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another-bryk-in-the-wall · 2 years ago

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After the battle - Ivar the Boneless x Reader

Warnings: mentions of death and war and blood and yknow it’s vikings.

The war was close to being won, but the battles didn’t stop. The rivers flowed red with the blood of the dead saxons and vikings, corpses littering the battlefields. So far you had managed to stay out of the worst, only losing your brother to the horrors of war. Sometimes, being an unmarried maiden had its perks, especially when you witnessed the widows crying over their dead husbands.

As the rivers started to flow clear again, you dared to take a step outside of your home again. The cold winds blew through your hair, making you shiver as you walked along the path leading to your favorite spot. An open spot in the woods where your favorite flowers were growing, helping you to extend your knowledge and collection of herbs, flowers and even more. Sometimes you’d even be lucky enough to spot a deer in those parts.

But this time felt different. With every step you had the feeling you were walking on dead men’s bodies, stepping into blood even though it was only the mud. Your racing thoughts came to a halt when you heard some soft whimpering close by. A hurt animal? No, no, an animal sounded different. Animals made noises when they were afraid of death, those noises sounded…too human. Ways too human.

You decided to follow the noises, leading you into thick boskage. Careful not to injure yourself, you walked and walked…until a small pool of blood caught your attention. Not wasting a second more you ran over there. “Hello? Is anyone there?”, you called out, to which another grunt made you look around. And there was someone lying! Hidden under a layer of dirt and leaves, you spotted this half dead man, almost making the mistake of stepping on him and adding insult to injury. Oh my, you had to help him… but would you be able to trust him?

Bringing him back to your hut had been more of a challenge than you previously anticipated. Turns out this man’s legs were Fucked with a capital F. Was he injured in battle or what was going on with him?

You managed to place him on your bed, finally able to take a good hard look at him. “What happened to you, stranger?”, you muttered while using a wet cloth to get some of the grime off his body. How long had he been laying in the dirt and mud? Was he fighting alone, or did his comrades leave him for dead?

You got rid of his leather armor and what was left of the blood soaked linen he had been wearing. Thankfully the wounds on his chest and the surrounding area were shallow - but bad enough to be a pain in the ass. But thanks to your knowledge of herbs and plants and everything related, you knew just what to do. Somewhere in your hut, you had a paste of chamomile around, something your mother had taught you to make. Grabbing the bottle it was in, the man managed to open his eyes just this tiny bit. Just enough to catch a blurred glimpse of the maiden who had somehow dragged him out of the woods.

“Thank you”, he croaked out. Oh! He probably hadn’t drank for days! He must be close to dying of thirst! Those thoughts shot through your mind when you heard his raspy voice, alarming every part of your body. Still, his survival was miraculous within itself, and miracles called for celebration. Luckily, your mother had just helped you bottle a fresh batch of mead, prepared with the flowers from the spot you found him in. The stranger gulped the mead down, saving him from his dying breath. The mead filled his starving belly for now, which he only realized now was begging for food. “Don’t drink too much at once or you’ll vomit.”, you quietly scolded the man as you finished putting the paste all over his badly healing wounds. Once they were a bit more open, you could clean them and re-apply the paste.

“Wouldn’t be good.”, this time, the stranger’s voice sounded less rough, the water had coated his dry throat, slowly absorbing the desperately needed hydration. This man had been on Death’s doorstep for too long, but not even Death wanted to take him in, so you did. A mystery, this viking in front of you. The cloth on your bed slowly turned into a dark red shade as his wounds were slowly opened back up by you. Too much dirt could halt the healing process and give him more worries in the future. By now you hadn’t even touched his legs, only had taken his pants off, but from what you had seen there, those were beyond any kind of salvation.

“Why are you doing this?”, the man managed to sit up a little bit, causing you to promptly press him back down into the bed. “You nearly died. Thank me later. You need sleep.”, you said, putting a bit of pressure on a stronger bleeding wound - it wasn’t fatal, but bad enough to let the blood trickle down his abdomen.

“Sleep…yes, sleep sounds good.”, his head hit the small pillow you liked to cuddle again, eyes closing as he took a long and deep breath.

“Before you fall asleep, stranger, tell me…what’s your name?”

“My name is Ivar.”

#ivar the boneless #ivar x ofc #ivar x reader #ivar the boneless x reader #alex høgh andersen #ivar #ivar the boneless x you

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the-girl-in-the-box · 3 years ago

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Not Today- XXXIV

A/N: Aaand, another late chapter, oops! I had a bit of a crazy week, finishing preparations for an audition I had Wednesday for a music program at my university, then passing the audition, scrambling to get my schedule sorted on Thursday, attending my first day of classes Friday, and making up any work I missed Friday afternoon and all day Saturday. YIKES! 😅 But, I’m very happy in this program, and I can tell I’m finally right where I’m meant to be. Unfortunately, all that did lead to another late chapter, but I have made it an extra thousand words- hopefully that makes up for the lateness!! A trigger warning for child abuse toward the end (canon typical), but enjoy the chapter! Even bigger things are coming soon 👀 Skål!

Summary: When Ivar takes the throne of Kattegat, Lagertha flees to Wessex along with Björn, Ubbe, Torvi, and the Bishop Heahmund. There, they seek the aid of King Alfred. This aid comes in the form of his sister, Aethelind, who agrees to travel to Kattegat and try to reason Ivar, who she spent some time with during their youth, when her grandfather King Ecbert hosted Ragnar Lothbrok in their castle. Now, she is the only hope for Lagertha and her supporters to retake Kattegat from Ivar the Boneless.

Masterlist

Ivar was woken first by the light streaming in through their window, and he shifted slightly as if he could avoid it. He felt Asta shifting with him, though far more subtly, as she moved only to press her back closer to his side. He smiled a little, turning his head toward her, and then he shifted once more. Rolling up onto his side, he let one of his arms drape over her waist, and then pulled her tightly against his chest, burying his face in her hair. He found it blocked the sun out perfectly, and so he let out a contented sigh. Yes, he could get used to this.

She rolled over, and he chuckled a bit to himself as he felt her turning back towards him, her arms wrapping around him and head tucking up under his chin. He adjusted his grip to hold her more securely, his hand resting against her upper back as he pulled her under his arm. There was a greater intimacy between them now, he realized, than there had been before. All the nights they’d slept at each other’s sides, he had still held her then, but it hadn’t been the same as this. Whatever wall she had put up between them had finally cracked that night. With it, Ivar’s insecurities about her had as well.

Now, as he pulled back just a bit to look down at her, he smiled softly. The early morning light was reflecting gently off her skin, making her almost seem to glow in it, contrasting with the thick, dark waves which stretched out behind her. Truly, he would believe she was a goddess, if he was told it was so. As it stood, he believed with all his heart she truly was a Prophet.

“Your blood is fated together.”

The words entered his mind in the Seer’s voice, and when Ivar lifted his eyes, he saw him, sitting somewhere just behind her. But it wasn’t his own voice he heard reply, it was hers.

“Our blood?” she asked. “How can our blood be fated together?”

“In the blood of your fathers,” the Seer answered, no less frustratingly vague than he had been in life. “In the blood of your sons. King begets King, Priest begets Princess, and blood is fated to blood. The darkness grows as the light stays by his side. The tides are pulled by command of the moon.”

“What do you mean by that? What moon, and what tides?” she questioned.

“You are surrounded by the tides, Prophet. But they do not darken your light. You remain. You are all that remains. Wake, and drown in them.”

Asta’s eyes opened suddenly, taking a deep breath as she looked up at Ivar. He found himself blinking a few times, and… he smiled. Even though he knew she had rather mundane ways of making her prophecies, he had no doubt she was somehow truly a Prophet. If the Seer were here, were still alive, and could somehow speak with her, he would say the same. Ivar was sure of it.

Confusion crossed his face as he saw it grow in her, and she even sat up a bit, took a little bit of a look around. “Was there a man in here?” she asked, looking back to Ivar now with her brows drawn. He shook his head.

“None that I’m aware of,” he said. If there had been one, he’d snuck in while they’d slept. But Ivar couldn’t recall anyone but himself and Asta. “Did you hear something?”

“A man’s voice,” she answered. “He spoke to me. You’re sure you heard nothing?”

“I heard nothing,” he answered her honestly. “I have only been awake a few moments, but I think I would have noticed. Did you dream it?”

“Perhaps.”

“They say the Seer has appeared in dreams to people,” he told her. “I have not seen him since his death, but I know I have heard it said.”

Asta hummed, growing more thoughtful at this response from Ivar. “Was he a strangely cryptic man?” Ivar chuckled.

“There was nothing he said which made any sense until you saw it played out in your life,” he replied, which in turn made her chuckle as well. “What did the man in your dream say, hmm?”

To Ivar, it was beginning to sound as if the Seer had come to Asta in a dream, which was only serving to further convince him she was truly a Prophet. If the Seer gave her a prophecy, could that be how she knew to say some of what she did? Things such as her various warnings to Oleg? That would certainly make sense.

“He told me the tides would be pulled at the command of the moon.”

Ivar froze.

He’d heard those words, once before, when the very same prophecy had been given to him. Many times, he’d reflected on it as he watched Asta, and as he found himself doing whatever it was she needed. Even now, as he had proposed marriage to her, not only to ensure he never loses her, but also for her own security in Wessex, he was doing all he could for her. He couldn’t remember the last time another person had had such influence over him.

Well, there was Freydis. And, had Asta not stayed so steadfastly by his side, he might have questioned her in the aftermath of Freydis’s betrayal. But as it was, he found that he trusted her. He wanted to trust her. He didn’t know if he would be able to take her betrayal, not so shortly after Freydis’s. He needed her, and so he was pulled at her command. Ivar the Boneless would always be pulled at the command of Asta the Prophet.

He hummed, and brought a hand up to push her hair behind her ear. “What do you think it means, hmm?”

“I don’t know,” Asta replied. She leaned into Ivar’s touch, the way he brushed her hair back, and gave a sigh. “He said many other things, but nothing I could pick any meaning out of.”

“Try not to worry too much then, my love,” he said. “Just take some time to rest, instead.”

Asta nodded a little, taking in a deep breath and letting it out in a long exhale. “You’re right,” she said. “Yes, I’ll just…” She paused as she looked up at him, and cupped his jaw with her hand. “I’ll focus on you instead.”

Ivar smiled and nodded. “And I will focus on you,” he promised. He let his hand move from her hair to her back, pulling her closer as he leaned down to press his lips to hers. The little hum she gave, a sound of contentment he had learned to recognize from her the night before, made warmth spread through his chest. Indeed, if he could wake up with her like this every morning, he would die a happy man.

Unfortunately, as with all things, their morning together eventually came to an end, and Ivar and Asta had to get up and prepare for their day. Their routine was well established by now, and they moved around their chambers as if they’d been practicing this all their lives- stopping to help the other as needed, and finding the other there almost before the request was made.

If nothing else, they were nearly perfectly attuned to the other. Ivar would take a different breath when he was about to speak, and if he was sitting on the bed without his braces, then Asta knew what he wanted before he had even voiced it. She’d easily go to get his braces, and bring them to him, helping him to get them on his legs without being asked.

Likewise, she would give a very particular huff when she was struggling with her hair, and so Ivar would call her over before she even requested he help her with it. A perfect team was what they had become, and when the time came for them to take Igor to the market, both were prepared simultaneously, and ready to start their day. It was all terribly convenient, and gave them a sense of domesticity with the other about which they’d never complain.

Igor was already prepared to leave when they arrived at his chambers, and today, he’d clearly decided to bring along his puppet. Asta had smiled when she saw this, and chuckled softly.

“Ah, the King will be joining us today, then?” she asked him teasingly, and Igor grinned and nodded.

“He has decided he wants to get out,” he replied. “See his Kingdom.”

“Is that so, your Majesty?” Ivar asked the puppet.

Taking on a voice as if the puppet were speaking, Igor answered, “It is. I want to see my people, and how they are doing.”

The three went into the marketplace as they had planned, walking about and looking at different things for sale, laughing at a hat Asta tried on which didn’t suit her at all, and Ivar even bought a necklace for her, which did rather well suit her. It was a silver pendant, in which was carved the Triskele, a symbol of growth and change. The symbol seemed rather fitting, and so when she took to it, he gifted it to her. She’d grinned and hugged him happily, kissed his cheek, and asked him to put it around her neck. Seeing her so happy with the little gift had warmed Ivar’s heart.

Later, sometime that afternoon, a man approached Ivar while Asta was off at another booth, entertaining the boy with something. The message was something Ivar wasn’t overly fond of hearing, but accepted, and went to Asta and Igor with. “We must go,” he explained, and Asta sighed softly.

“Can I assume that…?” she began, and he gave a nod. This only caused her to let out an irritated huff. “He can’t even give us a day, can he? One day, just to do whatever we feel like?”

Ivar chuckled softly, and shook his head. “Apparently, he cannot,” he said. “Come.”

Asta rolled her eyes again, and turned to Igor. “Well?” she asked the boy. “Are you coming?”

“Where are we going?” he questioned, though he did follow Asta and Ivar as they started back toward the palace.

The latter of them answered, “To see Uncle Oleg.”

Igor wasn’t happy with this answer, and so decided to entertain himself by speaking once more through his puppet. “About what?” he asked.

“I don’t know,” Ivar replied. “Oleg is… an enigma.”

“What’s an ‘igma’?” Igor asked then, confused enough at the word to drop the puppet voice and look up at Ivar. Asta chuckled softly, and corrected him.

“An enigma,” she said.

“What’s an enigma?”

Ivar chuckled softly, and shook his head. “I’ve no idea,” he replied.

“An enigma is something that cannot be understood,” Asta explained to them both. “And… a very fitting description for Oleg.”

Igor had stopped paying so much attention to what Asta and Ivar were saying, wondering to himself what it might be that his uncle wanted with them that was so important he had to interrupt their day out. “Perhaps Uncle Oleg wants to give me a present,” he suggested somewhat hopefully.

“Perhaps he does,” Asta agreed. She rather doubted it.

But, it was enough for Igor, who smiled and said, “Perhaps he wants to give me half of the sky.”

Ivar and Asta shared a brief look. The sky did not belong to Oleg, and so to hear Igor speak as though it did, even after the talks they’d had with him, was concerning to say the least. Ivar stopped, putting a hand on Igor’s shoulder as he turned to him.

“He cannot give you something that is already yours,” he told the boy seriously. “Remember that, hmm?”

Asta looked up, back toward the palace, where she found Oleg watching them from the balcony just above the door. He turned and went inside.

The trio soon found their way back into the palace, and into the main dining hall, where Oleg was already waiting for them, sitting at the head of the table as he did so. Katia sat to his right, and Asta swallowed slightly at the sight. Something didn’t sit right with her about this, though she wasn’t sure just what it was.

“Prince Igor,” she greeted, smiling at the sight of him. “And Ivar the Boneless and Asta the Prophet. How very lovely.” She smiled as well at the Vikings. “Will you have some tea?”

Oleg patted the place to his left as the Princess stood, gesturing for Igor to come and sit there, and the boy did so eagerly. Asta, still more than a touch suspicious, lifted her brow as she watched Katia go for the pot.

“Tea?” she questioned.

As opposed to answering, Katia simply repeated, “Tea,” with a warm smile.

Asta hummed and sat down, as Ivar asked, “What is tea?”

“A plant, from Asia,” Katia replied.

Of course, she answers him, Asta thought a bit bitterly.

As Ivar sat down beside her, Katia knelt to pour him a cup of tea, holding eye contact with him for far longer than necessary. She repeated this exactly with Asta, who looked up into her eyes with a silent question behind them. What are you playing at? they almost seemed to ask.

Katia’s seemed to answer, Trust me.

Asta blinked a few times, confusion crossing her face. Something in Katia’s expression made the Shieldmaiden want to do exactly that, though realistically she knew doing so would likely be a horrible decision. But what if it wasn’t? What if trusting Katia was something she was meant to do? What if nothing was as it seemed here in Kiev, and Katia was not doing as she seemed to be?

Oleg spoke again, pulling Asta’s attention away from the Rus Princess with his anxious tone as he suggested, of what tea was, that it was, “Medicine, perhaps,” and chuckled shortly after. So, Katia’s behavior was unsettling? Asta’s attention immediately returned to her, as Oleg began to try and move things along. “I thought you might be interested in the further plans for the invasion of your countries,” he said. “I mean, of course, our countries.”

A telling, “Hmm,” from Katia, who finished pouring the tea, and returned to her place at Oleg’s side.

Ivar replied, “Of course,” but Asta was now unable to stop thinking.

There was a message in Katia’s little hum, something about what Oleg had just said. What had he just said? The invasion of your countries. I mean, of course, our countries… Had that been a slip of the tongue, or of the subconscious? What was he saying through that?

She began to pay more attention as he explained, “As you know, we cannot put our plan into operation until next spring,” wanting to see if she could pick up on anything else out of the ordinary. “However,” he continued, “it seems to me it would be ill-advised to commit such huge forces into many unknown…”

At this time, Igor began to play with the puppet again, bored of the conversation regarding so much plotting and planning. He was still a child, after all, and what child wanted to plan the invasion of another country? Oleg noticed this, and gave a small sigh as he finished, “...theatres of war.”

Igor got up then, carrying the puppet around behind Oleg to go and sit beside Katia, who wrapped an arm around him and began to tend him much as a mother would. Oleg ignored this, and continued to speak.

“I know you can advise us on what we are likely to encounter,” he said to Ivar and Asta, “but I feel as though we need a more current and a much broader knowledge of those countries…” He became distracted by Igor pretending to feed the puppet, watching him for a few moments before continuing with a groan, “we plan to attack.”

Ivar could see the irritation beginning to grow in Oleg, and it occurred to him that if the man’s attention was not pulled away from the boy once more, he may lose his temper. That was something no one there, he didn’t doubt, would want to see. “Strategy and planning are everything,” he agreed as means of doing exactly this, and tapped the side of his head for emphasis. “The mind is a far better battlefield than the sword.”

“My intention is to send small raiding parties,” Oleg explained. Ivar’s plan had worked, then. “To take prisoners, from whom further information can be gleaned.”

Igor again got up, and moved to sit just to Ivar’s right, as if having been reminded by the Viking speaking up that he was there, and could indeed be sat with. Said Viking answered Oleg, “I agree, that is very sensible.”

“And, perhaps you would even consider appointing us to lead a couple of these raiding parties?” Asta suggested.

Oleg looked to her, as if a bit surprised she would make this suggestion. But, he smiled falsely at her, and replied insincerely, “I will definitely take your request into consideration. Although, Katia and I both enjoy your… intimate company.”

Asta wasn’t surprised he was already wanting to turn this down. After all, the entire reason she did want to go was to see if she could run into Hvitserk, or perhaps Torvi, Ubbe, even Björn… There was still a horrible feeling in her gut when she thought of Lagertha, of the nightmare she’d had concerning the older Shieldmaiden, and if she could just make contact with one of her old friends, without alerting them to Ivar’s location… she thought she might be able to find something out, and set her mind at ease.

She stopped staring Oleg down as Katia spoke up, seeming to agree with her husband. “You are both… very intriguing,” she said. “Some of the things you say surprise me, and I never know what you will say next. You claim there is a connection between us, which I cannot fully understand…”

Ivar smiled tightly at her, and Asta hummed. “I wish I could understand it,” she said. “You aren’t alone in that lack of understanding. In fact, I find it likely that only the gods know.”

Katia hummed, but before she could answer Asta, Igor began to beat the hand of the puppet on the table, as if the puppet were demanding everyone’s attention. Oleg glared irritatedly, but Ivar took a different approach, looking instead to appease the boy.

