#Erin’s Pub

[heavy-nfld]

Fog Coffin kept the doomy vibes going with their low down Sabbathian riffage for our Winter Solstice show at Erin’s Pub.

[stylized-corpse]

Sarra Cenia delivered stoner rock grooves at Erin’s Pub last month.

[arcturus11]

I thought this was an interesting menu item when I saw it. Erin's Pub @ 186 Water St, St. John's, NL A1C 5V4 Phone: (709) 730-3912

[jbgranic]

Throwback Tuesday. Speck Brothers at Abbey Road Pub, Mississauga.

[literarylondonhq]

Edinburgh Fringe mini-blog, 2024. Day one.

It’s a sunny day in Sheppard’s Bush. I’m going to try and keep a daily account of the fringe this year. I’m not even sure why – but there might be some vague use for others producing a show. It started with little sleep. To the Raven in Hammersmith last night to say goodbye by to the Pongy Professor, the Facsist French Cook and a few other people that are pub buddies and the reason that pubs…

[trulyhblue]

MISS AUSTRALIA (PART TWO)

Katie McCabe x Aussie! Chelsea! Reader

Warnings: Smut 18+, jealousy, praise kink, semi-public sex, coarse language, Chelsea mentions, little age gap, humiliation, drinking.

Masterlist

______________________________

You don't know what coerced you to spend the night in Katie McCabe's bed, but it felt amazing.

Chelsea's loss against Arsenal sent shockwaves through the WSL side of social media, with a skyrocket of tweets spreading the news regarding the Blue's greatest defeat in five years.

It was not a surprise to see your name mentioned in thousands of these messages, and your connotation to Katie hadn't seemed to surprise anyone either. Lots of people were reeling over the interactions between the two of you on the field, but you wondered what their reaction would be if they found out what happened off the pitch.

Somehow, you didn't want to know.

Despite the thrashing you received from Emma, you, Jessie, Erin, Millie, Sam, and Guro all found yourselves in a pub in North London. It seemed hypocritical — the location — but the vibes were good, and it was a well-known, crowded bar, so the chances of you being seen were slim to none.

While Jessie was the designated driver for you that night, the rest of the girls didn't hesitate to start drinking. You were playing with the straw of your third vodka cranberry, savouring the taste between your teeth, smiling at the quips and jokes the girls would pose, checking the time on your phone as the hours passed later in the night.

"I just know I'm going to regret this tomorrow." Guro sighed, shooting down the last of her drink before standing up. "My shout now, what do you all want?"

Sam and Millie ordered a bulk of shots. Jessie and Erin chose the drinks they had before. You shook your head towards Guro, lifting your half-full drink that you were still nursing.

Sam wrapped an arm around your shoulder, waving Guro off. "You've been on the same drink for an hour. C'mon, have a shot with me."

You glanced across the table to find Erin shuffling a deck of cards. Jessie was on her phone, leaving you sandwiched between Bright and Kerr. You were a football player, an athlete, but you weren't as bulky as your two Chelsea companions. You tried hard in the gym, and anyone could tell that it paid off, but too many drinks would sway you in the wrong direction.

"Are you old enough to drink?" Millie asked, half sincerely, ruffling your hair when you gave her a pointed glare. "I'm only joking, Kid."

"I'm twenty-two. I just like taking care of my body." You spoke with a huff, throwing your arms over your chest, eyes dancing between your two skippers.

"Oh, and all those hickeys are taking care of you, are they?" Guro retorted, Erin's smirk matching hers as she returned with the tray of drinks. You watched her slide a shot towards you, which you took instantly at the looming eyes on your neck from your Australian Captain.

"Since when were those there?" She swooped, her hand reaching out to poke at the marks. You hissed, the exposed blotches still sensitive, shrinking in your seat as all five of your teammates caught your reddening cheeks.

"Fresh ones, eh?" Millie grinned.

While the girls found this new susceptible mystery a highlight of the night, Sam continued to prod at the marks, her protectiveness prominent by the furrow in her eyebrows.

"Who gave you those?" She let out, and you felt your face flame up.

"I'm not talking about it."

"You didn't have them this morning." Guro quipped, earning Jessie to push her scoldingly, feeling slightly sorry for the interrogation you were receiving.

"Jesus, y/n/n, I didn't know you had it in ya—"

"— had what in her?" A voice called out from beside the table, making each of your friends move their eyes away from you and to the source.

Fuck. Fuck. Fuck, you thought. Great, just your luck.

Katie was standing behind Beth, who was linking elbows with Jordon Nobbs. Caitlin, Leah, and Steph all stood among them, Steph being the one who spoke.

"Nothing. Where's Ky?" You sounded, your voice meek underneath the prying Arsenal eyes.

"Wrong side of London, Skipper." Caitlin laughed.

Sam rolled her eyes. "Good drinks, though."

You shuffled across the lounge you were sitting on, attempting to maneuver yourself over Jessie's lap to escape. You felt a hand grip the back of your skirt, causing you to plop on one of Jessie's legs.

"You can't just avoid the conversation."

"Sammy, stop." You squirmed over Jessie, who used her hands to lift your waist up. "Where's Kyra?" You asked again, hopelessly avoiding the Irish woman's levering eyes. She was watching Jessie's hand on your waist; how her fingers played with the hem of your top as you battled to fight Sam's hand away. Katie noticed how Jessie spread her legs out, engulfing your body weight more comfortably, as if she was used to having you in that position.

The Irish woman wanted to mock the playful whines that left your lips as everyone questioned what the two Australians were fighting over. She caught sight of the bruise she had left under your ear, recalling the heavy whines and desperate breaths that followed as her lips lapped over the delicate skin. The mark offered Katie some comfort in your current situation. The grand display of pink smearing across your freckled cheeks was admirable to most, but Katie found you much more pleasurable when you beat red at the sound of her voice, when you were grinding against her knee, not Fleming's.

"She went to the bathroom, I think." Beth Mead spoke, her friendly, maternal smile glowing back at you. "Actually, she could be anywhere. 'Can never sit still, that girl."

"Alright, let me go check."

You didn't wait for anyone to stop you, stumbling off Jess' lap, head spinning from the alcohol running through your system. You could handle your liquor to some extent, but it was after this that you went beyond tipsy. Your journey to the bathroom was quick, wasting no time to find your best friend, wherever she may be.

The cubicles were all empty. You tried calling out her name, calling her on your phone, but the little shit didn't answer. The pub was now reeling with people, with all levels of tipsy and drunk being shown by the dancing of the crowd. You were struggling to find your way back to your girls, forgetting the way you came. You gave up trying after five minutes, turning around and opening the bathroom doors once more.

Your breath hitched in your throat when you felt a pair of arms wrap around your waist, pushing and pinning you against one of the cubicle doors. It slammed shut, your back planted against the wood. You felt your hands fondle together, your heart racing at the hungry, lustful eyes of the woman in front of you. Her breath fanned over your face, causing your lips to fall agape, a loss of words leaving you speechless. It wasn't long until Katie's lips were on your neck, this time on the opposite side, nibbling on your pulse point.

"You really can't hold it in, can you?" She uttered, her accent rasping as she spoke. You groaned at the notion of her fingers latching onto the top you were wearing, tugging it in warning before discarding it on the floor.

"What?" You sighed, hands wrapping around Katie's neck as she lifted you up, gripping your thighs as they swathed around her waist.

"On Fleming's lap, Kerr's hand on your arse. Are you always so desperate for attention?"

She wasted no time in moving her lips down to your breasts, freeing one of her hands from your thigh to massage the one she wasn't sucking.

"Katie—"

"Shut up."

You grind your hips against hers, hoping it will relieve the growing tension between your legs. With your bra still on, Katie laughs at your flushed state, pushing up the fabric of your skirt so it would bunch up against your hips.

"Did you shake everyone's hands?" She asked, her lips leaving your chest to move up to your face. She hadn't ever properly kissed you, so she made sure to hover as she waited for a reply, her fingers slowly squeezing the column of your neck.

You nodded, still trying to gain some friction, but were met with nothing. The only noise that came from your lips was a whine. Katie shook her head, kneading your thigh as she rubbed her nose up against yours. The action was intimate, but somehow Katie found a way to make it sensual.

“Use your words, Baby.” She made a point of tapping your neck with her finger, toying with your skirt as her hand crept up your thigh.

“I- mh… I did, Katie.”

“Good Girl.” She whispered, and you pushed your lips forward to catch the girl in a kiss. You were grateful she reciprocated with just as much force, asserting her dominance by bringing her hand up to your lips, dragging your bottom lip down, making you audibly cry out.

“You like that, do you?” She chuckled, her hand inching closer to your heat. “Had to shake everyone’s hands before getting off on my thigh, didn't you? Had to make sure you did as you were told.”

“Katie, please—”

“But good girls don't sit on other people’s laps, do they Baby?” She whispered, ghosting her hand over your underwear. “Answer me.”

“No, Katie.”

You pushed your head back against the door, groaning as Katie ran one of her fingers through your folds teasingly. Your legs gave way, no longer trying to hold yourself up around Katie’s waist. Despite the lack of warning, the Irish woman wasn't fazed at the sudden shift, instead using it to her advantage.

“Look at you… so desperate for attention. Is that why you landed on top of me today? Bent over for me and everything in a sold-out stadium weren't you?”

You felt her hand rub your clit, making you squirm. “You tripped me.” It was a whisper, but Katie heard it all the same.

Her eyebrows raised. “I did. But you went off before I could show everyone how well you could take me.”

Without warning, she slipped two of her fingers into you, gnawing at your neck as she thrust in and out of you rhythmically. You moaned, and blushed furiously because of it.

“Does Fleming touch you like this?”

“Can you fuck off about Jessie for one second?”

Katie scoffed, adding another finger, inserting her fingers into you until her knuckles were kneading your clit. You moaned at the sting, crying out when Katie didn't wait for you to adjust. She did this for a while, and you felt the coil in your stomach churn as she curled her fingers inside of you, slamming them as deep as she could, resonant and rigid strokes leaving you writhing in ecstasy.

“Katie— Katie—”

She stopped, her fingers leaving you clenching around nothing. You were so close, feeling your high fizzle out the moment her fingers moved to her lips.

“I asked you a fucking question. ‘Spose you just get too dumb when you're being fucked.”

You whined, your hands clawing her biceps, beyond annoyed by the way she left you. “I- Jess and I are friends.”

“I bet Fleming wasn't too happy when you scored that double against her in the World Cup.”

You gaped at Katie, legs shaking and lips puffy. “You definitely weren't when I scored against you.”

Katie was off you now, standing against the bathroom sink, watching as you tried to fix your skirt.

“What happened today then, hm? Miss Australia lost her touch as soon as she was bent over.”

“Stop calling me that. And I wasn't bent over, you tripped me!”

“Did I tell ‘ya to fix your skirt?” She ordered, crossing her arms over her chest when you sauntered in front of her.

“You’re not the boss of me, McCabe.”

“Then how ‘bout you show me some personal autonomy and get yourself off?” She quipped, lust flooding her eyes. She propped herself on the sink, watching intently as your eyes widened at her suggestion. It seemed that all of your prior confidence had dispersed.

“I'm not doing that in here.” You muttered, suddenly repentant of the setting you were in.

“You nearly just came on my fingers. What's the difference?”

Whatever dominance you seemed to gain over Katie didn't work, the woman making no sign of backing down from her proposition.

“I— Katie… I'm not going to beg.”

She simply hummed, causing you to sigh. You were desperate for a release ever since that afternoon when you had been too stubborn to get off her knee, feeling the desperation of your hormones haunt you ever since. The thought of getting yourself off in front of the girl you hated so much made you squirm. The thought of someone walking in and seeing such an illustrative sight would've sent you into a frenzy.

But all of these thoughts dispersed at the sight of Katie in front of you, leaning against the mirror with her signature smirk. You reeled in the jumper she was wearing that hit the veins and muscles of her arms you always looked at during games. You noticed the crumple of her trousers, where you had inevitably been. Her hair was sweaty, her cheeks tinted at the sight of your unruliness. It made you repent. It made you want Katie even more.

“I want you.” You stated matter of factly, walking forward so that you were standing in between her legs.

“Do you now?” She looked down at you possessively, pretending to be in deep thought.

You nodded. She leaned in, taking hold of your chin. “Beg for it, Baby.”

She moved down from her place on the counter, dragging you to face the mirror. Pushing your hips against the cool marble surface, you watched as Katie caged your figure, sucking gently on your shoulder, taking her sweet time to reach your preexisting hickeys.

“Please, Katie, I need you so bad.” You whined, feeling her hips grind into you from behind. “I need you, you— you make me feel so good. Want you really bad.”

“Mhm, what else, baby?” She continued to place wet, sloppy kisses up your neck, licking across the new bruises, smirking at the mess she was turning you into.

“Wanna feel you inside of me. Wanna cum so hard from your fingers and your mouth, everything. Just want you to touch me, use me. Please use me, Baby, I‘ll do anything.”

The nickname she had been calling you fell from your lips before you had the chance to stop yourself. You knew that Katie would never let you live this down, but, for utterly selfish reasons, you made sure your voice was extra whiny, extra innocent, hoping your plea would help you get off.

Katie stopped kissing you, turning you around and smashing her lips up against yours. You knew your begging had worked when her fingers worked their way back into your underwear. When she entered two of her fingers this time, you weren't surprised at the lack of warning. Instead, you relished the feeling of pleasure shivering through your body. You moaned as her knuckles grazed over your clit, her hips pushing her further into the counter, making you lean back on your elbows.

“Bent back for you, Baby.” You moaned, hoping she’d keep going if you were louder. “I want to be— wanna be good.”

“That's it, nice and loud for me. Wanted me so bad you needed to beg. Good girls get rewards; don't they, baby girl?”

You groaned as she pounded into you relentlessly, her spare hand holding your hips in place as you neared your high. Katie felt your walls clench around her fingers, the wet juices of your arousal squelching in and out, coating Katie’s fingers. The sound of your wetness, alongside your moans, echoed throughout the bathroom, earning Katie to groan and the smell of sex surrounding you two.

“I’m— close.” You chocked out, feeling your clit grow sensitive as Katie’s knuckles pinched it hard.

Katie groaned, the sight of her head falling back bringing you to the brink of falling over the edge. “Ask nicely.”

