#Abbott elementary imagine

[the-fandom-abyss]

Prompt: here

First Sentence Prompt

“How will I explain this to the others?” Melissa chastised herself for leaning in, for brushing her lips against yours. She swore that she wouldn’t, that she couldn’t and yet, she moved closer. She was spiralling with thoughts of her fellow teachers, how they would react to the news.

“You say, that you slipped and fell?��

“Be serious!” Melissa paced her living room, panicked that Jacob would be home any minute. She didn’t intend to bring you to her home, or to become quite intimate with you. She clearly didn’t think it through and now she had to deal with what will come next. “How will I explain that I brought home the temp? That I’m thrice their age and that I should have known better”

“The temp? Like I’m some stray you found on the street?” Melissa halted, her head slowly turned to you. She was thinking out loud, she never gave a thought to how you would feel, how you would want to proceed.

“No, that’s not what I meant. People may think that I used my power over you or worse, took advantage” she nibbled on her lip in worry, her fingers playing with the jewellery on her hands.

“I don’t think that and isn’t that all that matters? I like you Melissa and I would like to pursue this, I don’t care what others think” her heart thawed at your words and the confidence behind them. She just needed to get out of her head.

[multifandomfix]

Imagine being a new teacher who’s openly flirty with Barbara Howard.

It was the start of your second month teaching at Abbott and you greeted everyone in the staff room at lunch, giving a special little wave to Barbara. It was clear to everyone that your eyes were only on her. She smiled at you and you sat down at the open seat across from Janine.

“Come on, Barb, you can’t tell me that wasn’t flirting,” Melissa whispered to her best friend, though not quite quietly enough, as you heard every word.

“It was not,” Barb denied.

“Whatever helps you sleep at night,” Melissa conceded, not wanting to have the same argument yet again. To Melissa, and almost everyone else, it was obvious you had the hots for Barb.

Melissa stopped you after lunch, the room having just cleared out. “Hey, newbie, you’re into Barb, right?”

“I—” you started to deny, but if you’d learned anything since being here, it was that you couldn’t get anything past Melissa. “Is it really that obvious?”

“To everyone but her. You want an in? You’re going to have to be a lot more direct.”

For @zalera8310

Forever Tag: @baubeautyandthegeek, @ghostsunderstoodmysoul, @immyowndefender, @valencethefriendlychangeling, @crimsonwidow666, @rebelbossheart, @thedailyspiritualist, @orangeisnttheonlyfruit, @woman-simp, @aperol-with-izzy, @leonoralessoem, @ellepossum69, @devotedlyscentedtocomedians, @lakita-fisher

[multimilfs]

Melissa Schemmenti x Fem!Reader: No Kiss For Cupid

Summary: Melissa Schemmenti + 15 - “Hi, I’ve been subtle at hinting that I want your attention all day and you haven’t noticed once and now I’m pissed.”

AO3

A/N: This request was from back when I did the grumpy affectionate prompts. I totally forgot about this one, I'm so sorry!! But I'm making it right, now! I hope you enjoy!

Prompt comes from this!

Tag List: @escapetodreamworld @multifandomfix @ghostsunderstoodmysoul @merci-bitch @carolncwman

Warning(s): None

“Janine,” You whisper, “This is an awful idea.” 

“There’s nothing awful about love!” Janine whispers back. 

You don’t know how she roped you into this, honestly. One minute you’re both discussing your plans—or lack thereof—for Valentine’s day and the next, well, you’re here; sneaking through Abbott’s halls at 3am, arms full of pink and red decorations to play Valentine’s fairy. 

Cupid! Janine had said tersely when you called yourself that, but Cupid was the last thing you were going to play. You had no interest in shooting someone, even if it was with an arrow of love or whatever. It doesn’t matter what it is, a weapon is a weapon, and you work in a public school—the two don’t mix. 

“Someone is going to catch us and we’re probably going to get in trouble for being here.” You say.

“Yeah, right. Who else would be here this early?” 

A third voice says behind you both, “Someone who knows how to whisper.” 

Janine shrieks and drops her box of decorations. You drop yours too, but not before grabbing something to defend yourself with; a styrofoam arrow with a heart on the end, much to your dismay. 

Turning on your heel and brandishing your styrofoam weapon brings you face-to-face with Mr. Johnson. He’s looking pleased with himself, hands folded behind his back. 

You groan, “Mr. Johnson, for real? You could have killed me.” 

“Less mess than whatever you’re planning.” He shrugs. 

“These are decorations, not trash.” Janine pipes up. 

“Looks like trash to me.” 

Janine looks to you for help, but you just shrug. He isn’t exactly wrong. Janine managed to recycle her decorations from last year, including the dusty crepe paper she had hanging from the ceiling for a little too long. It should be trash. 

She throws her hands up and then crosses her arms. You smile sympathetically. Janine is your friend, and you admire her ability to get the most out of everything, but the early hour has affected your patience. 

“I just want to do something nice for everyone.” She says. 

You sigh, “I know, I’m sorry.” 

Even Mr. Johnson looks a little apologetic. 

“We’ll try not to make too much of a mess, Mr. J,” You smile, “Promise.” 

He shakes his head and walks off, grumbling about how there will be a mess anyway. It speaks volumes that he’s letting it happen. You won’t let yourself take it for granted. 

You nudge Janine, “Come on, we’re wasting time.”

The both of you pick up your boxes and head in the direction of her classroom. There’s a little more pep in her step now, making you release a relieved sigh. 

—

You haven’t exactly been honest with Janine. 

You do have plans for Valentine’s day, but she had seemed so in the dumps when asking that you hadn’t wanted to upset her more. It’s how she roped you into the decorations; she didn’t want anyone else to feel left behind in all of the festivities. Janine was so kind it could make you tear up. 

But the week before you asked a certain redhead to be your Valentine. It wasn’t often Melissa Schemmenti got shy, but at dinner you surprised her with flowers and a cheesy one-liner, and you bagged yourself the most beautiful Valentine Philadelphia had to offer. 

Now, though, running on significantly less sleep than you wanted, you’re wondering if you should have just told Janine the truth. 

Pouring yourself an extra large mug of the burnt teachers-lounge coffee helps. It warms you up from the inside, you only hope the caffeine will kick in before your class. Sometimes your students are tired enough to fall asleep at their desks, one of you needs to be awake and alert. 

You turn and lean against the counter when Melissa walks in. 

Behind your mug, you offer up a smile reserved only for her. She returns it before letting her face drop when a few other teachers walk in. Barbara is one of them. She sits down in her usual chair looking so perfectly put-together it almost makes you envious. 

When Melissa brushes against you to grab some coffee, though, it’s all forgotten. You prop one hand on the counter next to her own, wiggling your fingers; a silent request for Melissa to hold your hand for just a moment. She must be really tired though because it never comes. 

You hide your scowl when she turns and plops down next to Barbara in comfortable silence. 

— 

“Hey, don’t you have lunch duty today?” You ask, tilting your head at finding her in her classroom. 

She puts a finger to her lips and motions silently to her rug, where a couple of her students are either napping or reading silently. You offer a small wave to the ones who look up. You crouch next to Melissa where she sits at her desk.

Melissa’s voice is soft, “Traded with Barb. I’m a little out of it today.” 

“Everything alright?” 

“Oh yeah, I’m fine. Just had my sleep interrupted when someone texted me at 4am.” 

You wince, “I did tell you to put your phone on silent…” 

“What were you even doing up that early?” She raises her brows. 

“Janine and I were coming in to put the decorations up.” 

Melissa nods, but looks a little confused. Between working so much and your conversation with Janine, you must have forgotten to fill her in. Oops. 

Careful to make sure the action is blocked by her desk, you put your hand on her knee. She doesn’t blink or acknowledge the action. You frown. Your text message must have really messed with her sleep. Guilt floods you. 

“I’ll explain later,” You promise, “Tonight, maybe?” 

She smiles in her fond way, “Tonight.” 

You stand up and try to ignore the pain in your knees. Offering her a wink and her students a smile, you walk—limp—back to your classroom. 

—

It’s your class’ turn for gym class when you pass by Melissa in the hall. She’s bringing her class back, walking in the opposite direction as you. The kids are out of breath, practically bouncing in their single-file line. Once upon a time you would have expected the kids to come back from gym tired; that was before you knew better. 

Melissa is joking around with Mya and one of her other students when she catches sight of you. You wink and she grins, nodding in your direction. 

You fold your fingers into your palm as you approach, with the exception of your pinky. It’s something you pulled from Bridgerton when you forced Melissa to watch it with you; her compliance with it is begrudging, as she refuses to let you pick shows to watch anymore. But it comes in handy to show a little affection without alerting anyone else. 

You pass, pinky out, but her’s never makes contact. 

It takes all your willpower not to stop in your tracks. Somehow, Melissa has managed to miss every indication of wanting touch you’ve shown. She’s usually just as eager to return it. 

Before you can think on it too hard, you’re rounding the corner to the gym, just barely stopping your students from breaking their line and rushing inside. 

—

Knock, knock, knock 

At the third knock, you glance up. Melissa walks in and closes the door behind her. She’s bundled up in her coat and green scarf, bag slung over her shoulder. 

“Hi.” You smile 

“Hey yourself, hon. You almost ready?” 

“Almost…” 

Melissa raises a brow. 

“I've been subtle at hinting that I want your attention all day and you haven’t noticed once,” You say, leaning back and crossing your arms. Jokingly, you add, “and now I’m pissed.” 

“Oh, I’ve noticed.” Melissa says. 

Her smile is downright evil. It’s the one she reserves for home, when she’s intent on getting you worked up, or worse, when she can tell you’re already worked up. 