“What do you say, Prince Igor?” he asked. “Do you want to come with us on a raiding party?”

“I must consult the King,” Igor said, and Ivar acquiesced with a hum, and a gesture to the puppet which clearly encouraged Igor to do so. Taking on the puppet’s ‘voice’ once again, Igor said, “I think you should make your own decisions!”

Oleg cracked.

“What are you doing, huh?!” he demanded, almost launching himself to his feet and storming around the table toward Igor. He pulled the boy up to his feet, and yelled, “Are you crazy?” before throwing him back down again.

Asta gasped, but before she could get up to push Oleg away from Igor, Igor himself stood, and putting the puppet between himself and Oleg, speaking once more through it, he shouted back, “I am not crazy! I am the King and I own everything! This table, this room, this palace! I own the land and the sky!”

Ivar watched, almost as if enthralled or entranced, as Igor finally stood up for himself. It was a far cry from the anxious expression his ‘wife’ wore, and her hand closed around his arm tightly. Oh yes, she was anxious indeed.

And, she was right to be, as Oleg then screamed, and snatched the puppet away from Igor, throwing it to the ground and stomping on it, shredding it until it was nothing more than chips of wood. When Igor tried to run, Oleg grabbed him by the back of his collar, and threw him down as if he weighed no more than the puppet. He got down into Igor’s face, and snapped, “Don’t do that anymore! Don’t be stupid. You are not the King, you are my ward. I am responsible for you, and without you, you are nothing. Do you understand?” Igor tried to look away from him, and Oleg grabbed his jaw, forcing the boy’s attention back. “Don’t ever try to make fun of me again, or I’ll cut out your tongue and feed your liver to my dogs.”

Finally released, Igor jumped to his feet, and fled the room.

Asta, horrified, turned to watch Oleg as he stood, straightened his coat, and returned to sit beside Katia once more- though, the Princess seemed to, at the least, be judging Oleg’s actions quite harshly in her head. “He’s a good boy,” Oleg said. “He just needs to be controlled.”

Katia took a sip of her tea.

When the room remained silent, Oleg again spoke. “You had a child once, didn’t you, Ivar?”

Asta’s eyes hardened, and she glared daggers at Oleg, sensing how Ivar tensed up beside her in a highly uncomfortable way. He gave Oleg a tight smile, took his crutch, and stood. “Forgive me,” he said. “I’ve had enough to eat.” The way he picked up the shattered puppet, and carried it from the room, revealed that was far from the true problem.

Asta took a deep breath, closing her eyes briefly as she stood, and looked down at Oleg. His eyes met hers once more, preparing for another battle of will with her, but today, she wasn’t playing. She spoke one sentence. “The gods will judge you harshly, Prince Oleg.” One sentence, and she left.

Ivar and Asta had eventually found Igor up in the nest in his room, and both had managed the climb up in there to sit with him. The boy now rested against Ivar, who held him tightly, with Asta’s arms wrapped around them both.

“Do not weep, dear Igor,” Ivar said softly, and pressed a soothing kiss to the top of his head. “Sweet child, do not weep. We are here, now.”

Asta knew Igor likely didn’t realize the full meaning of Ivar’s words. But she did, and she agreed with him wholeheartedly. She and Ivar had become fiercely protective of Igor, in their time in Kiev, and now that they were there, they weren’t going to let Oleg get away with treating him like this. No, on the contrary.

They were going to make him pay.

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#ivar the boneless #ivar #ivar ragnarsson #alex høgh andersen #ivar's heathen army #ivar x oc #ivar x original female character #ivar x ofc #ivar x christian!oc #vikings #vikings history channel #history channel vikings #not today #chapter thirty-four

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jacksonroseroth · 6 years ago

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Just Don’t Tell Them?

Sequel series to the Sleepover One Shot- Fluffy, smutty Ivar cuteness and sass

Warnings: Smut

Words: 3,920

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The next morning, Ivar and Tora were surprised to find they were the first ones up, even as it was almost noon. But as they went down the stairs, smiling and chuckling to themselves, they stopped and Ivar pushed her away, gently, as they saw Ubbe and Hvitserk chatting away on the couches. Tora stumbled a little, stunned and worried and unprepared for the sudden distance, and it made them look up.

“Hey. Where are you coming from, Ivar?” Ubbe asked, raising an eyebrow. Thankfully, Tora had the thought to pull on a tank top instead of coming down in her bralette, so it would seem less suspicious than it already was.

“Uh, the guest room.” He said. Hvitserk glanced over at Ubbe who was grinning, knowing Ivar was a sack of shit.

“Really.” Ubbe said. Hvitserk snickered and turned back to them as they each sat in an armchair across from them. “You know there are three guest rooms down here, right?”

“Do you think I’m that stupid?” Ivar asked with a smirk. Before he could continue, both Ubbe and Hvitserk, in unison, said, “Yes.”

Tora bit her lip and giggled, watching the back and forth between them. Ivar cracked and laughed along with his brothers, shaking his head before continuing, “It was hot. Tora said the top rooms were cooler cause they had some shitty vents down here.”

“We were perfectly fine down here.” Hvitserk said, holding out his hands, indicating the room.

“Yeah. You two were also passed out drunk. Of course, you were perfectly fine.” Ivar said. Ubbe and Hvitserk exchanged glances before they both looked at him and said, “So?”

Ivar rolled his eyes and shook his head. “Whatever, man. I just know I win, because I didn't wake up with a hangover.” Ivar said, flipping them both off with both hands as he went to the kitchen.

As the boys helped clean up the house, after getting up and getting dressed, chowing down on the leftover pizza, Tora told Torvi she was going to strip the beds, save her parents room, and wash all the sheets. Torvi offered to help but Tora told her Ivar already agreed to help. Torvi was, of course, suspicious about it, but had other things to worry about like getting Bjorn and Ubbe to clean out the pool and Hvitserk to help with the trash. Tora and Ivar took their time going from room to room, stealing many kisses and lots of teasing gropes. Tora and Ivar finally made it down to the laundry room and started a load before Tora hopped onto the dryer and Ivar slowly made his way to her, smirking. Tora giggled as he inserted himself between her legs and held her waist. She sighed and rested her hand on his shoulders with a soft smile.

“Ivar, I think we should talk?” Tora said. Ivar raised an eyebrow and gave a soft chuckle.

“About what? Last night?” He asked. Tora nodded.

“Yeah. It-It was great, don’t get me wrong.” Tora said, unable to resist him and slid her hands down his chest then back up and through his hair. “But...I know you had a bit to drink yesterday and..I just...I dunno...I guess I just-”

“You want to know if I meant what I said and did?” Ivar guessed. Tora blushed and nodded, biting her lip and hoping he wouldn’t hate her. Ivar chuckled and kissed her slowly, tugging her closer until she was pressed against him. Tora giggled and wrapped her arms around his neck, keeping his face close to her, even when he broke the kiss. Ivar smiled and rubbed his nose to hers. “I might have been drinking, but I wasn’t so far gone I didn't realize what I was doing. You’re not that kind of girl for me to just fuck you and leave you...Mostly cause Torvi would have my balls on display in her apartment…”

Tora threw her head back and laughed. Ivar chuckled and buried his face in her neck, sliding a hand up her back. He placed gentle kisses down her neck until her laughter had ceased and she looked at him. Tora giggled and kissed him softly.

“So...I mean, I kind of don’t want to give Bjorn and Torvi the satisfaction of knowing they were right...But...I also want to be with you.” Tora said. A wicked smirk crossed Ivar’s face as he looked her over, slipping his fingers under her shirt.

“Well, you know...We could always just...Not tell them?” Ivar suggested. Tora gave him a look and a sly smirk.

“Are you asking me to sneak around with you like some hussy?” She teased. Ivar smirked and tried to nip at her, but Tora giggled and pushed at his face. “You’re serious, though? You want to date and just...Not tell them?”

Ivar shrugged and smirked. “Why not?” He asked. He leaned in and placed a light and delicate, yet sexually suggestive kiss near her ear. “Kind of thrilling isn’t it?”

He leaned in on the other side and nipped at her earlobe, gently, making her shiver.

“Sneaking around. Trying not to get caught. Doing bad things in the dark?” He said, wiggling his eyebrows and going to the other side once more and nipping just behind her ear, followed by a light kiss. The nip made her let out a soft whimper, but his words registered and made her blink then laugh, gently encasing the sides of his head before sliding her hands through his hair as he lifted his head to kiss her, slowly. Tora sighed as she broke the kiss, turning her head, eyes still closed, and letting him kiss a trail across her cheek and down her neck once more. Tora giggled and pressed her cheek against his.

“I dunno...I’ve been told before I’m a horrible liar.” Tora whispered into his ear, causing a deep, guttural growl from Ivar as he bit her neck, lightly, trying not to leave a mark. Ivar had constantly teased her about being a horrible liar and that’s why it lead to so many times that her parents almost found out about quite a number of things when they were in school, the biggest one being her smoking weed.

Ivar smirked and trailed his cheek over her skin as he lifted his head to face her. He chuckled and kissed her again. “So was that a yes?” He asked, breaking the kiss and speaking against her lips. Tora’s lips spread into a smile and she nodded.

“Yes.” Tora whispered. Ivar chuckled and kissed her again, hungrily, making Tora lean back as she clung to him. Tora let out a gasp that broke their kiss as she felt a gush between her thighs. Ivar smirked and slid his hands over her sides, pushing up her shirt.

“How long do you think we have until they come looking for us?” Ivar asked, his voice dropping low and sensual. Tora bit her lip as she arched into him, slightly. She sighed with a soft moan and said, “I dunno. Probably not long.”

A sly and mischievous smile spread across his face. “The basement is soundproof, right?” He asked. Tora nodded as she stared into his bright blue eyes that seemed to get brighter as his foul and dirty little mind worked. When she nodded yes to his question, Tora swear she saw his eyes glitter as he asked, “Would they get freaked out if I locked the door?”

Tora smirked and shook her head. “It gets stuck all the time...And if anything, Torvi can just text me and I’ll tell her I’m doing laundry.” Tora said.

“And if my brothers leave without me?” Ivar asked. Tora smirked and tugged him closer, saying, “I’ll tell her I’ll take you home later.”

Tora kissed him, roughly, wanting and needing him right now. She hadn’t noticed, as he hypnotized her with his baby blues, that her shirt was nearly off, Ivar having slid his hands up and up as he spoke. Tora ripped the shirt off and pulled him closer again to kiss him as he tugged at his shirt, tugging it over his head. Tora leaned back as his fingers dug into her shorts and panties, and she lifted up as he yanked them down and let them drop. Tora giggled as he slid his hands up her thighs and up her sides, holding her close. He claimed her lips again, wrapping an arm around her waist and setting the other on her thigh, letting his thumb wrap around her inner thigh, rubbing gently. Tora sighed and arched against him, ready for every glorious inch of him to just be inside her already. Ivar chuckled and shook his head.

“It’s just about you, right now, kitten.” He purred. Tora smirked and said, “I’ve been on the pill for two years. I didn't want to get stuck with Olin’s fucking kids, the bastard.”

Ivar rolled his eyes. “He was an ass and never treated you right.” Ivar said, kissing down her neck and letting her hands drift down his chest to his waistband. Tora giggled.

“Ooh, was that jealousy I heard?” She teased, biting his bottom lip gently. Ivar smirked.

“Watch yourself, Tora. I know you found my stash...You know what I can do to you.” Ivar said in a teasing threat. Tora smirked. “You sure you’re on the pill?”

Tora nodded. “My period is like...2 weeks away.” She said. “We’re good for now, Ivar. Please...You started this, now finish it.”

Ivar smirked and kissed her, deeply, tugging at her bralette as Tora pushed down his sweats and boxer shorts. Tora sighed and let Ivar tear the bralette up and over her head to toss it aside, then pulled her closer to kiss down her neck.

“Talk to me, kitten…” Ivar growled in her ear as his hands slid inside her and danced around. Tora whimpered and bit her lip, trying desperately to move her hips along with his fingers.

“Oh, fuck, Ivar…” Tora moaned, tilting her head back and letting a slow sigh escape from her lips. Ivar smirked and kissed down her neck to her breasts, closing his lips around a nipple and sucking gently. Tora curled her fingers around his hair as she braced her other hand behind her on the dryer to get a better angle to move her hips.

“Tell me what you want, my little dove.” Ivar cooed against her breast. Tora whimpered and said, “I want you in me now.” Ivar snickered and looked up at her.

“That’s all I wanted to hear.” He said. His head shot up to her, sealing his lips over hers as he pulled his fingers away, pushing her legs open a little more and sliding into her sex, slowly, making Tora twitch with each inch. She whimpered and whined as glanced down between their bodies before tilting her head back in a moan where his name tumbled down from her lips. Once he seated himself inside her, he gave Tora a moment to breathe and adjust to his size. Both of them breathing hard, they stared at each other for a moment before they both let out a soft laugh and kissed, slowly, as Ivar began to move. Tora whimpered into the kiss and broke it, tilting her head back as she slowly rolled her hips in time with his. Ivar groaned as he buried his face into her neck, nipping and kissing as he sped up.

“Ivar…” Tora moaned, softly, spreading her fingers through his hair as she clung to him. Ivar panted against her skin as he gripped the edge of the dryer to thrust in and out of her, faster and faster. Tora released his head and let herself fall back, his hand cradling her back, gently, and gripped the machine, exposing herself fully to him. Ivar chuckled and kissed and licked his way down her body, stopping to give each breast equal attention, letting one hand fly up to caress each one. Tora whimpered as she felt her walls clench, hard, around him, almost willing her climax to slam into her. Which it did, but not before one final ‘Ivar’, said so soft and so light it drove Ivar into complete overdrive as his orgasm slammed violently into him. He groaned, loud, pressing his face between her breasts to silence it as best he could. Tora whimpered and clawed at his back and tugged his hair as she rode with him as they tumbled through the pleasure that throbbed through them. Slowly, Ivar’s thrusts came to a stop and they both went limp on top of the machine, breathing heavily, with a few scattered giggles here and there. Tora tossed her hair out of her face and looked down at Ivar’s mop of a head laying on her chest, breathing hard. She smiled and giggled, pushing her hands through her hair to push it back as he looked up at her, smirking.

“You exhaust me, woman.” He growled. Tora giggled as he kissed his way back up to her and kissed her, deep and slow. Tora sighed into the kiss, her body itching for more of him, but knowing they were pushing it by doing it while everyone was upstairs. Tora sighed and rested her head back, closing her eyes. Ivar chuckled and kissed her cheek, nuzzling it. “But you’re so sweet to me, my dove.”

Tora smirked and said, “I try my best.”

She laughed and looked at him, kissing him one last time before pushing him off so they could both wipe down before getting dressed and climbing up the stairs as if nothing happened.

With it being a success, keeping Ivar’s brothers and Torvi in the dark about what happened that night, and the next day, Ivar and Tora grew much closer, sneaking off with each other and secretly dating. The thrill of it was what made them keep it up for so long. 6 months to be exact, Tora gave excuses to her parents and Torvi before sneaking off or meeting Ivar in the backwoods behind the college. Ivar’s brothers knew something was up, always coming home happy as can be, excited when he got texts. They weren’t stupid, they knew he had a girlfriend, it was just a matter of them trying to get it out of him who this mystery girl was.

Tora took a huge hit and let it all out as she slowly sat back, passing the joint off to Ivar, who snickered and took it from her, kissing her cheek as she settled herself against him. Ivar was the only one in the house, Ubbe was working and Hvitserk was out with his friends, playing football or basketball at the park down the street, while Bjorn flew down to London for the week for work. Once both brothers had left, he immediately text Tora and she quickly made an excuse to leave home and drove over. In the stifling heat of the summer, unusual for Danish weather, it made the perfect excuse for Ivar to lay around in his room in just his boxer shorts, the fan blasting at him. Once Tora arrived, she stripped off her shirt, thankful for the decision to wear her short shorts, and cozied up to Ivar in just her bra. They laughed and talked for a few hours before Tora pulled out her bag and rolled a joint.

“Do you think we should tell them?” Tora asked as Ivar slipped an arm around her neck and huffed out the cloud of smoke. Ivar sighed and shrugged.

“Do you want to?” He asked, looking at her. Tora looked up at him and shrugged as well.

“Torvi probably already knows...Bjorn won’t really care...Ubbe and Hvitserk will be happy for us.” Tora said with a chuckle. Ivar smirked and nodded.

“Yeah, but now you and Torvi will be dating two Lothbroks...Are you ready for those kind of parties?” Ivar teased. Tora giggled and took the joint from his fingers, taking the last few puffs before stamping it out in the ashtray on the nightstand. Tora shifted and rested her head on his chest, slipping her fingers over the ridges of his abs.

“I don’t mind. Besides, virtually nothing will change, except we’re dating.” Tora said. Ivar nodded and closed his eyes.

“True.” He said. “So...Do you think we should tell them?”

Tora slowly looked up at him, smirking as his eyes stayed closed, knowing full well he was intending to be a snarky little shit. Tora smacked his chest, making him jump and open his eyes as he laughed. He looked at her and chuckled, wrapping both his arms around her and kissing her temple. Tora giggled and slipped her arms around his waist, snuggling into his neck. Ivar kissed her hair and rested his head on top of hers, both of them closing their eyes and sitting in silence. After a while, Ivar became a touch restless and reached over to grab Tora’s bag off the nightstand and pull out another joint, sparking up. He took a hit and laid back, still keeping Tora close. He closed his eyes as he took another hit. Loud voices outside caught his attention and made him lift open his eyes, only slightly. He heard the front door and gave a soft ‘Hmm’ before closing them again.

“Mmm, what was that noise?” Tora asked. Ivar heard the footsteps start to climb the stairs as he said, “Probably Hvitt. Home from the park.”

Tora gave her own little ‘Hmm’, the two of them falling silent again. It took a few more seconds before they both jumped up.

“He’s home?!” Tora whispered harshly. She scrambled off the bed and looked around for her tank top as Ivar stamped out the joint and grabbed at his shorts.

“*Hey, Ivar, do you want to-*” Hivtserk opened and door and stopped; Ivar with only one foot in his shorts and Tora frozen with one of Ivar’s shirts wrapped around her. The silence hung thick in the room as they all stared at each other, frozen. Finally, Hvitserk cleared his throat and said, “Um...I’ll...Just...Be…Uh-”

He rubbed the back of his neck and quickly turned and walked out, closing the door behind him. Tora sighed and dropped Ivar’s shirt, finding her own under it and tugged it on. Ivar sighed and tugged his shorts on and retied his hair as he went to the door and opened it to reveal a very stunned Hvitserk, chewing his nail and pacing the hall. Hvitserk stopped and looked at his little brother, trying not to look into his room and look around, not entirely sure he really saw Tora, frozen in place. Ivar leaned his forearm against the doorframe and sighed.

“So…Are you guys…?” Hvitserk started.

“Fucking? No. We weren’t, not that it was any of your business.” Ivar said, shifting to cross his arms. A pair of balled up socks bounced off Ivar’s head, making him snicker and glance back at Tora, who huffed at him as she shoved her lighters and grinder back into her bag and zipped it up. Ivar smirked and turned back to his brother.

“How long have you guys been...Doing...Whatever it is you’re doing?” Hvitserk asked, still uncomfortable and awkward.

“Dating?” Ivar offered and stated all in the same breath. “Since Torvi’s party.”

“For six months?!” Hvitserk shouted. Ivar smirked and snickered, nodding his head like an idiot at his little joke. Hvitserk sighed and shook his head. “Why wouldn’t you tell us something like that, man?”

