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goldsbitch · 1 year ago

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That one Christmas flight

summary: Y/N and Lando Norris are seated next to each other on a long flight. Innocent little Christmas tradition that Y/N does every year brings them just a little too close.

warnings: fluff, one-shot (whops a lie!), meet cute

Christmas. Y/N felt like an alien walking among people. It was impossible to avoid it. It was present in songs, in decoration, in fashion, online and on the news. Everywhere.

It's not like she was a grinch or anything. Nor was it because of some tragic incident causing trauma. Just pure fatigue from all the logistics and travel connected, which most kids of divorced parents faced every year.

Flying from Japan back to England, from her mother to her father, was a chore that seemed unavoidable. Her mother was kind enough to splurge on first class ticket for her, which her fancy Tokio job allowed. Ever since fours years ago, she continued a tradition that was introduced to her by a fellow Christmas traveller - the most stylish sassy French woman, who often spend the holidays on a plane. She would get herself and who ever was sitting next to her a glass of champagne and chat them up. Y/N has never laughed so much in her life like she did when she met this woman - so she took the tradition as her own.

Lando's plan wasn't to be on a flight from Japan to London on the 24th of December. He had so little time with his family and friends that this secret work trip to the Honda factory was really pushing him into staying with McLaren for the following years and not switching to a different team. This whole situation was like fuel for his current headache.

Y/N second guessed her tradition when a super gorgeous looking boy, who seemed to want anything but to be bothered, was sat next to her. She was used to having older people sitting next to her. Anyway, tradition is a tradition, so she eventually got up to order the classic. She nearly turned back at the thought that this guy was giving off some serious "I'm a dick" vibes, he had barely acknowledged her since she sat down. Luckily, she ignored this feeling.

When a glass of champagne appeared before Lando, he was sure it was a mistake.

"Well, to Christmas," his neighbor toasted. While he thought that she was a rather good looking girl, he was in no mood for a fangirl.

"I'm very sorry, um...I'll be happy to take a photo with you or something, but I am not in the best mood for a interaction with a fan."

She gave him a baffled look.

He continued. "Look, I'll be more than happy to sign anything. Or a photo, just as long you keep between un on which flight you saw me."

Y/N put her glass down, this was a first one.

"First of all, sorry for invading your private time. I have this stupid tradition of having a glass with whomever I'm destined to spend this Christmas flight. Guess I was mistaken. Second of all, I have no fucking idea who you are. So, calm down." She downed half of her glass. Of course this stupid year would include an asshole like this. Oh well.

Lando was confused for a moment and immediately after that he felt like an idiot.

"Apologies," he slowly replied, somewhat baffled. "I thought you were a fan and I'm just not in the mood for that." Y/N rolled her eyes and downed the rest of her champagne. "I'm Lando, by the way."

"Is that a stage name?"

"No, " he laghed. "I think it was a random decision of my mom."

"Interesting. Y/N," she introduced herself, without looking at him.

There was a weird tension in the air. Lando was determined to break it. Y/N was currently casually offended.

"Let me get you another one so that we can have a toast."

"Great, getting drunk is also an option. Hate flying sober," she joked.

Another glass was brought by a smiling flight attendant.

"So, how does this work?" Lando asked. Y/N was a person easily annoyed, however as quickly this came it also ended.

"Fine. There are rules, btw."

"Of course there are."

"Ehm, ehm, " she cleared her throat. "So, this tradition was started by Madame Tatanova and from now on, if you find yourself on a plane on 24th or 25th of December, you need to toast with your fellow neighbor passenger and answer the following: why and for how long-"

"I will have to write this down, I have a memory of a dead chicken."

"-I'm not finished! And then you follow up by your biggest regret and one thing nobody knows. The purpose of this is to gain or pass on wisdom and use the opportunity you'd normally miss by blasting up your headphones." She's done this for four times now, still the introduction was missing the "Madame Tatanova magic". Maybe one day.

"Ok..." Lando was not following yet, but he was keen on doing so. She raised her glasses, as did he.

"Cheers, to Christmas flights."

"Cheers, " he replied and they both sipped their champagne. "Wait, I have a question - what would you do if I did not speak English? Or if I was deaf?"

Lando was being his cheeky self and Y/N was not having it. She answered the question with a look.

"Got it! Anyway...what was the question?"

"Why."

"Why? Why is the sky dark or....?"

"Why are you on this plane."

"I'm trying to get to London from Tokio."

"I swear to god, I will ask to be seated somewhere else, Orlando."

"Lando, actually."

"If you say so..."

"Huuh, I'm going back from a work trip. And since you claim not to know me, I can probably tell you more than I should. Um, imagine I am in a band, right? I'm singing for a band and every few years they change their lead singer, one of the two actually, and I'm a the lead singer who might go to a different band now. But it's not clear yet and super secret actually. So, please keep it to yourself." Lando felt like someone who has just discovered speech and this was the first time he was using it. "Does that make any sort of sense?"

"Sort of I think. So you're cheating on your band?"

"Uhh, I'd say checking out options."

"Remind me never to date guys like you," she joked and immediately regretted that. Y/N was not good at flirting and did not want to appear creepy.

Lando passed on this comment, still not sure if he could trust this girl. "So, what about you? Why?"

"The curse of the divorced parents. One lives in London, the other one in Japan and I'm a package they pass each year," she said rather bitterly.

"Sorry to hear that."

"Yeah. I get to see mom twice a year and it's all always so planned and predictable. I would kill for spontaneity."

"Take me with you next time, I'm sure she'll be surprised." "Yes, she is a big fan of British guys, that's why she divorced one!"

"Great, happy to follow that route!"

Y/N started to relax a bit. This could be good, actually. "Ok, so now. For long are you staying in London, Lando?"

"Only few weeks. Then our music season starts. "

"Yeah, the one with all the singing, of course."

"Yeeah."

Y/N laughed a bit. He was suprisingly easy to talk to.

"So, how long?"

"A week. Then I'm off to Bologna."

"Uuuh, fancy that!"

"Yeah, I'm studying history there."

"Bologna is the one with the old university?" he asked, pretending he has never heard of that.

"No, not really, they just opened. Last year we did not have chairs, because the shipment got delayed," she replied with a dry tone.

"One does always study better while standing. I believe it was Socrates, who said it."

"Oh, yes. They teach you this at the singing music school?"

"Exactly. We were never allowed to sit."

They continued to chat all the way through the airplane dinner, getting few more glasses of champagne during that. Their laughter was interrupted by a flight attendant, who acted on a complaint from a fellow passenger. They both fell asleep watching a movie. Y/N woke up few times in the night and observed the boy next to her. Knowing this was the best Christmas plane encounter she ever had. Lando woke up as well, feeling strangely happy about the fact she was resting her head on his shoulder.

"Wait." Lando stopped her at the entrance to customs hall and pulled them both behind a column, so that they could not be seem by bystanders.

"Yes?" she turned to him.

