#Alexis: Fine but ONLY five more minutes | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

gimmie-a-sammich · 3 months ago

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To Rule Them All | Chapter 16 | A Work of Art

Pairings: Idol!Ateez/???!Ateez x Fem!Original Characters

Summary: Alexis is about to have the summer of a lifetime traveling the country with some of her best friends following one of her favorite groups, Ateez. Little do they know, there is more to this group than meets the eye. Take a trip into the dark as they navigate a world unseen.

Genre: (18+ Minors DNI) smut, angst, fluff, supernatural vibes

Chapter Warnings: dom/sub dynamics, fingering, oral sex (m&f receiving), dirty talk

Word Count: 14.4k

read here on AO3

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Note: This chapter is written from Thea's POV

*Thea*

I couldn’t help staring at my phone. The minutes seemed to be dragging by, the seconds even moreso. I mean, who says 9am-ish? Does that mean before 9? After 9? What exactly was the time frame of the ‘ish?’ This ‘ish’ was entirely subjective and I was not a fan.

It wasn’t like me to feel nervous, but this date with Yunho had me feeling just that. The feeling would pass quickly, though. It always did. As soon as he knocked on that door I would be just fine. He just needed to knock on the damn door already.

At 8:57 I took another look in the mirror. Yunho had been pretty vague on what to wear for this all day extravaganza. “Something inconspicuous, princess.” What does that even mean? I had purple hair, for god’s sake. But I’m sure I hit the mark with the trendy mom jeans, white sneakers, and tan square neck tank bodysuit. Let’s be honest, colored hair was completely the norm nowadays.

After a final check of my crossbody for all the necessities, the knock came. 9:03. Apparently Yunho’s version of ‘ish’ was three minutes. With a quick last minute fluffing of the hair I was at the door, no nerves in sight.

“Good morning, princess,” Yunho said smoothly. God did he look handsome leaned against the small jutted portion of the wall. Who knew that a simple white t-shirt, jeans, and black baseball cap would make me swoon. Or maybe it was just who was in the outfit.

“Don’t you look dashing,” I smiled.

My comment flustered him judging by how quickly his ears turned red, but his shy smile was absolutely adorable. “Beat me to the compliments,” he laughed. “You look perfect, though. Not like that’s a surprise.” I took his outstretched hand, tightly lacing our fingers together.

He must’ve slowed his normal walking pace on my behalf since I didn’t struggle to keep up with his long strides down the hallway. What a sweet gesture, even though I had no problems ever keeping up with Alexis and her long legs and quick ass walking speed. Granted, Yunho had five or so inches on her, but the concept was the same, right?

“So, what's first on this secret agenda?” I asked. We didn’t walk towards the elevators, so we weren’t leaving the hotel yet it seemed.

Yunho only smiled, squeezing my hand a little tighter while he continued to lead me down the hallway. We stopped in front of what I assumed was his room since he opened it with his key. The bed was made, something Yunho must’ve done himself since there was no way housekeeping had been there already. Not a thing looked out of place. Even his suitcase was tucked out of sight.

The only thing remotely out of place was the open glass door to the balcony. A bouquet of brightly colored flowers sat in the center of the small glass table. Two plates of food resided in each place setting, along with what appeared to be my go to iced coffee order.

“First up is breakfast,” Yunho said while wrapping his long arms around me to pull me into his chest. I loved the feeling of his chin resting on top of my head. But what I loved even more was when he pressed a kiss to it. “I asked the girls what your go to was, just so I made sure I got it right. The flowers, though, I took a guess on.”

How in the hell did this man know daisies were my favorite? I literally kept a fresh bouquet in my kitchen at all times because I loved them so much. Not that I was complaining. Quite the opposite actually. Every little detail of this breakfast seemed to be thought out, down to the omelet, toast, and fruit on the plates.

With a tilt of my head upwards I gained a better view of Yunho’s giant smile. He appeared utterly pleased with himself. “You guessed right, handsome. Daisies just so happen to be my favorite.”

My smile grew larger with the soft kiss to my forehead. “Good guess on my part then. Just don’t judge the hotel cooking too harshly. I hear you’re quite the little chef.”

I rolled my eyes, but still couldn’t help but grin like a maniac when Yunho pulled the chair out for me. He laid one last kiss, this time to my lips, before taking the seat across from me and setting his hat on the table next to him. The way he mused up his silver hair with his fingers was sexy beyond belief.

“So what else do I have to look forward to today?” I asked before taking a sip of coffee. Damn, it really was my go to order.

“Do you really want me to tell you?” Yunho rested his chin on his clasped fingers. Somehow, they looked even longer in this position. Dangerously long. “My eyes are up here, sweetheart.” He must have seen where my focus lied.

I mirrored his positioning. “Can’t help that you have beautiful hands. They deserve to be admired.”

I don’t think he expected my witty retort. It took a lot to throw me off my game. Calling me out for ogling his glorious fingers was absolutely nothing. Once again, his ears became a flaming shade of red and that shy smile spread across his face. He attempted to wipe away the blush with a literal shake of his head, but the red tint remained.

“Ah, well,” he fumbled his words, stowing his hands below the table, “I’m keeping it a surprise then.”

Laughing, I took a bite of my omelet. It at least passed my taste bud test. “I didn’t think you’d be so easily flustered, Jeong Yunho. Is not telling me my punishment?”

Somehow, his eyes darkened, a stark contrast to his easy going smile. “You’d know if it was a punishment, darling. What can I say though, there’s something about surprising the woman who seems to be full of her own surprises. I can promise you this though, you’ll enjoy it.”

Instantly I debated on if he was referring to me enjoying the day or the idea of a punishment. Regardless, my heart started thumping against my chest, but I refused to let him know that a potential punishment had gotten to me.

“We’ll see if it lives up to my expectations, seeing that you’re already off to a great start.”

Beaming at my compliment, he finally started eating his breakfast. Conversation flowed easily. Despite my further attempts to fluster Yunho, he kept his composure and equally matched my wit in his own attempts to rattle me. That endearing smile frequently made an appearance, though, and I found myself captivated by him. Not a feat easily reached by anyone, if I might add.

No hints were provided regarding our next destination. Although, Yunho did comment on my choice of shoes, saying he was glad I wore something comfortable. By easy deduction, whatever was next must involve walking around. At least it wasn’t too hot out, but maybe some would be indoors. I wasn’t going to complain regardless.

Once plates were cleared and coffees drained, Yunho rose from the table. I still couldn’t get over how tall he was. He completely towered over my petite frame. And I loved it. Again, he took my hand in his, completely encompassing my much smaller palm.

We strode out of the room, this time towards the elevators. From his pocket, Yunho pulled a black mask. Of course he would need to conceal himself somewhat, even if it was just the walk to the car. Before placing it on his face, he tilted my chin upwards to lay the sweetest kiss. His lips felt heavenly. So soft. So freaking plush. And those fingers on my chin? This man had my number without even trying.

Surprisingly, he took it a step further, letting his tongue enter my mouth somewhat hesitantly. He shifted his hand to my cheek, holding me close enough to deepen the kiss. Such reckless behavior from the seemingly always put together idol. At any moment the elevator door could open. The risk of being caught only sweetened the kiss. Who didn’t love a little danger?

Alas, it ended too soon. Well, with a simple peck and brush of his thumb along my cheek to be specific. He shot me that blinding smile before hiding it behind that damn mask just as the elevator doors opened to the lobby. His eyes barely peeked out from beneath the hat, but he was still clearly smiling.

“Come along, princess,” he said, voice somewhat muffled by the mask. “Joon is in the car,” he paused for a moment, scanning the circle drive to point when he saw the black SUV, “right there.”

With a protective palm on my back, Yunho led me through the few people in the lobby and to the waiting Joon. At least he was the one driving us today. I wondered how he felt about driving us around on these dates since he drove Alexis and Sannie boy last night. I’d have to pick his brain about it in one of the down moments. Curiosity always seemed to get the better of me. Plus, Joon and Benjamin were two of the ‘hot’ managers Atiny was obsessed with and obviously we were going to be spending lots of time with them both. Wouldn’t hurt to get to know them a little better.

Yunho opened the door, prompting me to slide over so he could enter on the same side. When I tried to scooch to the opposite, he stopped me by placing a firm hand on my thigh. Joon immediately met Yunho’s gaze.

“We’re going to be early, Yunho,” he said matter of factly, but put the car in drive regardless.

Sighing, Yunho stripped off the mask. “I know… we can walk around Michigan Avenue for a bit and stop at Millennium Park first.”

Finally a spoiler. “Michigan Avenue, huh?”

He squeezed my leg. “That gives away nothing, darling. You don’t need me to tell you how much there is around there.”

“Yunho.” Joon’s voice was much firmer, but he didn’t look up from the road. “Do I need to remind you that you are going to be in some very public places?”

“And we’ll look just like every other tourist, Joon,” Yunho stated, surprisingly in just as stern of tone. “I have a mask and a hat, what more do you want? Did you give San this same reminder last night?”

Joon’s eyes flicked up to the rearview mirror. “San booked an entire restaurant for privacy, Yunho.”

“No excessive funny business, got it,” I interjected with a smile, somewhat hopeful that my comment would lighten the mood. Simultaneously, I reached for Yunho’s hand to offer my own reassuring squeeze. “As long as you promise to take a picture at the Bean to keep up with the tourist act.”

This most definitely wasn’t my place to comment, but I couldn’t help myself. Joon had a job to do, and I’m sure one of the most important parts involved keeping whatever this was underwraps. He couldn’t be faulted for trying to do it well.

I saw the crinkle of a smile through the mirror. “See, Thea understands. I’ll happily take the obligatory Bean picture.” But once again, his voice shifted when he spoke to Yunho. “I’m not here to parent you, Yuhno. Just be mindful, please.”

Although Yunho grumbled under his breath slightly, the growing tension dissipated. “Smooth, princess,” he leaned down to my ear, dropping his voice low enough so Joon wouldn’t hear. “If you want a picture of us, all you have to do is ask.”

“What’s cute is that you assume it's a picture of us, handsome,” I teased, taking his chin between my fingers and scrunching my face up at him.

His golden retriever eyes widened, but thankfully he picked up on the joke and leaned down to kiss me with a smile. “So Millennium Park first then. Our next stop doesn’t open until 11, so we’ll have a little time to walk around beforehand. Maybe look for more coffee or something?” he rambled slightly.

“Are you nervous, Yun?” I raised my eyebrow. Damn him and that soft smile and those glittery eyes and those perfect lips. I’d never met someone more boyfriend coded than Jeong Yunho.

“I just want you to have a good time, Theadora,” he laughed at my narrowed gaze. “Oh, do I not get the privilege of using your full name?”

“Do you think you’ve earned that privilege?” Even out of the friend group, Alexis was the only one with the ability to call me by my full name and get away with it.

The grip on my thigh tightened and he bent dangerously low to my ear again. “After tonight I’m sure you’ll let me call you anything I want, princess.”

Where in the fuck did that come from? I had no smart remark, no witty comeback. For the first time today, Yunho left me speechless and staring into his smug face. And damn, did he enjoy it.

“Speechless? Succeeded with that act much earlier in the day than I thought,” he continued, planting yet another kiss on my shocked face. “Won’t be the last time, either.”

Damn, I needed to compose myself. Fast. “You’re talking an awfully big game without a single thing to back it up. Seems a little premature, don’t you think?”

His laugh echoed through the car, catching Joon off guard. “I guess we’ll see about that, Theadora.”

Ooooo. He was asking for it. But fuck did he look hot as hell while teasing me. It had been a long time since someone knocked me off my game. It only made me want him even more. This sweet and sexy juxtaposition definitely followed him off stage. I’d have to see how kindly he’d take to me calling him Stefano if he kept this up.

Thankfully his teasing stopped when Joon spoke back up. He laid out some simple ground rules, mainly reminders to be discrete and not too over the top if we were affectionate with one another. I giggled when he brought up our unnatural hair colors, to which I simply retorted that we would be easy to find if we snuck away. Thankfully Joon found me funny, but Yunho’s hold on me tightened every time Joon laughed at my jokes.

Joon’s final promise was that he wouldn’t hover over us, but would make sure we were in his eyeline at all times. I found it hilarious that we needed a chaperone, yet another thing I joked about. Yunho didn’t enjoy me relating this date to a courtship, but did laugh at my Bridgerton references about taking a stroll through the park. I understood completely the necessity of Joon being here even with my jokes. What if a fan recognized Yunho? I’m sure he didn’t like the constant eyes on him, but at least we had backup just in case something went wrong.

Parking seemed to be a nightmare, but eventually Joon found a space in one of the many parking garages. For some reason, he was rather picky about which garage and constantly checked the maps on his phone. He must have wanted to be close to whatever our true destination was.

Yunho exited the car first, helping me out and keeping our fingers tangled together. “So what first, Thea? Coffee? Or the Bean?”

“Do I get a say in this?” Joon questioned behind us. “Because my vote is the Bean.”

“Our chaperone speaks,” I teased, smiling up at the tree of a man next to me despite his glare. “Bean it is, Joonie.”

“Oh, it’s Joonie now?” Yunho mumbled. Through his eyes I could see his scowl.

“Aw, are we jealous, Yun?” We reached the street and nobody paid us any attention much to my pleasure. We looked like any other couple hand in hand along the avenue.

Yunho walked with purpose towards Millennium Park. “Of the alleged hot manager? No, not at all,” he said sarcastically.

I’d been caught. “Chronically online, are we?”

“Atiny isn’t good at keeping anything a secret, princess,” he laughed.

“It’s a good thing you’re much hotter.”

He slid his arm around my shoulders, pulling me into his side. I loved the new closeness. “You bet I am. If it weren’t for this damn mask, I’d kiss you.”

I smiled up at him, grabbing his hand around my shoulders and bringing his knuckles to my lips to kiss each and every one. “I guess I’ll just have to kiss you then.”

We kept our hands tangled together. The closer we got to the Bean, the more people we ran into, but still nobody gave us a second look. I’d have to mention to Joon my purple hair didn’t scream out HEY LOOK AT US! Yunho adjusted his hat slightly and held my hand tighter, not wanting me too far from him. Joon remained close too, but not close enough to upset Yunho.

Just like the rest of the tourists around, we waited for the perfect spot to open up for the obligatory picture. Thankfully though, the area wasn’t too busy. After about five minutes of standing, the middle was entirely clear of people.

“Alright, handsome, you first,” I insisted, knowing that Atiny would love the solo shots if he posted them on his Insta. I kicked myself for not thinking to grab my camera, but my phone would work well enough with a quick tweak of the settings.

He laughed, but didn’t argue, posing perfectly while I snapped away. I fought the urge to provide actual direction and enter photographer mode, but honestly he barely needed any help. He kept his mask on for the first few before tucking it back into his pocket. By this time Joon had come to stand beside me, but said nothing about its removal.

“I’ll take some of the two of you,” Joon gestured for my phone with his fingers. “Nobody seems to be paying much attention, anyway.”

“Told you, just another tourist,” I winked and handed him the phone. “Don’t think you’re getting out of the obligatory bean picture either, Joonie.”

I skipped up to Yunho, who immediately pulled me into his arms. Hopefully Joon was snapping some candids, because damn did this moment feel cute as shit. He situated himself behind me, leaning down to kiss my cheek. The bill of his hat rammed into my forehead when he moved, and the two of us burst into laughter.

“Sorry princess,” he laughed, kissing the top of my head before smiling at Joon.

We did all the stereotypical coupley poses. This didn’t feel like a first date with an extremely famous k-pop idol, but more like another day trip with my boyfriend. It was odd, but right all at the same time. I also made him take his phone out, adjusting his settings and placing it on the ground for a unique, angled photo of us. I made him stay put for more solo shots at that angle, making him stand and kneel for a variety. He made a perfect model, and I desperately wanted to shoot him more.

“Take a few of you, too, Ms. Photographer,” Yunho pulled me to his place and stepped aside.

I obliged, doing a few poses. “If you insist, Stefano.”

This made him raise an eyebrow. “Stefano now? I see the game you’re playing, Theadora,” he laughed, emphasizing my name and pressing a quick kiss to my forehead. Back with the Theadoras. “I also insist you stay put. Let me get some of just you.”

Jogging to Joon, he took the phone from his manager’s hand. They shared a few words, I’m sure about the public displays of affection, before Yunho’s mask slid back into place. With a thumbs up from Yunho I smiled and posed, moving around some for the best candid-esque photos along with the stagnant poses. Ever the perfect Instagram-boyfriend, Yunho shifted his own angles, turning the camera and even crouching at times. Those little things made me swoon.

“Alright Joon, your turn!” I bounced towards them.

Joon shook his head and waved his hands at me like that would somehow deter me. “No, no, I don’t think so.”

Clearly on my side, Yunho lightly pushed Joon towards the sculpture. “You heard her, Joon. Just one.”

“Pretty please?” I pouted, sticking out my lower lip and giving him begging eyes that would put Puss in Boots to shame. “For the tourist experience.”

Sighing in defeat, Joon dragged his feet up to the space. He appeased me with a smile. I was only able to snap a couple of pictures before he came back towards us still grinning. “You’re lucky I like you.”

“She’s hard not to like,” Yunho said, sliding his hand into mine once again and checking his watch. “Let’s find coffee, and then we’ll walk towards our real destination. It’s a short one… only about 5 minutes, right Joon?”

He nodded. “There’s a coffee shop right up the way. Since I appeased you with a picture, will you two let me get the coffees and you wait in the park? Less crowded that way.”

Yunho looked marginally upset, but I cut him off. “Of course, I’m sure there’s benches around.”

Joon smiled warmly and walked ahead of us once we gave him our drink order. I was somewhat surprised by the change in his location, but I’m sure I had a little bit of trust since I sided with him on two things now. Again, it was just his job and I had no plans on making it difficult for him. Well, at least not on a first date.

“You know,” I mused, “you really are boyfriend-coded. The perfect photographer and model too.” I wrapped my free hand around his forearm, leaning my head somewhat into his bicep while we walked a few paces behind Joon.

“Slapping a label on this already?”

“Simply agreeing with the masses.”

Damn, his laugh was perfect. “Can’t argue with that logic.” Joon disappeared across the street into the coffee shop, but not before discretely pointing at a bench on his way. “Looks like this is our stop, princess, since you’re so eager to listen.”

I rolled my eyes, but sat down next to him regardless, situating myself under his outstretched arm. His fingers delicately traced my shoulder, raising goosebumps on my skin. I couldn’t help but hear the slight edge to his statement, or the way his eyes turned hazy at the mention of me being an eager listener.

“Would you rather me suggest we sneak away and make out behind a tree like high schoolers?”

Yunho dipped his head, leaning towards my ear. “We can save the makeout sesh back to the hotel.”

I laughed and leaned in further towards him. “Glad to know that’s on the agenda.”

He pulled his mask down without a second thought, pressing another light kiss before setting it back into place. “I have many plans for you, Theodora James.”

I inhaled deeply, partly because of the innuendo, but mainly because of not only his use of my full name but with the addition of my middle name. “You are playing a very dangerous game, Jeong Yunho.”

God, I loved his laughter. He squeezed me tighter, nestling his head on top of mine. “You’ll find that I love to play games.”

My smartass comment was cut short by Joon returning with coffees, barely able to hold all three in his hands. Yunho leapt up immediately to prevent one from tumbling to the ground. Such a gentleman. Joon showed his appreciation with a smile before handing me one of the coffees in his hand. I hadn’t told him what I liked, so I was pleasantly surprised by the first sip. It was heavenly, laced with subtle lavender notes.

“Great guess on the coffee order, Joonie,” I smiled as I took another sip.

He gave me a large one in return. “I do pay attention to what I’m told, Thea, whether it be by you girls or the guys.”

I could see Yunho struggling to contain his scowl. Someone really did seem to be a little jealous of dear Joonie. That jealousy became even more apparent when Yunho weaved behind me, draping his arms around my shoulder rather dramatically while still sipping his coffee. I could feel the heat from his gaze directed solely at Joon.

However, I secretly loved this little possessive, jealous streak in him. Somehow it made him even sexier. The bratty side of me wanted to see just how far I could push him. Maybe there was more beneath this golden retriever attitude, and I was dying to find out if that threat of a punishment could come true in more than one way.

“Well, the girls and I greatly appreciate both you and Benjamin’s attentiveness.”

Yunho’s arms tightened as Joon’s smile grew. Success. I tilted my head upwards to find him staring down at me. For once his eyes weren’t full of that playful sparkle. No, they were filled with something a little darker, more dangerous. If that mask were off, I’m sure I’d be getting an earful of something.

Apparently I was wrong about the mask being a deterrent, because his head shifted towards my ear just as one hand moved to my waist, his fingers pressing into my skin rather firmly. “Seems you like to play games, too, princess.”

“I don’t often lose either,” I whispered, bringing my free hand up to his cheek and patting it lightly. With how deep his inhale was I’m sure he didn’t expect my response. Surprisingly, he leaned into my touch when I let my hand linger. Our cheeks pressed together, a sweet gesture during our rather innuendo-laced conversation.

Joon eyed us rather oddly before checking his watch. “We can start walking, Yunho. We’re about ten minutes away, so the timing would be just about perfect.”

Yunho shifted around me, moving to my side while leaving his arm wrapped around my waist. Once more, his eyes were back to glittering swirls of brown. “Lead the way Joonie.”

He stared pointedly at me. Dick. But, fuck, did I love it. Joon simply rolled his eyes and set off the way we came from, only this time taking us through more of the park instead of the streets. It wasn’t nearly as busy, the trees casting some much needed shade while still allowing sunlight to dabble through the leaves. My photographer brain started playing through all the different backdrops and just how handsome Yunho would look in front of everything.

Not only that, my thoughts tumbled towards all the things Yunho could have potentially planned. Of course we’ve all read the dom daddy Yunho fanfics… how could you not? But real life and fiction were completely different entities, although in this case it did seem he leaned in the direction of those beautifully smutty pieces. Now, I wasn’t one to shy away from much of anything and had my own preferences when it came to the sheets… but damn was I dying to find out what sort of trouble I’d be getting into with this tower of a man.

We continued through the park, walking blissfully hand in hand until we rounded back towards Michigan Avenue. A large stone building came into view, the entrance flanked by two lions. I couldn’t help the huge smile when I realized where Yunho was taking me, my endless chatter ending immediately.

His fingers squeezed my waist at my silence. “Did I do okay?” he whispered while we walked up the steps. Finally, a break from this seductive side of him. With the way those brown eyes stared at me were definitely back in puppyville.

“More than okay, Yunho,” I said, cheesing so hard my cheeks hurt and wishing that mask would disappear so I could see his.

Museums were one of my favorite things in the entire world, and the Chicago Institute of Art was one I always enjoyed visiting. I dragged a willing Alexis along with me when we came to Stray Kids, but with our time crunch I couldn’t spend the time I wanted. There was just something so soothing about being surrounded by history and art. Plus, I loved getting a glimpse into other artists' minds through their works.

Before we made it inside the doors, Joon stopped us. Yunho instantly tensed up. I knew he was getting annoyed with this entire thing with our chaperone, especially with the constant reminders to be cognizant and aware. So far, I hadn’t seen anyone pay us a second glance and I’m sure our time in the museum would be no different.

“Let me know when you’re ready to go,” Joon said with a hushed voice. “No rush on time. I’ll be on whatever floor you’re on… but I’ll give you both ample space.” He directed the final sentence straight at Yunho

“A reward for our good behavior?” I teased. This time though, Yunho laughed along with me and his body relaxed.

“We can call it that,” Joon chuckled. “Have fun.”

Smiling, Yunho maneuvered his hand to my back, ushering me through the main entrance, Joon following behind us. I was absolutely giddy when the worker scanned our tickets. It opened straight into the Grand Staircase, but I had no desire to move beyond this floor.

“Do we need a map-” I started to ask, only to find Yunho showing me the virtual guide on his phone. “Thought of everything, now didn’t you?”

Surprisingly, Yunho slipped his mask off and stowed it into his pocket. At my questioning look, he smiled meekly. “I don’t think anyone is going to be paying attention to me with all the exhibits,” he said quietly. Still, he looked back towards Joon with a smirk. “Alright princess, lead the way.”

He laced his fingers with mine. Damn was I happy to be able to see the entirety of his face. I led him towards the Japanese prints first since it was the closest exhibit to us. Thankfully, Yunho seemed to enjoy my happy ramblings about the history and the beauty of it. He listened so intently, going between looking down at me at whatever piece we were on. In both cases his expression was filled with nothing but endearment and curiosity.

Surprisingly, he had a lot of input on the history of all the ancient Asian artwork and pieces. He didn’t strike me as a history buff, but he rattled off some facts I didn’t even know. Each time he beamed with pride at my surprise. Clearly he had made it his mission to somehow keep me on my toes, and he was succeeding effortlessly. All the while he had a hand somewhere on me. My waist, my shoulder, my back, or perpetually within my own. It was just as sweet as he was.

But it was the second level when I truly became engrossed and my ramblings over the art increased tenfold. While I loved the history and the meaning behind the ancient artwork, vases, and sculptures, paintings and photography were where my heart really lied.

“Having fun, princess?” Yunho asked softly, once again draping his long body around mine while I studied one of Alma Thomas’s pieces. His shin settled atop my head after he kissed it.

My hands settled on his forearms as I leaned into him softly. “I’m having the best time, handsome. What do you think about this though?” I asked, subtly gesturing towards the painting in front of us.

“Is there a wrong answer?”

“There’s never a wrong answer when it comes to art, Yu,” I laughed.

Regardless of my assurance, he shifted behind me in preparation for his answer. “Well, it’s beautiful, like the night sky. I don’t know…”

I squeezed his arms for a bit of reassurance. “You’re doing great.” I could tell he didn’t want to say something wrong or something too superficial. But honestly I just wanted him to try and immerse himself in it while we were here. So, maybe a little bit of support would do wonders. “Like, when I look at this, I feel a sense of searching, whether you view the piece as space or an ocean. But what are we looking for?”

Yunho’s lips pressed against my temple. “Do you feel like you’re looking for something in the great expanse of space?”

My brow furrowed. “Are you trying to get philosophical now?”

Now he squeezed me tightly, swaying me slightly side to side. “I think you made it philosophical. So, Theadora, what are you looking for?”

I pondered my own thoughts so intensely for a moment that my vision unfocused on the painting. I tried to push him yet he somehow turned the table on me. “Well… I think deep down we’re all just looking for our place in the world.”

“Have you found that, princess?”

“I’ll let you know when I do,” I sighed. Inadvertently I tensed up in his embrace. When I opened up this discussion I didn’t want it to turn into this. Art is personal, but despite our connection I wasn’t ready to share about my feeling of aimlessly wandering through life.

His fingers gently made their way beneath my chin, coaxing my face upwards to look at him. “Hey… did I say something wrong?” He looked utterly concerned at my change in body language, his face scrunched up as he studied my expression.

“Not at all, Yu,” I said with a soft smile. “Just didn’t expect that question.”

“Well I-“ he began, but suddenly stopped with a huge sigh. “I think we all feel we’re looking for something that might seem unattainable. But, I think part of the beauty in it is the search… because sometimes you stumble upon something absolutely amazing.”

His eyes stared fiercely into mine, but not in annoyance or frustration. They were filled with something much deeper than those trivial emotions. It made my heart race realizing that he was speaking about me. Or, at least that was my assumption based on how he looked at me.

I couldn’t help myself. My palm moved to his cheek, pulling his lips to mine tenderly. The kiss was oh so sweet. I could hear Joon’s voice in the back of my head about PDA, but even that silenced once Yunho’s tongue slid into my mouth. His hands migrated to waist, fingers digging into my skin when he pulled me deeper into his chest.

“Look at you, breaking the rules,” he murmured, pulling my hand off his cheek and bringing it to his lips to kiss my knuckles.

“I couldn’t help myself, you’re just so kissable,” I smiled, happy that he somehow found a way to recenter me. Typically I didn’t get too in my head, but unfortunately he hit one of my few softspots.

Squeezing my hand, Yunho pulled me towards the next painting. “Well, we still have lots left to see.” His endearing smile returned, but I could still see a bit of lingering worry in his eyes. “But, I will gladly kiss you whenever you want.”

For the first time, our walk was a little more silent. It wasn’t uncomfortable, just off. I didn’t want to press things too much right now. Eventually he’d bounce back to normal. Or at least I hoped he would. To do my part, I went back to my incessant chattering, giving him reassuring squeezes whenever his hand laced within mine or having a hand on him in some way.

After a few more pieces, Yunho was back with his light hearted banter and quick wit. I was glad the normalcy returned. And so we continued on, discussing our favorite pieces along the way. Yunho didn’t ask more probing questions like before, and while we had some semi-deep conversations I could tell he was being cognizant of what he asked now. It hurt my heart just a little bit knowing that he was probably overthinking the earlier conversation. Maybe we would need to have a talk, but this wasn’t the place to do it.

So we continued up to the third level to look at the final pieces. I had barely checked my watch the entire time we’d been here, and I was so surprised to see that it already neared four. Food hadn’t even crossed my mind, but my stomach started grumbling softly.

“Ah, that reminds me,” Yunho laughed, pulling out his phone. “Since I’m assuming we’re almost done here, I need to order dinner since we’ve somehow forgotten lunch. Let’s go outside real quick, babe.”

The sculpture garden was right outside with a few places around to sit. It wasn’t busy at all and we settled ourselves on one of the furthest ones. For the first time, I saw Joon sneaking behind us. He gave me a little wave, but continued keeping his distance. He didn’t seem upset at all by how we were acting, which was a major win for us.

“Do I get to know the dinner plans?” I asked, snuggling into him on the bench.

His arm wrapped around me, fingers caressing my arm. “Nope.” He kept his phone screen tilted away from me. With the way he had it angled, there was no potential way I could see anything.

“Not even a hint?” I batted my eyelashes at him, puffing out my lower lip.

“We’re eating at the hotel,” he tucked his phone back into his pocket. “All the info you’re getting out of me. But, when we get back I suggest we change into something more comfortable.”

“Seems you have nefarious intentions,” I laughed.

“I guess that depends on how you look at it, princess.” I could feel his smile against my temple as he kissed me.

These ‘nefarious’ intentions I suggested intrigued me, especially since I didn’t think he would go along with my joke so seriously. Between that and now both our stomachs’ growling becoming louder, I quickly made a very easy decision.

“Well then, Stefano, since we’ve seen everything there is to see and clearly our stomachs are telling us something, I think it's time we progress to the unchaperoned portion of our date.”

Yunho’s smile was ginormous, but laced with a bit of teasing. “Oh, are you finally ready to be away from dear Joonie?”

“I mean I’m down for an audience,” I said nonchalantly as I rose from the bench. When I turned around I was met by Yunho's bright red face and ears. With how flustered he looked, I simply smiled a little smugly and offered him my hand.

His brown eyes widened, but he took my hand firmly. Once he stood he towered over me and that red hue quickly faded to a more domineering aura. His grip tightened over my fingers while his free hand moved to tuck some of my hair behind my ear.

“Ah, princess…” he smirked. “If you want an audience, all you have to do is ask.”

Despite wanting to crumble, I kept my eyes firmly locked on his. “Oh do we reward using our words?”

God damn that laugh. He threw his head back slightly with the intensity of it before kissing my forehead. “Only when I ask for them.”

Good golly heaven’s above. Whatever I was getting myself into was getting juicier by the second. Still, I kept my composure. Little did he know, I could be just as dominating when I wanted to be. Maybe I was getting too ahead of myself by thinking something sexual could happen this evening. Or, maybe I wasn’t. Either way I was enjoying every single second with Yunho, even with our couple of bumps.

Pulling out his phone again, Yunho sent Joon a text letting him know we were ready to go. We made eye contact and he nodded briefly before disappearing back into the building. Yunho placed his hand on my back to guide me. We went down the grand staircase hand in hand and giggling while keeping Joon in our eyeline.

