#Gator Tillman x original character

[sadhours]

scumbag blues: 1) first it giveth

gator tillman x f!original character

contents: 18+ minors dni, sex work, mean!gator, slow burn, enemies to lovers, smut, oral (m receiving), p in v, rough, anal play, choking, lots of dirty talk, unprotected sex, lots of spitting

The sheets are fresh, it’s the first thing Gator smells as he and Daisy walk through the doorway. She leans against the closed door, locking it and batting her lashes up at him. Big blue eyes behind false lashes and a scattering of sun sprouted freckles dusting the apples of her cheeks and bridge of her nose. Gator feels a little dizzy at the sight but his dad doesn’t approve of her, tells Gator he better stop paying for her services but he can’t help himself. Winds up at the Inn at least twice a week. Bills fresh from the ATM tucked neatly in his wallet, burning a hole in his pocket. Gator’s hands find her hips, holding her in place while his body crowds her tiny one. He’s a good seven inches taller than her. He gets off on the size difference, likes knowing he can easily throw her around.

Daisy’s fingers find the zipper of his utility vest, her pink stained lips parting as she tugs it down and smoothes her hands under it, pushing it off his shoulders. Gator lets it fall to the floor, cringing at the thud it makes as it hits the hardwood. Daisy then moves her hands to make purchase over his chest, making his skin chill with goosebumps. She gently squeezes his hips, blinking up at him with those coquettish eyes. Turns Gator to putty in her hands like that. Wills himself to stop thinking about how much dick she’s ran through today. Tells himself she don’t look at those men the way she’s looking at him. Daisy promises so, has Gator believing it like it changes anything.

Roy wouldn’t let him and even if he did, Daisy ain’t gonna stop turning tricks. Her dad thinks this is an Inn, but they make money ‘cause his little girls turned it into a brothel. Her mothers scarce, like his own. Gator doesn’t ask her personal questions like that. They keep it professional. Though he knows it ain’t, knows Daisy brings him to her personal bedroom and not one of the rooms for rent. Lets her rest her head on his chest after and tell him about her dreams. Kisses her stupid before he inevitably leaves.

“S’nice dress you got on,” he mumbles, “Put it on just for me?” It’s a white one, short with big flowy sleeves and her cleavage just about pours from it.

“Bought it just for you,” Daisy replies, fishing her manicured fingers in his pocket and retrieving his lime green vape. She holds it up, “You know the rule.”

“Dumb fuckin’ rule,” he grumbles but takes it from her, taking a deep pull from the little box and tilts his head back to exhale the smoke out towards the ceiling. He passes it back to her and Daisy side steps him to put it in her desk. Gator’s got a not so good habit about reaching for it while they’re in the throws of passion, Daisy ain’t a fan of the acidic fruity vapor in her face during sex. So she made a rule, it stays in her desk drawer until after he’s paid her.

“Gator,” she scolds, furrowing her brows as she looks at him.

“I’m just saying,” he raises his hands in defense before trailing to the bed. He sits on the foot of it, clicking his tongue and nodding to the ground before him. Daisy complies, getting on her knees and starts unlacing his boots with her French tip nails and looks up at him with those big eyes again. “Good girl,” he praises, placing his palms on the comforter.

Sometimes he makes her lick ‘em but he’s feeling sweet tonight. She looks a little too innocent for that right now. So he just watches carefully, humming in approval when she gets one boot off and massages his sweaty, socked foot. Daisy smiles, flush rising up her neck which has Gator thinking this part gets her real excited. Has half a mind to reach between her legs and find out. Daisy rubs her face against his knee, bouncing a bit where she sits before she moves onto the other boot. She doesn’t spend as much time in massaging that one before she’s reaching for the button of his cargos, Gator moves to unclip the strap on his thigh but Daisy stops him.

“Keep it on for now,” she pleads, pulling his cargos down as far as they’ll go with the strap on.

“Yeah? Got yourself a cop kink?” Gator teases.

“More like a Gator kink,” she mumbles and immediately looks like she regrets it, eyes wide and cheeks ruddy. She bites her lip and moves her hand to palm him through his underwear. He can’t dwell on what she said for long after that, hot pleasure rising up his legs as his cock twitches from the attention. A long, low groan pushes from his throat and she shushes him. Her daddy’s bedroom is next to hers.

“C’mon, stop teasing,” he hisses.

Daisy raises a brow, lips quirking into a smirk before she’s nudging her nose against his clothed cock. Gator gasps and his hips lift off the mattress for just a second. And then Daisy sniffs and Gator’s a little self conscious, knows he’s been sweating in these cargos all day. But Daisy groans softly and takes another whiff, squeezing the bottom of his thighs and lets out a moan.

“You’re nasty, ya know that?” Gator exhales shakily and Daisy rubs her face against his boner and tells him he smells so good. Pheromones or someshit, he doesn’t know but he knows it turns him on that she likes his scent. His cock fills out even more and he grabs a hold of her head, pressing her face flush against his briefs. Daisy mouths at his length through the fabric, digging her fingers into his thighs. “You fucking love that cock, don’tcha, darling? C’mon, show daddy how much you love it,” Gator groans out, loosening his grip on her head.

Daisy takes a breath as she pulls away, immediately hooking her fingers into the waistband of his briefs and pulls ‘em down to get his erection out. Gator has to bite his lip to stifle the moan rising up his throat as she grips the base of him in her hand and licks a broad stroke up the underside of his cock. Daisy’s a real pro when it comes to head. Experience, Gator knows but she acts like she needs to suck it. Like she’s hungry for his cock. Daisy delivers kitten licks to his slit, moving her head with the motion before she wraps her lips around the head, giving a hard suck before taking him as far as he’ll go, hot and wet enveloping his cock. It twitches in her mouth and Gator pathetically moans out a “Oh, dear lord.”

He can feel her smile around the mouthful of him, has his hips rolling up on their own volition. For fucks sake, it feels so good. All the stress from work and his dad just dissipates like a switch. Gator’s sure that Daisy was put here on earth to service his cock, that’s what God made her for. And fuck, if he could marry her he’d do it in a heartbeat. Daisy pulls his cock out of her mouth with a pop before slapping it against her tongue and swallows before she asks him, “S’that feel good, daddy?”

“Yeah it does, sweetheart,” Gator bumbles out, “Get your mouth back to work.”

Daisy obliges with a giggle, running her pouty lips against the tip before slipping it between them. She sucks on his head, stroking him with her hand. Keeps her eyes locked on his face, like she’s eager to watch him fall apart. Like her whole self worth depends on whether or not she can make Gator cum. And he’s a fucking asshole.

“Aw, darlin,” he laughs softly, “You can do better than that, can’tcha?”

Daisy huffs through her nose, eyes squinting at him as she squeezes his cock in her hand but she clearly can’t help herself, as stubborn as she may pretend to be, she really just wants to please him. So Daisy sinks her mouth down on his cock, takes him until the head pushes against the back of her throat. She blinks quickly and Gator can see the tears prickling the corners of her eyes, slipping out and down her cheeks. Watches with his breath held as she exhales through her nose. He scoops her blonde hair up in his hands and holds it like a pony tail at the crown of her head, using the leverage to move her mouth as he pleases. Fucks her pretty little mouth until his balls are covered in her drool. Bucks his hips with it, reveling in the gagging sounds she makes around his length.

Gator’s real close to pulling her off, feels his orgasm is inching in quicker but it’s just too good to make her stop. He ain’t leaving here without filling her pussy though, it is what he pays for anyhow.

“Slower,” he whimpers out, hating the way it sounds on his ears but Daisy complies, pulls off of him and strokes him languidly in her hand. She blinks up at him, those eyes wide like she’s never done this before. The mortgage being paid for this place says something else though.

“Such a sweet girl,” Gator coos, “Do whatever you’re told.” He pats her bicep, “Up. Show me how wet y’are.”

Daisy flushes, standing up on shaky legs and lifts her dress above her waist. Her thong is white, slick soaked through and glistening on her thighs. Gator reaches forward and presses his fingers against the damp material. He moves them firmly up and down, Daisy rolls her hips into it and Gator lets out a low chuckle.

“Reckon you’re a good whore or… it’s only my cock that gets you soaked like this,” Gator muses, tilting his head as he pushes her panties to the side and gets his fingers against her folds. “Huh? You get this wet for those other fuckers?”

Daisy gasps, fingers grasping at the bunched material of her dress as she gazes down at his face.

“Answer me,” Gator demands when Daisy’s eyes glaze over from pleasure, his fingertips moving against her aching clit.

“No,” she whines, because it’s the truth. There’s bottles of lube hidden away in every single room. It’s nothing but men her fathers age and then there’s Gator. Handsome and around her age. Fucks her like he owns her. She won’t tell him he does. That she’s looking forward to their scheduled appointments. Cleans her room for him, wears clothes bought just for him and is soaking wet in anticipation. Hell, he’s the only client who gets to fuck her raw.

“That’s right,” he purrs, pulling his hand back and leans back against the bed, “Touch yourself for me.”

Daisy puts on a show, pushes her panties down mid thigh and spreads her lips with her fingers, giving him an eyeful of glistening folds. Rubs her pretty little clit in slow circles for him. Makes these breathy, quiet moans as she does it. Gator watches with an unimpressed expression that has Daisy insecure and eager to please. She slaps her pussy and inhales sharply at the way his eyebrows raise, moving to sink her fingers into her warm core. Fucking herself all slow and exaggerated, walls clenching around the digits and the desire to have his cock stretching them starts to get unbearable.

“Taste yourself,” Gator instructs.

She obliges instantly, shoving her fingers in her mouth and humming around them. Gator grins, eyes crinkling and Daisy clambers on top of him. Smashing their lips together desperately, grabbing his face and rocking her hips against him. Gator grabs her ass, squeezes it before delivering a harsh smack to the right cheek as he licks into her mouth. Daisy has a strict no kissing rule, but most of her rules go out the window when it comes to Gator. As much as she despises who he is, she’s overwhelmingly attracted to him. It’s carnal, animalistic the way they make out and rut against each other. Gator gropes her wherever he can, pressing his cock against her dripping cunt and rolling his hips. The most delicious slide, slick coating his shaft as he drags it through her folds. Their muffled moans fill the room as they writhe against each other. Daisy’s so goddamn wet Gator can feel it dripping down to his balls. He grabs her hair and tugs her back, breaking the kiss with strings of salvia still connecting their lips.

“Take that fucking dress off,” Gator demands, “Now.”

Daisy fumbles to pull the hem up and over her head, body exposed to him and his hands take advantage, smoothing down her sides and then back up to unclasp her lacy white bra. She tosses it aside and rolls her hips into him as his hands cup her breasts, thumbs grazing against her pert nipples. Daisy elicits a loud moan and Gator’s pinches her nipple and tugs it.

“Shh,” he scolds, “Don’t want your daddy knowing what an easy slut his little girl is.”

“Fuck,” Daisy gasps, hands moving to grab Gator’s wrist and forearm. His words produce a wave of euphoria laced shame, coating the length of his cock in even more slick. He uses her secret to blackmail her all the time, get dirt on her clients and get free services from her when he gets power hungry.

Gator hums, smirking up at her and says, “Does that make you wet? Screwing for money when daddy’s in the next room? Fuck, you’re such a whore. Picked the perfect profession.”

“Shut up,” she pleads in a moan.

“Ah ah,” Gator purses his lips as he smooths his hand up to wrap around Daisy’s neck, “I know you don’t wanna spend the night behind bars again. Soliciting a deputy and all.” Gator tsks, “Better behave.”

“Yes, sir,” Daisy gasps, feeling light headed with the pressure Gator’s got on her windpipe. Tells herself it’s part of the service, that she isn’t massively turned on by the power Gator truly holds. “I’m sorry, Deputy Tillman… I’ll be a good girl.”

“Music to my ears, darlin,” Gator drawls before giving a squeeze to her throat and letting go.

“How do you want me?” Daisy asks, breathlessly as her fingertips ghost down the swell of his biceps. She ignores the dumb tattoo peeking out of his sleeve.

“Ass up, face in the pillows,” Gator instructs and Daisy moves quick to get into position, thong still draped at her knees. Gator gets up, she can hear him undo his thigh strap and carefully placing it on the dresser before she feels him peel her underwear the rest of the way down. When she feels Gator’s hips pressing the globes of her ass, she knows he’s undressed. The tip of his cock grazes her fluttering hole, causing a whine to raise out of her throat and she pushes her ass back at him, desperate to catch the head of his cock in her hole and sink down on it. But Gator has other plans, grabs handfuls of her ass and spreads her cheeks before jiggling them in his hands. Watches her asshole flex from the motion and he spits on it, moving his thumb to spread his saliva against the hole she doesn’t let any other man touch. Hasn’t told Gator he’s the only man whose fucked her ass.

Gator spits again, uses it as lube to slip his thumb inside her asshole and groans lowly as Daisy’s toes curl.

“That’s it,” he coos, “Such a good little whore for me.”

Daisy keens, grabbing onto the pillows as she pushes her ass back at him. He spanks her with his right hand, so hard she’s sure she’s got an angry, red print of Gator’s large hand on it. Then he’s grabbing the base of his cock, swirling the head of it around Daisy’s clenching, dripping hole. He slips it in, but keeps it shallow. Just the tip.

“C’mon, Daisy,” he says condescendingly, “Fuck that dirty hole on my cock.”

Daisy’s head is swimming with just the tip, the notion that this is work completely vacated her thoughts. This is pure pleasure, all play and no work. Daisy fully believes in this moment that she exists to be used by Gator and God’s a real kind son of a bitch for giving her that purpose. She rolls her hips back, sinking down on Gator’s cock and he gasps. Her eyes are rolling back as he fills her up, all the way down to his tight balls. His cockhead presses into her g-spot so deliciously Daisy cannot hold back the guttural moan punching through her lips. He’s the only client to make her cum, to make sex enjoyable.

“Fuckin’ hell,” he exhales, “Tight little cunt, no matter how many dicks you take.”

His filthy words make both her holes clench around him. Gator wiggles his thumb and then uses the grip he’s got on her to drag her up and down his cock. He’s so thick and she’s squeezing him so tight. Can’t imagine not taking Gator raw. Needs to feel him without the stinky, thin layer of latex.

“Christ,” he moans softly, “Just keep squeezing that dick. You love it so much.”

Daisy fucks back against him, her nipples brushing against the bedspread as her tits sway with the motions. The sensation spreads hotly down her spine. The wet sounds of Gator’s cock sliding in and out of her cunt fill her ears, sprouting goosebumps over her skin as desperation starts to take over her. With each thrust of their hips, their skin meets with a sweaty slap and the tip of his cock brushes against her g-spot. Gator keeps letting out these low grunts, right hand gripping her hip tight enough to leave bruises. All the marks on her skin are left from him.

“So wet,” he chokes behind clenched teeth, “My little whore, all fucking mine.” He slaps her ass, “Yeah? I own this tight fuck hole, don’t I?”

“Yes,” she cries out, the slapping sounds of their skin gaining in tempo as Gator pounds into her relentlessly.

“Say it, bitch,” Gator seethes, moving her hand between her shoulder blades and pushing her harder against the mattress, “Tell me who owns this fucking pussy.”

Daisy turns her head, though her voice is still slightly muffled as she whimpers out, “You own this pussy, Gator owns me…”

“Damn fucking right,” he grunts. And just as he slips his thumb out of her ass to grip her hips, his radio goes off.

“Gator, do you copy?” that static laced voice rings throughout the room but the deputy ignores it, drilling into Daisy at breakneck speed, pushing involuntarily little yelps from her.

“Gator, you there?” Again, the voice comes through. “Gator,” in a singing tune.

“Fucking useless pricks,” he pulls out from Daisy and climbs off the bed. She sighs as she flips onto her back, rubbing her pussy as she watches his plump ass while he walks over to his vest.

“I’m fuckin’ busy,” he says into the radio and drops the vest, turning and grinning from ear to ear as he sees Daisy laid back, running her fingers through her folds as she eyes his hard cock.

“Fuckin’ busy or busy fuckin’?” The voice replies as Gator makes it to the edge of the mattress, stroking his cock while his eyes rake over Daisy’s body. “You with that whore again, ain’t ya, Gator?”

He rolls his eyes and climbs back on the mattress, gets between Daisy’s legs and slaps the head of his cock against her pussy, “Ignore ‘em, they’ll leave us alone.”

Daisy is used to what everyone says about her. Hell, the majority of Stark County Sheriff’s Department has paid for her services. She’d be amiss to ignore the realization that Gator talks about her to them, though.

“You tell ‘em about me?” she giggles, moving her hands up to play with her nipples while Gator drags the tip of his cock through her folds.

“Sure do,” he mumbles, “Tell ‘em you let me fuck your ass for no extra charge.”

“You get a flat fee,” Daisy admits, looking up to see his gelled back hair coming undone, the longer strands flopping out. He’s so frustratingly good looking, can’t help herself to grab his arms and pull his lips to hers. As Gator kisses back, he slips his cock into her hole which makes Daisy moan against his lips. Her legs come up to wrap around his waist and her arms drape around his shoulders.

He grinds into her cunt nice and deep before snapping his hips, head of his cock hitting her cervix in a way that has her body jolting and nails dragging down his back. Tears fill her eyes at the sharp sensation but Gator doesn’t relent, pounding into her pussy with abandon. Daisy has to bite his lip to stifle her cries but the assault makes Gator growl and break the kiss, pulling back and wrapping his fingers around her neck. Not applying too much pressure, but pressing her into the bed while he hammers his hips impossibly faster and harder, face all contorted in frustration and pleasure.

“Ya wanna bite me, bitch?” he grunts out.

Daisy whimpers, eyes rolling back in her head as Gator drills into her. Euphoria radiating all over her body as Gator slams against her g-spot repeatedly, turning Daisy into a drooling, incoherent mess as her voice attempts to apologize. Gator pouts, his thumb stroking her cheekbone as he slows his thrusts.

“Poor girl, make you cockdrunk already?” his voice is just a tad shaky, like he’s struggling not to fuck her into oblivion. “We just barely started, darlin.”

That’s another thing different about Gator as a client, the sex lasts hours. They usually do it more than once. Rest of her clients can barely last five minutes. Daisy wouldn’t complain though. Four hundred bucks for five minutes of laying on her back isn’t bad. Course, Gator gets a discounted price. Half off. It started because she actually enjoyed herself, had a rough time considering it work. Until he would leave, drop the cash on her dresser and not talk to her until he showed up for their next appointment. Gator makes her remember its work.

He drags his fingers down her arms before grabbing her wrists and pinning them above her head, leaning down to connect their lips again. Daisy whimpers against it, squeezing her legs tighter around his waist and trying to chase the europhoria she felt just seconds ago. If he hadn’t slowed down she would’ve came. Gator likes to take his time, really drag it out of her. He can’t do anything without making it convoluted and difficult. Which he proves by shoving his cock as deep as it’ll go, their skin flush and then stills his hips. Pants into the kiss, moves his free hand up to squeeze her tit again. Daisy flicks her tongue against his and he wraps his lips around it, sucking on her tongue as he attempts to penetrate her even deeper. Fruitless, his cocks into the hilt, balls pressed against her ass.

The kiss quickly devolves into the pair of them moaning into open mouths, Gator thrusts but barely pulls back. And his cock is so hard and firm, Daisy’s squeezing around it with all she’s worth. Fuck, they’re libel to get stuck like this. Animals in heat. Pleasure swirling around in her stomach, bleeding down to all her nerves. They’re as connected as they’ll ever be, in the most raw and guttural way they can be. She opens her eyes as he pulls back, whimpers when his cock goes with him and she’s left feeling empty. Gator spreads her legs, looks down at her cunt and let’s a line of spit drip from his lips to her pretty, fucked bright pink pussy.

“Think it’s time you earned your money,” he pats her thigh, “Ride me, cowgirl.”

Daisy knows she’s well earned her money as is but she isn’t gonna say no to riding Gator. Gains a bit of her power back in that position. She nods enthusiastically and straddles Gator once he’s on his back, smoothes her hands through his chest hair and grazes her fingertips against his nipples. It earns her an almost pathetic moan from the man and Daisy’s giddy on it. She grinds her slicked up pussy against his hard cock, the slide easy from how soaked he gets her.

“C’mon, now,” he quirks an eyebrow, “Get on that cock and show me what you’re worth.”

Daisy licks her lips, lifts herself up and grabs hold of Gator’s erection, the head easily catches on her hole and she sinks down on him. Her puffy lips fall open as he fills her, a saccharine moan pouring out of her. He hums, eyes locked on where their bodies connect.

Then he directs her, “Slow. Wanna see it all. Need to see your pussy swallowin’ that cock.”

Holding onto his thighs, she leans back and slowly lifts her hips. Up until just the tips inside. She watches Gator’s expressions intently, his brown eyes blown wide with this hazy lust in them. Cheeks flushed and breathing heavily. His lips are swollen from the kisses.

“Take that cock, baby,” he mumbles out, sounding so delightfully dazed.

Baby. The word goes right to her head, makes her stomach fill with butterflies. Daisy complies, sinking back down on it and repeating the languid motions a few more times before she can’t take it anymore. Needs it faster and harder. Gator turns into a bumbling puddle, moaning out as he encourages her, “That’s it, yeah. Fuck yourself on my dick. Oh, yeah…”

“Gator,” she whines out, milking his cock with her tight cunt. Bouncing on his cock, squeezing his thighs for leverage. Her eyebrows pinch together and her mouth hangs open, chasing that burst of ecstasy only Gator can give her.

“Yeah, you filthy little slut,” he seethes, teeth clenched as his eyes dance around from their sexes up to her eyes and down to her tits.

Daisy huffs, moving a hand so she can rub erratic circles against her throbbing clit. Balancing herself on the one hand still plastered on Gator’s thigh. Feels the way her legs burn from exertion but she’s too focused on chasing the orgasm teasing her insides. Rides him like a woman gone mad. Gator’s moans turn breathless and border on whimpering, be it by her cunt quickly working his cock or her animalistic determination to get herself off, it’s doing something to him.

“Really workin’ for it, yeah?” Gator babbles out, “Gonna make yourself cream all over my cock, baby?”

“Feels so fucking good,” she heaves through pants.

“Mmm,” Gator’s hands snake around her hips, his own legs spreading which makes Daisy falter and she lets out a frustrated whine. “Don’t stop,” Gator tells her, fingers digging into her skin.

He begins thrusting up at her, the pair of them relentlessly humping each other. It’s a little sloppy, but the force of Gator’s hips pushes her over the edge. Intense waves of absolute heaven rippling through her, mouth open in a silent scream as she writhes against Gator. Vision gone absolutely white, riding out her orgasm blindly. Gator growls a laugh while he watches, reveling in the way her face scrunches and contorts as her body starts to buzz all over. He’s following close behind, before Daisy’s orgasm even finishes she feels his hot, thick seed filling her and leaking down the sides of his cock. Makes her cry out, body collapsing on top of him as he wraps an arm around her and fucks up into her, emptying all he’s got in her sore, used hole.

“Gator, Gator, Gator,” she chants breathlessly in his ear, tears trailing hotly down her cheeks as the aftershocks of her orgasm have her rolling her hips against him. Imagines he’s her husband. Imagines this is a marital love. That when they’re out in public they don’t hate each other.

He hums, pressing a sloppy kiss to her cheek before he’s pushing her off of him. Daisy lays on the mattress beside him, panting as she tries to catch her breath. Gator’s panting too, turns on his side and grabs her hip to pull her close. Drapes his arm around her as his lips find hers and they share lazy kisses.

“You let anyone else cum in ya?” he wonders aloud, lips dragging along hers. He hopes not. Can’t be too sure of her answer anyhow. She is a working girl after all. He pays her to be what he wants her to be. He still fantasizes about knocking her up, telling his dad he’s got no choice but to be with Daisy and keep filling her up with babies. She’s on birth control though, has that chip in her arm he hates so much.