The reaction in your body is immediate. You shift a little in your desk chair, licking your lips as she approaches, but she doesn’t do anything to invade your space. She stays standing tall. It’s almost more delicious in the way she looks down at you. 

“You just have to use your words, honey.” 

You swallow. Your mouth is suddenly dry. 

“Melissa…” You start. She waits, “Please, kiss me?” 

She does lean into your space this time. Her perfume fills your head, but you can’t look away from her lips. Somehow her lipstick has stayed in place all day long. You want nothing more than to smudge it, to wear it yourself. 

Melissa leans closer. There’s a breath between you when your eyes flutter shut. 

You’re stunned when she kisses your cheek instead. 

“Time to go.” 

Melissa’s grinning over her shoulder when you open your eyes, opening the door and disappearing through it. It takes you a few moments before your brain catches up. When it does, you hastily throw everything in your bag, and run after her.

[uses-for-fics]

I’m Yours | Manny Rivera

ft Jack Griffin

YN had been heading to the art room to grab some supplies for a class project. Her students are working on creating a skeletal system out of construction paper, combining biology with hands-on creativity.

As YN rummaged through the art room shelves, she heard a voice behind her. “Need any help?”

Startled, she spined around to see Manny, a warm smile on his face. Without missing a beat, she blurts, “If I’d known the school board was visiting today, I wouldn’t have left the kids in charge of the classroom!”

Manny raised an eyebrow, chuckling nervously. "Wait… they’re not actually alone, are they?"

She grinned and shook her head. "Relax, they’re at recess. Mr. Gregory offered to watch my class while I grabbed the supplies."

Manny lets out a relieved laugh and glances at the stack of construction paper and glue sticks in her arms. "Need some help with that?"

"Sure," YN replies with a smile, and Manny grabs a few supplies to lighten her load. As they walk back to her classroom, they fall into easy conversation. Manny teases her about her creative lesson plans, and the topic shifts to their dinner plans for that evening.

“I’m excited for tonight,” Manny says, his tone warm. “You’ve been opening up more, and I’m really glad you’re letting me into your space.”

YN smiles softly. “Thanks for being patient with me. It means a lot. You don’t mind taking it slow?”

“Not at all,” he replies sincerely. As they approached her classroom door, YN hesitated, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “Would it be wildly inappropriate if I kissed you at school?”

Manny grins, then gently lifts her hand to his lips, placing a light kiss on it. “How about this for now?” he says, his voice low and affectionate.

YN blushes, their connection palpable even in the brief moment. She opens the door, and they part ways as she prepares to dive back into teaching, already looking forward to the evening ahead.

Later that evening, YN and Manny are enjoying a cozy dinner at her house. The conversation flows easily, with YN recounting her day at school while Manny listens attentively. She giggles as she tells him about a student who glued the construction paper bones to his face instead of the paper skeleton. "But," she laughs, "he got all the bones in the right place, so I gave him a B+ for effort."

Manny chuckles, shaking his head. "That’s one creative way to learn anatomy." As he reaches across the table to hold her hand, YN moves to take his hand in hers but accidentally knocks over his glass of water, spilling it all over his shirt.

“Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry!” she says, jumping up.

“It’s fine,” Manny reassures her, laughing.

“I think I have an oversized tee somewhere,” she says, heading toward her bedroom. "You can change into that." Manny follows her, amused by her flustered energy. While YN rummages through her dresser, she waves toward the closet. “Feel free to look in there if you want to see if anything works for you.”

As she’s searching, Manny calls out, “Hey, I didn’t know you were a cardigan person! This one’s really comfy!” She turns to see him standing shirtless, wearing an old burgundy cardigan that’s clearly a size too big for her. Manny’s grinning, doing a little spin. “Wow, it even fits me!”

YN stares for a moment before rushing over. “Oh no, Manny, not that one. You shouldn’t wear that.”

Feigning offense, he asks, “What, does it look bad on me?”

She sighs, sitting on the edge of her bed. “It’s not that… It was my ex-boyfriend’s. I forgot I even had it.” Manny immediately softens, sitting beside her and wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “Want to talk about it?”

She hesitates, then begins to open up. “His name was Jack Griffin. We worked at the same school in Toledo. I taught biology, and he taught AP Bio. He was brash, cynical… and, well, magnetic. It was one of those fiery, all-consuming relationships, but it just wasn’t healthy. He was too controlling, too cynical about everything, and he wanted to move faster than I was ready for. I had to end it. He tried to play it off like it was mutual so he could save face, but…” Her voice trails off, and she shakes her head, embarrassed. “Sorry, I’m saying way too much.”

Manny rubs her shoulder gently. “It’s okay. I’m glad you’re comfortable enough to tell me. That stuff’s important.” He stands up and removes the cardigan, setting it aside. Spotting an oversized tee with a Paddy’s Pub logo, he grins. “This will do nicely.” He pulls it on and stretches his hand out to her. “How about we go finish dinner and watch a movie? Your choice.”

She takes his hand and kisses it softly. “Thank you for being so perfect.” The night ends with the two of them cuddled on her couch, accidentally falling asleep while watching Wallace and Gromit. Plates of half-eaten dessert and a shared blanket are the only witnesses to their growing bond.

[oscars-wifeyyy]

A Lesson in Love (Manny Rivera x OC)

A/N: Below the cut are the chapters.

Lina Kim, a dedicated and hardworking teacher at Abbott Elementary, always looks for ways to improve her classroom and support her students. Lina is initially uncertain when Manny Rivera, a charismatic district administrator, is assigned to collaborate with the school on a new district initiative. However, as soon as they meet, their shared passion for education becomes clear, and they quickly bond over their mutual goal of creating a better learning environment for the students. Manny, known for his relaxed and personable nature, appreciated Lina’s commitment and ability to connect with her students. While he has a more laid-back approach to problem-solving, he values her structured and thoughtful methods. Lina, in turn, admires Manny’s enthusiasm for making positive changes within the school district and his genuine care for the teachers and students. As they work together on the initiative, they find themselves collaborating seamlessly. Their chemistry grows as they share ideas, laugh over challenges, and support each other in their efforts to improve Abbott Elementary. Outside of work, they begin spending more time together, discovering shared interests beyond education, and enjoying each other’s company. Their connection deepens, and what starts as a strong professional partnership evolves into something more personal. Both Lina and Manny realize they make an excellent team at work and have the potential for a meaningful relationship. With Abbott Elementary’s quirky staff and their ever-present commitment to the students, they navigate the balancing act of career, romance, and personal growth, learning from each other along the way.

Career Day Pt. 1

Career Day Pt. 2

Dinner with Manny

[itsmarsss]

Abbott Elementary Masterlist

Gregory Eddie x Reader

laying it on heavy [coming]

empty for now! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Requests for this fandom are open! Request away :)

[milfjuulpod]

five times melissa is possessive

content warnings: mentions of alcohol

I.

   “You get locked out of your computer again?” You asked with a smile as you entered Melissa’s classroom. She had texted you that she needed help with something, so here you were within a minute. “No, I can't find the worksheets I downloaded and I don’t even know what to search for. I’m so frustrated I wanna rip the computer off the desk and chuck it out the window,” The older teacher responded, getting out of her chair to make room for you and leaning against the desk she threatened to do damage to. 

   Sitting down, you began combing through her files in her downloads folder. You found them immediately, but didn’t wanna bruise her ego by telling her straight away. You leaned back, and a small but ornate picture frame caught your eye. Inside, it held a photo of you and Melissa, standing outside of a restaurant downtown. 

   You remembered that day like it was yesterday. It was the first time you had hung out with the redhead outside of work, the two of you arrived together meeting everyone to watch a game. 

“C’mon hon, I’ll drive you home.”

“Wait! I need a picture, of us.”

Melissa’s laugh was like music to your ears, a symphony of happiness and warmth. “A picture? For what? Proof that I didn’t kidnap ya?”

“No silly, proof that we hung out and had a good time. You know, for the memories.”

She chuckled but accepted, wrapping her arm around your waist as she pulled you in and leaned in close for the picture. 

“Perfect. I’ll send it to you.”

   “Whatcha lookin’ at over there?” Melissa’s voice pulled you from the memory. “This picture of us, cute that you have it up here,” You told her, tracing your fingers over the details on the frame. She smiled before responding, “Yeah, I like to look at it throughout the day, it reminds me that I still have good things in the world.”

II. 

     The gym was full of bustling bodies getting ready to hear the announcement Abbott’s fun-loving principal had prepared for the day. Of course right next to each other were Melissa and Barbara, but Melissa’s purse held the seat to her right. Countless times she denied teachers and staff the chair, despite how full the room was getting. She was running out of excuses at this point, even Barbara had to ask. “Who are you holding that seat for?”

     As if on cue, you finally came through the double doors. Janine waved you over to her, somehow she saved and scored seats close enough to the front, but a low voice stopped you from continuing in that direction. 

     “Hey, kid,” Melissa hollered for you and motioned you towards her. Silently, you stood for a second, torn between the better seat and Melissa. Not to mention if you ignored Janine, you’d have to spend the next week making up for it. Upsetting Melissa, you’d have to spend the next...

     Quickly you made up your mind and walked towards the redhead, and she moved her purse just in time for you to sit down. You mouthed an apology to your other friend just in time.

     “Finally, what took you so long?” Melissa asked you quietly, as Ava could now be seen on stage. 

     “Sorry, I was trying to finish up the last batch of test grading for the week.” You answered, honestly. Trying to keep your voices down, Melissa and you scooted closer together, leaning into each other’s spaces. Although, you noticed the older woman had stuck her heeled boot around the leg of your chair and you realized you couldn’t move it if you tried. 