“Please, Baby, I need to so bad. Want to cum around your fingers, please? Please, Baby.”

“Be a good girl for me, baby girl. Let it out. Show me who makes you feel this way.”

You felt Katie thrust into you harder and faster, causing you to let go of the pent-up climax closing in on you.

She continued to hit your G-spot deeply as you rode out your high, feeling your orgasm leak all over her fingers and into her hand. You cried out at the relief of it all, trying to catch your breath by settling into your elbows. You found Katie watching you recover, her lips swollen and eyes fully blown in euphoria at the sight of you post-sex. Her hair was messier than before, her smirk widening as you tried to stand up properly, whining when your legs violently shook.

She kissed the alcove of her neck, taking off her jumper to reveal a vest that displayed her arms in the perfect way.

“Should've taken that off before.” You managed to breathe out, accepting the way Katie scooped you up onto the counter, grabbing tissue paper and running it underwater, letting you fix your clothes up. You did this by putting your shirt back on and fixing your underwear.

“Put that jumper on.” She muttered, moving over to you, using her hands to open your legs. She began to clean up your thighs, which had been covered in sweat and arousal that couldn't have been concealed underneath your short skirt.

“Why?” You sighed at the cool temperature of the tissue, turning the top half of your body to face the mirror, nearly choking on air when you saw the number of hickeys decorating your neck.

“Oh my fucking god, Katie. I've got training tomorrow!”

Katie straightened up after cleaning you, flushing the tissue down the toilet. She walked up to stand between your legs, smiling at the bruises littering your neck and chest.

“Will Fleming be there?”

You scoffed, observant of the way Katie rubbed your thighs. “Obviously.”

“Then I've done my job well.”

You tried to hide your smile by picking up your phone, eyes bulging when you saw the missed calls from Kyra.

Now you were fucked.

[ewanmitchellcrumbs]

Something Borrowed

Pairing: Tom Bennett (World on Fire) x f!reader Warnings: Smut. Word count: ~1.5k Summary: An addition to Best Intentions. Read as a standalone, if you'd like.

Author's note: A birthday gift for @hoosbandewan - husband Tom on your birthday. Happy birthday, Erin! No tag list. Follow @fics-by-ewanmitchellcrumbs and turn on post notifications. Community labels are for cops.

“God’s got bigger things to worry about than me makin’ an honest woman outta ya,” Tom had told her with a wink. “Besides, the money we save we can put towards a bigger do. Would rather everyone have a few beers and sarnies to celebrate, than sit in a stuffy church with their arses going to sleep.”

That had settled it. Her and Tom were to have a registry office wedding, with a reception at The Ducie Arms afterwards. 

Even without money being as tight as it is she knows that this is what they would always have chosen. It’s just irrevocably them. Theirs is not a love born of grand gestures and material possessions. They share a soul connection, a lifetime of scraped knees, shared sweets, building their lives around each other, growing together. They are already two halves of the same whole, this is simply the string that ties it all together.

Despite keeping the ceremony itself modest, she feels like a princess as she stands in front of the mirror, her mum behind her fastening the last few buttons on the back of her wedding dress, as she places the last of the pins in her hair.

They’d gotten a deal at the haberdashery on some end cuts of lace and satin, and her mum had worked her magic with her sewing machine. The dress looks shop bought.

She smiles as she smooths her hands over the skirt, taking in the high neckline and draped sleeves, grateful that she’d woken early enough to clasp herself into the lingerie and slip that lies beneath - a wedding night treat for Tom - before her mum had arrived to help her get ready.

It had been a struggle to get out of bed that morning. Her mum, Lois and Connie had all popped round to the flat the previous evening to make sandwiches for the reception. She’d been half way through spreading margarine on a slice of bread when Connie had produced a bottle of gin from her bag.

“Well, if Tom and the rest of the lads are all at the pub, why shouldn’t we?” Connie had asked with a smile as Lois had rushed to get glasses down from the kitchen cupboard.

The pounding in her head the next day tells her exactly why she shouldn’t have. She wonders if Tom is in as much of a sorry state as she is. Thankfully, her make-up does a good job of hiding it.

Tom has called in a favour with a customer at the garage, so she can travel to the registry office in style. She has to stifle a laugh behind her hand as the sleek black motorcar pulls up outside the shop to pick her up. It’s the exact same one that her and Tom had vigorously made up in the back of.

As she slides onto the seat, gathering her skirt so that it doesn’t catch in the door, the memory of Tom laying between her thighs replays in her mind, causing her skin to heat up.

“Everything alright?” Her mum asks, climbing in next to her. “You look a bit flustered.”

She blinks, swallowing and nodding, startled out of her reverie. “Yeah, Mum, bit nervous is all.”

Tom stops fidgeting with his tie knot the moment he sees her, a grin spreading across his face as she walks towards him and the registrar. He lets out a low whistle as she stops beside him, turning to face him. She bows her head, giggling. She feels like a school girl all over again.

Time seems to stand still for her as she gazes into Tom’s blue eyes, not really registering the words being spoken, or the vows she utters in response, fixated only on Tom’s beaming smile. Once more he is that little boy, face full of sunshine and the sweetest little rabbit teeth she’s ever seen. 

Except now he is hers. Her husband. She is a wife.

“Fuckin’ finally,” Tom mutters, surging forward once they are told they can kiss.

He grasps the back of her neck, pressing his lips to hers in a motion that steals the air from her lungs. She wraps her arms around his shoulders, smiling into it, her heart fluttering just as it had the first time they’d ever kissed. In a way, this is a first too, the first of many things they’ll share as a married couple.

“Hello, Mrs. Bennett,” he whispers against her lips when they finally part for breath.

The words have heat pooling between her legs almost instantly. She is certain she’ll never tire of hearing them.

As everyone heads in the direction of The Ducie Arms, she is confused when Tom pulls her back in the direction of the shop.

“What you doing?” She asks, brow furrowing as she resists his gentle tug on her arm.

“Left something in the flat, need to go back for it,” he tells her, nodding his head in the direction he wants to go.

“Can’t you just quickly go back for it on your own, and meet me at the pub?”

He shakes his head, tugging at her hand again. “Need you to help me, come on.”

She sighs, relenting and allowing him to pull her along. “We’re gonna be late to our own wedding reception.”

Tom smirks, glancing sideways at her. “They’ll wait, they have to.”

As soon as they’re home, he’s upon her, backing her up towards the bedroom as his hands grasp her waist and his lips find hers.

She giggles between hurried kisses, their breaths intermingling. “Is this what you forgot then?”

Tom pushes her back against the mattress, placing hot, opened mouthed kisses against her throat. “You look so good in that dress, darlin’, couldn’t wait any longer.”

She gasps as her hands slide up her skirt, bunching it at her hips. He leans back, arching a brow appreciatively at the white lingerie he finds beneath. His fingers hook beneath the strap that attaches her stocking to her garter belt and pull back slightly before letting go. It snaps against the flesh of her thigh, making her squeal.

“Tommy, we can’t!” She protests. “I’m wearing things that I won’t be able to put back on if you take them off.”

“Why ever would I take ‘em off?” He asks mockingly, cocking his head. “It’d be a waste.”

She whines as, forcefully, he pushes the gusset of her knickers to one side, swiping through her slick folders, grinning at the wetness he finds. “Gonna make us late to our own wedding reception with this. Naughty, naughty.”

Writhing against the bed, she no longer cares for her fancy lingerie, or if she rumples her dress, not when she hears the metallic clink of Tom’s belt buckle opening. The noise travels straight to her core, causing her to clench around nothing, until finally he’s lining himself up against her entrance and pressing inside. No matter how many times her and Tom make love she’ll never get used to the exquisite torture of that first initial stretch. It robs her of all coherent thought every time, only able to focus on the feeling of him pushing her walls apart.

She expects him to be quick and brutal with her, but he stills once he’s fully inside, resting his forehead against hers. It’s comforting to have him this close, just to feel the weight of him.

As she runs her hands down his back, met with the wiry yet solid expanse of muscle, she’s taken back to a time when he first returned from France and was so thin she could feel every vertebrae in his spine. This is testament to how far he’s come, how far they’ve come; not just the weight he’s put back on, but that he’s healed enough to be in a place where can be someone’s husband, and he has chosen to be hers.

Feeling a prickle of tears in her eyes, she blinks them back, feeling embarrassed when one strays its way down her cheek, until she looks back up into Tom’s eyes to see his are similarly wet.

He holds her close, he takes his time with her. It’s gentle, unhurried, and full of love.

“I love you, Mrs. Bennett,” he whispers to her.

They are late to their reception, but met with rapturous applause as they enter through the pub doors nonetheless. They drink lager, and eat spam sandwiches, and Tom treads on her feet when they attempt to slow dance to ‘Sentimental Journey’ by Doris Day. She can’t imagine a more perfect evening, that is until Tom guides her outside.

They walk back towards the wall, their wall and Tom helps her up onto it, before sitting beside her. Her legs don’t dangle as high from the floor as they used to, and it’s odd to look down and see her legs draped in white lace, instead of littered with scrapes and bruises.

She grins when she turns to Tom, watching as he produces a paper bag of sherbet straws from his inside jacket pocket. “Just wanted to say thanks for helping me with my maths homework fifteen years ago,” he says with a cheeky smile, “Mates, yeah?”

Warmth spreads throughout her chest as she leans against him, resting her head on his shoulder. “Always.”

[lotusbxtch]

Ocean's Gold - An Offering of Frith story

Pairing: Jack Daniels / Agent Whiskey x f!Reader Word Count: 6.4k Rating: Explicit - 18+ ADULTS ONLY, MDNI Frith Challenge god: Ægir

Summary: Jack Daniels, retired from the Statesmen, signs you on as the business partner for his new brewpub. Sparks fly, and you wonder if it could ever be more.

Tags/warnings: Tags/warnings: alcohol (beer) is a major part of the story, consumption of food & alcohol, a sprinkling of angst, fingering (f receiving), oral (f and m receiving), protected PIV, Jack is an absolute consent king & safe sex advocate, semi-public sex (1 scene), absolute tooth-rotting fluff (these two are SO CUTE). Reader has she/her pronouns and identifies as female, has a name (not including it yet to keep it a surprise!) and some backstory but otherwise there are no physical details included - it's you, darling! (psssst: 2 other P boys make a guest appearance!)

a/n: This is my (belated) entry for @perotovar's Offering of Frith Challenge. My P boy/Norse god combo was Jack Daniels & Ægir. This is actually my first time writing Jack! It was such a fun challenge, and although I was honestly initially scared that I bit off more than I could chew, I ended up loving what I've written. I hope you do too! (See the afterword for more details on Ægir and other nods to Norse mythology/traditions that I sprinkled in!) Thank you Erin for hosting this challenge, and @for-a-longlongtime for being my cheerleader, beta reader, and telling me over and over that I could do this! Moodboard by @perotovar, dividers by @saradika-graphics.

Just breathe, you got this.

You straighten out your outfit in the mirror in an attempt to quell your nerves. Dark jeans, espresso leather lace up boots, cropped well-worn Fleetwood Mac graphic tee, and your favorite blood red blazer. You swipe on a matching red lip, nod at yourself in the mirror, and leave your apartment to walk down to the brewery.

The 3 block-long walk gives you time to review what you learned about the business opportunity. Jack was a recently-retired government operative who inherited a large sum of money and wanted to use it to open a brewpub. A smart businessman already, he knew that in order for his brewpub to be successful - regardless of how good his beer was - he needed to have a damn good pub restaurant, too. Which is why you’re swinging open the brewpub’s doors on a mild fall evening, CV in hand: as it turns out, you were looking for your next culinary opportunity. After working in a number of prestigious kitchens, you itched for the opportunity to build something of your own, something homey that you could be proud of. This position is exactly the kind of project you hoped for.

You step into the building, the interior clearly unfinished, but with good structure to it - high vaulted ceilings, good natural lighting, and two levels. Three, if you count the brewery on the floor below you to the left, where you could see the tops of large brewing fermentation vessels.

“Hello?” you call out into the barebones building, looking around for signs of life.

“I’ll be there in a jiffy!” you hear from someone below you, presumably Jack. In a moment, you see him emerge from the staircase leading to the brewing area, and you feel your breath catch in your throat.

Holy hell, you didn’t know he was THIS hot.

Walking towards you was easily one of the most handsome men you’ve ever set eyes on. Tall, incredibly broad-shouldered, and golden-skinned, Jack sauntered up to you wearing a white t-shirt stretched across his chest, dark jeans, black Wellingtons, and a belt with - is that a whiskey flask buckle?

“Rán, I assume?” Jack broke into a wide smile, offering up his hand. You shook it firmly, reveling in the warmth of Jack’s hand and how it dwarfed yours. Keeping your eyes locked to Jack’s amber ones, you returned his smile and nodded.

“It’s so nice to meet you in person, Jack,” you said, taking another glance around the interior. “The place has good bones.”

“That is does,” Jack responds, looking around as well. “I have high hopes for this place. And you seemed like the perfect person to hook up with to get it done.”

Your eyes bug out for a moment before you can school your face, but the heat starts creeping up your neck anyway. I’m sure he didn’t mean it that way…

“Oh, hell,” Jack sputters, “That’s not what I meant! I… dagnabbit, I’m already blowing it…” He runs his hand through his dark brown waves, thoroughly embarrassed. “I meant to partner with. On this business venture.” Jack looked at you, face flushed, eyes pleading. You couldn’t help but let out the giggles coming from your chest.

“Hardly blown, but maybe we can have some of that beer you promised me and start over?” you suggest, tilting your head towards the brewery. Jack looked relieved and nodded in agreement. 

“Follow me, darlin’, and I’ll take you to my mad scientist lab,” he says as he motions towards the staircase. Following his broad frame (good god, those shoulders are so wide) down the steps, you emerge in the brewery, the heart of the business. Gleaming stainless steel fermentation tanks tower above, the immaculate floor wet, looking recently sanitized. The smell of malted barley and herbaceous hops permeates the air, and the brewery area is compact yet efficient. Everything looks perfectly kempt, a testament to how much Jack cares about his beer. On a wall hook near the entrance hung a black leather jacket and a black Stetson cowboy hat. You notice a small farmhouse table set up nearby the office area with two glasses set atop. 

