#Happy New Year 2019 Greetings for Boss | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

literallymitch · 3 years ago

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𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 || 𝐋.𝐆

requested: no

Summary: You and Leon recently broke up and you're not quit over it yet

Pairing: Leon Goretzka x Fem!Reader

Word Count: 1.8k

Warnings: angst? slight mentions of alcohol

a/n the imagine is based on the song 'The very first night' by Taylor Swift. I'm not completley happy with this but I guess I just need to get back into writing again. Also please keep in mind that english is not my first language, so sorry if made some mistakes. I'm always happy about feedback :)

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You took another sip of the sparkling drink in your glass, scanning the room for someone you know. The red lipstick on your lips, left a small stain on the glass. Some waiter gave it to you as soon as you stepped into the party venue. The company you are working at threw a party to celebrate it's 50th Birthday. When you finally spotted, your favorite co-worker, Janet, a smile appeared on your face as you walked over to her.

"Hey sweetie I'm glad you're finally here I just stopped talking to Louis from the IT team and trust me boring is an understatement here.", she greeted you as soon as you approached her. A small chuckle escaped your lips, knowing exactly how boring and confusing conversation with Louis could get if you had no Idea about IT stuff.

"Hi, you won't believe how happy I was after I saw your face between all these rich old men." you confessed with a smile on your face. Janet really was one of your favorite people ever. You two shared the same humor and lots of your interests.

Soon, Andy and Sarah from the department you and Janet are working at joined you two. You talked about a lot of stuff, but mainly you were gossiping about the people at the Party. The four of you sat down at some table, drinking two or three more glasses of the expensive champagne. You were having a blast laughing at almost everything your friends told you.

"Y/n I'm glad to see you laugh like that again. I know that it isn't easy to end a long-term relationship. Especially since we know how much you loved Leon" Sarah said smiling. You almost chocked on the champagne you were drinking, when she said his name.

Leon.

He hasn't crossed your mind once the whole night, well at least as soon as you stepped into the party venue. You tried to put on a convincing smile as you spoke up.

"Yeah, the entire break up wasn't easy for me, but it gets better each day." surprisingly, your words actually sounded convincing. If you didn't know better, you would probably even believe yourself.

"I'm so proud of you, love. You're handling this break up like a boss. By the way, if you think you are ready to move on, I think the son of our boss thinks you're pretty cute. He's been looking at you all night." Janet stated, winking at you.

Shaking your head at Janet , you excused yourself from your friends. You were in desperate need of fresh air after this conversation. Thankfully, the venue had a pretty big balcony with a stunning view all over Munich.

As soon as you stepped onto the balcony, you were greeted by the cold night breeze. You walked over to the barricade, looking at the beautiful skyline of Munich. It didn't take you long to spot the Allianz Arena, which was light up completely in red. A soft smile made its way onto your face as you got lost in thoughts. Memories of Leon and you were starting to play in your head.

"I think we look so cute", you said, laughing, while you looked at the small Polaroid picture in your hand. Leon had one arm around your waist as he looked down at you smiling brightly, while you had one hand on his chest laughing wholeheartedly. A friend of yours took the picture of you at her New Year's Day party. She wrote "Cutest couple of 2019" on it, after it finally developed.

"I'm not saying we don't look cute. I just don't think we're the cutest couple of 2019. Like I feel honored, but just 2019?" he said, glancing at the note under the picture.

"You're right, were the cutest couple ever", a hick up followed your statement. You definitely had one or two drinks too much.

"Yeah, you're right about that." Leon responded and gave your drunk self an amused look.

A small tear fell down your cheek. Back then, you never thought you would ever be without him again. You really thought he was the one.

Now you were out here on some random balcony at some dumb party crying about memories the two of you shared. While your friends were inside thinking that you slowly start to move on, but the truth is that you still miss him more than words can explain.

If you're honest with yourself, you don't think you will never not miss him. How could you when you still loved him. The break-up came just as unexpected as your feelings for each other. Leon and you hung out sometimes due to mutual friends, but when you got to know each other better, you both fell fast and hard for each other.

Everyone around you was shocked when they found out the two of you broke up. To be honest, you were shocked too. Neither of you did something wrong. You also didn't really fell out of love. Things just changed between you, the comfortable silence become awkward. Going on dates felt forced. Watching shows together in the evening turned into an excuse not to talk to each other. You started to work longer. He started spending more time in the gym. You never stopped loving him, but the relationship just didn't feel right anymore. He felt the same way, so you decided to break things off.

You wiped your tears away, deciding to go back inside as you started to freeze. The party mood was long as Leon basically terrorized your mind right now, so you decided to go home. You excused yourself from your friends. Janet gave you an unsure look, but you assured her you were just tired because you had a busy day.

Back home, you basically threw your heels in the corner and put on your cozy slippers. You went into the kitchen to get yourself some water. Just as you leaned against the counter looking at your kitchen, tears started to build up in your eyes, as you remember the night you shared your first kiss with Leon.

"The Lasagna already smells amazing", you stated, as you took in the delicious smell of the food that was cooking in your oven.

Before Leon could even respond, your favorite song started to play.

"Oh my god, that is literally my favorite song ever." you squealed and started to sing along. It took you by surprise when Leon grabbed your hand and pulled you towards him.

"May I have this dance?", he asked charmingly with a smirk on his face. Overwhelmed by the whole situation, you just nodded. You two started to dance through the kitchen. Both having huge smiles plastered on your faces. When the song was finished you looked at Leon smiling brightly. Leon's eyes softened as he looked at you. Once again, he pulled you closer to him, his hand finding its way to your cheek as his face came closer to yours.

A few seconds later, you could feel his lips on yours. Your heart was hammering against your chest as you lost yourself in the kiss. The butterflies danced around in your stomach, just like you did in your kitchen just a few moments ago. You couldn't describe what you were feeling, but you are pretty sure there aren't even words for your overflow of emotions right now.

A loud sob escaped your lips as you stormed out of the kitchen. You felt like you were about to throw up. As soon as you stepped out of the kitchen, you could finally breathe again. At least until you could practically see Leon chasing you down the hallway after you played some dumb prank on him. Your laughs echoing through the room. Just like that, you could feel your throat tighten again. You slid down the wall next to you as you started having a complete meltdown. Why couldn't you just go back to the very first night you met Leon?

You woke up with your eyes burning, a big headache and basically your whole body hurting. Realizing you fell asleep on your hallway floor, you cringed. Leon was probably already moving on, while you slept in your hallway after the breakdown you had because of him. Deciding you need a shower, you got up and went to your bathroom.

As soon as stepped itp the bathroom, you took a look in the mirror. You looked horrible. Well, horrible was an understatement. Your hair was a complete mess and your makeup was completely smudged. Mascara was basically all over your face, and your red lipstick made you look like the jokers sad twin sister. Your eyes were also still puffy from all the crying last night.

After a long, nice shower, you finally relaxed again as you sat on your couch in your favorite sweater. As painful as last night was, you were glad you had that breakdown. You needed to move on, even though you still missed Leon, it couldn't go on like this. Grabbing your car keys, you got up and went to your car. You put on your driving playlist and just started to drive. Singing along to all your favorite songs filled you with ease and happiness. While you were driving you noticed a beautiful landscape, a small lake surrounded by lots of trees and a big meadow. You pulled over, deciding to take a walk there.

As you grabbed your water bottle from the passenger seat, you noticed a picture on the floor of your car. It wasn't just some picture, it was the Polaroid picture. After you picked it up from the floor, you looked at every single detail. A sad smile on your face, seeing how happy you looked. How happy you were back then.

You put the picture in the pocket of your jacket, planning on throwing it into the next trash can you saw. Even though you knew exactly how much it would pain you to do so, you knew it was for the better. Just as you were about to get out of the car, your phone started ringing. The number wasn't saved to your contacts, but you knew exactly that it was Leon's number. After hesitating for a second, you picked up the phone.

"Leon?", you clearly sounded confused.

"Y/n, hey! Eh.. you're probably wondering why I am calling. It's just I'm sitting here in the living room and... I miss you", he whispered the last three words like he was so scared to admit it.

Overwhelmed by his confession, you just hung up the call. A tear rolling down your face as you pulled out the Polaroid from your pocket again. You looked at while tears were rolling down your face again, as you wished you could go back in time.

#leon goretzka #leon goretzka x reader #leon goretzka one shot #leon goretzka imagine #leon goretzka angst #fc bayern #dfb team #leon goretzka fanfiction

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stxrrywildflower · 4 years ago

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met

pairing - spencer reid x reader

summary - the team discovers your relationship in an unexpected way

warnings - none

word count - ?

note - the dress is heavily based off of the one josephine skriver wore to the 2019 met gala - look it up for a better feel for the fic :)

spencer walked into hotch’s office with his case files in hand. as per usual, the genius was done his work before everyday else. it was a friday afternoon, the team had just touched down an hour or so ago and jumped right into paperwork.

after placing the files on his boss’s desk, spencer stepped back. “hey hotch,” spencer first greeted, “is there anyway i can take a long weekend? just monday i mean.”

thankfully, hotch nodded. “of course. just fill out one of the forms. are you going to see your mother?” the unit chief asked. spencer smiled slightly. “yeah something like that,” he replied, knowing that it wouldn’t raise any questions.

____

the team was ordered by strauss to work late monday night. recently, they had traveled a ton and spent more time in random states than in the quantico office. in order to log extra hours, they would need to remain in the office even if work was finished. it was a dumb rule but the team had all understood, even if they were annoyed by it.

“you know, i don’t think it’s fair that pretty boy isn’t here to work late,” morgan complained as he grabbed a box of takeout from garcia. everyone was sitting in the main bullpen, eating a late dinner as the last couple files were being finished.

“yeah well think about us. it’s the met gala tonight and we can’t watch the red carpet,” j.j. protested, motioning to emily and garcia.

“why don’t you just watch it in the conference room. we can make snacks,” rossi suggested. everyone agreed to that idea, even the guys who had very little knowledge of fashion.

gracia sat down in her seat next to morgan and tuned to the other two girls. “i’m so excited to see y/n y/l/n, her outfits are so cute,” garcia spoke. emily nodded, “her dresses are gorgeous. remember last year? absolutely breathtaking.”

an hour later, everyone gathered in the conference room, taking seats around the round table. garcia took the remote before turning on the tv and clicking on the chanel with all the red carpet interviews and first looks of the outfits.

meanwhile, up in new york, you sat in the studio, just a few minutes away from leaving for the event.

you were wearing a silk tan gazar dress which was short in the front and had a long train in the back. the top was strapless and puffed out, creating the illusion of two layers. hundred of crystals and flowers were stitched into the fabric, making it look like a garden. your hair was in its natural style with a headpiece made up of elegant flowers on your head. to finish the clothing aspect off, you had on thigh-high boots, sporting the same design of your dress.

makeup and jewelry were a whole different story. a berry colored blush was across your cheeks as well as on your eyelids. other colors for eyeshadow and highlighter were added. your lipstick then matched the blush. finally, rings were slipped onto your finger, no necklace or brackets, however.

“how are you feeling?” spencer asked, bringing you out of your thoughts.

you shot your boyfriend a warm smile. “nervous”, you replied, standing up with his help. even with heels on you were still shorter than the fbi profiler. “shouldn’t i be the nervous one? it is my first red carpet after all.” spencer smirked

before you could respond, one of the employees knocked on the door informing you that it was time to go. with one final deep breath, you grabbed spencer’s hand and led him out of the room and to the car.

back at quantico, the teams eyes were all glued to the screen. morgan has already been smacked twice by garcia for commenting on the outfits when he barely knew that the theme was. suddenly, the camera turned towards where the cars were pulling up.

a man stepped out of the car first, his identity unknown as he kept his back to the camera. he did, however, hold his hand out to help whoever was in the car get out. garcia let out an audible gasp as you stepped out, a wide grin on her face. “oh my god she looks gorgeous.”

the room stopped as the man with you turned around, his face now fully visible. jaws dropped as none other than their resident genius was revealed, his hand interlocked with yours and a bright smile on his face.

“oh my god,” j.j. spoke up.

the commentators notes about your outfit before the actual interview went unheard as the team observed spencer’s outfit.

spencer was dressed in a deep maroon suit. flowers started in the shoulder and went down to the bottom of the jacket. the pants had the same floral pattern, creating a bleeding effect of the design. his hair was its natural short style. except, small flowers were pinned in his hair. even his nails were painted the same berry color as your cheeks.

“is that-?” emily asked, despite it being obvious that their fellow agent was in attendance at the met gala.

despite spencer not being a people person and not doing incredibly well around large crowds, he looked incredibly calm and as you two walked up the red carpet. his arm remained around your waist as pictures were taken. both of your faces shifted from smiling to straight-faced when posing.

it felt painfully long until you two made your way over to the main interviewer. the team watched intently as you greeted her.

“let me start out by saying, you look absolutely gorgeous. who have you brought with you?”

“well this is my boyfriend doctor spencer reid,” you introduced, smiling as spencer waved slightly. “doctor?” the interviewer asked.

spencer and you both nodded. “i have phd’s in mathematics, chemistry, engineering and then ba’s psychology, sociology, and philosophy,” spencer responded coolly. “that’s incredible! are you a certified genius?”

“yeah i am,” spencer spoke. you rested your hand on your chest and laugh. “you don’t have to be so modest about it,” you joked, making the three of you chuckle.

morgan scoffed. “there’s so much to unpack here. first off, boyfriend? i didn’t even know pretty boy was dating someone. second, i’ve trained that kid for how many years? and now when he’s on a red carpet he can answer questions like that?”

for the third time, morgan was smacked, this time by j.j. “they’re dating derek. you do things like that when you’re in love. sorry to disappoint, but i guess spence isn’t in love with you,” j.j. laughed. morgan playfully rolled his eyes before turning back to the tv.

“how long have you two been together?” the interviewer questioned.

“we’ve been together for almost a year. due to our work, we both travel a lot and haven’t done an official announcement. but, we figured it was time to say something,” you replied, a bright smile on your face as you talked about your relationship.

the interview went on for a few more moments before another question was brought up. “are you attending the afterparty?”

you shook your head no. “as much as we’d love too, we have a flight back to washington d.c. as soon as the event is over,” you explained. the team all smirked at each other at this new piece of information.

when the two of you arrived in the city that night, the team was all there to greet you. sure, it had been a slightly shocking to meet everyone, especially as many of them knew who you were. in the end, the team had all expressed their happiness for your relationship before bidding you both a goodnight.

back at spencer’s apartment, you both changed into pajamas and brushed your teeth. before getting into bed, spencer pulled you into a long kiss, his hands resting on your hips.

“tonight was amazing,” you whispered.

“not as amazing as you,” spencer smiled, kissing your forehead softly.

#criminal #criminal minds #spencer reid #spencer reid x oc #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid x you #spencer reid x y/n #aaron hotchner #derek morgan #emily prentiss #jennifer jareau #david rossi #penelope garcia

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toplinetommy · 4 years ago

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You Bring the Moon and Stars to Me (Part Six) - Tyson Jost

Synopsis: A Soulmate!AU where your soulmark only appears once you fall in love with your soulmate

Words: 5.6k

Warnings: none

a/n: thank you so much to @pizzasloot for proofreading!! as always, feedback is always welcome :-)

Part One | Part Two | Part Three | Part Four | Part Five

March 2019 - Denver, CO

Planning a 21st birthday party for Tyson was way harder than you thought it would be, plain and simple. You thought your college days, when everyone was turning 21, would’ve prepared you for a few more, but boy, were you wrong. When girls turn 21, they want the big balloons and the cake with the Barbie on it, but what about guys? Not to mention, Tyson wasn’t even American, so the anxiety made you think he wouldn’t care as much as a typical 21-year-old American would.

Nevertheless, with help from JT, Kerfy, and Sammy, you were able to pull it off. You were able to corral a good chunk of the Avalanche roster to attend the party, plus some of Tyson’s friends outside of the team. Tyson knew you were planning something big for his birthday, but he was unsure of what it was exactly other than throwing a pregame at the Rookie House and then going bar hopping downtown.

While he and the rest of the Avs were at practice this morning, and while you and Caitlyn were on your lunch break at work, you snuck into the Rookie House to lightly decorate the place. You decided to get the typical big ‘21’ balloons in silver, alongside a hefty lineup of alcohol. You somehow convinced yours and Caitlyn’s boss to take a longer lunch, in exchange for not taking lunch the next day, so you were able to take your time and be there when Tyson got home from morning skate.

You had just finished laying out his birthday present on his bed when you heard the garage door opening, causing a flight of anxiety to course through you as you rushed up the stairs taking them two at a time. As you settle next to Caitlyn in front of the decorations, Tyson, JT, and Kerfy walk through the garage door together, still caught up in their previous conversation.

“Happy birthday!” The two of you yell excitedly, causing Tyson to turn his head from his friends and to the two of you in the living room. His face erupts in a smile, eyes moving back and forth between you and Caitlyn and the decorations that are set up. He’s in awe as he looks at the array of silver balloons, the small birthday cake placed on the coffee table, and the ‘finally 21 and legal in America’ banner.

He reaches the two of you, giving Caitlyn a quick hug while thanking her before he embraces you in his arms tightly, “Thank you.”

He pulls away, and you rub your hands along his shoulders and biceps as he moves completely away. “You guys didn’t have to do this.”

“We know, but we wanted to,” you say, gesturing between you and Caitlyn. She smiles at you, hiding the fact that you essentially had to beg her to come help and that all of this was 100% your idea. Both JT and Kerfy comment on the decorations before disappearing into the rest of the house.

“Where did you get this banner?” He chuckles, pointing to the black lettering being held up by a string. You and Caitlyn both laugh, knowing it was a funny and somewhat dumb addition to the decorations.

“This shop on Etsy does custom ones,” You answer. “I thought it’d be funny.”

“I love it,” He smiles, wrapping an arm around your shoulder and bringing you into his side. You check your watch to see the time, noticing that you and Caitlyn need to head back to your office soon.

“We have to get back to work, but I did get you a present. It’s in your room if you want to go open it?” You ask. He nods his head excitedly and the two of you go downstairs, leaving Caitlyn in the living room.

He sees the medium-sized gift bag sitting nicely on the edge of the bed, grabbing it, and sitting down. He opens your card first, reading it to himself. You watch as his eyes move left-to-right on the card, seeing a smile forming on his face from both the card and the extra note you wrote on it. He sets the card down next to him while patting the same spot for you to take a seat beside him.

You sit down, eyes on him as he pulls the tissue paper and the contents from the bag. His eyes scan over the small package of ukulele strings, setting them down to the side and digging in the bag again. He pulls each item out one by one, his smile only getting bigger as he sees a shot glass that says ‘legal as fuck, eh’, a pair of diamond-patterned dress socks, and a framed Polaroid of the two of you from Gabe’s wedding last year.

“Where did you get this photo from?” He asks, closely examining it. It’s a candid picture of the two of you that he had never seen before. Tyson’s shirt was unbuttoned showing his torso, much like the rest of the guys there, the both of you mid-dance and he’s holding your hands in the air. Even with how blurry and small the photo is, yours and Tyson’s smile are clear as day.

“Sydney gave it to me after the wedding,” You answer, looking up at him. “I kinda forgot I had it because I found it the other day when I was cleaning. It got under my dresser somehow.”

“Y/n, this is amazing,” He admires, setting the items down and turning to look at you. “Thank you, so much, really.”

You smile sheepishly, your cheeks warming at the extra attention. He’s looking into your eyes when you turn to face him fully and he leans in to wrap his arms around you, bringing you in for yet another hug. A loud yell of your name from upstairs causes the two of you to pull away slightly.

“I gotta get back to work,” you whisper. Even as you started to pull away, getting ready to leave, Tyson doesn’t let you go as quickly. He dragged the arm that was around your back to where your neck met your shoulder. It feels like time is moving in slow motion as his eyes glance to your lips before back to your eyes.

“y/n! We have a meeting in 35 minutes, let’s go!” Caitlyn shouts once again, snapping the two of you back to reality. You stand up, hugging Tyson once more as he thanks you again for the gift.

By the time most of the Avalanche roster had made their way through the front door of the Rookie House, Tyson was already four shots and a mixed drink deep. He had insisted he take one with you the second you got back to his house after work, and had convinced you and his roommates to take a shot before anyone else arrived.

Knowing he was going to start feeling the effects of the alcohol soon, you pulled him aside to take photos in front of the balloons and banner you had set up earlier. You hand your phone to Caitlyn and lean into Tyson’s side, him squeezing you impossibly close, causing a laugh to slip from your lips. You pose for a few more photos before having some other people join in for group shots.

Once you get your phone back you look through them all, finding the best ones to post on Instagram. You choose two: one where Tyson’s arm is wrapped tightly around your waist and you’re leaning into his side, your hand splayed in his lower abdomen. The second one is more on the candid side. Your eyes are squinted close and your mouth is open, mid-laugh from Tyson pressing his fingers harshly into your side. Tyson continues taking photos while you edit them and open up Instagram typing out a caption before hitting post. Tyson feels the vibration of the notification in his pocket and pulls it out reading the caption and swiping through the photos.

yourusername: happy 21st to my superstar of a best friend. glad you finally dont have to use your big-shot hockey player status to get into bars now! cheers to you💥

He laughs before typing out a comment and sliding his phone back into his pocket.

josty17: thx for exposing me🙄

The pre-game is in full swing by the time everyone’s finally arrived. As Tyson’s best friend and designated drinking buddy, you give yourself the duty to make sure he always has a drink in his hand. As you’re making him his final drink before heading out to the bars, his large body collided with yours.

“Hey best friend,” he greets, teeth shining under his wide smile under the kitchen lights.

“Hey best friend,” you laugh, putting the cap back on the bottle of New Amsterdam in front of you. You grab the lemonade, opening it and filling the rest of the glass. “Here’s your refill.”

“Can we do another tequila shot?” He asks with pleading eyes. Luckily, he had an optional morning skate before their game tomorrow, while you on the other hand had an 8-5 job. The pleading eyes on Tyson’s face give you little room to say no, so you grab the bottle of tequila dramatically and the lime slices next to it.

He grabs two shot glasses and you pour the shots, sprinkling salt onto yours and Tyson’s fists. You raise your glass to cheers his and give a quick toast,

“Here’s to being way more successful than I was at 21 and to this year being the best year yet. I love you and happy birthday superstar!” You cheer, clinking your glass with Tyson’s and downing the shot.

Once Tyson finishes swallowing his shot, he cheers loudly, drawing the attention of those surrounding you. Tyson pulls you in for a hug, which is probably at least the thirteenth time he’s hugged you today, but you’re not complaining.

“Thank you again for all of this, and for my gift earlier. This all means a lot.”

You laugh and shrug off the compliment, “it wasn’t just me, but you know I’d do anything for you and besides, you wouldn't have done anything big unless I took it over.” He laughs in agreement, knowing that he wasn’t one to pass up a party like this but would’ve never been the one to plan it for himself.

Once he finishes the drink, the large group all starts ordering their Ubers or heading out in their own cars if they have someone to drive. Your group, consisting of Tyson, JT, Sammy, Gabe, and Tyson, all piles into the Uber that you ordered minutes ago. You’re all the first to leave, everyone in tow, all in agreement on the first bar to meet at.

