#Bobby Keating x reader

[lgwifey]

hey would you ever do a part two to delusions (robert x reader). id love to read it! x

DELUSIONS PART TWO

Robert keating x fem!hewson!reader

Summery : Y/n’s being carted away to stay with her brother and coincidentally there’s only one person in when she arrives.

Warnings : not proof read, bad spelling ✨, cringe xx

MASTERLIST

PART ONE

2023

"I'm really sorry about you award tonight, I thought your new album was defiantly better than hers, smiley face"

Y/n turned around to face Anais and Issac whilst she lounged on their sofa in their living room where she had invited herself to stay for the night since Eli was in a strop and her dad was too concerned with him to notice she'd disappeared.

"How does that sound ?"

"Maybe rephrase the last sentence ? Something which is less," Issac paused for a minute before mimicking her frequent squeal, "I've been in love with you since I was thirteen oh my gawd you're so gorgeous."  His face turned to its regular serious after the dramatic second.

"So get rid of the 'your new album was defiantly better than hers' ?"

"Maybe something like 'I'm sorry about your award tonight, maybe try being a better musician ' ?"

The Irish girl turned to Anais with a mortified expression, quickly closing her phone.

"Maybe I should just leave it ?"

"Maybe ."

"Shut up Issac, no defiantly dm him at least, like he was giving major signs tonight."

The blonde gave the younger girl a suggestive wink before laughing, causing the other two to laugh as well.

"I'm not getting my hopes up anymore, but I'll just send a normal, platonic message to him which he probably won't see but what can ye do."

"That's our girl."

Issac have a small round of applause before leaving to go to the kitchen to get a drink after having to deal with the message rehearsals. Once he left the room, Anais made her way over to Y/n with a grin on her lips.

"What about a little snap, like just with a bra in the background ?"

Once again, y/n looked at her with a look of horror.

"My brother is with him !"

Y/n dragged her suitcases to the front of the terrace house, a glare to her dad who stood beside her. He knocked on the bright door whilst she gave another complaining huff.

“Look you don’t want to stay at your granny’s and your ma isn’t dealing with you by herself for three months so Elijah is the last option y/n. Trust me it took a while for him to agree to it.”

“I’m 21 and being babysat by my brother. Are you even able to comprehend how sexist that it. He was touring without anyone at 20 !”

“That’s different.”

Y/n just gawped in shock before letting out a very unusual noise that resembled something between a scoff and a choke.

Before her dad could say anything else, the door was swung open and none of the than Robert Keating stood there with wet curls and a towel wrapped around his waist.

Y/n flushed bright pink, immediately turning to look in the opposite direction, noticing the neighbours had a camera pointing at her as she did so.

“Oh sorry, thought yous where coming over tomorrow.”

“We where but plans changed, I texted Eli?”

“Oh the other three have been out all night, they ended up staying at some hotel I think.”

Y/n looked back to where the semi-naked 23 year old was stood, trying to make it look like she wasn’t overly fussed by his presence.

“Will you two be ok if I just leave her here, I’m already running behind.”

He looked over to where the younger girl stood staring intently at the wall next to him and let out a small smirk, barely noticeable since y/n had lost most of her vision from eye strain and Bono was busy with tour plans on his phone.

“Ai yeah, that’ll be fine, don’t worry.”

“Thanks Bobby, I’l see you in a few months y/n, yeah ?”

She just behave a nod before pulling up her suitcases’ handles. As she went to pick up her duffle off the floor, another hand met hers, a slightly bigger and callous one. She looked up to meet the bright blue eyes of Inhaler’s bassist and hugely her face go even redder.

“Urm…”

“Don’t worry love, I think I can handle a bag for you.”

He gave her a smile again and she knew if Anais was here she’d be eating up every second of this like Corrie.

[leaawrites]

All I got is you

Eli Hewson x fem!reader

Summary: In which, they both got what they wanted for so long. Each other.

Warnings: pining, fluff,

Wordcount: 1.2k

Masterlist

The apartment was quiet only the clutter of the dishes in the sink keeping his thoughts from drifting too far away from reality. The bottle grew warm in his hands as Eli was sat on the couch, watching the dark screen of the TV. Soft music was playing in the background. Grounding him for a second in time before the morning would come again and the stress of the new album would return.

His eyes flew over the room. The dirty plates were cleaned and put away hours ago, when everyone was still around. They’d done it together. It was one of the first conversation they had that evening, besides the usual greetings.

It was a get together, a quiet evening, to find peace in all the chaos and catch up with old friends who were left behind the last couple of months because of the album. She had offered to stay a bit longer than the others to help him clean up and then he got a text from Bobby: ‘It’s your chance, man’

Sighing and throwing his head back at the thought of what this meant now, Eli let his eyes wander further. Her shoes were still messily thrown on the floor in front of the door. Footsteps came nearer and soon enough, she plopped down next top him. Right in the middle of his vision.

“You alright, rock star?” she asked, giggling slightly at his tired look and lulled back head.

“All’s good,” he answered, not looking away from her.

“What’s on your mind then?” The room went quiet and for a moment he thought that dying would be better than speaking in that moment. So much could go wrong, so much could fall apart. But Rob’s words still hung in his head and the other lads agreement were slow backing vocals he couldn’t get rid off.

‘She likes you too, man,’ Rob said on one late evening in the studio as they tried figuring out a section of a song.

‘How would you know?’

‘Talked to her the other night and well, she said, that you were way too cool for her. I guess that say enough.’

‘What you talking about?’ Ryan came in just as Eli was about to answer and dismiss Rob’s words. Sitting down next to them with fresh coffee in his hands, Josh carrying in the other two cups.

‘Eli fancies Y/n and he doesn’t want the possibility to be true that she likes him back,’ Rob answered, making Eli groan in frustration of his words. They were true, still haunting.

‘Oh, she definitely likes you,’ Josh cut into the conversation. ‘Why else would she willingly spent two months on tour with us?’

‘Because we’re all friends?’ Eli suggested.

‘Because she wants you to notice her as more than that,’ Ryan corrected him.

‘Think about it,’ they all said before going back to the song, but his mind was still stuck there.

He was still stuck in the same conversation as she sat down next to him, watching with curiosity of what was going through his head, when all he was thinking about was her. She wanted it to know too, when she couldn’t forget the way they laughed together earlier that evening and how he didn’t ask her to leave yet.

It had to be something, right?

It had to mean something more than boredom to him, right?

“Do you ever -” Eli started, looking away and down to his fingers. “Have you ever thought of doing the most stupid thing in your life that you hope you won’t regret?”

“How do you mean that?”

“Nothing, it’s stupid,” he pushed the question away.

“No, it’s not. What are you talking about?”

“What if one person is all I have in life but I don’t even know if I have that person fully?”

“You’re in love?” she guessed, averting her gaze from him now too. If he was to confess, she didn’t want to see his face while thinking about it. She couldn’t see the happiness in his eyes if it wasn’t because of her.

“I guess, yes. I just-” he swallowed hard like the words he wanted to say were ought to be put away, still they came tumbling out seconds later. “I can’t stop thinking about what life would be like if- if I got to call her more than a friend.”

“We’ve been friends for so long and I don’t think I’ve ever seen you like that before,” she joked, nudging his shoulder and trying to lighten the tension that hung between them.

“They say the prey is always the most oblivious.”

Silence.

He was met with nothing but silence and it seemed like they were back at the beginning. Back then, when she was too shy to talk to him properly and every time he tried to make conversation it wouldn’t last longer than a few sentences.

“What?”

“All I got is you and I don’t know what to think of it,” he said, turning to her. Cursing himself for trusting Rob when seeing the shocked look all over her face. “What do you think about it?”

“I’d call it old news,” she started, heart thumbing in her chest, “but I wouldn’t mind being called more than your friend.”

“Old news, huh?” He laughed, recalling the conversation once more, laughing at the version of him who was too afraid to admit anything to even his closest friends. “Well, new headline: What about I call you mine from now on?” Winking at the end of her sentence and cringing at his own words, but it came to his head and at that moment he wasn’t afraid of saying anything anymore.

Doubling over in response and laughing at his attempt of flirting like they were strangers in a bar, she couldn’t help herself but lean forward. Closer to him.

As out of instinct, Eli wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her into his lap as he started laughing too. Holding her close and letting himself fall into the melody of her happiness. He couldn’t believe himself, but it worked better than he could’ve imagined. Because now, she was laying in his lap, looking up at him with the biggest smile he had ever seen directed towards him.

“I wouldn’t mind being yours,” she whispered, cradling his neck and pulling him down. Closer to her face, closer to her lips. Until they met and all fear was forgotten between them.

It was just them now, in an empty apartment late at night with the whole city asleep. Letting themself love the other uncontrollably for the first time in their lives. And neither planned on stopping anytime soon.

Definitely not when they pulled away and smiles spread on both their faces at just the other being so close. Her hands running through his hair, slightly tucking at the ends to make him notice her want for more. She wanted him and wanted her.

They were all they needed.

[hewsongf]

PERFECT STORM

pairing elijah hewson x fem! reader

trope established relationship

warnings pure fluff. nudity mentioned but not sexual

summary she gets caught in a storm and elijah helps her stay warm.

words 1.2k

Every part of her body was soaked. Her blouse had become see-through. Her skirt had become pounds heavier. Drops of water slid down her bare legs. Every time she walked, her Doc Martens squelched. Her socks were wet, and her feet were cold and pruny. She let out a shaky sigh as she walked up the stairs up to her apartment. Her soaked hair was in a clip that was digging into the back of her head.

He heard the sound of keys jangling. The door was unlocked. She came in and was already leaving a puddle of water on the wooden floor.

He chuckled. "What the fuck happened?" He asked, a bit amused but also concerned. He left his spot on the couch and walked over to her.

"I got caught in the rain. Didn't bring my umbrella."

"I told you to take an umbrella this morning."

"Yeah, whatever." She snapped. She dropped her bag on the floor. His mouth closed before making a snarky remark. She was obviously pretty annoyed. He watched her take off her boots.

"Come on." He said then took her hand and dragged her into the bathroom. He turned on the faucet of the tub. Temperature is pretty warm. "Sit." He commanded while motioning to the toilet cap. She did.

He pulled off her drenched socks. Then he unbuttoned her white blouse. He did everything tenderly. She kept staring at him. He looked tired. She knew he had been up very late writing. He took her bra off. Shame was no longer in the picture. He had seen her bare body many times. He wasn't even looking at her that way.

"You don't have to do this." She whispered to him. He finally looked her in the eyes as he pulled her up to take off her skirt. "I know." He replied, then unzipped her skirt. She felt warmth through her chest. That was in big contrast with the way her body felt. He always made her feel warm.

He helped her get out of her underwear. He also pulled her hair clip off and stuck his fingers through her scalp. He massaged her head, and she sighed. A moan escaped her, and he chuckled. Then he stuck the tips of his fingers in the water to check the temperature. It was a good type of warm now. He gave her a hand and helped her get in the tub. He caressed the top of her head.

"I'm going to go make you some tea. You're probably going to catch a cold." She was shivering slightly. Her nose was red, and she was sniffling. She nodded, and he stepped out of the bathroom.

He put the kettle on. He wasn't upset at her for snapping. Or the way she obviously was in a piss-poor mood. She tended to be a little moody. Whenever she ran out of patience or was annoyed at something, she was a bit intense. He never took it personal. It brought humor to him — which she hated. He usually got her to come around, though.

The kettle was taking forever. He heard the sound of the drain. Hopefully she was warmer now. She left the bathroom and went to their room. He messed with the settings of their stove. Increasing the heat. Her small frame came into the kitchen. Sweatpants, fuzzy socks, and a hoodie she stole from him on her body. He was leaning back on the counter facing her. She looked shy as she got closer. They didn't speak. She was ringing her hands. He grabbed one of her hands and pulled her into him. Her face nuzzled into his neck.

"Sorry, I snapped at you. She murmured into his skin. He scoffed, the sound vibrating through her body.

"That was nothing. It didn't bother me."

"Still. I don't like it when I'm mean to you."

"You're always mean. That's why I like you so much." He kissed her cheek, and she smiled. He looked down into her eyes lovingly. He could decipher anything she was feeling by looking at those gorgeous big green eyes of hers. "Are you warm? Your lips are still kind of blue."

"I'm good now." She nodded while looking up at him.

"Want me to warm them up?" He asked with a cheeky grin, and she chuckled. He pulled her in and placed his lips on hers. His lips were soft and warm against hers. She could taste the remnants of a cigarette in his mouth. He had probably had a smoke earlier. He cupped her face. Calloused hands against soft, cold cheeks. He slipped his tongue in her mouth, and she shivered. This time it wasn't from the cold. He tasted her. She was his favorite flavor. She hummed. His hands left her cheeks and settled them on her hips. Pulling her closer. He could do this forever. He ran his hands up her sides. The kettle whistled. It scared them both, and their lips separated with a smack.

"Shite." He cursed, then grabbed a handcloth and placed it over the handle. He poured the hot water into the two mugs. Her favorite mug. It read, 'Dibs on the lead singer.' His was a U2 mug with his dad's face plastered on it. It was a gag gift from her. He made both their teas how they liked it.

"Careful. It's hot." He warned before he passed the mug to her. She blew on the hot liquid. Smoke fanned her face. They moved to the couch and just sat there in comfort and silence. Elijah and her could always relax together. Especially when he's in vocal rest. She can tell what he wants without him even speaking.

He was being so sweet to her. It made her eyes burn. He wasn't looking at her, but she was looking at him. Sometimes when she looked at him, feelings would choke her. Sitting at her throat, waiting to be spilt. They had been dating for around 6 months. She hadn't said it yet. The word had always made her uncomfortable. She had warned him about it. He said it to her first. Sometimes he drops it in conversations.

Right now though. The words were at the tip of her tongue. Ready to stumble out.

"Eli..." She let out breathlessly. His head turned. He saw her expression. His brow raised in question. "What is it?"

"I..." She gulped. She didn't know why this was so difficult for her. She cursed. He sat up straight. He could tell her. He just knew. Taking a sip of his tea before speaking.

"You don't have to say it. I know."

"What?" Her mouth agape. Eyebrows furrowed. He couldn't possibly know what she was about to say.

"Oh, come on. Did you think I didn't know? I see it on your face every day." He chuckled at her face.

"See what on my face?"

"Love."

"Fuck off." She rolled her eyes. He laughed louder this time. She crawled towards him. He smirked at her.

"You're such a bloody eejit." She sat on his lap. A peck to her lips.

"That you love."

"Yeah, whatever, fucker. I love you." He smiled widely now. Almost giddy. His cheeks turned pink.

"Are you blushing?"

"Yeah, whatever. I love you more."

[kate-inthedarkness]

Could you do another angst with rob please? ❤️

Yeah! Ofc xxx

Hopefully you like it!!!

Every Breath You Take - Robert Keating

Robert Keating x fem!reader

Summary: Even though you and Robert are both in love with each other, there always seems to be something in the way of the two of you getting together. It’s only when it’s too late does Robert realise he has to say the words he’s always wanted to say…

Warnings: Angsty romance kinda stuff, mentions of sex but nothing graphic, best friends that are too stubborn to ever do anything about their feelings LOL.

It’s a late summer evening, the golden hour light spilling through the window of your favourite café. The air feels heavy, thick with the tension that’s always been between you and Robert—unspoken, and undeniable.

You haven’t seen him in months, not since the day he found out about your boyfriend, Luke, proposing to you. When Rob found out through a mutual friend, he didn’t say a word. He simply disappeared. Not physically, but emotionally—closing himself off like he always did when things felt too real. When the words lingered just beneath the surface, but neither of you could ever quite say them.

Luke had always been the safe choice. Steady, predictable. You loved him, of course. And you had the engagement ring to show for it.

The big diamond ring on your finger was a reminder of how you were supposed to move forward, building a life together. But there was always something about your best friend, Robert. Something that felt like a piece of you was always missing when he wasn’t around.

And yet, here you were. Alone in a café, waiting for him.

The bell above the door jingles, and you glance up. There he is—Robert Keating himself. He hasn’t changed much since you last saw him, but there’s a weight in his eyes today that wasn’t there before. A knowing, something raw.

He hasn’t said a word yet, but you can already feel the conversation coming. You know what he’s here to say, and somehow, you’re not ready to hear it.

“Hey,” he says, sliding into the chair across from you.

“Hey.” You offer him a small smile, trying to mask the sudden knot in your stomach. You never could get rid of the way he made you feel. It was always this push and pull. You two had always been best friends, but there was something deeper that never had a chance to grow.

“You look…good,” he says, his gaze flickering to the engagement on your ring finger that glistened brightly when the sun hit it.

You swallow, trying to steady yourself. “Thanks, Rob.”

A long pause settles between you, and you can feel the weight of his words hanging in the air. This was the moment. The one you’d always known would come, but never expected to feel so real.

“You didn’t tell me,” Robert says, his voice barely above a whisper, yet it feels like thunder in your chest. “About Luke proposing. I found out through Sam for fuck sake. You’re my best friend, why would you do that?”

You bite your lip, looking away for a moment. The silence stretches on, suffocating. You had hoped he wouldn’t bring up this part. You thought maybe, just maybe, your past mistakes would stay buried.

“I…I didn’t know how,” you finally manage, though it feels like an excuse. “It all happened so fast. We’re happy, Rob. I’m happy.”

“I know you’re happy. And I’m happy for you, I really am,” he says, but there’s a faint bitterness in his voice that makes your stomach twist. “I just…I wish you would’ve told me. I mean, we’ve been through so much together. I thought I deserved to know.”

The words sting, more than you anticipated. It’s not like you didn’t want to tell him—it’s just that the moment never felt right. Maybe, deep down, you feared his reaction. Or maybe, you feared that he’d see right through you, see how much you’d been trying to bury what you truly felt for him after all this time.

“I swear to god I didn’t know how to bring it up, Rob,” you admit, feeling your heart race. “I didn’t want to hurt you.”

He leans back in his chair, his hand running through his hair in that familiar way that always used to drive you crazy. The way he always did when he was thinking, or more when he was overthinking.

“You’ve never hurt me, not in the way you think,” he mutters, voice almost too soft. “It’s just…watching you move on, knowing I’ve always been here, feeling like I’ve never had a chance to say what I should’ve said before. It’s been killing me, y’know?”

His words hit harder than anything you expected, and the realisation crashes over you; this isn’t just about the proposal. This is about everything—the past, the present, the what-could-have-beens.

“You should’ve said something sooner,” you say, your voice quieter now, more vulnerable than you meant it to be. “You and I…we always had this thing, Rob. You know that, right? What happened between us years ago, might’ve been just sex to you at the time, but it wasn’t just sex to me, I fell in love with you.”

When you two were teens, you were fully best friends with benefits. It just happened one night at a house party, and then it never stopped. The two of you thought it wouldn’t hurt to fool around, but in the end, the both of you were broken and never really the same.

“But then things got messy. I met Luke, and we stopped messing around, and our relationship changed. I didn’t know what to think when we started drifting. You were never around when I needed you. So because of that I never knew how to bring up my relationship with Luke, never mind our engagement! So I just…let it go.”

“I know,” he responds, his gaze steady now. “I’m sorry. I thought if I stayed away, it would be easier for you, for both of us. But I was wrong, I know that now.”

You take a deep breath, the weight of it all hanging between you. A thousand memories flood your mind—the late-night talks, the stolen kisses, the times we’re you’d sneak out to his car and go between talking and fucking for hours, the times you used to laugh together, not thinking about anything but each other.