“Gator,” she sighs as she presses her hand to his jaw and kisses him softly, “You’re the only one I let fuck me raw. Therefore… you’re the only man who's nut in me.”

He cringes, “Don’t talk like that. S’not ladylike.”

“Haven’t you heard? I’m not much of a lady,” she kisses him again, can’t stop kissing him.

[seabreeze1969]

Strawberry Pancakes

Summary: Gator Tillman meets OC stripper. She is reluctant to give him a dance, but ends up enjoying it a little too much. He is more than happy to break some rules with her.

Tags/Warnings: strippers, thigh riding, lap dance, power dynamics, paid intimacy, dirty talk, teasing

Chapter One

~Gator

It was the second Friday of May. Every other Friday he found himself sitting in the back of The Tender Trap, a local strip club, with an envelope in his pocket as he waited for a militia man to collect the hefty support of Sheriff Roy Tillman, his father. It was an easy job. That’s why his father gave it to him. At least it was supposed to be easy. But things never came easy to Gator.

As his lazy gaze glossed around the small club, his heart caught in his throat. He wasn’t met with Roxy or Crystal, the usual dancers who would throw him winks every now and again. He saw a young woman he’d never seen before. He was sure if she had been there any of the other Fridays he would’ve known.

Her legs were toned, but covered in stockings forcing him to imagine the bare skin underneath. As his gaze slithered further up skipping over her bare stomach to her breasts he started to feel his pants tighten. The white laced cups pushed up her small tits and had them spilling out over the low top. And finally he reached her face. Her bouncy brown curls framed her soft face, and he couldn’t help but let his mouth fall open as he caught her big doe eyes.

He knew he must’ve looked like a moron sitting there with his jaw on the floor, but he couldn’t help himself. She was the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen in person. Something straight off of one of those raunchy old bikini posters he tacked behind his bed.

Before he could stop himself his feet carried him over to the seats closest to the stage where she was entertaining two other men. The closer he got the more her eyes narrowed at him and she suddenly seemed familiar, “Wait a minute. Aren’t you the doc’s kiddo? Miss Grey?” He’d seen her only a couple times when he had to visit the local clinic after a job went sideways, and she looked vastly different in layers of clothes and thick rimmed glasses. But she had given him that same narrow look.

“No, sir,” she shook her head, her full lips turning into a pout, “My name is Candy.”

“Hah, yeah sure it is,” he huffed a laugh, “Anyways, aren’t you a little too smart to be dancing around half naked?”

And then it was her turn to laugh, “If smarts had anything to do with it you’d be the one in heels up here, sheriff.”

“Ouch, sour Candy. You trying to hurt my feelings, girl?” Gator mocked hurt feelings, putting his hand over his heart.

“Were you trying to hurt mine?” She shot back.

“No. How about you make it up to me with a dance?”

“Aren’t you on duty?”

“Nah, I just dress like this for fun,” he hooked his thumbs into the bulky sheriff’s vest, showing it off.

“Won’t it be a bad look for your father?” It was true his father’s election was going to be up soon.

“He’ll be alright. You running out of excuses?” Gator checked.

“I could just say ‘no.’ If you don’t want to take a hint,” she condescended, and that just made him want her all the more. No way in hell was she gonna say ‘no’ to him. He had all the power he needed in the envelope, who would even notice if a couple of the hundreds were missing? Taking less than a second to decide he pulled out the envelope and started counting out the hundred dollar bills that he definitely should not be spending at a strip club.

“Are you deaf? Or just dumb?” Candy frowned, but as he continued to count them she changed her tune, “Holy smokes, where’d you get all that?”

He waved three hundreds at her, “How bout that dance?”

Her mouth opened and closed a few times, struggling with the decision, but then she nodded in defeat, “Let’s go.” She hopped off the stage, and took his hand in her own. Her hand was trembling, until she squeezed him a little harder, and he pretended not to notice it. Pretended he was far too preoccupied with the way her ass swayed back and forth in her little white lace underwear.

In the private room there was one lone chair in the center with dark velvet couches surrounding it. As she stepped into the room her white undergarments turned dark red with the lights. She led him to the chair in the center of the room, shoving him down roughly. He made a show of it for her, collapsing into the chair even though he was barely moved from her hands pushing his chest, “Take it easy, baby.”

She ignored him, sliding her hands across his chest into his leather jacket, to slip it off, taking his vest with it. She hooked it on the back of the chair, which still left him in his bulky hoodie.

“That’s more like it, sweetheart,” he grinned as she walked in front of him again. He drank her in once again now that he had her all to himself. Her slim ankles wrapped in the white plastic straps of the clear high heels that were giving her an extra half foot at least. She looked a little unsteady as his gaze raked up the stockings, lingering on the smooth bare skin of her upper thigh. He imagined for a moment how her legs would wrap around him, how he’d grip her hips. The swell of her hips was accentuated as she took a small step toward him, shifting her weight. As his eyes moved up he found her chest rising and falling in quick breathes, her breasts spilling out of the wired corset cups on every intake. Her blush went all the way down her neck, and when his gaze flickered up to her eyes she cast hers to the floor.

“Don’t get all shy on me now,” he admonished half-heartedly, pleased with her little show of innocence. It was charming.

She took another deep breath, drawing his attention back down to her breasts once again, and unballed her fists, starting to undo the bottom of her corset top. He watched her struggle with the little wire clasps that ran up the front for a long minute before he finally huffed a little laugh, “You need a hand?”

She looked up at him with those big brown eyes, and he wondered if it was more than just a show. Then she frowned and gritted, “Shut up.” And he knew it wasn’t. And that made his cock twitch in his pants. She finally got all the clasps undone and then tossed the offending garment on the couch beside her, unable to hide her pride at getting the damned thing off. She locked her arms in front of her, covering up her exposed nipples. He barely caught a glimpse of the pink skin. And then she seemed to realize what she had done and forced her arms behind her back, sticking out her chest.

“I’ve never done this before,” she finally confessed, but he had gathered that.

“I can tell,” he chuckled, “This might be the worst strip dance I’ve ever seen.”

That seemed to set something off in her. He was good at setting people off. Her cheeks were puffed out in anger as she slowly sank down to her knees, not bothering to hide her disgust at the old tile floors. And then she crawled on her hands and knees to him, swaying her hips and holding his stare like it was a challenge. He kicked his boots out on either side of him, making room for her between his thighs. Then he locked his fingers behind his head and reclined a little, the picture of unbothered, indifferent to her. And he saw exactly what he wanted. That angry determination swirling in those narrowed eyes as she let her cheek rest on his inner thigh.

She ran her hands up his shins, to the expanse of his muscular thighs. He felt the heat of her palm reach the bulge of his hardening cock, straining under his cargo pants. Her brow went up in accusation, “For the worst dance you’ve ever had, you seem to be enjoying it.”

“I’m easy,” he shrugged. Then her tongue was licking a stripe over the outline of his dick and his mouth fell open as he was unable to maintain his cool attitude toward the half naked woman between his legs. That had to be against the rules.

Before he could recover she was swinging her hips to the low vibrations of the bass that penetrated the room. She came up to her full height, giving him an eyeful of her breasts, making his mouth start salivating. Maybe he had just fallen for an act of innocence. Massaged them in his face, letting her head roll back as she let a small moan slip past her lips. His hands were moving on their own, in an attempt to assist her, when she slapped them away, “Hands by your side, deputy, or I’ll use your stupid cuffs on you.”

“Yes, ma’am,” he drawled out slow, gripping the sides of the chair to keep them there, but her threat just turned him on even more. Having her handcuff him sounded like a damn good time to him.

She swung one leg over his so her back was to him, and crawled down the slope of his leg, leaving her ass high in the air, and his hands squeezing the sides of the chair as she bounced a little on his leg. And then in time with music she was snapping back to sitting upright and grinding her hips just an inch above his thigh, letting him see that she was actually getting wet. Then she stepped out again, twisting to face him and kicked one of his boots so his legs came together before she sat in his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck and playing with his hair just enough to make his head lull back and seek her fingers. He hadn’t felt a touch like that in years, something intimate and gentle. Hell, if he knew a strip dance felt this good he would’ve started skimming money a long time ago, but he had a feeling it was just her making him feel this way.

She bit her lip, trying to contain a grin, and he felt like he was losing the game he had set up. But she made losing feel good.

Then the song switched from fast paced to a slow jam and she lit up, standing to dance in front of him once again. She was familiar with the song, mouthing the words as she ran her hands up her body and tangled them in her hair the way his hands wanted to. While she mouthed the explicit lyrics, he imagined her in his ear whispering filth only he would ever hear.

Her body rolled in time with the slow beat and she ran her hand down between her breasts, over her flat stomach and dipped between her legs for just a second before she pulled her hand back and ran her tongue over them, her tongue that was nearly on his dick when he had ticked her off. “You want a taste?” she asked, tilting her head curiously, and only then had he noticed his mouth had fallen open in want. He only nodded, sticking his tongue out as she stepped closer to him again with her outstretched hand. Her fingers were glossy from her spit as she brushed them gently over his upper lip, avoiding his tongue, and then pulled back, leaving him running his tongue along his lip trying to taste her. He thought maybe she was wearing some kind of strawberry chapstick as he savored a distant artificial sweetness.

He hummed his approval, and when he caught her eye again her pupils were blown wide. He could nearly see himself reflected in them. He was in a similar state. And then she stepped one leg between his and slowly lowered her hips onto his thigh, grinding on him in time with the music. Her skin was hot, like her entire body was blushing. It gave him goosebumps under his jacket where her warmth couldn’t reach.

And then she made a noise in the back of her throat that had him choking on the air in the room, which was suffocating him with a palpable heat. It wasn’t an over the top moan like from the porn he usually watched, it was a whine she had tried to hide but it slipped past her lips anyways. It was the sexiest thing he had ever heard in his life.

She bit her lip and looked at him apologetically, “Hah, sorry.” And the weight of her lifted up, before his hands flew out to stop her.

“No, don’t stop,” he lifted his knee in a jerk response, applying more pressure to her clit. He pulled and pushed her waist back and forth over his thigh, making her breath quicken. She was so sensitive, shaking like a leaf as he pushed his thigh up hard against her, with intention. He wanted to give her that friction which clearly affected her. His eyes traveled down her body to find a wet spot on his camouflage, “Gonna make a mess on my trousers, girl.”

She looked away in embarrassment as he looked up at her in awe. Her lower lip trembled as he leaned forward, bringing his hand to cradle her cheek. He was completely entranced in her glowing red face. He wanted to stop the anxious tremble of her lip, soothe her embarrassment away however he could. But he found no words, instead leaning in, and letting his eyes slip closed as he brushed his thumb down her bottom lip. He could feel her sharp intake of breath nearly against his mouth. He can’t remember wanting something as simple as a kiss with such an intensity before.

She shoved at his chest and stumbled backwards, catching herself on the edge of the couch. His head was spinning from the whiplash as he watched her catch her breath moving as far away from him as the couch would allow.

“No kissing the clients,” she finally spoke after a few beats of heavy breathing.

“No? Just everything else?” He joked a little, trying to recover his own breathing and will his raging erection to go away. He couldn’t take his eyes off her as she started clipping the corset back on.

He stood and slid back into his leather jacket and vest, slicking his hair back which had gotten a little disheveled when she played with it earlier. Then she awkwardly put her hand out and he remembered what he had promised her for such a nice private dance and handed her three hundred, “That’s some technique for your first time.”

“I’m a quick learner,” she nodded, gripping the cash like he was going to snatch it back from her and run. She led him back out into the main room without so much as looking at him and then ran back to the locker rooms, still a little unsteady as his eyes followed her out.

“I’ve been waiting out here for nearly a half hour,” complained Henry, getting up from the bar when he saw Gator. He barely understood the words, too busy thinking about how there was no way in hell he could wait another two weeks to see her again. She gave him a high he knew he’d be hooked on until the day he died. He figured he’d be a married man and still jerk off to her.

“Boy! You hear me? When your daddy hears about you fucking around--” Henry started to threaten, finally pulling Gator’s attention away from the girl. The shove of the white envelope into Henry’s chest cut him off.

“My daddy ain’t gonna hear about it, unless you want me burning this money up and telling him you fucking backward ass hillbillies lost it,” he said it softly with a half smile, contrasting the shouting of the older man who got even angrier as he lost his power.

“We’ll see about that. Don’t make me wait while you’re getting your dick sucked. If you’re daddy don’t make you answer to him. I’ll make you answer to me. Understand, son?”

“Maybe if your wife was better at it you wouldn’t have had to wait so long,” Gator leaned into the man, his hand hovering over the gun in his thigh holster.

“Alright, your time's coming, boy. Your time’s coming.”

“Whatever you say, Henry,” Gator grinned at him, “I’ll see you later.” He waved himself out and hopped into his truck.

He reached for his vape in his pocket, taking a long drag reigniting the buzz in his head that was worked up in the back room of The Tender Trap. He was trying to remember the way her face looked when she moaned, but his memories weren’t coming out right. He needed to see her again. And soon enough he was hard again as he drove back to the Tillman Ranch. The road was lonely and dark that night as he started to touch himself.

[buckysgrace]

Every Little Thing Masterlist

Gator Tillman x Daphne Williams (Fem!OC)

Daphne Williams has slowly been filling the hole in her heart for the past three years. She poured herself into traveling, into meeting new interesting people and learning new tricks and habits. She’s finally moved on and found herself a caring fiancé who she’s sure her parents will adore. There’s only one person she could think of that would ruin her happiness: Gator Tillman.

(18+ smut, cheating, references to underage sex and homophobia, cheating, unplanned pregnancy)

The Bones

My Heart Can't Tell You No

Passionate As Sin

Religiously

December

Blue

I Keep Looking

Cowboys Never Cry

Butterflies

Springsteen

Sand in My Boots

Photograph

The Last Time

Nothing Breaks Like A Heart

Colder Weather

Rock and A Hard Place

Forever and Ever, Amen

Why Won't You

Meant To Be

Bubbles

Life With You

Here Comes the Sun

Roses in the Rain

Take Your Time

Love Me Like You Mean It

Strangers

Slow Burn

In the End

Linda

Second Chance

Smoke & a Light

Extras :

Williams Family Lore

[thefatedthoughtofyou]

A Sweatervest and Squeaky Shoes

Gator Tillman x Kirby Rivers (OC)

[ Kirby's Bio ] [ Part One ] [ Part Two ]

♤ Summary: Kirby sneaks into the hospital to see Gator after everything that happens at the ranch.

♤ Warnings: canon x oc paring, nonbinary/trans oc, oc uses he/they pronouns, mentions of Gators torture, blind Gator

♤ A/N: once again for you my dearest! @jozstankovich 💚 Reblogs and comments are cherished and loved! 💖🍒💖

♤♤♤♤

Kirby's shoes squeak against the shiny hospital floor, he winces, runs his hands down his front for the millionth time since he left home. They feel ridiculous, a fucking sweatervest over the one, semi nice, t-shirt they have. He huffs, takes a deep breath, and ducks into the elevator.

It hadn't been hard to find out Gator's floor and room number. All the FBI agents milling about weren't exactly quiet. The issue would be getting into the room.

Kirby's fingers drum against his pant leg, his only nice pants as well. Black jeans, a little baggy, but they looked nice with the outfit. He tugs at the neckline of his shirt, uncomfortable, always are when they're wearing so many fucking clothes.

The doors slide open and Kirby pops his head out first. Checking both ways like he's crossing the street. Nobody there. Not a nurse or doctor in sight. He steps out, aims for casual as he walks down the hall, following the signs to the room number he'd overheard.

The nurses station is empty as well. The first person he sees is the gaurd on the door when he peeks around the corner. Kirby drops their head against the wall.

"Fuck." He breathes, his eyes move down the hall and land on the still empty nurses station. He runs back to it, hears footsteps behind him and ducks behind the desk.

He watches the guard walk around the corner and down the hall they'd come from.

"I'm headin down now." The man says into the radio on his shoulder. The radio crackles, Kirby doesn't understand what's said, but hears the man's response.

"Oh who cares if the door isn't guarded for ten fuckin minutes. Where's he gonna go? He's can't fuckin see. He ain't goin anywhere. I'm comin down." He's annoyed, Kirby hears the elevator doors open, and then close. They shoot back to their feet and run, their shoes squeaking the whole way. He rounds the corner too fast and nearly falls, runs into the wall and rights himself before jogging the last few steps to the door.

"Ten minutes." Kirby whispers to himself, rests his hand on the doorknob, just now realizing it might be locked. His heart pounding in his chest, he rests his head against the door, digs his teeth into his lip, and presses down.

The handle moves. Kirby nearly yells in celebration but hunches his shoulders and holds it in, pushes the door open the smallest possible amount, and quietly ducks inside. He turns once he's in, rests his back against the door, tries to catch his breath.

But his eyes adjust to the dark quickly, and he sees the curain pulled around the bed. His stomach twists, his heart kicking back up again. Their hands are sweating, they wipe them on their pants and take a few small, squeaky, steps forward.

"Who's there?" Gator's voice. He sounds scared, Kirby hears rustling as he moves on the hospital bed.

"It's me." Kirby says, his voice small to his own ears, and he realizes that might not be enough.

"K-Kirby?" His voice falters and shakes and it pulls Kirby forward. They move fast, ducking under the curtain, nearly getting tangled when they stand back up. His hands find the foot of Gator's bed and he pulls himself up, swats at the curtain until it falls away from his shoulders and then he turns.

Gator's eyes are covered, bright white bandages wrapped around his head. His hair is no longer neat and slicked back, strands falling into his face where they've come loose. There's dirt, and blood, Kirby's sure, staining the skin of his face and hands.

Kirby hears the whimper that leaves him, his hands clutching his stomach as he takes a few steps around the bed. Gator's head turns with the sounds of his shoes. And seriously what the fuck was on his shoes that was making them do that?

"Yeah." Kirby finally says,

"It's me." Their voice soft. Gator listens to the last few steps, and then hangs his head.

"How'd you get in here?" He asks, his fingers, dirty and bloodstained around the nails, pick at the sheets. Kirby swallows, hard, wipes at the tears falling over his cheeks.

"I uh," he clears his throat, tries again,

"I snuck past the guard. He went downstairs. Someone else is comin up I guess. Ten minutes." He repeats the time again, glances at the door, has no idea how long it's been. Gator nods, slowly.

"You'll be in trouble if they catch you in here." He's frowning, Kirby can see his eyebrows drawing down, pressing into the bandages.

"I've been in trouble before." Kirby says, teeth worrying into his lip, their hand twitches toward Gator, fingers jumping and dancing near his leg.

"Not this kinda trouble." Gator says, turns his head away, stubborn as always. Kirby huffs, grabs the chair by the bed and drags it loudly across the floor, scoots it close to Gator's bed and throws himself into it.

"I don't care! Gator. I just-" he sniffles, wipes at his face again.

"I saw the ranch on the news. They said people were dead." Kirby bites at the last word, takes a deep shaking breath he knows Gator can hear. Gator drops his head back onto the pillow behind him.

"I'm not dead." He sighs, fingers twitching on the bed sheets, and Kirby can't take it, he reaches out and grabs Gator's hand, presses his palm flat over the back of it, curls his fingers under and holds on. The rough material of the cast presses deep into his skin, he doesn't care, barely feels it. Just feels the skin underneath.

"I can see that. And I knew that. They said- they said you gave him up. Roy. On the news. They said a lot of other stuff. But I didn't really hear it." He cleared his throat again, another sniffle.

"Are you cryin?" Gator asks, his hand pressing up into Kirby's.

"No." Kirby denys immediately, watches the corner of Gator's mouth twitch.

"Shut up." He says, squeezes Gator's hand.

"I'm okay." Gator whispers it, turns his hand under Kirby's and slides his fingers between theirs, the best he can.

"Are you? What happened? Did your dad do this to you?" Kirby sniffles again, drags his free hand under his nose and keeps his eyes on Gator's face. He shakes his head slowly, his messy hair bunching up against the pillow.

"Not him. Same guy who did this." He wiggles his arm genlty, his hand clenching Kirby's as he moves it.

"Wh- I don't- why?" Kirby stammers, hates when he does that. Scrunches his face up at the bad memories of stammering through school, and rubs at his eye, pushing his knuckle deep for a distraction.

"Cuz I fucked up. I couldn't let it go." His lip wobbles, Kirby watches him pull it between his teeth and slam his head back into the pillow, once, hard.

"Hey! Don't. Just- don't do that." Kirby's on his feet now, his hand on Gator's head, moving some of his hair away from his face.

"I'm so fuckin stupid. I just couldn't let it go. And he fucking left me there. He just left me." His voice is strained now, Kirby can see his throat clenching. They bite their own lip, watching Gator's face, can he cry like that? Is there even anything behind the bandages to cry.

Kirby swallows around the fire in their throat and leans down, tucks their head against Gator's neck. He feels Gator's arms move around him slowly. His cast hard against their back, his other hand on their shoulder, gentle, moving slow, so he doesn't dislodge the IV in his hand.

"You're not stupid. You're just- so fucking stubborn Gate." Kirby sniffles again, rubs his tears and his nose on Gator's shoulder and pulls back. Gator's hand moves down his arm as they pull away, not wanting to stop touching him. Kirby doesn't ask who left him. Doesn't need to.

Kirby sees the small smile fade as Gator sits there. They move their fingers over his forhead, then along the bottom of the bandages. Kirby cups his face, smiles when Gator leans into the touch.

"Thanks for comin to see me." He mumbles, his casted hand moving to cover Kirby's, genlty, pulling it away from his face. He rests their tangled hands on the bed again as Kirby sits back down.

"Wild dogs couldn't have kept me away." Kirby sniffles again, but his chest feels lighter, with Gator in front of him, awake. Alive.

"What about a room full of spiders?" Gator asks, his finger pressing into Kirby's palm, just feeling him, touching him.

"Oh fuck that. You would'a been on your own sir." Kirby tells him, matter of fact. The laugh that bursts out of Gator makes Kirby smile so big his cheeks burn, tears falling again as Gator snorts and rubs at his nose carefully, shaking his head gently.

"Gee thanks." He says, voice flat.

"Hey. I got past the wild dogs man. Okay? I tried. I did my best." Kirby teases, bites his lip. Pulls Gator's hand to his mouth and kisses across his knuckles. His stomach fluttering when Gator presses his fingers into his lips, moves them up to his cheek, his thumb moving over Kirby's lips in their place.

"Seriously." Gator says, his head leaning forward.

"Yeah. Anytime. Told you I'd be there for you." Kirby shrugs, knows Gator can't see it. It doesn't matter.

"Are you- will you be able to see? When those come off?" Kirby asks, they pull Gator's hand back down, resting on the bed again. Gator's fingers twitch in his hold, he sniffs loudly, his other hand moving to fiddle with the bottom of the bandages resting on his cheek.

"They don't know yet. Not for sure. Said my left eye looked promising. Whatever that means." He shrugs, leans his head back again, sighing deep in his chest.

"I think it's what they say when they mean it's better than nothing." Kirby shrugs too, their eyes glued to Gator's face, their fingers twitch against the bedding. Curiosity burning under the surface.

"What did he do? Exactly. To your eyes?" Kirby blurts,  cringes when Gator turns his head toward him slowly.

"Sorry. Don't- you don't have to- answer that. Sorry." Kirby frowns down into their lap, shaking their head at themselves.

"He heated a knife in a fire and cut my eyes out. Or... he tried too. Guess he missed the left one." Gator's voice is emotionless.

"Jesus christ. What- fuck." Kirby says, oh so eloquently. Gator snorts, nods.

"Yeah. That sums it up pretty well." He says, noding again, his mouth a tight line.

