#I read up quite a bit about baby chickens for this

[ccsainzleclerc5516]

Eyes Only For You

Pairing: Lando Norris x reader

Warnings: a little bit of angst, fluff

“Hey, baby” You say smiling walking into the kitchen greeting your boyfriend who you missed so much after a whole day filled with meetings.

Lando was free for another week before returning to the races, and you really had a lot of work to do the whole week. You had a lot of meetings and events to attend so you’ve been out of the house and even out of the town most of the time.

You hated it when Lando was free and you had a lot of work to do and couldn't take full advantage of his rare free time. And so when such days happen, you always rush home at the end of the day, eager to see him and cuddle him and just rest in his arms.

That's how you thought it would be this evening too, but as soon as you entered the room and saw that Lando didn't even turn to you when you greeted him, you immediately felt that something was up.

“Hi” He says apathetically looking for something in the fridge and not paying attention to the fact that you finally came home after being away all day.

He was angry. You read it right away. You could tell by his tone, but you decided to ignore it at first.

You walked up to him from the other side of the kitchen island and hugged him from behind while he was still standing in front of the fridge looking into it.

“Where is Mila?” You ask.

Oh, and you were also babysitting Mila for the night. His brother and sister in law and Mila were in town so you offered to watch her tonight so they could have some time to themselves and go on a date.

“She fell asleep in the living room a little while ago.” He said not engaging in further conversation.

“I missed you today” You say leaving a small kiss against his bare back.

“Yeah? How was your day?” He asks taking the salad dressing from the fridge and walking up to the kitchen island where his chicken salad was.

“It was..hectic.” You say looking at him. “Been waiting to come home to you.” You say softly trying to get anything out of him, but failing when he continues to be silent and ignore you focusing on making his salad.

“Lan? Is everything okay?” You finally ask.

“Well,” He sighs and somewhat aggressively throws the soiled fork into the kitchen sink making you wince slightly. “It was up until two hours ago when some pictures of you from the Boss Show in Milan emerged.”

“What pictures?” You ask confused, immediately going over the events of that day in Milan in your head.

He pulls his phone out of the pocket of his shorts, unlocks it and throws it in front of you on the surface of the kitchen island. “Care to explain?”

You stare at the picture on his cell phone of you and Michele Morrone and you immediately remember the situation you had with him that day that you were not even aware that someone had taken a picture of it and published it on the Internet.

In the picture, you were leaving the fashion show and he was grabbing your elbow. You met him for the first time that day and you talked about nothing more than the looks from the show, but it was quite obvious to you that he was indirectly hitting on you here and there. You grabbed his attention and he didn't spare you a few compliments, but at no point did you give him reason to think you were interested in him.

When you were leaving the fashion show, you didn't even know that he came out after you. He grabbed your elbow before you walked over to the waiting car and asked if he could have your number to which you replied that you have a boyfriend and that you’re in a happy relationship.

“Oh my God..” You sigh before explaining what exactly happened in the picture.

“Did you give him your number?” Lando asks even though you had said you didn’t.

“Of course I didn’t, Lando?” You say a bit offended that he even had to ask such a thing.

“Why didn't you tell me right away instead of me having to look at the pictures of my girlfriend with that fucking- porn actor?”

“I don’t ever tell you when things like that happen because I don’t care about that stuff and because I’m not interested in anyone but you!”

“What the fuck? What do you mean ‘when things like that happen’? Do guys hit on you a lot?”

“Lando..please” You were already getting exhausted from this kind of conversation. You considered it so unimportant that you almost forgot it happened, but you could understand why Lando was upset about it.

“No, tell me, y/n!”

“Yes, guys do hit on me, but I never ever respond to any of that in any kind of way whatsoever!”

“Oh, that’s really nice. Very comforting.” He says sarcastically.

“What? Am I so unattractive that it comes as such a surprise to you?”

“No, fuck..of course not. I just-“ He sighs running his hands through his hair. “I just thought everyone knew you were mine..”

“Lando, as long as I know that I’m yours, it doesn’t matter what other guys think or try to do. And I can’t believe that you would even think that I was doing something behind your back. I can’t believe you don’t trust me, Lando?” It hurt you because you never gave him a reason to doubt you. Your relationship was pure and full of love for each other. Topics like this have never even been in the conversation.

He deeply sighs again and steps closer to you cupping your face making you look up at him. “It’s not you that I don’t trust, it’s others. I don’t want someone to steal you from me. I’m sorry”

“That could never happen.” You say looking up at him.

He pulls your face closer to his wanting to kiss you, but you move your head to the left avoiding the kiss.

“I’m going to change. I’m tired.” You move away from him and go to your shared bedroom.

Your mood was no longer up to par and you weren't as happy and excited as you were half an hour ago and you blamed Lando for that. On the one hand, you understood him, but on the other hand, you couldn't believe that he doubted you even for a slight moment.

It especially hurt you because you knew that girls are hitting on him every chance they get and that they obsess over him all the time not caring in the slightest that he has a girlfriend and yet you never showed him it bothered you because you know he only has eyes for you.

You took a quick shower and changed into more comfortable clothes. Although you were still sad about the things that went down with Lando, you wanted to see Mila and hang out with her in case she woke up because it was only 7 p.m. so you headed to the living room shortly after taking the shower.

You knew she was awake when you approached the living room and heard Lando and her chatting about the Minions that Lando had turned on on the TV. It was more of Lando's favorite cartoon than Mila’s honestly. You walked over closer and saw Lando

Lando was lying on the couch and Mila was lying next to him with her head resting on his chest while his arm was wrapped around her. The sight melted your heart. You loved their relationship. You loved seeing him spend time with her and bond and you loved the way she loved him.

“Auntie!!” Mila exclaimed when she saw you.

“Hey, cutie” You smiled at her sitting on the couch next to Lando and giving her a hug. “Are you guys watching the Minions?”

“Yess!!” She said excitedly.

“Wanna join us?” Lando asked, his eyes pleading for you to say yes.

You nodded your head bringing a huge smile to Lando's face. He opened his free arm for you so you can cuddle up to him. When you laid your head against his chest as well as Mila, he tightly wrapped his arm around you and kissed your head quietly whispering “I’m sorry”

You just looked up at him and kissed his chin without saying a word.

Halfway through the movie, Mila slowly began to fall asleep again. Lando was gently rubbing her back the whole time and when he would stop for a moment she would startle and say "Lala, more" so Lando had to continue until she fell asleep and you just found his gesture so adorable.

“I can't wait to see you like this with our own baby.” You said softly.

“What? Are you-?”

“I’m not pregnant, Lan” You chuckled. “I’m just saying, one day I hope.”

“You want babies with me?” He asked his fingers playing with your hair and looking into your eyes as you lifted your gaze up.

“Of course I do. I think about it often.” You admit that every now and then you find yourself daydreaming about your perfect little family and it makes you so excited about the future.

“Yeah? I do too, baby. I dream of holding you both just like this, waking up next to you, taking care of you.” He says pressing a kiss on your forehead. “Should we make it a reality soon?”

“I think we should, Lan”

[brattyfics]

Sins of The Flesh II

Pairing: Terry Richmond x Black!OC [Riley]

Wordcount: 3,000+

Warnings: 18+ Minors DNI, Alternate Universe (Mike Is Alive), P in V, Spanking Aftermath, Mentions of Heaven/Hell, Daddy Kink, Dirty Talk, Absolute Filth, Breeding Kink, Oral (Female Receiving)

A/N: Part One should be read first. Divider by fireflygraphics. I'm kind of embarrassed, but not really because y'all are nasty too.

“I want grits with a salmon croquette and chicken sausage. Can you get me a strawberry lemonade too? Their lemonade is amazing.”

Riley lay on her stomach in bed, facing Terry, who was propped up against the headboard, cell phone in hand. He rubbed between her shoulder blades, his touch gentle and soothing as he dialed up the brunch restaurant. Freshly bathed and wrapped up in one of his Marines T-shirts, she felt almost like she was floating. Having Terry there, being so attentive and caring, was exactly what she needed after their time apart.

“You want a side of bacon, too?” he asked, eyeing her with a raised brow. He knew her too well—she always said no, but then asked for some of his when the food arrived. “No, I don't need that much. Just a little bit.” She pinched her fingers together, mimicking a tiny portion.

“I’ll just have some of yours. You’ll share, right, baby?” She reached over lazily to rub his forearm, her fingers caressing the scar above his wrist. His expression softened as he gazed into her sweet brown eyes. She was so mesmerizing without even trying.

“Of course. Whatever you want,” he said, placing the order without the bacon but adding on an order of beignets. They were her guilty pleasure and he enjoyed tasting the powdered sugar that lingered on her lips afterward.

He tossed his phone aside after learning the total. “It’ll be here in an hour.”

“An hour?” she sighed deeply, “I’m going to starve by then.” After church hunger hit differently, and his spanking had drained her energy even more. She needed a nap and a big hearty meal to recover.

“You’ll be a’ight,” he grinned, shaking his head slightly as he laughed. "As soon as you take that first bite, you'll be saying it was worth the wait." Riley erupted into laughter, surprised at how predictable she really was. “Quit acting like you got me all figured out,” she giggled, tracing the lines of his palms with her fingers. “Today could be different, you never know.”

“You say that every week, babe.”

“I could change my mind,” she insisted, coming up with all kinds of scenarios—like missing chicken sausage or a plain lemonade that would throw her whole day off. The beignets could arrive soggy or without enough powdered sugar.

"You just talkin' to be talkin', huh?" He cut her off, tickling her sides until she was shrieking and wiggling away from him. She swatted at his hands, enjoying the lightness of the moment and teasing him back, “You know you love when I run my mouth.”

“You got a gift for keeping things interesting, that’s for sure.” He admitted, gaze drawn to her backside as her legs kicked up playfully behind her. The moments when it felt like it was just the two of them in the entire world with nothing else to worry about were her favorite.

“See? I knew you liked all this mouth.”

“Yeah, but that mouth is what keeps getting you into trouble, too.” He reminded her with a gentle kiss, his hands sliding down to her waist. Riley smiled up at him, bright and beautiful, and he knew he couldn’t deny her anything. Her parents had spoiled their only child, and Terry nurtured that spirit, indulging her in every way. She’d run all over him if he let her, which is why their little “checks and balances” system was necessary.

"Let me see what we’re working with," He tugged her closer by her arms, brushing off her protests as he lifted the oversized T-shirt to her waist, eager to examine his handiwork. She’d soaked in an oatmeal bath for half an hour, but her butt was still welted, bearing the marks of his handprints.

"Damn, baby, I really did a number on you."

Riley propped herself up on her elbows. "I'm fine," she assured him softly. "I needed it." The release had allowed her to shed the tension that had built up over the past week, though her body was still aching.

“Let me go ahead and put some cream on that for you,” he insisted.

Earlier, she'd brushed off his offer, insisting it hurt too much and that waiting until after her bath would be best. She groaned, realizing she couldn’t avoid it any longer. Terry was all about that aftercare—always checking to make sure she was genuinely okay. He reached into the bedside drawer, pulled out the tube of homemade cream—a mix of shea butter and aloe vera gel—and then settled in behind her.

He knelt on his haunches, positioned between her legs while she buried her face in the sheets. She heard the cap pop open, followed by the sound of his hands rubbing together to warm the cream.

She hissed as he began to work magic, his touch gentle but precise.

Her eyes were tightly shut, but she could easily picture his arms flexing as he kneaded her skin. He was as skilled as any professional massage therapist. She never questioned where he’d learned that skill or how he’d perfected it. She preferred to remain ignorant. The thought of him using those hands on other women, touching them the same way, drove her up the wall.

That primal instinct constantly gnawed at her, igniting an ugly possessiveness she couldn’t rein in.

The last time they went on a dinner date, she was convinced the older woman at the table next to them was intentionally dropping her napkin just to get Terry to keep picking it up. That lady took every opportunity to touch his hands, leaning in way too close for comfort. It didn’t take all that just to say 'thank you'.

Afterward, she told him she never wanted to go back, pretending it was because the tables were too close together. The truth was, she felt too embarrassed to admit she was jealous of someone old enough to be her grandma for no good reason.

Then there were the young women who couldn’t resist trying their luck. The same girls she grew up with at church would ask, “Terry, can you bring my donations in for me? They’re so heavy. Terry, can you carry these cakes in? Terry, will you come out to the car and grab these cans of soda?”

They knew damn well they were dragging their own donations in before he started showing up. So she made it a point to lag behind on Sunday mornings. They wouldn’t be late, but they also wouldn’t arrive early enough for anyone to take advantage.

And don’t get her started on the women at the grocery store; they were the absolute worst!

They’d whisper and watch Terry as he walked through the aisles. He’d bend down and reach for everything Riley pointed out, completely oblivious to their lingering. They clustered around when he loaded up the cart with water. It drove her so crazy that she eventually started ordering her groceries for pickup, insisting he unload them at home.

All that fine was for her eyes only.

Gradually, the burning sting began to subside. What had felt like a raging fire now simmered down to a dull, tender ache. “Feel better?” he asked, kissing the back of her neck. “Mhm,” she hummed lazily, on the verge of falling asleep.

“Yes. Thank you.”

He bent down and placed a soft kiss on her cheek. “I'm supposed to look after you. You don’t need to thank me for that.” She had a way of bringing out his softer side, making him feel more tender than he ever planned to be. “You had it coming, but that doesn’t mean I don’t feel bad about it.”

“I told you I’m fine, baby.”

"Doesn't mean I can't kiss it better."

She bit her lip, wishing he would finally grant her the one request she’d been making all day. The waiting felt like a tightrope walk—teetering on the edge of cruel and unusual punishment.

“But I gotta make sure I’ve got all my bases covered first," he said as he helped her onto her hands and knees, applying gentle pressure to her back until she arched.

Slivers of light filtered through the closed blinds, bouncing off her moisturized, glossy skin. He watched, enthralled, as her hips swayed back and forth, fueled by all that pent-up energy. He couldn’t look away from the swollen, soft pink. 

"Yeah, I’mma make it all better with a kiss." He pledged, carefully using both of his hands to part her open before pressing a gentle kiss against her slit. She panted, heart racing as he kissed her pussy the same way he kissed her lips—slow and sensual, taking his sweet time before sliding his tongue in.

He teased her with his words in between.

"You always taste so good."

"I missed this pussy while I was away."

"It's all I could think about."

"Such a sweet girl, baby."

Riley jolted forward, squealing in surprise when the tip of his tongue brushed her sensitive clit. “Don’t move,” He instructed sternly, grabbing hold of the back of her thighs. His tongue lavished her wet pussy as she squirmed; warm, wet, methodical, and engineered to drive her wild. Terry was such a fucking menace.

"Wait a second, baby," She tried to gather herself, groaning and shifting her hips, as if another moment would make his teasing any easier to endure. She bit her lip to stifle her sounds, but he wasn't having that. Terry wrapped his arms under her legs until he had her firmly secured.

"What did I say?" She struggled against his grip but found it was iron-tight. "Don't run from me," He warned like he didn't already have her pinned down and at his mercy.

He took full advantage of her vulnerable position, zeroing in on her puffy clit, sucking, licking, and devouring her like a starved man. She clawed at his hands, but it was useless.

“Oh God!" She gasped, convinced he was one of the devil’s soldiers, sent to torment and steal her soul. Nothing else made sense. She’d never met a man so skilled and deliberate in driving her insane. 

“You good, baby?” She heard the smirk in his voice, certain that this was some new form of torture. The only time she caught a break was when he took a second to breathe, and even then, he was right back at it, pushing her limits all over again. His mouth was even more skilled than his hands, working her over soft and deliberate until she was trembling.

Terry was indeed a fucking menace, but she was his willing prey, moaning that it was too much while pushing her hips back for more. Her essence dripped onto his tongue and down his chin, sweet and sticky like ripe mango.

"I'm gonna come!" She wailed, grinding against his face.

Terry pawed at her butt, a surge of aggression washing over him. It took everything not to spank her ass some more. He stuffed his face where she wanted it, letting her ride his tongue until she creamed all over it.

“Shit!” she screamed, collapsing forward as her hips jerked uncontrollably. 

The sound of his shorts falling to the floor faded into the background as blood rushed to her ears, drowning out everything else. Before she realized it, he flipped her onto her back, placing one pillow under her head and another beneath her back to ease the pressure on her bottom. He lifted her hips, positioning himself to slide between her legs.

The tip of his dick leaked as he stroked it, grunting softly as he tried to mentally prepare for the tight fit. Her pussy was still clenching down on nothing, hungry for something more.

“Come ‘ere,” Riley urged, pulling him down to her lips for a deep kiss and moaning wantonly as she tasted herself. She wrapped her arms and legs tight around Terry’s large frame, grinding down against his hard dick. Her chest felt tight with emotions that were too intense.

I love you to death. You mean everything to me. I need you.

Terry could ask her to do just anything in that moment, and she’d say yes without a second thought. She’d agree to have ten children if that's what he wanted. She wanted a permanent connection, something to bind them together forever—a family of their own.

