#(I hope you'll have an amazing sunday)

[respondedinkind]

|| Happy sunday, everyone! I apologize for being a bit slow; I shall work on my drafts here as soon as I am able to. ♥ My brain is a bit lazy and many of my drafts are currently just a lot to take, and I want to give them my best so I may take a bit longer for most things. Some things just come easier to me than others.

I hope you all are doing well, and I'm sending you good vibes and positive energy! ♥

[alonetimelover]

So High School - part 2

read part 1 ------》 here

pairing: tennis player!reader x Lando Norris

fc: Iga Świątek

summary: Lando keeps pursuing his attempts at scoring a date with THE YN YSN - to the enjoyment of his on-track besties. But nobody has better days on social media than his haters. And sometimes being passive is not an option - you need to silence them.

warnings: internet hate

F1 masterlist taglist

🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎🏎🥎

f1

liked by landonorris, oscarpiastri, danielricciardo, yourinstagram and 2 001 292 others

f1 Padel, tennis or maybe carting? Which of these sports are the best and worst to try for our drivers - Lando, Max, Fernando and Daniel, and our special guest at the British Grand Prix - YN YSN? Stay tuned and watch what they all were up to right before the Grand Prix start on Sunday!

view all 23 100 comments

ynsmybestie YN YNYNYNYN YSN

ynsmybestie she is finally AT THE RACE

landogirly yn's going to be lando's lucky charm or he's going to be so stressed it's all over

landonorris best challenge ever

⤷ oscarpiastri are you saying that because of what I think orr??

⤷ landonorris shhhh Osco

⤷ oscarpiastri you're very ungrateful to the person that gave you the place in this challenge

⤷ landonorris LOVE YOU OSCAR

danielricciardo how did we lose playing 4 against 1????

⤷ maxverstappen1 Because you couldn't stop talking!

⤷ fernandoalo_official We played against world No. 1. Maybe that's why. Oh, and landonorris couldn't stop tripping over his feet

⤷ landonorris thank you, my racing father. you embarrass me like my own father

fernandoalo_official Great playing and speaking with you, yourinstagram!

⤷ yourinstagram the pleasure was mine!!!! thank you for all the tips during the race 🧡

⤷ fernandoalo_official Any time! I hope you'll enjoy your time during the race and will come say hello!

ynsmymama not yn only responding to nando's comment

⤷ landogirly lando can do everything and he's still ignored

⤷ norizzfan well, let's have hope he can step up his game

comment liked by landonorris and 4022 others

⤷ ynsmyno1 not lando liking norrrizfan comment 💀

landofan77 not Oscar giving up this challenge so Lando could have a chance with yn

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f1gossippage

liked by landogirly, ynsmybestie and 40 292 others

f1gossippage A little story thanks to our followers from UK!

1st picture: Lando meeting some fans right before entering one of the London's restaurants (very chic and date-like outfit).

2nd picture: a fan caught Lando and some woman entering the photo booth together and stayed to take this photo! Looking rather cozy!

3rd picture: IG story from YN YSN deleted mere 2 minutes after posting! The outfit awfully similar to the one wore by Lando 😏

4th picture: Lando during today's stream "I just came back from the dinner, guys. let's chat" "yes, the date was amazing, thank you for asking!" "I've never said I was at the date. what do you mean?" "Oh no."

Could that mean something? New wag alert? Let's keep watching!

view all 1 088 comments

landogirly I mean it checks out but I can't believe that lando could get THE YN YSN... like let's be real

landogirly BYT if it's true... THE BEST COUPLE IN THE PADDOCK

ynsmybestie one time yn posts something not related to tennis and it gets deleted... and it's also A MAN 🤢

ynsmymama let it be true let it be true let it be true

landofan92 no way

landofan99 he did not bag a baddie like yn, no way

formula1fan93 yeah, no. that did not happened

ynysnfan833 ewwwwww get that away from me

ynysnfan911 really? an f1 driver? she could do much better

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mclaren

liked by yourinstagram, landonorris, oscarpiastri and 1 003 292 others

mclaren Our newest addition to the papaya family has arrived!!!! YN YSN (yourinstagram) - WTA No. 1 player has joined Lando and Oscar for their Silverstone fanzone hour! Tune in to our YouTube channel to follow it live!

view all 10 392 comments

landogirly look at lando being all smiley and giggly and blushy 🤭 he has the fattest crush on yn

landosarmyohmy PROTECT THEM AT ALL COST

ynsmybestie not yn saying "well, my favourite driver was and always will be Sebastian Vettel. Fernando is a close second" and then not wanting to say her third favourite!!!!

⤷ landogirly i bet she wanted to say lando (im delusional)

ynsmymama lando saying, "i don't care what people say about me as long as they're not bringing other people down with it. what you want to say about me - say it. and at the same time, you can be respectful about it, can't you?"

landofan99 BEST FANZONE IVE EVER ATTENDED

landoscarfan77 the more I see them interact the more I think there's something going on between them

⤷ ynsmybestie they do have some chemistry going on

⤷ landofan99 wasn't it confirmed that yn went on a date with lando?

⤷ ynsmybestie well... most likely, it was true, but there are no pictures of them together being at the same place

landofan729 LOOK. AT. THEM.

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ynupdates

liked by ynsmybestie, landogirly, danielricciardo and 8 393 others

ynupdates YN congratulating Lando Norris (F1 driver) for his podium finish at the Britidh Grand Prix! photo posted by Lando's father!

view all 638 comments

landogirly AHAHFIRKDNXJIWKSKD

landogirly fuck offfff

landogirly look at himmmm, crinkles by the eyes, hand placement, the JOY IN HIS EYES

ynsmybestie yn once again fulfilling the dreams of her fans

ynsmymama I wasn't on this really but... I SHIP IT

landoscarmyohmy but the video, THE VIDEO, how she just falls into his arms (as if she did that multiple times already), he's little "oh, hi" when she places her head on his chest, her quiet "congratulations, you did so good" and OSCAR in the background grinning like a devil

⤷ ynsmybestie was it also posted by lando's dad????

⤷ landoscarmyohmy yes, it was! he is the captain of this ship!

hater93 another one to put on the list of "seeing an f1 race to just find a driver dumb enough to go out with me"

hater993 why would I care man

hater839 lowlifes found each other

⤷ danielricciardo didn't know you met YN and Lando yourself

⤷ oscarpiastri oh yes, lowlifes of the best tennis player in the World right now and the guy who won an F1 race and is competing for a championship. such lowlifes

ynsmymama Daniel and Oscar backing Lando, THATS FREAKING RIGHT, THESE ARE MY DRIVERS

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landogirly

liked by ynsmybestie, ynsmymama and 7 493 others

landogirly LANDO AND HIS PARENTS ARE AT YN'S MATCH AT WIMBLEDON!!!!!!!!!!!!! it is happening my loves. IT. IS. HAPPENING.

view all 349 comments

ynupdates lucky charm?

ynsmymama please bring mother luck, please bring mother luck, please bring mother luck

landofan75 that man will be everywhere but at the sim room practicing his starts

landoscarmyohmy meeting the parents???????

⤷ ynsmybestie yn met lando's parents at the silverstone race!

landofan588 he looks so gooooooood *drooling*

landofan686 watched it and his dad smirking at lando after every time that lan cheered for yn!!!!!!!! that was everything to me. e v e r y t h i n g

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Twitch: Lando and Max talking and playing COD!

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yourinstagram

liked by landonorris, danielricciardo, oscarpiastri, lewishamilton and 810 292 others

yourinstagram trophies, cars, some love and nature

view all 18 494 comments

ynsmymama A MAN????????

ynsmymama a love letter

ynsmybestie she won wimbledon, she has A MAN, she is happy, she is in love, SHE IS EVERYTHING HE'S JUST KEN

landogirly no fuckin way no fuckin way no fuckin way

landogirly HOW DID IT HAPPEN?????

landogirly also not you trying to soft launch when we all know who that man is

norizzlan lando norris wrotes love letters??????? who is this man

landoscarfan85 WTF

danielricciardo i didn't know you loved OUR picture this much

⤷ yourinstagram how could I not? ;)

oscarpiastri happy to see my stickers being used properly

lewishamilton watching you win more and more titles is truly inspiring! you are the force, YN!

⤷ yourinstagram thank you, seven-time world champion, record-breaking driver and my favourite dog dad!

⤷ lewishamilton waiting for you to break more records! roscoe is waiting for more belly rubs!

fernandoalo_official come to the race when i'm on the podium, princesa!

⤷ yourinstagram i'll blow max's tyres and we're good

⤷ maxverstappen1 hey! i thought we were friends

landonorris keeping cuddles for noir!

⤷ yourinstagram snacks are better to bribe him

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f1gossippage

liked by landofan85 and 20 393 others

f1gossippage Lando Norris seems to be enjoying his free weekend accompanied by his new beau - YN YSN!

view all 1 074 comments

landogirly fucking disgusting to take pics while people are having such a PRIVATE moment

ynsmymama "new beau" google YN and call her accordingly to her accomplishments

ynsmybestie creepy to post these type of pictures

landoscarfan85 not a moment without a camera pointing right at them.... disgusting

landofan854 wine, dine & shine

landofan664 can't get used to lando being all lovey dovey

hater85 waiting for her to flop just like him

hater92 focus on your job

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landonorris

liked by yourinstagram, oscarpiastri, danielricciardo and 1 001 399 others

landonorris new beau, focusing on my job and looking for a better man

view all 24 430 comments

landogirly HAHAHAHHAAHHAHHAHHAH

landogirly that's the biggest "fuck you" to the haters that i've ever seen

ynsmymama oh i love him, your honour

norizzlan someone found his rizz and used it perfectly

landoscarmyohmy using haters favourite words to make your relationship public? ICONIC

ynsmybestie loved the soft launch for the first 8 pictures and then BOOM - the queen's here

danielricciardo no problem for taking those photos, no problem!

⤷ landonorris what photos?

⤷ yourinstagram tickets for the Olympics matches are waiting for you, danny

⤷ danielricciardo you are my best friend

oscarpiastri YOU'RE WELCOME

lewishamilton treat her right

⤷ landonorris 🫡

fernandoalo_official yourinstagram, will i see you more on the track?

⤷ landonorris apparently we don't have time to visit each other at our jobs so....

⤷ yourinstagram i sent you tickets for my next match

carlossainz55 5th picture is your bedroom

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should I add more drama to this or just leave it here?

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taglist: @daniellef89x | @raikiri-sensei | @sleutherclaw | @iambored24601 | @chocolatefuryface | @alexmarie29 | @addriaenne | @ecac53 | @poppyflower-22 | @herdetectivetheorist | @imboredway2much | @hard4ndsoft | @ziraelmtd | @firelily-mimi | @eiffel-hood | @littlegrapejuice | @czennieszn

[coff33andb00ks]

Until You

Part One | Part Two

charles leclerc x female pop singer!reader x oscar piastri f1 smau with intermittent scenes fc: none it's a mix of taylor swift, sabrina carpenter, and random pinterest ladies. {voice claim is adele}

Summary: he drives vroom vrooms, she sings soulful tunes. there's no way in hell this is gonna work, right? Warnings: language Notes: my first foray into smau and holy shit these are a lot of fun (and work omg). special thanks to @driverlando for the encouragement and listening to me whine

ynyln

liked by charles_leclrec, landonorris, pierregasly and 3,689,476 others ynyln: Merci beaucoup, Paris! Je t'aime et à bientôt!! ❤️💋 user1: formula one what are you doing here     user2: she's always been a fan? user3: hope you're ok!! <3 user4: mother showing us all why she's mother pierregasly: magnifique spectacle, rendez-vous à Monaco! user5: did anyone see the fan vides of the f1 boys there?      user6: she's gonna be at Monaco?!?!      user7: were they in vip?      user5: yeah but from what I've seen they didn't go backstage or anything user7: announce split from shitbag bf then perform best show of her tour? queen shit

ynyln

liked by mclaren, charles_leclrec, scuderriaferrari and 2,912,672 others ynyln: For the first time I will be attending a Grand Prix! Vroom vrooms make my heart go brr. Eternally grateful to scuderiaferrari for the invitation. (They don't have to know my favorite driver is on mclaren) 📷: poster of the gp I was supposed to go to 2 years ago scuderriaferrari: 🤨 scuderriaferrari: we're sure you'll be a converted tifosi by Sunday mclaren: yn is our fan 🙏🏻 Oscar and Lando on cloud 9 now f1: Looking forward to (finally) welcoming you! user4: alright y'all is she a Lando or Oscar girlie      ynyln: can't I love them both 🥺 user8: great now I gotta watch all the grand prix stuff this week for a glimpse of mother user7: why didn't you go 2 years ago?     user8: J*stin that's why ynbff: I know this is so beyond huge for you! You're going to have such a great time!! (liked by ynyln) user4: idk but it's weird she's all happy and stuff right after the end of her relationship with IDK      user1: not really? If you look back for the past year they were rarely seen together. He didn't even go to her launch party in London      user5: yeah anyone could see they were over long before they announced it. she probably mourned it already

ynyln

liked by charles_leclrec, ybffn, oscarpiastri, landonorris, and 4,698,981 others

ynyln: Dinner in Monte Carlo. Do I go all in on black or red?

scuderriaferrari: red, obviously landonorris: black charles_leclerc: Red maxverstappen1: Black ynyln: all these blue check marks where are my lil lattes 😩 user2: yn stays forgetting she's the biggest blue check mark user1: not max joining in the mclaren vs ferrari fight for YN mclaren: Papaya 🥺 (but black)      scuderiaferrari: go comment on your own guest's posts      mclaren: you sent the invite after we mentioned doing it      landonorris: do better admin      mclaren: We'll get her next time      redbullracing: not if we get her first      landonorris: if not we're going on strike      oscarpiastri: we what      landonorris: for legal reasons that was a joke 🙄 oscarpiastri: I quite like the red user3: I love that YN asked opinions on her fit but it's just f1 drivers and admins fighting over her 🍿🍿 (liked by author)      ynyln: it's amazing right? no one's fought over me before user3: bffr sabrinacarpenter: love the black but the red slays 🫶🏻 redbullracing: we vote blue      mclaren: that's not an option?      redbullracing: we still vote blue      scuderiaferrari: don't you have an energy drink to go sell user4: came for the pics, stayed for the f1 chaos

ynyln has added to their story

caption: making men wait for selfies before i order food? yes

Y/n and Charles lingered over their wine, and when yn/bff made the signal that they should get going y/n waved her off. Usually she hated social settings, but Charles was so personable and warm that she felt like she was chatting with a longtime friend. "You can go, Pete can get me back to the hotel," she said, glancing to the table in the corner, where Pete and Charles's bodyguards sat. The dining room was private, and she had the feeling that Ferrari had paid to have the restaurant closed to anyone but their small party for the night.

"I will make sure she gets back safely," Charles promised.

Yn/bff relented, excusing herself and leaving. The next several moments YN bid goodnight to the others, smiling sweetly and shaking hands of the Ferrari personnel and members of the team, and finally Carlos, who shared a knowing look with Charles before he left.

"You don't have to stay with me," she said as the waiter came to refill their glasses.

"No, I am having a wonderful time." He smiled, asking the waiter to leave the bottle. "I have wanted to meet you for a long time."

That surprised her. "Really?" she asked, sipping her wine.

He nodded, standing and bringing his glass and the bottle around so he could sit next to her. "I've been a fan of yours since – ah, I'm bad at song titles. The song where it's – I heard that you're settled down. I can't sing, I'm sorry."

She smiled. "Someone Like You?"

"Yes, that one." Charles leaned one arm on the table. "A few of us came to Paris and we were supposed to come backstage after the show, but after what happened…"

"I saw pictures and videos of you and – Lando and Pierre right? I wish I could have met you then – I've been a fan forever, but…" She swallowed hard, glancing down briefly. "I cancelled my post show meetings," she murmured. "It didn't seem right."

"Were you…" He paused, then shook his head. "It is none of my business."

"Was I too upset?" she guessed, taking another sip as the surprised flashed in his eyes. "I suppose I was. You were at the show… Those emotional moments weren't rehearsed."

"I could tell."

"Do you want to know the crazy part?" She didn't know why she was sharing this with him. He was a stranger. Yet she felt so at ease with him. More at ease than she had in a long time, really. "I wasn't crying for him."

"Who were you crying for, chérie?" he asked softly.

"Myself. For the wasted time, the pain I put myself through." Y/n gave her head a little shake. "I'm sorry, you don't want to hear about that."

"I want to hear about anything you wish to say."

"Are you always this charming?" she asked.

"I'm not charming. That makes it sound like I'm trying to make you like me. I am just… Me, y/n."

"You. Charles Leclerc, one of the top drivers in formula one."

"And you are just y/n, queen of music."

"I wasn't always."

"Neither was I."

"Touche," she sighed, lightly clinking her glass to his. "But you are charming."

"Perhaps I am just charmed. I am glad you went with the red." His eyes stayed on her as he finished his wine. Then he glanced to the corner, hesitating before facing her again. "Would you like to go somewhere more private?"

She hesitated. She didn't know him. The last thing she needed was some messy disaster of a fling, or to dive into a new relationship. And yet… "Yes," she whispered.

tbc.

[mungdou]

DANDELIONS PT. 2

PR. ushijima x reader; semi x reader

W. swears

GR. angst, comfort, resolution

WC. 3.2k

AN. revenge is so sweet; tysm for all the love on the first part!! it was such a warm welcome back haha :)) requests are still open so please ask away my brain is highkey empty.

(pt. 1)

It's been a while since you've felt lonely. After that day, Semi started sitting with you during lunch to chat about his day, hum some new riffs he was testing out on his guitar, or just as good company. He'd get something from the cafeteria whilst you ate the pre-packed lunch you made the night before. Needless to say, there were more than a few bites missing from your lunch after the hour was over. It was peaceful and more than anything you could ask for.

"Y/n, listen to this-" He played a short video clip of a new song he was practicing. The sound was smooth, almost as if he had run the audio through a creamy filter. Were his fingers always this nimble? Or did you just start noticing? Mesmerized by the short clip, you couldn't help pressing the reset button 3 or 4 times before Semi began pulling away.

Your eyes looked up, snapped out of the trance his fingering put you into. "Oh! Sorry, I couldn't help myself-" You smiled as your face burned with embarrassment. "That was amazing, Semi-Semi, definitely remind me next time you practice- I'd love to come listen to you live." Your fingers twiddled under the table, hoping the sudden advance didn't come out too eager. His playing was beautiful- his fingers danced on the fretboard meticulously and the notes were so smooth, almost like magic.

His lips curled in a proud smile and he seemed to perk up like a dog. "You... wanna come over? Like, to hear me practice? Me? Really?" He mustered out, his words stumbled over another. His ears turned pink and waved his hands around, gesturing between the two of you without direction.

You giggled at his flustered reaction and grasped his flailing hands. They were flushed at the knuckles, and you could feel the hard-earned callouses that had formed from years of guitar and volleyball practice. His palms were warm, but his fingertips were cold, and as you squeezed his hands, they seemed to relax into a gentle position.

"Yes! I'd really like it if I could... does this Sunday work? You'll be going home for the weekend, right?" You eagerly spoke, your hands squeezing his just a bit harder.

Semi nodded shyly, his eyes darting between his enveloped hands and your eyes. "Ahem-" He coughed softly. "Here, give me your phone, I'll put my address in for you." He took your phone off the table and typed in his address before turning it to you to confirm that you had it.

"Hmm? Oh! You live so close by to me!" You exclaimed, smiling brightly. "Yeah this is like, a 15 minute walk from my place! Wow, Why haven't we seen this before, that's so convenient, Semi-semi!"

"Oh really? That's crazy, we could have been catching the bus together or something-"

"SEMI-SEMIIIIII??" The disembodied voice of a familiar lanky middle blocker interrupted your newfound discovery. "DID SHE JUST CALL YOU SEMI-SEMI????"

"Goddamnit" Semi groans, turning away from Tendou, banging his head against the table.

"Hi Tendou, what's going on?" A shit-eating grin creeped on your face with full intent to milk this 'Semi-semi' privilege you held over his head. One of the only things you could hold above his head to be honest.

Tendou's teeth grit, greeting you with a playful glare before turning to Semi, "Why can she call you Semi-semi without getting verbally attacked? This isn't fair, I'll have you know." He tsked, "And what's this about meeting up?? Hmm?? Unsupervised, might I add?"

"Shut up, Tendou." Semi growled, picking up his tray and walking away.

You smiled nervously at Tendou, "So..." You began.

"So..." Tendou copied.

"How's Ushijima been? I mean- well- yeah." It was hard asking. It had been a few weeks since he insulted your character and needless to say, everything about it was hard. His words and your acceptance of those words. As much as you wish it didn't, time still moved on even though you were left in pain and embarrassment. The only thing that helped you get through with it was Semi and Tendou.

"He's doing okay, I guess?" Tendou mused before sauntering to pester Goshiki abut his bowl cut or something.

You guess? Okay, weird.

✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

Even though Tendou stayed close to Ushijima, he still came over to ask about how you were doing every so often, or to tease you about something or another. It was refreshing, that despite all this, he still treated you the same.

At least he didn't pity you.

It was a shame how fast rumors spread after Ushijima rejected you so coldly.

Most said that it was your fault for interfering with his feelings.

Some thought that it was his fault for being so blunt without apologies.

Even less thought it had to do with Aoi.

Most people in the inner volleyball ring knew the truth. That Aoi had changed their cornerstone ace for better and worse. On one hand, he worked twice as hard to impress her and to better himself. On the other hand, he became ever so slightly distracted, and it didn't help that Aoi rarely did her manager duties.

At some point, it had become too much for you to handle basic manager duties on top of appealing to Aoi and Ushijima. Aoi's whole point of being here was to help out, but instead of pushing carts, hanging laundry, or taking notes, she could be seen trailing her boyfriend up and down the court with a water bottle and towel only for him.

Imagine pulling a hundred pound anchor of dead weight on a chain with your teeth while using your hands to organize papers and running 5 miles an hour.

It was obvious that people noticed. They pitied you more than they cared to admit, but they were too afraid to speak out. Plus, you reassured them that everything was fine as to not stress them out further.

Besides, it wasn't like you could fire her at this point. She was supposed to be taking over after you graduated and it was already too soon to the end of the year to start over.

✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

That Saturday, you woke up earlier than usual to make some cute thumbprint jam cookies to bring over as a snack for your hangout the next day. You biked out to the local grocery store to grab some missing ingredients and some nice fruit for his parents before visiting for the first time. After grabbing all the ingredients, all that was left was to peruse the aisles for fun.

"Ooh, they have truffle fry chips? That's new- ahh I shouldn't... but then again... hmmm." You murmured to yourself, crouching down to look at the options of savory treats when you heard a voice call out your name.

"Y/n-senpai?" A familiar cute, yet unfeeling voice rang in your ears, making your stomach flip in anxiety. You turned around and saw Aoi standing at the end of the aisle. Whipping your eyes back down to the bottom of the shelf, you took a few deep breaths as you heard the pitter-patter of her heel-adorned feet run down the aisle towards you.

"Aoi." You curtly nipped, with an unfamiliar lack of emotion lacing your words. "What are you doing here?" Standing back up to face her, you noticed that she had showy makeup on and was dressed nicer than usual.

"I'm here to get something with Toshi~ But I should be asking you that." She smirked boastfully, her cute demeanor barely shielding her bitter intentions. "You are so... weird. No offense. Why are you here? Probably stalking Toshi like always. Ugh, you're so suffocating, like, leave us alone. He. Doesn't. Like. You. What don't you get about that? Honestly, I might need to call the police or something to report you-"

"I. Don't. Give. A. Flying. Fuck. You. Dense. Ass. Child." You clapped back, clapping between every word, emphasizing your hate towards her. "You wanna talk about being clingy and obsessed? Really? Because last time I checked, who's the one who constantly follows Ushijima around the court, ignoring everyone else around them? The one who's always rushing over to hover over him to gush about how amazing he is after practice while others pick up your slack?"

Her face turned pink with anger, the flush blocked by the sheer amount of concealer she had on. "Well- you were rejected, yet you still show up around him, to practice and to show the notes to him all cutesy and whatever. You're practically begging for attention." She ticked her head to the side, as if she was saying checkmate.

You doubled over laughing. Tears formed at the corner of your eyes as you wheezed, trying to catch your breath. "Hah... Hah.. Oh my god you are such a little comedian." Wiping away the tears, you stood straight up and finished off your thought. "Showing up to practice and taking notes, putting aside my differences to make sure that the team functions?? Aoi, I'm gonna metaphorically hold your hands while I say this."

I stepped forwards and leaned down, moving my lips close to her studded ears. I lowered my voice, babying my voice to make sure she understood.

"That's what you call being a mature manager. Woahh~~ Whahh~~ Isn't that amazing? Though, if I'm being honest, you probably don't even know what being mature means, so I don't blame you if this completely flies over your head."