      Despite Ava starting her announcement, Melissa kept talking to you. “It’s okay, hon. I just had to fight off a couple of vultures to keep this seat for ya.” You blushed at the idea of Melissa shooing people away from the chair you currently occupied. 

      “You didn’t have to do that, y’know. Save the seat for me and all. I’m sure I would’ve found space somewhere. But thank you.” Melissa huffed at your response and tried (barely) to not roll her eyes. “I know, but I like sitting here. I always sit here.”

      You squinted at her for a moment, trying to connect the dots between your statement and hers. What did it matter that she liked sitting here? Nonetheless, you started paying attention to whatever the principal was talking about now, in hopes that it had been enough time for her beginning rambles to have subsided. 

      As the presentation came to an end, slowly everyone shuffled out of the gym and to their respective rooms, and quietly the three of you waited in your chairs for the masses to leave. While people-watching the room, you picked up on the conversation to your left. 

     “I should’ve known,” Barbara muttered to her friend. You assumed Melissa gave her a confused look, because Barbara not-so-subtly gestured to you and your seat. Melissa just rolled her eyes once again, but turned her attention to you. Her green eyes made you feel a rush of emotions as they met your own. “Hi,” she said quietly, as if she was worried about scaring you off. “Hi,” you replied. “Ready to go?” She asked, grabbing both of your bags off the floor as the two of you stood up. 

      The walk back to everyone’s classrooms was quiet, but you didn’t miss the look Barbara gave her friend again as she made her way into her own room. “Here’s your bag, hon. I’ll see you at lunch?” Melissa asked, handing you your belongings as she leaned against the doorframe of your classroom. “Yes you will, and thank you.” You replied, trying to hide the blush with your hair as you took your bag from Melissa and finally found peace inside your own classroom. 

III. 

      You walked with your favorite redhead up and down the aisles of the grocery store, picking up ingredients for dinner tonight. After having a rough day, Melissa offered to make you dinner. You agreed, but only if she’d let you be there for every part, including the store. Usually the Italian liked keeping every part of cooking to herself, but she found herself enjoying sharing it with you. Even the mundane aspects like the grocery store were turned into such a lovely time between the two of you. 

      “I’ll go pick out the onions for the sauce, last time I left the job to someone else I regretted it. Would you mind picking out the wine hon? I’ll meet ya over there and then we can check out.” Melissa asked before leaving the aisle the two of you were in. 

      “Sure, see you over there,” You replied, and the two of you split ways momentarily. Taking your time, you slowly went down the first aisle of wines, reading each label carefully. Even though Melissa always trusted you with the wine, you were nervous every time. Down the second aisle, a gentleman approached you. 

      “Need help finding anything ma’am?” He asked. You took a step back from the wines before replying. 

      “Oh, no, thank you. My friend will be here in just a moment.” You went back to scanning the bottles, but the employee continued talking.                   

      “I see you’re looking at our Bogle merlot! You know there’s a great winery with a merlot that has a very similar palette.” 

      “That’s nice, is it close by?” You asked to be nice, but didn’t bother looking at the man. 

       “It is, I know this area very well. Grew up here my whole life.” He replied. A couple minutes passed like this, him grasping at straws to continue the conversation and you completely disinterested. Finally, you grabbed a bottle and started walking away. 

       “Y’know if that’s all you’re getting I can check you out over here!” He offered. Before you could deny him yourself, a familiar voice spoke up from behind the two of you. 

        “She’s with me actually, we were just leaving,” Melissa announced her presence and began walking towards the two of you. You hoped the employee couldn’t read her as well as you could, but based on his wide eyes, your hope fell flat. It was clear the redhead was annoyed, and annoyed at him no less. She refused to break eye contact with him, glaring the entire time. When she caught up to you, she didn’t bother slowing down as she looped her arm with yours and continued to the checkout line. 

       “Took long enough Mel,” You teased, hoping to calm her down. Her lack of response told you it didn’t work. “I’m excited for dinner tonight, and I hope you liked the wine I picked out.”

        “I’m sure I will, and I hope that guy loses his job here so he can stop preying on pretty girls that come by to get wine for their dinner plans,” She spat, but not at you. She was good at never making it at you. 

        “Oh calm down, babe. He was just doing his job,” You lied. You knew he was being a little too nice to you, but Melissa didn’t need to know those details. 

         “Well he was doing it too well for my liking.”

          “I’ll make sure to never leave your side at the grocery store again, that way if another too good employee comes by you can stop them for me,” You joked. Melissa smiled again, and it was a beautiful sight to see. 

         “Good, I don’t like getting mean in front of ya.”

           “Yes, you do!” You laughed. Melissa loved getting an attitude in front of you. She knew you liked it just as much as she did. 

          “Yeah, I guess I do.”

IV. 

     Melissa knew she had a jealous streak, and when it came to you, a possessive streak as well. Most of the time neither of you minded, it made you feel special and the redhead feel wanted. Occasionally, Melissa had a hard time containing her emotions, especially the feelings she has towards you. She hated when those came to the surface. 

      So she sat, filled with jealousy and self-pity, as she watched you ignore her existence throughout the entire lunch period. Usually, you sat right next to her, she could talk about her morning and you would listen, occasionally offer advice. She loved getting to hear your version of your morning, since it was usually very dramatic and made her giggle, always. 

     Not today, though. Today, you were too occupied with the new librarian. Instead of listening to Melissa rambling, you were listening to him. She knew you didn’t like men very much, but it didn’t matter. The fact that you didn’t even greet her and there was only ten minutes left of lunch was enough to ruin her mood. Before the bell rang, Melissa sighed and packed up her things as quickly as she could. She said goodbye to Barbara, but not to you. If you weren’t going to say hello, she wasn’t going to say goodbye. She did, however, give you a dirty look at the last second before the door shut behind her. 

     You froze, it had been a long, long time since Melissa has given you a look like that one. Usually it was reserved for serious issues or people she didn’t care for too much, so you started going over the day in your head wondering what was going on with her. This morning you hadn’t seen her, and you hadn’t stopped by to chat with her for lunch yet, so-

     There it was. With a sigh of relief you ended your conversations and made your way to the feisty redhead’s classroom. Instead of knocking, you slowly opened the door and allowed yourself in. 

     “Hi lovely, how was your lunch? I didn’t get a chance to talk to you so I wanted to stop by before grabbing the kiddos,” You announced your presence to the other woman, which went almost ignored. It wasn’t until you made it all the way to her desk that she spoke to you. 

    “Lunch was fine, I noticed you were busy with the fresh new hire so I kept my distance. Seemed like you needed it,” She responded shortly. She knew what she was doing was wrong, but she couldn’t help it. She wanted your attention desperately, even if it was negative. 

    “Melissa...” You started, waiting for her to meet your gaze before continuing. She looked at you with anger, but you knew her, you knew that look. The only other time it happened was when you ditched your plans with her for an impromptu tinder date that went poorly. (She never let you live that mistake down, by the way). She was hurt, her feelings were hurt and she didn’t want to tell you. 

    “Why are you yelling at me? Is it because I didn’t talk to you all day?” You asked with a hint of teasing in your voice, enough to let Melissa know you were serious but not upset with her. She nodded, still having trouble admitting exactly what was going on inside the beautiful mind of hers. 

    “You know just because I’m friends with other people doesn’t mean I love you any less. And if you wanted to talk to me, you could’ve done so.”

   Melissa sat there for a moment, digesting your words slowly. She looked away before responding. “I know, I just-It’s hard. I want your attention but I don’t want to ask for it. If you’re not giving it to me then I just think you don’t want to anymore.”

   “Mel, no, no.” You stepped closer into her bubble and leaned against her desk. “I’ll stop anything I’m doing for you. Just ask, if I’m not showering you with enough love and affection already.” She smiled at that, thankful to realize you weren’t that mad at her. 

   “Okay, sorry for snapping at you hon. I won’t do it again,” Melissa looked up at you through her eyelashes and pouted out her bottom lip. You knew it would probably happen again, but you didn’t care. After a few months of nonstop flirting and teasing, you figured out Melissa returned some sort of feelings for you. However, it was just as clear that she was scared of whatever this was. Every time the two of you got close to having that conversation, she backed away. You could practically see the words falling off her lips before she would swallow them again. So you remained patient with her, she was worth waiting for. That much you knew. 

    “It’s okay my love, just save the glare for the other guy next time, yeah?” You playfully shoved her shoulder to punctuate your sentence, which got you an eye roll from the Italian. “Yeah, yeah, you’re fine.” You gave her one more sincere smile and hopped off the desk to go back to your own classroom. 

“Hon?” Melissa’s voice stopped you at the door. 

“Yeah?”

“I love you too.”

V.

     It had been a few weeks since Melissa’s last “outburst,” if you would even call it that. But the “days since last incident” counter was about to go down to zero. 

     Melissa sat at the bar, waiting for your drink and hers, as she watched you float between your friends. She let her green eyes roam over your figure, the way your dress hugged your skin so tightly, she wished it was her own hands. The way you so effortlessly swayed your hips to the music, like you didn’t even realize it was happening. The older woman was so mesmerized, she almost missed the bartender setting down the two drinks beside her. As soon as she got sight though, she grabbed them and made her way over to you. 

      Out of the corner of your eye, there she was, beautiful as ever. It didn’t matter if it was the alcohol or Melissa, but you felt incredible. 

      “Thank you beautiful, what do I owe ya?” You asked as you grabbed your drink from your friend’s hand. 