"This might be weird, but can I kiss you?" Y/N looked at the boy in a hoodie standing in front of her, cheeky guy suddenly appearing nervous. He was absolutely gorgeous. She hated the fact he was random guy on a plane to London and not to Bologna.

"Yes. Must be midnight somewhere. So it could be like a New Years thing."

"Yeah. Just an airport thing." With that he kissed her. Just two young people having a little moment of silence. His kiss was a light slow brush on the lips. He cupped her cheek and her hand brushed through his curly hair. First kiss usually does not take long. For a person passing by, this would appear like kiss these two shared a thousand times before.

When they eventually parted, it all seemed a bit surreal.

"We never got to the second part of your Christmas interview," Lando commented.

"Well. Let's say that the one thing nobody knows is that I just kissed a random guy from the plane. And that my biggest regret is that we will never see each other again." For the first time, she was this bluntly honest with somebody who had just kissed her for the first time. It felt intoxicating.

Lando smiled. "See, I knew we had something in common."

Lando was usually not so open with his crushes, if he could even put her in that category.

"Don't worry. I won't search for you online or anything. I want to keep the mystery of Lando alive."

He kissed her once more, before they parted.

Their hearts felt a little more heavier than usual on midnight that New Years Eve. Both standing surrounded by their favorite people, yet with the one they would wish to kiss being impossibly far away.

part 2

_________________________

@superlegend216

#lando norris #lando norris x reader #lando norris x you #lando norris fanfic #ln4 imagine #formula 1 #formula one x reader #f1 fanfic #f1 imagine #lando norris angst #meet cute #fluff #lando norris fluff #formula 1 fluff #formula 1 fanfic #oneshot fanfiction #ln4 x reader #That one Christmas flight

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twinkodium · 21 days ago

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heart eyes so big he can’t hide it 😍

#f1 #lando norris #my papaya boys 🧡#oscar piastri #landoscar #abu dhabi gp 2024 #taking him all in to remember all of his cute features for the long break #when they probably won’t meet much 😔#already dreading to go through the separation phase but they’ll back next year stronger than ever 🥺#no probably they’ll be back at mtc for the team christmas party #and probably celebration the year they’ve had #and the price giving gala too 😌

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elizabeth-holland24 · 2 days ago

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Snowed In at the Country Inn-Chapter 1

New York City glistened like a snow globe in motion, every corner of the bustling metropolis sparkling under the glow of twinkling Christmas lights. It was the kind of scene that made postcards look dull, but to her, it was just another day in the endless chaos of December. She sprinted through the slushy pavement, her breath puffing in clouds as she muttered a string of apologies and excuses to the strangers she bumped into. Clutching her oversized planner in one hand and a precariously balanced coffee cup in the other, she came to a stop at the curb, waving frantically at an approaching taxi.

“For a woman who plans every detail of her life to the second,” she muttered under her breath, “you really have a knack for running late.”

The taxi whizzed by, splashing her boots with icy water. With a resigned groan, she adjusted her scarf and glanced at her phone. The glowing screen reminded her of the looming flight she could not afford to miss. A dozen notifications blinked across the screen: frantic texts from her assistant, a last-minute change to a corporate party she’d been organizing for weeks, and, of course, the message she was avoiding—a cheerful reminder from her father about her plans to spend Christmas with him.

She sighed, her grip tightening on her phone. “Merry chaos,” she muttered, stepping back onto the pavement.

Her phone buzzed again, this time with a call. She swiped to answer, keeping her voice light despite the irritation bubbling under the surface.

“Claire, I swear, if this is about the Henderson wedding—”

“It’s about your flight,” Claire interrupted. “Check your email. There’s been a mix-up.”

Her stomach dropped. “What kind of mix-up?”

“The kind where your seat doesn’t exist any more. The airline overbooked, and now you’re waitlisted.”

She closed her eyes and counted to three, inhaling deeply through her nose. “You’re telling me I’m stranded in New York one week before Christmas?”

“I’m so sorry! I’ve already called to see if there’s anything we can do, but the earliest rebooking is the day after Christmas.”

“Fantastic,” she said tightly. “Because that’s exactly when I planned to travel.”

She ended the call, ignoring Claire’s flurry of apologies, she'll apologize for her rudeness later. She stood frozen for a moment on the crowded pavement. Around her, shoppers hurried by with their bags and holiday cheer, oblivious to her growing panic. She stared down at the planner in her hands, her lifeline in the storm of her hectic career, now rendered useless by one simple change. Her gaze fell to a photograph tucked between the pages—a faded snapshot of her and her mother, laughing in front of a snow-dusted gazebo.

Her fingers brushed the edge of the photo, a sudden ache blooming in her chest. She remembered this moment vividly, though it felt like a lifetime ago. Her mum had loved Christmas, the magic of it, the traditions. It had been their thing, once upon a time. But those memories belonged to another world, one she’d locked away years ago.

A booming laugh interrupted her thoughts. She turned to see a man dressed as Santa ringing a bell beside a donation bucket. He was smiling warmly at passers-by, his laughter echoing through the chilly air. Something about him drew her in.

“Rough day?” he asked, his voice kind.

She managed a small smile. “You could say that.”

He glanced at the photo in her hand. “Sometimes, people lose their way. All they need is a little help to look back at where it all started.”

Her chest tightened. “That’s what my mum used to say.”

“She sounds like a wise woman,” he said. “You know, I couldn't help but overhear your predicament. If you want a place to escape for the holidays, I used to visit a little town called Sweetwater around Christmas. Magical place. Feels like stepping into another world.” He winked. “Might be just what you need.”

She hesitated, then typed the name into her phone. Sweetwater. Her heart raced as she found a flight and booked it.

“Sweetwater,” she whispered to herself. “Here’s hoping you live up to your name.”

The plane touched down in Texas under a heavy gray sky that promised snow, the kind of weather that seemed out of place this far south. She bundled herself against the cold as she stepped into the small airport, her breath curling in the air as she dragged her suitcase toward the exit. The town’s name, Sweetwater, greeted her from a modest wooden sign outside. It was quaint, the kind of place where time seemed to slow down.

The cab ride was quiet, the driver a friendly older man who chatted about the approaching snowstorm. “You picked an interesting time to visit,” he said with a chuckle. “Storm’s coming in strong. Could be a while before the roads clear.”

She looked out the window at the swirling snowflakes, a mix of nerves and curiosity stirring inside her. This was a far cry from the meticulously planned holidays she usually orchestrated. She felt free in a way that was both unsettling and thrilling.

The cab stopped in front of the inn, a charmingly rustic building with a wraparound porch draped in Christmas lights. She stepped out, her boots crunching on the fresh snow as she took in the scene. It was straight out of a holiday card: a roaring fireplace visible through the window, wreaths hanging on every door, and the faint sound of carols drifting through the air.

She was halfway to the entrance when the door burst open, and a tall figure stepped out, lugging a suitcase. Before she could react, they collided—her heel catching on an icy patch. She flailed, teetering backward, only to find herself caught firmly in his arms.

“Whoa there,” he said, steadying her with ease.

