curve of her hip. Their legs were intertwined, MC's thigh nestled between Sebastian's, anchoring them together.

They gazed at each other in wonder, as if seeing each other for the first time. Sebastian's eyes roamed MC's face, taking in every detail - the flush still high on her cheeks, the slight swell of her kiss-bruised lips, the way her lashes fluttered against her cheeks. MC studied Sebastian in turn, admiring the strong line of his jaw, the fullness of his lower lip, the intensity of his gaze.

Sebastian pulled MC closer, wrapping his arm around her waist. She nuzzled into his chest, pressing a soft kiss over his heart. MC tilted her head back, meeting Sebastian's gaze. The love and adoration she saw there made her breath catch. Sebastian's eyes were soft, filled with a warmth that seemed to envelop her. She could see the remnants of disbelief there too, as if he was still processing the fact that this was happening.

"I've dreamed of this for so long," Sebastian admitted, his voice low and intimate. His fingers tangled in MC's hair, gently massaging her scalp. "Of holding you like this, of loving you openly."

MC's heart swelled at his words. She leaned in, capturing his lips in a soft, gentle kiss. As their lips parted, MC nestled her head under Sebastian's chin, breathing in his familiar scent. His arms tightened around her, one hand tracing lazy patterns on her back.

"I never want to let you go," Sebastian murmured.

MC smiled against his chest. "Then don't. I won’t," she whispered back.

They lay in comfortable silence, basking in the afterglow. The fire had died down to glowing embers, casting a soft, warm light across the room. Outside, the lake lapped gently against the castle walls, a soothing rhythm that filled the quiet. Sebastian's fingers carded through MC's hair, gently working out any tangles. She hummed contentedly, the sensation lulling her into a state of blissful relaxation. Her own hand rested on his chest, feeling the steady thump of his heartbeat beneath her palm.

As the night deepened, goosebumps rose on MC's skin, and she shivered slightly. Sebastian reached down, pulling the blanket up over them both. The soft weight settled around them, cocooning them in warmth.

MC's eyes grew heavy, the events of the day and night catching up with her. She fought against the pull of sleep, not wanting to miss a moment of this newfound intimacy. Sebastian noticed her struggle, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.

"Sleep, love," he whispered. "I'll be here when you wake."

MC nodded drowsily, her eyes fluttering closed. "Promise?" she mumbled.

Sebastian's arms tightened around her. "Always," he vowed.

As MC drifted off, Sebastian watched her. The lake’s light filtering through the window cast a glow on her skin, making her look almost ethereal. Her features were relaxed in sleep, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips.

His own exhaustion began to creep in, his limbs growing heavy. He pressed one last kiss to MC's hair before allowing his eyes to close. The steady rhythm of her breathing and the warmth of her body against his lulled him towards sleep.

39 notes · View notes

quinnsallow · 1 day ago

Text

Keep Quiet

Sebastian Sallow x Original F!MC

Rating: Explicit 18+, MDNI (smut, profanity), all characters are 18+ Words: 2,901 Tags: shameless smut, sneaking around, quiet sex, semi-public sex

Summary: Sequel to "Girls' Night." Sebastian Sallow and Emmeline Alexander are having a tough time keeping their hands off one another now that their romance is in full force. That includes clandestine encounters at the Feldcroft cottage and during a party in the Gryffindor Common Room.

Notes: Thank you to the anon and others who requested more from the Girls' Night storyline! Same characters here, all 18-year-old seventh years. You don't have to read Girls' Night first to understand this (it's literally just shameless smut), but it's recommended.

Read on AO3 or below the cut.

Emmeline Alexander sighed contentedly as she sank lower into the bathtub. The soothing scent of lavender consumed her senses as she closed her eyes to enjoy the relaxing, hot water.

She was spending the weekend in Feldcroft with Sebastian, Ominis and Anne, a quiet escape from the bustling Hogwarts castle. The four had just finished dinner and Anne retired to her bedroom. Sebastian and Ominis were reading in the living room, so Emmeline seized the opportunity to take a relaxing bubble bath.

Life hadn’t changed exponentially since Emmeline and Sebastian accelerated their relationship from friends to lovers. They hadn’t wanted anything to change, determined to maintain the bond that made them fall in love to begin with. They still talked, joked and bantered like friends, but now they had a new sense of affection they were proud to display.

Anne thought it was sweet. Ominis said it was nauseating, but even he couldn’t conceal a faint smile when the couple would cozy up together to quietly enjoy the other’s company. It seemed they had found an escape from their cruel pasts in one another.

Of course, a new romance also brought the thrill of sex and exploring a new body, and Sebastian and Emmeline wasted no time.

But tonight, Emmeline was content to merely share her body with the bubbles that clung to her skin, covering her breasts just above the water’s surface. Her muscles melted and her eyes fell shut as the warmth enveloped her.

She wasn’t sure how long she had dozed off, but when she woke up, all the bubbles were gone. But it wasn’t the absence of their soothing scent that had pulled her from her nap. It was someone’s hand between her thighs.

Her eyes shot open and she gasped.

“Sebastian!” she hissed. “What are you doing in here?”

Her boyfriend’s freckled face smirked at her. He was seated on a small wooden stool next to the tub, reaching over the edge into the water between her legs. His fingers grazed her thighs and lingered just outside her entrance.

“Sebastian, stop,” Emmeline giggled. Sebastian motioned for her to be quiet, knowing Anne was likely sleeping right across the hall while Ominis sat in an armchair in the living room just below them.

He held Emmeline’s gaze, his eyes glinting with lustful mischief as his fingers inched their way over her clit. She inhaled sharply at the pressure.

Back and forth, he dragged his fingers until she issued a soft whimper. He shifted patterns, tracing loose circles until he felt her hips shift and legs part more. He flashed a facetious grin and sank two fingers into her. He had to hold his breath to stifle a groan at the slickness that differed from the bath water.

Sebastian pumped his fingers slowly at first, savoring the feeling of her plush passage. He liked to think he was familiar with every inch of her now, but he was certain he’d always be in awe of her body.

He took his time as he played with her walls until Emmeline whined for more, lifting her hips upward, sending ripples across the water.

Sebastian’s fingers darted faster, lunging upward with more force. Water sloshed over Emmeline’s body as her fingers gripped the sides of the tub until her knuckles were white.

“Seb,” she panted.

“Shh!” Sebastian smirked as he relished the vision below him. She was clearly flustered by the need to be quiet. Sebastian had learned early on in their romance that she was anything but discreet in the bedroom.

Sebastian’s fingers twisted and dug inside her, beckoning a release. Emmeline’s breaths were labored as she fought the need to moan. She hummed through clenched teeth as Sebastian’s fingers pulled upward, his thumb pressing into her clit. One final drag of his digits dragged her over the edge. Emmeline puffed her cheeks out and clamped her eyes shut as she climaxed around Sebastian’s fingers with an exhale through her nose, her toes pressing forward against the wall of the tub until her body lifted upward.

Sebastian’s hand pumped through her orgasm until Emmeline collapsed downward into the water, sending small waves lapping against the sides. He reveled at the sight of her – cheeks flushed, hair wild as the water began to still over her body again.

He slowly dragged his hand from the tub and pressed a kiss to Emmeline’s forehead before he stood and quietly slipped from the bathroom without another sound.

---

The Gryffindor Common Room roared with life. Garreth Weasley had insisted that Gryffindor could throw the best party after a Slytherin celebration got far too out of hand a couple of months prior.

Emmeline and Sebastian ducked through the portrait hole after Natty, who offered to fetch them something to drink.

“Better not be one of Weasley’s concoctions,” Sebastian warned as Natty slipped away with a laugh.

Emmeline gazed around the room and smiled. She’d been in the Gryffindor Common Room a select number of times over her three years as a Hogwarts student, but she always appreciated its warmth. It was cozy compared to the more pristine and regal nature of the Ravenclaw Common Room or the dark, moody tone of the Slytherin Common Room, where she’d been spending more time since she began dating Sebastian.

“I don’t like it in here,” Sebastian mused quietly. “Too much red. And too many quidditch trophies.”

Emmeline rolled her eyes and tugged on Sebastian’s hand, leading him deeper into the party. They weaved through clusters of students dancing and chatting animatedly, including Garreth, who was passing around bottles of a suspicious purple liquid.

“I’ll stick with firewhiskey,” Emmeline laughed when Garreth offered her a swig. He shrugged and continued his way around the room.

Sebastian and Emmeline assimilated to the party. They joked and laughed with their classmates, drank more firewhiskey and even convinced Ominis Gaunt to dance with Natty.

