#AND DID ANYTHING SHE COULD TO TRY AND GET THEM HELP

[pitlanepeach]

Radio Silence | Chapter Seventeen

Lando Norris x Amelia Brown (OFC)

Series Masterlist

Summary — Order is everything. Her habits aren’t quirks, they’re survival techniques. And only three people in the world have permission to touch her: Mom, Dad, Fernando.

Then Lando Norris happens.

One moment. One line crossed. No going back.

Warnings — Autistic!OFC, selective mutism, strong language, sexual content

Notes — This might be one of my favourite chapters so far. I really feel in the swing of things, so (maybe) expect a 2nd update later today!

Want to be added to the taglist? Let me know! — Peach x

2021 (Azerbaijan — Austria) 

Amelia liked Greece.

She fit in here — in white flowing dresses and messy dark curls, always salt-tangled. She liked Lando in loose button-downs and shorts, golden and relaxed in the sun. She liked Pietra, Max’s new girlfriend — Brazilian, warm, and probably the most beautiful woman Amelia had met in a long time.

She liked the way Lando looked at her when she slipped into Portuguese with Pietra, years of quiet practice finally paying off — and if the darkened rings in his eyes meant what she thought they did, he liked it too.

She liked that she’d made a friend — a real one. A female friend who laughed at her terrible jokes and never minded when Amelia took a moment too long to process something. The language barrier helped in that way — sometimes Pietra didn’t get it either, and they’d laugh their way through it together.

Max and Lando seemed pleased to see them getting along, but Lando especially — because he knew. He knew what it meant for Amelia to have someone. A girl to do her makeup with in the evenings, giggling and tipsy on shared wine, leaving mismatched lipstick stains on either side of the same glass.

Greece felt easy. It felt right.

It felt, for once, perfect.

— 

They avoided seafood restaurants, Lando’s irrational fear of fish too entertaining yet deeply rooted to ignore, and settled on a small bistro by the water instead.

Amelia, in a powder blue dress and white strappy sandals, curled into Lando’s side, her sparkly blue eyeshadow catching the fading light. The evening breeze was cooler than expected, and she’d left her shrug in the hotel room. Lando didn’t say a word, just slipped an arm around her waist and pulled her in closer, steady and warm.

He was deep in conversation with Max about the upcoming Quadrant merch launch — all bright and serious and businessy. Across the table, Amelia caught Pietra’s eye. The two women shared a quiet smile, and Pietra flagged down the waiter for another round of wine. White, of course — they were both wearing pastels, after all.

Max ordered garlic bread for the table.

Amelia flinched, her lip caught between her teeth, a tiny, familiar tell. Before she could say anything, Lando added easily, “And a basket of plain bread, too.”

Because garlic made Amelia’s stomach turn.

And of course Lando knew that.

—

Their hotel suite was quiet, the sounds of the Aegean sea whispering through the open balcony doors. The linen curtains fluttered in the breeze. 

Amelia perched on the edge of the bed, brushing salt from her curls, moisturiser sinking into her sun-kissed skin. Lando was barefoot on the carpet, fiddling with the bluetooth speaker, trying to find the right playlist; something soft, without lyrics, something she liked. Jazz, maybe. Something Spanish. 

“You’re stalling,” she told him, voice quiet and teasing.

“I’m setting the vibe,” he replied, glancing over his shoulder with a grin. “Gotta be romantic. It’s our last night here. Want it to be proper special for you, baby.” 

She laughed, quiet and fond, and he finally gave up and crossed to her. His big hands settled on her hips before sliding around her waist, guiding her back into him. She rolled her head back to rest on his collarbone, eyes all wide and wanting as she gazed up at him.

They moved together without words. No rush. No performance. Just touch… slow, steady, familiar. His fingertips glided down her arms like he was memorising every new freckle that the sun had brought to the surface. Her arms slipped beneath his shirt to trace the heat of his back, anchoring herself there. His nose brushed hers before he kissed her. Once, soft and searching, and again, deeper, more certain, like he’d been waiting for it all day.

“You’re freezing,” he murmured, fingers grazing her collarbone like he could warm her just through touch.

“I’m naked,” she said, feigning innocence, but her smile gave her away.

He laughed quietly against her mouth. “How convenient for me, hm?”

They melted into the white cotton sheets. Every part of her was familiar to him now — the heavy pressure she needed him to put behind his touches in order to stay grounded, the way she stilled under his hands, breath evening out when he pressed his chest to hers, his weight a quiet reassurance. She didn’t need to ask. He just knew.

No rush. No performance. It was connection in its purest form, deliberate, tender, like they were made of the same skin and light. Like the world shrank down to the rhythm of their heartbeats. 

She whispered something in Portuguese, just to make him smile.

He did. Wide, dimpled, wrecked with love, his eyes full of her.

Later, wrapped in one of his shirts, she pressed her face into his neck and mumbled, “You’re warm.”

He kissed the crown of her head, voice low against her curls. “Sunburned.”

—

In Azerbaijan, the problem wasn’t Max.

It wasn’t the car.

It wasn’t the strategy.

It was the fucking tyre.

Amelia winced as the feed cut to Max, out of the car, still on track, kicking the shredded rubber that had ended his race.

“Fucking hell,” Christian muttered from two seats down.

She leaned toward GP, jaw tight. “What’s he saying?”

GP sighed, reaching up to mute his comms. “Nothing appropriate.”

“Red flag,” someone murmured behind them.

Amelia closed her eyes.

She could already see it — the headlines, the photos. “Max Verstappen — championship battle over already?”

It would fuel the fire already smouldering inside him. The one he’d inherited from his father, who was now audibly swearing in the garage. She could hear him from the pit wall.

Her eyes flicked to Christian. He was already looking at her.

In that moment, as the tyre fragments scattered across the Baku circuit and the title race teetered in their grasp, they were both thinking the same thing.

Fuck.

— 

Amelia lay curled in her childhood bed, eyes tracing the glow-in-the-dark stars still scattered across the ceiling — the same ones she’d begged her dad to superglue up there the night they moved from Florida to England. She’d been eight. Shell-shocked by the change. Silent for three days straight before breaking it only to whisper: “Can we put the stars up, daddy?”

They were still there. Nearly twelve years later.

Lando was sitting against the headboard beside her, thumbing through an old photo album, chuckling quietly at baby pictures and awkward school portraits. She peeked up at him through her lashes — here, in her room, in her space. Taking up oxygen and memories and all the soft, sharp things in between.

Her eyes flicked to the window seat. Winced.

She thought about the weeks she’d spent there. Curled into herself, silent. Thinking, thinking, hurting. Wondering why he’d stopped talking to her. Wondering what she’d done wrong.

“Don’t ever…” she started, voice barely a whisper, then paused to breathe. “Please don’t ever hurt me again, Lan.”

He froze. Gently set the album aside, then pulled her up and onto his lap without a word. Held her tight. Looked across the room and saw it too — that small corner where she’d waited for him to come back to her.

“Never again, baby,” he said, voice thick, arms secure around her. “Never.”

She curled her fingers into his shirt and didn’t let go. Not until her mom called them down for dinner.

— 

They approached France with a renewed, razor-sharp focus.

Sim sessions doubled in frequency. Max had her holed up in his Milton Keynes flat for four straight days, dissecting every inch of the car; every flaw, every advantage, every hypothetical curveball. She barely saw daylight, only telemetry and takeaway containers and so much coffee.

At the factory, she gave the upgrades a final inspection, glaring down the engineers who kept pushing to tweak the ride height, despite her repeated insistence they’d already found Max’s sweet spot for Paul Ricard.

She spent a few hours with Adrian, though they barely touched any kind of real work. Instead, they spiralled into a familiar rabbit hole; V10 engines, their physics, their poetry, and the chaos they’d wreak under modern regs. It was indulgent. Comforting.

She spotted Christian a few times in the hallways. Passing glances in the cafeteria. An awkward silence that settled between them like fog.

It would’ve been easier, for both of them, if he could just swallow his pride and apologise for trying to control the narrative of her life.

But he didn’t.

So nothing changed.

— 

Max won in France.

And he didn’t just win — he dominated.

A perfect undercut. A flawless strategy.

An overtake two laps from the end.

“Simply lovely, mate.”

A 1–3 finish for the team.

Amelia clapped her hands, grinning as she leaned across to watch the pit crew spill over the wall, fists pumping under the chequered flag.

After Max’s disaster in Baku, it wasn’t just a win.

It was redemption. 

— 

She found Fernando after the race, walking with him through the paddock. They spoke about the state of Alpine's setup, her questions casual, his answers blunt.

“It is a mess,” he said, waving his hand as though the topic was beneath him. “But they can give me a car, so I will stay until a better offer comes along.”

Amelia nodded, her mind already drifting to the young driver being promised the world at Otmar Szafnauer’s behest. She couldn’t trust them though. Not when the team was so clearly disjointed.

She made her way to Max next, pulling him into a tight hug. “If we can beat them here, we can beat them anywhere,” she whispered into his ear, feeling the heat of his pride radiate back at her.

Then, she found Lando. No words were necessary as he pulled her into his arms, holding her close. His ear was open, waiting for her praises. She whispered them to him as they moved to his driver’s room, him collapsing onto her in a mixture of exhaustion and contentment. 

Her hand clutched the fabric of his shirt as she whispered, “Do you know anyone who could get me Mark Webber’s number?”

Lando's laughter echoed softly against her ear.

—

Amelia walks into the room, takes a seat across from Mark, and locks eyes with him, staring until he’s the first to blink.

Breaking the silence, she says, “I don’t trust Alpine, but I understand why Oscar does — they’ve invested a lot of time and money into his junior career.”

Mark nods in agreement and follows up with, “I don’t trust them either.”

A tense pause. Stalemate.

She leans forward slightly. “I’ve got an idea. Nothing's set in stone. If he gets the Alpine seat, I’ll back off. But if he doesn’t…”

“A back-up plan,” Mark guesses.

Amelia smiles, a glint in her eye. “Yes.”

— 

They plane-shared with Charles, Max, and George on the way to Austria. Amelia sat quietly, her iPad resting on her lap as she scrolled through Pinterest, putting together an outfit board. Every so often, she’d tilt it toward George, giving him a silent ‘hm?’ as if to say, what do you think? without needing the words. George always knew, offering a quick response or nodding along with her choices.

Going non-verbal wasn’t something that happened often, but when it did, Amelia could never pinpoint the reason. Sometimes, it was just the weight of everything around her, the noise, the constant motion, and she’d retreat into silence. A soft hum, a cough, a tongue click; they were her ways of communicating in those moments.

Lando and Max, sitting across from them, exchanged a glance, both watching the interaction from afar.

"You think she’s okay?" Lando asked, his voice low, filled with concern.

Max nodded, eyes still on Amelia. "She's overwhelmed," he said quietly. "Trying to act like she’s not. It’s too much, I think."

Lando’s worry deepened, but Max’s words were a small comfort, as he thumped Lando on the shoulder. “Another holiday as soon as there’s a break. Yeah?”

Lando smiled, pulling out his phone and checking the calendar. It was a habit now, syncing their schedules. He sent a quick message to his travel agent.

— 

After dropping off their luggage at the hotel, they met her dad for dinner at a local Italian place. Amelia snapped a few pictures of the pretty table settings, and Lando insisted on taking some of her in front of the wall of vintage wine bottles. “You look so pretty, baby,” he murmured, making her smile.

Her dad and Lando talked business and golf for most of the meal, their conversation a distant hum as Amelia scrolled through her Twitter feed, still not feeling up for much interaction.

At the end of the night, she gave her dad a tight hug before they parted ways, silently hoping that her love would come across through touch rather than words.

Their suite had a balcony, and Lando set up a little scene with blankets and chairs, ordering two bottles of Sprite to their room. Amelia ignored the chair he'd set up for her, instead collapsing onto his lap with a soft laugh and a surprised huff from him. “Jesus, warn me next time, baby,” he teased.

She buried her face in his neck, mouthing at the skin. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice muffled and her breath shaky, fingers clenched against him.

He rubbed a steady hand up and down her back, voice soft. “What for?”

She shrugged, kissed his neck again, and closed her eyes, just letting the quiet settle around them.

— 

The next morning, Amelia called Pietra, high-pitched giggles echoing from the bathroom as they gossiped in Portuguese over FaceTime. She sat in the sink to get closer to the mirror, balancing her phone on the taps while applying her eye makeup.

Lando lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. He listened to the two girls talk in a language he didn’t understand, probably about him. A smile tugged at his lips.

— 

Two weeks. Two consecutive Austrian races. Same track, different name.

Amelia sat with Jos in the debrief room, going over Max’s notes from last year’s race. Adrian walked in, having just checked the car setup. GP and Max followed a few moments later, Max with a paper coffee cup in hand and dark circles under his eyes.

Amelia frowned at him. "What’s the matter? Did you not sleep well?"

His gaze flickered to Jos, then back to Amelia. "No, just… nothing. Don’t worry about it."

She studied him, trying to decode his expression; his head slightly tilted, eyes narrowed. Her attention then shifted to his neck, where the collar of his Red Bull polo had slipped. A dark bruise marred the skin, with four tiny indents around it.

With a huff, she reached across the table to adjust his collar, covering it up.

Sitting back, she noticed both Jos and Adrian were staring at her.

She frowned. "What? I hate hickeys."

Jos blinked at her, then shifted his gaze to Max.

Adrien winced.

Max? He just sighed.

— 

She found Lando in his garage before the Styrian race.

He was starting on the second row, practically sandwiched between her two Red Bulls.

Pulling him close, she kissed him softly and whispered, “Do well, be safe.”

She smiled at her dad, nodded at Will, and waved at Daniel, who winked back at her.

— 

Max wins by a huge margin. The car had been flawless all weekend, and that didn't change during the race.

He jumps out of the car and into his engineers' arms, who scream and cheer in pure joy. Red Bull’s first home race of the season, and he’s won it by a mile.

He runs straight to her next, finding her in Parc Fermé instead of the pit wall like usual. She squeals as he picks her up by the waist and spins her around, his helmet still on.

“Zusje,” he crooned, full of energy and excitement.

She grins, pats the side of his helmet, then shoves him off toward the scales. “Go get weighed before they fine you.”

— 

The championship swings in Max's favor after the second Austrian race.

And suddenly, the question isn’t Can Max win the championship? It becomes When will he win it? Amelia pores over the data, analysing their history with each upcoming track, measuring the numbers.

She runs into Lewis in the paddock after Max’s second win. She opens her mouth to greet him, to ask how Roscoe’s doing, to check on him after so long without talking. But he keeps his head down and brushes past her, leaving her staring after him, eyes burning.

She finds Fernando first. Falls into his arms, a heap of sniffles and unjust sadness. She understands why Lewis is angry, knows how competitive this sport is, and how much she has to do with potentially denying him an eighth championship.

“Mi niña,” Fernando murmurs, holding her tightly, his eyes hard. “Who upset you?”

She doesn’t tell him. Doesn’t want him to make any rash decisions during the next race. She just lets herself be comforted, and when Fernando eventually hands her off to Lando, she lets herself really begin to cry.

NEXT CHAPTER

[dannyriccsystem]

hi Z! I have scoliosis (around 20 degrees) and sometimes people like us experience back pain during sex, especially if it’s rough. so imagine the reader has scoliosis. her and the driver just finished having sex but they were really rough on her and she was in pain but didn’t want to say anything because she didn’t want to ruin the moment. she tries to get up or move around and the drivers see her struggling, they thought at first that she was so sore because of them (they’re like 😏😏). but they realize she was in instead pain and she tells them about her scoliosis, and they feel bad for not knowing and promise to go softer or at her pace next time. then cue the soft aftercare. thank you for indulging in my delusions 🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️

NOT SO ROUGH!

FORMULA ONE DRIVERS X READER

SUMMARY: You have scoliosis, and the drivers go just a tad bit too rough on you! Cue the aftercare.

WARNINGS: Rough sex causing pain (not intentional), aftercare, fluff, Y/N usage, smut/mentions of smut, not entirely proofread

FEATURING: MV1, DR3, LN4, CL16, LH44, CS55, GR63, OP81

I actually dropped everything to do this request this is so cute.

MAX VERSTAPPEN - MV1

Sex with Max was unlike any other, and you found that out the hard way— Literally. You never thought it was relevant to mention the scoliosis, because you hadn’t expected it to be an issue. It never proved as one before, but you were beginning to realize the mistake you’ve made.

He was rough, to sum it up. At first it was fine, your body gently rocking on the soft mattress with every pound of his hips against yours. Then, like a train, it hit you all at once. Your back started to throb, and your cries of pain mixed in with your soft moans, which fueled him more. You climaxed hard, finally falling flat against the mattress as he pulled out.

“You were so good my love,” He whispered as he pressed a soft kiss to your forehead. You groaned, trying to sit up, but it just hurt even more. He chuckled softly, mistaking your pain for soreness. “Can’t move?”

You hissed, eyes welling with tears. He paused, freezing up immediately. He cupped your face, hands suddenly so gentle. The same hands that were roughing you around just moments ago. “Y/N, hey. What’s wrong? Did I hurt you?”

“Just-… Just a little,” You breathed in slowly, letting his hands pull you up into a sitting position. “I should have told you, I have scoliosis… It really hurts, I just… I was enjoying it, and I didn’t want to ruin your moment.”

“Oh, lieverd.” He pulled you towards him softly, peppering your face with kisses. “I will always prioritize your comfort over my pleasure. I want you to feel good too.” He propped up some pillow behind you, helping you lean back against them. “I’m glad you felt good, but next time, tell me as soon as it starts hurting.”

He kissed away your tears, sitting down beside you. “Okay… I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize.” He climbed off the bed and stepped into the connecting bathroom, returning seconds later with a towel. Max carefully wiped the sweat and arousal from your naked body, before draping you with a soft blanket. You hummed, your soreness seeping away. “Can I get you anything else?”

“No, I think I’m okay.” He climbed in beside you, softly kissing your forehead again. You smiled softly, relaxing against your mountain of pillows.

“You did great, I’m sorry I hurt you.” With those final words, you pressed yourself against his side and drifted off into a gentle snore.

—

DANIEL RICCIARDO - DR3

Unfortunately for you, it was hard for Daniel to tell the difference between whines of pain and whines of pleasure, which is why he didn’t take note of the excruciating back pain you were in. It was partially stupid on your end to hold back the information from him, as it could prove to be helpful, especially in a time like this. However, in your defense, you didn’t know that your first night together would be so rough.

And I mean literally. He was manhandling you, slamming his hips against yours. Of course, you enjoyed it at first, but as the minutes went by, the pain in your back grew. You hissed out in pain, clawing at his back. He figured this was part of your expression of arousal, and continued. It wasn’t until the tears began to well that he got the hint.

He slowly withdrew his length, pressing soft kisses to your cheeks. You breathed heavily, your back throbbing in pain. “Hey, hey…” He whispered in a hushed tone as you quietly cried. “Too rough? I’m sorry, sweetheart.” His hands softened as he lowered you back against the mattress.

You twitched, trying to shift into an upright position, and then cried out in pain. With quick reaction time, he grabbed your waist to steady you, brows furrowed. “What’s going on? Did I hurt you?” The sincerity in his eyes pained your heart.

“No- Well, yes, but it’s not your fault.” Your voice was shaking. With his help you sat up, your legs feeling like jelly and your back hurting like hell. “I have scoliosis, Danny. It was just a bit too rough for me.” You felt ashamed saying it, because you realized you should have said something sooner.

“Oh, Y/N, I’m so sorry.” He kissed your cheeks apologetically, hands rubbing soothing circles across your exposed back. “I wish you would have told me, I would have been much more careful.” You shook your head.

“No, it’s okay. I’ll be okay, it just hurt,” You giggled softly at his worried expression, and leaned back against the headboard.

“Next time I’ll be more mindful. We can establish a safe word just in case it starts to hurt again.” You nodded in agreement, and shortly after Danny scampered off to collect some items to help soothe your pain.

—

LANDO NORRIS - LN4

Lando was a pent up guy. Racing really restricted his access to his lover, you, and when he was traveling so much he barely had any time to get himself off. It sounded gross, but the guy desperately needed a release. Thankfully, the week after the triple header was a free week, meaning he could come home and cherish you like he had been yearning for.

Cherish you he did. Your first time was a wild ride with Lando. He had assured your pleasure came first before he finally let himself enjoy you, sinking into your plush walls and losing control of himself. He hammered his hips into yours at a relentless pace, truly sinking in the glory of it all.

It felt great at first— Better than anything you had tried yourself, but the pleasure had melted into pain as soon as he started getting rougher. You hissed in pain, which was subsided by loud and uncontrollable moans. It felt like ages you were laying there until he pulled out, releasing on your stomach.