You walked past her frozen figure, waving nonchalantly as you passed. "And by the way, to answer your question, I live in the area- in fact, I live right next door to Ushijima. The same place for the past 5 years, so forgive me for intruding on his space or whatever."

On your way out, as you scanned your ingredients by the self-checkout, you caught a glimpse of a softly weeping Aoi and a silent, but furious, Ushijima in the background.

Well, at this point, what do I have to lose? If he's mad at me, I've already accepted that. If he's mad at her, I win.

✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

When you returned home, you hastened your pace, prepping all the ingredients and efficiently moving around your kitchen to make your cookies as quickly as possible.

Flour, butter, eggs, sugar, jam.

Finally, after an hour, you popped the cookies into the oven, wiping the sweat off your brow in triumph. After setting a timer on your phone, you ran up the stairs and collapsed on your bed.

As you lay there looking out the window, you began to think about what happened just a few hours ago. Oh the rant you were about to go on when you see Semi later tomorrow.

The thought of seeing Semi relaxed you, a heavy weight leaving your shoulder, and now all you were stressing about was to not fall asleep before your cookies were done.

Don't sleep. Don't do it, you're going to burn your whole house down. You'd better not pass the fuck ou-

"Get out."

A voice bellowed from outside your window. You sat up quickly and peered out your curtains. Across the way you could see Aoi and Ushijima arguing in his room. It was hard to hear, and only snippets were caught.

"but-"

"did i stutter? please, get out. i am saying this as nice as I possibly can."

"Toshi- please, she was the one harassing me, I swear!"

"do you think i am that dense? i was in the next aisle, i am not deaf."

Your cookie alarm loudly rang from your pocket while you peeked out the window, scaring you, but also getting the attention from the perfect couple next door. Their heads sharply looked over, but you slammed the window and shades to avoid their gaze before rushing down to take your cookies out of the oven.

phew. at least they came out nice.

✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

It's a weird feeling, waking up before your alarm.

After dressing up in a nice white top, a jean skirt, and a gray overshirt, you went downstairs to pack your cookies and fruits into a canvas tote before leaving your house to walk over to Semi's place.

"Y/n." Ushijima's deep voice startled you.

"Oh! Good morning, Ushiji-" You started before being cut off.

Ushijima cleared his throat, "You should call me by my first name again. We aren't unfamiliar, after all."

You smiled, a sigh of relief escaping your lips. "Wakatoshi. What's up?"

"You heard, did you not?" His intense gaze wavered for a split second, tilting down towards the curb.

"Well, it was hard not to- though I didn't mean to eavesdrop like I did... Sorry about that, by the way." You sheepishly looked away, struggling to meet him in the eyes.

"It's alright. I should be sorry for the way I've treated you for the past few weeks. I never should have let her blind me into treating you like that. I never thought that her intentions were impure." He looked into your eyes, a light gentleness glazed over his own. "Do you think you could ever forgive me?"

"I can," You began, "and I will, eventually. But I don't think I can just forgive and forget right now, but lets just establish good terms from here on out? I'll let you know when I've healed- emotionally- that is."

"Thank you." He paused before speaking up, "Where are you off to?" looking at your treat stuffed bag.

"O-oh. I'm on my way to visit Semi... I'm running a bit late, so I'll catch you later! Bye Wakatoshi!" You jogged off, quickly making your way over to your destination.

✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

You arrived on Semi's doorstep, but before you rang the doorbell, you tried to catch your breath. However, the door swung open to reveal Semi, draped in a loose gray hoodie and cargo pants. Both of you flushed with embarrassment.

“You… hah… I didn’t even ring the doorbell, Semi-Semi.” You laughed, out of breath, looking at him as he put his hands over his face, trying to hide his flushed cheeks. “Were you waiting for me~”

“N-no-“ Semi turned around, holding the door open to let you in before turning back to dace you, “Well, you were running late, y’see- and, uh, I was worried…” he trailed off after seeing the pouch in your hands. “What’s that?”

You looked down at your hands, “I made cookies for us to eat! Oh!! I also got some fruit for your parents- are they home?” You rummaged through your bag and took a nicely wrapped melon.

“Nah, my parents aren’t home right now… We can just leave it in the basket over there.” He led you to the kitchen and took the melon to store away.

"So... you were waiting for me, weren't you?" You smiled, leaning in close, "I didn't even ring the doorbell- You were definitely looking for me through the window..."

"I- No, It heard your huffing and puffing a mile away-" he stammered, his ears now flaring red. "A-anyways... let's go upstairs- you can bring the cookies with you..."

Following him up the stairs to his room, you noticed all the baby photos adorning the walls, before stopping in front of a familiar one.

Semi heard your steps come to a stop, turning around to join you. "Wow this is so embarrassing- that's from my daycare graduation-" He started, before turning to see your face.

You looked almost startled, "I have this same photo in my house, look-" Your finger pointed at the little girl behind the platinum haired toddler. "In the pigtails behind you-"

"Seriously?" Semi huffed, looking closer at the photo, "Damn, you're right- it really is you."

"Wow Semi-Semi, your hair is naturally this color? I could've sworn you dyed it or something-" You giggled, examining the photo in detail before quietly whispering, "You were a really cute baby."

Semi looked at you with wide eyes. "I heard that-" He coughed out before grabbing your arm and pulling at you to his room. You yelped in surprise, but after walking through the hallway of pictures, you finally made it into his room. It was covered in band posters and at the very corner stood a guitar propped up on a stand.

"Wow- your room is so decorated, it's putting my room to shame," You laughed before plopping onto the floor. Semi picked up his guitar and started to tune it.

"It's nothing special, just some stuff that I've printed throughout the years." He smiled, plucking at the strings before playing some chord progression.

It was almost angelic, the way he played. His fingers danced around the strings so naturally, like he was born to play.

"You play so beautifully," You smiled, looking intensely as he played, "If you put a halo on and wore all white, I could swear you were an angel or something."

"Probably not as beautiful as you are, though." He blurted before catching himself, his fingers frozen in place. "Wait-"

"Really?" Now it was your turn to blush. "Wow Semi, you are such a flirt~" You felt the blood rush to your face while the words fully sunk in.

He cleared his throat. "Uh... Yeah... You are really pretty, did you know that?" His fingers hovered over the strings, almost as if his brain didn't know how to control them anymore.

"You too." You squeaked out, trying to find your voice and composure. "You too, Semi-"

He put the guitar down, and it's hollow body clattering when it hit the floor. "I like you." He smiled shyly, not sure what to say next. "I really really like you."

You shuffled, closing the distance between the two of you. "Me too." You mumbled, looking down at the ground. "I really really like you too."

Both you and Semi sat in silence for a while, though the room kept getting warmer and warmer.

"O-oh!" You exclaimed, stopping the stagnant silence. "The cookies! Uh- Really good! Eat-"

Good job, Y/n, really, really good job.

Semi, in a state of panicked eagerness, grabbed one and practically swallowed it whole before choking a bit. He pounded his chest, tears watering in his eyes.

"Ah!! Water- Water!" You scrambled, pulling out the thermos in your bag.

Semi quickly took the bottle and gulped down the water, sighing in relief after the cookie passed through.

"Are you okay?" You exclaimed, the panic leaving your body. Semi nodded in embarrassment.

"Yeah... it was really tasty- the choking was my fault."

"No, I should have warned you that it was the crumbly kind of cookie." You paused, before buckling down laughing. Tears welled up in your eyes as you gasped for air.

Semi started to laugh, and soon the silence and panic was replaced with cackles.

"Hah... this is gonna be a good story to tell everyone." You sighed, calming down and leaning on his shoulder.

"Yeah...." Semi smiled, resting his head on yours, grasping your hand and interlacing your fingers.

"Wait-" he froze. You looked at him, puzzled by his reaction. "No we can't tell anyone- Especially not Tendou- I can't take the embarrassment any further."

You giggled, looking up at Semi through your eyelashes.

"No promises."

AN: omg this took so long haha my bad yall, hope u liked it :)

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[il-predestinato]

hello beautiful elle

since it is going to be a long 3 months without our boys could you please recommend some fics that you liked? cause i really like your writings and how realistic they are and i wanted to get some of you suggestions for the break!

love you loads

Thank you, lovely anon, for your very kind message! 🥺 I must admit I have fallen behind in reading fics. I am sure I am forgetting some excellent Lestappen fics/writers, but these are some of my all-time favourites!

Lestappen Fic Recs:

And in the end I will seek you out amongst the stars by mandzilkos (@geeeooorrrge) - rating: G, 22k words

Soulmate AU where you see in black and white until you meet your soulmate, and the world goes back to black and white after your soulmate dies. This is ALWAYS the first Lestappen fic that comes to mind whenever anyone asks for a recommendation, and it is probably my all-time favourite. The fic that inspired me to write Lestappen, if I'm honest.

getting half of you just ain't enough by shybear_styles - rating: E, 20k words

The friends with benefits story that spans the 2019 season. The only thing better than amazing smut is amazing smut with feels. For sure a top 5 fic in the Lestappen fandom for me. Also, this author is simply amazing in general and you should read all of her fics! I haven't given up hope that she will return one day and write more Lestappen. 🤧

you feel the mornin' feel by shybear_styles - rating: M, 3.3k words

Remember that time Sebastian Vettel asked Charles, "Is he [Max] pretty?" And we never got an answer because Charles descended into gay panic? Well, worry not! We get an answer in this fic.

Monaco Malaise by ProngsfootxJily (@cupidskissx) - rating: E, 8k words

Rivals with benefits, takes place after the 2021 Monaco Grand Prix. Yes, this one is delicious smut but also a character study. Both of them are written so well, and it leaves you begging for more. Don't forget to check out the equally amazing sequel! (Don't worry, I have been relentlessly harassing her to write the sequel's sequel.)

algorithm by Anney (@badboy-george) - rating: M, 17k words

In a world where F1 uses simulation-based compatibility tests, five times Max doesn't find the right partner and the one time he does. Black Mirror ("San Junipero" and "Hang the DJ") vibes in the best way. Another one of my absolute favourite fics. If you've read any Lestappen fics, you've probably read "Every Other Sunday." This one is simply a masterpiece by the immensely talented Anney; definitely check out her other fics!

panem et circenses by Anney - rating: E, 13.2k words

Wow - simply devastating, haunting, an ode to these two as drivers, set in a dystopian future AU. The world building is absolutely incredible, but at its heart is such a beautiful story of love and hope. This one doesn't get enough recognition. (TW: implied non-con, not between Lestappen.)

Unlearn by wantinghopingwriting (Tazza1993) (@lightsoutfullhearts) - NR, 45k words

This is another all-time favourite, a must-read. Fake/pretend relationship to lovers multi-chapter story that is ever so satisfying; both of them are so well characterized. Set in a parallel-ish 2022 season. I really cannot recommend this one enough.

the edge of what can be loved by Ledger_m (@the-last-jedis) - rating: T, 13k words

The third wheel fic from the perspective of Max and Charles' various "Steves." It's funny, heartwarming, and everyone on the grid is nosy as fuck.

Charles Leclerc vs Red Bull caps by Ledger_m - rating: T, 6.4k words

Charles is the hero we all need, as he goes on a mission to get rid of all of Max's stupid Red Bull caps. This is REQUIRED reading! Kami is a genius. Go read all of her fics.

If You Don't Play, You'll Never Win by antimonyandthyme (@antimonyandthyme) - rating: T, 4.1k

Post 2021 Monaco Grand Prix. Max wants to take their relationship further; Charles... doesn't. Oh my God, where do I begin to describe how much I love this fic. The language is beautiful, both of them are so well-written, and I feel punched in the gut over and over again in the best way. The ending (well, the whole thing) is so damn satisfying.

all's well that ends well (to end up with you) by stylestappen (@stylestappen) - rating: G, 3k words

Max has a meltdown in the cereal aisle (yes, the cereal aisle) at 3 am when he realizes he is in love with Charles despite the latter's questionable taste in cereal. Dani has an absolutely wicked sense of humour! (Although I don't understand what she has against cocoa puffs 😭.) She also wrote a banger of a Lestappen soon-to-be teammates fic, so make sure to check out her profile.

Max Verstappen: Spotify Extraordinaire by frnndtorres - rating: G, 26k words

Max makes Spotify playlists for the grid. Fluffy, funny, care-free, liberal use of nicknames, with a healthy dose of feels between Max and Charles. A really fun read.

i love the way your green eyes mix with that malibu indigo by altissimozucca (@altisssimozucca) - rating: G, 11k words

Max and Charles spend summer of 2020 together in Malibu and try not to fall in love. Spoiler alert: they fall in love. I feel the urge to explain something: When I first started reading Lestappen, there were less than 250 fics in their entire tag (yeah I know, we are currently close to 3000 fics, which is insane). From 2019-2021, we truly lived off crumbs. So trust me when I say that we owe so much to altissimozucca, who wrote something like 40% of the fics in the Lestappen tag and nearly single-handedly kept us fed in those days. It's so hard to pick one of her fics to recommend, so make sure you check out her profile for more!

#803442 by altissimozucca - rating: M, 1k words

Max and Charles celebrate the end of the 2019 season in a hotel room. So soft, so fluffy, so satisfying.

Bruises by eefiplier - rating: E, 5.1k words

I think of this one as THE Lestappen smut fic. Oh my God, it's 5k words of amazing established relationship smut with all the feels. A classic. I can read this one over and over again.

outside the box by playclock (@endowataru) - rating: M, 6.1k words

Max falls in love with Charles' driving... oh and Charles himself too. They are ultra competitive idiots who are madly in love. There aren't enough established relationship fics out there, but this one is simply amazing. And don't forget to check out this author's profile for additional Lestappen fics. I promise every single one is a banger!

i made it link by link by purpleglasseswrites (@f-ferrari-forever) - rating: M, 4.2k words

Charles and Max try to be kinky, but who are they kidding - they are far too vanilla for that stuff. 🤣 This one is so sweet, and don't forget to read the sequel!

One man's trash, another man's treasure by AzziNow (@track-terror-apologist) - rating: T, 4.2k words

Charles turns into a raccoon and terrorizes everyone except Max. (Well, he terrorizes Max too... slightly.)

Call it madness, call it love… by AzziNow - rating: M, 3.5k words

Ferrari auctions off Charles for charity. No angst, just fluff. Alpha!Max/Alpha!Charles. So I confess that I never read A/B/O fics. There's nothing wrong with it - just not my cup of tea. But I really enjoyed this one. Al has such a chaotic sense of humour.

it all reminds me of you by grandprix (@grandprix-ao3) - rating: E, 3k words

Secret relationship Lestappen with flashbacks. Oh the yearning, the desire, the smut - incredibly satisfying. I must put a plug-in for this author's other Lestappen fics as well. Never misses - make sure to check them out!

burning you into my mind by thightattoos - rating: E, 4.1k words

Porn with feels and possessiveness. You cannot ask for anything more. I must have read this one a dozen times.

an evil plan or two by witchee_writer - rating: T, 5.2k words

Max and Charles are roped into a plan to get Brocedes back together; they come to a few realizations along the way. The only thing better than a Lestappen fic? A Lestappen AND Brocedes fic!

Fine Line by empireoffclouds - rating: NR, 7k words

One of the more light-hearted enemies to friends to lovers fics. I absolutely adore their dynamic here - it's snarky, warm, but also so them. The incomplete sequel is also a super fun read.

Into Darkness Of Thought by flamingosarepink - rating: T, 1k words

After the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix, Charles thinks Max isn't coming back to their shared space.

steal softly under castle walls by untouchableocean - rating: G, 521 words

Max gets home late from Milton Keynes and Charles has already fallen asleep. Short, tooth-rooting fluff of the best kind.

Zoomies by greeny1710 (@maxlambiase) - rating: E, 2.2k words

This one is just hilarious. A (mostly) naked Max walks into Charles' team Zoom call during the COVID lockdown.

...and many, many more that I'm sure I have forgotten! 🙈 You can also check out my AO3 bookmarks (the first few pages are pretty much all Lestappen fics).

Please remember to leave kudos and comments for these amazing writers. The talent in this fandom is absolutely incredible. They all deserve so much recognition. Happy reading!

[mirohlayo]

HATE YOU LOVINGLY | LN4 (pt2)

( you hate him just as he hates you. but maybe it's just his way to show he fell hard for you. )

warning : jealousy, slight angst, fluff

note : i spent my whole evening writing this but it's worth it. also wrote once again more than 5k words i surprised myself because even in french i don't write that much

word count : 5.1k

↳ part 1

!! english is not my first language !!

this season's debut is tough for you. being a new f1 presenter is not as amazing as it looks. of course it's a wonderful job, you couldn't have dreamed better because it's the job you so wanted. you're very passionate about it, but it requires a lot of work and to be honest you're feeling a bit tired since some weeks now.

but the thing that disturbs you and makes you really tense is when you interview lando. actually just lando. of course you still don't like him, but you're sure you don't hate him anymore. you thought you would never say this but you definitely started to appreciate him. because of the post race interviews.

you mostly interview the mclaren drivers. it means that you can share some time with your best friend oscar but it also means you have to face lando. and when it happens it's the most stressful and strained moment. because you can't fully concentrate yourself on the questions.

it's the way he looks at you with this intense gaze, which makes you burn inside of your body. his distracting look always finish to fall on your lips at one point of the interview. it makes you go crazy. he would stare a bit at them before looking you in the eyes like nothing happened.

but to revenge on him you would ask him the most tough questions. about the race, about qualifying. you somehow always manage to prick his weaknesses by asking questions whose answers are almost impossible to find. and he always scoff, he lets a laugh out because he perfectly understands what you always try to do.

and fans notice it. they notice the way you two interact on camera. they'd say both of you look like are going to murder each other with the difficult questions from you and the sassy comments and answers from lando. but if they really analyze the situations, they can caught and feel a link between you. a special link which connects you. they notice lando's wandering eyes on your lips and the way you look at him. and laugh at his jokes.

it seems like you try so hard to show everyone you hate each other but it ends up watching two fools being secretly in love.

but you're still sure lando hates you and he's thinking the same for you.

now the australian grand prix will take place this sunday, and today it is thursday. which means conferences and media duties. the mclaren media team has planned a new sort of video. they want to try different types of content for both the drivers this year. and they organized a video with lando and you as guests. the idea of the video is to make lando choose an outfit for you and you'll try it. it can be a good way to show mclaren's fans your relationship and also lando's style and taste.

"y/n will arrive in a few minutes" stephanie, who oversees media and PR functions for mclaren, informs lando that you'll be here soon. the curly haired just nods and fixes his hoodie's sleeve. his expression is impassive, nobody can't tell what emotion he's feeling right now. however, some of the members are aware of the complex relationship between you and lando so they profoundly hope the video will not be a mess.

you guys just need to cooperate and fake it, fake your emotions only for the video. because it is your jobs.

lando laughs with the makeup artist who is adjusting his makeup. he lifts up his eyes and then he sees you walk in the room. you smile and greet the staff, waving your hand to some acquaintances. and in this moment he daydreams. he stops himself on you. your smile, the way you act with people around you with the kindest words and purest actions. he's mesmerized by you. and he hates it.

you make everything so difficult for him. why do he constantly have this problem ? this need to keep an eye on you, to lay eyes on you at least once a day. to be sure you're present and if you're not then he's always questioning himself, he thinks about you. why he's so attracted by you ? he thinks that he always hated you, that he was sure that this curiosity he had for you at the beginning had turned into hatred. but ultimately maybe he was lying to himself.

he only wanted to protect himself from his lack of self-confidence from trying to approach you without any result, and he decided to bury his true feelings under a shell. he created this false illusion of hatred so as not to hurt his ego, not to remind him that he is completely in love with you. because deep down he always saw you as an inaccessible woman and he always wondered how a guy like him could say a word to a woman like you.

he was too insecure and you seemed to avoid and ignore him, so it hurt him because he wanted to exist in your eyes. and that's why he started to hate you. but this feeling of hatred is simply wrong. it's an excuse to hide his feelings towards you. but he realizes that. he doesn't deny it anymore, he knows how fucking bad he's in love with you.

"lando ? you're still with us ?" your voice rings in lando's ears and he comes back to reality. you're standing next to him, and the staff is ready to start the video. "yeah sorry. i'm ready" he says and gives you a decided look. stephanie checks everything. she adjusts the little details to make everything look perfect. but she frowns when her eyes fall on you. "can you please try to be more relaxed and act like you're actually like each other ?"

she walks quickly over you and put her hands on your shoulders "you need to be closer to him, the framing looks horrible on the camera" she says while moving your position. your feet walk by themselves and you're so close to lando now, your shoulders almost touch together. you have never been so close to him. you can even smell his cologne.

he looks a bit uncomfortable now, he shifts his position and clear his throat. he can also smell your perfume too and he's completely hypnotized by it. and by the closeness of your body. stephanie take a look on the camera and she thumbs up. "perfect !! now we can start the recording. please no noise!" she sits on her chair and gives you the signal.

you inhale deeply. it's going to be funny right ?

"hello everyone !! today we are here with the driver lando norris and we're going to play a little game together" you smile to the camera and then turn around to talk to the driver next to you. he does the same and when your looks meet, his heart starts to beat faster. you continue to speak and explain the game but he doesn't listen, he's stuck on your hand on his shoulder. you have never touch him before, because if you dare brush him you know he'll be so pissed off. and you either don't want to graze his skin.

but it's all for the work, so you have to do it and to obviously fake it.

lando doesn't want to show you and people that he's surprised by the touch and that he actually likes it. so to shield himself he keeps a straight face and glare at your hand before taking a step back. you would be lying if you said he hurts you with this sudden move. but what, you also need to fake your hatred towards him. so you react like nothing happened despite the way your heart pangs.

"so are you ready to choose me an outfit ?" you ask to the driver and he doesn't ever bother to look you in the eyes. "yes, i think i'll do a great job". you try to hold back a roll eyes and you smile while nodding. but stephanie claps and sighs "no it's so bad. i know you two can't barely stand each other but you guys need to grow up and understand that you need to work together. it looks like you're going to fight. please be serious and mature and make an effort to show that you are at least close"

you sigh and nod to agree with her because you know she's right. you can't act like this in front of the camera and millions of people. "we're sorry. we're going to fix this problem and do our best" "who "we"?" lando says and shoot a black look to you. you bite your cheek from the inside and roll your eyes. now you're getting annoyed. "shut your mouth and stop being stupid. do your job." you murmur to him with frowning brows.

"don't talk to me like that. we're not friends and we'll never be" he adds. he says that to look pissed off, but the truth is that he hopes you'll never be friends. because instead he hopes you'll be his girlfriend. "i ask no more" you scoff and you sound genuinely honest and sincere. which twist his heart and feelings. wouldn’t he have said that ? now he starts regretting what he have said. do you really want him to remain your enemy?

he can't argue back because the recording is taking up again. the recording is going pleasantly well and it surprises the staff as much as you two. lando seems to choose with precision and care your outfit. he does his best to match the clothes and he picks up the best items. and it feels like he's doing it not on purpose, but sincerely. it feels like he truly wants to see you well dressed and it kinda disturbs you.

you go change yourself into the outfit. and it's really beautiful. the clothes match perfectly and you can't lie, he did a good job. you found yourself admiring your reflection in the mirror. you're wearing an outfit chosen by your enemy - no wait by the man you secretly love, and you like it a bit too much.

it's time for the outfit reveals. the camera still records and you're hidden behind a curtain. "okay lando are you ready to see the final result ?" you ask a bit excited about it. "yes show me" he only replies. you pull the curtain and lando's eyes immediately land on you. ohh.

wow. he stopped to breathe. he stopped to talk. is it legal to be this pretty? no because you're taking his breath away and it's not good at all. the outfit fits you perfectly, and he's even more proud because he was the one to choose it. but seriously, he sincerely thinks you look gorgeous that he doesn't even realize you were talking to him. "so how do i look ?" you ask with a smile.

he's flustered. he starts to blush so hard and he rapidly looks away. he tries to say something but he stutters so much over his words. you're making him loose all his senses. he doesn't even know how to talk anymore. "y-you look... i mean it looks good". he pulls himself together and names the outfit rather than you because he doesn't want to admit that you are incredibly beautiful.

"yes i agree with you, it definitely looks good" you reply and smile to him. but not a fake smile like you'd usually do. no, it's a sincere smile, the one smile he loves seeing. he blushes even more and he clear his throat. some staff members notice how lando looks destabilized by you and they laugh. he is unmasked. but you see he's starting to get embarrassed and you decide to end the video now.

"you were perfect, thanks for your hard work" stephanie says and the others members thanks you too. the record stops and you rush to go get changed. you don't even glance at lando, you just look like you can't wait to leave the room and the driver. and the curly haired feels a little disappointed. for the first time he really wanted to talk to you and say a few words to you.

he hesitates to follow you. it would be weird if he suddenly come and talk to you when you can't even look at each other properly.

but he doesn't care. he wants to be confident. he rushes to follow you and before you could walk away from him he grabs your wrist. your second touch. it gives him shivers. and you too because he notices how your skin reacted to the sudden touch. wait, do you feel the same as him ?