"You ready for more, pretty girl?"

"I'll take whatever you give me," She promised softly, laser-focused on his big dick as he teased at her entrance. She was fatigued, but finally getting what she had been fantasizing about all week. Deep brown skin, mesmerizing hazel eyes, and a strong, muscular build that could surround her completely.

Her face contorted, brows furrowed and mouth agape as he pushed in. Terry pressed his face into her neck, letting out a soft groan as she ran her fingers soothingly along his back. "I love you," she confessed, unable to contain the emotion any longer as he began to move his hips.

Terry could barely think straight with her squeezing him so tightly, but he managed to work up to a steady rhythm, gently pushing and pulling until he was fully sheathed inside her. Riley gripped his arms for dear life as he occupied every inch of her.

“Can’t believe you thought I was giving this to somebody else,” He let out a loud grunt, thrusting deep. "I already got my hands full with you, baby."

Riley was his own little slice of heaven, perfectly crafted just for him. He never imagined he could love someone so deeply that being apart from her felt like he was missing a limb. As he slipped into her, he remembered how she had accused him of cheating when she was the only thing on his mind. Her sweet magnolia scent and those beautiful brown eyes—she was his master, and she didn’t even realize it.

"Fuck me," She ordered with the urgency of a drill sergeant, grabbing his ass and pushing him deeper. She wanted him buried inside of her. “That feels so good.” She growled out.

“Keep fucking me, just like that.”

"Fuck this tight pussy, Daddy.”

“I missed this dick so fucking much.”

“I’ve been thinking about it everyday.”

She didn’t usually speak that way, but something was taking over her, making the vulgar words spill from her lips effortlessly.

It had taken all his restraint not to give in to her earlier, but it was worth it for this moment. The way her heat molded around him, fitting him perfectly as she clung to him, desperate and wanton.

“You’re being so rough with me, baby!” she exclaimed, though there was no hint of complaint. Terry was manhandling her like a ragdoll, and she loved every second of it. Watching such a disciplined man lose control over her was exhilarating.

Terry tried to restrain his darker urges around her, but she was so beautiful when she cried. It only fueled his hunger, driving him to be even more aggressive. She clawed at his back, yelling out when his balls smacked her tender ass.

“I wanna have your baby, Daddy.” Riley confessed with tears in her eyes. She knew she had to be losing her mind, but she meant every word.

Terry’s hips faltered. “What did you just say?”

“I want to give you a baby. I want us to have a baby together. Can we, please?”

Every conversation they’d had about having children had ultimately come down to the understanding that they needed to be married first before starting a family. The pullout method, however dangerous, had worked for them thus far. He couldn’t believe the words coming out of her mouth, but she knew exactly what to say to get what she wanted out of him. "I want to be the one to give you a baby, Daddy. The only one.”

Terry cursed, struggling to keep his composure. His own mind was foggy with love and lust. Her parents would be furious if he got her pregnant before marriage, but he couldn't find it in himself to care. They could go ring shopping tomorrow and then apply for the marriage license right after. It was just paperwork—he already knew how he felt.

“You for real?” He imagined her big and round, pregnant and filled with his child. Relying on him to help her tie her shoes or assemble a crib for their child.

"Yes!" she replied eagerly, her eyes shining with desire.

“You want me to make you a mommy?”

“Yes, I’m ready to have all your babies, Daddy.” Babies? She always had to take it a step further. The bare minimum was never enough for her. She was utterly spoiled, and their children would undoubtedly be the same.

“How am I supposed to turn you down when you ask so sweet?” Terry leaned in closer, his breath warm against her neck as he let out a low growl. “If you want my baby, you’re gonna have to be a really good girl and keep that pussy open for me.”

“If you keep giving it to me good, I’ll give you what you want.”

“I’ll cum deep in that creamy pussy and give you a baby.”

She was so wet that everything felt slick, her brown eyes glazed over with desire. He knew he should try to be the responsible one, but all he could think about was filling her womb and giving her the beautiful baby she was begging him for. “Tell me you’re mine,” he says, gripping her neck firmly, leaving her breathless.

“I-," The doorbell rings, and it takes her a few moments to process the sound. Terry doesn’t stop, sweat dripping down his face and onto her skin, mixing with hers. It’s as if he’s in a trance, unable to concentrate on anything but his mission.

“Oh my God,” she cries, pushing at his firm stomach for when he strikes a particularly sensitive spot inside of her. Terry forced her up the bed with each powerful motion of his hips, fucking her harder and deeper than he ever had before.

“Relax. It's probably the food," He crooned, brushing her hands aside. "I’ll get it, but I need to give you my baby first.”

“Oh my God,” She braced herself as the pressure built in her belly. Terry was driving himself deep and hard in her pussy like he had a point to prove. He really wanted that baby. With her eyes closed shut, Riley surrendered, pinching and pulling on her nipples until she was soaking Terry and the sheets beneath them. He held her down, ensuring she couldn’t escape as he flooded her with cum.

“Oh my god,” she repeated incessantly, like a broken record. All of his weight settled on top of her, their foreheads touching. She gazed into his eyes, the realization of what they had just done beginning to sink in. She didn’t have any regrets; she was eager to claim him as hers forever. Excited to nurture a child who represented the best of each of them.

Terry leaned in, capturing her lips in a passionate kiss that lingered as if he were trying to memorize the taste of her. When he finally pulled away, it was with reluctance, his gaze locked on hers. He couldn’t find any hint of regret in her eyes, and he certainly didn’t have any himself.

"Thank you, Daddy." She cooed, reaching down to stroke her clit. He watched, entranced as their slick oozed out of her. It felt like he was hardwired for it, instinctively wanting to fill her up again and push in deep. “Whatever happens next, I’m gonna take care of you.” He vowed, his warm hand pressing gently on her belly. He silently prayed for a favorable outcome, hoping it would lead to a little baby in the next ten months.

She brushed the sweat from his forehead with the back of her hand. “I know. I love you and trust you completely. I really want us to be a family.”

“We will be,” he said with a conviction that tugged at her heartstrings.

The doorbell rang again.

“The food,” she reminded him, gently pushing him back before they got too caught up in the moment. She needed a moment to catch her breath anyway. The tension between them was smoldering.

He cursed under his breath as he reluctantly pulled away, picking up his shorts from the floor and then his wallet from the dresser. She heard the faint sound of the door alarm as the front door opened, followed by quiet voices conversing while she stared up at the ceiling.

Her heavy eyelids fluttered shut. There was no way she'd be able to go to work in the morning.

Terry eventually shuffled back into the room, holding the tied bag in his large hands like a prized catch. “Come on. Let’s put something else in your belly before you knock out on me.”

Thoughts? Lol 😂

Tagging the people who asked for a second installment:

@sageispunk @avoidthings @megamindsecretlair @planetblaque

[roosterforme]

Aim for the Sky Part 3 | Rooster x Reader

Summary: Bradley starts building his daughter's playset with a little help from an unexpected visitor. He wants to finish all of his projects and take care of you and do as much as he can now that he's home. There's so much he wants to get done, it might be time to make a to-do list.

Warnings: Fluff, smut, swearing, oral, pregnancy, bit of angst

Length: 4000 words

Pairing: Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x Female Reader

Aim for the Sky masterlist. This was written to accompany my series Is It Working For You? along with a bunch of my one-shots and other series, but it can be read on its own! Check my masterlist for the reading order.

Bradley was up at the crack of dawn on Saturday. His afternoon nap the previous day turned into one that lasted into the evening when you got up with him and cooked him dinner before going back to bed. His plan was to come home and take care of everything so you didn't have to, but so far you made him homemade chicken fajitas and lulled him to sleep with your fingers in his hair, twice. 

But today, he was determined to return the favor. He wanted to get started on building the jungle gym, and he wanted to get in a few reps on his own workout equipment in the garage. He'd clean up the kitchen and take Tramp for a walk later, too. If he got started now, he might be able to build the entire jungle gym frame for his daughter. His daughter. He ran his hands over his face as you snoozed right next to him in bed. Would he ever stop being on the verge of tears when he thought about it?

There was a list of names he liked in the Nugget notebook which was still tucked away in his duffle bag. He had a favorite, but he didn't want to try to convince you that it was perfect until he heard which ones you liked. But he knew it would be perfect.

"Roo?"

He was just about to slip out of bed when you rolled toward him, reaching for him groggily like you couldn't quite believe he was really home. "There's my Baby Girl," he whispered, letting his hand settle on your belly now that you were awake. "And my Nugget."

In an instant, you pushed him onto his back, kissing him as he cradled you with both hands. Your bump wasn't very big yet, but it was noticeable, and he didn't want to hurt you. God he missed waking up next to you, and it was obvious you'd missed him, too. You deepened the kiss, your tongue dipping between his parted lips until you were tasting his mouth. He could feel your nipples harden against his chest through a layer of cotton as you dragged your fingers through his hair before letting them trail down his body to the waistband of the shorts he fell asleep in. 

"Okay," he grunted, already hard for you as you ran your index finger inside the elastic. "Take it easy, Sweetheart. Wanna make this last." He rolled you gently onto your back as you cupped him inside his shorts, your thumb stroking his length. You squeezed his balls gently, spreading your legs wide. He glanced down your body as you smirked at him. "If you're gonna show off that pretty pussy, I'll put my mouth all over it."

"Bradley," you moaned, turning your head to the side. How on earth that bashful smile could make him even wilder, he had no idea. But just when he ran his thumb along your wet slit and tickled your ear with his mustache, someone started pounding on the front door.

You squeaked and jolted beneath him, but not in the way he wanted. "What the fuck?" he growled, easing his body off of yours. Once he was standing, he tried to adjust himself in his shorts, but it was obvious he was hard. Then there was more pounding.

"It's your first weekend home. Did you seriously invite someone over here this early, Bradley?" you asked, squinting as you reached for your phone. "It's seven o'clock!"

"No," he grunted. "I didn't even talk to anyone! I just wanted to eat your pussy in peace."

He stormed out of the bedroom, adjusting himself as he went. Tramp was already pacing back and forth and whimpering at the front door when Bradley saw Jake's car parked in front of the house. "Oh, you've got to be fucking kidding me." He wrenched the door open and found Jake standing there with some grocery bags and a box of donuts. "What do you want?" Bradley barked while Tramp started licking the unwanted visitor's leg.

Jake strolled inside like he wasn't interrupting Bradley's blissful weekend of giving his wife head and finding out his Nugget is a girl. "I brought all of the groceries and everything," Jake answered, heading for the kitchen, completely unfazed by Bradley in nothing but his compression shorts. "Welcome home, by the way. Looks like the perfect day to start on that playset."

Bradley didn't particularly want to jump down his throat, especially since Jake had been the one to promise to get the damn thing built for the baby if he didn't make it home in one piece. "Why are you here exactly?" he asked, and then he heard your voice from down the hallway.

"Is that Jake?"

"Yes," Bradley and Jake replied at the same time. And then you appeared wearing that old shirt and a pair of Bradley's gym shorts and your glasses, and he wanted to drag you back to bed and put his mouth everywhere.

"What the hell?" you asked, stomping right up to Jake, clearly annoyed that Bradley's face wasn't between your thighs. "You practically woke us up!"

"Well, that's not completely true," Bradley muttered with a smirk, earning a glare from you. 

Jake checked the clock on the microwave. "It's 7:18. When you texted me last night and said Rooster was home, you told me to come over around seven."

"I meant seven in the evening!" you said, flailing your arms. "Like a normal person!"

Jake just shrugged and bit into a donut. "I brought the groceries you asked for."

Bradley watched you and saw the exact moment you caved. The annoyance on your face melted away as you grabbed a cream donut from the box. "Wait, why did you ask Jake to bring groceries over?"

You nibbled on the donut and snuggled up against Bradley, looking up at him as you said, "I wanted to make Reuben his cookies today, but I didn't want to leave you to go to the store."

He kissed some powdered sugar from your lips and whispered, "You're the sweetest thing."

You pressed your cheek to his chest and said, "Since he's here, you might as well get Jake to help you with the pallets on the driveway since I can't lift anything that heavy."

Bradley cringed just thinking about it. "You will not be lifting a fucking finger, Sweetheart. I'll take care of everything." He looked at Jake over your head and asked, "Feel like helping me get started on the playset?"

He had half of a second donut in his mouth as he mumbled, "I thought that's why I was here."

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

Bradley didn't put any more clothing on, and that was a-okay with you. He just added his work boots to the mix. Those black compression shorts were working overtime as he and an equally shirtless Jake hauled everything from the driveway to the backyard. He already cleared out the area where the playset would go, framed it in with long wood planks and filled it with gravel, and today they would start assembling the frame.

Your plan to make five dozen cookies for Reuben kept getting derailed as you wandered over to the sliding glass door every five minutes or so. The yard wasn't very big, and now most of it would be taken up by the patio, shed and playset, but you'd let your husband build anything he wanted back there. He was so excited about the baby, it made you feel lightheaded. 

You were pregnant with a girl. Maybe she'd have Bradley's wavy hair. Maybe she would look just like him. You leaned against the open door frame and watched the guys as they argued about a drill bit setting and smiled. When you caught Bradley's eye, he shouted out, "I love you," before continuing with his discussion. He loved you so well, you already knew he'd be just as devoted to his daughter.

The oven started beeping, letting you know it had preheated. You ran your hand down your body and whispered, "Your father is going to spoil you rotten." Then you put the first tray of chocolate chip cookie dough in the oven, and within minutes your entire house smelled amazing. You baked so many cookies for Reuben, you didn't see how he would even be able to eat all of them before they got stale, so you shaped the last batch into little heart cookies with your fingers before tossing them in the oven.

Then when you took a bite out of one of the cookies that was cooling on the counter, you felt her. It was that same light, fluttering sensation as last time when you tried to eat a piece of candy on Halloween. "Hi," you whispered, voice laced with excitement. "Do you have a sweet tooth?" There was more fluttering, and you grabbed at the edge of the counter as you laughed. "You do! Are you going to eat everything I bake just like your dad?"

You closed your eyes and chewed the cookie slowly, letting yourself linger in the kitchen over the feel of your daughter doing some kind of a wild somersault for you. 

"It's getting hot out," came Bradley's voice through the open door. "Let's grab some drinks before we drill the brackets into place." Once he was inside with Jake, he started digging around in the refrigerator, retrieving two cans of beer and two water bottles. "You okay, Sweetheart?" he asked as he handed Jake a bottle and a can. He was eyeing you cautiously where you stood with your hand on your belly. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing," you whispered, and now both men were looking at you. "The Nugget was just doing some backflips."

"She was?" Bradley asked in excitement, leaving his forgotten drinks on the counter next to the refrigerator. In an instant, he was on his knees in front of you, yanking your shirt up and kissing your belly button while his big, warm hands settled against you. "Is she still?"

"She?" Jake asked with a smile, and you smiled back while Bradley shushed him.

"I think it's still too early for you to feel anything this way," you whispered, tugging your fingers through Bradley's sweaty hair as his stubbled cheek came to rest on your bump.

"Hey, little Nugget," he murmured while Jake took his drinks and slipped back outside. "Can you let Daddy feel like one little thump?" You could feel her squirming around while he talked, but she was probably still too small for him to get what he wanted. "Please?"

You didn't rush him. Bradley just knelt there with his eyes closed for a few minutes while you played with his hair. Now that Jake knew you were having a girl, you may as well just call your parents this week and tell all of your friends as well.

Bradley groaned and hopped to his feet as soon as Jake started up one of his power tools on the patio. He kissed you, his sun-warmed torso pressed against you as he said, "I need to make sure he doesn't break anything." You were still laughing as he rushed outside.

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

The backyard was coming together nicely. After you fed Jake dinner and he finally left, Bradley undressed you and picked you up, setting you down on the edge of the counter where you could look out the window as the sky darkened. "You got a lot done today," you moaned while Bradley spread your legs and ate your pussy, picking up where he left off this morning. "Such a dedicated Daddy."

"Anything for the Nugget," he groaned before licking a long stripe up to your clit. His forehead bumped your growing belly which thrilled him as he slowly, meticulously brought you every bit of pleasure you should have had in bed earlier. His mind was swirling with all of the projects he had to do and the torn apart attic, and he was still exhausted from being away for so long. But he got lost in your taste and the sounds you were making as soon as he started sucking gently on your clit.

"You know what that fucking mustache does to me," you gasped while he tried not to grin. His fingers found your dainty tattoo, and he sucked on your clit a little harder until you were begging him to fuck you. He wanted to tell you no and draw your orgasm out of you on the kitchen counter, but then you demanded, "I want to come on your cock."

Carefully, so he didn't dare hurt you, he helped you slide off the counter and into his arms. "If this is uncomfortable for you, then you need to tell me, Baby Girl." But you were already spinning around and pressing your gorgeous ass back against him.

"Fuck me," you whined, and Bradley was more than happy to oblige.

He lined himself up with your slick entrance and pushed himself deep as he said, "I thought you told me you weren't as horny in the second trimester."