You breathed in shakily as he flopped onto the bed beside you, panting from over exertion. Even an athlete like himself would get tired after that. He rolled onto his side to face you, chuckling under his breath when he saw you struggling to move. “Sore?” He asked softly, amusement in his tone.

Except the color drained from his face when he realized you were in pain. He should have noticed it instantly, but he was caught up in the adrenaline of it all still. He sat up quickly, cupping your cheek with his palm and soothingly brushing his thumb over your soft skin. “Hey, Y/N? What’s happening?”

“Pain,” You uttered out. His heart immediately shattered for you, and he lifted to cradle your head in his lap, brushing a few baby hairs away from your face. “My back— Scoliosis flaring up-”

“Oh, Y/N… I didn’t know,” He pressed a kiss to your forehead. “What can I do?” You huffed, breathing out shakily. You slowly tried to lift yourself, and he took the hint to help you sit up. In a more steady position, you felt like you could breathe clearly again.

“‘M sorry, Lan. I should have told you.” He gently rubbed circles onto your back, checking your eyes for clarity. “I never thought it would be necessary until now.” You locked eyes with him, and he offered an apologetic smile. “I felt really good, but… Maybe we should take it slow next time.”

He nodded immediately, pulling a blanket up to cover your exposed skin. You softened, feeling the throbbing pain start to slowly creep away. “Yes, thank you for understanding.” You felt your lips quirk into a smile as you shared a gentle kiss.

—

CHARLES LECLERC - CL16

Maybe it was the position. Sitting up straight with no support, moving your hips as you rode your boyfriend, was probably not the best idea considering your back condition. Charles could barely contain himself, his passion too strong to hold back.

You hadn’t expressed your pain, trying to push it aside. It wasn’t until you went limp against his body that he realized something was wrong. Charles slowly pulled himself out of your tight heat, feeling himself soften instantly. He cupped your cheeks, shaking you fully awake.

“Y/N? Hey, Y/N-” He froze when you blinked your eyes, seeming barely awake. He gave a sigh of relief. “Are you okay? Too rough?” He tried to keep calm, but it was hard. Pain was the last feeling he wanted you to experience during sex, unless you asked for it of course.

“Just a little bit.” You tried to push yourself up, but pain shot up your spine and you froze. “I should have told you. Charles, I have scoliosis. I never thought it would be important to mention.” You frowned, and he pressed a kiss to your forehead.

“I’m sorry, I wish I had known. Either way, I should have checked in to make sure you felt good.” He lifted you carefully, his strong arms picking you up with ease. He placed you back on the mattress, tucking the covers in around you. “What can I get for you?”

“Maybe some painkillers and a heating pad.” You weren’t mad, just in pain, and thankfully… Charles was willing to care for you.

He rushed off out of the bedroom to gather your things. Roughly five minutes later he returned with some tea, medicine, and a heating pad for you to lay on. After you were situated, he climbed in beside you and carefully held you in the safety of his arms.

He drew patterns into the skin of your arm with his finger, tracing random shapes. You were 90% sure some of them were outlines of circuits. “Next time, we can go at your pace. Maybe even use a safe word, hm?” His voice was barely a whisper.

“I’d like that.”

—

LEWIS HAMILTON - LH44

Lewis was a sincere guy. He always asked for permission, and assured that you were comfortable and safe during the act of sex. Tonight was no different, except he was testing the waters to see how rough he could go.

He was unaware of your scoliosis, and you were equally unaware of how much of an issue it would pose. Your pleasure had softened into pain, and your moans started to sound more like desperate cries. It didn’t take long for him to notice.

He tried to keep a good eye on you, and when he realized the subtle change, he froze his movements. “Everything okay?” Lewis asked, brushing a stray tear from your eyes. You shook your head softly, and he pulled out, his focus now entirely on you. “Okay, okay… Shh..”

He scooped you up into his arms and carried you off the hard couch, and set you down on his bed. You could barely move any part of your body without an unbearable ache. He kissed your jaw and collarbones, soothing your muscles. “Talk to me, pretty. What’s going on?”

“My scoliosis is acting up.” You watched his brows furrow.

“I didn’t realize you had scoliosis.” You seemed to shrink down into yourself, feeling slightly ashamed for not saying anything. “Well now I know, and I won’t cross that line again.” He positioned both hands on your waist. “Can you roll onto your stomach? How about a back massage?”

—

CARLOS SAINZ - CS55

This was a new position for the both of you. You always liked missionary, because you liked to see the expressions Carlos made, and it was nice and relaxing that way. Sex felt so much more intimate, but after a particularly grueling race, he came back to your hotel room feeling a little more wound up than usual.

You ended up on your hands and knees on the bed, back slightly arched. You were in pain from the start, but the pleasure helped to mask it. Right up until the end. You managed to stick it out until you both came, leaving each of your satisfactory. It was after your climax that you collapsed against the uncomfortable hotel bed, quivering.

You felt Carlos lean over you, his chest brushing against the bareness of your back as he left little kisses all over the skin. “Sore, mi amor?” His accent was thick as he whispered against you. You shuddered, but it wasn’t like the typical one. Something felt off.

He lifted himself up and helped you tilt your head to the side, realizing you were in pain. He helped you roll onto your back and sit up, making sure your every move was supported. After giving you some water and helping you breathe again, you looked away and explained yourself. “Carlos, I should have told you earlier but I didn’t want to ruin the moment… I have scoliosis.”

“Ah, amor…” He kissed your temple, holding the side of your head with his large hand. “I don’t care about that, I just care that you’re okay and safe. In the future, tell me if I’m too rough. I’ll never be too out of it to listen to your wishes, especially during intimate moment.”

His sincere response made you feel emotional. You buried your face in his neck, letting him cradle you gently to ease the pain.

—

GEORGE RUSSELL - GR63

Your relationship with George had been practically perfect, but things were still going at a slower pace. Tonight in itself was a big step, because it was the first night you both showed interest in having sex— So you did.

You wanted to tell him, you really did, but it never came up naturally. It was hard to talk about, because even though it didn’t look too obvious, scoliosis made a lot of everyday things difficult for you. What you didn’t realize was that sex would be one of these things.

You initially were fine, but as George lost himself in the pleasure, the pain started to become more prominent. You seethed between gritted teeth, clinging to him tight. He took this as a sign to continue his efforts, letting the both of you climax simultaneously. He laid down beside you, rolling the two of you onto your sides as he held you.

You winced, tears finally spilling. Finally paying attention fully, George quickly realized and hopped out of bed, ready to do whatever you asked of him. “Y/N? What’s wrong? Can I get you anything?”

You almost laughed, but the pain was too prevalent. You just shook your head. “Scoliosis- Back hurts.”

“Oh, sweetheart. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to hurt you.” He helped you shift into a position that was comfortable, and sat down beside you. “Deep breaths with me, like this.”

Once he was certain you would be okay, he gathered some towels, fresh clothes, some hot tea, and put on your favorite movie while he gently massaged your aching back muscles, reassuring you that this would not be a repeat cause. It was safe to say you felt very loved that night.

—

OSCAR PIASTRI - OP81

It actually started as your idea. You and Oscar had always been fairly vanilla in bed, and while you loved it, you wanted to experiment more- Find out what you were really in to. He didn’t mind your request to be a bit rougher, even if it was awkward for him at first. He was used to being gentle with you.

You really did enjoy it at first, and then rough turned into hurtful, and your back started throbbing like hell. You scratched his bare back, for sure leaving deep marks from your nails. He groaned, head dipping down to bury into your neck. You whispered out a hoarse, “stop,” and he didn’t even have to think twice.

There was no safe word in place, but he didn’t want to take any chances. Oscar pulled out immediately, staring down at your face and searching for emotion. He could tell you were hurting, and your pain usually meant he felt pain too.

“What? What happened?” He stared down at you, and you slowly tried to reach up, but couldn’t really move your arm. Even that alone hurt like hell.

“Scoliosis. I think you went too rough,” Her tone wasn’t accusatory or mad, but he still felt awful. “Help me sit,” He did it without question, pulling your body up to sit against the headboards. He stood up and grabbed his hoodie off the floor, helping you pull it over your head.

“What can I get for you, baby?” He kissed your forehead, voice soft as he rubbed your arms soothingly. You shook your head.

“Nothing, it’ll pass… I just need to relax.” After dressing himself, he joined you on the bed and let you get settled in his arms.

“Maybe we should stick to being gentle.”

“Couldn’t agree more.”

[kxsagi]

got this idea cuz I was comparing sae and Rin to my friends who don't watch bllk loll

reader who's around the itoshi brothers a lot and accidentally mixes up their names at times and sometimes when she isn't looking at them or she's talking to them from another room she'll even mix up their voices 😭

lowk my dad does this w me and my siblings LMFAO

“𝐰𝐡𝐨’𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐬𝐡𝐢?”

a/n: i want to make out with sae

(art credits go to Jhong_Dai on X)

it’s not even your fault. really. they’re both monotone. they both sigh like the world annoys them. they both say your name like you just crashed their car. and sometimes, just sometimes, you’re not looking and they sound exactly the same. 

“rin, pass me the charger?” 

“i’m sae.” 

“… okay, but are you gonna pass it or not?” 

you don’t even flinch anymore. you just accept the wrong name like it’s your god-given right to be mildly incorrect 60% of the time. and it pisses off a particular itoshi. 

rin scowls. “do you not hear the difference?” 

“well yeah, i do now. you sound more like you're ready to fight someone, and sae sounds like he just woke up from a nap he didn't want to take.” 

“that’s literally just being awake.” 

but when you're not in the same room, that’s when things get dicey. 

once, you told sae from the kitchen, “rin, can you check the oven?” 

and sae, older brother sae, peeked inside and said, “yeah, it’s done.” 

and you thanked him like that was normal. it wasn’t until rin came home later that night and asked what you baked that it hit you. you stared at him. “wait… that wasn’t you earlier?” 

rin blinked. “i haven’t been home all day.” 

“… oh.” 

“… did you confuse us again.” 

“… maybe.” 

“… again?” 

you don’t even try to defend yourself anymore. “look, you guys have the same DNA or whatever, maybe my brain just can’t distinguish premium itoshi stock.” 

rin looks like he’s about to walk into traffic. sae, from the couch, just smirks without looking up from his phone. 

“it’s okay,” he says, “you’re not the first one to be confused. rin used to think he was me, too.” 

“i didn’t.” 

“you wore my uniform with my name tag for a week in middle school.” 

“it was black. they’re all black.” 

“you thought you were me.” 

sometimes you think you’re just being dramatic. but then they both walk into the room in black shirts, with the same resting judgmental face, the same little flick of hair falling across their forehead, and you have to mentally roll the dice. 

“sae?” 

“wrong.” 

“rin?” 

“still wrong.” 

“what? ... okay, but one of you has to answer.” 

"you could just turn around and look." 

“no. this is a test now.” 

the worst is when they use it against you. like today. one of them called from the hallway: “hey, can you come here for a sec?” 

you shout back, “who’s ‘you’?” 

“me.” 

“who’s me?!” 

“your favorite itoshi.” 

you freeze. because honestly? that doesn’t help at all. they both say that with the same exact sarcasm. 

rin walks in first, holding a water bottle. “did you come when i called or when sae called?” 

“wait, so you called me?” 

sae trails in a second later. “i didn’t say anything.” 

“then why did i hear–” 

they both smirk. they planned this. they planned this to gaslight you and it worked. 

“i hate you both,” you mumble. 

rin tosses you the bottle. “love you too.” 

sae ruffles your hair as he walks by. “learn our voices before you embarrass yourself in public.” 

you grumble something under your breath, and rin hears it. 

“what was that?” 

“… nothing, sae.” 

rin stares at you. “i will throw this bottle.” 

you grin. “do it, sae.” 

© 𝐤𝐱𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐢

[hyperfixatedbean]

I was a twelve years old girl, I couldn’t « sit on them » all I could do was try not to react as they tripped me, send me insults, or beat me for looking a bit too long in their global direction

The one time I tried to defend myself, when one of the boys went too far and tried to assault me, I punched him, broke his glasses, the teacher I went too, crying and blubbering as I explained he put his hands on me and kissed me, she basically told me « boys will be boys » and told me to say sorry for punching him

I was ridiculized and punished for defending myself, the next morning the boy came back and stabbed a fucking pen through my hand, I had to leave class and I had to call my dad to get help, not a single adult even noticed, and the boy never got any sort of punishment about it

The adults never cared about bullying, in their eyes they were just kids, in mines they were monsters and nightmares I could never escape

They never did anything to protect me, but i got punished several time, most time I hadn’t even done anything, not even defending myself

I hate that sentiment of "you weren't friendless in high school because you liked anime, you were friendless because you were an asshole, hope this helps :)" because even when there's a grain of truth to it, there's such a willful ignorance of just how baseless teenage ostracism can get, and that it likely wasn't proportional or helpful at all

[gyeomsweetgyeom]

i’m such a sucker for sulky jealous jae, so can we get sweets tutoring new incoming brothers (jisung?) and he has a lil crush on her like haechan did, but it’s sweet and innocent, and she sees him as her baby, a sweet younger boy to help out, but to jaehyun he’s a jealous boy bc some little new kid is getting sweets attention

Sweets 🤝 You guys

causing Jae stress

. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.

[3:01 pm]

(cw: f!reader, threats of violence)

Fratboy!Jaehyun wouldn't have ever thought that he'd be jealous of a freshman. A pledge. A dumb one at that, yet here he was, jealous of Park Jisung. Some pledge that he was hoping would fail every test set before him. Recite every house on Greek Row? More like, recite the address of every school in the city. Recite the Greek Alphabet? Well, why stop at just Greek? Why not every other Mediterranean language while he's at it!

Jaehyun knew that Jisung failing wouldn't be the case though. Stupid Jisung who had been studying with you and stealing your attention for a while week now, so there was clearly no way he was going to fail. He could hear your gorgeous voice now, repeating all the Greek letters in the alphabet, pausing so Jisung's annoying, grating voice could repeat them.

He watches you from the kitchen where you sit cross legged on the nice rug the Nu Chi girlfriends had picked out with Jisung sitting adjacent to you. You smile, far too warmly Jaehyun thinks, at Jisung, "alright now you try."

Jisung blushes, ducking his head as he begins to repeat the alphabet. Even Jaehyun has to admit that he does pretty decent until this little dummy says, "kappa, lambda, M, nu..."

Your giggle rings through the air as you stop Jisung with a gentle hand on his shoulder. He can see Jisung's shoulders raise with bashfulness and his cheeks flush all over again, turning even brighter red as you tell him, "oh, you're just the cutest thing ever! Alright, I know it looks like an M, but its actually mu. You'll be fine though, you just have to recite the letters, not identify them."

Jaehyun can't help but zero in on where your hand touches Jisung, your words echoing in his head, 'cutest thing ever!' How is this scrawny freshman even cuter than your own boyfriend? If anything, it's your fault that he's smart now! He can go back to being dumb if that's what you think is cute! Fine! He'll fail his business classes that he needs to graduate. He'll lose all his muscle too, but you can't complain when the abs are gone or you have no more bicep muscle to bite! You've forced his hand!

Jisung ducks his head nervously, "ha, thank you, Sweets. I-I'm sorry, I know I'm just a pledge. Is it alright if I call you that? I can call you by your name if you'd like. Maybe Sweetheart, or um- I've heard Jaehyun call you Sweet Girl. I mean, that sounds a bit intimate, and you are very sweet. And a girl. I think you're one of the sweetest girls I've ever met and you're really pretty- um. I need to shut up now."

Your face falls into a pout as coo, hands reaching out to squeeze Jisung's cheeks. Jaehyun feels bitter envy bubbling in his stomach. You have only ever squeezed his cheeks like this like four times! That's not even a full hand's worth! And you've been together for like two years now! His body is just itching to move across the room and punch Jisung for flirting with you. He can at least flirt well, it's what you deserve at the very least...

However, as the mature senior that he is, Jaehyun doesn't resort to violence. He knows that you wouldn't choose Jisung over him. You've told him that you just think Jisung is cute like a child, and Jisung is shit at flirting anyway. There's no way his nerdy, awkward, bumbling rambling would ever convince you to leave your Adonis of a boyfriend.

Jaehyun sighs quietly, refocusing his thoughts as he listens to Jisung recite the alphabet slowly, his eyes staring at the ceiling as he tries to recall. As jealous as he feels, Jaehyun also feels a little proud. You're going to be such a great teacher. He knows it. You're doing such a great job helping Jisung, probably employing a bunch of methods from your classes that Jisung hasn't picked up on. Maybe not cooing at your students and squeezing their cheeks... but he knows you mean well.

Jaehyun nearly jumps out of his skin, when he hears, "want me to kill him?"

"Geez! No, Haechan! What the hell is your problem?!"

[moonlight-alexia]

just keep swimming | k.m./c.f.

katie mccabe x caitlin foord x child!reader | 2.3k | you meet your little sister for the first time + you give your little sister her nickname

ˏˋ°•*⁀ i hope you all like it! and i hope you like the nickname and i didn't overhype it or anything! starfish has her sister now <3

any and all feedback, comments, reblogs etc are very appreciated and welcome <3

‘Do you want to meet your baby sister?’ Your mammy knelt down in front of the seat you were sitting in. A big, soft smile that hadn’t left Katie’s face since the arrival of your little sister.

Steph and Beth had brought you to the hospital, after Katie told them everything had gone well and that it would be a good time to bring you to meet your new baby sister. Your little sister decided she wanted to make her entrance a bit earlier than expected, not too early but enough that it was still a surprise for your mums. The last 48 hours had felt like a blur to everyone involved.

For Katie, trying to make sure Caitlin was well looked after, while trying to stay composed and calm herself even though she was panicking on the inside. It had been organised well in advance that Steph and Beth would be on call to look after you so they would have one less thing to worry about while at the actual hospital. 

But for Steph and Beth, that 3am call, the rush to throw clothes together and seem put together enough to come get you, the two of them were also running on the pure adrenaline of the situation.

And for you, one moment you were deep asleep and the next your mammy was waking you, as gently as she could and you were still rubbing the sleep from your eyes while Beth held you and you watched your mums drive away. Your mums had prepared you for this moment that would be happening soon, but it was still a shock and being half asleep you were slightly confused at what was happening, until the next day when you were more awake.

On paper everything was planned perfectly, but in the moment it was hard for everyone to not rush around and panic slightly. But everything went well, there were no complications with your little sister and your mums were both relieved that everything went as smoothly as it could. 

Your little sister, the youngest and newest member of your little family, was finally earthside and you couldn’t wait to meet her. In this moment, everything felt still, a big contrast to how the last 24 hours played out like a whirlwind, and a contrast to how everything was about to be while your mums, and you, adjusted to this new addition. 

You put aside the crayon you had in your hand, drawing another picture for your baby sister, even if mammy told you she wouldn’t be old enough to understand, one day she would be and you’d have drawn, or tried to draw, all the important moments before she was here. There was one of Peach that had made Caitlin tear up a bit, you really didn’t miss a thing. 

Steph took your drawing and safely put it in your bag, not before looking at it and smiling, you’d drawn everyone around your little sister, bunch of rainbows, starfish and anything else that made you happy. A way to tell that in this moment you were really happy and excited about the arrival of your little sister. 

You nodded slowly to your mammy’s question. You didn’t really talk but it was to be expected, there had been a lot going on in such a short amount of time and you saw the way your mammy’s eyes were tired, the way her voice was a lot softer, you chose to be quieter.

Grabbing onto your mammy’s hand she slowly helped you from your seat, she said a little thank you to Steph and Beth who’d looked after you and stayed in the waiting room til Katie came and got you. Caitlin and Katie were lucky to have the people in their lives that they did, they’ve never felt the ‘it takes a village’ as much as they have until right now.

Caitlin was focused on the tiny baby that was bundled in her arms but the moment the door to the room creaked open her eyes flicked up towards you. Your mummy’s eyes lit up at the sight of you, with that same soft, but tired, smile your mammy had earlier. You were half hiding behind your mammy, walking a little slower, you were a little nervous. Nervous, because now it was real, in your mummy’s arms was your little sister. 

She was just, ‘in your mummy’s belly’, something you’d have to use your imagination and the ultrasound pictures to ‘see’ her. You couldn’t see her yet but just the bundle your mum was clearly holding, she was here, right in front of you.

‘Starfish,’ Your mum’s voice was soft, but enough for the quietness of the room, ‘Come here,’ There was a small you size space on the bed next to your mum. Katie helped you gently get up and sit next to Caitlin, ‘This is your baby sister,’

Gently holding onto the top of Caitlin’s arm, you leaned up a little to peer over. Your mum gently peeled the blanket back, showing a bit more of your new little sister. Saying she was so small felt like an understatement. You didn’t know what to expect, you’d met the other babies when they were a few weeks to months older, you didn’t know new babies were so tiny. 