She looked up, her breath hitching as she took in his sharp features. Tousled hair framed a face that was rugged yet annoyingly attractive. He raised an eyebrow, his lips curling into a grin.

“You okay?”

“I—uh, yeah,” she stammered, pulling herself upright.

It wasn’t until she dusted herself off and glanced down that the horror-struck. Her beloved planner—her lifeline—was dripping with hot chocolate, the brown liquid seeping into the carefully organized pages.

Her gaze darted to his other hand, now empty. The Styrofoam cup that had once contained the drink was lying crushed in the snow.

“You let go of your drink to catch me,” she said, her tone caught between disbelief and irritation.

“Seemed like the right thing to do,” he replied, unapologetic.

She held up the planner, its ruined state glaringly obvious. “This is my life. Do you know how long it’ll take to fix this?”

He shrugged, that infuriating grin still in place. “Could’ve been worse. You could’ve ended up face-first in the snow.”

Her glare could’ve melted the frost under their feet. “Thanks for the silver lining,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

“Anytime,” he quipped, brushing past her and heading toward the door.

Inside, the warmth of the inn wrapped around her like a hug. Penny, the innkeeper, greeted her with a wide smile and a steaming cup of cider. “Welcome to Sweetwater! You got here just in time—the storm’s rolling in fast.”

“I noticed,” she said, glancing out the window at the thickening snow.

“Good news is we’ve got plenty of space,” Penny continued. “Well, almost. Looks like you’ll be sharing the last suite with one of our other guests.”

Her jaw tightened. “Sharing? With a stranger?”

“Only option left, I’m afraid,” Penny said, her tone apologetic but firm.

Before she could protest further, the door opened again, and the man from earlier strolled in, brushing snow from his shoulders. His eyes widened slightly when he saw her, then narrowed as Penny handed them the key.

“Wait, we’re sharing a room?” he asked, his voice laced with disbelief.

“It’s a suite,” Penny corrected, her smile never wavering. “Plenty of space for the two of you. And with the storm coming in, it’s better than being stuck out there.”

They exchanged a look, equal parts wary and exasperated. Finally, she sighed. “Fine. But just for the record, I’m not thrilled about this.”

“Noted,” he said, his tone matching hers.

Penny clapped her hands together. “Great! Now, let’s get you two settled.”

A/N: So the first chapter is up, I hope you guys like it and live up to your expectations. I'll probably update after I update a chapter on my other story. But yeah, I this one might be shorter than The Beast Within, but well see. Love you all, don't forget to like and reblog. Also, this chapter is dedicated to @bellaireland1981. Happy Holidays <3

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backseatsoldier · 25 days ago

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Call of Duty Christmas (Meet) Cuties

Dear Reader These started as a conversation with @scaredyspooks after I watched a silly Hallmark Christmas movie. It has now turned into a list of gifts for friends and some of my favorite CoD creators.

I'm super excited for this and hope you all have fun with me. Those who the gift applies to will be tagged directly in the work. When I post a work, I'll link it here (such as a masterlist on here functions) and I'll note who they are for on this list.

Stay tuned for updates and links!

Happy holidays! Rhi, the Backseat Soldier

Gifts

Home for the Holiday (Johnny "Soap" MacTavish) - my gift to me <3

The Perfect Tree (Andre Nikto) - for my favorite spook! May we always be feral for these CoD Men hehe <3

Mistletoe... Mishap? (Gary "Roach" Sanderson) - for my favorite CoD Angster! <3

My Favorite Story (König) - for machveil and her Daily König! <3

Let It Snow (Valeria Garza) - for Momma Demi and her brainworms! <3

Christmas Bake-off (Simon "Ghost" Riley") - for quarterlifekitty and their feral inducing content! <3

Santa, Honey (Phillip Graves) - for my boyfriend! Also a debut of my newest CoD OC <3

Three Christmas Deer (John Price) - for the Cali with the silly cat photo as her profile photo! May she always serve her CoD meals <3

Bonus

Home for the Holiday (Johnny "Soap" MacTavish) Bonus!

#backseat soldier #rhi_writing_adventures #call of duty #john soap mactavish #andre nikto #gary roach sanderson #konig call of duty #valeria garza #simon ghost riley #cod phillip graves #captain john price #meet cute #christmas #christmas gifts #gifts #i adore you all

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kalee60 · 9 days ago

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It's that time of year again! My annual Stucky Christmas fic 🎄

It's been a tough year, writing (and other) wise - but I'm still here, still slowly finding my muse again.

I hope you enjoy this small offering and that it brings a smile to your face, and happy holidays for however you choose (or not) to celebrate ❤️

Title: Sleigh-in It

Author: Kalee60

Rated: T

Words: 4230

Tags: Alternate universe, shrunkyclunks, meet cute, puns, banter, oblivious Bucky, first kiss, lust at first sight, meet cute

Summary: Being dragged to a Christmas party held by a stranger while wearing a dodgy Christmas sweater was probably item 50 on things Bucky never wanted to do for the holidays.

Especially when Darcy ditches him for a better offer less than an hour into it.

But when he catches a glimpse of the most magnificent specimen across the room, wearing a formidable cable knit sweater - maybe it's not such a bad place to be.

Cue: banter, puns, a smidge of identity porn, and everything else the holiday season should entail.

~*~*~

Click here if you want some fluffy ridiculous Christmas cheer!

#stucky #steve x bucky #shrunkyclunks #meet cute #lust at first sight #christmas sweaters #terrible puns #banter #darcy is a good bro #identity porn... kind of #christmas fic #look - kalee finally wrote something 🙌

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sunshinebingo · 10 days ago

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Hello hello @velarisbynight! I'm your secret Santa 🎅 I'm so glad to have you as a new friend thanks to @acotargiftexchange. Interacting with you was so fun. I loved rummaging through your wonderful responses to learn more about you and also to create this gift for you.

It was great to combine Gwynlain with the "fluff, magic and happy endings" that you and I like so much. I really hope that you like your gift. Merry Christmas dear 🎁 and also to anyone who stumble across this fic ♥️

Synopsis: Winter Solstice is a magical time that is best celebrated with loved ones. It is a time of hope and renewal; often also of surprises. These are particularly true for Elain and Gwyn who, for three consecutive years, will experience how special Solstice can be.

Word count: 2.6k

Read on Ao3 or below the cut

Twas the night of Solstice, when Gwyneth Berdara stepped foot inside the River House for the very first time. Gifts for everyone that she had been told by Nesta would be present were piled up in her arms up to her nose. Each of them were wrapped in colourful, patterned papers and ribbons that she thought matched their recipients quite well. She didn’t know all of them personally and had had to dig for a few information about them and their tastes. She wanted to thank them for their gracious invitation into their found family. Hence why she had taken it as a challenge to offer them something they would hopefully appreciate.