And Luke…the guy who had always been safe, always steady, but never this. Never the intensity that you shared with Rob.

“I don’t know what to do with all this, Rob,” you say, a shaky exhale escaping your lips. “I love Luke, but…God, I’ve never been able to shake the way you me feel. I never could. But I also couldn’t wait around for you to get your shit together and be with me. I had to move on.”

Rob’s gaze softens, his hand reaching across the table, fingers brushing against yours. It’s a touch that feels so familiar, but at the same time, too much. Too raw. The air between you two seems to crackle with something unspoken, something both terrifying and beautiful.

“I know, love. I know. You don’t have to think about me, or Luke, or anything right now,” he says, his voice cracking a little bit with emotion. “I just…I had to tell you how I feel. I couldn’t keep pretending like I’m okay with just being your best friend. Not when I’m in love with you.”

You thought you physically felt your heart and soul leave your body. His words echo in your mind, but you’re too afraid to say the same thing back to him out loud.

The realisation hits you, sharp and painful. You had always known, or at least you think you knew. Deep down, you had always know what was between you, but fear, timing, and life had always kept you from facing it. Now, it’s all on the table, and you have to make a choice.

Or at least think about making a choice.

“I don’t want to hurt you, Rob. I can’t hurt you. It’d kill me,” you murmur, looking down at the table, the weight of his confession pressing down on you. “But I also don’t want to keep pretending this doesn’t matter.”

Rob exhales slowly, his thumb gently tracing the back of your hand. “I know. I never wanted to put you in that position. But I also don’t want to keep pretending that everything’s okay when it’s not. We can’t go on like this, acting like it’s just friendship.”

You raise your eyes to meet his. His face is unreadable, a mix of vulnerability and resolve. But in his eyes, you see it—the same thing you’ve always seen; raw, unfiltered love. The kind of love that’s always been there, lurking beneath the surface.

You hesitate, heart racing, as you think about everything you’ve built with Luke. But the truth is, you’ve never been able to stop thinking about Rob. Not really. Not in the way you think about Luke, who feels like a safe and predictable future.

With Rob, it’s always been about the intensity, the passion, the unspoken connection that runs deeper than anything else you’ve ever experienced.

“I don’t know what to do,” you whisper, feeling tears welling up in your eyes. “I don’t want to lose Luke, but…I don’t know if I can keep ignoring how I feel about you. I never could.”

A gentle smile tugs at Rob’s lips, but it’s bittersweet. “You don’t have to make any decisions now. We’ve got time. Just…don’t forget that I’ve always been here. And I always will be. Even if I’m not the one you choose, I’m still your best friend, and you’re still mine. That won’t ever change.”

The words linger in the air, hanging between you both like a promise. Whatever happens next, you know you can’t go back. You’re standing at a crossroads, but for the first time, you’re not afraid to face it.

As you said your goodbyes and when your separate ways, you slipped on your headphones to keep you company as you walked to the bus stop.

You pressed shuffle play on the playlist you and Rob made with each other a few years ago, in your teenage years.

The song “Every Breath You Take” by The Police started playing, and in that moment you knew what your decision was.

It was Rob.

It always was Rob.

[storiesabouteli]

Masterlist (InhalerFics)

1. Heartplace (Eli X Reader!) - About how you handle a light argument, where Eli said things he's truly sorry for and wants to apologize.

2. There He Was (Eli X Reader!) - Just a short fic about u2 (i'm sorry lol) realizing they're in love after you've had a bad date.

3. Amid Cares (Eli X Reader!) - You are sick (kidney crisis) and Eli stays with you! Dealing with the fact that you're used to not needing anyone, and Eli will have to handle that.

4. Romance (Vampire Eli X fem!Reader!) // Part1 // - Eli is a vampire who falls in love with a human. The story explores the passage of time and the challenge of maintaining a relationship between two very different beings. It’s a guide on how to date a vampire/human while seeking a place of comfort in someone—and all the complexity that this longing brings.

5. Acne Cares (Eli X Reader!) - requests: I was thinking maybe you could write one where the reader struggles with acne and Eli makes her feel not insecure?

6. BitterSweet (Eli X Reader!) - requests: (1) pre-relationship!eli with an incrediblyyy oblivious and socially awkward girl that kinda avoided him bc he’s very charismatic and lowkey a fuckboy so she think he’s fucking with her and eli is tryna pursue her and making it obvious that he takes her really seriously + (2) i was just wondering if you could write an imagine where eli helps the reader with her anxiety / through an anxiety attack or something similar?

7. Sugar Hits (Eli X Reader!) - requests: Rader supporting Eli at a concert or something. Like, he's nervous about playing the new songs (your house, eddie in the Darkness) because he doesn’t know if the fans will like them and reader just comforts him before and after the show.

[triptuckers]

I'll chain myself to your soul - robert keating x reader

Request: nope Pairing: robert keating (bobby skeetz) x art student!reader Summary: bobby thinks you're too busy to visit him on tour and he's trying not to let it show how upset he is about it Warnings: swearing (ofc), bobby being upset :(, smoking (the band & reader), mentions of sexual themes but nothing actually happens, uhhh mentions of hickeys?? mentions of alcohol. other than that nothing but my undying love for bobby Word count: 5.1K (I got a little carried away...) A/N: inhaler is the only thing on my mind these days what was I supposed to do? not write about them? also keep in mind I know quite literally nothing about them just that they're irish and make banger music. (and bobby is a LOVERBOY. fight me on this) enjoy!

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'you really can't make it?'

bobby's voice pulls you from your concentration. you look up from your sketchbook at him. it's the day before he has to leave for tour, and the two of you decided to relax rather than plan a bunch of activities.

'yeah, sorry, love.' you say.

he walks over to you and sits down next to you, resting his head on your shoulder.

'that's really nice.' he says, looking at your sketchbook.

'you think so? they're just warmups.'

'you say that every time you make something that looks fucking amazing.'

you chuckle at his words, turning your head slightly so you can kiss his forehead.

bobby is silent as he watches you draw. they really were just warmups. you were sketching the empty plates that were on the table, you hadn't cleaned up after dinner yet. there was a bigger piece you needed to work on. and from experience, you knew you'd get less frustrated if you warmed up before you started with that.

next to you, bobby mumbles something you can't quite hear, his breath tickling the exposed skin of your neck.

'what was that?' you say.

'I'm gonna miss this.'

'watching me draw?'

'yeah. you. and us.'

you put your pencil down and turn, taking bobby's face in both of your hands.

'we've talked about this, my love. we'll call and text, like we did the last tour. you'll play with the guys and have an excellent time. and I'll be waiting for you at the airport when you get back.'

bobby smiles at you but his eyes are still a bit sad. 'I know. you won't get rid of me that easily. but calling isn't the same and you know it.'

it was breaking your heart, seeing him like this. knowing you had a flight booked. but it would be so worth it in a few weeks. you just had to pretend for a little while longer. and hope everyone else would keep their mouth shut about it.

you lean in and softly kiss his cheek.

'want to watch a movie? I can always work on this later. and you'll be leaving tomorrow, so we'd better make the most out of these last few hours together.'

bobby's eyes light up. you knew it would do the trick. he loves cuddling with you. and a movie is the perfect excuse to do so.

while he picks a movie from the pile of dvd's you own, you change into a more comfortable outfit. it's a bit hard to navigate your way back to the couch. being an art student and living in a tiny flat isn't the best combination; there's piles of sketchbooks and art supplies everywhere.

and it doesn't help bobby decided to stay with you until he needed to go to the airport, so his bags are also added to it all.

while trying to get to the couch, you trip over one of your own bags and nearly face plant onto the floor, if it wasn't for bobby.

he's s quick to catch you, his hands on your hips to steady you. you smile gratefully at him. as you settle on the couch, you look at the tv to see which movie he picked.

when the familiar intro starts, you narrow your eyes as you look at your boyfriend.

'did you purposely pick one of my favourites?' you say.

bobby shrugs. 'I don't know what you're talking about. I fucking love legally blonde.'

you laugh at his response and cuddle closer to him.

as you watch the movie, you can tell bobby's not really paying attention to it. his fingers are lazily drawing patters on your leg, and he keeps pulling you closer.

you don't mind. you've seen the movie a thousand times, and you'd much rather focus on bobby.

when the movie ends, it's getting late. you're very comfortable on the couch in bobby's arms, but you know he has an early flight tomorrow. so instead of snuggling closer to him, like you normally would, you move to get up.

bobby makes a noise of protest, grabbing your wrist and pulling you back down on the couch.

'bobby.' you laugh. 'you have an early flight tomorrow. come on, we can cuddle in bed.'

you watch as he thinks it over, seems to agree with it in his head, and then nudges you to get up again. the second you stand up and walk towards the bedroom, you feel bobby taking your hand and interlacing his fingers with yours.

he always did get more of a lovesick puppy when he knew had to leave for longer periods of time. not that you minded. but it was getting harder and harder to keep this secret, knowing how upset bobby was about not seeing you for so long. if only he knew.

while the two of you get ready for bed, you notice how bobby is constantly touching you. a hand on your waist, leaning against your side, fingers skimming your lower back as he walks past you to reach for something.

he even sits on the edge of the sink as you finish your skincare for the night. only when you put all of your products away and bobby knows you'll follow him, does he go into your bedroom.

even though neither of you didn't really do anything tiresome that day, you're quick to fall asleep. maybe it's the fact you know your alarm is set for very, very early. or maybe it's just the fact you always sleep better when bobby's next to you.

it feels like only a couple of hours later, when the sound of your alarm wakes you. you roll over - as much as you can, with bobby laying practically on top of you - and hit the snooze button.

you're very comfortable, wrapped up in bobby's arms. but after snoozing your alarm for a third time, you really have to get up.

'bobby.' you say softly, nudging him. 'we gotta get up.'

'five more minutes.' he mumbles.

'we already had five more minutes half an hour ago. we really have to get up, or you'll be late.' you say.

bobby sighs, opening his eyes. you smile at him, leaning in to softly kiss him.

'horrible fucking morning breath, love.' he says as he frowns and pulls away.

you let out an offended noise and move away from him, but bobby reaches out and pulls you back. he smiles at you before kissing you again.

'you're lucky I like you.' he says. 'even when your breath stinks.'

'fuck off. as a punishment, you're the one who has to make us both breakfast now.' you say.

'oh no, what a horrible thing to do.' says bobby sarcastically.

'come on, get up. for real.' you say, pushing him towards the end of the bed.

bobby moves back to you yet again, but you're quicker. you reach out and press your cold feet against his bare legs.

'fuck, love!' he exclaims. 'mean.'

'necessary.'

'you love tormenting me, don't you?'

'it's what made you fall in love with me.'

bobby smiles, steals another quick kiss, before going into the kitchen to finally make you breakfast.

like every time one of you has to leave early, time seems to go by twice as fast as usual. before you know it, bobby's bags and suitcase have been loaded into your tiny car and you're off to meet the others at the airport.

once you've unloaded all of the bags, you say hi to the others. they're all buzzing about tour and you're glad to see bobby is excited as well. he was pretty quiet throughout the drive, and you knew it was because he was in his head thinking about being away from you.

haley, eli's girlfriend, walks up to you.

'hi!' you say.

'hey you!' she says, hugging you tight.

'how are you doing?'

'good! excited about joining them for tour.'

the two of you look at the guys messing around, their happiness is infectious.

'bobby looks happy.' says haley.

'he does now, but he's been so upset about leaving.' you say. 'I felt awful lying to him for so long.'

'well, you're not in the clear yet. just a little while longer.'

'I know, I know. wish time would go faster though. and you all better keep your mouth shut about this, or all my lying and hiding my plane ticket would have been all for nothing.'

haley pretends to zip up her mouth and throws away the imaginary key, making you laugh. at the same moment, eli walks up to you.

'are you all ready, darling?' he says to haley. 'we have to board the plane soon and still need to get through security.'

'all ready! let's get this show on the road.' she says, winking at you.

the two of them join the others just as bobby approaches you. he smiles at you, but you can tell he's still sad. you reach out and wrap your arms around his waist, looking up at him and smiling brightly.

'you're gonna have the best time.' you say.

bobby nods and pulls you in for a hug, burying his face in your neck.

'I'm gonna miss you.' you say softly.

you pull back slightly so you can look him in the eye. 'call me when you land, okay?'

'I will. send me some of your sketches, yeah?'

you nod, then pull him in for a soft kiss. you press your forehead against his when you break apart.

'I love you.' you say softly.

'love you too, darling. so fucking much.' he says.

'oi!'

you look over bobby's shoulder, glaring at eli for ruining the sweet moment you were having with your boyfriend.

'come on, loverboy, we can't tour without a bassist.' says eli.

bobby rolls his eyes as you chuckle at eli's words.

'you heard him, loverboy.' you say.

bobby's eyes snap up to your face. 'don't ever fucking call me that.'

you laugh and pull him in for another kiss.

'go get 'em, love.' you say. 'have fun out there.'

'I'll call you the second we land.' bobby promises, kissing you one last time before joining the others.

you wave until you can't see them anymore. then you start to head back to your car to drive home.

even though you knew you'd see bobby again soon, it's hard. your flat isn't that big, but it sure can feel enormous when bobby isn't in it.

and even though you knew you'd see him again soon, time goes by painfully slow.

you didn't lie about everything to bobby, you do have classes. just not nearly as much has he thinks, and it was hard not to call when you were "in class".

once assessment days have passed and the new project is assigned, you're getting closer and closer to seeing bobby again. the current assignment you're working on is simply filling a sketchbook with a consistent theme, experimenting with different techniques and materials.

and if you happened to fill every page of the sketchbook with illustrations of bobby, they really couldn't disapprove. not if "traveling with my rockstar boyfriend" was your theme. and, you told yourself, surely your teachers would understand if it required you to study your subject up close, right? no big deal.

as you're sitting in your last class of the week, you're practically counting down the seconds until it's over. after this class, you'd finally travel to see bobby.

they've been touring for about two weeks now, even though it feels like eternity. of course, you'd called and texted with bobby whenever you could. the more time he spent on the road, the more he talked about tour. you loved to see him like that, the way his eyes sparkled when he told you about the most recent show they played.

you're so caught up in your thoughts, you nearly miss it when your teacher dismisses you all. a smile forms on your face as you quickly shove everything in your bag, then head to the door while waving at your friends.

you send bobby a text, saying class is over and you would love to call, but you had back to back meetings about some project. which was, again, a total lie. you had a flight booked and you needed to get to the airport as fast as possible.

the trip home takes half as much time as usually, and since you'd already packed your suitcase, all you have to do is pack a few things you still needed that morning. you throw on a different sweater to be more comfortable, text haley your updated schedule, and you're off.

you really love haley. she's become your best friend ever since you started hanging out with the guys. she's been with eli for ages, and taught you some very good strategies to keep the media coverage to a minimum when you're going out with bobby.

and it's nice to share with her what it's like when your boyfriend is a rockstar traveling the world, and you're a student. even though you and haley do very different studies - she's an english culture and literature major - you often get together for study dates, even when bobby and eli aren't on tour.

once you arrive at the airport, you get hit with a wave of deja vu. only two weeks ago, you were here saying goodbye to bobby. now you're about to board a flight that takes you straight to him.

you're an exciting mess while waiting for your plane. you really missed bobby whenever he was away. especially given you always struggle to fall asleep on your own, ever since you and bobby started spending more and more time with each other.

while the trip to the airport and the waiting at the gate takes forever, the fight itself seems to go by in a blink. you tried to pass the time by sketching in your sketchbook, but you're too excited about seeing bobby again.

as you wait for your suitcase to arrive at the baggage claim, you text haley. she tells you she's already waiting at the park and ride, and she assures you bobby doesn't suspect a thing. she also made sure the others kept their mouth shut about it. and she updates you on what she and eli have been up to in between shows. haley also hints about something she simply cannot tell you over the phone, which makes you excited to see her.

after waiting nearly twenty minutes on your suitcase, you finally spot the bright yellow suitcase you'd covered in stickers. you pull it out - which doesn't go as smoothly as you'd hoped - and follow the signs to the park and ride.

when you get outside, you quickly scan the parked cars. then you spot a familiar brunette in a white coat and a dark blue scarf. just as haley spots you, she waves excitedly at you with both of her hands, rushing to meet you.

'hi!' you squeal, hugging her.

'hi!' she says. 'how was your flight?'

'longer than it should be. I'm so ready to see bobby.' you say.

'come on, they're dying to see you!' says haley, pulling you towards the car.

'whose car is this?' you ask, as you put your suitcase in the back.

haley shrugs. 'someone from the crew. don't worry, I asked nicely.'

the two of you get in the car, taking off your coats and scarves. you pull out your phone to shoot bobby a quick text about the imaginary class you had today, telling him you'd call after you'd run some errands. as usually, he instantly replies, telling you he can't wait for your call. as haley pulls out of the park and ride, the radio starts playing some old 80's rock song.

you look at haley to ask her how long the drive to the venue will take, but you're distracted.

'haley.' you say. 'what's that in your neck?'

immediately, her hand flies to her neck, covering the very obvious trail of hickeys there.

'fuck!' she says. 'my concealer must have worn off.'

you watch as she flicks open the mirror above her to study the bruises on her neck.

'is this what you couldn't tell me over the phone? haley, the amount of weird and also very explicit shit we've texted each other, and you couldn't text me eli basically assaulted your neck?' you laugh.

'no, that's not what I was going to tell you.' she says. 'well, it's part of it. but not the big thing I was going to tell you.'

'we're calling it a big thing now?'

'yes. the hickeys, well, I got those after I said yes to eli asking me if I want to move in with him when we get back from tour.'

'haley! shut the fuck up!' you say, grabbing her arm.

'watch out, I'm fucking driving!'

'sorry, sorry!' you quickly let go of her arm. 'haley! that's huge!'

'I know right! he asked me after the paris show. I mean, it was so fucking cliché he asked me in paris.'

'don't act like you didn't love it.'

'of course I did! remember that conversation we had about if the bunks on the new bus would fit two people? well, they do. not super comfortably, but it helps eli isn't that tall. with you and bobby though, it might be a tight squeeze.'

'oh no, we'll fit in there.'

haley looks at you, eyebrows raised.

'what? I've been on tour before, did you think I'd sleep in a different bunk?'

the two of you spend the next twenty minutes chatting non-stop. catching each other up on everything you didn't text, and going over everything you did text each other once more. you'd never run out of things to talk about with haley.

before you know it, you arrive at the venue. haley calls eli to ask him where they are. he makes a big deal out of explicitly asking her how the stores she checked out were - what you assume was the cover story they told bobby to explain why haley would drive off.

after confirming they're outside by the busses having a smoke, you get out of the car and follow haley as she leads you towards them.

'you nervous?' she asks you.

'more nervous in an excited way, you know? even though it's only been two weeks.' you say.

'you and I both know two weeks can feel like an eternity.' she says.

you spot the busses in the distance and a smile forms on your face when you hear eli's laughter. you push haley to go first, so it wouldn't give you away immediately.

when you hear the guys greet her, you wait a few seconds to follow her.

ryan is the first to see you, smiling at you but keeping his reaction very subtle, so it's not obvious right away. he nudges josh, who also smiles at you.

haley says something to eli, who turns around to catch your eye.

and then, finally, bobby spots you.