Joon waited for us outside the museum at the bottom of the stairs. Once he saw us, he started walking towards the parking garage, beckoning us with a jerk of his head to follow. Michigan Avenue was busier at this time of day and Yuhno’s hand slid protectively into mine after placing the dreaded black mask over his face. Noticing the amount of people between us, Joon hung back for a moment to let us catch up so he could walk beside us. For once, Yunho didn’t complain and only gripped my hand tighter.

I wrapped my free hand around his bicep to hold myself even closer to his tall body. Easily he steered us through people with Joon near us at all times. Once we hit the parking garage, the mask disappeared again and both Joon and Yunho seemed to breathe a little easier.

“Back to the hotel?” Joon questioned when we situated ourselves in the car.

Yunho nodded. “Yes, please.”

“We’re going to hit some traffic… is that going to impact your dinner plans?”

“Not significantly. I enlisted some help on that so everything should be fine.”

Smiling through the rearview mirror, Joon started the engine to begin our drive back. Chicago traffic was a nightmare, and while we wouldn’t be hitting the thick of it, we would definitely hit some of it. Before we left the garage entirely, my phone vibrated with a message from none other than Joon. It confused me for a moment. Why would he text me when I was literally sitting behind him?

But when I opened the message I understood why. I caught his eye again, smiling widely before swiping through the pictures Joon took of us in the museum. They were absolutely adorable. My favorite, though, was one from when he was draped over my shoulders, chin resting on top of my head while we studied one of the paintings. All were candids, perfectly taken with nothing but genuine smiles. In one he caught Yunho staring at me while I was clearly talking, even though my back was to the camera. The way he looked at me with so much adoration made my stomach flutter and a smile, toothless smile creep onto my face. The expression seemed much too emotional and invested for two people on a first date.

“Cute, baby,” Yunho muttered, tilting his head towards mine.

“Yeah, we are, aren’t we?” I said offhandedly in my daydream, making Yunho wrap his arm around me more securely. Being snuggled up against him felt right, and to be honest it scared the shit out of me just how comfortable I felt with him and how quickly it happened. Once I snapped myself out of my head, I opened up my photos app “Let’s go through those photos… Atiny is going to love them.”

“You’re going to send me all of those, right?” he asked.

“Airdropping them to you as we speak, Yun.”

Together, we swiped through the photos. It was the perfect way to pass the time since we hit some of the traffic. Like I’d anticipated, it wasn’t heavy, but enough to cause a bit of a delay. The solo pictures of Yunho were perfection. He looked every bit the boyfriend Atiny adored and adorable as shit. We picked out his favorites to post to his instagram and I quickly edited them with my professional app on my phone, not that they needed much finessing at all.

Yunho snuggled even closer when we looked at the pictures of us from the Bean. Just as I hoped, Joon captured the moment of Yunho knocking my head with his hat and our laughter perfectly. All the pictures turned out fantastically. Even the posed ones didn’t seem forced. Somehow we were at ease with each other, and that was evident in our smiles and body language. I’d love to share them, especially one where our backs were to the camera so no one would know who the tall, handsome drink of water was exactly. But, Atiny are crafty as shit and somehow that picture would get out.

“You know, princess” Yunho began with a sweep of my hair off my shoulders, “it’s a shame that the best pictures have to stay hidden.” Pulling out his phone, Yunho showed me the photos he sneakily took of me throughout the day. “Because you are beautiful, Thea, and I would love nothing more than to show you off to the world. But… I’ll settle for helping you pick out which ones you’re posting, including this one.”

The photo in question was a half plandid. He held my hand, although he was entirely absent from the frame. We faced each other, my arm outstretched and face scrunched up in the widest grin. Although you couldn’t tell who was holding my hand, there was no question someone was.

“Who am I to deny you?” I teased.

Instantly his eyes darkened, lips moving millimeters away from my ear. “Such a good girl, Theadora James.”

Fuck was I done for. My annoyance at him using my full name faded each time he used it, especially when he said it so damn smoothly. But that lustful haze disappeared just as quickly as it appeared. He transitioned between these two sides of him so fluidly it made my head spin in the best way possible. Clearly he knew the effect he had on me, at least judging by his smirk.

The rest of the drive went smoothly with no other not-so-subtle innuendos. Joon eventually rejoined the conversation, asking about what we thought of the museum and what not. He even shared his favorite pieces and what he thought, going as far to thank Yunho for planning such a fun date. The blush on his cheeks from the praise made me smile with a fondness I didn’t expect. How could I be down so bad for this man already?

Once we were off the interstate, the drive flew by with the lack of traffic. Before I knew it, we were pulling up to the hotel entrance. For hopefully the last time today, Yunho put the mask on. The hotel looked busier at this hour, and I worried about him getting recognized. I knew he would want to hold my hand or pull me in close, but something in my gut said that we would need to walk with some distance between us.

“Thank you for today, Joon,” I said before we got out of the car. “I’m sure that taking us out on dates like this isn’t your favorite part of your job.”

Joon laughed. “Well, it's the first time my job has consisted of something like this. But, I’m not complaining about it one bit. Enjoy the rest of your evening.”

Yunho opened the car door, offering his hand to help me out and seemingly to keep our fingers laced together, but I shook my head. Beneath the cap, I saw his eyebrows furrow. “Thea?”

I slid out to stand next to him, but moving quickly to keep ample space between us. “There’s a shit ton of people right now, babes. The last thing I want is for a fan to recognize you.” I knew Atiny were staying in the hotel thanks to decorations on the windows.

Sighing, Yunho nodded. “Walk a few steps in front of me… But we’re going in the elevator together.”

I offered him a toothless smile. “You just want to stare at my ass.”

Not giving him the chance to respond, I started walking towards the front doors. I heard his laugh, though, making the smile he couldn’t see grow even wider. I’m glad I mentioned that there was a potential for fans to be there, because I noticed a couple milling about the lobby. As much as I wanted to, I didn’t turn around to check on him. Hopefully he would get by undetected.

Pressing the elevator button, I held my breath. Nobody was waiting along with me, and a few moments later I felt Yunho’s body come beside me, a tentative finger reaching out to brush along mine. I didn’t dare look at him, but the smile was immediate. When the elevator opened, we rushed inside and Yunho smashed the close button repeatedly in an effort to speed up the doors. Once they were, Yunho’s hand found mine and he tugged me in front of me, hands splayed across my waist.

“I didn’t like that… one bit,” Yunho mumbled. “But, staring at your ass was at least a decent consolation.” His fingers squeezed slightly. “Now, princess. I need to get the last part of our date set up while you get changed. I’ll text you when to come back to my room… sound good?”

The door pinged open on our floor and I reluctantly peeled his hands off me so we could go our separate ways, if only for a moment. “See you soon, handsome.”

He smiled as he walked away, pulling out his phone to make a call. He kept his voice hushed even though he spoke in Korean, making sure I didn’t overhear anything. It was a quick walk back to my room. Unsurprisingly, Nikki was still absent. What I wasn’t certain of was if Alexis and Christie had finally dragged her out for dinner or if she was still hiding out with Mingi or Seonghwa.

I hurriedly sent them a text in our group chat, briefly telling them what happened and that they would get a full recap tomorrow. I’m sure Alexis was giving them the lowdown of her date last night with San, but I’d get that information tomorrow. I followed Yunho’s direction of changing into something more comfortable, throwing on a pair of comfy joggers and crop top. I threw my glasses, skincare, and a toothbrush in my purse just in case things progressed far enough that I would spend the night.

Now came the waiting game again, although this time it didn’t take long before my phone lit up with a text from Yunho asking me to come to his room. I headed there immediately. The walk seemed to take forever with my anticipation since I had no clue what I would be stepping into.

My knuckles barely tapped the door before it swung open and I was met with Yunho’s wide grin and large body blocking me from seeing into the room. He too had changed into sweats and a yet another baggy t-shirt. “Alright… you ready?”

His excitement was intoxicating. “Let’s see if you keep up your hot streak,” I joked.

He stepped aside, allowing me inside. He’d blacked out the entire room, leaving it completely dark except for the sweet smelling candle in the center of the coffee table. The first Alien movie was prepped on the TV, the menacing music from the title menu ringing through the space. Through the dimness, I saw a couple bottles of my favorite bougie wine and a pizza box.

“So? Does part two live up to your expectations?” Yunho asked sweetly, coming to stand behind me.

“Exceeding every single one I had,” I hummed, leaning into his embrace. “How did you know pizza and wine was my guilty pleasure meal? And that I have an insane obsession with the Alien franchise?”

Yunho’s laugh rumbled through his chest. “I can’t share all my secrets, princess.”

It was a little scary how well he seemed to know me, but I assumed that he asked one of the girls some questions to make sure he planned everything perfectly. And planned everything perfectly he did. He gently pushed me towards the couch, breath ruffling my hair. We sat close to one another and Yunho opened one of the bottles of wine, pouring each of us a generous glass.

“I got Chicago style… deep dish,” Yunho said. “I hope that��s okay.”

“We are in Chicago, aren’t we?”

I leaned into his shoulder as he put a giant ass piece of pizza on each of our plates. The amount of cheese on it made my mouth water and it smelled heavenly. Thankfully he had a roll of paper towels and silverware, because I had no clue how to eat it.

“Yunho, this is absolutely perfect.” I stretched myself as best I could to kiss his cheek. “Thank you.”

He turned to place his lips on mine, smiling through the kiss. “I’m glad you like it, princess.”

“Before we start the movie, can we talk about something?” I asked, pausing Yunho when he reached for the remote.

He sat up straighter, angling himself to face me better and placing a hand on bent leg. “Is something wrong?”

I shook my head, placing my hand over top of his and running my thumb along it softly. “No, baby, not in the slightest. But I know we had a little hiccup at the museum, and I just thought it would be better to clear up whatever was going through both our heads.”

“Well, I know whatever I said upset you, even if it was just for a little bit,” Yunho said quietly, dropping his gaze to look at our intertwined fingers.

I squeezed his hand, forcing him to look back into my eyes. Despite my earlier reservations about sharing my inner thoughts, something in my gut told me that I needed to be completely open and honest with him. “I just… have this thing with feeling like I’m just wandering through life. So your question caught me a little off guard, that’s all.”

Yunho’s palm moved to my cheek. “The steely Theadora has a soft spot?”

“Don’t get used to them,” I scrunched my face up at him. “But you didn’t do anything wrong, I hope you know. I’m sorry that was my reaction… but you handled it wonderfully if I might add.”

“Well, I stand by my statement… I think everyone has those moments, even me,” his thumb ran soothingly across my cheek. “But god damn am I glad this journey led me to you.”

My cheeks felt like they were on fire. So rarely did I feel like this with someone, and so quickly too. Words left me again. The only thing that felt right was to lean to kiss his plush lips for the umpteenth time today. His hand shifted backwards, tangling in my hair to hold us close together. Quickly the kiss deepened, his tongue entering my mouth smoothly. It was easy to get lost in him. His hand shifted to my waist, pulling our bodies together while mine moved to his sides.

We kept up the leisurely makeout. It had every possibility of moving further, but the smell of pizza and wine continued to roll through our noses. When Yunho’s stomach gurgled loudly we broke apart in a fit of giggles.

“Eat first, makeout after?” I giggled at his red ears.

“Be nice,” Yunho laughed. “Like you’re not just as hungry as I am.”

“My stomach isn’t the one that decided to yell.”

With a quick peck and more laughs, our attention turned back to the food and movie. Yunho finally started it, making the room even darker for the briefest moment. The opening scene began, and instead of losing ourselves in a kiss we lost ourselves in some of the best damn pizza and wine I’d ever had in my entire life. Maybe that had something to do with the company, though.

Speaking of the wine, it went down smoothly, so smoothly in fact that Yunho and I both refilled our glasses before the xenomorph burst out of Kane’s chest. Once we had our fill of pizza and Yunho cleared off everything but the candle and the last bottle of wine, we resituated ourselves comfortably on the couch beneath a blanket. I could definitely get used to being snuggled against his chest and between his long legs. He held me easily, his tall frame completely enveloping my much smaller one.

“Comfy?” he asked, nuzzling into my neck and pressing a quick kiss.

In response I nestled myself deeper, resting a hand on his thigh. “Extremely.”

Those long ass fingers began drawing lines on the exposed portion of my torso, making me shiver. Behind me Yunho laughed somewhat dangerously, his voice teasing. “Sensitive, baby?”

Only huffing, I did my best to keep my focus on the movie. The little bit of wine definitely added to the haze Yunho induced, especially when his lips returned to my neck. My hand on his thigh clenched from his seductive sucks and nips, tongue quickly going to soothe where his teeth bit into my skin more firmly. All focus went to the feeling of his lips and how his finger dipped lower until it grazed just beneath the waistband of my joggers.

“Already up to these nefarious intentions, I see,” I said quietly.

I squirmed slightly, especially when I began to feel him growing hard. Yunho’s index finger trailed down my face to my chin to tilt my face to meet his heady gaze. My breath hitched. I was already putty in this man’s hands, something else that didn’t happen often.

“Princess,” his voice was firm, commanding my attention.

“Oh, you think you’re going to be in charge?” I knew my comment was dangerous, but I didn’t care in the slightest. Even though my body was screaming to let him have control, I was not one to give it up so easily.

Yunho tilted my head up further, a teasing smirk spreading across his face. “I know you’re used to having all the power in your hands, darling… but tonight you’re going to be the good girl I know you can be. My good girl.”

Ah fuck. I wanted to argue, to tell him no, but he had completely melted my brain to the point I needed to see where this went. Not only that, he had me dripping to the point I was desperate for some sort of friction.

“So, what do you say?” Yunho’s finger slid lower towards my pussy, but only to delicately run his fingers along the lace of my thong to rile me up further, a feat he easily achieved with how my hips rolled into his hand. “Remember… I reward when we use our words.”

His stare was intense, but I could see just a teeny bit of nervousness while he waited for my answer. Consent was important, especially in the type of activities I foresaw us partaking in.

“If I’m going to be a good girl for anyone, it’s going to be you, Jeong Yunho. Just don’t expect me to be an angel.”

With the clear answer the nerves faded from his eyes, but his fingers still teased around where I needed him. “I wouldn’t expect anything less. Are you familiar with the color system?”

“Green means go, yellow slow down, red stop.”

“Hard and soft limits?”

Of course we would need to run through this part before anything went further, but I couldn’t help but laugh internally at the fact Atiny really pinned him as a dom so easily. Being wrapped up in his embrace and hearing how effortlessly these questions rolled off his tongue made it easy to tell this wasn’t his first rodeo. Nor was it mine, but normally I didn’t lean into the submissive side of things so quickly or easily with a partner. Yunho was easy to trust, something that once again scared the ever living shit out of me. But, I was down for the ride as long as it was with him.

“Hard, bodily fluids outside of saliva and cum, anything with knives, needles, that jazz. Nothing that I can name off the top of my head for soft, but anything that I’m uncomfortable with I’ll let you know immediately, and I expect the same from you.”

“Already on the same page, princess,” he kissed me softly, fingers still teasing. “Safe word?”

I thought for a moment, my eyes settling on the movie still rolling on the screen. “Alien.”

Laughing, Yunho’s eyes darkened even more. “Alien it is.”

His lips moved to mine sensually just as a single finger slid through my folds lightly. It was enough to make me jolt, but did nothing to alleviate my growing need. He continued teasing, lightly brushing around my entrance and clit. I moaned into his mouth, fingers digging into his firm thigh to ground myself.

“So wet already,” he mused, nipping at my lip. “Are we already getting desperate?”

I rolled my hips again, trying to get some pressure. “Do I need to compliment your hands again?”

“You’ll get my fingers soon enough, princess. Promise. But right now, I want you naked and on your knees.”

I scowled when his fingers left my body entirely. With a slight push to my shoulders he urged me to my feet. The blanket pooled to the ground, and when I looked back to look at him my eyes widened.

Not only was the dom daddy theory correct… but so was big dick yunho. He looked utterly delicious sprawled out on the couch with a massive tent struggling to be contained by his sweats. I nearly lost it when he licked his finger and grabbed his bulge, lustful eyes never leaving my body.

“I knew you’d taste good,” his eyes closed, sucking the digit and palming himself. “But I’m getting distracted. Clothes off, on your knees, Theadora.”

I stepped backwards and Yunho sat up, watching me intently. Might as well give him a bit of a show. Biting my lip, I played with the loose strings of my joggers, barely pulling them down enough to expose the black lace of my thong.

Yunho was on me in an instant, scrambling up from the couch. His fingers dug into my hips possessively, the same aura radiating through his eyes. “Now’s not the time to tease. I don’t want to have to punish you further tonight.”

“Further?” I asked cautiously, even though I had an inclination of what he would be referring to.

“Your little flirtation with our ‘hot’ manager… because of that we’re going to put that flirty mouth of yours to good use. So, princess, clothes off, on your knees.”

Releasing my hips, Yunho situated himself on the bed, legs spread open in an invitation for me to sit between them. This time I didn’t tease and stripped off my crop top, throwing it carelessly to the side. My pants came off in a similar fashion with no preamble. You would think that standing completely naked in front of Yunho would be nerve racking, yet it was anything but that. With how he looked at me and drank me in I felt nothing but confidence.

When I dropped to my knees, placing my hands in my lap, and looked up at him through my eyelashes I thought he was going to lose it. His tongue poked out between his teeth, his gaze filled with nothing but hazy lust for me. A sole finger ran down my cheek to my chin.

“God, Thea,” he hummed, taking in every inch of my body before him. “This image deserves to be in the museum. You, my darling, are a real work of art- a masterpiece to be admired by me alone.”

His thumb rubbed along my lower lip, pulling it down slightly. Unprompted, I took it in my mouth, sucking it softly and swirling my tongue around. Yunho groaned, head lolling to the side slightly to watch. He pulled it out with a pop, a string of saliva leaving it connected to my mouth.

“Now… you're going to let me use that pretty mouth of yours.” That commanding tone was back and it only made the ache in my stomach grow. “Answer me.”

“Yes.” My voice came out in a rushed whisper. To be honest, I was dying to see exactly what hid inside those sweats.

“That’s my girl.”

The praise made me weak, a new wave of arousal surging through me. Without rising from the bed, he pulled off his t-shirt, throwing it to join my clothes somewhere on the floor. His chest looked exactly like the toned dancer he was, lean and strong, his ab lines prominent with the tension. When he finally pulled down his sweats I had to keep my jaw from dropping to the floor.

He was massive, long and thick with prominent veins on the underside. The tip already leaked precum, which he quickly spread down the length with a couple smooth strokes. I rubbed my thighs together in an effort to get some relief. Yunho must have enjoyed that view based on the longing moan. My hands slid upwards on his thighs when I raised myself in preparation to take him in my mouth.

One of his hands slid over top of mine, squeezing softly while the other continued stroking himself. “One tap means you're good, two slow down, three stop.”

I nodded in understanding, but that wasn’t enough for him.

“Say it back, princess.”

I tapped my finger once. “I’m good.” Twice. “Slow down.” Three times. “Stop.”

With a smile he captured my lips in a heated kiss, tongue quickly entering my mouth. It was messy, full of teeth and lust. It ended when Yunho pulled away to tap the tip of his dick to my cheek.

“Open up.”

And I did so eagerly, taking just the tip into my mouth, suckling it and running my tongue along his slit to collect the fresh precum. Taking him entirely was going to be a struggle, but I was up for the challenge. I hadn’t spent years training my gag reflex for nothing.

Eventually, his fingers wound through my hair, gripping it tightly. I popped off to lick from his base to tip, making sure to press my tongue firmly along the vein. When I reached for his length to stroke him, Yunho’s hand snatched my wrist firmly and he tugged on my hair, angling me to look him in the eyes.

“On my thighs,” his eyes narrowed. “I want to fuck your mouth, not your hand. This is your one warning.”

With my eyes still fixed on his, I placed my hands just where he asked, nails digging into his skin in a small act of defiance. He hissed slightly, but that quickly turned into sounds of pleasure when my mouth enveloped his cock again, head rolling back when I took him in further than before.

The thickness stretched the corners of my mouth, the weight heavy on my tongue. But god, did it feel so good. Relaxing my throat, I lowered myself further before slowly bobbing my head. Each time I made sure to take a little bit more, fighting through the slight gag when he hit the back of my throat.

His fingers tightened. I made sure to tap his thigh once, assuring him that the hair pulling and tugging was welcome. “Fuck, baby. Your mouth is heavenly.”

I was surprised by how long he’d let me control the pace, moaning and cursing slightly when I pressed my tongue firmly on the underside or hollowed out my cheeks. Clearly, he was letting me get adjusted to his girth and length, something I appreciated. In my soul I knew that the switch would flip any moment, especially with the promise of this being a punishment. That could only mean roughness was to come.

Unable to respond, I could only moan around him. That made him completely lose all semblance of control, my name coming from his lips in a garbled rush when he slammed my head down, nearly smashing into his pelvis With the sudden loss of air I choked, nails digging even more harshly into his thighs. But I tapped his thigh once nonetheless to check in.

“See- fuck- I knew you could be a good little cocksleeve,” his thrusts became quicker and harder, drawing tears from my eyes, “letting me fuck that smart mouth of yours with no complaints.”

His hand held my head steady, making it impossible for me to move. There was nothing I could do but take everything he gave me. The lack of oxygen was dizzying despite doing my best to breathe through my nose in time with his thrusts, especially when his other hand wrapped softly around my throat. It never tightened to cut it off further, just simply rested there.

Now his breaths became more ragged and his dick twitched more frequently while he abused my throat. He had to be close judging by the ferocity he thrusted into me. Tears ran from my eyes now, joining the precum and saliva on my face.

“Shit, Thea,” he moaned, thumb caressing my throat to feel the bulge of himself sliding in and out. “I can feel how deep you’re taking me. You’re so fucking good too me, my perfect little princess.”

Somehow he sped up and the room filled with wet and garbled moans. It almost became too much, my vision getting blurry from the assault. But I was bound and determined to get him off and be the good girl he asked me to be.

“Fu- FUCK” He moaned, stilling himself in my mouth for hot strings of cum to fill it.

The load was huge, some of it spilling from the corners of my lips. I swallowed down everything I could, taking the time to suckle on his sensitive tip before he pulled himself from my mouth completely. My throat burned and the sudden rush of air made my head spin. I had enough sense to wipe the lingering fluids off my face and lips, sucking it from fingertips before opening my mouth and sticking out my tongue to show Yunho there was nothing left.

I was met with Yunho’s blown out pupils, mouth partially open in a smirk while he breathed heavily. His hand loosened in my hair, quickly going to my cheek to rub away the tear marks. He kissed me deeply, completely ignoring the taste of our debauchery on my tongue.

“Color?” he asked between slow pecks, ghosting his fingertips across my side softly.

I moved my hands forward to hold onto his waist, pulling us closer together. My entire body felt achy, needing something to take the edge off. The feeling of his slick skin on mine helped slightly, but did little to soothe the throbbing in my pussy.

“Green. Very, very green.” My voice was a little hoarse, but my answer was truthful.

He smiled, eyes still hazy. “C’mere.”

Easily, Yunho pulled me up onto the bed, quickly shifting our positioning so I was settled comfortably beneath him on the pillows. From this angle he looked even hotter, if that was something even possible. His biceps flexed slightly when he brushed back pieces of hair from my face. Those lips I adored attached to my neck once more, dragging along every single pulse point and nipping lightly enough to sting but not leave any marks.

“You did so well for me,” he said softly, lips dragging lower in conjunction with his hands. My back arched when they wrapped around a nipple, tongue flicking it firmly. “And for that, princess, you deserve a reward.”

After he provided similar treatment to my other nipple, he peppered kisses further down my body until he his head hovered above my soaked center. He hummed in approval, tongue moving to wet his lips while those perfect hands of his spread my thighs apart, exposing me to him further.

I lied. This was the hottest, most to die for view. I ran my hand through his sweaty, silver locks, smiling down at the man between my thighs. “Do I finally get to experience those beautiful hands of yours?”

His laugh blew air directly onto my clit and I squirmed in his grasp, craving something more. “Ah, Theadora, you’ll get to experience much more than my hands.”

The anticipation was killing me. He didn’t give into my wanton desires just yet. Instead he kissed all along my thighs, slowly going between them after he hooked his hands around them. My legs looked so small beneath his splayed palms.

“You’re so beautiful, you know that?” Yunho mumbled between kisses, shifting his gaze to my eyes. “I can’t wait to make you mine…”

At that statement his mouth finally connected to my cunt, licking firmly from my entrance to clit. It sent a shockwave through my body and my fingers clenched in his hair, the other in the sheets. His tongue moved perfectly through my folds, finding each and every spot that made me shudder against him.

“Just like that, Yun,” I whimpered after a particular flick against my clit

Yunho’s hands held me in place and he continued that same motion again and again, sending me closer to the edge. He ate me out with precision, his little moans sending vibrations that only amplified what his tongue was doing. My back arched, hips going bucking into his mouth when the wave finally crashed over me.

“So sweet,” he mused, thumbs rubbing firmly on thighs while he teasingly kissed and flicked my clit to ride me through my orgasm, but still making sure I didn’t come completely back down. One hand left its home on my thigh, fingernail dragging seductively towards my center. “Are you ready to come on my fingers now, princess? I know how badly you want them.”

The teasing edge in his voice nearly sent my spiraling again. He kissed up my body again, lips and tongue dragging seductively until they reconnected with my lips. Fuck, did I feel needy, craving for those long fingers of his to fill me up.

The sudden absence of his body made my eyes fling back open, lips chasing the empty space. Yunho was now nestled next to me on the pillows, legs open while he languidly stroked his semi hard, still massive length. “Right here, princess,” he tapped the space between his thighs, “back against me.”

Once I moved where he asked, he hooked my legs over his, bending his knees slightly to lock me in place. His giant ass hands moved to my breasts, pinching and rolling my nipples while his lips latched onto my neck. My head flung back against his shoulders, exposing more of it to him.

“Beg, princess.”

The command had me clenching around nothing.

I tangled my hand in his hair just for his teeth to nibble on my earlobe. “What exactly would you like me to beg for, Yunho?” I breathed.

His breath was hot against my skin when he laughed. Both hands left my breasts entirely, one coming grab onto my throat, the other skating down to once again tease my folds. “I won’t ask again.” His grip on my throat tightened. “Beg.”

I held out for as long as I could, squirming beneath the ghost brushing. I don’t know what inspired me to be a brat, but I tugged hard on his messy hair. Growling, he bit down on my neck, just barely letting the tip of his finger pressed into my entrance. Fucking tease. Yunho quickly soothed where he bit down, sucking and licking until the sharp pain went away. It was maddening. Too maddening.

“Yunho,” my voice trembled. “Please.”

His lips quirked into a smile. “Please what?”

“Your fingers… please… I need more.”

“Where?”

I sighed in frustration, which only made him laugh more. Flexing his fingers slightly, his voice turned even more menacing. “I asked where.”

Fucking hell. He had me pinned to him so tightly I couldn’t move, couldn’t roll my hips in a last ditch effort to get more than just these teasing touches. God, did I want to know how those long ass fingers would feel inside me. I just knew they would hit everywhere I needed, even places I didn’t know existed. And so, I caved.

“Inside me Yunho, please,” I whined. “I need your fingers inside me, baby.”

Finally, he obliged and slid his index finger in entirely. That single finger filled me up so well and the angle at which he moved in and out applied the tiniest bit of pressure on my clit. His chin settled onto my shoulder, watching as his finger disappeared inside me.

“Look at you, greedily sucking up my finger,” he moaned, gaze not breaking from pussy when he added his middle finger, already pumping them both knuckle deep. I clenched around them, and his dick twitched against my back in conjunction with his fingers flexing against my throat. “That good, princess? I didn’t realize you’d be such a slut for my fingers.”

I was entirely correct about how his fingers hit every single place I needed and more. He had the perfect pace and angles that had me keening. The noises coming from my mouth were nothing but embarrassing, needy little whimpers and breathy moans of his name. They only egged him on further.

“You’re so tight,” he teased, beginning to scissor his fingers to open me up. “I can’t wait to really fill you up…” To emphasize his point, he rolled his hips into my back, letting me feel just how long and hard his cock was.

Taking him in entirely would be daunting, no doubt, but the care he was taking to prep me calmed what little nerves I did have. I trusted him, clearly, and if anything felt remotely unpleasant I wouldn’t hesitate to slow it down. My wandering thoughts didn’t last long, especially when he began really circling my clit, spreading my arousal around it with enough pressure to have my legs shaking.

“All this… just for me? My perfect girl… going to give me another one? Then let me split you open and have my way with you?” He increased the pace of his fingers and the pressure on my clit, the pad of his finger rubbing deliciously on my g-spot, ignoring my futile attempts at moving.

My back attempted to arch off his chest, but he held me in place for my second orgasm to roll through my body. Those fingers of his really were magical, and I knew I’d find myself admiring those beautiful hands of his even more frequently. Yunho barely let me catch my breath before manhandling me, effortlessly putting me on my hands and knees.

Without him moving me, I dropped to my elbows for a little bit more stability, arching my back at the same time. My legs were shaking, but Yunho’s firm handle on my hips helped keep me steady. One hand slid soothingly up my back and I dropped my head into the mattress at the feeling. Stars still swirled through my vision, but Yunho steadily brought me back to reality.

“Still with me, Thea?”

I nodded, sighing with pleasure when he ran his cock through my folds, coating it with my arousal. I loved the way he checked in on me, my wellbeing clearly on the forefront of his thoughts. “Yes, Yunho, and still very very green.”

He lined himself up, stroking himself. “Don’t move.”

“Holy-” I bit my lip the instant I felt the stretch. Thank god he’d taken time to prep me or else it would have been unbearable. He eased in slowly, letting me adjust while his thumbs rubbed reassuringly.

It stung, but fuck did it feel good. Yunho continued with these small, steady thrusts, inching himself in. I couldn’t help but lean into it, trying to get him deeper.

A sharp slap to my ass stopped me with a yelp.. “I told you not to move, Theadora.”

“And you promised to fill me up, Stefano,” I huffed, not caring in the slightest about any potential repercussions.

His fingers dug in hard enough to leave bruises. “Careful what you ask for, princess,” Yunho hissed.

With a force I wasn’t expecting, Yunho’s hips snapped into me, bottoming out completely. It knocked the breath out of me, tears forming again in my eyes. Not only would my hips be bruised, but so would my cervix because fuck was he hitting it with every thrust. He pounded into me relentlessly and all I could do was take it, hands gripping the sheets like my life depended on it. The initial pain from the suddenness quickly subsided into pleasure. I thought his fingers reached new places inside of me… boy was I wrong, because his dick was sending me to heaven. The room filled with lewd noises and a symphony of moans and praises.

The pleasure amplified further when Yunho wrapped an arm around my stomach, bending into me and somehow thrusting deeper. His breaths came out in rushed pants and growls, hot on my ear. “God Thea, for being so fucking small you take all of so well. You are my good girl, aren’t you? My beautiful little cockslut.”

His words had me going off the deep end, the coil in my stomach tightening up once again. My walls clenched around him and he grazed his teeth along my back before kissing between my shoulder blades.

“Fuck Yunho,” I moaned, barely able to form the sentence coherently. “I’m close- so fucking-”

Before I could finish the thought Yunho pulled out and flipped me onto my stomach. One of his snatched up my wrists when I lunged for his sides, locking them together and pinning them above my head. Smoothly, he reentered me, and feeling him from this angle made any other thought other than being fucked into the mattress disappear.

“Look at you,” Yunho directed, flicking his eyes downward. I looked where his gaze was fixed- where his dick completely disappeared inside me with each fluid roll of his hips. With each one you could see the faint outline in my stomach. “Taking every single inch of me.”