       “How about a dance?” She answered your question with a question. Melissa let you take a couple sips before taking the drink back and dropping them off with your friends. As she turned around, the woman was about as red as her hair when she saw a man coming up behind you getting ready to try and dance. 

      You don’t know whose hands were on you first, but very quickly you were behind Melissa as she was staring down a much taller man. 

      “Can we help you?” She yelled more than she asked, keeping an arm over your side as she kept you behind her. You knew what was about to happen, the stranger was going to say something sly, Melissa would say something worse, and you’d calm her down before getting her on the dance floor again. Something in you decided to change that routine though, usually you stayed quiet when she got this way, stayed clear from the path of Schemmenti rage and watched thoroughly entertained. 

    Instead of staying out of her way this time and waiting for her, you leaned into it. How could you not when Melissa was getting ready to fight someone over you? You placed your hand gently over hers and rested your chin on her shoulder, immediately noticing her eyes flash over to you. Her grip tightened around your thigh in response. 

      “I was just trying to dance with a pretty girl, didn’t know that was a problem,” The stranger spoke and took a few steps back, throwing his hands up in false surrender. 

      “It is.” Melissa said, about to take a step forward, unwilling to let him get away. You felt her body shift against you and quickly wrapped your left arm around her, holding her against you. 

       “Baby, should we step outside for a second?” You asked Melissa, making a point to let her feel your breath linger for a second. She might get onto you for making her so flustered later, but that would be better than getting kicked out for a bar fight. 

       Without answering, she took your hand in hers and led you to the back exit, ignoring the questioning looks from your friends behind you. The cold wind felt sobering against your hot skin, although your hand was kept warm by Melissa’s. She was gripping it so tightly still, you wondered why she was still so frustrated. 

      “Mel? Are you okay?” You asked. Letting go of her hand you stood in front of her, gently brushing a few stray hairs behind her ear. Her cheeks were still so red, hands clammy, and you don’t think you’ve ever seen her look at you so wide-eyed before. 

     “I...” She started. Melissa looked at your lips for a moment before returning to your gaze. “He can’t touch you like that.”

    “I don’t even think he got a chance before you were back over there. Besides, why can’t he?” You challenged her. It was risky, hopefully with a reward. 

    She tightened her grip on your hand and pulled you close so your bodies were flush together. Sure, you knew a couple tricks to make Melissa blush or get flustered, but she was exceptionally good at it. Her fingers against your lower back started moving back and forth, sending chills up your spine. Her other hand let go of yours and found itself getting tangled in your hair. 

      “Because dolcezza, can he touch you like this? Hm? Would you be this needy for anyone else? You’re mine, you know you are.” The older woman’s words sent heat through your body. 

     “Prove it then.”

      As quickly as the words were out of your mouth, Melissa’s lips were on yours. She was gentle at first, giving you an opportunity to stop if you want. When your own hands found themselves reaching to touch her more, she knew she got you. Her hand in your hair tugged a bit, and when you moaned in response Melissa took the opportunity to taste you. Feeling her groans against you, because of you, was a new high you would forever be chasing. Her grip on you was tight, she was unrelenting, not wanting to let you out of her sight again. 

      It was like the past few weeks of Melissa keeping her mouth shut had built up inside of her, she needed you, and she needed you to know that. Feeling herself getting too worked up, she gave you a few more kisses before pulling away. You couldn’t help but whine when she did so, missing her lips already. 

     “Yknow, I might keep letting people flirt with me if it means you kiss me like that every time,” You softly spoke. Melissa couldn’t help but laugh at that, even though the both of you knew she would not put up with that. Certainly not anymore. You were finally hers. 

[writerspirit]

Chapter I

Pairing(s): Melissa Schemmenti x Fem!Reader

Series: Schemmenti Family Agenda

Synopsis: After a student makes a comment to Y/n, Melissa takes into consideration what the next steps in your relationship should be.

Themes/Warnings: Fluff, Angst (please let me know if there are any warnings to be aware of)

A/N: I first wrote this part in an early morning surge of energy. I've already started on part two, so be on the lookout for that. I've also started an outline for an Agatha Harkness/Agnes x Fem!Reader w/ "magic baby" trope.

WC: ~ 2.15k

Having kids wasn’t something you thought to ever be on the agenda. It never was with you and Melissa. Both you and her being elementary teachers for Abbott, the only kids you two ever talked about “having” were your students. It has been a nice flow between you professionally. You being the other first grade teacher in the school, a good amount of kids in your class progress to your wife’s classroom in their following school year. These handful of kids are called by the other teachers as the “Double Schemmenti” kids, which you and Melissa find endearing.

These little aspects of your life at Abbott make being a teacher for these kids the best job anyone could ask for. Not to mention having the role of being these kids’ mentor, even sometimes their parent, is a gift in itself. So, whenever babies were a thought, it was more of a subtle whisper, rather than a thought-provoking idea.

That is until Melissa walks into your classroom after school one day to find you with one of your students playing with the deck of cards she so graciously lent for the room. 

“Hey, honey,” she smiles, making her way inside.

“Mrs. Schemmenti!” Aspen squeals. “Mrs. Schemmenti is teaching me how to play Kings in the Corner. It helps with my counting.”

“That’s great, sweetheart.” The redhead looks over at his hand and smiles. “Maybe next year you’ll be able to get a good grasp on poker so that you can beat all the chumps at the table.”

Aspen gives her a quizzical look. You, a furrow of the eyebrows, telling her to test the waters. She mouths a ‘sorry’ along with a low smile. Bringing her attention to your cards, she chuckles. “I don’t know, Mrs. Schemmenti. I think the kid’s hand is just enough to rattle you outta luck.”

Aspen’s smile turns to a little dance in place, in anticipation for his next move. 

You bring yourself to feign a sigh. “I think you might be right. I just can’t believe Aspen is so good already, and it’s his first time playing.”

Melissa shuffles back next to Aspen, who glances at her before she nods. “Take her down, kid.”

He rushes for a card before calculating his line of moves to play. With what seems to be one swift motion, his cards disappear from his hand and onto the floor with the others. “I got ya, Mrs. Schemmenti! Victory is mine!”

You giggle along with him. “You got me!” You and Melissa dance with him, doing your own little dances in place. Once he’s seemed to settle down from his victory dance, you help him pick up the cards.

“Why don’t you practice your shuffling while I talk with Mrs. Schemmenti?”

He nods. “Okay. I’ll go sit at my desk.”

“Okay.”

“He’s a quick little guy, isn’t he?”

“Yeah, he is. Smartest kid in the class. Maybe the smartest I’ve ever taught.” You peek at him, seeing if he’s focused on the cards in his hand, which he is. “His mom is working a little late today. The divorce hasn’t been easy for either of them, so I told her that I can stay with Aspen a little later than the allotted time for pickup.”

Melissa sighs. “Don’t I know it. Divorce is tough. I can’t imagine the added stress of having a child during the process.”

You quickly take a look at your watch. “You don’t have to wait up for me. Janine and Ava have step practice today, and I’m sure I can catch a ride with one of them if you want to go home. I know you have grading to get done.”

“I can wait here with you and the little guy. Grading can wait a little longer, and besides, I don’t want you catching a ride with either of ‘em as long as I’m here. I couldn’t live with myself if I knew I’d been responsible for another Janine car ride migraine.” Her lips perk up into a smile.

"I swear if I hear another lecture on the benefits of different colored highlighters, I’ll–"

“Mom!” Aspen squeals, getting out of his seat and running to his mother’s arms. She lays a soft kiss on his head.

“Hi, Aspen. How was school?” Dina’s eyes turn from his to yours. “Was he okay?”

You nod. “The little champ beat me in Kings in the Corner.”

“And I know how to shuffle now. So now I can help you when we play Uno.”

“Great job, honey. And I’m sure now you can help me beat Grandpa when he comes to visit next week.”

Aspen seemingly lights up brighter than before. “Grandpa’s coming? Yay!” He envelops her in a hug.

“Honey, why don’t you grab your things so I can talk to your mom?” Your eyes quickly glance at his belongings that sit on and around his desk. 

“I’ll give you two a minute.” Melissa moves towards Aspen. “I’ll help him get his things.”

“Thank you for everything. Really, you’re a lifesaver.” Dina lets a sigh leave her lips. “He’s really been doing great through this whole thing.”

“No disruptions, no problems. I wish I had his positive attitude all the time. And hey, don’t worry about it. I don’t mind getting beat at cards. He’s a smart kid.”

Dina smiles.

“I’m ready,” Aspen says. He walks up to meet his mother’s side, where she places a hand on his shoulder. “Mrs. Schemmenti?”

“Yes sweetheart?”

“You’re gonna make a great mom one day,” his smile widens before he says his goodbyes to you and Melissa. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Okay, kid. We’ll see ya,” Melissa adds. She turns to you. “Ready to go?”

“Mhm,” you grab your bag’s handle, but it’s quickly taken away from you when the older woman grabs it. “Melissa, I can carry my stuff.”

“I never said you couldn’t.” She smiles as you grab hold of her arm.

Walking out of Abbott, you both send smiles and your own goodbyes to a few colleagues. Your hand never strays from her arm, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“So what are you feeling like for dinner?” She asks.

“Are you asking because you feel like cooking, or are you asking me because you want to just order takeout?”

She chuckles. “I was actually asking because I could go for anything you wanted to cook.”

“Enchiladas, then.”

“Well, they’re your signature.” She places a kiss on your temple.

When you reach the car, she walks with you to the passenger’s side, opening the door for you. “My lady,” she smiles watching you take your seat. She hands you your bag, and closes the door.

You reach over to the door and pull the door handle for her. “Thank you, sweetie.”