As the night gets later, the rowdiness of the group of men you’re with only increases. It was a lot for you to handle at the start, the pressure to make this a good birthday for Tyson and being around so many of his friends in a larger than normal group only adding to it. The time was nearing last call at the last bar you were all at. The large group of broad hockey players had started to dwindle as guys headed home to get rest for tomorrow.

Tyson is starting to hit that stage of drunk where if he sits for too long, he’ll want to go to sleep, but at the same time, you can’t seem to keep him in one spot for more than a few minutes. Throughout the night, the boys had been feeding him shots, making sure that if they saw Tyson’s hands empty, they wouldn’t be for much longer. In order to keep him out for a little longer, you drag him to his feet from where he's sitting at the booth to the edge of the dancefloor where some of the guys are located.

As you approach Tyson, Gabe, and Nate, Tyson takes ahold of your hand, interlocking your fingers together, he leads you through the crowd. He looks back at you, with a wide smile as his expression is the only thing you see, the large crowd and bright neon lights turning into a blur. It was like he was trying to pull you closer to him with nothing but a subtle smirk and a twinkle in his eye; the twinkle in his eye causing you to match his smile with an equally wide one.

His shoulders are slouching and you’re somewhat surprised that his light blue button-up is still on over his black t-shirt and not tied around his waist, knowing he easily got overheated when he drank. Gabe embraces him in a bro hug, cheering loudly about how he’s still alive and that he better be ready for the game tomorrow. Tyson was well aware of tomorrow night’s game and made you promise him that you wouldn’t let him get too drunk, in hopes of his hangover being bearable in the morning.

Because of this, you decide to leave the small group of guys to go get him water in hopes of clearing his head a little. When you get back to the group, Tyson doesn’t take notice of your sudden presence, even as you shove the water into his hands. “I think I’m going to invite her to Canada this summer,” he yells in a slur over the music to his teammates.

“Who’re you inviting to Canada?” you ask, sticking your body fully into the circle. You stand next to him, hesitantly reaching for his free hand with one of yours to connect them again. He interlocks his fingers with yours without a thought and stares blankly towards you once the question has left your mouth.

“Uhhh, no one,” he brushes off with a stutter. You look at him quizzically before ignoring what you heard, assuming the alcohol is what caused you both confusion.

“Y/n, this is water,” he complains once he takes a sip. You laugh and roll your eyes at your friend. It was nearing one-thirty in the morning and he had already consumed more drinks than you could keep count of. He was clearly past the level of drunk, with how he was stumbling when he walked and slowly slurring his words as he spoke.

“Drink it and we can get you another drink before we leave,” you negotiate. You assume he agrees to your negotiation as he chugs his water faster than you’ve seen him chug anything before. With his triumphant look as he shows you the now-empty glass, your plan failed you, and the guys surrounding you laugh knowingly.

“How about this? Nate and them will go get refills for all of us,” You eye Nate, Tyson, and Gabe as you speak. “And we can go get some fresh air outside and meet them back here in a few?”

They all understand what you’re getting at, nodding their heads and saying they’ll see you in a bit before heading towards the bar. You tug on Tyson’s hand, heading for the front exit of the bar, maneuvering between the drunk and sweaty bodies. Once the Denver winter air hits both of your faces, you slyly pull out your phone to order an Uber back to his house.

You had let go of his hand once you got outside, and crossed your arms over your chest, phone still in hand. Tyson’s teeth chatter a little from the cold and he rests his head on your shoulder in hope of pulling any sort of warmth from your body.

Minutes pass by full of incoherent conversation from Tyson, most of it him telling you he’s cold and that he wants to go back inside, to which you respond with that you’ve only been outside for a few minutes. He easily believes the lie as another five minutes pass by and you’re shoving him into the backseat of an Uber.

Once the door is closed behind you, he whips his head towards you, “Y/n! Where are we going? I thought we were just taking a break.”

“I’m taking you home, Tyson,” you explain. “It’s really late and you have a game tomorrow.”

He pouts at your explanation, but he stops complaining anyways. The bumpiness from the potholes on the ride home has him focusing on his breathing and leaning his head on your shoulder once again until you’re pulling him out of the car and to his garage.

He tries entering the code and after the fourth failure, you shove him aside, “What’s the code?”

“It’s 3717.” He mumbles.

You try the code and it doesn’t work and after your third attempt, it’s still not working. “It isn’t working, are you sure it’s 3717?”

“Nope,” He enunciates.

You look at him with a deadpan expression, “Are you going to make me call your roommates to figure it out?”

“No, let me do it.” He asserts, throwing his arm over your shoulder and punching in the code, and the creak of the garage opening makes you let out a sigh.

“What the fuck was the code?”

“A secret I’ll never tell,” he salutes, making his way to the mud-room door. As you walk behind him, you clench your fists in annoyance at your friend's actions, giving him the benefit of the doubt from his drunken state.

He stumbles up the small flight of concrete steps, walking inside and instantly heading to the kitchen to find some sort of snack to soak up the alcohol. The rustling of packages stops as Tyson whips around,

“I want a grilled cheese. Will you make me one? Please?”

You drop your shoulders in a groan, silently saying yes as you move to the fridge to grab the ingredients. You chuckle at the organic cheeses in the fridge and the weird oat nut bread he has. Tyson hops up onto the counter beside his stove, swinging his legs as he watches you prepare his sandwich.

As you go to put the sandwich in the pan, his hand grabs yours pulling it back. “You forgot the pickles!” He exclaims, jumping from his spot to the fridge and pulling out a jar of bread and butter pickles.

“That is the nastiest thing I’ve ever seen,” you fake gag. He places a handful of pickles on the sandwich and then moves back to his previous position on the counter. “I don’t think I can ever see you as the same person again.”

Tyson’s face fills with hurt, and you’re not quite sure if he’s faking it or the alcohol in his body actually makes him think that.

“I hate pickles.” You state, eyeing him as you flip the sandwich over.

“I feel like I’ve seen you eat one before.” He responds, dipping his fingers into the pickle jar and snacking on one.

“Have you not noticed how I always give you my pickles when we eat out?” You ask, thinking back to the countless diner and sports bar trips where the first thing you’d do when you got your plate of food was give him your pickle.

“Well, yeah,” he answers quickly with a shrug. “I just thought you did that because I like them so much.” He smiles at the memories, biting into one more pickles chip before clasping the lid back onto the jar. You smile softly at the thought, too, before turning off the stove and sliding the sandwich out onto a plate for your friend.

He grabs the plate and instantly drags you down the stairs to his room where he plops on his bed, criss-cross applesauce, white Adidas still on his feet, causing you to rip his feet from underneath him.

“Tyson, your shoes are disgusting from the bar,” You puff, taking them off his feet since he was too preoccupied with his sandwich. He thanks you through a full mouth before you join him on his bed, folding your legs underneath you to mirror his position.

“Slow down there, killer,” you joke as you notice how fast he’s eating and how many extra large bites he’s taken. He swallowed the last piece harshly before setting the plate on the ground at the foot of his bed.

“Are you sleeping over?” He lays down, eyeing you with droopy eyes waiting for an answer.

“I can, but I have work early,” you remind him, shuffling to stand up from his bed as you itch the back of your arm.

“So then you’re sleeping over,” He states matter of factly. His eyes are closed now as he senses the movements of you standing up from the bed. With it almost being two in the morning and you having work early in the morning, you really should get home but with the added time of needing an Uber from your alcohol consumption, you decide staying is best. You set a handful of alarms on your phone, making sure you leave enough time for you to drive back to your place, get ready, and then get to work, all before 8:30 am.

“Let’s get you changed. You want shorts?” You start. “They’re in your dresser, right?” You ask for clarification. You hear him say yes tiredly, and you start shuffling through the chestnut drawers.

“You know, I really wanted to kiss you earlier when you were giving me my gift,” Tyson thinks aloud in a mumble as he sits on the bed. The admission causes you to halt your movements in your search for shorts for him. “Would you have let me kiss you? Wait, no, don’t answer that.”

Him telling you not to answer pushes a wave of relief through your body, thankful for not having to answer that question. As you open the third drawer you think to yourself, would you have let him kiss you? You didn’t see the harm in it, knowing that most guy and girl best friends shared at least one kiss throughout their friendship. Even Caitlyn and Tucker had asked you on multiple occasions if you had kissed to which you always replied with a harsh no.

You finally locate a pair of shorts and walk back towards Tyson, helping him stand from the bed to get changed. He’s just coherent enough to strip out of his button-down and white t-shirt; where he starts to struggle is when his hands reach the button of his jeans. He pushes them down his thighs, he gets stuck at his knees he starts to stumble, falling into the bed and you laugh lightly at your best friend’s movement.

He curses out a sigh, before sitting up and finally getting them off and pulling shorts on.

“You good there?”

“Yes, bedtime.” He huffs decidedly, shuffling up the bed and throwing the covers away so he can get under them.

You stand up, moving back to his dresser and closet to find clothes to wear when you hear a whine from behind you. “Hurry up, I want cuddles.”

You laugh at his newfound neediness, something he always was around you but it came out much more than normal tonight. Whether it was from the level of drunk he was or just the new shift in the comfort the two you felt in your friendship. You reemerge from his bathroom, changed into a pair of his sweats and his Colorado Eagles shirt.

“I like the shirt,” he chirps, smiling from his spot in bed. He continues to watch you as you lay down next to him and text Caitlyn, asking her to call you in the morning just in case your alarm doesn’t wake you. He’s on his side facing you, one hand tucked under his head and the other moving to rest in the air as he makes grabby hands. “I said I wanted a cuddle.”

“Fine,” you huff, even though you’re smiling and scooting your body down and underneath his arm. Your fingers find their way over his rib cage, lightly scratching at the bareness of his back, just underneath his shoulder blade.

“I know I said thank you a million times, but thank you for such an amazing birthday.” He speaks, voice quiet for the first time in hours.

You flick your eyes up to where his are a few inches higher, “I loved doing it for you, Tys. I’m glad you had an amazing day.”

He stares into your eyes a moment longer before shuffling up the bed a few inches so he can rest his cheek on your forehead. “Can you scratch my elbow?”

You move your fingers from his shoulder blade to his elbow, lightly scratching at the muscles in his triceps. He softly groans at the feeling and you bite back a laugh in reaction. Soon his breath is heavy over your face and you're trying to force the smile off your face so you can focus on going to bed. But it’s hard, being this close in proximity at such a high level of intimacy with your best friend is causing an explosion of feelings in your heart and a warmth occupying your body. You think to yourself how light you’ve felt all night by his side and you think back to his earlier comment about how he wanted to kiss you. Not even an hour ago the attempt would scare you away, but now, you’re not so sure.

When you turn over to get in a more comfortable position, your eyes land on the new decoration on his bedside table. You squint your eyes to get a better look and you recognize it as the Polaroid you gifted him earlier in the day. The soft smile on your face nearly triples in size at the thought of him putting your picture near his bed and a little part of you wants to steal it back just for you to place it near your bed in your own home.

At the feeling of Tyson’s heavy breaths at the back of your neck, you close your eyes and let out a content sigh. Sliding your head deeper into the pillow, you play with Tyson’s fingers on the arm that’s laid over you before interlocking them and falling asleep.

The ringtone of your phone is what pulls you from your sleep the next morning. You try to find your phone with your eyes closed, but with no luck on your side, you squint open your eyes and grab your phone. Seeing as it’s a phone call from Caitlyn and not your alarm, also seeing that it’s already 7:45, you jolt awake.

“Fuck,” you curse into the phone as you pull it to you ear, sitting up against the pillows. Tyson’s arm tightens around you, his figure Shull heavy with sleep.

“Dude, I saw your car across the street. Please tell me you’re home and like getting a ride to work.” Caitlyn rushes out.

“I fucking wish. You literally just woke me up, shit.”

“Y/n!”

“Please tell me you have clothes I can borrow and that we can carpool to work. I’ll owe you big time, please.”

All of the commotion doesn’t wake Tyson to your surprise, but as you sit up further in the bed as he starts to stir next to you.

“I’ll be over in like ten, you’re literally a life saver.”

“It’s so early, shhhhh,” Tyson mumbles next to you, turning further into your body. You want to scream out of anxiousness and stress but Tyson resting his head onto your chest stops you and you lift your hand to comb through his hair.

“I have work in like, 30 minutes,” and that statement jolts him awake just as much as the phone call not a minute prior did for you.

“Oh, shit, sorry,” he rubs his eyes. He rolls over onto his back and you miss the warmth of both his arm and his chest against you instantly. You throw the comforter over you, standing up from the comfort of his bed. You stumble to find your socks and grab your outfit from the night prior, moving to the bathroom with the intention of changing back into it before changing at Caitlyn’s.

“You can just keep the clothes,” Tyson starts, his eyes open now as he sits further up against his headboard. “I can get them back eventually.”

“I promise you’ll get it back, thank you,” you speak, turning back to the man in bed and going to hug him goodbye. It’s an awkward hug with how you’re standing and how he’s half laying down but he gives you a kiss on the forehead before bidding you goodbye.

“Text me when you’re alive,” you shout as you finally exit his room.

Once you’re ready and buckled into Caitlyn’s passenger seat, the two of you speed through the short commute to your offices.

“Caitlyn, before we get there I need to like, unload on you.” You start shakily, playing with your phone in your lap.

She glances at you before turning her attention back to the road in front of you.

“So, remember yesterday when I gave Tyson his gift and I was kinda taking a while? Well, it’s uh, he almost kissed me that’s why.”

“What?!” She exclaims, whipping her head to face you as she comes to a stop at the stoplight. “You cannot be serious!”

“Yeah and then when I took him home, it was just a lot with what was going on.”

“Please tell me you guys did not hook up,” she groans, stepping on the gas as the light turned green. “You guys can’t finally decide to get together and have it happen when you’re drunk off your asses.”

“God, Caitlyn, no we didn’t ‘finally’ hook up or whatever,” you stress in confusion. “I just made him food and it was just, really domestic, and then when I was finding him clothes to change into, he was like ‘I wanted to kiss you earlier’ and asked me if I would’ve let him if he did.”

“And? Did you say yes?”

“First of all, why would you assume that I would’ve said yes? And secondly, no because he told me not to answer.” You brush off.

“Y/n,” she starts, pulling into an empty parking spot. She puts the car in park and turns to face you fully. “Before I give you my speech, answer this: you would’ve let him kiss you, correct?”

Even though you barely have to think before answering, the question oddly carries a lot of weight and it scares you. “I think so, yes,” you nod your head slowly.

“Okay, hear me out. You and Tyson are best friends and not just like normal best friends, you two are inseparable. And I’m not saying it’s a bad thing, because it’s not, but I think you need to start noticing the small changes you two have been making recently. You wouldn’t just let a friend kiss you, you’d only want that if you felt something more.”

Her rant makes you sink back into your seat, making you feel cornered in the small confines of the passenger seat of her car. The combination of your hangover, her speech, and it not even being nine in the morning makes your stomach churn.

“Yeah, I guess so, I don’t know.” You ramble, grabbing your purse from the floor in front of you and opening the car door. “It all happened in one night, it’s a lot to take in.” You defend yourself as you meet her at the end of the car.

“You guys have been going through some change for a while now, Jack and I have noticed it. Hell, I think some of the guys on the team have started to see it, too.” She insinuates with exaggerated hand movements. “Like I said back when you were with Aiden, you obviously waited to tell Tyson about him for a reason and that was almost six months ago. Think about why you did that, and I think you’ll know what’s going on.”

The two of you ride up the elevator from the parking garage to your office in silence after that. The statement by your friend doing circles inside your brain as you try to figure out the real reason behind all of your previous actions with Tyson. As the elevator doors ding open and the white lights of your office shock you, you opt for a closing statement.

“I think it’s just hard because I’m clearly attracted to him, and I have been for three years now. Usually, with friendships, I lose that interest pretty early on and like, build a wall if that’s what you want to call it,” you start as the two of you make way down the hall to the break room in need of coffee.

As you select a K-Cup for both you and Caitlyn a smile grows on your face as you continue.

“But with Tyson, every time I see him I feel the physical attraction with him, which sounds kind of shallow since that’s all I’m emphasizing right now, but it’s not just that. He’s such a good human and a good friend and knows exactly what to say to me even if I don’t want to hear it and all of that coupled with how handsome he is makes me feel a lot of different things that I still can’t exactly put my finger on.”

You turn your focus to Caitlyn, who has a knowing look playing on her face, her arms crossed over her chest as she leans against the fridge,

“See, I think you’re starting to figure it out.”

You smile, grateful for your friends words of wisdom. Even If you wanted her to just spell it out for you, her talk still helped as the two of you go your separate ways a few minutes later once your coffees are poured and after you ramble on about your night with Tyson a little bit longer.

tag list: @reavenedges-lies @oilers2997 @quinnsbxtch (let me know if you wanted to be added!)

#tyson jost imagine #tyson jost #ybtmastm fic #alex writes #nhl imagine

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victoriareyloficlists · 4 years ago

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1 February 2021 Additions to Reylo Fluff

These fics have been added to the Fluff list located here.