But as the liquor began to buzz through Sebastian’s body, his eyes gaze darkened with the familiar signs of desire as he followed Emmeline around the room.

“How much longer do we have to stay?” he murmured in her ear.

Emmeline turned to him in surprise. It wasn’t like Sebastian to ever bail on a party. In truth, he typically became the life of the party.

“Since when are you one to miss out on such frivolity?” she laughed.

“Since my girlfriend decided to wear that dress I like,” he hummed in her ear. He pressed a hand to the small of her back to emphasize his intentions.

“Sebastian,” she warned. “You can’t go one night without making a mess of me?”

“No.”

Emmeline rolled her eyes at him, the faint traces of a smirk at the corners of her lips. She’d be lying if she said his constant desire for her didn’t turn her on. Attention from other boys never interested her much, but Sebastian’s had become her driving force.

It sometimes got her into trouble, though. Emmeline was just as lustful as Sebastian, if not more at times. It often compelled her to tease him. The way his eyes lingered on her in crowded rooms; the pained look on his face when she hiked up the hem of her skirt just enough to bare some skin; the desperation and need he’d show when he finally got her alone to himself… it all thrilled Emmeline until Sebastian would, of course, exact some type of revenge on her. Sometimes he’d make her wait to come; other times, he wouldn’t allow her to use her hands, or find ways to force her to be quiet. The last one was his favorite.

So Emmeline decided to have some fun with her boyfriend’s impatience. When they drank, she’d run her tongue slowly over her bottom lip as she maintained eye contact with him. When she danced, she’d rock her hips and touch her neck while he watched. When they chatted with friends, she’d find ways to sneak little bits of innuendo into the conversation.

It drove Sebastian mad. Finally, he trapped her in a corner of the common room. As music continued to vibrate off the walls, Sebastian snaked his arms around Emmeline’s waist from behind. He rested his chin on her shoulder as they gently swayed back and forth, and for a second, Emmeline thought they were having a sweet moment. But as Sebastian’s hands wandered lower, gliding from her waist to the tops of her thighs, she realized his thoughts were not on dancing.

She caught his hands with her own to stop him, but the feeling of something hard pressing into her back made her posture straighten. He was already rock hard.

“Sebastian,” she hissed. She could feel heat beginning to swell between her thighs. She clamped them tightly together, which only worsened the ache.

“Hmm?” Sebastian murmured as his lips brushed the back of her neck. His erection dragged across her lower back.

Emmeline’s eyes scanned the room to ensure no one was paying them any attention. Most students were well inebriated and lost in their own convictions, so Emmeline ground her hips backward against Sebastian’s. She heard him inhale sharply in her ear and smirked. They appeared to dance, Emmeline’s backside igniting a friction that made Sebastian’s cock twitch.

The heat of his breath against her neck and the low, pained grunts he whimpered in her ear made Emmeline’s cheeks flush with arousal. One particularly soft kiss behind her ear and a hard grind from Sebastian’s hips made Emmeline swallow to steady herself.

Emmeline gripped her fingers around Sebastian’s wrist and slunk carefully toward the archway leading to the Gryffindor student dormitories. She led him up one set of stairs, through a corridor and up another flight through a door until they found a balcony landing with books and chairs that overlooked the common room.

Emmeline pulled Sebastian into a hungry kiss the moment her back made contact with the balcony railing. Voices from the room below carried upward around them, but they paid no mind.

“People can see us,” Sebastian murmured when they finally broke their kiss. Emmeline scoffed at him.

“No one’s paying attention,” she said, her fingers tugging at the front of his shirt. Still, she guided him away from the balcony’s ledge toward a decorative table that sat against the wall. He nudged her back into the table and lifted her upward until she was seated on the ledge.

“You’ve been driving me mad all night,” he said as he attacked her neck with kisses.

“Me?” Emmeline huffed as she craned her neck to the side to permit him access to more skin. “You’re the one who damn near left bruises against my back with your-”

Sebastian jutted his hips forward to press his erection into her thigh. “I’ll bruise your thighs too, if you’d like,” he said. Emmeline fumbled earnestly with his belt and zipper. Sebastian barked a laugh at her impatience and she shushed him.

“They’re going to hear us!” she hissed with narrowed eyes. Sebastian smirked.

“You’re typically the one who has a hard time keeping quiet,” he quipped. “Let’s see how well you withstand this test.”

He was challenging her. Emmeline knew that. He loved to see how far he could push her. She loved to find out how much she could resist before he inevitably bested her. He always did.

Emmeline freed Sebastian’s cock from his trousers and pumped it vigorously with one hand. Sebastian groaned at her touch, her thumb tracing circles around his tip until it descended along his shaft. As she stroked him, Sebastian returned to her neck to place a trail of kisses along her jawline until he found her mouth and kissed her hard.

There was far too much pressure mounting between Emmeline’s legs for her liking, and being in a seated position wasn’t helping. She reached between her own legs and edged a finger into her panties to dip a finger into her own entrance. She added a second and moaned before she removed her hand. She used it to stroke Sebastian again and he grit his teeth at the sensation of her wet arousal coating his tip.

“You’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” he groaned. He kissed her with more fervor, his hands beneath her skirt as he found her soaked entrance. He dragged two fingers over her panties before tugging them to the side so he could feel her without restriction.

He sank a finger beyond her folds and she sighed contentedly at the intrusion. The sounds of her aroused core sucking around Sebastian’s fingers filled the balcony room. The students below were none the wiser.

Sebastian, however, wanted to see how quiet she could be. By now, he’d learned her body and the moves that made her cry and scream out the loudest. He wanted to test himself to see how well he knew her.

He added a second finger and pulled upward into the spongy flesh of Emmeline’s front wall. His fingers prodded the swollen spot as Emmeline’s fingers dug into Sebastian’s shoulders, a silent warning that she would erupt soon. Each jerk of his hand pulled her closer to the edge, the string tightening and straining until she was ready to tumble over. Sebastian added his thumb to circle her clit and she choked on a moan as she released.

Her walls surged with a spasm and a pitchy whimper escaped her nose as she flooded around Sebastian’s hand. He grunted at the sight, his cock throbbing from the thrill of their act.

“My god,” he groaned as Emmeline recovered, her eyes heavy with hazy gratification as she caught her breath. She could have stopped there, the tension gone from her core, but she’d be damned if she didn’t give Sebastian his fill.

“You did so good,” Sebastian murmured into her ear as he pressed the tip of his cock against her entrance. “So quiet. Doubt you’ll be able to do it again, though.”

He shoved his hips forward, his cock spearing her entrance. She coated him immediately and he groaned against her shoulder at the warmth. He was too aroused for much discretion at this point; he’d fuck her through the wall if he could.

Sebastian slammed his hips forward, the trinkets on the hallway table clattering as it rocked beneath Emmeline. Sebastian set a fervid pace, desperate to claim every inch of Emmeline’s inner walls. She breathed through her nose, afraid of the sounds she might make if she opened her mouth.

Sebastian’s cock drove into her until the sounds of smacking skin chorused around them. Emmeline tried to shoot Sebastian a look of warning to be quiet, but her eyes betrayed her as they began to roll back into her head.

He fucked her so hard, she shifted backward across the table, her back pressing into the wall. Sebastian’s hands grabbed at her hips to pull her back to him, holding her in place as he rocked against her. The table quaked beneath them.

“Sebastian,” Emmeline whimpered in his ear with ragged breaths. He answered with another sharp thrust. His hands locked tightly around her waist as he ground upward. "Sebastian, I- I'm so close."

He buried his face in her neck. The table creaked with each movement in harmonic tandem with the whines from Emilia’s throat. She grit her teeth as she willed herself to remain quiet.

“Don’t hold back,” Sebastian ordered. “Come for me.”

But Emmeline was fighting the inevitable. It was too much for her; the assault of Sebastian’s cock in her cunt, the low rumble of the crowd in the room below, the forbidden nature of their tryst.

Her walls began to flutter and Emmeline sank her nails into the backs of Sebastian’s shoulders. He groaned at the stinging pain but maintained the rhythm between their hips in determination to make her break.

Emmeline bit down hard on her bottom lip. Her whines became strained and painful as control slipped from her grasp and her core. Finally, she let out a resounding wail as her climax sent her trembling around Sebastian’s cock.

The adrenaline from her high surged through Sebastian and exited through his cock as it throbbed. He barked a sharp grunt as he spilled himself inside Emmeline, his hips ending their assault on hers.

“Fuck,” Sebastian panted as he rested his forehead against Emmeline’s shoulder. She went limp around him, her exhaustion making her eyelids heavy. “Alright?” Sebastian asked as he drew backward to gaze at her. He smiled softly, his hair more tousled than ever and his lips raw and red from their hard kisses.