Ivar sighed, as his laughter ended and he looked at his brother. He shrugged and said, “I dunno. We just...Wanted it to be a secret for a while.”

Tora slipped her bag over her shoulder as she walked over to Ivar.

“I should probably get going.” She said, glancing at Hvitserk before turning to Ivar. He looked down at her and pouted.

“Already?” He asked. Tora smirked and nodded.

“I told my parents 3 hours I’d be with Helga and it’s been nearly 4. I’ve got to head back before they get suspicious.” Tora said. Ivar sighed and nodded, giving a small smile as Tora lifted up to kiss him, softly. Ivar kissed her back and smiled, letting a hand brush over her arm as she awkwardly squeezed by Hvitserk and went down the stairs, out the door. Hvitserk watched her leave in shock, then turned to his brother.

“So...Ubbe and Bjorn don’t know, I’m assuming?” He asked. Ivar shook his head.

“Nope. And they’re not going to find out.” Ivar said, giving Hvitserk a look as he passed him, going down to the kitchen as the munchies set in. Hvitserk rolled his eyes and followed him, asking, “And how is that going to happen?”

Ivar looked at him and said, “Just...Don’t tell them?”

Hvitserk crossed his arms. “Right. And when Ubbe starts in with your ‘mystery girlfriend’ I’m supposed to lie to his face?” He asked. Ivar smirked.

“No. Just keep your whore mouth shut and we won’t have any problems.” Ivar chirped. Hvitserk snorted.

“You’re just as big a whore as me!” He shouted. Ivar laughed.

“Right. And...Just how many girls have you shared with our dear brother Ubbe?” Ivar asked, raising his eyebrow as he gave Hvitserk a look. Hvitserk snapped his mouth shut and looked away. “Mhm. Exactly.”

Ivar kicked the fridge door shut and waltzed out of the kitchen carrying leftover nachos and tacos from the night before and 3 cans of Sprite up to his room, stopping to grab the last bag of Doritos from the pantry. Hvitserk sighed and followed him.

“Why don’t you want them to know anyway?” Hvitserk asked as Ivar set out his spread on his bed. He groaned and let his head fall back.

“Because, Hvitty-” Ivar looked at him. “They don’t need to know. Plus I don’t want Bjorn to win the bet, so there’s that.”

“Whoa, whoa. Hang on…” Hvitserk said, stepping closer and waving his hands around before holding them out in front of him. “There’s a bet? He bet you two would be fucking in secret?!”

Ivar snorted and laughed. “No. Him and Torvi have a bet on who will make the first move; Me or Tora.”

“And Bjorn bet against you?” Hvitserk offered.

“Doesn’t he always?” Ivar asked with a chuckle. “And Tora doesn’t need you dirty bastards teasing her about it. She’s my girl and I won’t let you.”

“Who says we’re gonna tease her about it? Fuck, you two have been hot for each other for years! It was bound to happen!” Hvitserk said.

“Yeah, but that doesn’t mean you need to go around telling them. Hvitt, just...Just don’t tell them, okay?” Ivar asked. “When Tora is ready, then we’ll handle it. Just keep your trap shut.”

Hvitserk rolled his eyes and shook his head, turning to leave the room. “Whatever, man. It’s your funeral.” Hvitserk called. Ivar blinked and called back, “And what’s that supposed to mean?!”

He heard Hvitserk’s laugh as he walked down the stairs, calling up, “You really don’t think Torvi will cut off your dick and your balls for fucking her little sister in secret for 6 months?!”

Hvitserk’s cackle echoed through the house as Ivar shook his head and ripped into his food.

Hope you liked it! If you want to be tagged in future fics/chapters, let me know!

@tephi101 @shieldmaiden25 @hail-kattegat @ivarslittlebadgirl @titty-teetee @badwolf-in-the-impala @tgrrose @irishhiggins @xivarx @captstefanbrandt

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tgrrose · 4 years ago

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radi0active-thoughts · 7 years ago

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@witchymarvelspacecase thanks for the tagging! The idea is: reveal some fics you wanted to write but just remained as ideas.

Okay, since my inspiration come in form of words I find interesting and musics I hear, here they are: (maybe I'll write those in future, I don't know yet)

Skinny Love - Sebastian Stan x Reader

In need for a change in life, the reader finds herself in New York. Being one of the most promising writers of her generation, she applies in a non-profit organisation as a volunteer companion for people with depression, anxiety, PTSD and panic syndrome. What she's about to know is that her first roommate is one of the most popular actors of the last 5 years.

Løve - Photographer!Alex Høgh Andersen x Fighter!OFC

Mackenzie Amelia Donavon has been through the darkest period in her life and when she decided that this was the time to go back to her old ways, she meets Alex, a Danish photographer who's about to publish his first photobook, in a blind date set for friends in common, after running into him twice. What they didn't know is that there are a few things in life that doesn't come out as expected. Will their puzzle be complete?

That's all that I've been thinking for a while. Now, time to tag:

@221bshrlocked @ivars-heathen @bucky-plums-barnes @buckyywiththegoodhair @rachiieee @lupy22 @papi-chulo-bucky

Tag thing #2

Right, @imhereforbvcky tagged me for this tag “game”… I think she’s just nosy😜:

Reveal some fics you wanted to write but just remained as ideas.

… So, I will probs write these soon, but some of these are just completely random bits, where these paragraphs just POPPED into my brain as you see them, and I had to write them down…

Right, @imhereforbvcky tagged me for this tag “game”… I think she’s just nosy :

Reveal some fics you wanted to write but just remained as ideas.

… So, I will probs write these soon, but some of these are just completely random bits, where these paragraphs just POPPED into my brain as you see them, and I had to write them down…

Unattached paragraphs #1

“It was colder than you’d thought it would be, and your light jacket didn’t help much. You pulled it tight around you for the short walk back to your apartment. “Apartment” may have been too generous a term for where you lived, it was a tiny little place, but it was close to work. Or at least that’s what you’d say when people asked why you lived there. Honestly, you could live anywhere, “work” was abundant in any heavily populated city, but there was something about New York. The sounds, the smells, or maybe it was that this city had the most people like you; different, more, enhanced…

New york was the superhero capital of the world as far as you could tell; there were more enhanced individuals here than anywhere else you knew of, and if that’s where your people were, that’s where you’d be.

Not that you did anything particularly super, like Avenger or Defender-ish usually; you’d kept your “work” to stopping robberies mostly, the small things that the others were too busy to handle. “

Unattached paragraphs #2

“You were an avenger, sure, but your contributions had never been overly physical. Your powers made you more of a help on the jet than on the ground; you were a technopath, technology responded to your thoughts and touch. You and Tony were best friends, and Sam begged you for help with his wings and with Redwing all the time. You had even helped Bucky out with his arm a few times; it was easier for you to fix stuff, since all you had to do was touch it and you knew exactly what was wrong. Since you weren’t a fighter, you didn’t have the fighter’s body. Yours was covered in stretch marks and scars; scars that you had earned from a tough childhood, and stretch marks you’d gained after finally being in control of your own body. You had covered some of the worse marks in tattoos, but not all of them. You liked tattoos, had many, although most of them were hidden from view by your conservative clothes.

Not hidden enough though. Just one night in was all it took for the guys to jump on you. Sam had spotted the one on your shoulder, asked what it meant (why is it that people ask that? Do I need a reason? Whatever). That led to Bucky and Steve asking about your other tattoos, it was out of the ordinary for most people to have tattoos in the 40s, especially women, so they were curious. But of course, when you’d said you had others, they’d asked to see them. You had fended them off and escaped, but the question came up almost everyday, all of the avengers now curious.”

A new idea: Like “goddess w/ a Blade”(a book series that I LOVE)-> reader is a vessel of Artemis (or possibly similar goddess)—-> joins Avengers - Maybe brought in by Thor/Loki? - Unsure of pairing - —-most likely Thor/Loki/Cap/Bucky

And Finally, a short sereies of headcannons, one for each avenger:

“When the Sword Breaks”: what happens/how the reader picks up the character when they break down

“When the Shield Breaks”: what happens/how the character picks up the reader when they break down

Tagging:

@writingwithadinosaur, @emotchalla, @eufeme, @whiskeyandwashitape, @radi0active-thoughts

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oddsnendsfanfics · 5 years ago

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Unraveling at the Seams

Genre: Fan Fiction Pairing: Alex Høgh Andersen/OFC, Henry Cavill/OFC Warnings: Language, Sexual Innuendo, Possible NSFW Rating: M Length: Multi Disclaimer: a strict work of fiction, I own nothing except the original characters and the plot line. In no way am I affiliated to any of it.

A/N: I started this two years ago, found it again, and decided to make something of it.

thank you @flowers-in-your-hayr for the header :D

Catch Up Here

Wednesdays for the last month and a half had been absolute hell, nearly twenty hour days, non stop costume changes and repairs, a steady flood of people coming and going out of the mid sized trailer serving as a dressing room on wheels. Nell Stewart had become accustom to the chaos and frantic pace that her job provided each and every day, grabbing a cloak from the rack labeled “Ubbe” she held the soft fur in her hands, marching it to the man who would display the glorious piece on screen.

“Thanks, Nell.” the smooth mix of Scotland and Australia met her head on.

“No problem,” Nell smirked “and Jordan, this time, don't drop it until after the shoot.”

“I make no promises.” Jordan chuckled, glancing down at the woman who fastened the broach on the grey and tan fur.

“All set, go on with ya.” Nell waved the actor out of her “office du jour”.

Next up to dress would be “Ivar” - the name always made her smile thinking of her son's not so far off name of Ivan. Ivar was undoubtedly one of the best characters to create, and one of the most annoying actors on set. Nell sighed, fingering through the pages on the cupboard before her. One last glance over the costume that she would be putting on the young Danish man.

Alex tried, he really did, yet somehow he always ended up offending the woman. How was he to sit there while she dressed and prepped him, and not want to talk to her? He had watched her with the other actors and crew, she was obviously sweet and a gentle soul. Somehow every time he got close to Nell, she ended up looking like she wanted to beat him with whatever heavy object was closest.

Taking his chances, Alex cautiously stepped into the costume trailer. He had been here seven hours and had another ten to go. Such was life, for anyone who thought acting was glamorous, fools. Whistling a merry tune with a pep in his step despite the hours he had spent crawling around in the mud on set, Alex was determined to make today different.

This was going to be the day that he got Nell to laugh with him, not at him, or worse stand stone faced while he attempted to make jokes.

“Hey, Ne...” He was met with a glare from the costume designer, her phone to her ear. “Sorry.” he muttered softly standing by the door, not daring to step any further with the mud on his costume. He had been lectured before about dragging mud through the trailer.

This woman treated him like he was her son, not somebody she worked with. A disappointing scenario.

“Are you still there, Janelle?” The man on the phone called her attention. She hated when he called her by her full name, more so she hated the feeling of electricity it sent racing through her.

Nell glanced at Alex, lowering her eyes and voice. Her private business didn't need to be aired through the entire lot.

“I can't talk right now, I'm at work.”

“I will only a take a moment, I promise. Is Ivan with you?”

“No, he's at school. Why?” She found the pants, cloak, and jerkin she would need in order to dress the man waiting for her. Handing them to Alex, she motioned for him to use the space on the left. It was the easiest room to clean later. “And don't get mud on the new costume.”

“Excuse me?”

“Sorry. Continue.” She returned to her call.

“I only wanted to speak with him, see how he is doing. How's school, the usual. I don't want to take your time, but I wanted to let you know that I have a bit of time off and...”

“And you wanted to see him?” Her ex had a habit of doing this to her. It was always the same story, they would go months upon months without seeing him, then he would call her and ask for a visit. In truth, she couldn't really complain about a man making an effort to see his son, but it would be nicer if it wasn't a once a year thing.

“If I could, yes. He can come to me, or I can come to you. Whichever works. Think on it and let me know.”

Nell tried her best to hide the sigh.

“Send me the dates. I don't want him missing school.”

“It would be next month. I believe he is on holiday then. I will have the dates sent and we can discuss it, when we're not sneaking away to take calls at work. Chat soon?”

“Yeah, sure.”

Freshly dressed from his base layer to the hooded wool cloak, Alex emerged after giving her a breath or two alone to regroup, her call hadn't sounded pleasant. He didn't want to pry, yet he felt sorry for the single mother. Alex knew her son, the bundle of energy that would sometimes tear through the trailer, accompanying his mother to work. Ivan's dark curls were as wild as he was. Alex liked the kid, he was funny.

“Alright, what do we need to adjust?” Nell turned to Alex, her phone in her pocket and her mind somewhat on work.

“It feels good.” Alex raised his arms, bending at the waist, and moving about to prove his point. “The boots, tough.”

Nell nodded. “What about them?”

More than once she had accidentally pulled the wrong boots, trying to fit Alex's feet into a pair meant for someone else.

“I can never get these done up, can you?” Alex blushed at the confession. The boots were double laced and the laces in the back were his kryptonite. Nell instructed him to sit and keeled down to assist. As a mother dressing someone was a second nature.

“You know,” Alex glanced down as she fitted his boots. “We've worked together for almost two years, I know nothing about you.”

“Oh yeah?” Her focus was on the laces of the knee high boots.

“Mmm.” He nodded, his dark hair escaping his pony tail. “Let's play a game. Three things about our self. I'll go first,” Alex made his suggestion. She was shocked he could put his phone down long enough to chat. “When I was a little boy, I wanted to be a doctor. I love anything to do with Space, and my best memory is a family trip to the beach, when I was eight.”

“Such detail.” She mocked, a smirk gracing her lips.

“I reached deep for those,” Alex nudged her with his foot. “Your turn.”

“Fine.” She huffed, sitting back on her heels. The second boot could wait, while she found three things to shut him up. “I have worked in costume design for four years full time, I hate small talk and nosy people, and I hate cake.”

“You hate cake!” Alex exclaimed wide eyed with disbelief. “What? What do you have on your birthday?”

“Pie.” Her answer was flat.

“Huh.” Alex mused, he couldn't get over the last statement. “Do you at least make cakes? You know, for when your family or friends want a birthday cake?”

“Nope.”

“Never?” She shook her head. Alex huffed. “Not even when your son asks?”

“He doesn't like cake either.” Her voice softened.

“He doesn't like it, or you don't let him have it?” It was Alex's turn to smirk. “You know, since you hate it and all.”

“You're annoying.”

“When's his birthday? I'm going to buy him a cake, a big one! Loaded with frosting and chocolate, sprinkles galore.” Alex continued his chatter. Mainly to hear himself speak.

“Look,” She sighed, finishing up the boot lace. “I enjoy working with you and I like my job, but can we leave my son out of this? Please.”

“O-Okay.” Alex frowned. “I'm sorry.”

“It's just...it's complicated and the last thing he needs right now is...forget it.” Nell rocked back on her heels. Admiring her handy work with the costume.

“I'm sorry, truly.”

“It's fine. I've just...never mind. You're good to go.” Nell stood up, wiping her hands on her pants out of instinct.

Alex sat for a heartbeat, trying to find another way to express his apology. The crease and frown on Nell's face told him to quit while he was ahead. He could take a hint. Rising to his feet, he cleared his throat and thanked Nell for helping.

Alone with her thoughts for a moment, Nell rubbed the heels of her hands across her eyes. It would be another late night. The push to get these scenes filmed in the last season, in order for the cast and crew of Vikings to take their short term summer break. Her initial plans for the few weeks off was to pack up Ivan and take off for a vacation home.

A few weeks visiting her parents and the rest of her family, back in Canada would be ideal. She hadn't been back since Easter, when Ivan had gone to spend time with his father's family, and she wanted her son to visit his grandparents. So much for that plan, after the phone call from his father; Ivan wouldn't want to do anything other than visit his father for a few weeks.

Despite the unconventional relationship, her son idolized his father. As a boy should.

Why did he make everything complicated? This man's name came up and as if by some curse everything in Nell's world would begin to fall apart, all over again.

“I see your boyfriend was in.” Nell pushed her hair out of her eyes and slowly looked up at her co-worker. She hadn't heard Rayna come in.

Rolling her eyes, she shook her head at the teasing. “He's not. He is however annoying.”

“Aww, he's just trying to get your attention. Come on, Nelly, throw the kid a bone.” the seasoned designer laughed, handing Nell a cup of shitty set coffee.

“He's too young.”

“You're not exactly an old maid.” Rayna continued to laugh.

Nell shook her head, daily she endured a teasing from the other woman, among others on set. Alex Høgh Andersen turned into an absolute fool and a puppy around the costume designer, everybody but Nell seemed to notice his affection. What she passed off as annoying banter, was the Dane's way of flirting. A skill he needed to work on, with women who were immune to actor's charms, and on older women in general.

Thirty was far from old. So Nell was constantly told.

It had to do with having a son at twenty three. She had grown old and boring faster than she had ever wanted. Another resentment that Nell held toward her ex, he had gotten to go off and do whatever he pleased, while she had raised their son. Whoever said older men were more mature was full of shit.

“Whatever, we have work to do. I need to finish mending those dresses for next week. I don't think our extras want to come in and be naked all day.”

“Some of them might.” Rayna joked, sitting her coffee down and grabbing her sewing kit.

Throughout the day Nell continued to dress cast, principal and extra alike. She enjoyed her job, the creativity and the structure. The pride and joy when a new costume was put together, nothing beat seeing her work on the screen and in the media.

She'd once been asked why she wanted to design costumes, simple. Without a good costume, nothing would ever be accomplished. There would be no life or charisma to a story being told on the screen. Costumes had been a last resort once, when she'd auditioned for a school play and was rejected for a role on stage. Even the chorus didn't want her, leaving her to help the costume department. Nell got hooked.

Alex had gone out to set, coming back only twice that Nell had been in the trailer. He tried his hardest to strike up another conversation, but the two times they were in the same proximity, Nell was too busy to chat. He felt horrible for making her feel like he was prying earlier and needed to tell her.

Wisely, advised against it, Alex kept his head low. For now.

Knocking off nearly twenty one hours after arriving at work, Nell stretched her arms and groaned. Tomorrow was a later start for her, which meant she would be able to walk Ivan to school and spend a little time with him. He was in bed when she'd left and would be in bed when she arrived home.

Thank god for their Bridie. Nell would be lost without the saint of a woman.

Dropping her keys on the stand inside the door, her bag was next. Letting go of the bag felt like the weight of the world had been lifted from her body. The house was quiet and smelled delicious. Bridie was in the kitchen, tidying up when Nell poked her head in.

“He's in bed, has been since eight.” the well put together blonde woman smiled affectionately. She looked like she should be a CEO or investment banker, not a full time live out Nanny. “Long day?”

“Extremely. I am going to run up quick. Thank you!” Nell held her hands together as if in prayer and smiled.

Tiptoeing up the short flight of stairs she followed the path to her son's room. Her bedroom at the other end of the seven foot hallway beckoned her. Not yet. Soon, bed, soon. As expected, Ivan was sleeping soundly, a Captain Underpants book fallen open on the floor and his blankets half tossed off. Her son slept like whirl wind.

Picking up the blanket and draping it over her son, Nell smiled. Dark curls sprung across his head and his tiny arms were wrapped around his pillow, snoring away somewhere in dreamland. As adorable as he looked, it hurt her heart to be gone all day. Since the final season had been announced to the cast and crew, the days at work had become longer and the time for anything else seemed nearly impossible.

Only a few more weeks and Nell would be home for a break. Except...She wanted to groan, instead opted for an eye roll.

Ivan stirred, shifting around in his bed but not waking. Tucked in and kissed by mom, he was good to resume his slumber uninterrupted. Slumber. In the hall, Nell heard her bed calling once again. A loud Siren Song.

Soon!