You were whimpering his name before you got control. "Well now that you're home, I guess I am."

"Music to my ears." 

He went slowly, making sure you felt everything, and he cupped your belly and your fucking delicious breasts while you held onto the counter. Your body felt different to him, but in so many ways it was exactly the same. Your response never changed; you always welcomed him knowing he'd get you there no matter what. And you gripped him tight, rolling your hips back to meet him, stroke for stroke. 

When he plucked at your nipples, you arched your back, and when he rolled your clit between his fingers, you started to come. He was right there, too, and you pushed him over the edge when you said, "Make a mess of my pussy, Roo."

"Damn it," he growled, lips pressed to your shoulder as he filled you up and kept himself thrust deep to enjoy the squeeze of your orgasm around him. When you straightened up but held him snug inside you, your head tipped back against his shoulder. "How was that, Sweetheart?" he crooned, and you moaned. Then your stomach growled loudly, and he chuckled. 

"I'm so hungry. Didn't we just eat dinner?"

"My little Nugget is growing," he whispered, letting his chin rest on your shoulder so he could look at your tits. He brought his hands up so he could swipe his thumbs along your nipples. "I swear these fucking thing are getting bigger by the day," he mused while you reached for the plastic container of chocolate chip cookies. You held it up and let him take a bite before finishing the rest of it yourself. "Weren't these supposed to be for Reuben?" he asked.

You pointed to the island where several gallon sized bags were filled with cookies. "His are regular. The little heart shaped ones in this container are for you."

Bradley could have stood there forever with his hands all over the front of you and his softening cock still inside your pussy while you fed him heart shaped cookies and told him the baby was moving around again. "I want to feel her," he whispered.

Your head tipped back again as you said, "I know, Roo. Pretty soon she'll be kicking up a storm, excited about meeting her dad." 

Then you started yawning and he finally took a reluctant step away from you. "It's time for bed," he said, patting your ass. "It was an early morning with Jake showing up and everything." He followed you to the bathroom and helped you clean up his cum from your legs, and then he waited until you were done washing your face and brushing your teeth to lead you to bed. He handed you a clean pair of his boxer briefs and watched you pull them up so the elastic sat just below your bump. He smiled, and before you could pull on his ancient UVA shirt, he pulled you closer.

"Can I help you with something?" you asked, giving him a coy look. "You ready to go for round two?"

He raised one eyebrow. "Are you ready to go for round two?" You were smiling but already stifling another yawn when he guided you toward the bed and tugged his shirt over your head. "You need to rest. I'll fuck you twice tomorrow."

You pulled the blanket up and whispered, "This is all Jake's fault."

Bradley snorted as he pulled the blanket back down, yanked up the shirt and leaned down to press his lips to your warm breasts. You whimpered as he kissed both nipples and ran his nose along your perfectly soft skin. "I can't get enough of these fucking things. My god, Sweetheart." He forced himself to pull the shirt back into place when you started to squirm, quickly kissing your bump first. After he removed your glasses and set them aside, he reached for the lamp on your nightstand.

"Aren't you getting in bed?"

He shook his head. "I'll clean the kitchen and let Tramp out first, and then I'll be in. I love you both."

"Love you, Roo," you curled up on your side, already falling asleep when you added, "You know what I'm hungry for?"

"What's that, Baby Girl?"

"Hot sauce."

He had to stifle his laughter as he whispered, "Finally. I'll take care of that tomorrow, too. I'll just add it to my list. Two rounds of sex, more playset building, and some hot sauce."

You were already sound asleep.

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

When you got up on Sunday morning, Bradley and Tramp were nowhere to be found, but both Broncos were in the driveway. "Roo?" You were met with silence as you made yourself some coffee and filled a glass with water. He had covered the refrigerator in rows of ultrasound photos, and you couldn't help but laugh at the way he used up all of the magnets. You picked up one of the now stale donuts that Jake left, and that's when you found a note from your husband.

Walking Tramp to the beach. Back soon. I have my phone. Tell the Nugget I love her.

You smiled, looked down at your belly and said, "Your Daddy loves you." The way she immediately started to squirm and flutter around had you reaching for the counter. "Feels like you love him, too." 

You moved his note to the side, and your fingers brushed a handwritten list, partially folded up and sitting on top of all of Bradley's unopened mail that you'd collected. The last time you went through his things, you ended up in a very dark place after you saw the results from the sperm test he took. You didn't want to do that again. You could just want until he got home. He wouldn't be long now. 

But you stood there and read the first two things written which weren't hidden from your view. Contact lawyer. Send check to Nicole.

Who was Nicole? And why was Bradley contacting a lawyer without you? Your skin prickled as you reached for the piece of paper before pushing it further away. You considered going to get your phone from the bedroom to call him and tell him to come home, but instead you stood there and got frustrated. You did not want to do this to yourself again.

When he walked inside a few minutes later wearing snug gym shorts and a white tank, he was all smiles as Tramp ran for his water bowl. "Morning," he rasped, yanking his aviators down lower on his nose as he hung up the leash. "You look cute."

You didn't though. You hadn't showered, and you didn't even brush your teeth yet. "Can we talk about what's on this list?"

His brow furrowed and he froze. "What list?"

"This one," you said as calmly as you could. "The one where you wrote about contacting a lawyer and someone named Nicole."

He made his way over to you and asked, "How much did you read?" as he tossed his sunglasses on the counter.

You crossed your arms over your bump and frowned. "That's all I read."

"Good." He snatched it up, unfolded it and handed it to you. "It's my list of things I want to take care of today or tomorrow."

You read the list from top to bottom.

Contact lawyer

Send check to Nicole for permit

Order album for ultrasounds

Call Bradley Ross

Hot sauce reservation for my Baby Girl

Text Reuben

Offer to babysit Jeremiah

Order a new drill bit to replace the one Jake broke

Decide on Thanksgiving plans

"Oh," you said, meeting his eyes as you handed it back to him. "Who's Bradley Ross?"

He folded up the list again as he said, "The contractor who is going to re-do our attic however you want it."

"Oh." You pressed your lips together before you asked, "Are you going to tell me why you want to talk to a lawyer and who Nicole is?"

"Come here," he rasped, and you tucked yourself into his arms, your lips brushing his paper airplane tattoo. "I want a lawyer to add the Nugget to my will. And I think you should come with me to make sure literally everything is in order. for yourself, too." You nodded against him, and then he added, "And I really don't want to tell you who Nicole is, because it will ruin the surprise. But I've never even met her, and I have no idea who she actually is."

"That sounds weird."

"It's not, I promise, Sweetheart."

You looked up into his eyes, his gaze soft as he ran his hand slowly up and down your back. You already felt better just talking to him. "Fine. Keep your secrets. But the surprise had better be a good one."

He nodded. "It's something for our anniversary. You'll love it. Now why don't you bring your coffee outside and keep me company while I work on the playset?"

You were starting to melt. "I could do that."

"Then we can take a shower together?" he asked hopefully. "You can wash my hair?"

You melted a little bit more. "I would love that."

"And then I'll take you out to dinner."

You sat out on the patio in the sun for a while, not doing much to help Bradley other than occasionally catcall and make sure he drank enough water. Then you took a luxurious shower, complete with hair washing and sex against the wall. He was taking you up to the hot sauce restaurant in Del Mar where you had your first date, and you squeezed yourself into the red dress you wore that night.

Bradley was acting like his brain was short circuiting, and maybe it was. "Holy fucking hell," he groaned, gripping the edge of the dresser when he came to check to see if you were ready to go. He was staring at you like he was in agony as he bit down on his knuckle. He let out a soft wheezing sound before he said, "You're pregnant. In your red dress."

You looked down at yourself; you didn't think it looked that bad. "Yes?"

He rushed forward and grabbed your hand. "That's so fucking sexy. We've gotta go. Now. Or else we'll never leave the house."

"Roo!" you laughed as he pulled you along. "I don't even have shoes on."

He threatened to carry you everywhere before you successfully put on a cute pair of shoes. Then you and he dropped the cookies off at Reuben's place, and you gave the other aviator a kiss on the cheek and thanked him for looking after Bradley. And then the two of you were back in the blue Bronco, winding up the coastal highway as the sun set over the ocean. It was nearly Thanksgiving. It was almost your first wedding anniversary. The Nugget was back to doing somersaults. And finally, you were craving hot sauce again.

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

This man already loves his kiddo. BG is about to have a do over for the steak dinner that got ruined when she was in Annapolis. I still don't know what they are doing for Thanksgiving (good thing it's on his to-do list), but they will definitely be celebrating their first anniversary very soon! Thanks @beyondthesefourwalls

PART 4

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[nikkento-writes]

Rub You the Right Way - Part 3

Part 1 | Part 2

Pairing: Choso x f!reader

Rating: Explicit – MINORS DO NOT INTERACT!

Word Count: ~3.0k

cw: female reader, 2nd-person POV, explicit language, explicit sexual content, smut – cunnilingus, use of sex toys, cum eating, PIV sex (missionary), breeding and pregnancy kink

Summary: You and Choso are next-door neighbors who are very much smitten with one another. After a month of dirtying up third base as much as possible, the both of you are finally ready to hit it out of the park. 

Author’s Notes: Baseball euphemisms because why not LOL? Thank you for reading! I love these dorks so much! This is the final installment of this teeny tiny series, so thank you all so much for the love and support on this, it means the world to me! Likes, reblogs, and/or comments are not expected but always appreciated. Thanks for reading! Divider credit to @/fic-dumpster.

“Damn, that was good!” Yuji exclaims, licking off the last of the chicken katsu curry from the rim of the bowl. He leans back on one hand, rubbing his belly with the other, a loud belch escaping his mouth. “Oops, sorry,” he apologizes, only a little bit embarrassed.

You giggle, stacking his empty dish on top of the others, standing up to place it in the sink. “I’m so glad you liked it. I couldn’t have done it without your brother, though. He’s a really good teacher.” 

“See, I told you, didn’t I?” Yuji smirks, pleased with himself. 

“It’s not hard to make, especially with the boxed curry mix.” Choso’s voice is bashful, downplaying the praise from both you and his brother. Still, you can sense the tiniest hint of pride in there.

“He’s too modest.” You return to the table to sit next to him, nudging him playfully.

Yuji rolls his eyes. “I know! It’s so frustrating! Seriously, you’ve got to give yourself more credit, bro. You’re awesome.” The blush on Choso’s cheeks are adorably obvious now as he continues to wave off the compliments. 

“Yeah, you really are,” you reiterate, resting your hand on top of his thigh, squeezing him gently. With the table obscuring his view, Yuji can’t see this small gesture, nor does he notice the subtle way Choso reacts, flustered and slightly aroused. He’s been wanting to touch you all night, but not in front of his precious baby brother, who remains clueless to the extent of your relationship. Before you can pull away completely, not wanting to rattle him any further, he hooks his pinky with yours, his grip unyielding. You smile to yourself, the two of you linked together while you chat with Yuji about your plans the rest of the night, which consists of Choso teaching you how to make a lovely castella cake, amongst other not-so-innocent activities. For the sake of Yuji’s virtue, you decide to leave that part out. 

It's been over a month now that you and Choso started your relationship after that unfortunate package mix-up, which ended up not being unfortunate at all. By total accident, you unboxed his brand spanking new Cock Sucker 3000, and in a bizarre attempt to alleviate any awkwardness from the situation, you proceeded to use your own sex toy in front of him while he demonstrated his, resulting in the hottest night of your life. Two days following that, after another ridiculous misunderstanding, the both of you realized your feelings for one another and decided to give this a shot. 

You’ve learned so much about him, most importantly that he’s quite the fragile soul, often distrusting of strangers right off the bat. The last thing you want is for him to lose his trust in you, so taking it day-by-day, little-by-little, is what works the best for the both of you. The two of you have remained on third base when it comes to sex, which you’re not complaining about one bit, considering how voracious you’ve been with each other. You’re waiting for the right time to finally hit that home run, a grand slam at this rate. It could happen tonight, tomorrow, maybe even a few more months from now. All you know for certain is that you’re happy with Choso, and he’s happy with you. That’s all that matters.

However, you’d be lying to yourself if you said you weren’t fantasizing about it already. You can’t help yourself when you’re with him. In front of others, he’s usually more reserved, timid. Alone with you, his confidence unveils. His touches are assured all over your body, an expert at all the big and little ways to make you moan in pleasure. The range of expressions he’s willing to show you, from unabashedly needy to absolutely feral, make your body tingle just thinking about it. And that voice, sweet and soft when he’s coaxing you, then to that sexy, gruffy tone as he ravishes you, whether it’s with his fingers, his mouth, his firm grip on the vibrator. It’s no shock that you’ve imagined the perfect way he’d slide into you, filling you up to the brim with his massive cock. Hell, you’ve admitted it to each other several times already, how badly you both want it, how good it’d feel to be bounded together as one. You keep reminding yourself to be patient, because when it does happen, it will be well worth the wait. 

The three of you hang out a while longer until Yuji announces that he’s leaving to get ready for a party with his friends. Choso gives his brother a big hug, handing him a small bag of leftovers to take with him back to his university apartment. “Don’t party too hard this weekend,” he warns him sternly, sounding like a protective parent. “Behave yourself. Don’t make Fushiguro take care of you and Kugisaki again.” 

Yuji beams at him. “Megumi likes taking care of us! That’s his idea of fun!” He looks at you, a mischievous grin on his face. “You two behave yourselves too, alright? Don’t forget to use protection.” 

Shit. Okay, so maybe he does know.

Choso stiffens, an uncomfortable noise gurgling in his throat, clearly stunned by Yuji’s remark. You let out a loud and nervous laugh, desperately trying to play it cool, though you two idiots couldn’t make this any more obvious. “We’re just making castella cake, remember? We’re not having sex at all! Just some good clean fun here, nothing naughty! Right, Choso?” You’re so frazzled that you accidentally kick your boyfriend a tad too hard in the ankle, enough for him to yelp. “Right, Choso?!”

Sweat beads on your forehead while he bumbles incoherently now, failing to his explain your bizarre reactions to his younger brother, who just stands there, very pleased with himself. “Oh, I meant oven mitts,” Yuji smiles innocently, completely unfazed. “You know, for your hands.” He turns on his heel to see himself out while Choso continues to gape at him. “See you two lovebirds next week!” he calls out from over his shoulder, waving until he’s out of sight.

Choso unclenches to close the door while you bury your face in your palms, ashamed of yourself. “I can’t believe I just did that.”

He surrounds you in his sweet embrace, relaxed and actually laughing. “At least you said something. I just stood there like an idiot.”

You peer up at him, pouting at him. “You’re not an idiot, take it back.”

“I take it back,” he relents, giving you a kiss on the forehead. 

Nuzzling your nose to his, you mention, “I guess that was our way of telling him, right?”

“I had a hunch he already knew,” he responds. “Yuji’s no dummy. He was already telling me stuff a few weeks ago.”

“What did he say?”

“Well, he was the one who told me to be friends with you. He’s even the one who first suggested inviting you to our family dinners.”

Your heart swells in your chest. “Really?”

He nods, a kind smile on his face. “Yeah. Yuji is a sweet kid, so I figured he was just being polite. But maybe he sees you and me being…y’know.”  

You smirk, giddy to hear the rest of his sentence. “What?”

His voice is quiet, shy from the sudden vulnerability he’s displaying. “A good fit? I don’t know, what do you think?” Despite all that’s happened between the two of you within a month, Choso still has his doubts, his insecurities. The last relationship he had ended because he caught his ex cheating. From then on, he’s been reluctant to let his guard down and trust someone with his heart again. You don’t blame him for being so cautious when it comes to love, so you do everything in your power to validate his emotions, reassure him that you care for him just as much as he cares for you. 

You hold him close, your heart thumping at a rapid pace. “I think we’re a perfect fit.” 

He swallows down whatever nerves were tightening in his throat, relieved to hear you say it, even though he’s never doubted your true intentions. Hearing it in your voice, seeing it in your kind eyes gives him the strength to tear down all the walls he’s built around himself to let you in. Inching closer, voice still quiet, he asks, “Can we…?”

You don’t let him finish his thought as you lean forward to press your lips to his. His arms squeeze you in a tighter embrace, nearly lifting you off your feet as he kisses you passionately. Your mouths move seamlessly together, his hands gliding smoothly along your waist, yours gently caressing his face, proving that the two of you are the perfect fit indeed. There’s dishes in the sink waiting to be washed, a castella cake waiting to be baked, but who are you kidding? This is what you need right now, to have Choso’s body on yours, to taste him, to devour him, completely lose yourself in him. And that’s exactly what he needs too. 

The two of you make your way inside his bedroom, not letting the other go for even a second, kisses sloppy now, all tongue and spit. He’s quick to undress you, palms moving evenly beneath your blouse. You stretch your arms up, letting him remove it completely, his eyes fixated on your breasts, still covered by your bra. He squeezes at them, his grip firm, thumbs brushing across your nipples. Desperate to feel him without this extra layer of clothing, you turn around, wanting him to unhook the clasp, which he does. His lips graze you, peppering soft kisses along your shoulder while he pinches at your nipples with the perfect amount of pressure to have you moaning. “You love it when I play with your tits like this,” he whispers, mouth hot on your ear. It isn’t a question; he says it with confidence, bordering on cockiness with the way he smirks at every little whine that escapes you. You love this switch from shy and sweet to bold and unashamed, always eager to fulfill his sexual appetite for you. 