“Alright,” Emmeline breathed. “But do you think anyone heard us?”

“Not sure,” Sebastian mused. “Supposed we’d better get out of here before we find out.”

He stepped away from her, the table shifting forward with the absence of his weight pressed against it. Emmeline slid to her feet and adjusted her clothing as Sebastian tucked himself back into his trousers. He pulled her into a soft kiss before slipping his hand in hers to lead her back down to the common room. When they reached it, their fellow students carried on, none the wiser to their secret.

“Having a good time?” a drunk and jovial Garreth asked as he draped his arms around both of their shoulders.

Sebastian smirked and reached for a swig from Garreth's bottle. “Best party ever.”

31 notes · View notes

quinnsallow · 2 days ago

Note

I love dad!Seb, he’s so sweet 🥹

okay sebastian reacting to mc telling him he's gonna be a dad in a fun way like a bun in the oven or something stupid

Dad-to-Be | Sebastian Sallow x OC

anon!!! thank you so much for the request, I hope this brings your idea to life ;.;

Words: ~4,300

Tags: Post Canon, Established Relationship, Romance, Fluff, Fluff AGAIN

Read more stories about Sebastian and Evangeline

Evangeline paced the length of the cottage, the worn wooden floors creaking softly under her slippers. She chewed on her thumbnail, glancing at the clock for what must have been the hundredth time that day. Her nerves felt frayed, the weight of what she needed to say gnawing at her every thought.

It wasn’t like her to avoid work, but this morning, she'd done just that, feigning sickness to get out of her shift at the Ministry. The guilt of lying added to her anxiety, though it paled in comparison to the much bigger secret she’d been carrying. How on earth was she supposed to concentrate on paperwork when this was hanging over her?

She sighed, running a hand through her long, dark hair as she surveyed the chaos of the cottage. The unwashed dishes in the sink, her favorite sweater tossed over the back of the couch, and the burned remnants of what was supposed to be a celebratory cake—“Dad-to-Be” scrawled in blackened frosting—painted a picture of her increasingly desperate brainstorming session.

She’d spent the entire day trying to figure out the perfect way to tell Sebastian she was pregnant. Every idea felt wrong. Too dramatic. Too casual. Too cheesy. Too blunt. She’d tried baking the cake—disaster. Knitting tiny baby booties had only resulted in a lumpy, unidentifiable mess. Writing a letter? Equally hopeless. (“Congratulations, you knocked me up!” had been scribbled out with a groan. “Sebastian, I’m pregnant,” was boring and devoid of charm.)

For a brief, fleeting moment, she’d even tried the old “bun in the oven” trick. She’d shoved a single bread roll into the oven and waited, but the sheer cringe of it had sent her yanking the oven door back open long before Sebastian could come home.

Now, evening was closing in, and the sound of familiar footsteps outside the door sent her heart into overdrive.

“Here we go,” she muttered under her breath.

The door swung open, and there he was—Sebastian Sallow, tall, confident, handsome, and as annoyingly charming as ever. His dark hair was windswept, his brown eyes alight with warmth as he stepped inside and shrugged off his cloak, tossing it carelessly over a chair.

“Evening, love,” he greeted her with a smile, leaning down to kiss her cheek. “How’s my favorite invalid? You don’t look half as bad as I thought you would.”

Evangeline swatted him lightly on the arm, a half-hearted laugh escaping her lips despite her nerves. “I’m fine,” she said, her voice just a touch too high-pitched to be convincing.

Sebastian’s sharp gaze lingered on her for a moment, but he let it slide, helping himself to a leftover biscuit from the counter.

“You’re sure you’re okay? You’re not sick-sick, are you?” he asked, cramming the biscuit into his mouth and brushing crumbs off his shirt.

“I’m fine,” she repeated, forcing a smile.

Her nerves were palpable, but Sebastian didn’t seem to notice. He kicked off his boots and sank onto the couch, patting the spot beside him. “Come sit. Tell me about your day. Did you actually rest, or were you up to something?”

She hesitated, wringing her hands together. “Well… I’ve been thinking.”

“Dangerous,” he quipped, earning another swat.

“Sebastian, be serious,” she said, crossing her arms as she paced back and forth in front of him. "I... how do you feel about... about big life changes?"

Sebastian raised an eyebrow, leaning back against the cushions. “Changes? Like what? Don’t tell me you’re thinking about cutting your hair again—I told you, I like it long.”

“Not my hair,” she said, exasperated. “Bigger changes. Like… expanding the family?”

At that, Sebastian perked up, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Oh, you mean adopting another stray? I’ve had my eye on this Kneazle in the village shelter. Poor thing looks—”

“Sebastian!” Evangeline cut him off, throwing her hands up in frustration.

“What?” he asked, bewildered. “I thought you'd like the idea of getting another pet!"

She groaned, her patience thinning. “Forget the Kneazle! Just—just sit there and eat your biscuit.”

Sebastian blinked at her, confused but obedient, as she spun on her heel and marched into the kitchen.

This was going to be harder than she thought.

Evangeline busied herself with dinner, trying to keep her hands steady as she prepared a simple meal. The sizzling of butter in the pan as she browned bread for grilled cheese sandwiches gave her a sense of normalcy, even as her thoughts raced. Surely I don’t have to just blurt it out, she thought. I can ease him into it, drop hints. He’s clever. He’ll figure it out, right?

She placed a slice of cheese between the bread, pressing it down with the spatula, and thought about what she’d say. Maybe she could start with a hypothetical. Or a joke? Would that work? Probably not. Sebastian’s sense of humor was sharp, but subtlety wasn’t always his strongest suit.

By the time she returned to the living room, dinner plated and balanced in her hands, her nerves had only grown. Sebastian looked up from the couch, setting aside the book he’d been skimming. “Dinner already? You’re spoiling me,” he said with a grin, reaching for the plate she handed him.

Evangeline sat beside him, her own plate resting untouched on her lap. “I thought we could eat together and… talk,” she said, her voice deliberately casual.

“Talk?” he asked around a mouthful of sandwich. “Did you set the house on fire whilst I was gone? Wait, don’t tell me—you’ve decided to take up painting again.”

She rolled her eyes. “I am not picking up painting again after what happened last time.”

“Fair enough,” he said with a laugh, gesturing at his sandwich. “This is great, by the way. Keep feeding me like this, and I might never let you out of the kitchen again.”

“Charming,” she deadpanned.

He flashed her a boyish grin, oblivious to the storm brewing in her head. She fiddled with the edge of her plate, searching for a way to steer the conversation. Finally, she cleared her throat.

“Sebastian, have you ever thought about… names? Like, names you’d want to give to someone special?”

He paused mid-bite, raising an eyebrow. “Names? For what?”

“Like… if you had to name something important,” she said, forcing herself to stay patient. "Say, for example, a person.”

Sebastian tilted his head, considering her question. “Hmm. I’ve always liked Arthur. Strong name, good history. Eleanor’s nice too. What brought this on?”

“Oh, nothing,” she said quickly, waving him off. “Just curious.”

He shrugged, seemingly satisfied with her answer, and took another bite of his sandwich.

Evangeline stared at her plate, her mind scrambling for another approach. “You know, I’ve been having the strangest cravings lately,” she said, her tone light.

“Cravings?” Sebastian repeated, narrowing his eyes. “Like what?”

“Pickles,” she said, then added, “And chocolate. Together.”

Sebastian wrinkled his nose, looking genuinely appalled. “That’s disgusting.”

She laughed nervously. “Well, cravings are cravings.”

“Maybe you really are coming down with something,” he said, eyeing her suspiciously. “Or you’ve finally lost your mind.”

Her shoulders sagged slightly as her attempt went right over his head. Again. She was running out of ideas. Desperate, she tried again.

“You know,” she said, attempting to sound casual, “we should probably start thinking about baby-proofing the house soon.”

Sebastian frowned, glancing around the room. “Baby-proof it? Why? Are you worried Ominis is going to stumble into the fireplace again?”

Evangeline groaned, burying her face in her hands. “Sebastian, no!”

“Then what are you—” He froze, his brow furrowing as he stared at her. “Wait a minute.”

Her heart leapt into her throat. Finally!

She leaned forward, ready to confirm, but Sebastian’s face lit up with excitement before she could get a word in.

"You are thinking about getting a Kneazle, aren’t you? I knew you’d come around! You need to see the one at the shelter—scrappy little thing, missing half an ear, but I think—”

“Sebastian!” she snapped, cutting him off.

“What?” he asked, blinking at her in confusion.