Downstairs a cup of tea waited on the counter, while Bridie fished around for a plate to put the freshly made sandwich on. Nell's heart swelled and her shoulders sagged, overwhelmed by the gesture. Bridie was here to look after Ivan, bless her for always watching out for Nell, too.

“I know you're going to say you've had dinner, but you need something hearty.”

“Actually, I missed dinner. I had a fruit bar and an orange that one of the lighting guys shared with me.” Nell slid onto the stool at the breakfast nook, accepting the peppermint tea and chicken sandwich. Not at all embarrassed by the moan when she took the first bite, causing Bridie to laugh.

“Pleased that you like it.” Bridie winked. “There are some muffins in the container next to the toaster, blueberry. I made his lunch up, and yours, for tomorrow. Left over shepherd's pie.” She listed off a few other details from the day. “When should I return?”

“I don't go in until eleven, I'll need you to pick him up then you can bring him to me. I'm in the office studio all day tomorrow.” Nell instructed. “Thank you, for all of this.”

“You know I love doing it.” Bridie gave her a gentle pat on the shoulder.

“I know and I love you for loving it.” Nell chuckled. Tucking her hair behind her ears, “Oh, Ivan doesn't know, but in a few weeks his father wants to visit him. I'll let you know when he has the dates sent. I think it will be while we were supposed to be gone, anyway.”

“That sounds...” Bridie paused, watching Nell's face to gauge the reaction.

“It's a good thing.” Nell tried to assure her nanny and herself. “It will be good.”

Fingers crossed.

“Well, if you need me for anything you know how to find me.” Bridie would help hide a body, no questions asked. Nell was certain of it.

“Thank you, but I think we'll be okay.” Nell stood to hug the older woman. “Now, go home. I am sure Joe is missing you like crazy. Tell him that you're his for most of the day tomorrow.”

“Good night, Nell.” Bridie waved disappearing toward the door. Nell heard the final click of the lock, signaling that she was on her own until Ivan woke for school.

Dirty plate in the sink, resting until Nell had the energy to do something about it, the cup of peppermint tea joined Nell on her way to bed. Too tired to shower or move, she kicked off her clothes and reached for an old tshirt to wear. The weather was growing warmer as summer approached Ireland.

Summer in Ireland was majestic, really any season in Ireland was majestic. Nell thought as she crawled into her bed. She had decided that the first year she had come here to be an intern. How giddy and naive she had been back then. How different life had been in 2007. How different Nell had been in 2007.

Something about Ireland and that majesty.

Phone down to charge and her alarm set, she was ready for sleep. Slipping under her duvet, she barely had time to get comfortable before sleep over took her.

@funmadnessandbadassvikings , @kawennote09, @smutgoblin , @nickysurfer28 , @peaceisadirtyword, @igetcarriedawaywithyou , @lif3snotouttogetyou, @akamaiden @angelaiswriting, @neeadinghugs, @thoughtsmeander2tumblingblindly, @ilvebeenabad , @naaladareia, @imgoldielikehawn @tephi101, @sdcyumyum @unacceptabletatertots, @sparklemichele , @titty-teetee , @smolasianwinterbean , @capitanostella , @captstefanbrandt @bloodyivar , @normanallthewayforever , @blackcoffeeandgreenteaforme , @imyourliquor-youremypoison , @nikky-the-writer , @seremedyxiii , @laketaj24 , @deleteidentity , @tornupandbored , @hoeghfabulous , @ateliefloresdaprimavera , @mydarlingwhim , @kenzieam , @jar-of-love , @angelswannawearmyredshooz , @manuugxlvis , @lizency , @lost-in-my-thoughs , @ivars-snowflake , @lisinfleur , @fumblingthroughchaos @pebblesz892 , @angelaiswriting , @nelson-and-murdock , @nothingeverdies, @bluearchersstuff @itsspecial-itsnotforeveryone, @ivarlothbroks, @badassbaker @cris101071 @fucktrucks @ohjules @mrsadrianraines @angelic-kisses13 @marthasantos95 @atlanticowe @hows-my-hair @omgshuddupmeg @moviegirl50 @havenoffandoms @gearhead66 @happydaysandersen @rekdreams-fandom @lovemylife2618 @supernaturalvikingwhore @youbloodymadgenius @geekandbooknerd @carlya65

#unraveling at the seams #alex høgh andersen #alex høgh imagine #henry cavill #henry cavill imagine #alex høgh #alex hogh andersen #alex hogh fanfiction #alex høgh andersen x ofc #henry cavill x ofc #ivar's heathen army

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oddsnendsfanfics · 5 years ago

Text

Unraveling at the Seams Pt 7

A/N: I have to admit, part of this is one of my favourite moments in all of this.

thank you @flowers-in-your-hayr for the header :D

Catch Up Here

The evening had began to clear up, the rain from the last two days coming to an end, giving way to a spectacular sunset. Nell had been in the small garden in the back, watching Kal run around in circles barking and pouncing at Ivan and Jordan while they attempted to play basketball. The dog barked and chased the players, creating his own game. Once he learned Jordan posed no threat to Ivan and Nell, he rolled over to accept any form of scratches the bearded stranger had to offer.

Sophie sat on the small deck beside Nell, watching the dog and the game. Henry had retired to take some calls and work on a bit of last minute business, before his actual vacation kicked in. The usual four suspects, plus Kal, went about their evening routine.

“How long is he here?” Sophie asked shielding her eyes from the sun.

“Originally two weeks. Maybe three or four now.” Nell shrugged.

“Is it weird? Letting him live with you?” Nell shook her head. They had lived together before, this was nothing new. If anything it was nicer, Nell had someone else to help with Ivan and their daily routine. “I don't think I could let my ex stay. Not if he looked like that.”

Leave it to Sophie to openly admit such a thing, in front of her current boyfriend. Jordan was doing an excellent job at pretending not to hear.

“Old news. Sure he looks good, but that is all.”

“Surely you at least tried to sneak a peek?" Sophie winked, teasing both Nell and Jordan now.

"No, not really."

"Jesus woman. Have you saw that man? If I were you, ex or not, I'd have to take him for a spin just to run my nails all over those hard..."

"Please stop. Really, stop." Nell snorted in laughter. “Jordan is going to hear you. Henry is already concerned about the tall man across the way growling at him.”

Jordan, hearing the conversation shrugged and chuckled. Henry had been coming in from his morning run with Kal, when he'd met Jordan in the courtyard. Sizing up the Brit, Jordan had sniffed and greeting him with a growl before getting in the car.

Outside, the sun began to sink, deeper in the sky. Ivan and Jordan had abandoned their game in favour of chasing Kal around. Tiring out the dog and the boy. Nell and Sophie continued their idle chatter, while Henry remained absent.

Checking her phone, Nell frowned. She'd sent Alex a text earlier, asking if he would like to join them, still no reply. Jordan concluded that he was probably working and didn't have his phone handy. Nell hadn't counted on the Dane making a surprise visit.

Alex knocked on the door, the rattle it made indicated it was unlocked. The car was in the small car park beside the townhouse and a light was on inside the door. Nell was probably upstairs, no harm in letting himself in, she wouldn't mind. There was no barking, meaning he wouldn't be dinner for the infamous Kal.

The house was quiet, the radio in the kitchen was on, and the smell of fresh laundry lingered through out. Ivan was probably out with Henry, which meant there would be no interruption. Poising to call her name, Alex smirked hearing the shower at the top of the stairs.

Bingo!

Taking the stairs two at a time, he shed his tshirt in the hall, unbuckling his jeans he pushed into the bathroom, ready to pounce when he came to a sliding halt. Through the frosted shower glass, the tall, muscular, dark hair was not what he was expecting to find.

“What was that?” Jordan perked up, Kal as well.

“What was what?” Nell strained to hear.

“That? Someone screaming. I swear, I heard a scream.” Jordan humphed. “Stay here.” He urged, he'd go forth to check on the situation.

He had been wrestling with Ivan and Kal, when he heard shouting and screaming. How Sophie and Nell hadn't heard the noise was a mystery. Saving time he rushed through the back door of Nell's townhouse, hearing a loud thumping and shouting. The noise had came from inside?

“Hello?” He shouted through the house. “Henry?” The guy was big, if anything he could look threatening while Jordan took care of the situation.

“Jordan? Fuck man.” Alex huffed from the bottom of the stairs. His hair messed and his shirt in his hands. Jordan noticed the unbuckled belt and jeans undone. “Where's Nell?”

“She's outside, what's going on, mate?” Jordan cocked his brow, his beard hiding the smile that began to stretch across his face. His body shook with an internal laugh.

“Don't want to talk about it.” Alex shook his head, pulling his shirt on and storming for the kitchen.

“Nell!” Henry bellowed from the top of the stairs, his towel clutched around his waist and his face red. “Janelle!”

“She's outside, mate.” Jordan called back, trying his best not to let the other man hear him wheeze with laughter.

Alex looked traumatized standing in the kitchen, his arms folded and head hung.

Quickly, Sophie had suggested that she and Ivan go across to their house and get some ice cream. Ivan was on board, anything to stay up longer. Jordan followed, no help to the situation with his imagination running wild over what had happened.

Henry stood, his eyes fixed on his feet. Unable to look at the other man.

Sitting on a stool at the counter, Nell tried her best not to laugh every time she thought of Alex trying to climb into the shower with Henry. She had invited Alex over to hang out, because she wanted them to meet, this was far better than a lame handshake and the beer she had in mind. Oh, she was never going to let them live this down. Wait until Marco heard about this! Wait until Henry's brothers heard about this!

Kal made the first move. Sitting in the living room, upset to end his game of chase. The fact he had stayed with Ivan, despite hearing Henry's shouting had impressed Henry greatly. Sniffing the floor he casually made his way towards Nell, there was an obvious tension in the air and she felt safe right now. Passing Alex, he paused to look at the stranger.

“You must be Kal.” Alex held out his hand for the giant dog. Nell had downplayed his size. The big brown eyes hidden by by the slight white eyebrows and black face. Kal licked his lips and sniffed in Alex's direction. His shoulders raised and his head alert, his subtle tail wag gave him away.

“Careful, Kal doesn't like strangers.” Henry warned, holding out a hand to caution. “He can be aggressive.”

“Oh.” Alex held still, allowing the mass of fluff to approach at his own leisure. Sniffing Alex's hand, Kal sneezed and opened his mouth as if to smile. Moving forward to accept a pat. “He seems friendly.”

“He is, usually.” Nell reached over to scratch the dog's behind. “You're a lover, right Kal.”

“He's a really nice dog.” Alex barely glanced at Henry. Still unable to make full eye contact. Henry hummed in agreement.

Kal had a smile, enjoying the attention. First he abandoned Henry for Nell, spending his time following her around, going as far as sleeping in bed with her. But now he was being buddy buddy with a complete stranger. It hurt a little. Kal was going too far.

“So,” Nell made an attempt to break the awkwardness. “You wrapped for the week?”

Alex shook his head. “No, I have a few scenes tomorrow and then I am done for the week. A full day next week and I am done until August. Are you in tomorrow?”

Nell nodded. “For a few hours and then I guess I'll have to find something to do.”

“You can come with Ivan and I.” Henry had no idea what they were going to do, yet, but Nell was welcome. His eyes still landing anywhere in the room, except on the man who had moments ago saw everything.

“I don't want to intrude.” Nell smiled, scratching Kal. “Maybe I will catch up on work or head out to the markets. I am sure there is lots to do. Would either of you be interested in having dinner tomorrow night? We can invite Jordan and Sophie, Marco, Rayna, Bridie and Joe. Is Katheryn still in town? Henry you know Katheryn.”

Henry knew that Nell knew he knew half of the people she and Alex currently worked with. Still, he nodded.

Despite his lack of desire to be surrounded by people, making idle chatter, Henry wasn't about to deny Nell anything she wanted. Alex on the other hand wasn't going to be so gallant. Henry wanted to shake his hand and thank him, when Alex frowned and confessed that he'd wanted to take Nell out.

“Oh, well we can do that.” Nell agreed, smiling sweetly at Alex.

Henry had saw that smile before. The one where the doe eyes came out and she was about to get whatever she wanted. She'd used it on him enough.

“We can do dinner here another time. Yeah, let's go out tomorrow night.” Nell nodded eagerly. Quickly releasing her joy in having alone time with Alex, she sighed. “And I have been thinking, Henry. I'm going to go ahead and book a room tomorrow. It's not fair to you and Ivan, if I am here and...”

“You could stay with us.” Alex interjected. “Marco won't mind. He's not going to be around anyway, until we go back to work.”

Marco was heading off to film another project, leaving Alex alone for a week or two in their shared condo. Nell staying over would give him a reason to stay in more. Not to mention it would be less weird than having the large space to himself.

“If you want to.” He added quickly.

“Uh,” Nell was caught between thoughts. “Well, Um.”

“If you don't want to, then I won't be offended.” Alex wanted her to stay, though he understood if she didn't want to.

Alex's reaction to Nell's indecisiveness was akin to Henry's own blundering and blubbering. It had taken Henry a while to speak to her properly and ask her out. A man never felt good enough to talk to a woman like her. Even now there were times when Henry struggled to talk to her, like the last few days he had been struggling to bring up and discuss a few things he had on his mind.

He would find the right time.

“I want to. Thank you.” Nell kissed his cheek. “I uh, I'll come over tomorrow?”

“Or you could come tonight.” Alex's smile was suddenly bigger than his face.

Henry felt like an intruder, standing here, listening to their plans. Not having any idea what to do with himself, he stood leaning on the counter wishing for Ivan to burst back through the door. Or for the floor to open up and swallow him whole. Anything to get out of this moment. He didn't need to witness Nell and her lovey dovey boy-toy. Friend? Lover? The entire Alex thing made him feel weird.

“I could, but Ivan.”

“What about him?” Henry stepped into the conversation. “I'll go over and get him, you can say good night and he'll be fine. You're going across town, not the world. Even then, he would be fine with me.”

“Are you sure? You don't mind?”

If he didn't want to spend time with his son, he wouldn't have come. What kind of question was that? Letting it go, Henry smiled. Had Alex not been here, this would have been the perfect moment to unload everything on his mind. Breathing deeply, he nodded instead. The smile still on his face.

“The plan was for me to stay here, we're still on plan. Now go. Have fun. Ivan and I will be fine.” Henry assured her. “Come on Kal, let's go get the wild boy.”

Alex rocked back and forth on his heels. Eager to take Nell home, once Ivan came back.

“So, is Marco going to mind?” Nell voiced her thoughts.

“He won't care. He's probably not there anyway. Besides, I can just hide you in my room until he leaves.”

Intruding on Alex and Marco had been easier than Nell had anticipated. Marco didn't seem to care that she was there, what he wanted to know was the details of Alex and Henry's first meeting. Jordan had relayed the news almost immediately and Marco was dying to know all the details.

Huffing, Alex refused to relive the moment. Nell could at least give the finer points of the aftermath. She and Marco laughing like fools at the misfortune.

“It could be worse.” Nell snickered. “It could have been my mom.”

Seeing another man naked wasn't the problem Alex was having. The issue he has trying to overcome, was that Nell had once been all over that. He didn't look like that, he would never look like that. Did she miss that? They had great sex, but damn how did he compete with...fuck it.

“Alright laugh it up.” Alex conceded. “But the next time either of you do something stupid, I get to harass you.”

“Oh, Alex.” Marco faked a pout. “We torment you, because we love you. And because this is hilarious.”

“Honestly. I think it embarrassed Henry more. He can hardly look at you and that is not him. If it makes you feel better, I fully plan on telling each of his brothers.” Nell nudged him in the side. Wrapping her arm around Alex's neck, she gave in a little. “Don't worry, I won't tell anyone else after that. If it helps, I can go get in the shower and let you see me naked.”

“Okay,” Marco slapped his knees, standing up. “I'm out.”

“Really?” Alex glanced at Nell, wiggling his brows. “You'd do that for me?”

“Of course, but we should probably wait until Marco is gone or asleep at least. We don't need to give him anything else to torment you over.”

“He goes to bed around 10:30.”

Nell didn't take long, after the first night to settle in with Alex and Marco. She had been there three days, when Marco left for his next project. Alex was easy to get along with, he didn't seem to bothered by a new person in his house and took care to make sure Nell was comfortable. It wouldn't be long before he flew home for a few weeks, which led him to offer Nell the condo while he and Marco were away.

Hotels booked and paid for, she thanked him, but would be fine.

In the mean time, Alex took every advantage. Late nights chatting, early mornings waking up to coffee and breakfast. Nell liked having somebody there to care for her. Ivan was wonderful, being his mom was amazing, but she liked having someone look after her for a change. Henry had been an excellent house guest, taking care of everything, but it was different having time to herself without Ivan rolling in with his whirlwind energy.

It was quiet here. It was odd, but enjoyable.

Alex enjoyed it. Thoroughly enjoyed it.

At work they were still aloof, Nell telling him that she didn't want their relationship – so now they had a relationship? To interfere with work. At work they were to remain professional. Oddly enough, since seeing her more at home, Alex hung around her less at work. Nell had never been able to get so much done in such short amount of time.

Jordan came in for his last day, before break, bringing news of Nell's house.

He'd invited Henry and Ivan over to watch the game on Sunday. The father and son had gladly accepted, agreeing it sounded like a great afternoon. Ivan explained that it was something he and Nell did often, enough to convince Henry they needed to go.

Nell had been talking to Ivan daily, on the phone, seeing him once since she had left to stay with Alex. Henry and Alex hadn't saw one another since their first meeting. Alex was fine with that. Henry was in agreement, there was no hurt feelings in not seeing Alex.

Alex was no doubt lovely, Ivan seemed to really like him – Kal too. Henry didn't need to know him, unless for some reason Nell decided that he was going to be around longer than the next few months. He had always been open with Nell about seeing people, but never introduced her to the other women. It was never serious enough for her or Ivan to meet them.

A smile and being polite was all that would be required, when the two men were in the presence of one another.

There was a tension, when Nell mentioned going home before going over to Jordan and Sophie's. She didn't ask Alex to come along, the afflicted expression said it all. A breath of relief when she kissed his cheek and sent him on his was, across the courtyard promising to meet up with him shortly.

Opening the front door, Nell laughed at the chaos of barking and happy shouting. Ivan was chasing Kal around, trying to get the toy from the dog. Good luck little buddy.

Henry was cleaning the lunch mess from the kitchen counter, when Kal changed from barking at Ivan to barking at the potential intruder. “Kal.” Nell scolded the dog. “It's me.”

“Mum, mum.” Ivan barreled to the door, rushing his mother.

“You need to slow down, wild boy.” Nell intercepted the flying boy. He was wired.

“Mum, mum.” Ivan bounced excitedly from one foot to the other. “Guess what dad let me do, last night.”

Henry was sheepish about telling Nell their previous evening's ventures. She would never let him have Ivan on his own, again.

“What? What?” Nell matched Ivan's excitement.

“We made chip butties for dinner and I taught dad how to make poutine, then we hooked up dad's laptop. I didn't go to bed until...”

“Okay, alright. We don't need to tell mum everything we do.” Henry stepped in, derailing the story. Nell didn't need to know that their son was up until well after 3am. Or that he'd ate his own weight in candy and junk food. Before long Ivan would crash and Henry could get him back on routine.

“Why don't you go outside and run around with Kal?” Nell pushed for the over excited, sugar filled child to do something other than potentially destroy her house. “Get some fresh air and take a shower, before we go to Jordan's.”

Flying through the house to the back door, Ivan and Kal rushed outside into the sunshine. It would do them some good and with luck he would crash halfway through the game. Henry would get his lecture first.