“I do,” you answer breathlessly, his cock hard and throbbing between your ass cheeks as you grind against him. “You know I do, baby.”

“Fuck, I love it when you call me that,” he groans, sucking on your ear lobe. One hand travels past your navel, tugging at your waistband. 

Your crane your neck to meet his lips. “You’re my baby. You’re all mine, Choso.”

He moans into your mouth, lapping at your tongue. “Yeah, I’m yours. I’m all yours.”

You slide out of your pants, leaving your panties on, the silk ones he adores on you. On the bed, you lie on your back, watching him strip the rest of his clothes off while he towers over you, licking his lips when he positions in his head between your spread legs. He’s been indulging in this recently, eating you out through your panties, getting them soaking wet with his spit and your slick. His gaze meets yours, those typically kind eyes hiding something feral brewing inside him. He’s masterful with his tongue, spreading it wide on your clit, puckering his lips around you until you’re squirming. You grab hold of his head, grasping strands of his soft hair as he devours you. 

As if this wasn’t enough for him, he hums into your skin, pointing at the bedside drawer. He doesn’t have to say it; you already know what he wants. You’ve made it a habit now to keep a few of your sex toys at his place, including your most favorite vibrator, the same exact one you demonstrated for him when all of this first started. It soon became his favorite too. You pass it to him shakily, already at the edge, ready to burst any second. He takes it, holding the tip to your covered clit, the fabric properly drenched now. The vibrations start instantly as he pushes the button, causing you to jolt from the sensation. “Fuck!” you cry out, toes curling, knees wobbly. “Please, Choso.”

“Please what?” he teases, stroking his cock with his free fist. 

“Please take them off,” you beg, writhing below him.

He smiles wickedly, hooking the waistband of your underwear, slowly peeling them off you. “That’s my good girl.”

You kick them off frantically, immediately spreading yourself for him once more. “Hurry, baby,” you whine. 

With the vibe still buzzing in his hand, he leans down, giving you a wet smooch on your clit, then presses the fluttering tip to it. Pleasure radiates from your core to every limb of your body and you eventually reach your first climax of the night. 

“God, I love how fucking wet you get,” Choso moans, licking up and down your slit, savoring your orgasm. “So fucking sexy. Makes me want to come.” Precum leaks from the tip of his dick as he jerks himself faster, lips coated in your arousal as he continues to use the toy on you while drinking every drop of you up. 

“Fuck, you’re going to make me come again,” you say, trying to catch your breath. It’s both too much and not enough. The vibrations are relentless on your clit, his tongue hot and wet on your pussy. You’re drunk off this, head light as air, vision getting hazy. Drool spills from one side of your lips, losing control of your composure as you succumb to yet another orgasm, this time, with two of his fingers inside you. 

“So greedy,” he grins, his cock stiff against his abdomen. He takes his digits out of you, spreading your cum on his shaft. “You want more, sweetheart?”

You reach for his cock, desperate to have him fully inside you. “I want all of you.”

His demeanor changes at this, almost like you’ve said the magic words. He swallows nervously, stopping the toy and setting it aside. “Are you serious?”

You smile, nodding at him. “I want all of you, Choso. But if you’re not ready – ”

“I’m ready.” It stumbles out of his mouth in a rush, as if he’s been meaning to say it for a while now. “I want you. I always want you.”

“You have me.” You tug him towards you, wrapping your arms and legs around him, nuzzling your nose to his. “You’ll always have me.” 

He kisses you, humming softly against your lips. “You’re amazing,” he whispers, tapping the tip of his dick on your swollen clit. 

You twitch at his touch, already sensitive from earlier, but still so needy to be filled by him. “Hurry,” you beg him, gyrating your hips, losing your patience. 

“Condom,” he mutters, reaching towards your nightstand, eyes focused on how close his cock is to being inside you. 

You snap yourself out of whatever dangerous desires are playing through your head and nod in agreement, stretching your arm out to open the drawer, blindly retrieving the box of condom wrappers and small bottle of lube. With trembling fingers, he unwraps the condom, rolling it over his cock, coating a generous amount of lube on it. He eases inside you, both of you moaning as you stretch around him perfectly. When he’s to the hilt, he stays still for a moment, kissing you fervently, so happy to finally be connected with you like this. “Is this good?” he asks, always adorably concerned about you. 

You giggle, hugging him tighter. “It’s amazing baby.”

Reassured, he starts thrusting, pulling out ever-so-slightly to pound right back inside you. You squeeze every inch of him as he fucks you deeper, fighting the urge to come on the spot. It’s so damn good, too fucking good, like he’s on this euphoric high, impossible to come down. He can’t believe how incredible this feels, even with the condom on, and it makes him want to burst thinking about the near future when he’ll have a chance to do you without it. How pretty you’d look with his cum spilling out you. That fucked-out expression on your face as you beg him to breed you. The gorgeous belly when you’re pregnant with his baby...

Choso has to physically shake his head to rid these obscene fantasies from his thoughts. He really can’t help himself when he’s with you. Grunting with each thrust, he resists the temptation to pull this condom off to give it to you raw, reminding himself that patience is a virtue and that the two of you have all the time in the world.

It doesn’t take long for the both of you to come. As soon as you’re right at the edge of your third climax of the night, you cry out, “Right there, baby! Fuck me right there!” holding him tight as you spill all over his cock. He comes as soon as you finish, certain that if you weren’t using protection and assuming you’re currently ovulating, he’d surely get you pregnant with how fucking intense this load was. Choso pulls out, carefully pulling off the condom, taking a couple of seconds to marvel at all the cum you managed to draw out of him. You laugh, watching him as he ties the open end to toss into the nearby trash bin. “Is it a lot?”

He snuggles up next to you, nuzzling his nose to your neck, back to his precious puppy-dog cuteness. “If we weren’t using protection, it would have definitely gotten you pregnant.”

You joke, “And is that a bad thing?”

He rests a hand on your stomach, his touch tender and sweet. “Not at all. I wouldn’t mind raising a little baby with you.”

Normally, you’d freak out. Normally, Choso would freak out. But for some odd reason, the idea of sharing a future together, of raising a family together, seems right. And while it’s only been a month, you’re both confident that the two of you will be spending a long, healthy, loving life with each other. 

Choso’s phone vibrates on the nightstand, rousing the two of your from your post-coital snuggle session. When he reads whatever notification he’s received, he chuckles, turning the screen towards you, displaying a text message from Yuji:

So…how’s that castella cake? ;)

He types up a quick reply before putting his phone on silent to spend the rest of the night cuddling you uninterrupted. 

Absolutely perfect.

[auggieblogs]

"Totally worth it" | CL16

Charles Leclerc x reader Author's note: Hey, hiiii, loves. I hope you all are doing good!!! This fic is inspired by that one episode of "How I Met Your Mother"... you'll figure out which one. Happy reading, everyone<3

―୨୧⋆ ˚masterlist

The sound of footsteps echoed through the house, signalling Charles' return from the grocery store. You were curled up on the couch, feeling absolutely miserable with a cold and a slight fever. Your tissues were piled up beside you, and you had a blanket draped over your shivering form. The room felt cold despite the heater being on, and you couldn't help but sigh in discomfort.

Charles burst into the living room, carrying bags of your favourite snacks and a brown paper bag from the drug store. "I'm back, amor," he announced with a warm smile, placing the bags on the coffee table.

You smiled weakly in response, appreciating his effort to make you feel better. "Thank you, baby", you mumbled, your voice hoarse.

Charles came over, his brows furrowed with concern and felt your forehead. "You're still warm," he said softly. He then fetched a thermometer from the medicine cabinet and sat down beside you. "Open up for me, y/n." He gently placed the thermometer under your tongue and waited patiently. After a moment, he checked it and smiled, "Your fever has gone down a little bit."

You sighed in relief as he kissed your forehead, his lips warm and comforting. Charles turned on Gilmore Girls, and fluffed the pillows behind your head. He snuggled up beside you, gently kissing your knuckles.

As the day turned into evening, Charles decided it was time to make you some dinner. He headed to the kitchen, despite his terrible cooking skills, he was determined to make you some homemade chicken noodle soup. He had learned the recipe from his mother and hoped that he could manage it for your sake. You could hear him pottering about and occasionally muttering to himself.

Charles prepared the soup with love and care, making sure the broth was just right, the noodles were cooked to perfection, and the vegetables were tender. He even added a little extra seasoning, just the way you liked it.

He eventually returned with a steaming bowl of soup, a proud smile on his face. "Here you go, my love," he said, sitting beside you.

Now, I know I'm not the best cook," he admitted, "but this is the one dish my mum taught me to make. I hope it's not too terrible."

You couldn't help but laugh, a sound that turned into a coughing fit. Charles quickly handed you a glass of water before blowing on the soup to cool it down. He took a spoonful and carefully brought it to your lips. "Here, amor, let's see if it's edible."

You took a tentative sip, surprised by the taste. It was actually quite good. You nodded and smiled as Charles fed you spoonfuls, his eyes never leaving your face.

Once you had eaten, he gently wiped your mouth with a napkin and placed the empty bowl on the nightstand. Then, he tucked you back in bed, ensuring you were snug and comfortable.

He leaned in to kiss you goodnight, but you stopped him, concern in your eyes. "You don't want to kiss me, you'll get sick, Charlie."

He didn't say anything but held your face in his hands and kissed you sweetly. He'd risk a cold to take care of you.

Charles climbed into bed with you, a book in hand, and began to read aloud. His voice was soothing, and you slowly drifted off to sleep.

A few days later, it was his turn to succumb to the cold. You found him wrapped in a cocoon of blankets on the couch, looking miserable and adorable all at once. You prepared a warm bowl of soup and fed it to him, blowing on it just as he had done for you.

As you sat by his side, feeding him spoonfuls of soup, Charles couldn't help but smile through his stuffed nose.

"Totally worth it," he mumbled between bites, making you giggle.

[cherryredlove]

☆ chinese takeaway ☆

Modern!au Aemond Targaryen x Reader

• • • • • • • • • • • • ✦ • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • ✦ • • • • • • • • • • • •

Your bestie and flatmate Helaena proposes a banging evening plan: get her brothers over, get a chinese takeaway, and binge the Lord of the Rings. It also helps her second brother Aemond is pretty easy on the eyes and also loves Tolkien.

Word Count: 1.5k

Themes: fluuuuuufff (veeery OOC lol but i need some sweetness rn), content warning of cigarettes and drinking

• • • • • • • • • • • • ✦ • • • • • • • • • • • •

Living with Helaena Targaryen is an adventure in itself. She's a wonderful flatmate and best friend. You bonded pretty quickly with her when you both signed up for Valyrian classes at your university, Blackwater Uni, in King's Landing. Her quirky charm is infectious, and the flat you both share is filled with small terrariums and ethereal string lights that make everything feel like a dream. Every night, the pair of you cook together and look after Helaena's array of babies, even if the spiders make you a bit squeamish. You love her, you love her family too.

It’s a lazy Saturday morning after a cheeky pub trip the night before when Helaena bursts into your room with a bright smile, her platinum blonde hair shining in the sunlight streaming through the window.

“I have an idea!” she announces, plopping down on the bed beside you and nearly knocking your jewellery box Nyra got you from Lys off your bedside table.

“You have lots of those, careful not to hurt yourself,” you tease, setting aside the book you were pretending to read for your latest university essay.

“I think we should have a get-together here tonight. A family night! You, me, and my brothers. We could do a Lord of the Rings marathon!” she pokes your arm, wiggling her eyebrows. She knows your weaknesses to a tee.

The thought of hosting a cosy evening (with some extracurriculars) sounds delightful. You’ve always had a soft spot for her brothers, especially Aemond. There's something about his intense gaze and quiet demeanour that draws you in, and your mutual love for all things Tolkien only deepens that sweet connection.

“That sounds perfect,” you agree. “What do you need me to do?”

“Just be your wonderful self!” Helaena grins. “I’ll take care of snacks, and Aegon said he’d handle the food.” You raise your eyebrows. Sounds like this night was happening regardless of your opinion. You grab a pillow and thwack Helaena, who screams lightly and crumples onto the floor, laughing her ass off.

• • • • • • • • • • • • ✦ • • • • • • • • • • • •

As the day transitions into evening, the flat transforms into a snug haven. Soft fairy lights cast a warm glow, and the aroma of freshly popped popcorn fills the air. You and Helaena arrange an assortment of snacks on the coffee table, including gummy worms (Helaena’s favorite), chocolate-covered pretzels (your favourite) and a colourful array of fruits (only Daeron will touch them).

Aegon arrives first through the door, arms laden with bags of Chinese takeaway and closely followed by his blond brothers. His carefree grin is infectious as he sets the bags down and immediately begins sorting through the contents.

“Alright, listen up! I got everything. Chicken chow mein for me, sweet and sour pork for Daeron, Kung Pao chicken for Helaena, and Aemond, you get your usual, Szechuan beef.” He looks at you with a cheeky smile. “And for our lovely host, your favourite, vegetable dumplings and egg fried rice.”

You smile, touched by Aegon’s thoughtfulness. The last time you'd gotten Chinese was after Baela's birthday 3 months ago, and whilst you expected him to remember your chippy order, this was quite sweet. “You remembered.”

“Of course,” he winks, settling onto the couch with his carton of noodles.

Daeron dives right into his sweet and sour pork, chatting animatedly about his latest adventures at university. He's like a sweet younger brother to you, and you ruffle his hair when he tries to nick some of your dumplings.

Aemond's presence is a bit quieter but no less significant. He offers you a small smile, one that you return warmly, feeling your heart skip a beat.

"Hiya Aemond," you say. He nods, passing you his fortune cookie. He's not the biggest fan, you remember, quite touched he gave it to you and not Helaena, who huffs comically at her loss.

With everyone settled, the movie marathon begins. You and Aemond exchange knowing glances as the opening scenes of 'The Fellowship of the Ring' play. Both of you gaze quite longingly at The Shire, and you feel your heart stutter a little when Aemond glances at you when Arwen declares her love for Aragorn. The moment is broken by Aegon cracking open a Strongbow cider and tossing you a pre-mixed vodka soda can. You sigh lightly and settle in for the movie.

• • • • • • • • • • • • ✦ • • • • • • • • • • • •

As 'The Two Towers' progresses, Aegon sprawls across the couch, lazily consuming anyone's uneaten cold noodles, while Daeron animatedly discusses his favorite characters (Merry and Boromir) with Helaena, who favours Galadriel most of all.

"Imagine how useful the gift of prophecy would be," she dreams aloud. "I'd know all the answers on my entomology exams."

You find yourself nestled comfortably between Aemond and the armrest, stealing glances at him whenever Aragorn and Arwen share the screen. His focus is unwavering, and you find yourself asking him about his opinions of the plot, as if you both haven't watched a million times. It's worth it for the smile he gives you as he describes his love of Faramir. You argue Theoden's case with such passion that he laughs so loudly even Aegon is startled out of a snooze.

By the time 'The Return of the King' reaches its climactic battle hours later, Aegon is fast asleep, snoring lightly with an empty carton resting on his stomach. Daeron and Helaena aren’t far behind, having dozed off to the comfort of the couch, nestled under soft blankets.

That leaves just you and Aemond, the room silent save for the movie's soundtrack and the rhythmic breathing of the others.

You catch Aemond’s eye during the scene where Aragorn is crowned king, and Arwen finally steps forward. You like how Arwen and Aragorn's love is quiet almost, all words expressed through gazes. You feel your heart constrict a bit when Aemond holds your hand for the departure of Bilbo.

As the credits roll, Aemond stretches and stands, offering you a hand. “Care to step outside for some fresh air?” he suggests.

You nod, taking his hand as he leads you to the balcony. The night air is cool against your skin, and the city lights twinkle like distant stars. King's Landing is a great city to live in. You love it dearly.

Aemond pulls out a pack of cigarettes, offering you one. You accept, though you really only smoke for special occasions. You cringe remembering Jace's 18th at Dragonstone nightclub where you tried to chainsmoke. Thank Gods Aemond was there with water to help you.

The two of you stand in comfortable silence, the smoke curling up into the night sky.

“Thank you for tonight,” Aemond says softly, his gaze fixed on the horizon.

You smile, exhaling a puff of smoke. “I should be thanking you. I loved every minute.”

He turns to you, a hint of vulnerability in his expression. “You know, Aragorn and Arwen’s story always resonated with me. The idea of finding someone who sees you for who you truly are...”

His words hang in the air, heavy with meaning. You feel your heart flutter, warmth spreading through you like the gentle glow of a hearth.