My only response was a broken plea of his name. A devilish smirk appeared on his face and he dropped my wrists to press his hand softly against my stomach. The added pressure made my brain reel, my already spotty vision going completely black with the force of my orgasm.

Yunho moaned when he felt my walls fluttering around him, his thrusts increasing in intensity but becoming choppy. “That’s right, baby, come on my cock.”

His pace never slowed and I was on the verge of overstimulation, stray tears trailing down my cheeks. I knew he had to be close, and my speculation was correct when he pulled out of me, jerking himself off quickly. Warm, white streaks of cum painted my stomach and chest, his lips spewing my name mixed with even more praises.

Holding himself up with shaky arms, Yunho placed his sweaty forehead on mine. Both of us were out of breath, the short pants mixing together from the lack of space between us. My entire body tingled, and although I wanted to wrap my arms around him and hold him close I settled for cupping his cheek.

“How’s it going up there, handsome?” I laughed, cracking a small smile.

Sighing, Yunho pressed a chaste kiss to my lips. “Stay right here, princess. I’ll be right back.”

With another quick peck he stumbled off the bed, searching for his boxers before heading towards the bathroom. He returned with a wet washcloth and a bottle of water, settling himself on the bed next to me.

“How’s your throat?” he asked softly, handing me the bottle of water before carefully cleaning up the mess on my stomach.

I took a massive drink, the coldness soothing the dryness for a brief moment. “Achey, like the rest of my body. But in a good way.”

“I can make you some tea, baby. That’ll at least help your throat a little bit.” The lustful intensity he’d had disappeared, replaced by the soft, sweet Yunho he always was. “As for your body… a hot shower will surely do the trick.”

“Only if it's with you,” I reached for his freehand, linking our fingers.

“I wasn’t too much, was it?” he asked cautiously, still focusing on the last remnants of cum on my stomach. “We didn’t talk much beforehand, and I didn’t want to push you too far or say something wrong.”

Once I was sure the bulk of cum was gone, I leaned up. Using my fingers, I tilted his chin to look me in the eyes. There was a glimmer of worry in his, something that made my heartache. “Baby, everything about this was perfect. You didn’t go too far, and it most definitely wasn’t too much. Hell, we can go further next time. There wasn’t a single thing you said that I wasn’t comfortable with.”

That hint of worry was replaced with excitement. “Ah, so you like being called my slutty little cocksleeve, huh?”

I smacked his chest, but smiled nonetheless. “Maybe a little too much.”

He brushed back the pieces of hair sticking to my face, letting his hand linger on my cheek. “Well, Theadora James. I think we both liked this a little too much. Now, how about you let me finish cleaning you up in the shower, and we fall asleep watching Aliens.”

Beaming, I leaned in for another sweet kiss. “Sounds like a perfect end to the evening.”

Before I had a chance to move, Yunho pulled me towards the side of the bed, picking me up bridal style with a laugh. I could easily get used to this type of treatment, both in and out of the sheets. It wasn’t like me to really let someone in this easily, but whatever this was with Yunho had me breaking all of my self-imposed rules.

Not a single part of me wanted to consider how everything would play out. Thinking too far ahead hurt my brain and heart, hurting much more than I thought it should after a single date. I shoved the thoughts down just as quickly as it formed.

I had been saying all along to enjoy whatever this brought. And I wasn’t about to let that change now just because I had… feelings.

What a scary fucking thought.

Author's Note: Thanks for reading so far! I'm having a lot of fun writing this one, and I've barely scratched the surface of what's to come for this group!

#ateez #ateez fanfic #ateez fluff #ateez smut #hongjoong #jongho #mingi #san #seonghwa #wooyoung #yunho #yeosang #ateez au #ateez fanfiction #ateez angst #ateez fic #ateez x oc

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pbandjesse · 2 months ago

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I think I may be exhausted. Like on a larger layer then just being tired. I just don't feel good. It didn't help that I had a horrible time sleeping. I was overheated and I couldn't get comfortable so I was awake a lot. I also had stressful dreams about having a baby and also a turtle and for some reason I was struggling having to take care of both?? No idea why this particular thing was the focus but it was stressful.

I slept until 730. There wasn't any rush. The feildtrip didn't start until 10 and Elizabeth asked staff to be there at 9. So while I still got there early I wasn't to worried about anything.

James made me a sandwich and packed my leftover pancakes. And sent me off. They had a late start because of evening hours at the museum so they would be home this morning. But I would head to camp.

It was real cold this morning but it would get up to 85 by the afternoon. I was bundled up this morning and was mostly comfortable. I would go to the office first. Ate my sandwich. Made some copies of the schedule. And soon Jamie was coming in. It was her first time leading this program so I wanted to be there if she had questions but she would kill it because she's great. Dachelle and Sarah would come soon and they of course were also fine. Elizabeth would go set up the fire. And I would go around and drop a few things off and make sure my program space was set up too.

I had some frustration with my old laptop. I only keep it because not has an HDMI port, but it sucks and it basically useless. I was really struggling to get it to work but in the end it would be totally fine. But it got me all worked up. I would sit outside on the porch to wait for the bus.

I was really sniffly. My sinuses have been a mess lately. I am really glad that I'm not currently getting any nose bleeds but that is apparently a pregnancy side effect so that's fun.

The school's buses got stuck behind a BGE truck so they were a few minutes late. But that was fine. I have extra time built into the schedule. My intro can be a whole half hour or it can be ten minutes. Whatever the situation calls for. And I really felt in control of the program and that was really great. Very good for my ego.

The kids were very sweet. 70 4th graders. And the teachers were also just excellent. Of the five groups there was one that was a little to big and a little to rough. They would end up breaking some of my wooden bowls (mom if you are reading this we need more wooden bowls) using them to grind corn but just being a little to intense. The lead teacher was mortified and wanted to pay for them and ended up reading the whole field trip group the riot act after lunch. But for the majority of the day the groups were great.

I had a different set up for my pigments and hand talk segments and I really felt like the kids were getting it. I would have a few of them come up to act out the hand talk while the others guessed. And I tried to chose the sentences that had similar words (I, go, make, ECT) so that we were learning as we went. It was fun.

And the pigments went well. The only one that was a problem was the white, which becomes a non Newtonian fluid so then they can't paint with it. I would just put it to the side by the afternoon. Whatever. They rest of the colors worked fine.

And I think they had fun. I had artifacts (like hides and bones and stone bowls) for them to explore once they were done before it was time to go. They were being a little rough on my bones but they were mostly chill and I was just glad that they were enjoying their field trip.

Lunch was a nice break. I chatted with Alexi about tomorrow, which is the BGE volunteer day, but would pretty quickly have to go get the second half of the day going.

And it was a nice hour. The kids were nice. I had some good laughs. And chatted with the teachers about coming to do team building stuff. I was getting a bit tired but only a little. Mostly I was just happy. The kids kept telling me they liked my hair. It was a good day.

Once we were done I would clean up and reset for next week. And went to drop off a few things at the office before going to the lodge to clean up.

I would put all my table stuff away. My computer and artifacts and extra papers. I was also trying to apply to a holiday night market. I accidently used all my data for the month so they nerfed me. I was trying to stay connected to the WiFi in the lodge and was able to apply. They said they were going to specifically give preference to people who live in the highland town arts district. And guess who lives exactly one block outside of that!!! Ugh. I just said yes to the "do you live in this area" question and explained in the address section that I think it should count. It's a free market though so if I don't get in it's all good. I'll just be a patron.

Jamie would come over to help clean the tables. We also put up all the chairs so we could sweet. And Sarah would come help finish the sweeping and take out the trash. We had a good system going. I also told them pregnancy stuff and about this blog. They thought it was wild that I've been writing it for so long and so consistently. But I feel lucky that I can look back on basically every important event from the last decade! And that's just really cool.

We would all head out after finishing setting up. I would strip out of my tights because it had warmed up a lot. And went to Chipotle for a late lunch/early dinner. Which was very good. I would go moved to Marshalls after to look for an eye cream and I would also get some hard candy and an ice roller. I was starting to not feel great though so it was time to go home.

I was behind a cyber truck for a while! Terrible, stupid vehicle. Looking like a potato someone peeled with a knife looking vehicle. It was also really dusty.

When I got home I brought everything inside and got changed. I was just feeling bad. I let James know I was not going to come to the museum for the social club. I just couldn't do it. I held Crabcake for a little. Hugged Sweetp. I drank some juice. I cut my finger nails which has grown stupid long and keep getting bend backwards. I hung out on the couch and tried to just be calm.

Eventually I would get a little energy to put the dishes away. Fed Sweetp. And went upstairs to lay down.

I would eventually take a shower. Which helped a little. And now I am just laying here waiting for James to come home.

Tomorrow we have our volunteer day and then I have a shift in the print shop for an event. I am planning on taking a little nap between. And I just hope it will be a good day.

I hope you all are having a good day. I love you all very much. Sleep well. Good night!!

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lindzaylove · 3 years ago

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The Guilt

My Best Friend’s Boyfriend Series

Lex’s POV

word count: 2.9k

trigger warnings: this is part 2, swearing, questionable morals, bad decisions, arguing, a lil sexy time

taglist: @teelagurl558 @anotherdropofnorth @livinfullpogue @bvcksbunny @ashleyj27 @pogueslandia @unmistakablyunknown @purple-flamingo @crumbledpieceofpaper @sugarcoatedjj let me know if you want tagged in this series!

gif by: @barbiereactionimages

“oh my god,” i groaned, pulling the blanket up over my face. the light did not help the hangover. “J, why is it so bright in here?”

“because the sun is out,” someone who was most definitely not JJ said. their breath was hot on the side of my face. i lifted the blanket slightly to let light in as i looked over.

Rafe Cameron was smirking back at me.

i screamed, rolling out of bed and smacking on the floor. “fuck.”

“are you okay, Lindz?” Rafe was leaning over the bed, a worried look on his face. “there is some medicine and water on the side table.”

“i- ” i blinked a few times and he didn’t disappear. i must have been on the ground for too long because the bed made a noise and Rafe was beside me on the ground.

“did you hit your head too?” Rafe asked, tilting my head back with his thumb and forefinger. i pulled my head away.

“what the fuck did we do last night?” i finally got to my feet. i could really feel the pounding in my head now. i looked down at my clothes. “are these yours?”

“are you telling me you were so drunk you don’t remember anything?” Rafe asked, still on his spot on the floor. it hit me, the memories of last night.

“oh my god,” i held my head in my hands. “oh. my. god.”

“hey, hey,” Rafe stood up, holding onto me. “you’re going to make yourself sick.”

“you’re not my boyfriend, Rafe,” i shook him off. “i have…where are my clothes?”

“fine…they’re on the dresser,” Rafe sat back on the bed, watching me grab my clothes and go to the bathroom. “you know, i’ve seen it all anyway.”

“no, Rafe, stop,” i opened the door, dressed, and there he was. i shoved the clothes into his arms. “whatever happened last night….it can never happen again.”

“you’re up for five minutes and you regret it?” Rafe tossed the clothes on his bed behind him. “i told you i wouldn’t regret it.”

“then forget it!” i exclaimed, “just forget whatever that was last night.”

“you wanted me, remember?” he said, grabbing my arm as i tried to pass him. “you told me. you said that. i didn’t make that up.”

“it was a mistake! god,” i tried to open Rafe’s door, but it wasn’t budging. i went to turn around to yell at him some more, but he met me halfway and unlocked the door.

“it’s alright baby girl, take your time accepting what happened,” he opened the door for me. “let me know when you’re done regretting it.”

“ugh,” i groaned, finally leaving his room and getting downstairs. i was sore all over, but i couldn’t tell if it was from the sex or the hangover. i made it back to the den, seeing the leftovers of our night. empty bottles and cans, ruffled pillows and couch cushions. it was such a good night, hanging out with everyone. it was nice to be able to hang out with Alexis again. to even see Rafe again. god, he was still funny and charming even after months apart. and handsome, though i was inclined to think he’d be handsome at seventy-five as well. he was Rafe Cameron, after all. there wasn’t much to not like about him.

“hey,” JJ’s voice came, his hand finding its way to the small of my back. the touch felt foreign and unfamiliar. i nearly jumped, his voice the only thing stopping me from doing so. i turned to look at him and felt my breath hitch. his hair was messy, and he looked tired. but happy. he looked as happy as the day i said yes to being his girlfriend. i didn’t let myself think that he was happy because he’d just slipped on his shirt and shoes, kissing Lex good morning before finding me. maybe he’d been cuddled up with her all morning, gone for round two or three or four. i let my eyes meet his and saw that they were shining, one of the most beautiful shades of blue i’d ever seen. deep down, i knew they weren’t shining for me.

“hey,” i replied, forcing a smile. i turned around and he hugged me. he smelled like sweat and beer, and freshly washed sheets. i let myself sink into him, wrapping my arms around his neck. he held me for a moment, though the peace i normally felt with him was gone. i knew where he’d been and who he’d been with, but although i told Rafe to forget it, i knew now that not even i could forget. i’d never forget. it’d eat away at me for the rest of my life.

“i need to shower and get to work,” JJ said, though it came out in a whisper. i pulled away and nodded, not sure i could find any other word to say. i needed to shower too, and on the drive back i prayed it would help relieve myself of guilt that was coursing through me and the overwhelming knowledge that my boyfriend and best friend spent the night together. music didn’t play in the van. i’m not sure if it was because JJ was in such a hurry to get home and cleaned up, or if all thought of me was background to everything else in his mind at the moment.

JJ dropped me off at home, and i was quick to get into the shower, hot water and steam all over me. no matter how badly i wanted the night’s events to wash away from me, i didn’t feel any different. even when the water began to run cold, i still felt dirty. yet, the longer i tried to wash it all away, it was all i could think of. i could only imagine the way Rafe said my name. i could only see the way he looked at me, really looked at me. he touched me in all the places i needed, despite me never knowing i needed them touched. he kissed me like he loved me.

i turned the water off, focusing on the music playing from my phone. it was a familiar song, a song i’d known for years. it allowed me to be numb for a moment, to let me get dressed without images of Rafe or JJ and Lex in my mind. it was like all i could think about was last night but for the moment it was this song, the only thing keeping me sane. i could only hope the guilt would wash away with time.

unfortunately, it didn’t. days had gone by and the guilt only felt worse. i’d spent most nights staring at my phone, wondering how to text Alexis. i’m not sure she knows the right words to say after suggesting the switch, nor could i find the right words either. what do you say to your best friend after having sex with her boyfriend when he doesn't regret it and you're realizing you don't regret it either? do you ask her if your boyfriend had a good time? is that something you’d really want to know?

it wasn’t, despite how often it weighed on my mind. i wasn’t sure how to process my feelings, let alone accept them. the more time i spent thinking about everything, the more i realized i did not regret having sex with Rafe. guilty, maybe, but no regret. he made me feel like i was so special, that i was the one he’d been waiting on. every kiss, every touch, he was mine for the night and i was his. i couldn’t find it in me to regret something like that. it wasn’t some sort of sweet love making. it was dirty and hot and heavy and i felt that way every time i thought of Rafe.

another two weeks went by when i found myself on the steps of the Chateau. JJ and i hadn’t been intimate in a while. i actually hadn't really seen JJ and the pogues in a few days. being around them, and knowing who i'd been with, would ruin our friendships.

with JJ, though, i missed him. i missed his hand playing with my hair. i missed the way his laugh in the morning as i teased him. i missed my best friend, but i needed to know it was still there, the romance and sex needed to be present. i couldn’t just go to Rafe for those things, even if i wanted to. he had Alexis. and, as far as i knew, everything was good. i needed to make sure everything was good with JJ.

“Lindzay!” Kie exclaimed, throwing her arms around me as i entered. “we haven’t seen you in ages, what’s up?”

“JJ’s home, right?” i forced a smile, pulling from her as JJ came into view. he was freshly showered and shirtless, phone in hand. he slid his phone into his pocket, giving me a smile as fake as my own. it hurt to see. it stung, more accurately, like a pain that i’d forgotten about that came back in an ache. he came over to me, hugging me. the peace was still gone. he was JJ, my JJ, my boyfriend. not that that seemed to matter to us, at least in my mind. he was my best friend aside from Alexis. i'd already lost her, i couldn't lose JJ too.

we ended up in his room, and i knew the rest of the pogues would head outside to give us some space. we were sitting on the bed, me cuddled into his chest. the familiarity of his touch had returned, had comforted me in knowing i knew him best. he was mine, even if my mind betrayed me more often than i wanted it to. because when JJ started kissing me, my mind remembered how Rafe tasted that night - beer and mint and heaven if i let myself be honest. he was heaven and hell in one person, and he was all i could think about as JJ pulled my shirt over my head.

Rafe’s gentle kiss was in the back of my mind as JJ hungrily kissed up and down my neck. the feel of Rafe’s touch echoed in JJ’s fingertips on my skin. as JJ hovered over me, i could only imagine Rafe’s arms on either side of my body. it heated me up like never before, the images of Rafe flashing in my mind as JJ continued to feel my body. JJ’s touch, it seemed, was not as familiar as i’d thought.

it was when he got to my pants that my mind froze. it was JJ, not Rafe, telling me to get undressed as he slid his own shorts off. it was JJ, not Rafe, laying on the bed with his eyes on me as i slid my pants down my legs. i didn’t want to make the obvious distinction. i didn’t want to be so hyper aware that my boyfriend, who pulled me on top of him, who raised his body to take my breast into his mouth, who was silent the whole time, was not Rafe Cameron.

“JJ, i can’t-” i stopped him, pulling away. my mind was flooded, completely, with everything Rafe Cameron.

how did i even know the smell of his cologne? how could i remember every touch, every kiss? how i was awake a little longer than him, felt him slip his arm over my waist and didn’t pull away from him? melted into him.

“what?” JJ sat up and i shifted off his lap. i stood next to the bed for a moment, running my hands through my hair. my eyes were shut for a moment when a bitter laugh came from the blonde on the bed. “let me guess, Cameron.”

“excuse me?” i looked at him, completely bewildered. not that he was wrong, he wasn’t, but that he would phrase it like an accusation. as if the way he’d touched me wasn’t unfamiliar to my skin - so much so my brain went to a different man.

“i said what i said, Lindzay,” he spat my name out, grabbing his clothes and shrugging them back on. “we both know who you were thinking about that whole time.”

“you’re an ass, JJ,” i pulled my underwear back on. “you have some real nerve to say that to me.”

“oh, do i?” he put his shirt back on. “you’ve been MIA for weeks, Lindzay. were you with him? have you two been chatting this whole time?”

“i have only ever cheated on you once, and it was the same night you cheated on me. unless you and Alexis have been having some sort of secret correspondence i don’t know about, we’re even.”

“there is no even!” he finally yelled. “because guess what, sex with you will never feel the way it felt with her.”

“obviously, i’m not Alexis!”

“and i’m not Rafe!” he tossed my shirt at me. “feel free to see yourself to Tanneyhill, i’m sure he’s waiting on you to come crawling back to him.”

“maybe step off your high horse, asshole. you felt something with Alexis and i can feel it when you touch me. you are no saint, Maybank.”

we stared at each other in silence, the anger slipping from us. i wanted to continue being angry, but i knew i couldn’t. i would never be mad at JJ for feeling his feelings, but i did not want my feelings invalidated either. we both deserved honesty, but i wasn’t sure if now was the time to confess everything that had pulled on my mind for weeks.

“let’s just…. let’s take a break,” i suggested, hugging myself. somehow the room had become so cold. he was JJ, my JJ. the JJ who knew how to make me smile and always pulled me out to dance in the rain. the JJ who held my hand and played music when my anxiety spiked. the JJ who had told me that nothing could ever change the way he felt about me and i’d agreed. we’d lied to each other, unknowingly.

“yeah….yeah, that’s probably for the best,” JJ ruffled his hair, looking away. “do you want me to-”

“i know where the door is, actually,” i jerked my thumb over my shoulder as i backed out of the room.

he didn’t follow me, i didn’t want him to anyway. i didn’t bother heading out back to say my goodbyes. they would always be JJ’s friends, not mine. was anyone ever mine? JJ wasn’t, not anymore. John B., Kie, Pope, Sarah, they aren’t mine. Alexis? Rafe?

i was left alone, with the guilt of my own actions sitting pretty in my throat. i had no choice but to accept that this break for JJ and i would last forever, that we would never find our way back to one another romantically. i hoped to be his friend again one day, to hear him laugh at my dumb jokes and see him smile as i enter the room. because he knew me like the back of his hand at this point, we were intertwined in no way comparable.

the same could be said of Rafe and i. he knew me well too, almost as if we’d been intimate partners before the switch. almost as if he’d dreamed of me the way i’d dreamed of him, crushed on him even when he and Lex began dating. it was a struggle to come to terms with, but i had. i had moved on, i’d thought. found myself someone who looked at me like my eyes lit up the sky like the night stars. JJ didn’t, it seemed, but he had cared for me. JJ truly enjoyed and wanted to be with me. i knew that. but no one would ever make me feel the way Rafe did on his knees before me, looking me up and down like i was a goddess to be adored. i knew i had wanted to be with JJ, i knew that, but feelings for Rafe had never gone away. having sex with them made them worse, impossible to put away in a little box and lock tight, ignore them until it was 2 am and i was pretending i was Lex in their Instagram pictures together.

how different it would have been if i had just told Alexis not to date Rafe, to tell her to let me have him. to tell her that he was the one i watched at parties and the one i made an effort to annoy on purpose because the way his face changed from a scowl to a smirk as he realized it was me yelling at him made me feel like the most important girl in the world. these feelings for Rafe did not appear out of thin air, as if sex with him made me fall in love with him. no, i held these feelings in the pit of my stomach for over a year, even dated a whole other person and let my best friend date him so he would never know.

he needed to know. he should have known before it all, but he deserved to know now. and i was going to go tell him.

#outer banks #outer banks smut #obx #obx2 #obx smut #obx2 smut #smut #rafe cameron #rafe cameron smut #rafe #rafe smut #jj maybank #jj #rafe cameron imagine #jj maybank imagine #jj maybank fanfiction #rafe cameron fanfiction #my best friend's boyfriend

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bunysliper · 3 years ago

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Castle Ficlet: Guiding Light 1/1

Guiding Light

Moonlight trickles through the window, bathing their bedroom in the pale light. It's an unintended consequence of not having closed the blinds or pulled the shades when they'd stumbled up from the beach after their dinner and the stroll intended to walk it off, but it isn't bothersome enough for her to shed the blanket of contentment that she's under and do something about it. She might feel differently come morning, but there's no way she's leaving her bed right now.

Castle seems to agree, given that he nuzzles closer, presses his face against the back of her neck and slides his knee between hers.

"Should I feel bad?" she asks after a few minutes. She knows he's awake even though he hasn't said a word. He's been enjoying the quiet of their room, basking in the cooling air on their skin, delighting in the luxurious pull of muscles that haven't been used in entirely too long (god, she has missed their unhurried lovemaking), just as she has. "Leaving three kids under five with your mom for the rest of the week and taking off to the beach?"

Her husband laughs against the nape of her neck, shaking his head. "Not a chance. One, it's our anniversary. Two, they'll be fine. Not only is Alexis around – your father, too – but they're going to get an authentic Martha Rodgers theater experience. We'll be lucky if they want to come back when the vacation is over."

Kate chuckles. Her fingers cover his, pulling his hand from her waist to rest against her sternum.

"Jake might decide preschool isn't for him and want to be a full-time backstage kid."

She grins. She could see that; even at the tender age of two, Jake is their wild one, their adventurer.

"Of course, where he goes, Reece'll go, too," Rick continues, dusting his mouth to her skin. "And Lily's in to make sure they're okay. So, we might have our work cut out for us. You're sure there are no more truancy officers? Maybe we could do some sort of 'stay in school' assembly for them."

"Sorry, babe," she drawls. "We'll have to stick to old fashioned parenting for that one, unless you think a couple hours in lock-up will set them straight."

He laughs, sinking deeper into the mattress with his exhale.

"Save that one for when they're older, we might need it."

"Mmm," she agrees, thumbing his knuckles. "We'll definitely need it for at least one of them."

His leg shifts against hers and she has to wonder if he's getting antsy. If he wants to slide from bed and get cleaned up, maybe even jump in the shower and rinse off, or grab his notebook to write an idea down for his next novel. He settles a moment later, though, brushing his thumb over her fingers in return.

Beckett hums, licking her lips. "Still can't believe it's been seven years," she says, blurting out the thought before it can linger in her brain for too long. She rolls onto her back, wanting to see his smile as well as feel his embrace.

Castle smiles, lifting his head to dust his mouth over her chin. "I can," he rumbles, propping himself up on his elbow and wiggling his fingers out of her grip to trail along her bare collarbone, over the curve of her shoulder. "In a good way, of course."

She laughs. "Vote of confidence there."

"I mean it, Beckett. It's been… you're still the last face I want to see when I close my eyes, and the one I want beside me when I open them each morning. I mean, yes, there've been ups and downs. The kids keep us on our toes and sometimes the only way for us to see each other is with a desk beside us instead of over dinner or in a comfortable bed like this one. But there've been so many more ups than downs, hundreds more meals and comforter conversations than office ones. It's been great."

Kate presses her lips together. It's not the most eloquent he's ever been, but it is after midnight and they are in bed, having one of those comforter conversations he's so happy to mention. She'll let it slide just this once.

"Yeah," she agrees, slipping a hand into his hair and pulling him down to her. "Yeah, it has."

Her lips brush his, quick and soft at first, then she comes back for another taste of his mouth, his love.

"And we're going to have so many more," he promises.

She arches into his hand as he tugs the covers away from her body, as his touch grows bolder.

"More talks, more meals, more aggravation and craziness." He grins against her mouth when she huffs. "More adventures for you to look forward to."

Her hand tightens in his hair, and she nods her agreement, accepting it as gospel, as a vow to the universe, much the way similar words had been their vows to each other on their wedding day.

"More of your mysteries to uncover," he adds, palming her hip.

"Always," she murmurs into his lips, drawing him down to her completely.

#Castle Fanfic #Castle Fanfiction #Caskett #Caskett Fanfic #Post Series Fic #My Fanfic

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scfrozenover · 3 years ago

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Day two brings us nearly 70,000 words! Whether you’re snowed in and able to read them all today or you’re busy preparing for the holidays and marking them for later, we hope you enjoy them and show the creators some love.

The Fundamental Things

[Jake/Mutt, David/Patrick - M - 24,981]

Mutt comes back to town for the winter and finds the barn uninhabitable. Faced with sleeping on his parents' couch for the next few months, he jumps on Jake's offer of his spare room in exchange for some help around the woodshop. Between holidays and through storms, they discover that they have a lot more in common than they ever thought.

it's just for snow

[David/Patrick, Stevie & David - E - 18,185]

“Don’t go, go on your own or find another date, whatever you want,” Stevie shrugs and reaches over to steal some of his muffin.

He swats at her hand. “Find another date? The wedding is a two-hour drive away! In Montauk! I’m not driving for two hours with some random, even if I can book separate rooms for the weekend!”

“Oh god, it’s for the entire weekend and there’s a road trip involved? Now I’m definitely not going with you.” She swipes another piece of muffin.

“Ugh,” he sighs as he sips his coffee. “Where the fuck am I going to find an acceptable date?”

“Sorry to interrupt,” Patrick says, suddenly appearing at their table looking a little nervous.

—

When David gets a last minute wedding invitation and Stevie refuses to go with him, he needs to find another date - he needs to show his so-called 'friends' (and Sebastien Raine) that he's thriving now. Enter: David's new favourite barista...

—

aka the coffee shop / fake dating / road trip / snowed in / there was only one bed fic no one asked for

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

[David/Patrick - G - 6,386]

David and Patrick discover a baby left on the step of Rose Apothecary on Christmas Eve. Since everything is closed for the holiday, they take care of the baby for a few days. Patrick falls in love and wants to adopt the baby… David is also a little bit in love… but He struggles with the fact that he has never wanted kids.

oh by gosh, by golly (mistletoe and holly)

[Alexis/Twyla, Ronnie/Vanessa, Roland/Jocelyn, David/Patrick, Ray/Ivan, Stevie/Ruth, Twyla & the population of Schitt’s Creek - G - 6,308]

Five kisses that earned an entry to the café's annual mistletoe draw, and one that didn't.

Merry Christmas, Stevie Budd

[Stevie-focused Gen - M - 2,342]

Christmas has always been a mixed bag for Stevie Budd. But one Christmas is not like the others.

Coda to “Merry Christmas Johnny Rose"; most of the story takes place prior to that episode.

Frozen in the Cold Trying to Get You Home

[David/Patrick, Stevie/Rachel - NR - 2,050]

Oh, I’m sorry, did you want to keep driving?” Stevie smirks.

“Yeah, what was it you said again, ‘whirlwind of potential death’?” Patrick teases.

“Um, I believe I said certain death, so, um, yes, I would very much like to pull over.” David crosses his arms and slumps back in his seat.

“Okay, fine, but I’m only doing this for David,” Rachel gives in, pulling into the right lane.

“And um, where exactly do we plan on pulling over?” David questions.

“We’re almost at an OnRoute,” Rachel replies, gesturing to the sign on the side of the highway.

“I’m sorry, what the actual fuck is an OnRoute?!” David asks, blinking in confusion.

“It’s just a service station, David,” Patrick laughs.

For Every Year the Christmas Tree, Brings to Us All Such Joy and Glee

[David/Patrick - G - 2,020]

Patrick deserved a proper family Christmas with all the correct trimmings and David really wanted to give that to him.

warm breath in the cold

[David/Patrick - T - 1773]

It was supposed to be funny.

But here Patrick is, torn between clutching it in his hands and treating it with precious reverence, crying.

David is making his husband cry. On Christmas Eve.

---

or, david thinks he's funny (he's not)

Here We Come A-Caroling

[Stevie & David, David/Patrick - T - 1,658]

David and Stevie have decided to serenade their Schitt's Creek friends with Christmas carols, only they may have had a bit much to drink whoops!

More Than I Asked For

[David/Patrick - G - 1,568]

David and Patrick share their favorite Christmas movies.

CREATORS: If your works were released today, please don't forget to update your posting date!

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truglori · 4 years ago

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Homebody (Ch.11)

Summary: Amiyah is the younger sister of local drug dealer (Durkio). Shy and reserved she keeps to herself and stays out the way. But lately she began to find interest in his right hand man/ best friend (Erik Stevens). Wanting to get him to notice her she discovers that he already had her wrapped around his finger without even trying! There was only a few problems that kept her away from her fantasies , her brother that controlled almost every single breath she took and would kill anyone who looked at her that way and lastly Eriks girlfriend, Alexis , who they called the queen of the hood according to her lavish lifestyle as well as being with the next newest top boy in the making. While Alexis was his girl to the streets all Amiyah wanted to do was be his Homebody...

Pairing: Erik Stevens x Thick OC

Warning: Language

Erik sat on the round wooden stool. He frequently had to shift around in his seat due to the cheapness of the material and uncomfortable feeling. Arms resting on the bar and head low as he waited for the bartender to walk back over to his area. With his first finished drink pushed to the side he wanted another to hush his thoughts.

“Yo can I get some service over here.” His voice called out catching her attention.

She turned her head. Erik observed her the closer she got. A pretty brown skinned that stood no taller than 5’5. Her long hair falling past her shoulders as she had on an all black t shirt with the bar’s logo printed in white bold letters on the front along to go with some hip hugging blue jeans. With her towel in her hand she threw over her shoulder before leaning on the bar directly in front of him.

“Sorry about that. Had other customers to attend to. What can I get you this time?” She smiled showing her straight white teeth.

“Same as last Hennessy, neat.”

Shaking her head she went to grab the bottle.

“Yo, make that two!” Erik scratch the back of his head as he watched her bring another glass over.