"I shouldn't have asked." Kirby says, voice quiet.

"You wouldn't be you if you didn't." He says, quiet, Kirby's head whips up, there's a small tilt to Gator's mouth, like he wants to smile. Hell, that is a smile for him.

"Yeah?" Kirby asks, smiling, feeling giddy. Gator's not mad. Not mad that he can't control his fucking mouth. Gator nods, gives Kirby's hand a squeeze.

"Wish I could see you." He sighs, head falling back again.

"Oh yeah? How come? I haven't changed much in three days." They tease, teeth digging into their lip. Their cheeks feeling warm at the thought, that Gator wants to see them.

"Just tryin to image the looks people gave you when you walked in." Gator muses, his head turning, toward Kirby, even though he can't see them.

"What do mean?" Kirby frowns.

"Your clothes aren't usually hospital appropriate, is all." He shrugs again. Kirby makes an offended noise in his throat.

"I have nice clothes ya know? I'm actually dressed quiet well, currently. Thank you very much." Kirby scoffs, yanks his hand away from Gator's and crosses his arms over his chest. He watches Gator smile, can tell he's doubtful, even without the normal look in his eyes.

"Oh yeah? What'er you wearing?" He asks, voice teasing already. Kirby looks down at himself, at the sweatervest he immediately regretted, and grimaced.

"Umm ya know what? That's not- that's neither here nor there. I'm here. With you. That's really all that matters." Kirby rambles, pats at Gator's hand. He chuckles, grabs for Kirby's hand and misses.

"Are you wearing something embarrassing?" Gator asks, smile on his face.

"You have to tell me if you are. I'm wounded. It's only fair." His hand reaches toward Kirby. They scoff again, tucking their legs up under them on the chair.

"How's that fair? I didn't wound you!" He swats at Gator's hand gently as he laughs.

"C'mon. Tell me what you're wearing." Gator pushes, his voice all curled at the edges and sweet. Kirby sighs.

"Ughh. At least buy me dinner first." Kirby mutters, scrambling around in the chair til his knees are tucked up under his chin, Gator's eyebrow twitches up, clearly amused.

"I'm wearing a sweatervest okay? Do not laugh! It's from one of my foster moms and it's very cozy. Okay? So just, hush it." Kirby points at Gator, accusingly. Gator can't see it, but he raisies his hands in surrender anyway.

"What color is it?" Gator asks, biting his lip.

"It's like a blue grey color. With black and white argyle down the front?" Kirby looks down at himself, smoothes his hands down his chest again, his feet falling to the floor.

"What's- which ones argyle?" Gator asks, frowning.

"The diamonds." Kirby tells him. He nods, seems to think for a second.

"Is it soft?" He's worrying his lip between his teeth again.

"Yeah. Here." Kirby stands, walks the two steps to the bed and takes Gator's hand, moves it to rest on his stomach. Gator's brows twitch again, suprised at the softness against his skin.

"I got a black t-shirt on under it." Kirby mumbles, ignores the way Gator pressing his fingers into his stomach makes him feel hot. More hot than all the fucking clothes he's wearing.

"And just some black jeans. No holes or nothin in 'em." Kirby scratches at the back of their neck, watches Gator pull the materal of the vest between his fingers, then watches him smooth it back down. His hand presses to Kirby's stomach again and he ducks away with an awkward giggle, rubbing at the spot Gator's hand had touched.

"Sorry. Ticklish." Kirby explains, grabs at the chair and scoots it a bit closer, til his legs hit it and he falls into it.

"Figures." Gator sighs.

"What?" Kirby frowns.

"The one time I can't see you, you're actually wearing clothes." Gator shakes his head.

"I wear... clothes." Kirby drawls, knows it's only a half truth, really, at best. Gator snorts a laugh.

"Sure ya do. Pretty sure this the first time you've ever worn an actual shirt around me." Gator says, the eyeroll is implied.

"You got a problem with my clothes man?" Kirby asks, tucks one knee up under his chin, smiles when Gator moves his head toward him again.

"No. I'm just sayin, ya know, just my luck that I can't see ya when there's nothin to look at." Gator's fingers move nervously against the sheets, tapping out random little rhythms.

"I mean not that I was... lookin. I'm just- just sayin." He sighs deeply, turns his head away as his cheeks and neck turn red. Kirby bites their lip.

"I saw you looking Gator." Kirby says, through a smile, presses his lips to his knee when Gator turns back to him.

"What? When? I thought I was bein subtle." Gator scratches at his cheek, his fingers brushing the edge of the bandages again.

"You weren't. At all. Like, not even a little." Kirby shakes their head at him.

"I saw you looking like, the second time you came to me for weed dude. It's why I invited you inside." Kirby tells him, chin resting on his knee now, he sees Gator's eyebrows jump up his forehead.

"What did you- did you think somethin was gonna happen?" Gator asks, sounding scandalized. Kirby laughs, shakes his head.

"No. But I figured inviting you in might make you relax. Get your hands out of your pockets and your shoulders down from around your ears. You were so tense man." Kirby chuckles at the memory.

"I didn't know if it was because you were buying weed. Or because of me." They sigh.

"Saw you lookin and figured maybe it was cuz of me. Or maybe it was both. Either way, inside was away from prying eyes." Kirby shrugs, reaches out and takes Gator's hand again.

"I didn't mind you looking. Just- wasn't sure what you were thinkin when you were." They squeeze Gator's hand, he squeezes back.

"I wasn't sure at first. I mean I wasn't- that's not something- that's allowed. In my house." Gator shakes his head. Kirby nods.

"I know. That's why I never did anything. Or said anything. I figured- if you wanted to do something about it, I'd just let you." Kirby turns Gator's hand in his, his fingers walking over the cast, moving to his arm and up his shoulder.

"Let you go at your own pace. Find your own way." Kirby scratches at Gator's shoulder and then drags his hand back down his arm, Gator sighs, leans into the touch.

"I'm just glad I figured it out." Gator mumbles, rubs at his nose.

"Glad I was brave enough to do somethin about it. That night. After the lake." Gator smiles, his body relaxing into his bed more.

"Me too." Kirby smiles, watches Gator for a moment.

"I should go. Let you get some rest. Are they- are they taking you away?" He'd been afraid to ask, his voice shaking a little, his heart picking up again.

"Yeah. Don't know how long. But my step mom. Or- my old step mom. Nadine. Or- she's goes by Dorthy now. Dot. She's- she said she'd visit. Bring me cookies. Anything else I need too." Gator shrugs, tries to play it off. Kirby sees his chest flutter, watches his lip wobble.

"I'll come visit too. Everyday if you want? I'll visit so much you'll get sick'a me." Kirby perks up, scoots forward in his chair, perched on the edge like a bird. Gator frowns, his hand going still in Kirby's.

"You'd come visit?" He sounds uncertain, like he thinks it might be a trick.

"Course I would. Snuck in here to see ya didn't I?" Kirby assures him, watches Gator's lip tremble again before he drags his teeth over it, he nods, swallows hard.

"Okay. Th-thanks." Gator stammers, Kirby opens their mouth to answer but the door clicking open cuts him off. Gator squeezes his hand, hard, Kirby's eyes are locked on where the door would be if there was no curtain.

"Shit." He breathes, barely makes a sound.

"Don't you worry. I won't be a minute." A woman's voice says, high and thick with that accent Kirby's come to enjoy so much. He moves his eyes to Gator when he loosens his grip. The door clicks shut again. Footsteps, coming toward them. The curtain pulls to the left and brings them face to face with a small mousy woman. Her eyes widen when they land on Kirby.

"Oh. Hey there." She says, easy, her suprise fading fast. She glances at the door, then back to Kirby.

"You sneak in during the shift change?" She asks, voice lowered. Kirby swallows, nods, too frightened to speak. She nods back, gives him an adorable smile.

"That was my plan too if they wouldn't let me in." She scrunches her face, her eyes land on Kirby and Gator's hands, their fingers still laced together, Kirby pulls their hand free quickly, shoves both hands into his lap.

"You a friend'a Gator's?" She asks, sweetly, as she moves around the other side of the bed.

"This is Kirby Na- sorry. Dorthy." Gator grimaces at his mistake. The woman doesn't seem to notice, just smiles at him, and then at Kirby, her hand moving to Gator's head, fingers dragging smoothly through his hair.

"It's a pleasure to meet ya Kirby. I'm Dorthy. Gator's... Gator's friend too." She hesitates, her eyes dropping to Gator's face and then back to Kirby.

"I saw you on the news ma'am." Kirby says, manners from a foster home long gone kicking in. She smiles at him again, and it's soft, and warm, and feels safe.

"Oh yeah? I'm sure I looked a mess." She shakes her head, laughs a little.

"You looked fine. Looked nice. Just- looked like a mom." Kirby shrugs, and she had. She'd looked a little rough around the edges, but ultimately, she'd looked like a mom, trying to get back to her kid.

"Well that's sweet of ya to say." She waves him off, looks back to Gator, her hand still in his hair.

"There gonna be takin him in about ten minutes. I just wanted to say goodbye. Til I see ya again." She leans down, kisses Gator's forhead. He smiles, nods, his teeth embedded in his lip so hard Kirby's worried it'll bleed. He's trying not to cry. Can't speak because of it.

"If you give me five minutes I'll distract 'em so you can sneak out. If ya want?" She's looking at Kirby again. He stares, doesn't mean to, but she's... odd. In a good way. Like she understands things, sees things the way Kirby does sometimes.

"Okay. I mean yeah that'd be- thanks." Kirby nods. She nods back, kisses Gator's head one more time, walks around the bed to Kirby.

"It's very nice to meet you Kirby." There's a weight to her words that Kirby feels deep in his chest. She doesn't know him, doesn't know them at all, but she means it. Kirby reaches out, takes her hand, shakes.

"You too ma'am. Really." He stands, she smiles, tugs him into a quick hug, just a tight squeeze, and then she's gone. The door shutting slowly behind her. When Kirby turns back, Gator is reaching for him, casted hand outstretched. Kirby grabs it immediately, crowds close to him on the bed.

"You gotta go." Gator whispers, pulling Kirby's hand to his chest.

"I know. I don't wanna." Kirby breathes, his head dropped to Gator's shoulder.

"Will you do me a favor? Before you go?" Gator asks, his voice shaking, Kirby can feel him trembling.

"Of course. What is it?" They ask, leaning up so they can see him. Gator's head is turned towards him, if he could see, he wouldn't be looking quite at him, just off to the side.

"Will you kiss me?" He licks his lips.

"I mean like really kiss me. So I know what it's like? So I get to have that? With you. Before I go." His head droops, his shoulders shake, Kirby thinks he might be crying, best he can. They take a deep breathe, and reach out, cupping Gator's face and tilting it up again.

"I'll kiss you anytime you want." Kirby whispers, breathes it like a promise against Gator's lips and then kisses him. Slow and deep. Gator clings to him, both hands fisted in the back of his shirt, pulling them closer. He whines into Kirby's mouth and groans when he pulls away.

"Any time you want." He breathes again, teeth dragging over Gator's bottom lip as he pulls back. Gator chases his lips, leans forward and groans again when Kirby presses their hand to his chest, stopping him.

"I'm gonna miss you." Gator breathes, and it sounds broken, his voice wrecked.

"Naw, you won't. I'm gonna be there every day 'memeber?" He moves his hand up, from Gator's chest to his hair, moves his fingers into it, scratches them against Gator's scalp and smiles when he hums, presses into the touch.

"You'll be sick'a me in no time." Kirby leans down, presses another quick kiss to his lips. He sees Gator open his mouth, to argue, he's sure. When they hear a crash in the hall, voices yelling, moving away from the door.

"That's my cue. I'll see you soon Gate. Real soon." Kirby squeezes his shoulder and moves away, keeping his eyes on Gator til he's at the door. Gator's hand raises in a wave, his fingers wiggling over his cast as the other hand presses to his lips. Kirby smiles, tears falling down his cheeks, and ducks out the door.

He steps into chaos, Dorothy is down the hall a bit, laying on the floor, hand to her head. The gaurd on Gator's door and three nurses surround her. She meets his eyes through the guards legs and winks. He nods to her, still smiling, and bolts down the hall, his shoes screeching against the tiles as he runs and runs, ducking into the elevator and out of sight.

[psychotic-nonsense]

"I'm sorry."

It's the first thing Steve says after everything.

After getting Vecna Cursed. After nearly dying. After a hallucination of Eddie saved him. After running through a looped forest. After finding sanctuary in Steve's memory of that Starcourt bathroom. After Eddie reveals himself as Eddie.

It's the only thing he can think of. It's not big enough to fit everything, but it's the only thing that fits in his mouth.

"Don't be."

Maybe that's the only thing Eddie can think of too. The only thing Eddie can bear to say.

Because don't be can't stop Steve's eyes from watering when he sees the vest in his closet. Don't be can't stop Steve's feet from dragging him to the cemetery every evening to clean Eddie's graffiti-covered tombstone. Don't be can't stop Steve from sitting beside Wayne and listening to him talk about the Eddie he remembers. Don't be can't stop Eddie's body from showing up in Steve's dreams, nor Eddie's corpse from his nightmares. Don't be couldn't keep the pain away enough, didn't stop Vecna from latching onto it while Steve was walking alone in the woods.

Don't be isn't enough for what Steve wants to hear. But even stuck here waiting, hoping, for someone to get Steve out, there just isn't enough time.

"I miss you."

"...Why?"

Eddie says it back so quickly, so quietly, like it's just unfathomable to him. Maybe it is, considering their last memories. But their eyes meet and he looks just as sad, just as longing, as Steve.

"You were my friend."

Steve can't help but say it like that. Like they were friends for years instead of days. Like Eddie was that important to him in their final moments. Like his heart really aches for Eddie every second of the apocalypse.

Can't help but say it like he means it.

"I wish we could've had more time..."

Steve's voice cracks a little there as he turns away, hiding. It's all he wants. It's all Vecna used to entice him with. It's all that's keeping him going, to finally fulfill the last request Eddie made. It's all he has left to feel close to Eddie.

The Eddie that's sitting right next to him, silent, his sight weighing on Steve's skin. Conscious and aware and the real Eddie. Trapped in Vecna's head as a backup power source, yet who still risked everything to come save Steve. Who Steve will never see again because killing Vecna means killing Eddie for good, and his heart doesn't want it, is begging for another solution...

But for once, his broken head overpowers his shattered heart.

"Maybe we did."

Eddie takes Steve's hand. Meets Steve's surprised look with his own small smile of hope. They're both suddenly tearing up, eyes glistening with life in this gray stall.

"Maybe in another world, we got a second first chance. A first second chance. Maybe even a third, or fourth. Maybe in a different life, we had everything we wanted. Because you, Steve Harrington, are too good for me to be doomed to meet just once."

And for a moment, Steve sees it. Feels it. Versions of them connected through the universe.

Little kids playing in the lake. One with bruised skin and shaved hair, loud but unfathomably lonely. One with a bruised heart and soft eyes, timid but stubbornly hopeful.

A rockstar with glittering chains, center stage in the spotlight. A set of eyes in the crowd or behind the curtain, watching only him.

A werewolf and a vampire, two cryptids of horror, meeting in the dead of a full moon night to feel safe with the only other one who understands.

A future where they won, where the only death was the one that mattered. A process of healing and learning, coming home to a family every single day.

A world without pain, without their hell, where two high schoolers found freedom from their shackles and company in each other. Hiding away together in the dark corners of the town.

Steve even sees other versions of them. Versions that he knows were originally never supposed to meet, yet forces so much greater than them pulled them together.

A metalhead drug dealer, constantly getting into trouble with one nail-bat-weilding cop.

A criminal's fugitive nature leading him to a rugged trailer park, and the dangerous owner within one such home.

An eccentric king in an old coliseum, always choosing one particular warrior as his champion.

A young programmer being pulled away from his work by sobs above his apartment, running upstairs to check on the law student that recently moved in.

Two actors, finding an easy friendship in the months of filming one season of a show that would change their lives.

In that moment, Steve's overwhelmed by the closeness he suddenly feels with the soul beside him. Falling into tears, he pulls Eddie into a tight hug, holding him so so close to convey everything he can't say. Feeling Eddie hold him back, hearing everything Eddie can't say in return.

Familiar music comes on outside the stall. Robin's voice calls out to him, telling him to come home.

And when he does leave, Steve hopes that someone out there will understand that he never can. Because here in Eddie's arms is the only place that will ever truly feel like home.

"Thank you... for everything, Eddie."

Thank you, Steve. For everything and more..."

--------------------

- List of AUs, in order, after, "Versions of them connected through the universe": Childhood Friends / Rockstar!Eddie / Werewolf!Steve & Vampire!Eddie / Eddie Survives / No Upside Down & High School

- List of Multiverse Steddie AUs, in order, after, "...yet forces so much greater than them pulled them together": Eddie x Gator / Baron x Michael / Geta x Sean / Keys x Eric / Quinn and Keery

[jaebeomsbitch]

There’s nothing you hated more than being sick. You felt helpless and useless, leaning against your partner for help when you despised relying on others. Nonetheless you sit quietly next to him feeling the heat of his arm radiating deep into your skin as you cough and sniffle.

You wipe your nose with your sleeve standing up and slowing, swaying with dizziness.

“Woah, hold on. What do you need baby?” He asks softly holding onto your wrist, thumb tracing your inner wrist comfortingly.

“Need a blanket” you murmur, wiping more snot against your sleeve. He pulls you down softly onto his lap.

“Got one here sweetheart, where it’s always at” he says, pulling the blanket from the back of the couch where it always hangs.

“Oh” you blink, as he spreads the soft fabric over the two of you, tucking in the edges under your thighs.

“Better?" he asks quietly, his fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns onto your thigh.

When you nod sleepily, he leans in and whispers into your ear, "Good. Now let's try to enjoy this movie, yeah? No more coughing allowed - I want to hear those sweet little gasps of yours when the scary parts come on."

[floredaqueen]

I apologize for being silent! I do wanna post more but I'm being to get picky with it!

Meanwhile, I will be posting tid bits of my progress work! It will keep me motivated and hopefully keep you guys interested!

[springfaekohaku]

A Rabbit Cannot Pretend To Be Bigger Than Itself II

Chapter 2

Gator’s introduction to his new temporary “home” was a quick one. It must’ve been because of the fact he cannot see, but everything went like a flurry of voices, being directed by the chains attached to his cuffs and how the environments changed from the sound of a plane, to a engine of a bus with other prisoners like him and the gravel beneath his feat.

It was much quieter and eerie in the Federal Medical Centre. His process of being checked out, records being collected and approved, his medical records in the system and medication to be scheduled at a timely manner everyday. Some to be taken everyday and others to be taken every few days, the chronic migraines he gets now is debilitating, his right arm thankfully out of that hideous cast and fully healed, however mentally, it’s a different story, as he has to take antidepressants every day now.

Time seems to go fast when he’s just existing and going along with everyone else’s seeing eyes. How they control and direct his every move and actions, whether it’s to make sure he doesn’t trip on a step or to be prepared for a body search as they give him new khaki green and white prison clothes. He has no control, he doesn’t have dignity or pride here, the ball is in their court and he knows he’s better off than his father — that’s for sure. He can imagine the treatment and process of Roy being put in Federal Imprisonment, which will most likely not be a welcomed one. Gator feels that there’s a likely chance that his father would flourish in prison, take charge and become like a wolf, create his own pack and live a comfortable life despite being behind bars.

He’d make do, something Gator will have to do as well, but in his own way. Gator will not be like his father. Never.

This is a new start for him, this rehabilitation, this isolation and confinement, he will serve his time and during it — he will become a better person. The rabbit knows its place now, it can use its nose to sniff out its environments, use its body to feel and huge ears to hear, its teeth only meant for food and not the flesh of other creatures or people.

The blind man is escorted by the elbow to his new cell, thankfully which is on the ground floor and easily accessible and closer to the main security box and inside courtyard with tables for leisure. He hears commotion, meaning everyone is still awake and it must be daylight with how active everyone is. Gator hears the guard talk, he didn’t pay attention enough to get his name. He has a very strong Texan accent, it makes him envision the man with a full moustache, a stubble on both sides, his hair brown and medium length with a sharp jawline. His hands feel bony but his grip is strong, it’s oddly reassuring — knowing he at least is in the hands of someone that’s not gonna lead him astray or snap like a twig. If Gator would fall due to a misstep or by simply tripping on his own feet, at least this guy would catch him and pick him up easily, because Gator is no small guy.

But, Gator knows there are bigger guys here. He can hear them clearly, their booming voices, deep and masculine while others are meek and quiet — it’s quite the spectrum. He can’t pretend to be a wolf like his father, he’s a rabbit, a blind rabbit at that and he needs to remember that.

“Well, here is your cell,” the Texan guard states, “Number 8. Now, just stay right there as I open up the cell door okay?” Gator feels his hands grip leave his elbow and it must be because he’s so touch starved but he misses the human touch already.

Gator simply stands and he’s grateful that while in hospital, as he recovered, he learned how to stand by himself without falling or felling like the world is tilting on its axis; it took him a while to feel right in the darkness but he did it. He hears the jingle of keys and the insertion of said key for his cell to be unlocked, iron bars being parted and slid across.

It felt like the guard took ages but Gator feels his hand on his elbow again and his voice cutting through the commotion, “Now, I will be back with your amenities, toiletries and cane. You, just sit here on your bunk bed below and sit tight alright?” The guard explains, as he settles Gator down.

Gator notices immediately how the commotion gotten a little more quieter when stepping through his cell, his shoes don’t echo when they walk towards his bed and the guards voice doesn’t bounce off the walls; it feels secluded and like it’s his domain now. The young man can only nod as he’s placed on his new bed, the mattress isn’t like his own in his old room but it’s better than nothing. He hears the sounds of keys and his cell door close again and the telltale sound of boots walking away. All he can do is think and go over his thoughts so far as he waits.

Firstly, a cane? Gator wasn’t sure how this whole thing was gonna work out, he never heard of a blind person in prison before, he never thought he he’d be one but here he is. He’s heard horror stories from Roy how folk in prison will use anything they have to maintain order, to protect themselves or use to hurt others. Shanking is the one he’s heard of the most, he knows of certain gangs and certain people you have to look out for and steer clear from. He doesn’t know how this will work, but if they give him access to a cane, then surely it means he’s protected enough that no one will steal it or use it as a weapon right? He’s already at a disadvantage, he doesn’t even know what he looks like now. Sure, he’s had Dot to take care of that while he was in hospital, but he knows he’s already lost some weight, that he doesn’t look intimidating or anything like the rest. He’s just a rabbit in a place full of other creatures, sure, maybe he’ll find others like him but he’s unsure how he’ll approach that.

Secondly, he misses Dot immensely. He’s already thought of her multiple times since departing from her. But, he holds onto that hope and knowing that she’ll visit with his favourite cookies makes him smile.

After some pondering, he hears whistling and the sounds of boots again, jingles of keys and his cell door opens once again.

“Alrighty, I’m back with all your things.” The Texan guard announces, Gator can tell he said it with a sly grin.

“Now, I’ll set your stuff up with you so that you know where everything is and you’re accommodated as well as possible.” The guard says and goes to Gators side, “We’ll do this together and then you have free leisure to yourself until dinner time. Okay?” Gator nods, holding out his elbow and the guard takes it like they’ve done it hundreds of times before.

Gator is given a small thorough tour of his cell. He’s had objects placed in his hands and his guard labels them as he guides Gator to place them on the sink, on his small wooden desk and on his bed. He made sure that the young man knew where the toilet was and where the rolls were kept as well. In the end, the cell didn’t have much but it worked for Gator, because it means less hazards. His guard tells him the wooden desk is light and has rounded corners as well. His sheet bedding was already on, but the Texan guard gives him some extra blankets and another pillow for comfort. It might mean he has to do more laundry but Gator didn’t mind, not if it meant he can spoon the pillow without any judgement or onlooking eyes at night.