"what ?" your frown and glare at him. he removes his hand from your wrist and looks away. he wants to speak but his words are running away. why he's like that around you ? "huh... i just wanted to say that you are actually... really pretty in this outfit" he says and blushes so so hard. you stop yourself. are you dreaming ? is this even real ?

is it really lando ? it's not a false lando norris right ? you blink, and he can clearly tell you're surprised. like very surprised. which is stressful because he starts to regret what he have said. he is sure that you will take his compliment badly and that he will be able to go fuck himself. but no. it's not your reaction. "oh... thank you lando. i guess ?" you stutter a bit, you don't even know how to react at this point.

your reaction make him laugh softly and for the first time since you met, a positive interaction took place between you. it's like a dream, it can't be real. you thought you couldn't have a good talk with him. you genuinely thought you and him couldn't make it together. but it seems for once that you are able to do it.

"let me change myself now please" you say because you're too flustered to stay with him right now. it's kinda awkward though. "oh yes sorry" he only replies and walk away without anything else.

now this one was truly surprising. first you managed to work perfectly well together and then he complimented you ? something is off. he couldn't have change in a day no ? it's just so strange. but yet you don't complain. you're happy about your interactions today. because it finally seems that you both can now try to be more friends and to know how each other.

-

two months passed since that day. and surprisingly everything was getting better with lando. now you great each other every day, the post race interviews are definitely entertaining and you both enjoy them now. he's making jokes sometimes when he's around you and he's always excited to record new content with you. your relationship really improved these past months.

and lando is still so fucking in love with you. he fell even harder for you since you started to interact more with him. now he only has eyes for you, you're the only girl he thinks about, the only girl he wants so bad. and you feel the same too. your love for lando doubled and the only thing you wish for is to be with him. to be his girlfriend. just as he wants to be your boyfriend.

today you need to attend a gala. most of the drivers will be there and lot of your colleagues and others presenters will be there too. it's an important event so you need to dress well and of course you must attend it. you finish your hairstyle and spray perfume on your neck. you're ready.

you make it to the place and you're welcomed by a huge crowd of people and fans. a lot of them try to reach out the drivers. every drivers and presenters are on the huge red carpet. there are many cameras and journalists too. it is very vibrant, very lively. flash come from everywhere and you try to find faces you know. and then you find your best friend.

you rush to oscar. he spots you too and he walks towards you. "y/n ! you took a long time to come" he says and hugs you. you wrap your arms around him too and pull back after. "sorry, there was traffic" you reply. he looks good. he wears a suit with a tie and it looks perfect on him. because he's not the kind of man to pull out costume. so seeing the boy you grew up with in this outfit is shocking. it makes you wonder if his teammate is wearing the same as him ?

lando finishes his interview. he gives a small smile to the journalist and joins carlos and charles over there. he's scanning the crowd. he's looking around. he recognizes some f1 presenters and he wonders if you are here too. he wants to see you. he wants to talk to you. but the only person he sees is his old teammate daniel walking to the group of drivers.

"hello guys. how you all feeling ?" he asks and shows his best smile. "good. though i'm tired of these infinite interviews" charles jokes but the boys all know there's some kind of honesty about it. "long time not see" daniel says as he pats lando's shoulder. "c'mon man you played games with me this morning" he rolls his eyes but grin. daniel laughs and wink at him.

a gap settles between the two but it is filled by the voices of the ferrari drivers. and then daniel speak again. "she's pretty" he only says. lando frowns and turns his head to look at his friend. "what ?" "the woman there. she's really pretty. i think she's a presenter. i often see her the paddock" daniel says and a silly smile take place on his face. lando follows daniel's gaze and his look falls on the one only girl he hoped his friend wasn't talking about.

you.

you're laughing so hard with his teammate that you almost trip and you have to hang on to oscar to avoid falling. and yes, indeed you are beautiful tonight. not that you aren't every day because he could literally spend the whole day admiring you but this long black dress which perfectly highlights your body has a lot of effect on him. but he knows he's not the only one you have an effect on. his jaw clench. no, his friend can't be interested in you. he does not have the right. lando was here first, he's the one for you not daniel. he needs to do something. he needs to keep daniel away from you.

"hah, there's much better mate... like this one girl over here, she's prettier by far." lando says in a nonchalant tone, and he points to a brunette who is also one of your colleagues. lie. it's a lie but he needs to do it. "really ? i prefer my girl. but i didn't know you had your eye on this brunette. good to know boy" daniel gives a wink to lando.

my girl ? did he really called you my girl ? jealousy fills lando now. daniel can't allow himself to call you like that. he does not have the right. only lando can call you my girl. you're his girl. well not really actually but still in his eyes you're his precious and favorite girl. he needs to try something else. "no that's not what i meant" "don't worry lando i'll try to get her number for you" he adds with an implicit smile.

the situation gets worse. it's not good at all. "no but i know her and i already know you won't like her. her name is y/n. you know she's horrible and she is like super super annoying. plus she has a terrible sense of humor. doesn't match with you." he ramble about you like you are the most mean person on earth. daniel looks confused but his eyes suddenly sparks. "oh it's the one girl you hate right ?" he asks.

lando hates his behavior now but he needs to save his opportunity. "yes that's her. i wish she could stop existing" he jokes but he's genuinely shocked by his own words. he wants to slap himself. how he hates himself for talking about you like that. he doesn't deserve you at all. "you know what i'm gonna talk to her"

and without realizing it, he sees daniel walking to you. lando's heart skipped a beat. no no no. it can't happen. you're his girl. you don't need daniel. jealousy is running in his blood and he swears he have never been this jealous over someone. he doesn't want to see you talk to an other man than him. he doesn't want to see you laugh with his old teammate because he perfectly knows you love his humor. no you can't give your attention to daniel. it is lando first.

"hello y/n !" daniel greets you with his white teeth smile. you stop talking with oscar and mirror his smile. lando rushes over and joins you. now there are three boys surrounding you. "hello daniel. hi lando !" you say and your smile widen when you look at the mclaren driver. his heart melt from your reaction, he notices how your eyes sparks when you look at him. "you look beautiful" daniel says then he adds "but lando thinks this woman over here his prettier than you. i think he might have a crush on her. but don't worry i'm here for you y/n".

lando sees red now. why daniel said that ? it's fucking bullshit, you're the absolutely only woman he has eyes for. he almost yells at his friend but he pulls himself together. he just hopes you won't listen to his bullshit. he's really pissed of now. you feel strange. like your heart painfully pangs. because you think now that lando already has an other girl in his mind. and it hurts. you thought you were somehow different for him. but you guess not. you try to change the topic because you're getting upset and sad. "wait how do you know my name ?" you frown confused and daniel laughs softly. "lando told me about you" he replies.

your gaze shift on lando. he talked about you to daniel ? it must have been positive then. you show your best smile to him and you can't help but giggle a little. but lando looks impassive, he doesn't even smile to you back. no, he's glaring at you. just like before. just like two months ago when he was hating on you. you don't understand. "oh and what did he say about me ?" you ask curiously.

daniel pats his friend's shoulder with a desolate look. of course it is part of the joke. "well he told me you're the most horrible and annoying person to ever exist. oh he actually said he wish you could stop existing but he was joking about that." daniel laughs but you are not. what ? is that true ? "excuse me... he really said that ? did he actually mean it ?" you ask to be sure.

lando knows he's in shit. he fucked up. he wants to say something but daniel cuts him off. "i think so because he literally said he hates you. but i think you already know that don't you ?"

daniel wasn't doing it on purpose at all. he knows that you both hate each other, which is why he allows himself to joke about your relationship. but he doesn't know that you've gotten a lot closer lately. lando didn't tell him about his feelings for you because he didn't want to show that he loves you. he kept pretending to hate you when he was with daniel and now this is what shit he's in.

"i... sorry i thought we got along well? that our relationship was better..." you look at the driver you love. he shows no expression.

so is he really like that? a big asshole to the end. you felt that he had changed, that he was starting to like you but in the end he is still the same idiot as before. he played with your feelings. and your whole being hurts. your heart pang so hard. "well if you believed it then maybe i should become an actor then" he scoffs and look at you up and down.

what is he doing? his behavior is truly shit and pathetic. he is losing the girl of his dreams because of himself. he is destroying the only person important to him. the only woman he wants to chase. he's so fucking bad he can't even take off this hateful role in front of daniel because he doesn't want to show that he fell in love with the girl he was supposed to hate. he's such a terrible asshole.

oscar doesn't understand either. because unlike daniel he knows lando's feelings towards you. he knows that his teammate is madly in love with you. so why this behavior? why is he doing all this? why is he hurting his best friend ? he looks at lando with a confused and angry gaze. "i'm sorry i need to get some water" you're about to cry in pain. you disappear quickly because you don't want to stay another second next to him. you have never felt like this before. you feel shit for believing in him. now he broke you in pieces.

daniel doesn't understand either what is happening. but some journalists are calling him for an interview and he excuses himself, saying he'll be back soon. now there's lando and oscar who remain together. "fuck" the curly haired curses. "fuck fuck fuck. shit. fucking shit. i fucked up everything" he curses more. oscar sigh and runs a hand in his hair. "indeed you did yes". his teammate looks like he's about to burst into tears. he knows he really did you wrong and shitty.

"see what you have lost" oscar says and shrugs. but him too is pissed off, he's mad at lando because this guy literally hurts in the most painful way his best friend. "why did you do that ? why did you mess up everything? i thought you really loved her!!” "because i do !! i do love her, she's my everything. she's the only person i care about. she's the only one i think about and she's making me loose my mind and i don't see my life without her oscar. for fuck sake i'm so in love with her and i know i don't deserve her"

lando goes around in circles. he's getting tired of it. "you really disappointed me you know. but it makes me feel sorry to see you in this state, so even if i don't like it, go chase after her" oscar pushes his teammate in your direction. he doesn't want to see lando desperate like this. he knows you love him and that lando loves you too. he can't stand seeing you two suffer when you're literally fighting for each other.

lando finds you in a hidden spot. you let a sob out of your mouth and it breaks his heart. his whole being even. he sees tears falling down on your cheeks and he curses at himself for being the reason of them. he carefully approaches you but you notice him. you're about to walk away but he grabs your wrist before you could run. "y/n"

"no. go away. i don't want to be near you" you bluntly pull back your hand from his grab. "no please y/n listen to me" he tries once again. you scoff and roll your eyes. he thinks it works like that ? "what ? i don't want to listen to you." you struggle to not yell at him. "i didn't intend to say theses things you have to trust me"

he digs himself in deeper. "oh what, now i need to trust you like i used to trust you when i thought you liked me ? you're shit lando" you start to walk away but he stops you once again. "leave me. i don't want to hear your excuses" you try to release his hand from your arm but he doesn't let you go. "no. listen to me. i don't even know why i acted like that and you don't realize how much i hate myself right now. this is not what i wanted to do. this is not what i want"

new tears fall on your face but you don't care at this point. you don't even have the energy to argue back. you can't stop crying. "so what do you want then ?"

"you" he answers without hesitation.

oh. you didn't expect this answer. his other hand grab gently your arm and he takes advantage of your lack of reaction to pull you into his arms. "now really listen" he starts and wipe a tear from your cheek. "i know i'm a piece of shit that don't deserve you. i don't even deserve to talk to you. i'm really a dick because i hurt you so bad and trust me it truly breaks my heart because i'm the man who broke your heart when i was supposed to take care of it"

"i never hated you. never. i was always attracted to you and i know i fell in love with you since the first time i laid eyes on you. every single day i begged to have a chance to talk to you. but i wasn't confident enough and i preferred to act like i hated you when all i wanted was to beg you to give me just a chance" he feels your body relaxes and he pulls you even closer. you can fell his breath on your neck.

"you're not even a little annoying. you are the complete opposite of horrible, you are the kindest and most caring person i know. i want to slap myself for saying i wish you didn't exist. because it's a fucking lie. i can't live without your existence. i can't imagine my future without you. you're taking my breath away and you never leave my mind and thoughts. i know you're the love of my life and i waited for you this long. and i'll never let you go now that i found you." he finishes in a sob and you hide your face in the crook of his neck.

"lando..." you hum. "shhh don't talk. it'll be alright baby" he murmurs against your ear. he strokes your hair with one hand and your back with the other. he places a soft kiss on your head. "i fell very hard for you baby. i'm so in love with you. i'll never stop loving you i promise" he says and you just nod. "i love you so much too lan" you simply answer.

"and that one brunette girl daniel talked about ?" you ask with watery eyes. he laughs softly and cup your face "oh babe i don't even remember who she is. but don't worry love i only have eyes for you" he says and you simply smile widely. "i hope so".

he smiles too and look at your lips. "now kiss baby" he says in a whisper and leans in to kiss you tenderly. the kiss is so sweet and gentle, his lips moving perfectly against yours. he's delighted and he softly bites your bottom lip. you pull back and peck his nose. "so do you love me or do you hate me ?" you ask as he wipes away your last tears. he smiles bright and think before speaking again. "i think i hate you lovingly".

and his lips meet once again yours in a passionate kiss...

[itwasntimethatdidit40]

Waffles for breakfast

Pairing/AU: Joel Miller x afab!reader, no outbreak so flour is safe in this one lol

Words counts: 1141

Rating: +16? (just a little tiny smut 👀)

Tags: pov second person, no use of y/n, reader is described having breasts and vagina, no other description is given, established relationship, a huge amount of fluff, mutual masturbation, unprotected p in v (do better irl!), joel cooks (i feel like this needs its own tag 😂)

A/N: another thing I wrote a year ago, revised and corrected. I hope there are no mistakes but if there are please, forgive me.

Enjoy the Sunday fluff my lovely friends, hope you’ll like it and you’ll have a really nice day♥️

Tagging: @baronessvonglitter , @aurorawritestoescape, @milla-frenchy and @bean-is-reading just to say thanks for your encouragement, kindness and support, you all are great and deserve the world 😭♥️

Thanks to anyone who reads this!

“Joel”

“What”

“Leave it alone, there's no need for you to do it”

“I’m doing great!”

“Okay”

You are observing a batter that is too liquid and full of lumps.

Joel got into his head to prepare breakfast this morning, perhaps because last night you ironically commented on his total inability to cook something vaguely edible.

“Let me finish, you'll see you'll like them”

He got into his head to make you waffles.

Him.

The one who burns everything he tries to cook, the one who holds a neat pile of takeaway flyers near the phone.

His idea of fine cuisine is fried chicken wings or pepperoni pizza with olives.  

You tried to make him forget that he promised you, you tried very hard.

This morning you woke up first, slipped over to his side of the bed and hugged him, clinging to his back and encircling his waist with one arm.

You intertwined your legs with his to get as close as possible and slid your hand under his shirt caressing his tummy, leaving little kisses on his wide back through the shirt. 

Your hand made its way into his boxers to reach his sex and you gently stroked it until you felt it get hard.

He made a grunt as he woke up and put his big hand on yours, continuing to massage. 

You surrounded the base with your fingers, slowly going up to the tip, stroking his cock.

Slowly.

He made a deep, hoarse moan. 

He turned to look at you and held you close, lowered a hand on your sex and massaged you in turn.

You took back his shaft in your hand and you both continued like this, caressing each other, looking at each other smiling, until everything became too hot and blurry.

You undressed in an instant, throwing everything on the floor.

You rode him the way he likes it, your hands resting on his broad chest while he held you firmly by your hips. He always says he loves seeing you like this and he loves your tits bounce before his eyes.

You lay on him exhausted, totally satisfied, he hugged you tightly.

“God baby, you're amazing”

He kept you like this for what seemed like an endless time and anyway you wish it never ended.

He kissed your forehead and nose and whispered “well, good morning I guess”.

You giggled then kissed that little patch in his beard that you adore “Good morning, Joel”.

You thought he'd forget by then and never get up.

Joel, however, is a man who keeps his promises.

He is a stubborn man, above all, when he gets something in his head, nothing stops him. Whether it's small or big doesn't matter.

And he would do anything when he cares about a person.

He got up and you saw him disappear in the bathroom.

 You wanted to follow to continue distracting him but you knew that it would be useless anyway so you decided to enjoy the warmth of the bed for a while longer, wrapped in his scent on the sheets and pillow.

You heard the shower water flowing and after a few minutes he came out with a towel around his waist, a few drops of water still on his skin, chest, shoulders, wet hair pulled back.

A breathtaking view.

You would have liked to drag him back to bed but he headed to the closet, pulled out a clean t-shirt, boxer briefs and a pair of sweatpants.

He got dressed and said, “stay in bed, babe, I'll make you breakfast” with a smile so sweet and enthusiastic that it melted your heart.

 You didn't have the courage to say no to him, and now you're here, watching him energetically turn a spoon into the bowl and try to remove the lumps from a too liquid blob. You wonder how he was able to make it liquid but at the same time lumpy.

You smile, looking at how he's trying.

“Joel, please. There are frozen pancakes in the freezer.”

“Absolutely not, it's Sunday, I won't let you eat frozen stuff”

And you laugh thinking that he would like to give you that thing that he is furiously stirring instead.

It looks like glue.

You stop protesting, because you see how tenderly he looks at you, you see how convinced he is as he pulls out the waffle iron and lets it warm up.

In the meantime, the batter has thickened a bit but it remains full of lumps.

You offer to set the table, but he doesn't want you to do that either.

“Today you have to relax, I'll take care of you”

You stay on your stool, with your elbows leaning against the island counter looking at him and remaining silent, enjoying the sight of his arms delightfully embraced by his t-shirt.

He puts two placemats on the counter, two plates, cutlery and glasses. 

He takes the orange juice out of the fridge.

Pour a little batter on the iron, close and wait with a satisfied smile.

What he puts on your plate it’s the ugliest waffle you've ever seen but you don't have the heart to tell him.

Not when he seems so proud and convinced of his work.

After all, what does it cost you to taste?

You hope you won't need to call 911.

You chew slowly, tasting a strange flavor, but you don't say anything.

He looks at you in expectation.

“So, how is it?”

“Good” you try to say, but you don't know how to swallow the bite.

It's weird, gummy, incredibly salty.

You keep chewing while he takes a bite too.

He chews for a few seconds and then roll his eyes and bend over the sink spitting.

“My God it’s horrible! Don't eat it!”

At his surrender, you can no longer resist and you also spit in the sink and then turn on the garbage disposal hoping that that horrible thing will disappear forever.

 You laugh, you laugh so much that tears come to your eyes while he looks so sorry.

“I think I put salt instead of sugar in it” he murmurs.

You keep laughing, as you approach to hug him “how much did you put in, a whole jar?”

“Fuck” he rolls his eyes, looking frustrated.

“Babe, it doesn't matter, really”

You squeeze him as much as you can, he put his chin on your shoulder “I’m sorry, I wanted to do something nice”

“Don't worry, you tried” you stroke the back of his neck trying to comfort him “I appreciate it anyway”

His strong arms surround your waist and you wouldn't want to change him with anything in the world.

You look him in the eyes “I love you”

“Damn I guess that's true, considering the crap I just made”

And he laughs too, finally relaxed.

“I love you too”

And he kisses you.

After all, breakfast is not that important.

[vexillology-for-brains]

The State of Maine Has Chosen a Final Design!!

This is the new design of the Maine state flag that will be voted on by the public in November!

Personally, I feel that this design will be spectacular flying across a state that has become a second home to me as I've been living in the Portland area for work this summer. I can safely say that if I was registered to vote in Maine I'd be thrilled to have this as my official state flag. I only hope it passes this coming fall. It's been interesting seeing all of the various 'pine tree flag' designs that several members of the community had made. While I didn't see all of the submissions, just this specific design being worked on, I'm told that many of the submissions will be made public for viewing.

I'm not the biggest fan of the fact that the green is two-toned, an opinion I held in the final drafting meeting, but I believe that it may grow on me. It's a nice touch that will be visible up close and look nice on TV broadcasts while not being distracting from a distance. And from a distance you'll still be able to tell that it's a green eastern pine tree. I like the asymmetrical tree, it’ll stand out a lot. The background color, which is called ‘buff’ is also distinct and should look great at a distance.

The design prompt was to base the modern flag on the 1901 pine tree design. And the panel of Maine judges went through a lot and I mean a lot of design configurations for the pine tree. They were happy with this one, the Maine Secretary of State was happy with this one, and NAVA was happy with it after we redesigned the tree several times.

I'm excited to say that I was a (very small) part in the final drafting process this past Sunday (Aug. 4, 2024) with the designers and more experienced NAVA members. In attendance was our amazing Secretary Ted Kaye, and the Maine Secretary of State: honorable Shenna Bellows, and the designer Adam Lemire, among other vexilographers. I'm happy I can finally talk about this publicly, even a day not talking about it drove me crazy.

As I was present for the final drafting meeting, for any interested in more details can send me an ask or reblog and I'll respond as best I can. I won't have all the answers seeing as I'm not exactly the most senior member of NAVA, but also consider this as a general blog AMA.

I can't wait to welcome a new changed state flag later in 2024! Have a great day y'all! (Just realized this is two posts in less than a week, NEW RECORD!)

[nicoline1998enilocin]

Every step of the way

PAIRING || Husband!Chris Evans x Wife!Fem!Reader

WORDCOUNT || 2.6K

SUMMARY || Ever since you were small, you have had a substantial fear of the dentist, and now that you have to have your wisdom teeth removed, your anxiety is growing every day. It's a good thing you have Chris by your side, as he will be there alongside you every step of the way, making the load to bear a little less difficult.

RATING || Mature (M)

TAGS || RPF. Established relationship. Use of nicknames (Princess). Slight hurt/comfort. Wedding anniversary celebration. Cuddling. Kissing and making out. An almost criminal amount of fluff.

WARNINGS || Angst. Dentophobia/fear of the dentist. Anxiety. References to anesthesia. Referenced wisdom teeth removal. Lots of praise and reassurance.

A/N || This one-shot is requested by a very sweet Anon! I wish you the best of luck during the procedure of having your wisdom teeth removed tomorrow, and I hope this fic brought you all the comfort you could possibly need! This story is proofread by the amazing @ccbsrmsf1. Thank you so much! 💙

A/N 2.0 || As of 14 April 2024, my requests are closed. I will work through the backlog of requests for the foreseeable future - once they are opened again, I will make an official announcement on my blog! 💙

EVENTS Masterlist || @anyfandomfluffbingo || Toothache Masterlist || @fandom-free-bingo Book Night || Covered with [kisses] Masterlist || @fandom-free-bingo Book Night || Cold hands + 'I'll do anything to keep you right here with me.' + 'Here's the day you hoped would never come.' Masterlist || @fandom-free-bingo Wild || ''Trust me." Masterlist || @multifandom-flash Compliments || It has been an honor Masterlist || @ultimatechrisbingo || Walk on the beach

GIF: Source || All graphics are made by @nicoline1998enilocin

Main Masterlist || Chris Evans Masterlist

It's a beautiful Sunday afternoon as you walk on the beach with your husband, Chris, and your dog, Dodger. The sun is shining bright on you both, and he's wearing shorts and a shirt while you're dressed in a stunning sundress that flows around you beautifully with the wind coming from the ocean.

Dodger constantly runs back and forth with his tennis ball as you and Chris alternate between throwing. Your hands are interlaced, and now and again, he squeezes softly while looking over at you fondly. It's the weekend of your tenth wedding anniversary, and he surprised you with a trip to the beach with all three of you.

"What's on your mind, Princess?" Chris says after you've been awfully quiet for a while. He stops you in the middle of your tracks as he turns your bodies towards each other, and you're practically standing chest to chest.

"Nothing," you sigh as you cast your eyes down, pulling Chris into a much-needed hug. He nuzzles his face into your neck while his arms wrap tightly around you, his hands rubbing your back soothingly. You have to have your wisdom teeth removed in a few days, and he knows how afraid you are, but he will be there every step of the way.

"You're going to be okay, Princess. Trust me," Chris whispers, and you nod before letting a couple of tears glide down your cheeks, absorbed by the fabric of his T-shirt. The two of you stay there for a few minutes until Dodger interrupts the moment by jumping against you both, and you can't help but laugh through the tears.

"Okay, okay! I'll throw your ball, Buddy. No worries," you say between a few sniffles, wiping your tears away. Before you can bend down, Chris cups your cheeks to wipe the last tears away, and he captures your lips with a featherlight kiss that immediately leaves you wanting more. You bite your lip as he pulls away with a smile.

"I love you, and I promise you'll do amazing. I will be there every step of the way," he tells you, and you nod.

"Thank you, Chris," you whisper with a smile, and you finally bend down to throw the ball for Dodger, who runs after it like a dog with the energy of about five puppies combined. Chris pulls you into his side as you continue your walk, and after about an hour, you finally arrive back at the apartment you two have rented for the weekend.

Dodger is completely tuckered out as he's lying in the last bit of sun for the day, and you're in the kitchen cutting up some fruit while Chris is running both of you a relaxing bath. Seeing how it's the last evening of your anniversary vacation, he's planning on going all out to make it truly unforgettable.