She still found it hard to believe that she had been given a second chance in this life at feeling like she was part of a family. First, Nesta and Emerie, her sisters in everything but blood. Then Cassian and Azriel who had become like brothers to her, even if they sometimes scolded her like the father she never had for apparently having too little consideration for her own safety and well-being. Even Rhysand and Feyre were turning out to be her close friends after all the times she had sat with them at the House of Wind, everyone present eating and talking about everything and nothing.

Gwyn was so grateful to them that the excitement was slightly overtaking the fear of meeting the rest of the inner circle. Just slightly.

There was a fluttering inside her, similar to the first few times she had ventured out of the library. Like butterflies coming out of their slumber. She only hoped that they would stay inside and not crawl up her throat and cause her to embarrass herself by stealing away her voice. Or worse, that they led her to choke and pass out.

She followed Nesta, Cassian and Azriel through the foyer, her steps much slower as she admired the sheer size and beauty of every corner she could glimpse of the house. It was like the High Lord’s and Lady’s home had been plucked right out of a Winter Solstice tale. White walls lined with paintings and a few wreaths similar to the one on the front door filling the empty spaces; green garlands strung to the handrails of the big staircase; strings of faelight glowing a soft yellow here and there. A few of the lights flickered at Gwyn’s focus on them, her magic attuned to any source of light and heat which sometimes caused a little reaction even without her conscious doing.

Gwyn followed the others as they walked through a door past which she could already see a massive table that had been set with ivory plates, crystal glasses and a green and red centrepiece made of pine leaves, holly and a few candles that hadn’t yet been lit.

She looked up as she walked, admiring a small bunch of mistletoe that delicately hung above the door, a bright red ribbon tied in the most beautiful bow around it, and with a tiny gold bell in the centre. It was such a little detail in this massive house yet her eyes lingered on this tiniest bouquet the longest, her thoughts drifting towards the tradition that accompanied it. Was there anyone in Prythian who would wish to stand under it with her? Would there ever be someone who she would wish to –

“Oof,” Gwyn let out at the same time as she heard someone loudly gasp.

She abruptly fell backwards, her gift boxes flying, before she landed hard on her behind which was fortunately cushioned by the thick white sweater dress she wore. The gift boxes fell on the floor with loud thuds, along with some children’s toys that she hadn’t been carrying.

“I’m so, so sorry,” said the one who had also taken a fall and was now sprawled on the floor in front of her.

Gwyn looked at the source of the voice. Her teal eyes locked onto warm brown, doe like ones.

“I was in such a rush to put this mess away that I didn’t look if there was someone in front of me.”

The lips that spoke those words were small and plump, painted in a soft shade of pink that matched the powder the female had dusted on her cheeks. Her pale complexion flushed in the same way Gwyn suspected hers was doing as well.

“It’s alright,” she reassured the female with a little laugh. “It’s my fault. I was so enthralled by this place that I didn’t pay attention to anything else.”

They both stared at each other for a moment. Until something fell right between them with a little chime. It was the mistletoe.

Gwyn reached out her hand to grab it but bumped with the female’s hand instead. They both pulled away with a surprised, “Oh!”

“Sorry,” they both said at the same time.

“I –”

Their gazes were fixed on each other again. Then, they both burst into a laugh. The butterflies fully awoke and flew in circles inside Gwyn, making her momentarily forget that she had been nervous.

“Let’s just blame this entire disaster on this mistletoe,” Gwyn said.

“Alright,” the female agreed when she also stopped laughing. “I’m Elain by the way.”

Gwyn’s eyes widened in recognition. Of course it was the Archeron sister she hadn’t yet met. She could see it now. The rounder cheeks and larger eyes that Nesta had described. And the soft and gentle energy that Feyre had mentioned her elder sister always seemed to carry. Gwyn saw it in her beautiful facial features that were even more radiant thanks to her smile.

Even her outfit complimented the light in her. The heart shaped neckline of her sage embroidered dress accentuated her small breasts before flaring out at her waist. A poinsettia pulled one side of her hair up, leaving the rest of her long golden-brown hair to fall down her back and over one of her shoulders in soft, shiny ringlets.

Gwyn had taken some time before coming tonight to pull her straight hair up in a half ponytail and to apply a little makeup. But she was certain that she was nowhere as pretty as Elain looked in this moment.

Gwyn stood up and smoothed her dress over her black tights before extending a hand to Elain.

“Hi. I’m Gwyn.”

Elain gasped. But her surprise quickly disappeared and she beamed up at her. She took her offered hand and rose, adjusting her own dress and sheer sleeves. Gwyn towered over her even with the small heels she wore.

“I am glad to finally meet you. I have heard so much about you from my sisters,” Elain said.

“Really?” Gwyn asked, perplexed and amused.

Elain nodded with a bashful smile. She remembered then, as she looked at those eyes that seemed to be seeing more than Gwyn ever could with hers, that Elain was a seer. A rare and beautiful power possessed by an equally beautiful female.

They both began picking up everything that was still on the floor, their fingers brushing every time they passed an item from one to the other.

“Well, I was also looking forward to finally meeting you,” Gwyn admitted.

It was nice to finally put a face on all the things she had heard from the others about Elain. It was even better to think that, perhaps, the middle Archeron sister could grow to become another friend of hers.

“Gwyn,” Nesta called from inside the dining room. The one that Gwyn had yet to walk in. “I was afraid that you chickened out on us at the last minute.”

Gwyn rolled her eyes. “I’m not going anywhere, Nes,” she said. Then, looking at Elain, she added, “Especially not now. I need to know what lies they told you about me.”

Elain giggled, the sound as sweet as the songs of the birds in Spring.

“Let me put my nephew’s toys away and I’ll tell you all about it,” Elain answered conspiratorially.

Gwyn acquiesced with a smile. She placed the final item that wasn’t hers on a blue bat plushie that Elain was holding and balanced her pile of gifts in her arms once again. Elain looked at the mistletoe.

“I don’t think this one is very good at it’s job,” Gwyn muttered to her in a fake accusatory tone aimed at the mistletoe.

“Perhaps it did on purpose,” Elain muttered back.

Gwyn laughed. Her fear faded a little more, leaving more room for hope and anticipation for the evening.

“I’ll join you all in a minute,” Elain said.

She walked towards the stairs while Gwyn followed Nesta. Their gazes held until they were both out of sight of each other.

Elain stood at the kitchen counter, checking through her mental list that she hadn’t forgotten anything in the assortment of appetisers that she had meticulously displayed on various trays. Mini sandwiches and rolls, various cheeses and charcuterie, a few dips with crunchy rice cake and crisps, cherry tomatoes, and even salted caramel apples and ripe blueberries. She doubted that there was someone out in the sitting room who wouldn’t enjoy at least one of those things.

She hoped that Emerie and Gwyn, the only two that she hadn’t yet fed until tonight, would like her cooking, the appetisers as well as dinner and dessert later.

There was an odd feeling inside Elain as she thought of her interaction with the redhead. Not a bad one at all. Just...a strange buzzing inside her. Similar to the subtle tingles she felt in her body as her mind adjusted from dream to reality.