'oh shit.'

in a matter of seconds, he's dropped his cigarette and made his way over to you. bobby wraps his arms around you and lifts you off of your feet.

you laugh into his neck, inhaling his familiar scent mixed with cigarette smoke.

when bobby puts you down, he's got a huge smile on his face. you smile back at him just as he leans down to kiss you.

after not seeing him for a while, it's the best feeling ever. you shuffle your feet closer, wanting to be even more near him. bobby is all too happy to return the favour, pulling you closer. you're so caught up in this, in him, you don't even register haley and the guys whistling at you and cheering you on.

bobby pulls away and you instantly miss the feeling of his lips on yours.

'you're supposed to be in class.' he says. 'what the fuck are you doing here?'

you laugh, pressing a quick kiss to his jaw. 'I might have lied about that.'

'what about your project? that new assignment?'

'I didn't totally lie about that, I just decided to pick you as my subject.'

bobby smiles at you. 'I really fucking love you, you know that right?' he says.

'yeah, I know it. I love you too.' you say.

'oh, I know you do. otherwise you wouldn't have flown across europe to surprise me.'

'is it a good surprise?'

'the fucking best, love.'

bobby kisses you once more before finally allowing the others to say their hellos.

after a lot of smiles and hugs, you catch up with them while sharing a cigarette. you can feel bobby's hand on your waist the entire time, and you revel in the feeling of it.

way too soon, the guys have to go inside again to start prepping for the show tonight. haley catches you up on all the things that happened while you weren't there, and the two of you watch the soundcheck.

knowing you wouldn't be of much help right before the show, you decided to already head to your spot early with haley. but not before saying good luck to bobby, of course.

he smiles as he walks up to you. you can't help but to check him out from head to toe. you always loved seeing him in his stage outfit right before a show.

'like what you see?' says bobby, leaning in to kiss your cheek.

'very much.' you say, looking up at him. 'are you free tonight?'

bobby chuckles at your words. 'trying to pick me up, are you?'

you shrug. 'figured I could try.'

'I'm flattered, but I have a girlfriend.'

'really? she's a lucky girl.'

bobby laughs softly and kisses you.

'we were thinking of all going out for drinks after the show. if you're not too tired after your flight.' he says.

'sleep can wait. I just want to spend as time with you as much as I can.'

'drinks it is then.'

'I'm gonna head to the balcony with haley, make sure we're not in the way or anything.' you say.

'get a good view.' says bobby, winking at you.

'I always have a good view when I'm looking at you.' you say. you lean in and kiss him softly. 'have fun tonight, I'll come find you after the show.'

with one final kiss, you leave bobby to prepare for the show with the boys, finding haley.

the two of you head up to the balcony that's reserved for friends and family. a few of the crew members are there as well. you chat with haley while waiting for the show to begin.

it's a lot of fun watching everyone enter the venue. the support act is very nice and you're pleased to see the crowd loves it as well. and then it's finally time for inhaler to take the stage.

no matter how many of their shows you see, and no matter if you're backstage, in the crowd or up on the balcony like tonight, it's always amazing.

you love watching bobby on stage. his eyes are hidden behind a pair of sunglasses, but you can feel his eyes on you during the show.

you and haley dance and sing your heart out, and a couple of minutes before the show ends, you make your way backstage. you're watching them from afar, putting their last bit of energy in the end of the set.

as much as you love watching the show, nothing beats the sight of a sweaty, smiley bobby running up to you and wrapping you up in a big hug. you don't care that the sweat makes his hair stick to the skin of your neck, you just pull him close.

'you did so good! hell of a fucking show!' you say.

bobby just smiles at you and leans in to kiss you hard, his hands on your waist to steady you. you laugh as he kisses your cheek and hugs you again.

'we'll clean up and get changed, then we're going to find a pub, yeah?' he says.

'sounds good to me. I'll go outside to have a smoke.' you say.

bobby presses another quick kiss to your lips, then he takes off after the others.

haley walks up to you just as you head to the backdoor. you pull out a cigarette and smirk as she comes closer.

'the sweat has washed your concealer off.' you say, opening the door and welcoming the cool evening air.

'fucking hell.' you hear haley say behind you.

you light your cigarette as you watch haley pull out her concealer and her phone to hide the hickeys under a new layer of makeup.

'they're really on fucking fire with this tour aren't they?' you say, taking a drag from your cigarette.

'yeah, they are. they feel really good about it as well.' says haley.

'it'll definitely be one to remember.' you say. 'bobby said they'd clean up and get changed, then we're going to the pub.'

haley looks at you. 'you guys aren't staying behind?'

'no? why would we?'

'because you haven't seen him in over two weeks. and I know you. you two are obsessed with each other.'

'obsessed is a big word. in love? definitely. wildly. but I wouldn't say obsessed.'

'I saw the way you looked at him when he came off stage after the show.'

'and?'

'girl! you looked like you'd climb him like a tree right there and then!'

you laugh out loud, doubling over and clutching your stomach. haley takes the cigarette from you so you don't burn the ends of your hair (which - yes - has happened before).

when you can finally breathe normally again, she hands your cigarette back to you.

'okay, you've got a point there.' you say. 'but it's not just bobby I haven't seen in two weeks. it's all of you as well.'

'okay, okay, fair enough. I get it.' says haley.

you take another drag of your cigarette as the door behind haley opens, and the guys pile out into the night.

'told you.' says eli, kissing haley hello, and then lighting his own cigarette.

'hi love.' you say as bobby approaches you.

'hey.' he says, plucking the cigarette from your lips. 'you two ready to go?'

'yep! let's go.' you say, your eyes lingering on bobby as he takes a long drag from your cigarette. 'you can finish that one.'

bobby winks at you. this man knows you love watching him smoke.

you all start to head to the pub, talking about the show. just as you'd expected, they're all still on a high. it really had been a good show.

five of you squeeze into a corner booth while josh heads to the bar to order the first round of drinks. bobby slides into the booth after you. you know the booth isn't that big, but it isn't necessary for bobby to sit that close to you.

but you'd missed him so much, you lean into him as you say something to haley, who is sitting on the other side of the table.

time flies while you're all laughing and talking the night away. just as ryan sets down his beer, eli looks at bobby and nudges his head to the door.

'wanna go for a smoke?' he says.

bobby nods and pulls out his cigarettes, handing you one.

'I'll come as well.' says haley.

the four of you climb out of the booth, and josh and ryan follow. they'd find a different booth when they come back in.

it's colder outside than when you got the pub, and you pull your coat tighter around you. bobby notices, and wraps an arm around you. while pulling you closer to him, he takes out his lighter.

you want to get out your lighter as well, but instead of his own, bobby lights your cigarette first. you swear you can feel haley smirk at you from where she's standing next to eli.

ryan is talking about another pub that someone recommended, but all you can focus on is bobby's hand on your lower back. which is slowly but surely sliding lower and lower.

you shoot him a warning look, focusing on ryan's words.

just as ryan suggests going to check out the other pub, bobby leans closer to you.

'we've entertained them for long enough, don't you think?' he says in a low voice. 'and I know for a fact my bunk fits both of us. come on, I'm dying here, love.'

'robert.' you say, catching his hand and pushing it upwards. you would not wake up to paparazzi photos of bobby's hand on your ass. 'it's rude to just leave.'

'come on, it's better for everyone. this way we don't have to worry about anyone hearing us.'

'bobby!'

'what? it's not my fault you can never keep your mouth shut.'

'I would argue that it partly is your fault.'

'wanna test it out?'

'you're insufferable.'

'you're the one who couldn't keep your eyes off of me the entire show.'

'well you-'

'you two are not being as quiet as you think you are.' says haley.

you look over, noticing everyone is watching you.

'and I'm not just saying that about this conversation.' she says.

your jaw drops as everyone else chuckles. you look over at bobby, who was laughing as well. you elbow him in the ribs.

'sorry for exposing you but someone had to say it.' says haley.

'talking about exposing, your concealer has worn off again.' you say with a smirk.

haley's hand flies up to her neck as eli's eyes widen. he takes off his blue zip-up sweater and hands it to haley so she can wear it.

everyone is looking between you and haley. but when the two of you start laughing, they seems to decide it's all good.

'you two go on back to the venue.' says haley to you and bobby. 'we'll party on without you.'

you smile at your best fiend. 'if you-'

'okay, thanks, bye.'

before you can say anything else, bobby has already grabbed your hand and started walking away.

'bye!' you yell over your shoulder at the others as they cheer you on. you laugh at your friends. you really do love them. even if they tease you and bobby endlessly.

you struggle to keep up with bobby's long legs, but you don't want to slow down either. and maybe the others were right, and it's better if you have the bus to yourselves. you really missed bobby and you know he missed you too. you're not sure you could stay quiet even if you tried.

A/N: thanks for reading! everything that I have written can be found on my masterlist. please do not copy, translate, plagiarise or repost my work! some of these are requested by other people and I spend a lot of time and effort on my works <3 much love, marit

[starkwlkr]

stutter | robert keating

an: as promised, here’s some inhaler fics because I’m seeing them this year :)

neeson!reader

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yourusername ny, i am back and i have missed you. here’s some pics from the past few days and an oldie of my lovely parents that i found recently ❤️

gallagher_anais come back to me

yourusername i’m counting down the days until i see your beautiful face again

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GRAHAM NORTON SHOW

“I’m aware you don’t have social media, but your daughters love life went viral because of you.” Graham told Liam Neeson. The crowd laughed at how Graham phrased it. “Can you tell the people who don’t have a clue what I’m talking about?”

Liam chuckled and nodded. He liked telling the story a little too much. “So my daughter tells me she’s seeing this boy and like any parent, I tell her I’d like to meet him and get to know him but she tells me ‘da, please don’t intimidate him he’s really nervous about meeting you.’ and that’s exactly what i did.”

The crowd along with Graham started laughing. “Anyways, we have lunch together and the entire time the boy is stuttering and I could tell he wanted the lunch to be over. Towards the end, my daughter gets up to leave and take a call so it’s just Robert and me. I obviously take the opportunity to make sure he’s the right person for my girl.” Liam explained.

“You didn’t threaten the boy, did you?” Helen Mirren, who was the other guest, asked.

“Well . . . I wanted to make sure he understood.”

“Liam!” Helen punched his arm.

“No, I didn’t. I could tell he was the right one for my girl. He’s part of the family now and when I can, we all go to see his band perform. They’re great lads, very talented.” Liam smiled.

“So no more threatening?”

Liam smiled innocently. “I mean you never know.”

[divainecstasy]

Free Now (R.K)

Summary: "It's a pain that I caught you at a bad time. It's a shame that I memorized your outline." - Free Now by Gracie Abrams

Word Count: 725

Warnings: Angst. (I'm sorry...)

Author's note: I haven't written in a while so don't expect too much... I just saw that there was a severe lack in Inhaler content, so here I am! Would love to hear feedback - my asks are also open for requests. :)

The flickering headlights were the only thing illuminating the dark alleyway. Her body trembled with the freezing breeze as she roughly grasped at her leather jacket, the buzzing of life softly heard from the venue inside. Two silhouettes huddled together, hushed whispering filling the quiet space.

“Bobby?” she called out into the night.

His head turned to look at her, his features faced with the harsh light emitting from the lamppost. The other figure stepped away swiftly, their head bowed down in shame.

“Love?” he asked in return, his face presenting a look of shock, a deer caught in headlights one could say.

“Uh – I was looking for you… Couldn’t find you in the green room, the boys said you were out here.” she explained with a soft murmur.

“Who’s this?” she quickly added on with a dry, awkward laugh, her nails digging into the crumbling leather.

“Oh, it’s Maya. She – uh – wanted to see us perform the new songs tonight.” he quickly spilled out as the other figure stepped into the light, a small yet forced smile on her cherry lips and a soft wave of the hand greeting her.

“Oh, hi!”

“Hi… Uhm, I’ll be heading back in then – quite cold out. See you later, Rob.” she mumbled before turning around and walking back into the small venue, not letting either of the two get in another word.

“Wait –“ was the last thing she heard before the doors shut with a loud thump.

The next thing she felt was a hand gripping her wrist and the doors flying open yet again, desperate eyes gleaming at her.

“You know it isn’t like that, I would never.”

The words rushed out like water, loud yet fuzzy amid the echoing instrumentals of the opening act.

“I know, Bobby.” she responded with a sad grin and deep-set brows.

“I know that you’re removed. I can feel it when we talk…” she mumbled.

In response, he just sighed. His face now pained, a deep frown etched into his features as he knew she was telling the truth. They had started this way too early, too fast. He knew he was far away from healing and even further from letting anyone in, Maya’s voice haunting him even months after.

“I’m sorry. I wasn’t ready and we both knew it. I guess we were going along with it – playing those parts. I just hope you aren’t mad or hurt – that’s the last thing I’d want.” he spoke out, ending it with a dry chuckle as his eyes shimmered in the light of the empty hallway.

“I don’t think you’re a bad guy, Bobby. It’s a pain that I caught you at a bad time. It’s a shame that I memorized your outline… You were always straight up with me, so kind. But I knew what you knew – great minds I guess.” she spoke, a tear slid down her cheek as she laughed tearfully, the façade slowly crackling.

His hand reached up to cup her jaw, his palm warm yet rough against the surface as he slid it along the apple of her cheek, streaking the tear along. He smiled regretfully at the beginning of the end.

“God, I hate that this is how it ends.” he chuckled, sniffling softly.

“I hope you find somewhere safe for your baggage, Rob – I truly do. If you find yourself out one day – if there is a right time – chances are I’ll be here. But I finally know better than to wait for you back here.” she admitted with a pained smile before embracing him in a desperate hug, her face pressed into the collar of his jacket as she smelled his scent for what might be the last time.

“Have a good gig, Bobby. See you around, maybe.” she murmured into his neck, her hands gripping the back of his jacket. His own arms hopelessly clutching around her, his sniffling and a sheepish nod the only response.

And with that, she pulled away and turned around – for the last time now. The only thing he was left with was the jarring noise of closing doors and the coldness of the night entering the hallway, resembling the bitter sting of the ring on his pinky finger – more noticeable than ever before, the small engraving mocking him.

“Rob! Stage in 5!”

Well, fuck.

[killersfool]

Medicine | RYAN MCMAHON

PAIRING: ryan mcmahon x original f!character

GENRE: romantic tension

SUMMARY: ryan - after the collapse of 'inhaler' and first year at TCD - is entering his second year of med school and meets a strange fresher who he desperately wants to get to know

WORDS: 5.5k

WARNINGS: swearing, alcohol use, smoking

Trinity college Dublin was not at all how Ryan expected. The first week's workload was like a punch in the stomach compared to his work last year. First year had been a nightmare, truly, but second year was on a whole other level. He had this sneaking feeling that the medicine course would go easy on him, that immunology and histology were a thing of the past. But as his eyes fixated on his timetable for the week, eyebags sunken and mouth dry as he pressed his back against the wall in the library, he couldn't help but suck in an anxious breath.

Josh had messaged him a few hours ago, seemingly in a similar state of confusion — well you couldn't be too confused, they had both signed up for the course with the most contact hours per week and a workload that could leave you in tears.

A slight jealousy was the first pang in his chest at the sight of all the fresher's, naïve and blissfully unaware of all the hell that was soon to ensue. He looked out of the library window to see the influx of students. He could easily spot the medics. Huddled around the Med society pitcher, they weren't too hard to find. Each with their new stethoscopes and shiny shoes, all signing down their names for new societies, he banged his head against the window, part of him wanted it to shatter, to cause a scene, but he valued this future too highly. Being a doctor was all he wanted. After the failure that his band endured, he wanted to prove himself to everyone. He wanted his parents to be proud of him. Now, he had the chance. He needed to get on with his work and think about the final outcome. He needed to stop chewing on the past and focusing intently on the present. Second year anatomy would surely kill him but he knew he had to prod on, or he'd be wishing in a few weeks time that it hadn't piled up.

He had an essay due for Monday. He looked at the word document. Fifty words out of one thousand. It was Sunday evening. Maybe today called for an all nighter.

So he left the library with one thing on his mind. Find some caffeine, find a quiet space and get this essay done in as little time as possible.

He made his way through Dublin, his final destination was a corner shop which was quite the dump. The lightbulb had almost fallen of the hinges and was illuminating the room with flickers of a mellow light. He shifted through the group of teenagers looking at sweets and glancing over at the Vodka, probably resisting the urge to leap over the counter and run with it. Ryan's hand gripped the cool fridge door and he looked at himself in the glass. Pallid and tired. Corpse-like. He brushed away the insecurity that washed through him and grabbed two cans of red bull.

A sideways glance led him to look at a girl who was grabbing a few packs of cereal. She was wearing a 'Biosoc' hoodie (Trinity's medical society's merch) and oversized jeans that pooled over her Doc Martens. Typical fresher, Ryan grinned, thinking back to his first year self.

She was trying to decide between Cheerios and Coco Pops.

"I'd go for the Coco Pops." Ryan pointed at the bright yellow packaging, closing the fridge as he turned to face her. His eyes were still pressed upon her braided hair. "They'll stop you from wanting to kill yourself when you're cramming at 3am."

The girl froze, then slowly turned to face him, her eyes wide and startled. She hesitated, frowning slightly as she looked him up and down, clearly unsure whether to laugh or be concerned. "Is it really that bad?"

Ryan chuckled, though there was no humor in it. "Worse. They'll chew you up and spit you out. But hey, at least you'll look good doing it with your shiny stethoscope." He gestured lazily toward her hoodie, his gaze sharp and jaded.

The girl bit her lip, glancing back at the cereal shelf, then at Ryan. She put the Cheerios back, choosing the Coco Pops as if his off-hand comment had made the decision for her. "I guess I'll take your word for it."

Ryan raised an eyebrow. "You'll be wishing you hadn't soon enough."

Her hand froze on the cereal box, and for a moment, she seemed to waver. But then something shifted in her expression. "Maybe. But at least I'm doing something that matters."

That struck a chord. His sarcastic smile faltered for a split second, but he quickly masked it, letting out a soft laugh. "Yeah, keep telling yourself that. You'll need the delusion to get through first year. And second year. And basically the whole course."

The girl didn't respond immediately, her gaze flickering over his face as if trying to read him. "Why are you still here then? If it's so miserable."

Ryan felt his jaw clench. He wasn't in the mood for a heart-to-heart with a stranger in a dingy corner shop, but something in her tone got under his skin. "Because I don't quit," he said sharply, almost snapping. The tiredness was taking its toll. He instantly regretted how rude he sounded and looked to the side then back at her.

She held his gaze for a moment, something unreadable passing between them. Then she shrugged, breaking the tension. "Well, I guess I'll see you in the library at 3 a.m. then."

Ryan watched her turn and walk toward the counter, the cereal box tucked under her arm. He didn't reply, just stood there, feeling a strange mix of frustration and... something else.

With a sigh, he grabbed his Red Bulls and followed her to the register. As he paid, he caught her glancing back at him, almost as if she wanted to say something more. But she didn't. Instead, she gave him a slight nod, grabbed her change, and disappeared into the night.

Ryan stood there for a moment longer, the weight of everything settling back onto his shoulders.

He had an essay to finish. But all he could think about was her question.

Why are you still here?

-

Ryan made his way back to the library, the girl's question still circling his mind. It wasn't like he hadn't thought about quitting before. There were nights where he'd lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, wondering if this was really worth it. Whether the hours of sleep lost going through ankis and doing questions were worth it. But each time, a voice in his head pushed him forward. He had to finish. He had to prove himself.