“I know what you mean,” you reply, meeting his gaze. “It's about finding someone who understands the depths of your soul.” Big words for a young girl at uni, and usually you'd cringe at such dramatic speeches that are reserved for club toilets with the girls after too many tequila shots, but with Aemond, poetics seem right.

Aemond steps closer, the distance between you shrinking until it's almost nonexistent. The world around you fades, leaving only the two of you bathed in moonlight.

His voice is barely above a whisper. “I think I’ve found that person.”

Your breath catches, the world standing still. The sincerity in his eyes is undeniable, a reflection of your own heart laid bare.

In that moment, words are unnecessary. The connection you share speaks louder than anything you could say.

With a gentle touch, Aemond cups your face, his thumb brushing softly against your cheek. You lean into his touch, feeling the warmth of his hand against your skin.

And then, as if drawn together by an invisible force, his lips find yours in a kiss that’s both tender and profound. It’s a promise and a realization, a moment that feels like the culmination of every shared glance and whispered conversation over years of your friendship. His lips are warm and soft, and you feel perfect.

When you finally part, the world around you slowly comes back into focus, the sounds of the city distant and gentle. Aemond smiles, a rare and genuine smile that lights up his entire face.

“Let’s make this a tradition,” he suggests, his voice laced with hope. “Movie marathons, Chinese takeout, and us.”

You nod, your heart swelling with happiness. “I’d like that. I’d like that a lot.”

As you stand together on the balcony, the night stretches on, filled with endless possibilities and the promise of new beginnings. It’s a moment that feels both timeless and fleeting, a memory you’ll hold close for years to come.

• • • • • • • • • • • • ✦ • • • • • • • • • • • •

AN: im sorry i love writing modern aus, especially for characters that just never stop suffering lol. i just love adding in easter eggs and references to the series and imagining the targs as party animal cuties, not kinslaying weirdos. check out my masterlist for more stuff like this, plz send in any ideas or requests xx

[cha-melodius]

firstprince + 💘 please and thank you kindly ☺️

💘 fake relationship / mutual pining / dared to kiss  (HI ROOP. please enjoy some fake relationship silliness, inspired by the fact that it's a million degrees outside. read all the kiss ficlets)

“Hey, you wanna fuck with my homophobic soon-to-be-ex boss?”

In theory, yes, he’s always up for fucking with homophobes, but the wicked grin on Alex’s face should have told him that this would be a bad idea.

So of course, Henry agrees.

~~~

It’s a pool party. It’s a bloody pool party in the Hamptons and Henry is not going to survive Alex Claremont-Diaz in his ridiculously tiny swimming trunks. Those shorts are criminal, actually. He’s especially not going to survive Alex plopping down on the lounge chair next to him and passing a bottle of sun cream over his shoulder.

“Do my back, would you?” Henry follows Alex’s line of sight over to where his soon-to-be-former boss is frowning at them disapprovingly, and Alex tosses a cheeky grin back at him. “Baby?”

Absolutely no survivors, to be certain.

Henry dutifully takes the bottle and smooths the cream over Alex’s back, careful not to miss any spots, and if he lingers a little long in doing so, well, it’s just to sell the deception. He almost thinks he feels Alex shiver a little as Henry’s fingers brush along the waistband of his trunks, but that’s impossible—it’s ridiculously warm out. Then he allows Alex to put sun cream on his back, which is horrible, terrible, the worst thing that’s ever happened to him, in fact.

(He never, ever wants it to stop.)

~~~

Somehow, Henry lets himself be dragged into the pool and talked into a game of chicken. He’s led to understand that usually it would be a woman sitting on a man’s shoulders, but one of Alex’s coworkers is a terrifying woman with long, dark hair pulled back in a ponytail, and she’s very confident she can take Alex and Henry down. Her husband—a lovely chap and fellow Brit, who Henry spent quite a bit of time talking to earlier—gives Henry an apologetic look for what is about to happen. Alex is, of course, undeterred.

The battle is hard fought and, look—Henry isn’t opposed to being strangled by Alex’s thighs, but he didn’t imagine it would be like this. Eventually Zahra is victorious, sending Alex crashing into the pool, and of course he drags Henry along with him. They come up spluttering, and Alex loops his arms around Henry’s neck, pulling him close as they bob in the water, catching their breath.

“Hey,” Alex breathes, his face way too close to Henry’s. “Kiss me?”

Henry swallows hard and glances around, but he can’t see Alex’s boss anywhere. “Because your boss is watching?” he asks.

“Because I want you to,” Alex says, as if it’s that simple.

Maybe it is. Henry doesn’t let himself overthink it, for once; he leans in, wrapping his arms around Alex’s waist, and kisses him. Slides their mouths together, sweet and slow, restrained but just heated enough to promise more.

“Can I tell you a secret?” Alex asks when they part.

“Ok.”

“I didn’t just ask you to this to fuck with my boss.”

Henry’s heart is in this throat. “No?”

“No, baby,” Alex says laughing a little. “I want this to be real.” He pauses, his eyebrows crinkling uncertainly. “If… you do, too?”

Henry kisses him again, which he figures is answer enough.

[lovetaroandtaemin]

Kinktober 2024

Day 30: Biting

Kang Taehyun x Reader Word Count: 1,323 Genre: Smut/Fluff Rating: Explicit THIS FIC IS NSFW, MINORS DNI! Summary: When Y/N and Taehyun are discussing their likes and dislikes in the bedroom, Y/N makes an embarrassing admission. Taehyun is surprised, but happily uses the information to his advantage. Warnings: Soft dom!Taehyun, inexperienced!Reader x experienced!Taehyun, biting, unprotected sex, creampie, breeding kink if you squint. If you think I missed a warning let me know! A/N: If you would like to be added to my Kinktober taglist, you can send an ask, send a dm, or comment on any of my Kinktober-related posts with the username that you'd like tagged. Happy reading!

Taglist: @unlikelysublimekryptonite

Fic is under the cut.

The first time you had sex with Taehyun, the last thing you were expecting was for him to bite you. You had very little prior sexual experience before him, and it wasn’t something any of your previous partners had ever done. It was painful when he bit your neck for the first time, but you also had to admit that you thought that it was really sexy. When it happened, he was very apologetic, saying, “I’m sorry, princess. I don’t know what came over me. Are you ok?” You nodded in response, and he checked your neck for marks and asked again if you were ok before he continued fucking into you.

After you two were done, he apologized again, worried that he made you uncomfortable. You wanted to tell him that he hadn’t, in fact you’d liked it and wanted him to do it again, but you were too embarrassed to admit it. Once you got over your embarrassment, you just couldn’t find the right time to talk to him about it.

The right time to talk about it ended up presenting itself a few weeks after your first time with Taehyun. He’d seen an idea for “Want, will, won’t” lists online, or lists of what you liked or didn’t like as well as what you were willing to try in bed, and wanted to use it as a way to definitively establish limits for both of you. You loved the idea, and it was the perfect opportunity to tell him how much you liked it when he bit you, so you happily agreed.

Making the lists with Taehyun went surprisingly well. You got a good idea of what he was like in bed, and learned all kinds of fun new words for things that you didn’t even know were kinks. You also got a better understanding of his limits in the bedroom as well as your own, which you were grateful for. You almost forgot what you’d wanted to tell him, too distracted by the excitement of learning new things. Before you could chicken out again, you mumbled, “By the way, I just wanted to tell you that I wasn’t uncomfortable a few weeks ago. I actually kind of liked it when you bit me.”

To say that Taehyun was surprised was an understatement. Based on how you’d reacted, he was certain that biting would be a hard no for you in the future. Once he got over the initial surprise, he asked, “Why didn’t you tell me sooner, baby?”

“I was embarrassed about it, then I just couldn’t figure out the right time to bring it up.”

Taehyun softened when he heard your explanation. He would have been lying if he’d said that he wasn’t a little bit frustrated that you’d waited to tell him, but he understood why you did it. In all honesty, he was incredibly relieved that he hadn’t accidentally overstepped a boundary.

As you both finished your lists and discussed them, you couldn’t help but think about trying some of the things that Taehyun had mentioned that he liked. On top of that, you hadn’t had sex since your first time a few weeks before. It was embarrassing for you to admit, but you had quite a bit of pent-up frustration that you wanted a release for. Based on the way that Taehyun was looking at you while you talked, you had a feeling that he was feeling the same frustration.

Once your lists were done and the discussion was over, an awkward silence filled the room. Taehyun was the first to break it, asking, “Are you ok, princess?”

“I’m ok, Tae. Just thinking.”

“What are you thinking about?”

“You.”

“Oh, really? What are you thinking about, sweetheart?” You refused to respond, instead looking down at the floor in an attempt to hide your embarrassment. Your silence still told him everything he needed to know, though. When he asked, “Are you thinking about me fucking you?” you nodded, confirming his suspicions.

“I’m sorry, I was just-”

“Don’t apologize, sweetheart. It’s ok. Go ahead into the bedroom, and I’ll straighten this mess up.”

You went to your shared bedroom like Taehyun asked and removed your clothes while you waited for him. After you left the room, he put away the pens and notebooks you’d used to make your lists, finding a safe place to tuck away the lists themselves. Then, he met you in your bedroom. When he saw you already naked and waiting, his cock twitched in his pants. Before he said a word, you looked up at him and said, “Please fuck me, Tae.”

Within seconds, Taehyun’s own clothes were on the floor, and he was on top of you. He kissed you softly, then he pulled away and flashed you a mischievous smile. You wanted to ask him what he was planning on doing, but before you could get the words out, you felt him bite your neck again.

You moaned at the feeling of Taehyun’s mouth on you, and he had to admit that it gave him a hell of an ego boost. He continued kissing and biting every inch of your neck that he could reach, and you loved it. When he pulled away from your neck, he couldn’t help but admire the patchwork of hickeys that had formed.

As much as you enjoyed it when Taehyun bit you, you still wanted more. So, you looked up at him with the prettiest eyes he’d ever seen and said, “Please fuck me, Tae. I want you inside me.”

Taehyun didn’t have to be told twice. He kissed you one more time, just to show you that he loved you, and lined himself up with your pussy. When he gently entered you, you cried out again. It was embarrassing to admit, but it took longer for you to adjust to having his cock inside you than you would have liked.

When you gave him the ok to start moving, Taehyun started slowly, kissing you as he moved in and out. As he fucked you, soft moans and gasps left your mouth. You had always been on the quieter side in bed, but Taehyun didn’t mind. In fact, he thought you were adorable regardless of how loud you got.

You weren’t sure how much time had passed, but after a while, you noticed that Taehyun was thrusting faster. While you loved when he started out soft and slow, it was when he started to lose himself in pleasure and fuck you harder that you really started to enjoy it. You found yourself even more turned on when he went back to kissing and biting you, this time focusing his efforts on your shoulders and chest rather than your neck.

Every time you felt Taehyun’s teeth sinking into your skin, you felt your orgasm get closer and closer. You warned him that you were close and that you didn’t know how much longer you were going to last. He stopped kissing your shoulder just long enough to say, “Cum for me, princess. I’ve got you.”

That was all you needed to hear to come undone around Taehyun’s cock. When he felt your pussy squeeze around him, his own climax hit him like a truck as he filled you with his cum. You both knew it wasn’t the smartest idea to have sex without a condom, but if you were being honest with yourselves, that was part of the fun.

When you and Taehyun came down from your highs, you got yourselves cleaned up and changed into your favorite pajamas. Once you were more comfortable, you got back into bed. He did the same, holding you close. While the two of you cuddled in bed, you told each other again and again how much you loved each other. When you were too tired to talk, you went to sleep, feeling relaxed and content in each other’s arms.

Thank you for reading! If you'd like to see what else I've written so far and what I have planned for tomorrow, you can find my Kinktober masterlist here. If you'd like to read one of my non-Kinktober works, you can find my general masterlist here. If you'd like to see what I'm going to be posting once Kinktober is over, you can find my upcoming works here. If none of that interests you, or there's something specific you'd like to see, send a request via asks or dms!

Thank you again for reading, happy spooky season!

[t00tsmcgee]

Character Biography: Calais Ingellvar

Cal was found as a baby in the Necropolis, and raised by Vorgoth as his son. He was found with two big scars on his body, one across his chest and one on his left leg, which means he has chronic pain as part of these old injuries, that never healed quite right. As a result, he walks with a staff/cane to support himself.

The spirit who saved him as an infant imprinted their power onto him, giving Cal abilities beyond those of a regular mage. He can reach into the Veil and speak with spirits as if they're standing right there without the spirit manifesting. He's also a talented healer, due to his inherent empathetic abilities.

He grew up lonely, his gift of talking to spirits making him a bit of a pariah among his fellow mournwatchers, but he enjoys a very close relationship with Vorgoth and Myrna, the latter being like a big sister to him.

Cal has two pet rats, named Gus and Basil.

Cal is a trans man who uses he/him.

He’s diplomatic and soft spoken, but definitely has a very silly side to him that comes out when he’s comfortable with people. He’s kind, considerate and emotionally intelligent. He feels emotions intensely and isn't afraid to show them.

He starts out a bit of a slob, but gradually realizes that being organized and well dressed helps him feel more confident about himself, so he improves over the game, not just his fashion but also his room becomes more neat and tidy as time goes on. Lucanis is a big influence on him in the fashion department, helping him get more of a sense of style.

His being so emotional can also be negative, Cal often assumes other people’s feelings and he can hold grudges for a long time, even if he says he doesn’t. He can overreact to something easily because of those big emotions. He has low self esteem due to being excluded as a kid because of his chronic injuries. He is easily distracted, has trouble focusing on things that don’t interest him and can and will procrastinate a task into the next life if he really doesn’t want to do it.

He’s creative, likes to paint and plays the piano, but he still hasn’t read that book he bought a year ago that he really should read. His handwriting is like chicken scratch and he can’t cook, never seeing the point until he meets Lucanis. What’s wrong with just eating rations, am I right?

Cal is most afraid of not being good enough, of rejection.

[gracieheartspedro]

I Can See You

fem!reader x dbf!joel miller

Hi friends! It's been awhile (:

I am back to writing! This time, I'm planning on having many parts to this story. It's a DBF Joel Miller story, which I love to read, which means I had to write it, right?

I wrote this with no Y/N, instead each character gives her a nickname/pet name.

So here's Part 1, I really hope you enjoy!

Word count: 2.7k

Warnings: DBF! Joel, age gap-ish (reader is 25, Joel is 39), eventual smut, joel being a little bit of a perv, reader not having a filter, alcohol consumption

“Mornin’,” His Southern accent was even deeper than usual. My head peaks up from behind my computer, noticing his very tired eyes. The bags under his eyes still somehow did him justice. 

“Mornin’ Joel,” I mutter before taking a sip of my coffee. I watch as he finds his way towards my bosses office. He was only my boss at work, but at home he was just Dad. 

I watch his ass move in his jeans, shamelessly. 

Finding your coworker hot is one thing, it’s another when it’s also your dad’s friend and he was about 20 years older than you. 

I’ve thought Joel Miller was quite the looker since I was about 18. I had just started working for my dad. I was mainly just scheduling and doing work orders. Joel took me out to a work site one day, on my father’s request. He wanted me to get know some of the people who would be scheduling work from us. I got to sit around with the property manager of an apartment complex in a tight black dress in the dead of summer, watching guys replace windows. While outside that day, Joel worked alongside some of the laborers, his tanned skin and shaggy dark hair glistening with sweat. Something about him doing manual labor turned me on. Something awoke in me that day, and ever since then, I thirst over him in silence. 

I catch myself looking a bit too long, quickly averting my eyes to my computer screen. I act like I am typing something, glancing over to Joel and my dad walking out of his office together. They are discussing another project that Joel was overseeing that would keep him very busy in the upcoming months. 

“My girl here will be starting back at college in the fall, so she will only be part time for awhile,” My dad says, drawing attention to me. 

“Oh really, where ya going?” 

I blank out completely for a moment.

“UT Austin,” I finally answer.

“Smart girl, you living on campus?”

“Nope, just getting my master’s in Engineering so living from home makes the most sense.”

Joel shakes his head, “Master’s. Didn’t you just graduate high school?”

“I’m 25, Joel.”

His eyes scan me for a moment, realizing I’m much older than he remembers. 

“Ha,” He grumbles, “Time flies huh, Steve?”

“Sure does, you just wait for that Sarah of yours is off to college,” My dad laughs, slapping Joel’s shoulder. I wince, realizing again he has a young daughter. It wasn’t ideal, to say the least. 

“We got about 5 years on that,” Joel says, his eyes returning to mine, “Well it’ll be nice havin’ you around during our busy season.”

“Happy to help,” I reply, not really meaning it. 

“Hey, Joel, you and Sarah making an appearance at our BBQ this weekend? We invited the whole neighborhood and I can’t remember if you told me you’d be there.”

His eyes are still on me, “Yeah, I’ll be there,” his eyes return to my dad’s, “Just me and Tommy though, Sarah is goin’ over to a friend’s house.”

“Can’t wait!” My dad cheers, “Baby girl, can you make sure my schedule is cleared Friday evening so I don’t have to worry about when I can get the meat?”

