#//the boxes are meant to give you an idea of the packaging

[r3dblccd]

Secret Santa🎁 @caelcstis

From Mrithun to Raphael with love💚 "My love, you've been working so hard this year. So please let me spoil you a little, you deserve it. I also hope that you like your gifts. I made them myself, except the hand warmer."

From Minsung to Jupiter with love🩵 "It's been an interesting year, hasn't it? I couldn't have imagined having such a wonderful time around the holidays. So I wanted to show my gratitude in one way or another. Thank you for coming into my life, I love you."

[mostlysignssomeportents]

The one weird monopoly trick that gave us Walmart and Amazon and killed Main Street

I'm coming to BURNING MAN! On TUESDAY (Aug 27) at 1PM, I'm giving a talk called "DISENSHITTIFY OR DIE!" at PALENQUE NORTE (7&E). On WEDNESDAY (Aug 28) at NOON, I'm doing a "Talking Caterpillar" Q&A at LIMINAL LABS (830&C).

Walmart didn't just happen. The rise of Walmart – and Amazon, its online successor – was the result of a specific policy choice, the decision by the Reagan administration not to enforce a key antitrust law. Walmart may have been founded by Sam Walton, but its success (and the demise of the American Main Street) are down to Reaganomics.

The law that Reagan neutered? The Robinson-Patman Act, a very boring-sounding law that makes it illegal for powerful companies (like Walmart) to demand preferential pricing from their suppliers (farmers, packaged goods makers, meat producers, etc). The idea here is straightforward. A company like Walmart is a powerful buyer (a "monopsonist" – compare with "monopolist," a powerful seller). That means that they can demand deep discounts from suppliers. Smaller stores – the mom and pop store on your Main Street – don't have the clout to demand those discounts. Worse, because those buyers are weak, the sellers – packaged goods companies, agribusiness cartels, Big Meat – can actually charge them more to make up for the losses they're taking in selling below cost to Walmart.

Reagan ordered his antitrust cops to stop enforcing Robinson-Patman, which was a huge giveaway to big business. Of course, that's not how Reagan framed it: He called Robinson-Patman a declaration of "war on low prices," because it prevented big companies from using their buying power to squeeze huge discounts. Reagan's court sorcerers/economists asserted that if Walmart could get goods at lower prices, they would sell goods at lower prices.

Which was true…up to a point. Because preferential discounting (offering better discounts to bigger customers) creates a structural advantage over smaller businesses, it meant that big box stores would eventually eliminate virtually all of their smaller competitors. That's exactly what happened: downtowns withered, suburban big boxes grew. Spending that would have formerly stayed in the community was whisked away to corporate headquarters. These corporate HQs were inevitably located in "onshore-offshore" tax haven states, meaning they were barely taxed at the state level. That left plenty of money in these big companies' coffers to spend on funny accountants who'd help them avoid federal taxes, too. That's another structural advantage the big box stores had over the mom-and-pops: not only did they get their inventory at below-cost discounts, they didn't have to pay tax on the profits, either.

MBA programs actually teach this as a strategy to pursue: they usually refer to Amazon's "flywheel" where lower prices bring in more customers which allows them to demand even lower prices:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BaSwWYemLek

You might have heard about rural and inner-city "food deserts," where all the independent grocery stores have shuttered, leaving behind nothing but dollar stores? These are the direct product of the decision not to enforce Robinson-Patman. Dollar stores target working class neighborhoods with functional, beloved local grocers. They open multiple dollar stores nearby (nearly all the dollar stores you see are owned by one of two conglomerates, no matter what the sign over the door says). They price goods below cost and pay for high levels of staffing, draining business off the community grocery store until it collapses. Then, all the dollar stores except one close and the remaining store fires most of its staff (working at a dollar store is incredibly dangerous, thanks to low staffing levels that make them easy targets for armed robbers). Then, they jack up prices, selling goods in "cheater" sizes that are smaller than the normal retail packaging, and which are only made available to large dollar store conglomerates:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/27/walmarts-jackals/#cheater-sizes

Writing in The American Prospect, Max M Miller and Bryce Tuttle1 – a current and a former staffer for FTC Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya – write about the long shadow cast by Reagan's decision to put Robinson-Patman in mothballs:

https://prospect.org/economy/2024-08-13-stopping-excessive-market-power-monopoly/

They tell the story of Robinson-Patman's origins in 1936, when A&P was using preferential discounts to destroy the independent grocery sector and endanger the American food system. A&P didn't just demand preferential discounts from its suppliers; it also charged them a fortune to be displayed on its shelves, an early version of Amazon's $38b/year payola system:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/#relentless-payola

They point out that Robinson-Patman didn't really need to be enacted; America already had an antitrust law that banned this conduct: section 2 of the the Clayton Act, which was passed in 1914. But for decades, the US courts refused to interpret the Clayton Act according to its plain meaning, with judges tying themselves in knots to insist that the law couldn't possibly mean what it said. Robinson-Patman was one of a series of antitrust laws that Congress passed in a bid to explain in words so small even federal judges could understand them that the purpose of American antitrust law was to keep corporations weak:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/14/aiming-at-dollars/#not-men

Both the Clayton Act and Robinson-Patman reject the argument that it's OK to let monopolies form and come to dominate critical sectors of the American economy based on the theoretical possibility that this will lead to lower prices. They reject this idea first as a legal matter. We don't let giant corporations victimize small businesses and their suppliers just because that might help someone else.

Beyond this, there's the realpolitik of monopoly. Yes, companies could pass lower costs on to customers, but will they? Look at Amazon: the company takes $0.45-$0.51 out of every dollar that its sellers earn, and requires them to offer their lowest price on Amazon. No one has a 45-51% margin, so every seller jacks up their prices on Amazon, but you don't notice it, because Amazon forces them to jack up prices everywhere else:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/03/01/managerial-discretion/#junk-fees

The Robinson-Patman Act did important work, and its absence led to many of the horribles we're living through today. This week on his Peoples & Things podcast, Lee Vinsel talked with Benjamin Waterhouse about his new book, One Day I’ll Work for Myself: The Dream and Delusion That Conquered America:

https://athenaeum.vt.domains/peoplesandthings/2024/08/12/78-benjamin-c-waterhouse-on-one-day-ill-work-for-myself-the-dream-and-delusion-that-conquered-america/

Towards the end of the discussion, Vinsel and Waterhouse turn to Robinson-Patman, its author, Wright Patman, and the politics of small business in America. They point out – correctly – that Wright Patman was something of a creep, a "Dixiecrat" (southern Democrat) who was either an ideological segregationist or someone who didn't mind supporting segregation irrespective of his beliefs.

That's a valid critique of Wright Patman, but it's got little bearing on the substance and history of the law that bears his name, the Robinson-Patman Act. Vinsel and Waterhouse get into that as well, and while they made some good points that I wholeheartedly agreed with, I fiercely disagree with the conclusion they drew from these points.

Vinsel and Waterhouse point out (again, correctly) that small businesses have a long history of supporting reactionary causes and attacking workers' rights – associations of small businesses, small women-owned business, and small minority-owned businesses were all in on opposition to minimum wages and other key labor causes.

But while this is all true, that doesn't make Robinson-Patman a reactionary law, or bad for workers. The point of protecting small businesses from the predatory practices of large firms is to maintain an American economy where business can't trump workers or government. Large companies are literally ungovernable: they have gigantic war-chests they can spend lobbying governments and corrupting the political process, and concentrated sectors find it comparatively easy to come together to decide on a single lobbying position and then make it reality.

As Vinsel and Waterhouse discuss, US big business has traditionally hated small business. They recount a notorious and telling anaecdote about the editor of the Chamber of Commerce magazine asking his boss if he could include coverage of small businesses, given the many small business owners who belonged to the Chamber, only to be told, "Over my dead body." Why did – why does – big business hate small business so much? Because small businesses wreck the game. If they are included in hearings, notices of inquiry, or just given a vote on what the Chamber of Commerce will lobby for with their membership dollars, they will ask for things that break with the big business lobbying consensus.

That's why we should like small business. Not because small business owners are incapable of being petty tyrants, but because whatever else, they will be petty. They won't be able to hire million-dollar-a-month union-busting law-firms, they won't be able to bribe Congress to pass favorable laws, they can't capture their regulators with juicy offers of sweet jobs after their government service ends.

Vinsel and Waterhouse point out that many large firms emerged during the era in which Robinson-Patman was in force, but that misunderstands the purpose of Robinson-Patman: it wasn't designed to prevent any large businesses from emerging. There are some capital-intensive sectors (say, chip fabrication) where the minimum size for doing anything is pretty damned big.

As Miller and Tuttle write:

The goal of RPA was not to create a permanent Jeffersonian agrarian republic of exclusively small businesses. It was to preserve a diverse economy of big and small businesses. Congress recognized that the needs of communities and people—whether in their role as consumers, business owners, or workers—are varied and diverse. A handful of large chains would never be able to meet all those needs in every community, especially if they are granted pricing power.

The fight against monopoly is only secondarily a fight between small businesses and giant ones. It's foundationally a fight about whether corporations should have so much power that they are too big to fail, too big to jail, and too big to care.

Community voting for SXSW is live! If you wanna hear RIDA QADRI and me talk about how GIG WORKERS can DISENSHITTIFY their jobs with INTEROPERABILITY, VOTE FOR THIS ONE!

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/08/14/the-price-is-wright/#enforcement-priorities

[stellamancer]

entreat (reader x yuta okkotsu)

notes: hellow hellow! this is actually my first time writing yuta ahaha. he's a sweet boy who deserves the world (like most of the rest of the cast). intially the idea for this fic was a bit different but, i think this is cute too.

this fic was a request written as part of the @/ficsforgaza initiative as a gift for @yutaleks. my requests are currently closed, but if you are interested please do check the ffg tumblr out! there are lots of writers participating!

contains: gn!reader, food (mentions of, eating and sharing), yuta okkotsu being a cutie patoot

Whenever Yuta travels for a mission, he always brings back souvenirs; boxes of ridiculously sugary sweets for Gojo, bags of interestingly flavored potato chips for Maki, eclectic and downright gimmicky foods for Panda and Toge and for you—

Yuta brings back things he wants to eat with you. 

It started with the first-ever souvenir he brought back for you, from the very first solo mission he received after being reinstated as a special grade. He'd given it to you to say thank you for your support because just saying it has never been an adequate expression of gratitude for Yuta. 

But he'd apologized too, as he handed you the box– cookies from Hokkaido using locally sourced butter and cream, the prefecture’s pride and joy. 

Yuta is maybe the only person you know who would say sorry when handing someone a gift. 

“Why?” you'd asked.

He looked embarrassed as he answered. “I didn't know what you would like, but I couldn't just not bring you anything so I… got something that I thought sounded good…” 

His face was the picture of guilt, like he had admitted to the most heinous crime in all of history– not knowing what you would have liked. 

“It's okay if you want to throw it away or give it to sensei! I won't get upset or mad!” 

You remember distinctly thinking that if Rika were still here, she would send you to the grave if you threw away Yuta’s gift. Instead of that, you started to open the box, peeling away the wrapping and the box top to reveal two neat little rows of individually packaged cookies. You’d plucked one out and offered it to Yuta. 

“You said you thought it sounded good right?” you had asked. 

Yuta only stared, obviously unsure of what to do. 

“Come on, take it.” 

He hesitated, clearly not wanting to partake in a gift meant for you and for a moment you both stood there, unmoving. 

“Come on, Yuta, please?” 

That had been enough to get him to give in. You remember being surprised that was all it took. He gingerly took the cookie from you, handling it like a treasure, and you’d grabbed one of your own, knowing there was no way Yuta would eat one if you didn't first.

You'd tucked the box under your arm to rip the packing open and with another thanks you popped the cookie in your mouth. 

Honestly speaking, it had been one of the best cookies you'd ever had; crisp, yet tender, with a subtle sweetness that was nothing short of addictive.

When you had finished it, you stared at Yuta intently. It took him a second to realize that you meant for him to eat his, too, and with both yet another apology and yet another thank you, he delicately tore open the package and ate the cookie. 

You watched as he chewed it thoughtfully, evaluating the flavor. And when he finished, you tilted your head to the side and asked, “So, did you like it?” 

You remember how he nodded and smiled, carefree and innocent– a look you had always felt suited Yuta best. 

In return, you’d offered him a smile of your own. “You don't need to go through the trouble of bringing me back anything, but if you do, bring stuff like this— that we can share.”

And Yuta did just that. 

Now, every time he comes back from a mission, he comes bearing souvenirs from all over Japan: chestnut daifuku from Nagano, gyoza senbei from Tochigi, Kobe pudding from Hyogo… the list goes on. Sometimes, it’s just one thing. And other times, he comes back with two or three, looking apologetic as he tells you that he just couldn't decide. 

You don't mind, though, you never do– in fact, you actually look forward to when he brings multiple. More to share means more time with Yuta.

And this time, this time is no exception, but….

“...this is an awful lot…” you say looking at the array of ten different boxes that Yuta’s brought back from his latest mission. 

“I'm sorry!” He apologizes automatically and then, just like always he adds. “It was so hard to choose… Everything sounded so good.”

He's not wrong. Every single thing he's brought back sounds absolutely delicious and catered specifically to your tastes. It kind of makes you wonder if he's been taking notes all this time, commiting the things you've liked to memory. 

“It's fine!” you insist. “I'm just not sure if we can finish all this together…” 

At least not all at once. The things that are individually wrapped should be fine, but there are a fair amount of things that are probably meant to be eaten in a single sitting. 

“...maybe we should see if the others want some too…” you murmur thoughtfully. It's been a while since all of you ate together, between missions and the like. It would be fun. 

Yuta makes a soft sound and you look toward him. He’s very obviously avoiding your gaze, fiddling with the hem of his shirt. You know him well enough to realize that means he's got something on his mind.

“What's up?” you ask. 

He doesn't say anything, not at first, but it's obvious he's debating whether or not to tell you. If you wait long enough, though, you think he'll say it. And sure enough, after a minute or two Yuta takes a deep breath and says, “I was actually hoping we could still just share everything just the two of us!” 

The words come out in a two-breath rush and you stare at him as the meaning of his words sink in. You did tell him to bring back things the two of you could share, it just never occurred to you that he thought that meant only the two of you. 

Yuta, on the other hand, looks mildly horrified, regret instantly visible, as if it was a mistake to voice his own desires, and so he adds. “But— but if you want to eat with everyone, that's fine! I can call Toge and Panda and–”

“Actually,” you interject and while you don't want to talk over Yuta you want him to know— need him to know that it's fine. It's fine for him to say what he wants, because not only will you always listen, you’ll—

“I take it back. I think we can eat this all ourselves. Just the two of us.”

You’ll never, ever refuse him. 

[ddejavvu]

inspired by the break bite bang fic u wrote (?? is that what it was called ?? sorry !!) pleaseee write a spencer x reader where they try it out or penelope recommends it during girls night or SOMETHING... ik you usually dont write for the same plot with different characters but i neeeed it <3

Girl's night is typically only interrupted by a Chinese food delivery, or the pizza boy. But tonight Penelope's buzzer blares through the apartment, then a crackly voice barks, 'Package!'

"Oh!" Penelope rushes to stand, unashamed of her fuzzy pajamas when she wrenches the door open to greet the postman, "Exciting! Thank you!"

The delivery man is off with a mere nod and a smile after handing off Penelope's package, and you peer curiously at the box that she brings back to the table.

"What'd you get?" Emily asks, sipping the last of her wine. JJ goes to refill her glass, and you let her top yours off too.

"They're these-" Penelope realizes what she's about to admit, breaking off with a sheepish chuckle, "They're these chocolates, and they make you- y'know, all hot and bothered and stuff."

"Hot and bothered," JJ frowns, "Like- for sex?"

"Yeah," You nod, recognizing the familiar packaging, "Those work good, Spence and I love 'em."

Your words escape you through the slippery persuasion of wine, but when you realize what you've confessed, your eyes go wide, and your spine stiffens like a tree banded to a support staff.

You've chased unsubs before, you've been in shootouts with serial killers, and yet this is the fastest you've ever seen your teammates move. Emily and JJ whip their heads around to you so fast that you're surprised their necks don't break, and Penelope drops her scissors clean onto the ground where she'd been slitting open the tape on the box.

"Not like-!"

"Oh my god!" Prentiss shrieks, "You're fucking Reid!"

"No!" You deny, but there's really no other explanation for your admission, "I meant- like, uh, we both used them, separately, and we just- we happened to make conversation about it! We're not having sex. With each other. We're not."

"Oh, sure," JJ scoffs, eyes alight with excitement, "Because Reid's idea of casual conversation is sex chocolate."

"You are so busted," Garcia laughs, looking like a kid in a candy store, "So, give us the official review: these things really work?"

You feel sinful reminiscing on what might have been the hottest sex of your life with your boyfriend-slash-coworker in the presence of your other teammates, but you swallow what little saliva is in your mouth, nodding once.

"Yes, they work. Uh- very well, in fact."

[toxycodone]

can you do a sugar daddy chil x reader (pleading) smth nsfw pwease hehehahhehehe

- xixi 🌧

ship. sugar daddy chilchuck tims x reader

content. implied age gap, sfw + nsfw, power dynamics, dilf!chilchuck

sfw

Chilchuck never meant for this happen.

Things just managed to…turn out like this, somehow. After all his travels and such, the man finally decided to settle down open up his shop.

Also…he managed to finally break things off with his wife. He expected that, I mean, women don’t just up and leave and cut contact for no reason. But it still hurt. The two of them are on good terms now, but it’s safe to say that Chilchuck had become a bit jaded to the idea of having a serious relationship any time soon.

He now focuses most of his time on his store. It’s hard work, but nothing he isn’t used to. But after a few weeks, he’s hit by the fact that he’s not as young and lithe as he used to be. keeping inventory, carrying heavy boxes, those things start to make his head and joints hurt. So, after some reflection, he finally decides to hire some help.

And that happens to be you.

You’re new. You have no real skills. You’re clumsy and a bit naive.

But Gods—you’re cute.

He was definitely thinking with his dick when he hired you, and he’s reminded by that when you ask him a simple question or make a mistake at the shop. But it’s also…really endearing. Chilchuck is almost ashamed at how giddy it makes him feel to teach you something new or correct you.

And you first start realizing how hot he is when he defends you from an unruly customer. Chilchuck doesn’t tolerate any bullshit, so when someone comes complaining he doesn’t wanna hear it—especially when it means they’re coming after you.

You guys really start to be drawn towards each other. During lulls you tell him about your life, and he steadily opens up about his own. And he realizes just how good it feels to talk about this stuff. You’re a more neutral party, and on top of that, you’re not afraid to speak your opinion, and he really enjoys that.

So chilchuck invites you out.

He picks local pubs at first. But it moves to actual restaurants, then to fancier ones…

he’s got all this cash and no one to use it on—why not his cute little employee?

When he spots you looking at a catalogue or mentioning something you want…

it’s bought. He claims he was buying for the store and “bought extra on accident” at first

But then he gets bolder. More open about these things.

Chilchuck’s sitting on a stool, reading glasses hanging off the edge of his nose as he smokes his pipe. He’s double checking stock for the evening as you’re preparing to leave. Just before you walk to the door, he speaks.

“Don’t make any plans tomorrow. We’re going to that new restaurant downtown.”

You’re shocked. That one? It’s so fancy…

”I don’t have anything to wear…”

He points to a package on the counter.

”I know, that’s why I got you that.”

It becomes so casual, Chilchuck just purchasing things for you he knows you’ll enjoy. and it helps if it’s something he can ogle at you in.

And the money? It’s not given directly really . At first he just starts claiming you deserve a raise. Or maybe a holiday bonus. Then decides it’s only fair as your employer he makes sure your rent is paid for. And groceries. And—

Basically, he’s trying not to push boundaries or make you uncomfortable. Each time he gives you anything, Chilchuck makes sure you know you don’t owe him anything for it and your time and company is enough.

but that doesn’t stop you from wanting to give him more…

nsfw

You two getting together was just as unexpected as you getting hired.

Chilchuck had been trying to keep your relationship non sexual. The most he’d accept from you is a kiss on the cheek, but then again, that’s still pretty rare.

You realized you’d have to make the advance. He wasn’t gonna force anything without your consent. And as much as you appreciated that, it annoyed you. Like, a responsible, respectful, sexy middle-aged man—how could you resist the urge to hop on his dick?

You start off teasing him at first. Lingering touches, pressing kisses to the corner of his lips, telling him he’s sexy and flirting with him constantly. You could always tell it does something to him. Chilchuck blushes and brushes you off or grumbles and distances himself from you. You work at him slowly and watch his patience dissipate with each interaction.