“Anything for my girl,” you say. Her hand instinctively rests on your thigh as she starts the drive to your shared home. You move a hand to graze her arm.

“So,” Melissa starts up a new conversation when you hit upon a red light. “Aspen gave you a really nice compliment there, huh?”

“What?” You take a moment to think back. “Oh… yeah, he’s a really sweet kid. I hope you get to teach him next year. I mean he already loves you.”

Melissa turns the music up a bit, as your favorite song plays. While you’re jamming, she hums along, singing the words in her head. Unbeknownst to you, Melissa is thinking harder than she’d care to admit to about Aspen’s words. Had you given any thought to having a child of your own? She hasn’t expressed any interest in having a mini Melissa since she was younger, when her sister had her first baby.

As if the memory played out word for word, she remembers how crushed she was when, while holding her then baby nephew, Joe completely shut down the idea of growing their family. 

As if you know she needs a distraction of sorts, you speak up, taking her out of her thoughts. “Oh, honey, I think we need to stop at the grocery store. Is that okay with you?”

She nods and forces a smile for you.

– – – –

Melissa’s hand never leaves the small of your back while you push the cart. Along the journey of getting the ingredients necessary for your dinner, she looks around every aisle that you walk through. Almost finished with the aisle you two are currently in, you start your way towards the registers. As you wait in one of the lines, Melissa picks up bits of the couple’s conversation happening in front of her, talking about their excitement in welcoming their own bundle of joy in seven months. 

“Melissa?”

“Hm,” she turns her attention towards you.

“Is everything okay? You’ve been almost quiet since we left school. The only times I ever experience quiet Melissa is when you’re scheming. Well, that or you’re planning someone’s meeting with justice.”

“I’m fine, hon.” She places her hands on either side of your waist, and places a few light kisses on your temple. “I’m perfect.”

– – – –

“Amore,” she starts.

“Hm,” you hum, sipping your wine.

“Nothin’.”

“Baby,” you reach your hand and place it gently on her own. “What’s up?”

She has a glint in her eyes. One you’ve only seen two other times – when she was too nervous to ask you to be her girlfriend, and then again when she asked you to be her wife. By this, you know she has got something big on her mind.

“Don’t worry about it,” she says, her voice not leaving a low tone. She focuses her attention on her plate, trying to collect her thoughts.

“Okay…” you start. “But I will. You have the look.”

“What look?” Her eyes bounce to you, now wide, awaiting your response.

“You’ve only ever looked at me twice like that before, and both times they were because you had something big to get off your chest. Now please…” You place your hand on her thigh. “What is it, Melissa?”

“You ever thought about maybe… I don’t know… it’s just us here. And sometimes I feel it. The… space.”

You stay silent, trying to piece together what she’s going on about. Was she getting sick of you? Was this marriage too much for her? She doesn’t skip a beat though. Her rambling is starting to sound like she is convincing herself of something, in hopes you’ll say what’s bothering her, so she doesn’t have to. That’s when in the midst of your spacing out, there is only one sentence that makes you freeze.

“Maybe an addition to us wouldn’t be a bad idea.”

“You want to have a baby,” she can’t tell by your tone if you were stating it as if it were a fact, or rather forming it in a question. “Like… a baby.”

“No, wait, I didn’t say that,” her voice rises in pitch. “Per say.”

You wait a minute, in case she has more to say. “Okay…”

Crap! May day! May day! Retreat! Her thoughts tell her.

She downs the beer that is left in her bottle. Her hands grab for your plates and starts her way to the kitchen. “Just forget I said anything.”

“But, Melissa–”

“Please, just forget it, Y/n.”

– – – –

After dinner, you and Melissa snuggle up on the couch. Your face is nestled in her neck, giving soft kisses where you know she loves them. This would usually lead to you ravaging each other until the sunrise spills through your curtains. Tonight, however, doesn’t look like that is in the cards for you.

Your hand begins drawing patterns on her thigh, as you continue your kisses on her skin. “Your thoughts are loud tonight, my love.”

“Hon,” Melissa whispers, her voice almost impossible to hear over the television. As if on cue, the Dancing With the Stars theme sings for you. “Look, the show is starting.”

The rest of the night is much quieter than usual. Adding to your worry, Melissa doesn’t seem as enthusiastic about the episode as she usually is. There’s no yelling at the television, rarely a chuckle, and not even a snack to go with the episode.

As the episode ends, Melissa breathes a heavy sigh. “Ready for bed?”

You take a look at your phone which reads the time. “Yeah,” you say with simple directions. “Just… give me a minute and I’ll be up.”

She nods as she rises off the couch. She makes sure to place a gentle kiss on your cheek before heading upstairs.

At the sound of Melissa ascending the stairs, you quickly grab your phone. Opening your Contacts app, Barbara Howard’s phone number is already in view for you. With a second to think on a decision, a sigh leaves your lips, and the clicking of the power button shuts the device off.

Sleep on it. Whatever it is.

[jeridandridge]

On Your Side

Melissa Schemmenti x Reader based off of these prompts: “Please don’t lie to me again, I can’t take it.” And “Go with me?” “As long as you hold my hand.” Kinda ooc Melissa? BFFs Melissa and Jacob.

If Melissa had known how her week would start she would’ve stayed on the couch with you on Sunday instead of hosting family dinner. The day starts just as it always does, you curled up behind the redhead with your arm wrapped around her in a comforting hold lazily moving your fingers up and down the soft skin of her stomach.

“I have to get up, Amore.” Melissa hums through a stretch turning to face you.

Meeting green eyes and a freckle dusted nose you crane your neck kissing the tip of her nose making her smile. “You sure I can’t talk you into canceling and staying in this nice, comfy bed with me all day?”

Melissa laughs pecking your lips. “I love the sound of that. But you know how my mom is.”

As if right on cue, a knock comes from the bedroom door with a frantic Jacob on the other side.

“Mel Mel! I scrubbed the living room, dusted the plastic, and wiped down the china cabinet. We’re on schedule!”

“I do love that kid.” Melissa whispers with an adoring smile, playing with your hair as she lifts her head.

“Thanks, Jacob! I’ll be out in a minute!”

Sighing contently you close your eyes for a moment longer enjoying the warmth of the space you two share. “I suppose I’ll let you go.” You joke shifting to sit up.

“You’re comin’ back tonight right?” Melissa asks as she gets out of bed, milky skin on full display in the morning sun rays.

“Of course. Maybe I can get some lesson planning done without Venus herself distracting me for a few hours.”

“I didn’t hear you complaining last night,” the redhead tosses a wicked grin over her shoulder.

Leaving Melissa’s house with a kiss, you don’t think anything of the family get together as you get chores and work done at home. You’ve been together for about six months, but Melissa wasn’t ready to subject you to a family dinner just yet. Hours later, Melissa is baking to death in the kitchen while Jacob runs around like the energizer bunny entertaining the Schemmenti family.

“Melissa, there’s a guy here.” Jacob whips around the corner in frantic fashion.

“Yeah, my cousins and uncles are out there. Lots of guys around.”

“No, Melissa. your mother invited a guy over here. To see you.”

Melissa looks at the young teacher confused, taking the dish towel off of her shoulder as she moves through the door to the noisy dining room. The cousins are sat around munching, the uncles are yelling at their sons, and Teresa is smiling at a tall man with dark hair that Melissa hasn’t seen since her own wedding.

“Ma, you didn’t tell me to set an extra plate.” She huffs over the noise. “Hey, Nathan. Good to see ya.”

“Hey, Mel. I didn’t mean to crash, your mom called me up the other day.” Nathan chuckles, a bottle of wine in hand offering it out.

“Don’t worry about it,” Melissa gives a friendly smile taking the bottle putting it with the others on the table.

As everyone settles at the table and digs into their plates, Melissa soon realizes why her mom invited an old friend over.

“Melissa, Nathan is single you know.” The older woman smiles.

“Oh yeah? Ya know, you’d like my boss at Abbott. She’s- something.” She chuckles not thinking anything of the comment until she sees Kristen Marie shoot their mother a look.

“I invited him here for you, silly.” Teresa shoots back sipping her wine.

Nathan looks confused, Melissa looks angry, and Jacob looks like he’s just seen the devil himself.

“Ma, don’t start with me.” Melissa rolls her eyes, the family now eerily quiet at the table as the redhead brushes the comment off. “Jacob, how’s the garlic bread?”

And that was the end of that. Until everyone but Teresa and Kristen Marie leave the house. Nathan left apologizing to Melissa, now the redhead has to deal with the matriarch of the family. Cleaning the table of dishes Jacob keeps his head down trying to keep his attention elsewhere as the three women stand in the kitchen.

“What the hell was that, ma?” Melissa demands crossing her arms. Had she done this as a child, she most definitely would have been swatted with the wooden spoon.

“What? I was only trying to help you, Melissa.” She shrugs continuing to wash a pan.

Kristen Marie sips more wine, eyes going back and forth between the two like watching a tennis match.

“Help me with what? Make my dinner uncomfortable for no reason?” Melissa quirks a brow not backing down.

“Is it so bad I want my daughter to settle down again?”

“Ma!” She finally snaps. “I am settled down, you know I have a girlfriend.”

“Oh Melissa, come on. When you get out of your midlife crisis you’ll want to settle down properly.”

Kristen Marie opens her mouth but before she can say anything Jacob comes into the kitchen moving to stand between Melissa and Teresa. The redhead stands in what can only be described as shock, knowing that no matter what she won’t make her mother happy.

“Alright, I know I’m not a blood relative but I consider Melissa and I friends,” he glances over his shoulder at his older mentor, “and I can’t have you disrespecting her decisions in her own house. I hate confrontation and I kinda want to puke right now but I can’t listen to it anymore.” He rambles in Jacob like fashion.