#kylothekiller by crossingwinter (AO3 2018 Rated G Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: It’s not the first time that Rey has seen Kylo pop up in her Fido stream, but it is the first time she’s clicked on him fast enough to be scheduled for a meet and greet with dog and owner on Saturday.) #kylothekiller Sequel /r/dogs by crossingwinter (AO3 2018 Rated M Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: [Help] My Girlfriend thinks she’s dying because the dog won’t leave her side) Valentine's Day by PropertyOfThaJoker (AO3 2018 Rated M Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: The cat immediately came to Rey, who immediately held it. “He can’t be more than five weeks old, Ben. He’s a baby. It’s cold out here – he’ll freeze to death. We have to take him home.”) Must Love Dogs by wanderlustfaery (etherealprey) (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, 2 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben gets a rescue dog named Kylo. Rey has a rescue dog named Gavin. These two dogs apparently know each other from before and force their new owners to exchange numbers so they can see each other.) Let's Go Pumpkin Picking by JustYouBenSolo (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Rose doesn’t understand why Rey is so eager to go pumpkin picking with her at Han Solo’s farm when Rey went pumpkin picking last week with Poe. And the week before with Finn. Maybe she just really loves pumpkins? TW: Unsafe sex, no pregnancy.) En-Snack-Ment by Twin_Kitten (AO3 2019 Rated M Complete, 2 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Police dog Kylo alerts for drugs on Rey's car, and Detective Ben Solo must investigate.) Something About November Chapter 18 by SpaceWaffleHouseTM (AO3 2019 Rated G Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: When Ben's adopted daughter finds a box of love letters he wrote and never sent, she decides she wants him happy for Christmas. With help from her Aunt Gwen, she sends her the letters.) The Fake Boyfriend Problem by INTPSlytherin_reylove97 (AO3 2018 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: When Rose accidently tells her parents her roommate Rey was bringing her boyfriend for Christmas, instead of telling them she was bringing her own boyfriend Finn, the girls run into an interesting problem.) Say It With Feeling by amybeegood (AO3 2018 Rated E Complete, 18 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Meet Rey, the Maid/Escort who really needs a solid day job and Ben, the reclusive, virgin billionaire who doesn't have a clue about real life or how to hire household help.) To Play Pretend by SuchaPrettyPoison (AO3 2020 Rated M Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Single dad Ben Solo is tired of being hit on by some of the mums from his daughter's kindergarten class. He asks his friend Rey to come with him to pick up his daughter as his pretend fiancée.) The Perfect Storm by LadyBrettAshley (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben's roommate has a fear of thunderstorms, and he's grown accustomed to her crawling into bed with him so she wouldn't have to face them alone. The arrangement works great until he starts to suspect it was all a rouse just to get into his bed.) coarse and rough and irritating by frak-all (or_ryn) (AO3 2019 Rated E Complete, 3 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: The first time Ben sees Rey in a bikini, his oafish left hand just sort of spasms around a brand new tube of Neutrogena SPF 100+ face sunscreen, squeezing hard enough that nearly half of its thick white contents erupts—coating his palm, the mirror, and the floor—in one great big mortifying spurt.) it's always the last place you look by hi_raeth (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben is extremely picky when it comes to women, his friends give up setting him up with women. One day they randomly invite their friend Rey to eat dinner with all of them and to their surprise Ben scolds them for not setting them up.) I Need You to Kiss Me by SuchaPrettyPoison (AO3 2018 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: “My cheating arse of an ex has just walked in with my ex-roomie who he cheated on me with, so if you can pretend that we are happy, and that you are madly in love with me - that would be grand.” She paused taking a breath before giving him a light airy smile. “Any objections?”) Aim True by monsterleadmehome (AO3 2018 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Robin Hood AU, Quick Synopsis: The masked bandit Kylo Ren has been robbing from the rich and giving to the poor, much to Sheriff Hux's chagrin. There is a sizable reward out for his capture. However, when another masked thief crosses his path, he is presented with an interesting choice.) I Dedicate This To... by Fayth_Delarosa (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: She’s enraptured, reading through the abstract thoroughly before coming up to the curriculum vitae, which lists all of his school information, areas of special interest, degrees awarded, and other professional publications in which he made a contribution to. Then she reaches the acknowledgements page.) and i hate accidents (except when we went from friends to this) by akosmia (AO3 2019 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Tired of being around every time his roommate Poe invites his boyfriend over, Ben seeks refuge in Rey's room, until he's there most of the times (even when Poe's not around).) acquisition by bitterbones (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, 3 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: In which Rey decides she's ready to start a family of her own and Ben Solo, her boss and dear friend, would make the perfect sperm donor.) Plus Won by AmberDread, DarkMage13, Erulisse17, Trish47, venetum (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, 5 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: After a drunken night of complaining at a bar, Rey and Ben agree to be each other's plus-ones for a variety of events. As friends and family continue to invite them to things, they discover that they really enjoy spending time together. And holding hands. And... kissing. What happens when their relationship starts to feel a lot more real than fake?) Meet My Pussy by Hellyjellybean, spicytofuuuu (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, 2 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: When Rey adopts a kitten, she invites Ben over to meet it. He misinterprets this as an invitation for something else. When Ben comes over, Rey says she'll be right back (to get the kitten). He starts taking off his clothes...) Love is Strange by SpaceWaffleHouseTM (AO3 2020 Rated M Complete, 7 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Or the one where Rey lies and tells her coworkers she has a loving husband and a son. Now the annual picnic is coming up and she needs a fake picture-perfect family. Fortunately, her friend Ben fits all the requirements.) And Let Me Kiss You by SpaceWaffleHouseTM (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben and Rey are best friends, and are cuddling on the couch. Rey’s head rests on his chest, his breathing as relaxed and steady as the calming beat of his heart. When she’s sure he’s asleep, she leans up and places a soft kiss on his lips. He pulls her closer. He was awake the whole time.) How to Keep Christmas by JaneNightwork (AO3 2018 Rated M Complete, 26 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Rey and Ben have had feelings for each other since she began teaching at Chandrila Elementary School earlier that year, but neither knows their affection is mutual. Rey plans to use the the Christmas season––her favorite time of year––as an excuse to spend more time with Ben, and to find a way to tell him how she feels. But can she convince the Grinch-ish Ben to enjoy Christmas with her? Equally important: will her friends Finn, Poe, and Rose be able to stop themselves from matchmaking and meddling and general mischief?) The Revelation by ClaireLou (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben and Rey have lived together for 3 years, it was a housemate of convenience type effort. They got on from the start, and are the best of friends..... The thing is, neither of them can see what more they have become. Until Rey comes home one evening shouting "Darling I'm home". Unfortunately Bens date doesn't take to well to that.... Well, until she sees with her own eyes the things these 2 idiots have been missing.) Crash my Bandicoot by KyloTrashForever (AO3 2019 Rated E Complete, 4 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben has lived next door to Rey for ten years now, and he’s been in love with her for most of them. A Christmas break with no one but themselves for company leaves a lot of time for Crash Bandicoot sessions... among other things.) Losing It by Crysania (AO3 2018 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: "I'm never going to lose my virginity," Rey announces one day to her roommate Ben Solo. When she finds out that he, too, has no experience, she decides to get them both laid. Things, of course, don't quite go the way she expects them to.) Cassonade by CoraRiley (AO3 2016 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben Solo's world was turned upside down when his wife left him over a year ago. Suddenly alone with a six month old baby girl, Ben's life was in shambles...that was, until, he hired a sweet little College Student named Rey to watch his precious daughter. After months of fantasies and flirting, Ben Solo is finally ready to make his intentions known.) Anything to Win by Erulisse17 (AO3 2018 Rated T Complete, 2 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Rey hates losing. She hates losing almost more than she loves winning. Which is why she's in the ridiculous position of asking Kylo Ren, the very person who keeps beating her at the singles costume contest, to team up with her to dominate the couples contest and trounce Phasma and Hux once and for all. Working with Kylo is a necessary evil, but really, she'd do anything to win. Anything! Unless... it's falling in love.) Choreae Lucis by Shestoolazytologin (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, 3 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: He first sees her when he drops his four year old daughter off at her ballet classes. She is absolutely breathtaking. Or simply put: Ben Solo takes his daughter to her ballet classes and forgets his heart there.) Twas the night before Sithmas... by Hellyjellybean (AO3 2019 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben Solo is alone...and he likes it that way. What more does he need on Christmas eve? He has his whiskey and his bitterness to keep him warm. But Christmas magic can do wonderful things, and a visit from a mystical being throws Ben into a world very different from the one he knew. A world were he is married to the love of his life, he is close to his family and a little boy with dark eyes calls him Daddy. But is it all a dream? Or will Ben really get everything he has ever wanted this Christmas?) The Best Medicine by Cecilia1204 (AO3 2019 Rated M Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Being stuck in hospital for Christmas was enough to make Ben Solo feel really down in the dumps. That is, until he meets two angels in the form of Rey and her amazing cat.) First Order IT, Can I Get Your User ID? by krossartist (AO3 2019 Rated T Complete, 3 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Whenever Rey had to call IT, which was about twice the amount of times a normal person would call "excessive," she got the same IT guy. Every. Damn. Time. She named him Fuckhead. He had grown to hate her fondly.) Hey Sweetheart by SuchaPrettyPoison (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, 2 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Anytime a guy flirts with Rey, her flatmate Ben swoops in and pretends to be her possessive boyfriend. She was never going to get laid. Six months since moving in with him, and he scared away all her potential ‘suitors’.) I'll Show You Mine, If You Show Me Yours by CaliforniaQueen (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben is getting ready to get back into the dating world. His roommate Rey interrupts him preparing for his date and sees something she wasn't prepared to see.) TikTok and the Professor by SuchaPrettyPoison (AO3 2020 Rated M Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Due to quarantine, Professor Ben Solo decides to download TikTok - an app his students seem to be a fan of - only to find he's the subject of one of his student's videos.) The Ties That Bind by Telcontarian (AO3 2020 Rated G Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Professor Ben Solo rules the classroom with an iron fist and he is not generally known for his kindness or for his understanding. However, when Rey approaches him to ask for help with her daughter, Kira, Rey finds that Ben is more gentle and caring than she originally thought.) Midnight Snacks by bellestar (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben Solo just wants make a grilled cheese sandwich at 1:43am when a girl wanting to make Midnight Noodles interrupts him. Her midnight snack of choice just won't do.) Overstimulated by adamsnackler (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Ben avoids going to parties because he doesn't like to get touched. Rey is intrigued by the mysterious man in the corner and swoops in to save him from a handsy flirt by pretending to be his date.) Rey Niima and the American (Hot Piece of) Ass that She Just Wants to Tap, while also Not Dying in the Triwizard Tournament or Becoming Otherwise Inconvenienced or Maimed by MahoganyDoodles (AO3 2020 Rated M Complete, 5 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: In which Rey discovers the greatest challenge of the Triwizard tournament isn't the blast-ended skrewts, BeeBee the tabby cat, the deadly tasks, her Ilvermorny and Castelobruxo competitors, or even Luke's chaotic energy. No, it's her propensity to stick her foot in her own mouth and—more importantly—Ben Solo's stupidly handsome face.) Trope Come True by MWolfe13 (AO3 2020 Rated T Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Grumpy Ben saves Rey.) workin' on my fortnite moves by infrarad (AO3 2020 Rated E Complete, One-Shot, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Rey has been babysitting for divorced dad Ben Solo for a while. When he comes home late from work one night and finds her playing his son's favorite game, she offers to teach him.) Blame it on the Mistletoe by deedreamer, HopelesslyReylo (AO3 2018 Rated E Complete, 5 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Rey Wilson doesn’t necessarily hate Christmas, it’s just that she’s never really enjoyed it. It’s too over the top, too full of the same repetitive music and consumerism. That’s not to say she doesn’t enjoy some things about the holiday... So when her new boss —and secret crush— Ben Solo catches her singing in her office, she lies to avoid looking like a grinch. Now she’s agreed to spend the holiday with him and his over-the-top Christmas fanatic family.) Tell Your Parents to Subscribe! by dawninthemtn (AO3 2019 Rated T Complete, 5 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: Internet journalist Rey is assigned to do a story on children's YouTube sensation Kylo Ren, aka her nephew's idol. When she meets him, she realizes all those weird online moms who thirst after him might be onto something after all.) stroke-on-tent by jeeno2, JenfysNest (AO3 2019 Rated E Complete, 2 Chapters, Modern AU, Quick Synopsis: In which Rey accuses a hot customer of shoplifting because of the giant bulge in his pants--and gets the surprise of her life.)

#reylo #reylo fanfic

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fangirlthings7 · 4 years ago

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BANGTAN SONYOENDAN

BTS SHOWS IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER

A beginner's guide to the fandom. Get to know BTS on a deeper level with their performances, guestings and variety/reality shows starting from their debut up to present. I myself is new to the fandom. So, I did some research myself and also with the help of my ARMY friends on what I should watch so I can relate to them. I hope this can help you get to know them as well. Let's take this beautiful journey together! - From your fellow baby ARMY Borahae! 보라해!

2013

061313 BTS DEBUT

Sukira/Kiss The Radio 130629 Sukira/Kiss The Radio 131005 (A/N: Their radio guestings is also a must. Date is in year/month/date format.) After School Club Episode 24 Rookie King: Channel BTS (8 Episodes)

2014

American Hustle Life (8 Episodes) (A/N: You should watch this first in reference on their other guestings because they mentioned it there. MUST WATCH!!! LOL.) Sukira/Kiss The Radio 140301 True Color Radio 140614 Volume Up 140912 BTS on Beatles Code 3D 140401 BTS on Weekly Idol 140430 MNet 4 Things Show 140513 (A/N: The legendary hidden cam of RM.) After School Club Episode 46 After School Club Episode 95 A Song For You 3 Episode 12 BTS at Yinyuetai (3 Episodes) (A/N: Personal favorite. I like how they were treated and welcomed in China.) A Little Dangerous Chuseok Hope Delivery at Love Food Bank Go! BTS (A/N: Their first Kcon in LA. Actual performances are on Youtube, KCON 2014. Jungkook's "International Playboy" line can be seen here.) BTS Festa 2014 (1st Anniv) BTS Now in Thailand Seasons Greetings 2015 Skool Luv Affair DVD Showcase Memories of 2014 (A/N: Includes ARMY 1st Muster, other overseas fan meetings and BTS Live Trilogy II: The Red Bullet)

2015

True Color Radio 150307 Sukira/Kiss The Radio 150505 Changnim's Gayo Plaza 150510 Kim Sungjoo Music Plaza 150521 Love Game Radio 150629 Sukira/Kiss The Radio 150702 Changnim's Gayo Plaza 151220 Hello Counselor (RM&V) After School Club Episode 158 Weekly Idol 150617 After School Club Episode 191 Weekly Idol 151216 BTS on Idol Show My Pet Clinic ( Jimin, V, JHope) BTS: Bokbulbok (5 Episodes) (A/N: This is only short, like 10 mins. per episode. It's available on V Live if you want to watch it with better quality and subs.) BTS Gayo Season 1 (9 Episodes) (A/N: This one is also available on V Live. Episodes are also about 10-20 mins. only. You can finish it right away.) Run BTS! (Episodes 1-10) (A/N: First season aired 2015 so I added it up here. Season 2 was aired later on 2017. This is also on V Live.) BTS Now 2 (Europe and America) Summer Package 2015 in Kota Kinabalu BTS Festa 2015 (2nd Anniv) BTS Undercover Mission: Volume 2 (A/N: BTS Japan Official Fan Meeting like Jap version of Muster.) BTS Wake Up: Open Your Eyes (1st Japan Tour) BTS LIVE HYYH ON STAGE BTS LIVE HYYH ON STAGE JAPAN EDITION At YOKOHAMA ARENA Seasons Greetings 2016 Memories of 2015 (A/N: I suggest to always watch this last because it's long. This one consists of 4 disc. Includes BTS Live Trilogy I: BTS Begins)

2016

Cultwo Show 160512 Cultwo Show 161013 (A/N: This is where fans sent in messages of encounters/seeing BTS in random places. BTS also shared their conception dreams.) Running Man Episode 300 (7vs300) The Boss Is Watching 160202 Star Show 360° 161107 Celebrity Bromance (V&Minjae) (A/N: You can watch it on V Live or Youtube) Celebrity Bromance (Jungkook&Minwoo) (A/N: Jungkook doll. "House was smaller but had more memories." uwu) King of Mask Singer Episode 72 (Jungkook) BTS Now 3 Chicago Bon Voyage Season 1 (Northern Europe) Summer Package in Dubai BTS Festa 2016 (Youtube) BTS Festa Birthday Party (VLive) BTS 3rd Muster ARMY.Zip+ BTS Japan Official Fan Meeting: Reaching You BTS Live HYYH Epilogue on Stage BTS Live HYYH Epiloge Japan Edition (Kayo Nenka on Stage: Epilogue) Seasons Greetings 2017 (A/N: If you're looking for the clip where JK is fighting with a chicken. You can find it here. You're welcome.) Memories of 2016

2017

Cultwo Show 170921 Law of Jungle in Kota Manado (Jin) King of Masked Singer Episode 93 (Jimin) Hello Counselor (Jin&Jimin) Let's Eat Dinner Together Episode 50 (Jin&JK) New Yang Nam Show Episode 1 Idol Party Ep. 11 Please Take Care of my Refrigerator (Jin&Jimin) Knowing Brothers Epidode 94 BTS Gayo Season 2 Bon Voyage Season 2 (Hawaii) Summer Package in Palawan Run BTS! Season 2 BTS Festa 2017 (Youtube) BTS Festa Home Party (VLive) The Wings Tour in Seoul BTS Live Trilogy Episode III: The Wings Tour - Japan Edition BTS Live Trilogy Episode III: The Wings Tour - In Japan Special Edition at Kyocera Dome Seasons Greetings 2018 Memories of 2017

2018

Summer Package in Saipan Bon Voyage Season 3 (Malta) BTS Festa 2018 (Youtube) BTS Festa (VLive) BTS 4th Muster Happy Ever After BTS Japan Official Fan Meeting Volume 4: Happy Ever After Wings Finale (VLive/Weverse) Burn The Stage Burn The Stage Documentary Seasons Greetings 2019 Memories of 2018

2019

Run BTS Season 3 (Episode 57 - Present) Bon Voyage Season 4 (New Zealand) Summer Package in Korea BTS Festa (Youtube) 5th Muster in Korea: Magic Shop 5th Muster in Japan: Magic Shop Love Yourself Tour in Seoul (DVD) Love Yourself Tour New York (Citifield) Love Yourself Tour Europe Love Yourself - Japan Edition Love Yourself: Speak Yourself in Wembley (VLive/Weverse) Love Yourself: Speak Yourself in Saudi Arabia (VLive/Weverse) Love Yourself The Final in Seoul (VLive/Weverse) Love Yourself: Speak Yourself in Sao Paolo Love Yourself: Speak Yourself - Japan Edition Bring the Soul Bring the Soul Documentary Seasons Greetings 2020 Memories of 2019

2020

I-Land Episode 7 Winter Package in Helsinki BTS In The Soop Bangbang Con The Live BTS Festa 2020 (Youtube) Map of the Soul: ON:E Break the Silence Break the Silence Documentary Seasons Greetings 2021

2021

Winter Package in Korea Excluding V Lives and Youtube channel contents. I suggest you also watch their performances at award shows.

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musicalluna · 5 years ago

Text

touchy feely

This is a way overdue Marvel Trumps Hate fic for 2019! I hope I did justice to your request, @seleneaurora. SORRY IT TOOK 12 YEARS

Thank you to @onemuseleft for betaing!!

“You’re picturing Tony in that outfit, aren’t you?” Clint sounds smug.

Heat curls up Steve’s neck and into his ears. “Yes,” he admits, strangled. He and the rest of the Avengers—minus Tony—are in the front row at the 2014 Stark Expo welcome event in a specially roped off area just for them.

Natasha smirks. “Oh, he has his own Ironette costume, take my word for it. Play your cards right, Cap.”

“I didn’t need to know that,” Bruce says from Steve’s left. Steve has no response because he’s pretty sure his brain is dribbling out of his ears.

Tony had invited them to the Stark Expo under the guise of all of them needing a vacation, but he’s been working night and day for months to prepare for the Expo and Steve knows he’s proud of what’s being presented. A few years ago they'd have all assumed—except maybe Natasha—that Tony genuinely didn't care what they think about his work, but these days they know better.

So they're here with him in Boston to show their support.

On stage, the Ironettes swivel their hips as one and Steve pictures Tony doing the same in those tiny, shiny shorts. His ears go blisteringly hot.

His crush is getting seriously out of control.

Finish on Ao3 or

When Tony's welcome ends, they make their way through the crowd to the back of house to meet up with him for dinner. Tony's brief speech had been electrifying and the audience fills the arena with an infectious buzz as they trickle out to join the opening night party.

“You know, I got pretty good at this flashy stuff during the USO tours, but I was never anything like Tony.”

“You find him dazzling, we know,” Thor says, with only a hint of exasperation. Steve's only a little embarrassed. Tony's incredible. He's not ashamed to let people know he thinks so. Even if his friends are maybe a little sick of hearing it.

The security guard at the curtain checks each of their IDs carefully before allowing them back.

Behind the curtain, it's like seeing Fury at the grocery store. All the polish and glamour is replaced with severe practical scaffolding and wires everywhere you look. Strange and not meant to be seen.

Bruce's shoulders relax a little now they're out of the crush of the massive crowd.

Steve spots Tony on the far side of the stage by a stack of black equipment cases. There's a man with sandy blond hair holding Tony by the neck with both hands as he kisses his cheeks and that seems normal enough until Tony plants his hands on the other man's chest and shoves him backward. Tony's face is twisted with anger.

“SECURITY!” he shouts and Steve breaks into a run.

He flies across the space, but security gets to the blond before he can, so he redirects and skids to a stop in front of Tony instead. He reaches out, then stops before actually touching Tony. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, fine,” Tony says breezily, letting his elbow press into Steve's open hand. “I'm good. I just hate that guy.” With permission to touch, Steve isn't shy about checking to make sure Tony's really okay. His neck is a little red. Apparently, the other man had a good grip on him. Steve huffs, aggravated.

“Have a good time tonight, Anthony!” the blond calls in a nasally voice as Tony's security drag him out of the room. Steve glares after him.

“Goodbye, Justin! See you never!” Tony retorts.

“What the hell was he doing here?” Natasha demands as she and the others catch up.

Tony sighs. “Being a pain in my ass.”

“You know him too?” Steve says.

“We've met.” Natasha's mouth pulls into a wry line.

“Kinda grabby, huh?” Clint says.

“Yeah,” Tony agrees, rubbing his jaw. “Not usually a kisser, but it's been awhile.” He gives a full body shudder and shakes himself. “God, that guy. Can't believe he got in here. Anyway.” He swipes his hands downward. “Time for dinner, right?”

“Aye,” Thor says, “now we feast!”

Steve takes the lead, keeping an eye out for anyone headed their direction and Tony falls back to walk with Natasha, the two of them talking in low voices.

“Wasn't he in jail?” Tony's muttering, annoyance thick in his voice. He goes with it easily when Natasha gently pushes his chin to the side, peering at his neck. “I feel like I need a shower.”

“He was. Released for good behavior.”

“Good be—you're shitting me.”

“I wish I was.”

“Unbelievable.”

They're ushered through a back hallway in the building and step out into the cool Los Angeles evening air to find their limo and Happy waiting for them.

“Hi, Boss,” Happy greets, cheerfully. “Everybody.”

“Hi, Happy,” they reply in a disjointed chorus. They pile into the limo. Steve's mildly embarrassed by the way everyone leaves him a space next to Tony, but he's also grateful. He loves being in Tony's orbit.

“Your presentation was great, Tony. You're something else on stage.”

Tony smiles at him and then tips his head to the side, letting his cheek rest on Steve's shoulder. Warmth flushes through Steve's belly. “Thanks, Steve. Glad you think so.”

“I don't know how you do it.”

Tony huffs a laugh. “Practice. Lots and lots of practice. I used to be able to do stuff like that wasted, too.” He trails off thoughtfully.

Steve turns his head, trying to inhale the warm, metallic scent of Tony without being obvious about it, but he catches Bruce's eyes over Tony's head and feels his face go hot. He doesn’t have long to be embarrassed though. They’re only crossing a street to get to their hotel across from the convention center and they’ve already arrived.

Everyone piles back out of the limo and then into the garage elevator. Their dinner reservation is at a restaurant on one of the upper floors.

Tony starts to act strange not long after they’re escorted to the rooftop patio. Steve makes a joke, something dumb about LA versus New York, and Tony giggles like Steve's said something actually funny. He leans into Steve's shoulder, the way he used to when he still got drunk regularly. Steve has mixed feelings about it. He doesn’t like it when Tony drinks, but he misses how physically affectionate Tony had been when he drank.

“Tony, have you had a drink?” Steve asks.

Tony pulls his head back, frowning, and his hand comes off of Steve’s arm. “No,” he says sharply. “I’m sober.”

“Okay,” Steve says. He believes him. “You’re handsy tonight, that’s all.”

Slower than usual, Tony blinks. “Am I?” He looks down at his hands, then draws back further, the anger on his face turning to worry. “Is it bothering you?”

Steve catches his arm before he can back away too far. “No. Tony, it’s fine. Just something I noticed that’s all.” He glances down at his hand on Tony’s arm. The warmth of Tony’s skin feels… His hand flexes.

Tony looks up at him, his eyes seeming bigger than usual, gleaming in the patio lights. His eyelashes are so beautiful.

Tony shifts, and it’s like Steve can feel it through his whole body, even though they’re only touching at the one spot.

“Hey, you guys gonna dish up or what?” Clint says, waggling a silver kettle with a narrow spout. Tony raises an eyebrow at Clint, making no move to take it, so Steve does.

Clint is apparently the most familiar with how to eat this food, so Steve watches him to see what's next. Clint has another kettle and he's pouring a golden yellow liquid into a glass bottle Thor is holding out. It has a long narrow neck and a wide, round base that makes Steve think of the volumetric beakers in Bruce's lab. There's one in front of each of their plates. Natasha, on his right, holds out hers first, so Steve fills it, careful to touch the spout to the tiny opening of the bottle. He fills it to the top, same as Clint's doing, feeling Nat's hand on his lower back. Everyone's a little handsy tonight, apparently. He moves to fill Tony's next and Clint catches hold of the kettle, pushing it back.

“Not for him. You want tea or coffee, Tony?”

“Coffee.”

“Why'd I ask?” Clint says with a grin and raises his hand, pointing at Tony's place. “Can we get a coffee for this guy?”

The waiter nods and whisks away the little glass bottle, disappearing back inside.

Steve pauses, realizing the drink must be alcoholic. He glances around the table. “Hey, this is okay with you, Tony?”

“Huh? Oh, sure. This stuff isn't really my thing. Too sweet. Go on. Enjoy.”

Reassured that they're not making things unnecessarily difficult on Tony, Steve pours some for himself.

The waiter returns with Tony’s coffee and a companion, who carries a massive round silver tray covered in piles of bright colored food. Behind him is another guy with six plates carefully balanced on both arms. Those have rolls of something thin and brown. Up close, it kind of reminds Steve of a crepe.

The big platter is set down in the middle of the table and Clint and Tony immediately dive in, tearing off chunks of the thin brown sheets and pinching a bit of whatever’s closest to pop in their mouths.

Tony groans and it feels like Steve’s hair stands on end. “That’s good. It’s been years, oh my god.”

Clint reaches across the table to feed his second bite to Natasha.

Steve wants to do that, to feed something into Tony's mouth, and he flushes hot at the thought. Instead, he digs in, copying Clint and Tony and pinching some of the food between a scrap of the brown sheet from his own plate and popping the whole thing in his mouth. The flavor is intense, completely taking over his tongue, followed by the tangy flavor of the pancake-like stuff. It's unlike anything Steve's ever eaten, despite some of the familiar flavors.

Tony presses his knee into Steve's thigh, leaning close. He's smiling. “What do you think?”

“It's—wow. Intense. Good.”

Tony grins, eyes crinkling. “It is, isn't it?”

“You've had it before?”

“Years ago. We were doing a business deal in Ethiopia. Clint's obviously had more experience,” he says, raising his voice to carry across the table.

Clint swallows a mouthful and shrugs. “I lived in Ethiopia for like, two years.”

“I'm pretty sure that's still classified,” Nat says mildly.

“Everyone at this table is classified,” Clint points out.

“Hear hear,” Tony says, lifting his glass and everyone laughs, but they all lift their glasses too.

After swallowing some of the sweet yellow drink, Steve says, “You know, someday it'd be nice to go somewhere just to, y'know. Go. Instead of going for a fight.”

“You don't even go to the grocery store without going for a fight,” Nat drawls and Steve rolls his eyes at her.

Clint hoots. “'I'll pick up a couple brawls on my way home, maybe a tussle.'”

Thor grins. “Our Steve is always ready.”

“Har har,” Steve says dryly.

Tony nudges Steve's elbow. “I'll take you anywhere you want to go, you know that, don't you, Cap? Seriously. Anywhere. You name the place, you name the time.” Tony puts a hand on his thigh and Steve feels it all the way down to his toes, up into his scalp. The palm of Tony's hand is hot, radiating through Steve's pants, feeling like a small sun against his leg. Steve's tongue suddenly feels too big for his mouth.