Elain had seen glimpses of Gwyneth Berdara in a few visions before. It had always been blurry and unclear in their meaning. Copper hair being blown by the wind, freckles carelessly scattered on pale skin, a heavenly voice singing and laughing... She had always pushed it aside as the Mother showing her what she couldn’t see of Nesta’s life and the bonds she had created.

But earlier, when Gwyn had introduced herself, there had been something there that had brought forth images from those visions to Elain’s mind. She had been so caught up in the present moment that she had not stop to think about those images.

But they had come again when she had found herself alone, hastily putting away Nyx’s toys in the nursery. This time they had been brighter and louder, yet, more than ever, they confused her. Like a blend of scents that she couldn’t pick apart to tell the individual elements in them. Elain didn’t even know if it was her magic being capricious or just Gwyn being the cause of it.

As though summoned by her thoughts, Gwyn strolled through the door carrying two glasses of champagne in which floated a few cranberries.

“Do you need any help in here?” she asked with a smile.

Elain smiled back. “I’m almost done. I don’t want to bother you.”

The glasses hit the marbled countertop with a clink when Gwyn placed them down.

“Nonsense.” She waved a hand with a roll of her eyes.

She picked up a rice cake before dipping it in one of the ceramic bowls. She brought it to her mouth and moaned around a mouthful.

“I think this is the best thing I’ve ever tasted.”

Elain blinked at her words, realising that she had been staring at her lips the whole time.

“Really? Thank you.” She looked down, her cheeks getting warm, and realigned things on the trays that were already perfectly placed. “It’s actually the first time that I’ve made baba ganoush.”

“Baba who?” Gwyn asked.

Her confused tone and expression made Elain giggle.

“Baba ganoush. It’s an appetiser from Dawn Court,” she explained. “I found the recipe in a cookbook. It’s one aubergine cut in half and cooked facedown at 180 Celsius for 40 minutes with some oil. Then slicing down the middle and scooping out the insides. Add two teaspoons of tahini, three teaspoons of yoghurt, a dash of lemon juice and two cloves of crushed garlic into a bowl and mix before setting it to cool.”

Gwyn looked down at her inquisitively. As though she was taking mental notes and filing the information on the correct shelf in her head.

“I am terrible at cooking but I’ll keep that recipe in mind for when I wake up someday and am magically good at it,” she said earnestly.

She picked up the knife that was on a nearby chopping board along with the salami, the last item missing from the trays, and began cutting it with astonishing ease and speed.

“Look at you,” Elain exclaimed. “You’re not bad at all.”

Gwyn snorted.

“Trust me, I’m only good at using a knife and not at actually cooking a whole thing. I’m also good with a sewing needle,” she added proudly. Then shrugged. “Basically I’m good with anything that can draw blood.”

Elain laughed. She didn’t think that she had ever met anyone who had made her laugh so much in so little time. What a nice feeling that was, Elain realised. She hoped that it wouldn’t be short lived.

“I’ll be happy to teach you if you want,” she proposed to Gwyn.

She bit her lip, not really understanding where the sudden shyness she felt was coming from. Perhaps it was the fact that Gwyn was the first fae that she was actively choosing as a potential friend. All the others were either the family that she had fallen into thanks to her sisters, or people she had had to interact with through her new work as an emissary, the majority of which were, so far, mostly cordial relationships.

Her closest friends were the twin wraiths, Nuala and Cerridwen. But even with them, she didn’t feel the kind of deep connection like she had seen Nesta have with Emerie and Gwyn. The visions she had had of the Valkyrie who was expertly cutting salami led Elain to trust that perhaps she was meant to branch out more.

Besides, she had heard that Gwyn, like herself, didn’t have a partner. Perhaps having her around would make Elain feel less lonely at family events when all the couples were glued together. Or even when they invited her to their couples’ night just so she wouldn’t feel left out. Females should stick together after all. And single ones should stick even harder.

The sound of the bubbles in the fizzy champagne tickled Elain’s ears in the silence. She dared a look at Gwyn, noticing a light in her teal eyes that was akin to the sun illuminating the frozen surface of the Sidra in the early morning.

“I’ll be happy to learn if it’s from you,” Gwyn replied.

Elain smiled and picked up their glasses. She handed one to Gwyn.

“Is there any food coming soon?” they heard Cassian shout from the other room, followed by an, “Ouch!” that was probably the result of Nesta hitting him.

Gwyn pursued her lips but failed at completely concealing her amusement. The chatter and laughter rose among the group in the sitting area. But Elain decided to ignore them for just a moment longer. What was happening in here felt more important somehow.

“To learning new things.” Elain raised her glass.

“To new friends and mischievous mistletoes,” Gwyn added, causing Elain to laugh once again.

They clinked their glasses in cheers. The champagne tasted sweeter than any Elain ever had before.

Chapter 2...

Twas the morning of Solstice, a year after they first met, when Gwyneth Berdara and Elain Archeron...

See you soon for more 😉

#MERRY CHRISTMAS @VELARISBYNIGHT #And Happy Holidays everyone!!!#gwynlain #gwyneth berdara #elain archeron #fluff #just fluff #meet cute #gwynlain fanfiction #acotar fanfiction #acotar gift exchange #acotargiftexchange

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starry-nights-17 · 9 days ago

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Just wanted to say Happy Christmas to you all and leave this here. A short festive story, set in the canon world but sort of AU (in that Ian is living with Clayton).

*Mickey breaks into the wrong house....but maybe it was the right house after all 🤔

(Some derogatory language ahead, not mine, all Mickey!)

----

Christmas was just around the corner, meaning Terry was working them harder than normal. And by work, he meant stealing. Breaking and entering.

Mickey was the perfect burglar. Quick, quiet and small enough to squeeze through tight windows. Tonight's target, a fancy West Side house, which featured a large expensive looking tree in the front room. At the base of it, was a pile of exquisitely wrapped presents. Jackpot.

Mickey jimmied open a window at the back of the house, expertly so, given the practice he had. He crept into the connecting living room, eyes darting around and ears on high alert.

Confident that the house was vacant, considering the car that was usually parked out front was gone, he started tossing the packages into a large holdall he brought with him.

"Mickey, what the fuck"

His blue eyes blinked into the darkness, until he eventually made out a shape and spotted familiar red hair and freckles. The Gallagher kid had moved away a year back. His sister Mandy had whined about missing her BFF for weeks, droning on about how he discovered his mom's affair and that the man who raised him wasn't his real dad.

He made a run for it but the kid grabbed his arm, "I can't let you take it Mickey, not all of it anyway".

His voice was soft, those green eyes even softer, an understanding there. Gallagher picked out a few packages and held them out to him.

"Your dad's an asshole".

Mickey felt his eyebrow pull up and his face scrunch up in confusion, "What's it to you, carrot top?"

Ian, that was the kids name, chuckled and took a step back, his face lit up in amusement.

"Just know what he's like, what will happen if you return empty handed. Just take them, I can replace them tomorrow".

"This a trick, you gonna call the cops on me or something?"