“You.” Nell jabbed Henry in the chest with her finger. “What are you thinking?”

“Is something the matter, my darling?” Henry leaned over to kiss her cheek, his eyes dancing. Smooth.

Nell paused hearing the term of endearment. It had been Henry's favourite pet name for her, though he rarely used it after the split. The last time she could remember hearing it they were soaked in post sex sweat, sprawled across the bed in a Jersey hotel.

“Oh Henry.” Nell sighed, shaking her head. Turning her attention back to her attempted lecture. “Why do you let him do these things?”

“He's a boy. There is nothing wrong with allowing him to stay up late, playing a game. Kids need that sort of thing.” Henry defended his choice as casually as possible. It wasn't as if Ivan did this sort of thing daily, or even weekly. This was the sort of thing their son only did with his father. “It's...our thing.” Henry shrugged.

“When he vomits or refuses to sleep for the next week, because he's over tired and wired. It's you dealing with it.”

“Of course.”

“And make sure he eats at least one vegetable this week.” Nell instructed with a snort. “You, too.”

“Not a problem, tomorrow night is grilled salmon with roasted vegetables. Ivan's choice of dinner.” Henry smirked. “Thank god he had a better sense than I do, because if we kept going that hard, I would be living in the gym until I was 40.”

“Right, well, if you wanted to head over I can wait with Ivan.” Nell was impressed with the state of her house. Henry wasn't by any means a clean freak, but the house was cleaner than when she'd left.

“I can wait. You go ahead,” Henry offered.

He was in no rush.

“Okay. Well, you know the way. Oh, when we're done, I thought I'd come over and help put Ivan to bed. I'm kind of missing him.”

It wasn't often that Nell was away from Ivan, it took a toll on her. Henry nodded, he understood. He hated it being away from Ivan.

“Sure. Okay. He'll like that.” Henry felt himself wanting to get on with it. Ask her what he'd been wanting to and get it out. “Oh Nell.”

“Hmm?”

“Never mind.” Henry shook his head. “It can wait, not important. Go on.”

He had been trying to find the right time to talk to her, about life and the direction it was moving. Perhaps now wasn't the best moment, they had time, it could wait.

@funmadnessandbadassvikings , @kawennote09, @smutgoblin , @nickysurfer28 , @peaceisadirtyword, @igetcarriedawaywithyou , @lif3snotouttogetyou, @akamaiden @angelaiswriting, @neeadinghugs, @thoughtsmeander2tumblingblindly, @ilvebeenabad , @naaladareia, @imgoldielikehawn @tephi101, @sdcyumyum @unacceptabletatertots, @sparklemichele , @titty-teetee , @smolasianwinterbean , @capitanostella , @captstefanbrandt @bloodyivar , @normanallthewayforever , @blackcoffeeandgreenteaforme , @imyourliquor-youremypoison , @nikky-the-writer , @seremedyxiii , @laketaj24 , @deleteidentity , @tornupandbored , @hoeghfabulous , @ateliefloresdaprimavera , @mydarlingwhim , @kenzieam , @jar-of-love , @angelswannawearmyredshooz , @manuugxlvis , @lost-in-my-thoughs , @ivars-snowflake , @lisinfleur , @fumblingthroughchaos @pebblesz892 , @nelson-and-murdock , @nothingeverdies, @bluearchersstuff @itsspecial-itsnotforeveryone, @ivarlothbroks, @badassbaker @cris101071 @fucktrucks @ohjules @mrsadrianraines @angelic-kisses13 @lol-haha-joke @whenimaunicorn @marthasantos95 @atlanticowe @hows-my-hair @omgshuddupmeg @moviegirl50 @havenoffandoms @gearhead66 @happydaysandersen @rekdreams-fandom @lovemylife2618 @supernaturalvikingwhore @heavenly1927 @zoe-rachel-crisp @blogandreea11 @shileen91 @geekandbooknerd @mzliterarydreamer @youbloodymadgenius @ainatirb-j @carlya65 @sawendel @sinflowersugar @magic-and-the-macabre @artemiseamoon @vicmackeybullshxt @intototaloblivion @flowerthug @henchry @littlefreya @mitzwinchester @lostinthoughtsandfeelings @h-e-a-v-y-l-e-a-t-h-e-r @dogshemp @mytbel0st @peakygroupie @magdelen69 @shay-rav @viking-raider @sciapod @intototaloblivion

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#unraveling at the seams #alex høgh andersen fanfiction #henry cavill #alex høgh andersen #Henry cavill fanfiction #alex høgh andersen x ofc #henry Cavill x ofc #ivar's heathen army

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oddsnendsfanfics · 5 years ago

Text

Unraveling at the Seams Pt 3

A/N: Allow me to give you all a little something, for my birthday.

thank you @flowers-in-your-hayr for the header :D

Catch Up Here

The weekend had been slower than usual, a welcoming relief from work for all who were involved. Jordan had casually asked Nell and Ivan over to watch a game on Sunday, only to be declined due to Ivan's own involvement in a local youth football league. They had a match Sunday morning and Nell wasn't confident that her son would be up for that much excitement for one day – not if she wanted him in bed at a decent hour for school the next morning.

“I thought they usually came over to watch the matches.” Alex tried his best not to look like a stalker, peering around the corner and out the window that looked into the courtyard at Jordan and Sophie's. On the stairs across the yard, Nell sat with her phone in hand, staring down at the screen.

“They do, but I think they're busy this afternoon.” Jordan replied ignoring the fact that Alex was spying on the neighbours. “Now come on, get over here and watch the fucking game.”

“Uh, in a second.”

“Dude, don't be that guy. Stop oogling the poor woman, you do enough of that at work.” Marco smirked and tossed a chip at Alex.

A middle finger extended in reply to Marco; Alex chuckled and left the window.

Would it look too desperate if he went for a smoke?

What would Nell think? He knew what Jordan and Marco would think and say.

Marco teased his friend relentlessly about the costume designer and his crush. Nell was lovely and fun to talk with, she made the long days less mundane and was always smiling, unless you were Alex. Marco had worked with her as long as Alex and Jordan, living with Alex gave him an edge on exactly how his friend saw the woman across the courtyard.

The crush had been on-the-spot.

They had walked in for their first fitting and Alex was slack jawed, nearly tripping over himself in her presence. Nell ignored him, a wise move Marco thought, though it caused Alex to be a bigger pest. Two years he had been admiring this woman and was still struggling to get a decent conversation in.

“Why don't you ask her out?” Sophie joined the conversation, glancing over her shoulder at the window to see Nell still sitting on the steps.

Nell was guarded, sure, and at the end of the day she was still a woman. On more than one occasion Nell had revealed how lonely she felt. Ivan and her job were the only things she had in Ireland, possibly the only two things she had regardless where she was.

“Don't torment him.” Jordan smirked. Nell would never agree to a date with Alex.

She didn't date actors, anymore, nor did she want somebody who was barely able to function around her. Alex was a great guy and a fantastic friend; Jordan had a few doubts about his abilities to truly woo and keep a woman. The other actor rarely went on dates and when he did, they never lasted longer than one night.

Marco snickered. “Can you even talk to her?”

“I can talk to her.” Alex defended. Quietly he took the ribbing. Sophie knew Nell the best out of the four people in the room, her suggestion had felt like less teasing and that had the wheels turning in Alex's mind.

He could casually ask her the next time he brought her a coffee at work. Or should he go big and grand? Send her a bouquet of flowers, asking her when they arrived?

He had saw a bouquet of peach roses on her work top one day, he remembered the dozen roses vividly. They were bright and cheery, they had everybody commenting on them. Nell would blush and say they were from a friend. Probably her boyfriend at the time.

Alex had heard through the grapevine that the costume designer hadn't dated anybody in a serious manner, in a long time. Men were fickle about women with children, a shame because Alex loved kids. Ivan, from what he could piece together, was comical. The little boy was smart and had no issue telling adults how it was.

“What's going on in that thick head?” Marco launched another chip at Alex. “Day dreaming about your girlfriend?”

“Fuck off.” Alex quipped, tossing half of the crumbled chip back at Marco. “She's not my girlfriend.”

“But you want her to be.” Marco winked at Jordan and Sophie, extending his arm around his body and turning his back to them. Imitating a couple making out. “Oh Alexxxxx.”

Laughter filled the room at Alex's expense. Cheers and whoops from Jordan enjoying Marco's performance.

“Cut it out, leave him be.” Sophie defended Alex's dignity against the other two. “Let him alone.” even she giggled at Marco's over the top theatrics.

“At least somebody in the room looks out for me,” Alex wasn't at all hurt or insulted by the joking.

“Why don't you ask her out?” Sophie's tone told him she was on a serious level now. “Ask her for coffee or something. Invite her to a nice brunch. She was telling me how much she misses getting dressed up and going out on Sundays.”

“Ask her, mate. Tell her we'll watch Ivan for the morning and go have fun.” Jordan's eyes never left the tv as he spoke.

“I don't know.”

What would he say? How would he do it? He couldn't simply walk up and ask her. Could he? Nell would likely laugh at him, shoot him down, and never speak to him again. Alex had a reputation of being able to talk and make friends with anyone, but women were sometimes his faltering point. Especially ones he had a particular interest in.

“What? Come on, you may as well ask. What is the worse that could happen? She says no and you have to pick up your pride? Shameful.” Marco was now changing his tune about this.

If Alex were to go out on a date, then maybe Marco wouldn't have to listen to him moan about how he had shit luck with women. Alex needed to get laid, this could be the ticket to such things. Marco hated how his roommate became a whiny little bitch because he was getting sexually frustrated.

“I don't know. What would I say? What would we do? How would I ask?” Alex scratched the shaved part of his head. “Do I tell her she can bring Ivan? Will she think it's a joke? Do I bring her flowers? I don't know.”

“Calm down, is the first step.” Sophie coached. Placing a hand on Alex's arm, she tried to soothe his nerves. “I will help you.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”

“Help him with what? How not to get punched in the face?” Jordan teased. “Nell is proud, don't be cocky.”

Until now, Alex's only fear had been that she rejected him. Nell wouldn't physically harm him, would she? No, Jordan was being a dick nothing more.

“What do you even know about her?” Marco questioned, remembering he had a beer on the table. If they were going to plot this poor woman's nightmare, he wanted his excuse to be he was drunk.

“She has a son. She's from somewhere in Canada,” Alex thought for a moment. He didn't want help, despite Jordan looking as if he wanted to fill in all the blanks. “Uh. She's lived here before, but moved to...was it London?” Sophie nodded eagerly. “She has siblings? She likes scotch and peach roses.”

“Very good.” Sophie applauded lightly. “But don't bring up the roses. She hates that.”

“Really? She had a big bunch of them on her work station a few months ago.” Marco tipped his beer.

“It's a thing between her and Henry. You don't want to remind her of her ex on a first date.” Sophie carefully guided the wayward men.

“What kind of dickhead name is Henry?” Alex snorted. Now he had the name of the guy who had hurt her.

Fuck you Henry!

“Henry of England. Henry Winkler, Henry Ford, Henry Cavill, Henry Thomas, Henry...” Marco thought hard for a moment. “No that is all I have. Needless to say, they all sound like douchebags.”

“Why do you know so many Henry's?” Jordan was puzzled. Marco shrugged, leaving the conversation at hand to explain he knew a lot of random shit. Launching him and Jordan into a new conversation, allowing Alex and Sophie to focus on the task at hand.

Tapping his fingers on the table top, Alex sat staring into space. He needed something to go on, a solid plan for asking. Something tactful, but classy. Walking into the design room wasn't going to cut it. Walking across the courtyard and knocking on her door was plain stalkerish.

“So, what now?” He turned to Sophie, needing all the help he could get.

On the front step, in the warm afternoon sun, Nell knew she was being watched. She couldn't see the person watching her from inside the townhouse, she could feel their stare. It was the same familiar stare that followed her at work.

Oh Alex.

“Are you with still with me, Janelle?” She focused on the screen at a sweaty man, eyes dancing, and dark curls smashed under a ball cap.

Fuck him and that blue tank top. Nell tried not to laugh, thinking of how his chest reminded her of the try hard harlots who would wear the push up bras in attempt to get their bosom to their throats.

The video call had come while Ivan was upstairs playing, which meant Nell would have time to take the call, getting any details she had yet to reveal to her son. If there was time, she would pass the phone off and let him talk with his father until one of them decided to run off and do something else.

“Copy that, Mr. Cavill.” She calmly replied, glancing up. Her peeping Dane was gone. “You look a little out of breath. Hard run today?” It was no secret the man moved like a sloth while running.

“Don't want to discuss it.” Henry shook his head at her teasing. Nell could outrun him with a broken leg and took great joy in reminding him. “Are you outside?” Behind her head the front of a house loomed and there was a sliver of sky beyond that.

“I am. It's too nice to sit inside.”

She would never tell him that she didn't want Ivan to hear her, in case it was another disappointment call. More than once his father would say he wanted to visit and then have to cancel. Schedules changed, it was nature of the job, having to explain that to a child never got easier. Leaving the poor boy with disappointment for days.

“Is it still as lovely there in summer as I remember?”

“Humid, but beautiful as always.” Nell nodded.

“I can't wait. I think I may have you book a room. Put it under your name and I will cover the costs. Perhaps something that will be suited for Ivan to stay with me? Unless of course you would prefer he comes to stay with me at home?” Henry shrugged. “If you want some time to yourself.”

“What are you saying?”

“You need to get out more. Find a hobby? Have some fun.” She hardly left the house outside of work.

“I have fun.” Nell blurted out. Henry, wisely, didn't say another word. Nell huffed. “And you can come here.” Ivan enjoyed London, but it wouldn't hurt for him to spend time with his father in his own environment for a change. If they were here, then Nell felt she could keep her wits about her. “I mean, you can stay here. At my place.”

Nell spotted Sophie pass by and waved. Waving back, the peppy blonde smiled and disappeared. Later on, Nell would venture over with a bottle of Château Montus Madiran that she had picked up, when she'd got the first phone call to say her summer plans were being ruined. One drink gone and the rest of the bottle was glaring at her every time she passed it.

“Will you be comfortable with that?”

“I will stay in a hotel,” Nell offered without thinking. “My place is fairly quiet and this will give Ivan a chance to show you all of the things he's constantly talking about.”

Sending a handful of video games or action figures to London was simple enough. What they couldn't send was the park and the duck pond that Ivan was constantly telling his father about. Packing an entire youth football league would also be a challenge. Nell would love to watch as the upscale home was overrun with muddy children, maybe another time. Who was she trying to kid, Henry would love that. He'd be the ring leader.

Ireland would be a bigger challenge. Taking Henry out of his element. He would spend his time looking over his shoulder, worrying about not only his, but Ivan's privacy. In London he had a handle on who would be coming and going, in Dublin there would be an unknown and uncomfortable factor. Nell would enjoy that.

The one time there had been any issues, was when a debate sparked online. Was the boy a family friend? A God-Son? His own child? Eventually people grew bored of arguing with one another, settling the debacle when a wizard of a publicist asked for the child's privacy. Ivan was young and aware that he had to be mindful when he spoke to people or went places with his father, though he never seemed bothered when the odd person would stop Henry and ask for a moment of time. It was normal, in a strange way, to the boy. He would wait patiently often milling around close by. Henry's mammoth of a dog warning off any body who dare look at Ivan.

“And Kal?” Obviously Henry had to have a place for the bear masquerading as a dog.

“My place is pet friendly, no worries. Kal can come as well.”

“Excellent, I know how much he loves Ivan.”

The black and white dog was the object of Ivan's affection as well.

Nell had vetoed the idea of having a pet, a child and an animal were too much for one person to wrangle and look after. When Ivan was older, if he still wanted a pet, then they would discuss it. Whatever they ended up with as a pet, would certainly not be a 100 and something pound dog. Kal was lovely and if he suited Henry, fine. Ivan could love on and play with the giant canine on his father's time.

“I have the dates, I was hoping that the end June until the second week of July would work? If they don't, then we can discuss and find something that works for both of us.” Henry wasted no time getting back to business. He had a limited time frame and wanted to chat with Ivan as well, before he had to go.

“I'm done the second week of June and don't have to be back until mid July. Send me the exact dates, I will make sure to set something up.”

“If I am putting you out in any way, you would tell me? I don't want to disturb your plans.” Of course he was diplomatic, too.

“You're not.” Lie. “It will be nice to have you here. Ivan will love it. Though, I'm not telling him until you're here. I want it to be a surprise.”

“Brilliant. I love that. I won't say a word, we can surprise him together.” Henry beamed. He understood that the surprise element was a matter of protection. Schedules were hectic at times, if he failed to make it, Ivan would be crushed. How did one boy get so lucky, having a mom like the one his son had. “Hopefully the wild boy finds dear ol' dad a good surprise.”

“I am sure he will find it a fantastic surprise.” Nell smiled softly. “And I am sure you want to talk to him?” Henry nodded. “He's upstairs, hold on I'll take you to him.”

Monday came fast and hard. Nell hadn't realized how little she managed to get done the previous day, until 3:30am hit and she was anything but prepared for work. Ivan's lunch was ready and his school uniform clean, the least she could do for Bridie who was coming over at the ass crack of dawn to take over the household for the day.

In an absolute state of disarray, having woke from a restless night tossing and turning – a pattern that was unavoidable whenever she spoke to or saw Henry – Nell drug herself out of the house and to set. It was going to be the longest day. Fingers crossed there would be a lull and she could steal on of the extra beds set out for the actors. Nobody would notice if she stepped away for a short cat nap.

Today was going to be...interesting to say the least.

“Morning, Nell.” Alex held out a take away cup from her favourite cafe. He was the first person Nell had saw since arriving. “I uh, Jordan told me how much you liked their coffee. It's my favourite, too.” he added fairly fast.

“Uh, thanks.” Nell accepted the coffee with a smile. How sweet of him. Deep down Nell could admit Alex wasn't that bad. “How was your weekend?”

“Same shit, different weekend.” Alex chuckled following Nell into the room. Holding the door open for her, like the gentleman his mother had raised. “And yours?”

“It was okay.”

“That's good.” He took a sip of coffee, hoping to find courage and words at the bottom of the hot, dark, liquid. “Busy week ahead.”

“Extremely, I'll be shocked it any of us leave here before next Monday.” Nell commented setting her coffee down on the nearest table, flipping on lights and checking stations as she went. “Are you here or one of the other sets this week?”

“I am all over.” Alex confirmed with a sigh. He loved his job. It was rewarding and more than he could have ever dreamed, like any job when you were this close to a break, each day drug on for an eternity. In a few short weeks, he could kick back with family and friends at home in Copenhagen.

“Keeps the days from ever being boring.” This morning talking with Alex had been easier than any other. Something about his lack of idle chatter was refreshing. Or maybe it was Nell's need for a distraction.

Coughing, he rubbed the back of his neck. Monday morning, first thing, was an unlikely time and place to ask a girl on a date and yet Alex had to try it out. He'd stayed up almost all night going over this moment in his head. Laying awake, he'd almost gone into Marco's room to get some coaching from his friend. Thinking better of the rash decision, Alex had let Marco sleep.

“Nell.” He went suddenly shy. Nell hummed and tilted her head in his direction, a sign that he had her attention despite her looking over a set of notes from a previous shoot. “I uh, I have something to ask and if you say no, then I will never ask this again.” He bit his bottom lip. Asking somebody for coffee had never been so difficult. A sign he was into her more than he expected. Or so Sophie had told him.

“Would, I mean, if you want...” Alex stammered. “Do you want to get together and have coffee? Outside of work? Maybe? Sometime?”