He set this up just for us?

Your eyes meet Jack’s, your mouth a bit ajar, and he smirks, pulling out a chair for you like a real southern gentleman. “Think I wouldn’t pull out all the stops for my hopefully-soon-to-be business partner?” You sit, and he walks to the carbonation room to fetch his brew of choice. Returning with the deep brown glass growler, Jack raises it towards you in offering. You nod, pushing your glass closer and he pours the liquid within out. A pale golden beer flows into your glass, creamy foam gathering on the surface. He pours himself some, then sits down at the other end of the table. 

“This is somethin’ I’ve been workin’ on for the grand openin’,” he explains, motioning to the beer. “It’s a farmhouse ale, what’s usually referred to as a saison. I’m callin’ it Ocean’s Gold. I want it to be the flagship brew. Please, try it and let me know what you think.” Your eyes flick to the glasses, and then with a small smile, you bring it up to your lips and drink. The beer is full-bodied, malty but light, with citrus and peppery notes dancing across your tongue. The finish is dry, resulting in a beer that’s incredibly drinkable and refreshing.

“Holy cow, Jack,” you breathe out, astounded at his skills. “That’s so delicious. You’re one hell of a brewmaster.”

Jack chuckles, grinning warmly. “Why thank you, sugar,” he croons, making the heat rise up the back of your neck again. Damn those Southern nicknames, you think to yourself, willing your nerves to calm. “Hopefully I’m as good of a brewer as you are a chef. I’ve been askin’ around, and word on the street is that you’re one of the best and hardest working chefs people have worked with.”

“Well, that’s high praise,” you reply, “but I’m glad to hear it. I pride myself on my work ethic and food is my first love, as it seems like brewing is for you. What sort of place do you want the brewpub to be?”

Jack contemplates his answer. You see his face get more serious, but nothing but passion shines from his eyes when they lift to yours. “First and foremost, aside from serving up the best beer this side of the Rockies, I want this place to be ingrained in the community.” You sip your beer as Jack continues. “This place has given me so much, and I want to give back. I want a place where everyone feels welcome, ya know? Whether they want to share a pint with a friend, get a bite to eat with loved ones, or meet new people who share their love of good food and beer, I want them to feel at home.”

A wistful look passes over Jack’s face, and he pauses to meet your eyes again. “Now, I don’t wanna overload you with too many details, but this part is pretty important to me, and I wanna make sure that whatever business partner I end up with is on the same page.” You nod, encouraging him to continue. “Now, when I was growing up, my family didn’t have the most to live on. A lot of times we went hungry, and it was only through the kindness of strangers that we got to eat then. I have this idea for a ‘pay it forward’ type meal program. Folks can come in, pay $5, $10 for a prepaid meal ticket. We’d put those paid vouchers up somewhere and if someone is hungry and doesn’t have the money to pay, they can take one of those vouchers and we’d give ‘em a hearty meal, free of charge.”

Jack takes a breath and closes his eyes for a moment, then looks back over at you. You can feel your heart ache for this man who clearly had to work hard to be where he’s at, now wanting to share his wealth with those less fortunate than him. You try to swallow the lump in your throat.

“Jack, that’s… incredible,” you finally get out. This degree of selflessness wasn’t common in business owners in the circles you existed in. “I’d be honored to help you make that dream a reality.”

“Is that you sayin’ you’ll saddle up with me, sugar?” Jack looks at you with hope in his eyes. Your heart leaps, and you try to calm it down as you nod affirmatively. This is a business deal, your brain warns your heart. It beats fast anyway.

“Well I’ll be damned,” Jack beams, excitement rippling off his body. “Can’t wait to build this place up together.”

You grab the growler and fill your and Jack’s glasses, raising yours to his. “Cheers to a fruitful new partnership.” Your smile reflects Jack’s, and you both drink up.

The next 9 months are a whirlwind of activity. After your official business documents were drawn up and signed, you and Jack worked night and day to get the brewpub ready for the following summer. You designed the interior, fitting the place with warm dark wood and brassy golden fixtures. Chic firepits dotted the outdoor patio in the back. You included subtle oceanic iconography wherever you could – the sea was a huge inspiration for the both of you. Jack worked tirelessly on a signature lineup of beer, as well as a couple of seasonal offerings to add variety. Meanwhile, you toiled in the kitchen, experimenting with flavor profiles and dishes until you’d perfected your menu. You laughed and joked as you worked together, getting to know each other’s backstories as well as each other’s preferred workstyles. You talked and dreamed, debated and sometimes argued - after all, both of you were stubborn - but always worked things out. You kept him on his toes, and he kept you grounded.

Oftentimes, you and Jack used each other as taste testers, knowing the both of you would give honest feedback. On one particular evening in the late winter, you were sitting at the half-finished bar, sipping on a trial seasonal amber ale that Jack fermented in whiskey barrels. 

“I never asked you where you got your name from, darlin’,” Jack mused, taking a gulp of his beer afterwards. “It’s quite unusual.”

“Ahh yes,” you responded, a smirk turning up your lips. “That would be thanks to my literary professor grandmother. She specialized in studying mythology texts from around the globe. Rán is the Norse sea goddess of death.” You saw Jack’s eyebrows twitch upwards in surprise, and you chuckled a bit before continuing. “That sounds intense, but she is also seen as the caretaker of those who die at sea. She helps care for them until they are ready to move on to the next realm. My grandmother wanted me to be tough, suffer no fools, but to also be kind and care for those that need it.” 

Jack huffs in amusement. “Sounds just like you. She did a good job with that name.”

You smile, swirling your glass in thought. You look up at him, but his warm chocolate eyes are already on you, a flicker of something in them that makes your heart skip a beat.

“Jack?” you start. “There’s something I wanted to ask you about the ‘giving back’ part of the business.” You take a deep breath, your true passion project in your mind. “A long time ago, when I was much younger and just starting my culinary journey, I worked at an assisted living home, specifically for those with Alzheimer’s disease. It paid terribly, but I got a lot of experience in preparing food in a foodservice setting. It also deeply affected me. You don’t realize how important food is to people. Sometimes family members would ask if we could put something special on the menu, a dish their loved one used to make or loved to eat, to see if they would remember. We wouldn’t make any promises, but I’d always remember which request was from which family. When we were able to accommodate those requests, I’d see these people whose minds… for lack of a better term, seemed to be proverbially lost at sea… but they took one bite of their favorite food, and their whole face lit up. Sometimes it was simply enjoying the food, but other times it would trigger fond memories.”

Your eyes began to water, and Jack reached across the table and grabbed your hand, gently stroking his thumb across the top. You swallowed, continuing. “I hated that I had to leave that place, but my career wouldn’t go anywhere if I didn’t, and the money wasn’t nearly enough to pay the bills. I always thought, if I was in a place where I could give back, I would love to donate my time and supplies to cook for people like that again.” You look into Jack’s eyes, a swirl of emotions in yours. “Do you think… we could maybe do that with the brewpub? Take a day off every month or so to cook for an Alzheimer’s assisted living home?”

Jack squeezed your hand. “Of course, sugar. It means a lot to you, and it’s helpin’ the community. I couldn’t think of a more worthy cause.”

A tear slipped down your face as you smiled and mouthed “thank you” at him. But your breath caught in your throat when Jack reached up to tenderly wipe away the tear from your cheek. You stare at each other, a charge running through the air. 

Kiss him, your heart whispers.

But instead, you clear your throat, squeeze his hand and throw on a grin. “I’d love some more of that ale if you got any more.”

Jack smiles softly. “For you? No charge.” You both giggle as he goes to grab another pint for you.

He’s just a business partner, your brain reminds you. But he’s become more than that, you realize.

A friend. A partner in dreams.

Maybe more, says your heart.

A few months later, the brewpub is bustling.

With the support of some of your industry friends - and your and Jack’s hard work - The Gilded Wave opens with a bang. Business is booming; the restaurant is constantly busy, and Jack is so swamped with the microbrewery that he had to hire two additional assistant brewmasters to keep up with demand. You are speaking to your front-of-house manager when two very familiar faces burst through the front door.

Your face lights up. “Pero! Ez! What are you guys doing here?” you exclaim as they wrap you up in a bear hug. You squeal as they lift you into the air with ease.

“We heard through the ever-whisperin’ grapevine that our sweet Birdie built her very own nest and we just had to come see for ourselves,” Ezra drawls, his characteristically charismatic smirk alighting his face while he takes in the brewpub. “What a perfectly festooned establishment you got here! I sure do hope the fine provisions match the opulence of the aesthetics!”

You shake your head, giggling at Ezra’s always-fanciful dialogue, as Pero rolls his eyes at his companion. “It’s lovely to see you, hermosa,” he rumbles, kissing your cheek. 

“I missed you both so much! Wanna sit at the bar and I can set you two up with some beer & food?” you offer.

“That would be fabulous, Birdie!” Ezra exclaims, clapping his hands together. “I am in need of libations like an earthworm in the midday sun.” The two men plunk themselves down at the bar, and you turn to your bartender.

“Eddie, do you mind sending in an order of garlic fries and crispy artichoke hearts for these two gentlemen?” Eddie nods and starts punching in the order in the system. Out of the corner of your eye, you spot Jack coming up from the brewery stairs, wiping his brow after checking on the brewing. “Jack! Come meet some friends.”

Jack grins, loping up the rest of the stairs. He swaggers up to the bar, looking at you expectantly. 

“Jack, this is Ezra and Pero. We worked together in a bunch of restaurants over the last few years.” Jack smiles widely, shaking the hand of each man and exchanging greetings.

“Guys,” you say, “this is my business partner Jack. He’s the brilliant brewmaster keeping this place busy.”

“Aww, shucks, sugar,” Jack guffaws, “this place ain’t what it is without your excellent food. Only so long a man can survive on beer before he needs to eat. And what an incredible menu it is!”

You feel your cheeks heat with the compliment. “Jeez, don’t make me soft in front of these two. I’ll never hear the end of it!” You punch Jack in the shoulder playfully, and your friends snort.

“Rán? Soft? No way, only if she really likes you,” Pero gruffs with a laugh. “She used to make grown men cry when they’d try to start shit with her.”

You turned to Jack with a smirk. “I told you I suffer no fools.”

Jack puts his hands in the air playfully in mock surrender. “Remind me never to get on your bad side.” He turns to Pero and Ezra. “Would you two like to act as my beer guinea pigs for a moment? I have a new winter ale that I’m looking to perfect before the season hits us.” Your friends nod in agreement and thanks, and Jack turns to the bar, pouring from an unmarked tap that he keeps just for his trial brews. He slides the taster glasses to Ezra and Pero, and your friends sip in contemplation.

Ezra immediately starts speaking, as per usual. “Why, Jack, that is one of the finest ales I’ve ever had in my many turns around this here planet! The spice notes, they’re so unique! Is that coriander and ginger I’m picking up?” He sips again before Jack can speak. “Maybe some citrus?”

“Mighty fine palette you have there,” Jack responds. “It’s a white ale I’ve spiked with coriander, ginger, and orange peel. Gives that warm holiday feeling.”

Pero nods, eyebrows raised. “Now that, amigo, is a good beer.” He raises his taster in salute, then downs the rest.

You giggle and slap his hand. “Tovar! You’re supposed to savor it!” Pero only shrugs.

“It’s quite alright,” Jack chuckles. “They can each have a full pint with all the compliments they’ve lathered me up with.” You roll your eyes at your friends, and rub Jack’s shoulder in a “thank you” gesture. Pero clocks the move, and raises his eyebrows in question. You silently beg him to not ask anything.

Jack places two pints of the white ale in front of the men. “Well, fellas, thanks for coming in. I have to go back down to the beer lab now that I know this winter recipe is locked in. It’s been great meeting the two of you, and I hope to see y’all around again!” 

Pero and Ezra bade farewell to Jack, who disappeared back down the stairs just as the fries and artichokes arrived to the two of them. Both men dug in, nearly moaning in pleasure at the food.

“Birdie, this is incredible,” Ezra exclaims, dunking a fried artichoke into the aioli. Pero nods in agreement.

“Thanks, guys,” you coo, pleased that two of your longest friends approved of your menu. The three of you are silent for a moment, a rare occurrence when around Ezra.

“So what’s with you and Jack?” Pero asks bluntly. You nearly choke on the garlic fry you swiped from the basket. Ezra giggles into the artichokes.

“Nothing is going on,” you stammer, coughing slightly. “He’s my business partner.”

“Hermosa, I know you well, and you’ve never rubbed my shoulder like that,” Pero levels.

“I will say,” adds Ezra, “I could detect a certain… aura around you when Jack came upstairs. I have also never experienced that around you.” 

“Guys, we are business partners,” you assert. “We just got close ‘cause of how intertwined our work is.”

“Yeah, I’m sure there was some intertwining happening…” Pero mutters, and you slap him upside the head. Ezra titters uncontrollably.

“Alright, Birdie,” Ezra relents, “we’ll leave you alone about handsome Mr. Jack for now. But his winter ale did alight some thoughts in my head about a certain gathering…”

You groan. “Ez… we just opened up not that long ago. I can’t in good conscience ask Jack to let our ragtag group of friends take over the brewpub for our yearly winter debauchery.”

“But what if we profusely pledge to be on our most upstanding deportment?” Ezra begs, batting his eyelashes comically while putting on his best puppy face.

Pero snorts. “Fat chance at that. But I do like the idea.” He turns to you, raising an eyebrow.

You stare at them for a few moments more, and then your resolve crumbles. “Alright, you two hooligans, I’ll ask. But NO promises, okay?” Ezra cheers and wraps you in a tight hug, while Pero gruffs in agreement and stuffs a handful of fries in his mouth.

Surprisingly (or not so surprisingly, as he is so sweet and accommodating), Jack is enthusiastic about hosting your friend group’s annual winter party, saying how excited he was to meet your friends. You and Ezra planned for weeks, and Pero came through to help you and Jack decorate the place. The warm wood is hung with pine and holly garlands, twinkling string lights criss-cross along the walls and ceilings, and pine cones are tucked into various corners of the space. A yule tree sparkled in an alcove, decorated in reg, green, and gold. And you made sure to pin up a few sprigs of mistletoe, one of your favorite traditions of the season. Back at your apartment, you slip on a sumptuous golden silk dress that clings in all the right places and flows beautifully to show off your figure, and strap on matching gold heels. Swiping on the same crimson lipstick you wore when you met Jack as a finishing touch, you smooth your outfit and walk back to the pub.