As Gator is set back down on his bed again, the guard coughs and clears his throat, “Now, Gator, I need to get back to my station. I hope you settle in well, if you need anything, just give a holler alright? Dinner will be announced in a few hours.”

Gator hears the same pattern of sounds again and turns his head towards his opened cell gate and opens his mouth, he stutters but finds his voice.

“T-Thank you…ah?” The pattern of sounds break and he hears the guards voice hitch. The man gives a slight huff and chuckle, “Austin. But the names Officer Garcia to you.” Gator knows he must’ve turned his head because he could hear his voice clearly. He gives a small grin in return.

“Thank you, Officer Garcia.” Gator says and with that, the Texan guard now known as Officer Garcia walks out and closes his cell door, locking it and his footsteps faded away. His whistle of an old tune carries down from the open hall of cells and cut off as he exists past the security box.

Gators day was mostly travelling and being processed, his stomach grumbles in protest but he’s tired. He feels for his fold up cane on his bed and tugs it close to him, this is his eyes now, this will guide him and is now an extension of himself.

It hasn’t hit him just yet.

He knows it will.

But for now, he only wants to sleep. So, he kicks off his shoes, places his cane under his pillow and searches blindly for his blanket. It’s thin but a nice material and enough to keep him warm, the weather is different here and definitely warmer, but Gator yearns for that weight to be over him and make him feel held and secure.

He ignores the faint sound of other prisoners and guards, he evens out his breaths and thinks of Dot, he thinks of his favourite metal bands and cookies.

His body curls up in a fetal position and he’s never felt so small before. Like he’s a kid again. He thinks, on the verge of sleep about his childhood, his bringing and moments of comfort and happiness. Maybe, he’ll dream of him in another life where he was taken away and saved by Dot, where he lived happily and comfortably as a rabbit, that way, he’d still have his eyes and vision, where he never ended up in prison…dreaming of a better life.

So, he falls asleep.

And he dreams.

[sadhours]

scumbag blues • battery acid

gator tillman x f!original character

previous chapter • masterlist

cw: 18+minors dni, unsolicited dick pics/videos, mean texts, drinking, kind of smut??? Gator tries

Daisy’s depressed. She’s been turning away clients left and right. The money from Roy keeps the bills paid but it’s tighter than before and her pops has noticed. Says something about it when Daisy’s cooking him lunch.

“I don’t know why things have taken such a turn, Daisy,” he sounds stressed. “We haven’t had a single guest in two weeks.”

“It’ll turn back around,” she assures him, “always does.”

Her mothers voice rings in her ears. Same mantra about how women have to take care of things. How women have a magic money maker between their legs and they’d be fools not to take advantage.

Her phone vibrates in her pocket, she pulls it out and looks down at the notification. Gator. Hasn’t had the guts to block him like she should. She slides it open and is met with a photo of his cock. Hard as hell. He’s on his bed, she can see his cargos bunched up around his ankles and his combat boots. He’s sent You can’t quit me, baby along with the photo and she hates the way it ignites a flame in her stomach. She locks her phone and shoves it back in her pocket, resuming the can of tomato soup she’d been heating up. She wishes Gator would just give it up. There’s plenty of other women for sale in this county. But she knows he likes her. Their sexual chemistry is undeniable. And she’s certain Gator hasn’t been with any other woman. Yet, she doesn’t even know how many men she’s been with. It’s unfair. She can’t quit this. And that’s what Gator deserves, so she’ll have to quit him.

She butters up the bread for grilled cheeses, determined to get out of this funk and start taking clients again. Her mother would tell her she’s pathetic. Gator’s always been a client, he started out as such and it’d be laughable to think they could be more. It’s a god damn pipe dream and they both know it.

—

When Daisy reads his message but doesn’t respond, Gator gets furious but his cock is still hard. The arousal mixed with the anger facilitates in a bit of harassment on his end. He records himself jacking off, mumbles about how he knows she wants him. How she’s gonna watch it later and play with her pretty pussy. Which he fully believes. Records himself cumming, muttering, “Wish I was cumming in your tight hole, baby.”

Again, Daisy opens the messages and doesn’t respond. And now that Gator’s cock is softening, the anger takes over and he sends a handful of messages.

Whatever, bitch. Ur not even pretty. Just fucking easy.

Ur used up.

Probably should get tested. God knows ur fckn infected. Nasty slut.

Fuck u bitch

Then, Gator realizes these won’t help his case in any way so he sends another.

I’m sorry. Just miss u and I ain’t good at controlling my temper

The last message never delivers and Gator’s feeling like a pathetic loser with his cum drying on his stomach. Cleans himself up and grabs his keys. He needs to get as drunk as humanly possible. Fuck, he doesn’t care that it’s only noon. This pit of dread filling him needs to be released and alcohol can dull it. The Esquire Club opens at 10 am. He’ll be with like minded company. And well, if it’s two blocks from the Inn, that’s just a coincidence. He isn’t hoping that Daisy’ll wander in desperate for money. Definitely not.

The place is dead when he gets there aside from a couple of dudes rambling about sports. Gator doesn’t keep up with football anymore. Too bitter about high school. He would’ve been scouted, out of this shithole and never would’ve touched Daisy Way if that prick hadn’t busted his ankle. Swears if he ever sees that fucker again, he’ll kill him.

The hours drone on, Gator filling his belly with cheap whiskey and countless beers. Is absolutely stumbling around when the sun goes down. There’s girls in here tonight. Ones that know Gator’s the sheriff’s son, girls that touch his biceps and ask if he’s ever had to shoot anyone. He tells grandiose stories, fibbing on the extremities. Yeah, he sees a ton of action. Yeah, Gator’s a fucking badass. He’s a fucking winner.

He gets one of the girls in the bathroom, a brunette with heavy makeup and a short skirt. Has her leg propped up on the graffitied toilet. Limp dick in his hand as he tugs it, pleading internally for it to fill out but it just fucking won’t. He knows it’s the whiskey, his whole body is fucking numb. But he can’t help but think that if this were Daisy bent over for him, he’d be hard as a rock. It’s pathetic and it’s weird, but he grabs hold of the girl's hair and tugs her head back so he can grunt into her ear.

“You want me to fuck you, Daisy? Huh?” he laughs, “Want me to stretch you out so bad?”

“My names not Daisy?” the girl replies, confusion dripping in her voice.

“Shh,” he hisses, pulling on his cock and focusing on the fantasy, trying to will his dick to life. Nothing. He balls his fist up and slams it against the stall, “Fuck!”

He shoves his flaccid length back into his cargos and barrels out of there. Leaving the girl stunned and exposed. He’s a fucking loser. If he goes by the Inn, it’ll be pummeled into his head what a fucking loser he is. Somehow, he winds up at Faye’s apartment building. Hits the buzzer. Over and over until he hears her sleepy voice.

“Who is it?”

“Faye, it’s me— er,” he hiccups, “Gator. Can I come up?”

“Gator, it’s the middle of the night,” she sighs, “I don’t think it’s a good idea.”

“Please,” he whines, hates how pathetic he sounds, “I have nowhere else to go. I won’t be fucking weird. Okay? I just… please, Faye.”

A beat of silence. Then the buzz and a green light. Gator tugs the door open and stumbles inside, looking down the hall until a door opens. Faye steps outside, rubbing her eyes and she’s wearing a long, flowy nightgown. She lets him inside and because of his intoxicated state, he clings onto her and fucking cries. Like the pathetic loser he is. But she wraps her arms around him.

“Gator, what happened?”

“I’m… I’m such a fucking loser,” he sobs, “I ruin everything.”

Faye squeezes him tighter, rubs his back soothingly. “Oh, Gator…”

She pulls back and puts her hands on his face, “I’m gonna make some tea. Sit on the couch and we’ll talk about it. Okay?”

She’s so good. So pure. So sweet. Gator hiccups and nods, moving to rub his fists against his teary eyes. Then he trudges to her living room, waiting for her to return.

[sadhours]

scumbag blues • dead end friends

gator tillman x f!oc

previous chapter • masterlist

cw: 18+ minors dni, violence, masturbation, roy, sex work

🤍🩶🤍🩶

Working the ranch after a gnarly night of drinking at for the faint of heart. Gator pukes about ten times while he’s out there, five of them when he’s shoveling shit. Roy looks as happy as a clam. The few times he sees Gator working, he laughs and claps him on the back, bellows out a bible verse Gator ignores. Works harder when he’s angry though. Takes his frustration out on the labor. Makes his body tired by the end of the day.

As he showers, his sick mind imagines strangling Daisy ‘til her face turns blue but it shifts. He’s still choking her but she’s smiling, that pretty cock drunk expression on her face while he mercilessly pounds into her pussy. Can fucking hear the squelch of it and Daisy’s pornographic moans. His dick fills out despite himself, he punches the tile of the shower wall ‘cause he’s so pissed at himself. Of course his anger towards her would facilitate itself as sick and twisted horniess. Imagines slapping her face and pulling her hair but in his mind she cries out in pleasure, begs for more and writhes in the sheets. Because she would, because he’s seen it a hundred times. Daisy loves it rough, loves being told she’s a worthless slut, that she’s addicted to his cock, she’d babble agreements. She’d cum all over his cock.

Gator wraps his fingers around his base, squeezes tight as he clenches his eyes shut. Flashes of Daisy in the many positions he’s put her in, folded up like a pretzel and he tries to remember the way her pussy feels, all wet and clenching around him. Gator spits down on his shaft and spreads it with his fist, tries to recreate how Daisy feels but it ain’t as good. He can picture her face all fucked out, drooling and crying about how good it feels. Pictures her tits, same ones he swore were fake the first time he seen ‘em, bouncing in time with his ruthless thrusts. What makes him cum is imagining her cumming on his cock, crying out in pleasure and calling him daddy. Spurts white, thick ropes on the tiles. Eyes clenched tight while he catches his breath.

What she’d said to him the night before floods his thoughts. Sends Gator spiraling. Has him planning on visiting the evidence room and then heading to a big empty field, artillery packed tight. Shooting at shit usually makes him feel better. Gator considers that maybe getting some other pussy might suffice. Daisy ain’t the only hooker in Stark County. But she is the prettiest. Probably the cleanest.

—

Daisy’s folding sheets when the bell chimes. She’s wearing a delicate floral dress, white with navy flowers and her hairs tied up in a haphazard bun, allowing the air from the fan to reach her sweaty neck. Housework days are the worst. She wanders out of the back room to the front desk, not surprised to see Roy standing in the lobby. Hands in his pocket and a smile that says he’s privy to what she said to Gator the night before. But she knows Gator didn’t tell him, she’s a little worried. Hopes Gator is okay, but Roy wouldn’t be smiling like that if Gator hurt himself.

“What happened to your door?” Roy asks, looking smug as can be.

“Your son happened,” Daisy raises an eyebrow, “I gotta replace that. Lord knows how much that’ll cost.”

Roy pulls out a stack of cash, lays it out on the desk and smiles, “That ought to cover it.”

“Sheriff— I, it feels wrong,” Daisy sighs, looking down at the money. “I really shouldn’t accept it.”

“It’s a gift,” Roy says, “Be rude of you not to.”

Daisy picks up the bills and tucks them into the lockbox, sighing. She opens her mouth to speak but Roy interrupts her, “A token of my appreciation. Whatever the hell you said to him sure as day worked.”

“I banned him,” Daisy says, “Told him he couldn’t have my pussy even he offered a million bucks.”

She isn’t sure why she’s bragging, but she wants to impress Roy, wants him to really know she did a good job. Because it was hard saying that to Gator, even if his cruelness inspired it.

“Well, I ain’t seen him clean the stables that good since he was a kid, so it worked,” he taps his fingers against the desk.

Daisy blurts it out before she can help herself, “I care for Gator. I don’t like hurting him. Hell, Sheriff, I’d quit this shit in a heartbeat if he wanted me to.”

Roy’s face hardens, anger clouds his eyes as he looks at her, “My boy’s not gonna marry an impure woman. Now, if he’d been only sucker to defile you, that’d be a different story. But that ain’t the one we’re in, and I know that if I pay the right price, I could get an hour with you in one of them rooms. And the lord don’t take too kindly on that, so I won’t, but the sin runs deep in your veins, girl. And, God almighty would smite me if I allowed that into my family. So, Daisy, cut your losses. Don’t you go fantasizing about that possibility, ‘cause it won’t ever be one. Gator’s my only son, and he’s barely useful at that. You tainted him enough, but you will never taint him more than you have. And I’ll make sure of that.”

Daisy’s throat tightens as tears fill her eyes, she fantasizes about the possibility of Gator on his knees for her in a god honoring way more than she’d like to admit. If she thinks about it too much, she’ll come to the realization she’s in love with the fucker and Roy’s just spelled it out loud and clear that he won’t allow it. So she can’t daydream too much. Knows it’s a god damn pipe dream anyways. Gator don’t love her, never will because she knows this is the ideals he grew up with. Looks at her as damaged goods never worthy of a ring. And it’s the smack in the face she needed.

“I understand,” she swallows the lump in her throat, “Thanks for stopping by, Sheriff. It’s been a real pleasure.”

“A real one, I’m sure,” he rips his hat at her because he saunters out. Leaves Daisy stunned, tears in her eyes as she tries to forget about all the real pleasures she’s had with Gator. Sure she’s had them because she’s in love with him.

—

“Daisy,” Daphne smiles, red hair blown from the wind as she steps into the lobby. Her skin is kissed with sun, her cheeks filled with cheer as she skips into the space between them. Wraps her arms around Daisy’s waist and pulls her tight against her, squeaking out an “I’m in love!”

Daisy smiles, hugging Daphne back just as tight. Thinks to herself that she’s also in love, but she’s gotta move past it. Hates that in the two weeks since Roy’s last visit, all she can think about is her feelings for Gator. Hitting her like a damned semi truck. Making work difficult when she’s closing her eyes, picturing the deputy beneath her just for the men to ask her to look at them. Hates that her mothers distant voice is in her head, telling her to keep it together. She ain’t raised her to fall for a client so easily.

“Daphne, you been gone three years, I sure as shit hope you fell in love,” Daisy mumbles as she squeezes her best friend. “Tell me about the lucky fella.”

“Sean,” Daphne gushes, hands wrapping around Daisy’s elbows as she pulls away. “We met on the mission. He’s an actor.”

“An actor?” Daisy smirks, “Shit, we got so much in common already!”

Daphne rolls her eyes but her smiles genuine, dreamy even. “We’re engaged.”

“You Christian’s move so quick,” Daisy teases, guiding Daphne to the couches in the lobby. “Is he sexy?”

Daphne squeals, hands rushing to her face as she stomps her feet in excitement, “The sexiest man I’ve ever seen.”

“He ask your daddy?”

“The night we got in, at dinner,” Daphne extends her hand to show Daisy the rock.

“Oh, fuck, he’s loaded, ain’t he?” Daisy’s eyes bulge as she inspects the ring.

“That don’t matter,” she waves her hand but her eyes tell Daisy everything she needs to know. “I lost it to him.”

“You harlot!” Daisy scolds sarcastically, “How was it? Worth the sin?”

“So worth it, first two weeks we couldn’t stop, I was so dehydrated,” Daphne admits, squeezing Daisy’s knee.

“Ain’t so bad, huh? I always said, you gotta try it to see if it’s worth spending the rest of your life with,” Daisy grins, though her mind slips to Gator. Can’t imagine better sex. Can’t imagine a better man to wake up next to and her makes her heart hurt. Daphne’s quick to catch it.

“Gator?”

Daisy sighs, “Sheriff’s paying me not to see him. I haven’t had an orgasm in so long.”

Daphne frowns then, “You like Gator so much, why let Roy in the way?”

“I don’t like Gator,” Daisy says sternly, eyebrows furrowed.

“Daisy,” Daphne scowls, “You and I both know that ain’t true. You had a crush on him since you were thirteen, and then, what, you’ve spent the last five years gushing about him. You can’t lie to me, babe.”

“I love him,” she admits, the first time out loud. Sounds ashamed when she says it ‘cause she is. “But the sheriff really don’t want us together. And I ain’t about to wind up in jail just ‘cause I love that man. It ain’t worth it. Imagine what my daddy would do without me— god forbid, he knew what I was doing here.”

“I’m just saying,” Daphne starts, “maybe this life is worth leaving behind if Gator means so much to ya.”

“Gator wouldn’t marry me anyways,” Daisy admits, “His daddy wouldn’t let him and really, last time I saw him I banned him from the Inn. Motherfucker punched the damn glass on the door. Trashed my client's car.”

“Would he do that if he didn’t want you so bad?” Daphne challenges, “Gator’s just as sick with love as you, darling, he’s just gonna be too stubborn to admit it first.”

“I miss him,” Daisy confesses, “Not even the sex part, I just miss being around him. He made me feel something, ya know?”

“I do know,” Daphne smiles, squeezing Daisy’s knee, “I’m not running from my something. You shouldn’t either.”

Daphne’s right but Roy’s scarier than the truth.

[buckysgrace]

One I've Been Missing

12 days of Christmas

Gator gets his first Christmas off

Gator

“You really have to work tomorrow?” Daphne asked as she shifted in her spot again, wiggling until she was able to get the belt buckle comfortable over her pregnant belly once again. She dipped her fingers into a bag of Cheetos once again, something that she had snatched when they had stopped at the gas station a few minutes ago. She had claimed that she hadn’t been able to hold her bladder anymore, cursing the babies in the process. 

“I told you,” He sighed softly, keeping his hands tight around the wheel, “Roy won’t let me take off. I need to be there.” He reminded her, feeling like they had gone through this once before. Which they had. Multiple times. 

“But why?” She asked, pouting out her lips as she watched him. He breathed in deeply, feeling guilty but knowing it was important that he was there. He wanted to show Roy that he cared, that he truly wanted to improve his career. Especially now that he was going to be a dad. Maybe he was a little hellbent on impressing his kids. 

“Because it’s my job,” He grinned as he glanced towards her, “It’s just another day.” He told her seriously, knowing it had been a long time since he felt in a good mood for any holiday celebrations. His mom had always made Christmas special. 

“It’s Christmas,” She reminded him, blue eyes twinkling in surprise, “What if you split a shift? Got off early?” She began to suggest again, munching down more furiously on the Cheetos in her hand. He paused as he turned towards her. 

“It doesn’t work like that.” He reminded her softly, wishing that it was that simple. If things were easier maybe, but things were never that effortless. Not with them, but he was used to that now. 

“Did you ask your dad?” She asked him once again, words muffled by the amount of chips that were in her mouth now. He turned towards her, a smile on his lips despite the seriousness in her tone. 

He hadn’t asked Roy. There was no thought about asking him either. He already knew what the answer would be, so it was pointless. Not to mention that Roy didn’t really control that aspect anyways, but she didn’t understand that either. 

“Gator,” She breathed out softly, “Do you want to be there for Christmas?” She asked softly; all of the humor sliding out of her tone. She was speaking gently now, somberly. It was like a punch to his gut, hearing how disappointed she was with him. 

“It’s just another day,” He told her, shaking his head as he took a deep inhale of his vape, “And all the presents and shit is just so retailers can get rich off of us.” He told her truthfully, thinking that Christmas just came earlier and earlier each year. 

“You sound like your dad.” She stated as she cocked her eyebrows together, giving him a pointed look. One that he didn’t enjoy. 

“Jesus was born in a barn,” He shrugged his shoulders, “It shouldn’t be about the money.” He mumbled as he turned onto the familiar road. He inhaled deeply, not enjoying the fact that they would end up fighting about this too. 

“I’m not saying it is,” She scoffed, “I’m saying that I would like my husband to be there for the holidays.” She replied as she leaned back in her seat, leaving the bag of Cheetos to her side. Apparently she was done eating now. 

“We went to Daisy’s party.” He reminded her, glancing back at the various presents they had received in the back seat. That was enough for him. More than enough. 

“You worked earlier,” She told him, “You worked Thanksgiving too. And on Halloween. I know your job is important, but when do I get to see you on those days?” She asked him seriously, making him feel like he might have to pick between her and his job. 

The truck was quiet as he pulled into the driveway, her question still ringing in his ears as he thought about it. He didn’t know how to answer her. His job wasn’t like most places and she knew that. It was a hard question to answer. 

“Do you want to take a bath before bed tonight?” He asked her instead, thinking of how that had been her routine recently. It helped her relax. 

“No,” She grumbled, “I have to be up early to make pie in the morning.” She pursed her lips as she thought about it, her nose crinkling up a bit. He could tell she wasn’t very pleased by that thought, but he was a little excited. He loved her pies, especially her apple one. 

“I’ll be home that night to eat it,” He promised, “It’s just a little later, it’s fine.” He shrugged his shoulders as he got out of the truck, instantly wincing as the breeze hit him. He rushed across the front, opening the door before she was able to unbuckle herself. 

“Whatever you say.”  She added softly, giving him a little smile. He could tell she was too tired to fight, which he was slightly grateful for. He didn’t want to fight either. 

“Eleven at the latest,” He promised, “And then you’ll have me all to yourself.” He leaned forward and gave her a little kiss, sealing his deal. 

-

He didn’t want to be there. As soon as he walked into the station he felt something weighing down on his shoulders, feeling as if he was trapped. He had done this to himself, he gave himself a little reminder. 

He sat at his desk most of the day, doing a lot of nothing. He was bored out of his mind, unable to concentrate even when he needed to. He kept thinking of Daphne, knowing that if he had stayed he would be curled up on the couch with her right now. Probably watching some corny Christmas movies, but he didn’t mind when he was with her. 

“Hey, I’m going to head out early.” He announced suddenly, but spoke specifically towards Nugent. He would understand. Or he would run back and tattle to his father, which he didn’t care about right now. 

“You just got here.” He replied with a little shake of his head, flipping his file over. He snorted, like Gator was joking. He wasn’t. He had already made up his mind. 

“Yeah, but there’s so many of us,” He added quickly, “I’m gonna go see Daphne.” He said as he put his coat back on over his shoulders. There was no point in all of them lingering around. And he had the ability to leave early, he was going to take it. 

“Are you gonna pop the question?” Nugent teased as he smiled from ear to ear, making Gator’s heart thump harder inside of his chest. That whole discussion still made him too nervous. 

“Just call me if you need anything,” He said, cheeks burning at his question that he chose to ignore, “But try not to need me.” He replied seriously, knowing that if he got there and had to leave that Daphne would only get more upset. He couldn’t do that to her. 

The drive back was quick, almost faster than he had ever gone before. He hated to admit that he was excited, and maybe a little wrong. He had been a bit of a dick last night. And it was their first Christmas together in a long time. He should be able to enjoy it. 

He knocked roughly on the door, wincing as he remembered that he had keys. This was his house too, after all. He waited a second, fingers twitching against his keys before the door was pulled open.

“Hi,” She looked at him in surprise as she answered the door, her lips parting in shock, “You’re here?” She cocked her eyebrows curiously, giving him a little shake of her head like she didn’t quite understand. He smiled sheepishly. 

“I’m here.” He told her, biting down on his bottom lip. He didn’t have much more to offer, but she looked like she wasn’t happy with that answer. 

“I thought you had to work?” She asked him teasingly, crossing her arms over her chest as she watched him. He tilted his head softly. 

“I told them I needed it off,” He grinned, “Can I come in?” He asked her, looking at where Birdie was sitting silently near her feet. Staring. Just judging as he always did. 

“This is your home,” She responded as she leaned against the door, hands resting on her tummy, “Oh, I suppose.” She leaned out of the way, almost tripping over Birdie in the process. He quickly reached for her, balancing her once again. 