"Are you ready for a relaxing bath, Mrs. Evans?" Chris asks as he stands behind you, his hands on your hips, lightly swaying you both from left to right to the soft music he turned on.

"I am, and how about you, Mr. Evans?" you ask as you turn in his hold, your arms wrapping around his neck to pull him close. When your chests touch, you feel your heart beating faster, and he bends down to put his forehead against yours.

"More than you know," he whispers against your lips as he leans in to kiss them softly, and you both slowly deepen the kiss. Your hands glide through his hair as soft moans escape from your lips, his fingers digging into the soft flesh of your sides. He pulls away all too soon for your liking, but he looks at you with a love-filled look that has your insides on fire at the sight.

"Come on, let's enjoy that bath together," he says before stealing one last kiss and grabbing your hand to lead you to the large bathroom. There, he put a few candles to add to the atmosphere, two glasses and a bottle of wine, lots of rose petals, and a rose-scented bath bomb in the bath. The music in the background finishes it off, and he closes the door behind you both to give you all the privacy you two could need.

Chris slips the straps of your dress down your shoulders, leaving you in nothing but a pair of panties in front of him, and his mouth curls into an appreciative smile.

"So beautiful," he says while his hands glide over your body, and your neck and shoulders are covered with kisses. Once you're completely bare for him, he turns you around so you have the opportunity to undress him, too - which you gladly do. From revealing his broad shoulders and small, muscular waist to revealing his bare, strong thighs, you take your time to unwrap him like a present on Christmas morning.

Chris first steps into the bath when he's completely bare, guiding you into the warm water to ensure you won't slip and fall. As soon as you're seated on his lap, Chris pours you a glass of your favorite wine before handing it to you. During your entire time in the tub, you two share many loving moments, funny jokes, and sweet touches and feed each other pieces of the fruit you've cut.

The entire time, the butterflies in your stomach go wild, and this is one of the best surprises Chris has ever prepared. He's never shy about wanting to surprise you, and something he goes all out, but moments like these will forever be your favorite.

"Thank you for everything this weekend. I will never forget it," you tell your husband as his hands softly massage your stomach underwater.

"You don't need to thank me, Princess; I'd happily give you the moon if I could, so this is the least I could do for my girl during our special weekend," he tells you, and you smile at his words. A warm feeling spreads through your body as he calls you his girl - even after being married for a decade.

"I love you, Chris," you tell him before cupping his cheeks and kissing his soft, pink lips softly, his facial hair tickling your hands a little bit.

"I love you too, Princess," he whispers against your lips, gradually deepening the kiss again, which you can never get enough of. Your husband's hands roaming over your body while you two get lost in a kiss is one of the best feelings in the world, and it's one you will look forward to every single day.

The day you have been dreading has finally arrived, as your alarm goes off too early for your liking. With a groan, you turn around and into Chris' waiting arms as he pulls you close against his hairy, bare chest.

"Mornin', Princess," he grumbles in his deep morning voice. If it were every other morning, you would have been more than happy to say good morning to him, but today's not an ordinary day because here's the day you hoped would never come.

"Do we really have to get up? I'll do anything to keep you right here with me," you try to convince your husband after your cuddle session is over, and much to your surprise, he gives in to your pleadings.

"Well, I suppose we do have about an hour before we have to be ready, so maybe I can calm your nerves a bit," Chris offers as he positions you on your back before caging you in by draping his body over you.

"Hmm, what did you have in mind?" you ask playfully, and the nerves are already calming slightly.

"I think you know exactly what I have in mind,” he says with a roll of his hips against yours, his erection teasing you between your spread legs. You bite your bottom lip to stop a moan from escaping at the friction, and Chris is nothing if not a man of his word as he spends the next 30 minutes pulling you apart until all you can think about is him.

"How're you feeling now, Princess? Are you still nervous?" Chris asks, and you giggle in response, unable to form a coherent sentence. He peppers your face with kisses before cleaning you both up and getting ready to head to the hospital.

Chris will be there every step of the way during your stay at the hospital, but despite that, the anxiety has definitely found its home in your body. You constantly bounce with your leg, you're having difficulty focusing on anything, and you're genuinely getting scared as soon as he pulls into the large parking structure that's attached to the hospital.

"Can you look at me for a moment, Princess?" Chris asks as he grabs hold of your hand. Your brows are furrowed as you look at him, and you're squeezing his hand as you do, but he doesn't mind.

"I know you're scared and anxious right now, but I promise to be there for you every step of the way, okay? From the moment you go into the treatment room, and they administer the anesthesia until you wake up after, I will be there, okay? I promise you that I am not going anywhere," he says, his large hands enveloping the hand closest to him.

"Do you trust me?" he asks, and you nod.

"Y-yeah, I trust you, Chris," you say with a small smile, though it doesn't reach your eyes.

"Okay, let's go inside then because they cannot come out here to do it," he jokes, and you smile at it despite not being in the mood for his silliness.

Not even 15 minutes later, you're being called in for your procedure, and Chris has called ahead of time to explain the entire situation. He's allowed to stay until you're completely under anesthesia, but after that, he has to leave the room until you're in the recovery room.

Your heart is beating out of your chest, and you're on the verge of tears as you squeeze Chris' hand tightly. He feels a bit of a knot in his stomach as he sees you like this. Despite that, he has to be strong for you. He can worry about himself later. Right now, you need him most.

"How are you feeling today, Mrs. Evans?" the dentist asks, but you don't answer. Instead, you look at your shoes while you fight against the tears threatening to spill over.

"It's okay, Princess. I'm here, okay? I promise you I won't go anywhere. I know you're scared and anxious, but he will make your toothache disappear, just like we talked about," Chris says, and you look over at him.

A certain warmth in his voice brings you a bit of calm, and you nod.

"Okay," you whisper, and even though your heart still feels like it's going to beat out of your chest, you eventually lie down so everyone can start prepping you for the removal of your wisdom teeth. During all this, Chris is standing in your line of sight while he holds your hand, so you know he's not going anywhere.

"Alright, you can say your goodbyes now; once the anesthesia starts, it will only be a matter of second before you're in a deep sleep," the anesthesiologist tells both you and Chris.

"I love you so much, Princess, and I am so incredibly proud of you for doing this. You're such a brave girl for me right now," Chris whispers between soft kisses on your forehead.

"I'll be right here with you when you wake up, okay? It will be over before you know it, and then we can go home to see Dodger again," he says, and you smile at the mention of your dog.

"I love you, Chris," you say before a few last pecks on your lips, and then it's officially time for you to go to sleep. As promised, Chris is petting your cheek softly while you go to sleep, and shortly after, he's ushered out of the room so they can get started.

The procedure goes smoothly, and less than an hour later, you're sleeping off your anesthesia in the recovery room. Chris is seated in a chair on the side of your bed, his hand holding yours as he rubs soothing circles with his thumb. When a soft groan leaves your mouth, he's up and standing next to your bed.

"Welcome back, Princess," he says as he smiles at you. Your eyes slowly open as you're greeted by the sound of your husband's voice.

"Thank you," you groan, seeing you're still groggy from the anesthesia. Your cheeks are definitely swollen, but you have gotten some medication for the pain, and Chris has also gotten a prescription for more that you two can pick up as you head out of the hospital later.

"You have cold hands," you suddenly say, and Chris can't help but laugh at your comment, combined with the way you're clinging onto his hand for dear life, trying to warm it back up.

"I'm sorry. I've been sitting by your side for so long that my hands must've gotten cold," Chris explains, but all you can see is his face.

"Beautiful," you whisper to your husband, who smiles at you.

"You're also beautiful, Princess," he says with a reassuring smile, making your heartbeat skip.

"I like it when you call me that; do it again!" you tell him.

"Yeah? Do you like it when I call you Princess? That's good because I can assure you that you're by far the most beautiful Princess in the entire world. You even looked like one during our wedding day," Chris tells you.

"We're married? Ooooh, I'm a lucky lady," you sigh as you look at him with fond eyes. Chris knows it's a side effect of all the medication you have gotten combined with the anesthesia, but that doesn't make it any less funny when you act like this.

"We are. You have been the beautiful Mrs. Evans for the past ten years already," he tells you, and your eyes twinkle at the thought of being married to the handsome man beside your bed.

Shortly after, the nurse comes to check on you, and not long after, you're allowed to go home, where you can fully recover from your procedure.

"I'm going to cuddle with Dodger when we're home," you tell Chris as he carefully wheels you to the car in one of the hospital-issued wheelchairs.

"I think he would love that, Princess. He always loves you a lot," Chris says, and you nod. Once you're seated in the car and strapped in, your husband returns the wheelchair before joining you in the car.

"Thank you for being my chaperone today," you say as you look at Chris, and a warm smile lights up his face.

"It has been an honor to be there for you today. I know you needed me, and just like I vowed to you a decade ago, I will be there for you through sickness and health. I will always be here for you, Princess, every step of the way," he says before lifting your hand and bringing it to his lips.

He kisses it softly before driving home, and when you're there, Chris prepares the couch for you to lie on. It doesn't take long before Dodger joins you, and you're getting the cuddles from him you've been craving so much. Today has been stressful, but with Chris by your side, nothing bad could ever happen to you.

After all, he's right there with you every step of the way.

[kitnootkat]

(Sorta) Summer dates ! ... Sunflowers; happiness, cheer hope

bsd masterlist ... TAGLIST HERE

CHARACTERS : Dazai Osamu, Yosano Akiko, Edogawa Ranpo

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Dazai Osamu : Beach Date Dazai would be the type to take you on a fun beach date because what's the summer for if not to enjoy the heat by the beach. Of course you both will relax in the sand, play in the water, and get some must needed ice cream, but something you'll also do is explore. Somehow Dazai would coax you into going into the nearby forest to try and find a hidden scenic view of the ocean. Once you both find it, hand in each other, you're amazed by the view but the brunette is amazed by you. "Woah... Dazai this sight is amazing!!" At first you were very reluctant to go with Dazai since wandering in the woods isn't exactly the smartest thing to do, but damn were you so happy he convinced you to do so. The sight of the ocean from atop the rocky cliff was beautiful, it left you speechless.

Turning your head to the side to look at your boyfriend, the look on his face leaves you flushed. He was staring at you so lovingly that if you continued to face him he'd see you as red as a tomato. Oh how much he would tease you. The moment after you turn back to the water, you head a small laugh beside you which causes you to start pouting.

"The view really is amazing isn't it? While his words could have meant the view in front of you, you both knew what it meant: you were the amazing view. ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Yosano Akiko : Shopping Date

No matter what anyone says, both you and Yosano can agree that shopping dates are some of the best type of dates. Your girlfriend loves to drag you around to try new clothing styles and seasonal releases. She was absolutely enamored with how you could look oddly good in everything you wore! Of course you can try and say that's only her opinion but she refuses otherwise. You'll stop by at least twelve different stores trying out at minimum three outfits each per-store and neither of you mind it even making a game out of who can make the other look better.

This was the third store that you've been too today and you're determined to win this round of the game. Last store Yosano won and you could not let it happen again! The score is 0-2 already not in your favor so you're going to pull out all the stops and include jewelry in it too. It's not breaking a rule, its a loop hole because she didn't address it!

As you give her the basket, there's a big smile on your face and the thought of "I'll definitely win this!" was repeating itself in your head. When you take the basket of clothes she wanted you to wear, you don't think much of it. But why does the stuff in the basket look familiar? "Ahhh! We're matching!" When both of you walk out of the changing stall it seems you both are wearing almost identical outfits. While you are a bit huffed at this, Yosano is laughing. "It's- oh- this is- really funny oh my goodness. We definitely have to buy these outfits!" Despite trying to keep a pout on your face you cant help but burst into returning giggles. Even if this was most likely a tied round, you think that you've won in another way: another pair of matching outfits and hearing Yosano's joyous laugh.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Edogawa Ranpo : Candy Shop

Dates with Ranpo has turned into a routine if anything, but who says routine dates can’t exist. Every Sunday you both walk to the candy shop by the armed detective agency. As odd as it sounds Ranpo was actually the one who recommended the idea of walking after Kunikida said no to driving you both. Well not so much recommended but dramatically sighed and said quote “Since there’s nothing we can do… I GUESS we can walk. I guess.” While surprised you did agree so every Sunday your dates have been walk with Ranpo to the candy shop down the street then shop for a bit. Unfortunately for you though, for some reason they were out of the chocolates you wanted.  

“Damn it! They’re out of the chocolates I normally get.” Hershey kisses are something many people say that they’re very boring or like Tanizaki says “mid” chocolates but sometimes simple is just best! As you look over the chocolate aisle you mentally pray in your head that you simply just missed the sight of it rather than them actually being sold out. 

“Stop trying to get your hopes up, they're fully out.” Crossing your arms and huffing you turn towards where Ranpo is. The little shit you’re dating is sitting in the shopping cart sucking happily on a lollipop with a smug smile on his face. As you pout at him you grumble out that he could at least help you try and find it. 

“You’re so rude, I was just being honest. Here, have something sweeter.” Raising an eyebrow, you feel your arm get tugged towards Ranpo, body following. Before you can say anything you feel his lips on yours. It’s only a moment before he pulls away but as your face flushes his has a smirk. “See, problem solved.” 

“No it’s not, you would kill me if I did the same thing to you.” “Absolutely because nothing is sweeter than the candy I like”

“Why do I date you” “Because you love me!”

[yourfavoritewitchbitch]

Chapter 4 - Illicit Affairs

A Mafia!Steve Harrington AU (featuring Mafia!Eddie Munson)

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Masterlist

Summary: Tired of heartbreak and tiptoeing on eggshells, you intend to take matters into your own hands until new things come to light. A long overdue conversation of the past and hopes for the future once you let your guard down and show Steve where your loyalty lies.

18+ Minors DNI!

CW: Slow burn. Exes to lovers. Minimal use of Y/N. Reader is referred to as "Dove." Angst. Pining. Spousal abuse (mental and physical). Nefarious deeds and scheming. Smut-ish (you'll see).

WC: 8.8K

If Nik had come home the previous night, you hadn't heard. Your body and mind were so worn down with exhaustion, sleep pulled you under for its sweet embrace without any protest. It was the first time in weeks you had a full night's rest.

With the new day, came a renewed sense of hope.

Hope floundered momentarily as you stared at yourself, a shell of the woman you used to be all because of him.

It was unfortunately unusually warm, but your husband's brutal touch left you no alternative when you woke up to fresh bruises yet again, opting for a turtleneck to cover the ugly blemishes.

You couldn't let him win. He would not take away the one thing in your life that you yearned for, willing to have no matter what the cost.

A plan was carefully laid out in the recesses of your mind that you were about to set into motion.

Lunch arrangements were made with your father almost every Sunday. You could decompress and relax in your childhood home without worry or fear of being scrutinized for your every move.

“Daddy?” Your voice carried down the hall as you closed the door behind you.

“Hey kiddo!” Shouting back, rounding the corner, meeting you halfway to pull you in for a warm hug, kissing the top of your head as you melted into his chest.

“Thought we'd do lunch in the sunroom. It's too nice to be cooped up in a stuffy dining room.” Briefly letting you go to pull you into his side.

“Sounds nice. What're we having?” You beamed up at him as he led you to the table. He'd been getting more gray hairs in the past few months, most likely from stress and the pressures of the business, something the two of you rarely talked about. It weighed on him more heavily as he aged.

“They whipped up some Bolognese pasta with a nice Greek salad and of course, wine from your Nonna's vineyard.” His smile widened, knowing it was your favorite.

“Sounds amazing!” You kissed his cheek and took your seat across from him.

The food was brought out as you chatted about mundane things, such as how the gallery was doing. You told him how the wedding went, leaving out the rendezvous with Steve but letting him know that he and Nik did have a few unsavory words.

“That man is such an arrogant hothead.” Sighing as he sipped his wine, looking as annoyed as you were at the behavior. You took it as your chance to speak up.

“Daddy, I know we don't talk about business, at all, but Nik is ruining everything you've built. You're right, he is that arrogant hothead and does nothing unless it's for himself.” You pulled your lower lip between your teeth, carefully thinking of your next words watching as your fathers' eyes drift to the table, seemingly lost in his own thoughts.

This was it. Sow the seeds of doubt. Let it sprout and spread. Maybe your father would finally see the kind of man Nik had become was not at all what was needed for business or for his daughter.

“I'm not happy. I haven't been happy for a long time.” You solemnly spoke, sighing and melting further into your chair as he reached across the table taking your hand in his.

“I know.” Your head shot up at his admittance. He quickly looked away, unable to meet your narrowed gaze.

“What do you mean you know?” Raising your voice slightly, pulling your hand away, brows furrowed with confusion.

“Your dear old dad isn't blind. I know you aren't happy. And I also know about his side gigs.” Letting a sigh escape him as his shoulders slumped.

Your confusion quickly bubbles into anger. Has he known all this time and turned a blind eye? For what? An alliance with a family that brought him a little more power, treating you like nothing but a pawn in the process.

When your father first brought up the prospect all those years ago, you were hesitant. A marriage to this family would secure his hold in Chicago for the foreseeable future but he assured you then that he wouldn't pressure you into a marriage with someone you didn't know.

When you met Nik for the first time, he immediately caught your attention. Confident, charming and handsome. Not at all what the rumors had suggested.

He swept you entirely off of your feet while impressing your father, agreeing to marry him after only six months of dating. It seemed like you were finally getting your fairytale ending, even if it was with the wrong prince.

He had completely fooled you both, conducting double dealings behind your father's back before the honeymoon phase had ended.

“You know?” Shaking your head, with disbelief. “And you've stood by and done nothing?” Practically shouting at him as you swiftly stood, almost knocking your chair over in the process.

“Y/N, it's complicated. If I knew then, I would have never asked you to get involved. I'm sorry.” He replied, suddenly slamming his fists down on the table, as the fine china and glasses rattled. “Goddamnit!”

His sudden outburst made you jump and flinch away from him. Your knee jerk reaction didn’t go unnoticed, as he quickly stood, rounding the table.

“Hey, kiddo. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.” He spoke softly, coming to reach out with open arms but you quickly sidestepped him putting some distance between the two of you.

“I need to go. I can't be here right now.” Quickly shooting down the hall and back out the door as your father called out your name.

Your driver was leaned up against the car, straightening up and tossing the smoke he held between his fingers to the ground when he saw you rush out.

“Miss?” He asked when he saw the burning fury etched across your face.

“Take me home.”

He nodded, opening the door without another word.

Feeling utterly alone in this, that hopelessness began to edge its way back in. You took a deep breath as the car sped off, your phone continuously vibrating in your lap; “Dad” popping up each time, until you finally turned it off.

You couldn't ignore him forever but right now some distance would do you some good.

It was quiet when you arrived back home, but Nik’s car was outside.

You didn't bother looking around for him, heading straight up to your room. A million things going through your mind at once, so lost in thought you didn't notice the door to your bedroom sat ajar. You never left it open, typically locking it before leaving for the day.

You barged in, grimacing to yourself when you spotted him sitting on your bed, stopping you dead in your tracks. He lifted a bottle of whiskey to his lips, looking out the window.

He was more than disheveled, hair unkempt, shirt unbuttoned and his tie undone, hanging haphazardly around his neck.

“What the hell are you doing in here?” Asking while maintaining your distance, eyeing him warily.

He finally turned his head, eyes glassy and bloodshot, taking another sip from the bottle. Some liquid dripped down his chin as he finished, brushing it away with the back of his hand. It was then you noticed his bloody and bruised knuckles. An instance wave of worry rushed over you.

“Have a good lunch?” Falling from his lips, a little slurred, in a mocking tone.

Ignoring his question, you quickly surveyed the room. It was in complete disarray, with clothes and other belongings strewn about laying on the floor and bed. He’d shattered the mirror above your vanity, a smear of blood across the spiderwebbed reflection.

“What the hell are you doing in here, Nik? We had an agreement.” You huffed out, his presence only worsening your already perturbed mood. You knew you shouldn’t aggravate him further, but it was too late.

He swiftly stood, although stumbling just a bit, righting himself with a deep chuckle, confirming he was indeed drunk.

“Agreement?” He snarled, lip curling as his eyes trailed down your body. “I think we both know that little agreement is done.” Swaying as he took a heavy step toward you, making you take a step back.

“Oh, kitten, come on now. You can't be that stupid?” Taking two more steps, as you followed suit, your back hitting the wall behind you. No where else to go, you watched, eyes going wide, as he eased forward.

His large frame towered over you, placing one hand on the wall caging you in and leaning down into your space as he spoke. His whiskey laced breath fanned over you, making you wince at the smell.

“You're not going to make me look like a fool and get away with it.” He spat, you closed your eyes, bracing yourself for anything. “You're my fucking wife. My fucking property.”

Sliding his hand down, grabbing your hip, pulling you sloppily into him leaving you no choice but to take hold of his shirt to steady yourself, opening your eyes in time to see his face lean in, his lips pressing forcefully into yours.

His tongue darted out, trying to prod your lips open but you kept your mouth clamped shut, pushing him back as you yelled “Get off of me, you fucking asshole!”

He stared at you for a moment, almost bewildered before taking another long swig on unsteady legs.

You breathed in a small sigh of relief, as he stalked away, but your reprieve was quickly dashed when he stopped short of the door, glaring back at you.

“Fucking whore!” He shouted, raising the whiskey bottle, drawing back, and throwing it with all the force he could muster directly toward you.

You screamed; ducking as it shattered above your head, the shards raining down, hitting your body and littering the floor.

“You deserve worse, you ungrateful bitch.” He laughed, walking out to leave you to deal with the aftermath.

Hurriedly, you rushed to the door slamming it shut, but it was only then you noticed the lock was broken.

It was as if Nik had been looking for something, tearing your room apart.

It dawned on you then. The dress. The closet was in shambles, much like your room. After looking around, rummaging through things on the floor you realized it wasn't there.

Wrapping your arms around yourself, you walked back out into the room, looking at the destruction more closely, eyes suddenly homing in on the smoldering fireplace in the far corner.

You caught sight of a small piece of wine-colored fabric sitting within, the rest of what Nik had deemed such an offending piece of clothing had been reduced to mere ashes.

Collapsing in on yourself, your knees suddenly hit the floor.

That feeling of hope from this morning was fading fast, as you knelt there, tears spilling hot over your cheeks as your body began to tremble.

If you were going to make it out of this alive, you had to be smart.

You wiped your cheeks, with shaky fingers as you stood. No more feeling sorry for yourself. You were done crying and being told what to do. It was time to take matters into your own hands.

The rest of the evening was a blur. Between cleaning up the room, along with yourself you worked late into the night.

A chair was pushed up under the handle, bracing the door in case he tried to come back in but thankfully he had slept the rest of day leaving late that night.

Still on edge, sleep eluded you until the early hours of morning. It wasn't until the sunlight streaming through your shades that you woke, reaching for your phone, gasping as you jumped out of bed, you'd slept straight through your alarm.

You had numerous missed calls from Abigail, along with your father who was just as stubborn as you. He wouldn't give up, but the wounds were still too fresh for you to speak with him.

You typed out a quick text to him, hoping it would buy you a little more time before you had to deal with him. Then it was a call to a very relieved Abigail before getting ready.

Once you finally stepped into your office, after Abigail had given you the rundown for the day, you were met with a fresh bouquet of dark red roses atop your desk, much like the color of the dress he had gifted you.

“Those arrived first thing this morning.” She commented before excusing herself.

A note was nestled among the petals just like all the ones that had come before, except this time you were hesitant, leaving it there to jump into work instead.

The day flew by, playing catch up from the late morning, as the sun finally sits low, throwing its golden hues across the city announcing its departure and closing the day.

You lean back in your chair, stretching as Abigail throws you a quick goodbye. Tossing your glasses to the side, eyes now tired from overuse, the note finally caught your attention once more.

You plucked it from its place, tearing it open with a long exhale before flipping it over to read.

I'm sorry.

Always Yours, S.H.

He had nothing to apologize for.

The thought that he must have conveyed the worry and fear from being caught as a rejection passed through your mind, but nothing could be further from the truth.

You had to get in touch with him to make your intentions known.

It came to you suddenly; you keep a log of anyone who buys from the gallery. A list of clients for important events or the occasional reminders that go out for new exhibits.

You immediately opened your laptop and pulled up those important contacts, opening the “H” section with a few clicks.

“Bingo.” You whispered out. Abigail had taken his information the day he had bought the painting. Your hand reached for your cell, but you stopped. It could be monitored too easily.

You reached for the desk phone instead, dialing the number with ease and placing it to your ear.

The seconds ticked by as it seemed to ring for an eternity before you received his voicemail. You sighed, as the brief message played, alerting you that you had reached Mr. Steve Harrington’s personal cell followed by the beep.

“Steve, hi. It's Dove. I— I just wanted to thank you for the dress, it was beautiful. And the flowers, I just read your note. I— Well, I mean you have nothing to apologize for. It's all complicated but, I think you know that. I really don't want to say this all over a voicemail, just please know that I'm sorry and I hope to see you again soon.”