What does it is wearing underwear and flashing him when he’s dealing with a customer. He’s slack jawed and stunned enough the customer awkwardly asks him if he’s alright, and for the rest of the interaction Chilchuck is a blushing, stuttering mess.

When they finally leave, Chilchuck slams the door closed and locks it, before stomping over to you.

”What the hell was that?” He hisses, narrowing his eyes at you.

You just shrug and play coy. This just pisses him off more.

“I know what you’re doing. Trying to seduce me…” He growls. “You know I can’t…you’re barely older than my daughters.”

But he knows he crossed that line four ‘dates’ ago when he let you trail your hand up his thigh during dinner or sneakily stole glances at your ass in the clothes he bought you.

So Chilchuck says fuck it and closes the gap between you two, pressing his lips to yours and shoving his tongue down your throat.

”You have no idea how much I wanted this…” he whispers between kisses. “Trying to keep myself from you, preserve your innocence…I should’ve known you were a dirty slut from the start.”

You’re genuinely shocked at his mouth because holy shit?? He never speaks degradingly to you and tries his hardest to be nice…so this is new. But it makes heat rush between your thighs.

After that, it’s all over. You and Chilchuck have fucked on every surface of the store. He’ll bend you over before your shift ends (claims you owe him a bit of hip work before you can go)

he lets you suck his dick under the counter to keep him calm when annoying customers are haggling with him…literally will be arguing with his brows furrowed and all the while just petting your hair. When he finally wins and the annoying bastard leaves, Chilchuck fucks your face as a reward.

oh and after sex. He likes to toss a wad of cash at you and tell you to “buy something nice”. And when you quirk a brow and complain about how he used to be so sweet and respectful he just shrugs and goes “don’t act like a whore if you don’t wanna be treated like one”

(don’t worry, he does respect you, he’s just saying stuff like that bc the angry face you make afterwards is cute. He still will treat you to fancy dinners and stuff.)

[courtingchaos]

Strawberry

Pairing: Line Cook!Eddie x Barista Fem!Reader

Summary: Eddie lets slip that he wants something from you, and you’re more than happy to oblige. 😉

Word Count: 6.8k

A/N: Alright, a little explanation. This is technically the fourth installment for this little AU. I just…haven’t finished the other two yet. So if some of this feels like it was maybe pre-established? It is, just in another document that y’all will be able to see soon…ish. Also! This is my first pegging fic, so I ask some mercy for any inaccuracies/issues you may find! Strawberry is the safeword.

Warnings: Pegging! Eddie is being pegged by Reader, A little dom reader if you squint, oral (male receiving), mentions of alcohol, language.

18+ NSFW No Minors Allowed or Wanted

“Okay, so what am I looking for here?”

“Dildos.”

“Yeah, I meant on the wall.” You smirk at Eddie while he gives you a disappointed stare.

“Oh hardy har har.”

You laugh at him and he tries to hit you with a bottle of lube. There’s a small tussle that follows and the poor clerk at the register looks over the screen and clears her throat at the two of you. “Y’all good?” You hide your face in Eddie’s shoulder while he tries his best to straighten out. He nods and waves at the clerk and then slaps your shoulder when you keep shaking against him.

“Would you fuckin’ behave?!”

“Never! You brought me into a sex shop to shop for dildos, what do expect from me?”

“Class?” He says, turning you around to face the wall of silicon again. You snort and grab the bright pink dildo in front of you.

“Is this what you had in mind?” You push it into his chest and he turns it over, staring at the front of the package.

“It’s only 5 inches, you think I can’t handle more?” You know he’s kidding, but you can see the pink blush on his ears where he’s starting to embarrass himself. You decide to push it further since this afternoon is turning into one long bit anyways.

“Oh baby, you couldn’t handle what I’d like to give you.” Your tongue lolls out of your mouth and you grab at his hip, pretending to hump the side of him while his face flushes. “Aww,” You lean in close and push your nose into his rapidly heating cheek, “You gettin’ all hot and bothered?”

“Maybe.” He looks sidelong at you when your fingers creep under his t-shirt and graze his stomach. You smush your face in more and laugh into his cheek while he shoves the box back on the shelf. “Listen, you wanna pick this out or not?”

“Oh no no, this wasn’t my idea.”

“Well if you don’t want to do it, we don’t have to.” He drops his smile to give you a serious look. You know he means it, always does when it comes to your shared comfort but he’s not getting away that easy. You grab him by the belt loops and pull him behind a pillar, out of the direct view of the cashier.

“I’m sorry, you think you’re just going to casually mention that you’ve been thinking about me pegging you and then try and back out of it?” He looks down at you and tries to stop the smile creeping out across his face. “No, I am absolutely going to do this but it’s your pick Eddie.” You nod your head over to the wall. “I want you to choose.”

He rolls his eyes but turns to look again while you wind your arms around him from behind to hold him tight. You trail along behind while he wanders the store, showing you stuff over his shoulder while you nod in approval or tell him no. You keep your chin hooked on his trap so you can stay close to his neck, your breath whispering over his skin when you reply to him. Your hands wander, light fingertips bunching up his shirt a bit to drag across his hip.

He’s a little bit of a mess in this tiny store. Between you talking softly in his ear about the various toys and the gentle kisses you place on his bare skin, he’s sweating.

“Are you trying to start something?” He whispers to you when you point out the grouping of handcuffs.

“Isn’t that the point of this little errand?”

“Kind of, I just didn’t think you’d be so into this.”

“Fucking you? Eddie, that’s all I think about now.”

“Hey that’s my line.” He says that a little more breathy than he means to and watches your eyes light up. You bare your teeth, snapping playfully at him. It’s a good thing his hands are full because he wants to drag you out of the store and shove you in the backseat of his truck. Obviously you can tell he has an idea so you grab some stuff from him and gesture to the register, mischief in your eyes. “You ready?”

The plain black paper bag sits in the corner of his room taunting him while the universe actively works against him. He’d gotten called in twice and you’d had to stay late every night this week, resulting in no time for anything remotely fun. You’d only gotten as far as looping the black harness around your hips, trying to figure out what belt tightened around which leg. He’s only got fantasy fueling him through the week, the image of you turning around in the full length mirror inspecting your new accessory the fuse for all his thoughts.

It’s the end of your week, a late Sunday and he knows when you show up you’ll be tired and quiet and looking for a shower. He’s already started dinner, having gotten out of work on time himself for once, just so you don’t have to worry about it. He is however, still stuck on the bag and the items therein.

This isn’t his first time getting fucked, but it is his first time doing it with you. He hasn’t really trusted anyone like this in a long time and he’d let it slip one night, a too hot shower and your hands in his hair making him comfortable and vulnerable and he’d been just drunk enough to slur the thought out. You’d been quiet at first, fingers still sudsing through his curls and nails scratching at his scalp. He’d tried to take it back until you’d shushed him and dragged your hands down his chest, leaving one lying flat while the other wrapped confidently around his cock.

“You want me to fuck you?” Words hushed under the spray from the shower head. All he can do is nod, throat sticking when he tries to make a sound. You move your hand slowly up and down and he tilts his forehead into yours to watch, mesmerized and drunk on you and a good handful of cocktails. “Hmm?” You purr at him, raising the hand on his stomach up to tilt his head back enough so he can see your eyes. “Whatcha gotta say to that big guy?”

His laugh turns into a gasp when your hand speeds up and your fingertips dig into the side of his jaw. You’re holding him in place, watching him twitch and moan under your hands. He’s edged closer than he thought, the coil of heat springing to life low in his belly.

“I’m serious Eddie, tell me.” Your smile is dangerous, a glint of teeth under the sweetness. He grabs at your neck to steady himself and to try to bring you in for a kiss but you hold tight. Keep his head in your grasp and your lips just out of reach. “Tell me you want me to fuck you and I’ll let you kiss me.” The hand on his cock slows down. He groans long and low and his grip tightens behind your head. You squeeze around the fat head of him and he can still smell the liquor on your breath when you talk. “Tell me and I’ll let you cum.”

“Fu-ck please, god damnit.”

“Huh?” You’re being cruel and he’s lapping it up. He’s been waiting to see this mean side of you, knew it was in there somewhere.

“Please…fuck, I want you to fuck me.”

You lean in and drop the hand on his face so he can crowd you against the shower wall. The kiss is bruising, all teeth and slipping skin and you barely have to speed up your hand before he’s cumming, spilling hot over your fist. You hiss and ‘aww’ at him when he gets overstimulated but he still leans against you, knows you’ll take care of him like he does you.

He can hear movement in the hallway that pulls him out of his thoughts. Gives himself a shake to try and tamp down the memory he’s been reliving for 20 minutes. He almost ducks into his bedroom when he hears the key turn in the lock, an attempt to hide the semi that’s clear as day under his shorts. You get in first though and he greets you a little stiffly, a jerky wave from the stove where he’s still stirring curry.

“You okay?” You’ve barely put your bag down and kicked off your shoes and you’ve got worry all across your face.

“I’m fine!” He lies, still picturing the shower. You get up close to him, eyes darting between his own. You’re not mad but obviously not in the mood for anything at all probably. He knows that dead look well.

“Why don’t you take a shower? Dinner’s almost ready.” He wants you out of the kitchen so he can refocus and calm down. The last thing he needs is to be up your ass about anything. (He just wants you up his.)

You make a noncommittal sound. Give him a once over and he thinks you might spot his half hard dick but the look goes away as quick as it came.

“I’ll just be a few minutes, I promise.”

He’d heard the shower start and had to wrangle himself in, had half hoped you’d come out feeling better and maybe walk your fingers up his back. You’d yet to leave the bathroom though, an hour after he heard the water stop. He knows you’re just decompressing, staring at your phone and scrolling scrolling scrolling but also he’s out here. Worked up, unknown to you, but worked up all the same.

Eddie has somehow twisted himself into a bad mood. Dinner had been ready for a while and you’d said just a few minutes. Yet here he sat, staring at a tv screen with some video game he had no interest in tonight. Finally he hears the bathroom door open and you swan out, damp hair half dried from how long you must have been sitting on the edge of the tub.

“Have a good shower?” He asks flatly, barely giving you a side eye when you walk past into the kitchen. He’d put your plate in the microwave and had made a point to have all the dishes done so you’d maybe get how long you’d been.

“I feel a little more human, but no amount of hot water can make up for the travesty that was tonight.” You’re oblivious apparently and he just huffs, a small nod directed at the TV. “You okay?” You sit directly next to him on the couch, sympathy in the crease of your brows.

“I said I’m fine.” He had. Like an hour ago. Deep down, in the part of his brain that isn’t mad for no reason, he knows what he sounds like. Knows he’s snapping and being a little mean but he feels a certain way and can’t seem to get out of the funk of annoyance.

“I know I was in there for a while, I’m sorry.” You sound deflated. He should put his controller down and look at you and talk to you but he just keeps staring forward, unable to get his brain off its one track of ‘Horny and Angry’. He gives a half shrug and before he can unpause the game you reach a hand over and rest it on his knee. “Seriously Ed, I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine.” He does look at you then, feels the anger melt a little when he sees the tired look you give him. You pat his knee and eat in silence, watching him meander aimlessly around the map. You get up and wash your plate and wander back into his room, the whole time he’s screaming at himself to follow you in and apologize. He’s almost ready to toss the controller to the side when he hears you rummaging around in a paper bag.

“Hey Ed?” You call to him from inside his room.

“What?”

“Can you come in here?”

Eddie finds himself in a lot of situations with you. Most of them fun, some of them suck but this one has moved to the top of his Best of All Time list. It’d taken him a fraction of second too long to answer you and you come out of the bedroom to stand in front of him. Wordlessly lean down and kiss him, hands soft where they fall on his neck. All of his built up frustration boils to the surface and all he wants is to move you back into the bedroom. He‘s halted when you press him back, those hands on his neck a little tighter.

“What have you been up to?” You whisper against his mouth. He’s not sure how to answer, doesn’t really know what your asking. The context is missing and-

“Have you just been mean because you’re horny?” Your laugh brushes across his face.

“Mean? I made dinner.” He’s still pissed.

“And you’ve been giving me the cold shoulder since I got out of the shower.”

“No, you got out of the shower an hour ago.”

“Did you time me?” You stand straight and one hand trails up to lightly hold his jaw. You look appraisingly down your nose at him. “I said I was sorry.”

“And I just wanted you to come eat dinner.” He huffs.

“I don’t think that’s what you wanted. I looked in our goodie bag.”

“…okay.” He might know what you’re talking about now, remembers the empty box he left in there.

“Did you start without me?” The tilt of your head feels condescending and he likes that a little too much. Wants to see how far he can push it. Maybe he can make you feel guilty for making him wait.

“Like two days ago, yeah.” A smug smile stretches his lips. “I got tired of waiting.”

You ‘tsk’ at him and very suddenly the hand under his jaw isn’t so soft. It grips while your other comes to tangle in the curls at the back of his head, keeping it tilted back in place. You hover over him, just barely out of reach again and this isn’t the part of the game he enjoys, when he can’t reach your lips.

“Eddie.” Your voice is low and soft. “You told me specifically that I’d get to see you use any and all things we bought, that included that pretty little plug. So where is it?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know.”

That makes you full on laugh in his face, breaking character for a moment. “I’m sorry Ed, are you being serious or is this-“

“Fuckin’ play along.” He murmurs through a grin.

“Are you being purposefully bratty?”

“Oh I’m sorry, I didn’t know you were the only one allowed to pout around here.” This moment of levity makes his stomach unknot. He knows you’re not mad at him, not really. Maybe a little annoyed but he can work with that. You pull his hair a little, another tug that makes his mouth fall open.

“Are you wearing it right now?”

“What? No. I was last night though.” He knows that’ll piss you off, considering you’d gone home to your own place after work instead.

“Are you fucking-“ When you straighten up you pull him with you. He stumbles and drops the controller on the floor with the sudden movement, head still trapped between your palms so he can’t quite see the floor. He’s following you to his room while a laugh builds in his chest. This is what he’s been waiting for all week, longer if he’s honest with himself. He always wants to take care of you in all the ways but recently he’s been feeling a little restless, a little frustrated.

“I like this side of you, where’s she been hiding?” He laughs when you push him down against the bed. The paper bag falls over and he notices the only thing in there is the empty box he left. He slides his eyes over to you where you stand at the foot of the bed.

“I bet you thought I was on my phone that whole time, huh?”

He doesn’t say anything, the heat of arousal blooming low, that anticipation making his stomach tense.

“I noticed when I came in, you’re so easy to read sometimes. Also, your shorts are very loose.” You head into the bathroom and he immediately rips his shirt off, very suddenly sure of where his night is headed. When you come back out he catches the purple silicon in your fist and lets out a quiet moan.

“God you are easy, aren’t you?” Your gaze wanders over him sitting up on his elbows, completely naked and staring at you wide eyed and smirking. His dick lays heavy against his stomach and there’s no hiding his excitement from you. “You know I was going to be all sweet about this and treat you like a hot house lily, but I don’t think you want that.”

He shakes his head. “No. Where’s that mean barista I fell for? She only seems to come out when I don’t do the dishes right.”

“Do you want me to just roast you about your drink all night? I can do that, easy.” You toss the strap on the bed next to him and descend on him. “Do you want me to be mean to you?” You ask between kisses on his stomach, hands roving over his sides and tracing dark ink.

“Maybe a little.” He says it shyly while looking down his chest to catch your reaction. You just tilt your head, contemplating while moving up his body. When you get to his neck, soft lips under his jaw moving up, you lick the shell of his ear and watch the shiver run down his spine.

“Tell me if you want me to stop.”

“Oh, never sweetness.” He’s all shining eyes and slowly emptying head, the weight of the harness next to his hand the only anchor he’s got to this moment. You pull away from him though, entirely too clothed and serious.

“I mean it Eddie. This is new shit, I’m not messing this up.” The finality in your voice gives him enough clarity to stop teasing for a second.

“I promise I will strawberry the fuck out of this if I don’t like it.” He holds up his hand, scouts honoring you. “Now would you please take your fucking clothes off and put the fucking harness on.”

In the time it takes you to get everything situated, you tell Eddie all about your hour in the bathroom. How you’d been planning since your lunch earlier to come home and do this. He tries to help you with the straps once but you slap his hand away and push him back on the bed.

“Hands to yourself.” Wordlessly he scoots back to the middle of the bed to watch you finish undressing. “Good boy.”

That makes his eyes roll and his cock jump. Good boy. It plays on repeat, echoing off the back of his skull while you talk about how you got it, finally understood the appeal when you’d gotten the harness on. Watched yourself run your hand up and down the purple silicon and you’d just had to try it out. “That’s why I was in there so long. Can’t let you have all the fun.”

He pauses, vision going foggy when he realizes what you’ve said. It’s not the most scandalizing thing but you were two doors away, fucking yourself with his new toy. Ignoring him and the dinner he made so you could tease him later with this information.

“It’s not quite you, you’re something else.” You say with a wink, a few steps away from the bed. You’re slow approach makes the strap bob and he watches it with baited breath and mouth watering. He’s not sure where to look anymore, every inch of you setting his thoughts on fire. If he thought you were hot before this is going to end him, the way you kneel on the bed and shimmy up his chest, the tip of your big purple dick nudging his lips. “You gonna help me out or what?”

His laugh is light but his eyes are all dark, pupils wide and lids heavy when he looks up at you. Keeps eye contact when he opens his mouth and sticks out his tongue to barely lick the tip.

“Oh come on, I know you can do better than that.” You coax him and run a hand over the top of his head, anchoring your fingers in the soft curls. “Show me what else that mouth can do.” A pull at the crown of his head to lean him forward and he catches that heavy look in your eye. It makes him sit up and tuck his elbows under his back to prop him up better so he can fully blow you. His eyes slip shut when he opens his jaw, a soft gasp from above let’s him know he’s doing it right. Good boy good boy good boy.

“Is this why you get so cocky?” Your voice is strained over the wet sound oh him sucking. “Is’hot.” You reach back to grab his cock, the soft heat heavy in your palm. His tip is slick with precum where it’s been dribbling on his stomach. “I haven’t even touched you yet and look at you.” A slow drag of your hand up to squeeze the head and he groans, mouth full and drooling. He hears you whisper under your breath, a faint ‘oh my god’ before your hand travels down further and your fingertips inch under to grab his balls. He jerks up and gags and you laugh, still gripping his hair to hold him in place. “Ed you look so pretty like this.” The pressure on his sac tightens and his brain goes off line. Eyes rolling when you keep pulling his hair and give a little thrust into his mouth. “Is this what I look like? Hmm? When I blow you?” His arms tremble with the strain but he refuses to give up, not when you’re touching him like this and teasing him like this and making all those breathy little comments above him. He bobs his head and rolls his tongue around like you could feel it, tries to swallow around the head bullying the back of his throat. He has to force his eyes open to look up at you, to see you shake your head at him and pout condescendingly. “No, I don’t think I look half as good as you.” You keep switching between rolling his balls in your palm and slowly jerking him off and he’s starting to think he’s going to cum before you ever fuck him. He taps your knee twice to get your attention and you let go of everything, making to swing your leg over when he stills you. “Are you okay?”

“I’m-“ His voice is hoarse and wet and he has to swallow a few times before he can talk. “I need you.”

“Need me to what?” Its genuine, concern still laced in your words. He’s staring up at you though, fully fucked out look on his face, pliant and loose on his bed and you know he’s okay. “Tell me Eddie. What do you need?” A soft touch pushes back his hair from his face, skin damp and hot. “What do you want?” You know it’s a hard thing to admit so you give him time. Let him run his hands up your thighs and over your stomach. He kneads your tits, pushes them together and when you grind down against the backside of the strap looking for some kind of friction he pinches a nipple to make you gasp. He keeps a hand at your chest and uses the other to pull you down for a kiss. He’s flushed and hot under you, skin tacky with a thin sheen of sweat. The groans rumbling in the back of his throat make you anxious to hear more. You want to know what he sounds like when he’s under you and lost in his own pleasure. Head empty except for your voice and your touch.

Rarely does he give up control, typically the giver with you but this is special. He’s already quieted down, smart remarks replaced with these whimpers and pants in your mouth where he holds you close to kiss you. When you pull away his eyes are shining and you make a show of shimmying down till you’re kneeling between his thighs and looking up at him.

“You want me to touch you?” You grab his cock and he nods, watches you lazily jerk him. A few licks to the underside of his head and his face scrunches up in concentration.

“Tell me.”

“Yes please.” He breaths out and you open your mouth and sink down, nose buried in the wiry hair. You keep your eyes up, watching him drop his head back against the bed. He drags his hands down his face and when you pull up, pulling his own little tongue swirl move on him he holds his fist over his mouth. You let go with a gasp.