She poured it into his first glass and the fresh one. Putting the top back on the bottle she didn’t move from her spot.

“You know you don’t have to call me like that. My name is not “Yo” and it won’t sound as rude coming out of your mouth.” She gave him a small smile.

Erik threw back both of the glasses like it was nothing. His eyes never left her frame. Wiping any liquid that didn’t make it in his mouth with the back of his hand, he pushed his glass towards her.

“May I have another miss...” He waited for her to speak.

“Harmony .” Her eyes looked exotic under the neon lights that surrounded the bar.

“Harmony. Can I have another shot please?” He brought his hand up to his beard and stroked it.

She blew out air twisting the top off the bottle. She poured him another but not as much as the last three times. Erik noticed as his face screwed up.

“What’s this? That’s not as much as the last ones you gave me.” His eyebrows knitted as he eyed the drink.

“Yeah well that was before I noticed that this has become a cycle within the last four days. Just before then I never seen you a day in my life and now here you are turning into a regular within a short amount of time. This is your second time being here and it’s only 8pm.” Harmony told him bluntly.

It was true. This was Erik’s second time today at the bar that he’s been visiting daily within the last few days. He was fucked up. About the whole situation from Amiyah to Durk and lastly Cane. There was a lot on his plate. So he came to Rue’s Bar & Grill. It was a local bar next to his place that became a quick stop for him on the way home. Erik wanted an escape even if it was just for a few hours. Amiyah would barely talk to him other than answering his good morning text, him and Durk were still not on the same terms for the job, and he hasn’t heard from Cane since he blew up on him that day. Erik was stressed.

“I don’t believe that’s your business how much I drink as long as I’m paying I don’t see what the problem is.” He wasn’t trying to be rude he just wanted to drink so he could be out.

Harmony smiled shaking her head. “Listen you’re not my only customer that drinks this shit okay I have other people that-“

“How much for the bottle?” Erik pulled out his wallet.

“Why?”

“Because I don’t give a fuck about your other customers. Now how much or I could take my business elsewhere?”

“Fifty-five.” Harmony gave a defeated sigh.

“Here.” Pulling out a hundred dollar bill he slid it across the bar to her and grabbed the bottle.

“It’s only a liter it doesn’t cost this much.”

“Keep it. For your trouble and your customer’s.” Erik snickered as he poured another shot.

Within the next hour about almost more than half of the bottle was gone. Erik sat at his end of the bar threw his shots back only taking breaks when he went to use the restroom. Harmony watching from the other end would look after his drink to make sure no one would do anything to it. His steps were starting to become unsteady as he would walk into some of the chairs but gain his composure back afterwards. Harmony shook her head as she walked towards him.

“Hey sir. It’s time to go home.” She gave a stern look.

Erik sat back in his chair. “I’m not done with my bottle yet.” Some of his words were partially slurred.

“Well you can come back and finish the rest tomorrow. It’s time to go. How did you get here?” She stated being concerned and not wanting him to drive home.

Erik laughed. “I got here by my damn self and I can take myself home. I don’t need any help.” Getting up from his seat Erik grabbed his phone and shoved it in his pocket.

He started walking towards the door when he knocked over another chair. Stopping he picked it up and walked outside. The night air hitting his face woke him up just a bit. He began slowly walking to his car when he felt a hand grab his jacket. Circling around he checked to see who it was. It was Harmony.

“Sir I can’t let you drive your car. I get off in about fifteen minutes, I’ll take you home.” Her eyes gave off compassion as she became worried about the stranger getting ready to put his life at risk. Harmony wanted to leave him alone but it would have been on her conscience.

“Nah I’m good ma. I’ve done thiss before.” Wiping his face Erik looked for his keys.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea. You’re slurring your words and you ran into almost all of my chairs in there. Please let me take you home at least. You can come back for your car tomorrow.” She stood in front of him and pushed him to keep him going in the street.

Erik looked stunned. He was shocked that she put her hands on him and also with the fact that her small petite body had enough strength to actually make him stumble back. He shook his head as he tried to walk around her but she followed his steps. When he went left she was there and when he went right she followed. She was not letting up.

“Look miss I don’t know you. You could be a serial killer with yo lil strong ass pushing me and shit so I’m not letting you bring me home.” Erik stated as he try to escape her but failed again. He cursed at himself for getting this drunk to where he could barely move fast enough.

“My name is Harmony and I’m not letting you drive. Now I don’t have to take you home let me order you a Lyft and I’ll wait with you.” She looked at him with pleading eyes.

Erik sighed and ready to end this stand off had finally gave in. He was drunk and just wanted to sleep this off. “Aight man fine order that shit and hurry up.” He shook his head as he sat on the curbside of the sidewalk.

Harmony gave a half smile of relief pulling out her phone. She went to the app and asked him for the address. Once he gave it to her she sat down next to him. Folding her arms together to try and keep herself warm from the night wind. It was a whole four minutes before Erik turned to his side noticing that she was still there. He smirked shaking his head.

“You ain’t gotta babysit me. I’m a grown as man.” He rested his arms on his knees.

“I’m not babysitting you I just want to make sure you get into the right car that’s all.” Her voice shivered when the wind blew.

“Why you helping me? You don’t know me. You don’t even know my name.” He eyed her up and down.

Harmony look back at him and gave him a blank stare. “Okay so then what’s yo name nigga?”

Taken back by her forward-ness he laughed. “Erik.”

They both turned their heading watching a white Chevy Malibu pull up in front of them. “Well Erik your ride is here and it was nice to meet you. Don’t worry about your car. I’ll make sure it’ll be here when you come back for it tomorrow.” Harmony had her hands on her hips and watched him walk to the car.

“Thank you.” Erik nodded his head as he slipped in the back slouching in the seat.

________________________

“Here you go. Thank you so much for doing this the last minute.” Amiyah smiled as she handed her stylist the money for her hair.

“No worries. I’ll see you in a month.”

She gave her a wave and walked out of the shop. Pulling up her phone she went to camera mode to admire her fresh knotless braids that stopped to the middle of her back. It was long over due for her to have a new style and she figured this would be a perfect looked. Now standing outside it was around ten o’clock at night. The streets were starting to get empty as the time past. She needed a ride home. She didn’t call Durk because lord knows how long it would take for him to get there and she didn’t want to bother Kelley so she settled for an Uber.

Ordering her ride she rested against the side of the building with one hand in her pocket and the other scrolling on her phone. She went to her messages to see if had any unread. There was one from Kelley saying that she wanted to see her hair when she was done and one from Durk saying that he wasn’t going to be home tonight. Then she saw Erik’s. His last text was sent this morning asking how she was doing but Amiyah didn’t respond.

After what happened between them four days ago she didn’t know how to react to him anymore. He scared her that day. Amiyah knew that Erik had every right to be upset but it was the way that he handled the situation that made her nervous. He didn’t seem like himself and extremely angry. She wondered if that would be the case every time they would get in arguments in their future. That was what made her afraid.

When Erik brought her home she went to her room and cried herself to sleep. She wished the situation could’ve went differently. It’s not like she planned on keeping it away from him forever, she wanted to tell him but it was always something that got in the way. Amiyah had no clue on had he found out but it had bit her in the ass for not speaking up.

Even though it was her who had fucked up it seemed as if Erik was the one in the dog house. He sent her countless text throughout the day asking how she was and if they could talk but Amiyah was still nervous. Yes she still wanted to be with Erik but they both needed their time apart to think.

The ride back to her house was short and fast. Walking to the elevator she waited until it arrived to step inside before pressing on her floor. Amiyah leaned her head against the wall as she gave herself a mental to do list. She had to get her clothes out for work tomorrow, clean her room and the kitchen before she could even think about taking a shower and getting in bed to go to sleep.

The doors opened on floor. Going through her bag she searched for her key. When she turned the corner to the hall where her apartment was she stopped in her tracks. There was Erik sitting in front of her door with his elbows on his knees looking up at the ceiling. When she was a few steps away he finally acknowledged her presence.

“Oh shit. What’s up Amiyah.” Erik stood up wiping the dust of his hands.

Flipping her braids behind her hair she sent a shy smile his way. “Hey Erik. What are you doing here?” She asked studying his movements. He was biting his lip out of habit and leaning against the wall.

“Uh I’m looking for Durk. You heard from him?” He held the back of his neck.

Amiyah squinted her eyes hearing him speak. She was starting to think that he was drunk.

“Last I check he wasn’t coming home for the night. Why don’t you just call him?” She asked stepping closer to see if she can smell the liquor on his breath.

“We got into a disagreement a few days ago. Now he acting like he can’t answer my phone calls.” He chuckled.

Yeah, it was definitely alcohol on his breath.

“You want to come inside Erik?”

Erik made eye contact with her. She was staring up at him with those innocent soft eyes that he missed. He noticed that she was now rocking a fresh hairdo that was making her look extra sexy to him. But Erik didn’t know how she still felt about their argument the other day.

“You sure?”

Nodding her head she smiled. “Come on.”

Unlocking the door they went inside. Amiyah hung up her jacket then walked to her room to sit her purse down and changed into her slippers. Going back into the living room she saw Erik sitting on the couch with his hands over his eyes. She walked into the kitchen and grabbed a water bottle and gave it to him.

“Thank you mama.” He spoke softly taking the top off and downing the beverage.

Hearing her pet name that he always call her gave her stomach butterflies. She sat down next to him. They didn’t speak only sat there quietly. Erik couldn’t stand the silence so he spoke up.

“I like this look on you. It’s cute as shit.” He played with the braids.

Amiyah giggled. “Thanks.” Her body tingled when his fingers ran over her scalp.

Biting his lip, his dimples showed when he smiled at her before stopping his actions. He took another gulp of the water now placing the empty bottle on the coffee table. Amiyah, with her face resting on her fist with her knee holding her arm watched him. The expression on his face was down and it made her sad. She didn’t want it to be like this between them anymore. She missed the Erik that she knew before everything happened.

Scooting closer to him she hooked her arm around his. “I’m sorry Erik.” She stated knowing her faults.

He glanced at her. Erik seen the genuineness in her eyes and knew that she meant it. Yes she was wrong for not telling him but he knew that Amiyah was a good person who was also still a bit naive when it came to other people. She had a good heart and wanted to please everyone. It still amazes him sometimes when he remembers who her brother was. Her and Durk was nothing alike. Durk was cold hearted and Amiyah had a big heart.

He looked down into his lap and shrugged. “I’m not tripping about it anymore.”

“It still doesn’t make it right. I knew what I did and I was wrong keeping that from you.” She intertwined her hand with his.

“I’m sorry for flipping out the way I did. I should’ve calmed down first and then we could’ve talked. I didn’t want you to see that side of me baby girl.” His grip on her fingers tightened as he spoke.

Amiyah nodded her head. “Yeah but you had every right to be mad.”

“Not mad enough to where it kept you away from me for days ma. You shouldn’t accept shit like that from nobody...wether it comes from me or not.”

“I understand.” She leaned her head on his shoulders.

“I just want you to keep it real with me baby girl. Don’t hold nothing from me. Tell me everything.” Erik tilted her chin looking into her eyes.

Amiyah’s averted her gaze. If she wanted a fresh start with him she had to let him know about everything.

“Erik there’s another thing...but I just don’t want to see you mad again.” Now she was the one looking down.

His chest tightened. From the look of guilt on her face he knew it was something he would disapprove of but he had to know.

“What is it?”

Amiyah hesitant but had to make it right. “Cane kissed me on the date.” She spoke lowly.

Erik heard every word. His hand left hers as he folded his together. His eyes was facing towards the tv that wasn’t on. The only thoughts the was running through his mind was wanting to beat Cane’s ass. Breathing in and out through his nose he had to calm himself down. He didn’t want to have another episode like how he did at his condo, but he couldn’t help but to be disappointed with Amiyah.

“Did you push him away?” His face was hard.

“It happened so fast but that was the only time. He kissed me not the other way around.”

“Did you push him off of you?” He repeated his question.

Amiyah closed her eyes. “No, but I didn’t kiss him.”

He felt himself getting upset all over again. “How would you feel if you found out something similar about me and Alexis? Would it make you mad?”

Amiyah furrowed her brows. “Of course I would , why would you ask me that?” She was confused.

“Because the same shit you accused me of trying to do that night when I asked you to be my girl, you’re doing now.”

Amiyah stood up in front of him with her arms folded. Here she was trying to apologize and admit her wrongs and he had the nerve to bring up Alexis. She was starting to feel disrespected and offended.

“Erik I’m apologizing to you and telling you everything and you bring her up. What the hell is wrong with you?” Her voice rose.

He stood up next. “What did I do now? Called you out and spoke the truth. Cause I clearly remembered you complaining about that in my car and yet you were the one who was tryna have your cake and eat it too.”

“How am I trying to do that if I’m telling you. You just sat there and forgave me but now you’re acting like you just found out again. Why?”

“Because you should’ve told me about him kissing you when I came to you about this the first time. Don’t have me thinking it was a just a date and that’s it. Damn it’s like could you really be honest with me Amiyah for once.” He sighed shaking his head.

The silence crept in the room once more. They kept their glance on each other. But it felt different this time. There was no more butterflies in Amiyah’s stomach that was there minutes ago and Erik was no longer nervous about seeing her when he had the Lyft sent here. The room was now filled with tension.

“I don’t want to do this anymore.” Her expression saddened.

“What are talking about?” Erik looked at her.

“Us. I don’t know if it was the thought of you along with the infatuation that made me say yes but I don’t want to do this anymore.” She folded her arms speaking lowly shifting between him and the grown.

“You breaking up with me?” Sadnesses had clouded Erik’s features. He could feel the effects of the alcohol wearing off.

“Yes.”

The sound of keys unlocking the front door alarmed both of them. Amiyah walked in the kitchen leaving Erik. The door opened revealing a Durk who had a confused look on his face. He wasn’t expecting to see his so called best friend standing in his living room. But his sister standing in the kitchen also caught his eye.

“The hell you doing here this late?” He placed his keys on the coffee table.

Amiyah walked back in with her sleeves rolled up and dish soap and water covering her hands.

“He just got here. I let him in while I was washing the dishes. He was looking for you but said you wasn’t answering your phone for some reason.” She gave a fake giggle trying to cover for the both of them.

Durk nodded his head turning to his friend.

“What’s up nigga why you here?”

Erik’s mind was still catching up from the break up he just had only seconds ago. He didn’t care about Durk coming in. He didn’t even know what he came here for but he had to come up with something. Anything to keep Durk from thinking suspiciously about seeing that him and his sister in their house alone.

“Uh I came to tell you that...I’ll do the job with you.” It wasn’t what Erik came over for but he had to cover himself.

A wide smile crossed over Durks face. He shook his head walking towards him. Holding his hand out he gave him dap with a half hug.

“I knew you would come through nigga. Let’s get this money.” He spoke into his ear.

Erik didn’t care about a word he said. His eyes was focused on Amiyah who had her back facing them as she cleaned up. He couldn’t believe that she just ended things like that. Over an argument that they were having. He started to wondering if it even meant anything to her? Did she take it serious, or was it only him? Yes they were only together for a little bit but Erik liked her. More than what he was used to. But this is what he gets when he let his feelings think for him. He ends up hurt in the end.

“Yo you hear me man?” Durk knocked him out of his thoughts.

“Nah say that again?”

Smelling the liquor on his best friends breath he laughed.

“Damn Erik you fucked up ain’t you?” He laughed.

Erik tried his best to put on a fake smile. “Yeah and I had a Lyft coming over here so I’ma need a ride to my place.”

“Aight man say less. We’ll talk in the car.” Durk patted his shoulder.

He walked over to his sister who was still cleaning up. Amiyah faced him feeling him near her.

“What’s up?” She asked placing the scrub down.

“I’m bout to drop this nigga off then I’ll be back. Okay?” It came out more as a question trying to see if she was cool with it.

“Alright. I’ll probably be sleep when you’re back.” She smiled

“Aight lock the door behind us.” He gave her a kiss on the top of her head leaving after Erik.

Amiyah closed the door and locked it. Turning her back she rested against the cold wood. Bringing her hands up to her face she cried when she realized it was over between her and Erik.

___________________

Waking up from the sound of his tv playing Erik sat up immediately reaching for the remote to turn it off. He sat up finding himself in nothing but his sweats on the couch. The throbbing coming from his head was killing him. Getting up slowly he walked to his bathroom going into his medicine cabinet and poured out three Ibuprofens before popping them into his mouth. He was definitely experiencing a hangover.

After Durk had dropped him off last night he went to his mini bar grabbing whatever he had left trying to forget the knowledge he had of Amiyah’s last words to him. He may have been drunk but he remembered that moment clearly. He couldn’t lie, he was hurt. When Erik went after her he didn’t plan for it go like this. He thought it would be better. He knew she was different and that’s what he liked about her so much. At least that’s what he had thought. It was over between them just as fast as it started.

Erik hopped in the shower hoping to revive himself. He needed a refresher and the hot water rolling down his skin was doing the job. But every time he closed his eyes underneath the water he would see Amiyah. She’s been taking over his mind since he left her place. Taking only twenty’s minutes to wash up Erik stepped out grabbing a towel and wrapped it around his waist. He walked to his bed sitting at the edge and checked his phone. A few missed calls and a message from Durk that caught his eye.

Durk 😈: I need you at the shop today after you go pick up your car...1:34pm

A confused look dawned over Erik’s face. Glancing at the ceiling he retraced his steps in his head and chuckled when he remembered what he meant. He forgot that he left his car in front of the bar he got drunk at yesterday. Placing his phone down he lotioned his body and then went to his closet and got dressed. Since Erik always had his own car he never had the need for a car service so he had to to download one the apps to bring him to the location. Grabbing his keys he left out his his house and went downstairs to wait on his ride.

It didn’t take long for him to arrive back at Rue’s. It was a ten minute ride there. Erik spotted his car still in the same places that he left it. A flashback popped in his head when he thought of that to himself. It was the same thing that some young woman told him when they were outside. Erik remembered her being feisty and powerful for her size the way she kept pushing him on the sidewalk. He couldn’t remember her name but he figured he could go in and thank for her for helping him not make a stupid decision.

Erik walked in the bar. Being only three in the afternoon it was quiet only having a handful of people inside. Some were sitting at the tables and others at the bar waiting for drinks. Strolling up to the counter top he saw her at the other end servicing drinks. Her bright smile capturing his sight even in the dimly lit place. It was a nice one. Erik sat in the same spot where he drunk his feelings away before he called her.

“Miss “Yo” can I get a drink?” He playfully yelled causing her to look at him.

Harmony turned her head when she heard the voice of the young man who was intoxicated that she helped out last night. Seeing the smirk on his face let her know that he was in much better shape. She served one of her regulars their usual before walking over to him.

“Nice to see you again, Erik.” Leaning against the bar she smiled.

“You have to forgive me I forgot your name with me being drunk last night. You mind telling me?” Erik sent a sincere smile.

Harmony playfully rolled her eyes. “Harmony and if you’re here for another drink I’m not helping you.” She started to walk away before Erik grabbed her wrist lightly.

“Actually, Harmony, I’m here to thank you. For what you did last night.” He let her go not trying to over step his boundaries.

She searched his eyes. “Don’t worry about it. It’s nothing.”

“No it was. I could’ve made a stupid ass mistake and ended my life. I really appreciate what you’ve done.” Erik stated honestly.

Taking in his frame, Harmony found herself attracted to him. He was a bit younger than what she was used to but he definitely was very attractive. Besides him over drinking and getting drunk she didn’t mind if Erik became a regular.

Harmony leaned in closer while Erik stole a quick glance at her glossy lips.“Like I said it’s nothing. Take care of yourself Erik.”

Erik gave an inside snicker as he watched her walk away.

__________________________________________

Please excuse any mistakes!

(A.N: I might fast forward in time just a bit in the next chapter)

Tag-list

@supersizemeplz @nahimjustfeelingit-writes @hearteyes-for-killmonger @curls-and-crosses @killmonger-dolan @killmongerkink @migosis @raysunshine78 @alookintohersoul @popcorn803 @just-juicee-blog @mllover260 @kimmyblckswan2 @koriiii @tchallasbabymama @toniilaney @marvelmaree @mia-faith @adreamsublime @queen-b1 @mcdesij @vintage-pvssy @viewsfromrose @ceeverse @smuttywriter @harleycativy @callmemckenzieee @theblulife @bvssmob @everything-is-awesomesauce @xoxomyaah @19jammmy @tchallas-ikumkani-wam @suburbanblackhoe @allhailqueennel @admirehermind @themeirajay @asaanime @bellanay @skylahb @toni9 @iambabyharry @kiabialia @youlovetkay @lahuttor @kehlaniswifee @childishgambinaax @readingaddict1290 @sociallyawkward18 @iamching07 @sourbabynaee @unholyxcumbucket @ladymac82 @efonteno @xsweetdellzx

#black panther #erik killmonger #erik smut #erik stevens #erik x plus size reader #killmonger fanfiction #killmonger x reader #truglori #black panther killmonger #homebody

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doc-pickles · 3 years ago

Text

all roads they lead me here

This is the last time you tell me I've got it wrong

This is the last time I say it's been you all along

This is the last time I let you in my door

This is the last time, I won't hurt you anymore

“Hey it’s Alex, leave me a message or whatever.”

“Alex, it's Jo. I just talked to your mom because you weren’t answering my calls and she said she hasn’t seen you or heard from you in awhile. So… please call me back. I just need to know you’re okay. I love you.”

“It’s me. It’s just been… A really long day and all I really want to do is curl up in bed with you. But you’re not here and you’re not in Iowa and I’m starting to worry that you’re dead in a ditch somewhere. Anyways I love you, please call me back.”

“Hi, it’s me again. Jo, you know your wife? The woman you married? I just… I’m worried about you and the longer I don’t hear from you the more worried I get. So please just call me back. I love you.”

“Alex, please pick up the phone. I don’t care where you are or what you’ve been doing. I don’t care if you’ve… committed murder or something. I don’t know, I just… I need you to answer me. If you’re not coming home I need to know so please just stop my wondering and answer me. Please. I love you, call me back.”

Alex sighed as he listened to the plethora of voicemails that Jo had left for him, her voice sounding more desperate the more messages she left. He wanted to call her, to answer one of her phone calls but he didn’t think it was fair to her. How was he supposed to drag her away from Seattle and everyone they loved to come to the middle of nowhere? How could he ask her to make that sacrifice when he was struggling to accept it himself?

As if hearing his thoughts, his phone screen lit up with a photo of Jo and him on their wedding day. Despite his doubts and worries Alex punched the green accept button and brought the phone up to his ear.

“Alex? Is that you?”

He only hesitates for a moment before letting out a sigh and answering, “Yeah it’s me.”

The relieved sigh and barely concealed tears break his heart as he listens to Jo on the other line. This was why he couldn’t go back, why he couldn’t face Jo again. Just hearing her on the other end of the phone was breaking his heart, he knew if he stood across from her and told her the choice he’d made that he would never be able to walk away.

“Oh my god, I thought you were dead,” Jo’s voice rang across the line, cries punctuating her words as she spoke a mile a minute. “Are you okay? You’re not hurt or in trouble or anything are you?”

“No… No, I'm okay. I’m fine I promise.”

“Good then where the hell are you,” Jo’s voice went from worried to stern in a flash, her tone almost scaring Alex as he listened to her. “I haven’t seen you in a month and a half and no one has been able to contact you for almost three weeks now. I thought you were lying in a coma somewhere so you better have a damn good reason as to why you haven’t been answering your phone.”

Of course she was angry, she had every right to be. If Alex were in Jo’s shoes he would’ve lost his mind trying to figure out where she was. But he wasn’t, instead he was lying in a hotel room thousands of miles away from Seattle keeping a huge secret from his wife who he normally told everything to. Alex let his eyes roam to the crisp white envelope on the bedside table next to him, Jo’s name in large letters across the front of it.

“It’s a long story, Jo.”

“Well start talking then Alex. I have been losing my mind here and I deserve an explanation,” Jo paused for a moment, her voice coming back clear and resolute when she spoke again. “If you’re leaving us, if you’re not coming home I need you to say it. I can’t keep sitting here playing back everything I’ve done trying to figure out what I did wrong.”

“Jo you haven’t done anything wrong, you could never,” Alex is quick to stop the destructive thoughts he knows are swirling around in Jo’s head. A deep pang of guilt hits him as he realizes that his lack of communication has probably torn her apart. “I’m just trying to figure some things out and… that might mean I don’t come back to Seattle.”

The line is silent and for a long moment Alex almost thinks that she’s hung up on him. Finally Jo speaks again, “You're telling me I didn’t do anything wrong but you’re not coming home? I don’t get it. Can you just tell me what's really happening?”

“I have kids.”

“I was going to-“

“With Izzie. She used the embryos and she has twins. We have twins,”

The all consuming silence from the other end of the line surrounds him once again. This time though, the pause felt like the heaviest thing he’d ever felt, the weight settling on his chest and taking his breath with it as he waited for Jo to respond to him.

“Oh.”

“Jo, I had no idea. I called Izzie before Mer’s trial and I was telling her all about you and then… then I heard them in the background. Alexis was singing some song and Eli was yelling at her to stop and I couldn’t not ask about them,” Alex let out a sigh as he ran a hand across his face. “They’re perfect Jo, god they're… They’re everything, the best of me and the best of Izzie. I have a chance to make this family whole, and I just hope you love me back enough to let me ta-“

“You have a family here too Alex! You have people that are depending on you and waiting for you to come home,” Jo was on the verge of tears and she yelled down the line, her voice trembling as she tried to get her point across. “Why didn’t you tell me? Or answer your phone? God Alex I love you but sometimes you can be so stupid. I’m looking up flights now, I can get there tomorrow afternoon.”

“No babe, I don’t need you to come out here.”

“Then tell me what I’m supposed to do! Because I’ve been sitting at home for the last month and a half waiting for you to come home and that didn’t do anything.”

Alex let out a sigh, his shoulders falling as he leaned back against the headboard of his hotel bed, “Jo I’m sorry but I have kids and I need to be here for them. I’ve already missed five years of their lives, I don’t want to miss anymore.”

“Then let me come out there Alex! If you’re planning on staying why won’t you let me come out,” the next pause that comes is from Alex as Jo let’s his silence answer her questions. “You really weren’t planning on coming back to me, were you?”

“Jo, please-“

“No Alex! You don’t just choose to end things without asking me! It's like the past seven years have meant nothing to you,” a steadying breath sounded over the line, Alex’s heart beating out of time as he listened to Jo. “You cannot just leave us here like garbage Alex. I deserve more than that, we deserve more than that! So either you come home or…. Fuck! I don’t know. Alex please.”

Alex thinks he can almost tangibly feel his heart breaking in two as Jo cries out to him. He loves her, more than anything he thinks, but he has children and their faces pop into his mind every second of the day now. He can’t fathom leaving them after already missing so much of their lives.

“Were you even planning on coming back home? Or were you just going to ignore my calls until I got the hint.”

“I didn't know she would have my kids, and now that she does, I don't know how to look anyone in the eye if I don't stay and do everything I can to make this work, make this a life, make this a family,” Alex’s pauses to catch his breath, listening to Jo’s cries. “I never meant to hurt you Jo-“

“Then you should’ve told me! You knew for weeks before you left and you didn’t say anything. You just kissed me and laughed at my jokes and ate dinner across from me crawled into bed next to me and made love to me like nothing was wrong. But the whole time you were just counting down the days until you left without another word,” her breaths are unsteady now, Jo hyperventilating on the other end of the phone in a way that makes Alex want to forget everything he’s seen in Kansas. “I can’t breathe, I can’t do this Alex. If you’re leaving us just say it. Please.”

“Jo, I’m sorry-“

“Just say it!”

“I wish getting everything I always wanted didn't have to hurt you in the process. But I can't lie to you. And I can't come home,” Alex is forcing the words out, barely able to say them without bursting into tears himself. “I'm not coming home, Jo. I can't face you. I can't look you in the eye because I wouldn't be able to walk away.”

“And that doesn’t mean anything to you? Everything we worked for, every uphill battle we fought to be together means nothing now? Did you ever think I would go with you, no questions asked,” Jo takes a deep breath before finishing. “I get that you have kids in Kansas, but you have a family here too Alex and we’ve been here for years, we’re always going to be here waiting and wondering and… I have to go. I love you and I’m sorry we weren’t enough.”

The line finally drops silent and Alex lets the tears he’d been holding back fall. He thinks he’s making the right choice, being there for his kids and giving them what he and Jo never had as children. But the pain and aching in his heart make him second guess his decision, if only for a moment.

It’s two days after his phone call with Jo when Alex realizes that he might have royally screwed everything up. His eyes follow Eli and Alexis around the farmyard as Izzie tells him about their life.

“We were actually in Tacoma before moving out to Kansas. Well, really it was just me but I was already four months pregnant by the time I decided to move,” Izzie let a chuckle out as Alex’s brain began to work overtime. “Somehow we made it though, I swear those two have been keeping me on my toes since they were in the womb.”

Alex ran back Jo’s words from their conversation in slow motion. He had played them over and over again in his head since she’d hung up on him but now he realized they might have a new meaning.

“If you’re leaving us, if you’re not coming home I need you to say it.”

“You have a family here too Alex!”

“You cannot just leave us here like garbage Alex. I deserve more than that, we deserve more than that!”

“We’re always going to be here waiting and wondering.”

“I love you and I’m sorry we weren’t enough.”

Sure she might have meant Meredith and her kids and the family he’d found for himself in Seattle but Alex knew Jo better than that.

“You know what I mean,” Izzie’s voice snapped Alex out of his daze, his eyes glassy as he looked from his hands to the blonde next to him. “You okay?”

“I uh… I think my wife is pregnant.”

It’s nearly 10 PM when a knock sounds on the loft door. Jo almost doesn’t get up from her spot on the couch as her fatigued body sinks into the cushions, reasoning with herself that anyone of importance has a key. When there’s another knock however, she begrudgingly drags herself up to slide the metal door open.

“Oh my god…”

Standing in front of her is Alex, eyes tired and hair damp from the near constant downpour of Seattle rain. She tries to ignore the suitcase at his feet, not wanting to get her hopes up when they’d already been so crushed just a week before when she’d spoken to him.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry that I walked away from you and from all of this,” Alex runs a hand through his hair, his gaze floating to the ceiling as he struggles to keep his composure. “I want to be here Jo, you mean everything to me.”

“How am I supposed to believe that? How am I supposed to let you back in when I know you were about to leave me without a word,” she’s begging herself not to cry right now, she’s done enough of that in the past week. But her stupid hormones bring tears to her eyes that she tries unsuccessfully to blink away. “Alex, you were ready to walk away from everything we’ve built without so much as a goodbye!”

“I know but-“

“But what?! Izzie sent you back home? Your conscience suddenly crawled back into your body after taking a two month vacation,” Jo’s voice rises as she stares Alex down. “What do you think you could possibly say that would make this better?”

Alex takes a step forward and Jo can’t bring herself to step away from him. Her mind is swirling, tears stinging her eyes as she meets his gaze, “Jo, I’m sorry.”

“Well sorry doesn't fix everything Alex.”

There’s a quiet moment between them as they stand mere inches from each other, eyes locked but no words exchanged. Alex does look remorseful, like every decision he had excluded her from is finally weighing heavily on his shoulders.

“I’m not going back to Kansas. Well, I’m not staying there at least,” Jo blinks up at Alex, waiting for him to continue before she says anything else. “I love my kids, god they're perfect, but that’s not where I belong. And I’m sorry it took so long for me to realize that, I’m sorry it took you yelling at me to realize that because it just confirmed that I should’ve talked to you as soon as I found out.”