“Of course, dad,” I grit my teeth, “I’m on it.”

-

“Hey baby girl, can you go grab me some extra plates?” 

My dad was over the top with his BBQs to say the very least. The whole neighborhood was in on it. Steaks, burgers, hot dogs, chicken, the whole thing. I spent all morning getting the huge backyard and cabana ready for all our visitors. We usually had someone come over to do all the setting up, but Dad made sure to remind me that I was living rent free and being paid on his payroll, so setting up was the least I could do. 

People littered the pool and backyard. I weave between people, giving smiles and welcomes where I could.

I walk in to the kitchen, the cold AC air hitting my bare arms. Luckily, I was wearing shorts over my bikini shorts, or else the goose bumps would be up and down my legs, too. I begin searching the cabinets for the large serving plates you always used for big gatherings. Leaning down, my triangle bikini top almost lets my boobs loose. I sit up straight, messing with the knots on my back. I knew tightening it could only help so much.

“Need help?” I almost jump out of my skin. I turn quickly, spotting Joel Miller standing in the kitchen with me.

“Shit, you fucking scared me,” I breathe loudly, patting my chest to make my heart stop racing, “I think I can get it.”

“Mhm,” He sticks a tooth pick between his teeth, “Lemme help, girl.”

God he was so fine. I hated myself for having a crush on him. But the domestic and simple gray t-shirt that hugged his arms so well and the blue jeans? I simply could not resist staring. 

No chance in hell. But I got to look at him every day and imagine it. 

I turn on my heels, holding the ties out to him so he could tie them. 

“I need them tighter,” I mutter, “Don’t want these puppies falling out in front of the Adlers.”

“Don’t want to excite Mr. Adler too much, he may have himself a heart attack.”

I smile to myself, biting my lip. He ties it, his fingers grazing my bare back slightly. 

“All good now, girl,” I turn to face him, looking up at him through my eyelashes, “Now what were you lookin’ for?”

“Serving plates,” I explain, “Dad is finishing up those steaks, needs more space.”

“Well let’s get ‘em and head out to all the fun,” He says, ducking down to the cabinet I was looking in originally. He finds them, handing them up to me. He looks so good looking up at me from this angle. 

“You want to grab us some beers,” I suggest, “I’ll meet you out there?”

“Your dad runnin’ low?”

“Probably, so grab three.”

–

“So, you going to be here all summer?”

I had no interest in talking to Tommy, but he was keeping me from toeing the line with Joel in my drunken state, so here I am. I sit in my lounger chair, wanting so bad to take off my jean shorts. I knew if I did, Tommy would take it as I’m making a pass, so I sweat extra. 

“I’m starting college in August, so yeah I’ll be around the office and staying home.”

He smiles, “Good to hear, love seeing you around.”

I smile back faking a cheery laugh, “Thanks, Tommy… care to grab me another beer?”

“No problem, sweetheart.”

I watch him walk away before searching the crowd for Joel. I spot him across the yard, talking to one of the newer neighbors. A single mom who moved in two months ago. My dad kept joking the other night that he’d be making her my stepmom, which only made me gag. She was beautiful, younger than my dad, but just about Joel’s age. 

A pang of jealousy rises within me. 

Joel finally catches my wandering eyes. He smiles gently, giving me a nod.

“Here, darling,” Tommy says sweetly, “Need anything else?”

“Yeah, actually,” Your brother, “Can you help me with something?”

“Sure, ‘s up?”

I sit up, leaning over making my boobs hang right in his eye line. 

If I couldn’t keep one Miller’s attention, maybe I could snag second best. My beer filled brain thinks about how they are cut from the same cloth, so they both are probably good at this. 

“Do you want to help me change a lightbulb?”

He raises his eyebrows, “I guess, where at?”

I smirk, “My bedroom.”

We sneak away, my eyes scanning the area. It didn’t appear as anyone was following us. My room was the last room on the left upstairs, so the anticipation as I guided him down the hallway was killing me.

Ever since Joel grazed my back earlier, I’ve been ready. So fucking ready. 

“Are we actually changing a lightbulb?”

I open my door for him, gesturing to him to follow me in.

In the dim light, Tommy was very cute. He was a sweet guy and I knew he’d be the first to jump on my idea. 

“You tell me,” I say, starting to untie the knot Joel tied. In my moment of trying to be sexy, I realize Joel tied the stupidest and hardest knot ever. Tommy notices my struggle, reaching around me, frantically trying to get the top off.

As it gets loose, I reach up to grab his neck.

“What the fuck is going on ‘ere?” 

His voice freezes me. Tommy looks towards the door in horror.

“Joel-“

“Tommy, you fucking know better,” His voice is so intimidating and scary, I cant even muster the courage to turn around, “Git.”

Tommy gives me eyes saying I’m so sorry, and I just stare blankly at my wall. I hear Tommy’s foot steps run down the stairs. I realize how drunk I am because my wall paper begins to move on it’s own. It doesn’t usually do that. 

“Now you,” His stride towards me is quick, “I’m not your Dad, but don’t think he’d like you fucking his employees.”

Maybe it was the liquid courage, “Who said I was trying to fuck him?”

I snap my head towards his stern and impossible to read face.

“Bullshit,” He spits, “He got through my knot, he assumed somethin’ was about to happen.”

“Well, even if that’s where it went, why are you putting your nose in our business?”

He chuckles darkly, “So now it’s ours, huh? I have you know, girl, Tommy’s business is my business. And you’re just makin’ my job hard.”

I tiptoe closer to him, “And what’s your job, again, Mr. Miller?”

“Make sure people are behavin’ themselves.”

I realize what he’s doing. My tipsy mind took a second to search his face for more, but I can't read him at all. 

“I’m behaving, Mr. Miller. I promise,” I reach up, touching his jaw, “No more funny business.”

It was the closest I had ever got to him. I felt a rush just touching him.

“Good, get your top back on and come down to the party. Your dad is looking for you.”

I look down at myself as he leaves the room. My fucking tits are out, and he didn’t even look down.

The game he was playing was not the same one I was playing.

–

The next morning, I have a pounding headache and no drive to leave my room. I was embarrassed and horrified. I knew I would have to face Joel and Tommy on Monday morning, so I had to make amends beforehand. I really didn’t want them to tell my dad and I was pretty out of line for trying to fuck Tommy when Joel wasn't giving me the attention my drunk ass thought I deserved.

After spending hours in bed, rolling back and forth thinking of a script to say, I figured that honesty is the best policy. 

Well, honesty with a little bend in the truth. 

I get showered and dressed. My usual summer time outfit was a crop top and short shorts, but today I needed to be more… conservative. 

I find a nice summery dress, that went to midthigh. It was yellow, not a lot cleavage, floral. Innocent. 

When I get downstairs, my dad sits in the living room, his feet propped up watching the news. 

“Where ya going, baby girl?” 

“I’m going for a walk,” I lie. 

“Wearing that?”

“Yes,” I nod quickly, “Do you need anything while I’m out?”

He shakes his head, “No, have fun, I guess.”

I could tell he was suspicious, but he wasn’t one to pester me too much. He had high expectations for me, but I always exceeded them. He never questioned me too much, unless it was about school. He didn’t even really care about my love life. He always got excited when I told him I was going on dates in college. I mean, I rather him be excited than bother me about the guys I was seeing.

I start my journey to Joel’s. I didn’t even know if he was home or not, I was going on blind faith.

It was hot as shit and I was not fully prepared to walk to his house in a dress and sandals. 

I could’ve just driven there and back. But no, I decided to roast in the hot summer sun.

–

When I arrive to his house, I just kind of stand in his driveway, catching my breath. He was home, his truck was here. 

I walk to the front door, knocking first then ringing the door bell. 

It takes about minute, but he gets the door. 

And he’s shirtless. 

It was the worst and best moment of my entire life. 

“What are you doing here?”

And it’s not quite the response I was anticipating when I arrived at his door. 

“I uh-,” I hear some stirring inside the house, which causes me to peak my head past Joel’s shoulder. 

I see movement, but my eyes find Joel’s again before I could focus in on it. He pushes me back a bit, coming outside and shutting the door behind him. 

“I came to apologize, but you seem busy.”

He shakes his head, “Not busy, just woke up.”

“With someone?”

What the fuck? Why can’t I shut my mouth?

“Pardon me?”

“Well I walked this whole way to apologize about my inappropriate behavior yesterday,” I explain, “But yeah, that’s it.”

The door creaks open and I am wholeheartedly anticipating a hot MILF or something. But instead, it’s a little girl. 

“Sarah, get inside!”

“Oh hi, I know you!”

I smile at the girl. She was cute, I had to admit. She looked a bit like Joel, mainly the smile. A smile I wasn’t too familiar with, because he wasn’t too keen on my jokes. Ever.

“Yeah, I work with your dad,” I explain, “Nice to see you, Sarah.”

“You too, do you want to have lunch with us?”

“Sarah she can’t st-” 

“I’d love to, only if your dad says it’s okay.”

He got himself in a pickle, but I was aching to have a conversation that didn’t involve me putting my foot in my mouth like I almost did again. Plus, some food and water would help the heatstroke I felt coming on.

He stares at me, almost like he wished I’d disappear, “Of course, come in. Sarah is making sandwiches.”

“I hope you like turkey and cheese!”

—

“Thanks for the sandwich, Sarah,” I say, wiping my face making sure I didn’t have mustard left over.

She smiles with her mouth full, “You’re welcome!”

“Hey Sarah, why don’t you go get ready for swim practice,” He suggests, “Me and your new best friend need to have an adult conversation.”

She looks up at him annoyed, “I guess, but don’t scare her away. She has a cool pool I want to swim in.”

I laugh out loud, “Yeah, don’t scare me away, Joel.”

He doesn’t laugh, he just looks at me with his lazer eyes. I just wish Sarah a farewell and shut my mouth, waiting for the storm. He stirs, eating another bite of his sandwich. 

“So you came to apologize, huh?”

I swallow, “Uh, yeah. I’m sorry for my inappropriate behavior. I had one too many yesterday.”

He nods, “Yeah you were practically falling out of that top of yours before you took Tommy upstairs. Surprised you didn’t have it off before then.”

My eyes widen, “Well that’s humiliating.”

“Don’t think anyone was particularly mad about it,” He says, “Maybe one of those neighborhood watch moms, but who cares about ‘em?”

I can’t help but smirk. Was he insinuating that he wasn’t mad about almost seeing my boobs?

“Yeah, they always give me the most disgusted looks when I’m out jogging.”

“Cause’ they miss bein’ young and beautiful,” He explains, “All their husbands stare, too.”

I can’t believe he’s talking to me like this, I find myself leaning in a bit to try to talk quieter. It seems like this is conversation we should be whispering to each other.

“Do you stare?”

Foot. In. Mouth. 

He smirks, giggling a bit. I finally got to see him smile.

“Of course, I do.”

----

Hehehehe tell me what you think! I'll be back with part 2 soon!

[idontplaytrack]

On your birthday

Janis ‘Imi’ike x fem! reader

Warnings: descriptions of labour & delivery, medical procedures + trauma, coarse language

Read other parts here<3

Watching you sleep, Janis’ mind drifts. It thinks about almost everything that’s happened lately in the last two years. Your miscarriage, her unsuccessful IVF attempt, your second and current IVF attempt — successful, but gave you hyperemesis gravidarum or HG. Your ‘morning sickness’ lasted nearly all day and well over your first trimester. Janis’ heart ached every time you had to get sick, but seeing you just persevere through it all, it made her gain a whole new sense of admiration for you. More so now, because of HG, you’ve developed emetophobia. A lot of things happened in the last couple of years, but one thing was always for certain. You were so loved and because of that, you knew you’d be okay.

You were right around 20 weeks along, but the nausea still showed no signs of calming down, much to your dismay. This morning was just like the others, you woke up when the sun’s barely risen because of the nausea. You sat on the mattress, legs hanging over the side as you stared at the bathroom several feet away from you. Janis was asleep behind you, but she’d be awake too in about a minute or so. Once she hears you puking into the toilet.

You’ve begun to dread the act of getting sick ever since you’ve had to deal with HG. It made you incredibly anxious, and afraid to do so. Once you felt the warmth of a hand on your back, you knew Janis was awake— barely awake. You sat in the bathroom to wait, Janis trailed right after you. Holding onto your hand, she gives it a squeeze. Her other hand was kept on your back while you started to lean over the porcelain.

Janis would never admit it, but she cringes every time she had to hear a retch. It doesn’t physically affect her, but she just wishes this would stop. She wishes that you didn’t have to go through this terrible thing.

You were numb to it, the ‘morning sickness’ but Janis knew about your recently surfaced phobia. You were always in tears after you walked out of the bathroom and unable to go back to sleep out of fear that you needed to run back into the bathroom for another round of upchuck. Janis handed you the half-eaten packet of li hing mui. The only thing that’s ever worked to help you feel better. Ever since years ago during that god awful stomach bug in high school.

The last five months felt like a drag because of this, you were practically on a liquid diet most days. You were just lucky you didn’t end up in the hospital needing IV fluids. You somehow felt okay enough after awhile to keep quite a bit of water down.

You went back to sleep after taking a few sips of water. You knew you wouldn’t be able to stomach any solid food until well after noontime. Maybe even later. Janis laid down with you again, but stayed awake. “I know, baby. I know.” She shushed, “You’re okay. I’ve got you.”

Absolutely defeated, you just quietly laid there hoping the sickening feeling would go away quickly. You weren’t sure how much time went by before you fell asleep again, but the last thing you felt before you drifted off was Janis pecking you on the forehead. “You’re alright, I promise.”

You lounged in bed when you woke up again later that day, but you made sure to get up and walk around the room at least. You had the habit of doing that since you hated sitting around for too long. Eventually, you dragged your feet and wound up outside. Janis looked up from her laptop. She was sitting by the coffee table. “Hi, honey.” She smiled, “Want anything? Aunty already cooked some rice and chicken soup.”

“I’ll try some water, then the soup.” You nodded, sitting down on the couch, right next to her. She patted your knee, “Sure thing, baby. I’ll go get you the water first, okay? Why don’t you watch some TV?” Janis hands you the remote then headed towards the kitchen to get you a cup of water. Once you took that, she went back to the kitchen to get you some of the food. “Thanks, Jan.”

“No problem.” She smiled again.

“Have you eaten yet?”

Janis nodded, “Mhm. I did, then I’ve just been here writing a little bit.”

“Gotten anywhere on that latest chapter yet?” You asked, curious.

“As a matter of fact, yes.” She smiled proudly, “Writer’s block is gone.”

You chuckled, “I’m glad.”

“Eh, this is just for fun. I’m just happy my real job allows me some free time on the side to do more of what I enjoy.”

“I know.” You hummed, “Sorry I haven’t been much fun lately.”

“Honey.” She squinted at you, “You literally have a human being growing inside you. You’re doing a lot while being pregnant and that is fucking amazing. You’re going to work, you’re taking care of yourself, your body, you’re taking care of the baby by taking care of yourself. It’s hard work.”

“I know, I know.” You sigh softly, setting the cup down then you picked up the bowl. “It just feels like I have a case of cabin fever or something. If I’m not at work, I’m at home, if I’m not at home, I’m in the hospital for an appointment.”

“I get it, honey. But you can’t push yourself to go out all the time if you’re feeling nauseous. I don’t want you to be hurrying around trying to find a bathroom or a trash can.” Janis saved the document, shut her laptop then sat next to you.

You swallow a mouthful of the food then set the bowl down. “I just…it feels like my life is slipping away even though I know I have a huge responsibility to keep myself safe so the— so our baby is safe.”

“When the HG goes away—”

You chuckled wryly, “Do you really think it would go away? Some people have it from start to end.”

“Yeah, some people. Other people don’t.” Janis held onto your hand, squeezing it, “Feeling okay? Do you feel sick again?”

“I’m okay, I just wanted to eat slowly.” You told her, “Doing better than yesterday, I think.”

“That’s so good, baby.” She smooched you on the cheek, you chuckled. “Want me to feed you?”

“What?” You squinted at her, nearly choking on your saliva.

“You heard me.” She grins, “My girl doesn’t have to lift a finger if she doesn’t feel like it.”

You snorted, “Right.”

“Right.” Janis squinted at you too, “Come on, it’s not the first time I’ve done this.”

“What is this, practice for feeding our baby solids?” You laughed, but let her do it anyway. Not for long though.

“Well, if you want it to be, sure.” She teased, picking up the bowl, scooping a spoonful of food and putting it up to your lips. You ate it. “Thatagirl.”

You chuckled, chewing the food and cautiously swallowing it. You were nervous about food these days because the nausea was coming on at the most random moments. “So, names?” You brought up.

“I like what we settled on a few days ago. Kalia?” Janis hums in thought, “Gotta figure out a second name then decide the order of it too.”

“Uh…” You thought aloud, “Reese? Sadie? Lisette?”

“Okay, all those flow really nicely together, baby. I really don’t have just one favourite.”

“You know…” You continued, “I thought of Jean. It just sounds kind of the same but I wanna name her after Regina— somehow.”