This stuns the matriarch, rendering her speechless glaring daggers at the man.

“Pipsqueak is right.” Kristen Marie cuts in. “I like the girl, she’s the only one of Melly’s conquests that can keep up with my wit.”

“Woah, maybe don’t call her a ‘conquest’ of all the titles out there.” Melissa finally speaks, giving her a thankful look only her little sister can understand.

“Well, we’ll see how long this lasts.” Teresa sighs. “Kristen Marie, let’s go.”

With a soft look from her sister and the adrenaline rushing through her veins Melissa breaks as soon as the front door closes.

“Melissa, I’m sorry if I-“ Jacob begins, only to be cut off by a hug.

“Thanks, kid.” Melissa fight back tears as her hands rest on his back in a soft hug.

Stiffening for only a moment, Jacob returns the hug with a small smile on his lips.

“Anytime, Mel Mel.”

Melissa pulls back glaring at him. “Stop callin me that. And, let’s not mention this to anyone okay?”

Smiling, Jacob nods and heads for the doorway. “You got it, Mel Mel.”

That night when you return back to Melissa’s you find yourself back in her bed like earlier that morning. tv volume on low as you run your fingers through her hair you wonder what happened at dinner. As soon as you walked into the house, Melissa was extra affectionate hardly letting you out of her sight for the rest of the evening.

Giggling when you feel soft lips against your neck you smile to yourself. “Maybe I should spend all day at my place more often if cuddly Melissa is who I get when I come back.”

“Hell no,” Melissa huffs against your neck playfully nipping.

“Oh,” you laugh tipping your head back into your pillow. “Careful, Schemmenti. You know I like that a little too much.”

“Mmmh.” She hums kissing the spot she just nipped. “I love you.”

Your stomach flips hearing her words just like it did the first time she said them. “Ti amo Tesoro.” You whisper kissing her head pulling her impossibly closer.

Monday morning comes all too fast for your liking. Years of being a teacher and it still catches you off guard, often times drinking enough caffeine to fuel a horse before eight am. That morning is no different. Sitting at your usual table with Barbara and Melissa, you sip from your mug getting a jump start on grading for the day as the others have lively conversations about their weekend.

“Mel, do you have that skill building program email on your phone still?” You lean over resting your head on her shoulder.

“Here, Amore.” She hands her phone over freely going back to papers.

Sitting up straight you find the email you need, looking at the device curiously when you see a text notification from Kristen Marie.

Im sorry about Ma. Did you tell your girl?

Schooling your features you send the email to yourself and hand the phone back.

“Did something happen to your mom?” You ask worried, not wanting to miss anything in Melissa’s life.

Melissa’s head snaps up, glasses going to the tip of her nose. “No, why ya ask?”

“Kristen Marie texted you,” you shrug. You feel bad for wanting to snoop, but the way the text was worded has you worried. “She’s okay?”

“Yeah, hon. She’s okay.” She brushes it off giving you a soft smile.

“Okay,” you let it go for now, knowing it’ll be better to bring up tonight after work.

Throughout the day the thought nags at you, sitting in the back of your mind like an annoying fly buzzing by your ear. What would Melissa have to tell you? During your prep period, you realize you can’t take it anymore. Going down to the first floor you pass Jacob in the hallway.

“Hey, did something happen yesterday at Melissa’s?” You ask him, only to shake your head and walk away when he looks like a deer caught in the headlights.

Shoes stomping down the hall you find Melissa at her desk, her kids gone for a special.

“Okay, something’s bothering me.” You admit as you close the classroom door.

Melissa sighs setting her phone down. “About the text from Kristen Marie?”

“Yes.” You nod putting your hands in your pockets. “And on the way down here I ran into Jacob. The kid looked terrified. So what happened?” You ask once again, almost annoyed now. “We said when this started we would keep no secrets.”

Melissa stands up, moving to take your hands in hers. Fingers laced together you gently squeeze hoping the tremble you feel is nothing. The redhead sighs meeting your eyes.

“Ma invited a family friend over yesterday, a guy I’ve known since middle school. She thought it was a good idea to play matchmaker.”

Hearing her explanation, you take a breath trying to gather your thoughts as you pull your hands away. “Your mom tried to get you a hookup, and you didn’t think to tell me when I came over last night? That’s why you were so touchy feely?” The realization hits you.

“Amore, I didn’t think it was important. You know how ma is.” She sighs watching you, unable to read you for once.

Running your hand through your hair you look up at the tile ceiling. You’ve been officially together for six months after a year of flirting and skirting around each other. Maybe Melissa was bored now. “I need some space to think.”

“Hon, I didn’t-“ Melissa steps forward.

“Stop. I just heard my girlfriend, who has a history of cheating by the way, was set up with a guy by her mother and she didn’t think to tell me.” You huff trying to keep yourself composed. You were still at work even if you were hurt. “I need some time, Melissa.”

She gives you a nod, mouth agape as if to say something but no words come out. She knows she fucked up. You disappear for the rest of the day, only reappearing in her line of vision when you’re walking down the hall car keys in hand after the kids have gone.

“Hon,” Melissa calls, following you out the doors.

“Melissa, I told you what I needed. Please respect it.” You all but plead with her trying to keep the interaction short and quiet.

“Will you at least text me when you get home? Please?”

“Yeah, I will.” You nod not wanting to argue any further.

Standing on the steps Melissa holds her bags watching you drive off, going the opposite direction to your apartment.

“Girl, what was that all about?” Barbara finally comes out seeing the look on her friend’s face after hanging back.

“She- I did somethin wrong, Barb, and I have to fix it.”

Barbara rests a hand on her friends arm realizing how serious this could be just by how upset she looks.

“That girl loves you. whatever it is, make it right.”

If you wanted space, that’s what Melissa will do. In the early days of your relationship you’d spend a day or two at her place, then go back home. Now she’s spoiled. She’s gotten so used to you being in the house, your coffee mug in the cabinet, toothbrush in her bathroom, and a plethora of hoodies in her closet including one draped over the back of the couch that you deemed ‘The tv watching hoodie.’

Sitting at home that night Melissa flicks through the tv channels aimlessly, only stopping when Jacob sits next to her.

“How bad was it?” He asks cautiously.

The redhead lets out a humorless laugh. “Bad enough.” She shrugs adjusting the sleeve of the hoodie she stole from you months ago.

“Maybe if you admit you thought it was for the best and explain how it went, maybe she’ll understand.”

“I sorta did, kid. Didn’t work.”

Jacob hums letting Melissa have the time she needs in comfortable silence.

“She brought up my past ya know? That hurt, that she thinks I’d ever cheat on her.” She hums.

Jacob has been roommates with the redhead for a while now, but he’s never seen her like this. Small, nervous. So unlike herself.

“You know,” he starts, “when I came out, I was already in a relationship. Having to hide it, caring about what my parents thought, it ate away at me. Having everyone at Abbott, my brother, it made all the hard times worth it.” He gently smiles. “If you want your mom to respect you, maybe it’s time you bring her around.”

Melissa signs tipping her head back. She knows he’s right. “Dammit, Jacob.” She sighs getting up, grabbing her shoes and purse. In the car she takes a breath, trying not to work herself up on the short drive to your apartment. She may or may not blow a few stop signs along the way, but she can’t wait any longer. Before she realizes it Melissa is standing in the hallway of your apartment building waiting.

Opening the door you poke your head out first before opening it all the way. “Melissa what the hell? It’s ten o’clock.”

“I know. But I need to talk to you. Please, hon.”

Reluctantly, you nod your head gesturing for her to come in. “You coulda called me you know.”

“Like you would’ve answered.” Melissa scoffs playfully setting her stuff down. You had definitely settled in for the night, take out on the counter in the kitchen and a blanket on the couch.

You shrug with a smirk. “Maybe on the 4th or 5th try.”

“I uh, I wanted to say I’m sorry. For not telling you about Nathan. He’s an old friend is all, and apparently my mother thought it was a good idea.” She explains herself. “I know keepin it from you wasn’t the right choice now. But I’d never, ever hurt you like that, Amore.” She shakes her head realizing just how small she sounds. “I did some stupid things back in the day, but not now. Never to you. You’re it for me.”

Arms crossed you stand there listening, arms falling to your sides when she finishes. You can see the tears welling in her eyes and how she’s playing with the sleeves of the Eagles hoodie she’s wearing. A tell tale sign of discomfort. Outside of her eyeliner and leather jacket, she’s vulnerable.

“Mel,” you sigh opening your arms for her. She immediately pulls you into a warm embrace, arms looped around your neck and a content sigh leaving her lips. Rubbing her back in slow circles you stay in the bubble of warmth for a moment, speaking quietly. “You know I’ll always be on your side. Please don’t lie to me again. I can’t take it.”

“Never. It did more harm than good. If my ma doesn’t like that im happy and in love, you won’t have to ever see her.” She promises squeezing you tightly. Lifting her head she seals her promise with a kiss.

A week later, you wake up on Sunday to the redhead playing with your hair.

“Go with me, test the waters?” She hums quietly.

Giving her a tired smile you lean over kissing her nose.

“Only if you hold my hand.”

[jessicaslittlelovesickmess]

Clingy

Warning: self doubt? Sad Mel

Pairing: Melissa Schemmenti x Reader

“You’re going to suffocate the poor girl” Barbara chuckled light heartedly at Melissa who had basically dragged you onto her lap. The grip the redhead had around your waist had loosened as her shoulders sagged lightly, you frowned to yourself.