"Course not, South Siders don't snitch".

Mickey gestured around and caught Ian's eye, "in case you haven't noticed freckles, we ain't in the South Side".

"Whatever, I'm still fucking South Side Mickey and more than that; I'm still a Gallagher".

Mickey nodded slowly, feeling the kid was being genuine. "Well now I really can't take this shit", he sighed and dropped his bag, "fucking tainted or whatever".

Ian laughed again, a sweet and bright sort of sound that had Mickey's lips curving up at the corners. He didn't know why he was still standing there, hovering, loitering. And at the scene of a crime, although technically he hadn't stolen anything.

"You want a beer or some hot chocolate or something, Clayton, um I mean my Dad and his wife are out, won't be back for hours".

Mickey snorted out a laugh, "you fucking serious, you like retarded or something? I just tried to rob you and now you're offering me hot chocolate?"

Ian grinned and shrugged casually, "not like I haven't stolen shit before. I get it. I know you haven't exactly got a choice Mickey. And," he paused and looked away, almost shyly, "miss the South Side I guess, don't see my family as much as I'd like. Figured you could catch me up on shit, on Mandy".

"That annoying bitch," he joked, "she's still a pain in my ass and a huge slut. There, all caught up freckles".

He turned to leave, feeling awkward now and feeling his cheeks flush with colour as the goofy kid smiled confidently back at him. It was as though he actually liked Mickey's abrupt manner or some shit.

"C'mon Mick, I'll even toss in some marshmallows. I remember you have a sweet tooth".

Mickey raised his eyebrow in a question, "the fuck you know that?"

Ian laughed and started towards what he presumed was the kitchen, "you think I didn't know about all those snickers you swiped from the store?"

Before he registered it, he was walking forward, following him, as if he was a magnet being drawn in that direction.

"You fucking stalking me or something, watching me, kinda creepy man".

His tone was easier and lighter than intended. Shit, he almost sounded like he was dangerously close to flirting.

Ian cocked his head and studied his face for a second before replying, with a wide devilish grin.

"Kinda my job Mick, to keep my eyes on you".

Mickey tried to hide an emerging smile with his hand and was forced to look away, from that intense green gaze. His skin felt electrified and he was sure his cheeks were glowing.

"Well it's not anymore, guess you don't need a job since you moved up in the world".

Ian set a large mug down in front of him, complete with mini pink and white marshmallows floating on top.

"Not so sure I did," Ian paused and seemed thoughtful, "kinda miss it, working, earning money, even miss the fucking ghetto".

Ian laughed dryly and Mickey shook his head at him in disbelief.

"I just mean it's different here, fucking boring and like dad's just trying to make up for lost time so he never yells or says no. Its weird".

"Oh poor you, shit, you don't know how lucky you have it man. Complaining like a spoilt princess about being rich and living in a place like this, where you don't get a black eye every other day".

"You think I don't hear myself Mick. Course I know I sound like a prick. I just don't feel like I belong here. I don't fit in. I don't know how to live this fucking normal life".

"Well, I'd swap places with you any day," he muttered, blowing on the hot chocolate before talking a long satisfying sip. Damn, it tasted good, like proper expensive shit, not that crappy dollar store stuff that masqueraded as "chocolate".

"I'm sorry, I know I suck. I go to a great school and have everything I want. Meanwhile the rest of the Gallaghers are still living in that shithole, with fucking Frank".

"Actually, heard he's shacked up with some rich bitch over on the North Side. Never stops bragging about it in the Alibi".

Ian laughed and shook his head, "course he is. Frank always manages to land on his feet".

"Looks like you take after him in that respect Red, even if he's not your real dad or whatever. Suck it up, you got out. You can make something of yourself. Mandy always said you were smart, so don't waste that education. Go cure cancer or whatever the fuck".

Ian settled down, sitting opposite him, as they both smiled quietly around their mugs. The situation was weird but only in how it wasn't weird, not really. Mickey felt at ease, like he was naturally able to talk with Ian, his usual shyness not present.

"Not really a science geek, believe it or not," Ian joked, an attractive smile on his face again, "more of an English Lit geek".

"You mean like books and shit. Rather you than me pal".

"Wait, you can actually read, Mickey?"

Mickey sat up straight, ready to knock the fuckers teeth down his throat. That was, until he caught sight of Ian's cocky smirk. He flipped him off and felt a smirk of his own creeping up.

"Fucking comedian over here," he muttered, "course I fucking can, dickhead. Might be a Milkovich but doesn't mean I'm a dumb fuck".

"Never thought you were," Ian replied with a gentler smile now and a fondness in his eyes. "Always figured you were smart. And, funny too".

Ians eyes darted away, his lips lowered to the mug again, his cheeks faintly pink.

"Funnier than you anyway," he teased in return, "not that it'd be hard".

"I meant it, I want to help. Don't want you getting into trouble or whatever...with Terry".

Ians eyes appeared sincere and possibly full of concern too. Mickey was surprised, wondering how this kid, who was almost a stranger to him, was genuinely worried about him returning home empty handed.

Then again, he probably witnessed Mickey's battered and bruised face on numerous occasions. Perhaps at the Kash n Grab or at the Milkovich House when he hung out there with Mandy. Likely his sister confessed some harsh home truths to her BFF too. Fuck.

"Can't take your shit Gallagher. It's fine, I'll hit some other place up on the way home".

Ian rose to his feet, taking out his wallet, offering a wad of cash to him.

"The fuck," he stood and swatted his hand away in offence, "don't want your money either; not a fucking charity case. And just cos your whore of a mother fucked some rich prick doesn't make you better than me".

Ians face grew red with anger and he stepped forward, invading his space, "don't fucking talk about her like that Mickey. I know I'm not better than you, never fucking said I was. Just don't want you getting punched in the face, or worse, by that evil psychotic prick. Fuck me, for giving a shit".

Ian shoved him and Mickey shoved him back. Both of their chests heaved up and down, both clearly emotional.

"Shit, I shouldn't have said that about your mom; not like mine was much better. Not cool. I know she had fucking problems or whatever, " he thumbed his nose, stumbling on his words, "just don't like handouts alright, I can take care of myself".

Iam nodded and his expression softened further, "I know you can take care of yourself Mick. Just nice sometimes to let other people help. Not like I can't spare some cash. Please, just let me help, let me feel like all of this," he gestured around, "means something. If it means saving that pretty face from getting another pounding, then its worth it".

Mickey's eyebrow pulled up and a sharp breath left his mouth, "did you just call me fucking....pretty....think its you thats looking for a pounding pal".

Ian smirked and approached him, head cocked to the side, his voice lowered to a whisper.

"Generally I do the pounding...but I'm always open to trying new things".

As if Ian's bold words weren't having enough of a mind-blowing affect on his body, the asshole winked (actually winked) at him.

Mickey opened and closed his mouth like a fish, rendered utterly speechless. Not only was the kid gay but he was openly flirting with Mickey, implying shit; not just about himself but about Mickey too. The giant sized balls on Ian. He was pretty impressed though, considering Mickey could easily be kicking his ass right now. Talk about a risky move.