Evangeline took a deep breath, her nerves finally snapping under the weight of his obliviousness. “I’m not talking about a Kneazle, or Ominis, or anything else. I’m talking about us. About you. You’re going to be a dad!"

He stared at her, his expression blank as the words sank in.

“A… dad?” he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Yes, a dad—like, an actual human baby dad!” she said, throwing her hands in the air. “As in, I’m pregnant, Sebastian!"

Sebastian blinked at her, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. He looked utterly stunned, as if the world had just tilted on its axis.

There was a long moment of silence where Sebastian just stared at her, his expression completely unreadable. Evangeline’s stomach churned, panic creeping in as the seconds ticked by. Was he upset? Overwhelmed? Regretting everything? She opened her mouth to say something—anything—to fill the void, but before she could, his expression softened.

“I’m going to be a dad?” he repeated, his voice quiet, a mix of disbelief and awe.

Evangeline nodded.

Slowly, a grin began to spread across his face—small at first, then growing wider and wider until it practically split his face in two. A loud, boyish laugh burst out of him as scooped her into his arms, spinning her around.

“You’re serious? We’re having a baby?” he asked, pulling back just enough to look at her, his eyes sparkling with joy.

“Yes, we're having a baby!” she said, her voice exasperated but tinged with laughter.

Sebastian laughed again, his joy infectious as he kissed her forehead, her cheeks, her lips. Then, as if the enormity of it hit him all over again, he stepped back and started pacing the room, running his hands through his hair.

“I’m going to be a dad,” he murmured to himself, his voice tinged with awe. Then he laughed, a little hysterically, tears brimming in his eyes. “We’re having a baby. Merlin’s beard, Evie, a baby!”

Evangeline couldn’t help but laugh, her heart swelling at his reaction.

“How—how is that even—?” he continued, his voice cracking slightly.

Evangeline stared at him, amused and exasperated. “How? Sebastian, you do know how babies are made, don’t you?”

“I—I mean, obviously I do!” he sputtered, his ears flushing a deep red as he straightened, waving his hands frantically. “But—how? Like, when?”

She arched an eyebrow, folding her arms as she leveled him with a look. “You know. That activity we like to do together? At night? In bed?”

Sebastian turned an even deeper shade of red, running a hand through his hair as he began pacing back and forth. “I know that! I just—well—Merlin’s beard, Evie, I didn’t think—”

“What? That it might actually work one day?” she cut in, smirking despite herself.

Sebastian stopped mid-pace, spinning to face her, his expression caught somewhere between mortified and delighted. “You could’ve given me a bit of a warning, you know!”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” she said, rolling her eyes. “Should I have sent you an owl ahead of time? Maybe drafted a memo?”

He let out a bark of laughter, shaking his head as he ran a hand down his face. “Merlin’s pants. I’m going to be a dad,” he muttered, almost to himself. “Like, an actual dad.”

“Yes, an actual dad.” Evangeline confirmed again with a grin.

Sebastian looked over at her, his wide eyes locking onto hers. "Evie, this is—this is incredible!”

Her laugh was soft and filled with relief. “So you’re happy about it, then?”

“Happy?” he said, spinning to face her with wide eyes. “Evie, I’m over the moon! This is the best news you’ve ever given me—well, aside from the time you told me you loved me, and then the time you married me. But this—this is next level!”

She smiled, her earlier nerves finally dissolving as she watched him. “I was so worried you’d be overwhelmed,” she admitted quietly.

Sebastian was in front of her in an instant, taking her hands in his. “Overwhelmed? Maybe a little,” he said with a laugh. “But Evangeline, this is amazing. You’re amazing. And if you think for one second I’m not ready to do this with you, you’re mad.”

Evangeline felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes as she gazed up at him, his excitement radiating like the summer sun. She didn’t know what she’d been so worried about. This was Sebastian—of course he’d be thrilled.

Before she could say anything, he dropped to his knees in front of her, placing his hands gently on her stomach. His wide, boyish grin softened into something more tender as he looked up at her. “There’s really a little Sallow in there?”

“Yes,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Sebastian tilted his head, pressing his forehead gently to her stomach. “Hello in there, little one,” he said softly, his voice low and filled with emotion. “It’s your dad. I love you so much already."

Evangeline rolled her eyes, though her smile remained wide. “You’re already embarrassing them, and they haven’t even been born yet.”

“I’m just getting a head start,” he teased, sitting back on his heels but keeping his hands on her stomach. “So, how long have you known? And why didn’t you tell me sooner? Or were you just planning on letting me figure it out in five months when you couldn’t hide it anymore?”

“I’ve only known for a few days,” she admitted, fiddling with the hem of her sweater. “I was trying to figure out the best way to tell you, but nothing seemed right. I mean, I even tried baking a cake—”

He laughed, rising to his feet and pulling her into his arms. “You could’ve just told me, you know. No cakes or clever hints required.”

She rested her head against his chest, inhaling the familiar scent of him as his arms tightened around her. “I know. But I wanted it to be perfect.”

“Evie,” he murmured, tipping her chin up so their eyes met. “This is perfect. You’re perfect."

Evangeline laughed softly, brushing a hand through his hair. “I hope they inherit your smile,” she said, her voice full of warmth.

Sebastian looked down at her, his grin returning. “And I hope they get your brains. And your laugh. And maybe your stubborn streak, too, but not too much, or we’re doomed.”

Evangeline rolled her eyes. “I hope they don’t get your reckless streak, or I’ll be gray before I’m thirty.”

Sebastian laughed, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “If they do, we’ll manage. You’ll keep us both in line, just like you always do.”

She laughed and rested her head against his chest, listening to the steady thrum of his heartbeat. For the first time all day, the knot of nerves in her chest unraveled completely.

They stayed like that for a while, wrapped up in each other, before Sebastian pulled back just enough to look at her again. His expression was serious now, though no less full of joy.

“Evie,” he said softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face, “I swear to you, I’m going to do everything I can to be the best dad.”

Evangeline laughed, tears slipping down her cheeks. “You’re already going to be the best dad, Sebastian.”

He grinned, brushing her tears away with his thumb. “And you’re going to be the best mum. Merlin help this kid, though, because they’re going to be spoiled rotten.”

“Only if you teach them bad habits,” she teased.

“Bad habits? Like what?”

“Oh, I don’t know,” she said, smirking. “Like sneaking out after curfew, breaking into the Restricted Section, lying to teachers—”

Sebastian winced, though his grin didn’t falter. “Alright, alright. No need to drag me through the mud, love. I’ll set a good example. Mostly.”

“Mostly,” she repeated, shaking her head with a laugh.

As they settled back onto the couch, Sebastian wrapped an arm around her shoulders, his other hand resting protectively on her stomach. “I suppose we’ll need to start planning now,” he said, his tone half-serious. “Crib, clothes, books. Oh, and I’ll need to owl Ominis and Anne. They're going to lose her mind over this.”

Evangeline chuckled nervously, avoiding Sebastian’s gaze as she fiddled with the hem of her sweater. “Well, about Anne…” she began, her voice trailing off.

Sebastian narrowed his eyes at her, his brow furrowing. “What about Anne?”

“Well…” She gave him a sheepish look, her voice barely above a whisper. “She already knows.”

Sebastian’s jaw dropped, and he stared at her, completely incredulous. “Anne already knows? Evangeline, how does my sister know before I do?!”

Evangeline chuckled nervously, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. “Well… yes. Who else was I supposed to go to for confirmation? Ominis? She’s a healer, Sebastian!”

His mouth fell open, a mix of disbelief and amusement flashing across his face. “You told Anne before you told me?”

“Well, I had to be sure first!” she defended, holding her hands up. “I wasn’t going to tell you anything until I was absolutely certain. And who else was I supposed to go to? Madame Russell in the village? She’d have spread it through the whole of Feldcroft before I even got back home!”

At that, Sebastian let out a strangled laugh, running a hand down his face. “Merlin’s sake, Evie, I’m never going to hear the end of this.”

“Anne only gloated a little bit," Evangeline assured him, though her tone carried a teasing lilt.

“Oh, I’m sure she did,” he said, shaking his head with a groan. “I can already imagine the look she’ll give me the next time I see her. Let me guess, she said something about how she always knew I’d be the last to figure things out?”

Evangeline couldn’t suppress a laugh. “Actually, yes. She said, and I quote, ‘Typical Sebastian, always a bit slow on the uptake.’”

Sebastian groaned again, though a grin tugged at the corners of his mouth. “Brilliant. Just brilliant. My own sister conspiring with my wife to keep me in the dark.”

“She wasn’t conspiring,” Evangeline said with a laugh, nudging his shoulder playfully. “She was just doing her job. And, for the record, she’s thrilled about the baby. She wouldn’t stop talking about how she can’t wait to be Auntie Anne.”