You blew out a heavy breath, as you cradled the phone, sitting back in your chair hoping it wasn't too late to let him know how you truly feel.

His answer came in the form of an email to your business inbox a few hours later. He left it vague, knowing you would decipher it easily.

Ms. Alexander,

I won't be back in town until the end of the week, at which point I would love to see what you have on hand so I can get a better idea on which direction I should take.

Until then, Best Regards, S.H.

You laid in bed reading over the words, feeling those wings of hope flutter in your chest once more.

It wasn't over yet.

Unbeknownst to you he had been out of town checking Pip into a very remote rehab facility. They kept her whereabouts secret, going as far as taking her phone away, remaining that way for the duration of her stay.

He was elated to hear your voicemail, sending an email to your office immediately. He didn't want to keep you in suspense since he wouldn't get the chance to see you in person until much later in the week.

He and Eddie had a few meetings to attend, more business to discuss with some colleagues in other cities to get all of his affairs in order. He was getting the numbers and allies behind him.

Once his plane touched down back in Chicago early Friday afternoon, much to Eddie's dismay and disapproving grumbles he had them heading to see you.

He was silent most of the ride, knee bouncing the entire time, stewing in his own thoughts until he just couldn't handle it anymore.

“Steve, may I be blunt?” He asked from his seat beside him.

“Of course.” He sat his phone in his lap, giving the other man his full attention.

“I know you love her, but she's married, to a Petrov, no less. I hope you know what you're doing.” He reached for a cigarette, extending the gold case toward Steve offering him one.

He didn't immediately answer, taking one of the hand rolled cigarettes between his fingers. Sliding it between his lips, as Eddie pulled out a matching gold lighter igniting the end for him.

He inhaled deeply, letting the nicotine fill his lungs. Throwing his head back to release it as he watches the smoke rise and waft around them.

“Ed, I always know what I'm doing. Don't sweat it.” It comes out as nonchalant, making Eddie raise an eyebrow toward him.

Eddie knew Steve was always thinking at least five steps ahead but when it came to matters of the heart things could sometimes get muddled. That’s when things could go awry.

“Care to tell the rest of the class or are you just going to keep me in the dark?” He inhaled his own cigarette.

“There's a lot of moving parts with this one. I'll tell you when you need to know. And right now, you don't need to know. There's more at stake than just her right now.” He sighed, looking out the window. “But I'll protect her at any and all costs.”

Eddie knew better than to prod any further. Steve would tell him when he was ready.

The driver slowed as he pulled up to the building.

“Understood boss. Just know that I'll have your back no matter what.” Clasping Steve on the shoulder before exiting the vehicle.

The driver opened Steve's door as he quickly got out.

Both men headed around back, per usual, to gain entrance to the building.

Steve spotted Abigail asking if you were available.

“I'm sorry, Mr. Harrington, she just stepped out for lunch, shall I take a message down for her?” She asked cheerily, grabbing her pad and pen.

“That won't be necessary, but do you happen to know where she went? I'm feeling quite famished myself, my flight just got in, maybe I'll see her in passing.” His smile lit up, no woman could ever truly resist that Harrington charm once he turned his attention solely to them.

“Of course, it's just down the road. Bistro Auclair. I'm not sure if she was meeting anyone or not.”

“Thank you, Ms. Shepherd. Have a lovely day.”

-

He walked the few blocks down the sidewalk, spotting you on the terrace as his heart fluttered. You were distracted by a book in your hands, as he strode up beside you. A little pinch of concentration was etched across your brow, which he thought was adorable.

He loved to see you in the ordinary, everyday routine of your life, longing to be there with you, enjoying the quiet company of one another. Seeing you now, he almost didn't want to disturb you.

“Ti sono mancato, little dove?” He spoke, unbuttoning his jacket before taking a seat at the table next to you. “I'd kiss your cheek, but eyes are always watching.” He flashes that million-dollar smile and sends you a wink.

“Always.” You reply, an answer to both his question and observation not entirely surprised to see him, taking a sip of your coffee. You mirrored his own cheeky grin behind your cup.

“So, from now on I think it's best if you want to have a chat, meet me at the gallery instead. My so-called guards are under strict orders to stay out.”

You glance around, brief worry flashing across your face. He's trying to be discreet, but if anyone happened to be spying it would be a little too obvious. He knows your tails are parked around the corner right now, not bothering to watch you. Eddie's stationed close by keeping an eye on them.

“As you wish.” He states, flagging down the waiter. “I heard your gallery is hosting a charity event tomorrow. How would one go about finding themselves on the guest list?”

“I suppose you would have to know someone.” You shrugged. “But, since you're a paying client, your name is already on the list. I'm sure Abigail sent you an invitation earlier this week.”

“Of course, I haven't been home to check.” His smile never wavered, as he sat up a little straighter. “I'll see you tomorrow then.”

You began to gather your things, leaving cash on the table for your bill as you stood.

“Those goons don't come in during events either. I make them hang in the back alley. You and Eddie can get in no problem. I'll have his name added too.” He nodded in understanding as you slipped past, his eyes trailing your curves as your hips swayed with each step that took you further away from him.

Soon. He thought to himself. It was just a matter of time.

The day of the charity gala brought its own stresses and challenges. Getting the gallery ready for events of this caliber was always a hassle but at the end of the day they were worth it.

Decorators, caterers and entertainment was brought in for the evening. All in a rush of madness, vying to get everything ready on time. The large space was filled with high top tables for guests to congregate and drink to their hearts desire all while bidding for some magnificent pieces.

One hundred percent of the profits for all of the art donated would go to charity. Something you were truly proud of.

Mood lighting in muted blues and purples was set around the space making sure that the art still remained in the spotlight. The lighting was set so it also provided a little seclusion and privacy in some corners of the room.

You directed everyone around until the very last minute. Abigail had to practically shove you away to make sure you were able to change, everything in your office already laid out.

The dress you had chosen was an elegant, but not over the top floor length, slip style silk gown with a thigh high slit. It fits your curves but not overly exaggerating them. You'd chosen black to stay on theme with the event. Thankfully the small remnants of those last bruises had faded.

You took the opportunity to make sure your makeup was just right, and every hair was in place.

As you walked out into the hall, chatter and soft music filled the air. Soon the gallery would be filled to the brim, exactly as you planned.

An hour quickly passed as you made your way around the large space, exchanging pleasantries with all the guests but you were distracted. Eyes drifting, continuously scanning the room looking for him the entire time.

Across the room, he had already made his entry, searching for you as well. He weaves his way through the outer edges of the crowd, always cautious and on high alert.

He spotted you first, your back turned speaking with an attendee he paid little attention to as his focus was solely on you.

Finishing up your conversation, you turned abruptly, as if you could feel his eyes. You caught those warm, honey hued irises looking right at you. You threw him a warm smile, nodding toward the far corner of the room, sitting your champagne down on a nearby table as you began walking.

You navigated the crowd easily, moving to a more desolate spot.

He met you there a moment later, wearing a simple and classy black tux and matching bowtie. It was then you noticed he held a single, dark red rose.

“For the beautiful host.” Extending it forward.

Your fingertips pinched the stem gingerly, as you took it from him with a shy smile, lifting it to your nose and breathing in the intoxicating aroma.

“I think we should go somewhere more private.” Sitting an electronic key card on the table to the side of you and continuing to slide past him. Being cautious to not linger too long out in the open like this. “Access to the balcony, down the corridor and to the far left. I'll meet you there in ten.”

It felt like your feet couldn't carry you fast enough. Your nerves were electrified, buzzing with anticipation as your heart rate ticked up, navigating through the crowd and finally reaching the empty corridor back to your office. You swung the door open and quickly slammed it behind you, letting out a heavy breath.

You could feel the change as if it were all around you. After tonight, there was no going back.

You reapplied your lipstick, looking over yourself once more. You weren't the same woman from eight years ago. Time and a million miles had separated you. You both had changed but you still saw that handsome boy, who wore his heart on his sleeve, hoping he still saw that foolish girl with eyes only for him.

Using the door from your office, you didn't realize he was already perched in the corner until he spoke, startling you just a bit.

“Beautiful view, tesoro.” Eyes cast toward the twinkling lights of the city instead of you. “Eddie's watching the hall. I can hear you worrying from here.”

You crossed the small space to come stand beside him, as you too looked toward the soft glow and twinkling lights, suddenly feeling his eyes lingering on you instead.

“I'm not worried about that. No one's going to come back here.” You sighed, suddenly feeling a light chill, wrapping your arms around yourself.

“But you are worried, no? Tell me, what's on your mind?” He knew you all too well.

You had a million things you wanted to say but suddenly you weren't sure where to start. Standing by him now it seems like none of it mattered, as the trepidation melted away.

“I can't live like this.” You finally spoke, voice wavering the tiniest bit, catching him a little off guard. For once he wasn't sure where you were going with this.

“Dove, just say the word and I'll stop everything. The flowers, dropping by. If it's too forward or making you uncomfortable. The situation isn't ideal but…” he cleared his throat, to bite back what he truly wanted to say. “If you want me to stop, I will.”

“No, it's not ideal.” You slowly looked over to him, his tough exterior melting away showing you the vulnerable man you loved underneath as he searched your face.

“I could never ask you to stop, but we aren't stupid kids anymore.” Your emotions were getting the better of you. Feelings welling up with nowhere else to go but out, as you were thrust back into a memory you had tried to bury.

“He's sending me away.” He spoke softly into your hair, placing a kiss there. Your head was laid on his bare chest as you let your fingertips trace patterns onto his torso.

It had been another night of you two tangled beneath his silk sheets forgetting the rest of the world for just a little while. You didn't want to think about family or what comes next, but he couldn't help himself in these moments.

Everything heavy on his mind was laid out before you in the small quiet of the night. It wasn't unusual. He trusted you. He loved you.

“When?” Your voice trembled. Afraid of the answer but it was better than the unknown.

“A couple of weeks. He doesn't want me to be in his way. He knows he's in the wrong. It's better to send the opposition away than try to see the old way doesn't always work.”

Steve had seen things changing, he brought new ideas and a fresh way of thinking that Richard didn't like, determined to do things his way.

“Steve, he can't do that. You're taking over for him eventually; can't he see how stupid that would be?” You were already mad. Knowing that Richard Harrington hates his own son enough to send him away from everything he knows.

“He can. He's sending me over there to head the small operation he has. Eddie's coming too.” As if some small comfort knowing he wouldn't be alone would make it any better.

He was leaving you. Who would be here for you?

You lay there knowing there was nothing either you or he could do.

A small tear you were holding back pushed past your lashes and hit his chest. He felt it but didn't say anything, only pulling you closer into his warmth.

“Dove, I won't be gone forever.” He held your chin, moving your face towards his. Your eyes were closed as his lips brushed yours as he spoke, “I promise.”

“You promised.” Whispering out, your gaze back out toward the city instead of him.

“What?” He asks, suddenly confused.

“You promised you wouldn't be gone forever and yet here we are. It feels like an entire lifetime has gone by.”

His mouth parted but words weren't enough. He didn't know what to say.

When he didn't say anything, you filled the silence, turning to face him.

“You were 22 Steve; you could have told him you were staying! You weren't a boy to be ordered around anymore!” Your shouts felt like knives slicing at his heart.

“Dove,” he sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. Gathering his strength for a fight he wasn't ready for. “What was I supposed to do, disobey my father? Turn my back on my family? You know better than anyone that wasn't possible.”

“Yeah, we both know family duty all too well.” Scoffing slightly. “Did you think I wouldn't notice you never responded to my wedding invitation? Not even a card or text.” Your eyes began to sting and well with tears.

“Little Dove,” he lifted your chin, pinched softly between his thumb and forefinger, leaving you no choice but to turn your focus back to him. “Do you know what that did to me? What it would have done to me to watch you marry someone else?”

“What about me Steve?” You moved out of his touch. “The entire time I was hoping you would burst through those doors and take me away from all of it. I never wanted any of this.”

“Goddamnit,” he hissed. Thinking back to when he had received that invitation. It was like a death sentence, yet this was a fate worse than death. He had to live the rest of his life knowing your heart belonged to someone else.

“Oh, Steeeeeeviieeeee!” Pip’s voice rang out, as she opened the door to his small office in the back of the villa. He didn't look up, only silently cursing himself for not locking the door.

“What the hell do you want?” He asked, already fearing an impending headache his little sister would undoubtedly bring forth with whatever antics she was about to start.

She tiptoed up to his desk, hands behind her back.

“Mail for you.” Promptly dropping an envelope addressed to him on top of the stack of papers he had been going through and plopping herself down in the chair across from him.

He glared at her as he picked it up. It was an off-white envelope with roses embossed along two of the corners. Taking his letter opener and cutting into it, he finally spoke back up.

“Do you mind? When the hell do you ever bring me my mail?” Sliding what was clearly some sort of invitation out.

“Oh no, I'm not going anywhere for this.” A grin lifted the edges of her lips as she looked back at him. “Mamma already opened ours, this one is all for you.”

He sighed, holding it up as he began to scan it over.

“David Alexander requests the honor of your presence for the marriage of Y/N Y/M/N Alexander and Nikolai Dmitri Petrov…” The rest of the words went fuzzy as he focused on your name. His stomach felt like it dropped, time seemed to slow as his heart began to beat radically in his chest.

“Get out.” He spoke, eyes never leaving the invitation.

“Oh Steve, you can't possibly think she was going to wait around on you forever. You should be happy fo—”

“I said get the fuck out, Pip!” He yelled, rising from his seat pointing toward the door, closing his fist around the paper.

She rolled her eyes, huffing as she got up and crossed the room, murmuring a quick “asshole” before slamming the door behind her.

He unclenched his fist, tossing it to the side.

“Fuck!” He hisses out, moving to the small liquor cabinet in the corner of the room pouring three fingers of bourbon and downing it in one gulp immediately pouring another.

This couldn't be happening. Not like this. He picked up his phone, dialing a number he knew by heart, but he stopped.

He hadn't lurked on social media in several months, but he was suddenly on autopilot, pulling up your Instagram with a few swipes and was immediately met with weeks of smiling, happy faces from you and Nik.

His face flushed hot as his heart beat wildly, scrolling through an endless stream of photos, pausing when he caught sight of the one that took his breath.

A close up of your left hand, a big diamond engagement ring adorned your ring finger. A blurry image of you kissing Nik in the background.

His nostrils flared, releasing the breath he was holding when he suddenly slammed his phone against the nearest wall. The glass of bourbon came next, shattering as shards flew across the room.

It was the first of many, lonely nights he locked himself away and drowned himself in liquor trying to forget all about you.

For three agonizing months he hid it as best he could, until it all came to a head the day of the wedding.

Eddie knew when to speak freely and when to keep his mouth shut. He'd watched his best friend's mental and physical health decline, hiding it well from his mother and Pip but it was getting worse. The business was taking a hit, and he knew Richard would be coming for Steve's ass if he didn't straighten himself up. He'd seen him work too hard to let this be the end.

Eddie tried knocking first, but was met with silence on the other end, then trying the handle but the door was locked.

“Steve, unlock the door. We need to talk.” There was a beat of silence before he spoke up.

“Go away, Eddie.” It came out low and muffled.

“I can't do that. Either you unlock the door or I'm busting it down. Your choice but I know if Sophia has to replace a broken door, she isn't going to be happy.” A few seconds ticked by before he finally heard shuffling and the door flew open.

Steve was disheveled and swaying just a bit as he lifted a bottle of bourbon to his lips, chugging a few large gulps.

His shirt was unbuttoned, tie abandoned on his desk and hair falling in and around his face. Eddie knew he'd been drinking most of the day. He finally made a gesture with his hand, bidding him to enter with glossy, half lidded eyes barely watching as he passed, shutting the door behind them.

“Look, man you have got to pull yourself together. It isn't the end of the world.” He began, as Steve crossed the room, plopping himself at the end of the sofa. “If your dad gets hears about any of this shit he—”

“You ever been in love, Eddie?” The interruption came as a surprise as the older man looked down at Steve, the two never talked about their feelings or such frivolous topics as love. They were close but left things of this nature close to their vest.

“Wha— I mean, I—”

“No, you haven't.” Steve finally looked up, crestfallen and broken.

“Steve, man—”

“No, don't come in here and presume to know anything about how I feel and tell me it's not the end of the world when my entire world is about to marry someone else.” He stood on unsteady legs, taking a few steps to close the distance between the two of them, pressing a finger into his chest.

He closed his eyes against the stinging sensation, pinching the bridge of his nose and taking a deep breath, suddenly laughing out.

“Eddie, just fuck off tonight.” He took a step back, and stumbled, almost toppling over before the other man caught his arm.

“Woah there, big boy. Let's just…” He helped guide him back over to the sofa, prying the bottle from his hand as he sat down.

His breaking point came a few moments later. His phone alerted him to a new text. He immediately regretted opening the picture from Pip.

You were stunning, with a huge, beaming smile. You were positively glowing, and it made his stomach churn. Burning liquor threatened to make its escape back up.

He knew he'd made a huge mistake.

Steve broke down, laying his head in his hands letting his tears fall freely.

Eddie was taken back. In all the years they had known each other, he'd never seen him quite so vulnerable.

“It's all my fault. I should have never left.” Suddenly lifting his head, wiping those errant tears and sniffling. Eddie just stared on in disbelief letting him continue. “I did all of this shit thinking it was the right thing, for the both of us. I started pulling away instead of telling her the truth. Instead of going back to Chicago and bringing her back here, where she belongs. Now I've lost her.”

In Steve's mind, he had become much too wrapped up in the business. He had pulled away hoping you would find happiness with someone else that wasn't involved with the drama this life inevitably led to. He hoped for someone who could give you the normal life you longed for.

It's what you deserved. He wanted to give you that life but being here it seemed less and less possible with each passing day. He wasn't returning to Chicago anytime soon.

He had to let you go.

He never imagined you would marry into another family. It tore his heart into. He'd seen firsthand what it could do to a family. He had been trying to spare you from all of it, yet you had been sucked right in anyway.

“Steve, it may not feel like it, but you did the right thing.” Eddie tentatively laid a hand to the younger man's shoulder in a reassuring manner. “This line of work is hard enough. I can't imagine being tied down like that with one more piece to worry about. People like us aren't meant for happy endings.”

Steve simply nodded, sinking back further into the cushions. You'd both made your decisions. He wouldn't stand in your way. It was a decision, he feared, would haunt him for the rest of his life.

You shove past him, knocking him from the memory, heading back to your office but his hand wraps around your wrist, halting your movement.

“Dove, I swear to God if I had known it wasn't what you wanted, I would have been here. You have to believe me.”

You took a breath and slowly turned back toward him, unable to contain the tears from falling, as you let him guide you into his chest.

He tentatively rested his hand on your hip, a warm palm through the thin silk, sending goosebumps across your skin.

“I let you go so you could be free of all this so you could marry some finance guy and live a halfway normal life.” You huffed out a small laugh at the absurdity of it. As if there would have ever been anyone else but him.

His free palm came to rest on your cheek as you nuzzled into his touch, closing your eyes as the pad of his thumb wiped the tears from your eye. Craving and longing for something you'd never thought you'd feel again. You needed more.

“Steve, I would have waited a lifetime for you.” Words coming out breathy, knocking the wind from his lungs. A knife straight to the heart.

“Dove, look at me.” Those hazel pools filled with so much adoration looking back at you, also reflecting a pain that was palpable.

So much lost time and things left unsaid.

“Steve.” You grasp the back of his hand, lips meeting his palm planting a small kiss there.

“I need you to tell me what you want.” His face inches closer. Waiting for your words. He nudged his nose into yours, titling his head slightly as his top lip grazed yours sending a jolt of electricity through you.

“Kiss me, please.”

His lips envelop yours, a soft press turning eager with one taste. It was a tidal wave of relief, being pulled out to an endless sea, floating and falling all at once. It was familiar and warm, like finding your way back home after a long journey but the butterflies fluttered in your ribcage all the same.

He kissed you with a passion and fervor that was unmatched, as your lips began working in tandem, stealing your breath and making you weak in the knees.

The hold on your hip tightened as you gripped the lapels of his suit jacket, pulling him further down into you.

He licked at your lower lip, yours parting for him. Tongues finally meeting in a slow rhythmic dance. You could taste a hint of the warm bourbon he had been sipping earlier but everything underneath was Steve.

His hand reached your lower back pressing you further into him, suddenly feeling an aching need growing in the pit of your stomach.

Reluctantly, you pulled back to finally catch your breath, you were both panting as your foreheads met, grinning down at each other wildly until his smile fell a little.

“I'm sorry. I'm so goddamn sorry I wasn't there. I thought it was what you wanted.”

“I've only ever wanted you. I need you, Steve. Please.” You gave him no time to respond, taking his hand into yours, and promptly dragging him back through the door.

You turned to shut it and he was instantly behind you. His hands wound around your waist, pulling you back into his chest as his lips ghosted the shell of your ear as he spoke.

“I want nothing more than to have my way with you. Let me worship you.”

Goosebumps erupted across your skin, his words sending a shiver down your spine as you faced him.

“We don't have that kind of time, but I need you. I haven't—” You shied away from the confession you were about to vocalize, as he began kissing down your jaw.

“You haven't what?” He asks in-between kisses.

“I haven't been with anyone for a long time.” He paused, pulling back to look at you, eyes narrowed and brows meeting with confusion. “Nik and I— we haven't been intimate in years. He— he would rather fuck the whores at his club. We just stopped after a while. I didn't want him touching me anymore.”

Your confession both elated and enraged him. He knew Nik was an idiot, but to ignore you for some common whores? This beautiful, amazing woman he had no idea how to handle or take care of. It all suddenly made sense why you two never had children.

“Tesoro mio, that has nothing to do with you. He's an idiot. He doesn't deserve you.” His lips find yours once more, this time less urgent, moving languidly as his nose presses into your cheek, as pulling you further into him.

He began to walk you back, your thighs hitting your desk making you break free for a moment, frantically shoving papers out of the way as they cascaded to the floor. Something you would worry about later.

He wound his arm around you, helping to lift you up, parting your thighs as far as the restrictive fabric of your dress would allow as he came to slot himself between them. His eyes never left yours, leaning down to capture your soft, supple lips once more before he began trailing kisses along your jaw and down your neck.

Your hands reached for his belt buckle, but he stopped you with a tsk, stilling your movements.

“Uh, uh tesoro. Let me get you ready. This is all about you right now.”

His hands trailed lower, reaching the hem of your dress, pushing it further up your thighs until your red panties came into view.

“Mmmm… my favorite color.” He growls, his fingertips trace the top of your thigh softly, bringing his other hand to the desktop beside you, palm planted firmly against the cool wood, leaning close to your ear.

“I know you taste just as sweet as I remember.” His words make you bite down against your lower lip, your body rife with anticipation, his lips peppering softly along your cheek meeting yours once more.

His fingertips trail lower, to the inside of your thigh, you gasp out releasing a breathy moan that his lips and mouth swallow. He would gladly drown in those sounds, letting you pull him under.

You further part your thighs, the damp silk of your panties were sticky, clinging to you. If you weren't so needy, you'd feel slightly embarrassed at how soaked you already were.

His finger inches closer, grazing that crease where your panties lay.

Your hips suddenly jolt forward when he presses into the wet fabric, immediately finding your puffy, aching clit applying just the right amount of pressure.

You moan obscenely at the miniscule amount of relief it provides, not finding it in yourself to care who could hear as he hooks his finger into the fabric, and ever so slowly begins to pull it to the side revealing your glistening pussy. You needed him to touch you.

“All this for me?” He hisses, looking down admiring the sight before him, ready to dip his finger into the sweet nectar. His cock already hard, stirring within its confines, aching at the thought of your warmth wrapped snugly around him.

Suddenly, a loud knock came at the door, pulling you both out of your lust fueled haze, as he quickly withdrew his hand helping you pull your dress back into place. Your heart was hammering in your chest.

“Uh… Steve?” Eddie's voice came muffled through the door.

“Fuck!” He hissed through gritted teeth. Resting his forehead to yours.

Eddie cleared his throat. “Sorry to… uh… interrupt but we've got some business to take care of.”

“Just give me a sec.” He grunted, cupping your cheeks gently, bringing his lips to your forehead placing a soft kiss there.

“I'm so sorry. Please forgive me.”

“It's okay Steve. It's okay.” You smile, pulling back slightly. You knew what kind of things could draw him away. You'd seen it countless times with your father.

“I should get back out there before someone starts looking for me anyway.” Saying with a slight shrug, as he helped you down slowly from the desk, holding you close to his body.

Neither of you are quite yet ready to say goodbye, helping him straighten his suit and tie.

“I'll be in touch soon, I promise.” Wrapping his arms around you, as yours found their way around his neck, holding each other tightly as if it might be the last.

You weren't sure what to say, or if anything needed to be said so you stayed silent letting the stillness of the moment take over.