The library was a graveryeard now, the once-bustling late-night crowd reduced to a few souls hunched over their laptops, murmurs blending into the hum of fluorescent lights. Outside, the rain whispered against the windows, soft but steady, like the ticking of a clock winding down. Twenty-four hour libraries were a god send. Especially for the frazzled med students who were in here at least once a week. Ryan would probably win the award for most all nighters done throughout first year. He was pulling them almost every day during exam season. He hated to admit it but he was one of those people who worried too much about the possibilities of failure. He'd already failed once with his band. He didn't want to fail all over again. Especially after working so hard to even get into univeristy. Ryan found a corner, tucked away from conversations, set his Red Bulls on the desk, and opened his laptop. The blank screen stared back at him, mocking his lack of progress.

Fifty words out of a thousand.

He cracked open the first can, but instead of typing, his mind wandered back to the girl. Biosoc hoodie, Coco Pops, and that slight challenge in her voice when she asked why he was still here. There was something different about her, something that lingered even after she'd left. He wasn't usually one to think about girls. He kept telling himself he didn't have time for friendships and that falling in love would be the worst thing to ever happen to him. So he kept to himself most of the time. His only close friend was Josh who was quite the party animal. He was living life on the edge, in full sense of the phrase. He worked hard but he also balanced this with his love for clubbing. Ryan lived in a flat with Josh, another guy called Callum and Josh's girlfriend, Laura, who didn't actually pay rent but was always there.

Ryan wasn't in any societies other than the medicine one. Josh had told him countless times that he should join in some kind of band or orchestra to give him a way to destress. Ryan had told him that the drum kit in his room was enough. Once he'd finished his work for the day, he would either go for a long run through the park with his headphones on, Joy Division humming through his ears or would crash his drumsticks against the electric drumset in the corner of his room. This was enough to calm him down. But he did miss the feeling of making music with other people. He missed Elijah and Bobby a lot. Elijah was still at home trying to figure out what to do with himself. Ryan would visit him every now and then in Blackrock. It wasn't like how it was two years ago. It was quite sad. Bobby was all over the place, taking a trip across the world. It was hard to speak to him. It was rare for him to answer a phone call as timezones always made things difficult.

Another hour dragged by with little progress. Ryan's head was pounding, and the caffeine wasn't helping. It was making him feel ill. He needed air. He grabbed his jacket, shoved his laptop inro his bag, and headed outside, hoping a walk would clear his mind.

The cold night hit him as soon as he stepped out of the library. Luckily the rain had stopped now. Dublin was quiet, only the occasional taxi passing by, but as he turned the corner toward the river, he spotted someone sitting on a bench near the water. Familiar figure. Oversized hoodie.

The girl from the corner shop.

For a moment, Ryan hesitated. He could keep walking, avoid any awkward conversation. But something pulled him toward her. Maybe it was curiosity. Maybe it was the fact that she'd gotten under his skin in a way that didn't happen often.

He walked over, hands shoved in his pockets. She didn't notice him at first, her attention fixed on the water, the soft glow of the streetlights reflecting off the surface.

"Couldn't sleep either?" Ryan asked, his voice cutting through the night like a dull blade.

She jumped slightly, turning to look at him. A hint of recognition flickered across her face. "Oh, hey. Yeah, I guess not. Just needed a break." Her breath fogged in the cold air, disappearing as quickly as it came.

Ryan nodded, sitting down on the other end of the bench, leaving a comfortable distance between them. They sat in silence for a moment, both staring out at the river. He wasn't sure what to say, but the quiet wasn't uncomfortable. It was calming, in a way.

"So, did the Coco Pops help?" Ryan asked, breaking the silence with a smirk.

She chuckled softly. "Still haven't eaten them. I guess you were right about the workload. I've been drowning in lectures since I've started. I thought Freshers week was all about partying and not giving a shit but I know that if I go out I'll miss out on important things."

"Yeah, welcome to the nightmare," he sighed. "You should go out though. Me and my mate Josh did fuck all during the first week. I think we alternated between pub and club each night. It's an experience you'll never get before. But if you're not into that stuff, that's cool as well. There's loads of music venues and silent discos and costume parties if that interests you more. There's something for everyone really."

"Thanks." She smiles.

"I'm guessing you're not from around here?"

"I'm from Cork. I live in a little town on the coast called Schull. You've probably not heard of it."

"I don't think I have. Must be a big change being in such a big city."

"It is." She looks upset. "My flatmates are quite depressing as well. I'm not enjoying it much."

"In what way are they depressing?" Ryan is concerned.

"They just sit in their rooms and don't talk to anyone. Just your classic antisocial people. I don't think I know any of their names. I was sat on my own having dinner and just needed a breather. So I came out here to watch the river. It's beautiful. Reminds me of home."

"I'm sorry about that," Ryan wants to comfort her but he keeps to his side of the bench. "You know you can always ask to move flats. Or you could join some societies to make some more friends."

"It's okay. I think I'll leave it for now." She looks down at her shoes, watching how the light gleams off them. She turns to him, her expression softening. "You seem different to the other med students I've met."

Ryan raised an eyebrow. "Different how?"

"I don't know. Most of them are all intense. Like they've got everything figured out. But you... you seem more... real. A bit less robotic. More human"

Ryan couldn't help but laugh, though there was an edge of bitterness to it. "Real? I'm barely holding it together."

"Exactly," she said, her voice gentle but firm. "At least you admit it. Everyone else I've met in the years above look like they're on the tipping point but are desperately trying to hold it all in."

There was something disarming about the way she spoke, like she wasn't afraid to challenge him. Most people either ignored Ryan's cynicism or got uncomfortable around it. But she, she pushed back, in the softest way.

"So why medicine?" she asked suddenly, her eyes searching his.

Ryan leaned back, letting out a long breath. "Because I couldn't be a rock star, I guess," he said, half-joking. Her curious expression urged him to explain. "I was in a band in school. 'Inhaler'. Thought we were going to make it big. We didn't. So, medicine seemed like the next logical step, right?"

She tilted her head, intrigued. "Quite the career shift."

"Yeah, well. My parents were always pushing for it. Figured I'd give them something to be proud of."

"And are they?"

Ryan's throat tightened. He hadn't expected her to ask that, and for a second, he didn't know how to answer. "I think so. I mean, I haven't dropped out yet, so... that's something."

The girl smiled softly, but her eyes stayed on him, like she could see through the bravado. "You don't seem like someone who does things just to make others happy."

Ryan shrugged, looking away, out at the river again. "I don't know anymore. Maybe I am."

Silence fell between them again, but this time it felt heavier, like they were both teetering on the edge of something unspoken. The air between them felt charged, and Ryan found himself wanting to know more about her, wanting to pull her into whatever mess he was dealing with.

"What about you?" he asked. "Why medicine?"

Her lips parted slightly, as if she hadn't expected the question. "Honestly? I'm still figuring that out. I wanted to help people, I guess. I liked science a lot as a kid but also wanted to be able to speak to people. I didn't like the idea of being stuck in a lab for the rest of my life. But I don't know if that's enough anymore."

Ryan nodded, understanding more than he cared to admit. "Yeah. Sometimes it doesn't feel like it's enough."

For a moment, they just sat there, sharing the weight of their doubts, their unspoken fears.

Ryan shifted, turning to face her fully. "What's your name, by the way?"

She laughed, the sound soft and almost musical in the quiet night. "It's Emer."

"Ryan," he replied, holding out his hand.

She hesitated for a second, then took it. Her hand was warm, and for a moment, he didn't let go. Neither did she.

When she finally pulled away, Ryan could still feel the imprint of her touch, something electric lingering in the air between them. He cleared his throat, unsure of what to say next, but there was a spark in her eyes that made his heart beat just a little faster.

"What did you play in the band?" She found herself looking at his fingers, the silver rings pushed upon them.

"What do you think?" He tilted his head, giving her a challenge.

"I'm really bad at this. You said a rock band so let me guess... keys?"

"Close but drums."

"Ah. That makes sense actually." She could imagine him sat at the drumkit, sticks in hand and hair all over his face as the vibrations tap at the floorboards.

"You want to get out of here?" he asked, surprising himself with the offer. He still had that essay to deal with. He glanced at his watch, he had another 10 hours until it was due. Plus he had no tutorials or lectures on Monday, so he could just nap for the day. He also wanted to cheer her up. Show her that Dublin wasn't at all as dim and depressing as she thought it was.

Emer raised an eyebrow. "Where to?"

"Who knows. Wherever we can get in."

Ryan could see the spark of curiosity in Emer's eyes, which only encouraged him. "I mean, Dublin's full of spots that stay open late. I know a place with live music. Not many people know of it. It's usually clogged up with students from RIAM. They sometimes let you play if you ask nicely."

Emer perked up at the mention of music. "Live music? That sounds fun. Can you really just walk in and play?"

"Depends on your charm," he grinned, the cocky side of him flaring up. "I'm pretty persuasive when I want to be."

"Is that so?" She smiled back, and he felt that electric tension again. "Alright then, let's see if you can charm your way in. Lead the way."

Ryan stood up, shaking off the remnants of the library's stress. As they walked side by side, he couldn't help but glance at her. The way she moved with that casual confidence made him feel a little lighter, a little less like the burdened med student he'd been all week.

"Tell me about Schull." he asked as they crossed a street, the distant sounds of music drifting toward them.

Emer laughed, brushing a braid behind her ear. "Not much to tell, really. It's your average coastal town. Very scenic and calm. My Ma owns a café on the main street. I used to sit down to do my work and listen to all kinds of conversations. We'd get quite a few tourists actually, every now and then. This summer I worked as a barista just to help out but I think it's helped me to open up a lot more."

"That's actually really cool," Ryan admitted, intrigued. "A café sounds like a good gig. You must be great at dealing with people. That will help you a lot in this career."

"I like to pretend I am." She smiled. "I still don't think my skin is thick enough to be a doctor."

"Be a pathologist or a histologist then. You can avoid people all together."

"That's true." She nodded, although deep down she did like the idea of personally helping patients. "What do you see  yourself doing after uni?"

"Surgery, I think. I'm really interested in cardiology. So maybe cardio-thoracic surgery. But I think once we've done placements I'll start to make my mind up. Being a GP might give me more time to keep up with my music but I've always liked the idea of being a surgeon."

"I think you'd be an incredible surgeon. Most surgeons I've met are drained of any humanity. Let's hope you haven't lost it by the end of these five years."

"That's unlikely." Ryan admitted. The fifth year med students in Biosoc were complete bellends, especially the group who would do anything to become surgeons. He didn't want to become one of them. 

After reaching the end of the street, Ryan gestured towards an alleyway which was probably the darkest corner of Dublin Emer has ever encountered. 

"Ladiest first," Ryan said, stepping to the side so that she could pass through.

She peered through, anxious. "It smells. Of weed."

He laughed. "It's Dublin. What'd you expect?" He decided to walk through first to show her that it was not as terrifying as she thought. The look on her face told him she'd rather do anything that walk through there. "It's the last street until we get there, I promise."

"Alright." She followed through, hit by another lovely scent of urine and kept to the centre of the alleyway, worried about her clothes brushing the side and catching any piss. She stared at the back of his head as he made his way forwards. His dark blue jeans, his white button up shirt, his hair grown out at the back, curly strands falling from the bottom. She was surprised she had met someone so genuine in her first few days at uni. She thought she wouldn't make any friends and that she'd be stuck in her room for hours at a time, wishing that she actually tried to go out and get to know people. The big city made her nervous. She always resorted to thinking the worse. Especially because the streets and faces were no longer familiar.

"Here we are. The Harp and Clover." Ryan moved to the side so that Emer could have a look through the stone arches ending the alleyway. Green light escaped the pub through the almost-shattered windows and illuminated the cobbled pavement. Groups of teenagers were smoking outside and looked at Emer's hoodie with a frown. They were all dressed in dark clothes, with countless piercings and colourful makeup. Emer felt a bit out of place.

"Wow it's... not what I expected. But cool." Emer smiled. She continued looking at the decor. The words 'Harp and Clover' were placed at the top in dark green and orange. Very patriotic. A harp symbol and clover aligned just underneath.

Ryan read her expression. She didn't look very impressed. He knew how to change her mind.

They entered the pub, glares still shooting at them. The teens inside all had pints of guiness and there was a band on the stage, playing some kind of alternative-rock. Emer could imagine Ryan on the stage, playing the drums and smiling as the crowd jumped to the beat. She was interested in hearing him play or maybe even hearing the songs he made with his band back in the day. She didn't want to force him into anything  and decided to keep silent, instead taking in the music and the atmosphere. She pulled off her hoodie and placed it down on a bar stool, leaving her in a black tank top that made her seem at least a little bit more suited for the ocassion. The glares seemed to cease once they noticed Ryan with her. 

"Josh! Hey, didn't think I'd see you here." Ryan's attention drifted to a tall guy in the distance with braids who was speaking to a group of people.

The guy turned around and ran towards Ryan, careful not to drop his Guiness in the process. "Ryan, mate. What on earth are you doing here? I thought you hated this place. And who's this?" He had a drunken slur to his voice, dark brown eyes and a leather jacket upon his shoulders. 

"This is Emer," Ryan introduced his new friend. "Emer, Josh."

"Another med student I'm guessing?" Josh was quick to catch on, quickly shaking her hand.

"How did you know?" She questioned, surprised that he was also a med student.

"Dead behind the eyes." He joked.

"Rude," she shot back, a playful smirk creeping onto her lips.

"Josh used to be in the band with me. He was the lead guitarist," Ryan interjected, shooting Josh a knowing look, who was now winking with unabashed enthusiasm, probably astonished that Ryan was actually talking to a girl—a rare moment indeed.

"You guys should play together. For old times' sake," Emer suggested, nodding toward the stage, where two saxophonists swayed, and an older woman belted out a sultry jazz tune that filled the room with rich, smooth notes.

"I think I'll need a drink first." He hoisted himself onto the barstool, and Emer couldn't help but notice how he seemed to shrink next to the towering Josh. She had never really registered how short he was until now, and it made her want to smile. "D'you want anything, Emer?" Ryan caught her attention by tapping her shoulder. His fingers were cold against her skin. She jolted before turning sharply to meet his intense gaze.

"I'll have whatever you're having. Surprise me." She hoisted herself up beside him, spinning the bar chair around like a child. 

She watched carefully as Ryan spoke to the bartender, his accent deep and rough, a classic posh Dubliner. She wondered where he grew up, where he went to school, who his friends were, what he ate for breakfast, the songs that kept him up at night. Too many questions were rolling through her mind like tumbleweeds. 

He sat there in silence, his fingers picking at the wood falling off of the bar, absentmindedly thinking about his to do list that was pretty much infinite. He needed to finish that essay. Soon. He glanced at his watch. 8 hours. It was 12am and the essay was due at 8 in the morning. He'd be fine. Surely.

Emer chose a question out of the millions crashing through her head. "So, what's your favourite band?"

He stopped picking at the wood and turned to face her with a smirk. Her head was pressed into her hand. Her eyes darting across his features - each line of his face, every curl of his dark eyelashes drawing her in. She noted the bracelets adorning his wrists and the tattoos that peeked from beneath his rolled sleeves, stories etched into his skin.

"I could go on forever." He placed two fingers upon his chin, thinking. "I've been listening to a lot of Monkeys and Fontaines at the moment. Gets me through my revision. But I think Bowie is up there for me. Such an inspiration. I went as him for Halloween last year, actually."

"You've got to show me a picture," she insisted, mouth wide open. 

He reach for his phone and placed it down on the bar. Scrolling through his camera roll - which contained an absurd number of anatomy notes - and reached a chaotic collection of drunken party photos. He stopped on a polaroid of a group of lads who were all posing in a variety of costumes, Ryan in the middle with a bright orange wig and eyepatch. He zoomed in on each person and told Emer their names. Bobby through to Louis. 'Inhaler'. But then, something shifted, a shadow crossing his face as he powered off the phone, his gaze drifting away, fingers scratching at his ear.

He started picking at the wood again. Emer put her hand on his, trying to comfort him. "I bet you guys were incredible. But you can't keep thinking that you failed, Ryan. You're doing so well and you're working so hard. Even if this isn't exactly how you imagined your life would work out, you're not in a bad place at all, you've got an amazing future waiting for you."

His hand froze in place beneath hers, the warmth of her touch contrasting with the chill of his uncertainty. His eyes still glued to the wood.

"Two pints for Ryan." The barman slid over the drinks, landing perfectly in front of the pair.

Ryan glanced up at Emer, the tension easing ever so slightly. "Thank you," he murmured, giving her hand a quick squeeze before taking a hearty swig of the Guinness, the dark liquid disappearing as if it were water.

"This is going to sound so embarassing and un-Irish of me..." She put her hand around the pint glass, fingerprints marking the surface. 

"You've never had a Guiness,  have you?" He already knew by the terror that swam across her face. "It's better than you think. Has a unique taste to it."

Emer lifted the pint glass to her lips, hesitating for a brief second as the dark liquid shimmered under the pub's dim lighting. She could feel the cool glass press against her lower lip before tilting it just enough for the Guinness to meet her mouth. The first sip was slow, tentative. Her eyes widened slightly as the bitter foam touched her tongue, the creamy head giving way to the rich, almost velvety texture of the stout. It was heavier than she expected, its bold taste unfolding in layers—first malty, then an unexpected bitterness. She pulled the glass away and swallowed, the aftertaste lingering. Her brow furrowed slightly, but there was a curiosity in her expression, like she wasn't sure if she liked it yet—but wanted another sip just to be sure.

"What do you think?" He had been watching as her expression shifted but found it hard guage what was going on in that brain of hers.

"It's something." She laughed, this time she took a big swig of it. She wanted to clear her mind. "I think I like it. I don't know."

"That's how I felt when I had my first one." He had a quizzical look in his eyes. "So, what about you, what's your favourite band?"

"Wunderhorse. Without a doubt." 

"Really? Didn't think they'd be your style."

"Well, I also love Phoebe Bridgers and Lizzy Mcalpine. My taste is all over the place really."

"So is mine."

Ryan took another swig of his Guinness, the frothy head nearly spilling over the rim, but he didn't care. The warmth of the drink spread through him, loosening the knots of anxiety that had been tightening in his chest since he'd stepped into the pub. He looked over at Emer, who was now nursing her pint, the corners of her mouth curling into a smile as she talked about the bands she loved.

"What's your favorite song by Wunderhorse?" he asked, genuinely curious, leaning in closer, the hum of the crowd fading into a background buzz.

"Probably 'Morphine'. It's just so hauntingly beautiful. What about you?"

He nodded. "I'm going to be really boring and say 'Leader of the pack'."

"No honestly that's a classic. That's the first song I heard when I started listening to them and just fell in love. I'd be happy to send you a playlist with their best songs if you're interested."

"Sure." He passed her his phone. "Type in your spotify, I'll stalk it later."

She typed in her username into the searchbar and followed herself on his account, feeling a bit nervous about whatever stalking her account meant. He semed like quite the cultured musician. Some of her playlists were slightly embarassing to say the least.

"Ryan, come here, lad!" Josh shouted from the distance. The Jazz music had stopped and students were trying to get on stage, begging the owner if they could have a go.

Josh came over and dragged Ryan away. "Just going to steal him for a few minutes, sweetheart. We need a drummer."

Ryan clambered onto the stage with his friend. There was a girl up there with a bass guitar, a guy holding the microphone with a guitar over his frame and another girl on the keys. Ryan was passed some drumsticks, quite worried about what was to ensue. He didn't look like he'd played infront of a crowd in a while. 