Janis gasped, “Aaand that name combination has just made its way to the top of the list. That is a great one.”

“Don’t tell her though.” You replied, eating another spoonful, “I want it to be a surprise.”

“My lips are sealed.” Janis snickered, kissing you on the cheek.

You and Janis were home alone for most of the day since Carl and Grace had work, but you two sure made the most of it— for as long as your body allowed you to. You watched some movies with Janis, then played some board games. Once that got boring, you two decided to bake some cookies. Oh, and the real fun part? This afternoon, you actually felt well enough to leave the house for the beach. So…you and Janis took a little walk while the sun started to set. “Wanna sit down? I brought a beach towel.”

You snorted, laughing, “What, are you gonna help me up from the ground, then?”

“Of course, baby.” She squints, expression slightly amused.

“It’s okay, I’d rather not sit.” You declined in the end.

After a good walk along the beach, you and Janis began making your way home where you two passed by a shave ice shop. “Can we get one to share?” You stopped in your tracks, tugging on her arm.

“Of course!” Janis agreed, she was holding onto your hand, thumb brushing over your knuckles. “You pick the flavours, honey.”

“Okay, guava and cherry?” You asked.

“That sounds good, hun. Yeah.”

By the time you two arrived at home, the shave ice was half finished. Carl and Grace were also already home from work. “Hi, ladies.” Grace greeted. “I see you two went out for a walk, that’s nice.”

“Sure did.” You say down on the couch, “Got some shave ice, too.”

“Yum, that’s good. Stay hydrated.” Grace replied.

“Been trying my best to, aunty.”

“How are we feeling about dinner tonight, sweetheart?” Carl asked.

“Better today, actually. Still going to be careful though.”

“Aaand we’re laying off the eggs.” He decided. You chuckled, “What ya making?”

“Well, the rice is ready. And the miso soup is simmering, but you need some protein.”

“Dare I say I’m craving some Spam?”

He nearly cheered hearing that, you haven’t requested anything for your meals for ages because of how bad the HG was. But it seems like it was ready to become history.

————

“Pleeeeeease.” You sulked.

Janis bit back a laugh, looking right at you. You sighed.

“I’m just messing with you, honey.” She said with the biggest smile still on her face. Then, she sat down next to you, cupping your cheek, “What do you need?”

“You know what I need.” You squinted at her.

“No, I don’t.” She hums, “Tell me.”

“Nooooo.” You whined.

“Oh.” She chuckles, “You want…me.”

“Please?”

Janis grins, leaning closer to your face. She held your face in her hand, pressing her lips against yours. “Don’t have to plead, pretty girl.”

“Pretty, my ass.” You mumbled into the kiss.

“Excuse me?” She broke away from the kiss, “Mm-mm, no. Don’t say that. You…you are so beautiful.”

“It’s been so hard, I’m honestly growing sick of what I see in the mirror. I know it’s normal to gain weight now, it’s healthy. But I’m not used to it.”

Janis pecks you on the lips again, “I hear you. It’s a tough thing to get used to. But…watching you go through day after day of so many symptoms but you still press on…you’re incredible and it’s been making me fall in love with you over and over again.”

“God, you—” You took a deep breath.

“Don’t you ever doubt that.” Janis stroked your cheek, “You’re so loving, so caring, so…so damn strong. I wish I had an ounce of your strength to be dealing with puking multiple times a day. I get that it’s scary, but that’s what I’m here for. I’m here to be your partner, ride through the scary times with you. Or anything else.”

You sniffled, avoiding her gaze as you swiped your tears away. Janis tilted your chin, making you look at her again, “On a lighter note…you know what’s one of my favourite things about you being pregnant?”

You shrugged, looking at her while tears still welled up in your eyes. Her eyes flicked downwards and you followed the gaze. “These ladies getting big.”

You let out a chuckle, “Damn.”

Janis grins, “I have a joke for you.”

“What?”

“What kind of bees make milk?”

You squinted at her swallowing thickly.

“Boo-bees.” She answered with a cheeky grin. Thanks to the hormones, you weren’t even sure if you wanted to cry or laugh. “I really— set myself up for that one.” You let out a shaky breath. “Eyes up here, tit head.”

“Oh, you’re a sassy one today, eh?”

By the end of the conversation, your urge came back and she helped you out. Like Janis had promised, you got a very restful nap out of it. “I love you, every version of you. Every bit of you, every single day.”Janis ran a hand through your hair, then it carefully rests on your side as your eyes fluttered shut. You smiled feeling her hand on the bump, caressing it tenderly, then, the baby kicks in response. Which Janis feels, and made it made her smile even wider. “I’m literally watching a miracle happen right in front of my eyes, y/n. I’m so in love with you, and I adore you, baby girl.”

————

“So…an episiotomy is going to be a hard no.” You reiterated.

“That’s gonna be put down in your file, y/n.” The doctor assured, “In fact, I’m writing it in there now. And I highly doubt an episiotomy’s going to be necessary for you, so don’t worry. ”

You smiled, relieved.

“Do either of you have any questions for me before I let you ladies go?”

“Nope.” You and Janis answered, nearly in unison, “Thanks, Doctor Aukai.”

“Of course. Take care, you two. I’ll see you again in two weeks. During which we can start talking about birth plans.”

“Alright.” You stood up from the chair, the doctor hands you and Janis a copy of the ultrasound photo each. “See you then.”

On the drive home, you and Janis made a pit stop at the usual shave ice shop for a treat. “You’re back!” The owner waved, “What’s it gonna be today?”

“Aloha.” Janis chuckled, waving back.

“Hi, Allie.” You replied, glancing at Janis, “Wanna pick today, Jan?”

“We’ll take a lychee and raspberry.” Janis decided.

“Perfect, coming right up.”

“Go sit down, baby.” She rubs your lower back. You nodded, “Okay.”

Couple minutes later, Janis joins you at the table. “Here we are.” Janis pushed the bowl closer to you so you could have the first bite.

“Thank you.” You murmured, eating a spoonful of the cooling treat.

She just smiled at you, watching you with such loving eyes. Your smile mirrored hers, “Here, eat it.”

“Is it good?” She asked, scooping a spoonful for herself with her own spoon.

“Always.” You confirmed.

Now almost at 30 weeks, your HG has finally gone away as of week 24. Your appetite was fully back, and you generally had an easier time despite the expected aches along with the increased need to pee. You weren’t too bothered by it, your days were a breeze lately compared to your first six months or so. Once home, you took a shower and then settled down on the couch to video call Regina and Cady. It’s been a weekly thing ever since moving here with Janis.

“How was the appointment, baby?”

“Everything went great. Another one’s scheduled for two weeks. How are you guys?”

“Jace just got over a cold, so we’re doing better today.” Regina answered.

“Have you two started thinking about birth plans yet?” Cady asked.

“We’ll be finalising that at the next appointment but we’ve started to tell the doctor some little things that we want or don’t want.” Janis answered first.

“But we’ve discussed it.” You chimed in, “Decided on being at the hospital for it. I don’t want to risk anything after the last time.”

“Whatever feels right for you, baby. You got this.” Regina replied. “But like I told you, when you asked me. I will be there, okay? I promise.”

“Okay.” You flashed a crooked smile, “And now if you’ll excuse me, I gotta pee. Again.”

“Okay.” Cady and Regina chuckled, “Be careful.”

After the call, you and Janis sat on the front porch to get some fresh air, enjoying a couple oranges straight off the tree in the front yard. Like always, Carl and Grace were cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Janis wanted to help, but they said it was fine and insisted for her to just sit and keep you company. You gave up on asking to help out in the kitchen awhile ago— they didn’t want you to lift a finger in that aspect.

“Dinner’s ready.” Carl stepped outside to inform you and Janis. And as the both of you stood up from the chairs, Akoni had just got home from work. “Hi, Dad!” You and Janis greeted him in sync.

“Hi, ladies.” He quickly walked up and gave you both a hug, “How was the appointment today?”

“All’s good.” You told him as the three of you entered the house.”Little breathless though.”

Janis had her arm around you right up until you had to sit at the table. Her gaze seemed slightly worried at your last statement. “I’m okay.” You said quietly, grabbing a spoon and beginning to eat. As per every Friday, there was a family game night after dinner. Grace finally let you help out in the kitchen— washing the dishes after the meal. You were so happy to do it, she found it adorable.

“You really don’t have to, y’know?”

“I know, but you guys have been taking such good care of me. It’s only fair that I help out wherever I can.”

She smiled, handing you a plate to dry.

“Has a name been decided yet? You don’t have to share it if you don’t want to. I’m just curious.”

“Yeah, we’ve decided on one a few weeks ago.” You told her while placing the plate on the dish rack. While you and Grace finished up washing and drying the dishes, Janis and Carl were setting up for game night. Of course, these days…game nights were limited to card or board games given the obvious. They wanted you to be included, and you wanted to be included. Game nights were fun. They always were.

“Aunty, take four cards. I saw that.” Janis laughed, “Don’t hide that card, put it back.”

“Kidding, kidding.” Grace chortled, placing the +4 card back on the deck and took four new cards like she was supposed to. “Your turn, y/n.”

“Lucky me.” She chuckled, placing your final card on the deck since it matched. “I win.”

“Okay, it’s getting late.” Carl decided, “Good game, but we all better head to bed soon, huh?” Janis headed to the bedroom with you while Carl and Grace packed up the cards. After brushing your teeth, you sat down in bed to wait for Janis, watching her as she did the rest of her nighttime routine. “Lie down.” She says. “I’m okay, Jan.”

“I know you are, but you’re tired. I know that.”

You laughed lightly, shrugging, “Don’t wanna sleep without you though.”

“Aw.” Janis cracked a smile.

You leaned back against the headboard and stared at the ceiling. “You know sometimes I can’t believe all this is happening. We’re in our twenties, and have a lot of life ahead of us but it’s just so crazy to think about and look back on.”

“I know, honey. Time waits for no one.” Janis said back while drying her face with a small towel. “But it’s been pretty great, we’ve got to experience a lot already and things are going well. And I have you, so…I’m pretty much the happiest person alive.” She sat down next to you, properly pulling the covers up. “I’m glad I’m through life with you.” You looked at her, holding onto her hand now. She squeezed your hand, leaning closer to kiss you sweetly.

“We’re doing great.” Janis said softly, “So great.”

“Jan? Can you help me with something?”

“Sure, what is it?”

“It’s really itchy.” You exhaled labouredly, “Can you help me apply the cocoa butter? I haven’t done that yet today.”

“Of course, honey.” Janis got out of bed and went over to the dresser to grab the container.

After your next appointment, you decided it was a good time to take time off work until further notice. You were getting closer and closer to your due date and being anywhere but home made you more nervous than you’d expected to be. The birth plan has also been finalised and the hospital bag was to be packed starting now.

“I’ll see you in a week, y/n. Take it easy.” Dr. Aukai smiled.

“See you in a week.” You nodded firmly. Eight weeks to go.

The fatigue started to affect you again, making you sleepy at every waking moment. Your feet hurt and your ankles were swollen, it wasn’t a pretty sight. But you still had two months to go. Not to mention your sleep’s been restless lately since you had to be up nearly every hour to use the bathroom since the baby’s head was pressed up against your bladder. You’ve even resorted to sleeping while sitting upright, otherwise breathing was a chore. But, you were now closer than ever to seeing your baby. You were more than ready to meet her.

————

“Wait at home?” You gulped, shifting uncomfortably, unintentionally letting out a groan when the pain wrapped around you again. Janis grabs your hand immediately, letting you squeeze hers to divert the pain.

“Breathe.” She reminded, “Deep breaths, honey. You’re okay.”

With her reminders, you snapped out of your little spiral and breathed through this wave. “That’s it, honey. You got it, you got it. I’m right here.”

“Oh, my God.” You murmured, breathing out heavily as you felt a surge in pressure of sorts between your legs, “Why is it so bad?”

“Well, it's been a couple hours since the pain started.” Janis mentioned, “Things are progressing. But breathe, that’s important.”

You leaned your head on her shoulder, wincing as the pressure between your legs felt like it wasn’t going to let up. “I — my God, I think my water’s gonna break.” You told her.

“It’s okay, let it happen. Your body knows what to do.” Regina sat down next to you. She’d just put Jace down for a nap in the guest room, “You’re already sitting on an absorbency sheet.”

You whined, taking in a sharp breath, “Baby. We got you, don’t worry about anything but bringing your little girl into the world.” Regina shushed.

You just sat on the couch or walked around the house to pass time. They made you food, since you could still eat…being so early on in labour and all. You only ate some of it thanks to the poor appetite caused by the increasing pain. Oh, and the nerves. Lucky you, Regina and Cady have only just arrived last night. “Take a lap with her again.” Regina encouraged, “Might help.”

You nodded, Janis helped you stand up then walked around the house with you. As nervous and as tired as you were, you wanted to try everything you could to get things going.

Eventually, the sun set, and you had to go to bed. That was a good nine hours since the pain started. Well, your sleep turned out to be quite restless for the most part. Your eyes snapped open, you felt the worst pain of all so far. With your head rolled back, you reminded yourself to breathe through. Until the nausea hit you, that is. It was so abrupt, you didn’t even make it to the bathroom.

“Fuck!” You cursed, pissed off that you’ve left them a mess to clean off the floor. Cady appeared in the doorway soon enough, Janis was still asleep. She’s been as tired as you were. “It’s alright. Sit down, do you want some water?”

You shook your head vigorously, eyes screwed shut. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. We know what we’re dealing with here, no biggie.” Cady smiled, assuring you. “How long have you been up?”

“Don’t know.” You chuckled wryly, “Pretty much the whole time, I guess. I keep drifting in and out of sleep. Every time I get a contraction, I wake up.”

“Are they closer together?”

“Like less than ten minutes, maybe?”

“Well, they were fifteen minutes apart.” Cady nodded, “So yeah, you’re getting closer. Anything new?”

“No.” You moaned in pain. Then you felt some movement on the mattress, behind you. Janis had just woken up. “How are you feeling?” Janis asked, the sleep evident in her voice.

“Less than ten minutes apart now.” You informed her, “And I just threw up.” She rubs your back, “You could’ve woken me up, honey. I wouldn’t mind.”

“It’s okay, it happened too quickly anyway.” You sniffed, “I’m gonna go get something to clean—”

Cady objected before you could finish talking, “Let me do that. You just rest as much as you can right now.”

“We can probably head to the hospital soon.” Janis rubbed your back as she spoke, “You wanna take a quick shower to freshen up before we grab the stuff and go?”

“Okay.” You looked at her, then you nodded.

“Okay, come on. Let’s do it.” Janis pressed a kiss to your cheek then guided you to stand up slowly.

After helping you with the shower and getting dressed, Janis loaded the needed items and hospital bag into the car. Cady woke Regina up, and she got ready in record time. You’ve never seen her get ready this quickly. Regina was tagging along from the beginning as discussed, Cady was staying behind at the house to watch Jace. And she’ll be there later on in the day.

Regina drove, and Janis sits in the back with you. Halfway through the drive, you’ve began to doubt your pain tolerance because it currently felt like your insides were getting ripped apart every time a contraction wrapped around your abdomen and radiated down to your legs. Janis just held you and whispered sweet words and assurances into your ears. So she kept you as calm as you could be in a time like this.

Once at the hospital, you signed in and was promptly taken to your room. “I’ll be back in a few to set an IV plug for you, in the meantime— here’s a hospital gown for you to change into.”

“Okay, thanks.” You told the nurse before reaching for the open-back gown. The nurse leaves, and you started to undress so you could put the gown on. You had your back facing your sister, your front facing Janis. “You good?”

“Yeah, just tired and in pain. No big deal.” You joked. Janis stood closer to you, smiling a little sadly. She kissed the top of your head next. “Is that still a no to the epidural?”

“Yeah.” You let out a strained reply.

“Okay.” She acknowledged, pressing her knuckles up against your lower back to counteract the pain you were beginning to feel.

“Thanks.” You hummed, leaning forward onto her, “That helps the back pain.”

“Good to know. That’s good, babe.” Janis said, then felt your body tense up as she noted the change reflected on the fetal monitor. “Breathe. In and out, honey. In…and out. You know what to do, that’s it.”

“It’s bad.” You deadpanned, trying not to focus on it. Though it was beginning to seem like something you could no longer ignore, or get distracted from.

The hospital ward’s door opened up, creaking slightly. “Okay, y/n. Time for the IV plug, Dr. Aukai said you’re gonna be started off with some antibiotics for prevention.”

You nodded in silence, still seated on the side of the bed, leaning onto Janis. The nurse, whose name was Maia— you caught a glimpse of her nametag. “Which hand do you want it on?”

“The left’s easier.” You muttered, side of your face smushed against Janis’ chest. You hear footsteps…Regina was walking over to get nearer to you. You didn’t even care about how ridiculous you seemed right now, as long as you felt comfortable, you were staying in the position until you weren’t.