Tony licks his lips, sweat glittering at his hairline. He blinks and then his eyes pinch slightly at the corners. “I...feel strange.”

Steve frowns and turns in his seat to face Tony more fully. “You are flushed.” He cups a hand around Tony's shoulder and a juddering gasp slips from Tony's mouth, his eyes going even darker. He licks his lips again and Steve's stomach flutters.

“Sorry,” Tony mumbles, hand tightening a little around Steve's thigh, “'m touching you again.”

“I'm touching you, too,” Steve points out. Part of him recognizes that his hand has moved from Tony's shoulder to his neck and that that's...an awful lot closer than he usually gets, but he can't make himself let go.

“Yeah,” Tony murmurs, eyelids falling to half mast. “Feels good.” Then he shudders suddenly and, grimacing, scoots away from Steve on the bench.

It hurts, twisting in Steve's gut more powerfully than it should.

“Shit,” Tony says, stretching his face. “Shit, Steve, I think you're right.”

“Right about what?” Steve asks, his stomach falling unpleasantly when his hand disconnects from Tony's neck.

“I think I'm drunk. Well, not drunk—drugged. I think someone dosed me with something.”

Natasha presses up against Steve from behind to look around his shoulder and the ugly feeling in Steve's stomach recedes. “Dosed you with something?”

“I don't feel right,” Tony says again and the hand that's been burning steadily against Steve's thigh for the better part of the last few minutes pulls away. Tony groans, but Steve has a hard time focusing on that because his leg feels cold and aching in its wake. Tony puts his hand back and it's like dipping his leg into a Jacuzzi—hot and instantly soothing.

“Shit,” Tony says. “Yeah, definitely dosed me with something.”

Natasha pushes to her feet and moves behind Steve, one of her hands staying on his shoulder even as she cups Tony's chin, tilting his face upward. “What kind of something?”

Tony leans into her touch. “Feel kinda drunk. Kinda not. Touching feels really good. Hurts when I stop touching Steve.”

“Hurts, huh?” Nat says. Her mouth twists with displeasure. “Sounds like a disinhibitor with some kind of tactile response.”

“That sounds like spy for 'sex pollen'.”

Natasha shrugs one shoulder. “If you want to be a huge nerd about it.”

Tony sticks his tongue out at her.

“Maybe we should go back to the hotel,” Bruce says.

Nodding, Tony says, “Yeah. Let's do that. JARVIS can do a scan and see what's up.”

They gather their things and Steve takes care of the bill. Thankfully, they don't have far to go—they're staying just a few floors up. The staff is obviously confused by their early departure from their dinner, but they don't ask any questions. Natasha plasters herself to Tony's side as they trek up to his room. Steve feels like he did after the plane crash, cold and aching everywhere, but he grits his teeth and pushes through it.

Back in Tony's room, everyone spreads out. Thor makes himself at home on the settee in the lounge while Tony and Natasha move over to where Tony's luggage is sitting on a rack at the foot of his bed. Steve wants to follow them, but he crosses his arms tightly over his chest and mashes down the urge. Clint hops up on the desk where he can watch everyone and Bruce follows behind all of them, his eyes moving carefully around the room.

“JARVIS,” Tony says, “body scan.”

“Scanning, sir,” JARVIS acknowledges.

Steve puts his back to the wall, trying to keep himself still. Everyone is quiet while JARVIS runs the scan. After the light passes over Tony's body, he reaches out and puts his thumb against the keypad. A second later he draws back, sucking his thumb into his mouth.

“Scan complete,” JARVIS says. “Sir’s heart rate and respiration are slightly elevated. UV scan indicates areas with an unusual powder substance, mainly concentrated on the face and hands. Blood analysis shows elevated dopamine levels.”

“What if you stop touching?” Bruce asks.

Tony grimaces and Natasha's expression goes a little flatter, but they separate and JARVIS repeats the process while they huddle there unhappily.

“Your heart and respiration rates have accelerated significantly,” he reports. “Dopamine levels have plummeted.”

“Yeah, not feeling great,” Tony mutters. “Nat?”

Steve bites his cheek. He aches all over, the cold still clinging to his bones.

Natasha reaches out and takes Tony's hand and Tony sags, stepping toward her. She strokes his face. “That wasn't so bad.”

Tony laughs, but the sound is a little wet. Steve's stomach clenches and he sways forward before he gets himself back under control.

His lapse doesn't go unnoticed.

“Are you also affected?” Thor asks and every eye in the room turns toward Steve.

Steve flushes. “I'm fine.”

Bruce raises an eyebrow. “That's not what he asked.”

“Oh my god, of course you're not fine. You're the first one who touched me after Hammer grabbed me!”

“You think that's when it happened?” Nat says.

“JARVIS said there was a powder on my face and hands. I bet it got on me after he put his scummy face all over mine and then I rubbed it and voila.”

“I touched your face after that,” Natasha realizes aloud. “I think you're right.”

“I'm always right. Steve, get over here,” he says imperiously. “You've gotta feel like shit.”

“I...” Steve doesn't move, feeling the weight of everyone's eyes and, worse, the weight of the idea of touching Tony the way Natasha is now, her fingers stroking the hair at the back of his neck, and… His heart speeds up, juddering in his chest.

“Steve. Come on.” Tony holds out a hand and Steve stares at it.

“I don't...think that's a good idea,” he finally manages to get out.

“Why not?”

Steve looks at Nat, feeling panic crawl up the back of his neck. She regards him for a moment and then says, “Thor. You'll sit with him, won't you?”

“Of course, anything you require,” Thor says.

Tony's face folds slowly, hurt buckling his mouth.

Steve's gut twists painfully. “It's not like that—”

Tony shrugs one shoulder. “It's fine, it's whatever, I'm not gonna twist your arm.”

Thor puts a hand on the back of Steve's neck, cupping it, his thumb stroking the tendon in Steve's neck and the relief, the instant flood of it, nearly takes his legs out from under him.

“Don't do that,” he hears Natasha murmur and Steve looks up to see Tony with his head bowed, hands in his hair.

His voice is low, but Steve can still hear when he mutters, “He doesn't even want to get close to me when it hurts.”

“Of course I do!” Steve blurts and then goes stock still, mouth still open. Tony and Natasha's gazes turn toward him.

“Rude,” Tony mutters, but he just looks tired.

Steve can't stand that look on his face and the words just keep coming. “I can't—not, not when I'm like this, Tony. It takes all I've got to stop myself on a normal day. I can't do it with this in my system.”

“Stop yourself—stop yourself from what?” But before anyone can answer, his expression transforms, oh shit, so clear on his face it may as well be written across his forehead.

Steve covers his face, shoulders hunching. “This is not how I wanted you to find out,” he says stiffly.

“Oh my god, this is need to know information,” Tony exclaims. “And all of you knew, didn't you!”

“We were sworn to secrecy,” Bruce says mildly, and Steve winces.

“Oh my god! Okay. Okay, fine, this is fine. That's...hey, look at me.”

Steve can't resist the order in Tony's voice, so he raises his eyes.

Tony points a finger at him. “We are going to talk about this later. Extensively.” His eyes are dark again, intense, and Steve swallows, a hot stone settling in his stomach. He nods. “But right now, we're gonna cuddle over here and you guys are gonna cuddle over there and we're going to watch a movie and wait this out.”

Clint holds out his hands to Bruce. “Snuggle buddies?”

“Hulk likes being the little spoon,” Bruce replies, very seriously. The tension is gone, broken as easy as that.

As they get settled in to watch the movie, Steve glances over and catches Tony's eye again. Tony gives him a tiny smile and Steve's stomach flips. He wriggles deeper under Thor's arm, the warmth and weight of it washing through him in vibrating waves of contentment and he sees Tony frown. Nat pinches Tony's leg.

Steve breaks into a grin, too buoyed by Tony's attention and the substance to even think of smothering it.

He's going to play his cards very right.

#musicalluna writes #marvel trumps hate 2019 #seleneaurora #cuddle pollen #stevextony #steve rogers #tony stark #iron man #captain america #fluff

117 notes · View notes

axwalker · 5 years ago

Text

Tears in Heaven 2: Falling

Synopsis: Alexis O’Brien is about to get married but memories of her old life are coming back to haunt her.

MASTERLIST

Pairings: Liam x MC Drake x MC (TRR)

Warnings:

NO ONE UNDER 18 should read this story. This is an 18+ blog. This story will deal with very dark subjects such as death, severe depression and suicide attempt (among others) if you’re triggered by any of those issues, PLEASE DO NOT READ THIS STORY

A/N: The story will go back and forth between three different periods of time (2009 / 2015 / 2019)

A/N: In most European countries the legal age to drink is 18, as Cordonia is clearly in Europe, I ‘ll use the same legal age.

Disclaimer: All characters belong to Pixelberry.

Word count: 4,600

Songs inspiration: Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton

THANKS TO: To my awesome beta read @pedudley

And to the beautiful @burnsoslow who beta read the whole scene with Liam.

I love you both!!

Tagging:

@mskaneko @pedudley @burnsoslow @pug-bitch @lauzales @yukinagato2012 @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @loveellamae @nomadics-stuff @flutistbyday2020 @mrsdrakewalkerblog @ladyangel70 @kimmiedoo5 @debramcg1106 @ao719 @msjr0119 @ac27dj @forthebrokenheartedthings-blog

JUNE 2015

Nine months. Nine months since the ‘accident’. That was how her friends called it: ‘An accident’. The word infuriated her. It implied something so avoidable, something so small and simple. A finger caught in a door, a bad fall, a glass of whiskey spilled on the table. He didn’t have a broken leg, or a soared finger, he was dead. He was never going to come back again, his laughter vanished, his chocolates eyes gone, forever.

She would love to know how her friends called what had happened three months after his death. The day she had lost the last shred of hope she had left.

Every day she repeated the same routine, she woke up, drank, and stayed in bed looking through the window. Some days when the alcohol had numbed her enough, she was able to go through her albums and live in her memories. But most days, she couldn’t bear to see their happy faces, the joyful moments, so she just drank and cried.

Liam, Olivia and Max came every day to check up on her. Sometimes together, sometimes separate. They all had different methods to bring her back to life. None of them worked but they kept trying anyway.

Liam was caring and protective, he tried to make her eat or drink something else besides alcohol. Sometimes he tried to talk some sense into her, others he simply read to her.

Olivia’s approach was more direct, she arrived at the house like a tornado, cleaning the mess and throwing all the wine bottles and pizza boxes in the garbage, disgusted. She scolded her in the hope to see her strong friend fight back, but Alexis had gave up, nothing that Oliva said made her react.

Maxwell was kind and compassionate. He sat with her in silence, rubbing her back or crying with her. He only wanted to make her feel that she wasn’t alone. That he would be there when she was ready.

She knew that deep down she loved them, or that she had loved them once, but there was nothing left anymore for anyone else.

One morning, after yet another sleepless night, Alexis looked at her reflection in the mirror. She barely recognized herself. She touched her face, trying to remember how she looked like only nine months before. Her eyes drifted to the bottle of sleeping pills next to her toothbrush. Her decision was taken. He had died. He had left her. She had no reason to live anymore. That night, when her friends were gone, she would write some good-bye letters and she’ll go to sleep to never wake up again.

Ironically, that was the first day since it all happened that she had something to look forward to. After Savanah’s birthday, her life had stopped anyway, she was merely finishing the job.

August 2009

Maxwell and Olivia were having coffee after class while they waited for Alexis. When she arrived thirty minutes later, Max frowned, she looked like she wanted to bite someone’s head off.

Instead of greeting them, she threw her bag on the table, almost spilling Olivia’s coffee on her lap.

Olivia growled. “Careful there Alexis! This is Balmain.”

Maxwell rolled his eyes. “I’m sure that you meant to ask Lexie if everything was ok.”

Olivia snorted. “No, I meant to keep my very expensive outfit safe. Thank you very much.” She brushed her hand over her skirt making sure it was still spotless. “but yes tell us what happened to put you in such a dark mood, Alexis.”

“I can’t have coffee with you. Frickin Neville wants me to work tonight. Argh! I had the day off.”

Max looked at his best friend worried “Do you think that he’ll try something like the other night?”

“After all the self-defense classes Olivia has given me? I’d like to see him try” She took one French fry from Maxwell’s plate.

“So? What’s the problem? More hours mean more money, right?” He seemed confused “You’re always looking for extra hours.”

Olivia wasn’t fooled, she squinted at her friend. “She has a date with Walker.”

Maxwell squeaked. “Blossom!! You have seen him every day since you met him four days ago!”

“I know, Max. I can’t even explain it. He’ like… a drug” She ran her fingers through her head trying to hide her giddiness. “When he kisses me. I can’t even think or…”

Maxwell knew Drake Walker since they were kids, and he was well aware of his reputation. “What did you do last night?”

“We just walked all night, I waited until my father and Cindy were in their room, sneaked out and took him to the cove”

“The one you haven’t even show me?” Max looked hurt.

“I’ll take you next time Max, I swear” She hugged him. “Anyway, we just walked and talked until dawn.” She said leaving out that they had kissed senseless all over the beach.

Olivia feigned to yawn. “Can you please get to the part where you two fuck, all of this is very sweet but is giving me diabetes.”

A crimson blush spread all upon her cheeks. “We actually haven’t done it yet.”

Maxwell almost spilled his coffee. “What? Drake Walker? According to my brother, he’s a man-whore!”

Alexis shrugged. “We have kissed, a lot, but nothing else.”

Olivia rolled her eyes. “Alexis for Christ sake! Don’t be such a fucking prude!”

Alexis threw her hands in the air “I’m not! I don’t know what he’s waiting for.” She checked her watch “Fuck! I’ll be late!”

Maxwell and Olivia exchanged an amused look. “When had you been on time before?”

She flipped them off and ran to catch the bus.

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

It was a calm, summer night so the college pub where she worked wasn’t busy, only two tables and some guys hanging out in the bar with Dany, her coworker.

She checked her phone for the third time that night and sighed disappointed, he hadn’t answer to her text cancelling their date.

Lost in her thoughts, she barely heard the tinkling of the bell hanging above the front door. When she finally turned her head, she saw Drake standing next to it, looking at her.

Her heart immediately skipped a beat. “Hi, stranger. What are you doing here?”

He cut the distance between them in two steps, took her in his arms and kissed her. “I’ve missed that.”

She played with the collar of his shirt, inebriated by the smell of sandalwood. “Me too, Drake.”

If he was completely honest, not only he had missed her, but he had been incapable of thinking about anything else all day, and at that moment seeing her so beautiful, with her bright eyes looking so intently at him, he was about to melt. He kissed her again.

“I can’t go out tonight, though. I have to close the place.” She said softly still fluttered by his kiss.

He didn’t want to come out to strong but decided to be honest anyway. “I did get your text, Lex, I just don’t like the idea of you walking at night and taking the bus alone so late.”

She shrugged, she was used to it. “I’ve been doing it the whole year, Drake. I can take care of myself.”

“I know you can, just let me help you a little.” He brushed her face with his fingers. “I can come get you when you work late, and we can spend more time together.”

She looked at him touched, besides Max who gave her a ride whenever he could, no one else cared how she got back after a nightshift. “Thank you.”

“Waitress!”

“Shit! I have to work. Wait for me at the bar, Daniel is actually pretty funny.” She winked. “and he knows his whiskey.”

She hurried to the table that was calling her. A group of college girls desperate to use their new ID’s. The rest of the night was calm, and Alexis could spare some moments to talk and laugh with Drake while he waited for her.

At one o’clock, they said good-bye to the last clients, Daniel headed home and Drake and Alexis stayed to close the bar.

“So, what do you want me to do?”

She leaned against the counter smiling shamelessly. “Really? You’re going to help me for free?”

He smirked trapping her with his arms against the counter “Who told you it was for free?” he leaned against her and softly kissed her lips. He inhaled her perfume enjoying her soft moans when his kiss became deeper and his fingers wandered all over her hips. “Fuck, you’re so sexy, Alexis”

The phone rang three times until they were able to break contact. She picked up and talked to her boss. When she hung up, they spend the next hour cleaning and sweeping the bar until it was ready to close.

She checked her watch. “I have to be home at three. My father knows at what time I close the bar, and it usually takes me more than an hour to get to the house.”

Drake arched his eyebrows. “So, he doesn’t come to pick you up, but you have a curfew?”

She nodded. “That’s pretty much it. He has a lot of ideas of what a well-behaved young lady can and cannot do.”

Drake was starting to strongly dislike the man. “Well, we closed the bar way faster.” He encircled her with his arms. “and I’ll take you back in the jeep, so we have one hour for ourselves.” He upped her chin to him and kissed her cheek. “Aren’t you hungry?”

She was starving but it was past midnight, she would eat a bowl of cereal at her house. “Yes, but everything is closed.”

He gave her a conspiratorial look “This classy joint has a kitchen, right?”

She smiled. “Yes”

He offered her his arm. “Well, let’s cook something then.”

The night before, during their walk, she had told him she used to love Mac & Cheese when she was a little girl, so he looked for the ingredients in the pantry.

“Can I help you there, Walker?”

He nodded his head towards a chair. “You were working all night, O’Brien, it’s your turn to sit.”

She cocked an eyebrow. “O’Brien?”

“Well, you haven’t stop calling me Walker since I told you my last name the other night, turnabout’s a fair play.” He winked playfully.

Alexis watched him cook for her. They had spent the last four days getting to know each other, and she had loved every minute of it. She loved how attentive he was, how he seemed to remember every little thing she said. She loved that he walked around looking brooding and angry, but he was the kindest person she had never met. She loved how protected she felt with him, like never before.

He loved animals, and great books but only liked boring music, he listened too much classic rock, and definitely needed more Latin songs in his playlist. His taste in movies was impeccable though, fan of Harry Potter and Tarantino.

Her mind drifted to the previous night, she shivered thinking about it, about the way he kissed her, desperate, passionate, wild but always a little gentle, she felt like he could read her mind and sensed exactly what she needed better than herself.

He put two plates with Mac & Cheese in front of her and she clapped happy. “Drake! Mac & cheese! I love it.”

He had never met someone so full of life before, she seemed to enjoy every single minute of her life. He shrugged trying not to think how much he loved that about her. “It’s only pasta, O’Brien.”

“Well, I love it.” She placed her hand over his and he locked his gaze with hers before he leaned to kiss her.

The talked about their lives while they ate. Drake told her about his childhood with Bastien and Savanah. Bastien worked for Constantine, the Duke of Valtoria, one of the most powerful men in the country, and a personal friend of King Godfrey. He worked at their estate all the time, so Drake had practically grown up with Leo and Liam Rhys. Alexis already knew that his father had died protecting the duke and that his mother had left when he was barely twelve years old. She hated the woman.

“I’m sorry she left, Drake.”

“I’m not. She was never a good mother for me or Savvie. Bastien is the only parent I have now.”

She squeezed his hand. He changed the subject, the less he talked about Bianca Walker, the best.

They finished the rest of their meal in silence, both deep in thought. He looked at her and couldn’t help but admire the strength she irradiated, a sort of light she wasn’t even aware she had in her. He had never opened himself so deeply to someone else, not even Liam. If he was honest, she scared him to death, she held too much power over him, he cared for her too much already but seemed incapable to stay away. She woke in him so many…things in such a short amount of time, that it made him feel overwhelmed.

She got up and reached for his plate, but he stood up and pulled it away from her reach. “I'll wash the dishes… you worked all night.”

“And you cooked.” She grinned at him. “we’ll do them together.”

The cleaned the kitchen playing and laughing with each other.

“It’s late now, I should take you home.” Drake sounded disappointed.

She wiggled her brows giving him a mischievous smile. “I have another idea, come on.” She grabbed two tumblers from the kitchen and took his hand guiding him to the cellar under the kitchen.

“Where are we exactly, Lexie?”

“In Walker’s Paradise.” She laughed pointing at all the Whiskey bottles on the floor.

“Isn’t this going to get you in trouble?”

Alexis took a bottle from one of the cabinets and opened it, then she poured the amber liquid into the tumblers.

Drake smiled shaking his head. “You really like trouble, hein? Breaking the rules, out after curfew, all that”

She looped her arms around his neck. “Maybe you make me want to break them.”

He grinned down at her and kissed her. “You’re going to make me blush, O’Brien.”

She chuckled. “That I would love to see.”

They sat on the floor with their backs against the wall, Drake pulled her against him with his arm around shoulders.

He took a sip from his glass. “It’s not bad.”

“I know.” She took a big gulp as well.

Drake looked at her questioningly. “I spilled my guts about my family earlier, but you never talk about yours.”

She fiddled with one of the many bracelets she was wearing. “My father is very religious, very strict but that didn’t stop him from leaving my mom for Cindy. He has a lot of rules and ideas about how I’m supposed to live my life.” She gave a half shrug. “I’m used to it; I just need to get through college and I’m out of there.”

“I may be intrusive here Lex, but why do you need to work? You live in one of the best neighborhoods in Cordonia. I mean, you live next to the Beaumont.”

“Well, first, because my father has a lot of debts. Cindy, his wife, is obsessed to be part of Cordonia’s high society, so she wants to live in the best neighborhood and she only buys designer clothes, or when she can’t its replicas. And second, because my father hates my major, he thinks I’ll end up being a starving writer.” She laughed. “He’s probably right, but I don’t care.”

He shook his head taking her chin with his fingers. “You’ll be whatever you want to be, O’Brien.” He fixed his piercing eyes on hers. “You’re brave and passionate and I have no doubt you will get to be a fantastic writer.”

She blushed. “Thank you.”

She looked adorable when she blushed. He cleared his throat. “How about a toast, Lexie.”

“What’re we toasting to?”

“To the moments in between.” He grinned.

She looked puzzled. “Huh?”

“All the nobles or the people like Cindy or my mother think about are the big events, the banquets, the press events, the grand balls. They don’t even realize that the moments that matter the most are the ones they’re missing. Moments like right now, just the two of us and some cheap whiskey. The ones that really mean something.” He brushed her lips with his thumb. “At least they mean something for me, anyway.”

She rubbed his cheek with the back of her hand “To me too, Drake. More than you can imagine.” She raised her glass. “For the moments in between.”

He grinned. “For the moments in between.”

They both gulped down their glasses. She moved to lay on the floor with her head in his lap. He racked his fingers through her hair, looking down at her eyes, and thinking how much he was enjoying that moment, having her like that, her head casually on his lap.

He lowered his head and crashed his lips with hers, she was still holding her glass so he grabbed it and casually put it next to them, as he laid over her, kissing her more, moving his mouth from her soft lips to her chin, and then lower to her neck. He smelled her perfume and got lost on her. Alexis could barely think, he seemed to be everywhere around her, she felt his warm breath and his teeth softly biting her neck and felt like she was losing all control.

He stopped himself, he wasn’t going to do it there. She was a goddess, she deserved much, much more than a dirty cellar.

“What’s the matter Drake?”

He sat against the wall again but this time he scooped her in his arms and sat her in his lap, she looped her arms around his waist and laid her head on his chest, still trying to recover her breath.