“I've got to go.” He reluctantly spoke, releasing his grip, only for his hand to find its way back to your cheek tilting your head gently for one more kiss. It was quick, because if he stayed any longer, he wouldn't be able to pry himself away. You both longed for so much more.

He let you go, taking a few steps to the door before he walked out of view.

You sighed, leaning back on the desk, head cloudy with thoughts of Steve. Giving him a head start, straightening your makeup and hair before heading back to the event.

Thoughts lingered on him the rest of the evening; a smile was plastered across your face as your cheeks began to ache later into the night. You were glowing after your interaction and wanted to hold onto this blissful high for as long as possible.

As the night came to an end, you were left with the cleanup crew once you had sent Abigail home. Typically, there was no reason to stay behind with them, but you were trying to avoid the inevitability of going back home.

You eventually retired to your office for a brief moment of peace before calling your driver.

Immediately you notice a small black box sitting on the top of your desk, as you shut the door behind you.

Quickly shuffling over, the fear that spiked your heart rate was swiftly dampened down when you spotted the key card you had snuck Steve earlier sitting beside it. You hadn't thought to retrieve it when you were interrupted, though you wouldn't care if he had kept it.

A small note was carefully laid out across the top. The first handwritten note he'd sent you in a long time, but you still recognized his articulate scrawl, as if every letter had been written with intent and purpose. You suppose it had.

For emergencies, or really anything. I don't like it when we can't keep in touch.

S.H.

A phone. A burner, you surmised, in the event you were caught with it no one could trace it back to him.

You held it in your palm, pulling up the contacts to a number that wasn't labeled.

You typed up a quick message and hit send. His response was almost instantaneous, as if he'd been waiting for it.

Sent 12:04 AM: Thank you.

921-987-5555 12:04 AM: You don't have to keep it on you. Just be careful if you do.

Sent 12:05 AM: Of course.

921-987-5555 12:04 AM: Have a good night, Dove. We'll chat soon.

Not soon enough. You thought to yourself, deleting the conversation before putting the phone away in the drawer and locking it. Better safe than sorry.

It was a silent ride home with a mind full of racing thoughts.

His lips, slow and passionate. Making sure you would never forget how he tastes.

His touch, yearning and possessive, sending your skin aflame; molding your pliable flesh to him.

When you were together, it didn't matter how much time had passed. There was only him. There would only ever be Steve.

You didn't bother trying to stay quiet as you entered the house, uncaring if Nik was already here. Things beyond your control were already in motion. You felt and air of change as you crossed the threshold.

Your heels clicked across the white marble flooring, as you reached out to take hold of the banister, but a guff voice drifting from the study suddenly made your blood turn cold.

You only knew him by his nickname that Nik and other Russian mob men call him, “Boogeyman.” His true identity was a secret, but Nik had called him in on occasion for unsavory propositions before.

In layman's terms, he was a hired hitman. One of the most ruthless hailing from Russia. Everyone knew of him and what he was capable of.

Stopping momentarily, you caught a bit of their conversation.

“Yes, of course old friend. This is just a precaution. Nothing set in stone, yet, as long as he stays out of my way there shouldn't be an issue.”

“No matter, young Petrov. I’ll be ready.”

They both laughed out, as you tried to swallow the lump in your throat, hurrying up the stairs without a glance back.

Suddenly a whole new set of worries began to bubble up inside you as you found the safe haven of your room, thanking God for the newly installed lock.

The night full of promise and happiness was quickly turning into a nightmare. This was becoming far too much.

This journey wasn't going to be an easy one, it seemed at every turn there would be a new obstacle destined to cruelly keep you from the man you love.

This wasn't the end.

It was now up to you to move forward.

Taglist: @teen--marvel @micheledawn1975 @thecreelhouse @girlwiththerubyslippers @bunnyhargrove @taccobelle @madaboutjoe

Want to be added? Just let me know! ❤️

[jessicaloons]

Chapter 49:

All's well that ends well to end up with you

Masterlist - Previous - Next

"Can’t they stop staring at us?" I whispered, Charles pulling me closer to his side.

"They’re staring at you, cara mia. And what did you expect? People watched the documentary and bam! You dropped casually that you’ll retire at the end of the season. No explanation. No statement from you. No nothing." he sighed.

"There will be no explanation, only reputation." I joked and Charles chuckled "And what was there left to explain? When they watched the episodes they know why I had to retire. And why would I write a statement if it’s already out there?"

"True." he chuckled "I’m just so happy that everyone knows now what was going on, what you had to go through. What they all did with their constant bashing…"

"It’s out now. No turning back." I said as we stopped in front of the Audi hospitality.

"It definitely is out there… but I thought they wanted to announce Mick as their driver right on Monday?"

"They wanted to, but there was a little problem with the contract from Alpine. It’s sorted now, he signed his contract and they’ll announce it anytime now." I smiled

and took the 3 steps on terrace "See you later?"

"Yup." he pulled me down a little and kissed my cheek "See you later my pretty girl."

I pulled away and waved him off, walking inside.

"Lizzie, hey!" Matt smiled at me and I walked over to him "How are you? Now that it’s all out?"

"Relieved? But also annoyed because people look at me now like I’m a little helpless and injured deer…" I sighed and he chuckled.

"You’re anything but a helpless and injured deer, that’s for sure!" he rolled his eyes a little.

"Tell that the rest of the paddock." I shrugged my shoulders "Have you seen Julie?"

"She was with Felix, last time I checked…" he replied and I nodded.

"Alright, see you later!" I waved him off, looking for Julie, right as she stepped inside the lounge.

"There you are. We’ve got a little bit to do before I drop you off at the press conference!" she said and I nodded.

"When will you announce Mick?" I asked.

"We thought about doing it after the season? We want to keep the focus on you and your last two races with us."

"Oh that’s alright, you can announce him now, I’m fine with that, draws the attention away from me again." I laughed and she nodded.

"I’ll talk with Felix, then."

"Thanks Julie."

"Hey you." Max bumped slightly into me.

"Hey Max." I replied as he hugged me.

"How are you?" he looked at me and I sighed "I had no idea how bad your accident was... fucking hell Lizzie..."

"I didn't want anyone else to know... I didn't want to speak about it all the damn time."

"Yeah, I understand that... but now?" he nodded towards the conference room.

"I'm retiring, so only a couple of interviews left and then there won't be more questions anymore." I shrugged my shoulders and he nodded, right when Lewis patted my back "Hey Lewis."

"You're amazing, I hope you know that." he hugged me and I smiled "What you've been through and still delivered weekend after weekend? That's inspiring, Lizzie, really."

"Thanks Lewis." I said when the doors opened "Now come on guys, let's go."

We walked inside and I sat down between Max and Lewis, talking away until the press conference started. When Sainz and Oscar arrived, Tom Clarkson took his microphone and began.

"Welcome back to the penultimate race of the 2024 Formula 1 season here in Qatar. With me today Sir Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes, Max Verstappen, Red Bull, Carlos Sainz, Ferrari, Oscar Piastri, McLaren and last but not least Lizzie Doetterer, Audi. Now, starting with you Lizzie. Last Sunday, for everyone who watched the Netflix Originals: Drive to Survive - The Story or Lizzie Doetterer, was in for a rollercoaster ride, with an unexpected ending. You'll retire at the end of the season. How are you feeling, one week after revealing it to the world?"

I picked up the microphone and tilted my head a little, thinking about the right words.

"The final decision to retire was made after Monza, so I had a few weeks already to wrap my head around it, you know?

But... I honestly don't know how I'm feeling? Sad? Mad? Proud? Relieved? There are a lot of emotions on my mind right now. But above all I think I'm grateful. For the chance that my team gave me, for the love and support of my family and friends, but of course also my fans! The other drivers who made me feel welcome on the grid and made it easy to fit right in. All the memories I could create over the past 3 years."

"The decision was made after Monza, is it then safe for you to keep driving until the end of the season?"

"Not really, no..." I chuckled a little "If it was for my doctors, I would've never gone back to racing in the first place. But here I am... it was a calculated risk, one I was willing to take. I was monitored strictly the last few weeks and as soon as the issues with my back would've get any worse, I would have quit immediately. But fortunately I was lucky to keep going and I'm confident that I can finish the season like I planned to, racing this weekend and the next as well."

"Which brings us back to the race on Sunday. Qatar, always a tough race for the driver, not just the car, what can Audi do this weekend?"

"I think the track suits are car not in every aspect, as it's a highspeed track with lots of downforce, which wasn't our strongest suit this season, but I'm confident."

"Alright. Thanks Lizzie, let’s continue with Max…" Clarkson began and I put my microphone down, listening how Max, then Lewis and lastly Oscar were asked about me, both praising me, I didn’t listen to what Sainz had to say, I honestly didn’t care and when the questions from the journalists in front of us came, I wasn’t surprised that most of them were about me retiring and leaving an open seat at Audi.

"Ferran Alvarez, Marca. Question for Carlos. With Lizzie retiring now, her seat will be free next season. Are there talks again between you and Audi, as it’s one of the best available seats for next season?" a dark haired man asked Sainz and I had to suppress a laughter.

"Of course the seat at Audi is an option, as it is, like you said, probably the best seat of the remaining options. My team is working at the presented options and I’m sure before the last race I’ll have some good news for you." Sainz replied and I had to fight, to not burst out laughing.

"So there are talks then?" the reporter pressed and Sainz grinned.

The grin made my insides boil and I had to do what I did next, wiping away exactly that grin.

"I can already give you some breaking news today, we don’t have to wait until next week…" I said and all eyes were on me in a heartbeat "I’m very, very, very happy to announce that non other than Mick Schumacher will be driving for Audi next season, taking over my seat, completing the all-German line-up for Audi."

Silence. Total and absolute silence. And with one look at Sainz I knew I achieved my goal. Grin gone, scowl present. How I would miss moments like these. His DNF in Sunday’s race was just the icing on the cake.

Charles POV:

"I could watch it over and over, I swear… that was the highlight of my weekend!" I laughed, watching the press conference again, replaying the part where Lizzie shattered all of Carlos’ hopes to get her seat "Poor Mick… he was just walking down the paddock and everyone pounced at him out of the blue."

"Yeah, for that I’m sorry… but the rest? Worth it." Lizzie chuckled.

"How do you feel?" I pulled her closer and she raised her eyebrows "It’s your last race weekend…"

"Yeah, I know… honestly? I’m feeling good? Excited even." she shrugged and I cupped her cheek "I’m thinking more about you! Your first championship! How freaking awesome!"

"I didn’t win it yet! First I have to win the race!" I sighed and she rolled her eyes.

"Can you just, for once, believe in my words? I say you win, then you win. Period." Lizzie pouted a little and I pecked her lips.

"Okay, okay… I believe in your words!" I chuckled and she smiled.

"Good!" she pulled away and got off the bed, walking to her suitcase, while I read the mail I got, smiling to myself.

"Oh shit, not again…" Lizzie mumbled and I looked up from my iPad.

"What happened?"

"I forgot something…" she sighed and popped a little pill in her mouth, washing it down with some water "…again."

"And what did you forget?" I put my iPad down and she threw a little package with pills at me "Is that…"

"Birth control… yep…" she said and I looked at the blister, that was labelled with the weekdays "I took it so irregular the last weeks. I have to set a daily reminder or something."

"Why don’t you just take the ones you forgot now?" I asked and she laughed.

"Because that’s not how it works?"

"So what happens when you forget it?" I handed her the blister.

"Well…" she sighed, pointing at her belly "Poof."

"Oh! Like… so it’s not really a good contraception?"

"It is, if you don’t forget to take it like me." Lizzie shrugged her shoulders and I nodded "Don’t worry, it’s not like you forget it once and you end up pregnant already!"

"There were a lot of full ones in between the few popped ones?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Well then, wrap it before you tap it." she laughed and I groaned.

"Don’t say it like that…"

"Why?" she returned from the bathroom and I just shook my head.

"Just-… don’t say it like that… ever again…"

"Okay… are you ready now? Let’s get this day over with." she slipped on her shoes and I got off from the bed.

"Last media day." I said and she nodded.

"Yup… let’s go." she was out the door before I even grabbed my sunglasses.

"Wait for me cara mia!" I rolled my eyes and followed her outside, getting into the elevator downstairs where our car was already waiting for us. I took the keys from the attendant and opened Lizzie’s door for her, quickly getting inside myself.

"I hate that the FIA put me into a group with you… I don’t want them to talk about me today! They should talk about you! And how you’ll be a world champion after the weekend!" she said after a while and I squeezed her thigh.

"I don’t mind talking about you today. I love talking about you, one of my favourite things…" I chuckled and I saw her lips twitch a little, fighting with a smile "It will be fine, I’m sure they’re not just asking about you!"

I was only partly right, there was a lot of talks about Lizzie and her last race, how she felt, how I felt but as soon as we all said our piece the questions changed and Max and I were asked about the upcoming race, how we approached it.

"I mean, I’ll approach it like every other race? I never was this close to winning the title, so I don’t know if I should approach it differently?" I answered looking at Max who just laughed.

"Never approached it differently. At the end of the day it’s just a race like any other, just with a slightly different outcome." he said and I nodded.

"Meg Saunders, BBC Sports. This is going to be a tough and tight battle on Sunday, Charles going in with 444 points and Max going in with 437. Max even if you win, Charles can’t be in P2 with the fastest lap, because then he’s one point ahead. So you have to win with the fastest lap to not care where Charles will end up at the race, how much pressure is that?" the red haired woman in the second row asked Max and he looked at me.

"Charles put me under pressure the whole season already, so nothing new. We both will do our best and then we’ll see what happens."

"Charles, anything to add? You can win the race and don’t have to think about what others do?"

"No, it’s like Max said, we will do our best and then we’ll see what happens." I said and with that Tom Clarkson finished the press conference.

"Lizzie, it was a pleasure working with you, all the best for the future and maybe I’ll see you on Sunday again?" he said and Lizzie smiled.

"Would be amazing."

Starting the race from pole was a good position to get some distance between me and Max, and with Lizzie as a buffer behind me, I knew that I could do it. I could win the championship, do what Lizzie said from the beginning of the season. I was never this nervous during a formation lap, but I focused. I couldn’t mess this up. The start had to be perfect and as soon as the lights were out I was in my well known tunnel, only me and the track.

"Manage your rear tires a bit better." Bryan radioed and I adjusted my driving immediately.

The next 3 laps I was flying, setting fastest lap after fastest lap. But then I saw the yellow flags and slowed down. Shortly after the red flag was waved and I waited for Bryan’s input.

"Red flag. Return to the pits."

"What happened?"

"Perez and Alonso, both out."

"Are they okay?"

"Yes. Both are okay."

"Alright." I sighed and drove into the pits, waiting for further instructions.

"Race will resume in 15 minutes, you can get out of the car."

I unbuckled my seatbelt, took my steering wheel off and climbed out of the car, walking towards the Ferrari garage when I spotted Lizzie, having trouble getting out of her car. I immediately walked over to her but was relieved when I saw that she just had trouble with her belt.

"Hey you." I said, opening the visor and she climbed out of her car "Everything alright?"

"Yeah, my leg got tangled in the seatbelt, happened never before, no idea how that happened." she chuckled and I helped her down "Mr. race leader." she said and I rolled my eyes a little.

"There’s still 20 laps left, don’t get ahead of yourself."

"20 laps left, you have the fastest lap and Max looks like he’s struggling." she replied and I nodded slightly.

"It’s looking good. But first when I take the checkered flag I’m celebrating, okay?" I squeezed her shoulder gently and she nodded.

"Alright. Now you have to excuse me but I need to pee. See you after the race!" she patted my helmet and I smiled, watching her walk away.

I had to win. If not for me, then for Lizzie and her unwavering faith in me. I had to win this title for her.

"My tyres are gone." I radioed.

"3 more laps Lizzie. You can do this."

"These two are crazy! One of them will end up in a wall!"

"Max knows that Charles has the fastest lap at the moment."

"Oh…"

"Charles is faster overall."

"Okay."

No wonder they both pushed their cars to the absolut limit and above. After the messy re-start and Max overtaking Charles because his tires weren’t ready yet they kept on fighting like crazy. The next corner they both left the track, pushing each other harder than ever before. Would Max win, but Charles kept the fastest lap, Charles would be world champion. The next corners it looked like a battle. They were going wheel to wheel, sparks flying everywhere and right when they pushed each other wide again, 2 more laps to go, I saw an opportunity to squeeze past them and I send it.

"Amazing Lizzie! Push, push, push! Give it your all!" Pete radioed, his voice almost hysterical "Last lap Lizzie! Last lap! Bring it home, little one!"

"Trying my best! Charles in P2?"

"Yes. He still has the fastest lap as well."

"Fucking amazing."

He did it. He won. He was a Formula 1 world champion. When I saw the checkered flag being waved, the emotions overcame me. It was my last checkered flag. My last race. My last win. But for Charles it meant so much more. All the years of doubts, blaming himself for every mistake his team did, all the people dragging him down, that all meant nothing anymore. He won. I never doubted it one second, but it still felt amazing.

"You did it Lizzie! That’s P1! What a race little one! We are all so proud of you! Thank you for the last 3 years Lizzie. Working alongside you was the best." Pete radioed and I could’ve sworn that I heard him sniffle.

"Thanks Pete. For everything! You were the best race engineer I could’ve asked for! You all are the best team I could’ve wished for! I love you guys so much and I wish you nothing but the best for the seasons to come! I know that with Mick and Nico you’ll have two amazing drivers to continue what we’ve build! Thank you all so freaking much!" I felt tears welling up and tried to steady my breathing.

"Little one, thank you for everything you’ve done for our team! You and Valtteri were the best drivers to begin this project with. Today you proofed again why this seat was always rightfully yours. I’m so proud of you! And of Charles, he deserves this title more than anyone else! He had an amazing season and you were right from the beginning." Felix radioed next and I chuckled.

"Tell Matt to get prepared for his little night swim in the harbour."

"Don’t worry, we’ll all make sure he keeps his word."

I parked my car in the middle spot and jumped out of it, running to my team and hugged them all, cheered with them, knowing that this was my last time. Felix patted my helmet and nodded to left and I turned, seeing Charles parking his car. I almost immediately bolted and stood next to his car, pulling him out and in my arms.

"You did it." we both screamed at the same time and I had to chuckle.

"You won, cara mia! Your last race!" Charles voice muffled.

"You’re a world champion, Charles! WORLD CHAMPION! I knew it!" I screamed and he held me even closer "Go! Celebrate with your team! Come on now!" I pushed him towards his team and they all began to cheer and shout.

"Hey race winner." I heard Max voice behind me when I pulled off my helmet and turned around "Congrats Lizzie, amazing race. Amazing season… what am I saying! Amazing career."

"Oh Maxie, stop!" I chuckled and hugged him "Sorry that you lost today."

"I lost against the best driver on the grid, after me of course…" he winked and I laughed "He deserves it. He was the only one who could really fight with me these past years and I always said with a better car he would’ve won more titles already…"

"Maybe you can persuade him into coming to Red Bull?" I wiggled my eyebrows but he chuckled.

"Look at him, you think he would leave this team ever especially after tonight?" Max replied, nodding towards the red sea of people all chanting and celebrating Charles.

"No, probably not, you’re right. He loves Ferrari too much…" I said.

"He is Ferrari." Max said and I looked at him.

"You’re right. He is Ferrari."

I kept on staring at Charles and his team, celebrating like there was no tomorrow and a part of me was the happiest I could ever be, knowing that no other driver on the grid deserved this title more than him. But another part of me, a teeny tiny one was hurt, knowing that I would never have the chance to celebrate a championship. The moment Charles turned around though, looking at me, almost sprinting towards me that part was forgotten.

"I love you cara mia, without you I would’ve never won this title…" he whispered and cupped my cheeks, kissing me right as the fireworks above our heads erupted.

I stood there in awe, watched the subsiding fireworks above us, lifted my last trophy ever into the night sky of Abu Dhabi. Then I turned right and looked into Charles eyes, the biggest smile on his face, dimples on full display. I could see him swell with pride, but above all with love. He just won his first world championship but he only had words of praise for me during his interview. He received his trophy but pointed at me as he lifted it into the night sky. 3 seasons of Formula 1. One season in the WSeries. Two seasons in F2. One season in F3 and countless seasons in karting. It all ended tonight. It was the end of my career, but the beginning of a whole new life, I just knew it. For one moment the world was silent, but then the buzzing atmosphere returned and in the corner of my eyes to my left I saw Max grabbing his bottle of Champagne, Charles on my right doing the same right as "Les Toreadors" blasted through the speakers and the next moment I was soaked with champagne, grabbing my own bottle spraying first Charles, then Max and lastly Felix, who stood with us on the podium on this special night. Basking in the glorious feeling, we clinked our bottles and had a sip of champagne, then gathered one last time together on the podium, Felix joined my right side, Charles to my left, next to him Max. One last smile for the cameras and then it was over. Trophies and champagne bottles in our hands we walked down the stairs and I was quiet, not saying a word while Charles, Felix and Max were talking.

"Cara mia?” I heard Charles voice and looked at him "I gotta go to the garage, drop off my stuff, see you in the media pen?"

"Yeah, yeah, sure…" I replied quickly and he pecked my lips, then rushed off.

"See you later." Max smiled and I waved him off as he walked away.

Felix pulled me into his side and took a deep breath.

"We’re going to miss you, Lizzie. You build this team up with us…" he said and I smiled at him "The success that we had the past 3 years, no one thought we’d be this good as a mostly new team! It was all thanks to you and Valtteri."

"Mostly Lizzie though, she’s the only Audi race winner…" Valtteri said as we walked inside our garage and he hugged me "I‘m going to miss you on the grid, kiddo."

"I’m going to miss you too, my Finisher” I replied and we laughed.

The next minutes happend in a blur, hand shaking here, hugs there, shared smiles and laughs, congratulations thrown my way. Then Julie tipped on my shoulder, a huge grin on her face.

"Come on. Media pen. Now.” she smiled and I followed her through the paddock "So, that’s it? Last time I drag your ass into the media pen and take care of your loose tongue?"

"Yup, looks like it, be honest, you’re happy! No more worries what I might screw up this time!" I laughed but Julie shook her head.

"Yeah, you’ve been a real pain in the ass at times, but you were always brutally honest, a quality many people lack these days. I’m really going to miss you!" she said and I stopped and hugged her tight.

"I’ll miss you too! All of you, you were the best team I could’ve ask for!” I whispered and she gently patted my back, as she felt me trembling a little.

"It’s okay, take your time…" she whispered and I sniffled a little and then pulled away, smiling "Enough emotions for now? Yeah, alright. Ready for Sky Germany, UK, Italy?”

"Last media pen of my career!" I laughed and we stepped inside.

It was different than usually, the interviews took way longer, everyone congratulated me on my career and wished me all the best for the future. Some selfies were taken and by the time Julie gently grabbed my wrist, pushing me towards the door, I realised that I was the last one in the media pen and probably too late for my last post race press conference ever.

I stepped inside, Charles and Max already waiting and looking at me as I sat down in the middle, taking a big gulp of sparkling water from the bottle Charles handed me and then picked up the microphone, looking at Tom Clarkson.

"Let’s do this, shall we?" I asked and laughter erupted.

"You do realise we were waiting for you?" Charles chuckled.

"Sorry guys, the media pen took a little longer than usually…"

"It’s okay, ladies and gentlemen welcome to the final post race press conference of the 2024 season here in Abu Dhabi, here with me race winner Lizzie Doetterer from Audi in her last race, in P2 our new world champion Charles Leclerc, and last but not least in third place Max Verstappen, Red Bull. We’ll start with you, now Lizzie take us with you through your last Formula 1 race?" Tom Clarkson smiled at me and I thought for a moment.

"It was a little odd, to be honest, knowing it would be my last race. But as soon as the lights went off I wasn’t thinking about it. Of course there were moments when it flashed through my mind, but I was trying to not let it bother me too much, I had a race to win…" I said and everyone laughed.

"It was in the penultimate lap that you overtook these two, winning your fifth and final race. What went through your mind?"

"Too much. I was just so grateful for everything I achieved with my team over the past 3 seasons. I was beyond happy that I won another race but above all I was just so happy that Charles won the championship…" I turned to look at him and he smiled, squeezing my thigh gently.

"Alright, thank you LizzieZNext up Charles, P2 today but overall you just won your first championship! Congrats! Talk us through your race…" Clarkson looked at Charles and I did the same.

How he happily answered all questions asked, seeing his dimples getting deeper and deeper with each passing question, I wasn’t even listening anymore, only staring at him, my world champion.

"Of course I wouldn’t be able to win this title without Lizzie we worked towards this goal together since we were 8? 9? It was her who pushed me to my limits and never doubted me for a second… when everyone criticised me she stood in front of me and was just there by my side, always knowing what to say and what to do… so yeah, this title is for the team, everyone in the factory, the Tifosi around the world, my family, Jules, Papa, but mostly it is for Lizzie, because she’s the reason I won it…" Charles said and I blinked a tear away, grabbing his hand and squeezing it.