“You’re here alone?” He asked, sure that she would’ve at least gone to see her parents. She shrugged her shoulders, kneeling down slowly so she could give Birdie a little pet as he began to strip out of his layers once again. 

“I didn’t want to go anywhere else,” She admitted, “At least, not without you.” She smiled softly, blue eyes twinkling like the lights on their Christmas tree. 

“That was very cheesy.” He told her with a little laugh, sure that part of her had to be lying. He didn’t think that he was that special. Not at all. 

“I can’t help it,” She said with a laugh, wrinkling her nose up, “It’s all true.” She smiled as she walked over to him, wrapping her arms around his torso. He held onto her, breathing in the scent of her perfume. 

“I didn’t want to be anywhere that wasn’t with you either.” He told her softly, giving her forehead a little kiss. He smiled against her skin, only letting go once she moved away. 

“This means you can actually eat Christmas dinner with me,” She grinned as she wobbled towards the kitchen, “It was going to be done by tonight, but this will be even better.” She nodded her head excitedly, looking like a kid once again. 

“I can’t wait,” He smiled as he wrapped his arms around her, “Do you want to open your presents?” He asked her, feeling nervous over the things he had gotten for her. He hoped it was what she wanted.

“Now?” She asked him in disbelief, blue eyes widening in surprise. He grinned, feeling like presents were usually opened before this time anyways. 

“Why not?” He asked her seriously, watching the way she thought about it for a moment. She shifted the weight on her feet, crinkling her eyebrows together again. 

“Can we make hot chocolate first?” She questioned him as she tilted her head. He laughed, unsure of why she needed to ask him. 

“Sure,” He chewed on his bottom lip, watching her in fascination, “I’d love that.” He replied, thinking that something how sounded good. She bustled around the kitchen again, gathering mugs and other materials. 

“Won’t next year be exciting?” She asked him, joy written on her features, “We’ll have our babies by then. They’ll be so cute opening their presents.” She smiled as she kept one hand to her stomach, looking very pleased as she poured some milk into a pan. 

“They won’t know what’s going on.” He told her with a little laugh. They wouldn’t even by one by next year. They’d be confused. 

“But they’ll have fun,” She smiled, “And every year after that it’ll get better.” She reminded him as he nodded his head in agreement. He thought about it for a moment, feeling like she was right. He was excited too. 

“You’re right,” He told her gently, “I can’t wait.” He pulled out a few hot chocolate mixes for her, handing them over as she turned the burner back on. 

“And even if you have to work, maybe you could work that night,” She suggested, “And then you can be here when they’re awake and opening their presents.” She told him seriously, making him nod along with her. 

“I’ll talk to Roy,” He nodded his head as she began to tear open the mixes, “He’ll understand.” He wouldn’t, but Gator didn’t care. He didn’t want to miss out on the things his father had easily thrown away. He wanted to be there for his kids. 

“I love you.” She told him gently, eyes still twinkling with an adorning look. He felt his heart flutter deep within his chest once again. 

“I love you more.” 

[buckysgrace]

Time With You

Gator Tillman x fem!oc

Flufftober 2024

Gator and Daphne get their kids ready for Halloween.

Gator dug around in the pantry, trying to recall where he had hidden the last bag of Halloween candy that they had purchased for their trick or treaters. They were going to leave it out on their porch, but they would be gone. 

It was already pitch black outside, the stars hidden behind thick clouds as the wind blew heavily against the house. He didn’t see how anyone would be out, as thick snowflakes had already begun to flutter down against the windows. Hopefully it wouldn’t get too bad as they still needed to make their way up to the school.

He yelped when he caught wind of her in the reflection of the window, his hand falling to his chest as his heart momentarily stopped. The bag of candy almost went flying before he roughly gripped it to his chest, keeping it safe. He breathed in deeply, trying to get his pulse back to normal as Piper stared up at him curiously.

“What are you again?” He asked as he took a big gulp, tilting his head before he bent so he could see her better. She reached her hands out, giving his fingers a little squeeze as he examined her. 

“Coraline, daddy!” She reminded him, her brown hair hidden away underneath a blue wig. He had been selected to go back and braid her hair earlier, after she claimed that her mother hadn’t done it in the right way. He didn’t mind. He took longer to do it as he relied on how it felt for the most part.

Daphne waddled her way in a second later, hand brushing over her swollen belly before she held the yellow raincoat out towards Piper. She jumped in joy, giggling as she slid it on over his shoulders. He was still confused. “Right,” He nodded his head as he blinked in confusion, “Who is that again?” He whispered towards Daphne, not wanting to earn another eye roll from his daughter. She had accused him of being uncool a week ago, as he didn’t know who someone named Jojo was. He still didn’t. 

“We watched the movie last week, remember?” She hummed as Noah ran in after her. He was still only partially dressed, only in his socks and undies. She lifted him gently onto the chair, then began to brush her fingers through Noah’s hair again to get it slicked back, “The one with the talking cat.” She stated as she glanced at him. 

“Oh, that one.” He wrinkled his eyes in confusion, trying to remember which movie that had been. They were watching Hocus Pocus tonight, so it couldn’t be that one. Or maybe it was, but he didn’t recall anyone dressing like Piper was. 

“Do you know who I am?” Knox spoke up, giving his hand a little tug from his weak side. His messy hair was hidden underneath a red hat and he looked completely different than his twin sister did. 

“Hm,” He smiled as he picked up Knox, getting a little giggle from the six year old, “I think you’re a firefighter?” He questioned slowly, like he wasn’t quite sure. He’d grown to become quite fascinated with them recently. 

“Yeah!” He grinned from ear to ear, adjusting the little hat on the top of his head. Gator thought of the last run in he’d had with firefighters, how they’d beaten his team at the baseball game they’d thrown together. 

“They’re cool, I guess.” He teased as he gave Knox’s cheek a little kiss, frowning at the way his expression fell. 

“You guess?” He asked, tone broken as a look of disappointment spread over his features. Gator felt his heart break that time, not meaning to offend him. 

“I mean they are. They’re so cool. The best.” He encouraged him, giving him another bounce until he was beaming again. Sometimes he forgot how soft and sensitive his son was, but he wasn’t bothered by it. He just didn’t want to hurt his feelings.

“I can put out fires!” He continued on, holding onto Gator tightly as he carried him into the living room, “Like Pokey.” He stated, trying to drop his head against Gator’s but being unable to do so with his hat.

“You mean Smokey?” He asked with a little laugh, ensuring that there were no hard toys on the couch before he sat them down. Knox thought it over for a moment before he nodded his head. 

“Yeah, him too.” He replied, wiggling over as Piper crawled up on Gator’s other side. He winced at the feeling of her sharp knees against his side before he relaxed, situating her better.

“I’m ready to go.” She stated, bearing Daphne’s smile as she pressed her fingers against his zipper on his chest. Daphne and him had allowed the kids to pick out their costumes this year, which had been Minion onesies. He looked like a joke, but he thought it would be good. No one would recognize him. Daphne always told him that, but he didn’t quite believe it. Or he was just paranoid. 

“As soon as Noah is ready.” He reminded her, adjusting her wig on her head so it wasn’t so lopsided. He wondered how long she’d stay in the wig and considering she hadn’t taken it off yet, he supposed she’d be in it for the next few weeks. 

“He’s slow.” She whined, giving him a dramatic shake before she began to kick her arms and legs out. He held onto her stomach, keeping her from falling onto the floor. 

Piper got along fine with Knox, probably because they shared the womb. And Knox also got along well with Noah. But Noah and Piper did not get along, not at all. Possibly because they were so close in age, or because they were so similar. At times it was like they enjoyed making each other mad. 

“Be nice,” He chuckled softly as one of her wild limbs fell against his bad side, “It goes on for a long time anyways.” He blinked his sore eye a few times, not that it would do much good. He couldn’t see shit from it anyways. 

“But I really want candy.” She replied as she clicked her yellow boots together. He laughed, sitting forward so she could plop her feet onto the ground again. 

“I do too,” Knox nodded his head in agreement, “But I can wait.” He added, smiling brightly as he hugged onto Gator’s arm tighter. He rubbed his back gently, glad that at least one of them was patient. 

“Okay,” Daphne’s voice carried in through the kitchen, her footsteps filling the room before being overpowered by Noah’s loud steps on the floor, “He has a surprise for you.” She added as she leaned behind the couch, tapping his head so Gator would look in the right direction. 

“Daddy, I you!” Noah proclaimed proudly, holding his little hands on his hips. His dark hair was slicked back and he wore a pair of camo pants and a black sweatshirt. Attached to his wrist was a toy leash, linked to a stuffed german shepherd. 

Penny had come into their lives two months ago, a former detection dog that had apparently been too aggressive to be adopted as Daphne had claimed. He had argued with her at first because of the danger towards their kids and because he didn’t need a service dog. He was fine on his own. But she had convinced him that Penny was neither a danger or here to help him. Even though she flocked to his side. 

And she had yet to be aggressive, although she did get pretty intense when she caught wind that he had popped one of his nightly gummies into his mouth. He had tried to become sneaky with it, but she always knew. 

“Cool,” He grinned, feeling flattered as he knelt down to get a better look at him. He looked just like Gator too, just like Knox did. More often than not, people assumed they were twins. Or that they were all triplets, “You look even more handsome than I do.” He added, kissing his flushed cheek.

“Isn’t it sweet?” Daphne cooed, giving Noah’s shoulder a little squeeze as she fluttered her eyelashes multiple times. She had been fairly emotional this time around, or maybe she was also thinking about how he had missed out on her last pregnancy and delivery. He still felt a lot of guilt about that. 

“Hormones?” He questioned, holding his arm out as Noah snuggled up to his side. He buried his face into the crook of his neck, his nose cold against his skin. 

“They’re a bitch.” She spit out as she gently dabbed her fingertips at her eyes, trying not to mess up her mascara. Her red hair was braided out of her face, her bangs covering her eyebrows as she took a deep breath. 

“Bad word,” Knox said, his brown eyes widening, “Did you hear that?” He turned towards Piper, covering his mouth with his hands as he giggled. 

“I apologize.” Daphne said sincerely, her plump lips pressing into a smile. She was wearing a burgundy color on her lips, the one that he loved so much. 

“Uh uh, that’s a dollar!” Piper shook her head, holding her hands on her hips in a similar manner that Daphne did when she was sassing someone. His girls were too similar to one another. 

“Pay it up,” He teased along with the kids, giving Noah another kiss on his head. Years ago he had been terrified that he wouldn’t bond with his youngest while had been locked away. He was glad that wasn’t true, “And then we can go.”

“How much is a dollar?” Noah questioned as Gator worked on getting his winter jacket on him, then carefully sliding his orange mittens onto his fingers. 

“One hundred pennies.” He hummed softly, double checking to make sure his boots were tightly laced before they went outside. Noah preferred to be barefoot and in as little clothes as possible, but it was far too cold for that. 

“How much is a penny?” He piped up next, eyebrows furrowing together in curiosity. He met Noah’s big brown eyes, unsure of how to answer him. 

“Uh,” He stalled for a second, “You know, your mom was better at math than I was.” He said with a little laugh, holding the door open for them. He met Daphne’s eye, sending her a sly wink as she adjusted her yellow hat on top of her head. 

“Mommy!” Noah exclaimed, reaching for her free hand as Knox occupied her other hand. He began to ramble the question off again, speaking too fast to allow her to actually answer. 

“Funny,” She teased Gator, rolling her pretty blue eyes, “Let’s go get some candy.” She replied as she walked them out the door, ensuring that they were all out before she unlocked the car.

“You sure you’re okay to walk around?” He asked her seriously, knowing she’d been more exhausted here lately. She only had a few more weeks left, just under a month. He was nervous. 

“I’m pregnant, not broken,” She grinned as she kissed his cheek, “But thank you.” She walked down the steps slowly, accepting Piper’s outstretched hand so she didn’t trip again.

“Maybe we’ll have twins again,” He smirked, bidding Penny a quick goodbye before he locked the door, “Or triplets.” There was supposedly just one little baby nesting there, but he wouldn’t mind more. Their names were still a work in process as they had decided to wait until they officially met their baby this time. 

“You really do think you’re funny,” She shook her head as she opened the car door, “I’m very amused.” She added, holding a hand out to help the twins inside. 

“Daddy is funny.” Noah added a second later, beaming from ear to ear as he glanced back at him. He chuckled as he picked him up, accepting his little hug. He buried his nose against Gator’s neck again, his nose even colder from the breeze that continued to hit them. 

“Thank you,” He grinned proudly as he worked on getting him buckled into his car seat, “Does everyone remember what to say?” He looked at all of them, shifting a bit so he could see the buckles better. 

“Treat please!” Noah stretched his legs out happily, clapping his hands together as a bright smile spread across his lips again. 

“You didn’t say it right.” Piper said quickly, looking at him surprised. Knox shrugged his shoulders. 

“I think he said it close enough.” Daphne spoke up from the driver’s seat, shifting it back and forth until she was comfortable. Piper scoffed. 

“But it wasn’t right,” She corrected, “It’s trick or treat.” She told Noah, looking at him expectantly as Gator successfully got the buckles tightened around his little tummy. 

“Uh,” The little boy turned towards Gator again, eyes wide, “Trick or treat!” He said instead, giggling in joy. He chuckled as he bent over to kiss the top of his head, glad that he didn’t take anything to heart. 

“That’s better.” Piper nodded as she turned her attention back towards Knox, looking proud of her younger sibling for once. The dirt crunched underneath his feet as he took a step back, gently shutting the door. 

“How much candy do you think you’ll get?” Daphne asked, waiting until he was buckled up before she began to back out of the rocky driveway. He turned in the seat again, spinning around as far as he could so he could get a good look at the kids. 

“This much!” Knox exclaimed as he held out his arms as far as they would go, almost bumping his hand into Piper and Noah’s faces. He usually had to sit in the middle to keep the other two from fighting. 

“That’s a lot,” Gator grinned at him, “Are you going to share?” He teased, knowing that he’d get candy even if he wanted to or not. He supposed that was the good thing about them having a bedtime still. 

“Maybe.” Knox stated bashfully, giggling as he brought his hands back up to his cheeks. Gator assumed that meant no. 

“I share!” Noah said, kicking his feet around wildly, “It’s nice!” He nodded his head eagerly, looking at the other two like he expected them to agree with him. They were all cute. 

“I’ll have more candy than you.” Piper stated, instantly beginning to frown as Noah wrinkled up his nose and began to snort like a piggy. It was his new favorite comeback, although Gator had no idea what it meant. Just that it annoyed his sister to no end. 

“We’re going to have a lot of fun anyways.” Daphne spoke up as she looked in the rearview mirror, locking eyes with Piper for a moment. 

“And you always have to pay the candy fee,” Gator added as he locked eyes with each of his children, ensuring that they stayed curious while he spoke, “Otherwise the goblins will getcha.” He added, laughing as the three of them began to shriek. They’d probably end up crammed into his and Daphne’s bed for the rest of the week, but it was worth it. 

[buckysgrace]

Double Trouble

Gator Tillman x Fem!OC

12 Days of Christmas

Gator and Daphne prepare for dinner at their place while they celebrate the twins first Christmas.

Gator and Daphne host Christmas dinner at their house for their twins first Christmas. I suppose an AU where nothing bad happens :)

Gator

He stretched his hands over his head, stretching out as he yawned loudly once again. He still didn’t understand why they had to get up so early. Sure, she had a lot of baking to do but he didn’t think it would take that long. Then again, he was a shit cook. It probably was a good thing they weren’t following his plan. 

They hadn’t really wanted to host anyway, but it had just been sort of thrust upon them last minute. In other words, Karen had thrown a fit and it had been thrown in their faces. Probably so Roy and Karen could have a nice laugh, but that wasn’t going to happen. 

“Did you get it cut up?” Daphne questioned as she walked over, most of her hair pulled tightly behind her face as she inspected the rolls he had formed. Her bangs were slightly longer than usual, reminding him of the gift card to the salon he was getting for her. She’d been wanting to go for a while but she kept putting it off, focusing on the twins instead. It made him feel bad. He was going to force her to go this time, to take Daisy with her too. Then she couldn’t back out of it. 

“Mhm,” He told her seriously, presenting the perfectly cut pieces of dough that he had organized evenly on the pan, “I even tucked it like you said.” He told her, picking up one gently to show it off. The first few looked a little rough, but the others didn’t look so bad. 

“Good job,” She grinned as she leaned forward, giving him a quick peck on the lips, “It looks great.”  She told him as she wrapped her arms around his waist, giving him a tight squeeze. He savored the feeling. 

“What are you working on?” He questioned her, trying to figure out what he needed to do next. He didn’t want her to stress herself out too much. He was going to help her as much as possible. 

“Just getting everything else prepped,” She said as she held her palms out, inspecting her many pans that were settled on the counter. He exhaled, thinking of how many dishes they’d have to clean once this was over, “I think I just need to set up the green bean casserole. Then I’ll put the corn in the crock pot.”

“Have you started on the stuffing yet?” He asked casually, washing his hands clean as he glanced towards her. He didn’t know what she put in it, but she made the best stuffing. It was addicting, downright glorious. 

“No,” She grinned as she faced him, resting her hand on her waist, “And you’re going to keep your big meaty hands out of it this time.” She warned him, giving him a serious look. He gaped in response. 

“I don’t have meaty hands.” He defended himself as he held his hands out, holding them up for extra effect. She shook her head as she moved around him, her lips pressed together in amusement. 

“Mhm,” She hummed, giving his backside a little pat, “Thank you. I think most of it is set up now.” She said as she nodded her head, scanning over all the items once again. He thought that she was working too hard for her. 

“Can we rest yet?” He asked her as he moved his hands around her waist, holding onto her as a little whine left his lips. He was tired. He just wanted to be lazy on the couch with her for a little bit. 

“Please,” She sighed as she looked around, “We’re going to have to start baking this all before long.” She pressed her lips together as she dropped her head to his shoulder, sounding just as exhausted as he felt. 

“Maybe no one else has to come.” He suggested as he rocked them back and forth, feeling like he would be fine with that. It would be easier than trying to people please. There were too many people that they both felt like they needed to please. 

“What would we do with all the extra food?” She asked, a little laugh leaving her lips as he pulled away. He searched her features for a moment, glad he was able to tell that she was just teasing. 

“Lots of leftovers,” He grinned as he watched her, moving a hand gently over her hidden bump, “I don’t want you to get too stressed out.” He spoke more serious this time, trying to express just how worried he got with her. 

“I never get stressed out.” She rolled her pretty blue eyes playfully, wrinkling her nose as he scoffed. He knew her much better than that. 

“Too active then.” He told her, watching the way she pretended to think about it. He knew he was right, she was just too stubborn to admit to it. 

“I do get a little too excited,” She replied in agreement, “But I’m totally fine. This is just a little big dinner.” She shrugged her shoulders, pretending like it was no big deal. But it definitely was. 

“What do you want me to do next?” He said instead as he rested his hands on his hips, trying to make himself as enthusiastic as possible. She chewed on her bottom lip, thinking about it for a moment. 

“Get the twins ready?” She asked sweetly, “I’m sure they’ll be hungry.” She nodded her head as she pressed her fingers up to her chin, looking like she had a million different thoughts racing in her mind. 

“I can do that,” He promised as he gave her cheek a kiss, lingering for a moment, “Don’t overwork yourself.” He warned this time, watching as she quickly nodded her head in agreement. He had a feeling she wasn’t going to listen to him. 

He carefully avoided stepping over Birdie as he took two stairs at a time, excited to get the twins up and ready for the day. He had a feeling they were going to be extra excited this morning.

His fingers pressed against the doorknob as he pushed the door open slowly, watching the way Knox instantly began to stir as the light from the hallway hit the room. Gator winced as he turned on the light, always fearful that it was too harsh on their eyes.

Piper was already sitting up in her crib, her fist in her mouth as he walked into the room. She cooed as she looked at him, drool falling from her lips as a shriek left her mouth.

“Looks like you’re first,” He grinned as he picked her up, earning another squeak from her, “Good morning to you too.” He smiled as he began to get her settled for the day, changing her diaper and her outfit.

She babbled to him the whole time, holding her feet up to her chest as she continued to chew on her fingers. The rest of her teeth were slowly coming in, making her a lot more keep to chewing on things. She had really enjoyed when he had a cast, apparently it had tasted yummy. 

“Woah,” He smiled as he met Piper’s gaze in the mirror, gently pulling the brown strands out of her face, “Your hair is crazy.” He shook his head playfully as he began to brush her hair out, then pulling the top of it out of her face. 

Daphne would deny that she looked like her, but he thought the resemblance was uncanny. Their eyes were shaped the same way, so were their noses and lips. She might have his same eyes and the color of his hair, but everything else was her.

“Morning,” He cooed as he leaned over Knox’s crib, letting Piper explore on the floor for a few minutes while he worked on the sleepier twin. Knox grumbled, his nose curling up, “Awe c’mon. I know you’re hungry.” He teased as he gently lifted him, beginning the same process once again.

Knox blinked his eyes continually for the next few minutes, fighting off his sleep as Gator shuffled him into a clean diaper and his outfit. He winced as he tried to get his Christmas clothes on, realizing that they’d have to go up another size again. They were growing too big. 

“Ma-ma?” Knox asked as he spit the words out, his eyebrows furrowed tightly together as he looked around. He chuckled as he bent down to pick up Piper, balanced her on his hip. 

“She’s downstairs,” He promised, “No worries.” He confirmed, balancing them both in his arms as he carried them down the stairs. Piper continued to babble, throwing her hands up dramatically once they reached the bottom floor.

“Oh they look cute,” Daphne praised as he carried them into the kitchen, her smile wide as she gave both of them a quick kiss on the cheek, “I got their breakfast ready. Did you see Santa came?” She asked both of them, earning little squeals from their mouths as she tickled their feet.

“I could’ve made it.” He protested quickly, feeling like she was already doing too much. She shook her head, waving him off. 

“I’m fine,” She reminded him again, “I’m not breakable.” She added more sternly, like she was trying to make a point. He sighed but he went along with it, deciding that she was right. 

“You’re stubborn, that’s what you are,” He mumbled underneath his breath, sliding one toddler into a highchair at a time, “But thank you.” He added softly as he leaned over the table, giving her a quick peck on the lips.

“I can’t help it,” She replied with a laugh, “Like you’re not just as stubborn.” She reminded him, making him nod his head in agreement. Maybe it was a bad habit for both of them, something that they could break together. 

“Maybe,” He agreed, watching the way she put her palms on the table and leaned forward, “Are you okay?” He asked as her skin turned pale and clammy. He sat up quicker, prepared to grab a chair and force her to sit down. 

“Yeah,” She breathed in deeply, “Just got a wave of nausea.” She breathed in deeply, then exhaled slowly. He frowned, knowing that her cooking so much was a bad idea. 

“Go sit down,” He told her seriously, “Everything is set up. Do you want a peppermint?” He asked her, watching as her pale skin continued to turn green. She shook her head, placing a hand on her mouth as she raced towards the closest bathroom. He winced, furrowing his eyebrows together as the door slammed shut.

“Uh oh.” Piper spoke up, with smashed avocado and eggs all over her cheeks. She was a messier eater than Knox, who devoured everything he could get his hands on. 

“She’ll be okay,” He reassured as he stood up, standing at a distance where he could look at them and check on Daphne, “You alright in there?” He asked, wondering if there was anything he could get her to help.

“Peachy,” She mumbled from the other side of the door, “I’ll be out in a minute.” She groaned before she began to gag again, making him wince.

“We can still cancel.” He offered as he listened for a minute, watching as Piper fed Knox her leftover toast. He shook his head, listening to the sound of the toilet flushing.

“That’s not happening,” She said quickly, “I just need to brush my teeth.” She continued to insist as he walked away, deciding he wouldn’t argue with her just yet. But if it got any worse, he was going to intervene. 