“Are you asking me out?” Nell's reaction was calm and reined in. Lifting her head to look at Alex, she held his gaze.

Alex had expected her to burst out laughing or her to tell him to fuck right off. There was still time for either or both to happen.

“Kind of, but not on a date or anything. Unless you want it to be. It's more of two people hanging out and getting to know one another.”

“Hmm.”

“Sophie told me to.” He blurted out before he could engage his mind to mouth filter.

Nell held his gaze, uncertainty was settled and Alex knew he had been defeated. Time to quit his job, move away, and change his name never to be located again. He had royally fucked it up this time. What made him think she would ever want to speak to him outside of being polite at work? Damn it, Sophie filling his head with fantasy and fairy tales.

“What if you join me for that scotch, instead?” Nell dropped the ball as easily as breathing.

All the air that had been held up in Alex's lungs escaped. A smile broke on his face. “I would like that. Yeah.”

“Good, what about Friday at eight?”

“Yeah. Yes. I will pick you up?”

“It's a date, then.” Nell held up her coffee, in a cheers manner. Where the hell had that come from? She should have put a stop to this, but...why? A harmless drink never hurt anybody.

“You need to get out more. Find a hobby? Have some fun.” Henry's words echoed in the moment.

A date. Nell had been the one to call it a date. Not him. No, not Alex. Wow Monday was going great and it was only 5:45am! Huh, Monday. Whoever said Monday sucks had never been in this position.

@funmadnessandbadassvikings , @kawennote09, @smutgoblin , @nickysurfer28 , @peaceisadirtyword, @igetcarriedawaywithyou , @lif3snotouttogetyou, @akamaiden @angelaiswriting, @neeadinghugs, @thoughtsmeander2tumblingblindly, @ilvebeenabad , @naaladareia, @imgoldielikehawn @tephi101, @sdcyumyum @unacceptabletatertots, @sparklemichele , @titty-teetee , @smolasianwinterbean , @capitanostella , @captstefanbrandt @bloodyivar , @normanallthewayforever , @blackcoffeeandgreenteaforme , @imyourliquor-youremypoison , @nikky-the-writer , @seremedyxiii , @laketaj24 , @deleteidentity , @tornupandbored , @hoeghfabulous , @ateliefloresdaprimavera , @mydarlingwhim , @kenzieam , @jar-of-love , @angelswannawearmyredshooz , @manuugxlvis , @lost-in-my-thoughs , @ivars-snowflake , @lisinfleur , @fumblingthroughchaos @pebblesz892 , @nelson-and-murdock , @nothingeverdies, @bluearchersstuff @itsspecial-itsnotforeveryone, @ivarlothbroks, @badassbaker @cris101071 @fucktrucks @ohjules @mrsadrianraines @angelic-kisses13 @whenimaunicorn @marthasantos95 @atlanticowe @hows-my-hair @omgshuddupmeg @moviegirl50 @havenoffandoms @gearhead66 @happydaysandersen @rekdreams-fandom @lovemylife2618 @supernaturalvikingwhore @heavenly1927 @zoe-rachel-crisp @blogandreea11 @shileen91 @geekandbooknerd @mzliterarydreamer @youbloodymadgenius @ainatirb-j @carlya65 @sawendel

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#unraveling at the seams #alex høgh andersen #henry cavill #alex høgh imagine #henry cavill imagine #Alex Høgh Andersen x ofc #henry cavill x ofc #Alex Høgh Andersen fanfiction #henry cavill fanfiction #ivar's heathen army #jordan patrick smith #marco ilsø

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oddsnendsfanfics · 5 years ago

Text

Unraveling at the Seams Pt 4

A/N: so far this is my favourite part. Also thank you all for the feedback, it is massively appreciated

thank you @flowers-in-your-hayr for the header :D

Catch Up Here

The iPad was on its side, the stand holding it in position as Nell moved around the kitchen. She had an hour before meeting Alex, which may or may not have been giving her second thoughts and butterflies. Not the good kind. Why had she agreed to this? Why was she feeling stressed about this? What she wanted more than anything was someone to hug her and tell her that this would be fun. A night out, with somebody other than Ivan. It was a new experience and if she didn't have fun, she never had to go again.

A call from mom always helped, right?

“Where's Ivan?” Evelyn asked, her daughter had called her in the middle of her work day. At first she had assumed something was dire, when the nerves seized, the Stewart Matriarch relaxed.

“He's next door, Jordan and Sophie are letting him hang out there tonight.” Bridie had a family party and Nell was hell bent that she was not missing it, because of her plans to have a drink with Alex. Ivan would welcome the change of pace, Jordan would surely engage Ivan's imagination with his skills as an actor.

The last time Ivan had gone there for a few hours, Nell had returned to find Jordan and Marco had built a full on fort in the middle of the living room, they'd had makeshift costumes, an imaginary dragon, and some sort of new language. Ivan had a way of charming people into doing whatever it was he wanted. A dangerous power for an almost eight year old to wield. These were the sort of fantasy games Henry would go along with, creating whatever world his son wanted to live in for the moment. Jordan had happily gone along with it, no questions asked and Nell would remain grateful.

“Have you told him that Henry is coming to visit?”

“No, why? Wait?” Nell turned to face the iPad. “How?”

“Henry told me.” Evelyn answered in a painfully obvious manner. Nell wrinkled her nose, her stunned look told her mother all she needed to know. “We talk almost weekly, you know. Just because it's rocky with the two of you, he's still the father of my only grandson.”

Nell's older brother Michael had two children, daughters. Her older sister, Michael's twin, Sadie also had a daughter. Ivan being the only boy took the title proudly.

“I'm glad Henry finds the time.” Nell snorted. Evelyn rolled her eyes and shook her head, avoiding a lecture, Nell derailed her mother. “I'm glad that he's comfortable talking to you.”

“You still talk with his family, do you not?”

“I suppose.” Nell accepted. “What else did he have to say?”

“He's busy working, he's excited to take some time off for Ivan, he's looking forward to seeing your brother next weekend. He said you didn't sign up?”

“I don't have time to run this year. I'll send a donation.” Nell shouldn't have been annoyed that he brother was running a marathon with her ex, yet she was. Less annoyed that Michael was doing a charity run and more annoyed that she hadn't been asked.

“Your father and I have sent ours. Other than that, there isn't much going on. Something about a new job in Hamburg? Hungary? Somewhere with an H in Europe.”

Nell frowned, Henry hadn't mentioned anything to her about a new job. Not that he had to, it was his right to take whatever jobs he wanted. In the past he had told her the second he was allowed to talk about them. Aside from his agent, Nell had been the first person to know that he'd been cast for Man of Steel, The Man from U.N.C.L.E, even the film nobody had ever heard of called The Cold Light of Day.

Again, Henry had a right not to tell her every detail of his left. Nell wasn't always forth coming with every detail in hers. Outside of Ivan, they didn't have to ever speak, if they chose that route.

Lord knows that there were many things that Nell never told Henry. Her date with Alex for example. She had spoke with Henry last evening, yet hadn't said a word about going out. A pang of guilt rose. Henry always told her when he'd gone out with somebody new, his reason was that – if this woman should become something more, he wanted Nell prepared as the woman he shared a child with. Transparency was the key to keeping their life mess free. Plus, it was better she heard it from him and not some trashy newspaper.

“Whatever it is, I'm sure he'll do well.”

“I'm sure he will. Did you remember to send that parcel? Tomorrow is his birthday.” Evelyn could remember Henry's birthday, yet had forgotten her Husband's birthday for the last three years.

“Yes, mom, I sent it two weeks ago. Ivan will call him tomorrow, talk to him, and then we probably won't hear from him until he gets here.”

“Why are you always like that, Nelly? He's trying. You know that he's trying and it's not easy, being...”

“Mom.” Nell was firm. She didn't need to listen to her mother explain everything she did wrong, when it came to Henry Cavill. “It's not that, it's...you know what, mom. I'm not doing this. Not tonight. I called, because I just needed to talk.”

“Okay, so let's talk. How is work?”

“That's the thing, you see, there's the guy at work who...” Nell paused, her doorbell ringing. “Shit. Mom, I have to go. That's Alex.”

“Alex? Male or female, Alex?” Evelyn smirked.

“Male. I will talk to you later, love you bye.” Nell hurried to turn off the call.

She didn't want to look desperate rushing to the door out of breath, nor did she want Alex standing there waiting. Taking a few calming breaths, she straightened herself out and coolly approached the door.

On the other side, Alex stood shaking like a leaf. He was probably sweating through his button down as well. Great! He was going to show up looking like a hot mess, asking a woman who already barely tolerated him to be seen in public with him.

This was a mistake! Why had he listened to Sophie?

“Alex, hey.” Nell opened the door in the nick of time. Alex had briefly thought of turning around and running away. Why did this woman do this to him? He'd never been intimidated by a woman before. “Come in, please.”

Stepping inside the first thing Alex noticed was the smell. An odd thing to notice, perhaps? It wasn't an unpleasant smell. The opposite, actually. The townhouse had a – homely smell. Warm and welcoming, fresh and light. It reminded him of summer and gingersnap cookies. Funny, summer and cookies is what Nell reminded him of.

“I brought you this, I didn't know what else to bring, but I wanted to give you something and here.” He held out the framed photo. It was the best way to begin, scared of what he'd say if he didn't lead with the gift. “It's one of the photos I took, early on. I remembered it was your first solo design and...”

“Alex.” Nell cooed, gently taking the framed photo of Judith, played by Jennie Jacques in the lavish dress. “I don't know what to say. Obviously, thank you. I'm speechless. This is amazing.” She leaned in giving him a fast peck on the cheek.

The photo had to be one of the sweetest gifts she'd ever received from a guy, on a first date, not that Nell thought of this as a date.

“That dress is one of my favourite costumes.” Alex blushed. “I was in awe every time I saw it. You did amazing.” It was Nell's turn to blush. “And this is for Ivan. I thought he may like it.” He passed over a book of 1,001 Brain Teasers for Ages 8+.

“He's going to love this. Thank you.” Nell accepted the book, still lost in the beauty of the photo. Alex was talented with a camera, Nell had saw some of his other works and they blew her away every time.

“No problem, I loved things like that when I was his age. He's so smart.”

“Too smart.” In more than one way. Intellect was one thing, being smart ass was another. The boy had mastered both swimmingly. Nell dreaded the day he turned into a teenager. “Would you like a drink?” She stood holding the photo and book.

“I thought we were going out for a drink, but we can have one here. If you want. I don't mind.” Alex felt like a helpless fool. Damn it. Why was he such a blundering idiot tonight?

Oh right, because he was in over his head with a positively impressive and attractive woman. He'd dated attractive women before, most ended up being superficial. A disappointment to say the very least. Nell was not going to disappoint. If either of them were a disappointment, it was Alex.

Damn it. He needed to be more confident. Marco had warned him about this. Not to let his doubt in or this would be a disaster of epic proportions.

“You know what,” Nell took a final look at the photo before setting it on the kitchen table, it would be safe until she arrived home. “Let's go for that drink. Should I call a car?”

“Please.” Alex nodded.

“I am going to call and grab my purse, feel free to make yourself comfortable.” Nell smiled, before disappearing.

She was hardly gone long enough for Alex to make himself at home, so to speak, he didn't mind. If he was alone too long, his thoughts would get the best of him and this not-a-date-date would be over before they left the house.

Leaving the townhouse, Alex caught sight of the two shadows in the window across the courtyard. Nudging Nell, they both waved, laughing when Jordan and Ivan ducked disappearing from sight. They were having too much fun spying and Nell would hear about it in the morning. No doubt Alex would be teased as well.

Safely in the black taxi, Alex was being the perfect gentleman. Holding doors, helping Nell in an out of the car. He was doing what his mother would expect of him, nothing more. Being polite was costing him nothing and he enjoyed seeing Nell smile each time he did something chivalrous.

“I hope you don't mind, but I thought we could go somewhere a little more low key?” Nell watched the outside pass, the taxi navigating the streets effortlessly.

“I don't mind low key at all.” Alex replied casually watching Nell watch the outside world.

“It's a nice place, I promise.”

The driver was cordial when Alex slipped him his payment, insisting that he get it, after all it was his idea to come out. The least he could do was pay for their cabs, secretly he planned to grab the tab too, despite Nell telling him he really didn't have to get the cab and she would get the drinks.

Helping Nell from the car, Alex stood aside happy to follow wherever she led. Strolling down the street, Nell nudged her chin forward to indicate that this was their destination. A quiet bar front, if there was such a thing, with a small sign on the front advertising their establishment.

“Here we are.” Nell announced, bumping into Alex when they both reached for the door. “Sorry.” Her voice was a whisper when his hand found her lower back. Guiding her through the door, Alex's gaze was telling her more than his words could have.

“Shocking, but I don't think I have ever been here.” Alex glanced around the front entrance of the bar. He'd been to nearly every bar in Dublin and the surrounding area, but never this particular one.

“I used to come here, a lot, when I lived here before.” Nell led the way to the back of the building. Alex took note, it was certainly nicer and quieter than the other bars he frequented. A large bar in the front, which seemed to serve the larger part and in the back, where Nell had immediately bee lined, was a smaller area complete with a smaller bar.

“Cozy.” He noted pulling out the high bar chair for Nell to sit.

“It's nice. I like it here.” She slid onto the stool with ease. Catching the bar tender's attention. “Lagavulin, neat please.” Nell ordered without thought.

Alex took a beat to decide. “Ardberg, on the rocks with a twist, please.”

Nell grinned.

“What?”

“Nothing. I like that you just went for it. I enjoy when a guy knows what he wants.” Nell shrugged lightly.

“Laugh it up, I know the whole adding ice and all that ruins the flavour blah blah blah.” Alex took the teasing with grace. “I can't do it neat, bad things happen if I do for it straight up.”

“Oh, no. I have witnessed far worse than asking for ice.” Nell looked as though she was processing some sort of horrid memory. Alex waited, she would either tell him or move on. The bar tender slid their drinks to them, giving Nell a few seconds to decide on her story.

“Ivan's father was given a bottle of Chivas Regal once for a birthday present, my brother got the idea to mix it with chocolate milk. I have never saw something so disrespectful.” Nell cringed. Alex involuntarily made a disgusted face. Who mixed chocolate milk with scotch? Further more, why disrespect a perfectly good bottle that way.

“Was it even good?”

“By itself, I swear there were angels singing, whenever you took a sip. With the milk, I don't know. I contemplated disowning them both on the spot.”

“Blasphemy.” Alex smirked, taking a sip of his drink.

“But that's enough about Henry and Michael. I will add, they're lucky I still speak to them both.” Nell sipped her drink. Licking her lips, she sighed happily. It had been a while since she'd gone out for a proper drink. Pouring herself a glass here and there, after a long day wasn't the same as sharing a drink with somebody in a pub or a bar.

“I would say so.” Alex held his glass, “I will say a cheers to you and your forgiving ways. May Henry and Michael know how blessed they are.”

“Here, here!” Nell raised her glass, gently tapping it to Alex's. “This is nice.”

“Lagavulin, is one of the best you can get I mean...”

“No, no. Not the Lagavulin,” Nell blushed, her eyes casting down. “I meant having somebody to talk to, to share a drink with. It's been forever since I have left my house after 8pm, to do something other than work. I'm going to risk sounding like one of those people, but I am usually in bed by now.”

“Me too.”

“Really? Wow, when I was your age, I was never home on a Friday night.” Nell winced. “Sorry, I didn't mean...Oh fuck that came out wrong.”

Alex laughed at her earnest. “I know what you meant.”

“Sometimes my mind and mouth don't engage. My mother says it's one of my biggest downfalls. I'm working on it.” Nell passed it off playfully.

“My mom says my downfall is that I am too stubborn and I don't know when to give up.” Alex revealed.

Nell tried to hide her chuckle. “A lesson, between us, moms know their sons better than anyone.”

“I'll remember that.” Alex's smile was full of mischief. “Any other secret mom tips that you're allowed to reveal?”

“Uh,” Nell tapped her chin, “Mom's really do have eyes in the back of their head. They're the hardest working people on this planet, and we have an excellent bullshit detector.”

“All useful.” Alex played into it. Leaning closer, his eyes dropped to watch her lips as she spoke. Licking his lips, he took less than a breath to snap back. Nell wasn't the type you hit on just because. “And what else can you tell me? This time about you, not as a mom.”

“Oh.” Nell shifted in her seat, adjusting her skirt, smoothing it over her calves. “I have two siblings, they're twins. I hate cake, as you know.” She smirked. Alex nodded. “And I have never dated somebody younger than me. Now you.”

“I have a sister. I play guitar, not well, it's a budding hobby. And I only ever date older women.” Alex shrugged, swirling his scotch in the glass, taking a drink. Smooth. What a way to sound like a moron.

He'd really felt this was going somewhere, until two seconds ago.

“Alex, so you know, I don't really think that this is going to go beyond tonight.” Nell's gaze fell uncomfortably. “I like your company, as a friend.”

That was a fair answer. Alex was a tiny bit disappointed, not that he had a right to be. He was lucky that Nell had agreed to come at all.

“Can I ask you something? If you are uncomfortable, don't bother. You can also tell me to fuck off, but why did you agree to come out with me?” He pushed his hair behind his ears, his eyes locked on hers. “I'm happy you did, but I don't understand. Maybe I shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.”

“Alex, it's not that I don't like you.” Nell felt the weight of the world suddenly on her shoulders for making him feel this way. “I think you're lovely. You are very kind and a great person.”

“But?” Alex knew it was coming. This kind of statement always had a but.

“But, it's complicated. I love working with you, but I know what happens next, because I've been there. So, if I stay guarded, you eventually go away, and nobody gets hurt.” Nell waved to the bartender, ordering another drink. This time a double.

Ordering another drink, Alex mustered up the courage to ask his next question. It lingered on his mind, but he'd never had the balls to come out with it. “Is it because of your ex?”

Nell accepted her new drink, draining half the glass in one gulp, before nodding. “And it's a stupid excuse. I know that.”

“No, I've heard worse.” Alex thanked the bar tender for his fresh drink. “You loved him? It had to have hurt when that ended. I get it.”

“We were together for almost three years.” Nell took the time to explain her behaviour a little. Alex had been the brunt of her rash and unfair treatment, all because of something that had absolutely nothing to do with him.

“So, it was serious?” Beyond having a son with the guy, of course. He didn't have to say it, Nell had figured out how to read between those lines.

“Not in the way I saw a future, but in the way that I knew we were comfortable.”

“You worked together?”

“We did. I mean, in a way. Yes. I was an intern.” Nell tipped the glass up to her lips. “We met while he was on The Tudors.” Nell shrugged picking at her drink napkin. “It's partly why I have this job. They loved what I was capable of and hired me back, when Janet had to leave.”

“I'm glad they hired you.” Alex offered, tipping his drink. “I don't plan on having a kid with you, but I am glad they hired you.” He smirked trying to break the tension.

“Happily I will accept that.” Nell smiled. “I didn't want to think about being married or having a kid at 22, but you know.”

Alex could relate, he couldn't imagine being married. Or having a kid. Not right now. His life was going great and there was no need to complicate things. Not that he assumed Nell found Ivan a complication or a regret.

“I think it's pretty brave of you to raise Ivan, the way you have been.”

“It wasn't all me. His dad helps a lot.” Nell bit her bottom lip, she wasn't entirely alone. “We lived together for the first year after Ivan was born. Henry adores Ivan, you know.” She wanted to make that clear.

“I didn't doubt he would. I'm sorry if this feels like me prying, but why did you split?”

What kind of man would leave someone as fantastic as Nell? How stupid was he? Alex had to know. If she became uncomfortable she would tell him, surely. No, Alex was confident that Nell would tell him to shut up if he was going too far. If he left here alone, covered in scotch, then he had deserved it.