“I can’t believe I’m the one saying this, O’Brien, but we should wait to be in a better place to do this”

He looked at her, she was four years younger than him. She seemed almost innocent one second and the next one her eyes were black, charged with lust. He cupped her face “Can I ask you something, Lexie? Something personal?” He asked not sure how to address the subject.

She blushed a deep shade of scarlet, guessing exactly what he wanted to know. “If you want to know if I’m a virgin, I’m not. I had a boyfriend the last year of high school.”

He tried to hide the fact that he was jealous of a guy she had dated more than one year ago. “Did you love him?”

“I used to believe that, but” She stopped in her tracks not knowing how to continue. “I don’t know anymore. We had a lot of fun. Everything was very nice.”

He smirked “Nice?”

She stood up angrily leaning her back against the wall. “Yes, nice. Is there a problem with nice, Walker?”

He stood up and pressed her against the wall, roaming her back with his hands, burying his head on her hair, so she’d feel his breath warm, his hoarse voice in her ear “Love is burning, Alexis.” He softly nipped her earlobe as he pressed her even more. She gasped as a million goosebumps appear all over her arms. “Love is consuming.” He kissed the spot between her ear and her neck, and she shivered, the urge for him almost painful. “Love is messy and desperate.” He buried his head even more kissing the nape of her neck “Love is not nice.” He crashed his mouth with her lips again. She was addictive.

JUNE 2015

Alexis let herself get lost in her memory. That had been the day where she had fallen in love with him. Only five days after meeting him. Hearing his ideas, his views about the world. Seeing him taking care of her, making her feel so deeply safe. And getting lost in him, in his lips, his low voice, in the sandalwood. In the passion they shared for each other. Before closing her eyes and joining him for good, that was the image she’ll take with her. The image of the day she had lost her soul to Drake Walker.

APRIL 2019

Alexis’s eyes got lost in the clouds. She had always loved to fly, especially at that moment where the plane was so high, that the clouds were beneath them and the sun cast its light on them. She didn’t believe in anything, not anymore, but there in the heights, in the middle of the sky, she wondered, if maybe there was an afterlife, if maybe someday she would see him again.

Five years had passed, but the wound was still there, raw and ready to hurt, ready to pull her back to the abyss. She turned to look at Liam sleeping beside her. Now she had someone to fight for.

He had fallen asleep as soon as the plane had left the ground. He had to be exhausted; he worked really hard at making Valtoria the most productive duchy in Cordonia, and yet he managed to always be there for her when she needed him.

She was aware that the only reason he had left in the middle of the negotiations with the biggest export American company was because of her. Because of the date that was coming to haunt her. A warm feeling spread through her chest at the thought of all the things Liam had done for her. She took his hand between hers, careful not to wake him up.

Paris was beautiful in April. Alexis admired the blossoming trees and the warmth, spring light bathing the majestic buildings while they walked hand in hand.

Liam knew that the next weeks were going to get difficult, especially at the beginning of the next month, his birthday, so he wanted to distract her as much as he could, showing her his favorite city. He wasn’t naïve; he knew nothing he did was going to erase that day, but he was going to try and do anything in his power to bring her some joy. After all, they had been friends for nine years and together for almost two; he thought he knew her well enough to know what could make her happy.

“What would you think if I took you for some macarons?”

She grinned. “I love Ladurée.”

He shook his head, smiling. “See, everyone thinks the best French macarons are those from Chez Ladurée, but they’re the most famous ones. The best ones are the ones prepared by the chef Pierre Hermé.”

“Lead the way then.” She took his arm and they walked together through the Parisian streets. Every now and then, Liam would show her a small boutique or a gallery that he knew she’d enjoy. They passed the Orsay Museum and the Louvre, and he promised her they would go the next day. Alexis was dying to see the impressionist collection. When they crossed the Pont-Saint Michel, he took her to the Quai de Tournelle, the little quay in Paris where dozens of second-hand booksellers sold their finds at small prizes.

Alexis beamed, truly happy for the first time in days. “Li, this is perfect; I can’t imagine the thousands of first editions or old books that are hiding in here.”

His heart swelled, seeing her smiling. “I knew you would like it, my love.”

She stepped up on her tiptoes and kissed him. “I love it.”

After they walked for a while, they finally arrived at the Teahouse, and Alexis had to admit that they were the best macarons she had ever eaten.

“What now, Mr. Frenchman?”

He cupped her face and kissed her. “I have a surprise for you. Just wait here.”

He left her for a moment to prepare his surprise. When he came back a few minutes later, he spotted her leaning against a stone railing overlooking the Seine River. Her expression was clouded, but when she saw him approach her, she broke into a smile.

He cut the distance between them and wrapped her in a tight embrace. She rested her head on his shoulder.

“Are you all right, darling? He smiled down at her.

“Better now that you’re here, but I can’t stop thinking about everything.”

“I know, Alexis. I’m here now.” He took her hand, joining her at the railing. They spent a long moment holding hands, gazing across the river.

“It’s so quiet,” Alexis said, placing her hair behind her ear “It feels like the whole city is sleeping, like we’re the last humans on earth.”

“Is that a bad thing?”

She shook her head. “No, a little bit of peace is very welcomed.”

“I’m very glad you think so, love. Come here.”

He led her further along the bridge, where she saw a basket sitting on the paving stones. He pulled a small blanket from the basket and spread it out before her.

He saw her astonished expression, so he explained. “I know picnics are not my favorite activity, but I knew you were going to like it. Besides, you’re the one telling me I should be more adventurous.”

She laughed. “I don’t know if a picnic in Paris counts as an adventure, but ...” She caressed his cheek. “You’re right, I love it.”

They settled down on the blanket as he uncorked an expensive bottle of Chateau Margaux, and Alexis pulled some cheeses, bread, and a couple of glasses out of the basket.

“I want to make a toast for us, Lex-“ He cleared his throat. “Alexis, sorry. I forgot.”

Her heart skipped a beat at the mention of her old nickname. “It’s fine, Li. Don’t worry. I just hate to hear it” He took her chin in his fingers and kissed her.

“I know, love. Let’s forget about it. I wanted to toast to us, to our life together”

She raised her glass.

“Thank you for everything.” She looked in his eyes. “I mean everything, Liam. The sacrifice you’re going to make for me.” Her eyes watered. “I can’t believe it.”

He placed his hand on hers. “There’s no sacrifice, love. I’ll do it because I’m crazy about you, and the only thing I want in life is to be with you. I just wish you knew how much I love you, Alexis.”

He stroked her face and kissed her softly, gently caressing her back with his hands.

After a moment of kissing next to the river, they started eating their delicacies.

Liam observed his fiancée, unsure of how to address the subject. “We’re getting married in two months, love.”

She nodded, smiling. “I’m aware of it, Li.”

“So, you’re also aware that you can’t postpone it anymore. We can go together if you want. You need … closure.”

“Do we have to talk about it now?”

“You never want to talk about it, Alexis. It’s time.”

“I promise, I’ll take care of it as soon as we arrive in Cordonia.”

He nodded, unconvinced; she had made him the same promise several weeks ago.

He just hoped that after everything that had happened and the guilt he carried with him every day, he was going to be able to marry her and make her happy for the rest of their lives.

#tears in heaven #drake x mc #drakexmc #liam rhys #liam x mc #alexis o'brien #tw suicude #tw depression #tw death

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likesomekindofcheese · 5 years ago

Text

When I’m With You (Ben Hanscom x fem! Maid!Reader, Soulmate AU)

A/N: Hello @may85, it is I!!!! Your Secret Santa revealed for @bowieandqueen11‘s Christmas event!! I hope you like it, I have never written for The Loser’s Club before and now this is the right time! I hope you like it!

Here is a link for the song at the end of the Oneshot, for anyone who’d like to listen!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_VpBqHYv0M

Word Count: 2066

Warnings: maid/domestic work, a meet cute, drinking, swearing, a bit of angst, doggos, soulmate au with marks and the whole shebang and a bit of Reddie thrown in too!

You looked at the mark on your forearm under your stuffy black dress. A single red mark the shape of an oval, but all alone. No soulmate, no second mark. You covered it up before some old woman in a tiara could see you and spit at you for another Rose glass.

Snooty Architect parties made you want to crash your head into the wall.

Maybe it was because it was long, it took hours to prepare and hours to clean after, but that was not all. It was the people.

“Hey, gimme another martini, will you?” your boss asked. “And there’s something on your apron, sweetheart, wipe it off.”

You sighed. You knew that being a maid would not be easy. But the thought of dropping to become a stripper making a thousand a night seemed a little tempting that night.

You went into the bathroom and wet a towel to clean your apron, noticing a strain of meatball sauce, but as you squeezed out the surplus liquid you got a look at yourself.

Who would pay to see me strip, though? Your eyes looked puffy and your hair was a mess.

As you turned back to go to the party, you turned back to your senses to make it more enjoyable. There was beautiful jazz piano music drifting through the air along with some clicking heel steps and laughter that was small and polite.

Rarely, you would see a pair with the two red marks. It would peek out from a sleeve on the wrist or revealed on a shoulder thanks to a woman wearing a dress with no neckline. But there were a lot of double marks and happy faces to go along with them.

Armies of black tuxedoes and sometimes the glittery green and blue and red dresses the women wore would catch your eye. They smiled with bright pink lipstick and then men would take out a cigar occasionally, mixing it with the smell of flowery perfume and the spray you have been using to keep it clean.

And speaking of clean, there was a mess on the floor again.

Snapping out, you were about to run back to the cleaning supplies to fetch a mop when someone called

“OOOF!”

BAM!

You looked over and saw a man was lying down over the stain.

People turned around and gasped pretentiously at this event. You could swear the piano stopped too.

Hurrying over, you offered your hand to the man.

“I’m so sorry! I was just about to clean that mess up! Are you okay?” you ask in one breath.

As you got a good look at him you had to revise that second thought.

It was a handsome man who was lying over the stain.

He was slightly freckled with brown hair and a beard that seemed as soft as clouds. He was tall and muscular with high cheekbones on his face. And as for his tuxedo…well, you know what they say about a man in a tuxedo. He was like a walking ken doll.

Too bad it was now ruined, considering that said stain was over the seat of his pants.

You helped him up and led him to a back closet. Pushing aside from any snide looks at the sight of a man and woman going into a room alone together, you sat him on an upside-down bucket and began searching the containers.

“Trust me, this isn’t the first time this has happened, but I know how to clean it” you insist.

He looked down at his pants and then at you.

“Oh, thanks a lot! That’s very nice of you” he said cheerfully.

“I’m just doing my job” you replied with a shrug. A half-smirk made it’s way on you as you checked the stain conveniently on his gluts. It wasn’t a sight to complain about.

“A lot of people here would have just turned away…” he mumured, looking at the door back to the party.

You give him the bottle of the mixture you kept for stains and hand it over to him.

“What’s your name, by the way?” he asks politely. He looks down a little and puts an arm on his forearm, rubbing timidly.

You answer him with your name.

“Lovely, I’m Ben, Ben Hanscom.” he replies.

The party felt a little faster after meeting Ben, but once the clock struck midnight you sighed at the streamers and stains and bits of food everywhere. You had just gotten the broom and dustpan, ready to go only to notice that one guest hadn’t left yet.

“Ben? What are you doing here?” you questioned your eyes the size of the moon.

“I couldn’t just say thank you, look!” he points to his pants where the stain dipped.

It is barely visible.

“Let me return the favor, okay? I’ll help you clean up” he begs.

May 2019

Winter and Spring had long since passed. But your friendship with Ben had not. Just his face and the thought of his voice made every grueling day of scrubbing floors pass by with a smile on your lips.

Feeling a buzz from your purse, you looked down to see it was Ben’s name on top of that happy little green square. Joy buzzed in your guts as you sat down on your boss’s yellow couch, freshly vacuumed, and read the text, the phone almost to your nose.

Ben: Hey there, I’m having dinner with someone.

Now a different feeling buzzed in your guts.

Ben: It’s someone important. What kind of drink should I have? You’re a total drink expert so I wanted to ask you.

Someone important. Probably a female someone.

You texted back with an angry huff escaping your lips.

Y/N: Depends, what meat are you having?

Ben: I’m fixing a meatloaf. I know, it’s old fashioned. I’m a mom at heart, Y/N

IY/N: t’s alright! Well, since that’s darker meat, go with a bottle of red wine!

Ben: That’s perfect! Thank you!

Y/N: I swear Ben, you make buildings, cook, and you’re learning the piano! You’re a real Renaissance man!

Little did you know that Ben was roasting his mother’s signature meatloaf at home. The thought of your name made him feel warm, and not just from the oven.

Flutters aside from your comment, he reached over and texted.

Ben: You always help me give such good advice, it’s for my buddy, Ritchie! I haven’t seen him in years! I’ll tell him that the wine was your idea.

Y/N: Ritchie? One of your Derry buddies?

You got up from leaning on the couch and nearly let out a whoop, but stopped, knowing your boss was in the midst of his nap. That jolt of happy lightning was still going through you.

Ben: Yup! He’s coming over to discuss proposal ideas….

Y/N: Lucky girl.

Ben: Well, Eddie’s not a girl, but he’s lucky. I hope you like Pomeranian pics bc his new puppy is the cutest thing…

Y/N: Please send them!

He immediately sent you a picture of the sweetest looking Pomeranian curled up on a large bed, sleeping under the covers with his front paws tucked over like a polite child.

Y/N: Awwwww! Any name?

Ben: They don’t know. I keep trying to tell Ritchie that Punk Ass Bitch isn’t an option.

Y/N: How about Penny! Cause he’s the color of one!

There were five minutes of silence.

Not Penny was all that he said.

Tears returned.

August 2019

“I have never seen someone so disrespectful,” your boss glowered. From behind his desk, his shadow grew so large it seemed to swallow you whole.

“Sir, it was a mistake!” you begged.

“Not a mistake! An insult!” he screamed, banging his fists on his desk.

“Sir, please listen! I am truly sorry; I didn’t know this would happen! I didn’t know it was wrong! Here, let me take care of it, I swear…” you beg, your legs begin to buckle beneath you.

“Get out! You’re fired! And so, help me, I never want to even speak to you again!” he thundered, pointing to the door.

Nauseous and sobbing violently, you ran out.

But the sun was setting, and it seemed there was no one. Almost no one. There was one person you wanted to see more than ever now.

Nerves shackled your stomach. You hadn’t talked to Ben much since that day because you were so ashamed, but here you were. Knocking on his door, he opened wearing a button-up shirt that made you want to swear under your breath.

“Ben, let me just make this quick, I’m so sorry. I sent that text...”

“No, no, please Y/N, don’t worry! I’ll explain everything. You had no way of knowing, please come in!”

You walked into his house, admiring all his things. His black dog trotted over and smiled in a greeting, wagging his tail so hard that it hurt a little when it hit your leg.

Looking over, you noticed a picture frame. It must have been Ben with his family but…there was only one kid. One kid that had his eye color but not his body type.

“Is this your family?”

“Yes, uhm…take a seat, Y/N, I have a lot to tell you.” He says, rubbing his hands together nervously.

“And is this you?” you asked, still looking at the frame.

He nodded “uhm…yes. I used to be heavy. I was bullied a lot. I spent all my summers at the library too.”

He lifted his shirt to show his stomach. Your eyes widened at the sight of some scars.

“Some bullies got me one day and almost stabbed me.”

“That’s awful. You’re lucky you survived.” you comforted, blinking slowly and trying to see it in your head. The thought of someone hurting Ben made your fists clench.

“That’s an understatement,” he said.

It was in the privacy of that house Ben explained everything. Derry’s curse. Pennywise. The deaths. The visions.

“But Ben….” You explain softly “I understand…I really do…”

You begin to reach over for his hand and instead, he hugs you deeply. Warm, soft, and safe, you feel some of his tears fall down his face onto your shoulder.

Suddenly you notice for the first time that his forearm has a mark just like yours. After the shaking and crying have paused for a moment, you touch it.

“Ben…look…” you whisper.

But he is staring at you back, mouth open and silent.

And your forearm is feeling very warm.

Ben barely gets the question out before you pull up your sleeve and show him your mark.

Only this time, there are two red ovals, just like his.

December 2019

“The day after Christmas has to be the saddest day in the whole year” you sigh, swirling the drink in your glass.

The sky was dark and full of gently falling snowflakes. You were lounging on your boyfriends' seat and his dog was curled up next to you. The dog’s hair was on almost all of your clothes now, but with such a sweet face (and an even sweeter owner), you couldn’t care less.

Ben looked at you, in his cream-colored sweater, and grinned. He then turned to the new piano he got for Christmas and sat down.

“Funny you should say that ever heard Alex Duffy’s music?” he asked, starting to play chords to get into the right key.

“No” you answer with your head shaking.

He offered an arm and gestured next to the piano. You walked over and stood still, watching him as he began to play and sing:

“I walk down the street and see a wintery wonderland

The candles in the windows and the salvation army band

All the people wandering 'round in a sudden state of glee

But all of those people, they ain't me

I smell in the air pine needles fresh and new

And everyone's cheeks have got a pleasant rosy hue

They've got visions of the gifts that underneath their tree will lie

But to that I say: not I”

He then looks at you, and plays a bit further, only glancing at the keys.

For I've got a secret that no one else can know

That keeps my temperament even during times of snow

I've got the perfect present, one not wrapped up in a bow

It lifts my spirits high when I'm feeling low

Others long for the holidays, yes indeed they do

But every day is Christmas when I'm with you”

You keep listening to the song, then go around and wrap him in his arms. He keeps singing softly, for only you to hear.

Now some might say it's unfair and severe

That I get a Christmas gift each day of the year

To them, I would say that I've no guarantee

But maybe one day they'll find someone as sweet as she

I've got the perfect present, one not wrapped up in a bow

She lifts my spirits high when I'm feeling low

Others long for the holidays, yes indeed they do

But every day is Christmas

Yes every day I deck the halls

Everyday is Christmas when I'm with you!

He gets up and hugs you deeply, your arms entwined and your marks touching together. It snows a little harder when you both kiss.

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queenwinry · 5 years ago

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In the Line of Fire-Part 2

Pairing: Royai

Rating: K+

Words: 3088

Summary: Part 2 of this oneshot I posted not too long ago. Riza comes home from the hospital on New Years Eve

A/N: Happy almost 2020 everyone! This has been a pretty decent year for me and I know 2020 is going to be crazy so I wanted to leave everyone with one last little Royai ditty (and it still is 2019 here so I count this as my last fic writing of the year!) I hope you have all had good 2019′s and that your 2020 will be fantastic!

---

“There you are, Lieutenant. You look as though you were never even in the hospital,” a cheerful Nurse Alicia said as she helped Riza pull on the last of her civilian clothes Havoc had brought in a duffle bag a few days ago, in anticipation of this very moment.

Riza smiled gratefully at her favorite nurse (who had pulled some strings to be transferred up temporarily to work Riza’s floor, if only to boss around her teammates some more) before she managed to turn with only a slight twinge of pain. “The bandages and wheelchair would suggest otherwise, but I appreciate you helping me get dressed. I didn’t realize I would miss wearing actual clothes.”

Alicia stood to her full height to admire her handywork. “Yeah, I hear that a lot. Anything is better than hospital gowns...or those godawful blue uniforms.”

Riza smiled further at that comment. Before she could say anything else, the door opened and a few familiar faces greeted her, led by a certain dark-haired colonel, who was already flashing his ‘lady-killer’ smile the minute he saw the nurse by Riza’s bedside. “The car is ready and waiting downstairs, Lieutenant.” Placing his hands in the pockets of his black overcoat, the colonel rounded the bed to where Riza was sitting up in a nearby chair. “Will you be sad to see us go, Alicia?” he asked cheekily.

Being one of the very few women immune to the handsome colonel’s charming smile and voice, Alicia placed a hand on her hip and narrowed her eyes. “I’ll be sad to see the Lieutenant go. Good riddance to the rest of you. You men have been a thorn in my side for the last few weeks.”

From behind where the colonel stood, Havoc spoke, “Damn, has it really been that long?”

“Feels longer to me,” Riza said in a quiet tone as she thought back on her time in the hospital. She had hoped to be home, or at the very least in some kind of rehab facility, weeks ago, but her course had been complicated by a bad case of postoperative fever that had only extended her stay. She was incredibly thankful to finally be cleared for discharge, especially given what day it was.

Alicia turned back toward her and gave Riza a gentle smile. “Well, good thing you’re on your way out. And just in time for the new year too. Any fun resolutions?”

“Get shot less,” Riza replied, in an uncharacteristically sarcastic tone. She heard Mustang’s low chuckle as he moved behind the waiting wheelchair and grasped the two handles.

“A resolution I can get behind,” he commented before turning back to the nurse. “Is she all set to go?”

Alicia nodded happily. “Pretty much. Let’s just get you over into this chair, Lieutenant. Yes...just like that. Nice and slow...there you go. Now, let me go grab the paperwork and you’ll be on your way out.”

“Thank you, Alicia. Thank you for...everything,” Riza spoke gratefully once she had settled herself gently onto the wheelchair.

Alicia winked at her. “No problem, sweetie. It’s been a pleasure helping you get better,” she spoke meaningfully before she made her way out the door.

None of the remaining occupants in the room had even a moment to blink before a blur of a human rushed through the door the nurse had just closed. All eyes widened as the figure stopped suddenly, their breathing hard and fast and their face contorted in a mixture of worry and fear.

“R-Rebecca!?” Riza let out with a small gasp as her frazzled friend rushed to where she sat.

“Riza!” Rebecca Catalina shouted desperately as she kneeled in front of the chair and began inspecting her friend’s body as best she could. “Jesus Christ, are you ok!?” she exclaimed. She didn’t even let out a breath before her forehead furrowed and her eyes flashed. She stood to her full height and pointed an accusing at the colonel.

“You! You bastard colonel, how dare you not try and contact me sooner. Here I was, away for a few weeks on a training mission, only to come back and have General Grumman of all people tell me that my best friend was shot!”

Riza looked mortified to hear her friend’s blatant insubordination, but Mustang appeared almost bored, as if he was used to the other lieutenant’s outbursts. “Excuse me for letting it slip my mind. We all had other things to think about.”

Rebecca’s hands went to her hips, not at all happy with the colonel’s explanation. “This happened weeks ago. You really mean to tell me you were all so busy during that time that no one even thought to contact Riza’s best friend? It wasn’t like I was in Briggs, for Christ’s sake!”

“Rebecca,” Riza began in an appeasing tone. “I’m sorry you had to find out this way, but it’s alright now. I’m getting better and better by the day. I was just about to leave the hospital before you got here.”

Lieutenant Catalina huffed. “I know. General Grumman told me that too, which means if he knows all the updates then Mustang should’ve taken the time to give them to me too.”

Before Riza could say anything else Rebecca and the colonel entered into a heated staring match the likes of which had never been seen before. The recuperating lieutenant could merely sigh and let them go on, knowing she wouldn’t be able to stop either one of them before Alicia reappeared.

“Yeesh, what’s all this shouting I hear? Today’s a happy day. It’s New Years Eve, the lieutenant is leaving the hospital, I don’t have to deal with all you worried men anymore and I...oh...great, there’s more of you?” she asked with a small groan once her eyes found those of Lieutenant Catalina.