“Well, at least one of us got to enjoy her reaction,” he muttered, though his grin had widened.

“You’ll survive,” Evangeline teased, leaning her head against his shoulder. “Besides, you should be flattered. Anne said you’re going to be a wonderful dad.”

Sebastian’s expression softened, and he looked down at her, his eyes full of warmth. “Did she really say that?”

“She did,” Evangeline said, her voice gentle. “And she’s right.”

For a moment, he was quiet, his gaze fixed on her stomach as his hand rested protectively over it. Then he let out a soft laugh, shaking his head. “Well, I guess I can forgive her."

Evangeline chuckled, pressing a kiss to his jaw. “I’m sure she’ll appreciate your magnanimity.”

"Only after I name the baby something she'll hate, though."

Evangeline gasped, pulling back to stare at him, her eyes wide with mock horror. “Sebastian Sallow, you wouldn’t dare!”

He smirked, that signature mischievous glint sparking in his eyes. “Oh, I would. How does something like… Marmaduke sound? Or Ethelreda? Really lean into the old-fashioned wizarding names, you know?”

She smacked his arm, groaning. "You're incorrigible, truly."

"And yet," he said, his grin turning far too smug, his tone dipping into something almost predatory. "Here you are, married to me and having my baby."

“Sebastian…” she started, raising an eyebrow at his tone, but before she could continue, he tightened his grip on her, fingers pressing into her stomach.

“I can’t wait,” he murmured, his voice reverent. “For you to start showing. So everyone can see what I’ve done to you.”

Her mouth fell open, heat rushing to her face as she stared at him in disbelief. “Sebastian!”

“What?” he asked, completely unrepentant, his grin widening. “It’s the truth, isn’t it? You’re mine, Evie. And now… now everyone will know it.”

She gaped at him, utterly flustered.

“I mean, really,” he went on, his tone casual but with that glint in his eyes that made her heart race. “Every time we walk through the village, or go to work, or visit friends, they’ll all see it. You, glowing, beautiful, and carrying our child. Mine. It’ll be written all over you.”

Evangeline buried her face in her hands, groaning. “You are ridiculous.”

“Ridiculous? No,” Sebastian countered, tugging her hands away from her face so she had no choice but to meet his gaze. “Proud? Absolutely.” He leaned closer, his voice dropping to a teasing whisper. “I can’t wait for people to ask, and for me to say, ‘Yes, that’s my wife. Yes, I did that. Isn’t she perfect?’”

Evangeline let out a strangled laugh, half-mortified, half-amused. “Sebastian, stop.”

“Why would I do that?” he asked, pressing a kiss to her temple.

She sighed, though her lips curved into a smile as she relaxed into him. “I’m starting to think you’re enjoying this a little too much.”

“Oh, I absolutely am,” he said, his tone completely serious. “Evie, I’ve always been proud to be your husband. But now? Now I get to be the husband and the father of your child. It’s like I’ve won the bloody lottery.”

Her heart swelled at his words, and she leaned up to kiss him softly. “I love you. Even when you’re being a possessive prat.”

“And I love you,” he murmured against her lips. “Even when you’re pretending you don’t secretly love it when I’m a possessive prat.”

She pulled back, narrowing her eyes at him, but her smile gave her away. “You’re lucky you’re cute.”

“Cute?” he repeated, feigning offense. “Evie, I’m devastatingly handsome. Rugged. Charming. Definitely not just cute.”

She laughed, leaning back into his chest. “Alright, devastatingly handsome. Now hush.”

“Never,” he said, his grin audible in his voice. “Embarrassing you is half the fun.”

Evangeline huffed a laugh and closed her eyes, letting out a soft sigh as she nestled against Sebastian’s chest, his heartbeat steady and comforting beneath her ear. For a moment, she let herself sink into the quiet joy of the moment—Sebastian’s arms around her, his hands resting protectively on her stomach, the crackle of the fireplace filling the cozy silence of their little cottage.

This was bliss. Perfect, warm, and utterly calm.

But, of course, it didn’t last.

“Well,” Sebastian said suddenly, his voice breaking the quiet as he straightened up beneath her. “We’ve got to start making a list.”

Evangeline’s eyes snapped open, and she leaned back to look up at him, confusion and amusement dancing in her hazel eyes. “A list?”

“Yes, a list!” he said, already on a roll, his eyes lighting up with excitement as if the gears in his head had gone into overdrive. “We’ve got so much to do, Evie. So much to get ready. Merlin, we’ll need a crib, of course. And clothes—tiny ones. Do we even know where to buy baby clothes? I don’t think they sell those at the apothecary…”

Evangeline bit back a laugh, watching him as he began to ramble. “Sebastian…”

“And books! We’ll need books. Parenting books. Baby books. Do they make spell books for babies? They should, don’t you think? Something simple, like, First Spells for Tiny Wizards.” He paused, suddenly serious. “Wait, do you think the baby will be magical from the start, or does that develop later? Should I ask Anne? No, wait, I can owl Professor Weasley. She’d know—”

“Sebastian,” Evangeline tried again, her lips twitching as she fought to keep a straight face.

“Right, furniture!” he continued, completely ignoring her. “We’ll have to rearrange the second bedroom—it’s perfect for a nursery. Do you think we should paint it? What color? Yellow, maybe? Or green? Or should we wait to find out if it’s a boy or a girl? Oh, Merlin, we’ll need names! We should start thinking about that now, too. I already said Arthur... Eleanor? Or maybe something more—”

“Sebastian!” Evangeline finally exclaimed, cutting him off with a laugh.

He blinked, his train of thought momentarily derailed as he looked down at her. “What?”

“Breathe,” she said, reaching up to cup his face. “You’re going to give yourself a stroke if you keep this up.”

“But, Evie,” he said, his voice tinged with equal parts excitement and panic, “there’s so much to do. We can’t just sit here—”

“Yes, we can,” she said firmly, pulling him back down onto the couch. “We have months to figure all of this out. Months, Sebastian.

“Right. No need to rush,” he agreed, though his excitement was still palpable. He paused for a moment, then added with a sly grin, “But I do think we should start talking about dueling lessons. When do you think they’ll be ready? Five? Six?”

“Oh my god!” she groaned, laughing as she smacked his arm.

“What?” he said innocently. “It’s an important skill! I’ll start them off slow—basic stances, nothing dangerous.”

Evangeline rolled her eyes, though her laughter betrayed her amusement. “Let’s just get through the first year before we start planning for dueling championships, alright?”

“Alright,” he said, grinning as he kissed her temple. “But I’m serious. Our kid’s going to be brilliant. Just like their mum.”

Evangeline’s heart swelled as she looked up at him, her smile soft and full of love. “And just like their dad.”

The future felt uncertain and exciting all at once, but as they sat together in their little cottage, Evangeline knew one thing for certain: everything was going to be okay. Better than okay.

It was going to be perfect.

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quinnsallow · 2 days ago

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Posting the screenshots from the video I uploaded last week 💙🖤

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quinnsallow · 2 days ago

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Auror Weasley

@ellivenollivander sent me a pic of Gar in this wand holster shirt by @starrysallow and I had to take more.

I actually think he'd be a pretty terrible Auror but he sure does look cute 🤣

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quinnsallow · 2 days ago

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More to Love | Sebastian Sallow x OC

listen we are all guilty of describing tall, model sebastian with a perfectly toned body and abs who is never insecure BUT NOBODY, AND I MEAN NOBODY, can rid of me of the headcannon that adult seb is a chunky man. nobody. you can tear it from my cold dead hands. have y'all seen solomon? beyond adolescence, sebastian does not have the genes for a fast metabolism, nor does sebastian possess self control against his vices (aka sweets). anyway this is a completely selfish indulgence. thick sebastian supremacy. that is all, tysm.

p.s. if anyone finds any fan art of this version of him i would literally go feral...

Words: ~5,400

Tags: Post Canon, Insecure Sebastian, Established Relationship, Romance, Fluff, Implied Smut, Size Kink(? I mean like I guess but I feel like we should just be appreciating all bodies ?)

Read more stories about Sebastian and Evangeline

The morning sunlight filtered through the curtains of their cozy cottage, casting a warm golden glow over the kitchen. The faint, sugary scent of last night’s baking still lingered in the air—Evangeline’s attempt at perfecting a new cookie recipe. Sebastian remembered how she had glared at a plate of the so-called failures, muttering something about them being “too dry." Sebastian had happily devoured them, brushing off her perfectionist grumbles with a wink and a mouthful of cookies.