“It was too much, having a baby and trying to bolster a career. You know how it is, appearing to the public in one way, while living another. It was too much, he was gone all the time and I was alone anyway, so I moved back home.”

Fleeing London to take refuge in St. John's had only lasted a year. Nell loved being close to her parents and sister, but needed something more. She'd been used to the lifestyle in London and soon found herself heading back. Before too long, she was back in Britain, living there until getting the call to move back to Dublin.

“Oh.” The word formed on Alex's lips without breath.

“It's complicated.”

In other words, Nell was often left angry with herself, over the situation. Blaming Henry had become easier, along the way, it was a go to when she needed it.

“Most relationships are.” Alex scoffed. “But we get back on the horse and keep trying. Isn't that what we're taught?”

“It's hard finding a guy who wants to date a woman, who has a kid.” Nell shrugged. She hadn't had much luck dating in the last few years. There had been one or two guys who had stayed around for a month, maybe two, then it always ended once they found someone better. “It's harder finding someone to date, once they find out your son's father is Superman.”

And that is how she knew she'd had possibly gone too far. Here they were now, might as well keep going. Get it all out on the table. This was the part where Nell over shared and Alex never spoke to her beyond tonight.

“Every man thinks he's Superman, at some point.” Alex laughed lightly. Seeing Nell in a new light, he couldn't imagine somebody not wanting to know her or Ivan. She was an excellent mom.

“No,” Nell's brow creased. “He's literally Superman.”

“I don't follow.” Alex's brow creased in confusion. How drunk was she?

“His father,” Nell swallowed the last of her drink. “My ex is legit Superman. Clark Kent, Man of Steel. Kal-El? Henry Cavill is my ex.”

The look on Alex's face as he tried to piece all of this together was becoming comical. This was generally the part where the date would ask some stupid, mundane question and then leave. Or he would attempt to try and impress her with a pointless show of masculinity. Alex was going to be neither of those. She could tell with the way his face contorted and his eyes softened.

“I had no idea.” Surely he wasn't the only one to not know this. The man's name was Henry, it was the only detail he'd ever had to go on. Nell had met him working, okay? There were thousands of Henrys in the world.

“You didn't know?” Nell began to chuckle. “Seriously? I thought everybody at work knew. Ivan's last name is Cavill.”

“There are more than one family of Cavills in the world.” Alex defended his ignorance. Until right now, he had never heard anybody use Ivan's last name and had always assumed it was Stewart. “Henry Cavill.”

Alex mulled it over for a second, having to say the name to somehow make it real. “Hmm. Well, at least he's not some sort of crazed inmate, who is hell bent on revenge on any man who talks to you.” He smirked, side eyeing Nell. “He not crazed and hell bent on revenge, is he?”

“No, probably not. You can ask him, when he's here in a few weeks.” Nell waved the bar tender over to pay. “Although, I think you will be safe. Start running, he's big, but slow.”

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oddsnendsfanfics · 5 years ago

Text

Unraveling at the Seams Pt 2

A/N: Well this is going over better than I thought it would. For that, I thank you all :)

thank you @flowers-in-your-hayr for the header :D

Catch Up Here

“Momma,” The voice stirred through the sea air, rolling in off the Channel like a faint whisper. Nell scrunched her nose, her toes in the cool sand, surrounded by the tiny grains. “Momma.”

This time of year the bay was beautiful, she remembered her first time seeing it, France to the East and England slightly to the North West. It had to be one of the most beautiful places Nell had ever...

“Momma!” The voice raised, accompanied by a violent shaking. “Mum! Mum!”

“Wha---” Nell groaned trying to roll away from the brutal wake up. Ivan could have at least waited until her alarm went off to wake her. “Ivan, stop.” she held her arm over her face, trying to block out the sunlight from the bay window.

“I need a new bag.” Ivan halted the attack on his sleeping mother. His dark curls a mess of bedhead, his blue eyes bright.

“Why? What happened to the one that you have?” Nell tried to find the time. Blindly grabbing for her phone, she gave in to defeat. Her alarm was due in five minutes, though there was no chance in getting those last five minutes of sleep. Her hair in it's own state of bedhead, she sat up and stretched her arms.

“I can't use it.” Ivan shrugged, standing beside her bed with the blue and red bag in his hand. He'd managed to get dressed, at least. Nell grunted, unable to form any more words at the current second. How she wanted to be back on that peaceful and quiet bay. “Momma.”

“What ever is the problem, my dearest boy?” She was awake now.

“I need another bag.” Ivan huffed. How many times did he have to tell his mother this? She was hopeless before he first cup of coffee. “I don't like this one, anymore.”

“Why?”

“Because nobody at school likes Superman any more. It would be so uncool to have it.” Ivan's eyes were wide and his voice serious. Nell chuckled, kids.

“Then go to your cupboard and get your old one, for today.”

“Okay, but we need to get rid of this. I can't be seen wearing this, ever!”

“Tell your father, he's the one who gave it to you.” Nell scratched the back of her head. Ivan dropped the bag and dashed down the hall. It was too early and Nell was too tired to remind him not to tear his room apart looking for something else.

Finally, the Superman drama causing book bag was replaced with one from the previous year. Nell assumed that since Superman was out, it would be cooler for her son to roll up to his class toting an old Peppa Pig bag. She would never understand kids and their crazes.

Breakfast. Check. Thanks to the blueberry muffins made by Bridie.

Lunches. Check. Shepherd's Pie, apple slices, a granola bar, and orange juice box for both of them.

Work bag. Gym bag. Keys. Coffee. Ivan.

And Nell was out the door.

Mornings like this were hectic to say the least, but they were Nell's favourite. Going into work later was always a bonus, though the real treat was getting to spend the early morning with Ivan. Nobody else there to interrupt them or tell them what or how to do things. It was the best part of the week, aside from Sunday, when Nell had the full day off and they indulged themselves in a late breakfast and an afternoon full of never leaving the couch.

At work Alex hadn't intended to wait for Nell, his schedule had been pushed back, which meant he had a little more time to hang out in the studio. It wasn't as if he had planned to be lingering when she walked into the department.

“Fancy meeting you here,” Alex greeted her before she could register what was going on.

“Uh, yeah. Hi.” Nell gave him a curt nod. “Rayna, can you help me unload those costumes we packed yesterday? I think there are one or two that need to be restitched.”

“Finished, sweets.” Rayna replied with a knowing smile and a wink.

The young actor had been following Nell around for too long, it was about time he got his due. At the very least, Rayna could help him get in a proper conversation with her colleague. It was less than a minute to her break, handing Alex a box of pins, Rayna instructed him to wait for Nell.

Settling into work, Nell ditched her bags and grabbed the folder she needed to begin mapping out the next round of costumes. Damn Rayna. Nell heard her tell Alex that she was leaving. Smooth on her friend's part. Taking her sweet time, Nell moved at a glacial pace. Small talk and nosy people were two things she wanted to avoid at all costs.

“Nell?” Alex poked his head around the door. “Ray said...”

“I heard.”

“Oh. Do you need any help?” He leaned against the door frame, his smile doing the best to charm the designer. His hair twisted into a bun, waiting for his hair and make up call, to transform him into whatever version of Ivar that they wished to create today.

“No thanks.” Nell shook her head. “You don't have to stand here, you know. I'm sure you have better things to do.”

Resting against the door, as if holding it upright, Alex's nose crinkled. “I am waiting for the call, I really don't have anything else to do.”

“Huh.”

On a typical day Alex would be nowhere to be found, while waiting for a set call. Like the other actors sleeping, reading, or generally goofing off was how he tended to spend his time. As of late he was choosing to spend more and more time in the costume department.

He watched Nell move around, gathering this piece or that, piling them up on a table at the end of the room. Whether she was conscious of it or not, her hips swayed to the music in her head, while she began to work. Her full attention set on the task at hand, she did an excellent job at ignoring Alex.

The drawings on the paper before her had Nell's full attention, it was one of the bigger pieces, taking weeks to create and it still had fine details to be finished. It would be worn in the second half of the season, the actress it had been made for would look even better than Nell had imagined when this piece had begun. Her nimble fingers worked over a piece of costume, checking the stitching inch by inch. Alex had never sat and watched all the detail going into the clothing he wore day after day, while in character.

Such effort and care.

Nell could feel the steel blue eyes following her around the room.

He was tenacious, to say the least. There weren't many men his age who would stand that quiet and patiently. As awkward as Nell should find this, having Alex watching her felt familiar in a way. His presence reminded her of another time in her life, when another young actor had worked this hard to gain her attention.

This time she was going to be smart. Humor Alex with some chatting, rewarding him with a smile, and nothing more. No longer was Nell going to swayed by gorgeous blue eyes and a flashy smile.

Alex was never quiet this long, strangely Nell liked him this way. His chatter was too much sometimes, despite him meaning well by it. She knew that he assumed she hated him. Yes, he annoyed her, never intentionally. What annoyed her was what he reminded her of, not him directly.

Shifting to prevent his leg from going to sleep, Alex stayed quiet and watched. He'd never noticed that Nell moved with absolute grace or that she had a small tattoo behind her left ear. At that he began to feel a tiny bit creepy.

“I may go get a drink, would you like anything? Coffee?”

“Uh,” Nell glanced up, catching Alex's eye. He was rather cute, standing there in half in his costume, looking like a lost puppy. “Scotch?” Nell's laugh was easy.

“I don't have any of that here, otherwise I would gladly share.” Alex winked. He liked her laugh. Was it too bold to tell her that?

“Unfortunate for us.” Nell joked. “Since there is no scotch, I'll take a coffee. Please. Black one sugar.”

Mock saluting, Alex grinned widely. “One coffee, black, one sugar on the way.”

Hearing that Alex and Nell had some easy interaction would surely please Rayna all while fueling her imagination.

She had told Nell more than once to enjoy the attention. He was young, handsome, generous, and could still be taught a thing or two where it would count. Each time, Nell would laugh trying to escape the conversation. Alex would soon move on, the second he found someone else to fawn over. He was young and handsome, women his age would eat that up in a second.

A handsome, sweet nature, generous actor was a recipe for disaster. Nell learned that first hand and would not, under any circumstances, go back there. She had been down that path and while it had left her with Ivan, she wasn't up for a second round.

“Coffee.” Alex held out the cup. “And!” he held out a package of chocolate chip cookies, tearing open the top he offered the first choice of the two cookies to Nell. “I grabbed these right before Marco, lucky score.”

“Well now I feel bad, poor Marco. What is he going to do?” Nell bit into the cookie.

Snickering, Alex shrugged. His friend would get over it.

“Don't you hate days like this?” Nell wondered out loud. “The slow days where nothing is happening, I hate waiting.”

“It's not my favourite, it's part of the job I guess.” Alex replied sipping his coffee and taking a bite of his cookie. “I'm not patient.”

“Neither am I,” Nell admitted. “Though being a mom has helped that.”

Alex swallowed his cookie and took another sip of coffee. After yesterday, he didn't want to step on any toes by discussing Nell's son.

“I don't...I don't know if I could do that.” Alex gently moved the conversation along. “Parenting must be a tough job. I can barely look after myself, it's why Marco lives with me.”

“I felt that way, at first. Especially after...”

“Right,” Alex wiped the crumbs of the cookie off of him. Sheepishly grinning at Nell. “I have to go find out what is going on for my shoot. If you're around later, how about we get together for another coffee?”

Saving her from going down a road that seemed rather personal for work, Alex crinkled the cookie package in his hand.

“Hmm,” Nell wrinkled her nose. “Not going to happen, sorry. Ivan will be here after school and I am off early.”

“Maybe tomorrow? Or Monday?” Alex was wishful that she would take his offer. He felt as though Nell had chatted with him to be polite or because she was bored, whatever he would take this as a personal win. If he had balls, he'd ask her for coffee over their days off.

“We'll see.” Nell smiled softly, her eyes creasing gently in the corner. She had stunning eyes.

“Until then, enjoy your shitty coffee. And good luck with all this work.” Alex waved backing out of the door.

He had accomplished a nearly impossible task today and it left him feeling invincible.

Lost in her work, time began to slip away. Deep in her element, Nell hadn't bothered to look at a clock since Alex had left. She knew it would soon be time for Ivan to come, a excitement began to bubble. Her son loved hanging out at work with his mother, his mood would change the older her got. Until then, Nell would take full advantage of the time he wanted to spend around his mother. Even if he did it because of how cool it was to see people battling one another with swords?

“Nell, visitor.” One of the ladies who worked as a various runner knocked on the door. Nell's head jerked up, a smile on her face.

“Thank you,” Nell dropped everything she was doing to meet Bridie and collect Ivan. Thanking their nanny and waving her off, the duo headed back inside. The afternoon warmth was welcomed on the other hand, the air conditioning was nicer.

“How was school?” Nell ruffled Ivan's hair and hugged him to her side.

“Long.” Ivan rolled his eyes, leaning into his mother. “Can I play with your phone?”

“Slow down, wild boy.” Nell eased. “You can, but if there is any school work it has to be done first. Go on, I will clear a space for you.”

“No school work.” Ivan beamed proudly. “I got a gold star today and don't have any.”

“Such a smart boy.” Nell held open the door for her son to pass through. “Give me a second, I will get you a spot to hang out and play games.”

“Okay.”

Ivan's quest for a game to play was sidetracked, when he stepped inside to find the familiar man hanging out, waiting like every one else seemed to be today. Bouncing the rest of the way across the room, Ivan greeted his friend. Calling to his mother. “Mum, I don't need to play a game right now.”

“Ivan!” Jordan cheered, his laugh coming in a growl. “How've ya been, buddy?”

Jordan and his girlfriend lived in the townhouse across the courtyard from Nell and Ivan. Having met Jordan at work with his mother; Ivan would sometimes join the actor in games of basketball on the small court behind their complex. On Saturdays, providing there was nothing else going on, Jordan would invite Nell and Ivan over to watch whatever football match was on. Jordan and Ivan would sit in front of the tv yelling and cheering, while Nell and Sophie ignored the chaos and spent time gossiping about this and that.

“Good, I guess. Ms. Inglewood has been giving a lot of homework.” The seven year old groaned, flopping down on the chair next to the actor. “Mountains of it!” His eyes were wide. “But not today.”

“Ah, all part of the school game, little man.” Jordan clasped a hand over the boy's small shoulder. “Tell me what you've been learning about.”

Nell snickered, pulling a rack of pants from the large cupboard behind the chairs, Ivan had been complaining for the last two weeks about this very subject. Jordan had opened a can of worms.

“Vikings.” Ivan replied in discontent.

“Well, look at that!” Jordan's enthusiasm was about to be squashed. He nudged the boy in the arm, smiling. “You must be at the top of the class, then?”

“No.” Ivan mumbled, folding his arms across his chest. “Ms. Inglewood has it all wrong and when I tell her that, she gets mad at me.”

“What do you mean?”

“She knows nothing about Vikings! It's all big and hairy men, wearing hats with horns, and how they were big bullies.” Ivan huffed, turning in his seat, he grasped the armrest, leaning over into Jordan's face. “She's crazy and not a very good teacher!”

“Hmm,” Jordan pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes. “Do you tell her that she's wrong, often?”

“Every day!” Ivan nodded firmly. He'd sat back a few inches, giving Jordan room to turn and face him.

“Maybe that's why she's always mad?”

“But she's wrong!” Ivan argued. “Wrongggg, Jordan, wrong!”

“So, the next time she is wrong, try being nice. Rise your hand and politely explain how what she is saying, isn't true.” Jordan offered the solution.

“Ugh.” Ivan sat back on his chair. “She won't listen to me, but...” He smirked. “She might listen to an adult.”

Nell listened to the conversation, no matter what Jordan said Ivan would try his best to get his own way. The little boy had a charming smile and those dazzling blue eyes, it was difficult for adults to deny him. A charm his father had as well. If he grew up to be like his father, the world was going to need some help handling them both.

“Buddy, I'm not sure that I'm the right guy to talk to your class. I don't now much about Vikings, I just pretend to be one.” Jordan shrugged, standing to finish putting on his costume. He had spent enough time with the boy to know how to deflect that charm. “Why don't you see if your mum can't help you find someone else?”

“But you're my best friend. And adult girls like you.” Ivan continued to argue. The various people in the room getting a chuckle, as the little boy tried his best to convince the actor. “Please.”

“Okay, Ivan, enough.” Nell cut in, running her hand through his hair. “Jordan has to get to work. We can discuss this later, let him go.”

“Mummm.” Ivan whined, ducking away from her. “I need someone to talk to Ms. Inglewood. Otherwise, she's going to produce a bunch of morons.”

“Ivan! Language!” Nell scolded her son. “Lets give this a rest, why don't you go see what they're doing in make up? I'll be right over with the rest of today's costumes.”

“Fine.” Ivan grumbled, sliding out of the chair. “But someone needs to talk to this woman. Where's Mr. Peter? He knows a lot about Vikings right?”

“Go and leave him alone, too!”

@funmadnessandbadassvikings , @kawennote09, @smutgoblin , @nickysurfer28 , @peaceisadirtyword, @igetcarriedawaywithyou , @lif3snotouttogetyou, @akamaiden @angelaiswriting, @neeadinghugs, @thoughtsmeander2tumblingblindly, @ilvebeenabad , @naaladareia, @imgoldielikehawn @tephi101, @sdcyumyum @unacceptabletatertots, @sparklemichele , @titty-teetee , @smolasianwinterbean , @capitanostella , @captstefanbrandt @bloodyivar , @normanallthewayforever , @blackcoffeeandgreenteaforme , @imyourliquor-youremypoison , @nikky-the-writer , @seremedyxiii , @laketaj24 , @deleteidentity , @tornupandbored , @hoeghfabulous , @ateliefloresdaprimavera , @mydarlingwhim , @kenzieam , @jar-of-love , @angelswannawearmyredshooz , @manuugxlvis , @lost-in-my-thoughs , @ivars-snowflake , @lisinfleur , @fumblingthroughchaos @pebblesz892 , @nelson-and-murdock , @nothingeverdies, @bluearchersstuff @itsspecial-itsnotforeveryone, @ivarlothbroks, @badassbaker @cris101071 @fucktrucks @ohjules @mrsadrianraines @angelic-kisses13 @marthasantos95 @atlanticowe @hows-my-hair @omgshuddupmeg @moviegirl50 @havenoffandoms @gearhead66 @happydaysandersen @rekdreams-fandom @lovemylife2618 @supernaturalvikingwhore @heavenly1927 @zoe-rachel-crisp @blogandreea11 @shileen91 @geekandbooknerd @mzliterarydreamer @youbloodymadgenius @ainatirb-j @carlya65

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#unraveling at the seams #alex høgh andersen #alex høgh imagine #alex hogh fanfiction #Alex Høgh Andersen x ofc #Alex Høgh Andersen fanfiction #henry cavill #henry cavill imagine #henry cavill x ofc #henry cavill fanfiction #ivar's heathen army

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oddsnendsfanfics · 5 years ago

Text

Unraveling at the Seams Pt 6

A/N: I am sad to inform you that this will be the last update, on this, until March. On the other hand, I am not updating because I am going to visit friends in Australia. Once I am home, remember what time zone I am in, then there will be more. Promise you will love what is to come ;)

thank you @flowers-in-your-hayr for the header :D

Catch Up Here

“Hello Alex.” Ivan sat in the chair beside the actor.

“Hey Ivan, what's up?” Alex looked up from his phone to greet the boy.

“Oh nothing much.” Ivan sat, swinging his feet back and forth idly.