Soon enough, your friends began to pour into the space, bringing with them various foods and drinks. Jack made a special batch of wassail for the occasion, and Ezra dramatically waxes poetic about how good it is while Pero rolls his eyes at him, as usual, in the corner. The space fills with laughter, clinking glasses, and the smell of delicious food. You and Jack act as the gracious hosts, making sure no one’s glasses are empty and all the plates are full. As you’d hoped and prayed, Jack gets along amazingly well with every single one of your friends. He jokes and roasts; listens intently and carefully to people’s stories. He extends a warmth and familiarity to all, and more than once you get nudged suggestively, eyebrows wiggling and giggles whispered into your ear about how wonderfully well you and Jack work together. You flush with heat every time, and it’s hard to deny the chemistry between the two of you. Beyond being fantastic business partners, you admire Jack’s adeptness, his dogged cleverness, and most of all, his heart. Jack’s got one of the biggest hearts you’ve ever come across.

And, even if you fight it, you realize that Jack’s worked his way into your heart, too. All night you’ve been exchanging charged glances, sly smiles, little winks here and there. Jack places a warm hand on the small of your back while passing you. You press your body subconsciously against his while reaching for another glass. Fingertips brush, sparks fly. 

By the time your friends trickle out into the night, merry and full, the heat between the two of you is palpable.

You’re cleaning up the bar area when Jack approaches you, two glasses of wassail in his hands. “Outstanding shindig you threw, darlin’,” he observes, passing you a glass. You clink your cup against his and take a sip, savoring the way the ale, sweet honey, and spices swirl across your tongue. 

“We threw the party, Jack,” you correct. “You were just as good of a host as me, if not better.”

Jack smirks. “Well, it’s easy when you have such fun friends.”

“They are fun for sure, although I was worried they’d be a bit… much,” you admit.

“Pfft, I’m used to dealing with strong personalities,” he scoffs, nudging you pointedly. You roll your eyes but your grin remains, and you scoot closer to him, pressing the side of your body against his. You both lean against the bar, facing the interior of the brewpub, admiring where your hard work has taken you.

“Can you believe this place is real?” you muse, sipping again. Your eyes roam the space above you, when you stop and smile to yourself.

“Yes, I remember you waltzing into this place when it was nothing but concrete and pipes and my brewing equipment, a pretty thing with red lips and determination,” Jack reminisces, ignorant of what you’ve spotted.

Your heart skips a beat. Pretty.

“Oh yeah, cowboy? ‘A pretty thing’?” you purr, turning slightly to face him, your red lips pursed in amusement. Jack looks slightly hesitant, worried he crossed a line, until you point upwards and his eyes follow.

A sparkling sprig of mistletoe hangs between the two of you, above your heads. He meets your eyes again, all hesitation gone. 

“Are you gonna just stare, or are you gonna respect tradition and kiss this ‘pretty thing’?” you whisper, your lips curled flirtatiously.

A smirk spreads across Jack’s face. “I thought you’d never ask, sugar.” And with that, he pulls you into his body and your lips connect.

It’s a slow, sensual kiss when it starts. Jack is gentle, all brushes of the lips, presses and caresses of your body. You lean into him, feeling your nipples press against his dark button up while he cups the back of your head tenderly. A small whimper escapes your lips, and Jack pulls back with concern. 

“Is this still okay?” he murmurs, rubbing your cheeks with his thumbs. You don’t answer with words, you just nod and pull him into another kiss, gently biting his plush lower lip. Jack moans gruffly, sliding his hands down the lines of your body, pausing to cup and squeeze your silk-covered ass. You feel wetness start to gather at your entrance, your arousal rocketing by the second as your kisses get more and more impassioned. Jack trails wet kisses down your neck, licking at your pulse point and right behind your ear, ripping another whimper from your chest. 

“Sugar, I need to taste you so badly,” Jack groans into the junction of your neck and shoulder, biting softly. 

“Please, Jack,” you breathe out, and Jack lifts you onto the bar counter, rucking your dress up. You spread your legs, helping to pull the golden silk out of the way. Jack pauses, then another smirk blooms on his lips; he takes his black Stetson off his head and places it onto yours in a quiet act of possession. You pant while you watch Jack pull up a barstool in front of you. Seating himself, he spreads you even wider, his eyes glittering with desire when he sets his eyes on your glistening center. You didn’t wear any panties, and he groans at the realization.

“Fuck, you’re prettier than a picture, honey,” he rumbles, tracing his large warm hands up your inner thighs, triggering more slick to seep out of you. Using his thumb, Jack spreads your wetness around your folds, and you inhale sharply, whimpering again. When Jack spies the pearl of your clit, he runs his thumb across it slowly, encouraging it to harden. 

“So fucking pretty,” Jack murmurs to himself, thumbing your clit again and reveling in the twitch of your thighs as he does. He leans down and runs the flat of his tongue across your entire pussy, from bottom to top, swirling around your clit deliciously slowly. Wanton moans snake their way from your throat. You grip Jack’s hair, keeping his face pressed against your most intimate parts. He groans into your folds, devouring you like a man starved, as you whine and whimper and shake for him. He’s observant, noticing when your body twitches and your cries pitch higher, using that information to bring you to the simmering cusp of your orgasm. 

“Come for me, darlin’,” Jack pleads, slicking up two fingers and sliding them inside you, your pussy gripping him tightly. You throw your head back, legs shaking from the intensity, when he reaches a spot deep in you.

With a few more pressured strokes of his fingers and a gentle suck of his mouth on your clit, you shatter around him, cunt clenching and dripping onto his fingers.

“That’s it, such a good girl coming for me when I ask,” Jack coos, his fingers continuing to work you through your orgasm, squelching from your release. Your moans are music to his ears, rapidly hardening his cock. Once you recover a bit, Jack slips his fingers into his mouth right before your eyes, growling quietly at the taste.

“Sweeter than honey,” he grits out, swooping in for a kiss, your own taste lingering on his lips and making you moan yet again. 

“Jack, I need you inside me,” you beg between fevered kisses. Jack pulls away to meet your eyes. 

“I don’t want to fuck you here,” he explains. “Can we go to your place? I want to lay you out, fuck you proper like you deserve.”

“Yes, of course,” you breathe, and he slaps your ass lightly before helping you off of the counter. You giggle, wobbling slightly in the aftermath of your pleasure. Jack helps right you and wraps a steadying arm around your shoulders while the two of you walk the three blocks to your apartment.

As soon as you enter the door, Jack is on you again, grinding his clothed cock into you and kissing you deeply. You walk the two of you backwards to your bedroom, clothing and shoes coming off between lips locking and hands groping, exploring. Both naked, you climb onto your bed, Jack following. Your legs fall open, and Jack can’t help himself from lunging forward to lick at your drenched pussy at the first sight of your slick lips parting. A whine hitches from your lungs, and Jack pulls back, shifting up to kiss you deeply again. Tongues tangle, lips are bitten, breathless moans exchanged. He pulls back again as you chase his lips, but he stops you.

“Hold your horses, sweetheart. Are you sure you want to do this?” he asks, eyes shining with both hope and concern. “I don’t want you to move faster than you’re ready for.”

Your heart clenches at the display of care and consent. A smile lights your face as you respond, “Yes. I’ve been wanting this for ages… I was just too scared to be wrong about you feeling the same way for me and ruining an amazing business partnership. I’ve been dreaming of you in my bed for months, and now that I have you here, I’m not going to let you get away so fast.”

Jack’s eyes light up, and he presses a soft kiss to your forehead before getting off the bed. He rummages through his pants briefly until he pulls a gold foil square from his wallet.

“I’ve got a golden ticket here for you, darlin’, but I want you to know that I get tested regularly and that I’m clean,” Jack informs you, a smile warming his face when you giggle at his corny joke. “Is that okay with you?” He climbs back onto the bed, leaning down to kiss your belly.

You nod affirmatively. “So do I, and I’m on the pill.” Sitting up and holding your hand out for the condom, you ask, “May I?”

Jack hands you the packet. “Be my guest, angel.” You lean forward, pressing your lips once again into his, and he groans in surprise as you flip him onto his back in one fluid motion. Climbing up his legs, you push them apart to make room for yourself in between. His impressive cock is achingly hard, viscous droplets of precum bubbling at the tip. You lap them up eagerly, Jack’s head falling onto your pillows with a muffled thump and a whine of pleasure.

“Fuck, your mouth feels so good,” Jack breathes. You suckle at the head, humming in pleasure as the salty-bitter taste floods your senses. Slowly, you begin bobbing up and down his shaft, swirling your tongue across his silky length, making his moans louder and more ragged as you go. After a couple of minutes and an intense suck later, Jack actually whimpers into the thick air of your bedroom, begging you for more. You tear open the foil packet carefully, then suck his cockhead one more time before settling the condom on top and gingerly rolling it down his thick cock. 

You rise to your knees and shuffle upwards, leaning down one more time to kiss him. With your lips locked, Jack presses you back a bit and scooches his body up to sit against the headboard. You settle into his lap and slide yourself down his cock slowly.

The stretch is exquisite. Both of you moan in sync, your hands planted on his tan chest, his hands coming up to grip your hips to keep himself tethered to the moment. You feel as if every empty space in your body is filled; he fits perfectly inside you, like he was meant to be there. 

He feels like coming home.

Once he’s bottomed out inside of you, you both take a moment to breathe and be present. Jack’s eyes are closed, forehead resting against yours, breathing each other’s air. His hands slowly and gently knead your hips while you adjust to his thickness stretching your walls deliciously. Bringing one of your hands to his face, you admire his blissed but tense countenance. It seems like the both of you are barely keeping it together; your pussy throbs against his cock, which twitches in response. Your breathing is heavier. And so is the tension and desire.

You kiss Jack’s lips softly, tracing your thumb down the line of his jaw, and his eyes flutter open, utterly melting when they focus on you. “Baby,” you murmur, “can I ride you now?” A groan claws out of Jack’s mouth, and his lips part as he nods his head affirmatively. 

“Please,” he begs, and fucks up gently into you. Your center clenches in response, and you begin to work yourself on his shaft, rolling your hips as you grind down and back up. The sensation is intense, intimate, and all-consuming.

You clutch at Jack’s well-muscled shoulders, pressing kisses wherever you can reach and nipping his neck. His groans deepen and lengthen, his cock swelling even harder with the feeling of being buried inside you, surrounded by hot velvet. Hands gripping harder, he thrusts back up into you each time you slide down, punching into a spot deep inside you that makes you see stars. Dizzying ecstasy lights up your veins as your moans and whines pitch higher with your arousal. The slick, obscene squelching of your pussy only serves to intensify the experience for the both of you.

“Oh god, sweetheart, you’re so fucking wet and tight for me,” Jack slurs, lost in his reverence of you. “Could never get enough of you.” All you can respond with is a devout chant of his name, moaned and sighed and whimpered. He reaches down and slicks his thumb with your juices, swirling it gently around your clit. You keen sharply.

“Jack,” you moan, “don’t stop, you’re getting me there.” Jack hushes you as he works your pearl firmer.

“C’mon, sugar, I wanna feel you come all over my cock,” he encourages urgently, massaging that spot deep in your pussy while he swirls, swirls, swirls with his thumb. Your whines sharpen, your body beginning to shake.

“Oh fuck, Jack, you’re gonna make me come,” you yelp desperately, your pussy contracting and squeezing his cock tightly. Jack digs his fingers harder into the meat of your hips, trying to stave off his own orgasm, as he continues his ministrations.

He leans forward, sucking and kissing your neck, up to your ear, and licking the spot right behind it gently before murmuring, “Come for me, beautiful.”

You shatter.

Flames lick along every nerve ending, and you shove Jack as deeply into you as possible when your high hits you. Wailing his name, you grip his hair, your cunt gushing and contracting against his length, and that’s enough to push Jack over the edge with you, your name tumbling off his lips in a whimper as he buries himself deep and empties his seed into the condom. 

Waves crashing together, the wheel of fate bringing you two to each other. He is meant for you, and you for him.

You both come back into your bodies, breathing heavily with your faces nuzzled against each other. Jack kisses your lips gently, and you part them to allow a deeper kiss to blossom. Slowly, languidly, your tongues dance, lips press and pull. With the tiniest peck, the two of you separate, and Jack brings his hands to cup your face gently, fingertips stroking your soft skin. His eyes shine like the sea on a sunny day, and you see golden flecks catch the light from your bedside lamp. 

“You’re so perfect,” he murmurs, mesmerized.

You huff a laugh. “Hardly,” you reply, “but I feel like we’re perfect for each other, no?” Jack nods.

“Perfectly suited for each other,” he agrees. “You are my fire, and I am your ocean. You motivate me to push myself and our business further, and keep my passions burning.”

“And you go with the flow, move with the tides, helping me get through rough waters,” you mutter sweetly at him, kissing his strong, aquiline nose. You both sit and absorb each other’s presence, soaking in the new stage of your relationship.

“Where do we go from here?” you whisper to Jack. Your lover, your confidante, your partner in business - and now, in life.

“I don’t quite know what our future holds, sugar,” Jack responds, kissing your forehead, “but where your heart is, there I will be also.”

a/n part 2: Thank you for reading! Below I've included the brief that Erin wrote about Ægir, as well as some details/inspo from the fic. Disclaimer: I am not inherently familiar with Norse mythology or traditions, so apologies if there's anything that is off-base!

-- Beers are inspired by Allagash Brewing's saison and seasonal Ski House Wheat.

-- The winter holiday party decorations are inspired by traditional Norse decorations for Yule.

-- The "wheel of fate" and the last line Jack says are a nod to traditional Norse wedding vows.

-- For Erin's Frith Challenge, Thor was assigned to Pero Tovar, and Tyr was assigned to Ezra.

God: Ægir  Character: Jack Daniels / Agent Whiskey

God of the sea and brewing ale. A Jotun (which translates to “devour” or “consume”, despite being connected to “giant” more often), suggesting that he would devour or consume the ships that would sink into the sea, and his wife, Rán (the death goddess of the sea), would consume the men upon the ships.