“Absolutely not.”

He looks down his nose at you, eyes wide.

“I’m not doing all this for you to be quiet.” The smile you give him feels feral. “I wanna hear it all, Eddie. Every little sound.” You give him a final look before bowing your head to swallow him down again. You’ve rendered him speechless it would seem, until you slide a hand down and gently tug on his balls. A long groan and a hand sliding into your hair makes you smile around your mouthfull. They’re heavy in your palm, rolling them around until you can wrap your index and thumb finger around to pull down. His hips jerk and when you feel his thighs tensing you sit up, panting and laughing at his visible distress.

“Wh-“

“Under the pillow there.” You nod your head towards his side of the bed. He looks dazed for a moment before patting around and finding the bottle of lube you threw under there earlier.

“Oh you’re crafty.”

“You have no idea.”

He hands it to you and you can see him holding his breath. You let him squirm for a little while longer, let him watch you open the bottle and cover your hand in it. It drips on his stomach and cock and you watch his muscles contract, his anticipation visible everywhere.

“You gonna relax?”

“I am relaxed.” He lies. He pulls his feet up next your knees and squishes you between his own. “I’m just excited.” His own squirrelly little smile flashed at you. You’re excited too, but nervous. You’d done your own reading outside of everything you’d asked Eddie but still. This was your first time doing this and you didn’t want to hurt him.

“Tell me if anything hurts?” He nods and keeps watch of your slick hand. Watches you graze his balls again and feels your fingers graze over his ass. Elbowing his legs to give you more room and you slide a slick finger over the tight ring of muscle. His eyes slip shut and his mouth falls open on a deep, breathy laugh. He’s gripping the back of his thighs when you prod gently, tip of your index finger looking for a little give. You grab the bottle again and open it, drizzling more lube over your strap. Before Eddie can comprehend anything, you grab both cocks in your free hand and thrust.

“Oh my fucking god”

“Good?” You use that outburst to push your finger in gently. Eddie moans and tries to find his footing again when his feet start to slide on the sheets.

“If you keep doing that I’m gonna cum immediately.”

“Doing what?”

“Everything.”

“Oh good.” Another thrust of your hips and another push of your finger and it’s no time at all before you have him at your mercy. Everything is slick and sticky and you’ve managed to get two fingers in, stretching him just enough before he snaps at you.

“If you don’t fuck me right now this night is going to end very fast.” It’s a low warning, gasped down at you where you’re still jerking him and your strap off. You almost want to laugh but the sight of him flushed and wanting is making you feel crazy. When you finally let go of him and gently remove your fingers, you tap his leg to get him to look at you.

“Promise me if it hurts you’ll tell me.”

“I promise, just…please.” His eyes are giant orbs of black ringed in deep brown, blown out in lust and heat and want. Any real thoughts you might have had about being textbook over this is out the window and you just watch yourself line up against him, tip barely pushing against tense muscle before it pops in. Your inhale matches his and you both marvel at this new sensation together. The slightest movement forward and you can feel him clenching around the strap and pulling you in. It takes you a few moments of adjusting and readjusting, making sure you aren’t hurting him or moving too quickly when he snaps again.

“Would you fucking move?” He wheezes. His thighs tremble in anticipation and he’s about to bite his lip in two if you don’t move your hips.

“Hey, I’m trying to be gentle-“

“I’m fine! Just move!” He cuts you off and stares you down when you open your mouth again to argue. He’s about to suggest you lay down and he can do all the work when you suddenly sit up off your calves and push forward. No snap of your hips or quick shove into him just enough that you sink in halfway and he drops his retort. Drops his head against the pillow and drops his hands to the comforter where they grasp for something, anything to hold on to. It’s like you punched the breath right out of him and he groans, short gasps when you push forward again and finally fully seat yourself against him. All he can feel are your hands clutching at his thighs and the fullness of you finally in his ass.

“oh fuckfuckfuck.” It’s been a minute since he’s done this but he’s happy he waited for you. He’s currently busy watching stars explode behind his eyelids but he knows you’ve got that shit eating grin plastered on your face. Barely moving against him, just little thrust to get a better grip on him and his chest is heaving with breathy laughs.

“Is that what you wanted?” He does answer you, just in a strangle of words. You can see his throat bob where he’s swallowing and trying to talk and you just shush him. Run a hand up his abdomen and to his chest where you can feel his heart beating fast.

“Oh I know baby.” A gentle pat on his sternum before you drag your hand down again and grab him, cock slick with all the extra lube. “I bet that feels good, huh?”

He just whimpers at you. It’s such a sweet sound coming out of him. You’ve barely gotten into the swing of this and he’s already a wreck.

“Ed, you’re so pretty like this.” A slow drag of your hand pulls another garbled sound from deep in his throat. Another roll of your hips makes him sigh and laugh and suddenly you’re finding your rhythm. His bed rocks under you when you really start going, the whines punched out of him on every thrust fueling you.

“Does that feel better?” You coo at him and he pushes his head back further into the bed. Let’s out a deep, stuttering cry when you roll your hips back into him and angle up. He lifts his leg up momentarily, dazedly looking for a place to set his foot and you hook him under his knee. Gently pull it up close to your chest where the hair tickles your sensitive nipple. The sounds knocking out of him are pathetic and small, little whimpers and whispers of your name drawn out between a litany of fucks. He’s barely listening to you, too dick drunk to pay attention to anything else but they way you roll your hips against his.

This isn’t a fast night and you wouldn’t call this lovemaking by any stretch. He had pissed you off earlier and maybe you were making him suffer a bit but really this was for him. He’d talked this up for a few weeks and driven you to the shop and bought the toys and then you’d made him wait. Not purposefully, but nonetheless it’d been your fault you two hadn’t done this yet. Getting a little lost in thought causes you to slow for a moment too long and Eddie is whining again, lifting his hips up slightly and trying to fuck himself on your big purple dick. The glassy look in his eyes, the way his whole face is drawn downward while he bites his lip. He’s moving his hand again, up and down the length of his cock where you’d stopped your own movements. Desperate and whining and maybe this is a little for you too.

“Oh my god, look at you.”

His eyes find yours before squeezing shut, a pained expression while he rolls his body against you.

“You have no idea how hot you look.” You fuck into him with shallow thrust, obviously hitting that spot that’s making him keen. He’s grabbing onto anything he can, nails digging into your skin when he catches your arm. “This is-you’re amazing Eddie.” Your hands roam up his sides while you crowd him, leaning in and down to give him a desperate kiss. This closeness makes it hard for you to move as much but he’s still whining while his hands find your hair and your neck, holding you close.

“Please don’t fucking stop-I’m-“ his voice hitches when you obviously hit that sweet spot, eyes rolling into the back of his head.

“You close?” Whispered into his open mouth, it’s all damp air and hot breath and you’ve never been more enraptured by something.

“You gonna cum for me baby?” You’re watching artwork unravel under you. The way his skin flushes red under all that black ink, the heaving of his chest and the sounds punching out of his throat. You marvel at him lasting this long, his cock ruddy and leaking against his stomach, untouched in the last few minutes and you feel a little bad. “Oh come on Ed let me have it.” You grab the sides of his neck, fingers splayed up into his hair. His hips jump at the contact and he babbles and begs for you to keep going. “Let go for me.” The slick sound of him trapped between your bodies and the string of pleas from him fill the room and you know he’s teetering on the edge.

“Come on baby, let me hear you.”

He goes stiff for moment, neck taut under your thumbs rubbing circles. His hands pull at the back of your neck and his knees dig into your hips and the absolute cry he lets loose has you feeling some type of new way. He spills hot between you, lines shooting up to his chest and he jerks under you. Body convulsing and mouth running while he rides out his high and you slow the roll of your hips. He’s breathing like he’s run a marathon, eyes hazy and staring through the ceiling above. You give him a minute to calm down before you sit up and inspect the mess you’ve made of him.

“You okay?”

He doesn’t respond.

“Eddie.”

A grunt then, hands dropping from the back of your neck to slap against the sheets. You run a finger down his chest through the mess of cum and sweat and lube and laugh lightly.

“You have fun?” You try to shift back to pull out but he hooks his ankles behind you, keeping you close.

“Can I have a kiss?” He asks, small and unfocused. He’s still staring up at the ceiling but his eyes are a little less hazy.

“Oh of course you can.” You lean back down and cage his head in between your forearms. You give him a few gentle pecks while you card your fingertips through his hair. His breathing is coming back to a normal pace and you can feel the tremor in his legs calming down.

“Hey.” Whispered softly against his lips to try and get his attention. “Are you okay?”

“I’m…great.” He finally tears his gaze away from the ceiling to look at you. “I’m thirsty.”

“If you let me get up I can help with that.”

It’s with a lot of sighing and protest that he finally unwinds his legs and lets you pull out. He gasps and grimaces but gives you a pointed finger.

“If you ask me one more time.” He watches you untangle the harness from your legs and the mock outrage you shoot him.

“I’m concerned!”

You leave the bedroom naked to get him water and then head back to the bathroom to get a washcloth.

“I’m not going to bruise your ego if I clean you up am I?”

Eddie still hasn’t moved, legs hung over the side of the bed and arms splayed. “I don’t care.”

So you hand him the glass of water and kneel beside him, wiping up the mess you two made. He almost chokes on his water when you run the towel under his balls.

“Warn me!” He rolls away from you while you laugh and try to get anything else off of him. “Just stop, come here.” He pulls the towel out of your hand and throws it towards the bathroom, grabbing your hand and pulling you close to him. It takes some finessing to get you both under the sheets, and even more time for Eddie to finally get situated with his nose buried under your ear.

“Are you comfortable?”

“Immensely.” He sighs and winds his limbs around you, keeping you close to his overheated body. It’s quiet for a while while you trail your fingers over his skin and through his hair, soothing him into a calm state. “Thank you.”

“It was my pleasure.”

“I didn’t even get to help you.”

“I told you, I took care of that already.” You smile when you feel him still.

“I forgot about that.” You can feel his eyebrow raises against your neck.

“Don’t get any ideas.”

“I couldn’t if I wanted to, you fucked them all out of me.” There’s a giggle fit between you two before you settle down again. You work around him clung to you to plug in both your phones and to turn off the bedside light. You think he’s gotta be falling asleep with how heavy he’s leaning into you when he makes a little noise into the crook of your neck.

“What’s up?”

“I feel really stupid saying this right now, but I really want to say it. I know it’s probably some after glow bullshit but…” He trails off. Head still buried in your neck but you can feel the heat of his blush.

“What is it?” You give him a little shake and he just holds on tighter. “Seriously, you can tell me Eddie.”

“I won’t bite.”

He laughs. “I love you.”

It’s your turn to stop. With how much of him is draped over you, you know he can feel your heart beating faster but he can’t see the stupid grin spreading over your face.

“I don’t expect you to say it back or anything I just…I know it’s only been a few months but it’s how I feel and I wanted to say it.” He pauses and takes a deep breath. “Even before the sex shop.”

That makes you laugh loudly and it takes a few minutes for you to calm down enough to talk.

“Do you want me to wait until we wake up to say it?”

“Yes.”

“Okay.” That smile is still there for the whole dark room to see. You settle back down against him, hand wrapped around the back of his head cradling him to you. He peppers a few kisses against your neck, lazily nuzzling before he starts to drift off. When you hear the first sounds of deep breathing you turn your head to bury your nose in his curls and whisper at him.

“I love you too.”

(Sacrifice for the readmore)

[blueikeproductions]

Age of the Primes was officially revealed, and the first guy shown off Prime wise was Megatronus.

And they decided to go back to the Dreamwave design that kickstarted all this.

The main difference is he has equipped the Requiem Blaster, based on its Prime Wars design….

…and a new version of the Void Scepter based on the TFONE version.

So The Fallen alone implies that some of the preexisting Thirteen might be based on their originating designs but cherry pick things from other incarnations.

The box art shows off Liege Maximo in his original G2 design.

That’s a surprise since the G2 design is rarely acknowledged, in favor of a more humanoid design instead of a monster.

Most of what the new Liege Maximo takes from his other counterparts is his Aligned’s self legs. Liege skipped leg day a lot it seems…

The other robot represents The Thirteenth Prime, who recently in TFONE became Zeta Prime.

The original concept via Aligned had this 13th member be the so called “Arisen” was actually just Optimus Prime. This robot’s design appears to homage that, resembling Powermaster Optimus Prime.

It also loosely resembles Star Convoy and God Ginrai…

Star Convoy is in this toy line, but I don’t think he’s meant to be the Thirteenth, just yet another Optimus variant. So who this is supposed to be we don’t know yet.

It does reinforce an observation that Hasbro has moved away from the unpopular idea Optimus was one of the original 13, and that the robot is whoever it needs to be for a given story, with Zeta Prime filling in the role specifically in TFONE.

So safe bet it’s Zeta based on trends, or it’s a Ginrai homage called Apeximus Prime or something. (It would be a clever way of giving the Apex Armor a Prime unique to it, since Godbomber (Ginrai’s drone partner) is often dubbed as Apex Bomber and Optimus’ non Roller drone. Might as well complete the reference.)

Incidentally, the Primes cast as gold statutes on the packaging is likely a nod to the G1 Decepticon Hall of Heroes.

I don’t think we’re getting toys of any of these guys such as Bloodron or Murdron anytime soon, though Devron maybe since he resembles Scourge (and probably was meant to be him, had old plans about the Hall’s Life Sparks been used instead).

Admittedly, one thing that would be cool is seeing a toyline based on past Decepticon leaders, since even relatively newer stuff has shown other wars before Optimus and Megatron existed, so you could justify it. Doubly so in you found have some of these Decepticons from the Hall be reinterpreted as The Fallen’s and Liege Maximo’s followers. Something to consider maybe~!

[mur4sak1]

What would the elves give you as a gift?

A/N: Hi everyone, in these headcanons I have included what I think would be the gifts that our beloved elves would give us in special situations. Remember that English is not my first language so I hope I wrote in the best way <3

Characters: Galdor, Maedhros, Glorfindel, Maglor, Celegorm

Galdor: a bouquet of flowers (I'm SURE that Galdor would be the kind of elf to give you a bouquet of fresh flowers whenever he could.)

Every day, after attending meetings in the city to discuss strategies and defense plans, Galdor would go into the woods and fields surrounding the city to pick a bouquet of fresh flowers for you. The flowers he chose were the most beautiful and colorful he could find: white lilies, red roses, wild daisies... he picked them carefully, taking care not to ruin the petals, and took them to your rooms. He would then leave them on a table next to the bed so that in the morning you could wake up with the scent of their delicate fragrances. You loved watching them as they slowly opened, revealing their beauty to the world, as if those flowers were the symbol of your love. Every morning you woke up with a smile on your face, ready to face the day with a heart full of gratitude.

And so, day after day, Galdor continued to bring you the most beautiful flowers that nature could offer, demonstrating his love and dedication in a tangible and constant way. You knew well that you were the luckiest person in the world to have the love of such a kind and caring elf.

Maedhros: a ring

After his terrible imprisonment in Angband, Maedhros was finally free among his brothers. A lot of time had passed but the pain of losing his hand still caused strong emotions in him. His heart was full of bitterness and anger for what he had suffered, but it was right there that he realized how much you meant to him. It was your voice, your stories and your support that kept him holding on to hope during the long years of imprisonment but also the only person to help him differentiate the dream from reality when darkness took over his mind and everyone feared him. So he decided he needed to give you something special. He spent days thinking about what he could do to you, until he had an epiphany. He went to a small workshop where, as a child, his father had taught him the basics of the goldsmith's trade. With an expert but somewhat rusty hand, Maedhros began to carefully work a ring. Every time his hand trembled from fatigue, the thought of your smile gave him the strength to carry on. Finally, after days of intense work, the gift was ready. (…)

The setting sun painted the sky with orange tones, while you and your elf admired the sunset from the window of your rooms. “For you,” he said, handing you a small box. You opened the little package. It was an elegant and simple ring, with a bright red stone of the color of his hair, a little imperfect but full of meaning. “It's wonderful,” you whispered. “But why are you giving me this?” you asked, unable to understand what the event was. "Because you were the light that guided me out of the darkness of Angband," he replied in a soft voice. "Without you, I don't know if I would have ever found the strength to continue." You felt your heart ache at Maedhros' words and his vulnerability. "I hope it brings you some joy and light, like you did for me.”

Glorfindel: a picnic

Glorfindel was a kind and thoughtful elf, always caring to the needs and wishes of his loved ones, and when your birthday arrived, he decided to plan something special to celebrate the occasion. That morning he asked you to meet in a small courtyard on the edge of the city of Gondolin where you used to meet and, once you arrived, he made you turn around telling that he had to blindfold you because he had to take you somewhere. A little confused but also excited by the idea, you accepted. “Don't worry, I'll guide you.” He took your hand and you walked away. (…)

After walking for a while, you felt the sensation of grass under your feet and the sound of leaves blowing in the wind. “Well, we have arrived.” The blond removed the blindfold from your eyes and when you opened them again, you couldn't believe your eyes. You were in a beautiful flowery meadow not far from the city walls, at the foot of a large oak tree that provided shelter from the hot sunlight. There, among the chirping of birds and the sweet scent of wild herbs, sat a picnic basket. Glorfindel opened a large cloth and began to bring out countless delicacies. There were fresh fruits, pastries, delicate cheeses and crusty breads, along with a variety of delicious desserts and refreshing drinks. Throughout the day you laughed and joked, enjoying the tranquility of nature and all the beauty it had to offer, and as the sun slowly set over the horizon, Glorfindel looked into your eyes and said something perhaps even better than the picnic: “Seeing your smile among this beautiful scenery today made me realize that I can never want anything more in life. There is a question burning inside me and I can no longer remain silent... Do you want to become my wife and make this elf happy for eternity?".

Maglor: a poetry

The wind blew hard that evening on the shores of the rough sea, while you and Maglor sat on a rock watching the waves crash violently against the rocks. The air was charged with electricity, a harbinger of an impending storm. Suddenly you heard your name being called from the elf and when you turned you saw him take a note from his jacket pocket. “Here, I wrote this for you.” You opened it and saw that it contained a poem written in elegant script. The words seemed to pay homage to the sea, speaking of its power and beauty, but you understood that those words were addressed to you. You looked at Maglor with tears in your eyes, touched and speechless. He smiled sweetly at you and said: "This is my gift to you, so that you can always have the sea in your heart and the beauty of its mysteries to accompany you wherever you go." And it was in that moment, between the roar of the waves and the salty smell of the air, that you understood how similar the sea and Maglor were, both capable of enchanting you with their strength and captivating you with their beauty. And in that moment, you understood that you had found someone who would leave an indelible mark on your life, like the sea that leaves its scent on your skin even when far away.

Celegorm: a wolf cub

It was your birthday and Celegorm had done nothing for you. You were disappointed, you thought your beloved didn't even care about your birthday. But Celegorm had a special gift in mind for you, he just had to wait for the right time to give it to you.

When evening finally arrived, Celegorm took your hand and led you towards a terrace. When you got there, you couldn't believe your eyes: In the middle of the terrace there was a brown wolf cub, with sparkling eyes and a playful attitude. “I know I didn't do anything for your birthday, but I wanted to give you something special. He's an Oromë cub… he's like Huan. He will protect you and keep you company in difficult times.”, Celegorm said softly. You were speechless, it was the most incredible gift you could imagine. You ran towards the wolf cub who immediately started licking your face as a sign of affection. "Even if i had to travel a long way to bring him to you, if you don't want him I can bring him back." "ABSOLUTELY NOT" you replied anxiously and this made Celegorm laugh heartily. "Oh, so you want to hold him close to you, huh?" he said jokingly afterwards teasing you. Then, with an affectionate smile, he approached you and whispered in your ear: “Don't worry, I would never let him be taken away from you.” With a sweet kiss on your forehead, he hugged you warmly, making you feel safe and loved.

[zerobasekazuha]

Penguin pebbling (Afab Venture x Fem reader)

Warnings: None

Genre: Fluff

Sloane wanted to show how they felt to Y/n without actually saying it. They had been close to her for quite sometime and had always passed their feelings as strong because they were best friends. Not because they might have feelings for her. It took some time to come to that realization. Mainly because they didn’t want to ruin the friendship with how their body reacted to her.

They pondered day and night in their tent on how they could make it known in their own way how they felt without saying anything. At first they considered writing notes anonymously, however that idea was quickly shot down because Y/n can recognize their handwriting quickly. They thought of a few more ideas before getting frustrated and plopping down onto the air mattress that seemed to creek under their weight.