Granted your little sister was on the smaller side, quite small for a newborn that the doctors and nurses had to double check your mum wasn’t having her too early. Everything was above board, Katie even made a comment when it was just her and Caitlin that you weren’t ever this small. 

Her nose was like a little button, you wanted to poke it a little to see if it felt like pushing a button since that’s how it looked, but you held yourself back. You’d heard enough about how fragile babies can be. If you were quiet enough and really listened you could hear her small, tiny breaths. She was real, she was here right in front of you. You just leaned against your mum, a little smile on your lips while you watched your baby sister.

Katie sat in the chair next to the bed, watching your interaction closely. Sure you’d been really receptive to the idea of a little sister, but when you actually saw her you might’ve thought differently. Though, watching you now, Katie knew she had nothing to be worried about. The way your eyes shined so bright towards the little baby, it reminded Katie of how it felt when she was little, like you, meeting her younger siblings for the first time. 

‘She’s so cute,’ You let out a small laugh when your little sister let out a tiny sneeze, scrunching up her whole face. Almost instantly, as if it was the sound of your voice being familiar from all the times you spent talking to her when she was in your mum’s stomach, your little sister wriggled an arm free and lifted it a little as if she was searching for something. As if she was searching for you.

‘She remembers you. You’re already a favourite,’ Your mum whispered to you, making you beam even more.

‘I’m gonna be her favourite forever,’ A promise you’d make sure of, you already love your little sister and that would never waiver.

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ �� .˚ₓ

Katie and Caitlin had been told multiple times, they were very aware, that adjusting to life having two kids to look after would be difficult. Everyone was right. It was hard, but they were so glad to have you and your little sister. It was, a baby needs so much attention and time and there were moments they almost forgot to make sure they were taking care of your needs and wants too.

You were such a good and easy kid, so observant and emotionally intelligent for your age, that in a way it was easy for you to get lost in the background. Your mammy’s loudness that you inherited made sure that was never the case though. Your mums weren’t perfect, but they made sure you were never, mentally or emotionally lost in the background. 

Your mums made sure you were really involved in everything you could be when it came to your little sister. They let you feed her bottles, you were so careful in holding her so you got to have lots of cuddles. They made sure to have the time, one on one with them as well, even if it was just sitting on their bed while they’d fold laundry and you’d tell them any new fact you’d learnt recently.

In short, they made sure you had enough and more. They made sure you didn’t feel any kind of neglect. It wasn’t easy and it wasn’t always perfect, but after what felt like a very long six months to your mums, the bumps had started to smooth and your little family was functioning as perfectly as could be expected.

Even your mums teammates never let you feel left out. They’d come over to meet the baby, but they’d still also do something with you. Kyra came over and convinced your mums to let the two of you, alone, go get some ice cream. Alessia bought you a new football and kicked around with you in the backyard, helping Katie and Caitlin out by getting you to burn energy, but you managed to nutmeg Alessia and that made your day and was the topic at the next training you’d gone to with Steph when you said you had missed going to training.

Grace sat down with you and coloured when she visited. Your mums let you stay up really late when Mackenzie and Alanna came so you could have a movie night, just the three of you, though they had to promise to look after you when you were tired and grumpy the next day. Everyone let you know that you were just as important as a new baby. No one lets you feel forgotten or left out.

Even though things are easier now, you are still kind of struggling to grasp the concept that your sister was still too small for some things. Katie wasn’t far from where you and your sister were, she could still see you both while she took the time to do some of the things both her and Caitlin had been neglecting around the house. Your sister was settling on the verge of taking a nap, and you were playing close by. You never really strayed far from your sister, you liked the company. You’d often talk to her, so much that she’d started to make sounds that were slowly resembling some of the words you were saying.

Lately you’d started taking more of an interest in actually playing football. Going to some mini sessions for kids your age. You were learning so much and you just wanted to be able to teach your sister. You had some mini footballs laying around and the next time Katie looked over towards the two of you, your sister suddenly had three footballs surrounding her.

She slowly made her way over, ‘Mammy she won’t play,’ you huffed and frowned. Katie smiled small, crouching down next to you, wrapping an arm around your shoulders.

‘She’s a bit too small to play football sweetheart,’ You didn’t like that answer, suddenly wanting to fast forward time until she could play football with you, ‘But there are lots of things you can still do together,’ Now you were sitting in your mammy’s lap while she brushed some of your stray baby hairs out of your face, ‘How about a movie?’

You nodded your head enthusiastically at your mammy’s suggestion. She helped set the two of you up. Your mammy made a little spot for your sister out of blankets rolled so your sister was supported even on the couch. You were next to her, wrapped up in your own blankets and your mammy had given you a little fruit platter.

‘Finding nemo mammy!’ Ever since Caitlin showed you the movie you’d been obsessed. Katie didn’t know how much longer she could listen to this movie, but anything for you. Neither of your mums were prepared for the future of having to hear you and your sister fight over what movie you were going to watch.

‘Who’s your favourite?’ Your mammy slipped in beside you mid way through the movie, pulling you onto her lap, stealing some of your fruit while she was at it.

‘Hmm,’ Deep in thought because how could you ever choose a favourite from a movie full of sea creatures? ‘I think Nemo,’ 

You leaned back against your mammy, keeping an eye on your sister and fully discarding your snacks, ‘What do you like about Nemo?’ 

‘Nemo’s small, looks a bit squishy and — and tough,’ Katie laughed a little when you put up your arm, flexing a little when you said tough. 

‘That kind of reminds me of someone we know,’ Your eyebrows scrunched together a little and you looked up at your mammy. Her eyes flickered over towards your little sister, your eyes lit up.

You moved from your mammy’s lap, over towards your sister. Your little hand reached out and rested against the side of her face, ‘Nemo, tiny but tough,’ You said it softly, like it was only meant for the space between you and your sister and no one else, ‘I’m your big sister, I’ll help you keep swimming while you grow,’ Katie smiled, you were going to be the best big sister without a doubt.

Your little sister babbled happily when you spoke to her, her little fingers wrapping around yours that were against her face, it felt like there was an understanding between you both, ‘I love you, Nemo,’

[sacrificiallane]

LUKE CASTELLAN ( pretty baby )

request ! ❛ Luke with a bimbo gf </3 She loves sitting in his lap , and he always babies her I NEED (pls) ❜

warning ! bimbo!reader x actually sweet!Luke for once. Luke babies reader. reader is mentioned to be female. fluff. mention of food / eating. i tried. blurb-ish. not proofread.

"Open." Your lips automatically open at his words , immediately tasting the sweet juice of a strawberry Luke attentively placed on your tongue for you to eat. When you close your lips again , he coos , "There you go , baby."

"Thank you , Luke."

You‘re always so sweetly polite to him when he feeds you ! Patiently seated on your throne — being Luke's very inviting, very warm lap — you feel like the richest girl , being greatly taken care of by your boyfriend. As a son of Hermes , the boy is naturally nurturing ( he often helped or encouraged new or younger campers , but that also more than not includes his sweet and sometimes ditzy girlfriend ).

Luke doesn’t really mind when you would keep his lap warm , if anything , he thought of it as awfully endearing. How you would gravitate towards it like it was your own privately reserved seat. Which , honestly , it was !

A grin falls over his lips at your sweet little thanks , gently wiping the excess of the strawberry from the corner of your lips. He then slowly brings his thumb up to his own mouth, tasting the mix that was your now smudged lip gloss and the fruit. He hums, "Cherry?"

And oh , the action of him tasting you on his finger has your heart thumping in an erratic rhythm. Luke was so easily attractive in what he did , it was really just unfair !

Your boyfriend watches in amusement when a smile falls over your lips. You nod at his guess. It is his favorite flavor , and therefore also the one that always gets you the most kisses from him ! Obviously , you must have quickly applied it before leaving , hoping for his mouth on yours.

And maybe more ...

And just like you hoped , he firmly ( but gentle ) grabbed your face with one hand , practically squishing your cheeks together until your lips were puckered. With them plump and pouty , he could easily press his mouth against your own. Savoring your sweet taste right from the source.

Luke always kisses like he is trying to steal away your breath. Like some simple kissing just isn‘t enough for him anymore. He needs to breathe you , taste you. And he would deepen it so naturally that all your thoughts would just melt away , and then all you want is him , him , him.

When he moves his head away , you whine.

"We're not here to make out , baby." "Why not?"

Luke chuckles at your upset tone , and gently pats your cheek in a form of affection ( and maybe to soothe you ). "We’re at the lake , sunshine , remember?" Lake as in … others would see you … and that was gross. For them.

Then , when you huff at his answer — which you felt was dumb , and unsatisfying — your boyfriend leans a little closer again. A frown on his face when he notices the slightest hint of a sunburn on your skin. It was flush , and warm to the touch.

"Did you put on sunscreen , huh?" His words carries a hint of soft scolding , because , of course you didn’t ! Too up in your head to think about it yourself. And he honestly forgot to tell you too. Your pretty and empty head had been much too excited about going to the lake with him. Too eager to get to show him your flimsy little bikini ...

Which , don‘t get him wrong , he is more than grateful to be in the presence of what you shamelessly said to be a bikini. But the care for your health — yeah , even something as simple as just your skin ! — greatly outweighs the joy of what you‘re wearing for him.

He sighs a bit disappointed when his fingers graze your nose , the bridge of it already clearly burned.

And your little piece of fabric did honestly nothing to shield the rest of your body from the relentless sun glaring down on you , too. Great.

"S‘ not that bad," you shrug , and Luke rolls his eyes in return. Because of course you would think that it‘s not that bad.

"You take hours getting ready , baby," he immediately grabs the small expensive bottle of La Roche 50 SPF from your bag — which he thankfully remembered to pack ! Why you need such an expensive sunscreen , he doesn't really know , but you claim it doesn't disgustingly stick to your skin for hours . . . so , anything to make you feel comfortable , i guess.

"Hours , Baby. But then you forget the most important step."

And he is so gentle when he spreads the cream over your nose , your cheeks , and collarbone. The citrusy smell immediately reminding you of summer , the beach , and rolling in the sand with Luke. You hum , happily letting his hands run all over your body.

He is right . . . you sometimes do take hours getting ready.

Night routine , morning routine , middle of the day routine . . . , Luke could name them all. He even knows what products you use for each. Because he loves you , and he cares , and you literally yap about it at least once a week , conspiring which of your mountains on products made your skin flare up.

He tells you that you don't need all of that , of course. But it's also endearing how you would preen , literally presenting yourself to him , freshly washed after an everything shower . . . because you think it makes you more desirable , when , honestly , Luke would bend you over no matter the shower . . .

But your boyfriend appreciates the effort and the thought that goes into it , nonetheless !

When he's sure you're properly protected from the sun , he kisses your neck. "You fine staying here?" "The lake?"

Luke chuckles , his arms becoming the slightest bit tighter around you. "My lap , pretty girl." When you start frowning , he kisses your neck again , nuzzling the back of it.

"Where else would i go?"

Yeah , you‘re right. Where else would you go ?

[lmvari]

⟳ 22. STALLED

When you finally step out of the building, the sky dimming into the soft lavender of early evening. The campus is quieter now, with scattered students loitering by the gates or heading toward the nearby street stalls. Your footsteps feel heavy as usual as you consider going straight home.

It’s been almost a week now, and still, you show no signs of feeling any better. It frustrates you. How everyone else seems fine and happy, while you’re still stuck.

A familiar voice snaps you out of your daze.

“[Name]!”

You turn to see Lumi waving at you from across the walkway, Ajax and Kaz beside her, all three of them standing by the parking area.

“Come eat with us,” she offers. “You look like you’re about to go home and crash out.”

“Shut up,” you say when you reach them, but Lumi just raises an eyebrow. “Where are Ven and Hu?”

“They’re all busy, it’s just us,” Lumi sighs.

You fix your gaze at the unfamiliar company. Ajax tagging along is normal. You’ve lost count of how many times you’ve hung out with Lumi, only for her to bring Ajax along and turn you into the third wheel. But being with Kaz is a first. You know him. You’ve seen him around campus, even exchanged waves now and then, but you’ve never actually hung out with him like this before.

Kaz seems to notice your attention on him and gives a small smile. “I heard what happened. Hope you don’t mind me joining in. Come join us, it’ll be fun.”

You want to argue, but you don’t. Because maybe they’re right. Maybe putting yourself out there is a good way to start moving on.

The four of you end up at a small food place just outside campus, one of those spots students always flock to after long days. You squeeze into a booth, the table already cluttered with shared plates and paper cups filled with soda. Ajax and Lumi sit beside each other while you and Kaz sit on the opposite side.

Lumi pokes you with a fry across the table. “See? Better than sulking in your room.”

You roll your eyes. “I wasn’t planning to.”

Lumi laughs. “It’s alright to be sad about it, you know. Just not to the point that it messes with your everyday life. That’s why we’re here to help you.”

Ajax chuckles, leaning back in his seat. “You’ve gone quiet lately. It’s good to see you out.”

Kaz glances your way. “So you and Kuni are really done?”

You freeze for a second, then sigh.

Of course he’d be brought up.

“We were never anything more than friends, in the first place,” you confirm.

“Heard that,” Ajax says with a cough.

You roll your eyes and look at Lumi in deadpan. “I’m starting to hate your boyfriend.”

She just shakes her head with a laugh.

“You two had something. I don’t know why neither of you admit it.” Ajax shrugs. “Did you get to talk about it properly?”

Define properly.

Does telling him to end things outside a convenience store late at night, in the pouring rain, count?

“I guess,” you answer vaguely, stirring your drink. “I told him we should stop. He just agreed. Which was the most painful part.”

“Why?” Kaz asks, listening intently.

You set down your drink. “We haven’t been sexually active lately prior to that. I thought I meant more to him. He didn’t even try to fight. Not even for our friendship.”

“That might be for the best,” Lumi mutters.

You raise your brow at her.

She continues, “Could you handle being ‘just friends’ while he gets back with his ex?”

You stay quiet, unsure how to answer that.

Can you?

Handle seeing him with her? Handle watching him treat her the way you thought he’d treat you? Handle knowing the delusions you had in your head are real with her?

Handle imagining how he’d touch her the same way he touched you?

And the worst part is the thought that you probably weren’t even the first to be handled like that.

She was.

Nothing was ever yours to begin with. It was your fault for being too attached when you knew it was only ever physical with him.

The answer is no. You can’t.

Do you really have the right to be upset?

As if reading your thoughts, Kaz’s voice is calm when he speaks. “You’re allowed to be mad at him, you know.” Ajax quietly agrees with a nod.

You glance beside you in surprise. “Aren’t you two his friends?”

“Yeah,” Ajax says with a shrug, “but not always.”

Kaz doesn’t say anything for a moment, then rests his elbow on the table. “We had an argument, actually.”

You blink. “You and Kuni?”

He nods, like it’s not a big deal. “A small one.”

You hesitate. “Over what?”

Kaz gives a faint shrug. “Just didn’t agree with some stuff he was doing. That’s all.”

It’s not much, but something flickers in your chest. You don’t push. Not yet.

Then Ajax adds, almost absently, “I’m surprised he got back with Mona again that fast.”

Lumi furrows his brows. “So they’re really back together?”

Ajax pauses then shrugs. “Dunno, they might as well be.”

You shake your head slowly, trying to keep your face blank.

Lumi watches you carefully. You press your lips together. Your mood dims slightly after that.

The conversation shifts to other things while the group eats their dinner.

Eventually, Lumi checks her phone and winces. “Shit. Ajax and I have to go. Something urgent came up.”

She stands up, grabbing her bag, and pulls Ajax with her. She leans down to put a hand on your shoulder. “You gonna be okay?”

You nod. “Yeah.”

Ajax ruffles your hair on the way out. “It’ll get better, alright?”

You watch them leave, the restaurant door swinging shut behind them.

You expect Kaz to get up too, to follow after them and leave you alone but he doesn’t. Instead, he stays seated, like he’s in no rush to go anywhere.

“You need a ride?”

You glance at him. “You don’t have to.”

“I know,” he says casually. “I’m offering.”

The car is quiet at first, save for the hum of the engine and the occasional splash of water as Kaz drives through the slick streets.

You sit in the passenger seat, arms crossed loosely, staring out the window. Neither of you talk for a while. It’s not awkward, just… quiet.

Comfortable, almost.

Kaz finally breaks the silence. “You okay?”

You nod. “Yeah.”

He doesn’t look at you, but his voice stays steady. “You don’t have to say you’re okay if you’re not.”

You smile faintly at that, then shrug. “I don’t know. I guess I’m just tired.”

Kaz simply nods and doesn’t speak, eyes focused on the road. After a long while, “You really love him, don’t you? Kuni.”

You look at him, slightly taken aback.

Love? Did your feelings really progress at that stage?

“I don’t. It was just a fleeting thing,” you deny.

“I doubt that,” he says. “I can see how much it weighs on you. A person who isn’t in love won’t grieve like you do.”

You don’t respond.

Kaz sighs through his nose. “I’m not gonna pretend I know everything that happened. But I do know something more was developing between you two, whether you admit it or not. It was obvious.”

“He had chances. But he didn’t take them,” he continues. “He’s my friend, but that doesn’t mean I’ll defend him when he does something stupid.“

Stupid?

“What exactly did you guys argue about?”

Kaz presses his lips and shakes his head. “It’s about something you shouldn’t be hearing from me.”

Huh.

“Okay,” you simply accept. You shift in your seat, watching the blur of headlights outside.

After a few beats of silence, you speak. “It’s not that simple to just move on. Even if he was just a fling.”

He was never just a fling.

“I know it’s not,” he agrees. “But you shouldn’t keep waiting for someone who can’t even promise you anything.”

“I’m not waiting for him. I already ended it.”

Kaz hums and shows a small amused smile “Whatever you say.”

“You don’t believe me?” You scoff.

“I think there’s still a big part of you that hopes he comes back and chooses you instead. That’s why you’re progressing as slow as you’re going now.”

You let out a humorless laugh. “Didn’t know you were some kind of therapist.”

Kaz briefly looks at you, softly chuckling, then turns his attention back on the road. “Well, I’m right, aren’t I?”

You don’t answer right away. Your weak smile falters into a thin line.

Then, under your breath, you admit, “It’s hard to let go of someone when part of you still hopes they’ll stay.”

Kaz’s voice softens. “I know. But you can’t put your healing on pause while he figures his shit out.”

You blink hard, swallowing down the sting in your throat.

He adds, “You deserve someone who doesn’t make you feel like you have to wait to be chosen.”

Silence settles again, heavier this time.

He pulls up in front of your house a few minutes later.

Kaz puts the car in park and turns to you with a reassuring smile. “You’ll be okay.”

You nod slowly, fingers resting on the handle.

“Thanks for the ride,” you murmur.

He gives you a small smile. “Anytime.”

You were about to open the door but you hear him speak out again. “You have my number, right?”

“I do. Why?” You saved it long ago from Lumi but never used it.

“Message me? You can talk to me if you need someone.”

“I will.” You smile at him, slightly feeling at ease. “Thank you, Kaz.”

You open the door and step out, the cool air brushing against your skin. Kaz waits until you’re safely at the door before driving off.

As the door clicks shut and his headlights vanish around the corner, you realize you never knew Kaz could be this steady.

For the first time in days, some of the weight finally lifts off your chest.

⟳ BLURRED LINES — PREV | MASTERLIST | NEXT

You say you’re just friends. You say it every time you leave a party together, every time you wake up tangled in sheets, every time you swear it’s the last time. But habits form, lines blur, and pretending gets harder when jealousy starts to sting.

NOTE some of ya’ll are hating on mc for being counterproductive with moving on but i feel like u guys don’t get it.. even in a fwb setup, sex is inherently intimate and can build emotional bonds. on top of that, kuni has never clearly closed the door on “something more,” sending mc mixed signals, which naturally drags out her healing. mc still doesn’t have closure. she’s piecing together why he let mona back in, why he didn’t fight for her, without clear answers. it’s normal for her to linger in that in-between space. + it hasn’t been a month guys chill out 😭 it took me over one month to completely get over my one week talking stage that i was deeply attached to. anw this chapter is kind of poorly made since i’m still fighting my writer’s block sorry

TAGLIST @joiurz @sketcheeee @mywillt0live @kyouzki @ylapsha45 @eternallykira-143 @bananasquash @kunikissr @swivi @ariesloves @b-bbytears @kokoscutie @vi0let-writes @tomsishere @franaby @scaraenthusiast1 @iloveescara @usagiarchive @ilovecats-26 @quiechee @snetr @axquella @tatsuomii @lalalaloveallmydays @liyahbug @feiherp @jinjjjia @automaticpatroltragedy @mysterypotatoink @zuhahearts @adres-tia @ssetsuka @strwbrrybbpop @sesamemin @blvdmrcnry @aspinny @jiminscarmex @sammybeefangirls @lxkeeeeee @yu-yumii @linasxoxo @quiet-place-for-thoughts @randomhumans-blog @aaudreys @lesbi-snail @jayzioxx @meowpmzai @sixftndr

if your name is in bold, that means i can’t tag you

[ippilulu]

To Be Seen - a Caleb drabble

a/n: Just me thinking about how at the end of the day, Caleb was just human. A little boy who voluntarily took on the weight of his world. Always the one being depended on, never the one who would depend on another. What does he do with all the feelings that he never lets see the light of day?