“Your mama is silly,” He spoke underneath his breath as he scrubbed the twins clean. He freed Knox first, then Piper, “Do you want to see what Santa got?” He asked as he walked slowly, watching the way Knox giggled and squealed as he crawled behind him. 

Piper continued to chew on her fingers as he sat her back down on the floor, kneeling there for a moment as Knox joined them a second later. He snorted as he wrinkled his nose up, huffing as he sat up straight and looked at him curiously.

“Here,” He chuckled, watching in amusement as Knox quickly knocked the toy bin over. He giggled as he kicked his feet back and forth, reaching forward for the rattle that he had grown attached to, “How about this one?” He asked as he held one out towards Piper before he shifted lazily onto the floor. 

“Are they ready?” Daphne questioned as she walked back into the room, still looking slightly green as she sat down on the couch for a second. He watched her, wishing that there was a way he could make this easier on her. 

“I think so,” He shrugged his shoulders, “They’re just chillin’, isn’t that right?” He asked them, closing his eyes as Piper pressed her finger against his nose. He gave her finger a quick kiss before he recoiled, recalling how she’d just had her fingers in her mouth. 

“Good.” Daphne smiled as she began to rub her palms over her bump again, closing her eyes and breathing in deeply. She looked pained for a moment, making him feeling bad. 

“Are you okay?” He asked seriously as he shifted away from the twins, moving closer to her so he could grip her hands. She squeezed his fingers softly, giving him a gentle smile. 

“I’m fine now,” She admitted, “It’s just this stage of the pregnancy.” She persisted as she nodded her head, inhaling sharply. He pressed his chin against her knee, thinking deeply for a moment. 

“I’m sorry.” He told her truthfully as he rubbed his fingers across her tummy this time. He didn’t understand how something as beautiful as pregnancy could be so nasty and painful too. It was beyond him. 

“S’alright,” She smiled gently, “Here. I got Piper’s over here and Knox’s on this side.” She instructed as she began to sit up, only for him to push her back gently instead. He shook his head, taking it upon himself to sort through the presents instead. 

He watched as little piles grew around the twins, but they only sat and stared in wonder. He could see the confusion in their brown eyes, not understanding what they were supposed to do. 

“Like this,” He instructed, trying to show them how to rip the wrapping paper, “Just tear it off.” He told them, glancing over just to get caught in one of Daphne’s pictures. He shook his head, feeling like he should be taking pictures of her. 

The twins ripped and tore through their presents, giggling and squealing as he continued to gently remove wrapping paper from their fists and mouths. They seemed much more into that than the actual gifts.

“I think they like them.” Daphne spoke up as she placed a little bow on top of Piper’s head, earning a squeal from her. He watched as she moved her hand then, rubbing at her lower back. He’d have to give her a massage later. 

“They better,” He mumbled as he walked towards her, holding out the bags to her, “Here you go.” He chewed on his bottom lip, hoping that she enjoyed the gifts. But he didn’t want her to make a big deal out of it either. 

“Awe shucks,” She teased him, her eyes dazzling as she looked up at him, “You shouldn’t have.” She said softly, smiling as she pulled the presents closer to her. Piper stuck her hand inside, only able to grip a piece of paper before he sat her back with her items. 

“You deserve a lot more than that.” He told her seriously, trying not to laugh at the dirty look his daughter sent him. She definitely got that from her mom 

“Stop being so sweet, I’ll cry,” She told him seriously, warning him as she passed wrapped presents to him, “Here you go.” She proclaimed proudly, looking overjoyed. 

“Thanks, dollface,” He teased, laughing as Knox crawled back towards him, “Do you want to help me?” He questioned as he began to messy shove his hands back and forth on the wrapping paper. He peeled at the corner gently before he let Knox finish pulling it off. 

“Oh Gator, I love it all.” She spoke up from her spot on the couch, tears in her eyes as she looked at the various items around her. He had needed quite a bit of assistance from her friends and her mother, but he thought he did a good job. Better than he had before anyway. 

“I’m glad,” He smiled as he examined her, ensuring that she wasn’t lying, “I love all of this stuff too.” He told her seriously, knowing that he would use all of it. He shifted his arms so Knox could crawl onto him, pulling him close as he babbled about. 

“You’re so sweet to us.” Daphne continued on, sniffling softly as she wiped at her eyes. He felt his heart hammering inside of his chest as he thought about her words. He certainly thought that he could do more, but he was grateful anyway. 

“Thanks,” He smirked, watching as she stood, “Where are you goin’?” He asked, pulling his head away so Knox wouldn’t stick his fingers in his eyes. He liked to poke him. 

“Checking on the food,” She replied quickly, “I’ll be right back.” She nodded her head as she waddled back towards the kitchen, making him sigh. Always the busy body. 

He watched the twins played with their new toys, settling into different spots in the living room. Piper rested on her tummy as she played, speaking intensely to her toys. Meanwhile, Knox had begun to chase after Birdie, then grew distracted at the tree. And to his horror, began to grab the tree limbs in order to pull himself onto his feet. 

“Next year, you can put the star up there,” He promised, giving Knox’s tummy a little tickle, “You might be big enough to reach on your own.” He teased, smiling as he turned his little gaze up to him. 

Knox grinned from ear to ear, exposing the little teeth in his mouth as he spit out a few encouraging babbles. He pointed back up towards the top of the tree, apparently intent on getting the star down. 

“You can play with it when we take the decorations down.” He said instead, giving his chubby cheek a little kiss. He liked that they were slowly becoming more active and less sleepy. He liked playing with them. 

He watched as Daphne carried in a trash bag, situating herself on the floor as she began to pick up the discarded wrapping paper. He set down Knox, smiling in amusement as the twins began to wrestle the paper back out of the bag. 

“It is really nice,” She smiled, “Next year will be so much fun.” She responded as she continued to pick up the wrapping paper, pretending to bite at the twins hands when they would reach for it again.

“Lots of fun,” He told her as he carefully walked around them, heading towards the kitchen. He pulled out a glass, pretending like he was getting a glass of water, “I bet they’ll be excited to meet Santa next year.” He hummed as he slowly pulled the oven open, wincing before he realized that he had been sneaky enough. He listened to the sound of her voice carrying into the kitchen, singing along to whichever song was on the TV. He took that as his distraction to dip into the stuffing, just to make sure that it was fine. Just one little bite; she’d never know. 

“Hey,” He jumped, mouth burning as the hot food hit his tongue, “Don’t mess with the stuffing! It’s not done yet!” She shouted from the living room, like she just knew. 

“I was just tasting it!” He protested, breathing harshly as the hot food burned in his mouth. He fanned it quickly, wincing but refusing to spit it out. It tasted that good. 

“Stay out of the stuffing,” She warned as she pointed a rattle towards him, her lips curled into a smile, “It’s not ready.” She warned him as he held his hands up innocently, sure that his tongue would be burned and raw by the time dinner rolled around. 

“But it tastes good.” He protested, feeling like he was just complimenting her. He didn’t care about the rest of the food in all honesty, he just wanted a big bowl of the stuffing. And Karen better not ruin that for him. 

Knox squealed, coming around the corner rather quickly with his walker. He looked up, smiling brightly as drool fell from the corner of his lips. He stilled moved awkwardly, clumsily, but he was doing better than he ever had. 

“Go any faster and I’ll have to give ya a speeding ticket.” He teased as he bent over to kiss the top of his head. He squealed loudly, his face lighting up before he fell onto his bottom. He hadn’t quite navigate dhow to fully turn just yet.

“He won’t even need that soon enough.” Daphne spoke from the other room, the sound of the garbage bag rustling as she tied it up. He turned the walker around, straightened it out before he did the same with Knox. 

“For a little while,” He said with a laugh, “We can have him and Piper race.” He suggested as he thought about it, knowing that Knox would win for the time being. 

“That sounds like a disaster.” She laughed as he slowly following behind the baby, watching the way he stomped his feet onto the floor. 

“Maybe,” He shrugged his shoulders, “But it could be fun.” He told her honestly as he wiggled his way next to her, breathing in the smell of honey that lingered on her. She always smelt good.

The twins napped for a while after that, curled up on Daphne who was beginning to doze off as well. He was careful as he slowly stood up, watching as Knox curled into the spot that he had left behind.

He tiptoed past Birdie, ensuring that he was quiet enough before he opened the oven once again. He smirked a he bent over, able to take multiple bites out of the stuffing this time. Delicious. He had never tasted something so good before. 

“Gator!” He snapped his head up, glancing around for where she might be hiding, “I’m serious! Stay out of the stuffing!” She shouted as he winced, swallowing the last bite far too soon. It hit his stomach hard, heavy and burning. 

“I’m not!” He grumbled, wincing as he rolled his tongue around his mouth, “Fuck that’s hot.” He groaned as he rubbed his lips, whispering so she couldn’t hear him. 

“You’re sure you weren’t getting into it?” She questioned him as he walked around the corner, doing his best to remain as stoic as possible. 

“I swear,” He held up his hands innocently, “I would never.” He reasoned before he licked his lips, grinning as her shoulders relaxed. 

“You’re ridiculous.” She told him as she held the twins close once again, giving both of their foreheads a little kiss. Piper stirred, stretching out widely once again. 

“It’s delicious.” He reasoned as he picked up Knox, watching the way he soundlessly curled up to him once again. Okay, he couldn’t deny that he really loved nap time with them too. 

“Can you get them changed again?” She asked as she blinked her eyes, furrowing her eyebrows together as she looked at the clock. She seemed stressed again. 

“Are they dirty?” He asked seriously, wondering what was wrong with their outfits. He thought that they still looked good. 

“No,” She huffed, “For the party. I need to finish everything up.” She gestured about as she gently passed Piper off to him. She paused before she began to poke Knox, like she needed her brother up for this too. 

“Uh, sure,” He nodded his head, “What’re they wearing?” He questioned as he held onto both of them, trying to keep them far enough apart so that Piper wouldn’t continue to mess with him. 

“It’s in the bag,” She told him as she worked on pinning her hair up, “Thank you.” She smiled cheekily as she moved towards him, giving his cheek a quick peck. He huffed in response, feeling like childcare was her way of getting him out of the stuffing. 

He took the twins back upstairs, bouncing Piper as he did so because it made her giggle uncontrollably. He was glad that they at least thought he was funny. For now. 

“Christmas jammies,” He grinned as he zipped their outfits up, “Very cozy. You look adorable.” He stated, meeting Piper’s happy gaze as Knox continued to slumber. 

He carried them back down, feeling like carrying them up and down the stairs was better than any workout that he had ever done. And as they got bigger it only because more intense. It made him miss when they were little. He didn’t want them to get any bigger. 

“Hey?” He looked over, sure that he heard sniffling, “What’s wrong?” He asked quickly as he sat Piper down, then laid Knox down in a safe spot. He walked around the kitchen corner, looking at where Daphne’s cheeks were red and tear stained. 

“Nothin’,” She huffed harder, “Nothing is wrong.” She sniffled hard this time as she gestured around, looking overwhelmed. He frowned, knowing that he should’ve shut this down a long time ago. 

“You know we don’t have to do all of this,” He told her softly, holding onto her waist, “They could go home and we could just have this all to ourselves.” He told her quickly, pressing his lips across her forehead gently. She wrapped her arms around him tightly, squeezing him intensely. 

“It’s almost done,” She sniffled as she continued to wipe at her eyes, “I just didn’t think it would be so hard.” He rocked her back and forth, giving her a kiss on her nose this time. 

“You’re doing a great job,” He told her seriously, “It smells and looks amazing. They’re going to be so jealous of what an incredible cook you are.” He added as he pulled away softly, watching as she laughed and covered her face with her hands. 

“I’m being ridiculous.” She sighed deeply as she shook her head, giving a little laugh. He didn’t think that she was being ridiculous at all. He just didn’t want her to be stressed out. 

“No you’re not,” He hummed as he wiped her leftover tears away, “C’mon. What do you need help with?” He asked her seriously, giving her hip a little squeeze. The twins were occupied for now. It would be okay. 

“Nothing really,” She admitted as she sniffled deeply, glancing back at the busy stove, “The pie is done and so are most of the sides. You already cut the chicken up. Uh the mac and cheese is baking,” He watched as she paused, taking a step back to look at everything, “I think I just need to make the mashed potatoes.”

“See?” He smiled as he kissed her cheek, “Everything is going according to plan. I can mash them.” He smiled as he pulled open the drawer, pulling the old-fashioned potato masher out of the drawer.

“Really?” She looked at him relieved, her eyes softening as he nodded his head. He was an awful cook, but he would do whatever he could to help her out. 

“Yeah,” He said with a smile, “Go open a pop and chill for a minute before they start coming over.” He demanded this time, gesturing towards where the pop was to make a point. She could even take some of his Mountain Dew if she wanted. 

“Okay,” She replied with a grin, looking excited as she reached into the fridge, “I’ll season them when I come back in.” She added as she walked into the living room again. 

“Sounds good to me.” He told her as he began the boring job of mashing the potatoes until his arm started to ache. He didn’t like lumps in his, so he made sure that there wasn’t any. 

He looked over his shoulder, ensuring that she was still gone and busy before he popped the oven open and went to work again. He just wanted another bite or two of the stuffing before it was served. Forget everything else. He’d eat a whole plate of that over everything else.

“Gator Tillman you better not be in that bird again.” Daphne’s voice carried into the kitchen once again, making him wince as he blew on his spoon. 

“I’m just checking the mac and cheese!” He yelled back a second later, gently closing the oven, “Is there no trust?” He asked her seriously, taking a large bite before it was too late. He continued to stare at the hallway before he deemed it safe enough to take another bite. And another. Then one more. 

“Not when it comes to you and that stuffin’.” She replied, sounding a little closer as he gently shut the oven. He was not getting busted for being inside of it this time. 

“See, now you’re being ridiculous,” He teased as he walked into the living room, unable to finish his sentence before there was knocking on the door. He took a deep breath, “Are you ready?” He questioned her, watching the way she took a deep breath. 

“No,” She said with a laugh, resting her head against his, “But I’m glad I have you to suffer with me.” She gave him a little squeeze, reassuring him too. 

“Me too.” 

[buckysgrace]

Winter Wonderland

Gator Tillman x Fem!OC (Daphne Williams)

12 Days of Christmas

Gator spends an afternoon decorating for Christmas with Daphne and the kids.

Noah was not a fan of the new baby. Not one bit. He often sat near her, but not because he cared to look at her. Or to play with her. He was always judging her, like he was waiting for her to mess up.

At three weeks old, she was still tiny, but had a full head of hair like the rest of her siblings. Just as dark and soft as theirs. Daphne had decided that none of her children would ever really look like her, but that was okay. She was glad they all looked like Gator.

Piper had been fully committed to figuring out what her little sister’s name should be, like it was her job. She was the most excited out of all of them and constantly wanted to hold her, to gently brush her hair and feed her when she could. But her favorite part was picking out her outfits for the day. 

“She’s crying again.” Knox spoke up quickly, eyes wide as he stared down at where Paisley’s cheeks were flushed as she began to howl. She slept for about two hours before she needed to be fed and she wanted to be held. Constantly. 

Daphne quickly moved around Piper and Knox as she held the bottle out towards Gator, her hair still slightly damp from the shower that she had just climbed out of. She had ended up covered in baby vomit and week old leftovers right after lunch. 

“Babies cry,” Gator reminded him gently, struggling to hold onto him and the bottle, “She’s only a few weeks old.” He gave a little smile before he figured out the correct way to hold onto them. He had been great with the baby, but she could tell there was still some guilt etched onto him. Especially with how Noah had become so attached to him; she was sure that there was some jealousy there. She wondered if Noah would always feel like he never got as much time with his father. 

“So.” Noah stated as he furrowed his eyebrows together, his hair pulled out of his face similarly to Gator’s. It had grown out quite a bit from a month ago, when he decided he was going to shave just like daddy. He had been bald for some time.

“You cried too.” Knox reminded him, his hair messy over the front of his face. Daphne rubbed at his shoulder before she moved to the floor again, beginning to pull ornaments out of the boxes. The twins had been very involved in decorating this year, spending a lot of the time shopping with her so they could pick out what they wanted. 

“Nah uh!” Noah argued back, speaking so loud that Paisley began to whine again. Gator quickly continued to rock her, humming softly as Noah tried to steal his attention back. 

“Yes huh.” Piper spoke up quickly, pulling out some more ornaments from the box. She skipped to the tree a second later, beginning to put up the ornaments wherever she pleased. The tree wasn’t themed at all, a little chaotic in all honesty. But she was just glad the kids wanted to work on it. 

“Mommy, tell her no!” He whined as he kicked his feet out, kicking them back and forth. Gator winced as he hit his shin, then gently moved his hand down to make him stop. 

“Everyone cries,” Daphne told him gently as she knelt down, smiling as she held onto his hands gently, “It’s okay to cry, I cry all the time.” She reassured him as she leaned forward, giving both of his cheeks a quick kiss.

“Who’s making you cry?” He asked quickly, “Is it Paisley?” He narrowed his eyes as he looked towards the baby that was bundled up in his dad’s arms. She shook her head softly, wondering if her older siblings had been like this with her. 

“It’s not your little sister,” She said with a laugh, “Come here. Do you want to help me set up the hot chocolate?” She offered him instead, knowing that he usually calmed down once he was busy doing something. He had a hard time sitting still. 

“I guess.” He pressed his lips together, shrugging his shoulders like he couldn’t be bothered to do it. Gator cocked his eyebrows softly, an amused look on his features as he met her eyes. Part of her wanted to reach forward and give him a big kiss on his cheeks too, but she didn’t just yet.

“We can turn The Grinch on after.” She continued on, dragging her nails playfully across his legs. He let out a little giggle before he stopped himself, like he was remembering that he needed to be grumpy. 

“Hmm,” Noah thought about it for a moment before he wiggled away from Gator, smiling brightly as he walked with her, “Okay I guess.” She paused before she leaned down to give Gator a kiss this time, savoring the feeling of his lips against her own. 

He grinned against her lips, a knowing look passing through his eyes. She bit her lip as she nodded her head, hoping that it would eventually get easier, too. 

“Did you get the peppermint spoons?” He asked as he stood up, beginning to rock Paisley back and forth this time. He smiled as Piper offered him an ornament, motioning towards the part of the tree she couldn’t reach. 

“Always do,” She replied as she held Noah’s hand, pulling him into the kitchen with her, “Your daddy is so silly, isn’t he?” She said with a shake of her head, smirking as Gator’s snort carried over with them. 

“Very,” Noah giggled, “Will Santa bring me a lot of presents?” He asked as he stood on his tippy-toes, examining her as she pulled out the various toppings that they would need. She was sticking to very simple things this year, enjoying that it was less messy. 

“Have you been good?” She asked him softly, tilting her head as he thought about it. In her opinion, all of her children had been very good. They didn’t always get along, but at least they knew enough to apologize to one another. 

“I think so,” He hummed, “But I didn’t ask for a sister.” He pouted his lips out, mirroring an expression that she had seen Gator wear many times. He was just as expressive as his father. 

“Did you want a brother instead?” She asked him as she continued to move through the cabinets, unable to remember where she had put the throwaway cups. She felt like the last few weeks had been so long, yet so short at the same time. 

Noah’s resentment had been a surprise. He had been fine her whole pregnancy, and was even the first one out of his siblings to hold Paisley at the hospital. But it changed once she was brought home, once he realized that he would have to split his time up once again. 

“Maybe,” He nodded along, “No. I like being the baby.” He stated as he pressed his lips together, moving his hands towards his hips. She shook her head as she pulled the cups out, finally finding them behind the cereal boxes. An odd spot to put them, but she supposed there had to have been a reason at the time. 

“You can still be the baby,” She reminded him, smiling as she bent down to kiss the top of his head, “I promise you. You’re always going to be my sweet baby.” He blinked his eyelashes slowly, his expression molding into joy. 

“And daddy’s?” He questioned softly, looking like he was unsure about his answer. She glanced over his shoulder, ensuring that Gator couldn’t hear. She didn’t want him to feel even worse about what they had all been through. His imprisonment would be something that they would always have to deal with, there was nothing to change that. 

“Oh yes,” She smiled as she gave his cheeks a little squeeze, “Daddy is your best friend, right?” She asked him, knowing the answer already. 

“Yeah!” He replied energetically, “We do everything together.” He bounced up and down as he announced his answer, grinning from ear to ear. She had no idea how he would react when he started school and wasn’t here with Gator all the time. 

“And he’s still going to be your best friend, even with a new baby,” She encouraged him, “I promise.” She added enthusiastically, watching the way he examined her. 

“Pinky swear?” He decided on at last, challenging her for the full truth. It had been his go to recently. 

“Oh absolutely,” She nodded her head as she held her pinky out, smiling as Noah quickly wrapped his around hers, “I pinky swear.” She said dramatically, wrinkling her nose up as he squeezed her finger tightly. 

“Good,” He said with a little giggle, “I carry the cups.” He demanded with a little nod of his head. She gave him a smile in return before she handed the little paper cups to him. They were a light blue, covered in little gingerbread men that she had found while shopping last week. 

“Thank you.” She hummed as she followed behind him with the crock pot. It was heavy in her arms, but she made it alright. She kept reminding herself that she needed to start working on her arms once again, but she just never got the time to get around to it. 

Noah rested his arms on the table as he watched her carefully ladle out each cup of hot chocolate. Gator liked two peppermint spoons in his with a handful of marshmallows, Knox only liked four marshmallows in his and Piper liked hers plain. Noah liked everything in his; sprinkles, whipped cream, marshmallows, caramel, peppermint sticks-, he’d probably put a whole chocolate bar in there if he got the chance. But Daphne didn’t allow that.

“Go give this to Piper and this one to Knox.” She instructed, watching the careful way he balanced them in his arms. She held her hands out gently until he situated them correctly, smiling proudly that he hadn’t dropped them. 

“Here you go!” He shouted, his smile resembling Gator’s, “No, that’s Piper’s!” He shook his head as Knox reached for the wrong one, turning away so he couldn’t grab it. 

“Sorry,” Knox huffed, “I didn’t know.” He said as he furrowed his eyebrows, grabbing the correct one this time. Piper spit out a thanks before she took her cup, gulping down her drink before she continued to string up silver garland on the tree. It was lopsided, but Daphne didn’t say anything. 

“It’s okay,” Noah grinned, looking happy as he skipped back to her, “Daddy next?” He questioned as she finished making sure the lid was tight on top of the cup. 

“Mhm,” She responded as she held it out to him, “There you go.” She smiled, glad that he was temporarily distracted. At least for now. 

“Here you go, daddy!” He announced as he held his cup out towards Gator, holding it high over his head. Gator reached for it delicately, pressing his lips together. 

“Thank you, buddy,” He grinned as he knelt down, balancing his cup in his hand so he could still give Noah a little hug, “Did you make it yourself?” He teased as Noah pulled away, his expression turning to surprise. 

“No,” He giggled as he held onto Gator’s side, “Mommy did.” He stated as he pointed towards her. She gave a little wave, ignoring the way her heart fluttered as his eyes found hers. She felt very lucky suddenly. 

“Oh,” He nodded along with a little smile, “I bet it’s delicious.” He added as he took a little sip, sighing after his drink to make him giggle. 

“I get mine now,” Noah nodded as he quickly walked away, approaching her once again with twinkling eyes, “Please?” He begged this time, holding his hands to his chest and pouting his lips out. 

“Of course,” She nodded as she handed his cup towards him. He held onto it happily, taking a cautious sip before his expression lit up, “Is it good?” She asked him, leaving her cup out on the table for a moment. 

“Delicious.” He added, wrinkling his nose up and showing off the chocolate mustache that had formed on his upper lip. 