As Sloane rested on the bed with their eyes closed and idea hit them suddenly. A great idea in which they knew Y/n would have no idea in what it meant. They could give her crystals and rocks they find in the caves on any of their excavations. They had their own small collection of keepsakes but they wouldn’t mind giving her some. They stood up and grabbed their box where they kept all their keepsakes and looked over each one.

“Rose Quartz? Nah too cliché. Moonstone? Nah she wouldn’t like that either…” Sloane mumbled to themselves as they searched over each crystal they’ve kept there. Soon after they held one in their hand which they hadn’t done research on before. It was a rose red and still had its sharper square crystal corners. They searched up the description and sure enough it was called Rhodochrosite.

Upon more research it was used to stimulate love and passion in the soul. Sloane thought about it over and decided this was the perfect one. But they couldn’t give it to her in this raw form. They wanted it to be smooth like a pebble in the photos. So they spent some of the night fixing this gemstone until it was exactly how they wanted it. They packaged it up with this tissue paper and with a leftover gift box they placed it inside. It wasn’t brand new but it would have to do.

The next morning Sloane awake promptly at 10 AM. They were out to look for Y/n. Once they found her they tried to keep composure as they handed her the gift. They didn’t say much as they just stuck out the gift box to her as to say here take it.

“Uh..thanks?” Y/n said confused with how they suddenly gave her a gift. It wasn’t her birthday or anything so seeing this was surprising to say the least. Sloane tried to hide how embarrassed they looked as she opened the lid of the gift box. She seen a smooth stone in a deeper red color. She picked it up holding it within her hand.

“Sloane this is beautiful, where did you get it?” She asked looking at them and seeing how they had their cheeks a soft red color. It could be the heat. “I made it.” They said simply trying not to stutter. “It’s a gemstone right?” She asked trying to use her own basis of knowledge she learned from them. “Yeah, I thought you would..like it.”

From then on Sloane had been giving Y/n different gemstones in different shapes and sizes. Some ranging from a smooth round pebble to the raw stone itself. This went on for the next couple of weeks. And Y/n didn’t think anything of it. She found it sweet that Sloane was giving them gemstones they found.

However as time passed Sloane got more frustrated with how Y/n wasn’t understanding. They pondered over if they should just tell her or not. Everything in their body was telling them not to do it. But they couldn’t resist it. Everyday was like torture to them. Seeing her smile and laugh, feeling her soft skin when they hugged them. They suffered. They wanted no more than to just kiss her or do anything to make her feel like she’s on top of the world.

Eventually they mustered up the courage to try and tell her. One day they got up and texted her asking if they could hang out. She replied right away pretty quickly. And here they were, waiting slightly dressed up with flowers in hand. They had a small ponytail in the back of their head. Hoping they looked good.

But when they saw her it was like time stopped. They almost couldn’t believe they were going to ask her out. As she walked closer they tried to straighten themselves up and be strong. “Sloane what’s the occasion? You’re all dressed up.” She said looking at their outfit. Their button up was ironed as best as possible and they had black slacks on. They didn’t want to look too dressed up.

“I-I just..I love you!” They said before quickly covering their mouth. They didn’t mean to say it that quickly. They had an entire heartfelt confession and it was just thrown out the window because they messed up. “W-wait no that’s not what I-“ They stopped talking when they heard Y/n laughing. Was she laughing at them? They blushed darker and looked a little upset.

“Hey I’m trying my hardest! It’s not funny!” They grumbled as they averted their eyes from her. But after she stopped laughing and gently cupped their face. She used to be taller than them when they were younger but all the sudden Sloane grew up. “I’m surprised you didn’t catch on earlier. That’s why it’s so funny.” Hearing that they were confused. What did she mean catch on earlier?

“What?” Sloane asked looking a little lost. “I’m surprised you haven’t noticed how I felt for you. I’ve always felt some kind of way. I guess it could be love.” It wasn’t that she guessed she was sure. Though she tried to ignore it. And the more she did the more she felt for them. It was like a never ending cycle.

Sloane thought it was some sick joke. Was she telling the absolute truth? They couldn’t believe it until they thought back on every interaction. She always used to look at them a little longer, or even touch them for longer than she was supposed to. Then they wrapped their arms around her and squeezed her in a bear hug.

“So we’re like dating now?” They asked letting her go after a few seconds. “No you have to actually ask me silly.” Oh right. Sloane cleared their throat and held both of her hands. They wanted this to be dramatic but sweet at the same time. Sloane looked into Y/n’s eyes and took a breath. “Y/n I wanted to ask if…you would be my girlfriend? Or if I could be your partner?” They said proud of themselves for not stuttering.

Y/n melted because of how sweet it was. She nodded with a grin on her face. “Of course Sloane.” She said before kissing their forehead. Later on that night as Sloane laid in bed they looked over the meaning of the first stone they had given her. And for a second it seemed that it was true. Or maybe it could have been a placebo. Whatever it was they felt like a weight had been removed from their shoulders. And now that they got their feelings out that’s all that mattered.

Another banger out!!! Eventually I’ll put out a smut with cowpoke venture or maybe I’ll put out a smut with ice cream venture (I brought the skin I couldn’t resist) Any second opinion is welcomed for the next one^^

[steddieas-shegoes]

Nother idea: 8 years later, Tommy & Carol apologizing to Steve for their behavior. & for immediately abandoning him when they knew he needed them most.

But Steve has people now who have shown him love, family, true friendship. And while he forgives them its not the same. He doesn't trust them. He is thriving without them.

But Carol realizes that the reason it isn't the same is bc Steve genuinely believes that they don't mean their apology. So she & Tommy actually discuss it and find a way to clear up any misunderstanding & ensure he knows they mean their apology. It works, it takes time & effort but they are once again his friends.

MY LOVE!!! STEVE REALIZING HE'S LOVED AND DOESN'T NEED HIS SHITTY EX FRIENDS CREW STAND UP!!!! I had the opportunity to really give Steve his shining moment and yell at them, but I decided that Steve would just be kind of over it, like they aren't really worth yelling at. Steve didn't do all this personal growth just to let them back in so easily, but luckily he isn't the only one who changed. You know I had to involve Eddie, of course! - Mickala ❤️

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

It was too fucking early on a Saturday morning to be woken up by the buzzer of his apartment.

Whoever it was was lucky that Eddie had to go into work today or he would be committing murder at their door.

He glanced at the clock on the microwave, 10:47, okay, so not that early.

They’d had a late night, okay?

If he had a limp to show what they were up to, that was his business.

“You can leave the package in the box, I’ll grab it soon!” Steve said into the mic, hoping it was just a delivery.

“Steve? Is that you?”

He recognized the voice, though he wished he didn’t.

Eight years was a long time to go without talking to someone who used to be your best friend, but when you’d been best friends for so long, certain things couldn’t be forgotten.

“Tommy?”

“Uh yeah, man. I’m here with Carol. We actually were hoping to talk to you?”

He looked down at his almost naked body, only Eddie’s boxers covering him.

“Sure.”

He buzzed them in, not giving them any clue where he was so they would take their time getting to his door. He had to throw on clothes, brush his hair, and try to look like he hadn’t just been asleep.

He rushed to the bedroom, throwing on the first pair of jeans he saw and a t-shirt from the floor. He heard voices down the hall as he was heading to the bathroom, his hands shaking with nerves as he tried to rush to brush through his hair.

“It can’t be that Munson, though, right? Even Steve wasn’t a fan of him in school.”

Steve grimaced at Carol’s voice.

Technically, Eddie worked a half shift when he had to work Saturdays, which meant unless they were only stopping by for a few minutes, he would probably be home while they were still here.

Tommy had always hated Eddie. No one could really figure out why. Sure, a lot of people said nasty things about and to Eddie in high school, but no one else really put their hands on him the way Tommy did.

Eddie joked it must have been because he liked him, but Steve thought maybe he just had a lot of displaced anger.

At least that’s what he thought when he became a counselor and understood a lot of psychology behind why people did things.

Eddie laughed and said, “don’t overthink it, some people are just bullies.”

But Steve liked to think maybe Tommy was more complicated than that, liked to explain away his worst qualities so it made it easier to accept that he was once best friends with him.

Eddie laughed about that too, and said, “kids are stupid, and sometimes we find friends in people who make us feel better about ourselves, but you grew up.”

Steve shook his head, not wanting to think more about it.

He opened the front door, the ghosts of his past standing there, hardly aged, hardly any different at all.

“Come in, guys. Um. Sorry, I wasn’t really expecting anyone.”

They all awkwardly laughed as Tommy and Carol made their way inside.

The apartment was small, cheap rent kept them there so they could save up to buy a house outside of town in the next few years, maybe work on starting a family if they could.

They’d talked about it over the last couple of years, once Steve was settled in his job at the school, once Eddie got promoted to general manager at the shop, they’d save for a few years, have a decent down payment, start looking for a house with three or four bedrooms. Start looking into adopting. Maybe get a cat.

But to do that, their apartment was cozy, as Eddie liked to say. One bedroom, one bathroom, kitchen and living room area all one room, a tiny storage closet. They didn’t even have their own washer and dryer, which reminded Steve that he had to take their laundry downstairs and get it started soon.

Tommy and Carol looked around, but hid any emotion on their faces.

He gestured for them to have a seat on the couch, which was a hand-me-down from Wayne when they moved in. It was “too much” for his space when Eddie moved out.

They sat, though they didn’t look very comfortable.

Steve sat in the rocking chair Eddie bought, the first thing he bought for their “eventual home”, but didn’t rock as he took them in.

He originally didn’t see any proof of them aging, but now that he was looking closer, he could see Tommy’s already-receding hairline, Carol’s wrinkled by her eyes, both of them just a little softer in the face and stomach.

They looked incredibly human like this, like they weren’t some high school king and queen who only cared about how they look and what parties they could go to every weekend.

It helped Steve relax a bit.

“Not to be rude, but uh, how did you guys find me?” Steve asked, not sure he even really cared.

“We moved here to Chicago about six months ago, Tommy’s gonna run his dad’s office here starting next year, so he wanted to ease into it. I started job searching a few weeks ago for a teaching position and I noticed you worked at the school I interviewed at. We looked you up and decided we wanted to come talk,” Carol always was a bit of a rambler, always annoyed Steve when she started in on something that really didn’t matter much.

Carol nudged Tommy, who had been staring wide-eyed at Steve since he sat down.

He cleared his throat and nodded.

“We actually came here to make things right. We were best friends for years, and then one bad thing happened and we weren’t anymore. I know I fucked up with everything. We shouldn’t have treated Nancy like that, or you like that, and we’re hoping you could maybe accept our apology.”

Steve stared at them.

“We were kids. We did stupid shit. We’ve all grown. I mean, look at you! Your own apartment in the big city!”

As if he had been waiting for a cue, Eddie walked in the front door, his oil-covered coveralls already coming off. Steve made the rule after he came home one day to see oil stains on the bed sheets where Eddie had fallen asleep after working from open to close: coveralls come off as soon as he’s in the door and they go straight to the laundry room.

“Jesus, sweetheart, this is the last Saturday I cover in the shop. At least until I hire some competent mechanics. I think I did most of the work all morning. And after doing most of the work last night, I-”

“Eds! We have company!” Steve rushed out, his face bright red at what Eddie was implying.

It’s not that he really cared about what Tommy and Carol thought; Once they realized Eddie lived here, it wouldn’t be difficult to come to the conclusion that they shared a one bedroom apartment because they were together. He didn’t even care if Tommy and Carol were disgusted by him for it.

But he’d be damned if Eddie felt uncomfortable in his own home, especially if they started saying shit to him reminiscent of their high school days.

He watched Eddie turn around, recognize the people on the couch, and turn to Steve with a questioning look.

“Tommy, Carol, you remember Eddie,” Steve said, not breaking eye contact with Eddie.

They were having an entire conversation with their eyes, Steve begging Eddie to just go get cleaned up, Eddie begging Steve to explain what was going on.

Tommy’s eyes narrowed as he looked between them, Carol’s eyes stayed pointed at Eddie.

“Munson?”

“The one and only!” Eddie said, his voice pitching just a bit higher, naturally going to his over the top self to protect himself from whatever they would say.

Steve loved every version of Eddie: the performer on stage, the performer with friends, the soft version of himself that only Steve got to see, the protective version that would fight the world to make sure his loved ones were safe.

He was lucky to have every part of Eddie, even the parts that may not always be the best.

But his least favorite thing was seeing Eddie go into this mode, the one that kept him safe during school, when kids were mean, adults were mean, life was hard.

He didn’t want that for Eddie anymore.

“You guys…live together?” Tommy asked, looking back to Steve for confirmation.

Steve rolled his eyes. Tommy apparently didn’t gain any intelligence over the years.

“Yes. We’re together.”

From the look on Eddie’s face, he hadn’t expected Steve to say that.

That was fair; it took Steve nearly a year just to come out to anyone who wasn’t Robin, scared that somehow everyone would hate him, hate Eddie, hate them together.

But it went perfectly, and Steve rode the high a bit too much. He came out to his parents a few months after, and that went quite a lot less than perfectly.

He was lucky he didn’t have more head trauma from it, actually.

So he kept it quiet, didn’t come out to any new friends he met in college, even after one of them came out to him. Didn’t come out to coworkers while he worked at a cafe throughout college to pay the bills. Didn’t even come out to the bartender at their favorite bar despite the rainbow flag that was hidden behind the bar in silent support.

It was only recently that he started to feel comfortable being more open, and only in the city, only select areas where he knew they wouldn’t end up hurt.

Eddie was patient, maybe more than he deserved.

So saying it outright to the two people who suspected and bullied Eddie for being gay in high school, despite it not even being confirmed then, clearly threw Eddie for a loop.

“Oh, like…”

“Yes, exactly like that.”

Steve crossed his arms over his chest, waiting for any response that would give him permission to kick them out of his apartment, their apartment.

But he saw Carol nudge Tommy again, pasting a smile on her face. It wasn’t completely natural, but it also didn’t seem fake.

“That’s nice, Steve. Have you been together a while?”

“Since ‘86.”

“Wow! Since the quakes!”

Steve nodded.

“Steve, can you help me with something in the kitchen for a second?” Eddie asked, his voice unreadable.

Steve hated it, hated that all of a sudden he couldn’t get a grasp of what Eddie was feeling.

It had been so long since he’d experienced this.

And a small part of him blamed Tommy and Carol.

He got up, wordlessly following Eddie into the kitchen area that wasn’t even separated from the living room.

“Not that I don’t love that you’re comfortable telling them, but um. What’s. What’s happening currently?” Eddie whispered as he tried to appear busy, grabbing a glass from the cabinet to fill with water.

“They came to apologize to me. For high school.”

When he said it out loud, it sounded a bit ridiculous.

“And are you accepting it?”

“I don’t think so. I think they’re only doing it to help themselves feel better. I’m not interested in whatever game they’re playing.”

Eddie looked over Steve’s shoulder at the pair sitting on the couch.

“Need me to get rid of them? Just say so, sweetheart. I’ll kick them both to the curb.”

Steve leaned in and kissed him quickly on the lips, smiling as he pulled away.

“I got it, baby. Get cleaned up so I can hug you.”

“Just hug?”

Steve laughed as he walked back towards his spot.

“Or more!”

He focused back on Tommy and Carol, who were graciously pretending that they didn’t hear the conversation that happened less than 20 feet from them.

“So, we were wondering if you wanted to meet up for dinner, catch up? You could bring Eddie, of course!”

Of course, she said. Like they didn’t outwardly despise Eddie eight years ago. Like they were perfectly fine with him now, and fine with Steve, and fine with them.

“I think we’ll pass. Good luck to you guys in Chicago, though.”

He ignored the pang of guilt when he saw Carol’s face fall and Tommy’s eyes darted to where Eddie was closing the bedroom door and back to Steve.

“Oh. Um. Well, it would be our treat, if you’re worried about money.”

“I wasn’t.”

Tommy and Carol hadn’t expected to be shut down like this, but Steve knew he couldn’t do it. He couldn’t accept their apologies, and he wouldn’t expect Eddie to suddenly be friendly to people who tormented him for years.

“Okay. Well. I guess we’ll go, then.”

“Thanks for stopping by.”

He stood as they stood, walked them out the door, then closed and locked it behind them.

Steve made it to the bedroom before he felt the tears spring to his eyes.

Eddie was in the bathroom showering, so he hoped he could get it out quickly. He didn’t want Eddie to worry.

But unfortunately, once a few tears fell, it seemed like they wouldn’t stop.

He got back in bed, burying his face in the pillow so he could hopefully pretend to be asleep, but didn’t quite manage it before Eddie was walking back into the room.

He got in bed and silently pulled Steve against his chest, running his hands up and down his back to soothe him, not trying to use any comforting words.

“I don’t know why I’m upset about a stupid fake apology from people I don’t care about.”

“Stevie, it’s okay to be upset. They were your friends for a long time, and you still have a lot of hurt leftover from them.”

“I just wish things had been different then.”

“I know, sweetheart.”

Eddie kissed the top of his head, and as they lay there together, Steve realized this hurt would never quite go away.

—------------------

“T, I don’t think he believed us,” Carol said from the passenger seat.

“I can’t believe Steve’s with Eddie. Of all the people,” Tommy replied, not even acknowledging Carol’s words.

���They seem good together.”

“I guess.”

Carol knew Tommy had a crush on Steve in high school, they’d talked about it years ago when she found an old picture of Steve with a heart drawn on the back while they were moving the first time around.

She’d been caught off guard, but understood, and was fine with it when he explained it was definitely in the past.

And it was.

But a part of him was wondering how long Steve had realized he liked guys, and what might have happened if he’d just been brave enough to do something about his feelings before things went to shit.

He loved Carol, was happy to be married to her, and wouldn’t want Steve now, but still. The what-ifs plagued his mind on the drive back to their home.

“Are you jealous of Eddie?”

Carol sounded hesitant to ask, like she wasn’t sure which answer she would prefer because she knew either way, Tommy would be upset she asked at all.

“No. I’m not jealous. Steve and I would never have worked out.”

Which may not have been a great answer for his wife, but it was the truth, and they were always honest with each other if nothing else.

“Since I got the job at the school, maybe I’ll have more chances to convince him we meant it.”

Carol was good. Deep down she had always been good. But Tommy always managed to drag her down when they were young, convinced her she needed to be a mean girl to fit in with their group, kept it up through most of college before they finally realized life was better if you just weren’t awful to people.

“Yeah, maybe.”

—---------------------

So, a month later, when school started up, Carol began the task of showing Steve that they were truly sorry.

She would often leave notes in his mailbox in the office, usually just a “have a great day!” with a smiley face, or “let me know if you want to catch up over lunch!”

He never responded, but she knew he got them.

Tommy had issues with his car and took it to the shop Eddie worked at, nodding along to what he said and admitted he didn’t really know much about cars so he trusted Eddie to fix it.

It was entirely professional, but a small part of Tommy was satisfied when Eddie gave him a genuine smile.

—--------------------------

“Is it weird that they keep trying?” Steve asked one night while they were lying in bed.

“I don’t think it’s weird. I think maybe they just mean it.”

Steve pondered it.

Yeah, they must mean it. The old Tommy and Carol would have given up after he sent them out of their apartment the first time.

“Would you wanna go to dinner with them? Just give them a chance? It’s okay if you don’t want to. You don’t have to forgive them.”

Eddie leaned in to kiss Steve’s slowly, softly.

“If you want to, then I want to support you. We’re all different now. Maybe we can look at who they are now instead of who they were, as long as they can look at who we are and respect us.”

“Yeah.” Steve kissed Eddie’s cheek. “Yeah.”

—-------------------

Steve left a note for Carol the following Monday: “Dinner at ours? Friday at 7. Bring a red wine and beer.”

She wrote back that same day with a bunch of smiley faces and a response that they would be there.

When Friday came, Steve was nervous.

He’d planned to leave work right when school got out instead of leaving at five so he could make sure everything was clean and the food would be ready on time.

Eddie promised to be home by six in case he needed help.

And when six arrived, Eddie walked through the door with flowers and a smile, and Steve relaxed.

Nothing would go wrong.

Even if something did, they would be in it together, and they would support each other.

They didn’t have to do this alone like they did all those years ago.

—-------------------

It became a thing: dinner every Friday evening, sometimes at Steve and Eddie’s, sometimes at Tommy and Carol’s, sometimes at a new restaurant in the city.

The first few dinners were stilted, full of apologies and awkward catch-ups.

Then it got easier.

They got closer.

Eddie and Tommy actually became closer than Steve and Tommy ever were. Eddie showed him how to change his own oil so he could “stop bothering him at work just so he could look at his sexy coveralls.” Tommy rolled his eyes, but was grateful to learn.

Carol and Steve would often bake dessert together, catching up on school gossip, the latest who was dating who always entertaining them just as it did when they were in high school.