Caleb was familiar with resentment. For someone who banished it as soon as even the very thought of it entered his head, he was unwillingly quite familiar with it. Because in the end, his gravity evol didn't work inside him, unfortunately. It didn't let him erase all of those uncomfortable truths into a black hole.

It was always "Caleb, do this for me.", "Caleb, I want that!", "You're such a good brother, Caleb.", "Please, you're the only one who can!" Smile after smile after smile, an easy, effortless nod- a "Sure, why not?" following right after.

He's not complaining, of course. This was all his fault- he was the one insecure enough to let people pull him in all the directions they were going, losing parts of him as they did. How could he blame them for something he was so careful they wouldn't see?

He always wanted people to see the Caleb who smiled like he had all the answers in the world. Not the one broken by it. Not the one holding the weight of it, trying to hold onto her- his world.

After all, nobody would want Caleb the troublemaker, Caleb the whiner, Caleb the child. He'd buried those versions of him long ago when he'd vowed to become her shield, and he never regretted it once. If he could, he'd do it again. It was all for her. But some days... some days it got too much to keep hidden even from himself.

"...Caleb? You alright?" He shook his head, an instant smile appearing on his face. "Hey pipsqueak. Remembered I exist today, did you?" She rolled her eyes and hit him on the head. "You dummy, stop trying to hide it from me. What's wrong?"

The glimmer of worry in her eyes felt like a personal failure. How dare she ever have to worry about anything?, when he was still around?

But before he could deny it, she hugged him, leaning into the side of his hair. Her soft breathing fluttered some of the longer strands on top.

"What happened, Caleb?" He powers down his megawatt smile- there was no point to it anymore.

Caleb sighed. Hesitated. Planned out what to say. "... I... I don't know. I'm just..." Her hands gently scratched his scalp, and he huffed in laughter as he realised she was treating him like a cat.

"Caleb, could you run and get me some cinnamon?" She was staring at him so she immediately noticed the brief glimpse into his real feelings. "Sure, grand-" "Grandma, let me! I need to run a bit-getting really antsy stuck inside all day." The old voice resounded from the kitchen. "Sure, dear."

"Pip... What are you doing?" She got up, patting her muscles proudly. "These are gonna help me take real good care of you today."

Caleb flustered slightly, hiding it in another moment. "Woah there. You've gained what, and already showing off, huh?" He wiggled his eyebrows at her, to which she rolled her own eyes and pat his head. "Get some rest, Caleb. You're exhausted." He shook his head, smiling again. "Nope! Slept a full five hours yesterday, so I'm all ready to go." She raised her eyebrows briefly, but shook her head.

"I'm not talking about now."

Oh.

Something within him loosened, just a bit. It felt so nice to be seen.

Reminder to everyone who reads this that you all deserve someone who sees you, and acknowledges every part of you. Don't bottle up those negative feelings in fear of pushing people away. I'm in the same boat, and it sucks. It's scary to even think about anything else, I know, but we can do this together 🫂 I'll be rooting for you!

[gohyemi]

Our Imperfect Forever K.M.G

"Shit..." she muttered, rubbing her temples as a wave of nausea rolled over her. She wasn’t sure when everything had spiraled so far out of control — but she knew exactly where it started.

It had been a blurry night, a mess of laughter and too many drinks. One guy — someone she had trusted — had helped her when she stumbled out of the bar, and somehow, they ended up in a hotel room together. She remembered waking up tangled in sheets, both of them naked, her heart pounding with a mixture of shock and regret.

Panicking, she had snuck out before he could wake, silently vowing never to see him again, even if it meant cutting off the friendship they had built over the years. She was determined to bury the memory and move on, pretending it had never happened.

But now, staring down at the two pink lines on the test, her hands trembling, she felt like the ground had been ripped out from under her. The room spun. Her promises crumbled into dust. How could she walk away from this? How could she face him — or herself?

"Dude, that phone’s not going anywhere. Why are you staring at it like it’s about to explode?" Minghao pointed out, raising an eyebrow.

Mingyu barely heard him, his teeth worrying at his nails — a nervous habit he hadn’t been able to shake. It had been four weeks since she last contacted him. Four painfully long weeks. Even though they worked in the same building, she somehow managed to avoid him like a ghost, slipping away before he could get close.

Was it because of that night?

His stomach twisted at the memory. He had to admit it — he lost control. She had looked so beautiful, so heartbreakingly seductive that night. Even though a dozen voices in his head screamed at him to stop, to think, to not cross that line... his body had betrayed him before his mind could catch up.

When he woke up to an empty bed, the cold sheets beside him, guilt crashed down on him like a tidal wave. He knew — he knew — she must be furious with him. Maybe even disgusted.

But how was he supposed to apologize when she kept disappearing every time he tried to approach her?

Mingyu stared down at his phone again, desperate for a message, a sign, anything from her. His chest ached with things he wished he could undo, and even more with things he wished he could say.

"Y/N, please!" Mingyu reached out, trying to grab her arm, but she moved faster, slipping out of his reach.

She was overwhelmed — more stressed than she had ever been in her life. Maybe it was the weight of everything happening at once... or maybe it was because of the little bean growing inside her.

A month had already passed, and Mingyu was at his breaking point. His performance was slipping, his mind constantly preoccupied. The members started to worry.

And the news he had just heard only fueled his frustration.

— A few hours earlier —

"Why were you in the meeting room, hyung?" Mingyu asked, frowning as he caught Seungcheol coming out.

Seungcheol glanced left and right, making sure no one was around to overhear their conversation. His expression was serious, almost hesitant, before he finally leaned in closer and lowered his voice.

"She’s going on hiatus... and honestly, I think it has something to do with you, Mingyu ah" Seungcheol said, his tone heavy with meaning.

Seungcheol was the only one Mingyu had confided in about what happened that night. When he first found out, Mingyu had gotten an earful — and nearly a punch — from his leader. The anger had been explosive, but eventually, it simmered down into a heavy, tense silence between them. They didn’t talk about it again after that... but the damage was already done.

-back to present-

"What, did I not make it obvious enough? Mingyu-ssi, are you dumb, or should I draw it out for you?" she snapped, her voice sharper than she intended.

Ouch. The words hit Mingyu right in the chest, like a punch he hadn’t been ready for. But he didn’t back down — not this time. He was determined to settle this once and for all.

Noticing the curious whispers and glances from people gathering around them, Mingyu cursed under his breath. Without thinking twice, he grabbed her arm firmly but carefully, pulling her away from the growing crowd.

"Let go of me—!" she protested, but he didn’t listen.

He dragged her down the hallway, weaving through corridors until they reached her studio room — a quiet, tucked-away space where no prying eyes or ears could reach them. He pushed the passcode and entered, pulling her in. The door closed behind them, the soft click of the lock echoing loudly in the thick silence between them.

Breathing heavily, Mingyu finally turned to face her, his eyes filled with a storm of emotions. "We’re not leaving this room until you tell me everything," he said, voice low but trembling with urgency.

Y/N crossed her arms tightly over her chest, glaring at him with a mixture of anger and fear. "There’s nothing to talk about, Mingyu. Just let me go," she said, her voice cold, but her hands betrayed her — she clenched her trembling hand slightly at her sides.

Mingyu stepped closer, his tall frame blocking her way. "Nothing to talk about?!" he growled, frustration finally bubbling over. “You suddenly want to announce your hiatus, avoiding me for a month, and you call that nothing?"

She scoffed, looking away. "It’s none of your business."

"It is my business!" he snapped back. "You think I can just forget what happened that night? You think I can just pretend you don’t exist?!"

Her jaw clenched as she stared at the floor, refusing to meet his eyes.

Mingyu ran a hand through his hair, pacing back and forth like a man on the edge. "God, Y/N... I know I fucked up. I know you hate me. But don’t you think I—" His voice broke, and he took a shaky breath. "Why are you avoiding me? It’s killing me. Do something... say something instead of punishing me with this silence."

The room buzzed with thick, suffocating tension. The air between them was heavy — weighed down by everything they never said, everything they couldn’t take back.

"You’re unbelievable," Y/N hissed, shoving at his chest when he tried to block her path again.

Mingyu caught her wrists — not harshly, but firmly enough to keep her from running. His voice was low and desperate. "Stop running away, damn it! Just say it!"

She laughed bitterly, the sound sharp and painful. "What do you want to hear, huh?! That you broke my trust? That you almost ruined my life?!" Her voice cracked as she struggled against him. "Because you did, Mingyu. And now... here I am, fixing everything alone."

Mingyu's grip on her wrists loosened just slightly, his anger faltering as the weight of her words hit him like a punch. His heart twisted in his chest, the guilt flooding in.

"I didn't— I never meant to hurt you, Y/N," he whispered, his voice hoarse. "I swear to you, I didn’t—"

"Then why did you?" she interrupted, her eyes filled with tears that she could no longer hold back. "Why did you let it happen?!" Her chest heaved as she tried to steady herself, but the tears came anyway.

She pulled her wrists free from his hold, taking a shaky step back. Her voice cracked, raw with emotion. "I’m pregnant, Mingyu. I’m pregnant, and I’m terrified."

The words hung in the air between them, thick with a truth neither of them had been ready to face. Mingyu froze, his body stiffening as he processed what she had just said. His mind raced, but the only thing that made sense was the overwhelming feeling of both fear and urgency flooding through him.

"You’re... you’re what?" His voice was barely a whisper, the shock and disbelief obvious in his eyes.

"I didn’t want to tell you," she said quickly, her voice a mix of anger and vulnerability. "I didn’t want you to have to deal with it. I didn’t want to make you feel like you had to be responsible for me. But I’m scared, Mingyu. I can’t do this by myself if you keep approaching me,” 

Mingyu’s mind was a blur, his emotions a whirlwind of confusion, guilt, and panic. He opened his mouth, but the words stuck in his throat, as if the weight of everything he had done stood between them like a wall.

Seeing his reaction — the stunned, broken look on his face — Y/N felt her knees buckle beneath her. She stumbled to the couch and collapsed onto it, her body trembling. Burying her face in her hands, she broke down completely, the sobs tearing out of her like a wound that refused to close.

"Just go, Mingyu..." she whispered hoarsely through her cries. "Please... I forgive you. I don’t want to ruin your life... your career. Let me carry this burden alone." She struggled to catch her breath, every word slicing her open. "Let’s just pretend none of this happened... pretend that night never existed."

Her voice cracked on the last word, and for the first time, she sounded utterly defeated — like she had already decided to carry the pain alone, even if it destroyed her.

Mingyu snapped out of his daze the moment her broken words sank in. Without thinking, he dropped to his knees in front of her. Hugging her felt wrong — like she might break if he squeezed too tightly — so instead, he gently rubbed her knees, grounding her, trying to say with his touch what his mouth struggled to form: I’m here. I’m not leaving.

"Y/N-ah..." he whispered, his voice trembling. He didn’t even know what to say. How could he?

He had a child. Inside her. Their child.

The realization slammed into him — terrifying, overwhelming — but even through the panic swirling in his mind, he knew one thing with certainty: She was carrying this weight alone, and he had been too blind to see it sooner.

Yes, he had always dreamed of having a family someday... but he never imagined it would happen like this, so sudden, so chaotic. And yet, looking at her — broken, trembling, trying to carry it all by herself — he realized none of that mattered. The fear, the shock, the uncertainty... he could figure it out. They could figure it out. Together.

Mingyu kissed her knees and rested his forehead lightly against them, squeezing them gently, his voice low and filled with emotion. "You’re not alone anymore, Y/N. I’m sorry I made you feel like you had to do this by yourself." He looked up at her, his eyes shining with unshed tears. "I’ll learn... everything. I’ll do whatever it takes. Just... please don’t shut me out."

For the first time since that night, Mingyu didn’t feel scared of the future — he was scared of losing her.

Y/N squeezed her eyes shut, her heart breaking all over again at his words. She wanted so badly to believe him, to trust that he meant it. But the fear wrapped around her like chains, heavy and unrelenting.

"You say that now..." she whispered bitterly, her hands gripping the fabric of her pants tightly. "But what about later, Mingyu? When does everything get harder? When do people start talking? When it’s not just the two of us hiding in this room?" Her voice cracked, so fragile it almost didn’t sound like her.

Mingyu’s hands tightened slightly on her knees, his face full of raw, aching sincerity. "Then we’ll fight through it. Together," he said firmly. "I don’t care what people say. I don't care how hard it gets. You and our baby are more important than anything else. You hear me?"

Y/N shook her head, tears slipping down her cheeks faster now. "I’m scared, Mingyu..." she confessed in a broken whisper. "I’m scared you’ll leave... that you’ll wake up one day and realise you didn’t want any of this."

Mingyu moved closer, his hands sliding up to gently take hers, prying them from the death grip she had on herself. He brought her knuckles to his lips, pressing a soft, trembling kiss against them.

"I already chose you, Y/N. The moment I realized what you mean to me — I chose you. And I’m choosing you again right now, and every day after this," he said, voice shaking but firm. "I’m not going anywhere. I swear to you."

For a long moment, Y/N just stared at him, searching his face for any sign of a lie, any crack in his resolve. But all she found was desperation. Honesty. Fear... but also love.

Slowly, almost cautiously, she let out a shuddering breath and slid down from the couch into his arms. Mingyu caught her instantly, holding her like she was something fragile and precious, burying his face in her shoulder.

They stayed like that — broken, terrified, but not alone anymore — as the weight between them finally began to lift.

— A few years later —

"Guys, please don't feed them anything weird, okay?" Mingyu called out, eyeing his members warily as they gleefully carried his twins deeper into the practice room.

Hoshi and Seungkwan were already chasing after his son, their laughter echoing through the room, while his daughter had made herself comfortable on Joshua’s lap, sweetly demanding Woozi to sing her a song.

Mingyu let out a long sigh, slumping his shoulders in defeat.

“Wow, and I'm suddenly not their most important person...?" he muttered under his breath.

He and Y/N had come so far — from the terrifying, uncertain days of her pregnancy to watching their twins grow up happy and healthy. It hadn’t been easy.

The hate, the cyberbullying, the harassment — it had all come crashing down on them like a storm they weren’t ready for. But through it all, they faced it together, hand in hand, weathering every insult, every sleepless night, every moment of doubt.

The road had been messy, painful, and full of detours — but somehow, they made it. Stronger. Braver. Unbreakable.

Mingyu smiled softly to himself, watching the chaotic, beautiful scene before him. This was proof he hadn’t failed — this laughter, this love, this little family they had built from pieces by pieces.

He wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

As Mingyu watched the chaos unfold, the practice room door creaked open quietly.

He turned — and there she was.

Y/N stood at the entrance, her hair pulled back casually, a warm smile playing on her lips as she watched their twins terrorising Seventeen. She looked tired — he could always tell — but there was a glow about her that never faded, not in his eyes. The kind of glow that only love, strength, and years of surviving storms could create.

Mingyu’s heart squeezed painfully in his chest. Even after all these years, even after everything they had endured, she still took his breath away.

Without thinking, he walked toward her, weaving through the chaos of his laughing members and squealing kids.

When he reached her, he didn’t say a word — just pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly like he never wanted to let go.

Y/N chuckled softly, resting her cheek against his chest. "They're causing trouble again, aren’t they?"

Mingyu laughed, the sound low and full of adoration. "They’re ours. Of course they are."

He pulled back just enough to look at her, brushing a stray hair from her face. "I hope you know... I still choose you," he murmured against her forehead. "Every day. Every moment."

Y/N smiled up at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears — but this time, they were happy ones. "And I still feel thankful to you for that, love. Thank you for beeing with me and do more than this”, she whispered back.

Their twins' laughter filled the room once again, and for a moment, everything else faded away — the hardships, the battles, the past.

All that was left was this. Love. Family. Home.

Suddenly, a loud wail echoed through the room.

Their son had burst into tears out of nowhere, startling both Mingyu and Y/N.

"Mingyu-ah!!" Dokyeom shouted in panic, waving frantically as he tried — and failed — to calm the crying boy.

Y/N couldn't help but laugh, quickly grabbing Mingyu’s hand. "Let’s go. Fast. They said they wanted to babysit, right?" she whispered mischievously.

Without waiting for another second, they both slipped out of the practice room, muffling their laughter as the chaos behind them grew louder.

In that small, stolen moment, laughter and love, it didn’t matter that they were parents now, or that the world sometimes felt too heavy. They were still them. Still, the two messy, stubborn, heart-first people who had chosen each other once upon a time. And they would keep choosing each other, again and again.

Always.

[itsgiovanna]

playing for love (chapter 10)

pairing: fem!character x mason mount

summary: injured and lost, mason mount begins his recovery with the help of adeline alderidge, a tough yet brilliant physiotherapist with secrets of her own. he becomes determined to break through the walls adeline has built around herself. but some wounds don't heal easily, and the closer they get, the more mason realizes she might need saving just as much as he does.

notes: two chapters in last than 3 days? ok, i'm really spoiling you guys with almost 10k worth of words with this one, lmao. enjoyyyyy 🤍

word count: 9.2k

warnings: making out scene and that's it.

next: chapter 11 (soon)

tag list: @avalentina @a1leexxa

They’d kissed.

After all the moments, the tension, the quiet glances — they’d finally kissed. Mason's chest was still tight with the remnants of it, the echo of her lips on his making it hard to focus on anything else. It had been exactly what he’d wanted, what he’d been craving — the kiss had been deep and real, a promise of something more between them. And yet, as they pulled apart, there was something else — something softer, like relief, as if they’d both been holding their breath for too long and finally exhaled.

Adeline looked at him, her eyes wide and searching, like she was still trying to process everything. She was beautiful, her cheeks flushed, her lips slightly swollen from their kiss. Mason wanted nothing more than to kiss her again, but he sensed she was uncertain. It started raining outside, the soft pitter-patter against the glass as soothing as it was ominous.

"That was..." she whispered, her voice still a little breathless. She didn’t move, but her gaze flickered between his lips and his eyes.

Mason smiled softly, his thumb gently brushing over her cheek, lingering just for a moment longer than necessary. "Yeah." he agreed, a light laugh in his voice. "I think we've both been waiting for that."

Adeline nodded, though her eyes stayed somewhere near his lips, a faint pink tint on her face.

It was quiet again, but it wasn’t awkward. There was a comfort in the space they shared now, a new intimacy. She looked like she was still processing everything — he could see the way her brows furrowed ever so slightly, like she was trying to figure out what to do next.

"Do you want to go back?" Mason asked gently, his voice sincere. He wasn’t sure if she did — with the rain pouring down harder now, and her thoughts still heavy from the kiss, he knew she might not want to face Stella and her date making out in the apartment. It wasn’t a situation that would make anyone feel great, especially not after everything that had happened between them tonight.

Adeline’s lips parted slightly as she seemed to consider it. "I’m not sure." she finally admitted, glancing back toward the window where the rain seemed to blur the world outside. "I don’t know if I want to go back there and deal with... that."

Mason hesitated, but then a thought hit him, and a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “Well...” he said softly, stepping just a little closer to her. “I do have a suggestion.”

Her eyes lifted to meet his, curiosity mixed with hesitation. “What’s that?”

He grinned. “You could stay here tonight. It’s the weekend, and you’re already here. Besides.” he added, looking toward the flat. “You can get familiar with the place. See if it feels like somewhere you could settle into.”

Adeline looked at him, her lips parting, as though she was weighing the thought. He saw her glance toward the couch, where Lily had fallen asleep, her small frame curled up under the blankets.

“Lily’s out like a puppy.” he continued, his voice soft and inviting. “It’s the perfect time to get some rest. Plus, it’s pouring out there.”

Her gaze softened as she looked at the guest room, then back to him. He could tell she was torn — she was a little apprehensive, but the warmth in the room, the quiet atmosphere, and the fact that it was all starting to feel right probably made her reconsider.

“You sure you don’t mind?” she asked, a small, uncertain smile on her lips.

“I don’t mind at all, Ady.” Mason assured her, his voice steady. "Just think of it as... a sleepover. You and Lily are welcome to stay for as long as you need.”

Adeline sighed, her eyes meeting his again. After a beat, she nodded. “Okay. I’ll stay. Just for tonight.”

Mason’s chest swelled with relief and something more — something warm. “I’ll get you settled in.” he said, turning toward the guest room.

(...)

Mason walked into the guest room and smiled at how deeply Lily was sleeping. It was comforting in a way, how still and peaceful she was. Carefully, he pulled the blanket up over her and tucked it in around her. She didn’t stir, her face soft in sleep.