“The brother of air and fire”. Father of 9 daughters, who themselves are the waves. Not only represents the sea, but also personifies it. Symbolizes the strength and power of the ocean, so many view him as a great warrior.

Framed as a terrible and devouring Jotun, he’s also a welcoming host. It’s said that Thor and Tyr would visit to have some of Ægir’s ale, and every winter, the gods would come to feast in his hall. This makes him a great match for Rán, the caretaker of those who died at sea, as his hospitality would be extended to them through Rán. This could be seen one of two ways: that either the dead would reside in their hall, or that they would rest there until they were ready to move on.

The sea was seen as a source of great wealth, since sailors would find treasure through industry, trade or plunder. Gold itself was referred to as “Ægir’s Fire”, because he “lights his hall with gold in his hearth”. He’s wealthy, but he shares that wealth as he entertains his guests.

However, he sort of wanted to get out of being the gods’ host. He said he’d do it on the condition that they find a big enough cauldron to account for the amount of ale he’d have to make, since the gods liked to party so much.

To follow Ægir is to be hospitable to those who enter your hold seeking comfort.

Offerings: Ocean/water iconography. Gold. Fire/flames. Ale/alcohol.

Tags for those who may be interested: @mountainsandmayhem @alltheirdamn @sin-djarin @nerdieforpedro @mermaidgirl30 @missredherring @morallyinept @qveerthe0ry @guiltyasdave @almostfoxglove @almostempty @schnarfer @kedsandtubesocks @djarinmuse @agentmarcuspike @gasolinerainbowpuddles @yopossum

[battyaboutbooksreviews]

💜 Batty.About.Books' Favorite Queer Books of 2024

❓ What was your favorite queer book of 2024?

🦇 Good afternoon, my beloved bookish bats! If you've been here a while, you know I'm always eager to fill my heart and shelves with queer books (especially sweet sapphic ones). To celebrate a few of the amazing, heart-warming queer romances that were released this year, here's a list of my 12 favorite queer books of 2024. One of these queer romances isn't out yet, so make room for it on your shelves in 2025!

🦇 You can find these and even more queer books released in 2024 here!

💙 How You Get the Girl - Anita Kelly 💜 The View from the Top - Rachel Lacey 🩷 Fall for Him - Andie Burke 🩷 Late Bloomer - Mazey Eddings 💜 The Last Love Song - Kalie Holford Wish You Weren't Here - Erin Baldwin

💙 When the World Tips Over - Jandy Nelson 💜 Triple Sec - TJ Alexander 🩷 This Is How You Lose the Time War - Amal El-Mohtar & Max Gladstone 🩷 Cover Story - Rachel Lacey 💜 Truly, Madly, Deeply - Alexandria Bellefleur 💙 Unromance - Erin Connor (pub 2025)

[misshoneyimhome]

「LUCK OF THE PUCK FIC EXCHANGE」

A Little Bit of Luck I Nico Hischier 🌺

🍀 Summary; When Erin's life takes an unexpected turn and she finds herself in need of a little bit of luck, Nico Hischier unexpectedly enters her life. However, fate operates in mysterious ways, and nothing unfolds as straightforwardly as one might hope.

🍀 Tropes & warnings; some language; strangers to friends, complicated frienship; friends to lovers; just a lot of fluff 🌺

🍀 Other notes; Alright babes, here's my submission for @callsign-denmark's Luck of the Puck fic exchange, where I've had the privilege to write for @laurenairay 🤍 It's been an absolute joy to take part in this, and I do hope it's not overly lengthy 🙈 Just a heads up; I cross my fingers everything makes sense, as I've relied on Google for some research on New Jersey & New York (sincerely, a European who knows nothing about the US) 😂 Nevertheless, I hope you all find it enjoyable 🥂

🍀 Word count; 7.9K

・✶ ｡ﾟ

On a brisk Thursday evening in January, Nico Hischier found himself seated alone in the inviting atmosphere of the Grasshopper, a local Irish pub radiating warmth and familiarity. The subdued lighting cast a gentle, amber glow throughout the room, highlighting the rustic appeal of the establishment, with vintage Guinness posters and framed photographs of Irish landscapes adorning the walls, enhancing its quaint, vintage allure.

Perched on a stool at the bar, Nico waited patiently, the soft creaking of the wooden floor beneath his feet echoing the bar's rich history and the myriad of tales it held. The crackling of a nearby fireplace added to the comforting ambiance, its flickering flames casting playful shadows around the room.

With a drink in hand, the 25-year-old hockey player surveyed the bar, observing groups of friends engaged in lively conversation, their laughter mingling with the gentle strains of Irish music playing in the background. Although unfamiliar with this particular bar, Nico had accepted his friend's invitation for a casual double date, thinking it would be a pleasant experience.

However, as time passed and the crowd gradually dwindled, Nico's friend failed to make an appearance. Despite the cosy atmosphere of the bar, Nico began to feel a growing sense of annoyance, his watch indicating that he had been waiting for over thirty minutes.

Increasingly frustrated by his friend's absence and the lack of communication, Nico finally expressed his irritation when he managed to reach him over the phone.

"Hey, where are you? I've been waiting here for almost 40 minutes..." his voice tinged with irritation, his Swiss accent adding a touch of assertiveness to his words. "What? Why didn't you let me know? Seriously, I'm sitting here alone, feeling like a fool." Frustration evident, he sighed heavily before ending the call with a resigned tone. "Alright… well, catch you later."

It was a disappointing revelation for Nico, realising his friend had failed to inform him about cancelling their double date for the night. Despite the setback, he determined to salvage the evening, knowing he had a day off tomorrow. Choosing to linger a while longer at the bar, he decided to order another drink, surrendering himself to the comforting atmosphere.

Spotting the blonde bartender behind the counter, Nico called out to get her attention.

"Hey, can I have another one?" he requested, his tone still holding traces of annoyance from the earlier situation.

Turning towards the hockey player, the bartender offered a gentle smile before responding. "Please..." she challenged him, taking a step closer. "Can I have another one, please?" Her sweet smile accompanied the motion of pouring another drink.

Perplexed by her response, Nico furrowed his brow. "What did you just say?" he questioned, slightly surprised by her playful comeback.

"It's polite, you know," she chuckled lightly as she placed the drink on the counter.

Still surprised, Nico let out a soft sigh. "Well, thanks," he muttered quietly.

"Erin," she indirectly introduced herself. "Thank you, Erin."

Momentarily taken aback by her casual yet outgoing manner, Nico wondered if she was trying to flirt with him. However, as Erin turned to attend to other tasks, he pushed aside the thought, though he couldn't deny being charmed by her sweet smile.

"Nico," he suddenly found himself replying. Feeling a pang of guilt for his earlier behaviour, Nico decided to offer his name in return, casually striking up a conversation, as he noted that it wasn't too busy and another bartender was handling the rest of the bar. "And I'm sorry," he blurted out, trying not to seem too forward. "I'm usually not like this... I just had a bit of a situation or something..."

Erin turned towards Nico once more, her expression softening into a gentle smile as she leaned casually against the counter, her hands busy polishing a glass.

"I had a feeling," she teased lightly, her tone playful yet empathetic. "Trouble in paradise with the girlfriend?"

"No," Nico shook his head, feeling a blush rise to his cheeks at the assumption.

"Boyfriend, then?" Erin quipped, her words delivered with a hint of curiosity and a touch of humour.

"N-no, nothing like that," Nico replied quickly, his embarrassment evident in the slight stammer of his voice. "Just supposed to meet up with a friend... and, um, some girls."

He couldn't help but feel a pang of apprehension as he admitted to the failed date plans, despite the casual setting; confessing felt oddly nerve-wracking. Briefly, he glanced down at his drink, the amber liquid swirling in the glass, providing a temporary distraction from the intensity of the moment.

"Ah, so you’ve been stood up by a date?" Erin's question caught him off guard, her tone devoid of judgment, instead tinged with genuine concern.

Nico simply nodded in confirmation, his gaze meeting hers with a mixture of vulnerability and relief. "Yeah, I guess so."

Erin chuckled lightly, the sound echoing softly in the intimate space of the bar. Setting aside the glass and towel, she took a step closer to Nico, bridging the gap between them with ease. "Well, then consider this one on the house."

Meeting her kind smile, Nico couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude wash over him. Despite the unexpected turn of events, her generosity offered a glimmer of warmth in an otherwise disappointing evening. Surprisingly nervous, he chuckled, his fingers unconsciously ruffling through his hair as he struggled to find the right words.

"You really don't have to do that," he protested weakly, knowing his finances weren't a pressing concern for him.

“Oh, I know, but it's just good service, you know? The bar showing concern for its guests," Erin offered Nico a friendly smile and a playful wink. "Can't have a handsome lad like you just sitting here feeling down."

Nico found himself slightly taken aback by Erin's amiable nature, sensing an inexplicable pull towards her. It wasn't necessarily romantic or sexual, but he couldn’t deny that there was an undeniable magnetism. She was remarkably friendly, especially towards a stranger alone in a bar after being stood up, going above and beyond her duty.

"Well, maybe I should make this a regular thing then—pretend to be stood up to get more free drinks," Nico tried to casually joke, a chuckle escaping him as he took another sip of his drink.

“Well, in that case, I'll have to keep a good eye on you," Erin bantered back, her tone light-hearted.

"Hmm, I guess you do,” Nico added with a playful grin. “Or I can try with a disguise….”

"Oh yeah, that could be an idea," Erin laughed along, her smile infectious. "And who knows, maybe with a bit of luck, next time you won't have to drink alone."

Nico couldn't help but continue laughing. Erin's smile was becoming more and more enchanting, and he had to admit a small part of him wished she was flirting. Yet, he couldn't be certain.

"Maybe..." he replied simply, allowing a moment of silence to linger between them.

Erin's blue eyes met Nico's honey brown gaze, a subtle connection forming as the room buzzed with chatter and the strains of Celtic music filled the air.

And as the evening progressed, their conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on a variety of topics ranging from their favourite European travel destinations to their shared love for music. Her relaxed and calm demeanour, paired with her inviting smile and open attitude, had Nico feeling at ease; their encounter felt natural and comfortable.

Erin shared stories from her travels, recounting adventures in far-flung destinations that sparked Nico's curiosity and admiration. In turn, Nico shared tales from his experiences growing up in Switzerland, painting vivid pictures of the picturesque landscapes and charming traditions of his homeland, unintentionally avoiding mentioning his career as a hockey player. For some reason, it just didn’t seem to matter.

And as they chatted away, Nico found himself drawn in by her genuine warmth and enthusiasm. Her zest for life was contagious, and he discovered himself sharing more than he had anticipated, revealing personal anecdotes and aspirations with a newfound sense of comfort.

However, their rapport was interrupted when Erin was called over by her colleague, signalling the end of her shift. With a tinge of disappointment, Nico watched as she prepared to bid her farewells, slipping on her coat to depart for the night.

"Well, I suppose I might see you around again,” she remarked, her tone tinged with uncertainty as she glanced back at him.

"Yeah, maybe..." Nico replied, feeling somewhat unsure about how to proceed. Despite enjoying their interaction, he couldn't shake the insecurity of expressing his desire to meet her again. Yet, he reasoned that as a bartender, Erin was likely accustomed to engaging with strangers, and he was probably just another customer to her.

"It was nice to meet you, Nico," Erin smiled warmly before turning to leave the bar. As she vanished into the night, Nico couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for not being more upfront about his intentions.

**

Erin Carroll, a 24-year-old from Cardiff, navigated life's unexpected challenges with resilience and determination.

Following a recent breakup of her engagement, Erin sought solace by visiting her father in New York, who despite not always being present in her life while she was growing up, had always been her go-to person during difficult times.

Erin's parents had divorced when she was just 10 years old, her mother remarrying multiple times since then, and though Erin didn't fully understand the reasons behind her parents' divorce, she had continued to live with her mother until she was old enough to strike out on her own. Where soon after, she met Tom—a man many saw as a perfect match, with his stable life and mature demeanour. However, real life proved to be far from a fairy tale, and their four-year relationship ended with their engagement ending abruptly, prompting Erin to seek refuge elsewhere.

Reconnecting with her father was a welcome reprieve, and after spending a week immersed in father-daughter bonding, Erin made the decision to remain in the United States to pursue her passion for working in marketing. Yet, her transition was not without its challenges. Job hunting proved to be a rollercoaster of highs and lows and finding affordable housing in the bustling city proved to be equally daunting. So eventually, Erin settled in Newark, New Jersey, taking on a temporary job as a bartender and sharing an apartment with a roommate, Bonny.

Fortunately, Bonny's warm and outgoing nature proved to be a source of comfort for Erin, helping her to adjust to her new surroundings and regain her footing amidst life's uncertainties.

Every day seemed to bring nothing but positive developments for the young woman, and within just a few months, she found herself sharing a deeper connection with her new roommate than she had ever imagined possible with a stranger in such a short amount of time.

-

About a week after her first encounter with Nico at the bar, Erin still found herself occasionally thinking about him. His presence had left a lasting impression, and she couldn't entirely shake off the feeling of connection they had shared, even if it was brief. Feeling a bit of regret of not having tried harder to get his phone number. 

On this particular morning, she decided to go for a jog, hoping to clear her mind and get some exercise in, especially after Bonny had entertained a guest overnight. Unfortunately, their nocturnal activities hadn't been discreet, and Erin had woken up to overhear everything through the thin walls.

And deciding to avoid the awkward situation, she slipped on her running shoes. The brisk Sunday air refreshed her as she jogged, each step helping to quiet the thoughts swirling in her mind. And along the way, she reflected on the unexpected turns her life had taken since moving to New Jersey.

Returning home, sweat beading on her brow, Erin anticipated finding the apartment quiet and empty. However, upon entering the kitchen, she was met with a surprising sight—a naked man standing by the counter, casually munching on a bowl of cereal.

Erin froze in shock, her mind racing to comprehend the situation. Then, as the man turned to face her, she realised with a jolt of recognition that it was Nico—the same friendly stranger from the bar.

"Oh, um, hi there," Erin stammered, feeling her cheeks flush with embarrassment as she struggled to avert her gaze from Nico's nakedness.