Alex takes another step forward, his chest almost touching hers as his hand comes up to cradle the curve of her stomach that one of his old shirts had hidden. In the month and a half that he’s been gone Jo’s figure had curved outward significantly, the baby bump now noticeable no matter what she wore. She’s not sure how he’d figured it out, but the simple act breaks the flimsy hold she has on her emotions. Instead of the tears she’d become so used to though, Jo finds herself overwhelmed with anger as she pushes away from Alex.

“If this is why you're back you can turn around and leave again.”

"It's not…. Well it is but it's not the only reason."

"Alex!”

“Just listen please. I'm not back because we're having a baby, I’m back because you being pregnant made me realize how stupid I was being when I decided to move to Kansas. Eli and Alexis... They're amazing, but they were amazing before I got there too. And I don't want to be a dad without you by my side. I want it all with you Jo and I know that might be hard to believe right now but-“

Before Alex finished his statement Jo had launched herself into his arms, tears staining his shirt where she had her face pressed against his chest, "I'm still pissed at you but these stupid hormones all telling me to give you another chance.”

“Thank god, I didn't have a backup plan if you kicked me out again.”

"But,” Jo leaned up and fixed Alex with a serious look. "This is your last chance. If you EVER screw up this badly again…”

“I won't.”

Jo leans back, pressing her lips to Alex’s as she pulled him into the loft, “Welcome home.”

#jolex #alex karev #jo wilson #jo karev #jo x alex #jolex fanfic #tsjolexweek21 #grey’s fanfic #greys anatomy #nina writes #jolex fanfiction

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clumsiestgiantess · 1 year ago

Text

First chapter of Alexis and Erica’s story (idk what to call it yet but suggestions are welcome)

all chapters linked here

A sudden explosion vibrated through the ground beneath me. Blinding light scorched my eyes for only a moment, and my ears rang in the silence afterwards. Someone was calling me, but I was too shocked to respond.

What happened?

[They were trees]

Another blast of thunder startled me from my stupor; I looked wide-eyed out the basement windows as rain flooded the ditches beneath them. I hadn't realized how bad the weather was until then. Sure, I’d heard the rain, but I'd assumed it was just that: rain, not a raging storm. My dad had been calling me to see if I'd heard the thunder. Of course I had. Was there anyone within a five mile radius who hadn't?

As I sat staring out the rain-drizzled window, another bolt of lightning touched down so close I could see the tree in our yard that was hit, now blackened and charred on one side by the strike. I stood up, backing away from the window beside my head. Suddenly, I didn’t feel very safe, even if I was underground where the storm supposedly couldn’t get to me. The summer storms were early this year. They’d come back in full-force. As alarming as they sounded, I had been enjoying their rumbling ambiance — until now.

Yet another flash nearly blinded me and I stepped another few paces away from the window. Its explosion still rang in my ears. The few basement lights my dad had so lazily forgot to replace sparked up with new life, and for a quiet few seconds, everything was fine. Then, along with another eerily soundless flash, the bulbs that had been shining before crackled, buzzed, and shattered. I looked around dumbfounded as all the lights flickered out, like candles all snuffed out at once. Dad yelled something about the house being struck, but I could hardly focus on his voice while my vision dazzled in the afterglow.

I was so shaken that I couldn’t move from my hunched-over stance that I’d taken at the very last minute to protect myself. Thunder rolled overhead, accompanied by the sounds of my family scrambling around one floor above me. The basement, being mostly underground and without many windows, was almost completely dark without any working lights. Where the ping-pong table and bar stools stood a minute ago, gaped a black void littered with glass from the shattered bulbs above me. I straightened slowly in the dark cavern of the basement, unsure what to do. I couldn't step any further forward. The lights had shattered, meaning the way upstairs would be lined with shards of glass that I'd have to navigate through blindly.

Another rumble of thunder rattled the small windows behind me. I turned around towards them, hoping to gain at least a little more light, but with the sky an ugly blackened grey, it didn't help much. The couch I'd been sitting on had to be right in front of me, though I couldn’t see it — my phone too. My phone! My phone has a flashlight!

Reaching for the couch so I could get my bearings, I felt around as my heart pounded in my ears. I would be fine, so long as I had some light. However, the couch I’d been sitting on a few moments ago was no longer right in front of me. My stomach dropped like I was standing somewhere extremely high up instead.

I stumbled backwards, falling onto the kids table behind me just as another blinding flash filled the room, illuminating the little cityscape my brother and I had built together on its surface. As I fell further than wherever the floor should’ve been to stop me, electrical currents lashed through the air and seized my body like miniature versions of the lightning in the sky. They burned, making me reach out for something, anything, to pull me out of whatever I was trapped in. Light cascaded out of the darkness, filling my vision as sparking veins surged down and around me. More and more currents of crackling electricity continued to latch onto me, tearing through my body as I writhed in pain. Everything hurt like I was on fire. Then everything was gone — lost to an ever-growing light as I tumbled through nothing.

Oof. Less than a moment later, I landed forcefully on my back, knocking the wind from my lungs. My vision slowly adjusted to the painful brightness that surrounded me moments after standing in almost total darkness. I quickly shut my eyes and lay there, dazed. Slowly, I moved a shaking hand to massage my temples, trying to ease away the pain as I sat up.

After a long moment to recuperate, I shielded my eyes with a hand and tried to look around. What the..? I was in a field, with grass below me and the glaring sun shining high above me. Even weirder still was the fact that there wasn't a cloud in the sky, except for a few small wispy ones on the horizon. Where am I? What happened to the storm?

Once my eyes finally adjusted, I stood. Keeping my hand up to shield the sun, I looked around, but nothing seemed familiar. All I could spot was a forest and mountains in the distance, so I started off in that direction, hoping I'd come across a trail or cabin or some form of civilization when I got there. As I trekked the distance to the forest, I realized that the grass beneath me was all pristinely short. The field couldn’t be natural; the grass should've grown up to my shins at least.

That’s good, right? One of those 'signs of civilization' I’m looking for. If I followed the cut grass I might find a house or a park entrance. Twice I had to stop to rest my legs, which spasmed unexpectedly. I had my suspicions that the electrocution I experienced earlier was behind it. I was very lucky I hadn’t died. Determined to find out where I landed, I kept walking towards the forest. Surely there would be someone out there who could help me figure out where I was.

However, what I'd thought was a forest at a distance seemed to be something else entirely when I got closer. The 'trees' were really just low bushes that only came to the edge of my knees. It was strangely unsettling; a whole field of small bushes with no actual trees in sight. These must be some kind of fruit bushes, right? And the grass is cut because this is someone's farm and this is their garden. That was a much less unsettling explanation.

Why I randomly appeared in the middle of someone's field, I had no idea, but if this was a garden, I didn't want to go trampling through it. I changed course and walked along the edge of the bushes for a while, hoping against hope it would lead me to whoever owned the place. As I walked alongside the bushes, I began to notice more and more concerning details. There seemed to be multiple types of strange bushes all clumped together here, and some open patches there. In fact, nothing was ordered in any obvious way and there wasn't even a fence around it to keep animals out.

My train of thought switched paths. It's a wild patch of bushes. Those exist, right? Of course they do. Whoever owns this property, whoever mows the grass here, must've found the bushes growing naturally and decided to mow around them instead of cutting them down. Deep in thought, I didn't react in time to avoid the rock sticking out of the ground in front of me. The tip of my shoe hit it at just the right angle so that my leg was thrown from under me. When I tripped, I fell directly into the bushes. Ow. My face was a bit scratched up; I felt it on my hands and knees, searching for any major cuts. Thankfully I hadn't gouged my eye out. I glanced around the underbrush, pulling myself up from the ground. The scenery under there was vaguely.. familiar — like I’d seen it before, though it wasn’t that same thing. I froze, and an unnerving thought crossed my mind. Slowly, confusedly, I lowered my head all the way down and looked up at the bushes from the ground. They were trees. From ground level the bushes looked exactly like trees.

I quickly scanned my surroundings and found that, from my new perspective here, the grass would in fact be up to my knees, if not higher, and the distant forest I thought I saw earlier really was a forest at this height, with underbrush and shrubs to match. What is this? I could feel my heartbeat quickening as I tried to make sense of what I was seeing.

Hearing a bird call, I tore my head from the ground and sat up, dreading what I would find. A flock of birds flew from a bush-tree nearby. Every bird was about the size of a pin. The whole flock combined was still smaller than any real bird I knew, besides maybe a hummingbird. What is happening!? Am I going crazy? I tried to think through everything that had happened, kneeling in the field surrounded by small broken trees. None of it made sense. The pieces didn't fully click until I heard a scream echo from the edge of the woods.

My heart flew into my throat and I flinched at the sound. Still in shock, I slowly shuffled over to where I’d heard the noise, bending my head lower to see under the treetops. At first I saw nothing, only empty forest. Then some small movement caught my attention as something disappeared behind the trunk of a nearby tree. Without thinking, I grabbed the tree, or bush, or whatever it was. I meant to pull it back so I could see behind it, but I ended up pulling it right out of the ground instead, misjudging my strength.

Another scream pierced the silent air followed by someone faintly shouting "Run!" I watched, too shocked to move, as a young couple ran deeper into the woods, the taller of the two couldn't have been much larger than the length of my hand. I sat up, my vision spinning. Everything, the plants, the birds... This wasn't my brain misinterpreting strange things, the whole world was somehow shrunk to an incredibly small scale. Either that, or I was somehow massive. Both sounded ridiculous — too impossible to be true. Yet, I was holding an entire tree in my hand.

After I finally snapped out of my daze, the people had long fled. I stood wearily and dropped the slightly crushed tree, a fresh sense of fear overcoming me. Is this my world; did the weird light grow me somehow? Did it take me to a really small world? And if this is an entirely new world, how do I get back to mine? How do I get back home!?

I dashed off in a panic, running off the way I came. This time I had no trouble getting across the field — adrenaline doing most of the hard work for me. When I arrived at the spot I'd first woken up in, I stooped, desperately looking for any signs of the strange electricity, or any familiar thing I could use to get home. Nothing. I was trapped. I scanned the horizon in all directions, searching desperately. The sun was just starting to set, soon it would be pitch black out here in this empty field, and I was starting to dread the possibility that I'd be sleeping in the grass that night.

Tears balled up in the corners of my eyes as my vision blurred. I sank to my knees and curled up, wishing I was back in the basement of my house. Being in a dark room during a power outage in a monster storm was infinitely more comforting than this. At least then I'd know where I am; what world I'm in. With blurred vision I looked to the sky, begging for whatever brought me here.

Please! Please take me back! I want to go home! Above me, the sky had faded from blue to gold to pink, and finally settled on a bluish inky black. My tears had dried on my face, and I was exhausted. I curled up on the ground and accepted defeat. Maybe if I sleep and wake up all of this will be a dream. After what seemed like hours of laying dreary and restless in the grass, I heard what sounded like machinery rumbling.

I got up instantly. My head spun from sitting up too quickly as I tried to pinpoint where the noise was coming from. As the strange sound grew closer, I could tell the source of the noise was behind me, where the forest was. It grew louder while I searched the field; the thing was getting so close that I could hear it making more of a whirr than a rumble. What is that sound? Suddenly, lights flickered on in the sky and I stood, thinking they must be flashlights, held by people my own size. But as they neared and the noise grew even louder, more and more light filled the field in front of me. My hopes of being rescued were short lived at best. An awful sinking feeling came over me as I realized I was not being saved.

Helicopters the size of my forearms came barreling up the field faster than I could react. Blinding floodlights suddenly attacked me from all sides, and I could hear faint unintelligible shouting over the cacophony of the helicopter blades. I could just make out a man’s voice yelling “Take it down!” My brain screamed at me to do something, so I did the only thing I could do: run. I ran like my life depended on it, which it probably might. I had no time to think; I just ran like mad towards the darkest place I could find, half blinded by light and half blinded by darkness at the same time.

Through my confusion, I could make out a large shadow ahead of me. Another part of the mountain range loomed in the dark up ahead and I dashed towards it. The mountains were a few feet taller than I was; if I could just get further ahead of the helicopters, I could hide in their dark shadows. With an extra burst of speed, I was able to put enough distance between me and whoever was chasing me to find a place to hide.

Scrambling over cliffsides, I was able to find a craggy overhang that jutted out significantly from the rest of the mountainside. The crag cast a large shadow beneath it, big enough for me to fit under. Quickly, I slid under the overhang, slicing my leg on a rock in the process, but that was the least of my worries.

Alone and in pain, I watched wide-eyed as floodlights circled around overhead. Whoever was up there searched the ground thoroughly, but I was safe under the cover of the shadows, which only darkened with their lights from above. Finally, my pursuers split off in different directions, giving me a moment to breathe and think.

How did they know I was here? The only answer I could think of was that the people I ran into in the woods earlier had called the army after me. Or maybe a plane had spotted me overhead and now the government was out to get me. Whatever happened, one thing was certain: I was stuck there until those helicopters left. What happens when morning comes? The thought had only just occurred to me after I'd been sitting there for about an hour. Once the sun rises they'll easily be able to see me here.

My only options were to keep running or turn myself in. If I turned myself in, whoever was searching for me up there would probably lock me away and do experiments on me or whatnot, so I guessed I'd just have to keep running. I groaned silently at the thought, my legs were tired enough from racing through the field and being hugged up tight to stay under the rock above me, nevermind the fact that my right leg was throbbing from the cut. Thankfully the slice wasn't too deep, I hadn’t lost too much blood.

I couldn’t tell how long I’d been under the overhang for — not even by the moon; it wasn't in the part of the sky I could see in front of me. Everything ached from sitting scrunched up under the rocks for so long. I so badly wanted to stretch myself out, but then it would only be a matter of time before the helicopters spotted me. Wait. What was that?

The noisy churn of an engine silenced my thoughts. Soon, a rugged vehicle came barreling down the trail that passed by my overhang, seemingly following the helicopters. It came to a sudden halt as the trail abruptly ended with a wall of rock. Someone, presumably a park ranger of some kind, stepped angrily out of the car. "I guess I'll wait out this crazy search party from under here. Don't know what they're looking for, but it can't be good."

I held very still as a figure stepped beneath the ledge I'd been hiding under. Really? I thought, exasperated. Of all the places someone could stay in the entire mountain range, why did they pick this one? What are they even doing out here in the middle of the night, anyway? Silently, I begged him not to notice me, and for a while he didn't. The man stayed in the front of the overhang, looking out into the dark while I pressed myself into the rocks behind him.

"Ugh, ew, what did I just sit in?" A small light flickered on in front of him, illuminating the rock I'd cut myself on. "Is this.. blood?" Oh no. The ranger returned to his truck and a fog light suddenly cut through the shadow I so desperately hid in. The beam of light traveled agonizingly slowly. Sliding down the bloody trail, to my leg, then all the way up to my face. The man gasped and stumbled off the truck once he saw me.

With the light pointed at my head, all I could see of the man was his silhouette, outlined by the glow of the searchlight as he slowly backed away from me. "Oh god, oh shit, what are you? I- You must be what they're looking for up there.” I held completely still, a bit shocked at how small his voice sounded, though I knew I shouldn’t be. Step by careful step, the ranger backed away from me until he’d cautiously slid the driver’s seat door open and reached inside.

“Fox Den, this is Scout Four, I have a.. I- I don’t know what to call this in as, but-“ "No, wait!" I cried out, "Don't let them know I'm here!" Talking only made it worse. He spoke through his radio in a hurry now, waving his arms wildly at the sky as the helicopters circled back at the sound of my voice. "IT'S OVER HERE!" Two of the spotlights to my left turned and started heading my way; I had to stop him. I didn’t want people searching for me on the ground as well as in the air; they’d find me in no time.

Like a reflex, my hand shot out and grabbed him, but to my surprise he wiggled free and started screaming louder. The choppers were closing in, there was no time; their droning hum echoed loudly off the cliffs. I slammed my fist down on the light and reached for him again, grabbing him as tightly as I could and yanking him back under the ledge. With the floodlight destroyed, the shadows quickly covered any trace that I was there. A few nerve wracking seconds passed as the spotlights flew by overhead and I breathed a sigh of relief. They hadn't spotted me.

"Don't scream," I whispered once I felt it was safe, "and I'll let you go, I promise." I didn't want to scare this poor person. They were already freaked out enough as it was. The man was silent in my grasp, so I slowly unclenched my fist. Little snaps and crackles echoed as I released him, and his body limply fell into the palm of my hand. Oh no. No, no, no..

Quickly, I scrambled into the moonlight, staring in horrified shock as his corpse — mangled beyond recognition — was revealed. I screamed, dropping his body and clinging to the rocks in terror. What have I done!? I desperately rubbed the tears from my eyes as blinding light was thrown into my face for what felt like the millionth time that day.

"No!" I yelped in terror, "I didn't mean to kill him! I swear I didn't mean to!" Choking on a sob, I tried to run blindly, but only tripped and raked my hands over the rocks surrounding me, tearing up my fingers. Blood trickled over the mountainside as I grasped the rocky cliff to right myself. I turned to the choppers just in time to see projectiles launching directly at me.

I squeezed my eyes tight as tears streamed down my cheeks. I could only hope that my death would be quick. When the projectiles struck, electricity surged through me and I cried out in pain. They weren't trying to kill me, they were trying to subdue me. It would be easier for them to drag me away if I were knocked out. More rounds were fired off as I desperately fought to stay conscious. I refused to be put under. But as the second round hit its mark, I spasmed and my vision went dark.

I hope y’all like this because there’s a lot more to come.

#other-world universe #g/t #giant tiny #g/t writing

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myhockeyworld87 · 4 years ago

Text

A Crosby Christmas

Word Count: 3,713

POV: Reader

Warnings: A little smut, nothing too much...it is Christmas after all

Notes: I know I haven’t been on here in a while, but I wanted to drop this little story here for you guys to enjoy this Christmas! Hopefully I’ll be more active after the holidays. I also have Toews Christmas story I’m working on so hopefully I can drop that soon as well. Don’t worry I haven’t forgotten about your other favs. There will be new Ruined and Not So Dangerous Liaison coming as well. Merry Christmas to you all! I hope that this holiday season finds you healthy and happy! May the joy of this holiday season last all through the coming year! Love and Hugs to all!!!

Christmas had always been your favorite time of year. When you were little, you loved decorating the tree, sing Christmas carols, and of course waiting for Santa. You still loved this time of year, only now it was watching your kids do all those same things. Alexis, now five, and Lucas, three and a half, were yours and Sid's pride and joy. The two were overjoyed for Christmas this year and even though you hadn't celebrated American Thanksgiving yet, they were all geared up to decorate the house.

One of your first holiday traditions when you first started dating Sidney had been to always decorate one tree together, and you'd continued that every year since then. This year, with Sid's schedule and the kids' anxiousness, you were going to be trimming the tree much earlier than normal. God love your husband, as he carried all the boxes of ornaments in, as well as the tree from the garage where you had them stored. The ten-foot monstrosity fit perfectly in your family room, which apparently was a pain in the ass to put up as you'd caught Sid twice almost cursing in front of the kids.

"Daddy, I get to put the star on again this year, right?" Alexis asked drawing her father's attention, as he was putting the last piece of the tree up. "Lukey is still too small."

"Am not," your son, who looked the spitting of his father shouted back.

"Lex, I think Lukey is big enough this year to give it a shot." Lucas stuck his tongue out at his sister who had her arms folded into a pout.

"But Dad…"

"But Lex…" Sid mocked in the same whiny voice as his daughter, then he picked her up and zoomed her around the room to make her smile. He was a sucker for his little girl and she had him wrapped around her pinkie.

"Me too, daddy, me too," Lucas cheered as he wanted in on the fun, and of course Sid happily obliged.

"That's not fair," Alexis pouted again this time stomping her foot in emphasis.

"Alexis Catrina Crosby, if you don't change that attitude young lady, you can march all the way upstairs and not join in any of the decorating." You finally told your daughter, for sometimes she needed that stern voice to keep her in check, especially when her father doted on her. "And remember Santa is watching." That threat always seemed to work magic this time of year.

A lone tear leaked out of her eye, as Sid made his way over to her; Lucas firmly attached around his neck. He crouched down to his little girl. "Mommy's right. You've got to put the star on the last two years. It's time for Luc to have a turn." He remained at her level and Lucas slid off his back and over to the box where the star was almost gloating if a three-year-old could do just a thing.

Alexis pulled her lip out, this time in sadness as she pleaded into her father's deep brown eyes just like her own. "But…but I want to do something special too."

"And you will princess." Sid looked over to you as if you were supposed to have the magical answer to that.

"How about you put the last ornament on the tree. Daddy will leave a spot way up high so he has to lift you up to put it there." Her lip pulled in and suddenly there was a huge grin on her face. You had a feeling it was more about having your husband hold her up in his arms than actually putting the star on. The two seemed to fight for his attention all the time when he was home. The long road stretches killed both father and children, and if you were being honest they were hard on you as well. Thankfully, Sid only had a few short ones here and there before Christmas break, so the kids should be fine. "Well, I think we need to get decorating this tree. What do you think?"

"Yeah!!!" The kids cheered, Sid, joining in. There were a ton of ornaments to put on the huge tree that was once decorated purely in shades of gold. Now it was more of a hodgepodge of colors. There were dozens of Mickey Mouse ornaments from their trips to Disney, along with Paw Patrol ones which seemed to be Lucas' favorite at the moment. There were also ones with their little hand and footprints from when they were born. The tree held all of your life with Sid together. There was one from your first Christmas together, a few that you'd received to commemorate your wedding, and one for each child's birth. Though your favorite had to be your specially made ones with each family member's name on it. You had ones made for both Sid and your parents as well. They were the ones you loved the most putting on the tree as looking at their name brought such great memories of each person. "There's only one ornament left, and it's Alexis'." She came over and took her pink bulb, which had been hand-painted for her, and walked over to her dad.

"Alright, little one. I saved you the best spot at the top, so everyone can see your name up high." She was grinning like a Cheshire cat as Sid picked her up and then walked up a couple rungs of the ladder to get to the right height. This was the part that always made you nervous. The kids could get wiggly from time to time and the last thing you wanted was for them to cause your husband to fall. You weren't worried about the kids, Sid would do everything in his power to keep them safe, it was him you had to fear for. Sid held her out to the tree and it took her a minute to get the ornament in the right place.

"It looks so pretty, daddy. Good spot." He carried her down the ladder, then went over to his little man.

"Ok, Lukey, you ready." Lucas nodded enthusiastically. He had the star in both hands, as Sid took him up farther on the ladder. Lucas reached his little arms out, stretching as much as he could to get it on the peak of the tree. It took him two tries but he finally did it, albeit crooked, but that was no problem, as you'd fix it the moment they were in bed. It's something you'd had to do the last two years with Alexis as well. "Well, are we ready to turn on the light and see how it looks?" Sid asked, already knowing the answer he was going to get from the children, and they didn't disappoint with their enthusiastic cheers. He flipped the switch and the tree lit up as bright as the sky on the fourth of July.

"Yay!" all of you cheered and clapped.

"It's so pretty," Alexis cooed and you had to agree, even though forty percent of the ornaments were on the lower three feet of the tree, compliments of your children, but it was simply perfect.

"I think this is the best one yet," Sid commented, while he slid his arms around your midsection. There was nothing better than this moment you thought as you watched Lucas's eyes just light up, as he gazed at all the twinkling lights, and saw the giddy smile on Alexis's face.

"I think you're right," you said turning so that you could kiss Sid sweetly.

"Can we have hot cocoa and cookies now?" Lucas asked while he tugged on both yours and Sid's legs.

"You bet bud," Sid replied, even though it would be you making the kids' favorite holiday drink. You scooted out of his arms and headed to the kitchen, while the three of them put on a holiday movie. "Don't forget the extra marshmallows, Mommy." Your husband was sometimes the biggest kid of them all.

By the time you made it back to the family room, they had all claimed their favorite spot. "I saved you, your seat by daddy," Alexis said all proud of herself.

"Thanks, baby girl." You passed out the hot cocoa or lukewarm cocoa in the kids' case, then set the plate of cookies on the end table by your husband.

"Did you bake Christmas cookies already?" he whispered, as he saw the Santa shaped sugar cookies on the plate.

"As if I had time. I called the bakery and had them made."

He took a bite of one before handing one to each of the kids. "Not as good as yours but they'll do for now."

"I promise you'll get mine closer to Christmas."

"Mmm…and do I get your other cookie when the kids are in bed tonight?"

You raised your eyes at his double entendre. "I guess we'll have to see, won't be." Though you both knew that he'd be getting your baked goods, so to speak.

Thankfully, Sid had steered the kids toward watching Frosty the Snowman, so after the half-hour was up, you trotted them upstairs for bath time. Sid claimed he needed to 'watch film' for tomorrow's practice, so he skipped out on the nightly ritual, but made it upstairs in time to tuck the kids in for the night. "Night daddy." You heard Alexis say, as you had finished tucking Lucas into bed. Sid brushed back a lock of her hair before bending down and kissing his little girl goodnight.

"Night, baby girl. Daddy loves you."

"Love you too daddy." You walked in then and saw Alexis's eyes grow heavy.

"Goodnight, my sweet angel," you whispered, kissing her forehead. "Love you."

She yawned, then grabbed her teddy bear and hugged it tightly to her chest. "Love you, mommy." Sid grabbed your hand and the two of you snuck out of the room, closing the door as she fell fast asleep.

"Lucas asleep?"

"Yep, he went down pretty easy tonight." Sid had said goodnight to him first and went to read Alexis a story as you did the same for Lucas. "Poor lil guy was tuckered out from all the excitement."

"We make beautiful kids together, Mrs. Crosby."

"That we do, Mr. Crosby," you answered as you headed back downstairs hand in hand with your husband. You'd been trying for baby number three, the last year, but not having any success. It had been easy previously. In fact, you hadn't even been trying when you conceived Alexis. Lucas, you had planned down to the date, so that Sid would be home in the summer to help you both children. You'd automatically assumed that number three would go just as easily, but here you were twelve months into it and still not pregnant. You tried not to think about it too much, but every now and then it would get to you.

You shook yourself, as you hit the bottom rung, taking yourself out of your melancholy. "Cold?" Sid asked, as his arms came around you. "I think I know how to warm you up."

He somehow maneuvered you both into the family room, where he had a fire going in the fireplace, with blankets and pillows all around it. "Watching film eh?"

The signature smirk of his, the one he always gave in the locker room during an interview came out. "Had to surprise you somehow." There was a bottle of wine and two glasses there as well, and Sid poured you both a glass before settling down amongst the cushions with you. "Merry early Christmas, my love," he toasted and you clinked glasses.

The wine went down smoothly and was the perfect ending for what was the perfect day. You took your free hand and captured Sid's jaw, bringing his lips to yours for a heated kiss. It was the perfect mix of Christmas time with the combination of chocolate and wine mixed together with the essence of your husband, and you found yourself falling more in love with him than you'd ever been. He ended the kiss, all too soon for your liking. "Think the kids are sound asleep yet?"

You already knew that Lucas was, but Alexis was probably still teetering. "One for sure, let me check on the other." You still had a monitor hooked up in Alexis's room, so you pulled it up on your phone. It wasn't the video that told you she was asleep but her soft snores. "Yep, she's out. Snores just like you."

"I do not snore," he said rather indigently.

"Um…excuse me, Mr. my nose has been broken so many times I can't count. Yes, you do."

"Well, maybe a little but you love it." When you didn't respond right away, his hands went to your sides to tickle you. You fell back against the pillows laughing, Sid following you down until his mouth captured yours silencing your giggles.

It was some time before you broke apart for air. "Ok, I do love your snores but then I love everything about you."

This wasn't new information to him. "I love you more though."

"Not a chance."

"Guess I'm going to have to prove it." His lips were back on yours then, devouring you. Sid made quick work of disposing of your top, throwing it off to the side, before kissing his way down to your lace-covered breasts. He knew how to make you moan out, as he took one nipple and sucked it into his mouth. Your hands roamed under his shirt, feeling the rippled muscles along his back. They worked their way to his front and his well-toned abs before undoing the fly of his jeans and sliding them down. "Eager, my love?"

Your hand slid down to his cock, where he was rock hard. "Apparently, I'm not the only one." You stroked him in your hand, twisting your wrist as you went; a move you knew he loved. Sid let you have your fun for a bit before taking control of the encounter. Before you knew what was happening, he had you stripped bare laying on the blanket, legs spread for him.

His fingers toyed between your folds, making you even wetter than you already were. He entered you in one swift motion and your back arched at the feel of him inside you. "You feel so good baby," Sid moaned out, then started that slow rhythm of his hips you both loved so much. You weren't sure you would ever tire of this, the feeling of his lips on yours as he slid in and out of your body. It was something that was special that first time and every time after when you made love and you knew somehow that, that would never change.

Sid's fingers found that your clit, alternating between putting just the right amount of pressure there and flicking it back and forth. After all these years, he knew your body as if it were his own, knew what you needed, when you needed it, and knew how to take you over that edge. You were there now, legs trembling as your climax hit and your pussy squeezed him like a vise. He pumped two more times into you before spilling himself deep inside you with a grunt of satisfaction. He dropped kisses to your lips as he came down off his high, then rolled to his side taking you with him.

"That was heaven," you whispered, trailing your fingers up and down his biceps.

"Mmm, it always is with you." He reached behind him and pulled a blanket over your bodies. "I have to say this has been one of the best Christmas decorating days we've ever had."

"I have to agree," you hummed softly feeling your eyes grow heavy despite the early hour of the evening.

"I should probably take you to bed."

"Not yet, let's just lay here for a little longer." Laying there reminded you of the old days when it was just the two of you, and while you loved your two little munchkins, sometimes it was nice to just have Sid all to yourself like this.

His fingers trailed up and down your spine, causing you to snuggle deeper into his chest. "Whatever you want baby." Sid closed his eyes then, just savoring the moment like you were, and despite being the one that said you should move to the bedroom; he was the one to fall asleep first.

The week and a half leading up to Thanksgiving was hectic, as the Pens played at home. You took the kids to as many home games as you could, but it was always a production, by the time you packed up everything you would need for the three to four hours away from home. As soon as Thanksgiving was over, the team was back on the road and you were prepping for Christmas, rushing off to buy gifts while the kids were at preschool. Well, Lucas really didn't have school, but you did send him two days a week to a daycare like environment, so he would be used to being around kids more. You were running around so busy, some days you literally lost track of time.

When Sid wasn't on the road, he was there to help you in any way that he could; taking the kids out to play in the snow, while you baked, or taking them to the rink to skate while you wrapped and hid the gifts. Every free second was spent making sure that Alexis and Lucas would have the best Christmas ever. It wasn't until you looked at the calendar that you noticed you were late. It was December nineteenth, and your period hadn't come yet. Dare you hope that baby number three was finally going to come to fruition? There was only one way to know for sure.

Those five days to Christmas Eve flew by in a whirlwind. Sid had away games until the twenty-first, and then one home one on the twenty-third. There were so many last minutes things to do. Sid's parents and sister came into town on the twenty-second and were a huge help. They were currently upstairs bathing both kids for you, while you and Sid were planning out when to put the presents as it was now Christmas Eve. "I'm not sure Alexis's dollhouse is going to fit under the tree," he whispered, as he had finally finished putting it together with his dad. It was currently out in the garage with a huge sheet over it.

"You're the one who had to get her the biggest one there is." He was always spoiling your children.

"I know, don't start." He said sliding his arms around you as you stared at the tree. "It should fit in that corner over there." Now, that he figured out where the ginormous playhouse could go; he shifted his focus to the tree, looking at all the ornaments that had been hanging for the last six or seven weeks now. You smiled to yourself waiting for him to notice one in particular. "I feel like something is different on there."

"Hmm," you mused just swaying back and forth in his arms. "I think your right."

"What's that one right there?" He said pointing to the ornament that was at his eye level. "I don't remember it."