As he turned to leave, he paused for a second, looking back at her. It was hard not to get lost in thoughts about how quickly his life had changed, but in the best way. Lily’s small, quiet presence in his life, and now Adeline... He could feel that it was all shifting, evolving, into something he hadn’t expected.

When Mason stepped back into the living room, he found her there — curled up on the end of the couch, knees drawn up, arms wrapped loosely around them. Her eyes were on the rain tapping against the window, her expression unreadable in the low light.

He paused in the doorway for a beat, just watching.

The soft golden glow of a lamp behind her made her look like something out of a quiet dream — warm, serene, a little faraway.

“Rain’s getting worse.” he said gently, voice cutting through the hush.

Adeline turned slightly, her cheek resting on her knees. “It’s peaceful, though. I like it.”

He smiled and padded across the room, sinking down next to her on the couch, close enough that their knees touched. “Yeah. It makes the whole world feel… slower. Like we’re the only ones awake.”

Her lips twitched into a smile. “That doesn’t sound so bad.”

He tilted his head toward her. “Not bad at all.”

Her eyes met his, and Mason felt a flicker of something in the air. It was different from before — deeper, more intimate. There was still uncertainty there, but it was mingled with something he couldn’t quite place. His thumb brushed over her arm as he leaned in just slightly.

“Adeline.” he murmured, his voice barely a whisper.

“Yes?” she whispered back, her breath catching a little as she waited for him to say something more.

Before he could speak again, his lips found hers, gentle at first, slow. This kiss was different than the first — softer, but with the same undeniable pull. It deepened gradually, and Mason felt her relax against him, her lips moving with his in a perfect rhythm. He let his hands slide to her back, pulling her closer, feeling the warmth of her body pressing into his.

Mason’s lips moved against hers with a fire he hadn’t realized he’d been holding back. Her hands were in his hair now, tangled and desperate, while his arms wrapped around her like he never wanted to let her go. When she shifted, sliding onto his lap — legs gently bracketing his sides — something in him nearly snapped. His hands gripped her hips, grounding himself, as her body pressed even closer to his.

It was heat and longing and a thousand quiet thoughts neither of them had dared to say out loud — all of it pouring into a kiss that felt like it had been building since the moment they met.

And then she felt it.

Her breath hitched — just slightly — as the realization hit, right there beneath her. Her body tensed against his, just enough for Mason to pull back a fraction and look into her eyes. Her cheeks were flushed, lips slightly parted, breath uneven. But there was something else too — something startled and soft and almost shy.

“Are you…” she started, voice quiet, uncertain.

Mason blinked, still breathless. “Uh… yeah.” he said, a little sheepish, his lips quirking up into a crooked grin. “Can’t really help it when you’re literally on top of me looking like that, by the way.”

Adeline let out a half-laugh, burying her face in the crook of his neck, mortified and flustered all at once. “God, Mason…”

“I know, I know.” he murmured, chuckling as he gently stroked her back. “I ruined the moment. Or, well, you kind of ruined me, technically.”

She laughed again, the sound muffled against his skin, and then pulled back enough to meet his eyes. Her expression was gentler now — softer, more grounded, though her cheeks were still pink.

“I think we should stop.” she said, brushing her fingertips lightly over his jaw. “Not because I don’t want to keep going — because trust me, I do — but…”

“But... you want this to be more than just a moment.” Mason finished for her, his voice quieter now, sincere.

She nodded, eyes locked on his. “Exactly. I don’t want it to feel like a reaction.”

“It doesn’t.” he assured her, brushing his thumb over her cheek. “But I’m glad you said it. Because if we keep going…” He exhaled a shaky breath, smiling again. “I’m not sure I’d stop.”

“So much for a gentleman.” Adeline gave a teasing raise of her eyebrows.

“Oh, I’m still a gentleman.” he said with a smirk, sliding his hand to her waist. “Just… one who’s been very, very patient.”

That made her laugh, and she leaned in to kiss him again — this one slower, warmer, a kiss of gratitude and promise.

She rested her forehead against his afterward, her voice barely more than a whisper. “Thank you. For making me feel… safe. And wanted.”

Mason’s hands slid to the small of her back, keeping her close. “You have no idea how wanted you are.”

And they sat there for a while, hearts racing and lips still tingling, the sound of the rain wrapping around them like a lullaby. They didn’t have to rush. For the first time in a long time, everything felt like it was exactly where it was meant to be.

(...)

The first light of morning was pale and golden, stretching quietly through the curtains and warming the living room with a sleepy stillness.

Mason stirred slowly, his body stiff from the awkward angle he’d fallen asleep in — but he didn’t move. Not right away.

Because Adeline was still there. Tucked into his side, her legs curled beneath her, one hand resting gently on his chest. Her hair was a little messy, strands brushing his chin, and her breathing was soft — calm in a way he hadn’t seen very often.

His arm was wrapped around her waist, keeping her close. The blanket had fallen halfway off, but neither of them seemed to mind the cool air. It wasn’t cold, not with the warmth still humming between them.

Mason’s heart beat a little faster remembering the night before — the kiss, the way she looked at him, the way she’d sat on his lap like it was the most natural thing in the world. The way she stopped things before they went too far, her body trembling against his. The way she smiled after.

He glanced toward the window. The sky was grey, but the rain had stopped.

Adeline stirred against him, her lashes fluttering before her eyes opened slowly. She blinked, looking up at him, and for a moment they just stared at each other — no words, just a quiet acknowledgment that something had shifted between them.

“Morning.” he murmured, voice still rough from sleep.

“Hi.” she whispered, barely awake, lips curling slightly. Her cheeks flushed as she seemed to remember where she was — and with who.

She didn’t pull away.

Mason smiled, brushing her hair back gently. “You drooled on me.”

Adeline let out a soft laugh, hiding her face against his chest. “Liar.”

“I'm serious.” he said, grinning. “It’s okay. I’ll allow it — just this once.”

"You're so dramatic, Mase." She let out a muffled laugh against his chest.

“And, yet, you keep coming back.” He nudged her gently, his hand rubbing slow, affectionate circles on her lower back. “Kinda your fault, really.”

“Maybe I like drama.” Her voice was still hushed with sleep.

“Careful, Ady.” he warned playfully, leaning in to nuzzle her temple. “I’m dangerously close to taking that as permission to start chaos.”

Adeline shifted slightly, moving to look up at him more fully. Her eyes still carried sleep, but there was something warmer there now — something unguarded. “You already do. Just in very charming ways.”

“Charming, huh?” Mason’s thumb brushed along her cheekbone.

“Don’t let it go to your head.”

“Too late.”

Her smile faltered just a little as she studied him, fingers still resting over his chest. “I… I don’t usually wake up like this.”

Mason gave her a small, knowing smile, brushing a strand of her hair back gently. “Yeah.” he murmured. “I mean… I used to.”

Her brow arched, teasing already in her tone. “Shocker.”

He laughed under his breath, not denying it. “Okay. There were a few... mornings.” His fingers grazed her waist, his voice softer now. “But none that felt like this.”

Adeline’s teasing faltered just slightly, a spark of something warmer catching in her chest.

Mason held her gaze, his thumb tracing a light line over the side of her arm. “Waking up next to someone and not wanting to move… that’s new.”

She blinked, taken a bit off guard by his honesty, the weight in his voice.

“You’re trouble, Alderidge.” he added with a quiet grin. “Didn’t see you coming.”

She smiled, letting her fingers trail lightly down the fabric of his shirt. “Guess that makes two of us, Mount.”

And for a few heartbeats, they just lay there, quiet and warm in each other’s space — before that knock broke through the soft stillness.

His entire body tensed.

Adeline’s brows drew together slightly as she looked up at him. “Was that—?”

“Shit.” Mason muttered, eyes going wide. He sat up a little too fast, nearly knocking her off the couch. “Sorry. I— I completely forgot.”

She blinked, dazed and slightly amused. “What?”

This time the knock was followed by the very recognizable sound of Ben Chilwell’s voice.

“Oi, Mounty! Open up, mate, it’s freezing out here!”

Mason winced. “Brilliant. Absolutely brilliant.”

“Who is that?” Adeline sat upright now, the blanket pooling around her waist.

“Ben. And probably Declan too.” He raked a hand through his hair. “They’re giving me a lift to training. I said I’d join a light session today, remember? I was supposed to meet some of the lads and the coach. They’re just here for moral support.”

“You forgot your own training session?” she asked, somewhere between amused and horrified.

“Well, yeah— I was distracted.”

“By what?” Her eyes narrowed playfully.

“You. Obviously.” Mason smirked, pressing a quick kiss to her shoulder.

She shoved his chest lightly, laughing, but the knock came again — followed by Declan’s voice this time.

“Mase, I swear to God if you made us come out in the cold for no reason—”

“Okay, okay!” Mason stood up, looking toward the hallway. “You.” he pointed at Adeline, voice low and teasing, “Stay out of sight. Or don’t. Actually, I’m kind of into the idea of watching Ben lose his mind.”

Adeline was already standing, smoothing down her shirt and glancing toward the hallway. “No way. I’m not ready for that kind of morning chaos.”

“Bedroom’s right down there.” he said, gesturing, voice gentler now. “Guest room. Lily’s still asleep. Just... stay there for now. Please?”

She nodded, hesitating for only a second before slipping down the hallway silently.

Mason let out a breath, ran a hand over his face, and made his way to the front door.

When he opened it, both Declan and Ben were there, coffees in hand, and identical expressions of smug suspicion.

“Well, someone’s glowing.” Ben looked him up and down.

“You told us to meet you at your old place and then didn’t answer for ten minutes. Thought you’d fallen back into a coma or something.” Declan gave Mason a look.

“I forgot what day it was.” Mason muttered, stepping aside as Ben followed Declan in, eyeing the living room suspiciously. “Also, it’s Sunday, who wears jeans to answer the door?”

Ben sniffed the air. “Is that... shampoo and rain?”

Mason rolled his eyes. “You're both exhausting.”

“Is someone here?” Declan asked, suddenly peeking into the kitchen like he expected to see a woman holding a pan. “You’re acting suspicious, mate.”

“Nope.” Mason said, too quickly. “Just me. I was—resting.”

“Resting on the couch with two mugs on the table and an extra blanket?” Ben cocked his head.

Mason groaned. “You know, I thought I missed this—your charming commentary. Turns out, I didn’t.”

Declan flopped onto the couch. “Mate, we’re just glad you’re coming back today. Three months without you giving us grief has been unbearable.”

“Yeah, yeah. Thanks for coming.” Mason grinned despite himself.

As the boys settled in, Adeline’s soft footsteps creaked down the hallway. She didn’t mean to be seen — probably just checking on Lily — but Ben caught the movement.

“Was that—?” He turned sharply toward the hallway.

Mason froze.

“No way.” Declan’s eyes went wide.

Adeline stepped into view, half-wrapped in the blanket she’d carried with her, trying to pretend she hadn’t just heard everything.

“Mounty.” Ben’s jaw dropped.

Mason sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Right, so this is happening.”

Adeline looked at Mason, cheeks pink, unsure whether to laugh or hide again. “Uh—morning.”

Ben practically jumped to his feet, looking between her and Mason like he’d just uncovered a government conspiracy. “Mount, you absolute rat! You said you were crashing here alone for the weekend!”

“I was.” Mason said flatly. “Then plans changed. And I forgot you two were showing up at the crack of dawn.”

Declan, far less surprised than Ben, just smirked from the armchair, giving Mason a pointed look. “I knew something was up when you told me not to come to your place.”

Ben turned toward Adeline, all grins now. “You could’ve warned us, you know. Dropped a hint. Sent up a flare.”

“Sorry. I left my flare gun at home.” Adeline tightened the blanket around her shoulders, eyes flicking to Mason with amusement.

“Tone it down before you scare her off.” Declan chuckled, shooting Ben a warning glance.

Ben held up his hands in mock surrender. “What? I’m thrilled! She’s lovely, I’ve said that for ages. I just didn’t know Mounty had the charm to actually get her to spend the night.”

“You’re gonna lose teeth today.” Mason muttered.

Declan rolled his eyes. “Ignore him, Adeline.” he said to her. “He’s like this with literally everyone.”

“Noted.” Adeline smiled faintly, her posture relaxing a bit.

Ben was already digging around Mason’s kitchen. “Anyone want tea? Coffee? Mimosas? No? Cool, I’ll help myself anyway.”

Mason walked over to Adeline, leaning in close enough that only she could hear. “You doing okay?”

She nodded, her smile a little shy. “Yeah. Just wasn’t planning on the audience.”

Mason grinned, brushing his fingers against hers briefly. “They’ll tire themselves out. Like puppies. Loud, chaotic puppies.”

Adeline laughed under her breath, and Mason looked at her like he was already memorizing the sound.

(...)

The smell of coffee and eggs filled the air not long after Ben raided Mason’s kitchen like a man on a mission. Somehow — against all odds — he’d managed to whip together scrambled eggs, toast, and even bacon without burning the place down. The four of them sat around the kitchen table, mugs in hand, plates full, and to Mason’s complete disbelief…

“This is actually good, mate.” Mason muttered, eyeing Ben suspiciously as he chewed another bite of toast.

“I contain multitudes, Mount. Maybe I’m secretly a domestic god.” Ben gave a smug shrug, sipping his coffee like a king.

Adeline laughed softly into her mug, and Ben grinned like he’d just won a trophy.

“Yeah, Dec. Laugh.” Ben said, pointing a fork at her. “But next time Mason burns toast, you’ll miss me.”

“You’re not coming back.” Mason snorted.

“Bold of you to assume I’m leaving, Mounty.”

Adeline was quiet at first — not distant, just a little unsure of how much space she could take up. But the warmth of the food, the way Ben and Declan bickered like an old married couple, and the way Mason kept brushing his knee gently against hers under the table slowly chipped away at her nerves.

She caught Declan watching her at one point — not judging, just observing. He offered her a kind smile. “All this a bit much?”

Adeline nodded, lips curling slightly. “Yeah. Just... not used to this many people in the morning.”

“You’re handling it well, though.” Declan said, before glaring at Ben. “Better than some.”

“I aim to disrupt, not disappoint.” Ben raised his toast in salute.

While the others chuckled, Mason quietly slid his hand beneath the table and rested it gently on Adeline’s thigh. She stiffened just for a second — then relaxed. His fingers traced soft, soothing circles above her knee, grounding her. She looked at him briefly, eyes meeting his with a soft smile she hadn’t even realized she was holding in.

Then, tiny footsteps padded across the floor.

Everyone turned as Lily shuffled in, hair wild with sleep, blanket bundled in her arms. She rubbed one eye with her fist and blinked at the scene like she wasn’t sure if she was dreaming or just very, very confused.

“Hey, sweetheart.” Adeline said softly, immediately opening her arms.

Lily walked over silently and climbed onto her mom’s lap, burying her face in her chest like she was trying to hide from the new faces.

“Oh no. Nope. You can’t just exist like that, it’s not fair.” Ben melted.

“Hi, Lily. I’m Declan. That idiot over there is Ben.” Declan leaned slightly forward, offering Lily a soft wave.

“Rude.” Ben put a hand on his chest, wounded.

Lily peeked up at them, her grip on Adeline’s shirt still tight.

“I’ve got a son.” Declan added, voice still soft. “His name’s Jude. He’s about your age. Bit obsessed with dinosaurs and peanut butter sandwiches. I think you two would get on.”

Lily didn’t answer, but she gave a tiny nod and ducked her head again.

“She’s not really a morning talker.” Adeline said with a small smile, smoothing her daughter’s hair.

“She’ll fit right in.” Mason said, leaning closer. “Neither’s Ben, but we still let him sit at the table.”

Ben threw a bit of toast at him.

Lily giggled.

It was the kind of moment Adeline hadn’t realized she missed. The kind of morning that felt like more than just breakfast — it felt like something building. Something solid. A maybe.

She looked down at Lily in her arms, and across at Mason — his hand still resting warmly on her leg — and for the first time in a long time, the ache in her chest didn’t feel heavy. It felt... like hope.

Ben was still gloating over how his scrambled eggs had gotten more praise than his footwork ever had, while Mason leaned back in his chair, one hand draped under the table, fingers resting lazily on Adeline’s leg. She hadn’t said anything about it, but she hadn’t moved either — and the quiet rhythm of his thumb brushing over her skin had become oddly comforting.

Lily sat curled in her lap, sleep still tugging at her eyes, blanket clutched in one small fist.

Declan took a sip of coffee and reached for another slice of toast. “Jude’s the same. Last week he tried to feed his fish chocolate cereal because he thought it ‘looked sad.’” His mouth twitched like he was trying not to smile too much.

“Is he your only one?” Adeline looked up from her coffee, her curiosity piqued.

“Yeah. Just Jude. Full-time hurricane, part-time genius.” Declan nodded.

“How old is he?” She smiled at that, brushing a crumb from Lily’s cheek.

“Four. Next month.” Declan replied. “Wants to be a footballer and a astronaut, depending on the day.”

“That’s a solid backup plan.” Adeline’s laugh came soft but real.

“He’s got it all figured out.” Declan said, warmth in his voice. “We split time between me and his mom. It’s a bit of a juggle, but… worth it.”

She watched him for a second — how casual but genuine he was. There was no discomfort, no awkwardness in the way he talked about co-parenting. It was just life.

“I didn’t grow up with much of that.” she murmured, more to herself than anyone else. “People making it work. I always thought if something fell apart, that was it. End of story.”

Mason’s hand gave a gentle squeeze to her leg under the table, a quiet grounding gesture that made her blink back to the moment.

Declan caught the shift in her tone, but didn’t pry. “Jude’s taught me more about being steady than I ever thought I needed. You don’t really get it until someone small’s watching you all the time, you know?”

“Yes. I know.” Adeline nodded slowly.

Lily stirred a little, lifting her head sleepily. Her curls were tangled, her eyes half-open as she looked around the table. She turned her head into her mom’s chest again, too shy to say anything.

Ben lowered his toast slightly. “Hey there, sleepyhead.”

Lily peeked at him but said nothing.

Declan, more gently, leaned forward a bit. "I bet you two would have fun drawing on walls together or something equally chaotic.”

That got the faintest smile from her — one of those shy, secretive little ones that made Mason’s chest feel full.

“She’s got a good poker face.” Ben muttered. “Kid’s gonna be terrifying when she’s fifteen.”

“You have no idea.” Adeline smirked as she kissed the top of Lily’s head.

Mason leaned in then, brushing a hand along her back, fingers slow and warm. “You’re doing great, you know.” he said quietly, only for her.

She glanced at him, cheeks tinged with pink — but her smile said she believed him.

(...)

Mason stood in front of the mirror, one hand smoothing down the hem of his Manchester United jersey — the number 7 bold against the red fabric. His fingers hesitated at the edge, brushing over the badge like it might anchor him somehow.

He was almost dressed, only his socks and trainers left to go. But his shoulders were tense, his jaw tight. His eyes kept flicking up to the mirror and then back down, like he was trying to will the nerves away.

A soft knock tapped against the doorframe.

“It's open.” he said, distracted.

“It’s just me.” Adeline’s voice came gently.

He turned as she stepped into the room, her hair still loose around her shoulders, one of his hoodies draped over her clothes. She looked sleepy and soft and entirely out of place next to his sharp kit and the weight of expectations he hadn’t felt in months — but also, somehow, exactly right.

She paused when she saw him standing there, half-dressed in full kit. Her eyes lingered just a little longer than necessary — on the jersey, yes, but also the way the fabric hugged his chest, the way the tattoos inked across his ribs and arm looked more like stories than designs.

“Sorry.” she said, blinking as if catching herself. “Didn’t mean to stare.”

“I don’t mind.” Mason gave her a lopsided grin, but it was strained.

Adeline took a few steps closer, noticing the silence stretching around him like static. She stopped beside him, looking at his reflection in the mirror.

“Nervous?” she asked, voice low, careful.

“A bit.” He didn’t lie.

“You’ve done this a hundred times.” She reached out, brushing her fingers along the hem of his sleeve.

“Not after something like this, though.” he muttered. “They’ll be watching. Wondering if I’ve still got it, or if I’m just… done.”

“So? Let them wonder. That’s not your job.” Her gaze found his in the mirror again, calm and steady.

“You always this good at motivational speeches?” He gave a quiet huff of air, almost a laugh.

She stepped in front of him now, her hands finding his waist — just resting there, grounding him. “I’m good at seeing through your crap.”

“Lucky me, then.” Mason tilted his head, letting his forehead drop against hers, the contact was soft, but intimate — something quieter than last night, but somehow just as important.

“You’re going to do fine, Mase.” she said softly, fingertips brushing the fabric of his jersey. “Better than fine. And even if you mess it up, I’m still gonna be here when you get back.”

Mason exhaled slowly, her words settling over the nerves curling in his chest. He looked down at her, searching her expression — not for reassurance, but for something steadier. Something that felt like home.