Nico's eyes widened in surprise as he hastily attempted to cover himself with one hand while clutching his cereal bowl with the other. "Erin, hey," he said, his voice tinged with a mixture of embarrassment and amusement. "I, uh, didn't expect to see you... or anyone here."

Erin couldn't help but chuckle nervously at the absurdity of the situation. "Yeah, I can see that," she replied, trying to regain her composure. "I, uh, didn't expect to find you... like this either."

Nico's cheeks flushed pink as he stood uncomfortably in the middle of the kitchen. "Yeah, about that... Bonny said her roommate was out, so I thought I'd grab a quick bite to eat," he explained sheepishly.

Erin nodded, understanding dawning on her. "Right, of course."

And as the initial shock slowly wore off, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of curiosity. "So, uh, you and Bonny... are you...?" she trailed off, unsure how to phrase her question.

Nico shook his head lightly, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "No, uhm… I mean yes,” he replied. “I mean, we're just friends, sort of. She, uh…”

“…Was one of the girls you were supposed to meet last week?” Erin gently finished his sentence.

“Yeah… We just met a few days later instead… and then again last night…” Nico explained. “I’m sorry… I wouldn’t be naked like this if I knew you were coming back so soon.”

Erin chuckled again, feeling a slight sense of awkwardness at Nico's presence but also finding the situation somewhat amusing. "Well, I'm back now," she said, mustering up a smile. "But, uh, feel free to finish your breakfast. I'll just, um, go take a shower."

And with that, Erin quickly made her way through the room, trying not to stare too much at Nico’s rather good-looking naked body, leaving him to finish his cereal in peace. As she stepped into the bathroom, she couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment. Though she knew she had only met Nico once and hadn’t shown any overt interest, she couldn’t shake the slight tinge of hurt knowing he was now involved with her roommate and good friend.

**

Meeting Nico again was completely different from what Erin had anticipated, especially in such an unexpected manner. His sudden appearance, whether naked or not, caught her completely off guard. However, what ensued afterward added real depth to their reunion.

Bonny, despite her forgetfulness and spontaneity, was incredibly kind. With her outgoing nature, she always made sure to include Erin in her social activities, one of which was regularly attending hockey games at the Prudential Center.

Although Erin wasn't a die-hard hockey enthusiast, the vibrant atmosphere of the arena and the enthusiastic cheers from the crowd quickly drew her in. It was an unparalleled experience, made even better by being with Bonny.

Moreover, the game against the Montreal Canadiens was undeniably thrilling.

With the Canadiens scoring the first goal and taking an early lead, the game quickly became a high-scoring back-and-forth affair. Both teams battled fiercely, trading goals in a relentless display of skill and determination. Even Nico managed to score during the second and third periods. Not just once or twice, but with an impressive hat trick. And in the end, the Devils emerged victorious with a hard-fought 6-4 win over the Canadiens.

The Prudential Center was alive with excitement as the crowd slowly filed toward the exits. However, much to Erin's surprise, Bonny instead pulled her toward the stairs leading down to the players' locker rooms.

Thanks to her newfound connection with the team's captain, Bonny had gained access behind the scenes and led Erin straight into Nico's arms when he greeted them in the hallway.

Although Nico and Bonny hadn't yet explicitly planned to progress beyond occasional hook-ups, it became inevitable as their interactions evolved over time. Days turned into weeks, and they gradually developed a connection - primarily sexual in nature, but a connection, nonetheless. Without any formal labels, they shared genuine laughter, inside jokes, and what appeared to be more than satisfying sex. Fortunately for Erin, they spent more time at Nico's place rather than staying over, where she could hear every loud noise during their passionate moments.

And as the hallway buzzed with cheers and conversation as players gathered with their families and friends, Bonny's phone suddenly rang amidst the jubilation.

"Could you two keep each other company for a moment while I take this call from my sister?" she asked, not really waiting for a response as she hurried away to answer the call, leaving Erin and Nico alone.

They shared a brief moment of uncertain laughter before Nico turned to Erin with excitement evident in his handsome features. "So, how did you find the game?"

"Oh, it was fantastic," she exclaimed, her smile stretching across her lips. "And congratulations on the hat trick! Bonny mentioned that the Devils hadn’t been doing too well lately..." she added, her tone tinged with concern, careful not to dampen the cheerful mood.

"Yeah, we've had a bit of a bad phase," Nico admitted with a wry smile.

"Well, it looks like things are turning around now," Erin replied, trying to convey her newfound support for the team.

"I think so too," Nico chuckled in return. "And maybe you should come around more often since you seem to be my lucky charm."

"What?" Erin inquired nervously.

"Well, I just mean that whenever you're around, good things seem to happen to me – first, you rescued me from a disappointing evening, and now you've broken the bad streak at tonight's match."

Erin felt a slight flutter in her heart at Nico's kind words, a small surge of excitement leaving her wondering if there was still a lingering connection between her and the handsome Swiss captain after all these weeks.

Yet, feeling a twinge of insecurity, she tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear and briefly glanced down before meeting Nico's dark gaze again.

"I'm hardly a lucky charm..." she chuckled lightly, trying to brush it off as a casual joke. "Or maybe I'm just rubbing off on you, and then there's nothing left for me."

The words were meant to be light-hearted banter, but as they left her lips, Erin couldn't shake off the faint sting of sadness that lingered. And it seemed that Nico felt it too, as his eyes suddenly took on a more concerned expression.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to sound so dramatic..." Erin attempted to laugh it off, but Nico's gentle expression remained.

"Hey... don't worry. With a bit of luck, things might turn around for you too," Nico spoke with a gentle tone. Their eyes met once more, and for a fleeting moment, it felt as if time had stood still, with only the sound of their heartbeats echoing in the air.

However, the brief enchanting moment was abruptly interrupted as Bonny returned, re-joining the conversation.

"Hey, ready to head out?" she asked Nico with a broad smile.

"Yeah, sure," he muttered softly, avoiding eye contact with Erin, who suddenly felt like she was just tagging along beside them.

"Okay then," Bonny chuckled. "You're sorted, right?" She then turned to Erin. "You know the way back to the apartment?"

"Yeah, no problem," Erin simply chuckled.

"Awesome, well, catch you later then."

And with that, Bonny and Nico departed the hallway together, leaving Erin to her own thoughts.

-

As January transitioned into the following month, Erin found herself edging closer to her dream job. Finally securing a couple of call-backs for interviews, she eagerly awaited a final response. Though they weren't monumental opportunities, any one of them would undoubtedly be a step up from her bartending gig, potentially opening doors to further prospects. Starting as an assistant in a prominent company was always a promising foothold.

The wait for responses was agonising for her, however, thanks to Bonny's frequent invitations to hockey games and outings with her new circle of friends, Erin found her mind preoccupied as she relished the lively company. 

Though she sometimes felt a little out of place at Devil gatherings with Bonny, with Nico present, she somehow felt more at ease. Amidst larger groups of friends, he made a concerted effort to engage Erin in conversation and ensure she felt included. 

Initially, she attributed it to his responsibility as team captain or perhaps his natural inclination to foster a welcoming atmosphere. Yet as they spent more time together during events and hockey nights, Nico's presence around Erin became almost constant.

It was as if the connection they had shared on their first night together was resurfacing in its organic form, instantly deepening their bond. Their friendship became comfortable, filled with laughter and playful banter. And as Erin expressed her growing affection for the sport that was Nico's life passion, he eagerly took on the role of mentor, eager to impart his knowledge.

Nico even suggested to Bonny that Erin should join them when they went out for ice skating. However, not wanting to feel like a burden or third wheel for the entire day, Erin initially declined the invitation. It was only when Bonny suggested bringing along one of Nico's friends, Mike, that Erin eventually agreed to join them.

The day turned out to be quite enjoyable. Despite the girls' numerous falls and near ankle twists every time they got back up, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy. And after the cheerful activity, the four of them went to savour some hot chocolate.

As they settled in at a cosy spot to enjoy their warm drinks, laughter continued to resonate, yet, despite the merriment, Erin couldn't help but notice the interaction between Bonny and Nico. The way they constantly touched each other, stroking each other's arms, and leaned in while laughing captivated her attention. And she found herself unintentionally fixating on it. Without even realising it, she was suddenly observing their behaviour when Nico pointed out that Bonny had whipped cream on her upper lip.

With a playful grin on her lips, Bonny leaned in to share a deep kiss with Nico, transferring the cream from her lip to his.

"Now we both have whipped cream on our upper lips," she chuckled, and they all continued to enjoy their drinks.

"It's not easy, huh," Mike suddenly spoke softly, ensuring that Erin was the only one to hear it.

"Huh?" she inquired, snapping out of her reverie.

"I said it's not easy - seeing someone you like with somebody else," he elaborated with a sweet smile.

But Erin found herself slightly bewildered. "I'm not quite sure what you're on about," she attempted to flash a gentle smile, though hints of confusion were reflected in her eyes.

"Oh, come on," Mike chuckled lightly. "I can see the way you two look at each other... the way you talk and share genuine laughter."

"He acts the same with Bonny?” Erin tried to casually deflect the insinuation. But he wasn't easily dissuaded.

"Yeah, sure, but it's different when he's with you," Mike explained. "He's just... different when you're around. Not in a negative way. He seems more composed and relaxed..."

Erin felt a warmth slowly spreading across her cheeks, a flutter of joy in her stomach as he described Nico's behaviour when she was present. However, she knew she had to shake off those feelings. There was nothing more than a pure friendship between them. Nico was with Bonny, and Erin was simply there as a friend for support.

"You're overthinking it," she chuckled lightly, shaking her head in disbelief. "Nico and I are just friends – nothing more."

"Maybe," he conceded, leaning back in his chair as he finished his drink. "But I still believe you mean something to him. And she's not the right one for him. But hey, maybe he just needs a bit of luck to realise it," he finished with a grin.

"What did you just say? A bit of luck?"

But before he could respond, the couple decided to call it a night, prompting the four of them to part ways. Well, most of them. Bonny naturally went home with Nico, leaving Erin to make her way back to their shared flat alone.

And as she stepped into the comfort of her home, she couldn't help but dwell on what Mike had said.

Throughout these weeks, Erin hadn't felt any jealousy or similar emotions when observing Nico and Bonny together. Most of the time, she genuinely felt happy for them. However, as she reminisced about the somewhat heartfelt conversations she'd shared with Nico, she couldn't deny the growing sense of connection between them. Perhaps something that transcended mere friendly banter.

"Shit," she muttered to herself, feeling her emotions laid bare and vulnerable. And in the quiet solitude of the flat, she took a long, warm shower, attempting to wash away the unwanted feelings she was developing for her roommate's romantic interest.

**

Days turned into weeks, and Erin found herself unable to shake off the lingering feelings she harboured for Nico. Despite her best efforts to bury them beneath layers of denial, they continued to resurface, leaving her feeling conflicted and unsettled.

It seemed that every time she saw Nico and Bonny together, a small pang of jealousy gnawed at her heart, no matter how hard she wished for it to dissipate. Their easy rapport and affectionate gestures served as constant reminders of what might have been, leaving Erin feeling like an outsider in her own home.

"Just my luck…" she muttered to herself now and then.

Despite trying to distract herself with work and social outings, her thoughts invariably drifted back to Nico—his warm smile, his gentle touch, the way his eyes lit up when they spoke. It was a magnetic pull she couldn't seem to resist, no matter how hard she tried.

However, amidst the chaos of her swirling emotions, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of a job offer. After weeks of anxious waiting, Erin finally received the news she had been longing for—an opportunity to work as an assistant at a prestigious marketing firm in downtown Manhattan.

On the evening of this long-awaited good news, Erin immediately called her father to share the joyous update. Since Bonny would be out for the night with some girlfriends, she decided to celebrate solo with some of her favourite Italian takeout and snacks, indulging in her favourite movie while wearing her comfiest pyjamas.

But just as Erin hung up the call with her father, a sudden knock sounded on the front door. Given that she had already received her takeout, she wondered who could be at the door. Perhaps it was just Bonny, who had forgotten her keys.

Yet it wasn't Bonny. It was Nico.

With a baffled expression, Erin seemed to freeze in her position, confused as to why he'd show up when his date wasn't even home. "Nico, what are you doing here?" she inquired with a friendly smile.

"Um, I'm here to meet with Bonny?" he explained with a soft chuckle, which only left Erin more puzzled.

"What? Bonny isn't here... she's out with some girlfriends..." she gently clarified, noticing the confusion spreading in Nico's eyes as she shared the information.

"Oh... fuck, she must have forgotten to cancel on me then... again," he muttered, running his fingers through his dark hair as he let out a sigh.

"Yeah, sorry Nico... she can be a little..." Erin tried to flash a concerned, reassuring smile. 

"I know... it's just... it's like the third time this happens... and with my schedule, you know the way it is... it's just not easy..." Nico's frustration was palpable in his voice, his expression betraying nothing but defeat.

"I get it... but..." Erin paused for a moment, reconsidering what she was about to say.

"What?" Nico's curiosity was piqued.

"Oh, nothing..." she attempted to brush it off, but she knew it was futile.

"Come on, Erin, what did you want to say?" he offered a soft smile, trying to meet her eyes.

"I just... um... well, if you're feeling down, I've got enough Italian takeout for like five people... and, it's just me, so if you're hungry..." Erin struggled to speak, finding it unusually difficult to talk to Nico. It was a feeling that had developed within her ever since she realised she might have a slight crush on him.

"I'd love to," Nico simply chuckled, prompting Erin to step aside, and let him in to join her.

"Oh, okay," she smiled.

"So, it's just you?" Nico inquired, shedding his coat and shoes before making his way into the living room.

"Yup, just me, myself, and I," Erin chuckled. "I'm just having a little celebration all by myself."

"Well, that explains the outfit then," Nico laughed, settling onto the sofa.

"Huh?" Erin reacted with surprise, only now realising she was dressed in a slightly oversized t-shirt with some cheeky wording printed on it, without a bra, and a pair of rather short shorts. "Oh yeah... I can go change if..."

"No, no, you don't have to change," Nico chuckled. "At least not for my sake."

Feeling a small sense of relief, Erin joined Nico on the sofa to indulge in her delicious takeout dinner.

"Well, dig in," she flashed a smile at the man beside her, already feeling much more at ease. No intrusive thoughts lingered in her mind as she sensed her friendship with Nico comfortably settling in the air between them.