There were still the occasional moments where Steve thought about how much they hurt him, and Eddie thought about how they might be teasing him behind his back.

But it was rare, and they usually talked themselves out of it.

They were the first people to find out when Carol was pregnant, and the first people to learn it was twins. Carol and Tommy were the first (okay, first after Robin) people to find out when their offer on a house was accepted.

Tommy ended up cutting ties with his father when he found out that Steve and Eddie were together and threatened to cut him off. Tommy had a degree, and now had years of experience under his belt, and wasn’t worried about finding another job, one where he knew he earned his position because of his work and not being the boss’ son.

And when Steve and Eddie were able to finally adopt a little girl in 2002, Tommy and Carol were at the courthouse taking pictures of the new family, their own kids already best friends with her.

[lostmyremembrall]

📖

love the way you write the prompts <3 may i request prompt 18 ??

📖𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐦 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚 𝐂𝐚𝐭

𝐺𝑒𝑛𝑟𝑒: 𝐻𝑢𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑟, 𝐹𝑙𝑢𝑓𝑓, 𝑇𝑜𝑚 𝐵𝑒𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎 𝐺𝑟𝑢𝑚𝑝𝑦 𝐴𝑠𝑠 𝐶𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝐽𝑜𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 1𝐾 𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑛𝑡! Now closed

A/N: Oh my god. I am SO sorry it took this long to get to yours. Please forgive me, and I hope you'll still enjoy this.

You surprise Tom with a cat

Tom’s eyes widened at the sight that awaited him. Four tiny paws. A ball of brown fur. Large two ears. The tiny creature stared up at him, and bared its teeth as it meowed. Tom couldn’t help but jerk his head backwards 

“There he is!”

The enthusiastic voice of Abraxas greeted him when the resident Dark Lord peeked his head in through the doors of the Room of Requirement. His cautious eyes flickered around the room, reminiscent of an uneasy salamander that dared to poke its head out from underneath a rock to survey his surroundings.

“Let’s get this over with,” Tom sighed as he walked towards them, completely ignoring the birthday decorations that you, Abraxas, and Canopus had spent hours putting up.

“Of course. We won’t dare take up your valuable time any more than necessary,” Canopus responded somewhat sarcastically, approaching Tom and reaching up to put the cone hat that read ‘Birthday Boy’ on top of the disgruntled man’s head, knowing full well that he detested it. You might as well say that, for Canopus, seeing Tom in this humiliating hat was the only redeeming aspect of hosting this birthday party. 

“You never fail to make my day, Canopus,” Tom murmured quietly, his eyes coldly narrowing on the black-haired Slytherin. You had to admit, despite the comically small ‘Birthday Boy’ hat perched atop the Dark Lord, his seething glare was still enough to send a shiver down your spine.

  “Well, it’s tradition,” Canopus shrugged with a smug smirk on his lips, a brave reaction worthy of praise from a Gryffindor. You had no idea what it was that Canopus had: courage, stupidity, or simply a warped sense of fear. But, whatever it was, you couldn’t help but pity and admire it at the same time.

“So... Presents,” Abraxas clapped his hands excitedly, contently watching as the group sat around the sofas.

“Here, Tom. Happy birthday,” Abraxas beamed at Tom as he passed the wrapped package that was clearly a book from its size and shape.

Tom did not respond and tore open the paper wrapping.

“Oh. Actually… this is quite helpful,” Tom showed the book cover to you and Canopus; the title read ‘Dictatorship 101: A Beginner's Guide to Regime Change by Khalilah D Smith’. “Thank you, Abraxas. For the thoughtful gift,” Tom even managed a slight curl of his lips.

The blond looked quite pleased with himself, turning his nose slightly up in the air with a proud smile.

“Pshhh, as if our great Tom needs any instructions on becoming a dictator,” Canopus rolled his eyes. 

“I, on the other hand, got the only thing Tom needs on his destined path to greatness: Time,” Canopus added an exaggerated flourish to his hands that gestured to the box on the coffee table, ignoring the clear annoyance that flashed across Abraxas’ elegant features.

“You should know, Canopus,” Tom raised a brow as he opened the box. “Your words bring nothing but anxiety to my already troubled mind.”

You peeked in over Tom’s shoulder to find what exactly he meant by ‘time’, as Canopus dramtically worded. To your surprise, it was packets of energy drink powder.

“Ohh�� nooo, Canopus…” you murmured quietly, recalling the Dark Lord’s sensitivity to caffeine. The last time he tried one cup of coffee, he stayed up for four nights in a row. “What on earth made you think this was a good idea?”

“Shush shush,” Canopus silenced your words of terror, not even giving you a glance. “Tom, remember the coffee that you had? Imagine that, but double that.”

Tom’s eyes widened in amusement as he glanced at it. “By that logic, I could conquer the wizarding world twice as fast.”

“Exactly my point!” Canopus’ eyes glimmered wildly. “You don’t trust us with a thing. And you’re right to do so. Imagine how much you could get done if you could do everything yourself.”

Tom hummed, nodding along. “You know what, Canopus? For the first time in my life, you did not disappoint.”

You groaned, rolling your eyes. “You two are just enabling his unhealthy obsession with power!” You grabbed Tom’s shoulders, and he slightly wobbled from left to right as your seething eyes captured Abraxas and Canopus. “What Tom needs is stability. Emotional support.”

The wincing was visible on Tom’s face as you said the word ‘emotional support’, but before he had any opportunity to protest, you presented him with a medium-sized box. Tom was bewildered by the way the box seemed to shake on its own. But still, carefully, he opened the box.

“Oh,” Tom seemed lost for words. “Oh. This is… rather… unexpected.”

“Unexpected? What is it-” but Canopus did not need to finish his question, as a small tabby kitten poked his head out of the box and pressed his paws against Tom’s eyes. 

Tom grew silent.

“You thought giving Tom a cat was a good idea?” Canopus turned his disbelieving eyes to you. “And here you were, telling me gifting energy drinks was irresponsible.”

You scowled at your friend, not noticing the kitten that had begun climbing Tom’s uniform like it was his life mission. “Well, I, as his friend who actually know him, happen to think that an emotionally volatile person like Tom needs a support animal.”

“Emotionally volatile?” Tom repeated to himself quietly, doubting his ears over the words that came from this supposed friend of his. At that moment, Tom was trying to ignore the kitten on his shoulder, who was pressing his paws against his cheek.

You had to admit, Tom was showing a surprising level of patience towards the kitten, a bitter realisation following closely behind that, perhaps, Tom tolerated the kitten more than any of his human friends. The tabby cat began to incessantly meow by Tom’s right ear, demanding his attention.

Abraxas was watching all of this with intrigued amusement in his pale eyes. “Well… let’s just hope that the cat will survive to see adulthood.”

You found the meowing rather adorable, but it was clear that Tom’s patience was quickly wearing thin. Even for kittens, the Dark Lord had his limits, it seemed. “Look, I only speak snake,” Tom barked, turning his head to the right, speaking directly to the kitten with frustration evident in his voice. “I don’t know what you want from me.”

The kitten only responded by pressing his paws on Tom’s lips, perhaps for the first and the last time the Dark Lord was silenced. Either from rage or being overwhelmed by the kitten’s cuteness, Tom’s cheeks turned a bright red. For the sake of the kitten, you hoped it was the latter.

“Oh hey,” Canopus’ eyes widened at the kitten’s bold move. “What do you know? He might just live to see adulthood.”

Tom growled as the kitten began his climb up Mt. Tom again. “How wonderful,” he murmured darkly, his displeased eyes following the kitten’s tail that swung back and forth in front of his face as he made his way up his head. The kitten was now wrestling with the ‘Birthday Boy’ hat, fighting for his spot on top of his head.

“Not so intimidating anymore, are you Tom?” Canopus snickered as his eyes flickered

between the Dark Lord and the cat that had settled comfortably on top of his head.

Tom’s vehement glare from behind the swinging tail was quite the sight to behold. At that moment, for whatever came over its small brain, the kitten leapt off of Tom’s head and landed on Canopus’ face.

“Agh! What’s happening?!” Canopus tried to pull off the kitten while its claws dug into his face. “Get it off me!”

“Yes. Yes!” Tom’s dark chuckle echoed in the Room of Requirement, while Abraxas watched the scene in terror, his hands elegantly covering his gaping mouth. 

You could confidently say, that for the rest of your life, you would never forget the cheerful eyes of Tom when he turned to you and said, “You were right, dear. Emotional support was exactly what I needed.”

A/N: Ended up writing as a sequel of sorts to 𝒟𝒶𝓇𝓀 ℒℴ𝓇𝒹 ℴ𝓃 𝒞𝒶𝒻𝒻ℯ𝒾𝓃ℯ. Not my best writing, but hope you still enjoyed it!

[guiltypleasurecreative]

Part Two of Best Friend Vacation

Part one can be found here. You don’t need to read part one, but it makes part two better.

Contents: Explicit depiction of sex, fluff

9.0k words

thanks to @gem1712 for requesting part two

---

“Harry! You have a package here!”

“What is it?” Harry asked as you walked into the kitchen where he was wiping the counter after lunch.

“How would I— it’s a brown box, that’s what it is.”

Harry smiled, “I would have thought you’d have had it opened by now.”

“It’s addressed to you. I’m not opening your mail.”

“Something being mine has never stopped you from opening it without asking. Like my front door, for example.”

“You gave me a key! You know what, I can go home if you want.” You saw the smirk on Harry’s face and knew he was joking, but you had to give him a hard time anyway.

“Kidding! I’m kidding, Y/N.”

Harry wrapped his arms around you and kissed your cheek. He took the package from you and tore the tape off. Harry walked to the couch as he told you about the package being something or other he ordered for the balcony, but you weren’t really listening anymore, too busy admiring him. Thankfully, when he turned to look at you your smile was enough of a response to make him happy.

Since you and Harry had come back from vacation you’d been spending more and more time at his apartment. On the rare occasion you went home Harry went, too. It got to the point that the only time you two were apart was during the workday. When Harry said he didn’t need anyone else if he had you, he meant it. Not that you were complaining.

“My mom called,” Harry started, breaking you out of your thoughts. “She and my dad want to visit soon.”

“Oh, that’s great, Har. Do they know when they plan to visit yet?”

“I don’t know. In a week or two, probably.”

You reached across the couch to hold his hand. “You should plan some nice things to do while they’re here.”

Harry turned on the couch to face you. “Would you join us?”

“Of course. Just tell me when they’re coming, and I’ll see if I can get some time off.”

“What do we tell them about us?”

You smiled, “I think they already know we’re friends, Harry.”

He laughed, “You know that’s not what I’m talking about.”

“If you want to tell them about your sex life that’s up to you. Weird, but it’s up to you.”

“Y/N!” He pulled you into his lap tickling you. “You know what I mean.”

“I don’t! I swear, Harry! If not that then what?” He would not quit tickling and kissing you.

“I’m talking about us. How we’re like, dating in everything but name.”

You could tell he was hesitant to talk about it. Had your relationship really changed that much?

“That’s—is this you formally asking me to be your girlfriend?”

Harry rubbed his neck. “I guess? I mean, I didn’t really think we needed to like, define this. But how do I introduce you? You’re way more important to me than just my friend.”

“Harry, I think you’re worrying too much. I’ve met your parents before. I don’t need an introduction.” You cupped his cheek in your hand.

“Of course. But how do I explain that I’m kissing my best friend? That she sleeps in my bed?” Harry paused. “I guess I am asking you to be my girlfriend. Formally.”

He looked at you with a mixture of hope and nausea. It was simply endearing.

“How could I say no to you?”

Relief washed over his face. “Really?”

“Really, Harry. What brought all this on?” You moved to straddle his lap and gave him a peck on the lips. “Your parents?”

“Not really. I mean, kind of. But I was talking about you with my coworkers the other day and I had no idea what to call you. It made me realize I wanted more. Then my mom called, and I wondered how to explain to her why you rarely go home anymore.” He smiled.

“I’d like more, too.” You paused, holding his face in both your hands. You rubbed your thumbs over his cheekbones. “We’ll find a time to talk to your parents, okay?”

Harry laughed in pure joy then grabbed your face and kissed you. “Okay. Thank you, Y/N.”

Wow. I’m officially Harry’s you think.

You never could have imagined when you started this whole friends with benefits thing last spring that you would end up here today. It was nearly November now and it had been nothing but wonderful all these months since you came back from vacation. In many ways, nothing changed. Harry was still wonderfully attentive. You did nearly everything together, same as always. Harry still asked for your advice on big decisions, and you still relied on him to tell you when to change your oil and be the planner of your little duo.

On the other hand, a lot had changed. All of it for the better. You got to feel Harry’s love for you. You were having the best sex of your life and best of all you felt truly happy. Some days you wondered how you had ever considered Harry just a friend. And now he was officially your boyfriend. Harry had asked for more, and you would happily give him all you had.

You joined your lips with his. Harry moved his hands from your thighs to your lower back. He pulled you closer and deepened the kiss before burying his face in your neck. He kissed and bit you. One of his hands roughly massaged your breasts.

“Y/N,” he moaned your name as he slid his hand under the front of your shirt. “Let’s go to bed.”

You got off of his lap and kissed him, encouraging him to follow you to his bedroom. Harry quickly got up and wrapped his arms around your torso. He moved your hair from your neck and kissed you. It was harder to walk this way, but so enjoyable.

When you reached his bedroom, he turned you around in his arms. “Lie down.”

You watched as he climbed on the bed and hovered over you on all fours. He kissed your neck, your shoulders, and hands all while squeezing your thighs.

“Sit up,” he whispered. He leaned back and helped you take your shirt off. As soon as your shirt was off Harry brought his hands to your breasts, massaging them. “Can I take this off?”

“Whatever you want, Har.”

Harry unhooked your bra and tossed it aside. He kissed the marks the straps of your bra left on your shoulders. Harry ran his hands down your stomach to the button of your jeans. He pushed your jeans to your knees before guiding you onto your back again then pulled them off the rest of the way.

Once Harry started to kiss you over your underwear you thought you were going to go crazy needing more.

“Harry, don’t tease.”

“It's called foreplay. Enjoy it.”

You chuckled, still squirming under his touch.

“You’re so gorgeous. I love seeing you under me.” Harry bent his head and took one of your nipples into his mouth. He sat up straddling your thighs and smiled from ear to ear.

“What?” You smiled.

“You’re my girlfriend,” he whispered.

You laughed, “That I am.”

“I always knew you’d be in my life, but not like this.”

He leaned down to kiss you again. His lips slid from your lips to your neck, down further still to your breasts. You ran your fingers through his hair and arched your back into his kiss. You could feel his erection straining against his jeans.

“Harry, lie down. Let me take care of you.”

“Not yet,” Harry sighed and took off your underwear. He ran a hand over your sides and across your stomach before finally settling between your thighs. Two fingers slid into your center. He moved slowly leaving you to focus on the friction of his knuckles and the pads of his fingers.

“Harry,” you breathed out. “That feels amazing.”

“Good. Lay back and enjoy it, baby.” He kissed your thighs and kept up the languid movements of his fingers. Before long you began to writhe on the bed. A familiar high began to pool at your center, slowly building.

“I need you faster and rougher. Come here,” you said holding out both of your hands to bring his body closer to you.

Harry looked up at you and smirked but made no effort to move. “Not a chance. Not until you come.”

You threw your head back on the pillow and gripped the sheets. You felt incredible, but you weren’t sure it was going to be enough today. Of course, you were willing to wait all night if it meant Harry would keep going. Building to an orgasm was half the fun.

Between your quiet breaths and Harry’s gentle encouragement, you heard a phone vibrating.

“Harry. Harry your phone is vibrating.”

“I don’t care. Let voicemail get it.”

The vibrating stopped and you were able to focus on your pleasure again. Harry still gave you kisses and sucked your clit but kept your climax just out of reach.

Before long, his phone vibrated with another call.

“Harry, I can’t concentrate. Please just see who it is and tell them you’ll call ‘em back.”

“How ‘bout I fuck you now and call them back later? I’m kind of torturing myself at this point.”

You chuckled, “Getting painful? Should have listened to me.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Harry smiled into your kiss then sat up to take off his shirt before he laid his body on top of yours.

Your hands moved between you and Harry to undo his jeans. He propped himself up on his elbow and used his other hand to slide his jeans down just enough to free himself. Harry didn’t use his hands to guide himself to your center. He thrust his hips into yours slowly and gently until he slid into you. The anticipation had you throbbing.

“You’re so wet. It’s such a fucking turn-on.” Harry resumed kissing your lips, your face.

“Well, I was pretty turned on to get into this state.”

Harry smiled and picked up his pace ever so slightly. He moaned into the crook of your neck and picked up the pace again. Meanwhile, his phone was vibrating with a call for the third time.

“Oh, so you can pick up the pace for you but not for me?” You teased him with the biggest smile.

The two of you shared another laugh and a quick peck. “Something’s obviously urgent. We’re on a time crunch now.”

Thankfully, the call went to voicemail again.

“Harry, ah—Harry that’s the spot. Don’t stop.”  Your climax washed over you and just kept coming. Even when it was over your body was still abuzz.

Harry took a bit more time to reach his peak, his moans becoming unstoppable once his orgasm hit him. Harry making noise in bed always gave you the most wonderful chills. You were so lucky to call him yours and be the exclusive owner of all of his pleasure.

“I love you, Y/N.”

“I love you, too,” you replied with a wide smile.

“Stay here. I’ll get you cleaned up.” Harry climbed off of you and then slid his pants off the rest of the way before getting off the bed. He grabbed his phone on the way to the bathroom. When Harry came back with a damp towel you asked who called.

“Looks like my mom, twice, then dad,” he replied while he wiped down your legs. He pressed his mom’s contact number, and you heard the line ringing.

“Harry! It’s about time you picked up! Were you ignoring my call? What were you doing?”

You smiled at each other knowingly. You attempted to take the towel from him so you could clean up while he spoke to his mother, but he gave you a playful warning look and continued with his work.

“I wasn’t ignoring you. I was busy is all.”

“I came this close to calling Y/N. I know where I find one, I’ll find the other. Is she with you now? Why didn’t she pick up the phone?”

Harry playfully rolled his eyes. “Yeah, she’s here.”

“Hi, Mrs. Styles. How are you?”

“She says ‘hi’,” Harry replied even though you could hear her just fine.

“Listen, love, your father and I want to come out next week for a visit. Have you got the room for us?”

“Mom, you know I do. Is that what was so important that you and Dad called several times?”

“It’s not that it was so urgent. It’s just that you weren’t answering, and you know how I worry. What was keeping you so preoccupied?”

“Nothing, I just didn’t have my phone on me.”

The two of you exchanged another glance, grinning when your eyes met. Harry’s mother continued to talk about everything and nothing in particular. You could tell Harry’s mind had started to wander when he began rubbing your thighs. His hands traveled toward your center until you had to swat him away. Your eyes grew wide and mouthed the words ‘absolutely not.’

Harry was undeterred. “Come on, I bet I can coax another orgasm out of you.”

Again, your eyes grew as wide as saucers and you whisper shouted at him, “Harry! Your mother can hear you!”

“Relax, I muted it.”

You relaxed a little but still didn’t think it was a good idea. “How can you be turned on right now?”

“If you could see yourself right now you wouldn’t ask me that question.”

You rolled your eyes and watched as Harry unmuted his phone. “Well, did you ask Dad? I’m sure he would know.”

You couldn’t hear his mother on the other end of the phone anymore, your heartbeat in your ears was growing too loud.

“Harry, I’m warning you. Pay attention to your poor mother.”

“You’re warning me? What are you gonna do if I don’t stop?” Harry brought his face to your mound and sucked on your labia. You were sure there would be a little love bite there later.

“Harry!” You closed your legs earning a frumpy look from your newly minted boyfriend.

Undeterred, Harry scooted up on the bed until your breasts were within reach. He licked your breasts while looking at you, the phone still held loosely next to his ear. He tapped unmute again.

“Mom, that’s for you to decide. Whatever you’d like to do while you’re here is fine by me. It’s no inconvenience.”

Just as quickly as he unmuted the phone, he muted it again and pinched your nipples, making your back arch off the bed. His ability to multitask like this was so fucking hot, but not the wisest decision at the moment.

Harry had unmuted the phone again and you decided to use the distraction to get up from the bed entirely. Harry, on the other hand, was having none of that. As soon as your feet hit the floor, he quickly wrapped an arm around the front of your torso. Harry pinned the phone between his ear and shoulder and kneeled behind you on the edge of the bed. Without releasing you he brought his other hand to squeeze and caress your ass.

“Yes, we did! We went last time you came for a visit. Dad really enjoyed it.”