Now, the house was quiet, save for the occasional chirping of birds outside. Evangeline had already left for the market, a wicker basket in hand and a determined spring in her step. She’d kissed him on the forehead before leaving, murmuring something about getting the perfect flour for a sourdough recipe she’d been researching all week. He could still hear the echo of her soft laughter as she disappeared out the door.

Sebastian stretched, his muscles aching faintly in that satisfying way that came from a week filled with physical work. Being an Auror meant he was constantly on the move—tracking leads, chasing dark wizards, and, more often than he liked, dealing with paperwork that made him question all his life choices. But spring Saturdays like this, when he didn’t have to be anywhere but home, were his favorite.

He yawned and shuffled out of bed, raking a hand through his disheveled hair as he made his way to the wardrobe. Spring had finally settled in, bringing mild, sunny weather that called for something lighter than his usual layers. His hand landed on a familiar flannel shirt, one of his favorites. It was soft from years of wear, its faded green pattern perfect for the season.

Smiling faintly, he shrugged it over his shoulders and reached for the buttons—only to stop short when the fabric pulled taut across his shoulders and chest.

Frowning, he tugged harder, but the shirt refused to cooperate.

“What the…?” he muttered, stepping back toward the mirror.

Sebastian frowned deeper as he studied himself, his hands resting on his hips. The reflection was still undeniably his, but as his eyes trailed over his freckled skin, mapping the same familiar constellations he’d had for years, he realized the framework beneath had shifted in ways he hadn’t realized.

He rolled his shoulders experimentally, watching the way the muscle there still moved, still held its strength. Yet the sharp edges of his collarbones and the cut of his shoulders weren’t as defined as they used to be.

Turning slightly, he ran a hand down his chest, his fingers brushing over the faint dusting of hair. His pecs were still firm, still solid beneath his touch, but there was give there now, a softness that made his jaw tighten. He pressed lightly, testing the subtle give in his chest, before his hand drifted lower, skimming over the newfound curve of his stomach. His fingers prodded experimentally at the softness, sinking slightly into the layer of flesh, and he let out a quiet, frustrated huff. The firmness of his abs was still there—he reassured himself of that much—but they were now buried beneath the gentle padding that had crept in without him noticing.

In response, he straightened his posture, tightening his core instinctively as though to pull it all back in. The mirror reflected the faint impression of his old shape, but as soon as he relaxed, the softer curve returned.

Sebastian sighed in frustration, raking a hand through his messy hair. His fingers lingered at his jawline, as though suddenly aware of it, and his thumb brushed along the edge. Even that felt different—less angular than he remembered, the sharpness subtly softened, apparently, by one too many of Evangeline's cookies.

He turned back to face the mirror head-on, his fingers curling into his sides as he tried to reconcile the man in the reflection with the one he thought he’d been. The man Evangeline married had been sharp and lean, all hard edges and restless energy. Now, he looked... well, not like that.

Sebastian shrugged off the flannel and sat heavily on the edge of the bed, staring down at the worn rug beneath his feet. He leaned forward, elbows on his knees, and the movement made him acutely aware of a sensation he hadn't noticed before: a fold of flesh creasing above his waistband.

His hand hovered over it for a moment before he pressed his palm flat against his stomach, as if to confirm what he already knew.

“Bloody hell,” he muttered under his breath, his brow furrowing deeper.

His mind began to spiral, his thoughts moving too fast for him to catch hold of any one of them. How long had this been happening? Why hadn’t he noticed sooner? And worse—what did she think?

Evangeline saw him every day. She touched him, kissed him, curled up against him at night. She must have noticed. How could she not?

He thought about the way she looked at him—the warmth in her hazel eyes, the teasing curve of her lips. She’d always been affectionate, always quick to rest her head on his shoulder or slide her hand around his waist. But now that he really thought about it, was that affection the same as it had always been?

Or had it changed?

Sebastian’s mind raced through their recent interactions, searching for signs that Evangeline might have been... humoring him. Was she still as playful as she used to be? Did her hands linger on him the way they used to, or had she started pulling away without him noticing?

And what about the times when they weren’t just sitting on the couch or cooking together? What about the moments when they were truly alone, when her touch was softer and her voice was breathless?

The soft creak of the front door opening startled him out of his reverie. He heard the familiar rustle of her skirts and the gentle thud of her basket being placed on the kitchen table.

“Sebastian?” Evangeline’s voice called out, light and cheerful as ever. “I’m back! They had the flour I needed—oh, and I found those dried cherries you like!”

Sebastian ran a hand through his hair, exhaling heavily. He stood, throwing on a plain linen shirt that still fit well enough, though he couldn’t help but feel hyperaware of how it clung just slightly more than he remembered. He made his way to the kitchen, forcing a casual smile as he leaned in the doorway to watch her unpack.

Evangeline was a vision, as always. Her long, dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, slightly windswept from the walk back. She wore one of her simple spring dresses, the fabric hugging her curves in a way that always made his stomach flip. Her cheeks were pink from the breeze, and her eyes lit up when she spotted him.

“There you are,” she said warmly, walking over to press a kiss to his cheek. “You’re up late. I thought you’d already be in the garden or reading by now.”

He shrugged, his smile faltering slightly. “Just... taking my time this morning.”

Evangeline tilted her head, studying him the way only she could. She had a knack for sensing when something was wrong, even when he tried to hide it. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. “What’s on your mind?”

“It’s nothing,” he said quickly, stepping past her to lean against the counter. He busied himself inspecting the contents of her basket—flour, herbs, fresh berries—anything to avoid her gaze. But Evangeline wasn’t one to let things go so easily.

“Sebastian,” she said softly, moving to stand beside him. “What’s wrong? And don’t say it’s nothing—I know you too well.”

Sebastian hesitated, the weight of her gaze pressing on him as she waited for an answer. His jaw tensed, the words tangled in his throat. He didn’t want to say it, didn’t want to seem ridiculous, but Evangeline’s gaze was so steady, so full of gentle concern, that it made it nearly impossible to brush her off entirely.

So he did the next best thing—he distracted her.

With a soft hum, he stepped forward, closing the small gap between them. Before she could press him further, his arms slipped around her waist, pulling her snug against him. His head dipped to the crook of her shoulder, his nose brushing against her neck in a way that made her breath hitch.

“Sebastian,” she said, her voice soft but curious. “What are you—?”

He nuzzled closer, his lips grazing her skin, and she immediately burst into laughter, her hands coming up to push lightly at his chest. “Stop that!” she giggled, squirming against him. “You know that tickles!”

“Do I?” he murmured innocently, his voice muffled against her skin. He pressed a light, teasing kiss just below her ear, which made her laugh harder.

“Yes, you do!” she managed through her laughter, twisting in his hold. She turned her head, her face still alight with amusement, and gently flicked his shoulder. "Release me!"

Sebastian grinned and nuzzled into her neck again, his voice low and teasing. “Not a chance."

Evangeline squirmed more, her laughter bubbling out in a way that always made his chest feel lighter. “Sebastian!” she giggled, half-protesting, half-delighted. “I mean it! Let me go before I—”

“Before you what?” he interrupted. “I don’t scare easily, love. You know that.”

Evangeline huffed and flicked his ear this time. “Before I refuse to share the bread with you, that’s what!”

Sebastian gasped, feigning shock as he finally released her. “Now, now, let’s not say things we can’t take back.”

Evangeline turned to face him, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she adjusted her skirts. “Then behave yourself,” she said, narrowing her eyes at him in a way that wasn’t remotely threatening.

Sebastian chuckled, running a hand through his hair as he leaned back against the counter, watching her return to unpacking her basket.

“Goodness me,” she said, rolling up her sleeves with purpose. “I’ve been waiting all week to try this recipe and the minute I try, you attack me. Are you going to help to make up for it, or are you just going to stand there being smug?”

Sebastian chuckled. “I suppose I can be convinced,” he said, moving to her side as she began gathering the rest of the tools she’d need.

For the next hour, the kitchen was filled with the quiet hum of their voices, the occasional clatter of mixing bowls, and Evangeline’s soft laughter.

Sebastian found himself relaxing, the familiar rhythm of their routine soothing the restless energy that had been gnawing at him earlier. He teased her gently when she smudged flour on her cheek, earning a playful swat in return, and when she handed him the dough to knead, she watched with an amused grin as he muttered about how much effort it took.

"Thought you were supposed to be a big, strong Auror, Sallow," she quipped, her lips twitching with amusement as she leaned against the counter, watching him wrestle with the dough.

“I am a big, strong Auror,” Sebastian shot back, narrowing his eyes at her. “This stuff is just... deceptively difficult. And sticky. Are you sure this is how it’s supposed to feel?”