"Maybe you should have a closer look." He peered down at you curiously, now knowing that you were up to something, before gliding you both over to the tree so that he could have a closer look. "Is that…Are we…" You could hear the excitement in his voice before he turned you around to confirm his suspicions.

You nodded before saying, "Yes, it's my pregnancy test, and it took you forever to notice I put it there."

"What? When?"

"It's been on there since you came home from Toronto. I've been waiting for you to notice." He looked dumbfounded for a moment before scooping you up and spinning you around, his lips locking with yours.

When he finally put you down, there was a huge smile on his face. "I can't believe we're finally having another baby."

"I know me too. It's not the timing we were looking for, but I think you'll be happy with the due date." Curiosity got the best of him and you could see him trying to do the math in his brain to figure out what day it would be. "Well, you always said it was your lucky number," you hinted to him.

"No way!" He shrieked out. "August seventh?" You shook your head, yes, and he spun you around one more time before the patter of little feet and big feet came barreling in.

"What's all the excitement about?" Trina asked before even the kids could get a word in.

"We're having a baby!" Sid told her and everyone came in for hugs, congratulating you both. He knelt down to the kids' level. "Are you excited, that you're going to have a baby brother or baby sister?"

"Can we have twins? Kennedy Jenkins has twins and she says it's fun cause she always has someone to play dolls with." Sid just laughed at his daughter, then tickled her.

"I don't know about all that princess. Let's just be happy that you're getting to be a big sister again." He grabbed Lucas, then came off the ground throwing the toddler in the air. "What about you? Are you excited to be a big brother?"

Lucas just smiled, before looking his dad in the eye and grabbing hold of his cheeks. "I'm excited for Santa." Sid burst out laughing and you all joined in. Santa was definitely rating much higher than the new baby.

"I'm excited for Santa too, bud," Sid told him, then slid his free hand around your waist. "Thanks for making Christmas come early, Mrs. Crosby." Your lips found his in a sweet and loving kiss.

"Thanks for making me a mom again, Mr. Crosby."

He winked at you, that devilish smirk on his face. "Anytime," he breathed out, then added, "This is definitely the best Crosby Christmas yet." .

#Sidney Crosby #Sidney Crosby imagines #Sidney Crosby imagine #Sidney Crosby smut #Pittsburgh penguins imagine #Pittsburgh penguins imagines #nhl smut #nhl fanfic #nhl imagine #nhl imagines

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the-evil-authoress · 3 years ago

Text

GX Month Day 3: “Mind on Air”

Dreamers be dreaming with their heads in the clouds. Show us your favorite character’s dream career, their secret desires, or that diary they keep under their pillow. ;)

Career Goals

Alexis taps her pen against the desk. The blank form in front of her asks her to list her first second and third career choice, skills she will need to succeed in those careers, and where she sees herself in two to five years. All simple questions, and yet the paper is still blank.

Sighing, she glances back to her career aptitude test. Her ‘top matches’ list options like teaching and social service jobs while citing her ‘strong desire to help others’ as the reason. She thought this test would help her pinpoint a direction to take, but she’s just as confused as before. She can’t deny that she enjoys helping others, but does she want to make a career out of it? Help others for the rest of her life?

The text notification sound on her PDA is a welcome distraction from her thoughts, and she opens the app to find a text from Jaden.

[hey can i come over?]

The question is surprising enough that Alexis reads it twice. Jaden only just started coming back to class and hanging out around all of them again; not with them exactly because he still doesn’t interact much - and uses Jesse as his personal human shield much to their annoyance - but at least he’s come out of that total isolation.

[Of course] she texts back without further hesitation. She’d been worried about him and this is a good sign, right? Maybe he wants to talk. She knows something happened between him and Christina because everyone had noticed the sudden shift in dynamic between the two of them.

-“It’s fine. We’re working on it,”- was all Christina would say about the matter.

Whatever this is, Alexis knows she’ll have to let Jaden broach the topic first or risk running him off again. She turns back to her career plan paper to wait.

The balcony door slides open only minutes later and scares the crap out of her. Jaden kicks out of his shoes.

“That was fast.”

“I was outside before I realized I should ask.” Jaden doesn’t look at her as he shrugs out of his jacket, looking small and vulnerable without any of his usual energy. It’s different than the previous times he’d go quiet and still during movie nights; that had been relaxation, this...this looks more like defeat.

“I appreciate a heads up, but I did say my window’s always open,” Alexis says. “What’s up?”

Jaden doesn’t respond as he flops face first onto the bed. A silence passes though not entirely uncomfortable. “Christina and Jesse are working on that career choice paper,” Jaden eventually mumbles.

Oh. Alexis glances at her own paper. “Have you done yours?”

“No. I don’t even know where I wanna be tomorrow let alone next year.”

Honestly valid. They’ve all been through some shit this year. Alexis can’t blame Jaden for having trouble moving forward when she’s no better. “Have you taken the career aptitude test?”

Jaden hesitates. “I think I missed that day.”

“You can ask Dr. Crowler for a copy-”

“Can we just watch a movie or something?” Jaden asks abruptly, voice taking a desperate edge, and Alexis abandons her desk to join him on the bed. Here she is helping someone again; maybe that aptitude test has the right idea.

The four of them dragged the TV over from the living space to the wall opposite the headboard at the beginning of the year and Alexis never bothered to put it back. Jaden rolls over onto his side enough to peer at the screen, hugging a pillow to his chest and not touching Alexis, which is weird for his usual brand of physical affection. She offers her hand where it rests between them and Jaden cautiously slides their fingertips together.

They end up throwing on some lighthearted and silly cartoon, the kind that you’re not supposed to take seriously or apply logic to. Jaden watches with the same disinterest that’s persisted since his return from the other dimension. Their fingers remain loosely linked. There’s a heartwarming message about determination and friendship persevering at the end; Jaden’s fingers twitch and Alexis glances over in time to see him grimacing. She can’t even blame him.

“I always saw myself dueling for the rest of my life,” Jaden says as the end credits roll. “But now...”

Alexis waits for him to finish his thought. It’s still weird to see him look so dejected and forlorn, when none of his quiet spells had ever been like this before. Except-

-“You think he’s changed?! The change he did make was for you! It wasn’t real! This- this is real!”-

Except maybe it was there all along and Alexis never bothered to look past the surface. Once it becomes obvious Jaden has no intention to continue, Alexis speaks up. “You’re good at it. You could easily make it as a pro.”

Jaden huffs. “Just cuz you’re good at it doesn’t mean you should.”

Oh.

Alexis’ mind swings back to the aptitude test and career choice paper still sitting on her desk as that simple statement sinks in. She doesn’t want to be a teacher or social worker even if some test says she should be; she’d just been trying to follow the expectations set out for her. The answer seems so silly and obvious now.

“Thank you.”

“Huh?” Jaden jerks, looking alarmed.

“Oh. No. You just helped me realize something.” Alexis smiles, quickly trying to smooth over the blunder as she squeezes Jaden’s hand. “But, anyway, you’re here because you needed help, right?”

Her words have the opposite effect than intended as the terror in Jaden’s expression only grows. He glances frantically back at the balcony window and pulls his hand free. “I should go.”

“Jaden-”

“Thanks for having me,” Jaden barrels over her protest as he rolls off the bed, sounding entirely perfunctory and a means of escape.

“Come back again soon?” It sounds like a plea even to Alexis’ ears and she curses herself for it. Jaden flees off the balcony without responding.

In the sudden silence of her bedroom, Alexis stares at the glass door. She’d been so close to something, then went and put her foot in her mouth. Somehow. What is Jaden so afraid of? Groaning, Alexis slumps back on her mattress. This friendship needs an instruction manual.

#gxmonth2021 #ygo gx #yugioh gx #yu gi oh gx #jaden yuki #yuki judai #alexis rhodes #asuka tenjoin

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pbandjesse · 6 months ago

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I am so ridiculously tired. This was an incredibly long day after an even longer training. It was a lot! But it wasn't a terrible day. And a lot of stuff was accomplished. But it was an incredibly difficult and hard on my body day.

But we made it happen. I slept okay. I need better pillows so I was just struggling to stay asleep. I would go outside at like 1am just to feel how dark it was outside. Truly incredible.

I would wake up about though so even though I was pretty comfortable, sleep was just not happening for any long stretches.

I would wait until 730 to get out of bed but I would actually be fully awake and watching TikToks on silent for an hour.

Callie was still asleep. I would get up and get dressed before she woke up. I would do my makeup and pluck my face for a bit while we talked. I keep joking about getting honor cabin so I made a big fuss about making my bed. And it was just nice chatting.

But I needed to get some stuff done before breakfast. So I would leave and run up to the the office. First one in. To grab the gator keys. I would get some water and the keys and I was off. I was a really just getting stuff from the office first so I did that. But I had to climb over a bunch of boxes and Elizabeth came up on me standing in the picnic table and laughing at me asking if I was alright. But I was. Just trying to finish using the gator before anyone else needed it.

I would speed all around camp. Picking and moving materials. It seriously would have taken me an hour or more but it took me about 15 minutes to finish basically. And I was more aware of the list of what we needed to do to finish setting everything up.

But it was overwhelming. And I felt like I would burst into tears if we didn't have a plan. I would communicate that with Elizabeth when I went over to the lodge to get breakfast. And I would sit outside and eat my to salty eggs and work on a list.

I made the list into a checklist for each program area that we needed to accomplish things in. I becoming more and more upset by the moment. And then Alexi came over after they saw the email and she was like what can we do what are we selling to do and I showed her the list and I was like I need like five competent people. I cannot do this by myself in the amount of time that we have and I can't be here on Saturday or Sunday so like there's no more time. And she was like well I don't want you to miss this with Michael Brandywine. Not even just because we paid a lot of money for him. And I'm like I don't want to miss it either but like I can't figure out how to make this work and she was just like well we'll figure it out because we have two and a half hours after him before the end of the day and we can get all the fresh new people together. And I was seriously on the verge of bursting into tears of someone said to me again that we would make it work but then provided no solution that need any sense. Or just blew me off completely. Thankfully Alexi would have a plan that in the end would work but I was struggling in the moment.

I spent a couple extra minutes going over the list to put instructions or directions of where things were so that I could not have to explain everything to every single person. And I could let other people handle it. Well I finished mine you to do. And I didn't even really finish on the end but that was in the afternoon.

For the morning we had a speaker. He kind of left a bad taste in the mouth at first only because I was trying to sit at a table in the back cuz I need to lean on something and he was like I'm going to have to project so much more if you're all the way back there and I'm like what oh. I'll be able to hear you just fine. He was like no we need to move the table and I was like that is way too much and also it's going to block the path so instead I moved all the way to the front to the side then so that I could sit at the table up there. And it felt like a good compromise but just kind of being told what to do made me a little puffed up. A little not thrilled.

But in the end he was an excellent speaker and it makes sense why he charges so much because he writes books and does big conferences and he has all these great stories and techniques that felt way more realistic in a lot of other trainings I've been in. And while all of it was basically stuff I knew there were some really good like techniques of regulating yourself as an educator and that was just really nice.

During all this I was knitting and we were supposed to be completely off our phones but of course everyone peaks every once in awhile and I look down and just tells me that not only were she in the ER she had been admitted to the hospital. And she was going to be staying there at least overnight. Insane. She's just in so much pain after her procedure last week and it's just not normal. We were joking though because she got to the ER and immediately threw up in their lobby and so they took her back right away. And I was like that's a pretty great life hack got to remember that.

We had a couple small breaks and we would have fun during the lectures while because it wasn't just the lecture there was a lot of call and response and a couple games and got to work with Neco who was very lovely. They would be a very fun partner and I felt like I was trying to be a very good role model because there's so much younger than me. And I think they did a good job but we're both very clearly very tired. Me more in a manic sense them more in a sleepy sense.

Lunch was pretty good. I would talk to Hannah and JB, the chef, about the layout of the food and how the CIT is used to help serve and help her new staff is going to help serve and just kind of a little bit of troubleshooting and problem solving between the three of us. And also was protecting a puddle on the ground will Tony went to figure out where mops lived. And I ate outside with some of the boys and Nico and Jamie and I talked to the boys about travel and how green cards work there since visas because one of the boys has a green card and the others didn't understand really what that was. And we talked about life and camp and it was really just a nice time. And the lunch was good.

I decided though after a few minutes that I needed to go work on other stuff. And I felt like I had the perfect opportunity when Chloe texted me that she needed help with lesson plan stuff over at the office and I was like yes absolutely so I rushed over there.

And she would come pretty soon after me and we would work together for about an hour or so. I was cutting out stuff for her programs and laminating them and going through how chat GBT works and could help us write descriptions of small programs. And in hand it that worked really great just to give us a baseline. And it was just busy busy busy.

At one point Chloe had to leave to help the rest of her staff with some other projects so I was working on printing and laminating her work. Josephine and Louisa would come and help and while I was cutting things out Louisa would put them in the lamination pocket and then just pay my laminate it and it was a very good system and I was having a nice time chatting with them about their TV shows that they like.

Eventually Alexa came over and was like I got to steal the girls away and I was like all right so then I was able to spend the last couple minutes of that hour finishing the last packets and then Chloe was back and soon everyone else was out of the lecture and it was time for a village meetings and then specialty softwood all come to the office to get assignments from me.

I had printed them out earlier in the day after lunch. And Sarah Marie was the first one to come over and she is the newest so she needed the most help explaining where locations were but it was good practice for her too. And so I gave her some instruction and then I checked in with Chloe and then I would run out with Sarah Marie to get the gator so that we could get a lot of things up but she would also use her car for other things. And I'm just really pleased with how hard she worked. And allowed me to then be working on stuff in the office.

Everyone else was great too. Once the rest of them all came down everyone got a card that I printed and some explanation and then they were off and I just was so proud of them because they barely needed my help in the end.

Homestead would not completely finish all of their tasks but that was mainly because their drill died so they were able to have finish everything that's the whole finish any one thing.

Lindsay will take care of the nature stuff because she had all the keys that she needed to get into the other program spaces where the materials were.

Joe was able to get us a mini fridge for stockade basement so that Sarah Marie could keep food materials somewhere safe. And I went up with Jamie and Geoff to the Adirondacks where they were organizing things and I organized a few things with them and gave just a few small instructions. But they're both very smart and were able to really just knock it out where things should go and that made the most sense.

I would run back to the office to laminate a few signs and get my stapler and then I stole the Gator away because after I printed this things I stumbled on the stairs and I was like my feet need a break. They were in so much pain. My knees were still jelly and uncomfortable. And then I tripped on the stairs because of it so I was like I need to just drive up there so I took the gator but then Ray yelled at me because he wanted it next. And so I was like get in and we'll do my one thing and then you can have it. And that ended up working perfectly.

Me and Ray would stop at arts and crafts to grab a box and then we would tease Shay as she walked by. And then we were up at the Adirondacks and I was hanging stuff and walking down to the campsite to make sure that the tents were over there and then Ray left and eventually would come back when he needed something for me and I would give him more things to hang up so that I didn't have to go to that half a camp. And then Sarah Marie gave me a biscuit that she just made and it was very good. And I was running around like a crazy person but we were getting so much done and it was awesome.

But I was beat. I had people running around everywhere and I was half working in the office and half outside and delivering things and moving things around and making sure programs spaces were okay. And we didn't finish the whole list but we got almost everything done. And instead of it was just me doing a hundred tasks it was 20 people doing about three or four each and it was just amazing. Everyone really stepped up.

And I didn't even cry once.

Me and Geoff were finishing the last task for horse camp just as we were all called to go back to the lodge. When we got there alexie would take questions and pretty much all the more about where am I supposed to sleep. And I'm not sure why Alexis still does not have that answer but I think it's because Kieran and Charlotte mostly made those decisions. I think we just need a better system next time because it should not be this late in the game that we are learning where people are going to be living.

But it was basically time to go then. I went to the office with Grady because we had some questions about how ropes decides who does which program space. And we had to wait in the office while Heather talked to Alexi about $450 worth of soap dispensers that she was looking at on Amazon. And once we were able to talk through what that looked like. Basically they just decide dayo or they can assign as needed. So Grady would leave and we told him he would need to be back at 8:00 a.m. on Monday. Which is basically when I'm going to get back there too.

Heather would ask me to print out all of ropes schedule before I left which was no big deal at all. Me and Jamie had fixed a few pages where Elizabeth noticed a small mistake where I made the kids be at the stream for 2 hours in a row. And so we just would have to spend a few minutes fixing that and that was fine. I appreciate it Jamie's help so much. She's great.

I would let Heather know that it was time for me to go home. And I said goodbye to all the children on the porch. I feel like all the people that I was picking up from Hunt Valley so it was just nice that they all gather together all the time. So I could see them all at once.

I stopped at Peep's Mill and grabbed my duffle bag and then I went home.

Here at 6:00 and James had gotten us a half-baked pizza from Matthews and I was just so excited about it. But I was also filthy. And I wanted James to see my very campy out of it and the light dusting of dirt that was on my entire body. James said that I had a patina to me. We were just giggling and laughing and just happy to be with each other again. I missed them so much.

I will go and take a very long shower and wash my hair and body very thoroughly. And I didn't mean to be in the shower for as long as I was but it honestly ended up being perfect time with because once I got out and was dried off and headed downstairs our pizza was ready and cool enough to eat. So we would sit at the kitchen island and talk and eat and laugh It was just a lot of fun.

Google go outside and I was enjoying swimming and listening to music. My phone was dying. But I was still texting Jess He's staying in the hospital tonight and we were just talking through that and I was trying to cheer her up so I was being a little silly. But I just worry about her so much. This is terrible for her birthday on Monday.

James would come outside and join me and swing on the porch showing and I asked James to paint my toenails. So if they painted my toes and my fingers cuz they love me and I get princess treatment. And James says that I deserve it and they're the best and they take care of him. And we've just been really having a fun night together. I ate a popsicle while James pain in my toes and we listen to music and while the bugs were eating us alive I was still so happy out there with them.

We will come inside though and have a snack and watch part of a documentary. But most people just enjoying being with each other. And once we were too hot downstairs when you moved up here to our bedroom where we have air conditioning going. I'm just so so tired.

We probably won't keep watching the documentary and then fall asleep. I'm running the farmers market tomorrow even though I'm sad Ann will not be there. I'm hoping for a very good day. And then resting for the rest of it.

Sleep really really well. And waking up tomorrow feeling great. Good night everybody

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sarahlevys · 4 years ago

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SO YOU WANT TO GET INTO TWYLEXIS

(a fic rec post - last updated 10/31/2021)

11/25/20: I have been talking to a lot of people about The Good Ship Twylexis, and when @earnmysong asked me for some fic recs, I could not resist! Below are some of my favorites, organized by length. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list, and is simply composed of some of the ones I’ve read. I hope you check them out!

10/31/21: Nearly a year later, the fandom has grown by leaps and bounds! I've been able to add many excellent Twylexis fics to the below list. I tried to keep these recs focused on fics in which they are either the only ship or a substantial part of the narrative, so while there are many fics nowadays that have Twylexis as a side pairing, those will not be listed below. Now that we can be more choosy, I've also removed fics that featured Twylexis as part of a throuple or moreple (so that I can hopefully do a fic rec list for that specifically in the future!)

So I see Alexis is getting back out there. (Short Reads)

in the middle of the deep blue night – T – 577 – by @hullomoon

Alexis is all alone at the party, that is, until Twyla joins her.

in the hack – G – 2K – by thingswithwings

After Ted, and before the Next Thing, Alexis joins a curling team. She's great at it, because, what, like it's hard?

Icarus had the right idea – T – 4K – by Luthor

In which Alexis convinces Twyla to take her to the beach, and has an okay-time I guess.

never saw you coming, never be the same – G – Podfics! 15 minutes in total – by DelilahMcMuffin, GoLBPodfics, & Amanita_Fierce

Three different perspectives from Twyla Sands and Alexis Rose's first Pride spent together as a couple.

to be your harbor – E – 4K – by @doublel27

Twyla uses some of her money on things that are special to her. Alexis is special to Twyla. Luckily, Twyla is precious to Alexis.

and it's just around the corner darling, 'cause it in lives in me (no, I could never give you peace) – T – 3K – by beepbedeep

She’s what people call the worst, most pointless kind of celebrity, a socialite, and she does it better than anyone else. It’s good, she knows it’s good, she’s serving her purpose, playing her part perfectly, and if she doesn’t really know how to be alone with herself, how to handle the actual weight of her life when the gossip blogs get bored and the photographers stop showing up for a while, that’s fine.

i knew from the beginning (it was you from the beginning) – T – 1K – by @anniemurphys

Twyla and Alexis celebrate, at a distance.

i took an arrow to the heart – G – 3K – by @sarahlevys and @landofsonlali

Twyla calls Alexis in celebration of the fourth anniversary of their friendship, and the conversation shifts to their feelings for each other. Together, they start to explore the intricacies of love and relationships.

aflame – T – 4K – by @pretendtofly

Alexis has a few days left in Schitt's Creek after the wedding and Twyla wants to spend them all together.

could be your baby, ride the same whip (oh no, no, there's no slowin' down) – T – 3K – by @turningtimeinthetardis

Alexis doubts anything too surprising will happen when she and Twyla decide to go on a little shopping spree (such as they can afford, that is) at one of Elmdale’s boutiques. Maybe they’ll encounter some truly hideous blends of patterns, but nothing stranger than that.

After all, if there’s one thing Schitt’s Creek and the surrounding suburbs can offer, it’s quiet predictability.

I weigh a hundredandfuckingsomething pounds (that makes me almost good) – G – 2K – by beepbedeep

Her legs don’t look good, but half of the girls she knows have legs that look even worse, smiles that are even more shark-toothed or arms that are even less toned, and she reminds herself that these are just the rules', that she knows the rules and knows where she’s failing, but other people are failing more.

shining, shimmering, splendid – G – 1K – by @davidbrewer

Twyla finally starts spending some of her lottery winnings on things that make her smile, and learns how much she loves to travel. Who better to show her around the world than Alexis?

ask 'em my questions and get some answers – G – 1K – by @lilythesilly

Alexis and Twyla meet at Disneyland.

a handprint on my heart – T – 4K – by averita

Five times Alexis and Twyla visit each other.

Merry Go Round – T – 2K – by Perkalil

In her first days in town, Alexis is in a rough place; she finds kindness and compassion in the local cafe waitress.

feel you on my skin – E – 1K – by @hullomoon

Alexis notices what Twyla's wearing. She has a lot of feelings about it.

you make everything good – G – by @rosedavid

Twyla has to go and visit her gaggle of cousins for two weeks, and Alexis is pouty about her girlfriend leaving for so long.

didn't ask for this – you freely gave it (so now i watch your mouth for the both of us) – T – 6K – by @turningtimeinthetardis

Alexis chops her name down to three letters like it's nothing.

Twyla thinks about it a lot.

putting roots in my dreamland – G – 4K – by @lilythesilly

A twylexis flowershop au.

(but if baby, i'm the bottom) you're the top – E – 3K – by @sarahlevys

Five times Twyla tops Alexis, and one time she lets Alexis top her.

three o'clock – E – 2K – by @schittyfic

Two tipsy girlfriends thirst over the hot, bearded guy across the bar.

shivers – E – 5K – by @anniemurphys

Alexis has a long day in an airport, and Twyla wants to take care of her.

This Stupid, Wonderful, Boring, Amazing Job – G – 1K – by @lilythesilly

A cute lil 'The Office' AU.

in calm or stormy weather – T – 4K – by @anniemurphys and @landofsonlali

On National Siblings Day, Alexis spends the day with her favorite brother Patrick, and David bonds with Twyla.

all i need is to see your face – G – 1K – by @wild-aloof-rebel

Alexis has doubts. Twyla knows how to soothe them.

got a fistful of four leaf clovers – T – 1K – by iphigenias

Two weeks before Christmas Alexis calls David.

“So I think I like someone,” she says.

all i want is you – T – 1K – by @landofsonlali

alexis is too restless to cuddle and worries about being a good partner to twyla who loves cuddling. twyla reassures her.

Fifty Shades of Gruyere – E – 2K – by @schittposting

Alexis and Twyla eat cheese and fuck.

I dreamt about you last night – G – 930 – by sonichallows

Alexis has a romantic dream about Twyla and tells her about it the next day.

Mistletoe – T – 2K – by in48frames

Alexis and Twyla go ice skating.

Twy, what are you doing here? You could be anywhere, doing anything. (Medium Reads)

Twyla's Cafe Podcast, An Alexis Rose Production, Produced by Alexis Rose (with help from Twyla) – T – 6K – by @whetherwoman

Twyla and Alexis start a podcast, and accidentally have some feelings along the way.

Crystal Clear – G – 6K – by @imalittlebitgogirl

Twyla and Alexis meet at a Winter Solstice celebration and bond over being newcomers...with more connections than they first realize.

take me out (and take me home) – M – 7K – by @anniemurphys and @landofsonlali

When Twyla’s Thanksgiving plans fall through at the last minute, Alexis flies back to Schitt’s Creek.

know that i’m yours (to keep) – T – 8K – by @anniemurphys

Five times Alexis and Twyla talk at Café Tropical.

And one time they talk somewhere else.

I Offer You My Heart – G – 10K – by @landofsonlali, with art and podfic by @sunlightsymphony

Twyla is the owner of a coffee shop in Schitt's Creek and Alexis is a frequent customer, featuring pining, flirtation, and a whole lot of beverages and baked goods.

Oh Please, Not Now – T – by in48frames

“Oh,” Twyla says. “Yeah. Schitt’s Creek is super haunted."

Ladies Night Inn – T – 15K – by @imalittlebitgogirl

What if Twyla had accepted Alexis' invitation to a ladies night in her motel room after she and Mutt broke up?

i'm your moonlight, you're my star – M – 14K – by @sarahlevys and @anniemurphys

Twyla and Alexis spend the holidays together.

and the stars look very different today – T – 12K – by @hullomoon, with art from @hagface

Teaming up with a group of talented women, Alexis plans her next job

Hide Your Diamonds, Hide Your Exes – T – 8K – by @middyblue

Alexis may or may not be a diamond thief. Twyla is the FBI agent tasked with finding her.

heaven is a place not too far away – T – 8K – by @sarahlevys

Alexis' soulmate mark – the ability to sing – triggers when she moves to Schitt's Creek.

Pretty Follies – T – 9K – by @treepyful

Alexis and Twyla team up to play matchmaker for Stevie and Ruth.

Unfortunately, the course of true love never did run smooth.

Everything That We'd Ever Need – E – 12K – by @middyblue

5 times Twyla went skinny-dipping and 1 time she wore a dress.

Rollin' With the Homies – T – 9K – by @sarahlevys

The Clueless AU.

Phasers Set to Stunning – T – 9K so far (WIP – 2/4 chapters published) – by @kindofspecificstore

Patrick wins passes to San Diego Comic Con, and takes his best friend Twyla with him. Alexis Rose, rising star of Galactic Sunrise Bay, is attending for the first time and has her eyes on a super cute cosplayer.

I was thinking we could have a little ladies' night at my place. (Long Reads)

you and i and nobody else - E – 124K so far (WIP – 7/10 chapters published) – by @sarahlevys and @anniemurphys

Twyla Sands and Alexis Rose meet on Mutt’s season of The Bachelor.

Maybe If You Stayed – E – 14K – by @fraudulentzodiac

“Years down the line, this is the moment she will look back on as the moment she should have known she was in love.“

your body’s poetry (speak to me) – E – 19K – by @anniemurphys

Ballet AU.

I’ve Only Ever Wanted Fire – M – 26K – by @sarahlevys, with art from @rhetoricalk

Written for the prompt: Twyla is a real estate agent specializing in properties that are haunted or possessed. Alexis is looking for a new apartment.

Silence Lay Steadily – E – 44K – by @davidbrewer

A ghost story loosely inspired by The Haunting of Hill House.

like glass from sandy ground – M – 18K – by @middyblue

Five times Alexis ran from grief, and one time she didn't.

Taste of a Poison Paradise – M – 15K – by @lilythesilly

Be gay do crimes but make it a Harley Quinn AU.

Half of My Soul, as the Poets Say – E – 20K – by mixtapesandsunsets

Yes, she imagines telling the Alexis of two years ago, who had felt so untethered sitting next to Twyla outside these very rooms. You believe in fate. Your fate is right in front of you, Lex, you just need to reach out to meet it. It’s her. It has always been her.

#twylexis #alexis x twyla #twyla x alexis #twyla sands #alexis rose #schitt's creek #schitt's creek fic #fic recs

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spine-buster · 4 years ago

Text

The President Wears Prada (William Nylander) | Chapter 16

A/N: Y’all this chapter is TEN THOUSAND WORDS DON’T EVEN @ ME YOU’RE WELCOME AND *STANLEY TUCCI VOICE* GIRD YOUR LOINS

January 9th, 2020

Aberdeen Bloom was going to go insane.

This was, perhaps, going to be the busiest day of her life thus far. This morning was the outdoor practice in Nathan Phillips Square. She and Peter were responsible for co-ordinating the photographers, videographers, and the team to get down to Nathan Phillips Square. Once there, Aberdeen was responsible for helping to manage every single every single member of the media who were attending and covering the event, as well as Mayor John Tory and all the wives and girlfriends in attendance. And though she had the afternoon off to get ready, tonight was the Night With the Blue and White, the organization’s biggest and most important event of the season. She’d been studying the guest list for weeks, making sure Brendan would know – or at least pretend to know, thanks to her – every guest in attendance, and Peter was doing the same thing for Kyle. She’d even bought a new dress and shoes for the occasion – fancier than anything she’d ever bought. She knew that a lot of important and influential people would be there donating their money to the MLSE Launchpad initiatives around the city. They were even hosting a grade three class of one of the schools who benefitted from the programs. It was going to be busy, but hopefully fun.

There were cameras everywhere. Aberdeen knew she’d probably get caught on a few of them, news ones or otherwise, but today, she didn’t care. There were more important things on her mind. Brendan was expecting a lot from her, and she knew she had to deliver. She knew she could deliver.

When she had everything she needed from the office, she made her way down to the locker room. She entered quietly as she saw all the guys in their long johns and extra base layers, listening to Keefe and Hakstol as they explained how the outdoor practice was going to be organized into teams and tournaments and points. The energy from the guys was palpable and she could feel it within herself, too. Cameras were already filming. She saw William, already with his balaclava on, flash a peace sign to the camera pointed at him.

When the guys began to put on their gear, she watched Brendan make his way across the room. He was already wearing his peacoat and scarf. “You ready?” he asked.

“As ready as I can be,” she smiled.

“Here, wear this,” he said, handing her a knit Leafs toque, the same one all the guys were wearing as well. “You’re gonna need it. It’s freezing out there.”

Aberdeen put the hat on as Brendan held her clipboard for her. After adjusting it, she looked up at him. “How do I look?”

If this was William asking the question to her, she would have come up with some smart aleck remark – a Costco hot dog or a bottle of Tums in assorted berries flavour. But because it was Brendan, he said something much nicer. “Like you’re a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs,” he smiled. It almost made her swoon. “Now let’s get this party started, shall we?”

***

“Devon! Devon! Your slot is up to interview John as he’s walking. You cameraman is ready to go live in ten.”

“Carrie, stick with Travis for now. Goat? Where’s Goat? We need him for the French interview.”

“Gerry, you can interview Kyle now, but you only have two minutes.”

Aberdeen was practically skipping to keep up with all the players and media walking through the Toronto streets as they made their way to a full Nathan Phillips Square. She didn’t have long strides like these hockey boys did with her short little legs. She noticed all the interviewers being where they needed to be to go live and let out a sigh of relief. Walking through the streets of Toronto, going on the subway, and having fans, constructions workers, commuters, and more stop the guys left, right and centre for autographs and pictures and selfies was one thing, but once they got to the actual square, with all the media, it was going to be mayhem.

And she needed to make sure they had Tim Horton’s cups around.