We’re going to get caught. Hang up, hang up, hang up.

Without warning Harry slipped his hand between your legs and plunged his fingers into you from behind. The sensation nearly made you cry out. Harry quickly moved his hand from the front of your torso to your mouth. You leaned your head back onto his shoulder and looked over at Harry who still had his phone wedged between his head and shoulder. He looked unfazed by you coming undone on his hand. He kept pumping, still talking with his mother. At this point, your body was so wound up you were certain that the only thing holding you up was Harry.

When you felt the pull of another orgasm it became harder to stay quiet. Your hips bucked instinctively.

“Hey, mom, Y/N looks like she needs some help. I’ll talk to you a bit later, ‘kay? Yep. Yep. Love you, too. Bye.”

As soon as Harry ended the call you doubled over with a loud moan.

“Y/N, fuck—you’re so hot. Come ‘ere. Turn around.”

You did as asked and were greeted with an open-mouthed kiss. He grabbed your thighs and pulled you back onto the bed.

Harry laid down flat on his back, “sit on my face.”

You felt a shiver travel from the crown of your head all the way down to your toes. How could one man be so fucking sexy? Again, you did as you were asked and straddled his face.

“Y/N, I said sit. Not fucking hover.”

Harry gripped your thighs and forced you down on his face. He sucked and pulled on your clit. The feeling was almost too much to bear. Your mind was warring between urging on your orgasm to end this almost painful sensation and pleading with your body to hold on just a minute longer.

“Yes, Y/N, just like that. Drown me in you.” You hadn’t realized but you were rocking your hips pretty aggressively on Harry’s face. Even his nose was glossy from you. His hands were kneading your ass, happily slurping all of your arousal.

“Harry! Harry, don’t stop!” You continued rocking your hips until your orgasm hit you, causing you to double over. You supported yourself on the headboard, panting.

“I love you, Harry.” You managed to lie next to Harry who quickly pulled you in for a hug.

“I love you, too.” He became pensive for a minute before asking, “What did I do before you?”

“Adriana,” you smirked knowing you were starting something.

“Y/N! I was having a nice moment!”

You shrieked and jumped out of bed. “Who was before her? Vanessa? You had so much to do before me!”

Harry chased you out of the room, oblivious to the fact you were both still naked.

“Oh! Or Danna! I bet you really miss her! Her breasts were huge!”

“Y/N!”

Harry had cornered you in the kitchen, only separated by the little island in the middle of the floor. You couldn’t stop giggling.

“I swear, when I catch you, you’re in for it.”

You decided to make a mad dash for the living room and shrieked again when Harry caught you in both arms. He pressed your back to his chest and picked you up. He began to laugh when you tried to pry his arms from around your waist but couldn’t even make him budge.

Harry brought you to the living room and tossed you on the couch like you weighed nothing. “I told you, when I caught you, you were going to get it. You didn’t listen, Y/N, and now you’re in for it.”

Harry laid down on top of you tickling you and blowing raspberries on your skin. You were laughing so hard you couldn’t get any words out.

“You’re the only one that matters, Y/N! Say it! Say, I’m the only one who matters to Harry! The last one who will ever matter! Say it Y/N and I’ll stop!”

Even if you wanted to say the words nothing would come out. You were laughing too hard. Finally, you managed to yell, “truce!”

Harry let go and let you sit up. He kissed your temple. “You naughty thing, you.”

Harry got up and grabbed some briefs and a shirt from the room then sat down on the couch again. You laid your head in his lap, still catching your breath.

“Did you mean what you said earlier?”

He plucked the hair out of your face before smoothing it down. “Mean what?”

“When you said I’m the last one who will ever matter.”

“Y/N, look at me. Of course I do.” He smiled down at you, “Why would you think that you aren’t?”

“Because we just became official today?”

Harry rolled his eyes. “But you’ve meant so much to me for so long now.”

You gave him an incredulous look.

“Can’t you see yourself with my ring on your finger? A sweet child to call us mommy and daddy and another on the way. Sounds like the life, doesn’t it?”

“A few months ago, you were ready to get a vasectomy. Now you’re picturing us as parents?”

“First of all, I have never not pictured you as a mother someday. It was just something sexy to think about even if it never happened. Second, vasectomies are reversable. Besides, I think you’d look so fucking gorgeous with a big belly growing our child.”

Your heart raced. Since when has he pictured you a mother? And why does the thought of intentionally getting pregnant and starting a family with him turn you on so much?

He continued, “Don’t get me wrong. I don’t want kids now. But I’d marry you tomorrow if you’d let me.”

“Harry! You just asked me to be your girlfriend hours ago. Now you’re talking about getting married? You’re too much.” You got up and headed to the bedroom. “I’m getting dressed then I’m making dinner, Harry.”

“To be fair, I asked you on vacation and you brushed me off! Y/N! Do you want a spring wedding or a summer wedding? I don’t want to wear a black suit. What do you think of like a pastel? Y/N!”

- - -

The day Harry’s parents were due to arrive you woke up to the sound of the mixer gently humming in the kitchen. You pulled the covers off and slipped into your house shoes. You made your way to the kitchen, bright with the morning sun.

“Morning.”

“Good morning, babe. Did I wake you?” Harry walked around the counter and over to you to place a kiss on your cheek.

“Not really,” you smiled back.

“Good. Tea?”

“I’d love some. Thank you.” You sat at one of the stools at the counter. “What are you making?”

“Those lemon poppy seed muffins Dad likes.”

“Oooo, I love those. Are they coming here, or do we need to pick them up?” You sipped the tea Harry placed in front of you. He added a bit of milk just how you liked it, earning an appreciative smile from you.

“We’re going to get them. You can stay here of course. Wouldn’t blame you if you didn’t want to sit in traffic.”

“Of course, I’ll go. I haven’t seen them in ages.” You sat up a bit and leaned over the counter to kiss him. “When are we leaving?”

Harry finished pouring the batter into little paper cups and put them in the oven. “About an hour. Watch those for me? They need to come out in 25 minutes. I’m going to shower.”

“’Course, go on.”

A couple of hours later you and Harry were waiting near baggage claim for his parents. Harry’s mom spotted both of you first and made a mad rush for Harry, giggling and smothering him with kisses.

“Good to see you too, Mom. Missed you.” Harry managed to pull himself away from his mom to hug his dad. “Nice flight?”

Mr. Styles simply nodded.

“Y/N! We didn’t expect you to be here! Come here!” Mrs. Styles wrapped you in a hug before you could even respond. “Harry, why didn’t you tell us Y/N was coming?”

Harry had a bashful look on his face. “Didn’t think you’d mind.”

“We don’t mind, just surprised. Good surprised though.”

“Hey, kiddo. It’s been a while.” Mr. Styles pulled you in for a bear hug.

“Are you joining us for dinner, Y/N?” His mom looked at you with a smile.

“You know it.” You could feel the nerves.

After gathering his parents' luggage Harry led everyone to the car.

You opened the back passenger door of the car. “Oh, honey, it’s okay. Go sit in front with Harry. We’ll be fine back here.”

You smiled, “Oh, alright. Thank you.”

Harry’s parents got in the car then Harry looked at you over the hood of the car and blew you a kiss. You rolled your eyes and got in the car, too.

“So, what’s the news back home?” Harry asked his parents as he left the airport.

His parents chatted about a childhood friend of Harry’s or one of their neighbors. At some point in the conversation, Harry mindlessly put his hand on your thigh. You tried to look at Harry without drawing attention to his hand. Finally, he looked over at you then down at his hand, and quickly removed it. He looked in the rear-view mirror and saw that his parents were none the wiser.

This was going to be one long week.

When everyone finally got home Harry helped his parents take their bags to the guest room.

“Is anyone hungry?” Harry was already back in the kitchen playing the role of host to his parents.

“I could eat,” Harry’s dad said sitting at the small dining room table. He was quickly joined by his wife.

“Can I get you guys a drink?” You had the refrigerator door open and listed off what was available.

“Yeah, that be great. Uh, mango juice, please.”

“Just water for me. Thanks, kiddo.”

You brought Mrs. Styles her juice and a water for Mr. Styles which they accepted with smiles.

“Should we make something quick or order in?” Harry asked, rubbing his hands together. “I could make a pasta? I have lentils and mushrooms.”

“Sounds great, son. Can we help at all?”

“I’m good, dad. Thanks.”

“What type of pasta do you want?” You asked Harry from the pantry. “Shells?”

“Shells sounds good. Can you get the water going?”

You and Harry worked in the kitchen while his parents got everyone caught up on what was new back home and asked about Harry’s work.

“Y/N? This good?” Harry held out the spoon he was using to stir the sauce and placed his free hand under your chin to catch any spills.

“Mmm. Delicious. We should add a little bit of lemon, yeah?”

“Ooo, good idea. Can you grab it?”

“You got it.” You grabbed a lemon from the counter and cut it in half. You brought the lemon over to Harry and asked him to hold his hand out over the pasta sauce.

“What? Why?”

“To catch the seeds!”

Harry laughed, “Why do I have to get my hands dirty? You do it.”

“You already washed your hands. Just do it!” You grabbed his hand and squeezed the lemon into it. “See? Was that so hard? Now give me the seeds.”

Harry looked at you with a look that said he wasn’t too happy but that he wasn’t mad either.

Harry’s mother must have taken note of your overly friendly banter. “So, Harry, is life all work for you? Are you seeing anyone?”

“Uh, I’m pretty happy with the way things are right now,” Harry answered then shot you a sly smile.

“Well does that mean there is a special girl or not?” Harry’s mom looked at him with a small smile.

You knew this was the perfect opening to tell his parents about your relationship, but the thought of it made you nervous. Looking at Harry you could tell he was feeling the same way.

“Everything is the same. No new people.” Harry leaned against the kitchen counter waiting for the rolls to finish toasting.

Good. Evasive, but not a lie. Why was this so hard?

The rest of dinner went well. Thankfully, Harry’s mom dropped her line of questioning. One bottle of wine with dinner turned into two and then dessert. By the time everyone was ready to call it a night it was already quite late.

“Y/N, you’ve had a bit much to drink. Why don’t you stay here tonight.” Harry offered.

“Alright. If it’s not too much trouble.”

Harry was standing behind his parents and gave you a knowing smile.

“Well, Har, I think Dad can drive her home. I mean she has no clothes or toothbrush here. She won’t be comfortable.”

Harry gave you a devious grin that made your face flush with heat. Thankfully, Harry interrupted.

“Of course, she has stuff here. You think we’re friends enough to go on annual vacations together but not friends enough to have a few things lying around the other’s house? She’ll be fine.”

You were hopeful it would lead to a conversation about your recent upgrade from “just friends,” but neither of you could get the words out.

“Alright, kiddo, if you’ll be comfy here.”

You smiled, “I’ll be fine, Mr. Styles. Thank you for offering.”

“See? Everyone go to bed; it’s been a long day. Mom, good night, lovely to see you again. Dad, sleep well.” He hugged his parents as they got up from the dining room table. “Y/N, let’s see what we can find for you.”

You grinned at him as if you didn’t have half a closet's worth of stuff here.

A little while later, all the noise from down the hallway had stopped, meaning Harry’s parents had gone to bed. Harry had just climbed into bed after washing up in his ensuite.

“Hey, you. I missed you.” Harry slid into bed and wrapped an arm around your waist.

“We were together all day.”

“Yeah, but I couldn’t touch you.” Harry leaned over to kiss your cheeks and neck before sliding lower.

“Harry, I’m not doing it with your parents just down the hall.”

“They won’t hear us; they’ve gone to bed. Besides, we’re adults. Are we not allowed to have sex? We’re not teenagers and this is my home.”

You chuckled, “Well, we failed to tell them about us, and I don’t think you want them to find out about us because they heard us.”

“We can be quiet.” He smiled and lay on top of you, kissing you again.

“Even if we don’t make a peep, there are certain other noises. Go to sleep, Harry. They won’t be here for long.”

“I’ll be gentle. Come on.” Harry smiled and wiggled his hips back and forth over your body.

“Oh, Harry. You’re too much.” You held his head in both of your hands and kissed his forehead.

“That’s not a no, right?”

You laughed again. “No, that’s not a no.”

“Come ‘ere.” Harry looked into your eyes before leaning in to kiss your lips. He quickly deepened the kiss, tongue exploring your mouth.

You wrapped your arms around his neck and your legs around his waist. He leaned up to take your shirt off and brought his mouth to your breasts. You ran your fingers through his hair and tried to keep your moaning in check. The longer he licked and sucked your breasts the harder it got to stay quiet. Harry gave your breasts one last kiss before leaning to one side and sliding his hands into your underwear. He quickly plunged his fingers inside of you before looking back at your face and capturing your lips in a kiss again.

Kissing Harry kept your noises muffled, but the sound of his fingers gliding in and out of your arousal was growing louder.

“Harry,” you panted into his mouth. “You’re getting carried away.”

He smiled and whispered an apology. Harry slid his hand from your panties and used it to shove his pajama pants just low enough to free his cock. “I can’t wait anymore.”

Harry grabbed his penis in one hand and in one swift movement, he buried himself entirely in you. You moaned loudly making Harry bring his lips crashing down on yours to silence you. Harry’s movements started slow, pulling himself all the way out before gliding back in over and over. In time, Harry had gotten carried away and the bed was making more noise than you were despite it being a heavy, solid wood frame.

“Harry, slow down. We’re being too loud again.”

He grunted in frustration and plunged himself into you as deep as he could go. Instead of pulling out again, he began to grind on your body. The constant stimulation on your clit caused your head to swim with pleasure. Your core was throbbing, and your heart rate had picked up.

“Harry, I’m so close.”

Harry groaned in response and encouraged you to let go. Thankfully, Harry didn’t change a thing, and you were able to come so easily. Harry finished soon after then littered your face with sweet little pecks.

“I feel like a teenager again,” Harry laughed quietly.

“I don’t know. I never had sex anywhere near that good as a teen.”

Harry laughed again, his perfect smile on full display. “Let’s get you cleaned up, yeah?”

- - -

The next morning you both woke up to the sound of drawers being opened and closed. It sounded like Harry’s parents were in the kitchen trying to find things.

Harry groaned and rubbed his hands over his eyes. “Sorry. They’ve never been quiet people in the mornings.”

“It’s alright. Ready to get up?” You draped your arm over his torso and snuggled your face up to his chest.

“Five more minutes?” Harry sounded groggy and it was the cutest thing.

“Deal.”

Harry wrapped his arms around you and kissed your forehead before closing his eyes again. Everything was quiet for a few minutes until the sound of silverware clattering to the floor jolted Harry awake again.

“Sounds like we should get out there,” Harry said.

You stood up and helped make the bed. You put your pillow back in place and headed for the door.

“Wait, wait, wait,” Harry whispered. “I don’t know when we’ll get to talk to them about us so let me kiss you now.”

“Let me brush my teeth first.”

“Like I care you have morning breath. Come here.” Harry kissed you then rested his head on yours. “Let’s get out there before they come in here.”

You smiled and led the way out to the kitchen.

“Y/N, honey?” Harry’s mother looked confused. “I didn’t see you on the couch, so I thought you’d left.”

“Mom! You think I’d let Y/N sleep on the couch?” He hugged his dad good morning before rounding the kitchen counter and hugging his mom.

“Well, I didn’t see you on the couch either!” Mrs. Styles looked between you and Harry. “Were you sleeping in the sa—”

“Mom, is it so unusual for a couple to want to sleep in the same room together?”

Well, that’s one way to tell them.

“A couple?! When did that happen?” Harry’s mother questioned. Mr. Styles turned off his phone, whatever he was reading suddenly became not that interesting.

“I asked her to be my girlfriend a few days ago.” Harry was so casual.

“A few days ago? And you’re already sleeping together?”

“Hon—” Harry’s dad tried to speak.

“Mom, it’s not like that.” Harry chuckled. You didn’t know how he could play it so cool.

“What does that mean ‘it’s not like that’ mean? It either is or it isn’t.”

“I just mean we aren’t ‘already’ sleeping together. We’ve be—”

“Harry, oh, my god.” You hid your face in your hands.

“But you said you just started dating. I’m not understanding.”

“Honey, I don’t think it's that hard to understand the concept of casual sex,” Harry’s dad chimed in.

“Oh, my god. Kill me now.” You could not be more embarrassed.

You wanted to crawl into a hole and die. Harry on the other hand burst out laughing. The beat of silence told you that Mrs. Style must have been embarrassed. You wouldn’t know because you still had your face in your hands. You only looked up to smack Harry’s arm.

“So how did this all start? These feelings that lead to dating.” Harry’s mom looked at Harry with curiosity in her eyes.

“That’s a private story, mom.” Harry had decided to get on with his morning and make coffee. He handed you a mug and put milk and sugar in your cup.

“You can’t even tell me how you two started dating?”

“Oh, I can tell you how we started dating,” Harry poured himself a cup of black coffee then gestured to his dad for a refill. “We were sitting just over there in the living room, and I told her that I felt like we were doing everything couples do, and I wanted to make it official. So, I asked her to be my girlfriend.”

You internally cringed, but Harry seemed to be oblivious to the fact that yet again he had said too much.

“That sounds like you’re leaving a lot out.” Harry’s mom noted.

“Oh, I am,” he said with a cheeky grin before taking a sip of his coffee. When it became obvious his mother was waiting for him to explain himself Harry continued. “What do you want me to say, Mom? I’ve always found her to be very attractive and I enjoy her company more than anyone else’s so when I saw the opportunity to be more, I took it.”

“What are you going to tell your kids then if you can’t even tell your parents?”

“Honey! He said they just started dating. I think it’s too early for that conversation, yeah?” Harry’s dad seemed to be embarrassed, too.

“We’ve already had this conversation.” Harry took another sip of his coffee.

“Harry!” You couldn’t believe Harry was talking about children as easily as he would talk about the weather. His mother was obviously having a hard time wrapping her head around this and he wasn’t making things any easier.

“Look, Mr. and Mrs. Styles, we never meant to hide anything from you. We’ve just been enjoying each other’s company and—”

“Obviously,” Harry’s dad chuckled to himself before opening his phone again and Harry laughed like it was hilarious.

Geeze, it was so easy to put your foot in your mouth you couldn’t really be upset at Harry anymore.

“Okay. I just have one more question,” Harry’s mother began. “Did this…conversation…about kids…happen after a scare or something?”

“No, we’re responsible so it was nothing like that. I just love her is all. She’s going to be your daughter someday, so I thought I’d ask.”

“Jesus, Harry. Really?” You groaned. This was not how you envisioned this conversation going.

“Well, how—”

“Ah! That sounds an awful lot like another question. I think we should go get brunch and get some sightseeing in, yeah?”

“Fantastic idea, son. Come on, Hon.” He got up from his stool at the kitchen counter and motioned for his wife to follow him.

“Y/N, shower?”

“Harry, I swear I will kill you.”

Harry smiled at you then took your hand as he walked back to the bedroom. You protested and tried to take your hand back. “Hush, there’s nothing wrong with showering together. We’re saving water!”

As soon as you got to Harry’s bedroom you closed the door and began to smack his chest. “What is wrong with you?”

Harry could do nothing but laugh. “What? What?! Y/N! I didn’t think about what would happen when we both came out of the room in the morning, so we had the conversation forced on us. Admit it. You didn’t either.”

“No, but you didn’t have to say all of that! That conversation could have gone much smoother.”

Harry grabbed your arms and brought you to his chest, wrapping you in a hug. “Maybe. But, Y/N, I’m not ashamed to have a normal, healthy relationship like any other adult.”

“Fine. But she just found out her son is dating and sleeping with someone all before she’s had her morning tea.”

“She could have deduced the sleeping together when we admitted we’re dating. It’s not—”

“Harry! You’re her son.”

“And I’m also 30.”

You could only sigh in response.

“Alright, alright. I’m sorry. Are you mad at me?”

“No, but let's see how you feel when one of your future children you just had to tell your mother about pulls this sort of stunt on you.”

“Does that mean you agree to have children with me?”

You rolled your eyes and playfully pushed him away from you.

“Y/N, I’m down to try right now if you’re ready. Don’t walk away just yet!”

Harry ran up behind you and turned you around to face him before picking you up bridal style.

“Put me down!” You laughed. “I mean it, Harry! Put me down!”

You roared with laughter when Harry sat you down on the counter and buried his face in your neck, tickling you with his stubble.

There was no way Harry’s parents didn’t hear you yelling to be put down. The things they must be imagining right now. They must think we’re shameless.

- - -

Brunch was not as awkward as you expected it to be. After everyone was done eating, and Harry and his father argued over the check, your group decided to take a walk by the marina.