It wasn’t often you visited the women at work but you had a feeling this wouldn’t end well with a small sigh you went to kiss Melissa. She turned her head your lips met her cheek “I’m gonna use the restroom before I need to leave” you smiled sadly.

The walls she built up were always the highest, she was a Schemmenti after all and although you were used to them it still hurt. “Alright” she offered a small smile but by the time you came back she was already gone nothing but your purse waiting for you.

You text her when you left saying you loved her, she read it and closed her phone focusing her energy onto the classroom of rowdy children. But she found herself constantly checking her phone for anything from you maybe she was clingy she wasn’t like this with Joe or Gary. But you also weren’t them, you smelt like Vanilla and coconut you showered regularly, you were kind and attentive, you went out of your way for her.

Melissa was swooning just thinking of you it drove her mad but she made up her mind she was going to give you space even if it broke her heart.

When she arrived home you were dishing dinner out with a smile as Catatonia played in the background “hi baby, how was work?” You asked gently. Melissa shook her head wishing not to speak, her fingers traced the table unable to face you as she thought to herself.

As you both ate in an awkward silence you placed your knife and fork down “Y’know I like clingy” you cleared your throat. “I like the messages and the roaming hands, I like sitting on your lap and being in your arms, I love the kisses and I love you’s, I like lunch together and knowing that you care”.

Melissa swallowed looking over at you with a single tear on her waterline “I love you and I love seeing your red hair wherever I go, I love that your the first thing I see in the morning and the last at night, I love that your perfume lingers and my list goes on but don’t take what Barb said to heart. I love you Melissa Ann Schemmenti never forget that”

“I love you too”

[marvelsdc22]

Imagine a conversation with your comfort character(C.C.):

Y/N: "I can't, I can't do it anymore, I give up, I'm done"

C.C.: "You're done? Are you out of your mind?! Look how far we've come! Look at everything falling into place. You're done?"

Y/N: "You don't understand-"

C.C.: "-No, you don't understand! You don't understand what you're made of, stop looking at the scars you've obtained and listen to the still beating heart inside you, you're done, you’ve only just begun"

Y/N: "I'm tired-"

C.C.: "-Then you will rest-"

Y/N(crying): "-It hurts!-"

C.C.: "-Then you will heal! You're the only one that can stand in your way and I won't let you. Now rest, eat, cry, break something! Whatever you gotta do to pull yourself together! I'll wait, you come find me when you're ready... come find me when you're ready to go"

Y/N: "... Okay"

[the-fandom-abyss]

Prompt: here

First Sentence Prompt

A/N: Enjoy the extra line, I just couldn’t help myself.

“Of course I love you, you’re the one I think about when I peel oranges” once the phrase had slipped past your tongue, it was easily one of the silliest things you have ever said. What does that even mean? You chastised yourself over the choice of words. Anything would have sounded more romantic than that.

“What an odd way to say that you love someone” Melissa thought out loud, also puzzled by the choice of words. However, there was just one thing that wasn’t sitting right. “Better yet, you don’t even like oranges”

“Wait, that’s what you decided to fixate on? That I don’t like oranges?” A raised eyebrow was all that was needed to convey how ridiculous this conversation was. You confess your love in a bundle of random words and Melissa is focused on the oranges.

Melissa moved closer towards you, hoping to gain a better understanding of this whole situation. “I just find it strange that you would mention oranges” she shrugged her shoulders, turning her attention back to her cooking.

“I just said that I loved you and the oranges was the most important part?”

“I love you too” she commented in passing, like it was the most obvious answer to the previous question. It didn’t warrant a look or a tender touch, it was just there. In true Schemmenti style, it was just another Tuesday for the woman. “But why the oranges?” A sigh followed by a groan was the reply she received. It was enough to make her smile and laugh, she was only teasing you, it was her way of showing her love for you.

[daddiesdrarryy]

Regulus: So you’re dating Remus?

Sirius: Yeah! It’s going great!

Regulus: So he knew you, and he was like…more?

[gweninred]

sleeping

melissa schemmenti x reader

I’m kind of embarrassed to post this but whatever 😭 it’s just some fluff

“Melissa! Did you bring your baseball stick?” You pulled the object out of her bag. You were on a field trip to the museum were you had to stay the night with the kids. “What? It might come in handy!” You quickly put it back before any of the kids sees it. “I told you not to bring it!” You whisper yelled at your girlfriend. “Gosh, hon, whatever.” She sighs, pulling out the air mattress for both of you.

While you helped one of your third grade students Melissa called out your name. “Honey?” You finished helping the kid. “Yeah?” You walked up to her side looking down at the air mattress, seeing its a single bed instead of for two people. “Are you serious?” You giggled looping your arm around Melissa’s, practically hugging her arm. “I thought I got the right one.” She kissed the side of your head. During work you both liked to keep things professional, even though everyone knew about your relationship. But after this long day you both were getting a little clingy. Now you also had to sleep on a single air mattress. “You are one goofball!” You laughed at the redhead. Poking her side, a squeal from her mouth. “Don’t! You know I’m ticklish!” You poked her side again. “That’s your punishment!” You both giggled, your girlfriend removing herself from your grasp to escape your tickles.

“Ms. Schemmenti? One of her students pulled her hand. “Yes, kid?” Her smile softened and she slipped back into teacher mode. “You promised to read us a bed time story.” Melissa pulled a book from her bag. Then took her a students hand in hers to walk back the group of children, already laying comfortably in their sleeping bags. She sat down and began reading the book.

While Melissa was reading to her students you checked on your group, seeing most of them already asleep. A few quietly chatting with each other. You grabbed your pyjamas and went to the bathroom to change.

“They’re finally asleep.” A familiar raspy voice filled the room as the door opened. You looked at the redhead through the mirror, you were taking off your make-up. “Mh, I’m pretty tired too.” Melissa wrapped her arms around your waist, pulling you close. A few wet kisses were placed on the back of your neck.

Then the door opened, Ava barged in. “You weren’t about to do anything freaky in here, right?” Melissa pulled away from you. The principal cheered, placing a bag of skincare on the bathroom counter. “Ava! What do you think?” You playfully hit her arm. “I’m just making sure!” You brushed your teeth. “I don’t know about you guys but I’m going to bed.” You spoke, you patted Melissa butt before leaving the two woman.

When you had gotten comfy in bed, almost asleep you felt Melissa’s hand stroking a few strands of hair from your forehead. “You awake?” She whispered, you opened your eyes. “Mhm.” You hummed. You opened the blanket and opened your arms for her. She gladly accepted the invitation and scooted by your side. Due the small bed you were both laying on your sides, facing each other. Melissa’s hand draped around waist, legs tangled together and your bodies flush against each other. You kissed her, stroking her fire red hair. “This is cozy.” She whispered, not trying to wake up de kids. You hummed once again, enjoying the company. Your hand moved down to her back, rubbing it up and down lightly with your finger tips. You moved your head in the crook of her neck. Her scent filling your nose trills. “Sleep tight, love.”

[loverofallthingssarah]

no more runnin’

part 1

melissa schemmenti x reader

summary: you’re hiding, you’re running. melissa finds you and your daughter and helps bring you both back to life.

warning: n/a

word count: 1.1k

a/n: this is my first time writing in probably over a year so i hope it’s decent! also im sorry if there are any spelling errors.

You slowly rolled out of bed with a big yawn and stretch that reminded you of your two cats that just happened to keep you up all last night exploring their new domicile. Get your daughter some cats they said, it would teach her responsibility they said. You scoff but love them nevertheless.

Walking towards your daughter's room to get her up and to start getting ready. You start looking around the hallway at all the boxes still lining the walls with all the things you and your daughter collected along the way. Usually you would have everything unpacked by now, but the gravity of your moves were weighing heavy on your chest. You were tired of having to pick up your lives whenever people started to figure out who you really were.

“Hey, baby… it’s time to get up and get ready for your first day at school!” you say excitedly. She grumbles, turning over, hiding under her covers. She reminds you so little of yourself. You were always a morning person and you wondered just where she got her morning grumpiness from because her sperm donor was never a part of your life. But you love how different you both were because there was never a dull moment between you both.

You giggle as you scoop her up and tickle her, “Come on Acey, it’s time to get up!”

“Momma, I don’t wanna go to a new school,” she pouts, “I don’t have any friends and I won’t know anybody and I hate starting new schools.” You stand her up and take her to your bathroom and start getting her ready for the day.

“I know, babygirl. But you said that with your last school, and you made so many friends! I know the same will happen here and I know your teacher will love you. How can she not? You’re the bestest girl in the whole wide world!” you say as you pull her up in a tight hug after you finish up her hair.

Acey smiles, “Okay momma, you’re probably right.”

“Go get dressed baby. I’m going to finish getting ready and I’ll meet you in the kitchen.” you say as you finish your morning routine. Simple routine due to being an ER nurse. Putting on loads of makeup and doing your hair to the nines just wasn’t worth it when you were bound to be run ragged by the end of your shift. Luckily for you, your schedule was extremely flexible due to a need to be able to pick up and drop your daughter off. Being there for her every night, because you didn’t have anyone you trusted to take care of her other than your parents. But they were left back home in South Carolina.

As you get started with breakfast you couldn’t help but think… Today somehow felt different, as if there was something you were meant to accomplish and you couldn’t quite figure out what it was. Part of you felt like, maybe this was the place you could settle down and stop running from your past. You did everything right this time and you were so careful. You pushed that thought to the back of your head because you didn’t want to get your hopes up.

Scrambling as always you both finish breakfast and letting your daughter give the cats a thousand hugs before you make your way to the car to get you both to work and school.