“You mean… here as in the flat?” he asked, his voice low. “Did you decide?”

Adeline blinked, caught for a second — not off guard, just... feeling the weight of what he was really asking.

“I think so, yes.” she said, a small smile playing on her lips. “It makes sense. Close to work, close to Lily’s daycare. And…”

“And?”

“You’re not far.” she said, not looking away. “Which is… nice.”

Mason’s hand found her hip again, warm and grounding. His thumb moved in slow circles, like he couldn’t help himself. “It’s more than nice.”

“You’re just saying that because I saw you shirtless five minutes ago.” Adeline tilted her head, her smile deepening.

He let out a breath of a laugh, brushing his nose lightly against hers. “You’d be surprised how often I’ve used that trick and it didn’t get me a real answer.”

“Bet it worked on most.”

“Yeah, maybe. But I wasn’t really asking anyone else to stay.” His grin turned softer.

Adeline’s heart fluttered at that. Not because it was grand or showy — but because it was real. Honest in a way that made her feel steady on the inside.

She leaned into him just a bit, pressing a quick kiss to his jaw. “Then I guess it’s a good thing I said yes.”

“You haven’t signed anything yet, Alderidge.” he teased, echoing her from the night before.

“No, but I’ve got good instincts, Mount.” she said, hand slipping down to lightly fix the hem of his jersey. “This one feels right.”

“So do you.” He took her hand, lacing their fingers.

For a moment, they just stood there, silent except for the low sounds of Lily and the boys in the living room — like a life quietly waiting outside the doorway.

“I should go.” Mason glanced at the clock.

Adeline nodded, even though her fingers didn’t loosen right away.

“You’ve got this, Mase.” she whispered. “Go remind them who you are.”

“I’ll be back after. You gonna be here?” Mason kissed her hand, lingering just a second longer than needed.

She smirked. “You just asked me that five minutes ago.”

“Yeah, well…” he leaned in close, brushing her temple with his lips. “Some answers I like hearing more than once.”

(...)

Adeline stood by the window of Mason’s flat, watching the gentle mist that blurred the skyline. She still couldn’t quite believe how things had shifted in just a few days. What started as an awkward stay during a storm had unraveled something much deeper — in her, in him, and in the quiet spaces they now shared. It was more than comfort. It was the first time in a long while she felt safe without being on edge. And for Lily, it already felt like home.

She turned from the window, crossing the room toward the living space where Lily was curled up on the floor, her coloring books spread out like tiny canvases. Adeline sat beside her, brushing back a lock of her daughter’s hair.

“Hi, bug.” she said softly. “Can I ask you something important?”

“What?” Lily glanced up, eyes bright.

“What would you think about staying here for a little while? Just until the apartment’s fixed.”

“Really?” Lily gasped.

Adeline nodded. “Really. Mason said it’s okay.”

“Do I get to sleep in the big cozy bed again?”

“Sure.” Adeline laughed. “And he said we can bring your toys and books. Make it feel like it’s ours for now.”

Lily’s smile stretched so wide it made Adeline’s chest ache. “Then yes! Yes, please! Do I get to see Mase more?”

“Probably.” Adeline’s cheeks warmed, but she nodded.

“Cool.” Lily grinned.

Later that morning, after Lily was happily settled in front of the TV, Adeline grabbed her phone and texted Mason.

Adeline: Hey, just talked to Lily about the flat. Heading to Stella’s to grab some stuff.

He responded almost immediately.

Mason: Hey, you. Just arrived at Old Trafford. Let me know if I can help with anything.

Adelie smiled, she wouldn't get used to this type of feeling easily.

(...)

When Adeline stepped into Stella’s apartment, she was instantly met with the familiar scent of vanilla and sandalwood — one of Stella’s favorite candles still burning faintly on the entryway shelf. The place was quiet, warm, a little cluttered. A couple of empty plates sat on the kitchen counter next to an open bottle of wine and two mismatched glasses, one with lipstick on the rim.

Lily wandered ahead with her tote of toys slung over her shoulder, immediately making her way toward the small rug in the living room. Adeline smiled softly, then turned at the sound of footsteps.

Stella appeared from the hallway, barefoot and still in a robe, her hair wild and cheeks flushed with sleep — or maybe something else.

“Well, well, look who finally decided to show her face.” she said with a grin. “You didn’t even text me last night, Ady. I thought you were coming back after dinner!”

“I was going to…” Adeline started, slipping off her shoes. “But things kind of… escalated.”

“Oh?” Stella’s eyebrows shot up.

“Lily’s occupied. You wanna sit?” Adeline dropped her bag by the door and leaned against the kitchen counter.

“Absolutely.” Stella grabbed the bottle of wine off the counter, still half-full, and poured a little more into her glass. “You’ve got the look of someone who needs to spill.”

Adeline exhaled, then followed her into the living room. They sat across from each other, Stella curling up like she always did, her expression equal parts amusement and curiosity.

“So?” she prompted. “What happened? I want everything.”

Adeline hesitated for half a second. Then the words just came.

“We kissed.”

“You what?” Stella blinked.

“It started slow. Then… not so slow.” She let out a laugh.

“How not-slow?” Her friend leaned in, wide-eyed.

Adeline covered her face with one hand, laughing softly. “Rough hands. On my waist. My thighs. His lap. My shirt was… halfway off.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

“And then?”

Adeline dropped her hand. “I stopped it. It was too much. Lily on the room right next to us. But, then he was — he didn’t get mad, he didn’t push, he just… held me.”

“Okay. That’s hot. And sweet. And kind of perfect.” Stella’s face softened.

“It kind of was.” Adeline paused, watching Lily babble to herself, stacking tiny toy horses in a neat row. “He made me feel — safe. Not just in the moment. The whole night.”

“And?” Stella gave her a moment, then nudged.

“I’m borrowing his flat. Lily and I are gonna stay there for a bit until mine’s fixed.” Adeline met her eyes.

“Wow.” Stella let out a low whistle.

“I talked to Lily about it. She’s happy. She actually asked if it meant she gets to see Mason more often.”

“Well, she’s not wrong.” Stella’s grin grew.

“I just…” Adeline looked down, fingers twisting in her lap. “I’m not confused anymore. I want this. I’m just scared. Because it’s not just me. It’s Lily. And if she gets attached, if this goes wrong...”

Stella reached over and took her hand. “It’s okay to be scared, babes. But this doesn’t sound wrong. It sounds like something good. Something new. You deserve that. And so does she.”

Her chest still carried the flutter of nerves — but maybe, finally, she was ready to let something beautiful happen.

“Anyway.” Adeline said, finally exhaling, smiling despite herself. “That’s enough about me. Tell me about your date last night.”

“Oh God, Ady, the man was six-foot-four, had the jawline of a Greek statue, and wore cologne like he was in a bloody perfume commercial.” Stella lit up instantly, waving a dismissive hand.

Adeline laughed, relaxing into the chair as she sipped her tea.

“But...” Stella went on, grinning. “He used the word ‘synergy’. Twice. In bed. While trying to dirty talk.”

“No.” Adeline nearly choked on her tea.

“Oh, yes.” Stella nodded solemnly. “He looked me dead in the eye and said—and I quote—‘I think our bodies are syncing in perfect synergy.’”

“You’re lying.” Adeline’s laughter spilled out, real and effortless.

“I wish I was.” Stella leaned forward conspiratorially. “And then he asked if I’d ever considered investing in crypto. While he was—well, you get the picture.”

They both collapsed into laughter, even as Adeline shook her head. “You deserve a medal for surviving that.”

Stella grinned. “Well, the sex was decent, but the conversation? Brutal. He left at 3 a.m. and I ate leftover tiramisu in bed with a face mask on. Honestly, might’ve been the best part of the night.”

Adeline leaned her head on her hand, smiling warmly. “You’re the most unapologetically chaotic person I know.”

“And proud of it.” Stella gave her a wink.

Just then, Adeline’s phone buzzed against the table.

She barely glanced at it at first — distracted, still riding the lightness of the conversation — but then her eyes landed on the screen.

She froze.

Stella didn’t notice right away, still reaching for another biscuit, chatting on. “Oh, and I forgot to tell you, I spilled wine on his—”

Adeline’s fingers slowly curled around the phone, face paling just a bit.

“Hey…” Stella paused. “What's wrong, babes?”

Adeline swallowed. Her voice was soft when she spoke. “It’s a number from Surrey.”

That was all she had to say.

Stella sat straighter, her expression shifting.

Adeline didn’t answer the call. The screen dimmed. Then it buzzed again — a second call, same number.

She let it go.

Her tea sat untouched.

“I haven’t heard from anyone there in four years.” Adeline murmured, eyes still fixed on the now-dark phone screen.

“Maybe it’s nothing, Ady.” Stella reached across the table, placing her hand over Adeline’s gently.

The soft, lingering tension between laughter and unease settled like mist in the room. Neither of them spoke. Not yet. But they both knew:

The past had just knocked on her door.

And it didn’t matter how far she’d run — it had found her anyway.

(...)

The moment his boots hit the grass, something in his chest tightened.

It was the familiar scent — turf and sweat, mixed with crisp morning air — but it felt foreign now. Distant. Like he was trying to remember an old version of himself.

Carrington hadn’t changed. The fields were still pristine, marked with clean white lines. The echo of shouts and laughter in the distance. The distant sound of photographers already pointed in his direction — unmistakable. Mason didn’t look. He didn’t need to. He’d played enough to know when the lens was aimed at him.

He ran a hand through his hair, letting out a breath that fogged in the cold.

“You made it.” Bruno Fernandes jogged up beside him, a half-grin on his face, clapping a hand against his back. “Thought you’d be hiding until summer.”

Mason smirked. “Still might. If my knee gives out again, I’m blaming you.”

“You’ll be fine.” Bruno laughed, motioning for him to follow toward the warmup cones.

“Cheers, mate.” Mason said, glancing around. He caught sight of Garnacho doing tricks with a ball like it was glued to his foot, and Maguire stretching with a grimace nearby.

“Oi, Mount.” Maguire called. “Back from the dead?”

“Barely.” Mason called back, rolling his eyes. “Don’t make me chase you. I’ll tear something again.”

They laughed, but Mason’s heart was still beating too fast. Not from nerves exactly — though that too — but from the pressure. The unspoken weight.

He could hear the cameras again.

They’d post the pictures. The fans would talk. Comment. Speculate.

Was he back too soon? Was he worth the money? Was he done?

He bent down, laced his boots tighter, and stood up again.

But something inside him didn’t crack like it usually did.

He felt… steadier.

Images of the morning flickered through his mind.

Adeline’s voice. Her hand on his chest.

Her saying she’d be there when he got back. That damn blanket wrapped around Adeline’s shoulders as she laughed at something Ben said.

He wasn’t just walking back onto the pitch for himself anymore.

“Mount, everything alright?” Garnacho called.

“Yeah.” Mason jogged over, joining them in a light passing drill. The ball came to him fast — he trapped it, sent it on, footwork sharp despite the months away.

“Still got it.” Bruno gave him a look.

“Don’t sound so surprised.” Mason muttered, but he couldn’t stop the smile tugging at his mouth.

He moved through the drills, sweat starting to bead at the base of his neck, joints groaning but holding steady. The pitch started to feel more familiar again, like it remembered him too. Like he belonged.

And through it all — under the tension, under the noise — that calm from earlier remained.

Adeline.

He wasn’t foolish enough to call it love. Not, yet.

And even with the pressure, the photographers, the aching muscles and the question marks hanging over his future... For the first time in months, he's okay.

(...)

The whistle blew, signaling a water break. Mason jogged toward the benches, his breath steady but his heart racing a little more than he liked. It wasn’t the physical strain — it was the pressure. The eyes. The clicking of lenses. Always watching.

He grabbed a water bottle, unscrewing the cap with slightly shaky fingers. But, he wasn’t alone for long.

“Mason.” A female voice, crisp and practiced, cut through the murmur of the pitch.

He glanced sideways. A woman in her mid-thirties stood just off the touchline. Sharp blazer, notebook in hand, her media pass flashing in the sunlight. He recognized her vaguely — not tabloids, but not exactly subtle either.

“Yeah?” He gave a curt nod.

“First day back, and already half the fanbase’s got your name trending.” She smiled, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “Mind a quick word for The Daily Mail?”

“If it’s quick.” Mason took a sip of water.

“Sure.” She flipped open her notebook. “So — how’s the knee? Any lingering pain? You moved well out there, but is it more show than truth?”

“It’s solid. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t.” He blinked.

She hummed, jotting something. “And mentally? You’ve been off for months. Not everyone bounces back from that. Some say it messes with your head more than your legs.”

“I’m not here to prove anything, I’m here to play.” Mason’s jaw flexed slightly.

She tilted her head. “Funny. Because some people also noticed you’ve been looking... different lately. Happier. Settled. New distractions, maybe?”

That struck a nerve. He didn’t show it — not exactly — but his eyes cooled, and his posture stiffened just enough.

“If you’re done.” he said calmly. “I’ve got training to finish.”

“Just doing my job.” She smiled again, thin and unreadable.

“And I’m doing mine.” Mason replied simply, and turned without waiting for another word.

The clicks of lenses followed him back toward the center of the pitch — but his thoughts were far from them now.

He turned back toward the group before the journalist could find out something deeper.

Bruno caught up beside him again, tossing him a knowing glance.

“What was that about?”

“Headline Hunters. Standard.” Mason said, though he still felt the weight of the question.

“Thought you handled it well, mate.” Bruno replied, tapping his fist against Mason’s shoulder.

Mason gave a low laugh, more to himself than anyone else.

He wasn’t sure what the headlines would say tomorrow.

But he knew what mattered — and right now, it wasn’t printed in black and white.

It was warm hands, sleepy voices, the scent of coffee in a kitchen that didn’t used to be his, and the feeling of walking out the door with someone waiting behind.

(...)

The moment Adeline stepped into the lobby, Lily hopping beside her with her backpack bouncing, the doorman gave a polite nod.

“Good afternoon, Miss Alderidge. There’s a package for your unit.”

Adeline blinked. “A package?”

He motioned behind the desk and handed her a sleek white box, neatly tied with a black satin ribbon. It was heavier than she expected. There was no label, no logo — just her name, handwritten in firm, neat script.

“Thank you...” she murmured, cradling the box as they rode the elevator up.

Lily was too busy recounting the story of a glitter-related disaster at school to pay attention, but Adeline couldn’t stop eyeing the box.

Mason hadn’t mentioned anything.

She opened the flat door, let Lily dash inside, and gently set the package on the kitchen counter. She hesitated — then pulled the ribbon loose and flipped the lid.

Her breath caught.

The pink dress. The one she’d tried on the night before at the boutique. The one she couldn’t afford, even if she stretched her budget for three months straight. It shimmered even in the soft kitchen light.

Tucked between the folds of the fabric was a small envelope, cream-colored and sealed with a little smudge of black ink.

She opened it — and inside was a card with Mason’s handwriting.

"You couldn't get it. So I did. Alderidge, you deserve to feel exactly like what you are: unforgettable." — M

Adeline stood in the middle of Mason’s flat, the soft light from the windows washing over the pink silk fabric nestled inside the box.

She blinked. Once. Twice.

Then looked again — as if the dress might suddenly vanish and reveal itself as part of her imagination. But no, it was still there. The same dusty pink gown she’d tried on the night before, the one she’d twirled in, laughed in, loved in... and left behind because the price was absolutely ridiculous.

Her fingers trembled as she lifted the card tied to the black ribbon. She read the note again, out loud this time, because maybe hearing it would help her believe it.

“Mason.” she whispered, as if he might appear out of thin air and explain himself. “I'm going to kill him.” she muttered, then paused. “But like... hug him first. And then kill him.”

The dress was beautiful. Extremely beautiful. And expensive. He bought it.

For her.

She set the card down carefully on the counter, still holding the edge of the fabric between her fingers. The silk pooled like liquid in her palm, soft and lush and more elegant than anything she’d ever owned in her entire life.

(...)

Mason pushed open the door to the flat, balancing his bag on one shoulder as he stepped inside. The familiar scent of Adeline’s shampoo lingered faintly in the air, mixing with something warm and a little floral. It was quiet, softer than usual, and for a second he thought no one was home.

But then he noticed a few new things.

A cozy pink throw folded neatly over the back of the couch. A small basket of Lily’s books tucked beside the TV stand. A mug — definitely not his — left by the sink, with little crescent moons on it. Adeline’s handwriting on a sticky note near the fridge.

She’d brought things.

Not just things — hers. Little bits of her and Lily, settling in, without needing to ask.

His chest tightened.

He set his bag down gently and made his way through the flat, glancing down the hall toward the bedroom. The door was slightly ajar, and a soft light spilled out onto the hardwood floor.

Pushing it open, Mason stepped inside.

Lily was curled up under the duvet, her thumb loosely tucked near her mouth, blanket half-draped over her shoulder. The television played quietly in the background, muted cartoons flickering on the screen. And Adeline — Adeline wasn’t asleep.

She was sitting on the edge of the bed, knees tucked up, wearing a grey t-shirt. Her eyes met his the moment he stepped in, something unreadable but warm flickering behind them.

“Hey.” he whispered.

She didn’t answer at first. Just walked slowly, padding across the room without a word, her gaze locked on his.

And then — in one smooth, impulsive move — she was in his arms, legs wrapped tightly around his waist as she hugged him with a kind of quiet urgency. Mason caught her instinctively, hands resting under her thighs to hold her steady, breath caught somewhere in his throat.

“Well, hello.” he murmured, chuckling softly into her hair.

“You bought me the dress, Mase.” she said against his neck, voice muffled, almost accusing — but not really.

“I did.” he replied, kissing the top of her head. “You were too busy talking yourself out of it.”

“You absolute sneak.” She pulled back just enough to look at him, eyes shining. “You went behind my back and bought me a dress that costs more than my rent.”

“I wouldn’t say behind your back, exactly.” he teased. “More like… tactically over your shoulder.”

Her lips quirked. “You’re ridiculous.”

“And, you’re welcome.”

She laughed then — quietly, breathlessly — resting her forehead against his. “I don’t even know what to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything.” Mason said softly, brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Just wear it. Look like the vision you are, and let me sit here knowing you’ll be the most unforgettable person in the room.”

Adeline’s heart flipped, her fingers curling into the collar of his hoodie.

She wanted to say something clever. Tease him, maybe. But all that came out was a soft, quiet: “Thank you.”

He nodded once, serious now. “Anytime.”

And for a while, they didn’t move, wrapped up in that quiet moment between them, held in place by soft light and slower breaths.

(...)

Monday mornings weren’t usually gentle, but this one carried a different kind of weight.

Adeline woke up slowly to the soft sound of the city beyond the window, sunlight filtering through the curtains. The flat still didn’t feel entirely hers — not with the way his scent lingered in the air, with his trophies and books quietly claiming corners of the space. But after a week of living there, she’d grown comfortable in a way that scared her. Everything felt too easy. Too safe.

Lily was already awake, sitting cross-legged on the rug in the living room with her cereal, watching cartoons while the morning news played in the background on mute. They got ready together — Adeline brushing Lily’s curls, tying the laces of her tiny shoes, pressing a kiss to her forehead before dropping her off at daycare with a tight hug.

By the time Adeline stepped into the hospital, the day was already in full swing. Her shift was packed, as always — a steady rhythm of patients, notes, questions, and quiet moments of recovery. Mason’s physiotherapy sessions were once a week now, which meant she hadn’t seen him since the weekend. A week since that kiss. Since that moment in the living room when it felt like the world briefly stopped spinning.

They hadn’t defined anything — no labels, no promises — but there was an undercurrent now. A softness between them. A safety she wasn’t used to feeling.

She liked it. But, she didn’t know what it meant.

Mid-morning, she was walking through one of the quieter corridors of the hospital, chart tucked under her arm, when she turned a corner and nearly collided with a tall figure.

“God. Sorry, Adeline.” Elliot said, steadying her with a hand. “Didn’t mean to ambush you.”

She laughed lightly, stepping back. “No ambush. I’m just moving too fast, as usual.”

“You’re always moving fast.” He smiled, boyish and kind as ever. “I was actually hoping I’d bump into you.”

“Oh. Really?”

“The fundraising event this weekend. You’re going, right?”

“Sure, I was planning on it.” Adeline hesitated.

“Great. I figured we could go together — I mean, not together together. Just, you know, a familiar face. If you wanted.”

It was harmless. Elliot had always been warm and respectful, if a little awkward. She didn’t see any issue in going with him. Just a ride, a colleague. A way to avoid showing up alone.

But before she could answer, her phone buzzed in the pocket of her scrubs.

She gave Elliot a quick apologetic glance. “Sorry, just one second.”

She pulled it out, her eyes locking onto the screen.