Emer walked towards the stage and stopped by the wall, leaning her shoulder against the cold wood, watching as the musicians tuned their instruments. She used to play the clarinet back in the day, in the high school orchestra. She loved being part of the music and closing her eyes as it washed over her. But her studies prevented her from carrying on with that dream. In a way, she was similar to Ryan. But his passion for music was definitely at a whole other level. As he crashed the drumsticks together and the first note thrummed from Josh's guitar, Emer closed her eyes like she was in orchestra again, feeling the music through every bone in her body. All 206. 

[darlingdesire]

hiya love! i have a bobby request for you, if you don't mind

reader is inhaler's photographer and it's super obvious she has a massive crush on bobby. the entire crew (including him lmao dickhead) tease her for it.

one night at a bar this really hot cool rockstar girlfriend kinda girl hits on bobby and reader sees it and gets jealous. bobby makes a joke and reader gets upset thinking he's making fun of her because the other girl was obvi way cooler than her.

cue a soft little moment where he comforts her, maybe a kiss? 🥺💗

When It Breaks

(Bobby Skeetz x female!reader)

Warnings: none!!

Genre: fluff, angst (omggggg)

Word count: 6.9k wtf

Des Talks!!: okay woah. My first ever Bobby fic and I think I have outdone myself. This is one of my favourites so far and i’ve kind of ended it in a way where there could be a part 2 to this. Thank you so much for requesting this as well anon!! It was such an amazing idea and I’m so glad I get to bring it to life WOOOOOOO!!!!! I really hope this is kind of what you were hoping for 💝 (I may have gotten a little carried away oops ) also get your requests and ideas in whilst its hot 🫶

"You comin' out tonight, right?"

She turned her head at the sound of his voice, her gaze moving from the camera which she was packing away; the camera which had loads of photos of him and the band—85% of which were professional which she would have to edit later and post, and the 15% were random moments taken of him. She saw him in a different kind of light when she had the camera up to her face; she could capture him in a frozen photo and store it forever. Not the man who played bass on stage for hundreds of people, but the boy who who had managed to steal her heart and lock away. Much like a photo, captured forever.

Bobby Skeetz had no idea—well, he did... her liking to him was painfully obvious to everyone, one slip-up a few months ago for a lifetime of teasing.

"You guys going out then?" She inquired, a sweet smile appearing on her face; the once concentrated look she had as she packed her cameras away in silence was no longer there.

Inhaler had just finished playing a show. It was grand; the crowd was one of the best they have had so far, and she could tell that the guys were still at the peak of their high; adrenaline and excitement all around. She was there to see it all, she saw the intimate crowds, the boring crowds, the loud crowds; she was there to see the crowds grow bigger and bigger, her joy only expanding each time she saw the size of the venues. She had been the band's photographer for a few years now, she could pretty much say these years have been the best of her life—she could only imagine how Bobby was feeling.

He leaned against the edge of the table as she started to pack her camera away into her bag, looking down at the camera in her hand, then back up at her, her soft features bringing another sweet, boyish smile onto his face. In all honesty, he wasn't sure if he was smiling because he was so amused by her or what. Probably both.

"Yeah," he answered, his Irish accent thick in his words. "I don't know about you, but I think we deserve a few drinks after that."

She looked back down at what she doing, feeling a fluttering of nerves rush up her body at the attention—she couldn't help it, she felt nervous everytime he would look at her, she wanted so desperately to know what he was thinking when he looked at her. She zipped the protective case up, sealing the camera and all the memories away for later; "It was a killer crowd, wasn't it," She muttered out, her words soft but laced with such pride, "I dunno, Bobby—I went out last night."

She couldn't help but feel satisfaction knowing he had asked her himself to join them at the pub tonight—okay, it wasn't abnormal for him to seek her out after a show and ask, most of the time it was brought up when they were in the group and she would be bugged and pestered by the guys until she had to say yes. But she enjoyed when he asked her; she wouldn't tell anyone, but she would pretend to seem tired or decline just so he could keep asking her with a pleading look on his face.

"And you don't want to go out again?" His tone was playful, trying his best to tempt her to go. He didn't know why, but it was the best part about going out after a show - he knew she always came. He could ask, and she would say yes, but it was so much sweeter to tempt her into going. "I'll buy you a drink—one of those gross fruity spritz you like or whatever that shit is."

She gave him a sarcastic pointed look at his dig on her choice of alcohol, earning a smirky grin from him. She watched the way the smile lit up his face, how it reached his eyes and caused them to close a little. Oh, how she wished she didn't pack her camera away so she could take a photo of it. She wouldn't share it with the world, no, she would keep it hidden away in her digital memory bank. Instead, she took a mental image of the sight of him leaned against the doorframe with his arms crossed over his chest, with his hair messy and falling over his face.

Ok, stop looking at him like a creep.

She stood up straighter, turning her body towards him now with her bag of equipment in her hand; he waited for an answer, his brows raised slightly in open hope that her answer would be yes.

"One drink," She finally complied, raising her hand with a pointed finger to set her words in stone, "and it's a pornstar martini I've been liking at the moment, thank you very much."

That boyish smirk turned into a full blown grin at her compliance, giving a soft, pleased 'tsk' noise as he stood up a little straighter, pushing himself off of the doorframe and crossing his arms over his chest. He could have just let her come like she always did, but it was so much better to push her into wanting to go. Plus, it was just another excuse to talk to her, be closer.

"A pornstar martini? Really? Didn't know you liked pornstars," He said with a small chuckle, his tone clearly teasing.

She rolled her eyes at him, walking towards the open door where he stood, "Yeah—love when I have a good pornstar," she played along with it, deadpanning him as she passed by him and stepped out into the hallway; her cheeks flushing red at the conversation, and she willed herself to calm down.

He watched her walk past him, his eyes following only after, a humorous and amused smile on his face at her comeback. "Thought it was only bass-players you loved," He followed, a few steps behind, his gaze falling onto the top of her head now, watching her from behind. He was taller, and the fact he was tall was quite obvious, his long legs easily catching up to her short ones.

He was glad her back was facing him now because he couldn't stop the small, amused chuckle from falling out of his mouth at her now-red cheeks.

She felt dread fill her body when she heard his comeback, her mouth went try and it felt like she had cotton in it. She swallowed nervously. He sometimes teased her about the crush she had on him; she didn't know if she preferred it if he was silent about it and never regarding her feelings for him, or if she preferred it if he was openly able to tease her about it. Either way, it felt as though he was tossing her feelings aside.

She decided to stay quiet.

She knew he was following behind her, and she couldn't help but feel as though she had a hit on her. God, please don't trip, don't you dare trip… She repeated in her mind as she walked, she hated and loved the pressure of his attention being on her; analysing her and perceiving her.

He knew she was nervous, and he could almost hear her thoughts spinning around in her head now, trying to process the situation. He felt a tad amused by the whole thing—how after a few years, she still got all awkward around him. Cute.

His gaze drifted to the way she was walking in front of him, clearly trying her hardest to walk confidently and he knew, one wrong step and she was going to trip. The thought brought a small smirk onto his face as he watched her every step, and then, that said wrong step happened.

"Oh—Fuck," She blurted out when the ugly-looking carpet stopped her shoe from letting her walk properly; the stupid kind of carpet that caused you to trip up because of the rough material. Luckily she had caught herself, and scowled down at the floor; wanting to do nothing more than stomp her foot down onto it a few times for tripping her up in front of Bobby.

She had a knack for tripping and bumping into things. It wasn't new, wasn't something Bobby had never seen before; it was another thing he teased her about. She knew it was light-hearted and that he would never shame her for being so clumsy sometimes, but she just wished she didn't look so silly sometimes.

"You're so graceful," He teased, still stood a few steps behind. There was a playful tone to the remark, along with a light chuckle at the failed attempt to stay dignified. It was clear that this was a regular occurrence as she had tripped numerous times before his eyes.

His gaze was fixated on her, watching her as she scolded the carpet, like it was the carpet's fault that she tripped when it was actually hers.

"Shut up. It was the carpets fault," She turned her head to look at him, an uncontrollable smile lifted her lips up at the humour of it. He sent her a cheeky look and finally caught up with her, using the opportunity of her stopping to finally walk beside her. They continued to walk down the hall together, and she kept on shrugging the bag strap up onto her shoulder every time it started slipping down. After the 3rd time, she felt a gentle tug on the strap and she turned her head to see that Bobby was lifting the bag off her to take.

"Here," he spoke, taking the strap from her as they walked. "I'll take it," he added as the strap was now in his hand, a warm smile taking over his face. He knew she struggled with the strap slipping off her shoulders, but he knew she would have kept on adjusting the strap until it was perfect, and even then, it would probably slip again.

He was being chivalrous—more than normal--and it was more for the fact that he wanted to be closer to her.

She pursed her lips together in a way to force the bashful grin away at his helpfulness, "Thanks."

They left the venue through the back and made their way to her tour bus; the one she had made her home for the past two years. He was in a separate one with all the other boys. Their door was always open for her, and she found herself in their bus more than she was in hers. Their dynamics were perfect; she considered Inhaler her close friends more than she was their photographer. After all, they were all eachother had out on the road.

Bobby set her equipment down on her bunk, not missing the chance to send her a look at the way she left her bed messy. She had rolled her eyes at him, saying; "I'd like to see your bed then, Skeetz," her words seeming more innocent in her head than how they sounded when she said them out loud.

"Yeah, you'd like to see that, wouldn't ya'," He muttered with a smirk; not missing a chance to tease her again.

Her innocent words weren't innocent at all. His mind —and he is almost certain hers (but she would never admit it)—immediately went to somewhere else at the words, the thought of his own messy, unmade bed crossing his mind for a spilt second. "and, by the way, my bed is actually made," he responded quickly with a raise of his brows, his gaze flickering to her unmade bed for a moment before turning back to her; he was telling the truth, his bed was made. Neatly. He was waking up in a good mood these past few months—some could say he was waking up on the right side of the bed.

A newfound optimistic feeling had found him, and he loved it; he was excited when he got up in the mornings (ever since he found out his little photographer fancied him, but he wasn't going to admit that)

She gave him a look as she closed the curtain, separating the two of them from the sight of her messy bed, "yeah, yeah," she muttered and turned on her heel away from him, leading them out of the bunk area and back into the main area toward the open door.

Jack, the social media guy who had joined the tour a while ago stepped into the bus; his eyes lighting up at the sight of her. He said a quick hello, his smile sweet as he placed a warm hand on her shoulder as he walked by the two of them. She had become friends with Jack, he was a good guy and the band liked him. (but she never caught on to the looks Bobby gave Jack everytime he would see her with him.)

His gaze immediately narrowed as he watched Jack place a hand on her shoulder; the sight didn't leave him with a good feeling. He could've sworn his eyes burned into the back of Jack's head as he walked right by them and out of the bus.

A strange, bitter feeling swirled around inside his chest and then his mind immediately went to an unreasonable place—he wasn't exactly sure why he was always so territorial, especially now.

He followed her out of the bus, not paying any mind to extend the invitation out to Jack. He secretly wanted her to himself tonight, as friends, of course....

They clambered into the car with the rest of the waiting guys—who had just finished meeting fans out back and taking pictures with them—they were still in the clothes they were wearing on stage, too eager and excited to get to the pub with everyone for a round of drinks.

Bobby sat next to her, of course. The two of them were in the very back of the 7-seater car as the rest of the guys were in the middle with the 3 seats.

The car was immediately filled with conversation, and they started heading toward the pub that was suggested by a local fan.

She had no trouble involving herself into their conversation, it was rather easy actually since she felt more than comfortable around them.

Bobby sat in silence for most of the ride to the pub, only joining in on the conversation now and then. His mind was somewhere else, mostly, and a couple times, his gaze was on her, just watching her. Watching the way she interacted with the others, listening to every single word that came out of her mouth.

He drew on the foggy window, looking over at her once he had finished the little drawing. A smirk stretched out on his face as he pointed it out to her, "It's you," he said with a nod, proud of his little drawing.

She looked at his drawings in the window, her heart almost exploding out of her chest at the fact he made a little stick figure of her in the window.

"Oh wow," She grinned uncontrollably, a little act seemed so big in her mind and she kept repeating how it was probably nothing and that she was just thinking too much into it, "You captured me perfectly."

His smirk grew into a full blown, amused smile as she gawked over his little drawing in the window. She was so easy to read.

He looked back at the window, his attention now diverted on creating another stick figure next to the one of her, "I know I did, I'm good like that," he responded jokingly, a small chuckle leaving his mouth.

They finally reached the pub and they all started clambering out of the big car; she found it amusing watching four grown men try and climb out the car whilst trying to be graceful and not bang their heads against the roof. She made sure to get a photo of Bobby with his window drawings; he had posed for it with a his thumb up and big goofy smile as he carefully leaned his head next to the window, not wanting to rub his hair against the condensation and ruin his drawings.

They made their way into the dimly-lit pub and found an available curved booth to sit at with their drinks. Josh was sat next to her, and they browsed the drinks menu together. It was more like a bar they were at, but whatever it was it was nice and underground; relatively busy too.

Elijah was on her other side, and Bobby was sitting next to him. Ryan had gone straight to use the bathroom, as he had been complaining most of the drive about it.

The pub was lively, filled to the brim with people, but the music was at the right decibel to allow a normal conversation, and that's exactly what the group was doing.

Bobby leaned back against the booth, arms draped along the back of it, listening to the conversations going on around him. His gaze eventually flickered over to her. He could hear her laughing with Josh as the two of them picked out drinks. He felt a small tug pull at his chest, but he ignored it.

Just then, Ryan arrived back at the table, taking his seat, "I took longer in the bathroom so I wouldn't have to wait for drinks to get here," He joked, rolling his eyes as he sat down next to Josh.

"You sure that was the reason?" Bobby teased, smirking at his words and earning a mock laugh from Josh who then reached over the table at him and whilst pretending to claim he didn't wash his hands; causing Bobby to lean back and let out a groan in disgust.

"Ya' filthy, Ryan," He told him and got up out of the booth, looking over at everyone; his eyes landing right on hers, "you're coming with me. Promised I'd get you a drink, didn't I."

She was in a conversation with Elijah—a conversation about who knows what—she had completely lost her train of thought as soon as she noticed him getting up. She looked over at him, locking gazes as he gestured over to her.

A small feeling of nervousness filled her chest as she knew what was coming, and she tried her best to push it away. It was just a drink.

"Oh, yeah," She spoke, smiling at Bobby before turning to Elijah, "back in a sec."

She had to go past Elijah to get out, lucky that there was a decent gap between the table and the booth seats as she carefully stepped out of it.

"You all want a Guinness, yes?" She turned her head to look at the guys, earning some yes' and grateful nods in response.

Bobby waited for her to make the move to the bar, and the two of them went over together; waiting patiently to be served. She took the time to scan the pub/bar/whatever it was, taking in the comfortable scenery. It was very cool. The place had exposed brick walls and had old antiques littered around on display—a nice mix of old and new.

A bartender came up to the two of them not long after and Bobby took the lead in ordering drinks for everyone. Her eyes landed on a small group of women by a table, they were dressed beautifully—one girl in particular caught her eye though, and it seemed as though hers had caught Bobby. She was looking over at him with an interested gaze—a curious one, one that had y/n turning around toward the bar where their drinks were being made. Her back now toward the group so she wouldn't have to see the look that one girl was giving him.

She turned her head to look up at Bobby, seeing how he didn't even pay any mind to the girls who were ogling him. He was simply watching the bartender, tapping his fingers against the wooden bar mindlessly. He looked down at her when he felt her gaze in him, and he sent her a small, instinctive smile before looking back at the bartender.

She suddenly felt like a deflated balloon; insecurity washing over her and diminishing her high.

She was used to girls checking Bobby out, and she had no right to feel insecure or jealous. She was just like all the other girls who had a silly little crush on him. It wouldn't lead anywhere. 

He would notice her looking at him and not pay any mind to it; maybe he was only teasing her about it in order to push it away, because he had to so it wouldn't be weird between them.

"You good?" She heard him ask, she had been staring down at the wooden bar for a few seconds with a distant look; and he had noticed.

She put on a smile and lifted her head to reach his eyes, "Yeah, m' grand," she told him cheerily; though the feeling in her mind said otherwise, hopefully he wouldn't notice that and see through her lies.

"You should try a different drink one day; a Guiness must get boring after a while," She said, trying to alter the conversation.

He chuckled in response at her comment, a small smirk forming on his face now, "Guiness never gets boring, love," he replied, his gaze flickering over down to her.

He could sense a change in her mood, noticing how lost in thought she had been.

The drinks were finally made and they made their way to take them back to the booth where the guys were waiting. She couldn't help but take a quick peek at the group of girls to see that that one girl was still watching Bobby.

She swallowed hard, trying to push down the feelings as she and Bobby got to the booth. A few more people from the crew had joined the booth and were chatting away with everyone. Jack was there. He had patted the open space next to him and budged over a little bit, there was only space left for and she put the drinks down on the table before sittinf down next to him. Bobby watched as he found himself next to Ryan, his eyes lingering on Jack and y/n in front of him.

A bitter feeling settled in his chest he watched her sit next to Jack. He didn't know why, but it always bothered him when she talked to him, or sat next to him, or just spent time with him.

He took the last empty seat next to Ryan, trying to distract himself from his thoughts. The group went on with their conversations, but he found himself tuning out. His eyes always found their way back to her. His gaze lingered on her for a while before she looked up, meeting it. He quickly averted his eyes, focusing on the glass in his hand instead.

They kept sharing looks, their eyes catching one another every now and then as they listened to people talk, or when one of them was talking and looked at the other—as if they were speaking to just eachother. After the drinks were all finished, Ryan went to go get another round for everyone and forced Bobby to go with him for an extra pair of hands.

Y/n was content in her conversation with Josh and Elijah, talking about stuff they're going to do with their day off tomorrow. They were going to explore the city they were in, and she was going to join them and take photos. She was always welcome to join the band on their little outings, they used the fact that she needed to get content as an excuse to get her to spend time with them. It was cute.

After a while of feeling Bobby's absence, she turned her head to the bar where him and Ryan were still by. Except, Ryan was on his way back with a handful of drinks without Bobby. She glanced over Ryan's shoulder to see where Bobby was; he was still there, but he was with somebody else. The girl from the group.

She had managed to get her way over to Bobby and actually strike conversation with him. They seemed to be hitting it off well too, the girl was stood close to him with a flirty smile. Bobby was more than happy to talk to her.

Y/n couldn't help but trace her eyes over the girl; taking in the way she held herself, so confident and alluring. The girl was dressed in red and black and had a charm about her.

She sunk in her seat and looked away from them; feeling all sorts of ways. Insecure, jealous. All these feelings that she—again—had no right to feel. She was silly to compare herself to the girl, but she still couldn't stop it from happening.

She raised her glass to her lips, taking a sip of her pornstar martini—suddenly wishing she had something stronger.

"You're not very subtle with your staring," Ryan told her in a quieter voice than normal, he was relaxed back into his seat with his arms crossed lazily over his chest and a knowing look on his face.

She looked at him with wide eyes at his straight-forwardness, and glanced around at the other people in the seats to make sure they didn't hear Ryan.

"I was looking at the bottles. God, forbid a girl wants to look at the products," She told him, motioning her head to the bottles of alcohol on display behind the bar, clearly lying—which he could see through.