He had joined Nell for the afternoon at work, claiming he wasn't getting enough time with his mother. Nell had been busy with work and Ivan had been tied up with his own social calendar. For a boy, he had more on the go than most adults.

“Taking the afternoon off? How has soccer been going? Score any goals during the game last weekend?” Alex made casual conversation.

“I scored three goals.” Ivan boast, sitting straighter in his chair. “And how was your weekend? Do anything fun?”

Ivan was fickle, Nell had warned him.

As sweet as her son was, he had a side that could be uncouth and sharp when he felt the need. One day he would be the sweetest boy and the next he was sarcastic and tearing down anyone around him. Nell had never quite figured it out, aside from Ivan needing to lash out every now and then. He was human, it happened. The one time she had spoke to an expert, they claimed it was common in children who came from a split home.

“I did, thank you.” Alex nodded. Something about the way Ivan followed him with his eyes, akin to a jaguar waiting to grab its prey, Alex was prepared to tread carefully. Ivan had saw his mother leaving with Alex the first time they'd gone out. Other than that, Alex was uncertain of what Nell had told her son.

“Hmm.” Ivan pursed his lips, his eyes narrowing and his jaw clenching. One eye brow arched, he was on to something. Resting his elbows on the chair's arms, he placed his fingers together creating a steeple, the kid version of a mod boss or evil mastermind. “Do you think you will be spending this weekend with my mum, again?”

“Uh.” Alex was suddenly nervous. Alone with Ivan, he had nobody to help him out. What if he said the wrong thing? Nell would be furious if he accidentally told Ivan something that she didn't want Ivan to know. She worked hard to protect the boy and his feelings. “Have you been over to the prop closet, yet? I hear there are some new swords.”

“It's a yes or no, Mr. Andersen.” Ivan huffed.

“Y-yes?” Possibly. They hadn't really discussed it.

“Excellent.” Ivan began to laugh in his practiced villain way. “Oh ho ohh.”

“Excuse me?”

“Sorry.” Ivan smiled timidly. “I got carried away. Are you doing anything fun with my mum this weekend?”

Sex was always fun. Alex smirked at the thought. Clearing his throat, he shrugged. “I don't know. Did you have something in mind?”

“Maybe.” Ivan's grin grew.

“Maybe?”

“There is this paintball park, all of my friends have been talking about it but my mum won't allow me to go. I really want to go, but I need an adult. Could you please ask her to go? She won't say no to you.”

Alex shook his head, trying to hide his laugh. All of this in an attempt to play paintball? “If your mom is saying no, then I am sure she has her reasons.”

“Perhaps, though I doubt they are good. Please can you ask her. Please, Alex.” For the first time, Alex had noticed the mishmash of Ivan's accent that Nell had spoke of. “I need to go! Please!”

“I'm not getting involved.” Alex was staying out of this one. He enjoyed Nell's company and he was enjoying her in his bed even more. There was no way he would screw this up over her son's attempt to play one against the other.

“What good are you, if you can't help me out?” Ivan huffed and pouted.

“Ivan, I'm not in a position to do anything. I really don't want to go against your mom.”

“Why? She's not that scary.”

“No, but I don't wish to upset her.”

And that was how Alex came to find himself in the middle of the paintball course, Friday afternoon, once Ivan was let out of school. Convincing Nell to let Ivan go had taken zero effort, the only reason she had been holding onto “No” was because she didn't want to go herself. If she agreed, Ivan would have hounded her until she took him.

She'd thought of asking Henry to take him, which was definitely still an option as well. Now that Ivan had been and appeared to have the time of his little life via the various photos Alex had sent her of the two of them. Ivan would be thrilled to chase Henry around the course, they had the same competitive nature.

It was nearly dinner time, when Nell heard the front door crack open. The loud chatter flowed through the otherwise quiet house. Ivan was lit up with excitement and Alex would be lying if he said he wasn't. Nell waited listening to them talk and laugh.

“Mum, we're home.” Ivan yelled after a few minutes, rushing to find his mother and tell her about his afternoon.

“How was your afternoon?” Nell asked hugging Ivan to her side. He had splats of blue and green paint through his hair.

“That was awesome!” His eyes wide, he was practically vibrating across the floor. “Can we do that again?”

“Maybe, we'll see.” Alex smiled, his hair was equally colourful. Splattered with pink and yellow paint flecks.

Ivan didn't stick around to hear the rest, running off to change from the dirty paint splattered clothes like his mother had asked. The boy was wound tighter than a spring waiting to let loose, he was better off focusing on something other than recounting his afternoon out. Nell wanted Alex to have a chance to breathe.

“I forgot how fast kids are.” he chuckled shaking his head.

“He's quick and he knows it.” Nell smirked. “You look like you've had better days.”

“Oh? Well, despite how it looks, we had a lot of fun.” Alex picked dried paint from the ends of his hair. “Thanks for letting me take him.”

“Thank you for offering.” Nell leaned against the counter, watching Alex run his fingers through his hair to pull it back. Biting her bottom lip, she glanced around the corner, to see if Ivan was downstairs yet. Coast clear, she leaned over tugging Alex in closer.

The difference a few weeks could make. A month ago, Alex would have dropped to his knees had she did that to him.

“If that is my reward, I will happily take him anywhere.” He licked his lips, cinnamon and coffee.

“Oh that is only the first installment.” Nell winked. “What do you think the chances are, we can get him to nap?”

Alex laughed, his voice nervously high. “I don't see that happening. But I will take that offer in a rain check.”

Nell hummed and nodded. She'd hold him to it.

“Dinner, then? No, wait, you have that meeting this evening.” Alex nodded and frowned. “It's fine, another night? I'll give you a rain check on both.”

“I will gladly accept.” Alex sighed. He would rather stay and have dinner then venture out to some mundane meeting, but business and a potential new job were riding on this. “I should be going, but I will talk to you later? If I have time tomorrow, maybe I will come to the game. If that's okay? Jordan mentioned maybe going for a bit.”

“Ivan would love it if you came. But don't feel like you need to, if you have other things to do.”

A few things in the morning, if timed right Alex could slip away. If he didn't slip away, right now, he would have to show up at his meeting covered in paint. Alex gone, Nell sought out Ivan to get his dinner request. Friday nights, when mom was home, Ivan was allowed to have whatever he wanted – within reason – for dinner.

Tonight it was grilled cheese, then going out for ice cream, to cap off his already “pretty awesome day”.

Bouncing into the kitchen, Ivan was in clean clothes, yet still slightly covered in paint. Nell would force him into a bath after, once he was content and sugar crashing from some ice cream. His dark curls were sticking up every which way, his eyes darting around the kitchen in a suspicious manner. Imagining what her son was going to come out with, Nell patiently waited.

“Why is the house clean? Was Bridie here?” Not as bad as she had expected.

“No, I cleaned the house.” Nell chuckled at his observation. “I do clean, silly wild boy.”

“Only when we have to move. Are we moving?” His eyes fixed on her, brow raised, and head tilted. Nell didn't know if a person learned or inherited mannerisms, but he was a tiny Henry sitting there.

“No.”

“Really?” Ivan pressed.

“Eventually we will have to, once this job is over, but that isn't for a while.” Nell replied flipping his dinner onto a plate.

“Good, because I like it here.” He softened into a smile.

“Ivan, you know that we can't stay in Ireland forever. When this job is over, I'll have to find another one and I don't know where that will be.”

Ivan was old enough to understand their moving was related to his mother's job. He understood perfectly fine that Henry was rarely around, because he worked away. It was always different when you were the one moving though. Ivan had enjoyed living in London, it was home. Dublin is where his current friends were, though. At his age, they were one of the most important things.

“When the time comes, you will be the first to know.”

“Will we go back to London? I like living there, I get to see Kal more.”

“Maybe. Although, I don't know what your dad's plans are. We may go back to London, but if he's not there then it won't make a difference.”

“I know. Do you think he would come back home more, if I was there? Or he could leave Kal with us when he can't take him. He said when I was big enough that I could babysit.” Ivan eagerly bounced in his chair.

“I don't know, Wild boy. I don't know. What I do know is you need to eat.”

“Okay.” Ivan sighed picking up his grilled cheese. “Do you think I could see dad this summer? Or is he to busy, again?”

“Why do you ask that? When is he ever too busy for you?” Nell ruffled his dark curls, still flecked with paint. She could list of numerous times when Henry had been too busy or caught up with work, not that she would ever tell Ivan about the missed visits.

Each time Henry had to miss a promised visit, Ivan would be shipped off to one Cavill or another to try and make up for the missed visit. Ivan loved getting to be with his cousins, but it was never the same. Ivan's fifth birthday, Henry had promised to be there, of course he had got booked for something else and missed being there in person. Two days later a parcel arrived, a weekend at Disneyland Paris. Ivan was thrilled, as long as he was happy.

Ivan shrugged, mumbling around a mouthful of cheese and toast. “Never?”

“Exactly!”

if that is what his parents wanted him to believe. He didn't need to hear his mom tell him that his dad loved him. What he wanted was his dad around. How cool would it have been to spend the afternoon running around shooting at his dad with paint balls? Alex had made it fun though. They had teamed up and ran around plotting each and every attack to a precise calculation.

Alex had made time for him and he had the same job as his dad. Jordan made time for him, too.

“Momma, I had fun today. Do you think I could maybe hang out with Alex more?”

“We'll see.” Nell answered, kissing the top of his head. “Now, eat. I want that ice cream.”

Friday evening slipped into Saturday, a day filled with football games, and hours of sitting by a field watching her son chase after the black and white ball. Ivan was having a blast. Saturday turned into Sunday, a day at home preparing for the week ahead. School was almost ready to be let out and Ivan was buzzing with excitement over summer. Sunday drifted into Monday and there was some protest about school. Monday became Tuesday and that was when the week began to get weird.

Unlocking the door, she paused in the rain, the television was on as was the lamp in the living room window. Odd, she was certain that those had been turned on when she left. Bridie wasn't over today and Alex was on set until five. Maybe she'd left them and didn't remember? She'd been in a hurry to get Ivan to school, having overslept.

Pushing open the door, Nell's heart sped up. She was crazy, what if it was someone trying to rob her? What kind of thief turned on the television and a lamp? Unless they wanted it to look like they were welcomed in the home.

If anything happened, Alex would know to look for her. He had said he'd call her on his next break. If she didn't answer, he would know something was wrong. Now was a great time to be thankful for the self defense classes she'd taken with Katheryn and her brother. If this person tried anything, she would Winnick the hell out of them!

“Hello? Hello!” Nell carefully stepped through the front door. Her phone in one hand and an umbrella in the other. Poised and ready to strike, she yelped and jumped when somebody approached from the living room.

“Easy tiger, no need to come in armed and dangerous.” Henry laughed, hesitating on his approach. Nell sighed heavily, lowering the umbrella weapon.

“Why are you? What are you? Some security dog you are.” Nell glared at Kal, lazily stretched out on the floor. Boofing with a yawn, the Akita laid his head back on his paws and closed his eyes.

“Could you not have at least pretended to care that someone was here?” Henry teased the dog further. Ignoring the people, Kal was content to lie on the cool floor snoozing. “I'm sorry. I should have called.”

“No, it's fine. I only thought that you would be here later and...”

“Yes, later this month was the plan. I wanted to surprise you both, seeing as I had a last minute change in plans.”

“You were a surprise.” Nell snorted, removing her jacket and dropping her bag.

“I'm sorry. Truly. Here, I made coffee. Let me make it up to you.” Henry led the way into the kitchen. He had been there nearly two hours, tucking his things away up stairs and getting as settled as he could for now.

“So you often break into women's houses and scare the shit out of them?” Nell teased accepting the coffee.

“Yes, it's a new business venture that I am trying out. How do you like it?” Henry winked, taking a drink of coffee.

“It's certainly shocking.”

“Hmm. Then it's working.” Henry added with a jovial grin. “I'm sorry to have done that. I didn't know you'd be home so soon. I had the key and didn't want to wait in the rain.”

“No, please mi casa es su casa. Next time call me, then you won't have to dodge swinging umbrellas.” Nell gently blew on her coffee, before taking a sip. “Your key worked okay?”

Henry nodded. Nell had left him with a key, when she'd first moved in, yet he'd never had the chance to use it until today.

“I'm glad you're here.” Nell offered a weak smile.

“I am glad to be here.” Henry closed the space between them. “You are stunning as ever,” He leaned down to kiss her cheek.

“You look...Big and hard?” Nell offered the obvious. Each time she saw him he was getting fitter and fitter, no longer the slightly awkward and nearly fit Henry that she had adored. “I heard that and it's not how I meant it.” She felt her cheeks flush. “I mean fit.”

“Of course.” Henry raised his brows in amusement. He could stand here for hours, letting her dig that hole. Instead he chose mercy. “And these are for you,” Henry picked up the bouquet of African Daisies from the counter.

“Henry, you shouldn't have.” Nell cooed, accepting the flowers. African Daisies had been the first flower that Henry had ever given her. Presenting her with a small bouquet of them on their first, official, date. Sniffing them, she carefully picked through the tips of the flowers.

“I know how much you like them, I thought it was the least I could do.” Henry beamed.

It was almost effortless to send flowers, still the thought was what really counted. Every year on Nell's birthday, he had a bouquet of peach roses sent. A silly yet meaningful tradition that had begun after Ivan was born. Henry had been so preoccupied with his newborn and work, he'd nearly forgotten Nell's birthday. Ordering the roses to be sent to their apartment was the fastest way to remedy that blunder.

“Thank you,” Nell reached out to hug him, careful not to squash the flowers in the process. She hoped the shiver that passed through her hadn't been noticeable. Sage and Bergamot, classic Henry.

Holding on for a second or ten longer than he should have, Henry squeezed Nell in tight. Safety and warmth were always found in hugging or holding her. His heart clenched. Something about Nell became an overload to the senses and made him go stupid at times.

“You're going grey, Mr. Cavill.” Nell teased, her fingers gently brushing along the side of his hair.

“You've no idea how grey.” Henry laughed.

Kal whimpered annoyed that nobody had bothered to pay him any attention.

“I assume you're picking up Ivan, soon?” He was eager to see the wild boy. Distancing himself from Nell. A simple hug always had a way of creating chaos with them.

“He has to stay after school.” Nell sighed, pulling a vase for the flowers from under the sink.

“Right.” Henry nodded, suspicious of the circumstances. “Is he staying for something fun or because he spoke before he thought, again?”

Ivan was a handful on the best of days. He had Nell's filter from mind to mouth, non existent. Nell's sheepish look gave Henry everything he needed to know about his son's after school stay. Watching Nell put the flowers in some water, finding the perfect spot for them on the counter.

“Ms. Inglewood asked them to draw a picture of their favourite family member. He drew Kal.” Nell explained exasperated over the situation. She was glad that her son was getting a new teacher next year. Ms. Inglewood was a terrific teacher, Ivan was a handful, and both were stubborn.

“Kal is my favourite family member.” Henry scratched Kal's head. Kal sighed and thumped his back leg, hard, on the floor. “Don't tell my mum.”

“Mm, yeah, but you're not a seven year old boy with a wild imagination.” Nell took a sip of her coffee. This is where it took a turn. Scratching Kal under the chin. “Obviously Kal is very real, but because the teacher knows that we don't have a dog at home, she accused Ivan of making it up. Anyway, Ivan went off on a rant at her, and now he has to stay after school.”

Ivan was fuming when he arrived home to tell his mother what had happened. He insisted that he was polite in his explanation, though Nell had her doubts. Despite the conversation Nell had with Ms. Inglewood, confirming Ivan did in fact have a 100 and something pound American Akita who belonged to his father, the teacher was less than impressed with Ivan's behaviour and requested he stay after school anyway.

“Oh Ivan.” Henry sighed shaking his head. “If that is what his teacher wants, then how do we argue?”

“We don't, but don't tell your son that. He's hell bent that this woman is gunning for him. I keep telling him, if he would only stop and think before he goes blurting things out at her, she wouldn't be so mean.” Nell explained.

“Perhaps the wild boy and I need to have a chat about behaviour?”

“Good luck, I have tried all year.” Nell snorted. Happy that Henry was going to be the one talking this time. Ivan was a great kid, but he didn't take criticism well. Like somebody else Nell knew. Ivan was like his father in more than looks. “So, how was the flight?”

“A flight. It wasn't long or too uncomfortable.” Henry answered, his coffee in his hand. Perched on the stool by the counter, he towered over the nook.

“I'm glad.” Nell smiled. He looked entirely too comfortable sitting in her house, relaxed, with a certain ease. “So, I guess I should call the hotel and see if I can't book for the next week, as well?”

Henry shook his head. He hadn't thought of that. Excited to get extra time with Ivan, he didn't properly assess this. “Please, don't let me put you out. I should have called before showing up, I don't want you to feel as though you have to leave. I'll go to the hotel for now.”

It was Nell's turn to protest. “Of course you're not staying in a hotel. Ivan would have a fit.” She could imagine the tantrum their son would throw. “If you're comfortable, I don't mind both of us staying here.”

“You're sure? You are absolutely certain?” The last time they had been together more than a day...Henry smirked, a heat creeping into his cheeks. Good lord she really had a way of causing him to make some questionable decisions.

“Of course.” Nell nodded. They had lived together before and stayed in the same space, while on visits. If Henry was okay with it, then Nell could manage having him there. As long as he remembered to pick up his socks and wet towels. “You're going to love my couch.”

@funmadnessandbadassvikings , @kawennote09, @smutgoblin , @nickysurfer28 , @peaceisadirtyword, @igetcarriedawaywithyou , @lif3snotouttogetyou, @akamaiden @angelaiswriting, @neeadinghugs, @thoughtsmeander2tumblingblindly, @ilvebeenabad , @naaladareia, @imgoldielikehawn @tephi101, @sdcyumyum @unacceptabletatertots, @sparklemichele , @titty-teetee , @smolasianwinterbean , @capitanostella , @captstefanbrandt @bloodyivar , @normanallthewayforever , @blackcoffeeandgreenteaforme , @imyourliquor-youremypoison , @nikky-the-writer , @seremedyxiii , @laketaj24 , @deleteidentity , @tornupandbored , @hoeghfabulous , @ateliefloresdaprimavera , @mydarlingwhim , @kenzieam , @jar-of-love , @angelswannawearmyredshooz , @manuugxlvis , @lost-in-my-thoughs , @ivars-snowflake , @lisinfleur , @fumblingthroughchaos @pebblesz892 , @nelson-and-murdock , @nothingeverdies, @bluearchersstuff @itsspecial-itsnotforeveryone, @ivarlothbroks, @badassbaker @cris101071 @fucktrucks @ohjules @mrsadrianraines @angelic-kisses13 @lol-haha-joke @whenimaunicorn @marthasantos95 @atlanticowe @hows-my-hair @omgshuddupmeg @moviegirl50 @havenoffandoms @gearhead66 @happydaysandersen @rekdreams-fandom @lovemylife2618 @supernaturalvikingwhore @heavenly1927 @zoe-rachel-crisp @blogandreea11 @shileen91 @geekandbooknerd @mzliterarydreamer @youbloodymadgenius @ainatirb-j @carlya65 @sawendel @sinflowersugar @magic-and-the-macabre @artemiseamoon @vicmackeybullshxt @intototaloblivion @flowerthug @henchry @littlefreya @mitzwinchester @lostinthoughtsandfeelings @h-e-a-v-y-l-e-a-t-h-e-r

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#alex høgh andersen #henry cavill #alex høgh andersen x ofc #henry cavill x ofc #Alex Høgh Andersen fanfiction #ivar's heathen army #henry cavill fanfiction #unraveling at the seams

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