Rebecca lifted an eyebrow at the tone of the nurse’s voice and crossed her arms indignantly. “Hey, don’t lump me in with this crazy lot. I’m only here for Riza.”

Alicia weighed that response for a moment before she merely rolled her eyes. “Right. Well, anyway, here’s all your paperwork, Lieutenant. You’re free to go now, but I better not be seeing you around here for a while. Same goes for the rest of your team.” Her eyes flashed warningly toward everyone in the room but Riza before she gave one last smile and led them out.

Rebecca said nothing as they all walked together, the colonel pushing Riza’s wheelchair down the hall, but the lieutenant could sense the steam practically pouring from her friend’s ears. Truthfully, she herself had thought about making sure someone notified her, but with the hecticness of the last few weeks it had always slipped her mind before she could do anything about it.

And honestly she could understand why Mustang hadn’t called Rebecca himself. She could only imagine how that phone call would’ve gone.

They finally got outside to where the colonel’s car was parked and Riza took a minute to inhale the chill, late December air. She hadn’t been outside since she was shot and it felt incredibly refreshing to be out of the stale atmosphere of the hospital.

It took a bit of time, maneuvering, and flashes of pain on Riza’s part, but eventually they loaded her into the front of the car. Alicia said one last goodbye before she turned and walked back into the hospital, claiming she still had plenty of ‘lives to save’. Mustang was about to walk around to the other side of the car as Havoc got into the back before Rebecca stopped him.

“And just where are you planning on taking her now?” she asked in an accusatory tone. The passenger side window was rolled down so they could both hear Riza’s exhausted sigh.

“To her home,” the colonel answered simply, daring Rebecca to question him further.

A foolish move, it seemed, as the brunette lieutenant immediately shook her head. “And just who’s going to be playing nurse? She was just in the hospital after being shot, she needs someone to take care of her. Don’t give me that look, Riza, you can hardly sit up straight.”

Despite the many protests she wanted to voice, Riza wisely kept her mouth shut.

“Everyone on my team, myself included, has agreed to help the lieutenant out. We were already planning on doing most of the cooking and the cleaning,” Mustang spoke in an exasperated tone.

“Yeah? And who’s going to help her shower or go to the bathroom? If you still think that’s going to be you or your team then we need to have a very different conversation.”

Riza let out another sigh.

“Catalina, if this is your request to join us, no one is stopping you,” Mustang pointed out.

“Well, obviously I’m going to join you, but Riza’s apartment is tiny and the heater hardly ever works. You’re going to stuff her and the rest of us in an area that small? Plus, it’s New Years Eve! I can think of much better places to spend it, no offense Riza.”

The lieutenant responded by simply rubbing her temples, not in the mood to even attempt to stop her friend’s antics.

The colonel’s eyes narrowed. “And just what alternative did you have in mind?”

Here, they all watched in dread as Rebecca’s face became sly.

“Well, you make the big bucks don’t you? Surely someone at the rank of colonel has a few spare rooms.”

At this, Riza’s eyes widened and she spoke from her place inside the car. “Rebecca! You can’t just volunteer us all to stay at a superior’s home.”

“Why not? Superiors are the ones with the big houses. Plus, the colonel has always struck me as the kind of man to have a few bottles of some nice champagne lying around. We can make the most of our New Years, though we’ll have to get something nonalcoholic for you, Riza, since you’re still on meds.”

“Rebecca!” the lieutenant exclaimed, unable to stop her ambitious best friend from more of her plotting. She had to wonder if this whole line of thinking was just some way to get back at Mustang for not telling her what happened earlier. She certainly wouldn’t put it past her.

The colonel sighed. “Lieutenant Catalina, I will not host a New Years Eve party at my house,” he said resolutely as Rebecca crossed her arms and tried not to pout. “However,” he added in a put upon voice that made everyone pause. “As much as it pains me to admit, you might have a point about Hawkeye’s apartment. It is awfully small, and with you helping out, it would get pretty crowded.”

Riza looked at him with disbelief from her spot in the car and he gave her a placating glance. “My place has always had more space than I know what to do with. I don’t get the opportunity to host that often. I’m sure you’d be more comfortable there with the team for a few days while you adjust, then maybe you and Rebecca can go back to your home.”

“Are you actually agreeing with her, sir?”

Mustang heaved a long sigh. “I suppose I am.”

“Ha! Maybe you’re not always that clueless, Colonel,” Rebecca goaded in victory, causing Riza to shoot her another admonishing glare, which she of course ignored.

Happily appeased, Rebecca walked around to the other side of the car and slid into the backseat next to Havoc (without asking, of course), as the colonel got behind the wheel. Riza shot him a look while he turned the key in the ignition.

“Following along with her antics only encourages her, Sir,” she spoke in a quiet voice as Rebecca started berating Havoc for also not bothering to share the news with her.

Mustang sighed. “I don’t think I had a choice. I probably should have notified her sooner, so I guess this is my way of seeking some kind of peace.”

“I hate to be the one to say it, but you might be doing so in vain. Besides, do you actually have bottles of fine champagne lying around your house?”

The colonel couldn’t help the lopsided smile at that question. “Does whiskey count?”

Riza’s glare became even more pointed. “It does not.”

---

Later that night, Riza watched as her friends and coworkers joyfully waited as the clock counted down to the new year. She supposed they were all lucky they hadn’t managed to get too intoxicated, only running off whatever minimal alcohol the colonel did have in his shockingly tidy and spacious townhome. They had spent the evening laughing, conversing, and playing a few rather heated rounds of chess (that either the Colonel or Breda always won). Despite her initial trepidation, she was feeling rather content with the sudden change of plans.

Their team had truthfully gotten even closer after what happened to her, the shooting serving as a wake-up call, reminding them all of their mortality. Riza was grateful she didn’t have to recover from such a traumatic event (both physically and mentally) by herself, though she wasn’t quite sure she was ready for Rebecca to help her bathe.

Riza’s attention was drawn away from her inner thoughts when a glass of amber liquid was placed in front of her. She was about to give whoever was trying to serve her alcohol a look that would kill when she noticed the colonel’s satisfied grin as he sat opposite of where she’d stationed herself at the table. He had a matching glass of an amber-colored drink, though his was a slightly different shade.

“It’s apple juice,” he commented, reading her thoughts perfectly.

Her annoyed look fell and she tried to not shake her head at him. He lifted his glass and she did the same, before they clinked them both together.

“Happy New Year, Lieutenant.”

“The same to you, sir,” she replied, raising the glass to her lips and taking a dainty sip of the juice like it really was champagne.

She watched as Roy’s eyes drifted over to Rebecca and the rest of the team. “It doesn’t look like it will be much longer before those hooligans go off to bed.

Riza smiled softly. “To be fair, they didn’t get quite as bad as I imagined.”

The colonel made a noise of agreement. “Mm, I guess I should thank my unusually small supply of liquor for that.”

“Have you been drinking more of it lately, sir?” The pointed question caused Roy’s grin to fall slightly, as he lowered his eyes.

“Can’t lie to you, can I?”

When his eyes eventually met hers, she was surprised at the emotion she saw behind them. “Sir,” she spoke softly with only a hint of admonishment behind the word.

“Regardless of what you say, it’s difficult for me not to blame myself for what happened. Those first few nights of your hospital stay were the hardest.”

“Colonel, you can’t make me promise to not be so reckless when you go and do things like that.”

Mustang sighed. “I know, Lieutenant. But I tend to be rather selfish.”

His eyes darkened and the sounds of the others began to fade away as she again picked up on his hidden meaning. They had been doing a lot of this silent communication lately, and it had nothing to do with some secret mission or military agenda. It was becoming exhausting.

They lapsed into silence after that as the others scoped out places to lay their heads for the night, the fresh beginnings of the new year quickly losing their draw. Riza attempted to smother a yawn, which apparently was the colonel’s cue.

He pushed back his glass and stood to his feet. “Come on, I’ll help you up the stairs. I made sure to keep the others out of the guest bedroom. Not even Catalina will bother you unless you need something.”

“Sir, you don’t need to roll out the red carpet for me. If others need a place to sleep, I don’t mind sharing. I feel bad taking up so much room.” While she protested, his strong arms came to grasp the back of her own as he helped her gingerly stand. She was sore, but thankfully still able to move around.

“Please, Lieutenant. It’d be inappropriate for the men to share with you and Catalina would probably wind up kicking you in her sleep. There’s plenty of room. I’m pretty sure no one’s stepped foot inside the guest bedroom since I moved.”

She wanted to object more, but his logic was actually quite sound. She had shared a bed with Rebecca before and it had not been a pleasant experience in the slightest.

She stayed quiet as she let the colonel slowly walk her up the stairs. It took some time, but eventually they were able to make it. As her superior showed her around her temporary room, she thanked him again for offering up his home for everyone, which he of course waved away as no big task.

“Happy New Year again, Lieutenant. You better not be lying about that resolution to get shot less. I don’t think any of us could handle another extended hospital stay.” His tone was lighthearted, but she could feel the concern still dripping off his words. She knew what had happened had taken its toll on all of them, but her original purpose was still true.

“I’ll do my best, but I’d go through this all again to protect every one of my teammates.”

Mustang let out a huff of air and shook his head, but still smiled nonetheless. “You really do have trouble following orders, don’t you?”

His smile was contagious and she couldn’t help but join in. “I’m as stubborn as my commanding officer, I’m afraid.”

His laugh was soft and familiar. “No kidding. Sleep well, Lieutenant,” he said with one last grin before he left the room and closed the door behind him.

“You too, sir,” she whispered into the dark room. She moved the sheets around and attempted to get comfortable in the foreign bed.

It wasn’t exactly the most picture perfect way to end the year, but she was still eternally grateful for the people in her life who made it better. She didn’t have many lofty resolutions, but she knew protecting and fighting alongside her superior and her teammates was at the top of the list.

And getting shot less. That was a good one too.

#fma #royai #roy mustang #riza hawkeye #team mustang #my fanfiction #oneshots

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destieltropecollection · 6 years ago

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Destiel Trope Collection 2019 Day 14: Fake Dating

Broken Halos | @jimminovak Rating: Explicit Word Count: 18123 Main Tags and Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply, Case Fic, Fake Dating, Fallen!Cas, Mutual Pining, Bed Sharing, Hurt/Comfort Summary: Cas lost his grace. Well, most of it. He’s almost entirely human and not sure if he will ever get his grace back. Dean wants him to know that as a human, they care about him just as much. And since Dean isn’t that good with words, working a case in a luxurious, romantic resort might just be the thing they need. If only he could remember that the romantic relationship is just for show.

Cuffed to an Angel | @mattzerella-sticks Rating: Teen & Up Word Count: 72529 Main Tags and Warnings: Fake/Pretend Relationship, Professor Dean Winchester, Writer Dean Winchester, Detective Castiel, Mutual Pining, Homophobic Language, Idiots in Love Summary: Dean Winchester has a lot going for him: he's beloved by his students, he's finished writing his first book, and he's living comfortably in New York City. The only problem is... he's single. That wouldn't bother him much if his family wouldn't be visiting for the holidays. With cuffing season over, Dean has to face his family alone... or will he? Castiel DiAngelo is a simple detective who hasn't really celebrated Christmas in over 9 years, holidays and family being a sore spot for him. But after taking Dean up on an offer, he finds that you can't really avoid the holidays. Will these two be able to pull off a seminal holiday trope? Or will certain developments get in the way...

a dangerous thing | @reallyelegantsharkfish Rating: Explicit Word Count: 46489 Main Tags and Warnings: Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Sex Worker Dean, Camboy Dean, Alpha Castiel, Omega Dean, Sharing a Bed, Mating Cycles/In Heat, Alcohol Abuse/Alcoholism , Fake/Pretend Relationship, Rape Aftermath, Knotting, Mating Bites Summary: Dean spends all his time being desired by others -- makes his living that way -- but being lusted after isn’t the same thing as being wanted, and he’s never felt wanted. Which is why he ends up answering an email that starts with “Dear sir, I hope this letter doesn’t offend you…” and ends with “You will be compensated generously for your time. Sincerely, Castiel Novak.” The email says Castiel is looking for “the boyfriend experience,” as they call it in Dean’s profession. He wants a live-in, someone to hold him at night, someone to make him dinner and greet him after a long day of work with a smile, someone to play pretend with.

Ready To Fall | @lemonsorbae Rating: Mature Word Count: 25272 Main Tags and Warnings: College!AU, Fake/Pretend Relationship, Fluff and Angst, Smut, First Time, First Kiss, Miscommunication, Loss of Virginity, Bottom Dean, Virgin Castiel Summary: When Castiel’s plans for the summer get cancelled and he’s left with nowhere else to go, Dean invites him to go home with him. It seems an easy solution to cure Castiel’s summer blues, but when they arrive at the Winchester household, Dean realizes due to a slight miscommunication with his mom he and Castiel will have to spend the summer sharing a bed and holding hands because the entire Winchester family thinks they’re dating. And really it shouldn’t be that big of a deal because Dean Winchester isn’t actually in love with his best friend; except for that he is.

The Christmas Case | @deans-jiggly-pudding Rating: Explicit Word Count: 5924 Main Tags and Warnings: Fake/pretend relationship, frottage, public hand jobs Summary: Castiel finds a case in the middle of decorating for Christmas. What begins as a simple hunt turns into a pretend relationship that takes a dangerous turn. Dean is excited for the chance to hold hands and do "couple things" with Cas, but can they play the part well enough to catch the monster's attention?

Consider This: Peanuts | @cr-noble-writes Rating: No Rating Word Count: 2899 Main Tags and Warnings: fluff, mentions of biphobia, fake dating Summary: Dean isn’t sure why he RSVP’d to his dad’s wedding with a plus one, but only a week before the big day, he still doesn’t have a date. So he decides to do the next best thing. He asks his best friend to go with him and pretend to be his boyfriend.

Roll With It | @saltnhalo Rating: Explicit Word Count: 72818 Main Tags and Warnings: Fake relationship, boss/employee relationship, Proposal fusion, Russian Castiel, slow burn Summary: For two years, Dean’s been slaving away beneath his boss – many label him a secretary, but he fucking hates that and feels like it only applies to someone wearing a pencil skirt, so he insists on his title of Executive Assistant. And for what? In the vain hope that one day he’ll manage to become an editor for Sandover Publishing, and that he’ll see the manuscript that he’s slaved over since college finally realized in print. That’s the dream, anyway. Right now, he’s fucking late. Dean wants to be an editor. Castiel just wants to stay in the country. ‘The Proposal’ – as you’ve never seen it before.

Rule Number One | @caswouldratherbehere Rating: Explicit Word Count: 9108 Main Tags and Warnings: AU, fake dating, roommates, mutual pining, explicit sex, top!Castiel, bottom!Dean, implied switching, deepthroating, dirty talk, coming untouched Summary: Dean has a problem. His mom's fiance wants to hook him up, but Dean's not even a little interested. If he goes to their engagement party alone, he'll be pressured all night long. When his roommate offers to go as his fake-date, it should be an easy solution. What could go wrong? Only Dean's been lusting after the man for months and, even if the guy does happen to be attracted to men (the jury is still out on that one), there's one thing Dean knows for certain: you don't date your roommate. No matter how perfect they are.

Peak Homosexual | @thebloggerbloggerfun Rating: General Word Count: 3791 Main Tags and Warnings: Roommates, Homophobic Language Summary: You know that thing that happens where you hear something really homophobic in public so you gay it up as much as you can? This is that story.

Cutest Couple in the FBI | @supernatural9917fic Rating: Explicit Word Count: 5096 Main Tags and Warnings: Case Fic, Fake/Pretend Relationship, Everyone Thinks They're Together, Sharing a Bed Summary: Cas and Dean are working a case in a hippie commune, and for some reason, everybody thinks they're together. They decide to go with it when one of the hippies tells them it will make people more cooperative. This may cause complications.

Healing Hearts | @supernatural9917fic Rating: Teen & Up Word Count: 4928 Main Tags and Warnings: Fake Marriage, Fake/Pretend Relationship, It's For a Case, Jealous Dean Winchester, Fluff Summary: Sam and Castiel make plans to go undercover as a married couple at the Healing Hearts retreat for gay couples, where something has been attacking the guests. Dean goes along for back-up, but in a moment of madness, insists on taking Sam's place as Castiel's husband. Can he survive couples' therapy, intimate touch classes, a vengeful spirit, and scariest of all, a room with only one bed, without betraying his secret feelings for Cas?

Welcome All Winchesters | @almaasi Rating: Explicit Word Count: 60237 Main Tags and Warnings: Alternate Universe - Human, Domestic Fluff, Christmas, Snowed In, Warm and Fuzzy Feelings, Fake/Pretend Relationship, Fake Marriage, Mistaken For A Couple, Friends to Lovers, Bi-Curious Dean, Bottom Dean, Dean in Panties, Snarky Castiel, Artist Castiel, Chef Castiel, Teacher Castiel, Virgin Castiel, Dominant Castiel, Agender Castiel, Road Trips, Snow Fights, Castiel Wearing Dean’s Clothes, Sharing a Bed, Cuddling & Snuggling, Consensual Somnophilia, Spanking, Biting, Marking, Edging, Rimming, Comeplay, Aftercare, Car Sex, Communication Failure, Marriage Proposal Summary: When Dean’s engagement breaks off three days before Christmas, he’s left with nobody to accompany him on a road trip to his family’s mountain log cabin. His best friend Castiel happens to be available, and is willing to help him through a tough time. But when Dean's mother and brother arrive, expecting to meet the person Dean plans to marry, they understandably assume Castiel is Dean's fiancé. After a weekend of comfortable domesticity, sharing clothes, intimate conversations, and definitely-one-time-only therapy sex, it feels almost too easy for Dean and Cas to fake a loving, romantic relationship. The hard part is going back to being friends afterwards. They can’t keep their hands off each other, and they’ve discovered some fun things to do together which they’d never tell another soul about. And, oh boy, feelings. Now being ‘just friends’ is so impossible, it seems as if fate had another plan for them all along...

A Study in Fake | @sternchencas Rating: Teen & Up Word Count: 4933 Main Tags and Warnings: mutual pining, bed sharing, fluff Summary: Although Dean has a job, he's always looking for some extra money, so he's bummed out when he can't take part in a lucrative couples study at the local college. At least until Castiel Novak steps into his life out of nowhere and a throwaway joke turns into a serious relationship. Well, a fake one, but nobody needs to know that, right?

The Power of Wishing (WIP) | @60r3d0m Rating: Explicit Word Count: 6197 Main Tags and Warnings: Fake/Pretend Relationship, Temporary Amnesia, Humour, Case Fic., Happy Ending Summary: “Dean, please, you are embarrassing me.” Cas’ voice comes out stiff and awkward. Dean crosses his arms. “I’m…embarrassing…you?” Dean repeats. “Yes.” “I thought I was your fucking trophy husband, Cas.”

#destiel #writersofdestiel #destiel fanfic #destielfanficnet #deancasfanficnet #destiel trope collection #tropes #fake dating #2019

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sellyoursoulforagoodfic · 5 years ago

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Runaway Chapter 8

Vlad Masters x reader

Word Count: 1768

Summary: FLASHBACK TIME. AKA, how we got here

Note: This is edited a lot less, so I apologize if there are errors.

A short while later, the Fentons stood watching a wall-sized screen while Vlad operated the device and Plasmius stood inside the tube with a few probes on his head.

“Now watch the screen because I am going to show you the important parts of our early relationship so you will finally stop thinking I kidnapped her or something. It’ll be a composition from both of our points of view since we’ve been developing it together.”

With that statement from Vlad, the screen started playing like it was a movie, showing Vlad’s self from a few years before walking down the street. His face looked like he was bothered by something as he entered a coffee shop. Imagine the Fentons’ surprise when they saw their daughter working the counter.

When she saw the depressed-looking man at the counter, a concerned look formed on Y/N’s face. She hurried to write something on the man’s cup before handing it over to him.

The ‘camera’ once again followed Vlad as he left the shop. It wasn’t until he reached his office that he saw the note on the cup near his name. “Sorry about whatever’s bothering you. I'm here if you need to talk.” A little smile formed on his face.

From his thoughts the audience of two could tell that he’d gotten a few notes from Y/N before. Meaning she’d instigated their relationship. Which was the opposite of what Jack expected. That was when Vlad’s thoughts tipped into the territory of asking this girl out for lunch and all of the insecurities that went along with that.

The next day, Y/N was just clocking out when Vlad entered the shop. “Hey!” she greeted happily as she stepped out from behind the counter.

“Hello yourself,” was his warm reply. “Thank you for your note yesterday, Y/N. It really helped.”

Pink tinted the tips of her ears. “You’re welcome, Vlad.”

“I do hope it’s not too forward of me, but would you go to lunch with me sometime?” His heart lurched at the beaming grin that spread across her face.

“I thought you’d never ask.” The image paused.

“That led to our first date,” present Vlad explained. “As you can see, we were both fully consenting to the whole thing. It was all rather domestic, actually.”

“What’s next?” Jack asked. After all he’d missed in his daughter’s life, this was proving to be quite enlightening.

“The next was when I told her about what I went through to get where I am now. Hospital and all. We’d been dating for a year.”

Tears fell down Vlad’s face as he remembered all those years he spent seething in his own hatred and fear of how he would pay his hospital bills with no income or family to help. All that stress was still so vivid even later after he had so much. “We’d been doing an experiment. I-I tried to tell Jack that something wasn’t right . . . I was caught in the blast. I was in that hospital for so long.”

Concern was etched into Y/N’s features while her hand went to his cheek; her thumb wiped away some of his tears. Both of her arms slid around his neck so she could pull him down into a tight hug. Her fingers combed gently through his hair since it was out of its ponytail for once.

“I was alone for so long,” Vlad whispered the admission.

“Well, you’re not anymore. I’m here to stay,” Y/N murmured.

Maddie gasped at Past Vlad’s little head shake. It’d never occurred to her that she and Jack hadn’t visited their friend after the accident they had caused.

Y/N leaned back to kiss his lips. “I’m sorry.” Another kiss. “I’m so sorry.” Inside, guilt was eating away at her since her own parents were the ones that put him through so much suffering.

“How about the first time we kissed?”

They were at a gala for Vlad’s company a few weeks into their relationship. Y/N had finally managed to get Vlad alone out on one of the balconies after an hour of trying to rescue him from the various press demanding conversations. The sounds of the party were behind them, only slightly muffled by the glass doors. A smile pulled at her lips at the sight of Vlad looking relieved to be able to breath without fans, employees, or press breathing down his neck.

On impulse, she stood on her toes to kiss him. At his lack of response, Y/N nervously retreated. “Should I not have . . . ?”

Vlad swallowed thickly, lacing their fingers together to keep her from moving farther away. “If it were any other time . . . I would happily return your affections. The problem is,” his grey eyes met her e/c ones, “if I kissed you now, I don’t think I’d be able to stop.”

Heat instantly flared in her face at what she was about to say. “Maybe I don’t want you to stop.”

“As tempting as that is, it would be highly improper for me to disappear from a party that I am hosting.”

She pouted. “Well that’s just no fun.”

“Perhaps,” Vlad trusted himself to brush his lips to her jaw, “we can make good on that offer after everyone leaves if you’re still up for it?”

A wicked smirk formed on her face. “Oh, I like that plan a lot.”