Finally, you pull up to Abbot and see students gathering up in a straight line at the front of the school getting ready to start another day. Your daughter looks out of the window with wide eyes and you can see a glint of curiosity at all the newness around her.

Making your way inside you make your way to the front desk, “Hello my name is Y/N Hadley. This is my daughter Acey. We registered her last week and she is here for her first day of second grade. I haven’t gotten any information on who her teacher is yet.”

A stern, yet soft looking woman rolls her eyes and turns around and yells, “Ava, get over here!”

She turns back to you, “I’m sorry, Y/n. My name is Mrs. Howard, but you can call me Barbara. I teach kindergarten here at Abbot. I’m sorry for the lack of communication our principal here can sometimes… be forgetful.”

You nod understandingly. After your brief interaction with Principal Coleman while registering Acey for school, you could already tell she was a character. You just knew she was in good hands at the school despite the kooky principal. You just had a feeling.

Ava made her appearance dramatically, “Hey, hot stuff. Let’s get your rugrat to class.” She pushes you both along down the hallway. You roll your eyes at her comment knowing that she probably does this with all the parents.

“Acey will be in Ms. Schemmenti’s class,” Ava says as she looks you up and down. “Hot stuff, what’s your ig handle. I go live everyday at…” she starts rambling but you tune her out. As you round the corner to your daughter's new classroom, you see a beautiful redhead bent at the knee tending to one of her students who was having a hard time saying goodbye to his mom. When she finally gets him to sooth a bit and enter her classroom, all three of you step forward to greet the gorgeous second grade teacher.

Ava speaks up, “Melisssa, this is Acey and her mother Y/n. She will be joining your class and yes I realize I forgot to tell you. And no I don’t care.” she turns on her heel with a smirk making her way back to her office. Melissa rolls her eyes and huffs at Ava’s retreating form. Almost like if she could reach out and wrangle her neck she would. You giggle quietly to yourself.

The redhead whom you now know is Melissa Schemmenti, bends down and welcomes your daughter, “Hi, sweetheart. Welcome to my class! Your desk will be over there by Malcolm. Go have a seat and we will get ready to have an amazing day,” your daughter hugs you tightly before following her teachers instructions.

“I love you, momma”

“I love you too, little monster!” she scurries off and Melissa turns her attention to you. She reaches out to shake your hand.

“Hello, I’m Melissa Schemmenti, but you can just call me Melissa.” and when your hands touch you feel a shock. and you breathlessly reply…

“hi…”

part 2 part 3

[oscars-wifeyyy]

Dinner with Manny

(MASTERLIST FOR THIS STORY)

Lina was greeting all her students in her classroom, but she took her phone out when she felt her Apple watch vibrate. When she looked down, she saw a text from Manny telling her good morning and that he hoped that she had a good day today, then another text from Janine letting her know that her presentation for Jacob was coming for an ASL interpreter to come in and help the student out. She smiled and quickly responded to both texts before putting her phone away and focused on teaching. Her students were paying attention today, filling her with joy as she took in their faces.

It was recess, and Lina went to the gym/lunch area to oversee the students and see Barbara and Melissa together at the center. She approached them but stopped when she saw Tariq walk into the room.

“What is Tariq doing here?” Lina asked as she stared at her friend’s ex-boyfriend wave at Barbara.

“I forgot to mention that Tariq is now the father of one of the students in my class,” Barbara said.

“Janine was pregnant?” Lina asked.

“I got so good at ignoring Janine that I never noticed she was pregnant,” Melissa continued scrolling through her phone.

“That child does not have a child. Tariq is just dating the student’s mother,” Barbara looked at both of the women.

“He’s not a father. He’s just a male figure in that child’s life until he leaves,” Lina shrugged, “There is a difference between a father, male figure, and dad,”

“Amen to that, sister,” Melissa said.

“Hey, Mrs. Howard. Hey, mean Italian lady. Hey, Lina,” Tariq smiled as he approached the trio.

“Tariq, you cannot keep showing up here unannounced,” Barbara said.

“Ok, but it’s an emergency. I accidentally took TJ’s lunch and gave him mine, so I’mma just switch these out real quick,” Tariq placed the brown bag on the table in front of a student and grabbed the Lunchable out of the kid’s hands, “Thank you. And I’m out of your hair,” 

“That is a lunchable,” Barbara pointed out.

“And it is delicious,” Tariq said, “Alright, have a good day, Junior,”

“You’re not my dad!” The little boy said.

“That boy is hilarious, and he gets that from me. Bye, y’all,” Tariq ate the lunchable.

Lina rolled her eyes and stood around the gym until it was time for her to take her kids back to class. Then, she took her phone out to see Manny, who had texted her again, so she continued texting him with a smile on her face.

“Who’s got you all smitten there?” Melissa asked with a smirk.

“Nobody,” Lina pulled her face together with a stoic look again.

“Bull. I saw you smiling at your face and texting someone,” Melissa said.

“Ok, I’m texting Manny,” Lina caved.

“Manny as in the district, Manny?” Barbara asked.

Lina nodded.

“Traitor,” Melissa smirked.

“Whatever,” Lina softly smirked and chuckled.

It was the end of school, and Lina was high-fiving her class as they left to their parents, so she quickly cleaned up her class when Jacob popped into her class.

“Hey, wanna go to Ruben’s with Janine and me?” Jacob asked.

“I can’t. I got like two classes at school tonight,” Lina said.

Jacob nodded and bid his byes before walking out,, so Lina quickly grabbed her belongings and left the school. She jumped into her car and began her way to school. Manny called her as she parked in the parking lot.

“Hey, you,” Lina said as she gathered her school bag.

“Hey, you,” Manny’s voice rang through her phone, “how was your day?”

“It was good. My students were angels today, and I’m at school to go to my two classes tonight, so it’s an overall good but busy day,”

“That’s good. What time does your classes end?” Manny asked.

“It ends around 8ish,” Lina responded as she stopped at the door of her class.

“Ok. Would you be interested in grabbing some dinner with me? Nothing too fancy or anything,” Manny’s nervous voice rang.

“Yeah, sure. What are you thinking?” Lina asked, “Because. I’m not gonna lie. I got some food at home that I can cook up for both of us,”

“That doesn’t sound fair. I’m the one that invited you out,” Manny protested.

“It’s ok. I love cooking,”

“That's okay if you insist. Text me your address, and I’ll see you at 8:30, " Manny said.

“Yeah, see you,” Lina grinned before hanging up and skipping into her class.

Hours seemed to be passing slowly as she looked at the clock, anticipating it would be over so she could head home and look presentable for her guests. Time had finally caught up, and she went to her place at 8:15. She rushed inside and into the shower. When she got out, her phone read 8:25, so she ran to her closet, grabbed a lounge dress that hugged her figure in the right places, and put on her slippers.

When she was fully ready, she heard a knock on the door. She rushed to the door and opened it to see Manny in a nice short-sleeve button-up shirt, dark pants, and Jordan 1ss.

“Hey! I was just about to grab all the ingredients from the fridge,” Lina smiled, letting him in.

“Great! What are we making?” Manny asked.

“We?” Lina asked.

“Yeah. I figured we could cook together, seeing as though I'm the one who asked you to dinner again,” Manny stated.

“Ok. We are doing something different. We’re gonna be eating some Korean barbecue,” Lina smiled, “I already had the meat marinating as well as prepped the side dishes and everything,”

“I never had Korean barbecue,” Manny said, “Also, I never said it, but you look absolutely stunning tonight,”

“It’s only a lounge dress,” Lina blushed.

Their night was deemed successful, and Lina blushed furiously at the end. However, nothing more had happened, and Manny was out the door by 10:30. This left Lina confused about whether it was a date or not, so she deemed it just a dinner with a friend.

The next day, the school day came and went, and Lina was grateful that it was over because it had been stressful for her. It had looked up when she saw a text from Manny informing her that Janine, him, and Simon were going out for drinks later. She asked if she wanted to go. She responded with a yes and packed her bag to head home and get ready to leave again. When she was done, Manny texted her that they were on their way, so she smiled and ran out the door.

“Manny, who are we waiting for?” Janine asked when she noticed Manny kept looking at the door.

“Oh, we’re waiting for Lina,” Manny said.

“Oh! Are you guys like a thing?” Janine asked.

“Maybe. At least I want it to be,” Manny blushed.

At that moment, Lina walked in and caught Manny’s eye, putting him in a trance. She wore flare jeans, a crop top with a black blazer, and some booties. When she got to the table, Manny stood up.

“Want to get a drink?” Manny asked.

“Yeah, sure,” Lina grinned.

The two started walking to the bar, with Manny’s hand on the small of her back, which made her blush. When they got to the bar, the bartender immediately approached them.

“Can I get a tequila pineapple?” Lina asked. The bartender nodded and looked toward Manny. He shook his head and gave him his card. “Why’d you do that? I could’ve got it,”

“What? And let a beautiful girl get her own drink with her own money? Nah, my mom raised me better than that,” Manny grinned.

“Well, your mom sounds like a great woman. I remember you telling me that she was a teacher and all the struggles she went through, especially with being a single mom,” Lina said, “I hope I get to meet her some day,”

“Yeah?” Manny smiled, “Maybe that will happen. I was wondering, would you maybe wanna go on an actual date with me?”

Lina looked at him with a dumbfounded look, “Really? Me?”

“Yeah, who else,” Manny looked around jokingly.

“Yeah, of course,” Lina grinned as the bartender set her drink down, and the two joined Simon and Janine at the table.

When they slid into the same side of the booth, Manny casually threw an arm to rest on the headboard behind her and secretly played with her hair. The table cheered to celebrate Janine’s win in getting Jacob an ASL translator, and they all had a fun time afterward.