She was so obvious with her staring, her jealousy, her pining. It was written all over her face, and Ryan could see it from a mile away.

He rolled his eyes at her failed attempt at an excuse, sighing as he leaned closer to her, "No, you were staring at Bobby."

She gave him a blank look, rolling up one of the napkins into a tiny ball and threw it at him as a lame attempt to get him to shut up. She knew her cheeks were flushing red, she could feel the heat and the shy-ness flooding through her.

"I hope you choke on your chips," She said to him, glancing down at his bowl of hot chips.

He chuckled in response, swatting the napkin out of the way, "yeah, yeah, yeah."

He knew he had gotten to her now, and there was no turning back for him. It was too entertaining to tease her, and knowing how she felt about Bobby made it even more amusing to poke at her.

He raised an eyebrow at her, a sly smirk on his face, "Why don't you go over there and tell that girl to back off?"

Y/n's face fell, deadpanning him again with a blank expression, "Oh, yeah," She nodded slowly, musing his stupid suggestion, "No."

He grinned, clearly enjoying himself,  "Why not? You'd rather sit here and mope in jealousy?"

She scowled at him and leaned forward in her seat, finally reacting quick to shut his false (clearly right) assumptions down, "I'm not jealous—" she began to fire out.

"What is she jealous of?" Bobby's voice suddenly cut her off, he had somehow weaselled his way over without her noticing and set the rest of the drinks down on the table; glancing between Ryan and Y/n for an answer.

"Nothing," She quickly said, sinking back into her seat and giving Ryan a warning look as Bobby sat down next to him.

Ryan smirked, he could see it right through her, and he knew that he couldn't keep his mouth shut in this situation; he had the right reasons, (he was sick and tired of watching y/n pine over Bobby without doing anything about it—right reasons, wrong method of execution)

"She's jealous of the girl you were talking to at the bar," he bluntly informed Bobby, his gaze drifting to Y/n to find her shooting daggers at him. Her cheeks were even more red now.

Bobby's brows raised at the information, and he looked at her reddening face with a growing smirk; and she prepared herself for his response. She wanted to smack Ryan across the head—she was completely over the teasing. It was fun and fine at first, but after a while it just started hurting. Her feelings were being laughed at and mocked, and if he didn't like the fact that she fancied him then he could just tell her instead of teasing her about it.

"You know you're the only girl for me, love. No need for jealousy," He said to y/n with a smirk—teasing her, yet again...

Ryan rolled his eyes at the interaction, feeling amused by the whole thing. He was tempted to smack him and her upside the head for being so unbelievably stupid for not noticing the obvious fact that Bobby just couldn't get the hint—the hint to do something about it. Ryan wasn't dumb, he could sense the feelings Bobby had for y/n. He had just hoped that by now, the blonde-headed idiot would swallow his fears down and ask the damn girl out.

Y/n huffed, feeling flustered at the words and his teasing, "Don't call me love," She spoke to him, her tone annoyed yet light in mockery as she rose from her seat.

The two guys watched as she snatched her small bag off the table in haste and started walking away from everyone, toward the exit.

"Nice going, idiot," Ryan was the first to say something, looking at his friend with a roll of his eyes.

"What?! You're the idiot, idiot," Bobby exclaimed, completely baffled at the response. Ryan was the one who initiated the entire thing.

"No—You're the idiot," Ryan scoffed, shaking his head. "She's a complete goner for you, and you're too much of a pussy to do anything about it," He angled his body toward his friend, speaking lowly so that the other guys at the table wouldn't hear, "You either tell her you're not interested—which you are, I can tell—and drop the whole thing, or you tell her you want her as much as she wants you," Ryan explained, holding his finger up and pointing it at him to assert his point.

He saw the moment Bobby's face changed from confusion to a more softer one. His eyes were casted down onto the table, clearly thinking about the whole situation in his head. He felt awful.

He was stunned into silence for a few moments as he thought on Ryan's words.

He stared at the table, his mind deep in thought, almost to the point where he forgot that people were still around them. He didn't want to face any facts. He knew he had feelings for her, he knew that—but why was Ryan making it sound easier than it really was.

Bobby shook his head slowly, lifting his gaze back up to Ryan; words tumbling out of him, "It's not that simple, mate," he protested, "Have you thought about what would happen if things ended badly? Don't forget she's our photographer."

Ryan scoffed, his disbelief at the statement growing. "Mate, she's also the one person that can put up with your stupid arse," he reminded him, his tone now firm and annoyed, as he leaned forward in his seat, "You're telling me that you'd rather keep all the stupid feelings bottled away in that thick skull of yours, not make a move, and then miss the opportunity to have her?"

Bobby side-eyed Ryan for the insult, and then let out a deep sigh; saying nothing as he straightened up in his seat and looked toward the exit. Maybe he should man up and go out there—but he felt like such a fool. What would she even say? He used humour to help in situations, and so of course he did the same for this one. Maybe he dug himself too deep. All the months worth of making fun of her for her crush on him were coming back to bite him in the arse.

"Okay," He muttered quietly to himself more than to Ryan, shifting a little as he climbed out of the booth and began to head toward to exit.

He paid no attention to the girl from the bar as he walked by her table—even so, she didn't even make a move on him whilst they were talking. It was friendly chatting, and so when he came back to the table to find out y/n was jealous—you could say he was over the moon and handled it in a shitty way.

Meanwhile, y/n had found herself stood on the sidewalk outside of the bar. Not too far away, but just enough distance to be able to clear her head and think things through. She was overthinking what just happened, she went over it so many times in her head and deemed her actions dramatic and childish. Maybe she should have been the one to tell him and everyone she didn't like it when they teased her about her crush; but a slither of her enjoyed it because it was some sort of acknowledgment of it on Bobby's side.

She was in her own little world, mindlessly looking at the array of random posters on the wall when in the corner of her eye; Bobby showed up next to her.

She must have been deep in thought as she failed to notice his presence right away, so he stood next to her in silence as he watched her and studied her every move. He saw her looking at the walls, admiring the art that covered them, before his gaze fell to the ground, and his thoughts started to swirl around in his head.

He took a deep breath to calm himself down. He wasn't supposed to feel like this, he was supposed to be just like any other boy that got the girl, and yet here he was—acting like a love-struck teen and struggling to get the right words out.

"I'm sorry," He finally spoke up, not knowing what to say. He had gone over it in his head during his quick walk to find her, he had made a defend script in his head but it all suddenly went out the window when he was finally next to her.

His voice startled her at first, causing her to flinch for a split second, before she turned her head to look at him. He looked nervous. She could see it in his eyes and the way he looked away from her.

She didn't know how to respond straight away; she felt her words stuck in her throat as she stared at him for a long moment before opening her mouth, "What are you apologising for..?"

"For being stupid," He said, his eyes flickered back and forth between the two of hers. He pushed his hands into the pockets of his jackets, feeling his mouth dry as a bundle of nerves ran through him. He took a step closer, and she angled her body towards his at the closer proximity; no longer looking at the art work on the wall.

"I just... I really really like you, y/n," He continued, emphasising the 'really' with a furrow of his brows; but his words must have reached her ears differently and her concept of them sounded like he was about to friend zone her.

She nodded, turning her head to look away from him and back toward the wall, "...As a friend," she finished the rest of his sentence, feeling the knot of sadness form in her throat. Don't cry, don't cry, stupid don't cry you're not 14.

"No, no," Bobby quickly exclaimed as she had misheard him. He reached out with one of his hands, gently taking hold of her chin to guide it back to look at him, "No, not as a friend—as more than that."

He saw her face soften at his clarification, and he allowed a small smile to form on his face as she took in his words, her eyes fixed on him. She looked so pretty.

"What?" She asked in utter confusion, his words were a mind bog—after months of him making fun of her and teasing her for her crush on him, he goes and tells her he feels the same way. Doubt crosses her mind, even though he is smiling so sweetly at her, "Look, I don't know if this is just another joke to make fun of me or if you're saying that because you feel bad. You're confusing me, Bobby."

Bobby shook his head, his heart clenching in his chest as he saw doubt and skepticism in her eyes. She didn't believe him. "No, no, no," he muttered, cupping her face in both his hands, keeping her gaze on him.

"I promise I'm not playing with you, I'm not messing with you. I'm telling you the truth," He looked into her eyes, not looking away for even one second as his thumbs slowly started to trace her features; his touch feather-like.

She almost melted at his touch, but she still couldn't wrap her head around the whole ordeal. They say women were confusing, but maybe it was actually men who were more confusing.

"Then they would you tease me about it for months. I don't understand why. Why did it take you this long to tell me," She asked him, frowning even more as she searched his eyes for the truth.

He sighed, letting go of her face with both hands as he ran one through his hair, "I don't know, I guess I was too scared. Because this is a big deal," he explained, a hint of a nervous laugh escaping his mouth as he pushed his hands back into his pocket.

"You're our photographer. I didn't want to face it and have things be awkward if it never worked out between us and you had to end up quitting because of it," he explained, his gaze shifting all over the place as he tried to keep calm, "I like you too much—I like having you around with the guys, I like having you with me."

"I wouldn't quit because of that," she responded to his words with a scoff and a roll of her eyes, acting as if it was a ridiculous idea.

"So... what are we gonna do?" her voice was softer now, her shoulders slumping slightly as her eyes lifted to find his again.

"I guess that depends on what you want us to be," He responded with a shrug, and he leaned in closer toward her, his voice grew quieter; "Because I know exactly what I want to be."

Her breath stopped in her throat when she noticed he was leaning in closer, and suddenly; everything in the world stilled as she gazed into his eyes. "Bobby..." She breathed out quietly, she didn't know if it was a question, a statement, or whatever... its all she managed to mutter out.

She looked so beautiful in this second. His mind went blank as he got lost in her eyes, the way her lips moved when she said his name was addicting.

He lifted his hand up from his pocket again, gently brushing a lose strand of her hair, "Can I kiss you?" He whispered ever so sweetly.

Shock waves flooded her entire system at his words, not knowing if she imagined that he said that or if she misheard him. She didn't know what would happen between them after this, she didn't know if it would develop into a relationship, but all she knew was that something would completely change between them if their lips connected.

But right now she didn't care if tomorrow they didn't speak to eachother at all, she didn't care if it was awkward between them when the euphoria of the moment died down and was replaced by something more serious.

After a beat, she nodded her head ever so softly and muttered out a simple; "Kiss me."

Bobby didn't hesitate. He closed the distance between them and softly connected their lips together. He cupped her cheeks in both his hands, holding her in place as he kissed her with a gentleness that made her heart beat a little faster. His lips were perfectly fitting over her bottom lip, and he almost smiled against the kiss from how utterly perfect it felt to kiss her.

It was so soft, so gentle. He held her delicately, and treated the kiss like it was such a fragile thing as if it would break if he handled it wrong.

Maybe it was the alcohol flooding through their systems that made them kiss without thinking it through. They would have to talk about it tomorrow at some point when the alcoholic haze wore of and reality settled in. And what scared them the most was not knowing if this kiss would make or break them.

[cl16clerc]

Secrets we’re taking to the grave - Robert Keating

Summary: You’re friends with the band, all but Bobby. He hates you, you hate him. It’s a known fact. One day at a party, Bobby takes it too far, leaving him to face the consequences and confront his true feelings.

Warnings: make out session, swearing, ANGST (arguing) but fluff at the end, mean rob

P.S. I loved @kate-inthedarkness ‘I Want You’ fic so much I made something kind of similar?? GO CHECK THAT OUT ITS A GREAT FIC!💗

“Don’t get me wrong.” Ryan’s words were muffled by the food in his mouth. “He’s a great guy but he’s just not… you know…”

You can’t help but chuckle at Ryan’s crappy attempt at advice. “He’s just not what?” You taunted.

“He’s not Bobby.” His words earned a kick to the shin.

You and Ryan were sat across each other at the kitchen table in his hotel room. Ryan was your best friend since you’d stumbled into the band’s lives. You really clicked with them. Everyone but Bobby.

“I don’t want Bobby. He’s a prat.” You rolled your eyes. “All he ever does is get on my nerves.”

“Not in the way I see it. I see built up tension but you diffuse it by being pricks to each other.” Ryan looked you dead in the eyes.

No.

“No.” You said plainly.

There was a pause. Ryan could see through your own thoughts into whatever doubt you had in your statement. “Sure.”

You were about to interject but there was a knock at the door. Ryan raised his eyebrows before getting up to check. You heard some mumbles and then the person came in. Your head whipped round.

Bobby.

“What’s she doing here?” His voice was cold.

“I’m-“ You went to make a snarky comment but Ryan cut you off.

“We were just talking about Toxic by Britney Spears.” Ryan smiled.

“No-“

“Don’t ruin my favourite song.” Bobby grunted.

You wanted to kick Ryan again.

“I wasn’t-“

“Don’t be mean!” Ryan cut you off again. “Look see, you have something in common.”

“No.” You and Bobby said in unison.

That was it. Just the sound of his voice was enough to drive you out of Ryan’s flat. You got up and grabbed your coat.

“I just remembered I had something to do.” You said bluntly.

“Do what? Don’t tell me you have plans, that’ll make me laugh.” Bobby taunted.

Ryan gave him a harsh nudge. “Shut it.”

You didn’t say another word, stepping out into the apartment complex. This was your reality, stuck in an endless loop of not being able to stay in the same room as Bobby. It sucked, you enjoyed everyone else’s company, but Bobby? He made your skin crawl. You’d rather sit through Dune on a constant loop than have to listen to his nagging. He felt no different. Every time he saw you it was comment after comment.

You found yourself subconsciously kicking stones as you wandered through the streets of Dublin. The night had just began to coat the skies in a purple haze. The stillness of it all made you forget about Bobby for a moment, but not long enough. Nothing could ever rid of the feeling of him.

——

A few weeks later, you found yourself at a party with the band and some friends from the industry. You were wearing a simple dark green dress but it looked effortlessly pretty on you. Elijah greeted you with a smile.

“Hey.” He beamed, pulling you in for a hug. “You look great!”

You smiled. “Thanks! So do you!”

Elijah was wearing a suit but he dressed it down so it still looked cool. You always loved his style.

“Just keep me away from Bobby. I want to feel good tonight.” You huffed.

“You’ll have to deal with him at some point, love. He’s pretty hard to avoid.” Elijah’s words were quickly manifested as Bobby trudged over.

To your relief, Josh and Ryan were there too. They all let out ‘ooo’s, admiring how you looked. It was friendly but it made you blush, nonetheless. You felt good in your dress and in yourself. No dirty look from Bobby could knock your confidence tonight.

A few drinks down and you’d started to ease a little. You were chatting with the guys about their upcoming tour, potential new music and even the pizza that you were going to get after tonight’s party. Bobby, unsurprisingly, wasn’t trying to mask his resentment. It was plain to everyone that he didn’t want to speak to you. He dodged answering anything you asked. He didn’t react to your jokes or comments. Nothing. It was getting beyond annoying.

“Where’d you get the dress from?” Ryan asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

“Oh um, it’s vintage. I just saw it one day and really liked it.” You chuckled.

The guys all nodded in amusement, well, all but Bobby. Your comment somehow annoyed him more. You tried your best to avoid his looks and glares.

“Do you always have to dress up so extra?” The alcohol had made Bobby suddenly very blunt and rude.

“Excuse me?” You raised your eyebrows.

The rest of the guys looked at each other in shock.

“I mean, it’s a bit much for this party. It’s not a gala.” Bobby rolled his eyes.

“I liked this dress.” You frowned.

You hated the fact that his comment stung. You didn’t expect anyone to be so bothered by a dress.

“It looks nice, Bob. Shut up.” Josh said whilst the others nodded in agreement.

“It just wouldn’t kill you to stop showing off for once? And a thrifted dress? Come off it. You’re not special.” Bobby scoffed.

You weren’t sure what to do. You were too stunned and embarrassed to act immediately. You felt your stomach drop, like a heavy weight in your chest. Normally, you’d be fine with anything Bobby threw your way but tonight felt different. This was an attack on something you wanted to feel good about. It just- stung.

“Don’t be a prick.” Elijah snatched the bottle in Bobby’s hands, probably trying to stop anything else that Bobby would say.

Your lack of response made the air uncomfortable. The rest of the guys had cursed Bobby, it was an uncalled for comment. That still wasn’t enough for you. It wasn’t enough to shake the awful feeling it gave you. Don’t rise to it, said the voice in your head. So you left.

With a quick turn, you walked away. It was embarrassing in all honesty. Thinking about it, there were other ways to handle it. But you knew your fights with Bobby. It would’ve been heated and messy and tonight you couldn’t deal with it. You managed to find a room down the hallway that wasn’t occupied. You burst through the doors, taking a deep breath and trying to contain yourself.

The room was dimly lit with a desk and large leather chairs. It must’ve been an office of some sort. You tried to take your mind off what had just happened. You needed to go back out and face Bobby, face it all but god you just needed a minute. A minute to try and figure out why on earth this was bothering you so much. You noticed a mirror on the wall and your gaze flickered to yourself.

In the corner of the mirror, you saw the door opening. You whipped your head round to see Bobby, his irritating face a little bit softer now.

“I’m not in the mood.” You said firmly. “I’m really not.”

Bobby raised his hands in defeat. “I’m not coming to make any more comments.”

You relaxed your shoulders slightly, letting out a sigh.

“You were so mean.” You said plainly.

“I know.” He nodded.

“You insulted my dress.” Your words were filled with hurt.

Bobby was stepping closer. Why was your heart beating so fast?

“I know.” He repeated.

“You made me feel ugly.” You choked out.

“No. Don’t say that.” Bobby’s tone had shifted.

You looked at him with a puzzled look.

“You’re not ugly. You’re so far from it. You’re-“ Bobby struggled. “You’re beautiful. God I hate that you are, but you’re the most beautiful person here tonight.”

You felt your breath get caught in your throat. Seeing Bobby so vulnerable was out of the blue but… you didn’t mind it? In fact, it helped answer the question as to why you were so hurt.

“It hurt most coming from you.” You whispered.

“I didn’t mean it. I’m so sorry, I took it too far.” Bobby stepped closer.

You didn’t back away. You physically couldn’t.

“Everyone thought you were beautiful.” He continued. “It just clicked something inside of me. I think I’m jealous.”

What?

“Of the dress?” You joked, trying to contain the shock in your voice.

“Shut up.” Bobby’s voice was low but he couldn’t help but smile.

What now? The voice of reason was far gone. It felt like an empty confession, spilling his deepest thoughts but no consequences, no change. It was hard to move past the hatred you both had for each other but it was harder to ignore the feelings there. So now it was your turn.

“It hurt the most hearing you say it because I didn’t want it to be true. I didn’t dress up for you but you know, I wanted you to like the way I looked.” The words came out before you could stop them. This must’ve been how Bobby felt.

“Why me?” He looked into your eyes suddenly.

“Don’t be an idiot.” You shook your head, the hurt still there.

“I like the way you look. I didn’t mean anything I said, I promise.” Bobby stepped closer. “I could never actually feel that way about you.”

So many thoughts were swirling in your mind. Bobby’s confession was screaming at your brain. You were beyond shocked, unsure what to say. When words fail, actions are all that’s there.

“Please- I’m so-“ Bobby started but you cut him off.

Your lips on his lips. He melted into the kiss, his own mind going at 100mph. Bobby’s hands were on your waist as he pulled you as close as physically possible. Your hands were on both sides of his face, trying to do the same. It was right, this felt so right. All the hurt and anger seemed to dissipate. You couldn’t hate Bobby. Not right now, that was impossible. With chest pressed against him you could’ve sworn your bodies merged.