“Or maybe this?”

The Vlad on the screen was talking to his secretary while getting dressed for his date that evening. For their six month marker, they’d decided to go to a rather nice restaurant. “While I am gone, tell Eric to check with Research about that new PDA. I haven’t heard anything on it in almost two weeks.”

“Yes, Mr. Masters,” Sally nodded. “Sir, can I ask a personal question?”

“Of course, but I reserve the right to not answer it.”

“Fair enough. I haven’t seen you like this since, well, ever. Is it this woman that’s making you so happy?”

Vlad raised an eyebrow. “Well that is quite forward, but the answer is yes. She is . . . something I thought I’d never find, to be honest.”

Sally had a growing smile on her face. “By God . . . You love her don’t you?”

That made his heart beat faster. Y/N had been saying it for months, but every time Vlad was unable to repeat the words to her. Yet she was the one that made his heart race like no other. Not even Maddie back before the accident had challenged him as much while also making him feel like he was home no matter where they were. Even now he found himself smiling at the mere memory of her touch.

“I suppose I do.”

Sally was all-out grinning by that point. “Good. I’m happy for you, Mr. Masters. You’d best get to your date before you’re late, now.”

“I thought I was the boss here?” Vlad teased.

“Go!”

“Or perhaps when I proposed to her will convince you that I didn’t force her into this relationship?”

“V-man, I think we’ve seen enough.”

“No, Jack, you haven’t, because I can still see the accusation written all over your goddamn face. Now sit and watch.”

Two years. They’d happily been together for two years as of that morning. Vlad smiled to himself as he looked next to him on the bed at his girlfriend sleeping there in one of his t-shirts. He resolved to ask her to marry him that day even though he hadn’t found a ring he liked for her just yet. Knowing her, that wouldn’t matter anyway.

Vlad carefully extracted himself from the bed to go make breakfast. He didn’t bother to get dressed; he just went down in pajama pants with no shirt.

Y/N stirred as soon as the door clicked shut behind him. She was rather groggy while getting up and following him out to the kitchen, meaning it took a lot longer than usual. The fog of sleep had lifted during the time it took her downstairs, however, so she fully enjoyed the sight of her boyfriend’s muscles flexing as he cooked.

“Mornin’, sexy,” she greeted as she poured herself some coffee.

“You’re supposed to still be asleep so I can bring you breakfast in bed,” he commented.

“Yeah, but my pillow abandoned me.”

That’s when he turned to look at her and froze at the sight before him. Seeing her there in just his shirt sealed it for him. Vlad reached behind him to shut off the stove as he spoke, “Well in that case take my hand.” He offered his free one to her.

“Why?” she asked suspiciously, putting her steaming mug on the table.

Vlad chuckled, knowing she was half expecting him to put her on the table and fuck her right there. “I’m trying to ask you to marry me, so take my damn hand!” he laughed.

Blue eyes widened dramatically at both the words and at Vlad’s look of genuine happiness. Aside from shock, only one thought was rattling around in her skull and she voiced it. “Why me?”

“Because you saw me when I was invisible,” he shrugged as if it was obvious. “Sometimes literally, but you’re the only one to ever just care about me rather than my money or fame. Because I love you. I don’t have a ring yet, but I’m working on fixing that. So will you--”

“Yes! Of course I will, you goddamn idiot!” she interrupted. Y/N tackled him by hopping up to wrap her legs around his waist, knowing he’d catch her.

“Now just what are you doing?” he asked with a chuckle as his hands moved under her as to support her weight.

“You are gonna put me on that table and fuck me on it until I’m screaming your name and we both collapse.”

“And that’s enough of that memory!” Vlad coughed awkwardly as he cut off the program. “I’d forgotten that that morning ended like that.” Another cough coupled with him scratching at his newly-short hair. “Anyway, I hope that all of that will convince you that what we have is real. Not an illusion or her wanting my money or whatever the two of you think is going on between us.”

“Fine,” Jack finally admitted, “there’s nothing wrong with you two being together other than your age. That doesn’t mean the ghosts aren’t possessing you.”

Y/N entered the room and therefore halted whatever Vlad had been about to say. “Fight that fight another time, Vladimir. I figured out how to reverse it, so they need to get the fuck out now.”

Vlad’s ensuing grin was positively evil. “You heard the lady. Leave.”

Note: And that’s literally all she wrote. As usual, I might come back and write some more if anybody wants it (or if I feel like it), but as of 11/4/2019 that’s it.

#vlad masters imagine #vlad masters x reader #danny phantom imagine #dp imagine #reader insert #flashbacks

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liam-93-productions · 6 years ago

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Liam Payne is on the cover of Esquire Middle East's June 2019 issue

The One Direction star was photographed on a rainy day in London

During the shoot, Payne opens up about the media's obsession with romance rumours

"Most of what you read online about me is straight BS" says Payne

It’s raining in West London. Every weather man, woman, and app had forecast that sunshine would be on the agenda for the day. But no. It’s raining. So, we’re stuck inside instead.

Alternating between balancing on a set of dumbbells (...) Liam Payne doesn’t seem to mind all that much about the weather. He’s used to plans changing pretty quickly.

“I’ve found in my life at the moment, because of the way things have happened, that everything’s kind of fast-forwarded,” says Payne, his dark eyes lighting up like those of a prospector that’s just panned a nugget of gold, “everything has fast-forwarded.”

Payne’s lived pretty much his entire life on fast-forward. He had his first X-Factortelevision appearance at the age of fourteen. He embarked on his first world tour with a little band named One Direction—you might have heard of them—only four years later. The band sold more than 50 million albums worldwide, and had four albums debut at number one in the US charts. (...)

As Payne ambles about the studio, it’s hard not to notice that even the tattoo on his forearm bears a striking resemblance to the fast-forward button on a television remote. Or a Spotify skip button.

Having recently performed alongside Rita Ora at the Global Teacher Prize concert in Dubai, Payne looks healthy and tanned, kissed by the sun even though his visit to the region was greeted by weather not dissimilar to today’s overcast conditions. “I think the weather’s just following me around at the minute,” he says with a laugh as abrupt as the first half of a hiccup. “There’s an air of something almost Vegas-y about Dubai,” adds Payne, “everything’s a little bit of a show there.”

Payne is no stranger to bit of a show. As well as having spent the better part of a decade touring the world with One Direction (the band is currently on a definitely indefinite hiatus) Payne helped break a concert attendance record in the Middle East last year by performing in front of 110,000 people. “I didn’t eat anything at dinner beforehand because I was thinking no-one’s going to turn up,” he admits.

To make Liam Payne nervous certainly takes some doing. Back in 2009—when ambitions of winning X-Factor as a solo performer were still very much at the forefront of his mind—Payne sang in front of over 29,000 fans as part of the pre-match entertainment of a game between his local football team Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United. A pretty heady experience for a boy not yet old enough to drive a car.

Now 25, Payne knew from an early age that he could “hold a tune”. What it took him longer to realise was that others couldn’t. “I think I thought it was just a normal thing that people could get on with,” he says with a shrug. That may well have been the case when it came to his local theatre group, but when considering most of the “normal things”that people “get on with”, we’d hazard a guess that the majority don’t involve amassing over two billion streams on Spotify.

But that’s Liam Payne for you: unassuming, self-effacing, and—for the most part—a guy who seems just genuinely happy to be here. It’s easy to forget when deliberating the merits of Linkin Park’s nu-metal masterpiece ‘Meteora’ with Payne that his face was once plastered on the bedroom walls of millions of tweens the world over.

Payne’s achieved extraordinary success in the quarter of a century he’s exhausted so far. So much so that you’d expect the moment that sparked off his passion for music to be equally spectacular. A real spontaneous Kevin Bacon dancing-in-an-abandoned-warehouse sort of epiphany. The reality is that it wasn’t romantic or sexy in the slightest. It was karaoke. “I used to go out to Cornwall and see my grandad and we’d always go to this karaoke bar and we’d sing a load of different stuff,” says Payne.

What sort of “stuff” does a future pop-star sing in a karaoke bar in a small town on the west coast of the UK? Well, the same oeuvre that you or I are have probably crooned into a microphone at midnight at Lucky Voice: ‘Angels’ by Robbie Williams.

While Payne isn’t ashamed to admit that he was listening to Williams pretty much 24/7 as a youngster (“No, I really was”), one of the first CDs he bought with his own money was an Eminem record. Growing up with both Robbie Williams and Marshall Mathers as his idols, he places his own sound as “somewhere in-between the two”.

A little bit Slim Shady and a little bit Rock DJ, that intersection of pop and rap is reflected in Payne’s solo career so far. His debut single, the catchy-as-the-plague earworm ‘Strip That Down’, featured Migos alum Quavo and went on to be certified platinum in both the US and the UK. The title track of his First Time EP also saw Payne join forces with rapper French Montana. Payne’s certainly not the first popstar to align themselves with a more urban sound in an attempt to appeal to an older demographic. Nor will he be the last. The transition from squeaky-clean boyband member to fullyfledged solo artist is, after all, anything but easy. To use a Take That comparison: for every one Robbie Williams, there are a hundred Mark Owens.

When it comes to One Direction, it’s still a bit too soon to tell who the Robbies and the Marks of the bunch are going to be. “When we did the band stuff it was very—not exactly scripted—but let’s just say you kind of knew your audience very well,” says Payne. “We’d usually sell a tour out before we’d even done an album. And then they [the record producers] would go: ‘Right, you’re doing stadiums’. And then you’d go: ‘Okay, so we need longer choruses—the kind of songs that people can chant in a stadium’. You had to kind of write around the tour.”

If that process sounds a bit paint-by-numbers, that’s because—by Payne’s own admission—it was. “It’s a very backwards way to do it,” he admits, “obviously people don’t really tend to write like that. But we just had no time, so it was like: ‘Quick! We need another hit and another and another!’ It was actually easier to write in that scenario because there were so many hoops you had to jump through. It wouldn’t necessarily be my choice of music now—it wasn’t something that I would listen to—but I just knew how to make it, if that makes sense?”

Going from such a canned bop formula to a world of complete creative freedom is a daunting prospect for anyone looking to make it as a solo act. But that was far from the only challenge Payne faced. Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music have drastically altered the music industry since the phone-to-vote days that launched One Direction. “The way that the industry kind of works now is kind of a difficult one because of the way albums are and the introduction of Spotify,” says Payne. “When I was in the band, Spotify wasn’t really a thing for us, we didn’t really care. We used to sell a lot of albums and physical copies, so it was different for us. As I got more into the solo stuff it was a kind of, like, a bit f**king confusing.”

All you need to do is look at the chains that Payne draped around his neck during the releases of a series of sophomore singles to see a man adopting a kabuki mask that didn’t quite fit. A man who was, in his words, a bit f**king confused. “‘Strip That Down’ was amazing and I was really happy with the success of it—but it didn’t necessarily paint the right picture of me and who I actually am,” he says, “I always found, to start off with, that with a lot of the chains and the clothes and the fashion, I was kind of hiding behind something. We did a billion streams for ‘Strip That Down’ but it still all gets a bit heady and at a certain point you’re like: ‘what the f**k am I doing here?’ It’s a bit like being stuck out in deep water and you’re just going ‘well, it would be really nice to get back now.’”

Payne might still be far from the shore, but he seems to be treading water at a more comfortable pace nowadays. “It took me a long to get my head around it,” he says (...)

And where is Liam Payne now? Well, he’s sat in front of me looking comparatively anxiety-free: comfortable and relaxed in a plain black tee and pair of tailored HUGO trousers. “My style and my fashion sense are all quite laid back now because that’s kind of the way I am as well. I don’t feel the need to hide behind the clothes anymore. I feel I can finally be who I am and enjoy myself.”

The last few years have witnessed a real boy-to-man transition for the ex-boy band squaddie. A coming-of-age moment came when he arrived at Frank Sinatra’s house in Palm Springs to record his part of ‘For You’ with Rita Ora. A crooning, finger-snapping, rather embarrassingly-waist-coated rendition of ‘Fly Me to The Moon’ was what Payne sang to get through his first ever X-Factor audition. Walking into Old Blue Eyes’ home, for Payne, came with the realisation that he’d “made that complete full-circle journey”.

Suffice it to say there’s no turning around for Payne in that journey when it comes to the fame front; he’s well in the thickets of the tabloid jungle. Headlines about who’s “breaking silence on romance rumours” with the popstar are a daily occurrence in the British papers. So too are accompanying photographs of his face. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Payne has, after all, got a rather nice face. The latest use of which has seen it become the face of Hugo Boss’s latest HUGO menswear line.

“To be honest, they called me and it just seemed to make a lot of sense at the time. It was a direction that I knew I’d love to go down,” says Payne on how his partnership with the brand first came about. “It’s very rare that a big company like Hugo Bosscomes around asking for you to be the face of it. It’s a bit of a dream come true actually.”

Previous Hugo Boss ambassadors include the likes of Chris Hemsworth, Jamie Dornan and Gerard Butler. Handsome faces. Familiar faces. Faces that are now forever immortalised in the public conscience. A fact that Payne is all-too conscious of himself. “I was looking through the different people that they’ve had on their roster over the years and they’re all people that I look up to,” says Payne, “So, I’m obviously quite excited but it’s also a bit daunting because these things,” he spreads his arms in a gesture that aptly sums up the rigmarole of press junkets and interviews, “are literally around for forever now.”

Moving from location to location and outfit to outfit, it becomes evident that dressing to hide who he is, is no longer on Payne’s agenda. As he’s grown (both figuratively and literally) in the public eye, and Payne’s now come to accept the lane he’s in. “I’ve become more in tune with things now,” he says, “as the years go by, I think you gain a different level of confidence and find out what works for you and what doesn’t, rather than constantly trying to be something that you’re not. If that makes sense?” It does.

What makes less sense is why Payne decided to go with chains in the first place “It was quite funny at the time when everyone used to get really mad about it,” he says referencing outraged headlines like: Sleepy Liam Payne leaves a London studio wearing a HUGE gold chain. “It just didn’t really matter to me.”

What matters to Payne is when those stories affect the lives of those around him. One particular article published in the British newspaper, The Daily Mail, last year that attempted to insinuate he was romantically linked with a member of his team irked Payne so much that the usually apolitical Twitterer took to social media to criticising the newspaper.

“The difference with that story was that the people that they were putting me with have families, boyfriends, girlfriends,” explains Payne, “I go home every night and know that people write horses**t about me daily. I won’t worry about it because I know it’s f**king bulls**t. But for someone who’s never had a story written about them before? If they go home and their partner’s reading the paper going like: ‘what the f**k is this?’ It’s difficult for them to be able to explain that.” Payne’s voice ratchets up a few decibels when he says this. He uses more than a few words we’re not legally allowed to print. I can tell that he cares about this. That it needles him. That it’s not something he has to say, but rather something that he needs to say. So, I let him.“I asked for this, I get paid very handsomely to be here and it’s part of my life and I get it. It’s alright. You can write what the f**k you want about me but when it comes to other people who work with me? That is not on.”

The only way for Payne to cut through that noise is by doing the thing he knows best: making music. “Everything I do is very, very public a lot of the time. I get reported on a lot for different things. I just think there’s a certain line where I have to have my say. And that there’s only one way for me to do that—which is through my music.”

(...)

Communicating as a public figure becomes increasingly difficult when navigating the glut of information that exists online. Do a quick Google search for ‘Liam Payne’ and you’ll be greeted by countless fan sites with a never-ending litany of “facts” about the man. Facts like:

“Liam Payne prefers showers over baths” “Liam Payne sleeps naked” “Liam Payne has a phobia of spoons”

While Payne is quick to assure me that most of what you’ll read online is straight B.S., one fact did keep cropping up again and again. And I mean, c’mon, I couldn’t not ask him about the spoons, could I?

“Yeah, I did have a fear of spoons,” he groans with the weariness of a man who’s been pelted with countless pieces of cutlery, “but it wasn’t so much a fear as something that’s now turned into a thing because of the internet. I was forced in detention once to wash up dirty plates and spoons and I think it just put me off looking at how dirty some of these spoons came back. But people used to throw spoons at me in concerts! I should have said I had a fear of pillows—that would have been comfier.”

All things considered, a fear of spoons is a fairly harmless rumour to spread. But rumours rarely ever are. Most are vicious; spreading like wildfire and burning all of those they touch. “I’ve been dead,” says Payne abruptly. “People I love have been dead.”

The non-stop 24-hour nature of the news cycles can be overwhelming to read, let alone to be involved in via the announcement of your own death. “You have to learn fast and we [One Direction] had to grow up pretty quick in the circumstances that we were under or else you kind of f**k it a little bit,” he says. If you’ve ever seen clips of The Beatles or BTS getting mobbed on the streets, you know the kind of hysteria that can ensue when boyband members are seen out in public.

“I don’t think I struggle in the sense of what you would naturally think of when I’m walking down the street with every person stopping me,” says Payne, “I mean, it happens sometimes but it’s mainly mentally where you struggle with it. It’s the getting ready and always knowing that you might be photographed.” From elaborate airport fits to the loungewear he puts on to pick up a pint of semiskimmed milk from the shop down the road, there’s never a moment where Payne and his clothing aren’t in danger of becoming front page news.

One of the ways that Payne combats that simmering anxiety is by going for a run at 5am every morning. It’s probably why he’s been able to maintain his sanity so far. And probably why he’s in—as evidenced by his numerous topless Instagram photos—such great nick.

“I love it. I get myself outside and into the day and get past that fear of ‘what if this happens?’ or ‘what if that happens?’. Because, for a long time, I became—what’s the word?” says Payne, gesticulating wildly as if he’ll catch the phrase careening around his head like a runaway wasp, “there’s a word for this condition where you stay inside and never leave, it’s in Ocean’s Twelve…”

I saw Ocean’s Twelve last week. The word he’s looking for is agoraphobia.

“Yeah, that’s it. I developed a bit of agoraphobia. I would never leave the house. And I do sometimes suffer with it a bit in the sense that I’ll get days where I just don’t want to leave my house. Even if it’s just going to the shop. I’d be going i to order a coffee at Starbucks and I would sweat because I wouldn’t know whether I was doing the right thing or not. I would be thinking: ‘f**k, I don’t want to be here’.”

I worry for a moment whether Payne is feeling that same feeling today but decide instead to take likely misplaced solace that my innate knowledge of the Ocean’s film franchise has won him over. “I even used to have a really bad problem with going to petrol stations and paying for petrol. I can feel it now—it was like this horrible anxiety where I’d be sweating buckets in the car thinking ‘I don’t want to do this’.”

Many people suffer from moments of panic and instances where we feel crushed by the weight of the world’s expectations and Payne is all-too aware that his specific anxieties stem from a position of privilege. “Unfortunately, it does happen to everybody in this industry,” he says, “I think at a certain point you just have to get over it as quickly as you can.”

There we are once again: back to doing things quickly. Back to being on fast-forward. Back to doing countless interviews in specifically allotted time slots. Back to that constant pressure where “everything happens a little bit quicker in my world than it does in everyone else’s”.

Everything might be happening a hell of a lot quicker for Liam Payne than me, but I’m still interested to know: what’s next for the man? What does he want to achieve in the not-yet fast-forwarded future? “I’m hoping for something a lot more than what I’ve done so far, if that makes sense?” Having listened to Payne’s solo discography in preparation for this interview, it really does.

Sure, Payne’s produced a spate of bonafide bangers—songs that will have you singing along as you whip down Emirates Road—but they’re also songs that are, for the most part, still formulaic. They’re catchy, glossily well-produced, yet contain something of an air of inauthenticity about them.

And, having met Payne, I can’t help but feel they seem at odds with his unabashedly authentic self. As he tells me: “People can see right through that s**t and it’s difficult for you to then go and say ‘buy this record!’ if you don’t really believe in what’s going on.”

So, what does a man who’s (sort of) afraid of spoons actually believe in? Moreover, what does a man who eats ice cream with a fork want to be remembered as having believed in? “I’m obviously really happy with some of the stuff I’ve done. Like breaking world records with the band and all sorts of amazing stuff. But in the recent years, it’s been a bit topsy-turvy with me kind of finding my way. And I’d rather not be remembered for a lot of those things. I want to make a really amazing album that’s not, like,” and he air-quotes here, “important, but something that people really get into. Something that makes certain people feel a couple things. I think that would be the best thing for me. I just want to make people move, if that makes sense?”

In case you haven’t already noticed, that question (‘if that makes sense?”) is practically punctuation to Payne. It’s a caveat that ends many of his statements; an interrogation of his own beliefs and a moment where his PR armour reveals its chinks and offers a glimpse of the man beneath the surface. A man that is equal parts cocksure and uncertain—a man who’s very rarely both and almost never neither.

While he might be living on fast-forward—and shows no signs of slowing anytime soon—Liam Payne, for the moment at least, might just be in the midst of the most interesting time of his life. His legacy is currently being written, awaiting the day we’ll eventually look back with a clearer idea of whether he’s a Robbie Williams or a Mark Owen. As for me, I’m just hoping that the next evolution of Liam Payne’s career is a lot more Liam Payne than the last. If that makes sense?

#liam payne #esquire middle east #liam's interview #hugo boss #30.05.2019 #long post

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maluminspace · 5 years ago

Text

Any Other Way

Genre: dad!michael

Pairings: Michael Clifford/Reader

Word Count: 1479

Requested: By anon for spooky!sos 2019

Trigger Warnings: n/a

A/N: Jex and I agreed to start posting these early as we’ve started getting ideas for them! We’re still accepting requests, so get your thinking caps on and send some in... Spooky!sos2019 is officially underway, lovelies! 💖

Halloween had always been one of Michael’s favourite times of year. You’d know this from very early in your relationship with him and yet, he’d managed to surprise you this year by being more enthusiastic than ever.

Despite his excitement, your husband had also been suspiciously secretive in recent weeks. When you’d questioned him about the various packages arriving in the past couple of weeks, Michael had simply replied that it was for the very special ‘father/son Halloween costume’ he’d had planned.

You’d gotten the hint that Michael wanted to surprise you with whatever he’d been working on and so you’d resisted questioning him any further.

Of course, you’d tried bribing your son with ice cream for more information but even he had kept his mouth shut on this.

It was safe to say you were more than a little intrigued and excited as the moment of the reveal drew ever closer. You’d spent all day busying yourself preparing for the annual party you and Michael always insisted on throwing. It had turned into more a of a kid’s party now, since you and all your friends had all settled down and started families.

All of that was finished now, though, and Michael had disappeared upstairs with your son some time ago. Just as you were about to call up to them, you heard your son laughing and Michael hushing him gently before shouting down to you. “Are you ready to see our costumes?”

You picked up the tea you’d made for yourself, intent on appearing casually interested. If Michael knew just how eager you were to see what he’d put together. “Sure, boys...” you called back as breezily as you could.

The two of them were still giggling as they traipsed down the stairs, playfully jibing at each other as they shuffled ever closer to the living room where you were sitting.

“Okay, are you sure you’re ready?” Your nine year old shouted from behind the wall separating the living room from the hallway. There’s clear a smile in his voice and it makes your heart swell with love.

“I already told you that I was, little mr!” You replied, giggling into your mug. “You’re really overdoing the suspense thing now...”