After Max’ congratulations for Charles and me, Clarkson opened up the floor for some more questions from the journalist. All of them joining in into the congratulations for Charles and me, some questions about the season overall and how Max will strike back next season when the final question was asked.

"Susan Boulder, New York Times. Charles, Lizzie, what’s next for you now? Will we see you accompany Charles to his races now? Will you start your own little something?" the lady with grey hair in the first row asked and I shrugged my shoulders.

"What’s next is a long vacation. We need it after this season. And then… well I guess we’ll see." I replied and Charles next to me nodded.

"I have nothing to add."

"Alright, then that’s it for this season! See you all in Melbourne next year!" Clarkson finished off the press conference and we stood up. After a quick goodbye to Tom we left the stage, Charles reaching for my hand and together with Max we walked outside.

"That‘s it, I’m done, I‘m retired now!" I exhaled loudly and Max laughed.

"You will be every weekend on the track and cheer on the boys!" he said and Charles nodded in agreement.

"I mean, you’re right, I still have to support my team!“ I shrugged and Charles pinched my side.

"Cara mia, you have to cheer for me! I’m your boyfriend! I’m driving for Ferrari, your favourite team! Come on!" he said but I shook my head.

"But Charlie, Audi is still my team! And Ferrari has to do a lot more to be my favourite team again!" I joked.

"Whatever” Charles fake pouted and Max and I laughed as we stopped in front of the Red Bull garage.

"So I’m seeing you guys later at the harbour? Don’t know on wich yacht it is, but I guess we’ll see?" Max asked and I nodded, walking away with Charles.

"Alright, you go now to your team, celebrate a bit and I’ll pick you up in 30 minutes? Then we’ll leave, back to the hotel, shower and change and off we go to the party!" Charles rattled down our schedule and I nodded "I love you, cara mia!" he whispered against my lips and I stared into his eyes.

"I love you too, Charlie be-… oh…" I stopped abruptly and he looked at me "I promised you I would stop calling you that as soon as you won your first title…"

"You can always call me that… but maybe not in public…" he whispered, leaning his forehead against mine "And now go, your team is waiting." he kissed my cheek and pushed me gently towards our garage, walking away. I stepped inside and hugged everyone at least twice before I walked back into my drivers room. I knew that there would be a huge farewell party at home in the factory in a couple of days, when Mick will take over. So I wasn’t feeling bad about leaving the hectic garage to have some quiet minutes alone, to walk one last time through our team hospitality, thinking about everything I’ve experienced in here, all the memories I’ve made. It was bittersweet, but I felt no despair, only gratitude and pride. I took one last look of the empty hospitality, knowing that it will be busy and packed any minute, then I turned around, walking upstairs and opened the door to my room quietly.

The room was dark, only illuminated by the flickering light of a snow globe, my snow globe, that I gave Charles when we were kids and he got disqualified from a race at the end of 2009, the last race of the year. He never told me why he hit David, or Salva, he was just so devastated because his Dad said he was disappointed in his behaviour, that he shouldn’t hit someone for no reason, that he didn’t want to talk to anyone. Anyone but me. I told him I was sure he had a reason for hitting him, even if he didn’t want to share it, then I gave him the snow globe and said that it always made me happy to shake it and watch the glittery snow fall down on Lightning McQueen. Charles smiled and took it with him. We never even talked about it again, I honestly thought the snow globe landed in a box for goodwills the next summer, or latest when Charles moved out of his childhood home. But no, here it was, sitting on top of my table next to our P1 and P2 trophies. I was at a loss for words when Charles approached me, taking my hand in one of his, cupping my cheek with his other. "Charles, what’s…" I began but he shook his head.

"I was with all the other guys at the bleachers when you walked past us and waved, I waved back and they all started making stupid noises, making fun of me, saying I had a crush on you and were laughing at me, then David or Diaz, whatever, he said, that you’re just a stupid girl and that I just let you win, that you’re not even half as good as him… I told him to shut up and then he laughed and said if I love you so much and want to protect you, to play your knight in shining armour, then I should marry you… so I hit him… but although he was an asshole, and a psychopath as we know now… and all the other guys were assholes as well, he was right… I should marry you…" he said and my eyes widened as he took my other hand in the one that cradled milliseconds before my cheek and kneeled down in front of me, taking a deep breath and smiling his sweetest smile, dimples starting dimpling, eyes locked on mine.

I stopped breathing, my heart skipped a beat and Charles smiled nervously as he took the little jewellery box in his left hand. He closed his eyes for a second, taking another deep breath. Then his eyes were on mine and he smiled again.

"My beautiful Lizzie, mon amour, cara mia, it has always been you for me, it’s you I wanna see first things first when I wake up and it’s you I wanna see last when I go to sleep. I want your everything, the good, the bad, the ugly… although their can never be anything bad or ugly with you… saying that I love you doesn’t even express in the slightest how I feel for you, without you by my side, my life is just not liveable, it’s like your intertwined in every fiber of me! I promise to love you, care for you, make you laugh, cook for you, after I took another cooking class obviously, massage all your aches away, hug you when you need it, listen to you, tell you what you need to hear, be honest with you… now I just need an answer, to the most important question of my life. Elisabeth Doetterer, love of my life, will you do me the honor and make me the happiest man in the universe and marry me?" he opened the ring box and I gasped, the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen sparkled at me.

Tears were streaming down my face as I nodded.

"Oui! Ja! JA! Si! YES!" I answered and Charles leaped up from the floor and pulled me into a tight hug, hoisting me up in the air and spinning us around "A thousand times YES!" I screeched and kissed his cheeks.

"Ich liebe dich, Lizzie!" he twirled us around one last time before he sat me down and pulled me into an all consuming kiss.

After a moment where I had to fight off the dizziness from all the spinning, Charles took my left hand in his and slipped the ring on, it fit perfectly and I stared at it in awe.

"It’s perfect…" I murmured and Charles hugged me again, smiling when he saw how I was looking at my beautiful engagement ring, I turned my hand around, the lights reflecting off of it, making everything sparkle.

"Perfect, just like you!” he whispered and I couldn’t help it but beam at him as he started humming and I knew the melody by heart… Lover.

I stepped out of the bedroom, Charles on the phone with what sounded like our driver, when he turned around, his eyes widened and he hastily hung up.

"You look-… cara mia…" he began, looking me up and down from head to toe.

"Is it okay?" I asked nervously and his eyes shot up, meeting mine as he walked over, his hands on my waist pulling me closer.

"You look gorgeous… I’m- god I’m almost speechless… fuck- you look stunning…" Charles whispered "You have no idea what it does to me, seeing you in red."

"I have an idea, that’s why I love to wear red." I kissed his cheek, and he smirked.

"All red tonight?"

"I guess you have to wait and see…" I pulled away, taking my clutch and turning towards the door.

"We don’t have to go there tonight, you know? We can stay here… you, me, the bed, whatever is underneath your dress…" Charles took my hand in his, pulling me close again "How does that sound?"

"We’re not skipping tonight. This is your night. I want to celebrate my world champion fiancé!" I cupped his cheek and he sighed.

"You’re right, I want to show the world my beautiful fiancée!" he smiled when his phone vibrated "And that… that is our car. Let’s go, prettiest girl of them all."

The drive was quiet, Charles holding my hand in his, his thumb swiping every now and then over my engagement ring, a soft smile on his lips, paired with a light chuckle from time to time.

"What’s so funny?" I asked after a while and he grinned, shaking his head "Come on, tell me!"

"It’s nothing, I promise! I’m just so happy right now! One year ago I never expected to be here today! World champion. Engaged to the love of my life. It feels like a dream…" Charles smiled at me and I scooted closer.

"I told you you’ll win this year! You just didn’t want to believe me!" I pouted and he laughed, kissing the tip of my nose, putting his forehead against mine, as I closed my eyes.

"I know, cara mia…" he inhaled deeply "I’ve learned my lesson, and from now on I promise to always-…" he stopped and I opened my eyes again, looking at him.

"You always what?"

"I think I found something for my vow…" he chuckled a little.

"Your- your vow? You already think about your vow?" I was taken aback a little and he laughed, looking at my shocked face.

"I think about our wedding day and night." he confessed and I swallowed hard "I can’t wait for the day you agree to be mine forever."

"Oh my silly boy, I always was yours. Always will be yours. Ring or not…" I began when the car stopped.

"That’s good to know." he leaned over, pecking my lips "And now let’s make everyone jealous with how breathtaking you look!" he got out, walked around the car, opening my door for me, holding his hand out to help me get out of the car.

"Such a gentleman!" I chuckled and smoothed down the fabric of my dress.

"For you? Always!" he smiled and we stepped on the red carpet, a lady with a clipboard and headset nodding at us.

"Mr. Leclerc, Miss Doetterer, please wait for a moment until the carpet is clear and the photographers are ready…" she smiled and we waited, before she gave us the thumbs up "You can go now, enjoy your night."

We thanked her and walked the red carpet, the lights combined with the flashes were almost blinding and I was happy when we finally made it to our seat, after being stopped by a dozen of people all congratulating Charles on his first world championship.

"I need a drink." he said and waved at a waiter, ordering some drinks for us, that arrived right when the award gala began.

Charles looked a little anxious, nervously tapping his foot and I put my hand on his thigh, lightly squeezing.

"Hey? What’s wrong?" I whispered, leaning in.

"I’m just… I’m a little nervous? What do I even say? Should I’ve written a speech?" he said and I chuckled a little.

"Just go up there and enjoy your moment! Don’t overthink it!" I smiled and he nodded, but the nervousness didn’t fully leave him when he was called up on stage, receiving his award.

He stood there quiet for a moment, looking at his award and then at me, when someone handed him a microphone.

"Charles, many congratulations, Formula 1 world champion! How do you feel now, a week later? Did it fully settle in?" the host asked and Charles chuckled a little, before he held up the microphone.

"Not entirely, no. I think it might take a while, to be honest. This was always one of my biggest life goals, my biggest dreams and… well yeah, life goal achieved I guess. Or rather one of them…" Charles smiled.

"What were your first thoughts when you crossed that finish line, ahead of Max, knowing that this sealed the deal, you won the championship?"

"Honestly? I was more happy for Lizzie in that moment. What a way to retire! She had 3 incredibly season and finished them off on a big high…"

"But you surely also thought about the title, no?" the host raised an eyebrow.

"Of course, but it felt surreal, you know? For years and years this was the one thing I wanted the most. And to then achieve it? Yeah I was speechless for a good moment. But when I realised it, I couldn’t stop screaming… I was thinking about every single person who helped me achieve this goal. My entire team, who worked tirelessly to set me up with the best car possible, Fred who listened to and valued my input. All of the Tifosi around the world who never stopped supporting me, no matter what. All of my friends, my family for always being by my side, supporting me, cheering me on and of course my beautiful girl- no, fiancée, who was always with me, always believed in me, always fought for me." Charles looked at me, his eyes shining brightly under the stage light and I felt myself blush when a lot of heads were turning my way.

"Fiancée?" the host asked and I gulped.

I didn’t even hear Charles saying it, but the way people looked at me, Max grinning from ear to ear at the other side of the table and a lot of eyes staring at my hand, or rather the gorgeous engagement ring on my left hand, made me blush even more.

"Yeah… you see, before I collected this trophy, I already won the biggest prize when Lizzie said yes…"

"Well then, congratulations on your engagement as well!"

I didn’t listen to what was said anymore, I just felt all the eyes on me and all of a sudden it was hot, too hot and I jugged down the glass of water in front of me. Tonight was supposed to be Charles night, but now everyone was staring at me and I didn’t like it one bit. He was the one, people should look at, he was the star of the show. I looked down in my lap, nervously fiddling with the ring on my finger, flinching when I heard Charles next to me.

"Cara mia?" he gently cupped my cheek, tilting my head up "You okay?"

"Why did you say it? Tonight was your night! It was about you! You winning the title! You’re the champion! And now look how everyone is staring at me!" I rambled and he chuckled "You know how the internet works! Our engagement will be everywhere, your championship only a footnote…"

"Everything that is about me, is about you and the other way around… that ring means we’re one. And I wanted the world to know that this trophy tonight, although it’s nice and all, it doesn’t compare to the best prize I won all those years ago when I first met you, okay?" he whispered and I chewed on my bottom lip "And stop doing that because otherwise I’m losing my last remaining restraint and we’re out here in a minute, on the way back to our hotel!"

"Stop!" I rolled my eyes but before I could say more, Charles already captured my lips in a searing kiss "I guess now everyone knows that we’re engaged… the secret is out."

"True… that’s good, 'cause I really like calling you my fiancée." he smiled when he pulled away.

"I like it when you call me your fiancée…" I admitted.

"You have no idea how much I will love it calling you my wife, tho…"

Charles POV:

I watched how my mother, Marina, Charlotte, Sissy and Lizzie all sat together at the kitchen island, going through the two wedding binder, our mothers secretly created over the years. Lizzie looked a little overwhelmed, I could tell, but she did her best to hide it and smile, tried her best to be as bubbly as any bride to be would be.

"I think I have to save my fiancée, excuse me gentlemen." I got up and walked over "Ladies, I need Lizzie for a moment, our travel agency texted…" I lied and held my hand out for Lizzie to take and then lead her to our bedroom.

"What do they want?" she asked, mindlessly playing with her engagement ring.

"Nothing…" I said and she raised an eyebrow "You looked a little- overwhelmed? Exhausted?"

"No, no. I’m fine. It’s fine. You know how they are. They just want to help and yeah it’s a lot of input, they really had wedding binders… okay one binder but two copies of it and yeah they have some crazy ideas! And the locations? Since when are our families that religious that they would pick out the biggest, most pompous churches for the ceremony? And-…" she began to ramble, her breathing becoming faster, when her eyes widened and she hugged me out of nowhere "Thank you… I was overwhelmed…" she whispered and I chuckled, kissing the side of her head.

"That’s my duty, making sure you’re okay… but seriously, if this is all too much, then just say it, we’ll figure something out." I cupped her cheeks and she nodded slightly.

"It’s just… I love our mums… but they like it… so traditional… huge dress, a church, a big venue afterwards, hundreds of guests, even the decoration is-… it’s pretty, I’m not saying anything else, but it’s just not what I want… but I’ll need their help! I can’t plan it alone… so I guess I- no we have to make compromises here and there…" she sighed and I saw her eyes growing sad.

"No. No compromises. No tradition. No nothing what you don’t want! This is our day, Lizzie. Ours! And it’s going to be like you want it to be…" I began but she shook her head.

"It should be like we want it to be…" she whispered and I smiled.

"Exactly. It should be like we want it to be… I honestly think planning it with our mothers and still make it our day is impossible…"

"But I can’t do it alone… I have no idea how that should work out?" she plopped down on the armchair by the window and I followed her.

"What if we hire a wedding planner? Someone who will do all the work but also only does what we want?" I suggested and Lizzie looked up.

"But won’t they be mad?"

"Who cares? It’s our wedding, cara mia! Also, you’ll be busy with the F1 Academy, so knowing that someone, whose job it is, is helping with the planning while you’re busy working away with Susie? That just makes sense. So? What do you say?" I kneeled down in front of her "Let’s hire a wedding planner and make this day exactly the way we want it to be?"

Lizzie looked at me for a while, I could practically see the wheels turning in her head, when a big smile spread across her face.

"You’ll tell our mum’s the good news…" she grinned and I laughed.

"Wow, throwing me under the bus already…"

"Yup…"

After 2 hectic weeks with our families, we had a couple of days to ourselves in our tropical paradise. Most of the time we just lounged by the pool or the beach, enjoying our time together.

"Can you believe it? Danny Ric, becoming a dad?" Lizzie said when we were lounging by the beach.

"Can you believe it, Liam becoming a big brother?" I replied and she laughed.

The news of Daniel and Sissy, telling us over our family getaway that they were expecting their first child together caught us all off guard but we were all more than happy on the newest addition to the family.

"He’s going to be the best big brother there is. He’ll protect that little one with everything he’s got." Lizzie smiled and I nodded.

"Definitely." I chuckled.

"Sissy told me that our mums threw away their wedding binders…" she said after a while and I sighed.

"They’re just dramatic, don’t worry about them. I told them that it’s easier with a wedding planner and also that we want them to lean back and just enjoy the day."

"Hmm… I hope you’re right…" she mumbled.

"I talked to Marta, the daughter of one of her mums friends is a wedding planner." I said, sipping on my drink and Lizzie looked at me "Her name is Celiné and she sent me a link to her portfolio, you should check it out, I think she could be the right one for us."

"Okay… I’ll have a look later on, for now I want to cool down a little…" she got up and looked at me, wiggling her eyebrows "… are you joining me?"

"If I ever say no to that, just kill me already, would you?" I laughed and took her hand "Ocean or pool?" she asked and I nodded towards the ocean "Good choice Mr. Leclerc."

"Thank you, soon to be Mrs. Leclerc… no, Doetterer-Leclerc, I’m sorry!" I chuckled and we walked down the stairs, towards the beach.

A family of 3 was playing at the shore. The little one hesitant of the incoming water and Lizzie looked at the toddler with a twinkling in her eyes I’ve never seen before. But it was almost as fast gone as it appeared and she pulled me with her into the water, splashing me and I flinched.

"Hey!" she looked at me and I smiled "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, sure…" I replied and she pulled me closer "Ready?" I winked and she scrunched her nose up.

"For what?" she asked and I hugged her tight, throwing us into the waves.

When we emerged she was giggling, splashing some more water at me and we had some fun, splashing around. After a while I pulled her closer and hugged her close, hoisting her up and she slung her legs around my waist, shivering slightly.

"Are you cold?" I kissed her cheek, looking at her and she shook her head.

"Not really…" she replied and I smiled "But getting out wouldn’t be too bad too…"

"Got you…" I laughed and I sat her down, walking out of the water where we sat down on two beach loungers "Wait, I get you a towel and something to drink." I kissed her head and she nodded.

When I returned I was looking around, Lizzie gone, but then I spotted her and smiled, sitting down on the beach lounger. She kneeled down to the little toddler, smiling from ear to ear as she handed him his little shovel and the little boy clapped his hands together giggling happily.

"What are you doing? Baking some sand cakes?" she asked him and he nodded enthusiastically.

"Sand cakes for mumma and dada!" he chirped and Lizzie looked over at the proud parents smiling at their little boys charming antics "You bake, too?"

"Of course! Let’s make the most beautiful sand cake for your mumma and dada!" she answered and they started together on their cake.

As I watched them sanding together the mother approached me.

"Hi, uhm sorry to disturb you, but are you Charles Leclerc? And is she Lizzie Doetterer?" she asked and looked at me all shy. I just nodded and her smile got bigger "My husband is a huge Ferrari fan and he was just to shy and nervous to come over and ask for a picture with you… we don’t want to bother you guys on your vacation!"

"No, it’s alright. It looks like my girlf- no, fiancée is busy with your little one anyway!" I laughed and she smiled at me and waved her husband over.

"She’s amazing with him. He’s usually not that open and friendly with strangers!" the father said as he sat down next to his wife "I’m Matthew, this is my wife Tia and the little fella over there is Toni." I shook his hand and smiled as I looked at Lizzie and Toni, building a sandcastle, cake abandoned on their side.

"Yeah, she was always amazing with kids… you should see her with her nephews and nieces!" I answered and Tia smiled at me.

"I have a feeling she’ll be an amazing Mum one day!" she said and my mind went to Lizzie with a baby bump, cradling it as a toddler ran around her, kissing her bump, smiling proudly to be an older sibling in some time in the future.

I blinked and shook my head. Where did that came from? We haven’t even talked about having kids in a serious way. Especially not after the miscarriage last season. But seeing her with kids always made my heart skip a beat or two. And seeing her now, as my fiancée, my ring on her finger, playing with Toni wearing her most gorgeous smile, I couldn’t help but think about us having a baby. A little bundle of joy, looking hopefully just like her. I smiled at Tia and nodded.

"Yeah, I think she’ll be an amazing Mum one day!" I said as Toni jumped into Lizzie’s arms and they laughed about the water destroying their sandcastle.

We sat on our terrace, Lizzie happily munching away when I had to think back at her with little Toni. The little image I had in my mind.

"You’re really quiet? Everything okay?" Lizzie asked and I looked up from my plate "Something is going on in there, I can tell…" she brushed my hair out of my eyes and I smiled, catching her hand, kissing her palm.

"Did you ever think about kids? Like… actively?" I asked and her eyes widened "I mean.. we spoke about kids, once or so, that we want kids one day… but ever anything… serious? You know? And after Singapore…"

"I’ve thought about it… yeah." she almost whispered "But… how could we have a kid, both racing in F1 so yeah, it was always something really far ahead in the future I thought…"

"Yeah, true… but now? I mean… we’re not both in F1 anymore, sadly… but- but now we could think about it- actively. Like really plan it or… not plan, consider it? Having a little mini you or mini me? We should really think about it?" I said and the look on her face changed.

"Wait, wait , wait! You’re serious?" Lizzie asked and I nodded.

"I was never more serious about anything in my life! We’re at the perfect stage of our life’s! You had 3 amazing years in F1! Proved everyone wrong about women in F1! I finally won the WDC! We’re engaged! We achieved more than most people will achieve in their entire life! So why not?" I said and Lizzie’s smile got bigger and bigger.

"I have to say, thinking about you as a dad? Mhhh I guess the word dilf will get a whole new meaning!" she chuckled and I launched at her, tossing her over my shoulder.

"If I’m a dilf, you’re sure as hell be a milf!" I laughed and walked with her into the bedroom, where I dropped her gently and stood tall over her "Let’s make a baby!"

"Now? Like right now? Charles that’s not how it works! I have to stop taking my pill and then it will take a while-…" she began but I silenced her with a kiss.

My hands travelling up and down her sides, kissing along her jaw down her throat.

"You know the saying, practice makes perfect…"

The beginning of the new season approached faster than anticipated and after 10 days of intense training in the mountains with Andrea I was more than happy to return back home to Lizzie, especially after we had set up our first appointment with Celiné, our potential wedding planner.

"Okay, stop!" I grabbed Lizzie's hand and she looked at me

"Why are you so nervous?"

"I don't know, okay? This- this is our wedding and I want it to be perfect! But what if I don't like her ideas? Or even worse, she doesn't like mine?" she gnawed on her bottom lip and I chuckled a little.

"Cara mia, it's our wedding and whatever you want is what we're having... the wedding planner is just there to help you a little, okay?" I held her hand up and kissed her knuckles, watching her visibly relax.

"Okay. But... it's not just what I want, it's also what you want! This is our wedding, our day!" the look on her face made me fall in love with her all over again "I want the day to be perfect."

"And I am here to ensure that!" a blonde woman in a dark green suit stepped up to our table and I got up, shaking her hand "Hi, I'm Celiné, hopefully your new wedding palnner."

"Hi Celiné, I'm Charles and this is my fiancée, Lizzie." I smiled at her and Lizzie got up as well and shook her hand.

"Oh please, as if you need to introduce yourselves! I know you. My family is obsessed with F1 since-….. ever I think?" she laughed and we sat down "I have to admit, when I saw your names in my calendar I had my little fangirl moment." Lizzie next to me tensed a little, looking at the blonde woman.

"Not the first time someone fangirls over Charles." someone who didn't know Lizzie wouldn't hear the iciness in her voice, wouldn't see that her smile wasn't genuine anymore and I had to fight to not laugh.

"Charles? Oh yeah, sure, no offense, you're an incredible driver! Congrats on the title, by the way. But I was more excited to meet you, Lizzie." Celiné smiled at her, and Lizzie was taken aback.

"Me? Why?"

"Are you kidding me? First real female F1 driver? 3 incredible seasons? 5 wins? And that all while being told all the damn time that you couldn't be as good as the male drivers? Yeah right, you kicked some asses out there!"

"Wow... umm- thank you." Lizzie blushed a little and I smiled.

"Oh, don't mention it. Alright, shall we start?" our wedding planner opened her notebook and looked at us "Describe your dream wedding. Just summarise what you want it to be, give me a little insight."

"Umm... I want all of our families and friends together, a fun day with good food, lot's of drinks, music." Lizzie looked at me and I nodded.

"It doesn't have to be super fancy, a nice location, it would be perfect when the ceremony and reception are at the same venue." I said and Celiné nodded.

"In a church? With a venue attached, I have some in mind. Or no church, a civil ceremony?" she asked.

"Civil ceremony." Lizzie and I said in unison and Celiné laughed.

"Okay, talking about numbers. How many guests? Small wedding? Big wedding? 50 guests? 100? 200? The budget? Go we all out?"

"Oh umm- we haven't decided on a number of guests yet. But not too big? All our families, friends, some people from our teams?" Lizzie looked at me.

"Yeah, I think 100 guests would be the absolute maximum..." I nodded and she gulped.

"100? That's not a small, intimate wedding then..." she tilted her head a little.

"What about we keep the 100 in mind and I'll look for locations where 100 guests would fit in, but that doesn't mean we'll plan with 100 guests?" Celiné suggested and Lizzie nodded "Perfect. Now... budget?"