“Thank you,” She laughed as she carried the crock pot back, plugging it in so the leftovers would stay hot, “Did you see how good Piper and Knox did on the tree?” She praised them before she grabbed her cup, thinking that their work was much better than hers. And she didn’t have to do it. That was a plus. 

“I like the snowmen,” Piper stated as she showed off her decorations, “But not the gingerbread men.” She shook her head, looking at them disgruntled as Birdie raced underneath the tree. He liked sleeping there. 

“What’s wrong with them?” Gator asked curiously as he sat down, shifting the way that he was holding Paisley. He was a baby hog, most definitely. 

“They’re ugly.” She stated seriously, shaking her head before she joined him on the other side of the couch. Daphne sat down in amusement, opening her arms so the boys could join them. 

“They’re not ugly!” Knox proclaimed, his brown eyes wide as he curled up to Daphne’s side, “Don’t be mean.” He told her quickly, eyebrows furrowed tightly together. 

“It’s the truth.” She said fiercely, seriously. He began to protest again, making her shake her head as she thought about the silly arguments that they came up with. 

“Alright, alright,” Gator hushed them both as Piper strung her little legs over his lap, “Don’t say ugly. It’s a mean word.” He reminded her softly, giving her knee a little squeeze. She watched him for the longest time before she relaxed, giving her head a nod. 

“Fine.” She agreed at last, laying her head on his chest as Daphne searched for the movie with the remote. Noah hummed as he continued to down his hot chocolate, looking forward thoughtfully. 

“I like the gingerfed-,” He began, still staring forward at the TV.

“Gingerbread.” Knox quickly corrected, looking exasperated. 

“They’re yummy.” Noah giggled as he finished, holding his cup in his hands happily as he snuggled deeper into Gator’s side. He stuck his feet out, resting them against her side. 

“Oh, so that’s why they have bites out of them?” He questioned as he looked down at the toddler, earning a loud gasp from him. 

“I didn’t do it!” He protested as he roughly shook his head back and forth. Piper leaned forward, gently beginning to brush her fingers through Paisley’s hair. 

“Sure,” He laughed as he moved his arm to the back of the couch, “Those poor little cookies didn’t stand a chance.” He continued to tease, sharing a smile with Daphne as he played with the hair on the nape of her neck. 

“Daddy, shh,” Piper hushed him, placing a finger over his mouth, “The movie started.” She reminded him as she pointed towards the TV, wearing a serious look. 

“Oops,” He whispered softly, giving her a nod before he turned his attention towards Daphne, “I’ll be quiet now.” He sent her a playful wink, making her heart throb roughly against the side of her neck. She had no idea how he still managed to make her feel like a teenager. 

She settled in with the kids, holding onto Knox as Noah shifted back and forth between her and Gator. He went back and forth from standing to sitting, to grabbing different toys and putting them back. He was just always on the move. 

“Hey,” He spoke up suddenly, his eyebrows furrowed together, “Why is he green?” He replied as he stalled his movements of his car, looking genuinely confused. 

“Because he’s the Grinch.” She explained as she gave her shoulders a little shrug, meeting Gator’s confused look. She didn’t have the answer either. 

“So that makes him green?” He continued on, his upper lip now stained from where he had down his hot chocolate so fast. He began to move his car again, making noises as he did so. 

“And hairy.” Knox added with a little giggle, thinking it was funny as he dropped his head onto her shoulder. She nodded her head in agreement, rubbing his back a little softer. 

“No, that happens when you swallow watermelon seeds.” Gator spoke up suddenly, turning his attention from where Piper had begun to move her arms around Paisley. He was holding onto both of them, ensuring that her neck continued to stay supported. 

“What?” Noah asked, his expression dropping as he blinked slowly, “Oh no.” He gaped as he set his car down, turning his full attention to his father this time. He looked horrified. 

“I told you to stop doing it.” Gator reminded him, doing his best to keep his from spreading across his lips. He enjoyed teasing the kids, something that he was really good at. 

“I’m going to be green?” Noah asked in horror as he looked down at his arms, moving them back and forth like he needed to confirm that he still looked the same. She bit down on her bottom lip, trying to keep from laughing. 

“And hairy.” Piper added this time, nodding her head seriously. Noah rushed forward, crawling onto Daphne’s lap this time. She winced but quickly recovered as she moved his hand, keeping him from pressing down on her sore scars. She shook away Gator’s worry. She was fine. 

“Mommy, I don’t want to be green.” He said in terror as he snuggled up to her the same way Knox held onto her. She rocked them both back and forth, smiling at the feeling of holding her babies. 

“Oh,” She laughed as she held onto him, “I don’t think you’ll be green. Just don’t eat any more watermelon seeds.” She teased him softly, watching the way he groaned. 

“The baby should be green,” He huffed as he looked over his shoulder at where Paisley was still sleeping, “Not me.” He protested, shaking his head quickly. 

“Don’t forget, Santa is listening.” Gator reminded him as he reached his free hand out to rub his back. Noah gaped, blinking slowly as realization spread through his brown eyes. 

“Poop,” He mumbled before he straightened up, kicking his feet out, “I’m sorry, baby.” He added, still refusing to look at her. But it was something.

“I think she forgives you,” Daphne smiled as she leaned over, giving the top of his head a little kiss again, “And she loves you very much.” He only grumbled in response, moving away to bury his face into Gator’s side once again. Apparently they weren’t on those terms just yet, but that was okay. They had many years to adjust to one another.

[buckysgrace]

17. Forever and Ever, Amen

Gator Tillman x fem!oc

Hugh announces some surprising news to the entire family.

Then

He was thirteen when Nadine stumbled into his life.

He supposed that force was a better way to describe it. She had disrupted the delicate balance that was his home life, even if it wasn’t technically her fault. Still, he enjoyed having her company. It made him feel less lonely in his big house, even though he wasn’t allowed to play with her that much. 

“Who are you?” Daphne peered up at Nadine, her dark eyebrows pulled together inquisitively like she was trying to decide if Nadine was kind or not. Her eyes were narrowed, like she was trying to decide if Nadine was friend or foe. 

Nadine had only been at the ranch for a few days, but Gator’s parents had business with the ranch that had left the two of them swiftly dropped off at the Williams’ house. Ruby had spent some time outside on the porch, speaking to his mom in a hushed whisper. “I told you,” Gator whined, “This is Nadine.” He reminded her again, although he had already told her over the phone the day that Nadine had arrived. Daphne parted her lips in a silent understanding, her big blue eyes locking onto Nadine like she was one of the new animals her father had purchased. 

“Oh,” Daphne drew out slowly, “Where did you come from? How old are you? Do you like dollies? I have a pony, do you want to meet her?” She spit out all at once, nearly toppling over out of her seat from how close she had moved to Nadine. 

Nadine’s eyes widened, clearly taken aback by Daphne’s attitude. Gator flushed, wishing that he would’ve warned Nadine about how Daphne could be. She was eleven now, but still acted a little too naive at times. 

“Let the poor girl speak, Daphne.” Ruby walked around a second later, shaking her head before she waved her hand so that Daphne would sit up straight again. 

“Sorry,” Daphne blushed as she settled back into her seat. It only lasted a second before she wiggled closer again, “We can play dress up too if you like that.” She smiled a little sweeter, looking excited at the aspect. Nadine seemed to relax as she nodded her head in agreement. 

“Dress up sounds fun.” She said softly, her blue eyes locked tightly on the way Daphne’s features broke out into excitement. 

“Cool,” Daphne grinned widely, showing off one of her little gap between her bottom front teeth, “You can wear some of Noelle’s stuff.” She said quickly as she hopped out of her seat. She tugged on Nadine’s hand, nudging her upstairs. 

“Where are you going?” Gator protested, not wanting to be left alone. August wasn’t back yet, which meant that he might have to play nice with Oliver. He didn’t want to do that. 

“Uh to my room,” Daphne said incredulously, “Are you coming or what?” She yelled over her shoulder as she walked upstairs. He stumbled out of his seat, not wanting to be left behind as he joined them. 

Daphne had a steady hand as she applied color onto Nadine’s eyelids. He thought the q-tip like brushes were odd, along with the funny looking palettes. He wasn’t sure if it was even real makeup. 

“Daphne can you-,” August stalled as he held the door open, “Whose this?” He paused, his eyebrows cocked wide as he stared at Nadine. He leaned against the doorway, his body relaxing as he watched her. 

“I’m Nadine.” She gave a soft wave, smiling kindly before she looked away again. Gator felt his own eyes narrowing, quickly understanding the look in August’s eye. He’d had a girl problem recently. 

“Go away, August,” Daphne grumbled, “She’s my friend not yours.” She said quickly before she began to dabble a glossy pink color on Nadine’s lips. 

“She probably doesn’t want to play with a bunch of kids.” He challenged as he jerked his chin back towards her. Daphne’s cheeks heated up, looking frustrated at once again from being referred to as a kid. 

“I don’t mind.” Nadine spoke softly, looking as relaxed as ever as she kept her eyes glued to the way Daphne was continuing her work. 

“Ha,” Daphne replied as she stuck her tongue out towards him, “Now go away.” She demanded as she reached for one of the stuffed animals on the floor. She threw it, narrowly missing his head as it bounded down the hallway right before August slammed the door shut. There was a loud shriek of protest, sounding like Oliver had become a victim from the attack. 

Daphne kept them busy as they played from game to game. Sometimes it was a struggle to keep up with her imagination, but Gator enjoyed it. Nadine was a lot quieter, a lot calmer than the two of them. She only seemed to calm down once they were all called in to get cleaned up for dinner. 

“Sorry, the office was busier than usual,” Bruce grumbled as he strolled through the door. He gave Ruby a brief kiss on the lips before he kissed Noelle’s head and then Daphne’s. He ruffled Gator’s hair the same way he did to August and Oliver before he paused, “Uh hon, I don’t remember this child.”

“That’s Nadine!” Daphne replied in excitement, “She’s like Gator’s big sister now. And she likes horses too!” She said happily as she wiggled around in her chair again. Bruce raised an eyebrow as he glanced towards Nadine before he turned to his youngest daughter again. 

“Can she speak for herself?” He challenged, but still looked amused as Ruby began to serve him his dinner. August snorted, looking a little pleased with himself before Ruby gave him a warning tap on his shoulder. 

“Well yes,” Daphne replied back, too excited to listen to Bruce’s grumpy tone, “But I wanted to answer for her because we’re friends. See?” She held up the little beaded bracelet, waving it around wildly. Nadine raised her wrist in response, a shy smile on her lips as she showed off her matching one. 

“She’s staying with the Tillman’s for a while,” Ruby answered softly as she sent Nadine another wave, “They’re picking up some cattle so I said we could watch them.” She finally sat down, looking a little tired as she gave Bruce a squeeze on his shoulder. 

Dinner passed easily after that and Gator didn’t miss the confusion on Nadine’s features. Bruce was similar to Roy, but he was also very different. They didn’t sit in silence at dinner, Bruce made sure to ask them all the same amount of questions and seemed genuinely interested in what they had to say. He was always a little harder on August, but Gator figured that it had to do with him being the oldest. 

`They all helped clean up after dinner. He scraped off the leftovers into a bowl then handed the dirty dishes to Daphne. She washed them, while Noelle dried them. August worked on scrubbing the table down while Oliver silently swept the floor. It was routine, it was nice. No one got yelled at for doing it wrong either. 

“We could play monopoly,”  Daphne suggested as she balanced on one leg that night, “Or Life. Or Twister. Or I could make August give up his Xbox.” She rambled as she listed off everything that came to her mind. They had made their way into the basement. There was more room, with an extra sofa, mattress and TV. 

“What about Mario Kart on the Gamecube?” Gator asked instead, feeling like that sounded a lot more fun. He felt bad that Nadine was still quiet. He hoped that she understood that she did fit in. Daphne seemed to be a big fan of hers.

“That’s fine,” Nadine said in agreement, “I’m alright with whatever you guys usually do.” She agreed with them, looking quite content as Daphne rushed over to set up the Gamecube. She hummed to herself, filling the room with sound as he wondered what thoughts Nadine was hiding behind her stoic features. 

////////////////////////////////

Gator woke up to the sound of the rain.

He rolled over, his feet cold from the lack of blankets. He groaned, trying to tug them back over himself but to no avail. Nadine and Daphne had cocooned themselves together underneath all the blankets. Each time he tried to grab at them, one of them shifted it closer to themselves. 

He drifted upstairs, making plans to head into the spare closet that held all the extra pillows and quilts. He was sure he’d be left with the scratchy ones, but he supposed he couldn’t be a beggar. 

“She could stay here,” Gator heard Ruby pleading with Bruce down the hall, speaking in hushed tones so that no one else could hear them, “Linda and Roy have so much going on right now. We’re already used to a full house, it wouldn’t be that different.” She protested, sounding more desperate than he had ever heard her. 

“It’s none of our business who they take in.” Bruce whispered back in the same manner, but sounded frustrated as if they had been arguing about this for a while. Gator crept closer, doing his best to stay quiet even though he knew he shouldn’t eavesdrop. 

“She could help me out,” Ruby tried again, “And she could share a room with Noelle or Daphne. We could  make it work.” She sounded chipper, like she could somehow convince Bruce. Gator found himself frowning, not wanting to lose the one chance he had at gaining a sibling. 

“She’s the same age as August,” Bruce dismissed her entirely, “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” He sounded serious this time as he spoke. Ruby sighed deeply, sounding like she was debating on her next choice of words. 

“I don’t think it’s a good idea for her to stay there,” Ruby said at last, “It just doesn’t feel right.” She breathed out harshly. Gator crept a little closer, curious as to what she was going to say. 

“And why’s that?” Bruce sounded more stern this time around. Gator took a step back, not wanting to hear Bruce treat Ruby the same way Roy handled Linda. He winced as the floor creaked, stiffening as he knew that he had been caught. He pulled a sheepish smile to his lips as Ruby turned around the corner. 

“Hey,” Ruby smiled brightly at him, all of the worried lines on her features disappearing as she stepped forward, “I didn’t wake you, did I?” She asked worriedly as she fumbled her fingers through his hair. 

“No,” He lied, “I just couldn’t sleep.” He shrugged his shoulders softly, trying to keep as nonchalant as he could. She nodded her head, looking fine with that answer as Bruce rounded on them. 

“We’ll talk about this later,” Bruce said dismissively as he gave Ruby a warning look, “Try and get some sleep.” He added towards Gator a second later. He gave his shoulder a soft squeeze, then added an even softer smile before he walked away.

“I was about to have a cup of tea, do you want some?” Gator loved his mom, but thought that she sometimes had a hard time loving him. Roy was always telling her that she was doing something wrong, that she was babying him. He never heard Bruce say that to Ruby. She was softer, sweeter. 

When he was here, Roy couldn’t say that. Bruce never seemed to complain about it either. Ruby treated Gator in the same manner she treated her sons. She’d let him curl up against her side, rest his head on her lap and would kiss injuries the same way she did to the rest of her kids. 

“Okay,” He nodded his head. He watched as she worked, thinking about how his mom never drank tea, “Why do you not want Nadine to stay with me?” He asked at last, furrowing his eyebrows together as he tried to come up with his own answer. Had he already done something wrong? 

“Oh, it’s not about you,” She said softly as she pushed a teacup towards him, “It’s just a lot on your mom. And she’s only had a little boy to deal with, plus, I know how to handle girls.” She said with a sly smile, making him nod his head in agreement.

“Right,” Gator replied as he took a soft sip from the warm tea, “I want a sister though.” He told her seriously. He’d always wanted a sibling. He felt like he missed out some, especially when he watched the way Daphne interacted with her siblings. They fought, but they also loved each other a lot. 

“You could still have one,” She nodded her head, “And my kids are like your siblings too.” She told him as she took a sip from her own cup. She looked deep in thought for a moment. He watched her, thinking that Daphne had her same eyes. 

“Not Daphne though?” He asked a second later, unable to help himself as her name just came to his mind. She laughed as he spoke. 

“Not Daphne,” She grinned as she watched him, “I still need grandkids from you two one day. A long time from now.” She winked, teasing him as he curled his nose up in disgust. 

“Ew.” He said, feeling his face flush at the thought. Having kids with Daphne? There was no way. She was just a friend.

Now

How are things?

He texted her the day of her appointment, still slightly worried about what had been wrong with her bloodwork. He hoped it was nothing bad. But then again, he supposed that Hugh could’ve given her some odd disease. 

Good, maybe we can talk later?

Her message made his eyebrows raise. He supposed it was harmless, but there also seemed to be something hidden in there. He quickly answered her.

Is everything alright?

He stared at his open messages, praying and hoping for a quick response from her. 

I hope so.

Her message was odd and did nothing to soothe the jitters in his veins. He paused, about to call her when Roy burst into his room. He looked at him unimpressed before he jerked his head down the hall.

“Get ready.” Was his simple statement, giving Gator no time to question him before he was back out the hallway. Gator stumbled out the door, trying to figure out exactly what he needed to get ready for. He couldn’t tell if this was personal or business. 

“Where are we going?” He breathed out harshly, almost tripping down the ends of the stairs. He paused, taking in the way that Karen was getting the girls adjusted. Personal. This was something personal. 

“We were invited over for dinner,” Roy huffed as he adjusted his hat, “Is there some issue?” He snapped, sounding a little more cranky than usual.

“No,” Gator said, slightly alarmed by his tone, “I was just curious s’all.” He shrugged his shoulders, trying to keep his cool as he quickly slid on a pair of his boots. He was still taken off guard, trying to figure out just where they were heading. He supposed that Ruby must’ve overcooked again. 

“Do we get to throw flowers yet?” Jessica asked as she furrowed her eyebrow and tugged on Gator’s hand. He sighed, unsure of how to explain to her that she probably wouldn’t be one for a while.

“Probably soon,” He nodded his head, feeling a bit bad for lying to her as he helped her out the door. She pouted her lips out, seemingly disappointed before Karen took her and lifted her into the truck, “What did Ruby make?”

“It’s not there,” Roy dismissed him as he clambered into the front seat, “It’s at Daphne’s. Her husband invited us over.” He remarked, trying to make a subtle dig but it didn’t work this time. Gator knew something that he didn’t. 

He stood there for a moment, wondering if he was walking into some sort of trap. He had heard stories of wives confronting their cheating husbands in front of large groups to humiliate them, but never the other way around. He didn’t think that Hugh could do that. Nor did he believe that anyone would really care.

“Are you coming?” Roy asked, looking annoyed at the way Gator lingered outside of the truck. He quickly cursed before he made his way inside, trying to sort out if there was some connection between Daphne’s messages and Hugh’s invitation.

The drive there wasn’t long but Gator was left in his nerves the entire way. He kept unlocking his phone, his thumbs brushing over his keyboard as he tried to think of some message to send Daphne. He doubted that she’d answer him. He didn’t like feeling like he was blinded. 

He still thought it was a bit funny that Bruce had kicked them out of the house, so soon after their marriage. He was more than happy to get rid of Hugh, that much was certain. Gator wondered where Hugh would go after. 

Maude and Jessica approached the open door first, bustling inside the already busy room. Karen was quickly after them, trying to keep them away from the walls that were only half painted. Gator lingered about, observing the room and then everyone’s behavior. Everything seemed normal. Except Daphne wasn’t around yet.

He debated on how to ask first, before he went towards Noelle who was sprawled out by herself on the couch. The furniture was all shifted about, still close together as part of the living room had yet to be finished. Despite the candles, everything still smelt like fresh wood. 

“Is Daphne here?” He looked at Noelle in confusion, not seeing her anywhere nearby as he walked towards where Noelle was positioned on the sectional. She sighed deeply, like his presence was irritating. He was used to it by now. She’d been like this his whole life. 

“I haven’t seen her,” Noelle shrugged her shoulders as she continued to inspect her nails, “Hugh told daddy to get pizza and said they had big news.” He furrowed his eyebrows together in confusion, feeling like this was all odd. It didn’t sound like they were celebrating a divorce. 

“Hugh set this up?” He searched for clarity, wondering why he would do such a thing. It wasn’t like he’d received a very warm welcome from any of them. Something was off, he just couldn’t put his finger on it. 

“Yeah,” Noelle narrowed her eyes as she looked at him, “What do you know?” She asked as she leaned forward, like she was trying to read his expression. He remained stoic, not needing another one of her siblings to know of their affair. 

“Nothing,” He responded as he backed away as if he could prove his innocence, “I don’t know anything.” He said at last, crossing his arms as if to make a point. 

“I don’t believe you,” She said at last as she pointed a finger at him, “You’re hiding something too.” She told him seriously as she furrowed her eyebrows tightly together. He scoffed, even though he was hiding something. He wouldn’t tell Noelle. He didn’t trust her.

“What about your secret?” He challenged in response, not liking being so easily called out. Her eyes widened for just a fleeting second before she quickly rolled them and turned in the other direction. It was a bit of a low blow, but it was the truth. 

There wasn’t much time for her to investigate him again before he heard footsteps gliding down the stairs. He walked around the sofa, already recognizing who it was before she stepped into the room. Her eyes widened in surprise, clearly taken aback by everyone in the room. 

“Hugh,” Daphne’s smile was tight, her eyebrows knitted in confusion as she glanced around at everyone, “What’s going on?” Her hair was wrapped up in a bun on top of her head with loose strands in disarray. She looked a little green around the edges and her mascara was smeared around the corners of her eyes as if she’d wiped them for too long. 

“I thought we should celebrate the big news,” He said as he ushered her forward, pushing her smaller body until she was on display. She didn’t look dressed for a celebration either. Her leggings had cat hair on them and her shirt was a few sizes too big, one that he suspected had been one of his old ones. The thought made him smirk. 

“Wait, wait,” She tried to protest, “What are you-, what’s everyone doing here?” She peered around at everyone in surprise, looking a little horrified as she tried to gain control of the situation. He rubbed the back of his neck, a little worried at how stressed she looked. He really hoped that Hugh wasn’t going to spring something on them. 

“To celebrate the baby!” The words tumbled free from Hugh’s tongue, making Gator take a few steps back until he hit the back of the couch. He blinked, almost positive that he had heard Hugh wrong. There was no way. 

“You’re pregnant?” Ruby was the first one to speak, grinning as Daphne planted her feet and continued to look horrified, “Oh congrats. That’s amazing!” She wrapped her arms around Daphne, giving her a little squeeze as her eyes remained wide. 

“It’s great news, isn’t it?” Hugh grinned as he bent low to kiss the corner of Daphne’s mouth. She quickly tugged away, almost as if she had been slapped as she stared up at him. Gator couldn’t find any words of congratulations on his tongue. He felt angry, jealous. He’d been so determined that Daphne was his when she really wasn’t. 

“So great,” Bruce responded dryly, only changing his tone when Ruby nudged him, “I’m so glad I’ll finally be a grandpa.” He tried again, but didn’t have the energy to humor anyone with his fake enthusiasm. Gator felt like the walls were slowly caving in and as if his lungs could no longer work. He hadn’t had an asthma attack in years, but he felt the similar dread forming in the base of his chest. 

“I uh,” Daphne shook her head, looking lost and a little terrified as different forms of congratulations were thrown her way, “I didn’t want to announce it like this.” He turned his attention towards the floor, thinking that the wood looked far too clean as her eyes fell onto him. He didn’t want to look at her. 

“It’s your family,” Hugh reminded her with a sweet tone, “There’s not a better way to do it.” Gator was sure that he was all up on her, parading her around and their unborn baby. He knew it wasn’t right to be so jealous, but he was. It should be him. 

He left without another word, turning on his heel as he was sure no one would notice anyways. It took everything in him to keep from slamming the door behind him. Fuck this. Fuck her. He wouldn’t be used in that way. Not now, not ever. 

He paced on the steps, grumbling curses underneath his breath as he wondered how he could let some girl turn his entire life upside down. Fuck. His hand shook as he brought his vape up to his lips, taking inhale after inhale as the warm setting sun burned the tops of his shoes.