You heard Michael huff indignantly. “We’re not overdoing it!” He insisted. “This will totally be worth it, I promise!”

Before you could reply, your son yelled again. “Close your eyes and we’ll come in!”

The excitement in your only child’s voice was almost enough to bring a happy tear to your eye. You’d always known he’d be a huge Halloween enthusiast just like his dad. “Okay...” you replied disguising the break in your voice as a little cough whilst you placed your tea back down on the coffee table.

“Are they closed?” Michael checked. He was obviously taking this costume reveal very seriously and it was more than a little endearing.

You covered your eyes with your hands obediently. “Yes, I promise!” You replied.

Seconds later the sound of excited footsteps traipsing into the room signalled that your husband and son were getting into position. It was hard not to giggle at the way your son bossed Michael about. “You stand there dad!” He commanded, obviously exasperated at his dad’s incorrect position or stance.

Judging by the fresh footsteps on the hard wooden floor, it was safe to assume Michael was obeying your son’s command.

“Can I open my eyes yet?” You asked after a moment of silence.”

“One minute!” Michael replied. “Can you straighten my hat please, son?” He added and your heart melted as your nine year old giggled.

After another short moment, your son finally said; “okay! You can open your eyes now...”

It was probably a little stupid of you but you couldn’t deny the nerves in your tummy as you lowered your hands. The sight that greeted you filled your heart with more love than you could have imagined was ever possible. This was definitely one of those family moments that you’d treasure forever.

Michael and your son had been plotting all this time to put together two costumes that really meant a lot to you all as a family. “Look at you two!” You gasped, the biggest smile on your face as you leaned forward in your seat. “You both look incredible!”

They were dressed as Steve Harrington and Dustin Henderson from ‘Stranger Things’. Their costumes were perfect replicas of the characters in your favourite show to watch together.

Michael’s ‘Scoops Ahoy’ uniform was virtually flawless. The shorts were a little baggy on him which just made him look even more in character. The dark brown wig he’d decided to wear beneath the sailor’s hat was also a great choice. All-in-all, he looked completely recognisable as one of your favourite characters.

Your son was smiling widely beneath the yellow and green cap he was donning. It finished off his ‘Camp Know Where 85’ uniform perfectly. Unlike your husband, your nine year old had no need for a wig. Your son had inherited Michael’s sandy locks and they’d somehow exaggerated his curls to help him resemble his favourite character from the show.

“Your costumes are absolutely perfect!” You exclaimed, getting to your feet and crossing the room towards them to get a better look. It must have taken a lot of work to get them exactly right!”

Your son nodded proudly. “It took Dad a while but he got it exactly right!” He looked up at Michael with the most beautiful admiring smile you’d ever seen on his little face. The pretty green eyes he’d inherited from his father sparkled happily as he wrapped his arms around Michael’s waist, hugging him lovingly.

Your husband nodded tearfully, obviously enjoying this father/son moment as much, if not more than you were. He hugged his son close and offered you a watery smile. “Come on then, Mr!” He sniffled, “Let’s go trick or treating before all the good stuff’s gone!”

The nine year old giggled excitedly as he pulled away from Michael and made off towards the hallway.

“Hey!” You yelled, pouting a little. “I need some pictures of my awesome ‘Stranger Things’ boys before you go!”

Your son rolled his eyes as he plodded back over to you. “Hurry up, though!” He whined, “I wanna go to Mrs Morris’s house before she gives the other kids all of those cool chocolate eyeballs she always gives out!”

“Oi, Mr.” Michael reprimands, his voice a little sterner than usual. “What have we talked about respecting your parents, huh?”

Your son’s cheeks reddened as he muttered an apology and offered you a hug to sweeten you up. You accepted it gladly, assuring him that you forgave him before ushering him back over to his father. “Okay, do a pose for me.” You grinned, pulling your phone from the back pocket of your jeans.

Michael and your son obliged easily, adopting a pose that they each felt their character would be happy with as you snapped as many photos as you could.

After a solid minute of picture taking, your son grew impatient, asking again if they can leave now. You nodded, still smiling. “Don’t eat too many of the sweets, though! I’ve made a bunch of party food that needs eating...”

Your two favourite boys in the world agreed that they wouldn’t- Michael knowing full well that the comment was aimed just as much at him as at it was at your son. “Our guests are due to start arriving an hour or so, can you be back by then please?”

“Of course we will.” Michael assures you. “We wouldn’t want our lil guy to miss out on greeting his new crush...”

“Dad!” Your son pouted, cheeks turning crimson again. “I don’t have a crush!”

“Michael, stop teasing him!” You smirked, knowing that Michael had a point. You’d noticed how your son’s behaviour had changed whenever the Irwin’s brought their kids over. You were sure that he was crushing on their eldest child but he’d tell you in his own time if he was.

“We laid your costume out upstairs, babe.” Michael smirked as your son opened the front door and disappeared outside. “We decided that Steve and Dustin needed a monster to fight so we made you a ‘shadow monster’ costume.” He laughed mischievously.

You rolled your eyes, “thanks, I guess...” you laughed. “Now go on, I’ll see you both in an hour!”

Michael pressed a brief kiss to your lips before jogging down the driveway to where your son is waiting.

You can’t stop yourself from lingering at the doorway for a little while, watching Michael guide your son to each of the houses on the opposite side of your street. Your husband was as much of a child as the nine year old he was supervising but you wouldn’t have him any other way.

Send Laura a request

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Tag list: @clffrd @byxthexway @afuckingunicornn @lukesahoy @thrillchaser @moonchildsblack @calumbbyyy @h0tsos @valentinelrh @sexgodashton @megz1985 @stonedahlia @myfalsedevotion @aulxna

#michael clifford #michael clifford imagine #dad!michael #soft!michael #5sos #5sos imagine #michael imagine #michael clifford blurb #5sos blurb #michael blurb #michael clifford fic #dad!sos #dad!5sos #5sos fic #michael fic #my writing #spooky!sos 2019 #spooky!sos 2019 michael #michael monday

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yootaesowlwrites · 5 years ago

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Requested by; 200bluesky200

Request; I would like to request A62 with Sebastian when you’re Enzo Ferrari‘s granddaughter and he promised you when you were little that you will be the chief of the Ferrari Formula 1 team when you’re old enough. After you finished one study in management and one in engineering both with the best possible grade you make your way to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to tell Binotto that he is fired you already have two goals in your mind you wanna achieve in 2020 first: Win the championship Second: Win Sebastian Vettel as a lover you don’t really care that he have a pregnant wife and 2 children at home if you’re Grandfather always had played clean he would never have achieved what he achieved when you arrive at the track with your red dress everyone looks at you and when you talk with Sebastian he asks you if you wanna eat dinner with him at the hotel trough the whole dinner he can’t look away from you and after the dinner, one thing leads to the other. Much love 💕

Prompt; A62- “Are you going to eye fuck me all night or are you going to do something about it?"

Note; As far as I know, the management's highest degree is a Master's degree and seeing as I wanted to go study software engineering (But wasn't allowed to) the highest is the Bachelors degree, now I'm not sure which engineering degree you wanted your character to study so I pick software engineering because it's the only one I know a little bit about.

P.S; Last one for 2019. Merry Christmas. Happy 2020. I will see you guys with brand new requests perhaps mid-January or the beginning of February.

Masterlist • Prompt List • Smut Prompt List • Scenario List • AU List • List Of Drivers • Fan Fictions • Support Me? •

(Y/n) walks along the Abu Dhabi Was Marina circuit looking as the cars fly past during FP2, she was on her way to the Ferrari hospitality to have a quick meeting with some of the bosses before informing Mattia that he was no longer part of the team, some might say it was cruel but life is cruel and nobody got anywhere without power.

“Without a doubt, I will not be a mistake for this team… I will lead this team to victory come 2020.” (Y/n) says, The people in the office nod heir heads but were still hesitant. “If you do not believe in me, you are simply making a mistake… As I told you I have perfected my craft and obtained a Masters degree in management and A Bachelors degree in engineering.”

“High degree’s mean nothing unless you can show us.” One of the people say. “We will give you half of 2020 so prove to us that you are an aspect.”

“I will give you the trophy at the end of next year, you will have no choice but to believe in me.” (Y/n) says. “If you make it that far, See you in Australia, Ms Ferrari.” One of them said while everyone gathered their papers.

“You will not be disappointed.” (Y/n) says picking up her papers and leaving the room, she saw the drivers entering the for dinner after a long FP2 session, her eyes land on Sebastian and felt her heart beat faster, she had several goals in life, but she believed the two most important ones were; Win the championship for Ferrari and Win Sebastian Vettel, nothing would stand in her way.

“I regret informing you but you are no longer part of this team, We were an embracement this season and I will not sit back and watch this team become a backmarker.” (Y/n) says while sitting in Mattia’s office.

“We had a few bumps, it will be sorted out for next year,” Mattia says.

“I do not care… the decision is made.” (Y/n) says. “You may have one last weekend with us, but then you should clear out your office, have a good weekend.” (Y/n) says getting up from the chair and leaves the office.

It was the start of the 2020 season and (Y/n) had done her absolute best to get the car in perfect form, a lot of factory workers were fired and new ones were hired to devolve this season’s car and make it the best on the grid, (Y/n) hadn’t seen much of Sebastian over the winter break but now that the season was about to start things were about to change, (Y/n) arrived early at the circuit wearing a red dress that hugged her curves just right exposing just enough to leave men dreaming about what else was underneath her dress.

“Good morning, Ms Ferrari.” One of the staff members greets her.

“Morning.” (Y/n) replies while making her way to the office, it was going to be a long day with a lot of nervous building up considering this would be the first time the car would run since the Barcelona testing.

“Coffee, Ms Ferrari?” Another staff member asks.

“Yes and make it strong.” (Y/n) says while sorting through some paperwork. “Oh, and if you see Sebastian Vettel, could you send him my way, yes?”

“Of course, Ms Ferrari.” They said and left her office to go make the coffee and hopefully find Sebastian.

(Y/n) steps into the Ferrari garage ready to go to the pit wall for FP1 when she spots Sebastian drinking some water, she walks up to him with a seductive smile.

“You know, you are a hard man to find.” (Y/n) says, Sebastian chuckles putting down the water bottle.

“I’m sorry I did not know I was needed,” Sebastian says. “You look beautiful, Ms Ferrari.” Sebastian complements her as his eyes trail down her body over her exposed cleavage and down her long tanned legs.

“I accept your apology and thank you, I tried my best.” (Y/n) says, she could see his eyes linger a little longer on her breast.

“You did not have to try, you already looking stunning,” Sebastian says. “Perhaps we could go out to dinner tonight?”

“Sound’s perfect, come pick me up at say… 6?” (Y/n) asks.

“Six is good,” Sebastian says.

“I should get going, it was lovely talking you, Sebastian.” (Y/n) says.

“Of course, I shouldn’t keep our boss away from her job,” Sebastian says, (Y/n) gives him one last smile before making her way to the pit wall to talk to some engineers.

That night (Y/n) and Sebastian were in a restaurant talking about the progression of the car and how Sebastian felt driving it, (Y/n) had to admit she kept Sebastian close in mind while developing the car, she made sure it was accustom to his driving style, (Y/n) would catch Sebastian staring at her especially at her exposed cleavage, it was a much different dress she had on for dinner and she was hoping it would swoon him and it appeared to be working.

“So I have to ask.” (Y/n) begins, Sebastian looks into her eyes smiling at her, (Y/n) Ferrari didn’t care if Sebastian Vettel was a married man nor that he had three children at home. “Are you going to eye fuck me all night or are you going to do something about it?” (Y/n) asks, she wanted Sebastian Vettel in every single way, no matter what.

“I uh.” Sebastian begins but (Y/n) quickly cuts him off.

“Because you can touch… you can do whatever it is you desire.” (Y/n) says with fire and lust burning inside of her, Sebastian could see it in her eyes, the desire, the need, he would most likely feel guilty about what he was about to do with this woman but right now... quilt was the last thing on his mind.

“We should go back to the hotel,” Sebastian says.

“Indeed we should.” (Y/n) says.

#f1 imagines #f1 imagine #sebastian vettel imagines #sebastian vettel imagine #imagine #imagines #x reader

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yobaba30 · 5 years ago

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Soon after the sex criminal Jeffrey Epstein died in August, a mysterious man met with two prominent lawyers.

Towering, barrel-chested and wild-bearded, he was a prodigious drinker and often wore flip-flops. He went by a pseudonym, Patrick Kessler — a necessity, he said, given the shadowy, dangerous world that he inhabited.

He told the lawyers he had something incendiary: a vast archive of Mr. Epstein’s data, stored on encrypted servers overseas. He said he had years of the financier’s communications and financial records — as well as thousands of hours of footage from hidden cameras in the bedrooms of Mr. Epstein’s properties. The videos, Kessler said, captured some of the world’s richest, most powerful men in compromising sexual situations — even in the act of rape.

Kessler said he wanted to expose these men. If he was telling the truth, his trove could answer one of the Epstein saga’s most baffling questions: How did a college dropout and high school math teacher amass a purported nine-figure fortune? One persistent but unproven theory was that he ran a sprawling blackmail operation. That would explain why moguls, scientists, political leaders and a royal stayed loyal to him, in some cases even after he first went to jail.

Kessler’s tale was enough to hook the two lawyers, the famed litigator David Boies and his friend John Stanley Pottinger. If Kessler was authentic, his videos would arm them with immense leverage over some very important people.

Mr. Boies and Mr. Pottinger discussed a plan. They could use the supposed footage in litigation or to try to reach deals with men who appeared in it, with money flowing into a charitable foundation. In encrypted chats with Kessler, Mr. Pottinger referred to a roster of potential targets as the “hot list.” He described hypothetical plans in which the lawyers would pocket up to 40 percent of the settlements and could extract money from wealthy men by flipping from representing victims to representing their alleged abusers.

The possibilities were tantalizing — and extended beyond vindicating victims. Mr. Pottinger saw a chance to supercharge his law practice. For Mr. Boies, there was a shot at redemption, after years of criticism for his work on behalf of Theranos and Harvey Weinstein.

In the end, there would be no damning videos, no funds pouring into a new foundation. Mr. Boies and Mr. Pottinger would go from toasting Kessler as their “whistle-blower” and “informant” to torching him as a “fraudster” and a “spy.”

Kessler was a liar, and he wouldn’t expose any sexual abuse. But he would reveal something else: The extraordinary, at times deceitful measures elite lawyers deployed in an effort to get evidence that could be used to win lucrative settlements — and keep misconduct hidden, allowing perpetrators to abuse again.

Mr. Boies has publicly decried such secret deals as “rich man’s justice,” a way that powerful men buy their way out of legal and reputational jeopardy. This is how it works.

7 men and a headless parrot

The man who called himself Kessler first contacted a Florida lawyer, Bradley J. Edwards, who was in the news for representing women with claims against Mr. Epstein. It was late August, about two weeks after the financier killed himself in a jail cell while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges.

Mr. Edwards, who did not respond to interview requests, had a law firm called Edwards Pottinger, and he soon referred Kessler to his New York partner. Silver-haired and 79, Mr. Pottinger had been a senior civil-rights official in the Nixon and Ford administrations, but he also dabbled in investment banking and wrote best-selling medical thrillers. He was perhaps best known for having dated Gloria Steinem and Kathie Lee Gifford.

Mr. Pottinger recalled that Mr. Edwards warned him about Kessler, saying that he was “endearing,” “spooky” and “loves to drink like a fish.”

After an initial discussion with Kessler in Washington, Mr. Pottinger briefed Mr. Boies — whose firm was also active in representing accusers in the Epstein case — about the sensational claims. He then invited Kessler to his Manhattan apartment. Kessler admired a wall-mounted frame containing a headless stuffed parrot; on TV, the Philadelphia Eagles were mounting a comeback against the Washington Redskins. Mr. Pottinger poured Kessler a glass of WhistlePig whiskey, and the informant began to talk.

In his conversations with Mr. Pottinger and, later, Mr. Boies, Kessler said his videos featured numerous powerful men who were already linked to Mr. Epstein: Ehud Barak, the former Israeli prime minister; Alan Dershowitz, a constitutional lawyer; Prince Andrew; three billionaires; and a prominent chief executive.

All seven men, or their representatives, told The New York Times they never engaged in sexual activity on Mr. Epstein’s properties. The Times has no reason to believe Kessler’s supposed video footage is real.

In his apartment, Mr. Pottinger presented Kessler with a signed copy of “The Boss,” his 2005 novel. “One minute you’re bending the rules,” blares the cover of the paperback version. “The next minute you’re breaking the law.” On the title page, Mr. Pottinger wrote: “Here’s to the great work you are to do. Happy to be part of it.”

Mr. Pottinger also gave Kessler a draft contract to bring him on as a client, allowing him to use a fake name. “For reasons revealed to you, I prefer to proceed with this engagement under the name Patrick Kessler,” the agreement said.

Despite the enormities of the Epstein scandal, few of his accusers have gotten a sense of justice or resolution. Mr. Pottinger thought Kessler’s files could change everything. This strange man was theatrical and liked his alcohol, but if there was even a chance his claims were true, they were worth pursuing.

“Our clients are said to be liars and prostitutes,” Mr. Pottinger later said in an interview with The Times, “and we now have someone who says, ‘I can give you secret photographic proof of abuse that will completely change the entire fabric of your practice and get justice for these girls.’ And you think that we wouldn’t try to get that?”

A victim becomes a hacker

Mr. Pottinger and Mr. Boies have known each other for years, a friendship forged on bike trips in France and Italy. In legal circles, Mr. Boies was royalty: He was the one who fought for presidential candidate Al Gore before the Supreme Court, took on Microsoft in a landmark antitrust case, and helped obtain the right for gays and lesbians to get married in California.

But then Mr. Boies got involved with the blood-testing start-up Theranos. As the company was being revealed as a fraud, he tried to bully whistle-blowers into not speaking to a Wall Street Journal reporter, and he was criticized for possible conflicts of interest when he joined the company’s board in 2015.

Two years later, Mr. Boies helped his longtime client Harvey Weinstein hire private investigators who intimidated sources and trailed reporters for The Times and The New Yorker — even though Mr. Boies’s firm had worked for The Times on other matters. (The Times fired his firm.)

By 2019, Mr. Boies, 78, was representing a number of Mr. Epstein’s alleged victims. They got his services pro bono, and he got the chance to burnish his legacy. When Mr. Pottinger contacted him about Kessler, he was intrigued.

On Sept. 9, Mr. Boies greeted Kessler at the offices of his law firm, Boies Schiller Flexner, in a gleaming new skyscraper at Hudson Yards on Manhattan’s West Side. Kessler unfurled a fantastic story, one he would embroider and alter in later weeks, that began with him growing up somewhere within a three-hour radius of Washington. Kessler said he had been molested as a boy by a Bible school teacher and sought solace on the internet, where he fell in with a group of victims turned hackers, who used their skills to combat pedophilia.

Kessler claimed that a technology executive had introduced him to Mr. Epstein, who in 2012 hired Kessler to set up encrypted servers to preserve his extensive digital archives. With Mr. Epstein dead, Kessler boasted to the lawyers, he had unfettered access to the material. He said the volume of videos was overwhelming: more than a decade of round-the-clock footage from dozens of cameras.

Kessler displayed some pixelated video stills on his phone. In one, a bearded man with his mouth open appears to be having sex with a naked woman. Kessler said the man was Mr. Barak. In another, a man with black-framed glasses is seen shirtless with a woman on his lap, her breasts exposed. Kessler said it was Mr. Dershowitz. He also said that some of the supposed videos appeared to have been edited and cataloged for the purpose of blackmail.

“This was explosive information if true, for lots and lots of people,” Mr. Boies said in an interview.

Mr. Boies and Mr. Pottinger had decades of legal experience and considered themselves experts at assessing witnesses’ credibility. While they couldn’t be sure, they thought Kessler was probably legit.

A chance to sway the Israeli election

Within hours of the Hudson Yards meeting, Mr. Pottinger sent Kessler a series of texts over the encrypted messaging app Signal.

According to excerpts viewed by The Times, Mr. Pottinger and Kessler discussed a plan to disseminate some of the informant’s materials — starting with the supposed footage of Mr. Barak. The Israeli election was barely a week away, and Mr. Barak was challenging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The purported images of Mr. Barak might be able to sway the election — and fetch a high price. (“Total lie with no basis in reality,” Mr. Barak said when asked about the existence of such videos.)

“Can you review your visual evidence to be sure some or all is indisputably him? If so, we can make it work,” Mr. Pottinger wrote.

Kessler said he would do so. Mr. Pottinger sent a yellow smiley-face emoji with its tongue sticking out.

“Can you share your contact that would be purchasing,” Kessler asked.

“Sheldon Adelson,” Mr. Pottinger answered.

Mr. Adelson, a billionaire casino magnate in Las Vegas, had founded one of Israel’s largest newspapers, and it was an enthusiastic booster of Mr. Netanyahu. Mr. Pottinger wrote that he and Mr. Boies hoped to fly to Nevada to meet with Mr. Adelson to discuss the images.

“Do you believe that adelson has the pull to insure this will hurt his bid for election?” Kessler asked the next morning.

Mr. Pottinger reassured him. “There is no question that Adelson has the capacity to air the truth about EB if he wants to,” he said, using Mr. Barak’s initials. He said he planned to discuss the matter with Mr. Boies that evening.

Mr. Boies confirmed that they discussed sharing the photo with Mr. Adelson but said the plan was never executed. Boaz Bismuth, the editor in chief of the newspaper, Israel Hayom, said its journalists were approached by an Israeli source who pitched them supposed images of Mr. Barak, but that “we were not interested.”

‘These are wealthy wrongdoers’

The men whom Kessler claimed to have on tape were together worth many billions. Some of their public relations teams had spent months trying to tamp down media coverage of their connections to Mr. Epstein. Imagine how much they might pay to make incriminating videos vanish.

You might think that lawyers representing abuse victims would want to publicly expose such information to bolster their clients’ claims. But that is not how the legal industry always works. Often, keeping things quiet is good business.

One of the revelations of the #MeToo era has been that victims’ lawyers often brokered secret deals in which alleged abusers paid to keep their accusers quiet and the allegations out of the public sphere. Lawyers can pocket at least a third of such settlements, profiting off a system that masks misconduct and allows men to abuse again.

Mr. Boies and Mr. Pottinger said in interviews that they were looking into creating a charity to help victims of sexual abuse. It would be bankrolled by private legal settlements with the men on the videos.

Mr. Boies acknowledged that Kessler might get paid. “If we were able to use this to help our victims recover money, we would treat him generously,” he said in September. He said that his firm would not get a cut of any settlements.

Such agreements would have made it less likely that videos involving the men became public. “Generally what settlements are about is getting peace,” Mr. Boies said.

Mr. Pottinger told Kessler that the charity he was setting up would be called the Astria Foundation — a name he later said his girlfriend came up with, in a nod to Astraea, the Greek goddess of innocence and justice. “We need to get it funded by abusers,” Mr. Pottinger texted, noting in another message that “these are wealthy wrongdoers.”

Mr. Pottinger asked Kessler to start compiling incriminating materials on a specific group of men.

THERE IS A SHITLOAD MORE INFO - CLICK N THE LINK

#frauds and swindling

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