"No budget." I said and Lizzie looked at me, rolling her eyes

"We talked about this cara mia."

"You talked..." she mumbled and I sighed.

"This is our day and we don't plan with a budget. We say what we want, we pay what it costs."

"You said yourself you want nothing to fancy. So we won't go overly crazy with the budget, don't worry Lizzie. And Charles is right, this is your day and it should be perfect." the blonde said and I nodded "Have you thought about where you want to marry? Here in Monaco? Germany?"

"Italy." we both said again in unison and I smiled.

"Lake Garda, Maggiore or Como… somewhere there?" I asked and Lizzie nodded.

"Sounds perfect…" she smiled and Celiné wrote it down.

"With your schedule, it won’t be too easy to find a date, but do you have some dates in mind?"

"We don’t want a wedding in July or August, way too hot!" Lizzie said and Celiné nodded.

"And like you said with the racing calendar… not so easy, but there is one weekend that would be perfect… after Barcelona, the weekend from the 6th to 8th June. On Sunday in the evening I’ll have to leave, maybe some of the other guest as well… but yeah…" I said.

"So the wedding on Saturday, the 7th of June? Alright, I already have some ideas. Any special colours? A theme?" she asked and I looked at Lizzie.

"I like pastel colours? Crème and beige? I like it more natural? And no theme…"

"Yeah… sounds good to me." I nodded.

"Okay… I can work with that… anything else?" Celiné looked at us "Special food?"

Lizzie gnawed at her bottom lip, looking at me.

"Say it…" I laughed.

"I would love a pizza and pasta buffet for dinner? Freshly made pizza and pasta, fresh salad and antipasti? Nothing fancy. Just some good old classics everyone will love." Lizzie said and Celinés eyes got big.

"Yes! I love it! Finally someone with good taste!" she clapped her hands excitedly "So, I have some ideas already, I’ll send it to you and you let me know if you consider me as your wedding planner."

"That’s not necessary I think?" Lizzie looked at me and I nodded "We would love to have you as our wedding planner!"

"Are you sure?" she asked.

"Yeah, we’re sure." I smiled.

"Okay, perfect. Then I guess I prepare the contract and start with everything!" she got up and shook our hands "I’m really excited, I have a feeling that this wedding will be truly magical… I’ll give you a call in the next days."

"Thank you, Celiné." Lizzie smiled and as soon as she was out of earshot she turned to me, a big smile on her face "She’s perfect! I think this is going to be amazing!"

"You heard her… it’s going to be truly magical."

Chapter 49 - my babies are engaged ♥️ Charles is a world champion 🏆 Danny Ric will be a a dad 👶 from now on expect a lot of fluff and fluff and even more fluff to come… drama? Nope… never again 👀

Please leave a comment/ like/ reblog/ message and tell me how you liked it! I'm dying to hear your thoughts!

If you want to be added to the taglist, drop a comment!

Last but not least, English is not my first language and although I tried my best: please excuse any mistakes I made!

Taglist:

@silkenthusiasts @eugene-emt-roe @sunny44 @itsjustkhaos @glitterquadricorn @aundercover @kakorrhaphiphobia @alittlebitofbooksandmagic @ru-kru @shimmermotorsport @janeh22 @kahhorri @18754389 @chiliwhore @hellowgoodbye @queensassybitchsworld @harrysdimple05 @fangirlforever2000 @skynel09

All the images I’m using are from Google, Pinterest and Instagram (or self made).

[little-silly-bear]

How to bond with your stuffies

Hi kiddos! As you know stuffies are my special interests and I loved them since I can remember, my first stuffie was a tiny polar bear and I would never forget him. I thought that maybe I could share how I bond with mine, let me know if you like these tips and if you have more feel free to share it in the comments!

Pick the stuffie that you feel an instant connection with! I used to buy tons of stuffies just for aesthetic or to fill my room with them as a compulsive result of anxiety but when I stopped and I selected those that I felt connected with everything got better. Take it as choosing friends, having less sometimes it's better because you'll have more deep relationship

If you have stuffies that you never play with or don't feel a connection anymore, donate them! They'll be happy to be forever friends with kids that don't have much, kiss them in the head and send them to their mission, they'll be grateful of your kindness!

Now if you have a stuffie that you share a special connection with make a list for them, likes and Dislikes, favorite seasons, favorite foods, their dreams and their story before finding you! This will help you connect with them more and they'll feel seen by you!

Sleep with them for at least a week (I say a week because I rotate my stuffies to not make them jealous) they'll feel safe and important to you! If you don't have space you can make a mini bed next to yours using a shoe box and a blanket!

Understand their purpose! Every stuffie has a purpose, some are here to protect you from bad thoughts, others from nightmares and anxiety, others are here to help you stim, the possibilities are endless! Make a space in your journal with purposes and jobs and organize it with your stuffies! They're happy to help!

Include them in your life! I know that is not always possible but when you can you should try! Watching TV together, walking outside, baking cookies, having breakfast, Cartoons time, Sunday bath time, everything is a good opportunity to bond, they would love to be included give it a try!

Dress them! Sometimes they need to feel pampered too! You can buy some clothes for them or you can add glasses or a friendship bracelet! If you can't do any of these things just cleaning them and then brushing their fur would be an amazing act of love! Taking care of things is how we show love!

That's it for today! I hope you liked this post and if you have more ideas please please pleaseeeee share in the comments so I can use them too!! Have a fantastic day kiddos, I send you a big warm hug!!!

Remember that you CAN like and reblog but you CAN'T repost even with credits or use the tag #mine under this post!

[gentlebeardsbarngrill]

02/21/2024 Daily OFMD Recap

TLDR; Cast & Crew Sightings; Rhys Darby; Samba BTS; Vico Ortiz; Ruibo Qian; HowToHelp; Petition Embed; Queerties Last Day; IRL Outreach Assets; New Watch Parties; Visual Rep of SaveOFMD Effort; Fan Spotlight; Collages; OurFlagMeansBooze; Articles; Morale; Love Notes; Daily Darby/Tonight's Taika;

Wow everyone, crazy day again. Day 2 of BTS Darbygeddon. I'm actually going to set a google calendar reminder for tomorrow between 1-2 in case Samba decides to drop another doozy on us. Hope you all had a good day. Here's the highlights-- there's more I would have liked to add but I need to get permission first, so I'll hopefully have them up tomorrow. As always, please let me know if I missed anything <3

== Cast & Crew Sightings ==

= Rhys Darby =

Back again with another Cameo is Rhys for our lovely crewmate @Kellykat53 over on twitter! Thank you so much for sharing this with us Kelly, it's a lovely little inspirational video, definitely gives us plenty of Vitamin RD (as @scorpiostarseed would say). Check out the Cameo

= Saint Samba Schutte =

I've seen several people mention that Samba is a Saint (sorry not sure who started it to attribute it) so going forward, that will be his name. SO MANY BTS pictures and videos. My goodness. Has it even been a day since the last Merstede dump? It has, but damn, here we are with the BOYFRIEND video, and the nipple scratching, and oh look it's Buttons from the Cryptid Factor! As always, if you have access to instagram, please check out these posts on Samba and Rhys' posts/stories.

Videos on Tumblr:

Boyfriends - ty @blakbonnet!

Merstede - ty @kiwistede!

English Jacket - ty @kiwistede!

Cursed Jacket - ty @kiwistede!

Steard Nips - ty @kiwistede!

Rhysently Granted Reunion - ty @kiwistede!

= Vico Ortiz =

Vico voiced the new novel "The Diablo's Curse "by New York Times Best Seller Gabe Cole Novoa! I know some of you are huge Vico fans so wanted to mention it, you can purchase the audio book here. Src: Vico's IG

= Ruibo Qian =

Are you in New York? Our Pirate Queen will be at the #TonyKiserTheater NEXT MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26 at 6:30PM for a one night only reading of On The Evolutionary Function of Shame, by D.A. Mindell - For more details visit here.

== How to Help ==

Hey all! We're adding some things to the daily task lists (and taking some off). Here they are!

= Petition Embed Code =

Looking to easily embed the petition link in your AO3 fic, or maybe your email? @sonnetforbonnet was kind enough to provide us with some embeds you can use! Please visit the repo for the codes!

= Last day for Queerties! =

Please remember to vote! Today's the last day!

Best TV Comedy

Best TV Performance

= IRL Outreach Assets =

== New Watch Parties Coming Up! ==

The Pirates! Watch Party! This is a family friendly movie so bring the kids! Or the adults-- or anyone you know, really, as long as it's not against their will! Sunday March 3rd, 3 PM EST, 12 PM PST, 8 PM GMT!

Watch Party Hashtags:

#OurPirateCaptain

#SaveOFMD

#AdoptOurCrew

== Visual Representation of Fandom Efforts to SOFMD ==

Remember our friends that had the in person Matelotage Processional? Well they're back with a funny video illustrating the fandom efforts of Save OFMD!

Fangirlfoto's Instagram Don't have instagram? See the video on the repo here.

＝＝ Fan Spotlight ＝＝

Thank you once again to @wndrngnomad on twitter for all their awesome collages dedicated to the Cast and Crew! Day 21: Calypso's Birthday! Perfectly timed considering the lovely Boyfriend themed BTS we got today! Catch-Up: Day 2: Madeleine Sami!

= Our Flag Means Booze! =

Our absolutely brilliant crew-mate @quiet-compassion over on tumblr has been designing OFMD Themed Drinks since the show was dropped by Max!  These not only have super fun and creative names you'll all recognise, but an amazing array of flavours too! If you're 21+ (in the US) or the appropriate age for drinking in your country, feel free to try them out! As always, please drink responsibly! Are you celebrating with Moonglow Manifesting? Why not try the "Moon Glow" cocktail for the end of the event! Want to see ALL their concoctions? Head on over to the repo, they're all there!

== Articles ==

17 Facts and Easter Eggs about OurFlagMeansDeath That will Get you On Board - 17 Fakten und Easter Eggs zu „Our Flag Means Death“, die dich ins Boot holen - ty @AddieH on twitter

Max: The 34 Absolute Best TV Shows to Watch

==Morale ==

Hey crew. I've been hearing some scuttlebutt around the deck that people are starting to worry again about whether or not s3 is going to happen. The love notes section is already pretty long so I'm not gonna go too crazy up here too -- instead I'm going to just point out that David Jenkins, while not active and posting things for us right now, is sneakily poking around in Samba and Rhys' BTS comments. He's still there, he's still watching, and I think he can tell we're all feeling the high from Samba's releases. Don't give up hope, these things take time. They're gonna get there. I'm gonna add the trends to this section today because I think it's important to see what we did today:

== Love Notes ==

Hey Lovelies. I know I've said it before, but it bares repeating since I know a lot of you are struggling right now.

Just a gentle reminder that if your brain is telling you that there's something wrong with you, or that you've done something wrong or embarrassing -- it's lying to you.

There's been so much dopamine from all the excitement lately with the BTS, that it has to come down at some point, and when it does, your brain will sometimes over-compensate and you start feeling maybe worse than you did before.

This is totally normal, it really is. Our brains are glorious complex pathways of unmeasurable brilliance, and yet a simple hormone change can make that same brain tell us that we're not enough, or we're not worthy.

I am here to remind you, you are so very much enough.

No matter what is happening in your life-- in your job, in your personal relationships, in your family, in your school, anywhere--

YOU ARE ENOUGH, EXACTLY HOW YOU ARE.

If you feel like you've failed, or you've let someone down, just know you are STILL enough. We all fail, it's how we learn.

We pick ourselves back up and we try again, and if we fail again--

We're STILL enough, and we are still worthy of love and comfort.

Eventually you will succeed. You will get there, and all the while while you work on it, YOU. ARE. ENOUGH.

I know it's so hard to see when you're feeling small, but I see you all every day, and I am awe-struck at your constant ability to band together and not only find love and support, but give it so freely and lovingly.

A simple @ to someone, alerting them to something they'd like

A love note in dms or on a tumblr post

A gif or picture or video brought to tumblr from some other platform so others can see them.

Writing a fic or drawing a picture.

A reblog with tags, goofy or not

Anon Asks showing people you support how they feel about a given topic

Liking a post.

These are all love notes. No matter how public or private, they're all there and they all add up eventually to form this wonderful community and you've been kicking ass at love.

I know we all look like we're having a good time, but a lot of us are struggling silently, and yet we're finding ways to reach out to one another and spread love to help us all get through. Love isn't always positivity, it can be commiseration, or frustration on behalf of someone. You all are finding the best ways to help your crew, and I'm so very proud of you.

You all are capable, creative, gifted, beautious piles of stardust smooshed together into one wonderfully unique package, and you are so very loved.

You are enough,

You are loved,

and THINGS WILL GET BETTER Lovelies.

Get some rest <3 You got this.

= Daily Darby / Tonight's Taika =

What can I say, I literally can't not include this Rhys gif today. It's physically impossible, please forgive me. Good fucking lord, I'm going to Costa Rica now. Also, sorry I tried to get a matching Taika gif, but I have run out of brain cells. Hopefully this one will suffice.

Rhys - Courtesy of @bizarrelittlemew

Taika - Courtesy of @studiomoon

[marksbear]

Hii papa bear! It's my birthday today and all i could think about was your amazing writing and Connor from dbh. So I'd kike to ask of you could write something where it's y/n's birthday but he has to be at work. So when y/n comes back from work he's frustrated and angry. Connor notices y/n's mood so he tells y/n to sit down and get comfortable and than he gives him a show. Which leads to y/n fucking Connor senseless? (And maybe some cock warming cuddling at the end)

Please and thank you!

Have a good day/night!

- Day 🦔

Hey Day! Happy birthday my love! I hope you have the best birthday ever and you get lots of gifts! 🎂 🍾

Waring! Birthday boy reader, Y/n having a rough day, SMUT, couch sex, cock warming, birthday sex, rough sex.

RK800 CONNER X birthday boy TOP MALE READER

*Buzz* *Buzz* Y/n's phone begins to vibrate on the night stand.

Y/n lets out a muffled groan into his pillow before turning his head to the dresser picking up his phone. Y/n holds his phone to his face. "Annoying prick." Says the id name and Y/n already knows who it is.

Y/n looks at his sleeping boyfriend before answering the phone.

It was Reed calling him. Every year on his birthday Gavin is the first to call him and tell him happy birthday. Y/n clicks on the answer letting it go on speaker.

"Happy birthday fuck face. Maybe this year you'll die." Reed says with a teasing tone.

Y/n was too tired to say a comeback since he was way too tired and exhausted. "Thanks Gav, lets go to the club like last time maybe on Sunday to celebrate."

"Why not today?" Gavin says back.

"I have to work. Then I plan to be with my family and boyfriend. So y'know only free this Sunday." Y/n answers back before saying a bye before hanging up.

Y/n turns his body around to face the power of android staring at him. A little while later the led on Conner's head slowly becomes blue signaling that he's waking up.

Y/n sits up from the bed laying his back on the headboard watching Conner get up.

"Good morning Y/n." Conner states looking up at his boyfriend. "Good morning con." Y/n says before leaning in kissing him on the lips. Conner automatically kisses back with a tiny smile. Conner is first to pull away looking Y/n in his eyes before saying.

"Happy birthday! You're a/n starting from today." Conner wishes also adding in a little reminder. "Thanks baby~" Y/n says resting his head against Conner's for a while enjoying the peace.

Conner begins to ramble on about the history of birthdays. "the Egyptians were the first ones to get the party started. When Egyptian pharaohs were crowned gods, they were “birthed.” That means the first birthday celebration wasn't marking the birth of a human, but rather the birth of a god.----"

Y/n cuts Conner off by kissing him deeply. "Thank you again." Y/n thanks before getting up from the bed with Conner following him shortly.

TIMESKIP

Y/n is all set ready for work, but Conner stops him before he could leave the house.

Conner wraps his arms around Y/n's shoulders standing on his tippy toes. "Bye Y/n, I love you and again happy birthday."Conner says resting his head on Y/n's.

Y/n moves his hand on both sides of his boyfriend's hips holding him tightly. "I love you too. And thanks." Y/n responds back with a deep kiss. The two stay in the other's arms kissing and slowly rocking back and forth until Y/n needs air.

"Alright, bye love you!" Y/n says before letting go of Conner and walking out the door.

"Love you!"

Timeskip

After work Y/n drives home in total silence. He has a tight grip on the wheel with his jaw clenched tight with his hands trembling in anger. Y/n leg bounced and shacked as he thought.

Y/n didn't know how his day went from good to bad so fast in only a few hours.

Maybe because it started to rain hard when he was going to work. No... Maybe because his co-workers were being annoying rude shits to him. No that's not it. Maybe because his female co-worker was pressing up against him and flirting. God that's not it either. Maybe he had piles of paperwork to do and it was overwhelming.

Y/n couldn't pick a reason to feel this way. Maybe it was just everything in general. Yeah. That sounded right.

Y/n drove his car to the drive way and turned off the car taking his keys out holding them tight as he just stared at the wheel. Y/n felt like he was losing his mind.

The male stayed in the car for almost an hour alone with his thoughts before leaving the car.

Y/n unlocked the front door to his house walking inside before shutting and locking it behind him. Y/n took off the extra things he had like his shoes, jackets, and etc. Y/n walks through the house with a clear frustrated and angry face.

Conner stood from afar staring at Y/n with a puzzled look. He scanned Y/n. He saw how his heart was beating faster and also his blood pressure was high. Conner thought for a while before acting on his thoughts. He walked up from behind Y/n and hugged him from behind.

Conner saw how Y/n body had tensed up and relaxed. Before Y/n could say something Conner dragged Y/n's body to the couch before sitting him down on it. "Get comfortable." Conner says watching Y/n look at him with confusion, but does what he's told. Once Y/n was comfortable Conner began to slowly strip out of his clothes giving Y/n a show. Conner slowly begins to unbutton his shirt revealing his bare stomach and chest.

Conner rolls off the shirt with his shoulders before spreading open Y/n's legs open before crawling down in his lap. Y/n watches Conner's movements fully enchanted by him.

Conner kissed the side of Y/n's jaw peppering it with kisses before sucking and biting Y/n's neck that was revealed. Conner moved and grinned his hips on Y/n's crotch. Conner felt Y/n's members slowly grew under him. He moved his hips around until Y/n's cock was fully hard.

The android finally gets up from Y/n's lap before standing back on the floor unbuckling hid pants before slowly taking them off leaving him only him in his underwear.

Conner crawls back into Y/n's lap, but this time Y/n wraps his arms around his boyfriend with a smirk before pressing his lips into Conner's own kissing him deeply. Y/n moves his arms to the right swinging down Conner on the couch getting on top of him as they makeout. Y/n moves his hands off of Conner and moves them to his clothes taking off his shirt. Conner watches looking at Y/n with lust in his eyes.

Once Y/n's shirt was off he goes back down kissing and biting Conner's neck leaving love bites on his skin making them a light blue.

Conner wraps his legs around Y/n as Y/n grinds his clothed hard cock into Conner's clothed hole. Conner hard cock throbbed and ached as Y/n grinned on him.

Y/n felt his anger and frustration slowly drift away and be replaced by lust and pleasure. Conner's hands fumbled around the waistband of Y/n's underwear tugging and pulling on them clearing wanting the hard thing inside it.

Y/n pulled away from the android's neck before moving his hands to Conner's underwear pulling them off of him slowly as Conner unwraps his legs so Y/n can take them fully off. Conner's hard cock flies out once it's completely free.

To not leave his boyfriend behind Y/n takes off his own boxers with ease letting his hard member fly free.

Conner spreads his legs wider giving Y/n access to his body. Y/n moves his hand to his cock lining it up to Conner's hole. Y/n begins to slowly push his tip inside staring at his boyfriend for any sign of discomfort. Once Y/n's cock was inside half way he began to snap his hips back and forth at a fast pace.

Y/n's thrust was hard and deep no doubt some of the harshness is from the frustration he had at work. Y/n held Conner's wrist tight as he fucks him deep. "S-slow down! ss-slow down Y/n!"

Conner's walls clenching around Y/n's cock as he moans and screams from pleasure.Y/n begins to pick up his speed even more fucking the android ruthlessly.

Y/n's cock goes deeper and deeper inside Conner causing his led light to begin to flash colors. Conner's eyes couldn't even keep focus on Y/n anymore.

The android's legs shook and trembled from the rough thrust his boyfriend was doing. Conner's hands flared around as he tried to hold on to anything. Y/n rocked his hips deep inside.

Finally Conner found a place to keep his hands on. Right on Y/n's back holding onto him tight as well as some light scratches.

Y/n's cock began to twitch signalling to the android that he was close. Y/n picked up his thrust even faster hold down Conner's waist as he fucks him deep.

After a while Y/n hoist Conner off his back and to his lap fucking him messily. Thrust after thrust Y/n felt the knot in his stomach tighten. Y/n gripped onto Conner's hips as Conner wrapped his arms around Y/n's shoulders holding onto him tightening and moaning nonsense into his ear.

"Y-Y/n! Y/n!~ I'm i'm..." Conner couldn't even finish his sentence as he came hard all over himself and Y/n's chest. It wasn't the first time the android had an orgasm, but every time he does it feels new to him. Every time felt like a new experience that he loved. "h~ Hah... Happy birthday!~" Conner moans out his whole body feeling more and more sensitive with every thrust.

Not too shortly Y/n reaches his peak as well cumming deep inside Conner. The android desperately begins to ride Y/n's cock as he cums inside him. Conner bounces and bounces making sure Y/n has nothing left to give him. Y/n breathed heavy into the crook of Conner's neck calming down from his high. Conner felt full and he loved the feeling of Y/n's cum buried deep inside him.

Y/n wrapped his arms around his boyfriend's waist bringing him close cuddling him into his lap. Conner curls into Y/n's lap with his cock still buried deep inside.

"Happy birthday. Also Hank stopped by with cake for you to eat." Conner says into Y/n's ear.

"Perhaps I should sing you happy birthday?"

THE END

[fire-lizard-ro]

Helloo hehehe im the one that asked for a columbina s/o~ it was really good :D

Can u maybe make some head cannon about them being in a relationship? Hehhe it you dont mind :) thats all ty <33

Hehehe ofc!!! I'd like to make the disclaimer again that I don't really know the character Columbina all that well, but I will try my best!!! So sorry for any mischaracterization. Thank you for sending in your ask~

Reader gender: gender neutral

Like we talked about before, you and Sunday would be partners in crime. The manipulative duo.

I think that the two of you would probably enjoy dates like going to the opera. When the singer is good it wasn't uncommon to find the two of you with eyes closed, you leaning against him, enjoying the sweet melodies of the songs. When it wasn't so great, the two of you would be whispering your criticism in each other's ears with giggles.

Sunday would like hearing you sing more, though. Even if it is just a sweet little humming under your breath as you two are settled down together to read together or perhaps do other things within each other's presence. He is, however, more than aware of the abilities you have. They impress him every time and to know that you could always control him but don't makes his heart swell with affection. A chaste, but no less full of passion than any other kiss, would be pressed to your lips. "Thank you, dove." (I've started to use "dove" as his nickname for the reader recently- It just makes sense to me.) Whether he's thanking you for the song or for not trying to put him under your control with you voice, you'll never know. He just gives you that smile of his.

It was always a treat to hear his voice as well. He's not nearly as inclined to it as you or even his sister. You and her get along quite well, I'd think. Especially since she doesn't really know about the manipulative tendencies you and your lover have. Some things are better not knowing, hm? In any case- If you asked, he would sing something for you. The songs are always gentle and slow. If it was upon your request that he is singing, he's likely to sing a love song of some sort- It's funny. Almost like a pretty bird courting his love with a song despite them already being his.

And like I'd forgotten to write last time:

When the two of you kiss, your wings often bump into each other so cute oml-

The first time it happens, it startled a chuckle out of the normally composed man. He'd lean in again to kiss you once more, this time pursposefully caressing your wings with his while he holds you close.

When he'd managed to figure out that you and he were one in the same, he slowly brought you in on his schemes and work. After asking you outright about it once he was certain of it, he'd have you help him with his... persuations. You would subtly be humming to yourself whilst he spoke with people, influencing them to sway to his side. His ideas and thoughts suddenly sound perfect to them. On a larger scale- When he'd host dinner parties as a leader of Penacony with the elite, you would act as the entertainment for the night. You would sing for them as they mingled, slowly beginning to take control of them. But once the main act was upon you, you singing your final song of the night, it was then that you would use your power the most that night (not fully, but more than before). And just like that. They were again ensnared and ready for his use. He'd plant ideas and thoughts in their minds while under your control.

And as everyone would leave for the night, h'd wrap an arm around your waist and kiss your temple. "You did amazing tonight, my love. Let's celebrate, hm?" He'd say this in a low voice before leading you back into the house for a glass of wine or whatever else tickled your fancy.

Sorry there isn't more... OTL

It's a bit hard to write for me, haha. Hope you liked it! Feel free to send in another request if you'd like~