All the guys filed into the square, high fiving the waiting fans who were now screaming at their arrival before they went to the bench and started to put on their skates. Once they were all there and accounted for (Aberdeen honestly felt like she was on a school trip; she didn’t know how her mother did this with six year olds when she could barely corral a bunch of grown men), she made her way towards where the media was waiting. Peter was already there.

“Okay everyone!” he screamed out. Nobody heard him. “Everyone!” he screamed out again, louder this time, but still nobody heard him. “Journalists!” he tried one more time.

“HEY!!!!!” Aberdeen screamed at the top of her lungs. Every journalist and cameraperson there turned silent and looked her way. Peter looked at her in shock, not knowing she was capable of such a volume. “Alright! Listen up! You each have a designated station to place your cameras. You are to stay in your station throughout the practice and not encroach on the space of the others! Journalists and videographers, you’re following Peter who will lead you to your stations, where you are to remain until practice is finished, where you will then go into the media scrum! Photographers, you are going to follow me and I will lead you to your stations. Is everybody clear?!”

Everyone nodded their heads and divided themselves easily, with Aberdeen leading the photographers one way and Peter leading the journalists and videographers another. When she got back to her original spot, that’s when she saw John Tory. “Mr. Mayor! Hello! I’m Aberdeen Bloom, Brendan Shanahan’s executive assistant,” she smiled and shook his hand. She noticed he was wearing a Leafs varsity jacket. “Follow me, sir. You get the sweet spot behind the bench.”

“You know, I look forward to this event every year,” he made small talk with her as they began walking. “Did you say you were Brendan’s personal assistant?”

“Yes sir. Although after getting the team on the subway and over here, I feel like I’m herding cats,” she joked.

John Tory laughed. He’d laughed at a dumb joke she made. Her dad would be so proud of her. He’d probably brag at the next dinner party he and Orla had. “You’re very lucky, Aberdeen. I bet a million people would kill for your job.”

“I agree, sir.” Aberdeen tapped Brendan’s shoulder to get him to turn around. “Mr. Mayor, Mr. Shanahan, I’m sure you’re well acquainted.”

The two men shook hands. Brendan focused his attention quickly on Aberdeen. “Would you mind meeting Jennifer Spezza and waiting for the others?”

Aberdeen nodded, leaving the mayor with him as she went back to the entrance, near the stairs to the subway. Once there, she saw Jennifer waiting patiently. Jennifer smiled once she saw Aberdeen, and extended her arms to hug her. “It’s always nice to see you, Aberdeen,” she smiled.

“You too, Jen.”

“A bunch of the girls are coming together – Emma, Kat, Steph, Audrey, Saylor, and Alexis are coming together and should be here any second. Aryne, Bee, and Alannah are running a bit late because of Jace, but only by like five minutes,” Jennifer informed her.

“Okay, great. We’ll wait till everyone gets here and then I’ll bring everyone over,” Aberdeen nodded her head.

“How’s the day been so far?”

Aberdeen shrugged. “Hectic, but fine.”

“Have you breathed?” Jen joked.

Aberdeen giggled. “Barely.”

Only moments later, Kat was running up the stairs with Niylah on a harness and leash, and Emma carried Ralph in her arms. Aberdeen pet the dogs until Aryne, Bee, and Alannah showed up. Aberdeen led them all to their designated area, and stayed with them as the practice happened. She liked them – they were a nice group of women, and although Aberdeen was never inserted into any supposed drama she may have heard rumblings about, she was sure they were all good people. Once they were all there, Aberdeen knew her jobs for the day were done, and that she could breathe again. Unless Brendan called her to do anything else, she was free.

“Aberdeen, are we going to see you tonight?” Bee asked as the girls sipped on the complimentary hot chocolate provided for them.

“You bet,” she smiled.

“Oooooooh!” Jen smiled from beside Bee, hopping excitedly. “What are you wearing?!”

“Oh, you’ll see,” Aberdeen winked.

“What colour is it?” Bee asked.

“Green.”

“Oooooooooooooh,” both women cooed as they made eyes with each other and then Aberdeen. “You’re gonna knock all of us dead, Aberdeen. You always look so stylish around the SBA.”

“I don’t think so,” she shook her head nervously. “You guys are all way too glam for me.”

“Can I get a hot dog pleeeeease?” William’s loud, playful voice interrupted as he skated towards the entrance of the bench where all the girls were. He shot the girls one of his signature smiles before one of the equipment guys laughed and shook his head as he called behind him for another hot dog. He was handed one promptly, handing it to William who proceeded to stuff half of it into his mouth in one go.

Aberdeen shook her head. Now he was just being obnoxious.

***

“William’s jaw is going to hit the floor, Aberdeen,” Kasha mused as she took some last minute pictures of Aberdeen in her full look. She’d been hyping Aberdeen up for the last ten minutes as she snapped pictures of her in their apartment – pictures that would no doubt be on Instagram later that evening, pending some light editing and filter choice – even though she should have left for Evan’s place five minutes ago, choosing to spend the night with him so she didn’t have to spend it alone.

“Shut up.”

“The floooooooor!”

Okay, maybe Kasha was right. Aberdeen looked good, and she knew she looked good. She had on her new green chiffon dress, perfect for the occasion: ruched top, draped across her shoulders; triangle mesh cut-out on the bodice; pleated chiffon skirt dropping down to the floor. Nude strappy hells. Matching nude clutch. The evil eye ring Willy got her was the only piece of jewelry she wore. She gotten her hair professionally done at a salon: smooth and silky old Hollywood style waves with a centre part, held back by a fashionable and trendy velvet headband pinned in place so absolutely nothing would budge. Even her makeup was flawless: dewy skin, a neutral eye with lashes and liner, and Charlotte Tilbury’s ‘Walk of Shame’ on her lips. She was a vision. She was owning every inch of her look.

Too bad she had to work tonight.

“Okay, I think my Uber is here,” Aberdeen said as she saw the notification on her phone screen.

“One more! One more!” Kasha yelled before Aberdeen posed one last time and Kasha took a burst of photos. “Okay, have a great night. Knock Willy dead—”

“—This isn’t about Will—”

“—Knock Willy dead, be fun, and stay safe,” Kasha ended. “You’re going to rock it, Aberdeen. And don’t forget to network!”

The Uber dropped her off about six cars down from the entrance to the Royal York Hotel – it was already busy with a bunch of arrivals, but she knew Brendan wouldn’t be there for at least another ten or fifteen minutes. Once she checked her coat in, she looked around, and Peter’s face was the first one she saw.

“Oh…oh my God, Aberdeen. You look so chic,” Peter smiled, looking over her outfit.

“Oh, thanks Peter,” she smiled back. “You look quite dapper yourself. We clean up pretty nice, don’t you think?”

“I’d say,” he quipped. “Gotta make sure all these new suits fit before I go to the All-Star Game.”

Peter had been talking about the All-Star Game since at least Christmas. It was the event he looked forward to the most all season, even more than this, because of all the people he was able to meet and network with. This year, it was being hosted in St. Louis, and he, Brendan, and Kyle were going down together. She’d have at least eight days off during that time period. She was basically counting down the days. “Well, wear this one. You look good.”

“You want some champagne before our bosses get here?” he asked, already flagging down one of the waitresses. He took two flutes off the tray and handed one to Aberdeen. “To the dream job,” he said, raising the glass slightly.

Aberdeen smirked. “To the dream job.”

They both drank the champagne all in one go. Aberdeen loved champagne, and of course this was the good champagne – so she almost immediately wanted another. When another waiter came by, they placed their empty glasses on his tray. Peter left to go to the washroom quickly before Kyle got there. Aberdeen was left alone.

That’s when she saw William.

He was in a suit, of course – a black, three-piece corduroy suit with a white shirt and black skinny tie – and his hair was tied back in a half ponytail like a European soccer player. He’d trimmed his beard since that morning at the outdoor practice for a much more polished look – still stubbly and a bit scruffy (just how she liked him…fuck) but presentable and respectable. Appropriate for a gala full of rich people. He looked great. The suit fit him perfectly. His hair was shiny as hell – probably shinier than hers. He stood confidently.

And then he saw her.

His jaw dropped. Literally dropped. And when he finally realized it had dropped he brought his hand up to cover it, barely, his smile from ear to ear peeking through the weak attempt. She hated to admit it, but she loved having that effect on him – she loved having that visible effect on him, one that made his jaw drop uncontrollably. She mentally prepared herself as he began to walk over to her. She knew she had to keep it cool. If he made her weak at the knees barely five minutes into her attendance at the event, she’d be a goner.

“Hey Will,” she smiled, a twinkle in her eye that dared him to give her another up-down.

“Aberdeen…I…” he paused, unable to find the words. He even shook his head. “You…I…wow!” he giggled out. She really left him unable to form a cohesive sentence. But she waited it out, not saying anything until he said something. She wanted to make him suffer, if only a little bit. “You look beautiful, minskatt,” he finally said, four cohesive words in a row that made sense.

“Thanks, Will.”

“I mean…you’re the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen on any day, but this…” he said, licking his lips. “I don’t know how I’ll be able to control myself all night.”

Aberdeen tried finding any hint of lie in what he was saying, but she couldn’t. He was too bashful and it was all coming out so sincerely – he really didn’t have the words. “I think it helps we’re seated at different tables.”

“Just means the desire will grow until the end of the night,” he said. “So long as I get to look at you all night, I’ll consider myself a lucky guy.”

She was blushing at this point, and it wasn’t because of him blatant flirting – he was used to that. She was blushing more about the fact that he meant every word, that every word was so sincere in his tone, that she could see how much she was really affecting him. “You flatter me too much, Will.”

“You deserve it, minskatt. You’re stunning. The most beautiful girl in the room. But how do I look?”

With nobody around, nobody to hear and nobody to record a witty remark, she smiled slightly. “You’re the most handsome man in the room.”

Before she could say anything else, Peter came back. And when Peter came back, William played it cool, and made some small talk before walking off, but as he walked off, he shot Aberdeen a look that followed her around the room. Wherever he was standing, whoever he was talking to – William was always staring at her, giving her that look, and it sent shivers down her spine as she tried to keep up a conversation with Peter.

Brendan and Catherine finally arrived, along with Kyle and Shannon, and Peter and Aberdeen got to work. Standing discreetly behind them at all times, they whispered the names of all the attendees who approached them throughout the party, starting in the foyer and moving into the Canadian room – the massive ballroom where everything would be taking place. And there were a lot of guests. With over 1000 people in attendance, Aberdeen and Peter needed to know…well, probably around three hundred of them. She’d been studying for weeks.

“That’s Brian J. Porter, the President and CEO of Scotiabank.”

“Wendy Freeman, the president of CTV News.”

“That’s Gary Doncaster, of the law firm Doncaster, Perlman, and Dobbes.”

Brendan played it cool the entire time. After Kyle and Peter had separated from them for a bit, they rejoined each other. From practically across the room, she saw William sipping on a glass of water, watching her intently. He set it down at what she presumed to be his table. She tried to focus on the job at hand.

“Peter?” she heard Kyle say suddenly, in a nervous voice. Someone and his wife were waving at him and Brendan, slowly making their way towards them, and Kyle clearly needed to know who they were.

“Oh! Um…oh my God,” Peter began, panicking. “I just – I can’t remember what his name is. I—I just saw his name this morning on the list.”

Aberdeen began panicking too now. She tried to urge Peter to figure it out, but he couldn’t get it. “It’s…oh, I know this! It’s something to do with…wait, he was…he was part of the…oh God! I know this. Um…”

The man and his wife were dangerously close. Aberdeen swooped in behind Kyle. “That’s Malcolm Mercer, the Chair of the Government and Public Affairs Committee of the Law Society of Ontario, and that’s the woman he left his wife for, Rebecca.”

Aberdeen even surprised herself with that. She watched as Kyle politely greeted Rebecca first before shaking hands with Malcolm, starting some small talk with them. She looked over at Peter, who was already looking at her. “Thank you,” he said sincerely.

“I got you,” she nodded.

***

Brendan, Catherine, and Aberdeen were seated with Ron MacLean from Hockey Night in Canada, and an array of other guests who had paid top dollar to sit with the President of the Toronto Maple Leafs, one of whom was just a solidly rude aging man on his own personal power trip. Thankfully, he wasn’t seated next to her, or Brendan for that matter, but she could still hear him: the stiff comments, the complaints. Clearly, he only cared about sitting at this specific table. Aberdeen would have to make sure that if he attended next year, he was nowhere near Brendan.

There was a traditional Indigenous land acknowledgement at the beginning – the rude man rolled his eyes, which made Aberdeen want to kill him right then and there – followed by a speech made by Brendan – the rude man was on his phone for half of it, not bothering to listen to Brendan’s words of inspiration and gratitude to everyone who donated for the cause. When Brendan got back to the table, Christine Simpson came out, ushering in the grade three class onto the stage, the students all dressed up and walking in a straight line. They waved at their parents who were at their own tables, jumping and jiggling excitedly as little kids did. Aberdeen thought it was the cutest thing. Christine interviewed some of the students, asking them about school, hockey, meeting the Leafs, and about the integrated classroom and nutrition program at their school – key parts of the MLSE Launchpad initiative. The crowd was as enamoured with them as Aberdeen was. A part of her wished it could just be the kids talking all night.

When their interview was over, the kids waved goodbye to the crowd before the DJ began to play them off stage. The opening notes of ‘Uptown Funk’ by Bruno Mars began playing, and the kids went crazy. They stopped walking off stage. They looked around to try to find where the music was coming from, but soon enough, a lot of the kids began to dance – shimmying from side to side, pumping their hands in the air, and twirling on one foot attempting pirouettes. Christine was trying her best, but they weren’t moving.

“Can someone get the kids off the stage so we can get a move on?” the rude man commented loudly, so loud Aberdeen could hear him above the music. She was incensed by his comment, her blood boiling. How dare he. How dare he say something when this entire event was for charity – was for these kids on stage!

So she took matters into her own hands.

She made a point to push her chair back as dramatically as possible, shaking the place settings on the table with the force of her hands. Everybody at the table looked at her as she rose from her seat and began making her way towards the stage. As she pulled the skirt of her dress up so she wouldn’t trip up the stairs, she made eye contact with one of the kids. And instead of shuffling him towards the back, instead of helping Christine, who had hall but given up, she extended her arms and grabbed the little boy’s hands in hers and began dancing with him. She was dancing on stage in front of over a thousand people with an eight year old. And she wasn’t embarrassed one bit.

As she danced, she watched as William began to make his way up to the stage from the opposite end, rushing up exactly like she had and extending his arms to begin dancing with another student, a girl, twirling her around. Then she saw Bee McTavish, Morgan Rielly, and Jennifer and Jason Spezza, all at once, rush towards the stage too, laughing and dancing with the kids. Before she knew it, the entire team was up there, as were their significant others, dancing with the kids and each other to Uptown Funk for the entire duration of the song. Aryne and John, Saylor and Kasperi – they were all there. As she danced, she made eye contact with William, who was already looking at her, a smile spread out on his face from ear to ear. Jennifer gave her a double thumbs up. Bee was laughing at Morgan’s horrible dancing, but the kid he was dancing with was absolutely loving it and mimicking every move.

She barely noticed the crowd cheering and clapping along to the beat until the end of the song when there was a round of applause. The kids finally got their cue and began heading offstage. A few of them had to finish bowing before the audience, but once they were all gone, the team left the stage too, giant smiles on all their faces. When Aberdeen returned to the table, she saw the rude man staring at her indignantly. Meanwhile, Brendan was beaming.

“Thank you for that,” he said as she took her seat beside him. Even Catherine was smiling.

“You’re not mad I did that?”

“Are you kidding?” he asked. “That’s been the highlight of the night so far. It’ll probably stay the highlight of the night.”

Aberdeen smiled. “I had to do something to get that guy at the other end to shut up,” she whispered.

“Oh, I know, believe me.”

The night went on with its regularly scheduled events. There was an interview portion with the big four European players – Andreas, Freddie, Will, and Kappy – in between the dinner courses. There was a Q&A with Jason and Zach as well, and the highlight of the night, which was a game of Family Feud with the Leafs Legends – Darcy Tucker, Curtis Joseph, Daryl Sittler, Wendel Clark, and Doug Gilmour – and some of the current Leafs – John, Morgan, Auston, Mitch, and Tyson. It was hilarious. Aberdeen teared up at one point because she was laughing so hard.

After dinner there was a lot of mingling – a lot of meeting new people and speaking about her position because everybody was just so interested about what Brendan Shanahan’s personal assistant did all day – and a lot of…well, staring. William caught her eye around the room. Wherever he was, wherever she was, whoever he was speaking to, whoever she was speaking to, whenever she even so much as just glanced his way, he was already looking, and whenever he so much as glanced her way, she was already looking. He was true to his word in that he couldn’t keep his eyes off of her, that as long as he got to stare at her all night he’d consider himself a lucky man, because all he seemed to be doing was staring at her. And as the night progressed, he got closer and closer, eventually ending up in her circle, and although the guests were delighted to see William Nylander, she was nervous but excited to see Will, Willy, the guy that so obviously couldn’t keep himself away from her.

When the guests left, they were left alone. Aberdeen gulped. William looked pained. “I can’t take it anymore,” he said, only loud enough for her to hear, despite there being no-one around them. Brendan was on the other side of the room.

“Can’t take what?”

“You. In that dress,” he clarified. “You have no idea how good you look. Every time I look at you, I just…you—you know how I feel about you, minskatt.”

When that nickname escaped her lips, tied together with the look on his face and the sparkle in his eye, Aberdeen almost melted right then and there. “Will—”

“Can we get out of here?”

“No, Will,” she giggled. Any other moment in time she would have scolded him for making the suggestion, but at this point she didn’t care. “I’m technically still working.”

“Then let me get you a drink,” he offered. “And let me take you home. Please let me take you home after everything is done. I’m desperate here.”

“Desperate?” she decided to play with him. “Why?”

“Because of you. Because you walk in here looking like that and you expect me to control myself? All I’ve wanted to do all night is be next to you. All I’ve wanted to do is be with you, be anywhere near you. And it’s torture. Torture that I can’t talk to you the way I want to talk to you. Torture that I can’t touch you like I want to touch you.”

A shiver ran up her spine. “You’re getting into inappropriate territory again, Will.”

“And I’ll say it again: can’t you tell by now that I don’t care that it’s inappropriate?”

The last time he’d said that to her, she replied with “And can’t you see that I do care?” But she didn’t care anymore. She honestly didn’t. After what happened on Christmas (besides the fact that she was still wearing the ring – she hadn’t taken it off since) and on New Year’s, she knew that they had both ventured on to the inappropriate territory equally. It was no longer just his fault, or the fault of his persistence. They were equally to blame here. She downed the last of her drink. “I like it.”

He had a confused look on his face. “You like what?”

“I like that you’re being inappropriate.”

Aberdeen couldn’t describe the smile that took over his face upon him hearing those words. They were six words that told him everything he needed to know. “Aberdeen, you can’t just say stuff like that and expect me to react normally,” he said, throwing her own words that she’d said to him so many times back at her.

“Maybe I don’t want you to react normally.”

“Aberdeen! William!”

They looked to their side to see Bee McTavish approaching them. Aberdeen could tell William hated the interruption, but because it was Bee, he softened. “We’re gonna do some shots. Want some shots?”

The first shot was tequila. The second was a B-52, and Brendan even joined in. Aberdeen could feel herself getting more giggly with each millilitre of alcohol that went into her system. Giggly about the event. Giggly that she was taking shots with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Giggly about William.

***

“Just one stop at Nelson Street, please,” William said to the Uber driver as he slipped into the car after Aberdeen. Brendan, Catherine, Kyle, and Shannon had left the party early, so they weren’t able to see William confirming with Aberdeen that he could take her home, and they weren’t able to see him calling an Uber, and him grabbing their coats, and him leading Aberdeen to the much quieter side of the Fairmont Royal York for the Uber to pick them up so he could touch her waist and hold her hand and get close to her – closer than what was necessary – on a cold winter’s night while the rest of the guest list waited at the front of the hotel for cabs and Ubers. “I know it’s a short ride, but I’ll give you a big tip.”

He was holding Aberdeen’s hand.

“Do you still have all those songs I downloaded for you?” Aberdeen asked as the driver started moving.

William thought it to be a random question. “Of course I do. Why would I delete them?”

“I have a new song you need to add,” she said.

He smiled. “I added a song I heard on the radio that made me think of you,” he began to pull out his phone.

“Which one?”

He searched for the playlist in his Spotify, the former ‘Driving in Toronto at Night’ playlist he’d renamed to ‘Minskatt’. He scrolled down to the bottom of the list before he found it. He turned the volume on his phone all the way up before the opening notes of ‘Adore You’ by Harry Styles began playing. He’d heard it all over the radio since December, and not only did the beat and rhythm reminds him of the type of music Aberdeen liked and put on the playlist, but when he actually listened to the lyrics, he knew he had to add it.

Aberdeen’s jaw dropped and a smile overtook her face. “This is it.”

“What’s it?”

“This was the song I was just going to add.”

William smiled. “Does that mean I have superior music taste now?” he joked.

Aberdeen giggled. “You’re working on it.”

She began to sing, and William had never heard anything sweeter. She was louder than when she half-mumbled, half-sang ‘Style’ by Taylor Swift in the passenger’s seat of his car when they were driving on the Gardiner into the downtown core. Perhaps the shots had gotten to her, but they were so long ago and he was unconvinced. More than anything, he just hoped her walls had finally crumbled, that she felt like she could be uninhibited in front of him like he always wanted her to be. No degree of formality of being a hockey player and a personal assistant for that hockey player’s boss – instead, being just two kids in their early 20s falling for each other like they had six months ago when she wouldn’t shut up about her graduation or her writing or her favourite books and he couldn’t stop listening to her.

William didn’t know the lyrics off by heart like she did, but he was able to contribute certain lines he remembered. Certain lines that would hammer a message home.

I get so lost inside your eyes Would you believe it?

He looked at her when he sang them out loud, and she looked at him when she sang them out too, albeit more emphatically and with more swaying and dramatic hand motions. It was like they were admitting to each other what they were really thinking; what they couldn’t say to each other in the presence of other people, but what they could say to each other alone in hotel rooms in the middle of the night or in the backs of Ubers after parties.

Honey I’d walk through fire for you Just let me adore you Like it’s the only thing I’ll ever do

Aberdeen bit her lip after they sang the chorus to each other. She couldn’t believe they were doing this. She couldn’t believe how quickly her walls had fallen. She’d spent two months trying to forget him and four months trying to keep him at bay, only for the last three weeks to make all of that obsolete. “Willy?” she asked, her voice sweet as the second verse began to play.

“Minskatt?” he prepared himself.

“I can’t believe you added Harry Styles on your own free will.”

William snorted. This was why he was so enamoured with her. “I can’t believe you think I wouldn’t.”

They arrived at her building, getting out of the car and slipping through the front doors, nodding politely at the concierge before walking to the elevator. As they waited for it to come down, Aberdeen lay her head on William’s shoulder. “My feet are fucking killing me,” she whispered.

“Are they?”

“They’re, like, pounding,” she said. “They’re pretty to look at but fuck they hurt.”

Before she could realize what was happening, William had scooped her up in his arms, shifting to carry her bridal style as the elevator pinged to signal its arrival. “What are you doing?” she laughed out.

“Being a knight in shining armour, clearly,” he smiled. He felt Aberdeen wrap her arm around the back of his shoulders as he stepped into the elevator. Aberdeen pressed her phone number. “Better?”

“Much.”

“Why do you girls even wear shoes like that if they hurt so much?”

She snorted. “You tell me. Men wore heels first,” she informed him.

“We did?!”

She nodded. “Apparently you guys wanted to show off your wealth and calves more than we did at first.”

William laughed in his signature way. “I do have some nice calves.”

When the elevator brought them up to Aberdeen’s floor, she rummaged through her clutch to find her keys, sticking them in the door to open in. Luckily, they could be as loud as they wanted since Kasha was spending the night at Evan’s; it prompted Aberdeen to hook her finger into the strap at the heel and throw off her shoes. William kicked off his shoes and walked through her apartment, carrying her to her bedroom. It was maybe a bold move, to go straight there, but he didn’t care.

“Wanna see me rip my eyelashes off?” she giggled as he finally set her down on the floor of her bedroom.

“Your eyelashes?!”

“The fake ones,” she mumbled, just going for it. She saw a horrified look on William’s face, causing her to burst out into a fit of giggles. She threw the first one in the garbage before taking off the second, William still watching with a horrified look on his face. “What?” she smiled.

“That doesn’t hurt?” he asked.

“You get used to it,” she shrugged. “You know what they say Will. Beauty is pain.”

“My beauty doesn’t require pain.”

Aberdeen burst out laughing, William following with his signature giggle. She couldn’t control her laughing as she leaned her head against his chest, shaking it slightly before bringing it back up to look at him. “You’re literally the worst, Will. No other guy on the team would say something like that.”

“No other guy on the team is as beautiful as I am.”

His tone made it come out like a joke, but Aberdeen couldn’t help but thinking he was right. There wasn’t another guy on the team as good-looking as he was. She huffed out a laugh, turning around so her back was towards him. “Can you unzip me?”

It was a suggestive request, and she knew it. He unzipped her dress slowly as she pulled her hair out of the way for him. They were both still giggling as she felt the material of the dress become looser, and she was careful when he was finished to step out of it gently so she didn’t mess up the fabric or dirty it on the floor of her bedroom. She immediately brought it towards the hanger she’d left on her dresser, making sure to hang it in her closet neatly before turning back towards Will. It was only then that she realized she was in her underwear in front of him, the most exposed she’d ever been since…well…

She watched as he practically ripped off his tie; watched as he unbuttoned his shirt without a care in the world. His suit was probably custom made and tailored and cost over a thousand dollars but he didn’t even care. What was more alarming was that he was stripping and making himself comfortable in her bedroom. “Will—”

“You can change. I’ll look away,” he said, turning her back towards her automatically.

That wasn’t even what she wanted, but damnit, he was good. She unclasped her bra and threw on her top quickly before stepping into her pajama shorts. “Um, I have to go wash my makeup off,” she whispered.

She didn’t wait for a reply as she stepped across the hallway into her bathroom. As she washed all of her makeup off, the seriousness of the situation crept up on her. William was in her apartment. He was in her bedroom. He was undressing. She knew he’d been in there before, that if he stayed over it wouldn’t even be the first time he’d slept in her bed, but it was still a big deal. It was still something that, really, truly, shouldn’t be happening in every sense of the word. But it was. And neither of them was going to put a stop to it.

When she stepped back into her room, closing her door behind her, she saw William waiting for her to get into bed. He had nothing on besides his boxer-briefs. She knew that if they both got in there, there’d be no room. They’d be squished against each other. She knew this because it had happened before – the night they hooked up, and then the night after what Ethan did to her – it was the same situation. Standing now, in her room, looking between the bed and William, things felt…different.

She climbed into bed, liking to be on the side closest to the wall, anyway. William followed her, even going so far as to start to pull the covers over their bodies as he snuggled in next to her. “Will—”

“Shhhhhh,” he cooed. “Aberdeen, stop freaking out.”

“But Willy—”

“I just want to lie down. We’re just lying down,” he said, his voice sleepy. He pulled her against him. She let him. He nestled his head onto her chest, under her chin and above her breasts. She let him. She could feel the contented sigh he let out as he settled into her, as her body relaxed into his, as she began running her fingers through his beautiful blonde hair. He let her.

“Will?” her voice was soft.

“Mhm?”

“You – I – you—”

“Spit it out, Aberdeen.”

“You could have any girl in the city, Willy,” she blurted out. She immediately regretted it. “Any girl in the city. W…Why do you keep – I mean, why are you here with m—”

“Because I only like you, Aberdeen,” his voice was so soft, sleepy, tender. The most tender she’d ever heard it. “You still don’t understand?”

Aberdeen hesitated. “I guess not.”

“Well…I like you,” he stressed his sentiment again.

“But why?”

“Because you make me nervous. And nobody makes me nervous,” he said softly. “And because I like talking to you. And I don’t like talking to anyone.”

There was nothing more she could say; nothing more she could do. He always answered her question and always answered her honestly; he had never lied to her. He had laid it all out for her and she could either take it or leave it.

Of course she was going to take it.

***

Aberdeen woke up slowly the next morning early. Stupidly early, because of her natural alarm clock. In typical fashion, because William was in bed with her and there wasn’t enough room for the both of them, Aberdeen found herself semi-on top of him, her head on his chest and hair spread out everywhere; an arm draped across his torso. As she began to come to her senses, she took a deep breath and could smell him. He still smelled so good. So manly. And then, she realized his one arm was hugging her body against his, and his other lay directly on top of hers that was draped across his body, keeping it there.

She sighed contently.

He was so big, so snuggly, so warm. Of all the people she’d snuggled up against in her short lifetime, William was easily the best. His body was like her own personal heater, and in the dead of winter, it was much appreciated. She’d always known he was big – big and thick and strong – but feeling him under her now was so much different. She’d almost forgotten what he felt like, but she could never truly forget something like that.

When she moved slightly, mostly to stretch, she realized one of his thighs was between her legs. God, they were so fucking thick. Thick and strong, just like the rest of him. She moaned slightly, the feeling of their bare legs together really waking her up now. Before she knew what she was doing, before her brain could tell her body not to physically react to such a specimen of a body being in such close proximity to her, she moved again, rubbing her core against his thigh. It felt good. Of course it felt good. She had been denying herself the pleasure she knew William Nylander could give her for six months now (besides their kisses), and if she wasn’t dangerously close to breaking every known rule, parameter, and boundary she gave herself when she got the job, then she was now. So close. Dangerously close.

She rubbed her core against his thigh again.

And again.

He began to wake up, shifting slightly at the feeling of the friction of her against him. He moaned at the feeling and rubbed his eyes before opening them, and when he did their eyes met, drowsy and barely open but still looking at one another. “Minskatt?”

Aberdeen looked into his blue eyes. She couldn’t hold back anymore; couldn’t deny it anymore.

She was going to do it.

She pushed herself up slightly, coming face to face with him, and began kissing him. No hesitation. No uncertainty. She knew she wanted to do it. That she had to do it. That kissing William was as important to her right now as breathing. That kissing William continuously – not just one little peck, not just a standard kiss – was what she needed. That feeling the scruff on his face along her fingers was integral to her well-being. That grinding against his thigh again, causing him to moan in her mouth before she got on top of him and straddled him, was what she needed to survive.

She felt his hands squeezing her thighs, trying to feel every inch of exposed skin on her body as they wandered underneath her pajama shorts, then underneath her shirt, where he took sweet time inching higher and higher towards her breasts. He squeezed them in his hands gently, massaging them and pinching her nipples, causing her to squirm. She knew she didn’t have an ample set to worth with, but William didn’t seem to mind. He didn’t seem to mind because when Aberdeen grabbed the hem of her shirt and pulled it over her head, he looked at her exposed chest like it was the first pair of boobs he’d seen in his life.

Aberdeen hesitated only slightly after she saw the look on his face. “Willy?” she breathed out.

“Fuck, Aberdeen,” he whispered in some sort of apparently disbelief – a disbelief that this was actually happening. That she was the one to kiss him. That she was the one to take off her top. It wasn’t even the first time he’d seen her exposed chest, but it still felt like the first time to him.

Before she knew it, he’d wrapped his arms around her and flipped her onto her back, hovering over her with his big, thick body as he kissed and licked his way down her neck and towards her breasts. He took a nipple in his mouth, flicking his tongue and making her arch her back. She tried to catch her breath as she got used to feeling his mouth and tongue on her breasts. He knew exactly what he was doing, and he knew exactly what to do to set her off, leaving her a writhing, moaning mess in her own bed.

Then she felt where his hand was.