You pulled away, slightly breathless. There was a doubt in your eyes but Bobby shook his head.

“Don’t do this to me. Don’t make me spill it all for nothing.” His walls were threatening to bild up again.

“I won’t. I want you, more than anyone or anything.” You admitted.

Bobby stared at you, a slight look of disbelief. He must’ve not expected that. He struggled to muster up a good response.

“I want you too.” Bobby whispered.

It was all he could manage but it was enough. Your lips were on each other’s again, indulging in the feeling. Bobby backed you into the desk making you gasp. The hunger and passion was there. It felt alive, it felt right.

About half an hour later, you both emerged from the office room. Your cheeks were flushed and your hair slightly messing from all the kissing that had been done. The rest of the band spotted you two immediately. They all cracked huge grins, feeling pleased to see the sight.

“I take it you two made up.” Ryan smirked. “I told you so! I told you so hard!”

Bobby nudged him and everyone broke out into laughter. You rolled your eyes but you couldn’t help but smile.

The rest of the night was spent with Bobby’s arm around you. It was like he was scared to let you go. Stolen kisses, whispers and giggles. It was like you two were teenagers in love.

[latehourletters]

he plays bass ― singer!reader x bobby skeetz (robert keating)

wc; 1.5k

summary; lollapalooza was wild. she’s playing the biggest show of her life with her band, and somewhere in the crowd, bobby’s watching.

warnings; language? idk, part of the dialogues are lyrics from songs! kinda fluff, mutual pining, reader and bobby are stupid.

Lollapalooza. Argentina.

This was, without a doubt, going to be the biggest gig she had played so far. The roar of the crowd was deafening—it vibrated in her chest and clouded her thoughts. Her fingers trembled from the nerves. Everything was happening both too fast and achingly slow: the rushed voices of the crew, the clipped directions, the controlled chaos of the backstage… Every second before stepping onto the stage stretched like it was in slow motion. Lena said something to her. She saw her lips move, but she couldn’t hear a thing.

“What?”

“We have to go.”

Already? She instinctively looked at her wrist, forgetting she wasn’t wearing a watch. Adjusting her in-ears, she slid the guitar strap over her shoulders. The hiss of the smoke machine made her flinch. That was the signal. “Lipstick Stain” flashed in huge letters on the main screen. The sun still hung over the venue, dyeing the sky in shades of orange and pink. The moment the five girls stepped onto the stage, the already-loud screams were eclipsed by the explosion of pure euphoria. It was wild.

“Hello, Argentina!” she greeted into the mic, while the others took their positions. “We’re Lipstick Stain, and we are so, so happy to be here!”

“Olé, olé olé oléeee, lipstick, lipstick!” the crowd chanted. She’d heard that before, at other festivals, but never imagined what it would feel like to hear it from the stage. Unreal. She smiled. Looked out into the crowd again. Took a deep breath. Adjusted the guitar.

“This is Cologne. Hope you like it… Am I…” she sang, letting the silence wrap around her, just like they always did in their live sets. “Seductive?” The audience exploded. YES! — ¡TE AMO! — YESSSS! “Call me back…” she murmured into the mic, as if thinking aloud, “in an hour” Ramona arpeggiated softly, building the moment. “If you wanna go back home… oh, babe, at least leave the scent of your cologne, leave the scent of your… cologne…” The full band kicked in. The drums were thunderous, and the bass thudded in her bones. “I’m not done yet… please, kiss my neck. Let’s go for another round, I hate what this song is about”

She glanced to the side. Four tall figures stood at the edge of the stage, watching. She recognized him instantly. Even behind sunglasses, she could already picture the electric blue of his eyes staring back at her. She never really knew when her feelings for Bobby began. That strange twisting in her stomach. Maybe it was during one of those shared gigs, somewhere between rushed soundchecks and hurried greetings, when he held her gaze a second longer than necessary. Or maybe it was during those early nights in tiny bars, when their bands shared the stage — and the smoke, the noise, the thrill — wrapped around them both. They barely knew each other. Just a handful of encounters — a few scattered words, an offhand comment, a “sick set” mumbled with a half-smile — nothing more than that. And she never fully understood why. Why him? Robert wasn’t particularly kind to her. He wasn’t one of those boys who looked at you like they actually saw you. Sometimes it felt like he didn’t notice her at all; other times, his responses were curt, empty, almost indifferent. And yet, there was something about him that quietly unraveled her.

“Am I attractive? Tell me, am I good enough? Lately, I’ve been on and off… I think I’ve hurt too much, my wrists are numb…” “Hurt too much, my limbs are numb…” Gia echoed from the back. “I’m not done yet… please, kiss my neck. Let’s go for another round, I hate what this song is about… You’re in my head… He’s in my head…"

She smirked to herself as the crowd screamed. She knew he was listening. Fucker. Ramona was setting the guitar on fire. The rest were layering harmonies, one over another.

“I’m so attractive, think I’m going to explode. Baby, I’ve been home alone, won’t you just drop your shit and pick up the phone?” “Drop your shit and pick up the phone?” Gia sang again. “I’m not done yet… please, kiss my neck. Let’s go for another round, I hate what this song is about”

The end was near—her favorite part to play live. Sweat dripped down her forehead. She was completely, breathlessly happy.

“Thank you.” She swapped guitars, switching to an acoustic. As she did, the crowd found new entertainment.

“¡MUCHA ROPA! ¡MUCHA ROPA! ¡MUCHA ROPA!”

She frowned, half-laughing, half-confused. Took a sip from her water bottle.

“¿Mucha ropa? What’s that?” she asked someone near the front, but no one gave a straight answer. Everyone was shouting at once.

“I don’t think you wanna know…” Lena commented into her mic, finishing a quick chat with someone on the crew.

“C’mon, tell me,” she teased, tuning a string while looking at her.

“Too much clothes.”

“You fuckers…” she laughed. “Um… te amo” she added, just as she’d rehearsed.

The world from up there was loud. Everything pulsed.

“Uh, the next song is new.” She waited for the noise to quiet down, though she could barely hear herself either. “So, yeah, this is kinda risky… You guys know how bass players never get as much love as the rest of the band, right?”

Lena exaggerated a nod beside her.

“The next one is dedicated to all the bassists in the world… and um, my hate-love for them. This is ‘He Plays Bass’, and it’s totally not about a specific bassist. At all.”

No one had time to react. She was already strumming. Lena jumped in immediately, laying down the groove with her bass.

“Hey… won’t you call me back? ‘Cause I’ve been waiting for a text back… it huuuurts my brain, this lad…” she sighed, grinning, “who plays bass”

Roxie was going off on drums, and Gia was lost in her own world, floating through synths and smiles.

“He plays bass, he plays bass… nothing matters ‘cause we’re both in space… Pretty shit we didn’t ever date… he plays bass, he plays bass”

She was jumping across the stage with Lena, side to side, the joy flooding through every scream, every chord.

“Yes, we’re both stuck in the same boat… The world doesn’t seem to get us though. You’re just stuck in space—”

“Or Ireland!” Ramona laughed into her mic. And just like that, it hit her like a cold slap. The smile vanished from her face. She would kill her after the set. Even if Lena was giggling like nothing had happened, completely in on it.

“—just playing your bass”

Her cheeks were burning.

“He plays bass, he plays bass… nothing matters ‘cause we’re both in space. Pretty shit we didn’t ever date… he plays bass, he plays bass”

The song started to slow down. Only Ramona’s guitar carried it now, joined gradually by Lena’s bass and the soft shimmer of cymbals.

“He plays bass, he plays bass… nothing matters ‘cause we’re both in space. How I wish we could just date…” she whispered, “so you can teach me how to be more like… you”

There was a beat of silence. Then all the instruments crashed back in.

“Wish I was more like you. Wish I was more like you. Wish I was more like you”

She ended breathless, heart pounding.

“Thank you.”

She turned to her right. Bobby’s eyes were on her. And with a single glance, he completely undid her world.

Bobby was still standing there, motionless. It wasn’t just the sun in his golden hair, or the heat from the stage lights and from the crowd. No, this was something else—a strange electricity hanging between them. She couldn’t explain it. Maybe it was the vulnerability she'd exposed in that song, or the stupid joke they made about Irish bass players. Maybe it was the weight of those fleeting moments, caught in the music, in the audience, in the way their worlds collided and then, just as quickly, pulled apart. He was there, and she was here, and yet the connection they shared never fully made sense.

Lena nudged her shoulder, laughing about the crowd's energy, but something in her shifted when she noticed her gaze was locked with Bobby's. “You okay?” Lena asked softly, following her line of sight.

“Yeah… Just—just need a second,” she murmured.

Lena didn't press further, but the quiet undercurrent of the moment had already made itself known. There was something bigger than either of them, and neither knew how to deal with it. Not yet. As the crew began to clear the stage after a few more songs, the clamor of footsteps and voices blurred into the background. She barely heard the shouts and cheers. She was only aware of the steady thrum in her chest, each beat syncing with the pounding in her ears. And Bobby was still looking at her, like he'd never looked at anyone else before.

Maybe she should talk to him. Maybe she shouldn't. Maybe she was just too fucking afraid.

notes; hi!! first fic<33 lmk if u want a second part muah

[leaawrites]

Call Me When You Break Up

Bobby Skeetz x fem!reader

Summary: after being broken up with, she seeks comfort in her old best friend.

Warnings: mentions of toxic relationship (not Bobby), crying, friends to lovers, hurt, fluff

Wordcount: 1.3k

Main Masterlist, Inhaler Masterlist

The lights flickered in her blurry vision as rain fell from the sky. Pouring down on the streets and her window sill. Splashing against her window.

Huddled up under her covers, the weather felt nicer than the heavy feeling in her heart. Tears she'd cried weighting down her chest as they sat on it, making it hard for her to breath steadily. Everything was a choked up sob or shaky attempts at inhaling and exhaling.

Her fingers trembled against the screen of her phone as she looked for the number that was pinned. Scrolling through her contacts would give her time to gather her thoughts, strengthen her words. Though as the ring rang through her now empty apartment, nothing has felt as embarrassing as having to tell him that he was right once again.

Growing up with Bobby as a neighbour had been fun at first, it was just them two, running through both their gardens and through holes they made in their fences to make the others house more available. But when he went to another school and met Eli, Ryan and Josh, he had less time. Greeting him as they both stepped out the house in the morning and walked to the bus stop together turned into watching him walk past her house with his head low and his guitar case in his hand late at night.

They still met up, they still talked, but it was all a lot less.

They both found new friends, went around in different circles. They grew up and grew apart.

Having heard about a gig of theirs a few weeks ago, she asked him about it. He never mentioned anything at the dinners they had together about the band actually being something serious. It was only ever, "We have Pizza and talk mostly. Just a get together, really."

"I saw the flyer outside the pub," she explained as she stopped him on his way to rehearsal. "Didn't know you played outside the garage."

"Yeah, it's our first gig actually. We don't expect much," he said, running a hand through his hand nervously. Acting nonchalant, but she could see the nerves about it even now. "You can come if you want."

"I'd love to." And when she smiled at the invitation, he smiled at her agreement.

Saturday came and with it also the confrontation she feared. Her and Sam had been dating for a few months already, being set up by some friends, he never seemed as interested in her as all her other friend's boyfriends. Except when it came to her going out on her own.

"What are you trying to say?" He asked, crossing his arms as she stood in front of him, fidgeting with her fingers.

She had tried to get him to leave so she could get ready. Trying to find a reasonable explanation without having to tell him the truth. But he didn't budge. Staying sat on the edge of her bed, narrowing his eyes at her as he knew that she was lying.

"He's just an old friend, I wanted to support him. It's their first gig and he invited me to come see it, which I'm doing," she rambled. Words and sentences growing as her body shrunk under his gaze.

"I thought we were gonna hang out." His shoulders sank, his demeanour changed. Confusion was replaced by sadness on the search for pity.

"We can do that tomorrow too," she tried to reason. Walking closer to him and taking his head in her hands.

"So you rather would spent time with him than with me? Is that what your saying?" His voice grew more defensive, angrier. His hands pushing her body away as he stood up.

"It's not! I'm just trying to make this alright for everyone-" her words were cut off by him opening the door to her bedroom. Already taking one step out the room.

"Don't bother," he interrupted her, "I'll just leave you be."

And when he left, the rain came to comfort her. Bringing familiarity and new thoughts.

Bobby wasn't aware that she couldn't make it; mascara running down her red, puffy eyes. She would only worsen the mood. He wouldn't care anyways.

The next hour went by and when night time came, so did the guilt that she left him hanging without an explanation.

It was a surprise to her when he picked up.

"Hey," he said, chatter in the background fading and being replaced by rain. The same one she was listening to as well. "Where are you?"

"Couldn't make it," she answered, taking another deep breath to keep her voice steady. "I'm sorry."

"It's alright, wasn't that good anyways. We got about two drunks and Josh's parents with us here. You didn't miss much."

"I did though. I was really excited to hear you." And when her voice cracked, his voice grew more concerned.

"What's up? What happened?" It was soft how he said it, almost identical to how she would comfort him after a bad football game when they were 5.

"Nothing of much importance," she tried changing the topic, but when he didn't say anything again, she caught the hint. Urging her to keep on talking. "My boyfriend, Sam, don't know if you know him." He hummed. "He- We broke up. Just didn't work out and I'm more affected by it than I thought, I guess. I don't know. Didn't want to show up and properly meet your friends with bloodshot eyes and look like the biggest junkie in the world."

"Do you want me to come over?" He asked almost immediately after he was sure she was done explaining.

"No, it's alright. You enjoy your night, I'll get up in the morning." Waving him off with him being able to see, she wasn't sure what answer she wanted to receive now. She had never found herself in such a situation before.

"I see those lads every day, I barely ever see you anymore," he answered, receiving complains from the people clearly listening into his conversation.

It was a good answer, she decided.

"I wouldn't mind having you here right now," she answered, which was enough for him to hang up and say good-bye to his friends.

Receiving mocking kiss noises and 'don't be stupid' as a good-bye in return.

Her room was dark as he entered, her body sprawled out under the covers and she was breathing quietly. Looking out the window, not acknowledging him. But he knew she was awake when she patted the side of the bed she left empty for him. Taking off his shoes and climbing into her bed, Bobby leaned against the headrest. His eyes trailing down to her. Letting her take as much time as she wanted until she wanted to talk to him.

Silence settled around them comfortably until she asked, "Who let you in?"

"Your mum," he explained. "She looked quite surprised though to see me."

"I bet she was, you weren't over on your own for a long time." Turning her body, she rested her head on his chest. Breathing in the familiar scent. "I missed this."

"I did too," Bobby confessed, running his fingers through her hair.

Looking up at him, she could see the lingering want in his eyes. Gaze slipping from their eyes to their lips at the same time. Sitting up, she leaned closer. His hands slipped from her hair to her face, holding her cheek as they both leaned in. Their lips pressing together. It was new at first, unexpected, but they melted into it the longer they stayed close to each other. Holding the other.

"I never wanted someone else to do this before me," Bobby breathed out against her lips, pulling away slightly to catch his breath.

"You'll always be my first love though," she said, not looking away from him as the words slipped from her tongue.

"Good."

Leaning in again, they both knew their parents had seen it coming from a mile away, they should've too.

[dublinskeetz]

could you maybe do a fic (don’t worry if you can’t 🫶🏼) with eli or bobby maybe enemies to lovers and the person is the band’s photographer or is on keys 🤍🤍

𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐞

hii ofc, i wasnt sure if u wanted a smau or written soo i sort of did both since the reader is their photographer, hope u like it!! this is my first tumblr fic so im still getting used to how to work the app lollll, sorry if u don't like it but pls give me ur thoughts so i can learn to improve JAJA

𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘺 — 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘳'𝘴 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘺 𝘴𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘻 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘴 𝘨𝘳𝘶𝘥𝘨𝘦𝘴

𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘳𝘦 — 𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘧𝘧, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘵𝘢𝘥 𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘴𝘵, 𝘣𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘵, 𝘣𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘧, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘺'𝘴 #1 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴

𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 — 𝘣𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘺 𝘴𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘻 𝘹 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳

yourusername

liked by ryanmcmahon_15 and others

yourusername dropping these flicks in honor of my fav boys (and bobby ig) letting me join them on tour to take cute pics of them 🙇‍♀️🙇‍♀️

view all 2389 comments

joshjenkinson_ WOOO after months of begging

yourusername a little begging doesnt hurt when i have to spend months with devils spawn joshjenkinson_ bobby loves u dw bobbyskeetz why do you automatically think shes talking about me bobbyskeetz and i do not

bobbyskeetz so thrilled to have you.

inhalerfan1 wtf why is she always hating on bobby he does nothing wrong to her!!! how about you leave and like never speak to him again.🙄🙄

inhalerfan2 saying this doesnt make bobby want u any more! bobbyskeetz how about you leave her alone? ryanmcmahon_15 aw look at u protecting her

elijahhewson the crowd erupts in cheers

yourusername by crowd u mean u, josh, and ryan LMAFO elijahhewson and bobby he just wont admit it

inhalerfan300 something abt the boys getting their pics taken by a sexy woman makes them even sexier tbh

liked by elijahhewson, ryanmcmahon_15 and 30 others

inhalerfan11 fuc the guys I WANT U

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"say, cheese!"

your lens shuttering was heard throughout the tour bus, trying to take candid, but not candid at the same time, pictures of the boys. tour was great, amazing even. you felt at peace when taking pictures of the band in their natural element. whether it be on stage, at a pub, or even just at time when it was just one on one hangouts. except, for bobby

bobby skeetz, you didn't know what you had done to make the boy dislike you from the moment he laid eyes on you. maybe it was your personality, the possibility to get on with everyone around you, happiness radiating off of you. or perhaps it was one night stand you had with him 4 years ago. but you chose to pick the former as the reason.

it didn't matter what you tried, his anger, regret, or whatever he felt never seemed to ease.

despite telling them to smile, bobby still had a grim look on his face, clearly wanting to be anywhere else but in front of you. rolling your eyes, you lowered your camera, dismissing the guys from the lens.

as the boys one by one retreated to their own areas, bobby stuck sitting in front of you as you placed your equipment away. you could feel his eyes watching you as you worked, and you found he often did this. though you could never force yourself to look back up at him, knowing his eyes would probably be full of dislike.

"is there something you need robert," you asked him, getting closer and closer to being fed up with his acts.

"no, just thinking."

"of?"

"why we would need another photographer when we already had lewis."

rolling you eyes, why do i even bother, thinking to yourself.

hiding behind a door was josh, ryan, and eli, silently watching the two of you interact. "i bet you they get together by the end of the tour," ryan spoke.

"oh you are so on McMahhon."

"dunno, maybe you should ask your mates. you didn't seem to complain too much when they asked me, repeatedly," you argued.

there was a thick tension in the air, these petty fights between the two of you were normal at this point, and despite your attempts to be professional, his pettiness was starting to get to you.

in reality, you didn't mind bobby at all, in fact, you felt a pull towards him. but ever since that mistake, that for some reason he can't seem to forget, he has made his presence unbareable.

"why must you make everything so difficult," you sighed, frustration evident in your tone as you continued to pack away your equipment.

"i'm not the one making things difficult, thats your speciality, isn't it," he snapped back. there was a mix of annoyance and indifference in his expression as he starred at you. "or maybe its the fact that you love to pretend nothing happened."