Evangeline laughed, the sound light and musical as she stepped closer, her hands lightly dusted with flour. “You’re doing fine,” she reassured him, slipping in beside him. “But here—let me show you.”

She reached out, her smaller hands folding over his to guide his movements. The closeness made Sebastian pause, his earlier insecurities threatening to resurface as her warmth seeped into him. He glanced down at her, the way her long lashes cast soft shadows on her cheeks, her eyes focused intently on the dough. She looked so at ease, so utterly content, and it twisted something in his chest.

“See?” she said softly, her voice breaking through his thoughts. “Gentle pressure. You don’t have to fight it, Sebastian. It’s not a dark wizard.”

Sebastian let out a quiet huff of laughter, shaking his head as Evangeline’s hands guided his own, working the dough until it was smooth and elastic.

When they were finally done, Evangeline patted it into a neat ball and placed it into a bowl to proof, covering it with a clean cloth. “There,” she said, brushing her hands off on her apron.

Sebastian stepped back, wiping his flour-dusted hands on a towel. “So, what now, boss?” he asked, his tone playful.

Evangeline grinned, tilting her head toward the door. “You, my dear husband, are going to go sit on the porch and enjoy the sun while I tidy up. I’ll bring lunch out in a bit.”

Sebastian raised an eyebrow. “You sure? I can help clean—”

“Nope,” she interrupted, shooing him toward the door with a wave of her hand. “Go. Relax. You’ve earned it after that battle with the dough.”

He rolled his eyes but couldn’t suppress the small smile tugging at his lips. “Alright, if you say so,"

With a glass of lemonade in hand, Sebastian made his way to the porch. The gentle warmth of the spring sun greeted him as he stepped outside, the wooden boards creaking softly beneath his feet. He sank into one of the chairs, letting out a contented sigh as he leaned back.

The village stretched out before him, quiet and serene, with the distant hum of life carrying on beyond their little corner of the world. The sun’s rays warmed his skin, the light breeze ruffling his hair. He took a sip of the lemonade, the tart sweetness refreshing as he let himself sink into the moment, his earlier insecurities and worries far away now, dulled by the laughter and warmth Evangeline always brought with her.

He was so lost in the peace that he didn’t hear her approach until she appeared in the doorway, balancing a tray with two plates and the pitcher of lemonade.

“Lunch is served,” she announced cheerfully, stepping out onto the porch.

Sebastian sat up as she set the tray down on the small table between them, his eyes flicking to his plate: a neatly arranged sandwich, a small side of crisps, and, of course, three cookies nestled together like a tempting afterthought. He masked a frown, the sight of them stirring the same pang of self-consciousness he’d been trying to forget all morning. So much for putting his extra fluff out of his mind—it was staring back at him in the form of three perfectly golden, innocent-looking biscuits.

Still, he didn’t say anything, brushing the thought aside as he focused on enjoying lunch with Evangeline. The sandwich was delicious, the crisp, fresh lettuce and savory meats hitting the spot as they chatted easily about her market trip and his plans to tend to the garden later.

When Evangeline finished her plate, she leaned back in her chair with a contented sigh, the light breeze catching her hair and carrying the faint scent of flour and sugar. Sebastian moved to gather their plates, standing to take them inside, but paused when Evangeline frowned, her gaze dropping to his untouched cookies.

“Are they that bad?” she asked, her brow furrowed as she leaned forward to inspect them. “I thought they turned out alright this time.”

Sebastian froze, feeling her question land with a weight he wasn’t ready to address. He hesitated for a fraction too long before shaking his head, mustering a smile. “No, not at all. They’re great. I’m just... not in the mood for something sweet right now.”

Evangeline’s frown deepened, hazel eyes narrowing as she tilted her head. “Not in the mood?” she repeated, her tone skeptical. “Sebastian, you’ve never turned down cookies. Not once. Not even when you had the flu.”

“I just... figured I’d save them for later,” he said quickly, avoiding her gaze as he balanced their plates on one arm. “Don’t want to ruin my appetite for dinner.”

That earned a soft laugh from her. “Dinner’s hours away, and we both know you could eat a Hippogriff and still have room for dessert.

Sebastian forced one of his trademark grins, the kind he knew could distract her from just about anything. “I promise I’ll eat them later,” he said, his tone light as he grabbed the empty plates and moved to the door. “No need to worry, love.”

But he should have known better. Evangeline was many things—kind, brilliant, a phenomenal baker—but above all else, she was stubborn.

“Sebastian,” she called after him, her voice sharp enough to stop him mid-step as he crossed the threshold back into the kitchen.

He sighed, shoulders sinking slightly as he turned to face her. She stood in the doorway, hands on her hips, her eyes narrowing as she studied him.

“What?” he asked, forcing a grin that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

Evangeline huffed and stepped forward, plucked the plates from his hands with a deftness that left him blinking, and set them firmly on the counter.

“Alright,” she said, turning back to him and crossing her arms. Her gaze pinned him in place, sharp and unyielding. “Spill. What’s going on?”

“Nothing’s going on,” he replied quickly, too quickly. He reached up, scratching the back of his neck, a nervous habit she knew all too well. “I just told you—I’m not in the mood for something sweet right now. That’s all.”

“Sebastian.” Her voice softened, but the determination in her expression didn’t waver. She stepped closer, her hands uncrossing to rest lightly on her hips. “You can’t lie to me, you know that."

He hesitated, his jaw tightening as his gaze flicked away. He wanted to brush her off, to dodge her questions and let the moment pass. But the way she looked at him—so patient, so steady—made it impossible.

He let out a slow breath, forcing himself to meet her gaze. “It’s just… earlier, I tried on that green flannel shirt—the one you like—and it didn’t fit. It was too small."

Evangeline frowned, her brows knitting together. “So? Clothes shrink, Sebastian. Especially when someone—” she gestured pointedly at him “—refuses to follow proper washing instructions.”

He huffed a short laugh, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “It didn’t shrink,” he muttered, gesturing vaguely at himself. “It's me, Evie. I looked in the mirror, and I realized I’ve… gone all soft. I mean, look at me.” He motioned to his chest and stomach, his voice tinged with frustration.

Evangeline blinked at him, her expression shifting into something softer—warmer, with a teasing glint in her eyes that Sebastian immediately recognized. She stepped closer, her hand sliding from his arm to rest lightly against his chest, her lips curving into a small, amused smile.

“I do look at you,” she said softly. “I look at you all the time, Sebastian. And quite often, without clothes in the way.”

His ears burned instantly, a deep flush spreading across his face and down his neck. “Evie, please,” he groaned.

“What?” she asked innocently. “You act like I don’t see you—really see you—all the time. You’re my husband, silly.”

“That’s not what I meant,” he muttered, running a hand through his hair as he avoided her gaze.

Evangeline tilted her head, her lips twitching with barely contained amusement. “What exactly do you want me to say, Sebastian? Do you want me to say ‘Oh, darling, I’ve noticed you’ve gotten a bit squishier lately, but don’t worry—I still love you?’ Because that’s ridiculous.”

“So you have noticed then,” he said, his tone sharper than he intended. He crossed his arms, his jaw tightening as he met her gaze. “And you just didn’t tell me?”

Evangeline blinked at him again before laughing outright—a soft, melodic sound that filled the kitchen. “You’re unbelievable,” she said, shaking her head. “Sebastian, I didn’t say anything because there’s nothing to say! You’re acting like this is some monumental change when it’s not!

“It feels like it, is” he muttered, his arms dropping to his sides. “I’ve let myself go, Evangeline. And you’re just—what? Too nice to admit it?”

Her laughter faded, her brow furrowing slightly. “Too nice to admit it?” she repeated, her voice soft but incredulous. “Sebastian, do you really think I’d lie to you about something like this?”

He hesitated, his gaze dropping to the floor. “Not lie,” he admitted quietly. “But maybe… spare my feelings.”

Evangeline sighed, her expression softening as she reached up to cradle his face in her hands, her thumbs brushing lightly over his cheekbones. "Listen to me. I’m not sparing your feelings. I love you. I have always loved you, and I always will."

He sighed, his hands coming up to loosely grip her wrists as her fingers remained warm against his skin. “But you’re not blind, Evie. This is... this is not the version of me you married."

Evangeline scoffed. “Do you really think the reason I married you had anything to do with how sharp your jawline was?”

“I mean... maybe not completely,” he muttered, his voice trailing off as his ears turned pink. “But it didn’t hurt.”

She sighed, a sound heavy with both exasperation and affection. She tilted her head back slightly, studying his stubborn expression. Clearly, her reassurances weren’t enough to break through that thick skull of his. If soft words and patience weren’t going to work, it was time to switch tactics.