She flinched at his touch on her hot core, but so desperately wanted more. After that initial flinch, she practically grinded herself onto his hand. “It’s so hot,” William mumbled before he kissed a trail to her other breast. “So wet already.”

“Will—” Aberdeen could barely get out once she felt William’s tongue on her other breast. “Will, please—”

“Is that okay?”

“Yes,” she nodded her head as he teased her some more. “Ta—Take them off.”

He did as he was told, his mouth leaving her breast so he could sit back slightly on his knees, hook his fingers into the waistband of her shorts, and pull them off slooooowly, revealing every inch of exposed skin on her body. He could see her chest rising and falling dramatically as he let the shorts drop on the floor. “You okay, minskatt?”

Aberdeen nodded her head. She leaned forward so she could kiss him again, their hands exploring each other’s bodies – William’s hands gripping her thighs or breasts or teasing her hot core some more; Aberdeen’s hands gliding along the muscles on his abs and chest and shoulders before scratching down his back to the waistband of his boxer briefs.

She tugged on them.

“Aberdeen—”

“Condoms are in the same place,” she whispered quickly.

“Aberdeen, are you sure—”

“Yes. Yes yes yes,” she repeated, nodding fervently.

William opened the drawer on her bedside table, grabbing at a packet. He ripped off the packaging and helped her push his boxers down before sitting back. Aberdeen helped him slide it on, much like the first time. When she lay back down, William moved to loom over her.

William and Aberdeen looked each other in the eye as he guided himself near her entrance. When Aberdeen could feel him, she let out a shaky, excited breath. “Willy…”

“Yes, minskatt?”

“Go slow.”

William nodded. He began to push himself into her, and as he did, he saw her eyes close to bask in the feeling of him filling her up. He did the same, as it brought back all the memories from that fateful night six months ago, when they were in the exact same position as they were now. He remembered everything so vividly, but somehow, this all felt brand new. He remembered how good it felt, but simultaneously had never felt anything as amazing before.

He went slow.

He could feel her nails dig into his shoulder blades and a small gasp of breath escape her as he bottomed out. He kissed her lips and the tip of her nose and back to her lips. “You okay?” he asked, his hair falling in between their faces.

Aberdeen nodded her head. She bought one hand between them and pushed his hair back tenderly so she could see his face. “Yeah,” she nodded.

“You sure?”

“Yeah,” she repeated, letting out another breath as she felt him pull out slightly before pushing back in. “I’d almost forgotten how good you feel inside me.”

“You’re perfect, Aberdeen,” he responded immediately after. He meant it in every sense of the word, because to him, she was. Plus, if she thought he felt good, he has some news for her about what she felt like. “God, you’re fucking perfect.”

He dipped down to kiss her again as he began moving in and out of her slowly. Aberdeen moved her hips in tune with his, and soon, all she felt was pleasure. Despite what was happening, they couldn’t keep their eyes off each other, looks mixed with lust, love, desire, adoration, longing, and of course, the pining they’d been doing since that day they reunited in the elevator being exchanged between them. It had all led to this moment, this moment of pure, built up passion.

“Willy…f…fuck,” she whispered. “You feel so good, Willy.”

She watched as some of his hair feel in between them again, blocking his eyes. She brought a hand to push it back tenderly. They looked at each other for a moment before William said the words. “I love you, Aberdeen.”

She looked for a lie in his eyes. Any hint of a lie. A lie she found in Zane’s eyes. A lie she found in Corey’s eyes. A lie she found in any other boy’s eyes that she’d known. But she couldn’t find it. Not even the smallest hint. Nothing. And because of that, and because of the moment, she said the words too. “I love you, William.”

He kissed her, big and wet and sloppy and full of desire and want, and she kissed him back with equal amounts of desire and want, and when he began to move in and out of her quicker, and when she arched her back into his body, she knew was close, that they were both close, and that they wouldn’t last much longer.

“Willy—”

“Aberdeen—Aberdeen I—”

“Cum with me Willy. Cum with me.”

And they did. It hit them all at once, the wave of pleasure as Aberdeen’s walls tightened around William’s pulsating cock, and they rode it out for as long as they could before William collapsed on top of her, the both of them catching their breath and coming back down to reality. As they lay in her bed together, with William still inside her, the gravity of the situation didn’t need to hit them – they knew what they’d just done. They knew it broke every boundary and was against every rule in the book. But they didn’t care. William didn’t care. Aberdeen didn’t care. All that mattered was that they shared that moment of pure bliss together.

William rolled onto his back and took off the condom, tying it before throwing it in the garbage near her bed. When he finished, he turned towards Aberdeen and they intertwined their limbs and bodies, drifting off to sleep again in each other’s arms.

***

The next time Aberdeen woke up, it was because she’d heard the front door slam shut and the sound of footsteps throughout the apartment. It meant Kasha was home, which also meant it was later in the morning than when she and William had first woken up and…well…

She shuddered.

As she did, she felt William’s body beside hers in her bed, spooning her from behind. Still naked from their rendezvous earlier, she could feel his cock against her as the hand of the arm that draped over her body cupped one of her breasts. His face was nestled into the crook of her neck. She didn’t want to move – she would have been perfectly content to stay in bed with him all day – but she knew they’d have to get up eventually. And more than that, they’d have to put on clothes before they went out there.

“Willy?” she whispered softly, hoping he’d hear.

“Hmmm minskatt?” he mumbled against her skin. “Was that Kasha?” he asked.

“Yeah. And probably Evan,” she said. “We should get up.”

He peeled himself away from her body slowly, and she rolled from her side to her back so she could look up at him. He looked down at her, still naked for him. She smiled up at him and caressed his cheek, his stubble scratching her skin. A piece of hair fell in front of his face, and she pushed it back, making it a habit now. “Willy?”

“Minskatt?”

“Do you regret what happened?” she asked.

“Absolutely not. No,” he replied automatically, shaking his head. “Do you?”

“No,” she responded automatically as well. “I don’t regret any of it at all,” she ran her thumb along his lips. “But nobody can know. We can’t tell a soul.”

William nodded his head. In any other circumstance, if he had landed a girl as amazing as Aberdeen, he would be practically bragging to everybody about how lucky he was. But things didn’t work out that way, and everything was complicated. “Nobody will know,” he said in agreement.

“No Brendan,” she began.

“That’s a given.”

“No Kappy,” she continued.

“No Kappy,” he agreed. Kasperi didn’t even know about the first time they’d slept together, so it would be no problem. None of the guys did. They all thought he just had a harmless crush. “No Kasha.”

Aberdeen bit her lip. “No Kasha,” she nodded her head. She knew she’d be able to make up a good story when they met each other outside her door. She knew what she had to do next. It would have to hurt them both. “No Alex.”

William nodded slightly. It would be hard not to tell his brother, but he knew he couldn’t. It was probably one of the few secrets he would keep from Alex. He knew he had to say the same. “No Siena.”

Aberdeen nodded. It would be the hardest thing she’d have to do. “Our secret only,” she whispered.

“Our secret only,” he repeated, leaning down to give her a quick kiss. “We can do it, minskatt.”

“I know we can,” she said, kissing him again. It went against everything she believed in, but she didn’t care anymore. She only had so much willpower to reject him. Now that they’d done what they’d done, and agreed to what they agreed to, there was no going back. She’d have to lie to the people she loved and respected most in her life. She’d have to lie to everyone she knew – her parents, her sister, her friends, her co-workers.

She’d have to lie to Brendan.

They got out of bed slowly, with William putting his boxers back on and Aberdeen throwing on her pajama shorts again and a crew neck sweater. She looked over at William and saw him searching for his dress shirt, crinkled on the floor. She threw one of her oversized University of Toronto hoodies at him. He laughed when he realized what it was, pulling it over his head. It fit a bit snug, but it worked.

The second Aberdeen opened her bedroom door, she heard the shower from Kasha’s ensuite turn on. She was happy – it gave her time to get breakfast started, to spend a little bit more of alone time with William, and to think of an excuse as to why William slept over last night. Not like this was the first time he slept over in the past four weeks.

She still couldn’t believe what this had become.

After washing her face quickly, she and William made their way into the kitchen, Aberdeen grabbing some pancake mix out of the cupboard. She grabbed some blueberries from the fridge too, putting them near the sink to wash them. As she began to pour the pancake mix into a bowl, she felt William come up behind her, pressing himself against her back as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

“Aberdeen?” his voice was soft, and suddenly sounded very nervous.

“Willy?”

“I meant what I said earlier,” he said.

She was confused. “About not telling anybody?”

“No. Earlier,” he gave her another hint. When she didn’t respond, he knew he’d have to say it again. “That I love you, minskatt.”

Oh. That. It was said so passionately during them having sex that it felt like it was part of the experience. That it was completely natural and easy for them to say to each other, despite not officially being together, despite not even dating, despite Aberdeen trying to convince herself for months that she didn’t like him, despite William trying everything to make her realize otherwise.

“I know it was in the heat of the moment,” his words interrupted her thoughts. They sounded so nervous and apprehensive. “But I meant it. I mean…I know. And I know that you said it back, but you don’t have to if you don’t want to. Or if you’re not sure or whatever. I just want you to know that. I won’t care. You can say it whenever you want. I just know that I do.”

Aberdeen turned around. She wrapped her arms around his broad shoulders, now wearing one of her hoodies, and stood on her tip-toes to kiss him. She said the only words she could say to him. The only words that, despite every boundary, despite every rule, despite every thought, despite everything she knew about herself, despite everything she thought she knew about herself, she knew were true.

“I love you too, William.”

249 notes · View notes

shwazzberryswriting · 4 years ago

Text

Movie Night

Pairing: Renjun x Original Female Character|Reader

Genre: Alternate Universe - College/University, Romance, Friends to Lovers, Fluff and Humor

Summary: Renjun's crush just broke up with her boyfriend, now is his chance to make a move. Things don't go according to plan. ---- Part 3 of my "The NCT Frat House Series"

Word count: 4.5k

Rating/Warnings: PG-13/Kissing, watching an R rated movie together

Author’s Note: My first Renjun fic! Please enjoy!

------

As a favor to Lucas, Kun’s girlfriend Ruby was organizing a surprise birthday party for Alma, Lucas’s girlfriend. Ruby and her roommates offered their house to host the party, and though Alexandria didn’t qualify as a roommate, she was a friend, so she was part of the party planning committee. When she arrived on the day of the party, she was not prepared for the NCT frat bros to be at Ruby’s house, helping set up.

Once Janell handed out responsibilities to the volunteers, Alexandria was seated at the dining table, using Ruby’s coveted decorating tweezers to strategically place silver sprinkles onto a simple white frosted cake. With her legs crossed in front of her, and her shoulders slumped down to get a closer inspection at the cake, Alexandria stopped and sat up straight, rolling her shoulders as she fixed her posture. Blowing her brown bangs out of her eyes, she tried not to think about her mom’s constant nagging, You’re an adult now, and you still need to fix your posture.

“The ‘A’ needs more sprinkles,” Haechan said, leaning over from across the table to look at her work, breaking her concentration.

“Who died and made you my boss?” she asked, looking up at him.

“I mean, if you want the cake to be ugly, don’t take my advice,” he said with a shrug, turning back to the game he was playing on his phone.

“What are you doing here if you’re not helping set up for the party?” she asked, trying to keep her tone even.

“Johnny told me to be here two hours before 5:00 so I’m here two hours before 5:00,” he said.

“We’re here two hours early so we can help set up for the party,” Renjun explained as he sat down next to Haechan. “Janell put us on balloon duty.”

“Where’s the helium tank?” Haechan asked, looking up. “I’ll fill the balloons and you can tie them.” “We can take turns,” Renjun replied. “It’ll be faster.”

“No, you have nimble fingers. They’re perfect for tying balloons. I can’t tie balloons. I should be in charge of the helium tank.”

“Lex!” they heard a voice shout from the backyard. The only person to call her by that name was Janell's younger sister. Renjun jumped in his seat and Haechan snorted a guffaw while Alexandria stood up and slapped Haechan’s arm gently, chiding him for laughing at Renjun. Renjun was easily startled but Haechan took extra glee in his reaction due to Renjun having a crush on Janell's sister.

Alexandria hadn’t meant to find out that Renjun had a crush on Violet, but during a recent party at the NCT Frat house Renjun had drunkenly admitted to her and a couple friends his secret. Before the party, Alexandria considered herself friendly with Renjun, but now that she’d experienced him make a drunken confession they were comfortable calling each other friends. He’d even gone to her condo a couple times to hang out. Unfortunately for Renjun, since Alexandria was in on the secret Haechan felt more comfortable teasing him in front of her.

“Alexie,” Haechan said, touching her arm to stop her from leaving, “don’t make it obvious that Renjun likes Violet.”

Renjun reached over to wrap his hands around Haechan’s neck, a pained smile on his lips, and Alexandria shook her head as she turned away from the fight. She was going to have to remind Ruby and Kun that they were better off not asking any of the NCT guys to help with any sort of party planning. The small surprise birthday party for Lucas’s girlfriend had turned into a daycare for man-children, and not even half of them had come.

“You called?” Alexandria said to Violet once she made it outside to the backyard. She sat down on the picnic table. Violet, Janell, and Johnny were decorating a couple mason jars for the small bouquets of wild flowers they’d picked from around the neighborhood.

“If I gave you some cash, would you go to the dispensary and buy me a couple joints?” Violet asked. "My sister and her boyfriend won't help me out."

“Hold on,” Alexandria said, raising her hands out before her as she stood up. “Am I the only one who remembers what kind of party this is? Lucas asked for a small cute surprise birthday party for Alma, this isn’t a house party.”

“Oh my gosh, Lex, you’re always so dramatic,” Violet said with a sigh. “I need some weed because I broke up with Joey, OK?”

“I’m sorry,” Alexandria said as she sat down beside Violet, hugging her. “We can chill at my place after Alma’s birthday party. I’ll take you to my favorite dispensary, my treat. What happened?”

As Violet tearfully went on a tangent about her ungrateful ex-boyfriend, Alexandria glanced over to see Janell and Johnny rolling their eyes. It was in Janell’s nature not to extend too much sympathy toward her younger sister, still holding a grudge that Violet had followed her across state lines to attend the same university, so Alexandria took on the task to give Violet a little more patience as a surrogate older sister. With that in mind, Alexandria couldn’t blame Janell and Johnny for reacting the way they did when it came to Joey, Violet’s boyfriend of 5 months.

The couple were cute, but they argued constantly. Violet and Joey had spent the last month threatening to break up with each other, and now that they were properly broken up it seemed like the drama was still ongoing. Alexandria tried her best to remember what it was like with her first boyfriend. She'd believed he was The One and put up with the petty drama, so she understood why Violet was putting herself through the unnecessary pain with Joey. After a five minute rant, Violet seemed satisfied and grew quiet as Alexandria confirmed that she would buy Violet some weed.

Returning to the dining table, Alexandria found Renjun tying ribbons onto a single balloon, and then heard Haechan with some others in the front living room, playing with the balloons and helium tank. She sat down and crossed her legs in her seat before returning to spelling out Alma’s name onto the cake using the sprinkles. Renjun ran a hand through his hair and leaned back as he watched Alexandria decorate the cake, his new platinum blonde hair making his brown eyes seem bigger and darker than they already were.

“Did you hear?” she asked softly, raising an eyebrow. “Violet broke up with Joey.”

“You’re lying,” he said, though he sat up straight, leaning over closer to her. “What happened?”

“She broke up with him a few days ago, and I invited her to my place so we can get high,” she replied. “You should come along. Maybe you can cheer her up.”

He laughed nervously as he met her gaze, and she closed her mouth as Ruby and Kun entered the kitchen. Given the tone of his voice, Kun was nearing the end of his patience as he barked orders over his shoulder only to be met with what sounded like Yangyang imitating Kun. There was a ripple of high pitched laughter, and Ruby gave Kun a pleading look.

“They’re grown men, they’ll be fine,” Kun said, setting some grocery bags onto the countertop.

“They’re playing with a cheap helium tank,” Ruby said softly. “Do you hear them?”

The front living room sounded like the Chipmunks singing Migos’ “Walk It Talk It” followed by more high pitched laughter. Groaning and slumping his shoulders, Kun turned around and led Ruby back to the front living room so they could make sure the boys weren’t going to hurt themselves. Meanwhile, Alexandria and Rejun set up the dining table with the bouquets, balloons, and cake.

As everyone gathered around the front door to surprise Alma, Alexandria asked Jeno and Hendery to help her tape up the streamers in the kitchen so that Renjun and Violet would have a moment alone on the loveseat. When she returned to the front living room, she saw Renjun and Violet deep in conversation, and patted herself on the back. As she stood beside the loveseat, Violet grabbed her hand and invited her to sit with them, sandwiching Renjun between them.

"Isn't he the softest thing in the world?" Violet asked as she reached her arms out around Renjun and grasped onto Alexandria's arms.

Alexandria gave a chuckle as she reached out to grab Violet’s arms in return and the two women hugged Renjun, his face turned bright pink and he began guffawing. It was difficult for anyone not to like Violet. She enjoyed showing affection to her friends and was doing her best to make Renjun blush, making some of the other guys laugh. Alexandria placed a hand on Renjun’s cheek and chuckled again as she felt that it was burning up. She removed herself from the group hug and let Violet continue to hug him while she turned around to see Kun and Johnny standing nearby, complaining like middle age dads, each man holding a can of beer in his hand.

Even after graduating, Kun and Johnny were still in touch with the frat house, making sure the guys were taking care of themselves. It also benefited the NCT guys that Kun and Johnny's girlfriends were still attending university, so the two men were likely nearby the campus during their free time. Alexandria understood the sentiment. She hadn't lived with Ruby and Janell for over a year, but she visited them often and helped clean the house as if she still lived there.

When Lucas and Alma arrived at 5:00, Yangyang, Haechan, Xiaojun, Hendery, Jaemin, and Chenle had taken some of the helium filled balloons and insisted on singing Alma's birthday song with their high pitched helium voices. Alma was a good sport and clapped as everyone suffered through their helium induced singing. Once she was served a slice of cake, Alexandria sat down with Violet and Renjun in the dining room, the trio sitting across from Alma and Lucas.

Lucas pulled Alma into his lap and he kissed her free hand as she ate her slice of cake. For as long as Alexandria had known the couple, they were proud to be affectionate with each other. Their PDA didn't bother her, but she knew it made some people uncomfortable. She stopped herself from laughing out loud and snorted cake up her nose as she glanced over to see Renjun poking his fork into his slice of cake as his eyes darted nervously from Alma to Lucas while Violet's eyes were focused on the pair as she passively chewed on her food. The pair looked to be taking notes from Alma and Lucas.

"I-I need water," Alexandria coughed out, distracting Renjun and Violet. The cake crumbs up her nose burned her sinuses, and she stood up to find a tissue.

"Let me take you home," Violet announced, standing up immediately. "Happy birthday, Alma! Janell and Johnny paid for your present but I picked it out. Remember that when you unwrap it."

"Over here, Dria," Renjun said, standing up and leading her toward the front living room by placing his hand on her elbow.

"Lexie!" Yangyang and Xiaojun exclaimed together.

"Alexie!" Haechan and Hendery screamed, making her laugh before she gagged and fell onto the sofa beside Jeno.

“Are you dying, Andria?” Jeno asked as he helped her sit up. His shoulders were shaking as he tried not to laugh.

The guys found out that Renjun gave Alexandria a nickname in an attempt to start a conversation with Violet when he first met Violet. Whenever any of them heard Renjun call her "Dria" they enjoyed making jokes out of her name, and Alexandria knew it was easier to let the kids have their fun rather than take the teasings to heart.

“I don’t want to ruin the party,” she said when Renjun handed her a bottle of water. “I’m going home.”

“Can I come?” Violet asked immediately, linking her arm with Alexandria’s.

“You want to come along?” Alexandria asked Renjun.

“I do,” Haechan said, raising his hand. “Alexie! Will you make me your mom’s eggrolls?”

“Sorry, Haechan,” Violet said as she grabbed Renjun’s hand. “Alexandria only likes me and Renjun.”

“Happy birthday, Alma!” Alexandria shouted as Violet walked her and Renjun out of Ruby and Janell’s home.

As she dropped by the dispensary, Alexandria had Violet and Renjun go buy snacks, directing them to meet at the front of her condo complex after 20 minutes. She took a slow stroll through the streets, appreciating the warm spring weather. She thought about how she was playing Renjun’s wing(wo)man, and she wondered if her interest in Renjun and Violet hooking up was her way in dating vicariously through her friends, something Ruby and Wen, one of Ruby’s other roommates, had accused her of before.

She gave herself another pat on the back when she saw Renjun and Violet laughing together, plastic bags in their hands. Was she dating vicariously through her friends? Whatever the case, Alexandria was glad that Renjun and Violet seemed to be hitting it off. Renjun was a fun person to be around, and Violet was playful as well, the two would always have fun together. Violet could take advantage of Renjun’s NCT Frat status to invite herself to Janell and Johnny’s dates. There was so much to be gained, Alexandria hoped Violet would see Renjun’s datability.

"We decided to watch a horror movie," Violet announced when Alexandria led them inside. "Have you heard of It Follows? It's about a sexually transmitted monster. Renjun makes it sound good."

"Um, OK," Alexandria replied, plastering on a bright smile. She hated horror movies, but Renjun and Violet looked excited as they shared a smile and raised their eyebrows. "Is it, like, super scary?"

"It's not super gory but there are definite scary elements to it," Renjun answered. "Your condo is perfect, too, Dria. It's quiet and there's only going to be the three of us."

"Perfect," Alexandria muttered as Renjun and Violet listed their favorite horror movies to each other while they entered the elevator.

Renjun made them iced green tea, and Alexandria popped 2 bags of popcorn in her microwave and unpacked all the candies into bowls. Violet sat by the patio door and lit a joint as she played music from her phone, setting the mood for the evening. Alexandria went through stages where she either smoked a lot of weed or she didn’t, and she hadn’t smoked in over 2 months, but Violet tempted her into taking a few hits, especially when Renjun said that he’d take a hit if Alexandria did. He didn’t react well, coughing up a storm, and Alexandria felt bad that Renjun was smoking in an attempt to impress Violet.

She felt worse when she noticed that Violet was texting with Joey. Violet’s music playlist had started with playful Bruno Mars songs, but after a few texts with Joey she began playing Ariana Grande love jams. Renjun was too busy singing along to the music to notice the shift in Violet’s mood. Placing the bowls of snacks onto a serving tray, Alexandria asked Violet and Renjun to bring the snacks to the living room and start the movie while she would finish preparing the iced tea, hoping to give them a few minutes alone.

“I invited Joey over,” Violet announced when Alexandria arrived with a small serving tray that held the glasses of tea, sitting up straight. “He wants to watch the movie with us.”

“Um, sure,” Alexandria said as she sat down next to Violet, making sure it was Violet who was seated in the middle. “How long before Joey gets here?”

“He’ll be here soon,” Violet said loudly as she picked up the remote and started the movie.

Alexandria held the bowl of popcorn in her lap as she sat on the couch with her legs crossed in front of her, her shoulders slouching. Noticing her posture, she straightened her back, and rolled her shoulders as she glanced over to see Violet’s eyes glued to her phone while Renjun was busy shoving M&Ms into his mouth, completely absorbed in the movie. They were roughly ten minutes into the movie when there was a knock on the front door.

“I’ve got it!” Violet said immediately, jumping up and rushing to the front door. She stepped outside and shut the door, having not invited Joey in.

Alexandria ate some popcorn as she tried to pay attention to the movie, but all she could hear was Violet and Joey having an argument in the hallway. As Joey sounded like he was crying, begging Violet to give him another chance, Alexandria glanced at Renjun and was impressed to see him absentmindedly shoving Skittles into his mouth, still completely immersed with the movie. She turned her attention to the movie, and felt her face grow hot as she realized that the scene was a sex scene. Feeling silly for her bashfulness, Alexandria set the bowl of popcorn onto the coffee table and grabbed her glass of iced tea. The movie was about a sexually transmitted monster, of course there would be at least one sex scene.

Sipping her drink, Alexandria’s eyes drifted to the front door as she heard Violet and Joey talk, their voices sounding softer and less volatile. Her eyes returned to the TV screen as she set her drink down, and she sank into her seat as she watched the scene unfold. The lead protagonist, a blonde girl named Jay, was lying on her stomach in the backseat of her date’s car as she talked.

It was a sweet post-sex scene, her date was crawling up behind her, and Alexandria gave a soft sigh as she thought about the last time she’d felt a guy press his body up against her back. It’d been before Ruby and Janell began dating their boyfriends, and she cringed at the length of her dry spell. Her mind forgot about her lack of a sex life as the lead’s date chloroformed her from behind, shocking Alexandria. She leaned in close to Renjun and threw a hand over her mouth, worried that she might scream.

“Renjun, what’s going on?!” she breathed out, shaking his arm. “I thought this was about a sexually transmitted monster! Is her date going to kill her?”

“Watch the movie,” he said, sighing gently. “Can I get some popcorn?”

Alexandria screamed and grabbed on tighter to Renjun’s arm as the scene in the movie became more intense, Jay’s date had tied her up to a chair and she could not move as her date explained to her of the monster that was now after her. It was a slow monster that took on the form of a random person, and once It caught up to the infected person It would kill them. She buried her face into Renjun’s arm, and said to him, “I can’t watch this! I can’t watch this!”

Renjun laughed, making her look up, and she sat up straight, feeling her face grow hot.

“It’s just a movie. I knew you were afraid of scary movies, but…wow, Dria. You’re a complete wimp.”

“I never denied being a complete wimp,” she said, shoving his arm. “If you want to finish this movie then you’re going to have to put up with me jumping and screaming.”

“Fine,” he said, giving a small chuckle, throwing his arm over her shoulder. “I can’t believe I have to hold you like a little kid.”

“Oh my gosh, they called the cops?” she asked, turning her attention to the movie.

“Cops are useless in horror movies,” he replied. “You really don’t watch scary movies?”

“No. Do you remember that old Japanese movie…Ju-Oh? My cousin was babysitting me when I was 8, and she put it on for us to watch and I haven’t liked scary movies since.”

Renjun laughed and she poked his side to shut him up. After he pushed her away, Alexandria hugged her legs and Renjun leaned back into the sofa as he ate the popcorn. The movie’s pacing was slower and more subtle than she’d anticipated, and Alexandria found herself being drawn into the mystery. What was going on, and would Jay be able to avoid the monster? Alexandria bit her bottom lip, wondering if she’d be able to go through with finding new sex partners in an attempt to prevent a monster from coming to kill her.

The suspense built up again, and Alexandria tried to be brave, but the reveal of the monster entering Jay’s house at night was too grotesque. She screamed once more, and grabbed for Renjun’s arm again, throwing her face into his shoulder. He laughed, and threw his arm over her shoulder, letting her grab onto his hoodie as she turned her face in toward his chest. The movie kept slowing the suspense down to build up drama, and whenever the suspense built up it went on much longer than she was prepared for, so Alexandria spent the majority of the film curled up in Renjun’s arm, clawing her fingers into his chest.

“So are they going to die?” she asked him once the movie ended. It ended on an ambiguous note.

“Maybe,” he said, shrugging his shoulders. “What do you think?”

“I think if I ever watch scary movies, this is the only way I can watch them,” she said, burying her face into his chest again.

The air was silent and became very still after what felt like an entire minute. Renjun hadn’t moved a centimeter, so she lifted her head up and saw him looking down at her with his eyebrows furrowed. Looking into her eyes, his face softened, and he reached over to cup her cheek in his hand. She looked at his long eyelashes for a moment when he kissed her, but feeling the warmth of his lips on hers instantly had her closing her eyes. His hold around her tightened, and she moved her hand up to touch his neck. As her fingers moved to caress his earlobe, he pulled back, breaking the kiss.

They stared at each other, and Alexandria could only think about wanting to kiss him again, her mind feeling foggy. She could feel her heart beating fast and loud in her throat, and his arm draped around her body felt heavy. She pressed her chest against his as she pushed forward, kissing him, but turned her head aside when she felt his hand on her cheek drift down to her neck. He groaned as his tongue flicked the side of her cheek.

“I think you should go home,” she said softly.

The heat that burst into her gut was intense when his fingers had touched the bare skin of her neck, and she wasn’t sure how well she could handle Renjun’s touches. The night had been a mess, and she didn’t want him to think she was the type of friend who was into hookups. They might come to regret it, especially if Renjun was going to continue to crush on Violet.

“Did I do something?” he asked, releasing his hold on her. She shook her head, planting her feet onto the ground, sitting up straight.

“I’m sorry that Violet bailed on our movie night,” she said softly, her eyes unable to meet his.

“Oh, right, yeah,” he said, falling back into the cushions of the sofa. He ran a hand through his hair, and he gave a nervous chuckle. They sat together in silence for a few moments, and then he spoke up again. “Why did you kiss me?”

“You kissed me,” she replied, shoving him gently by pushing her hand against his knee. “You started it.”

“The details don’t matter,” he said, sitting up straight. “We kissed, I liked it, and I know you did too.”

“So?”

“So...can I kiss you again?”

He barely had the question out of his mouth when she’d already begun to climb onto his lap. She held onto his shoulders as she straddled him while he rested his hands on her hips. They kissed, her fingers running gently through his hair as she dove her tongue into his mouth, giving a soft moan every time his mouth was able to capture her tongue to suck on it. When her lips began to burn, feeling a little swollen, Alexandria pushed against Renjun’s chest, and sat up straight, looking into his eyes.

“This is a bad idea,” she said.

She shut her eyes and bit her bottom lip, pulling his head to rest on her shoulder as his hands slid down to grab her ass. She raked her fingers through his hair as she panted heavily, breathing through her mouth as his hands groped and squeezed her ass cheeks. Instinctively, her hips thrust against his, but she closed her mouth and found the willpower to shove against his chest, getting off his lap to sit back down beside him.

“What’s so bad about it?” he asked, out of breath, his eyes looking at her in a way she’d never seen before. His eyes were darting around, seeming to look over every inch of her.

“I mean, I think Violet and Joey are back together, but...you know, what’s going to happen when they break up for good?” she asked, brushing her bangs with her fingers, trying not to look at him.

“I don’t know,” he said, shrugging.

“You really don’t care about her? This girl you’ve been crushing on for months?”

Renjun gave her a grin. He sat up in his seat, and he said, “Dria, I forgot that you invited me here for Violet. It’s just you and me here, and I like it better when it’s just you and me.”

“So are you saying that you like me?” she asked.

“Dria, you just felt my boner poking your ass,” he said, making her blush. “Yeah, I like you. What? You don’t like me? I can go home.”

He made to stand up, but she reached over and grabbed his arm.

“No!” she shouted. “Renjun! I like you! Stay. You have to stay.”

“Oh, I have to stay now?” he asked, guffawing as he moved to stand up. “I thought you wanted me to leave.”

“I watched that scary movie with you!” she said, placing herself onto his lap. “You have to give me company now, because I’m going to have nightmares.” She kissed his cheek, making him stop as he grinned at her, his face turning pink. “What a twist,” she said softly. He laughed, touching her chin to tilt her head toward his, and then kissed her.

“None of our friends are going to see this coming,” he admitted.

“Can we watch another movie?” she asked him, resting her head onto his shoulder.

She didn’t want to think or talk about their friends. He kissed her cheek, smiling at her before picking up the remote to scroll around for another movie to watch. He insisted all the movies he wanted to watch weren’t very scary, the title cards and movie posters just looked scary. She didn’t believe him, but eventually let him pick a movie for them to watch. As much as she didn’t like scary movies, it was worth it since she was in Renjun’s arms.

------ Thank you always for reading!

#nct renjun #nct fanfic #NCT #nct x reader #nct fluff #renjun x reader #renjun fluff #nct au #AU college #au university #fluff and humor #nct dream #no beta read

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