Maybe her crush didn't really matter after all, she thought. Perhaps it was just the idea of being with someone again that had caused her feelings for Nico to grow. It didn't have to be about him, right? 

Breaking her train of thought, Nico spoke with his sweet voice. "So, what are you celebrating?"

"Oh, just that I finally got a job in marketing," Erin flashed him a wide smile.

"What? Erin, that's amazing – where and when?" Nico's excitement for his friend was evident.

"Well, it's just as an assistant in a major firm downtown Manhattan, and yeah, I can start in two weeks," she explained.

"Oh, congratulations!" Nico exclaimed, setting down his cutlery and pulling her into a tight hug. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"I just found out this morning so... I mean, Bonny doesn't even know yet," Erin replied, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

"Well, I'm really happy for you," he flashed her a sweet smile, his eyes locking with hers for a tender moment.

"Thanks, Nico," Erin almost whispered, her eyes flickering as she admired his honey-brown hues.

Once again, it felt as if time stood still. Warmth hung in the air as the two friends shared a moment of soft intimacy. And as minutes passed without either of them speaking, Erin suddenly felt her cheeks flush slightly, the feelings for Nico once again stirring within her.

Quickly breaking the eye contact, she shook off the emotions and attempted to steer the conversation in another direction.

"So, do you want to watch a movie or something while we eat?" Erin asked, trying to sound casual.

"Sure, whatever you like," Nico replied simply, flashing his signature sweet smile.

As Erin scrolled through the options on the streaming service, she couldn't help but feel a flutter of nervousness in her chest. Having Nico here, alone with her, felt both thrilling and daunting, and she wanted nothing more than to enjoy his company without letting her growing feelings interfere.

Finally settling on a light-hearted comedy, she pressed play and settled back on the sofa beside Nico. And as the movie began and they finished their meals, both finding themselves laughing at the witty dialogue and slapstick humour, Nico suddenly leaned his arm back, resting on the back of the sofa behind Erin.

She wasn't entirely sure if he was doing it intentionally or simply for comfort, but she tried her best not to overthink it. Leaning only slightly into his embrace, she simply relaxed and enjoyed the film.

Nico felt a bit surprised at how relaxed Erin acted around him, yet he couldn't deny that he enjoyed how effortless it felt with her. Simply lounging on the sofa with a silly movie and some delicious takeout felt nothing short of amazing.

Despite the disappointment of being stood up by Bonny, he couldn't help but feel good. There was just something about Erin that he couldn't quite describe. Her calm and easy-going attitude was soothing to him, unintentionally drawing him in as if he wanted to be around her all the time.

But Nico also understood that he'd missed his chance when he hadn't acted at the bar during their first meeting, instead opting to pursue her roommate, leaving him with only the option of being a close friend. 

Which he didn't mind at all. In fact, he loved having her around. He always made an effort to be near her and ensure she felt at ease at every gathering, something Bonny wasn't always good at. She often left Erin to herself. And despite being an independent woman, he still felt a need to make sure she was alright at all times.

As the movie continued playing, Nico couldn't help but steal glances at the beautiful girl in his embrace. Though they weren't entirely cuddled up, he still felt her warmth against him. And as the minutes passed, he couldn't deny the pleasurable sensation Erin stirred within him, something he hadn't quite experienced with Bonny.

Catching Nico's gaze, Erin offered him a confused expression. "What?"

Caught off guard from his train of thought, he shook his head lightly. "Oh, sorry," he said with a small smile. "Just... thanks for saving my night. Again. I just... I can't help but think that maybe you really are a lucky charm."

Erin mirrored his light chuckle, feeling slightly nervous at his compliment.

"I, um... I'm just glad I can be of help," she spoke, her voice barely above a whisper.

The air hung heavy between them, silence prevailing amidst the faint jingle echoing through the small living room as Nico's eyes remained locked onto Erin's, the connection deep as they stayed still in their positions.

Erin felt a warm sensation coursing through her body, unable to tear her gaze away from the Swiss captain. It was the same pleasurable feeling he had stirred within her on the very first night they met, and she couldn't resist studying his face, taking in every small detail and feature—the brown stubble along his jawline, his bushy eyebrows, his pink lips. Even a fleeting thought of feeling those lips crossed her mind.

However, realising suddenly how close they were sitting, she shook her head and sat up straighter.

She shifted slightly in her seat, trying to find a comfortable position without getting too close to Nico, as she couldn't shake the feeling that their proximity was dangerous—a slippery slope that could lead to heartbreak and complications. Yet despite her best efforts to maintain a safe distance, she found herself drawn to Nico like a moth to a flame. His presence was magnetic, his easy charm and genuine warmth impossible to resist.

And Nico felt it too. He wanted to say something, yet he was afraid he'd say something stupid or maybe reveal something he shouldn't. Though he tried not to act on the simmering feeling, he couldn't tear his eyes away from her. Studying her composed features, his gaze drifted to her thigh, where a creative mark caught his attention, piquing his curiosity.

"You've got a tattoo?" He suddenly asked, trying to divert from the tension.

"Oh, yeah," Erin flashed him a bright smile, shifting a little to show him her slightly large thigh tattoo.

"Wow, it's... uh," Nico chuckled lightly.

"Big?" Erin laughed.

"Yeah, but really cool. What's it for?" He then asked, looking back up to catch her eyes once more.

"Oh..." slightly taken aback by Nico's sudden interest in her tattoo, Erin briefly struggled to find the words. "Well, um, it's a sun and a moon... I got it a few months back, when things, uh, didn't go so well," she explained, half-smiling as she recalled the demise of her previous relationship, looking down at the ink on her skin. "It's a symbol that there always has to be a balance, that we can't have light without darkness, and vice versa," she continued, then looking back up at Nico. "That sometimes when we feel hurt, we need to be reminded that it won't last and eventually we'll feel good again."

At first, he didn't say anything, but then a smile formed on his lips. "Wow, that's really cool."

Nico's genuine interest in her tattoo warmed Erin's heart, easing some of the tension that had been building between them. His smile felt like a balm to her soul, a reassuring sign that despite the uncertainty of their situation, there was still a connection between them.

"Really? I mean, thanks," she replied, returning his smile with a shy one of her own. "It means a lot to me."

Nico nodded, his eyes lingering on the tattoo for a moment longer before meeting Erin's gaze once more. "I can see why. It's beautiful."

Though his words were directed at the creative work on her skin, a part of him couldn’t deny that he spoke just as much about her. Her beautiful face with its sparkling eyes and full lips. The way she formed small dimples when she smiled, her rosy cheeks giving her a sweet and almost innocent look. Yet her personality shone just as brightly—a perfect blend of kindness, care, intelligence, and strength.

The air between them seemed to shift, the tension easing as they shared this small moment. Once again, they were locked in their own little world, the outside fading away. However, breaking the spell, they both suddenly heard the sound of keys turning in the doorway.

"Hey!" Bonny greeted with a smile as she entered the condo, prompting Erin and Nico to swiftly look away from each other and adjust their positions slightly. "Nico... What are you doing here?" she questioned, slightly confused by his presence.

Clearing his throat, Nico slowly rose from his seat. "Um, I just... I thought we had a date tonight," he spoke gently, taking a step away from the coffee table.

"Oh, shit! Did I forget to cancel again?" Bonny apologised, trying her best to flash him a sweet and innocent look.

"It's alright," Nico reassured, coming closer to her where she wrapped her hands around his neck, pulling him in for a hug and a kiss.

"Well, I am really sorry," she spoke seductively. "Perhaps, I'll show you just how sorry I am..."

Erin felt herself third wheeling on the sofa again, and to her dismay, she suddenly felt a pang of jealousy. Like a stab to the heart, she felt hurt witnessing Bonny seducing Nico right there next to her. But to her relief, he turned her down.

"Actually, I think I better go home," he flashed Bonny a soft smile. "Maybe some other time."

"Alright, baby, I'll make it up to you another time..."

With a nod, Nico then turned to leave, but he didn’t forget about the amazing girl who had once again saved his night. "Hey Erin... thank you for the dinner."

"Any time," Erin merely replied, watching as he made his way to the hallway.

And as Nico left, Erin couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions swirling inside her. Relief washed over her that he had chosen to leave rather than stay with Bonny. Disappointment lingered, that their moment had been interrupted before it could fully blossom into something more. And confusion gnawed at her, leaving her wondering about the true nature of their connection.

But as Bonny turned her attention back to Erin, all she could do was plaster on a smile and nod along to her roommate's chatter about her night out. Inside, however, her mind was still reeling from the unexpected turn of events.

Later that night, as she lay in bed trying to sleep, her thoughts kept drifting back to Nico and their shared moment earlier. She couldn't shake off the feeling that there was something between them, something that went beyond mere friendship. But with Bonny in the picture, she wasn't sure if it was worth pursuing.

Torn between her feelings and the fear of causing any rift between her and Bonny, Erin drifted off to sleep, her mind still searching for answers in the darkness of the night.

**

As the seasons shifted into brighter, more cheerful times, Erin's luck seemed to follow suit. Surprisingly swiftly, days turned into weeks, and soon she found herself starting her new job. Everything fell seamlessly into place; her work was satisfying, surrounded by inspiring and kind colleagues, and she even managed to secure a place of her own, closer to her workplace.

Luckily, Bonny appeared to take it all in her stride, showing no signs of dwelling on the budding connection between Nico and Erin. So, after a few weeks of settling into her new routine, Erin found herself among new colleagues and friends, away from the familiar surroundings of the hockey arena.

The change brought a sense of renewal and excitement to her life, as she threw herself into her work with passion and dedication, relishing the challenges and opportunities that came her way. Each day brought new experiences and achievements, and Erin felt a sense of fulfilment she hadn't experienced in a long time.

Her new friends welcomed her with open arms, and she found herself enjoying their company more and more. They shared laughs over lunch breaks, collaborated on projects together, and occasionally met up for drinks after work. And Erin was beyond grateful for their camaraderie, thankful for the sense of belonging they provided in her new environment.

With each passing day, thoughts of Nico became less frequent, fading into the background as she immersed herself in her new life. She no longer felt the pang of jealousy or longing when she thought of him, content with the path she was carving out for herself.

But fate had other plans.

One night, while out with her friends, Erin suddenly found herself back at the familiar bar, the Grasshopper, this time as a guest instead of a bartender. The dimly lit space was alive with music and laughter, casting a warm glow over the faces of the patrons.

Yet as she laughed and chatted with her friends, she couldn't shake off the feeling of déjà vu that washed over her. It was as if she had been transported back in time, to the night when she and Nico had first connected. But trying to shake it off, Erin went to the bar to get a few more drinks, where while waiting she absent-mindedly scanned the room.

And then, as if by magic, a familiar face appeared. Across the not-so-crowded room, Nico stood, his eyes locking onto hers with a mixture of surprise and delight. For a moment, time seemed to stand still as they gazed at each other, the din of the bar fading into the background.

Erin felt her heart skip a beat as a rush of emotions flooded over her. Despite the passage of time and the distance she had put between them, the connection between them remained palpable.

With a few long strides, Nico made his way towards her, standing almost in the middle of the room. No words were exchanged, only the soft melodies of Celtic tunes playing in the background, blending with the murmur of the guests.

“Hey,” Nico gently initiated the conversation.

“Hey…” Erin replied softly, her heart fluttering at the sight of him. Despite the surprise of encountering him again, she couldn't deny the warmth that enveloped her in his presence.

Nico smiled, a familiar sparkle in his eyes. "So, I suppose you still come to this place?" he remarked, his tone carrying a hint of amusement.

Erin chuckled nervously, feeling a whirlwind of emotions swirling inside her. "Yeah, I suppose I do," she replied, offering him a tentative smile.

Another moment of silence settled between them, yet it felt comfortable and familiar. "I have a confession…” Nico suddenly spoke.

“Oh?”

“I hoped… I hoped to see you here…” Erin's heart skipped another beat at Nico's confession, her cheeks flushing with warmth. She struggled to maintain her composure, her mind buzzing with a flurry of thoughts and emotions.

"You did?" she asked, her voice barely audible.

Nico nodded; his gaze steady as he looked into her eyes. "Yeah. I've been thinking about you a lot lately," he admitted, his tone soft yet sincere.

Erin's breath caught in her throat, her heart racing at his words, as she’d never considered that Nico might share her feelings, that he had been thinking of her.

"I've been thinking about you too," she confessed, her voice barely audible over the music.

And slowly Nico's smile widened; a glimmer of hope evident in his eyes. "Really?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

Erin nodded, her heart pounding in her chest. "Yeah. Seems like you’re not so easy to forget about,” she added, her voice trembling with emotion.

Nico reached out, gently tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I've missed you, Erin," he admitted, his touch sending shivers down her spine.

Tears welled up in Erin's eyes, her heart overflowing with emotion. "I've missed you too, Nico," she whispered, leaning into his touch.

In that moment, surrounded by the soft glow of the bar lights, Erin felt a profound sense of belonging. And after all this time, Nico gently pulled her into a tender kiss, filling her with a deep sense of peace.

Pulling back slightly, Erin looked up at Nico.

“Bonny?” she asked, but Nico simply shook his head.

“I accidentally called her by your name,” he confessed with a light chuckle. “But it made me realise that I couldn't forget about you… And it was the push I needed to try and find you. But I didn't have your number or anything, so I hoped for a bit of luck and came here…”

Erin felt a rush of relief wash over her at Nico's words, a weightlifting from her shoulders.

"Thank you for finding me," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

“Guess it was you all along.”

And in another heartfelt moment, they leaned in again. Their lips meeting in a tender yet passionate kiss, and Erin felt a surge of emotions overwhelming her. It was as if all the uncertainty and longing she had experienced over the past months dissolved in that moment, leaving only the warmth of Nico's embrace and the sweetness of his kiss.

Nico held her close, his arms wrapped around her as if he never wanted to let her go. After all this time, Erin had been right. All he needed was a bit of luck, and this time, he wouldn’t be alone. 

[heavy-nfld]

Kid Gruesome brought some bizarro, eclectic, sludgy punk vibes to Erin’s Pub last month. Their combination of bass and synth with no guitars is unique.

[stylized-corpse]

Archetype’s full set at Erin’s Pub in St. John’s last month.