The door opened but he didn’t need to look over to know who it was. He felt stupid as he stared off into the distance, wondering how he had ever thought that they’d had a chance. 

“You’re pregnant.” He spoke bitterly as he stared ahead, his heart hammering as he held back a rush of nasty accusations on the tip of his tongue. He couldn’t look at her right now. 

“Gator,” She breathed out roughly, “I was going to tell you. This was all ambushed on me. I didn’t want anyone else to know this early.” She said frantically, sounding like she was close to tears as she roughly gestured her hands around. 

“Why would it be any of my business?” He snapped at her, feeling bitter as it settled around him. She tilted her head, looking at him in disbelief as she gently shook her head. She scoffed, then laughed to herself like it was funny. The realization washed over him next, like a cold dunk in the crick as he parted his lips in understanding.

Oh.

“So the baby is-?” His tongue rolled around awkwardly in his mouth as he spoke. He straightened up his form as he looked down at her, noticing the softness that formed around her features. 

“Yes,” Daphne said, her skin a little green as she watched him, “What do you think?” She chewed on her bottom lip, cocking an eyebrow as she twisted her fingers together. He fell silent, noticing that she wasn’t wearing her wedding ring either. The anger rushed out of him, disappearing as a breeze hit them. 

“I think that’s amazing,” He spat out truthfully, “Really great. That’s incredible. A baby, wow.” He rambled for a moment, shaking his head as he tried to think of the right thing to say. He was excited, truly. He was just unprepared. His little tantrum earlier had been rash, but he was glad to know he wasn’t being used. 

He was going to be a dad. A father. He didn’t know how to process that as he roughly swallowed the words. He wasn’t upset, but he didn’t know if he’d be a good one either. He hoped so. 

“You’re nervous.” She said simply, her eyes crinkling as an amused smile tugged on her lips. He watched her as he nodded his head in agreement, bringing the vape back to his lips so he could twist out the new nerves that had formed inside of his stomach. 

“Yeah,” He nodded his head, still smiling as he resisted the urge to hold onto her, “How far along are you?” She walked forward until they were out of sight from the window, smiling as she took his hand in hers. He looked down at how tiny her hand seemed to be in comparison as he rubbed his fingertips across her open palm. 

“About five weeks,” She chewed on her bottom lip as she looked at him, “Hugh had my phone. I think that’s how he knew.” She whispered softly, her eyes swimming with worry as he was sure they shared the same thought. He was sure that if Hugh had seen their messages that he would’ve said something. 

“He doesn’t suspect anything then?” He asked her softly as he linked their fingers together, just for confirmation. She shook her head slowly. He almost wished that Hugh had looked. It would’ve made things a lot easier. 

“Apparently not,” She breathed out, “I should’ve just told him. Now everyone thinks the baby is his.” She huffed in frustration as she glanced back towards the house. He didn’t want her to get too stressed out. He was sure her miscarriage must’ve been partially due to stress at the time. It wasn’t a pleasant thought. 

“S’alright,” He mumbled as he rubbed his thumb into her palm gently, “We can work through this together.” He told her truthfully. It was a mess right now, but they’d be able to figure it out. In all honesty, he didn’t care what Hugh thought or said about the situation. He knew it would be easier to just come clean. 

“It’s embarrassing.” She groaned as she leaned forward, fully hiding her face into the crook of his neck. She continued to whine, shuffling on her feet as he wrapped his arms around her waist. He pulled her in for the first real hug they’d shared in years. He soaked in her warmth, pulling her closer as she nuzzled her face deeper against his skin. He pressed his chin against the top of her head, suddenly feeling like everything was alright. 

“On the bright side,” Gator drew out softly, “I don’t think Hugh will want to stick around after this.” He chuckled softly as he rocked them back and forth. She clung to him tightly, sighing deeply as her eyelashes fluttered against his neck. 

“I’m scared.” She breathed out slowly, her voice barely above a whisper as he rubbed his fingertips down her spine. He wanted to pull her closer, then wondering how fast they could make it to his truck without anyone noticing. Perhaps it wouldn’t be bad to leave. 

“It’s going to be alright,” He promised as he kissed her temple, “Things will be easier this time. I’ll take care of you.” He promised her as he peppered a trail of kisses down to her lips. She giggled softly, the sound absorbed by the soft touch of their lips meeting. 

“I know,” She whispered softly once he pulled away, “But what do we do now?” She looked at him worriedly as she flicked her eyes up towards him. He paused for a moment, but really didn’t know how to answer her.

“You need to end it with Hugh first,” He said at last, “Then everything else will fall into place.” He said at last, feeling like it would be better for them to start slowly than to announce it to everyone. He didn’t want to cause a scene, no matter how badly he wanted to be with her. It wasn’t worth doing it in that manner. 

He snuck back in a few minutes after her, taking a bit longer to breathe in what had just happened. He was going to be a dad. He was going to have a baby. He was excited, but it also made him want to vomit. He had no idea how to be a dad. 

The buzz from his excitement was still coursing through his veins as he walked back inside, exhaling one last cloud from his vape before he was forced into such close proximity with everyone. Part of him didn’t even care about keeping it a secret anymore, but he would for her behalf. 

He ignored the way Roy’s eyes fell towards him, an accusatory look in his expression that Gator shrugged off. He joined August, listening to whichever bitch he was venting about this time as he tried to keep himself from staring after Daphne. They were going to have a baby. 

“A baby will be so nice,” Ruby gushed out over the cheap pizza place Bruce had ordered from, still looking as if he’d just been stabbed, “The two of you will have a cute baby.” She grinned as she watched them, looking like she was already planning on when she’d be able to hold the baby. Gator shifted in his chair, hoping she’d be just as excited when she found out the truth. 

Daphne nodded deeply as a soft smile fell to Hugh’s lips. The bastard was still clueless. She circled the tip of her pizza in a cup of ranch, fluttering her eyes dramatically as she took a large bite before she began to speak. 

“I hope the baby has Gator’s eyes.” She breathed out dreamily as she took another bite from her slice of pizza. She munched on it, closing her eyes as her statement waved through the air around them. 

He stopped chewing, resisting the urge to spit out the crust of his pizza from how dry it suddenly felt in his mouth. The side conversations stopped as eyes darted back between the two of them. She stayed oblivious as she opened her eyes, a tiny smile on her lips until she realized everyone was staring. He swallowed hard, wincing at how roughly the food traveled down his throat. 

“What?” She looked at them confused with a raised eyebrow, “Is something wrong with the food?” She asked in confusion, peeling her cheese back like there was something hidden underneath it. Gator shifted lower in his chair, completely aware of the look Roy was sending him.

“Daph,” August coughed to cover up his laugh, eyes flickering in mischief, “You just said the wrong name.” He said in amusement, once again wearing that shit eating grin as he turned towards Gator. Gator felt himself grumbling, his eye twitching as he resisted the urge to toss his drink towards him. 

“Name?” She looked at him confused, tilting her head before she glanced towards everyone else. Hugh stared ahead, blinking in confusion like he was hearing it all over for the first time.

“You just said you wanted the baby to have Gator’s eyes.” Oliver said this time, a little more agitated as he turned to fully face Daphne. She froze, her fingers tightening into fists on the table as she refused to look at anyone. 

“Oh,” Daphne paused, her blue eyes widening in shock, “I said that?” She laughed nervously, her face burning like she’d been out in the sun too long as everyone continued to stare at her. Gator avoided the way Karen stuck her nose up, how she sent Roy a knowing look. 

“You did.” 

“Hm,” She stopped again, her face and neck burning as bright as a tomato, “I uh, I had this whole thing rehearsed and -,” She stopped herself quickly, covering her hand over her mouth before she stood and bolted down the hallway. Her chair nearly teetered backwards from how roughly she stood, but Oliver quickly grabbed it to balance it out as Hugh stared in disbelief.

Gator was all too aware as all the attention shifted towards him. He pulled a stiff smile to his lips, his face suddenly feeling hot, “I really like this pizza place.” He said simply, feeling like his insides were slowly curling up and sinking inside of him. His face felt too hot as he was thrown off from her sudden revelation. 

“You bastard,” Oliver said suddenly, “You’re going to ruin her.” He snapped towards Gator, looking like he was second away from flipping the table. August only laughed, making Gator want to bury his face that much deeper into his hole. 

He wished that Oliver was wrong, but the sad truth was that he probably wasn’t. He cared deeply for Daphne, but he had secrets that he couldn’t share with her. To keep her safe, of course. Partially. And because he didn’t want to lose her when she found out the truth. 

“Oliver,” Ruby looked at him surprised, “Not now.” She brushed him off quickly, smiling stiffly as she glanced back towards Hugh, who was stony faced. This wasn’t exactly how he wanted it to go, but maybe there wasn’t anything wrong with ripping the bandaid off. It would all be over with now. And he didn’t really feel bad for Hugh either, he had been shitty towards her. 

“You and her,” Hugh looked up towards him, “You were with her the whole time?” His brown eyes locked in on Gator’s, looking determined as he searched for any cracks in Gator’s demeanor. 

“Uh,” Gator wasn’t sure how to sit, where to place his hands or where to look, “Um, yes.” He said honestly, figuring that there was no other way around it. Everyone was going to find out, one way or another. 

“Wow,” Bruce spoke suddenly, making Gator hide further into his chair, “You know you could’ve done this a few years ago. Or before she was married. Congrats.” He sounded a little amused towards the end, so amused that Gator swore he winked in his direction. He suddenly seemed more chipper than he had a few minutes ago. 

“Bruce!” Ruby shouted in shock, shaking her head like she couldn’t believe what he’d just said. Bruce shrugged his shoulders innocently as Hugh continued to stare towards Gator. “What?” He asked in disbelief, “Everyone congratulated Hugh, I was just being the first one to say it to Gator.” He gestured towards Hugh, then towards Gator as if to make a point.

“Well,” Roy drew out softly, “I sincerely apologize for how my son has acted.” He smiled tightly, but was clearly agitated by the look in his eyes. Suddenly, Gator felt like he was twelve again. Ruby opened her mouth again, looking like she was going to protest before a sound from the doorway tore their attention away. 

“Hugh,” Daphne finally reappeared, looking quite small as she stood in the doorway, “Can we talk?” She nearly whispered, holding her gaze down as she shifted from foot to foot. He winced, wishing there was something he could do to make it easier on her. He suddenly wondered if he should join her, or if that would make it all worse. 

“You’ve already humiliated me,” Hugh spoke raspily, making Gator turn his attention down to his plate to hide away from his glare, “Just say what you have to say.” He sat back in his chair and linked his fingers together, looking quite relaxed as he waited for her to speak. 

“I think you should talk in private,” Ruby said quickly, “We don’t need to hear this.” She shook her head, desperately looking like she was trying to help Daphne take control of the situation. 

“It’s fine,” Hugh said dryly, “Just go ahead. Get it off your chest.” He said plainly, looking rather interested as he held eye contact with her. 

She paused, looking scared as she continued to fiddle with her fingers. Gator shifted in his seat, beginning to join her before Noelle shoved him back down. She shook her head, giving him a look before she reached over and grabbed her sister’s hand. She squeezed hard, looking like she gave Daphne the bit of confidence that she needed. 

“I’m in love with Gator,” She said at last, breathing in shakily as she looked around, “And I think he loves me too. I’m, um, I’m sorry about what I did to you. I shouldn’t have dragged you through this mess and I’m, well, obviously ashamed of my actions but I don’t regret them. But I am sorry.” She glanced at Gator briefly, sending him a look that made his insides warm. She quickly looked away, nodding her head as she laid out the facts plainly. 

“That was something, dear.” Ruby smiled tightly, looking more stressed than what Daphne did at this point. She kept glancing towards Hugh, like she was waiting for him to do something rash. He was quiet, far too quiet before he roughly rose and walked upstairs.

“It’s alright,” Noelle tapped Daphne’s hand softly, “You did good.” She reassured her, smiling softly in reassurance. Daphne nodded her head, looking a little green again as she glanced towards Gator. He took her free hand, engulfing her hand in his as he tugged her closer. Maybe it wasn’t the right time for everyone else, but it felt good to him. 

“I do love you,” He told her softly as he kissed her knuckles, “Very much.” He added gently, unsure if it was the right time to be so public with her. She sighed softly, looking relieved. He could tell that she needed this. Things would be okay. 

“Enough to streak around the farm.” August snorted as he spoke up, making Gator shoot a glare his way. Eyes snapped up once again as another uncomfortable tension filled the room. 

“What?” Bruce looked up horrified, “You know what-, I don’t want to know actually.” He held up his hands and then quickly shook his head, like he had finally absorbed all of the information. Ruby exhaled deeply, patting his shoulder as she looked deep into her own thoughts. 

“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.” Roy spoke up, rambling for a moment as the air turned tense again. Gator felt a knot forming between his shoulders. 

“Thanks, dad,” Gator replied dryly, “Congrats. You’re going to be a grandfather.” He did his best to pull a smile to his lips, even though he knew that Roy wasn’t happy. Daphne squeezed at his hand softly, dragging his attention away as he glanced up towards her again. 

Everyone was quiet and Gator was fairly certain because they all fit into one of those boxes. August had run through just about every girl in this town, meanwhile Oliver and Noelle both had settled for different tastes than what was expected. Daphne rested against him, wrapping an arm behind his shoulders as he rubbed his fingertips against her skin softly. 

“A baby is still exciting,” Noelle said this time, “I hope you have a girl.” She replied joyfully, leaning over to poke and prod at Daphne’s tummy. It was still flat, hiding any proof away. Gator wondered if she had a developed tummy at all when they lost their first baby girl. 

The rest of the dinner was still a bit awkward, everyone tiptoeing through the obvious tension. Except for Oliver. He threw insults and little jibes whenever he got the chance. Ruby ended up escorting him out before everyone else.

Gator lingered behind after everyone else had left, feigning an excuse so he didn’t have to face Roy. He wasn’t ready for the lecture he was about to receive. He didn’t really need to go back. He really wanted to stay with Daphne, to be there to support her. 

“So,” Daphne teetered awkwardly from foot to foot, “Where should we stay tonight? Hugh is still upstairs.” She peeped her head over the corner before she shuffled back towards him, smiling sheepishly as she wrapped her arms around his waist again. 

“Maybe we should check to make sure he didn’t, you know.” He made a concerned face, shaking his shoulders as he held onto her. He bent down and kissed the top of her head, glad that he had her back. Everything was definitely awkward, but he was happy that they could be together now. 

“Gator,” Daphne laughed quickly, “That’s not funny.” She shoved at his shoulder gently, whispering like she was trying to make sure that Hugh couldn’t hear them. He bent over again, kissing her temple sweetly. 

“It kinda was,” He mumbled, “Do you want me to check?” He asked as he tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. She still looked a little frazzled, but that didn’t matter to him. He gripped her face, squeezing it softly before he pressed his lips against hers. She giggled in response, squealing against his lips before he pulled away. 

“I’ll come with,” She said as wiped his spit away from her mouth as her blue eyes filled with amusement, “Or is that very smart? I really don’t know what to do.” She admitted as she gave his hand a soft squeeze. 

“No need,” Hugh drew their attention away, making their eyes snap up towards the stairs as Gator quickly took a step back, “Can I take the spare room? Just until I get moved somewhere else.” He said stiffly, his eyes still fiery as he looked towards Gator. 

“Sure,” Daphne spit out awkwardly, “Yeah that’s, that’s fine. Do you want to talk or-?” She looked at him briefly, looking like she wasn’t sure what else to say as Hugh pushed past them. He carried his bags on his shoulders and his art supplies in his hands as he ignored her question. 

“I guess we can stay upstairs then?” He teased her softly, speaking only once he was sure Hugh could no longer hear them. She sighed as she leaned against him, hiding her face again as she nodded her head. 

“Do you really want to do this?” She asked him softly, pulling away to look up at him with her bright eyes. He traced the curve of her cheek, glancing over the freckles that decorated her nose and soft cheeks. He nodded his head softly.

“There’s no one I’d rather do this with,” He told her truthfully, “Baby or not. I want to be with you.” 

[sadhours]

scumbag blues • go with the flow

gator tillman x f!oc

previous chapter • masterlist

cw: 18+ minors dni, sex work, mention of drugs and cannabis, roy tillman

🤍🤍🤍🤍

Campbell is arrested. Daisy sees it on the news the next morning as she’s preparing breakfast for the random couple that stumbled in here not knowing what Stark County actually uses the Inn for. She tries not to think about Gator while she cooks, which is difficult because the last time she’d seen him, he cooked her breakfast which… that was fucking weird, right? Her dad laughs, standing at the counter while Daisy prepares the food.

“They got the bastard,” he shakes his head, “Did you help them out?”

“That’s why I was with Gator yesterday,” she lies, smiling to her dad while she mixes pancake batter in a bowl.

The news cuts to Roy as he makes a statement, Gator standing proudly next to him. The pair of them looking all too smug. There’s a handful of drug pushers in Stark County they know about and they do nothing to stop them. Aside from stopping and stealing their supply, for Gator and his buddies to have fun with. Gator mentions to Daisy that they don’t ever actually arrest the guys. But this Campbell guy, was just passing through and he was a good cover for them. A nobody to explain the opioid abuse in Dickinson and where it comes from. It actually makes her sick. Then again, it’s the same corruption that keeps her safe in her home. Sweeping her prostitution under the rug. She knows if Roy truly had a problem with Gator seeing her, he could arrest her and Gator wouldn’t have a lick of power in it. Yet, he doesn’t.

She pulls her phone from her pocket and shoots Gator a quick text.

Good job. Shame you didn’t need my help after all.

As she serves the couple the complimentary breakfast, they point to the TV and the husband says, “You guys have a safe community thanks to those guys, huh?”

“The Tillman family has been keeping this county safe for decades,” she lies through her teeth, smile not quite reaching her blue eyes. She’s bitter. About Gator. The things he said to her. Calling her a hole. Acting like she’s nothing to him in front of his father, yet she hears the gossip. Knows that Roy is ashamed of his son, thinks he isn’t good enough. She has half a mind to tell Gator, tell him his father isn’t as great as he thinks he is. That Gator doesn’t have to be just like him because Roy already knows he’ll never be.

All Gator wants is to be just like his dad, strong and powerful. It shows in the worst ways. Daisy’s seen Karen walking around with bruises, knows that’s all Gator knows. How he would treat her if by some miracle they became more than transactional. Yet, she liked being slapped by him during sex the other night and it makes her sick to her stomach.

“You two enjoy your breakfast,” she smiles at the couple and excuses herself back into the kitchen to work on dishes.

Her phone vibrates in her denim shorts and she fishes it out, scoffing as she reads Gator’s reply.

You help me in all sorts of ways, darlin

Hates the way his words have her stomach filling with butterflies. Daisy hates Gator. Well, she wishes she did.

—

“Thanks for staying with us,” Daisy tells the couple as they’re checking out. As they’re parting, Roy walks in. Tall, ten gallon hat and big, lined coat. He tips his hat at the couple as they cross paths and once they’re out the door he smirks at Daisy.

“Didn’t know you accepted couples,” he quips, “Maybe Karen and I—“

“They’re regular guests,” Daisy interrupts him, her stomach curling at the thought of Roy wanting her. Hell, his sons had her every which way. She’s done disgusting things with Gator she can only assume Roy would disown him for. “What do you want?” she asks.

“Need you to stop seeing my boy,” Roy tells her point blank.

“Feel like this is a conversation you oughta be having with Gator,” Daisy raises a brow, “I offer a service and he’s the one walking in here for it.”

“Gator’s… weak. You distract him and I need him sharp as a tack. You’re gonna stop seeing him,” Roy insists, pulling out a stack of cash.

“Sheriff, with all due respect, I’m not going to stop seeing him if he’s the one initiating it. Gator’s appointments are honestly what’s keeping this place afloat,” Daisy eyes the wad of bills in Roy’s hand, “A one time payment from you ain’t gonna cover it.”

Roy chuckles, “I know. The boy lives rent free in my house. Every paycheck he has goes to you.”

“Exactly,” she smiles, “I’d be bad at my job to say no to that.”

Roy sighs, “I’ll pay you weekly. A thousand cover his bill?”

“A thousand a week?”

“Yeah, I hear your rates are about $500 an appointment and I know Gator’s over here twice a week,” Roy says and Daisy doesn’t correct him, doesn’t tell him she gives Gator a discount but she does admit something.

“He’s here more than twice a week.”

Roy frowns, counts out another five hundred bills and sets the stack on the desk. “Should’ve figured. You’re the prettiest girl in the county. $1500, then?”

“That… Sheriff Tillman, I can’t… I work for my money,” Daisy argues and he chuckles, low and dangerous.

“This will be work. He’s gonna come here, you’re gonna turn him away and $1500 a week is in your pocket,” Roy insists, “And you're not gonna tell him I’m paying you.”

It’s a fair deal. Except Daisy is also weak. Unsure if she’ll be able to turn Gator away when he comes in with those eyes. But really, $1500 a week helps a lot. Considering Gator almost never pays the rate she usually charges. And she lets herself think about all the times she doesn’t even charge him. Soon enough, the money on the desk is looking more appealing than Gator.

“Fine,” she mumbles, “But I need more. Not money. Gator’s gonna be mad, he’s gonna try to arrest me for soliciting to get back at me. I need to know that won’t happen. That I will be safe and my pops will not find out about what I do.”

Roy nods, “You hold up your end. I never forget a friend, and we’re friends, now. Aren’t we, Daisy?”

“Yeah,” she sighs as she picks up the stack of cash, “We’re friends.”

—

It’s not long before Gator’s strolling in. A whole two days. He’s got this fucking grin on his face as he looks at Daisy, struts to the desk and smoothes his hands over the oak. Daisy sighs and blinks up at him.

“Busted some asshole for pot,” he holds up the baggie and bites his lip, “Let’s have some fun.”

He looks handsome. Daisy hasn’t had an orgasm since the last time she seen him and it’s driving her a little mad. But, Roy is scary. Scarier than anything Gator could do, so she holds her ground.

“I’m booked,” she shrugs, “Sorry.”

“Come on,” Gator scrunches his face up, “Would you rather suck on some old balls or smoke this pot and cum on my face?”

Oh. That again? He’s… Daisy has to be strong, she can’t give in so easily. She pouts, “Sorry. You’re not my only regular. And as ya know, I don’t pick favorites.”

“That’s bullshit,” Gator snorts, “Sometimes you don’t even make me pay. If that don’t make me a favorite, I don’t know what would.”

Daisy shrugs again, “Money. Can’t afford to be canceling on my clients.”

“I’ll give you extra,” Gator insists and Daisy shakes her head.

“Sorry, Gator. Call next time,” she frowns.

“You’re fucking kidding,” Gator scoffs, “You’re turning me down? I just said I was gonna eat you out.”

Daisy wants to scream, she wants to say yes and have him lick her out right on this desk. But more than that, she wants to keep Roy happy. He terrifies her.

“Sorry,” she shrugs again, “Maybe call up that girl you’re courting.”

“Oh, fuck you. Is that what this is about?” he laughs, bitter and dry. “You don’t even have a client, huh?”

Daisy grins, grabbing the check-in book and slamming it down in front of him as she points to the name scribbled at the bottom of the page. A name she knows Gator will recognize. A co-worker.

“Like I said, call up your girlfriend,” she bites, scowling up at him.

Gator scoffs before pulling from his vape and exhaling the acidic, false fruit scent in her face. Turns on his heels and slams the door behind him.

Soon after Gator peels out, Deputy Douglas steps in all smiles for Daisy and she takes a deep breath before putting on the charm. Saying hello, handing him his key and winking. She’ll find herself in his room soon enough, though the whole time she’ll be pretending it’s Gator to make it bearable.