Stella: Okay don’t freak out but a friend of mine just sent me this. Apparently it’s making the rounds on some pages. Don’t hate me for saying it, but you actually look kinda cute.

There's a link attached and a lot of... photos.

Adeline’s brows pulled together as she tapped it. The screen brightened with a low-resolution photo: her, reusable tote bags over her arms, Lily skipping beside her in her pink sneakers. They were mid-laugh, clearly caught off-guard by the lense. The entrance to Mason’s building stood in the background, too familiar now to ignore.

She scrolled down. Another photo.

Mason, stepping out of his car a few hours later. He hadn’t even looked at the photographer, but someone had definitely spotted him.

And now, it was out there.

Adeline stared at the images, her brain skipping over the usual panic in favor of stunned quiet. It wasn’t like they were doing anything scandalous. Just walking. Existing. But there was something strange about being seen like that. Out of context. No control.

She let out a slow breath, rubbing her thumb across the screen before slipping the phone back into her pocket.

“Adeline. It's nothing.” she told herself under her breath, as if her body needed convincing. This wasn’t the end of the world. It wasn’t even shocking, not really.

She knew who Mason was. She knew his life came with attention — fans, photographers, gossips. She just hadn’t expected to be part of it so soon.

Or at all.

And, yet, here she was.

She texted Stella back almost immediately.

Adeline: Not freaking out. Just… weird seeing it, you know?”

Then, she tucked her phone away again, saying a quick goodbye to Elliot and headed toward her next consult.

It wasn’t a scandal. It wasn’t even a headline.

But, it was enough to remind her: she wasn’t invisible anymore.

And... neither was Lily.

(...)

[formulaonecrumbs]

OKAY LAST ONE (probably not actually) reader getting off on oscs thigh because after surgery she’s technically on a sex ban

-🧸

takin’ what you need

Oscar Piastri x PCOS!reader

summary: reader craves closeness and release after surgery and finds comfort with oscar.

warnings: soft smut, thigh riding, post-surgery recovery

A/N: READ: i’m publishing (or trying to) a bunch of requests ive gotten but there IS a lot, so i’m sorry if i don’t get to urs in time. i’m not going in order but by what i feel i can write the most for or come up with the most for!!! i will get ur request out tho, i promise i’m not ignoring any of them my loves. i saw this req and it was the first i had to write cuz thigh riding might be one of my fav smutty things to read. low-key this turned ME on so i hope it has the same affect for u 😚 I LOVE U ENJOY, SWEET BABY!!! ❤️

⚘ ⚘ ⚘ ⚘

you weren’t supposed to be doing anything. doctor’s orders — strict ones.

no sex. no heavy lifting. no stressing your body. no anything, really.

but the thing was — your body didn’t understand patience the way your brain did. it ached for oscar. ached for the way he made you feel safe, warm, whole.

so now you were here, crawling quietly into his lap while he sat up against the headboard, scrolling through his phone, glasses slipping down his nose.

he smiled when he saw you, tired but so full of love.

“hi,” he said, voice soft from sleep. “what’s all this?”

you didn’t answer at first, just tucked yourself into him, curling up, hoping he wouldn’t notice the way your thighs trembled slightly, the way your hands clutched a little too tightly at his shirt.

he noticed. of course he noticed. he set his phone aside immediately, his full focus turning to you.

his hands found your waist, slow and careful. “what’s wrong, baby?”

you shook your head, biting your lip, embarrassed. it was stupid. selfish. but you just missed him so much. you missed feeling something that wasn’t pain or weakness or nausea. you missed being close.

“can i just…” you mumbled, eyes dropping, heart pounding. “can i sit?”

he tilted his head, confused, but nodded immediately. “course you can. anything you want.”

you swung one leg over his lap, straddling him, and the second you settled your full weight onto his thigh, you almost whimpered. the pressure. the heat. it was exactly what you’d been craving, even if you hadn’t known it until now.

oscar’s hands tightened reflexively at your hips, a soft grunt escaping him when you moved, your core pressing against the firm line of his thigh.

he stilled.

you stilled.

the air between you shifted, thickened.

his thumb rubbed slow circles into your hipbone.

“baby,” he murmured, so, so gently. “you sure?”

your face burned. you pressed your forehead into the crook of his neck, hiding. “please,” you whispered, voice so small it barely made a sound.

oscar kissed your temple, his hand coming up to cradle the back of your head like you were something precious.

“okay,” he whispered back. “i’ve got you.”

he didn’t move — didn’t force you — just let you set your own pace.

you rocked forward carefully, experimentally, and the friction against your clit made your whole body shudder.

a broken noise slipped from your lips, muffled against his throat.

he pulled you closer. “that’s it, angel,” he breathed. “take what you need.”

you moved again, grinding down onto his thigh, letting the soft cotton of his boxers and the strength of his muscles do all the work. he flexed under you, giving you more to push against, helping without overwhelming.

your hands twisted in his shirt, nails scraping lightly across his chest, and oscar only held you tighter, guiding your hips with slow, steady pressure.

you could feel the tears pricking at your eyes.

the heat building in your stomach.

the overwhelming tenderness of it all — being allowed to fall apart in his arms without shame.

“you’re so good for me,” he murmured, peppering kisses across your hairline. “so pretty. my sweet girl.”

you whimpered, grinding harder, chasing the rush, the release you’d needed for days.

your thighs quivered around him, muscles clenching, breath coming in broken gasps. oscar whispered encouragements the whole time, anchoring you, loving you through it.

and when you came, it hit you like a wave — overwhelming and blinding and so, so relieving. you sobbed against him, body going slack, heart hammering painfully against your ribs.

oscar just gathered you closer, pressing kiss after kiss to your forehead, cheeks, eyelids.

“i’m so proud of you, baby,” he whispered. “you’re okay. you’re okay. i’ve got you.”

you stayed like that for a long time afterward — tangled up in each other, safe and warm and whole.

he pulled the blankets over both of you, humming softly under his breath, stroking your back until you fell asleep against him.

and even then — even when your breathing evened out and your body relaxed — oscar stayed awake, keeping watch over you, loving you quietly like it was the only thing that ever mattered.

THE END :>

[wlwsoccerfics]

A day in the Life of a pregnant footballer (MagdaErikssonXPernilleHarderXRussoReader)

Warnings: mentions of pregnancy and symptoms , Google translate used.

Summary: you are almost 6 months pregnant, your girlfriends Play against Wolfsburg and you are in the stands, watching them and your Team Play VfL Wolfsburg.

You sit in the livingroom at 4am. Honestly you were exhausted and wanted cuddles but didn't want to wake up your girlfriends. Because even though you are currently taking a break from football, (because you are six months pregnant)playing for FC Bayern Munich, your girlfriends still very much had to play today and you know they needed some rest.

You couldn't sleep anymore because your unborn daughter was currently kicking against the inside of your stomach like she was trying to fight you. It didn't take long for your two girlfriends two shuffle into the livingroom. Magda pulled you into her arms right away and you cuddled up to her. While Pernille gently stroked your stomach.

"is she keeping you up again?" Magda asked.

"yes unfortunately."you stated. " Don't get me wrong i love our little älskling with everything i have. But not sleeping and being kicked isn't fun." You admitted.

"anything we can do to help? I want you to be able to sleep."Pernille wanted to know.

"i wish you could, but not sure our daughter wants to sleep right now. She prefers to keep me up. But i wouldn't mind cuddles from the two of you. It's just that i don't want to keep you guys awake! You have an important came today. Playing VfL Wolfsburg is rough." You stated. The two looked at one another before looking back at you.

"well we certainly would sleep better, knowing we made sure you would also get some rest, because we love you and this little Girl so much!" Magda said gently.

"and we don't want you to do this alone. We are a Family." Pernille stated.

"i really appreciate the two of you, i hope you know this!" You answered. Giving each of them a kiss. The three of you walk back to bed and you get in the middle of them. After both of them stroke your stomach gently, you ended up falling asleep. And so did they.

The morning wasn't off to a great start when you found yourself hanging over the toilet, throwing up. Pernille was sitting behind you, rubbing your back gently, while also holding your hair back.

"i am here Babe." She whispered out. You leaned against her when you were done with emptining your stomach.

"morning sickness sucks." You breathed out.

"i bet it does!" Pernille stated. Magda walked in. Handing you a Glass of water and your got your toothbrush ready.

"thanks Love!" You told Magda. Sipping on your water. Pernille helped you up so you could brush your teeth. Which you did.

"i hate to bring it up but you need to eat love. What would you like to have?" Magda asked.

"jag känner inte för att äta." You admitted. ( I don't feel like eating. )

"du måste fortfarande äta." Magda said. ( you still have to eat. )

"bare en lille smule. behage." Pernille told you and kissed the side of your head. ( just a little bit. please. )

"fine...banana Pancakes please?" You asked.

"Banana Pancakes coming right Up!" Magda replied. Making her way to the kitchen, while Pernille helped you to take a quick shower and get dressed for the day. Then you ate a Banana pancake.

After that the three of you watched some Netflix documentary. It was a true crime one. Soon it was time to get ready to go to the game. You wore a Trikot with 'Harder-Eriksson' on the back and you had your own number on there. Which was the number 44. You sat in the Front with Magda who was driving while Pernille was sitting in the back. Your sister called on the way to the stadium so you answered the call.

"Ciao Alessia. Come stai?" You asked her. Your girlfriends both loved when you spoke italian. So the Radio was turned off now. They rather listened to you. ( Hi Alessia, how are you? )

"Io sto bene. Come state tu e mia nipote?" Alessia wanted to know. ( i am good. how are you and my niece? )

"stiamo bene entrambi. lei scalcia molto." You explained to your sister. ( we are both fine. she is kicking a lot. )

"diventerà una giocatrice di football." She stated and you giggled softly. ( she is gonna be a football player. )

"non sono affatto sorpreso." You told Alessia. ( i am not surprised at all. )

The two of you chatted for a bit longer before you arrived at the FC Bayern Campus. When Magda found a parking Spot you all got out of the Car. Holding hands with both of them, you were in the middle as you walked into the changing rooms.

"y/n, so Happy you are here!" You heard Lea say. She was your best friend. You went over and hugged her. She hugged you back.

"i am Happy as well! I wish i could help you Girls on the pitch,but i know you gonna do amazing anyways!" You replied. Smiling softly.

"glad you believe in us. how is my niece?" She wanted to know. You took her hand and placed it on your Baby Bump.

"kicking alot!" You told her and like this was an invite for your daughter, she started to kick against Lea's Hand.

"wow that's a strong kick!" Your best friend said.

"indeed it is!" You answered and chuckled softly.

"she is gonna play for denmark." Pernille cut in. Before Magda could argue with that and say your daughter would play for sweden, Georgia walked in. She was your other best friend.

"Uh no doubt that she will Play for England." She told them.

"yes to what Georgia said!" You answered.

There was something more banter with the Team before you, Lena and Georgia went into the VIP Lounge to watch the game. Which was gonna start in an hour. You decided you needed some food cause now the morning sickness had worn off a bit.

The Game was on for exactly 6 minutes when Magda got tackled by Svenja and it has gotten you quite emotional. Angry tears made their way down your cheeks. Stupid hormones.

"y/n, are you okay?" Georgia asked. Wrapping an arm around you.

"Svenja hurt Magda!" You sobbed out.

"she is already back on her feet. And Svenja didn't mean to hurt her. You know it's part of the Job!" Lena stated.

"Tell that to my pregnancy hormones!" You sniffled softly and wiped away your tears with your Hand. Georgia rubbed your back gently.

Around five minutes later Pernille took an elbow to the face, from Alex during a Corner from FC Bayern Munich. You now were angry instead of sad.

"oh she did not just do that!" You yelled out. Jumping out of your seat. Well as quickly as possible with a Baby bump the size yours was. Being six months pregnant and watching your two girlfriends play probably wasn't the best for your health. Cause you really were going through all the emotions. But you calmed down when you saw that Pernille was doing fine and could continue playing.

The second half was a little more relaxing for you. And you ended Up winning 3-1. What a great win that was. When you walked into the changing rooms again you went straight to Pernille to check her face.

"Kære, har du det okay?" You asked, voice laced with concern. ( love, are you okay? )

"Jeg har det fint, engel." She told you. You kissed her head gently before walking over to Magda. ( i am fine, angel. )

"Hur är det med din fotled, älskling?" You wanted to know. (how is your ankle, love? )

"Det är okej. Bara ett litet blåmärke." She told you and kissed your nose softly. ( it's fine. just a little bruise. )

"your girlfriend was going through all the emotions!" Lena let Pernille and Magda know.

"try being pregnant, Oberdorf!" You just replied and chuckled softly. "those hormones suck!" You added.

"aww love. Let's go home and cuddle. We can order your favorite Pizza and watch some movies as well?" Pernille suggested.

"yes please." You replied. So that's what you Guys did until it was getting late and you had fallen asleep on the couch. Magda carried you to bed that night. Both of your girlfriends talking to your unborn daughter in your Belly while you slept.

[pazziiiiiiii]

Hey guys, I tried to encorporate the stuff you guys recommended, so thank you. I hope this makes sense because I was really tired so barely edited. But yeah please give me some IDEAS and FEEDBACK it really helped me. ILY!

Word count - Like 2.2k

Part 5

Another week passed and little had changed. Paige and Azzi were still close, laughing together and staying up late, and Paige was trying to close the distance she had built with her best friend over the few weeks.

But she still wasn’t herself. Disappearing in the middle of the day to go to the gym for hours, attempting to clear her head, only to return to Azzi on FaceTime with her new boyfriend Devon. And she went back to being cold.

Everyone could see through her. And Katie had had enough of it. Enough of seeing Paige being like this and her friendship with Azzi changing for the worse.

Paige was outside playing ball. Even though she had just spent the whole day at the gym, when she walked into the house and heard Azzi laughing on the phone, she had to clear her head, again.

Katie had watched the whole thing go down. She knew why she was out there, she wasn’t silly. She had known Paige for years and knew how she felt about Azzi, even if Azzi herself didn’t see it.

So she went outside and stood there for a long moment, just watching Paige. The young girl didn’t stop, even when Katie walked over to the hoop to collect her rebounds. They did this for a while, until the older woman spoke up first.

“You don’t have to be like this here,” she began. Taking in the confusion on Paige’s face, she continued, “you don’t have to keep in what you are feeling in my house like you do at home.”

“I know,” the younger girl replied, continuing to shoot.

Katie held the ball, not passing it back, “Then please Paige, stop keeping it inside of you,” she began, moving towards the girl infront of her. “It’s not good for you. I know how you feel about Azzi, so if it’s about that you need to tell someone. I can’t tell you what she feels, you need to speak to her yourself. We can all tell something is wrong, so it’s better for you to just tell someone, anyone.”

Katie was now right infront of Paige, close enough to reach out and touch her. Paige’s eyes were glossy as she blinked to hold back her emotions.

“I don’t know what to do Katie.” She said softly.

The older lady didn’t reply straight away, she just reached out and pulled her into a tight embrace. Paige did the same, burying her face into the crook of her neck.

“I can’t tell you what to do, but I know that Azzi is worried about you. But she doesn’t know how to get through to you.”

Paige didn’t reply, but they both stood like that for a while. The only sound filling the space being the sniffles coming from the younger girl.

AZZI POV

Azzi didn’t know why she said yes to Devon. It wasn’t like she didn’t like him, she really did he was a great guy. He made her smile and feel good about herself, he did a lot for her.

But he didn’t make her laugh until her stomach hurt. He didn’t make her feel like the only person in the world. He didn’t look her with beautiful blue eyes that she could look at for hours. And he didn’t make her heart flutter just from a simple brush of legs under a table.

Because only one person could do that. And it was her best friend. Someone she knew she could never have.

She had felt this way about Paige ever since she met her. But she knew the other girl would never like her that way.

Paige was known to be a girl magnet. Everyone looked at her like she was the hottest girl on the planet, and she knew it. She knew that she could attract anyone just by looking at them. So she was also known to mess around with a lot of girls. Sleep with them or make out with them, and then leave. She never committed to anyone.

And Azzi knew this. So she never acted in her feelings. Even when Paige told her about what her dad said, she knew the other girl would never truly look at her and want to be anything more then best friends, because she doesn’t commit to anything like that.

That’s why she had tried to push down her feelings by going out with Devon. Paige was pulling away, and it was all Azzi’s fault. She had gotten too close, let her feelings slip through the cracks where Paige could see them. Now Paige was uncomfortable, and Azzi had no one to blame but herself. She had tried to help Paige or fix what she did, but she would never open up, there was nothing Azzi could do.

So when Azzi sat by her window on FaceTime with Devon, staring out at her best friend pounding the ball into the driveway for hours, all she could do was watch. Every hard dribble, every shot thrown up without much care — it all felt like a language she didn’t know how to translate anymore. When her mom finally went outside to talk to Paige, Azzi pressed her forehead against the glass, straining to catch even a hint of what they were saying. She couldn’t hear them, but she didn’t need to. Katie was trying — trying to break through whatever wall Paige had built up, trying to help the way Azzi couldn’t.

And deep down, Azzi knew why. Paige didn’t want her. Not like that. She didn’t want Azzi getting too close, didn’t want Azzi’s feelings bleeding into something bigger or heavier than friendship. That wasn’t what Paige needed. Azzi knew it. She wasn’t stupid. All she could do was sit there, helpless, praying that somehow, Paige would still let her in — not because she wanted anything more, but because she couldn’t stand watching her best friend drown herself in silence.

Paige POV

Paige knew Katie was right. She couldn't stay like this forever, trapped in her own thoughts about what to do and what not to do. It wasn't healthy for her. She knew she had to talk to Azzi. She wasn't going to admit anything, but she was going to change.

She couldn't have people worrying about her, they didn't need to. So Paige was going to stop having feelings for Azzi. She was going to push them down, even if it meant it ruined her, she had to do it. For her best friend. They were going to go back how they always were, before Paige started getting into her head about what her dad said.

So Paige did exactly that. She went back inside after finishing basketball, and put a big smile on her face. She didn't hear Azzi on the phone anymore, but she still stayed downstairs and talked to the Fudd's.

Tim and Katie were a little surprised about the change of mood for a moment, but then they eased into it. They flowed conversation well, Paige laughed and talked the most she had since she arrived in Virginia.

After a while being downstairs, she decided to go to bed, knowing Azzi would be in there and they could talk.

She didn't knock like she had been for the last couple weeks, she just opened the door and walked in. Azzi was sitting on her bed on her phone, when she glanced up, confused of the sudden entry of Paige.

"Hey, you good?" Azzi said as Paige came and sat next to her.

"Yeah, why wouldn't I be? I'm just coming into my room." Paige replied, lying straight through her teeth, but keeping the smile on her face.

Azzi tried to cover her confusion, but it was clear in her face that she noticed the switch between what Paige had been acting like and what she was now.

"No reason, wanna watch a movie?" Azzi said, ignoring how Paige was finally not sitting as far away as she could from her, now lying at an appropriate distance where they were only touching slightly.

"Yeah sure, you choose."

"Ok. Love and Basketball?" Azzi answered, knowing it is one of their favorite movies.

"Sounds great."

Once the movie was on Paige didn't lye like she had been, uncomfortable and distant from Azzi. Instead, she sat close, not too close where she would get distracted but close enough that the other girl would think that everything was becoming back to normal between the two of them.

Midway through the movie, Azzi couldn't stop thinking about the change in actions from Paige. It wasn't like she didn't think it was good, of course not, she was happy her best friend was looking normal again. But she was still confused on what caused her to change so drastically.

"Paige?" Azzi started, grabbing the attention of the girl next to her, who was now looking straight into her eyes, something she had rarely done throughout staying with her.

"What did my mum say to you out there." She asked, keeping the question simple.

Paige thought for a minute, contemplating whether she should finally be honest with the girl sitting next to her. Before finally answering.

"She told me I don't have to hide everything here unlike home. That it's ok if I'm not ok." She paused for a moment, thinking about what to say next, and knowing she was going to lie.

"It's just really hard sometimes. Because Bob says things that hurt a lot of the time, and he means them. So what he said before I left messed with me. A lot. But I know what he is saying is wrong. Because we are best friends, I don't know why he thought that. You have a boyfriend for fucks sake!"

She was lying straight to her best friends face. Every word was a lie. It isn't wrong at all. She is in love with Azzi.

But she couldn't admit it. Not now, not ever. Because Azzi was straight. She had Devon.

"That's just crazy isn't it!" Paige said, looking at Azzi again.

Paige saw something flash through Azzi's eyes. She couldn’t place it. For the first time in a long time, Paige couldn’t understand how her best friend was feeling. But that look in Azzi’s eyes was gone, just as quick as it came.

Azzi was terrified. That’s the feeling Paige couldn’t understand. The sadness that Azzi felt as soon as Paige said those words. But she couldn’t let anything be seen by Paige. Because she was right. She had a boyfriend, who really liked her. And Paige didn’t like her like that. She had just made it very clear.