"I uh, better go"

He mumbled and pointed vaguely in the direction of the door, "Terry...you know...fucking schedules or whatever".

Ian chuckled and stepped forward again. His hand reached out, trailing down his chest; smoothing out the creases on his shirt, and then he was stuffing something in his pocket. Before Mickey could argue, Ian was shutting him up in the most unexpected and unsettling way. By pressing his warm lips against his.

Naturally his reaction was to push him away, which he attempted to do but Ian was stronger than he looked and held his hands at the wrists. Green eyes locked on his, questioning, searching. And somehow Mickey relaxed enough to nod up and down.

There was that predatory smirk again before those lips were on his once more, firmer now, with puprose and determination. But it was a brief and tame kiss, which he was grateful for. Because if Ian tried to take it further, put his hands on him or slipped him the tongue, he wasn't quite sure what would happen. Could end up in a fuck or a fight, Mickey wasn't certain. All that he was certain of, was that his skin was on fire, his heart was thumping wildly and he was breathing harshly.

"Think of it as an advance payment...or a loan," Ian said next, waking him from his haze.

"Huh?"

"You can repay me"

"How the fuck do you expect me to pay your pampered ass back. Piss poor here, remember".

Ian laughed, once again causing an unfamiliar flutter in his chest and Mickey smiled automatically upon hearing the pleasant sound.

"There's other ways to pay me back Mick," Ian replied with a cheeky grin.

"Fuck off, you think cos you kissed me I'm some sort of prostitute...I'm not even gay man".

He almost choked on the lie and judging by Ian's amused expression he wasn't buying it either.

"If you say so. Besides, that's not what I had in mind....but now that you mention it...."

Mickey scratched his eyebrow and flipped him off, barely containing a smile.

"Fine. No sexual favours, got it, " Ian joked, his hands held up in the air, "I just meant you can pay me back by maybe hanging out with me once it a while, that's all".

"You just want me to hang out with you...and you'll basically pay me for it...the fuck is wrong with you man?".

Ian cackled and shook his head, "nothings wrong with me. I just fucking like you or whatever and I already told you; the moneys insurance, protecting that pretty face of yours".

Mickey's middle finger was raised once more while his face was busy heating up, "ok fuck, fine, i'll take the cash. But not promising you anything. You're fucking weird man, not sure how much more of you I can handle".

Ian's face lit up and he cocked his head in that boyish, mischievous way again, "pretty sure you can handle a lot Mick," he paused and hummed, "hopefully".

"The fuck," he whispered, the word coming out in a shuddery breath. "I'm outta here. Good luck with being rich now or whatever".

He waved at him, clumsily and awkwardly, before swiftly heading towards the door.

"Don't be a stranger Mickey".

He didn't even need to turn around to recognise the grin that cocky redhead was undoubtedly sporting. Ian Gallagher. Of all the houses. Of all the situations. This night had not turned out like he had expected. He paused at the door, his fingertip tracing over his bottom lip, somehow still feeling Ian's lips there. Fuck. Mickey already knew it. He needed to kiss him again.

"Whatever. See ya later, firecrotch".

❤🎁🎄🌈

#fanfiction #shameless #gallavich #mickey milkovich #ian x mickey #ian gallagher #cute alternative meet #ian lives with clayton #christmas #ian and mickey flirting #soulmates #sassy ian #burglar mickey #fluff #first kiss #hot chocolate

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livelovecaliforniadreams · 2 months ago

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#i love a good meet cute #movie #movies #filmedit #filmedits #Meet me next christmas #cute things #love #christina milian #devale ellis

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goldsbitch · 1 year ago

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That second flight

part 4 to That one Christmas flight

summary: What happens when people stop lying to themselves? Sometimes, you get a good night out of it.

warnings: cheesy af, swear words and alcohoI guess, cliche probably, typos most definitely

Do not fuck it up, do not fuck it up, do not fuck this up.

Hey you? What kind of a message even is that? Ugh. She ruined it. Now she will have to move away and start her life again.

The weather forecast predicted high levels of overreacting for today.

He must have liked the cool girl vibe she somehow gave of on the plane. Y/N prayed for the gods of cool vibes to bless her again.

Lando was just about to start an interview for Sky Sports when he received her message. He imagined this was how it felt to win a podium. On the top of the world. He gave an absolutely charismatic, energetic and funny interview. One that would surely create lots of gifs on the socials. PR manager even high-fived him when they finished. To be honest, he could not wait for a moment of solitude so that he could reply.

"hey" he started. "so I broke the rule, ups" Her reply came instantly.

"I've noticed. But then again, you radiate speeding tickets vibe from miles away. So no surprise."

He smiled, well aware of how efficient the Italian ticketing was running.

"paid one last week, so you got me there" "so, how's your cool student life going?"

"Trying gain some wisdom, as people just feel free to call me dumb on social media these days."

"compliments come in a variety of forms, don't discriminate"

From now on, there was no way back.

The next few days consisted of constant texting. Joking around, sending pictures capturing their daily life - both of them keeping in secret that lots of the information shared was nothing new. They were careful, somewhat distancing themselves from any real deep topics. But, days felt like blur, waiting for the next text to come and somehow managing to live the real life in between that. Y/N stayed in most evenings, almost making her friends concerned.

It did not take long enough for famously patient Lando to getting sick of it. They had a week between the next three week round of races. It was now or never. He missed one chance by being mr. mysterious, so mr. direct it was now.

"so, lady. what are you doing this weekend?" he asked out of the blue.

"I dunno. Probably studying, I guess."

"well, you're smart enough, you can skip that. let's meet up."

Y/N pretended to herself that she was second guessing. She headed out, to the bar where her friends were hanging out before they planned on heading to some faculty party. She felt joining them suddenly. Sat quietly, listening to their usual chit chat. Her charade lasted about seven minutes.

"Yes. Let's." she texted and threw her phone deep down to her bag. She was nervous, heart racing and mind quite not catching up yet.

"I need to tell you guys something," she interrupted them and almost demanded immediate attention. Questioning looks followed. "Uh, so I met this guy on a plane. And I'm gonna see him again this weekend."

Saying it like that, she realized that it was all kind of real and that she probably could not explain it in words how bizzare it all felt.

"Aw, that's cute! Tell us more!" Teresa clapped excitedly, the whole weird vibe surrounding her friend making more sense now.

Y/N expected her friends to be more shocked. "Um, yeah. It's just this guy. I don't really know how it's gonna happen, but yeah."

"Is he coming here? Can we meet him?"

Y/N kept the information that they already did to herself. Just in case she is left stranded alone and disappointed.

"I don't...I don't know actually. Yeah."

"We will do as we always do - sharing location and staying by if needed, honey."

Y/N missed a text notification. "great. i'll fly you out to somewhere where we can be alone, not to sound too creepy."

She landed an hour after him. Lando sent a picture of him waiting at the airport cafe.