A few hours later it had gotten pretty warm, so Mrs. Styles suggested a stop for gelato.

“Yours looks really good. Gimme a bite,” Harry asked, eyeing your cup of gelato.

You fed him a bite then tapped his nose with the sticky spoon causing both of you to laugh.

“Here, try mine. I think mine’s better.”

Harry fed you a bite as well before wiping his nose on your sleeve. You elbowed him.

“You’re right. That’s so much better.”

“Right? Here. Trade me.”

Harry was already taking your cup and handing you his before you could say anything. You looked up at him with a smile and leaned into his body as a way of saying thanks before digging into his gelato.

“I don’t know how I didn’t see it before. What took you guys so long?”

“What?” Harry looked at his mom with furrowed brows.

“This is just like every other visit. You and Y/N antagonize each other and play and joke and share. I don’t know how I never saw it coming. You two are such a cute couple. I don’t know why it surprised me so much.”

You couldn’t help but smile.

Harry wrapped his arm around his mom’s shoulders and gave her a kiss. “Come on, mom. Let’s start heading back and we can relax and watch a movie, all of us.”

- - -

When everyone arrived home and changed into more comfortable clothes Harry made everyone drinks.

“Y/N, come here, love.” Harry’s mom patted the couch next to her while Harry and his dad chatted in the kitchen.

“Yeah?”

“I just wanted to chat with you. Make sure that Harry is being a good boyfriend. You know we’re quite fond of you.”

You smiled. “He’s the best boyfriend. I’ve said it before, but you and Mr. Styles have raised him to be a wonderfully caring person.”

Mrs. Styles smiled and patted your hand. “Still calling us Mr. and Mrs. Styles, huh? Even though you’re going to be our daughter-in-law one day?”

You smiled bashfully not knowing what to say to her. “Yeah, but who knows when that day will be. We just started dating.”

“True. But, who’s to say we can’t start practicing now, huh?”

“I mean—sure. Mom?”

You were so nervous your words came out more like a question, but thankfully Harry’s mom, or rather just mom, was tickled pink. She wrapped you in a hug swaying back and forth until Harry and hi—dad, just dad, came back, drinks in hand.

“What’d we miss?” Mr. Styles asked.

“Oh, not much. We just have a daughter now is all. And soon she will give us the most gorgeous grandbabies!”

“Honey, don’t pester the poor girl. Let the kids sort it out themselves.”

“What? They’re in love! And they’ve already discussed it, right?” She turned to look at Harry but didn’t let you go. “I want grandbabies.”

“Trust me, I am not opposed to trying. How many grandchildren do you want? We’ll make it happen.”

“Harry, don’t be crass,” his dad warned, causing them both to chuckle to themselves.

“See? You don’t even take yourself seriously. You know the thought of little grandchildren running around just melts your heart.”

Harry’s dad smiled in response.

“See? They’ve known each other for how many years now? How much better can they get to know one another?” Your eyes met Harry’s. You instantly gave him a look that said don’t start. “If they haven’t figured out what kind of family they want by now they never will.”

“Let’s get them married first, hm?” Harry’s dad smiled at his wife.

“Right, and before that, let’s pick a movie, yeah? Mom, can I have my girlfriend back?”

She kissed your head saying, “Off you go.”

You happily took a seat next to Harry and took your drink from him.

After the movie, everyone began to grumble about being hungry.

“I’ll order in. Indian sound good?” Harry pulled up a menu on his phone and looked it over with his dad.

Not even a half hour later the food had arrived, and Harry’s mom was pouring everyone a glass of wine. You turned on some music and the mood was lively.

“So, Y/N, have you moved in officially or are you guys going to find a bigger place or what?” Harry’s dad asked while holding out a plate of vegetable pakora for Harry.

“Um, we haven’t talked about that at all…yet.”

Mr. Styles rested his fork on his plate. “Harry. I can’t believe you. You can plan a family with the girl, but you can ask her to move in with you?”

“Because that’s an activity he’d enjoy doing,” Harry’s mother said under her breath.

“The money she would save not paying for a separate place you be saved for your future.”

Harry smiled at his dad, interlacing his fingers. “You’re absolutely right. Sometimes I’m just a fool who can’t see what’s right in front of him. I mean, we carried on for months as a proper couple before I even thought to ask her to be my girlfriend. Y/N, you already live with me. Why don’t we make it official and sell your place?”

“I’d love to, Harry. But maybe that’s a conversation for another time?”

Harry winked at you then resumed eating his food. You on the other hand couldn’t fit even another bite of food in your stomach what with all the butterflies in there.

- - -

Later that evening you and Harry were getting ready to climb into bed when there was a knock at his bedroom door.

“Come in.”

The door opened and in popped Harry’s parents, confusing both you and Harry.

Harry’s father began. “We just wanted to say goodnight and thank Y/N for having us. Now that we know it’s as much her home as it is yours, we just wanted to say thanks.”

Harry grinned from ear to ear.

“And I made some chamomile tea to help you guys wind down after a long day.”

Harry’s mother handed each of you a warm mug

“Thanks, mom. You didn’t have to.”

“Nonsense. It’s the least I could do after you guys gave us such a wonderful day.”

“Well, we better let you two get some rest. Sleep well.” Mr. Styles hugged Harry before walking to your side of the bed. “You, too. Sleep well.” He wrapped you in a gentle yet affectionate hug.

“Thanks. Uh, you too…Dad.” You looked up at him with a shy smile.

“Hmm. I like that. Good night, kiddo.” He kissed you on your head and made way for Harry’s mother to hug and kiss each of you good night.

You climbed in bed then grabbed your tea, preparing to read on your phone a bit before bed.

“What?”

Harry had been staring at you with a grin on his face. “Nothing. I just like hearing you call my parents mom and dad.”

“You don’t mind?”

“Mind? I absolutely love it.” Harry set his mug down and opened his arms, you gladly scooted over to him and rested your head on his chest.

“Y/N? I’m sorry I haven’t asked you to move in with me yet. I really would love for you to live here. It’s just one of those things like asking you to be my girlfriend. I was just enjoying what we have going on and I forget that I should talk to you and see if you’re happy, too.”

“Harry, trust me. I hadn’t thought about it either. Don’t think you have to ask me because your dad said something.”

Harry adjusted in bed so that he could see your face. “I wouldn’t dream of asking you just because my dad said something. I would love for you to live here, honestly. Or I could move into yours or we could find a new place entirely. Just so long as we’re together I’d be happy.”

“Really?”

“Really.” Harry kissed your lips.

You couldn’t help the giddy laughter that escaped you. “Wow. Officially dating to moving in together in less than a week.”

Harry laughed too. “If it were anyone else but us, I’d think they’re crazy.”

You held Harry’s face in both your hands and brought him in for a kiss. Harry kissed you deeper and ran his hands along your back. You bit his lower lip which seemed to make something in Harry snap. He pulled away to take his shirt off before holding your sides again, kissing every piece of you his lips could reach.

As always, his kiss was enough to ignite your inner fire. You were wet the instant his tongue touched yours. You ran your hands along his torso, enjoying every tattoo and mole and scar.

“Lay back,” you encouraged him.

Harry lifted his hips to scoot down the bed a little, causing his erection to press into you. Harry lay back on the bed half reclining on the pillows and looking absolutely godly. You slowly took your shirt off, giving him a show, before climbing off the bed to take off your pants. Before straddling Harry, you sat between his legs and grabbed the waistband of his pajama pants. He lifted his hips so you could take them off letting his cock spring free.

You leaned down and took him into your mouth, just enough to lubricate him before sitting up again. Still seated between his legs you took his cock in one of your hands, pumping him. Harry’s eyes fluttered shut briefly. When he opened them again, he placed his hand over yours on his cock, helping you get him off just the way he wanted. Within minutes Harry’s breathing had become shallow, and he was bucking up into your hands.

“Y/N, I need to feel you.”

You straddled his thighs and grabbed his penis again. You lined it up with yourself and sunk down on him until he was fully enveloped by you. You began to move quickly, bouncing on him until he looked like he was unraveling. When Harry closed his eyes and inhaled sharply you got up and sat between his legs again. Harry shot up, opening his eyes in surprise. Before he could say anything, you took him in your mouth until you could feel him in your throat.

He groaned. “Oh, Y/N, you’re a naughty thing.”

Just then, you added your hand as your tongue swirled around the tip of his cock.

“Ah! Y/N, don’t stop doing that,” Harry whispered.

You’d never dream of it.

Harry propped himself up on one arm and placed his other hand on your head, gently guiding you. Before long he was thrusting up into your mouth while holding your head in place.

“Y/N, I’m conna come. I’m gonna come.”

With that, you took all of him in your mouth until your nose was pressed against his pelvis. Harry released in your mouth with the sexiest moan. You made sure to lick him clean before you laid down next to him again, head on his chest.

“Damn, that was good. Let me catch my breath and I’ll return the favor.”

“It’s fine, Harry. I’m perfectly satisfied right now.”

Harry looked at you with a grin then kissed your forehead. “What did I do to deserve you?”

- - -

After a few more days of sightseeing with Harry’s parents, it was time for them to fly back home. This time you were a lot sadder to see them go.

“Call me when you land, okay?” Harry worried about his parents almost as much as they worried about him.

“We will.”

“Honey, don’t cry we’ll see them soon.” Harry’s dad wrapped his wife in a comforting side hug.

“That’s right! And when we all see each other next we better be celebrating some big news, you hear?”

Everyone laughed despite the tears that threatened to fall.

“Y/N, honey, don’t be a stranger. When Harry comes home, we expect to see you too.” Harry’s mom caught you in a bear hug. “Don’t even wait for him. Come whenever you feel like it.”

“I will.”

Harry’s mom let you go to pull Harry in for a hug. You took the opportunity to say goodbye to his dad.

“If you need any help selling your place or moving or whatever, you call me. I can be out here on the very next flight. Got it?”

You chuckled and wiped a tear from your face. “Got it.”

“Alright, kiddo. You take care.”

“I will. You too.”

“Dear, we better go. If we don’t get going now, I’ll never leave.” Harry’s mom said with a weepy voice.

Harry wrapped his arm around your waist. Neither of you moved until you couldn’t see them anymore.

“Well, you heard them. Next time we see them we better have some big news to celebrate.”

You laughed and wiped away another tear.

“So, realtor, jeweler, or baby-making?”

You playfully slapped his chest. “You’re terrible.”

“I know.” He leaned down to kiss you. “Hungry?”

“Starving.”

[rorywritesjunk]

breathe the freezing crystal air, watch my baby crack a smile

You and Buggy agreed on exchanging just one gift for the Winter Solstice, but he's a pirate and doesn't follow the rules. Rating: G-PG. It's just some fluff, that's all. Warning: None. Buggy can't bake in this. Richie causes very mild chaos. A/N: I wanted to have something about gift giving. This has no connection to any other story, it's just a fun one-shot. Title comes from "Cold Sunshine" by S.J. Tucker.

You and Buggy agreed on exchanging just one gift, simply because you knew how over the top he would get with gift giving. You always appreciated it, and he often gave you really good gifts, but you had no need for clothes, books, anything. Honestly, just spending the day with him doing nothing sounded like the best gift to you. So a month before the Winter Solstice, you talked to him and got him to agree to just one gift each. 

However, after so many years with him, you weren’t actually specific in what you meant by one gift.

When you woke up the morning of the Solstice, you found our bed empty of your boyfriend, but in his place was an envelope with your name and the number #1 on it. Rubbing the sleep from your eyes, you took it and carefully opened it, frowning at the contents. It was a photo of you from when you first started dating, which was sweet. He didn’t always want photos taken, conscious about his nose and worried it would be the main focus on the photo as he insisted the camera made it look bigger than it was (it didn’t). You didn’t ask too often to take a photo because of that. There was a note stuck to the back of it that read,

you didn’t specify what you meant by one gift.

buggy

You rolled your eyes, shaking your head with a grin as you finally got out of bed. You were already feeling the chill of the day so you dressed warmly, putting on wooly layers and your warmest jacket before heading out to the deck to find your boyfriend. He often gave the crew a case of rum to go around and the day off for their gift, which allowed you two a bit of peace and (some) quiet for most of the day. 

There was a package in Mohji’s hands when you saw him and he held it out to you. It was weird not to see Buggy yet, but you accepted it with a frown. Your name and the number #2 were on it.

“From you?” 

“No, the Captain.” The beast tamer replied before going off to join his shipmates in enjoying the gift.

You opened the package and jumped with a shriek. Colorful glitter spilled out onto your hands, shoes, and the deck. It got everywhere and you were mortified that Buggy actually thought that would be a good idea, because the first time it happened was the first time he gave you a Solstice gift. Instead of using tissue paper or any other kind of packaging, he used glitter and even years later you were still finding it on things. 

There was a note inside that box with an orange that had cloves sticking out of it and a blue ribbon tied around it, as well as a layer of the colorful glitter. 

there’s more to come

buggy

You were unsure if that was a threat or meant to be romantic. 

~

You got most of the glitter taken care of, but there would forever be a stain of red, green, and gold forever ingrained in the spot where you were standing. Buggy only had himself to blame for that one.

You got the glitter washed off the orange, however, and happily hung it up in your wardrobe to keep it smelling nice. It was a weirdly sweet reminder of when he took over Orangetown, only to disappear for a few weeks with most of his body left behind with the crew. And while they set up the tent on an island, mourning the loss of their captain and unsure what to do next, you were (kind of accidentally) left behind in Orangetown. While you were mad about it, you went about your life helping them rebuild and getting a job in a tea shop for a few months until Buggy showed back up to “rescue” you.

The third gift was left in the fridge. You were trying to think of what to start expecting from him. At this point you had been together 7 years, so was he going to do 7 gifts, or just a random number? Was there a particular order to these gifts? You carefully took the package out of the fridge and opened it over the sink, just to be on the safe side.

It was a piece of chocolate cake which was one of your favorite things. You took a fork and poked at it carefully, hoping there wasn't anything in it that could break a tooth, before you took a forkful and popped it in your mouth. Buggy was… an okay cook, but baking wasn't necessarily his thing. He didn't have the patience for it, nor did he follow the directions properly. The cake definitely was chewy, almost gluing your mouth shut. You decided to save the rest for later so you put it back in the fridge, which is where the note was still at.

because you're so sweet to me

buggy 

Okay, this was getting to be a bit too sweet and adorable for you. He was into grand gestures, flashy announcements and proclamations on his feelings for you, and other eye-catching things. But finding packages around the ship from him with little notes was almost too much. You were starting to feel like your gift was going to pale in comparison to what he probably had planned, but you also knew he would loudly say he loved whatever you got him and it was wonderful.

~

You actually found the fifth gift next. Were you supposed to find these in a particular order? This gift was… calmer. You didn't have to clean up glitter or unstick your mouth from glue-textured cake. It was a scented candle, something you didn't get to enjoy as much as you used to due to conserving them in case of an emergency. This package didn't have a note, but you took it to your room and set it next to the bed. 

Was he making a statement with these gifts? They were all rather sweet and you were now thinking of cooking him a nice dinner the next chance you got. 

When you left the bedroom you actually bumped into him. He hid something behind his back, looking slightly panicked at seeing you.

“W-What are you doing in there?” He asked as he stepped back from you. You shrugged as you leaned over to peck him on the lips.

“Just putting one of my gifts in a safe spot, Buggy.” You told him. “Thank you for the candle.”

“Yea, well… don’t burn it all at once!” He told you as he sidestepped around you to get into the bedroom. “Don’t come in here until I tell you too!”

~

You found what was left of the fourth gift with Richie. He had torn into the package, thinking it was for him, and when you walked up to his cage, you saw the remnants of paper and ribbon with a little stuffed toy hanging from his mouth. There was a letter that had some nibble marks in it which you managed to rescue while giving him some pets. 

You didn’t fight him for the toy but you read the letter.

because you give really good hugs

buggy 

Well, okay, you were told that was something you were good at, and often knew when Buggy needed a hug before he even realized it. When you peered through the bars to see what the toy was, it was just a cute little pony plush that was now being cuddled by the big cat. Richie deserved a gift so you kept the letter and let him have the plush toy.

~

It was closer to evening time when you saw him again. He shut the door to the room pretty quickly and stood in front of it, arms crossed. “You can’t come in here yet.”

“Okay, but… why?” You asked. 

“Because I said so!” He told you as stomped away. “Stay there and wait until I get back!”

You raised an eyebrow but did as he asked. There must be something in there that was part of the gift-giving. And you needed to get in there as well since your gift to him was in there, and you hated that you were starting to feel a little unsure about it. His were all sweet gestures and memories while yours was… not that spectacular in your eyes. 

He came back with two glasses in his hand and paused at the door, shot you a look you didn’t quite understand, and threw the door open and gestured for you to step inside. Confused, you did so, looking in the room to see… nothing. There was nothing in there. You scratched your head and looked at him.

“What am I not supposed to see?”

“Give me a minute!” He told you as he handed you the two glasses and went to the small locked cabinet. You knew that’s where he kept his favorite rum. Saying nothing, you walked over to the wardrobe to grab his gift, something wrapped in some pretty paper you had found at a port. He looked over at you and perked up. “Is that for me?”

“Yea, it is…” You hesitated and walked over to him. “I found um, the gifts, Buggy, and I appreciate them so much, but now I feel a little put out because I only got you one thing.” You took a moment before adding, “Richie found the fourth gift. I managed to get the letter.”

“What? Don’t worry about it.” He told you as he reached for his present. You sighed and handed it over to him. “Your gifts are always thoughtful.”

“Yea…” You raised your hand to your mouth, chewing on your thumbnail as he tore the paper off excitedly. He paused for a moment when he saw what it was: a wooden box with a locking latch and his jolly roger burned into the top. “So, I made that… thought it would be something you can… keep important things in, like, special treasures and stuff…” 

“You made this? When?” He asked as he opened it slowly. The box was well made, lined with a blue velvet while the outside was stained a dark color. His eyes lit up as he examined it. There were little imperfections that made it unique and told about being handmade, such as a few dents in the wood, a hole where a screw mistakenly created, and a few jagged lines around the lower jaw of the jolly roger, likely where you were first starting the design. “How did you find the time?”

You shrugged, moving onto one of your fingernails now as you watched him rotate the box in his hands, opening and closing the lid multiple times before he finally settled on tracing the design with his fingertips. “Some late nights. I started a month ago.” You hesitated before asking, “D’you like it?”

“It’s perfect!” He said as his hands went to place it safely on the bed while he wrapped his arms around you, pulling you close for a kiss. Buggy wasn’t just saying that to make you feel good, you knew he meant it because there had been a few mishaps of gifts where he gave you his honest opinion of them if he didn’t like it, but you could tell he liked this one. “It will pair well with my final gift to you.”

“Final gift?” You repeated as he moved you to a spot in the room. 

He looked up at the ceiling for a brief second before making sure you didn’t look up. Next, he swept his coat back before reaching into his pocket and dropping down to one knee in front of you. Oh, oh you knew what was happening now. He held the box in one hand while preparing to open it with another.

“My love, the only one I cherish,” Buggy began, the small box open and revealing to you a necklace with a ring on it. “After seven years together, I’d like to spend another seven with you as your husband, so will-”

“Only seven years?” You asked, cutting him off, looking confused for a moment. Buggy stopped and narrowed his eyes at you for interrupting him. “Why only seven years?”

“I was trying to be poetic!” 

“Okay, but do you intend for either of us to die in seven years?” You asked, still a little confused by his wording. “Or… is that how long a pirate marriage lasts?”

“L-Let me finish!” He stammered as he got to his feet. “I just… I just want to know if you’ll marry me! It can be for seven months or seven decades, I don’t care, I just want to be married to you!”

“Oh, oh! I got it now.” You laughed softly and smiled at him. “You’re so sweet, Buggy, I will marry you.” 

He looked satisfied, though a little thrown off from the interruption, but he didn’t let that stop him from putting the necklace on you before he kissed you; one of his hands popped off and went to a rope hanging nearby, giving it a firm tug. You glanced up as dried flowers fell over the two of you, a bright collection of color during a cold winter day.

It was very sweet. You picked a flower that landed on his shoulder and stuck it in his hat before kissing him again.

“Thank you for the gifts, Buggy.” You told him. “I love you.”

He smirked, pulling you closer as his hand poured the good rum into the two glasses. “Cheers, my love. I love you too.”

[dvskf4llz]

Hello wonderful person! Could I request some bdubs x f!reader where the reader is really worried because bdubs hasn't slept in a few days because hes trying to finish a build he's making for the reader and so the reader helps him get some rest (that was so confusing to write im sorry)

I'm so sorry if this is too much I hope it's not -is 🕳 anon available? -

I was actually planning to make some bdubs fluff soon! :D

I love this idea sooo!