"what the hell are you talking about," you spoke, your patience so close to breaking.

bobby scoffed, "oh please, you know exactly what i'm talking about. four years ago when you left me!"

there was a heavy silence between the two of you, could he seriously be holding onto the past for that long? was this really the reason why he hated you so much? you can admit, you have your regrets on the way those things played out, but what were you supposed to do? act like sleeping with him didn't hurt you in ways you didn't even know you could hurt? the way he easily uttered those words to you, this doesn't mean anything, does it? it pained you, so really, what were you supposed to do?

but you were never really good with your emotions, so frustration bubbled inside you, "fine, you want to hold onto the past? go ahead, keating. but don't act like i'm the only one at fault here."

your heated exchange echoed throughout the bus, leaving an uncomfortable silence. but meanwhile, the other three boys exchanged knowing looks.

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yourusername

liked by elijahhewson and others

yourusername tours almost ova so heres some flicks to prepare u for the drought

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elijahhewson pay up ryan

ryanmcmahon_15 ITS NOT OVER YET SHUT UP yourusername meaning?? elijahhewson NOTHING ryanmcmahon_15 NOTHING

inhalerfan11 NOOOO

inhalerfan23 god i have seen what u have done for others

trumanblack come take some flicks for us?

elijahhewson no joshjenkinson_ no bobbyskeetz shes all yours mate ryanmcmahon_15 rob shut up before i leak some information that i find very important. bobbyskeetz YOU WOULD NEVER joshjenkinson_15 TRY US bobbyskeetz JOSH NOT YOU TOO yourusername OIII all of u. out my comment section

inhalerdublin twas an honor having u with us, and for the rest of the tours!🤗🤗

inhalerdublin whos us? yourusername robert get out

inhalerfan100 why do i get the gut sense that her and bobby do not like each other?

inhaler203 i dont think so, i was at their last shows and he complete heart eyes for her liked by ryanmcmahon_15 and joshjenkinson_ inhaler203 RYAN JOSH WHAT DO U KNOW inhaler100 their my enemies to lovers trope

oliviarodrigo im going on tour soon babes if u need a job😉😉

yourusername omg.

inhaler45 im living for this comment section

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throughout the remaining of the tour, there was an uncomfortable tension between you and bobby, and with the last dates coming up, you weren't sure if you wanted to come back.

but then again, you were confused.

after your last blow with the bassist, there was a peace between the two of you, if thats what you could even call it. he no longer took every opportunity to be petty, in fact, you hadn't spoken a word to the man since.

but you saw the tweets, the comments, and even noticed the other three members of the band acting funny when the two of you were in close proximity. the possible thought that bobby felt anything to you besides utter dislike, felt impossible.

the group of you were lounging around before the boys had to go onstage, and you could still feel bobby's eyes piercing at you from behind. despite the other's chatter, there was still an underlying discomfort from the two of you. his gaze lingered on you, and looking back towards him, you noticed there was a mixture of frustration and something else.

attempting to break the silence, you sighed in defeat, "what's wrong with you now, rob?"

there was a moment of hesitation on his part, jaw clenching, "it's nothing," he muttered, but his tone said otherwise.

"doesn't seem like it," you countered. you were tired of fighting with him, you just wanted peace for the remainder of the tour. "look, tour is almost over and can we at least try to-"

but he interrupted you before you could even finish, "try to what? pretend like everything is okay," his voice laced with bitterness, "like nothing happened?"

you sighed in defeat, feeling an oncoming argument brewing, "you cannot keep dwelling on the past rob," you pleaded, trying to keep your voice steady, "what happened was a mistake, for you," you emphasized, "and for me."

"a mistake," he scoffed, "you're acting like it meant nothing, like i meant nothing."

there was a clear tone of hurt and resentment in his voice, his words cutting deeper than you could've imagined, "that is not fair rob," you whispered, looking away from his eyes. trying to avoid his gaze, you noticed the room had cleared, the three boys' chatter no longer being background noise to your conversation.

those little shits.

bobby noticed your avoidance, "you just left, without a word," he continued, his voice filled with an ache that mirrored your own. "do you have any idea how much that hurt?"

the weight of his accusations hung heavily in the air, did he really have no idea of how much he hurt you too? how much you look back to that night and wish things were normal between the two of you.

"it wasn't easy for me either," you confessed, voice barley audible. "but what did you expect me to do? especially after what you said."

the atmosphere became thick with emotion, your unsaid words confusing him.

"what are you going on about?"

"really? 'this doesn't mean anything'," you scoffed, your hidden emotions rising to the surface, "do you know how heartbreaking those four words were? god, do you know how many nights i spent thinking about that. then here you come accusing me of being at fault."

his eyes softened at your confession, "i didn't know. you never said."

"i thought you knew," you cut him off, "i shouldn't have to tell you how harmful your words were."

"i didn't know," he spoke softly, getting up and standing in front of you, looking down at you into your eyes, "you could've told me. i would have been there for you.

"and what would have you done? hm?" you quipped as you looked away, anger and ache still inside your tone.

he softly grabbed your chin for you to look back up at him, "i would've told you how stupid i was, how scared. you have no idea how afraid i was of it ruining everything, and look at us now, look at what it's done to us. look at what my stupidity has done to us. i would've been there for you, through everything because i love you."

your breath hitched, utter surprise written all over your face, a small smile beginning to spread across your face, "i love you, and you aren't stupid. its just your pettiness," you spoke, trying to make the conversation lighter.

"oi, you're one to talk woman," he laughed, cupping your cheek to pull you into a kiss.

and as if it was right out of a corny soap opera, you heard a cheery whistle from the side of you. turning you were met with those three little shits with grins on their faces, well except eli, who looked completely defeated.

"as much as i am happy for the two of you coming to your senses," ryan began, turning to eli, "pay up, hewson."

eli groaned in frustration, pulling out cash from his pocket and placing it onto the ryan and josh's outstretched palms.

"you shits placed a bet on us?" bobby questioned.

"was an easy bet, after you drunkenly confessed your love to me a few nights before tour," josh explained to you two.

bobby's cheeks heated up, hiding his face in the crook of your neck. "is that what your silly comments on my posts meant?" you asked the trio.

"uh, look at the time! c'mon keating, time to perform!"

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yourusername

liked by bobbyskeetz and others

yourusername that one AM lyric about looks of love or smth

view all 4930 comments

inhalerfan43 OHMYGODAD

inhalerfan111 THE HARDLAUNCH IM DYIGNAKE

bobbyskeetz this damaging my rep woman

yourusername k bobbyskeetz haha i was just kidding bobbyskeetz i love you elijahhewson robert keating has emotions??

inhalerfan23 ive lost the love of my life to a guy who plays bass...

yourusername he's dorky ways and sassiness has captivated me bobbyskeetz HEY

ryanmcmahon_15 WAR IS OVERRRR

inhalerfan2 hes one of us fr yourusername dont think i've forgotten abt ur little bet dipshit ryanmcmahon_15 uh.... liked by joshjenkinson_, elijahhewson and 80 others

bobbyskeetz my woman

yourusername ur so babygirl i love u

bobbyskeetz THE LOOK OF LOVE THE RUSH OF BLOOD, THE SHES WITH MES

joshjenkinson_ this was so worth him talking my ear off about u

bobbyskeetz OI

inhalerfan432 HIS LOVE STARE IN THE LAST PIC IM SOBBING

inhalerfan00 im soooo normal abt them ahhahahahahahah

inhalerfan12 shes one of us fr

yourusername oh fs inhalerfan12 HI MOTHER

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THE END

omg sooo lmk if u guys enjoyed this? pls i haven't written in so long so sorry it took be a bit to release this

also if theres any error in the format or anything i apologize cause im still getting used to writing on tumblr

lots of loveeeee <333

[kate-inthedarkness]

Hi I absolutely love your writing!! Just wondering if I could request an Eli fic where reader is a friend of Bobby’s and that’s how they meet (maybe some jealousy or tension???). Thanks!

Oooo this is such a good idea!!! Thanks for sending it in gorgeous xxx

I Want You - Eli Hewson

Summary: When your friend, Rob, asks you to watch his band play in the Grand Social in Dublin, you obviously agree to going. But when you’re introduced to the lead singer of the band, there seems to be some tension there that you can’t shake, and neither can he….

Warnings: This is set in 2019, so they’re about 19/20. Tension (the good kind & the bad kind), Eli being a jealous asshole, making out but that’s as far as it goes, cursing, and I think that’s it 💋💋

The dim, hazy light of The Grand Social flicker above the crowd as your friend’s music swells in the background. It’s one of those nights that feels full of potential—the kind where the air is thick with the energy of youth, excitement, and something else you can’t quite put your finger on.

You’re standing at the bar with your best friend, Lucy, nursing a drink that’s barely touched, watching Rob on stage with his bandmates.

Inhaler had been getting some buzz lately. And tonight, you’re finally meeting the rest of the band. Rob’s been telling you stories about his bandmates, about their late-night jam sessions and the kind of energy they bring to their performances.

But there’s one bandmate he’s mentioned a little bit more than enough about: Elijah Hewson.

You don’t know everything about him, or anything really, except for the fact that he’s Bono’s son. And that already makes your expectations a little higher than they should be.

Rob gives you a wave from the stage, a big grin on his face, and that’s when you first see him. Elijah.

You’ve seen him in photos, heard his voice on tracks, but in person, there’s a certain gravity about him. He stood on that stage, staring down at his guitar, looking like he was doing his best to avoid eye contact with anyone.

His messy hair and laid-back, effortlessly cool vibe make it hard to not stare a little. But you can tell he’s the type to enjoy being looked at.

Rob was quick to make his way over to you and give you a hug once they finished their set, excited to finally have you here watching him in his element.

“Hey! Come on, I want you to meet the lads,” Rob says, shouting slightly over the music, pulling you over. The introductions go smoothly with Josh, Ryan and Louis, but when you finally get to Eli, there’s an awkward pause.

He glances up at you, eyes flickering with brief interest before returning to his drink. No smile. No handshake. Just a polite nod.

“Eli, mate, this is the wonderful—“ Rob starts.

“Yeah, I know. Hiya.” Eli interrupts, his voice low and uninterested.

You feel a strange pang of disappointment, but you brush it off. It’s just who he is, right?

The rest of the night passed quickly in a blur of music, laughter and conversation. You’re enjoying watching the other bands perform, caught up in the vibe of it all, but your eyes keep flicking back to Elijah.

He’s still standing there, leaning against the wall, almost a little too cool for his own good around his friends. His body language screams “don’t come near me,” and you wonder if it’s just his way of protecting himself from the world. Or maybe he’s just a fucking arsehole.

When the last band of the night finished their set, the crowd cheered loudly, and Rob waves you and Lucy over from the other side of the room. “Come on, have some fun with us instead of standing there just the two of you.”

And with that, you follow Rob out to the smoking area, your heart racing a little bit and nervousness hitting your veins. But as soon as you step outside, you spot Eli, his back to you as he pulls out a cigarette.

He’s standing alone, detached from the rest of the group. Rob made a remark that he wasn’t normally like this, and you made a mental note of that. You take a deep breath, the cold night air biting at your skin as you walk up to him, leaving Rob and Lucy to watch you in surprise.

“Elijah, right?” You ask, trying to keep your voice steady despite the rising nerves and frustration in your chest. “Can we talk?”

He turns to you, eyebrows raised. “About what?”

“About how you’ve been acting all night,” you say, crossing your arms. “You barely said a word to me earlier. Was I supposed to just be impressed by your…charm?”

He exhales a puff of smoke, looking at you in silence for a moment before replying, his tone sharp. “Look, I don’t have time for this. I’m here to do my job, with my friends. Not make small talk with you or make new friends. I have enough of them, thanks.”

You bite back a laugh, the sarcasm in your voice growing. “So you’re too good for small talk? And being nice to people? Or is it just me you’re too good for?”

“Maybe I’m just tired of people who think they know everything about me because of who my dad is,” he shoots back, his eyes narrowing.

A light bulb bings inside your head. There it is. The weight of his name hanging in the air, a reason for his distance.

“Okay, so this is about your dad?” You snap, taking a step closer. “I didn’t come here to suck up to you. I came here because Rob invited me, and maybe I actually want to get to know people he loves. But you—“ you pause, trying to gather your thoughts, “you’re just acting like I’m fucking dirt on your shoe.”

Eli’s eyes flash with something like annoyance, but his jaw clenches. “And you’re all over Rob, making it obvious you’re practically foaming at the mouth over him. It’s fucking embarrassing.”

The words hit you like a slap, and the sting sends a rush of anger straight to your chest. “What? You think I’m flirting with him? The guy I’ve known way longer before he was ever your best friend may I add. You’ve barely spoken a word to me all night when I’ve been nothing but kind to you, and now you’ve got the audacity to say that to me?”

His expression hardens. “Yeah. I’ve seen the way you look at him. Don’t act like it’s not obvious. He has a girlfriend and all, so clearly you have fuck all shame.”

You feel the heat of the argument rising, every word coming out sharper than the last. “How dare you say that to me!” You spit. “I would never try to split up a relationship, especially my friends one! You don’t know a single thing about me, so stop assuming that you do. Maybe you’re the one who can’t handle being around people who actually like Rob for who he is, not because of his connection to some famous musicians knob head of a son.”

For a moment, there’s just silence between you, the only noise is loud chatter and laughter from everyone else in the smoking area.

You can feel the tension hanging thick in the air, the anger swirling just bellow the surface. His gaze doesn’t leave you, and in the next heartbeat, he steps forward, his hand gripping your wrist before you can react.

You don’t have time to process what’s happening before his lips crash into yours, hard and demanding, silencing any word you thought of spitting at him and silencing every thought in your head.

One hand of his is tangled in your hair while the other grips your hip. You can hear catcalls and whistles from his friends, and you just know that Rob is smiling cheekily at the sight. But you’re genuinely too far gone to care.

Eli managed to slip his tongue into your mouth without much effort. You practically welcome it as soon as you felt his tongue touch your bottom lip. He tasted like whiskey and cigarettes, and you can’t get enough of it. You nip at his bottom lip, making him groan.

He breaks away unexpectedly, his chest rising and falling as he looks at you.

“Don’t ever assume you know me ,” Elijah mutters, his voice low, barely above a whisper.

You stand there, breathless, stunned, and a little lost for words. But in that brief moment, it was clear to you, that whatever this was between the two of you, wasn’t over.

Not even a little bit.

[kindestofkings]

tis the damn season

robert keating x reader (she/her)

heres the requested bobby fic! reader is bobbys neighbour in dublin and they've had a situationship thats always off again on again, which ryan is v fed up with lol <3

masterlist

enjoy and also happy new year ! forgot how much I love making these so please come with some more requests, I always love getting them xxx

yourusername posted to their story!

year FIVE of working as a waitress during silly season, people need to be KINDER

yourbestfriend not all heros wear capes yourneighbour1 god bless you ↳ its been TOUGH but neighbours christmas party next week !! ↳ yourneighbour1 UGH best part of the season alsooo did I see a certain curly haired bass player make his return to the road...? ↳ feck he's home earlier than usual 😀 ↳ yourneighbour1 time to rekindle the infamous situationship??

yourusername posted to their story!

the return of the loudest next door neighbour known to man, yay 👍👍

yourneighbour1 😏😏 bobbyskeetz get rid of that sarcastic yay ryanmcmahon_15 yay my fav idiots have been reunited ! ↳ idiots? plural? why am I an idiot ryan?? ↳ ryanmcmahon_15 hmmhmm when will yee learn

bobbyskeetz

liked by yourusername and others

bobbyskeetz home.

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joshjenkinson_ lookin so mysterious and interesting xx

inhalerfan1 he is one of us

inhalerfan2 missed the intense staring since tour has ended, thanks mr skeetz !

inhalerfan3 christmas came early

yourusername smoking kills

bobbyskeetz excuse me?? I have NEVER and WOULD never yourusername big fat liar yourbestfriend y'all are the worst, every fecking christmas ryanmcmahon_15 what she said !

yourusername

liked by yourneighbour1 and others

yourusername the kids table at the neighbours christmas party is always the place to be <3

also slayed so hard with my kris kindle present he literally cried for hours 💅

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bobbyskeetz I cried cause you threw it at me

yourneighbour1 weakling bobbyskeetz ugh thanks tho.... I guess

ryanmcmahon_15 bobby and yn being adults when

yourbestfriend but then what would happen to their beloved situationship? yourusername guys you know this is MY comment section right?

joshjenkson_ hahah the perfect gift for him

yourneighbour2 ugh BEST PARTY EVAAAA

yourusername

liked by ryanmcmahon_15 and others

yourusername and it always leads to you and my hometown

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yourbestfriend ah ryanmcmahon_15 shes quoting tis the damn season by THE taylor swift, what does this mean?

ryanmcmahon_1 gasp not the sad tones..

bobbyskeetz confused we're from the same hometown...?

yourusername you uncultured swine its a lyric 😭

bobbyskeetzswife

liked by inhalerfan1 and others

bobbyskeetzswife OH MY GOD I JUST MET BOBBY, IM FREAKING OUT

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inhalerfan1 no way what the hell !! where?

bobbyskeetzswife literally in Dingle, Kerry 😭😭 he said hes with the lads but they ran out of drink so he was forced to go to the shops 😭 😭 inhalerfan1 omg hahahah I can't believe they just played the 3Arena

inhalerfan2 no way wonder why they're in dingle, such a random Irish town...

inhalerfan3 that girl that they all follow is in Kerry aswell with grace (eli's girlfriend) bobbyskeetzswife is that yourusername? I wonder who she is, bobby is always interacting with her inhalerfan2 huh wonder has he got a girlfriend

graciebrns

liked by elijahhewson and others

graciebrns wholesome few days before what I've been told, will be the best party I'll ever attend

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elijahhewson promise its not an oversell

joshjenkinson_ agreed yourusername throws a phenomenal party yourusername ah flattered lads thank you

bobbyskeetz the million hikes will be worth it

yourusername you said you loved going on hikes bobbyskeetz course I do love 😔 inhalerfan2 love ?? gathering evidence

inhalerfan1 wholesome band trip bless

yourneighbour1 woohoo almost time to partyyyy

ryanmcmahon_15 how did one row of houses produce so many party animals?

yourusername party animals okay old man bobbyskeetz just cause you can't ever keep up ryan yourneighbour1 its how we were raised 😤

yourusername

liked by bobbyskeetz and others

yourusername hot people have birthdays on nye 💅

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bobbyskeetz so feckin hot

yourusername baby stapppppp that

yourbestfriend was the BEST time ever

elijahhewson class night it was, graciebrns whats the verdict?

graciebrns best. night. ever. yourusername I love you thanks for having me <33 yourusername you kidding me? thank you for coming !!

inhalerfan1 oh hello inhaler spotted ..

inhalerfan2 not bobby on the decks

bobbyskeetz

liked by yourusername and others

bobbyskeetz happy birthday gorgeous, love cleaning up bottles with you on new years day x

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yourusername ahhhh the taylor reference 😭

yourusername my favourite nosey neighbour <3

ryanmcmahon_15 I have never been so invested in two idiots getting together properly

yourbestfriend so insufferable its taken like 13 years for them not to be idiots yourusername and what about you two being idiots.. bobbyskeetz whats your favourite book trope again love? yourusername FRIENDS TO LOVERS BABY, take notes ryanmcmahon_15 yourbestfriend

inhalerfan1 sad sad day for the bobby girlies 💔

bobbyskeetzswife noooooooooo

finished xx