“Yeah, that’s so weird. Why would he think that?”

"I know right. Your literally straight! I mean I know I'm not, basically everyone does cause of all the parties. But like you are how does he not know that!" Paige was rambling now, every word coming out faster then the one before.

Azzi just nodded along, trying to look as if she was agreeing and her mind wasn't racing with the memories of all of the parties they had gone together to last year in the summer.

Flashback

Paige would be looking at her all night, she could feel her gaze on her whenever they were not standing next to each other. But then when the night went on Paige would get drunk, she would see Azzi with a guy and take shot after shot. She talked to girls and did stuff with them, all just to try and get her best friend out of her head.

But Azzi didn't know that. She only saw what happened and not why Paige was doing it all.

End Flashback

"Yeah. I'm straight," Azzi said softly, trying to be convincing although her voice cracked on the last words.

But Paige mustn't have noticed. Or if she did she decided to not point it out.

"Just ignore him though, he's not right P." Azzi added, her voice stronger this time.

"Yeah I know. Sorry I have been off lately," Paige said.

"That's ok, just talk to me ok?"

Paige only nodded turning her attention back to the screen, pretending as if she was completely convinced on what she had just said.

When she wasn't. Not at all. But she had lied, she had to. She wouldn't let her silly feelings for Azzi destroy her friendship. So lying was the only way to fix it.

And Azzi did too. Because Paige had just told her that having feelings for each other was stupid. Because it was. They were best friends, and Azzi was straight.

So they both pretended. They both eventually moved closer to each other so Azzi was leaning into Paige. Both hiding their faces so the other girl wouldn't see the tears threatening to spill from each of their eyes.

It was the closest they had been in weeks. But the farthest away from their true feelings they had ever been.

[iyz2scared]

Behold, my first fanfic ever!

Also be warned because I can't be bothered to proof-read this shit @fishymom-art @anonymouscreatorxd

REBLOGS OVER LIKES PLEASE, I WANT PEOPLE TO SEE THIS

Why do they care?

It was an active day in the Dark Cacao Kingdom, cookies chatting nonchalantly with eachother while doing final preparations for the approaching snowstorm as watchers patrol the streets, checking to make sure everything is bunkered down properly and helping when needed, up within the castle walls, Cloud Haetae cookie watches Mystic Flour with a deadpan face as she does one last check of the garden trying their best to ignore the whispers in the back of their mind, asking why this matters. "I think that's everything" Mystic Flour mutters before walking towards her child "is there anything specific you want to check over Cloud Haetae cookie?" "No..." the smaller cookie answers with a flat voice, they weren't always like this, not even a year ago they were joyful and energetic, like a puppy wanting to discover everything the world has to offer, but that part's hard to reach now, her old souljam shrouding the light she once saw in her child's eye in a fog of apathy "... well let's get inside then, no point in staying out here in the cold" she sighs, gently nudging Cloud Haetae cookie along, after some walking through the halls for a bit, the two entered the room where Fettuccine cookie and Onion cookie where staying in, they had been over for a visit when snowstorm warning was issued and Mystic wasn't about to risk losing any children to the snow "hii" Fettuccine greets as Onion cookie looks up from her fidget to nod hello before Mystic speaks up "hello you two, I wanted to check if everything was alright over here" "yeah we're ok!" "We're good" Cloud Haetae cookie slips into the room as the girls give their confirmations "if that's the case then I'll leave you be, if any of you need anything just ask one of the watchers to get me ok?" "ok, byebye"

Cloud Haetae cookie wasn't keeping track of the time as they listen to Fettuccine infodump about her recent interest and the wind howling in the distance, normally the wind didn't bother them but this time something about it was off putting to them and not know why only unsettled them more, why did it sound so sad? "Cloud Haetae cookie, are you ok?" The canid looks up at Onion cookie, her pupil-less eyes showing a sense of worry "Y-yeah, I..." as much as they wanted to lie, Cloud Haetae cookie knew that Onion cookie was scarily good at picking up on emotions, so much so that she was the only one who could still read Cloud Haetae cookie's emotions, which they were grateful for at times, other times however... "I- the wind's just loud, that's all" "... Fettuccine could you tell us more about the roses you've been growing?" "Yeah, they have really pretty petals and, oh did you know that desert roses actually store water in their stems?" "I thought all flowers did that?" "Nope, some only siphon, some plants-" "thank you" Cloud Haetae cookie whispers as Fettuccine rambles on, Onion cookie giving them a thumbs up in response.

Later, the wind is starting to get to Cloud Haetae cookie again, Fettuccine had fallen asleep so they couldn't rely on her rambling to tune it out anymore, all they can do is listen to the dreadful howl "you sure you don't need miss Flour?" Onion asks them, her voice seeming to come from everywhere in the room "she's probably asleep by now" "we both know she wouldn't care if you woke her up" "..." Cloud Haetae cookie glances over at the rabbit plush sitting next to Fettuccine, the mummy peacefully sleeping in a heap "I don't know why it's bothering me so much, it's not like I haven't experienced a snowstorm before..." "playing dead isn't going to change that though" Cloud Haetae cookie lets out a long sigh as they sit up "since when did you get so wise" "since I learned that I have all the time in Earthbread" "fair" after that quick exchange, Cloud Haetae cookie slipped off into the halls wandering without really thinking about where their going, surely they'll end up at their mom's room eventually "Prince Cloud Haetae!" Fuck "what are you doing out here, it's late and storming" "... I'm not a puppy" "that isn't- I didn't mean it like that, my apologies, it's just that last time you wandered alond night-" Has it really been that long since he's wandered the castle alone? "I know, I'm not going there, I wasn't wandering then either" "right.... do you need my help for anything?" "I just want to go find mom" "oh, I take you there if you want" "no" "are-... ok, if you don't mind me prying-" Cloud Haetae cookie starts tuning the watcher out, since when did the cookies here get so nosey, why do they care so much, why do they care about anything? They've already lost Sriracha Cheddar cookie to destruction, what makes them think they wouldn't fall to apathy, why do they continue to keep such a danger close, why do they care so much? "Young prince?" "... go away" "hmm, pardon?" Cloud Haetae cookie turns to face the cookie following them "Leave me alone" "... alright sorry, I understand" the watcher gives Cloud Haetae cookie a quick pat on the shoulder before turning around, they can't keep caring like this, they need to stop, they need to let go, they need to learn that they can't care for something uncaring, they need to be embraced by apathy, so without thinking, Cloud Haetae cookie grabs the hand of the caring cookie and holds it in their own as a dreadful, comforting white replaces their dough.

Cloud Haetae cookie wants so badly to scream, to wail, to show any outward remorse, but nothing comes out, not even a tremble, the only thing they can do is stare wide eyed at their flour covered paws and at the dusty outfit on the ground, they didn't want this, it's not their fault that they cared for someone so dangerous, but it felt inevitable, maybe they were destined to take their mother's place. "C-Cloud?" They turn to the voice behind them, to look at the horror on their friend's faces "Fettucci-" "WHAT DID YOU DO?!?" "Onion..." Cloud Haetae cookie flinches internally as Onion cookie shrieks at them, barely even registering Fettuccine speaking up" "THEY DIDN'T DO ANYTHING TO DESERVE THIS WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!?! You're- You're a killer, you're awful!!" "Onion, please stop!" Fettuccine wraps her arms around Onion cookie as a puff of white fog envelops Cloud Haetae cookie, clearing to reveal them in their guardian form, there's to much going on, there's flour on their paws, their friends are yelling and screaming at eachother, they can hear Dark Cacao in the distance, the wind is still howling in their ears, the air's too cold, it needs to stop... no, no they can't hurt their friends, their brother, they can't "Cloud Haetae cookie... I- hey WAIT!" They don't even realize their running until they're at the nearby window, but they don't stop themselves from leaping out, they don't stop when they land in the quickly accumulating snow, they don't stop when they hear Dark Choco calling after them, and they don't stop when they reach the wall, they just keep running into the howling wind and snow, but why do they care?

[sandwitchstories]

The Festival Of Dolls

Welcome back to another adventure in Mouse's Mini-verse! This time the family goes on an outing to the Hinamatsuri Festival !

If you prefer to read it on AO3 click here !

WC: 2600+

Summary: It is the day of the Hinamatsuri Festival, also known as Girls Day. Mouse is excited for food, Sukuna is craving sake, Monkey is watching everything and you're just trying to go with the flow. AKA a fun family day at a spring festival.

AN: To anyone new to my Daddy Duty series- Mouse is Sukuna's two year old daughter. Welcome to Mouse's Mini-verse!

CW: Reader called Mama but not described, family fluff, toddler in the wild, suggestive ending with 'grown up time' a bit more than implied

A/N: We are going to pretend that I did not write about traditions that were started hundreds of years post Heian era… Suspension of disbelief activate!

Heart divider by @strangergraphics All other graphics by me

“Where are we going, Papa?” Mouse asked as she walked holding her father’s pinky. 

You couldn’t help but smile at the sight of them from behind. Your husband, 7’3”, shoulders almost as broad, 4 arms, mountain of a man walking with a pink hair little pixie dressed in an equally pink kimono and pink kutsu shoes, holding his little finger with her whole fist, skipping beside him. 

She looked up at the man they called a monster like he hung to sun and moon. Like her Papa made the very stars themselves. Such a Papa’s Girl.

“We are going to a Hinamatsuri festival,” he answered.

“But what it for?” Mouse asked, curious as ever. 

“It’s a festival to celebrate girls. This is the festival that will have kyoto-bina like the ones you got when you were born,” you further explained.

“You will not touch these ones either, Mouse,” Sukuna looked down at her with one of the eyes on the side of his face.

“I promise, Papa!” she gave a cheesy grin up at him. She looked behind and gave you the same grin. “Make sure Monkey knows not to touch it too, okay Mama?”

“Monkey, no touching anything,” you said, glancing down at the baby in a wrap on your chest. 

He gave you a drooly grin. You smiled as you wiped his chubby little face. He definitely had his father’s features, including having 4 eyes (minus the bone deformation), but he had your hair and eye color. 

You knew it was traditional to wear the baby on your back, but you felt better with him on your front. You were already used to people staring and gawking, so what was one more thing for them to look at if it was what made you feel comfortable? Besides, if he was on your back, you would miss out on the cute little faces he made as he discovered the world around him. 

“Papa, what we do at the Hina-mad-sushi party?” Mouse paused to pick up a rock.

“It’s Hinamatsuri Festival. No more rocks, Mouse. That’s your 10th today,” Sukuna said with exasperation.

“But Papa, look!” she excitedly pointed out another rock and started to try to drag him towards it.

Sukuna let go of her hand and caught the back of her kimono as she instantly tried to flee, lifting her up into his arms. “We will see Momo in their first bloom and I will enjoy sake.” 

“Why I no get sake?” Mouse asked, cocking her head slightly to the side.

“Because little girls cannot have alcohol.”

“But it girls day?” she replied, pressing her lips together as she looked into her father’s face.

“You’ll get plenty of sweets and treats,” you chimed in, distracting her from talk of sake. 

Mouse squealed happily and hugged Sukuna’s neck before sitting back on his arm to grab his face in her hands. “Papa!”

“What now, Mouse?” You could tell he was dreading whatever the next question would be, but he held her gaze.

“What we gonna eat first?” 

Sukuna grinned from ear to ear. “I think we shall start with hichigir i and then hishimoch i.”

“I want Sakura mochi!” Mouse cheered, throwing her hands in the air excitedly. 

“We need to find some hina arare for Monkey too,” you reminded them.

Sukuna slowed slightly and shifted Mouse to his upper arm. He reached out the hand on his lower arm to tangle his fingers with yours. He glanced down at you with a soft gaze. “And ichigo daifuku for my precious one.”

The whole town was stunning in appearance as it came alive for the festival. Buildings were decorated in vibrant colors and there were delicious foods as far as the eyes could see. Mouse and Sukuna wasted not even a second before diving into the food options and eating their fill. You happily ate your ichigo daifuku and tried bites of everything they excitedly described to you and offered while Monkey slept against your chest.

After enjoying the food selections, Sukuna stated he needed to acquire something while you were in town. Knowing Mouse as you do, you knew that standing in place for any amount of time was akin to torture for your daughter. Not wanting to deal with a melt down in public, you looked around and found your destination.

Before you began walking, you adjusted the now awake and aware Monkey so that he was upright and could look around. Mouse and you both giggled at how all 4 of his eyes became as large as kozara as he took in the colors and people. It was sometimes startling just how intelligent his gaze was. He turned back and looked at you, cocking his head to the side for a moment and then giving you a giant drooly smile, placing an equally drool covered hand on your cheek.

“Thanks, Monkey,” you  shook your head with a laugh, using a hankie you had tucked away to wipe your face.

“Him licked you with his hand!” Mouse giggled.

“That is definitely an interesting interpretation of what just happened.” Mouse came up with the most random things, never failing to make you smile.

“Can I do that to Papa?” she asked, taking your hand as you began to move. 

“I would not recommend it.”

“What about Urau-rau?”

“Not if you want to live to see another day,” you snorted softly in amusement. Not even Sukuna would be able to stop Uraume in that situation. “Let’s go with not doing it to anyone.”

“Boooooring,” Mouse huffed and pretended to deflate. You really appreciated her father teaching her that word. Not.

You walked over to where the hinadan was set up, filled to the brim with beautiful, handcrafted Hina dolls. You and Mouse spent a good amount of time pointing out to each other different sets of dolls that caught your eyes while Monkey babbled and played with your hair.

Sukuna returned to your side, smirking when he saw Monkey was up. Monkey laughed happily when he saw his Papa and then hid his face in your chest like he was shy. Mouse, as per usual went running to Sukuna as fast as she could, laughing freely with her head thrown back as Sukuna caught her and put her on his shoulder.

“Papa made me big like him!” Mouse said, hugging Sukuna’s head. “Papa! Take us to the pretty flowers now, please and thank you!”

“Why should I?” he asked, turning his head slightly and the two eyes on deformed side of his face shifting up to look at her.

“Because it’s Girls Day. That means you have to listen to me,” she stated, ignoring his glare and pointing towards the bright flowers. “That way, Papa! Please and thank you!”

“Watch it, brat. I haven’t eaten in a long time,” he warned. 

Your shoulders shook as you suppressed laughter as Sukuna headed in the direction Mouse had pointed. You followed behind listening to them go back and forth with a smile on your face. It only took about 10 feet for Sukuna to realize you were not trying to catch up. With an annoyed huff and an almost offended look on his face, he reached out his hand for yours and interlocked your fingers before he started walking again. 

You were well aware that Sukuna would rather have his nose hairs ripped out individually than admit that holding your hand was as much for himself as it was for you. You did not protest his hold at all. You loved the simple act of holding his hand and it would be unfitting to have the King of Curses walking around pouting. 

Your heart fluttered once again at the wonderful feeling of knowing that your husband needed and craved your touch just as badly and constantly as you did his. You gave his hand a squeeze and smiled up at him as you began to keep pace with him.

The orchard filled with blossoming peach trees was a breathtaking sight. The bright pink and white blossoms covered the branches of trees as far as the eye could see. The sky and clear blue sky were the perfect backdrop. It was peaceful. Serene. Not unlike the garden at your home. Maybe you could convince Sukuna to let you plant some of these

You looked up at Sukuna and smiled as he put a fallen blossom behind Mouse’s ear, making her giggle and hug his head again. Another blossom fell and Mouse managed to catch it in her hands. She giggled and pointed at you. “Papa, Mama needs one! This one! Put it in her hair too, please and thank you!”

You chuckled as he gave a dejected sigh and did as she said. But the gentleness in his eyes and the way he brushed his thumb over your cheek before he cupped it showed just how wholly it was drivel. He was just as madly in love as you were, even after all these years, and you knee it. He looked at your lips and softly said your name followed by the word, “Beautiful.”

“You better knock it off. We are in public and with our children,” you said, blushing. 

“I think it’s time we left,” he smirked at you, his eyes had a heat in them as he looked at your lips again. 

As if on queue, Mouse let out a loud yawn and leaned against her father’s head, wrapping her arms around his throat. Though still awake you could hear the tired whine setting into her voice. “I not ready to go.. I just rest here, please and thank you, Papa?”

Sukuna pulled her off his shoulder, ignoring the noise of protest she made so he could hold her in his arms more easily if she fell asleep. “It’s time to head home, Mouse. We’ve got a long walk to go.”

“I too tired, Papa. My feet will fall off. Let's just stay here, please and thank you, Papa,” Mouse tried a different angle, cuddling into the warmth and strength of her father and looking up at him with giant pleading eyes.

“If your feet fall off… Does that mean I can eat them?” Sukuna flashed his sharp teeth and tickled her leg with his long nails.

“No, Papa! Don’t eat my toes!” Mouse giggled, kicking her feet. She fisted the material of his kimono in her hands and buried her face in it. 

You couldn’t help but be amused at the horrified looks of the judgemental peasants standing within hearing range of you all. They knew who Sukuna was, and the fools were unsure if it was a joke or a threat. Which was honestly fair with your husband’s history, diet and proclivities. 

The judgement and staring had started the moment you all arrived and you were well aware that their narrowed gazes would trail after you until your forms disappeared from their line of sight. After several years with Sukuna, their whispers no longer sounded like screams. Now it sounded more akin to bugs buzzing in the summer heat. A truly fitting analogy for the gossiping gussies.

The moon was high in the sky but the time Mouse and Monkey were both asleep. Tuna, as per usual, crashed out with them held hostage in Mouse’s arms. Uraume doing whatever it was Uraume did. You and Sukuna went to sit on the engawa for a few moments alone. He set aside his tea and pulled you closer to him so he could wrap his arms around you. Another hand turned up your chin and he kissed you several times before pulling away. 

You pouted at his retreat until he pulled a package out from the hidden pocket inside his black haori. You cocked your head to the side as he set it in your hands. “What’s this?”

“If you open it you will answer your own question, precious one,” he said in a teasing tone, kissing your cheek before leaning backwards and resting on the palms of his bottom two hands. 

With a bemused look on your face you carefully unwrapped the package. Your jaw fell open and your eyes filled with tears. Sukuna was truly such a thoughtful person to those he loved…

You had smiled as you placed the Hina dolls Sukuna had bought for Mouse on the hindan. Their beautiful and ornately embroidered clothing was unlike anything you had ever seen.. “These are perfect. Mouse is going to love them. I only wish I had my own to add here with hers like many families do.”

“Did you never have them?” Sukuna had asked, learning against the wall, arms crossed and watching you.

“I did. The empress was adorned in greens and  black with a beautiful silver Fengguan while the emperor was the opposite with a silver Ritsuiōkan to match his wife,” you remembered fondly. “The night they killed my parents and burned my home to the ground my dolls were destroyed. I am glad we will never allow something like this to happen to our Mouse.”

The dolls in your hand were so similar to the ones you had had in your youth, but honestly they were even more beautiful and more ornate. They were truly stunning. The empress’s Jūnihitoe was rich shades of green while her kimono and hakama were black. She had a beautiful silver fengguan with several small black and green stones in it. The emperor’s ikkan sokutai was a rich green with black designs embroidered on it like a pattern and a Ritsuiōkanthat matched his wife’s.

Sukuna’s thoughtfulness once again had your heart going into overdrive. You set the dolls aside, giving him a little grin before launching yourself at him, catching him off guard and managing to take him down. You grinned as he laid flat against the engawa on his back beneath you as you sat now straddling his hips. You leaned over and nipped at his bottom lip.

His large hands moved to your hips, pressing you down against him. He gave you a lazy, cocky grin. “I take it I did well?”

You looked down at him, one hand braced on his broad, muscular chest. The other hand reached up and removed the comb from your hair, letting it fall down freely around you. You placed that hand on his chest as when you finished and sucked in your lower lip. You leaned down and ghosted a kiss across his lips before nipping and pulling at his bottom lip again. You felt his hands gripping you firmer as they moved further back to grope your rear. 

You pressed a kiss to the shell of his ear. “What do you think?”

In less time than it took to blink, you found yourself now flat on your back staring up into your husband’s handsome face. His hands moved to the belt on his robe as he took you in, sliding it off his shoulders as you took your time blatantly checking him out. He still wore his hakama pants, but your hands eagerly and greedily reached out to touch his tanned, contoured flesh. 

“I think I did well,” he said, leaning lower. His mouth went straight to your throat, mouthing up the column of your neck and sucking marks into your flesh as he went until he reached your ear. He nipped and tugged at the bottom lobe, enjoying the small noise you couldn’t hold back. 

“But I am not finished yet, far from it. I’ve got something else to give to you too, precious one. So just sit back…” His mouth moved to your neck and you felt his teeth drag down your skin. “Just sit back, my precious one, and relax. Just take what I give you.”

And that was exactly what you did.