I can re-write this in 3rd POV if everyone prefers it that way!!! ^^

(Also yes 🕳 anon in available <3)

Go to sleep

𝓕!𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭𝓮𝓻 𝔁 𝓑𝓭𝓾𝓫𝓼 (𝓑𝓭𝓸𝓾𝓫𝓵𝓮𝓞100)

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TW: Literally just pure fluff, a bit of persuasion by the reader

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"Go to sleep." "But the build—" "Sleep."

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Ever since you and Bdubs became a couple, he's always been finding ways to spoil you

You would always end up getting a little box/package infront of your base, obviously from Bdubs.

Bdubs would even write little love letters from time to time, sneaking it from under your door or in your bedroom. (I imagine Bdubs's love language would be giving the reader gifts)

One day, you would be talking about something you've taken a liking to and then *boom*. The next day you'll suddenly have it, either set on your desk or outside of your base.

This time, Bdubs had decided that he wanted to make you a nice little (not actually little) [a build of your choice].

Now, the problem with this is the fact that Bdubs hadn't gotten a single ounce of sleep since he was too carried away with building [build of your choice].

This worries you a lot, you had found out that he hadn't gotten any sleep by the other Hermits. You may or may not have asked them to check up on Bdubs everytime you're not able to since you're also busy with other stuff.

You loved Bdubs dearly but, you hated the fact that he'd practically destroy his health just for a build that's meant to be for you.

After watching Bdubs never taking a break from the build, you decided it was time to confront him.

You walked over to where Bdubs was currently very focused on building, you tapped his shoulder

"Bdubs, could you stop building for a second?" You asked sweetly, waiting for Bdubs to stop whatever he was doing. Bdubs stopped himself as he was about to place a block, he looked back at you curiously

"Yes what is it?" Looking up at Bdubs close, you could see the dark eyebags underneath his eyes, his disheveled hair and the same pair of his outfit that he wore yesterday.

"Listen, you need sleep Bdubs. You can't just be building without any sleep!" You said, almost scolding him

"I've been without sleep before anyways! It doesn't matter!"

"And I thought you were the one who would always be insistent to go to sleep."

"Well-" Bdubs trailed off not knowing how to argue with what you sId

"Exactly, you can't argue back." You said putting a hand on your hip

"Go to sleep." You added

"But the build—"

"Sleep." You cut Bdubs off before he could argue back

Bdubs sighed, knowing he had no choice but to sleep

"Could we atleast cuddle?" Bdubs asked, giving his best puppy-dog eyes to convince you to cuddle with him. You could not resist his puppy eyes at all unfortunately, so you gave in.

"Alright...."

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You and Bdubs in bed together, getting comfortable so that you guys could start cuddling. You both were in your comfortable sleeping clothes. Once you two both found comfortable positions, Bdubs wrapped his arms around your waist, snuggling against you. You did the same, making sure Bdubs was still comfortable as you two cuddled.

After a good minute or so, you could hear snores coming from none other than Bdubs. You looked down to see Bdubs' sleeping form, you smiled to yourself watching him finally sleep after weeks of him not sleeping at all.

You soon felt yourself getting sleepy aswell, finding Bdubs' soft snores and the silence peaceful, your eyes soon closed, falling asleep in Bdubs' arms with a smile on your face.

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(BONUS!)

As soon as you woke up in the morning, Bdubs was not there by your side. Your immediate thought was that he was already working on the build for you once more. You stood up and went out of the room, thinking Bdubs would be outside.

Except, you were wrong. Bdubs was in the kitchen, making breakfast for the both of you. He had a little apron ontop of his pajamas, he hasn't heard you yet since he was focused on cooking the perfect meal for you. You looked at the scene infront of you, chuckling to yourself quietly.

You slowly approached Bdubs from behind, being quiet with your steps before wrapping your arms around Bdubs' waist which ended up startling him a bit

"GAH!- Jeez! You scared me [Name]!" Bdubs laughed, seemingly calmed down from the previous events. He took the [Insert favorite bfast food] out of the pan/pot and onto two plates/bowls, it was surprisingly not burnt.

"I made breakfast for both of us!" Bdubs exclaimed proudly and happily, you pulled away so that he could move properly. He then went over to the counter-table and set the food down before sitting down on one of the chairs, he motioned for you to sit down with him, a happy grin on his face.

You happily sat beside Bdubs, eating the breakfast he made with him. It was really just a sweet moment as you and him would talk before chewing on a spoonful of food, Bdubs would sometimes try and attempt to feed you but you would always catch him and he would always just laugh it off.

Overall, it was just really wholesome and nice to sit with your lover and eat in peace <3

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aaaaaaandddd you've reached the end!! Congrats! I really hoped you enjoyed this!! I've had this request for a while- I will be actually posting PT 2 of revenge on Christmas so stay tuned!!!

Goodbye lovely! We'll meet again soon! Always take care of yourself okay? There are people that love and care for you <333

[rockstar-roxie]

Pelipper mail! Two packages appear! One is wrapped in a thick pink ribbon and has a tag reading "To: Roxie" in neat, angular handwriting. The second is smaller and sports wrapping paper patterned with Galarian Weezings and a tag reading "Roxie" in light, flowing handwriting.

The first box contains multiple objects. The first is a choker in dark purple and yellow, studded with paler purple spikes like the bumps around a Toxtricity's wrists. The next is a small plush toy Toxel, the electricity on its head being made of a shiny material the crinkles when rubbed and the rest being deceptively soft to the touch for its looks. The box also contains a mixed bundle of fresh berries- multiple Shuca berries, Pecha berries, and Cherri berries tied together with their own pink ribbon. At the very bottom of the box is a plastic sleeve containing what seems to be a piece of cardboard. Removing it from the protective sleeve reveals a fairly convincing mock league card- it uses a picture of Roxie onstage at her tour's Ballonlea performance, lit up by spotlights and belting lyrics. It sports the Galar league's poison type style border, a large number "157" in the corner, and an iridescent foil finish. On the back of the card are small graphics portraying the team of pokemon she listed to Bede earlier- Amoonguss, Garbodor, Seviper, Drapion, Crobat, and Scolipede- as well as a large picture of a Toxic Badge. At the top is a small blurb: "Roxie, esteemed Gym Leader of Virbank City Gym in Unova. A poison type trainer, fierce battler, and interregionally renowned musician." It seems Bede hasn't exactly gotten the hang of the flowery and sensationalized descriptions on official league cards. On top of the box is a card, sporting Bede's signature. The lines are straight and neat, although it looks like they've been erased and redone multiple times in an attempt to make them perfect. The card reads "I seem to remember you expressing a desire for a 'cool custom card' in the past. I expect this will suffice, but if not, I've no doubt that you'll find the other gifts suitable in their own right~"

the second box is much smaller, and only contains one item: A pair of large earrings. they depict two Koffings made out of polymer clay dangling from silver chains. The earrings come with a note in flowy cursive: "Ms. Roxie, I was delighted to hear that Bede had decided to invite you over for our Delibird Day festivities. I meant to bring up the idea to him myself, you know, but he set his mind on it before I even had the chance to. I do appreciate you offering that boy your friendship... I like to think you've got him slipping out of his Torkoal shell more and more by the day. Enclosed you'll find some of my old earrings. now, I hope you don't mind getting some old woman's hand-me-downs, but I think they've about run their course with me, and they just cried out to me that they'd like to be with you. I do hope that they'll serve you well, and that you'll continue being so refreshingly, unapologetically 'you' in the new year to come. The world needs more trainers like you... and not just poison type trainers made my job so much more interesting, hm-hm! Best regards, Ms. Opal"

@ballonleastadiumofficial

(*A wide grin adorns Roxie's face as they accept the two packages and excitedly plop onto the floor to open them, much like a kid on Delibird Day morning. She chooses to open the package wrapped in a pink ribbon first, undoing the mentioned ribbon, and practically tearing off the lid.*)

(*Roxie's grin widens even further, if that's even possible, eyes lighting up as he picks up the first item. She admires the Toxtricity inspired choker for several heartbeats before immediately clasping it around her neck, continuing on with the gift-opening seconds after.*)

(*They grab the Toxel plush, giving it an experimental squeeze. Once deemed soft and squishy enough, Roxie sets it on their lap to observe her going for the bundle of berries still inside the box. Although she'll likely give the rest to her Pokémon, she can't help but take one for herself and shove it in her mouth.*)

(*While chewing the sweet Pecha berry, Roxie almost misses the last item sitting on the bottom of the gift box. With a quick wipe of their hands on her pants, she gently picks up the protected cardboard. Their brow furrows slightly in confusion, only for them to immediately raise in surprise as soon as the mock league card is revealed. An excited gasp leaves his lips, bringing it closer to their face to admire it. Roxie's fingernail, painted with chipped purple, traces the front of the card as she takes in every detail. Once done, she flips it around to reveal even more. Assuming the small paragraph to be written by Bede himself, Roxie feels her chest swell with warmth.*)

(*Blue eyes drift back to the discarded lid, discovering that there's a card attached to it that she should probably read. An affectionate chuckle leaves their lips, setting the card down a bit nicer than before.*)

(*Now time for the second, smaller box. Roxie doesn't waste much time opening it of course, revealing a pair of Koffing shaped earrings... In true Roxie fashion, he's taking the earrings he already had in out of her ears and putting in her new pair. After admiring themself in the nearest reflective surface, they turn their attention to the note that had come with the earrings.*)

(*Whilst reading the flowy writing, Roxie's wide smile fades into something softer... Her fingers grip the note a little tighter as they feel their face getting hot with flattery and appreciation. And if her eyes got a bit misty, well that's something she'll keep to herself. With only a few breaths to let the nice words of both Bede and Opal sink in, she launches themself from the floor to begin writing thank you notes.*)

[tomtenadia]

Detours to you - ch 15

Good evening/day/night...

Here I am with a niche fluffy holiday chapter. In real life the solstice is two week away, but in Orynth it's celebration time...

I promise nothing but fluff ❤️

MASTERLIST

A week had passed and the solstice was finally upon them. Aelin had recovered from her injuries and had already gone back to work claiming that the shop was busy and she could not leave Elide and Lys alone. But on that day and the one after they were closed as in Orynth tradition. 

At home she had decorated the house with Rowan and Maya. The fun day was meant to be a week before but she had preferred a fight and a bit of drama. However, the following day Rowan had retrieved a big box of decorations he had collected from her old flat and the three of them had a great day decorating and while she studied father and daughter, she had realised that she had never felt any happier. The scene reminded her of her childhood with her father getting the house ready.

Now, on the morning of the solstice, Rowan was downstairs in the kitchen making breakfast. It was a holiday so he was preparing waffles with ice cream and strawberries. Aelin and Maya arrived twenty minutes later, his daughter clearing sleep away from her eyes with her fists.

“Morning ladies,” his voice full of cheerfulness. 

“Gee whitethorn, you have too much energy already.”

In one long stride he walked to her and gently placed a mug in her hand and a gentle kiss on her cheek, then he turned to Maya, helped her to climb on her chair and placed her pwn glass of chocolate milk.

He had found a version specific for kids with no sugars and high in calcium. If she wanted to have it as a breakfast drink, he had to make sure it was healthy. The sugary breakfast that morning was a one off due to the holiday.

Waffles ready he distributed them and for a moment silence fell until Maya rose her hands in the air “I finish.”

“Do you want a few more strawberries?”

“No, presents.” She scurried down the chair but Rowan stopped her “Maya, back on the chair. No presents until mum and I are done.”

She sat on the floor in protest and folded her arms at her chest. A deep pout painted on her face “You are so slow.”

Aelin tried not to laugh “Dad is right, wait for us.”

“But I finished.”

Rowan went to pick up Maya and sat her on his lap “Come on, have another strawberry.”

“No, I want my presents.”

It was twenty minutes later after they were done and Maya had been protesting loudly the whole time. Rowan then grabbed her potato sack style and stomped in the living room “You have no patience just like your mother.”

Aelin followed behind “Hey, I heard you.”

Rowan smiled “When it comes to food or presents you are the same.”

She plopped on the sofa “Lies.”

“So, present time,” he grabbed one and passed it to Aelin. It was an envelope and he did not miss her disappointed face. Which turned quickly as soon as she saw what was inside “Rowan, how did you know? I have been dying to try this new spa in ages.”

He smiled “I know. I heard you speaking about it once I was in the shop. You Elide and Lys were non stop.”

“Ro, it’s three passes.”

He nodded “You can take El and Lys with you.

“What about the shop?”

“Well, if you ladies go on a weekend I can work there, take Maya with me and I can ask Aedion too.”

Aelin looked at him puzzled.

“Hey, I can ask Fenrys, the man can charm anyone.”

“Rowan I…”

“Ae, you deserve a break. And this is it. You three ladies have a day off.” He winked “I just thought that with friends was a better experience than alone. And I got you a great package.”

“Thank you.”

Aelin had gifted Rowan a photo book with a lot of Maya’s pictures. Her entire journey from the day she was born “It’s not much but I had no idea what to give you.”

Rowan looked at Aelin with soft eyes “It’s perfect.”

He opened the first page with Maya’s hand in the paint.

“Dad, who is it?” Asked Maya crawling closer and looking at the pictures.

“This is you, my love.”

Then it was Maya’s turn. Aelin had gifted her a few books, a LEGO set and then the reason why their daughter was now running around screaming.

Aelin had got her hands on three behind the scenes VIP passes for a meet and greet with the Stags.

“Do you like it?”

“Yes! I want Dorian to write my jersey.”

Aelin laughed “we can ask him for an autograph.”

She then turned to Rowan “The third pass is of course for you.”

“Wonder if the women’s team will be there?” He joked “I have my crushes too.”

“Now it’s my turn.” He disappeared upstairs and came back a few minutes later with a big box.

Maya rose on her knees all excited.

With Rowan’s help she tore the paper and gasped at the present. It was a telescope.

According to a lot of reviews that was the best model for kids her age and for beginners “I know you have one at grampa’s but this one you can keep it in your room and it’s all yours. When you are older you can use mine.”

Maya jumped in his arms “I love it.”

“Now we need to wait for the snow to melt and we can go in the garden and look at the stars.”

*

Around eleven they were ready to go the grandparents.

Maya had decided that she was not changing and was remaining in her new elf pyjama. Both parents tried but in the end they were just going to Aelin’s parents.

“Just the jacket and the thick socks, please?”

“Fine,” she conceded while Aelin finished preparing and Rowan was outside getting the car ready. He had got it back the previous day. Until then, he had taken Aelin and Maya to the shop with him and retrieved after he finished work. Aelin’s car was still in his driveway but he was not letting her drive it until the weather got better.

“Are we ready?”

Aelin was fighting trying to make Maya wear her jacket “Why is the munchkin not ready yet?”

“Because apparently she has picked today to make her own opinion on everything. Now it’s shoes and jacket.”

“Elves don’t wear jackets and shoes.”

Rowan sighed “well, the car will be warm by now. Let’s go tornado.”

“I am not a tornado. You are a tall stupid fairy.”

“Maya!!” Aelin climbed at the back with her daughter to place her in the car seat “Apologise to dad.” She has seen Rowan’s expression darken all of a sudden “Come on.”

“Sorry dad.”

Rowan turned “it’s okay, baby.”

Aelin joined him at the front and her hand landed on his thigh. Rowan squeezed her hand and then set the car in motion.

The Galathynius’ house appeared in the distance surrounded by trees and snow. Aelin’s parents lived just outside the city. Not as far as Rowan but enough to have a more secluded atmosphere.

“Can I get off?”

Rowan stopped the car and Aelin ran at the back to free Maya “Stay there, you can’t walk in the snow.”

Alerted by the sound of the car crunching the snow, Evalin and Rhoe appeared at the door and Maya became excited to see her grandparents and tell them all about her presents.

Rhoe closed the distance “Maya!”

“Granda! Look I am elf!”

The man laughed “you are a cold feet elf, let’s get inside.”

Rhoe took his granddaughter inside while Aelin and Rowan grabbed their stuff. Aelin had brought a bottle of wine and Rowan had insisted on baking, although he knew Evalin had likely prepared a feast for an army. Then the usual bag that Aelin carried with Maya’s stuff.

Once inside, Evalin greeted them both and Maya ran to them all excited “Grandad gave me socks.”

Rowan’s hand went to his hips “Oh so you wear socks if grampa says so?”

She wiggled her foot and showed her parents the thick woollen socks with pandas on.

“Well, Rowan, how can we compete? Ours were just plain blue.”

Satisfied, Maya ran away and the two walked to the kitchen were the most amazing smell hit their senses. Rowan had almost forgotten how an amazing chef Evalin was.

“This smells amazing, Evalin.”

“Thanks Rowan, I went with some of your favourites too,”

He smiled and offered her his container “I made cinnamon rolls last night.”

After Evalin politely shooed Rowan away she pulled her daughter to her “So, you seem better.”

Aelin nodded, grabbing the glass of wine her mum gave her “He almost lost us because I was stubborn and Maya was suffering for our fights. So we talked and we are working on things.”

“Good,’ added Evalin while stirring “Do not let him go again, Aelin. Men like Rowan are rare.”

Aelin knew. She knew how lucky she was having a sort of second chance with him. The few dates she had been on had been an utter disaster and Sam had fled the second date after she had confessed she had a daughter.

“How’s the little tornado adjusting to her dad?”

Aelin chuckled “she has him already whipped.”

“Go, join them. I will be there soon with food.”

She left the kitchen and carried the tray of appetisers and a bottle of wine for the adults and some juice for Maya. She passed a glass to Rowan but he stopped her “I don’t drink.”

Aelin forgot that he was really strict when it came to alcohol, especially when he was driving.

“I’ll take orange juice like Maya.”

“Maya, did you tell your grandpa about your presents?”

Rhoe laughed “Oh yes, she gave me a full account.” He then turned to Rowan “So, how’s work?”

Rowan grabbed his glass of juice and leaned back on the sofa “Getting used to it, it’s a lot of paperwork and inspections and meetings but I love it.”

“Good,” he added “your predecessor left a bit of a mess.”

“He was a doodoo head.” Added Maya while busy colouring her book.

“Maya what did we say about such words?”

“Sorry.”

During dinner Maya sat between her grandparents and entertained the whole family.

*

Rowan was coming back from the toilets when he spotted a door that looked familiar. He pushed it open and found out it was the piano room. He stepped inside and memories flashed back to him. Of a time of happiness. With his finger he gently brushed the wooden lid. He hadn’t heard Aelin play in a long time. She was so good and shy and he would push her to practice and play for him every time they were at her house. Slowly he lifted the lid and sat on the bench. With his fingers he pressed some random buttons making nothing but a metallic sound.

“I doubt the Terrasen National Orchestra will call you soon to play for them.”

He turned at the voice and saw Aelin leaning against the door frame. She then walked to him and he looked up at her.

Aelin stared at Rowan and her mind replayed the memories of the last time they were together in that room. Her hand carded in his long silver hair and his eyes closed at the gesture. 

“I haven’t…” she paused “I haven’t played the piano since the last time you and I were here,” she confessed while sitting beside him “Life happened, I let you go and I felt empty and with that I lost the desire to play.”

Rowan pulled her closer and in that moment Aelin placed her fingers on the keys and a gentle melody started to play in the room. His arm wound around her waist and he just listened as the tune evolved in a crescendo of joyful music.

She finished and turned to him. Rowan stared at Aelin in her deep blue eyes. She inched closer and her lips closed on his. 

Rowan cupped her cheek and then pulled back “Aelin…”

“I am sorry.”

“No,” he said, kissing her gently again “It’s just that I don’t think I am there yet.”

Aelin was about to pull away from him completely, but Rowan kept her close. With his finger he lifted her chin to stare in the depth of her blue eyes “My feelings are a mess. I…” he paused “If we decide to go ahead with whatever this is, we need to make sure we are not in love with the echo of what we were five years ago.” His hand gently removed a rebel lock of hair from her face “We have Maya to think about and I want us to be real, our feelings to be real and not just memories of what we were.”

Aelin nodded and leaned against him and Rowan kissed her head and enveloped her in his arms “I want to try, Aelin.” A soft whisper and she searched his stare.

“Maybe we can start with a good old fashioned date?”

Her lips crashed against his again “I’d love to, chief.”

Not long after Maya and her parents walked in the room and they all celebrated the rest of the afternoon in the room, with Aelin playing and all singing songs together.

Aelin stared at the falling snow while her fingers moved on the keys as if those five years had never happened. She looked at Rowan and at her daughter at her side and let the music grew and soar.

Rowan pulled her closer with Maya tucked between them and kissed Aelin.

In that snowy solstice days the notes of music carried the flakes of hope to the skies.

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