Her gaze darkened slightly, a mischievous glint sparking to life as her lips curled into a sly grin. She slid her hands from his face to rest on his shoulders, her fingers trailing down to the broad expanse of his chest.

“Alright,” she murmured, her tone dropping into something low and silky. “You want me to be honest? I’ll be honest.”

Sebastian blinked, momentarily startled by the shift in her demeanor. “What are you—”

She cut him off, pressing a finger to his lips. “Hush. You’ve been doing a lot of talking. It’s my turn now.”

He swallowed hard, his ears burning as she stepped even closer, her body brushing against his, and tipped her head to look up at him through her lashes.

“Of course I’ve noticed the changes. How could I not? But Merlin help me, I love you like this,” she said, her voice smooth and steady, each word punctuated with intent. “Do you know why?”

He shook his head, utterly at a loss for words, his hands falling to rest uncertainly on her waist.

“Because,” she continued, “It tells me that you’re happy and comfortable and loved and well-fed—all the things you should be when you’re with someone who loves you. And I wouldn’t trade that for anything.”

His throat tightened and for a moment, he couldn’t speak. “Evie...” he murmured, his voice hoarse.

“I love you with all my heart, and yes, I love the way you look,” her voice was soft but steady, her hazel eyes locked onto his. Her hands trailed down to rest against his chest, her fingertips brushing over the slight softness he’d been agonizing over. “You're the most incredible man I’ve ever met. You’ve got these strong arms I adore, shoulders that make me weak in the knees, and those deliciously thick thighs I can't get enough of. And now there's just more of you for me to love."

Sebastian’s face burned a deeper shade of crimson, his ears hot with embarrassment. “Evie,” he mumbled, his voice caught between a groan and a laugh.

"Sebastian," she said firmly, gripping at his shirt now. "You have always been handsome, but now? Now you’re downright dangerous.” Her hand moved to his stomach, giving it a light pat.

Sebastian stared at her, completely floored. Her words hung in the air between them, weaving through his spiraling thoughts and silencing them one by one. The heat from his ears had spread down to his chest now, but the lingering twinges of doubt started to fade, smothered by the mischievous glint in her eyes and the way her hands lingered on him like he was the only man in the world.

“Dangerous, am I?” he murmured, his voice low, his lips twitching into something dangerously close to a smirk.

Evangeline’s grin widened, a spark of triumph lighting her expression. “Oh, absolutely,” she said, her fingers curling into his shirt as she tugged him closer. “You’re entirely too good-looking for your own good—and mine.”

Sebastian’s lips twitched, but as her words settled over him, something stirred in the back of his mind. Hang on a minute...

He replayed moment after moment from the past few months. The way her hands lingered just a bit longer when they curled up on the couch together. How she’d started sneaking up behind him in the mornings just to wrap her arms around his waist. How she’d tug him back into bed, her lips pressed against his neck as she muttered some excuse about not wanting to let him go yet.

She had been insatiable—more so than usual.

He’d chalked it up to the honeymoon phase lingering well past its expiration date, or maybe the warmer weather putting her in an unusually good mood. But now? Now, standing here with her hands sliding over him like she wanted to memorize every inch of his body, it all clicked.

His lips curled into a slow, wolfish grin, the confidence that had been knocked loose earlier returning in full force. “You have been extra fond of me lately, huh?” he teased, his voice dropping into that low, dangerous register that always made her cheeks flush.

Evangeline arched an eyebrow, unbothered by his sudden shift in demeanor. “Maybe,” she replied coyly.

Sebastian chuckled, the sound deep and rich as his hands moved to her waist, pulling her flush against him. “I suppose I should’ve known,” he murmured, his eyes roaming her face before locking onto hers. “All those extra little touches, the way you’ve been looking at me... You’re absolutely relentless, you know that?”

“And you’re just figuring this out now?” she teased, her smirk widening.

He shook his head, his grin growing wider as he tilted her chin up with one hand, his thumb brushing over her jawline. “I don’t think I’m the dangerous one here, Evie. You’ve been plotting this, haven’t you?”

She laughed softly, the sound warm and unrepentant. “I have no idea what you're talking about."

Sebastian narrowed his eyes, his grin never faltering. “Oh, you definitely know what I’m talking about,” he murmured, his voice dipping even lower, sending a shiver down her spine. “You’ve been playing the long game, haven’t you? Buttering me up—literally and figuratively—until I couldn’t resist you.”

Evangeline’s cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink, but her smirk didn’t waver. “If by ‘buttering you up’ you mean showing my husband how much I love him, then yes, guilty as charged,” she replied, tilting her head smugly. “And judging by the way you’ve been letting me drag you back to bed at all hours, I’d say you haven’t exactly been resisting.”

Sebastian laughed, the sound low and full of warmth as he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into his chest. “I don’t think anyone could resist you, Evie."

Evangeline laughed, her hands tangling in his hair as she gazed up at him. “Good,” she said, her tone light and playful. “I’d hate to think I was losing my touch.”

Sebastian smirked, his hands settling on her hips as he tilted his head down, their foreheads almost touching. “Losing your touch? Not possible,” he murmured, his voice soft but steady. “If anything, you’ve only gotten better at wrapping me around your finger.”

She grinned, leaning in to press a quick, teasing kiss to his lips before pulling back. “Exactly as planned,” she quipped, her hands sliding down to rest on his chest again. Her expression softened as her thumbs brushed over the fabric of his shirt. “But seriously, Sebastian, as much as I love you like this—and I do—if it really does bother you, if you really want to change something, just tell me.” Her lips curled into a small, teasing smile as she added, “I can always go a little easier on you, you know.”

He raised an eyebrow, his grin turning wry. “Go easier on me? What does that even mean?”

Evangeline laughed again, her fingers toying with the edge of his shirt. “It means I won’t bake as many pastries,” she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “Or at least I’ll stop making so many batches of your favorites.

Sebastian scoffed, though his lips twitched with amusement. “You make it sound like I have no self-control,” he said, his tone laced with indignation.

Evangeline arched an eyebrow, giving him a pointed look. “Do you want me to list the number of times I’ve caught you sneaking into the kitchen at midnight? Because I’ve been keeping track, and let’s just say the numbers don’t lie.”

His ears flushed pink, but he shrugged, feigning nonchalance. “Midnight snacks are perfectly reasonable. I’m a growing man, after all.”

“Growing where, exactly?” she teased, her grin widening as she tapped a finger lightly against his stomach.

He groaned, though a laugh escaped him despite himself. “You’re merciless,” he muttered.

“Only because I love you,” she replied, her tone softening as she slid her hands back up to his chest. “But seriously, Sebastian, we’ll figure it out. After all, we can’t have you ruining all your shirts, can we?"

Sebastian chuckled, the sound low and warm as he shook his head. “Merlin forbid I ruin all my shirts,” he said, his tone dripping with mock seriousness. “What would I even wear then?”

“Oh, I’m sure we could come up with something,” Evangeline replied, her grin widening as she tugged playfully at the hem of his shirt. “Or nothing at all. That’s always an option.”

Sebastian's grin turned positively wolfish. “Nothing at all, huh?” he murmured, his voice dropping into that low, dangerous register that made Evangeline’s cheeks flush. He took a small step closer, effectively pinning her between him and the counter. “You’d like that, wouldn’t you?”

Evangeline tilted her head, pretending to consider it. "We would have to give it a try first... for science."

"No time like the present," he murmured, leaning in until his lips brushed against the shell of her ear, his warm breath sending a shiver down her spine. “I’m fully committed to advancing scientific discovery, after all.”

Evangeline laughed softly, curling her fingers into the fabric of his shirt. “Well, I’d hate to stand in the way of progress,” she teased, looking up at him through her lashes. “Who am I to deny such noble pursuits?”

Sebastian’s grin widened. “That’s the spirit,” he murmured. “Let’s not waste a single moment, then.”

Before she could respond, his arms slipped under her, lifting her effortlessly off the ground. Evangeline let out a surprised laugh, her arms instinctively wrapping around his neck, her laughter vibrating against him. The sound alone was enough to make his chest swell with affection, and the way she leaned into him, utterly unguarded, set his pulse pounding.

Evangeline’s lips brushed against the shell of his ear as he carried her toward the bedroom, her voice a teasing murmur that made his blood hum. She didn’t hold back—her words playful, wicked, and laced with affection. Every syllable sent heat pooling low in his stomach, her tone the perfect mix of mischief and adoration.

The bread, meanwhile, sat forgotten on the counter, the plans for the afternoon abandoned, and the lingering doubts that had gnawed at him all morning slipped away, irrelevant in the face of the one truth that mattered most: Evangeline adored him, every inch of him.

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