[prismatica-the-strange]

Hi! Erin again! I have some questions for Athos. (And my son Elliot has a couple questions for Celine.)

For Athos:

1.) What is your favorite memory with S/I?

2.) What was the first thing you noticed about S/I?

3.) What does your ideal day with S/I look like?

For Celine:

1.) What's your favorite animal?

2.) Do you like reading? What are your favorite kinds of books?

( @multiversal-selfshipper)

A favorite memory, hm?

There are... so many to consider. Every moment with Amélia is precious to me.

The day I returned to Paris holds a place close to my heart. As soon as I had dismounted in the courtyard she was there, throwing herself in my arms.

Four years apart and I didn't know she returned my affections, not until that moment. That kiss.

That kiss meant more- means more to me than she could ever know.

As far as the first thing I noticed about her... I admit much of that night evades me. That was a time in my life when I was not at my best.

I remember Aramis, Porthos, and I helping her outside a pub. She had seemed offended that we thought she needed our protection, and stormed off into the night.

I couldn't recall her face until she came to the garrison two days later with fresh bread as a thank you and apology to us.

It was her smile that I noticed first. Shy and sincere, just as gorgeous as the rest of her.

My ideal day would include that soft, beautiful smile. And sleep.

I would love to lay with her until the early hours of the afternoon, then go out with her and Celine to the market or on a walk outside the city limits.

No important missions for the crown, no putting myself in danger in the name of France. Just the three of us.

Papa! My turn!

Yes, dear one, your turn.

I like the horses! Mama an' papa are teachin' me how to ride an' soon I'm gonna have my own!

I can't read, but Con'tance is teachin' me letters!

Mama reads me lotsa fairy tales, but Papa tells me the best stories about him an uncle Aramis, Porthos, an' D'artagnan!

I'm gonna be a musketeer like them when I get bigger!

[jbgranic]

Throwback. Speck Brothers at Abbey Road Pub in Mississauga.

[fiercefauna]

This Halloween- do not beat up plague doctors - that suit might be for YOUR protection- triggers - vehicular corvi-cide, but he’s resting now, in the care of his souls, hopefully they’ll do a better job then he did. That said I bring you -

Unclean, Unclean

Poor, mad, Bartholomew had been directing traffic all of that day, as entering the buffer zone required a contribution or reason for being there other than personal business. He had worn on his head, an archaic piece of fashion that he dismissed as “a mere cowboy cocked thrice” that was in fact, a tricorn, affixed with reflectors in some perverse amalgamation of linear history. What role it played, if any, in the fatal events to come, is something upon which I will not speculate, as time and space are of the essence. 

Burdened with debt for having sought schooling and its assumed consequence of independence, Erin Lamare was a prime candidate to receive the infamous funding drawn out of the abandoned accounts of feral afflicted, but old Bart kept mumbling about his great grand niece receiving her “fair share.” Someone made the mistake of mentioning that Bartholomew was only made aware of his relatives though an ill-advised DNA test and hadn’t actually met any of them, thus formal introductions were in order. 

Erin predictably refused to allow one of the masked invaders on to her family’s property so a meeting was arranged to be conducted by means of social media from outdoor seating in the rear section of Oscar’s Pub, an establishment that was supposed to have been closed, converted into command, and put to the torch after final retreat. Supposed to have been, as the people we seek to save rarely seem to deserve it, the Pub was open, but with indoor tables cordoned off. There, Bart was confronted by Erin’s Father and some members of her extended family intending to utilize his interest in them to pry information on the long since declared dead-on-arrival, neighboring town of Dairy. The group seemed to initially understand the distancing mandates but things got - what do they say - “heated” when Bart was assumed to be far too drunk to quickly call any information on missing loved ones to mind. Bart wasn’t in fact drunk just tired and very, very, ill, as would become clear when the body within the crow suit sustained grave injury under the fist. 

Now leaking bio-hazardous blood, he staggered back toward the parking lot shouting “Unclean!” as one of those impossibly swift, white-eyed, modern machines he swore would be the death of him, ran him down. Some say Bart’s strain was one of the more controllable, others say his insides slithered off to parts unknown. Either way another town would join in Dairy’s damnation, weather to halt the spread of the horror or sate the vile miasma that has been our companion, and our curse. 

There are those who would like to have a word with the man, who’s senile brains lie currently in the care of the nameless souls he tried and failed to save from the contagion in his youth, but higher heads have locked the ancient grave grounds, and my pupil wont hear a word of it, as at his side sweet Erin, now clad in the avian regalia of the lost, looks on us all with features unreadable. 

- Excerpt from the compiled histories of Darcy Milo. 

[fanficshiddles]

Seductively Destructive, Chapter 2

‘He probably picks one girl at each gig to flirt with like that. It doesn’t mean anything.’ Erin shrugged as she walked with Jane to the pub for the afterparty.

‘Hmm, I don’t think so. I’ve seen a lot of posts online about their gigs, where he is rather flirty with a lot of girls, I’ve never seen anything about him singling out anyone like he has done with you tonight. Surely if he did that at every gig, then someone would’ve said something about it.’ Jane shrugged.

Erin just hummed in response. Of course, the thought of something happening with Loki was exciting and a big fantasy, but Erin was realistic and knew he could have anyone he wanted. If he didn’t already, as no one knew for sure really. He kept his private life just that, private. Usually he did, anyway.

They were both a bit dubious as to whether they’d actually get into the pub, if Loki did actually put their names down or if he had just been saying it to get their hopes up. But when they turned up and spoke to the bouncer at the door with the list, they got right in.

‘Wow. This is insane.’ Erin laughed as they walked in and there was already quite a bunch of people there, drinking and mingling with the band and crew. The support bands were there too.

She spotted Loki speaking with a few other people as she went to the bar with Jane to get a drink. They ended up speaking to the drummer of the band for a little while, then he got swooped away by others.

‘I still can’t believe we’re here.’ Erin said in disbelief.

‘Me neither.’ Jane laughed.

A couple of their friends were also there, so they ended up joining them at their table. Erin kept feeling eyes on her now and then, whenever she looked up Loki would be looking in her direction. She couldn’t maintain eye contact with him though so would quickly look away again.

‘I’m gonna go grab another drink. Anyone else want one?’ Erin asked the table.

‘No, think we’re good. You’re just downing them too quick.’ One of their friends laughed.

‘Can’t help myself.’ Erin laughed too.

She got up and went to head to the bar, but she noticed Loki prowling across the room in her direction. Unsure why, she ended up fleeing and re-directed towards the bathroom instead. Glancing over her shoulder, she saw him follow her.

Darting into the ladies bathroom, she took her time there and spent a bit of time touching up her make-up. When she emerged, Loki was hovering not too far away and made his way over when he spotted her.

She swiftly looked away and headed towards the bar again, there was a bit of a wait though as it was busy. But she found a gap and put her hands on the bar, gripping her purse tightly to try and contain her shaking as she could tell Loki was coming up to her.

‘Got you, finally. Were you avoiding me?’ Loki rumbled low into her ear, she felt his breath against her and it made her shiver as tingles ran down her spine.

She swallowed and turned slightly to look at him. He towered over her and she was slightly taken aback by his closeness, and how good he smelled. He had changed from his gig attire and was now wearing a black shirt with the sleeves rolled up his forearms. He’d ditched the gloves, too.

‘I… wasn’t avoiding you.’ She squeaked out. But that was clearly a lie, she wasn’t sure why she was so nervous though. She admired the man so much, but at the end of the day he was still a human being just like her.

Loki grinned and moved in a little closer, she could feel him pressing against the back of her. One arm slipped around her waist, making her breathing hitch as he reached out with his other hand and placed it on the bar, caging her in.

‘This one’s on me, darling. And how about a shot, too?’ He queried with a raise of his eyebrow.

‘Yeah, sure. Thank you!’ Erin smiled.

Maybe Jane was right, maybe he was singling her out and genuinely flirting with her? But Erin still didn’t want to think about it too much, it would be too good to be true, surely.

As soon as the barman spotted Loki, he went straight over to take his and Erin’s order. Loki then didn’t make a move so Erin assumed they were staying there, being caged in she had no option really. Not that she would’ve wanted to move, anyway.

‘Cheers.’ Loki said as he held up his shot glass.

‘Cheers.’ Erin giggled as she clinked his glass with her own, then they downed the shot. Erin pulled a bit of a face as she felt it burn down her throat. But a quick sip of her other drink helped with the aftertaste.

‘Burns a little, doesn’t it?’ Loki chuckled at her reaction.

‘Just a bit.’ Erin nodded.

‘So tell me, have you lived here all your life?’ Loki asked.

‘You make it sound like I’m old.’ Erin laughed. ‘But yeah, I have grown up here.’

Loki chuckled. ‘My apologies. How old are you?’

‘Twenty-four.’

Loki nodded. ‘If I may be so bold, do you have a boyfriend? Or girlfriend?’ He asked innocently as he had a drink.

Erin shook her head. ‘Nope… Do you?’

Loki smirked. ‘I do not. It can be rather difficult finding someone you connect with amongst all this madness.’

‘Yeah, I suspect so. But I imagine you’ve got thousands of girls throwing themselves at your feet.’ Erin said, feeling bolder with more alcohol in her system.

Loki chuckled deeply and leaned in a little more again. ‘Perhaps, though I think I’d only like to see you kneeling at my feet.’ He growled.

He saw her visibly tremble a little and she didn’t know what to say back to that. So she opted to take another sip of her drink instead first. Then she thought, fuck it. He’s flirting like hell, why not just go for it back. When would she get this kind of opportunity again? Though she knew that nothing would come of it, if anything it would just be a bit of fun as a one off.

‘I wouldn’t just kneel for anyone that easily, you’d need to work for it.’ Erin said quietly, only glancing at him briefly so she didn’t completely lose her bottle and she was glad of her hair as a bit of a curtain.

Loki was impressed with her boost of confidence. He brushed her hair back from her face then trailed his finger down the side of her face to her chin, he turned her face towards him and brushed her cheek with his thumb.

‘I’d watch what you say, doll. I rather like a challenge.’ He grinned wolfishly.

He slid his hand down and wrapped it around her neck as he dipped his head down to kiss her deeply. Feeling the power in his hand around her neck like that, she had never felt so vulnerable yet turned on at the same time.

She was so stunned that it took her a moment before she reciprocated the kiss and moved her tongue with his. She squeezed her thighs together when he gave her throat a slight squeeze. She knew then that she would fall to her knees for him in an instant, suddenly feeling so aroused and just desperate for him. To do anything for him.

And Loki could tell. The subtle way she pressed more into his hand, though she didn’t even realise herself that she did that. And she moaned into his mouth, though luckily the bar was so busy no one heard or really noticed. Though Jane did notice their encounter and she cheered internally for her friend.

‘Mmm.’ Loki growled deep in his chest as they pulled apart slightly. He then grabbed her hand and tilted his head towards the door.

She moved away from the bar and let him lead her outside. There were a few people out the front smoking that tried to speak to Loki, but he just said a quick thanks and said he’d catch them in a bit. He took Erin down the side of the pub and into a small doorway round the back that was an emergency exit.

He pinned her to the wall and kissed her again hungrily. Then without any coaxing from him, she slid down to her knees below him.

Loki reached down and stroked her hair as she began unbuckling his belt and pulling his zipper down. She pulled his cock free and held back a gasp. She couldn’t believe she was actually doing this, it was completely out of character for her. Especially knowing it would likely be this one-time thing and that would be it. But the chance at giving Loki a blowjob was far too tempting to turn away. If anything, at least she’d be able to store it in her mind for when she had ‘alone time’.

She didn’t waste time and went to town on Loki. Every now and then she glanced up at him through her lashes and she felt herself getting wetter and wetter at the sight of him in pleasure. His jaw was clenched and he kept groaning and moaning.

His gentle hold in her hair soon became a tight hold, guiding her against him, making her take him further down her throat.

‘Oh fuck, that’s it. Such a good fucking girl.’ Loki snarled, her mouth was so warm and wet, he was losing his mind.

Erin never realised until that moment how hot it was to give a guy a blowjob. She was shaking all over in her own excitement, and never had she been so turned on.

When Loki came, she swallowed all she could. Some dribbled down her chin but when Loki released her hair and she could breathe again, Loki wiped the mess up with his thumb and then popped it into her mouth. She sucked it clean instantly.

‘Ohh, yes.’ Loki grinned. ‘Now, I need to return the favour.’ He pulled her up to her feet.

But they heard one of the band members calling on Loki, looking for him. Loki growled in annoyance. ‘Stay quiet, he might piss off.’ He whispered to Erin.

‘It… It’s ok… I didn’t do it just to get something in return. It is your party after all, maybe we should go back in?’ She whispered.

Loki narrowed his eyes at her for a moment, then brushed the back of his hand down her cheek. ‘Hmm. I guess you’re right.’

Making sure they looked presentable enough, they both headed back inside. Loki got her another drink, as well as the others at the table she was at. Jane nudged Erin when she sat back down. Erin just blushed and hid behind her drink.

Loki had to mingle with others again, but he did check in a few times with Erin. At one point standing right at her shoulder, but because she was sat down his crotch was basically right by her face. And she tried not to look, to just look at her drink while he chatted with everyone at the table. Leaving with giving Erin a squeeze on her shoulder.

Before closing time, Jane had phoned her and Erin a taxi. But Loki caught them just before they left.

‘Erin… I’m going to put your name on the guestlist for our gig on the fourteenth. It’s not too far from here.’ Loki said while Jane spoke to the taxi driver with the address.

‘What… really?’ Erin’s eyes widened.

‘Of course. Besides, I still owe you an orgasm.’ Loki purred quietly. He then put his hand out. ‘Can I have your phone?’

She didn’t hesitate and pulled her phone out of her pocket to hand to him. He put his number into her phone, then called himself so he had her number too.

‘Thank you for your support, Erin. I’ll see you soon.’ He winked at her, then put his hands in his pockets and headed back inside the pub.

Erin turned to Jane after being frozen for a minute. She was completely stunned and couldn’t believe it.

‘So… What happened?’ Jane asked eagerly once they were in the back of the taxi.

‘I… I got his number. And he’s given me guestlist for another gig.’ She said in utter disbelief.