He booked the best hotel room he could find. Well, technically he booked two rooms. Just in case she wanted to keep her distance or if by any chance he fucked up so royally, that she would refuse to share space with him. At least, he could walk away from this like a gentleman.

Since she last him, she forgot just how hot this guy was in person. Seeing him, sitting casually sipping coffee and glued to him phone, she took a moment to study him. It was as if he was tailored specifically to her taste. His clothes covering his godlike body, not too muscular but enough for the sight of his arms sending her to different dimension. The origin of her audacity she had to be the first one to talk to him on the plane was unknown to her. There was no more panic left in her body, as she had done nothing but panicking the whole flight.

She walked and sat opposite to him.

"Hey," he smiled.

"Hey yourself," she replied. There was a moment of awkward silence. Turns out there was a bit of panic left in Y/N after all. Last week she though she'd never see this guy. And now she was staring in his eyes.

"Do you want some coffee?," he asked innocently. He looked her up and down, excited to see her. All of his worries he refused to acknowledge were gone. After all, she got up and flew here just to hang out with him. The reality of this filled him with confidence.

"Yes. A small tiny espresso with no milk."

"Great. Let's grab that and hit the road."

Lando's car might have as well run on butterflies alone present in his vehicle. There was absolutely no way for him to drive some random rental car, so he called up McLaren people to provide him one for the night. It came up in the same conversation when he requested personal time off. Both things came to a certain level of surprise, as he had never done this before. Y/N knew she had to work on a group project for one of her minor classes. Just like him, she had done something she would not have dared - and completely ghosted her group for this weekend.

"You look nice, btw," he commented casually.

"Well yeah, when you're not on an overnight flight across half of the world wearing airport attire, it makes thing easier."

"Hm, I would say sweatpants have some magic to them."

It was hard for Y/N to get the image of him out of her head.

"So, where is my lovely kidnapper taking me?"

They discussed prior to this that the vibe they would like out of this was a casual dinner and then finding the shittiest club possible and have some fun, trying to remain as private as possible yet within the vicinity of the small Italian city.

"My assistant found this lovely little place in the centre. Don't get mad, but I had him completely book it out. You know, the privacy thing," he said with more insecurity than one would expect.

Y/N picked up on that and tried to lighten up the mood. It seemed a bit excessive to do that, but he probably knew what he was doing.

"Your assistant," she gagged over dramatically. "Jesus, am I not worth enough for you to google on your own? Mr. Busy man. Was he also the one who found me online them?" she joked?

"I'm sure I'd have to hire a special person to that if I planned on outsourcing it."

"Creep."

"You love it."

And she did.

He parked in front of the restaurant, without a care for the world.

"So you're telling me we're making a big deal about keeping a secret that you're here, yet you decide to park like a proper asshole?" she remarked while he opened the door for her. Jokes were making her focus on something else than the fact she was falling for him too hard.

"Oh, you're going absolutely hate my plan," he laughed as they were entering the full on empty restaurant.

"Wow, look at that. I invited all my friends!" he whispered to her ear before addressing the owner.

"Hello, you must be Dario?"

This Dario person smiled brightly at him. "Ah, mister Papaya!" Lando nodded and Y/N rolled her eyes. Dario then started speaking Italian without a care of the world. Language wise deaf Lando did not count for the fact people just did not speak English in this part of Italy. A tiny crack in his plan. What was he suppose to do, call Carlos? But, Y/N having spend a good year or two studying there was there to ease the situation. She whipped out her B1 Italian and greeted the man. Dario's happiness filled up the room.

He seated them and immediately brought local red wine and giving a long talk about where this wine was from and how his grandma used to pick up the grapes herself and how the notes did this and that. Y/N tried to translate at the beginning, but Dario looked like was ready to give a TED talk. She started to loose the grasp of the story, which Lando observed. And like good gentleman he helped her out. No, of course not, when he saw her getting lost, he put on a super interested face and asked about seven follow up questions. Y/N was super annoyed. The kind of annoyed that creates a smile on your face.

When this showdown finally ended, Y/N nearly gulped the wine down. "So rude, Dario just said, you're suppose to sit it and let it roll," said Lando and with too much affect sipped his wine. "Aah," he took a deep breath and the bit his tongue. Y/N stuck her tongue out completely like a five year old child. "Yes, I can see your red tongue, that's also one of the reasons why you sip it."

They sat, talked and laughed. He seemed genuinely interested when she blabbed a little bit too long about her latest projects. And then he asked her for a feedback on his latest merch, which by sheer coincidence included lots of photos of him. It was hard to admit how much he enjoyed the idea of her looking at him.

"So, um. I'm not sure I understood Dario correctly. But it looks like he insists on getting us the local speciality," she said hesistantly.

"Well, only if his grandma would approve. But why is this strange look on your face?"

"I must have gotten it wrong. Because burnt pasta just sounds wrong. If I wanted that, I could have stayed and have my roommate cook for us."

"Hm, that is an interesting idea." Lando pretended he did not know her roommate's name.

Once Dario brought out the burnt pasta, the couple had a hard time not to laugh.

"When in Rome...well not in Rome, but you get the idea."

"Why is this good?" Y/N proclaimed with her mouth full to the limit.

Lando laughed. "Ah, we have a lady at the table, I see. I mean yeah, I am not supposed to be having pasta now, but this is so weirdly good."

They finished their strange pasta and the bottle of wine. Said goodbye to Dario, Y/N tried not to think on how much it cost to close a restaurant down.

"Wait, what are we going to do about the car? We can't drive now."

"Not to sound like a complete asshole, but I'd like we remove the WE from any sentence including driving now at the beginning, if that is ok. And like I said at the beginning, you're gonna hate this."

"Go on, Lando boy. Tell me."

"Yeah, the car was provided by my employer. And they really need me, so I'm just going to leave the car here to get towed and inform them later."

"Jesus, why!"

"Well, I figured we'll get a taxi in the morning. I want to enjoy all the time I have with you. Dealing with the car is not on the menu today."

There was nothing for Y/N to reply. She was having too much fun to be thinking.

They found what seemed to be the shittiest bar playing 80's and 90's songs, weirdly colored lights swinging out of the rhythm and with people there consisting of old papas and few probably underaged kids. They brought their own wine bottle from Dario, Lando paid 100 euros for two glasses and for the bartender leaving them alone. It did not take long for Y/N to break out to the dance floor. Lando watched her clumsy yet somehow elegant moves for a moment, before he joined her. They danced, as if they were the only people there, laughing and completely ignoring the looks they were getting. And to the tones of remix of Brother Louis, they kissed again. And this time, they kept kissing until late hours, hand roaming around each other, as if they were two teenagers making out for the first time.

part 5

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Tagged all those who like to suffer: @prudyhoo @anuksunamon @sagestack @esquerkaren @ushygushybaby @ilove-tswizzle @thehufflepuffavenger1 @superlegend216 @mehrmonga @lovely-blackinnon @mylifeihate1029 @lausdigitaldiary @tswizzleismother

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