“Okay, hun. Deep breath for me on three.” Maia requested, “One, two, three.” You felt the sting of the needle and yelped, Regina was holding onto your right hand somehow. You then felt the elastic band that was tied around your forearm get taken off. “All done.”

“Thank you for doing it in one try.” You managed a laugh.

“Did my best.” Maia smiled, “You’re all set. We’ll come in to check on you every hour or so. Feel free to let us know if you have any questions.”

Regina sat down on an armchair near your bed, Janis stayed put. “Dr. Aukai has been informed, so she’ll be coming by to check on you too in a bit.”

————

Dr. Aukai was the first to check on your progress and told you how you were doing. “Seven centimetres. You’re getting there. Progressing very nicely.”

Maia and the other nurse on duty did the following two checks, during which you all learnt that you were finally fully dilated and ready. Hearing that, you were in a brief state of disbelief. But then, the contraction hits and pulls you back into reality in no time. “I’ll go get your doctor.” Maia said, briskly leaving the room. The other nurse started setting everything up, including stirrups for your legs in case you wanted to use them. Janis had been holding onto your hand all the while, but what sent a wave of tears through you was Regina squeezing your hand and kissing the back of it then brushing over your knuckles — right at the moment where you felt the fear and intense anxiety kick in, altogether with the adrenaline. It did not mix well with the pain.

You locked eyes with Regina, then Janis. You looked ridiculously unkempt now, but Janis still looked at you like you were dressed to the nines. You swallowed thickly, fighting the urge to throw up. Regina got the attention of the other nurse. “Zelda? Can she get another dose of the anti-emetic?”

“Su—”

“I’m here.” Someone bursts into the room, startling you. Regina looked at the person with wide eyes, displeased. “Let’s get things moving. I’m the oncall doctor, Aukai’s in an emergency c-section.”

“What?”

“Did you not hear what I said?” The older lady squinted at you, grabbing a stool and sitting on it, in the space between your legs. “Zelda, if she has to vomit, just have her let it out, why give her the medicine again?”

“But she doesn’t need to throw up. She just feels nauseous—”

“Do you have to push?” The doctor stares at you, “Okay, push. Ten counts, don’t stop until I tell you to.”

Regina side-eyed the woman. What was she rushing you for?

You didn’t have time to care, and just started bearing down. It seemed like such a long time, and you could barely breathe already.

“Can I stop—”

“Keep going.” She insisted. You were near tears already, and exhausted without question. Akoni was beside Janis, watching it all unfold. He was dead worried.

“y/n, listen to your body.” Akoni said, “Stop if you need to stop.”

“Sir, are you the doctor or am I?”

“You clearly aren’t fit to be one if you’re gonna be rushing her like you have somewhere better to be.” Akoni snapped.

The doctor stayed mum, but you saw the annoyance on her face and you felt her hand putting pressure on the area to slow down the pushing as it was, so why the heck was she forcing you to push for so long?

She glances at the fetal monitor, noticing another contraction starting, “Push.” You did so anyway, you were feeling the urge to. It was just that this doctor was pissing you off and not at all easing your nerves like Aukai had been.

This stupid annoying voice continued to order you for the next thirty minutes, you were in an extremely bad mood now— the complete opposite of how you should be feeling in a time like this. You feel her hand leave your body, that same irritated look on her face.

“You’re gonna need an episiotomy.” The doctor decided, “It’ll be better than if you tear.”

That was not true.

“I’m going to give you a shot to numb the area.”

“What?” Janis stopped the doctor, “Did you not read her file? No episiotomy.”

“And you want her to deal with a rip?” The doctor huffed, sticking the needle into your skin without warning. You grunted feeling the sensation, a tear slipping down your cheek. Janis wipes it away quickly. “You feel that?” She asked, poking and pinching your skin. “Yes.” You told her, “Why aren’t you listening to me— yes! I feel that. Stop.”

In the next second, you felt the worst pain you’ve ever experienced. It stung, you screamed your head off and just burst into tears. “What the fuck! Why didn’t you listen to me?!” You shrieked. The pain made your heartrate go up and your stomach to do an unwanted somersault. Akoni gets handed an emesis bucket, of which you puked what little you had left right into it. You were shaking, overwhelmed by the pain and in shock. “She’s only been pushing for 30 minutes, not three hours.” Regina snarled, “How dare you do that when she told you not to. She didn’t need it.”

“Yes, she did.”

“No, she did not.” Akoni was furious. Janis and Regina knew right away, he was done being civil. To add on to it, you feel the baby’s head exit you, followed by the rest of the body. It felt like your lower half got lit on fire. The pain was unbearable, and you had no idea what was even happening.

What just happened, took place in less than a minute. In seconds, even, giving you no time to fight back, giving them no time to stop her. You felt incredibly helpless and betrayed. You heard cries, then a weight on your chest. It was the baby— your baby. And you couldn’t even focus on her. You held her, allowing some skin to skin but you just weren’t processing any of it. This doctor ruined an important milestone for you and you were bitter about it. So bitter.

The baby was then whisked away to be checked and properly cleaned. You were still struggling to breathe and make sense of this mess.

“I’m gonna stop you right there.” Janis stood closer to the doctor, “Don’t you dare stitch her up like that. She said she could feel it when you tested it, numb the area properly. Otherwise, you can leave right now and get her a new doctor.”

Your mind was a blank from the second you felt her cut you, you saw the doctor and Zelda checking weighing and measuring the small baby. You felt Maia massaging your abdomen to help with the delivery of the placenta. It hurt, but nothing compared to what the doctor did to you. Janis had her arm around your trembling frame as tears continued streaming down your face. The only thing you failed to notice was that Akoni and Regina were no longer in the room. “You’re okay, my love.” Janis held you as close as she could, “You’re okay now.”

Thankfully, your daughter was handed back to you once the doctor started to stitch you up— you couldn’t feel anything this time around, fortunately. “Mom, you wanna fill in the birth certificate?” Maia came closer with the document and a pen.

“Sure, of course.” Janis carefully let go of you and stood next to the table, taking the piece of paper and the pen.

Janis quickly wrote down the name and filled in the rest of it. She wanted to get back to you. And luckily, you didn’t even notice that the doctor had left. You couldn’t stand anything about that woman.

It took some time, but you were finally calm after about an hour. The more time you spent with your baby girl, the more at ease you were. Janis even found the time now to take some photos, like she had meant to do much earlier. Regina and Akoni returned soon after, in better spirits and excited to meet the new baby.

“What’s her name?” Akoni asked quietly, admiring the newborn in your arms.

“Kalia.” Janis answered.

“Kalia Jean.” You added on.

Regina froze, looking at you looking at her. You laughed, “Yes, Reg.”

“You—”

“I named her after you.” You confirmed.

“God…” Regina smiled in disbelief, “You didn’t have to.”

“I wanted to. We wanted to. You are a badass and who better to name her after than you? You mean the world to me. And now I have her, and she means the world to me, too. It’s fitting. You taught me hope, she was the hope after that loss. I couldn’t have thought of a better person to honour than you.”

“It is fitting.” Regina sniffed, “Oh, I’m so proud of you, baby. Okay, now you three get closer, I wanna take some pictures. Come on, look here.”

“I am so proud of you.” Janis captured your lips into her own, “So fucking proud.”

🏷️Tag list:

@ashecampos @auliisflower @cheesysoup-arlo @frogs00 @ludoesartandstuff @pda128

💭A/N:

We’re getting closer to the end😩

[persephone11110]

Hot and Cold

J.S x Reader

Warnings:quiet reader/happy/confident, protective j.s, mention of past oc death, soft jake seresin, fake date->real dating at the end, bad date, medical inaccuracy, naval inaccuracy, ooc j.s a bit, curse words

Summary: two times jake seresin was secretly in love with y/n l/n and the one time he made sure you knew too.

ofc: Y/n“Mouse”L/n

AN: This is so random, this is me taking a break from Fallen Angel. I’ve read 5+1 b4 from different fandoms but make mine 2+1 bcus i don’t have the brain cells to do that. I don’t know if I like this ENJOY ❤️

—

1. the hard deck

“Kiss me baby”

“Ooh, that feels good”

You leaned against the bar alone sipping on your sparkling water quietly. As much as you loved Rooster’s singing— it was loud and made everyone around you in bar loud. You flinched at the shouts that echoed throughout the bar— you knew everyone was just having fun—something you didn’t quite understand yet.

“You hate Bradshaw’s voice too?” a southern drawl calls out to you. You look back to a man with set of gorgeous green eyes. Holy shit he’s fine.

“H..Hi Seresin” your voice suddenly stuttering—nervousness was rising at the sight of the man.

You instantly recognized the man Hangman, the man that leaves everyone in his dust cloud. He gently puts his hand on your back guiding you to a pair of seats outside.

After pulling out your chair Jake gently smiles at you—“Sorry about that Y/n I couldn’t hear over that chicken shit”. He full on smirking, back at home Jake has a little brother Riley who has the exact same tendencies as you. Shy and Quiet-pratically acts like a ghost.

“Jake” you shot him a disapproving look. “Be kind to Rooster”.

“Why should I Mouse?”, he glances at you, your not dumb you could feel and see the deep hatred the two men have for each other. He sips at his beer before putting it back down on the table.

You sighed,“Because whether you like it or not Rooster might be the one up there with you”. You say easily, you know what it feels like to lose someone up in the air. The feeling of someone’s death weighing on conscious day and night— the infamous What If’s.

He shrinks back—“Who, if you don’t mind me asking ya sweetheart?”. He reaches over and grabs your hand lightly—there’s no heat behind his words, his face is soft and gentle— you could see the real him and not his facade Hangman.

Icarus flew too close to the sun. a teardrop fell from your face.

Painful memories crashed your mind, the day Y/n died, having to listen to banshee like cries of his mother and wife combined. Watching his casket get carefully laid into the ground.

“Me and my wso were shot down in enemy territory”.— it’s classified can’t give to much away. “I know I don't why you and Rooster have differences but all i’m saying is that the last thing you both need is death weighing you down”.

“Thank you Y/n”, Jake cards his fingers over your knuckles.“But I need to get back to terrorizing everyone around me”.

Jake wishes he could stay longer, leaving you is the last thing he wants. But if he stayed longer Jake might confess his feelings for you. Cant have that before a big mission, can we?

“Bye Hangman”, you waved him away.

He stood up and gently dropped a kiss onto your head.

“Bye Mouse”

I think I’m in love with her.

—

2. record store

Leave it to loudmouth Phoenix to tell the daggers you had a date tonight. And if you remember correctly Jake had look like he taken a bite into a lemon, sour and confused of why you had a date. When you could be dating him.

“Come on Y/n, your going ditch takeout with me for a random date tonight?”, His eyes fan over to you, as you stood at his kitchen sink.

“Well excuse me Seresin some of us weren’t grace with beauty like others”, you snapped, throwing your lipstick in your purse hastily.

“Goodbye Jake”, you turned on your heel not daring to look back to see if Jake even cared enough to come after you.

You lonely walked the aisles of the record store alone, it was too good to be true, why would a man like Jordan waste him time on you. Maybe you weren’t destined for love—maybe your life would end with you being old cat lady who’s suffered from a broken heart decades early.

You found yourself standing infront of various records Ready to Die, At Last, Enter The Wutang—36 Chambers. All of your favorites album.

“Well at least I know music taste”, God damn it you recognized the arrogant accent from anywhere.

You counted to five before turning around to see Jake. “H-Hello”, you stutter out, Jake was in a three piece suit, with a bouquet of lily’s in his hand. Your favorite flowers, the suit you helped him pick out weeks ago.

“Hey there darlin”, he leans over you—dropping a kiss onto your hair. “I’m sorry for being a bastard”, Jake softly apologizes to you. Your taken back at the softness of his voice.

“How did you—”, you cut yourself off unsure if really wanted the answer.

“Easy, Bradshaw told me that jackass was at the hard deck with a girl hanging off his arm”. , Your shoulders deflated with sadness, you were right- no man is going to spend time with a woman like you. Tears trickled down your face—“Hey, Hey sweetheart whats with the tears?”. His voice more softer.

Your shoulders bounce with sadness at your face found it’s self into the crook of Jake’s neck. “I just wished someone loved me”, you mumbled, to him yet he could hear how much emotion filled your words.

“Come on sweetheart, what do you think i’m doing down here”, he pulls you from him—“You don’t need that jackass to have fun, you have me?”, he whispered into your ear.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah” he promised, “I booked us a reservation at Gio’s, and besides Bradshaw and Trace tossed Jordan on his ass after they caught him”. A bit of laughter came out your mouth as you smiled. “Two black eyes and a suit don’t mix well together”, he lightly poked at you.

“Fine Seresin”, you interlocked arms with him, “Lead the way”.

He could feel his heart throb with excitement.

“Alrighty Y/n you win”. you and Jake walked arm and arm to his car before he opens the car door for you, ushering you into his car. You flashed a smile at him.

I think I’m in love with her.

—

3. uss?(day of the mission)

“I came to see Lieutenant Jake Seresin”, your tone wavering with fear, logically you knew he was fine—you saw him and Bradley shake hands and smile at each other. But that didn’t mean anything to you, not after you lost Hunter in the air.

“Lieutenant L/n” the doctor tone drenched with stress, “Seresin is busy—”, she was cut off by a southern accent filled with arrogance.

“I’m very good. In fact, I am too good to be true.”, the doctor scoffs-sidestepping, granting you access to Jake.

The cocky son of bitch was laid out on the cot with a grin on his face. “Haven’t see you in a bit sweetheart”. He was laying there as if he hadn’t almost lost his life.

You must’ve allowed some type of emotion to cross your face because the next thing you knew a brusied Jake was pulling down with towards him. Your head tucked under his chin, as you both laid in silence.“Feeling that Y/n?”, he drawled out.

“Yeah I do”, your voice is gentle. “J..Jake I thought I lost you”, your voice wavered.

“I know sweetheart I thought I did too”, he sits up with you in his lap.“I had to save Pops and Rooster you know that right?”.

“Without a doubt”, you managed to run your fingers through his hair. “And you did amazing job of that too, whilst also scaring the shit outta of me”.

“I’m surprised Cyclone isn’t here yet, tearing me a new one”, Jake tells you—adding a kiss to your hand.

“He’s coming soon for a debrief, and the last thing he needs is two of his top lieutenants laid up in bed together Jake”. you tried moving from his embrace.

Jake easily held you back“Y/n I really don’t give a damn right now”.

“Jake”, you said.

“What sweetheart?”.

“Kiss me”, you playfully puckered your lips out.

“God damn darlin took you look enough”, his hand cupped the back of your head.

“I’m in love with her”

[writerblue275]

Heartsteel!Sett Becoming a Dad

Inspiration: Listen I’ve had a hellish week and I need this. The other person who did what I do at work left so I’m flying solo at the moment, on top of training a new hire. Things are just bonkers and I’m fucking stressed and I need fluff god damnit.

Extra Inspo: Also @milksuu has me stuck on the thought of Dad!Heartsteel. (GO READ THIS AMAZING DAD!PHEL HEADCANON POST (HERE) AND CRY WITH ME.)

Genre: Headcanon

Type: Fluffy as fuckkkk

Gender: Reader implied afab/able to carry a pregnancy. Use of “mother.”

TW: Discussion of pregnancy, discussion of a deadbeat dad (not Sett ofc). Swearing.

(I don’t even want kids irl but damn I would have his children without question kthxbye.)

When you tell him you’re pregnant, Sett is so so SO fucking excited. Like over the moon thrilled.

The two of you often talked about your future together and starting a family would eventually be a part of it. So while this baby wasn’t exactly planned, it’s not unwelcome news. The timeline just got bumped up a little bit.

Watching him kneel down (because he’s fucking TALL) and rest his forehead against your not-yet-showing belly is heart-melting.

And it is something he does quite often, especially once your bump starts to show. It doesn’t matter whether you’re standing, sitting, or laying in bed.

Sett loves to softly sing or talk to the baby. He sings his favorite songs and tells the baby all sorts of things. Like stories from when he was little, stories about the two of you, the shenanigans him and the other Heartsteel members get up to, or even just what the weather is currently like. Talking to you and your tummy while you gently play with his hair and ears is his definition of domestic bliss.

He’s so extremely helpful. Like just an absolute angel of a partner. His love language is acts of service, so showing his love by doing things for you is already very natural for him. Crank that up to 11 when it comes to you being pregnant. Also your mood swings don’t phase him like at all. He knows it’s the hormones.

He’s meal prepping healthy and pregnancy-safe meals for you, but he’s also happy to run to the store/to get carry out at night when a craving hits. Sometimes you just gotta have fried chicken and ice cream at 11:30pm. He understands!

Whatever you need, Sett’s going to do everything in his power to do it for you. How could he not? You’re going through so much to bring this child into the world. He wants to make it as easy as possible for you.

He tries to make sure he can make every one of your pre-natal appointments if at all possible. He’ll take the day off to make sure he can go with you. And if there’s ever an appointment he can’t make because he’s out of town or something, he’ll face time in so he can still be with you in some way. He never wants you to feel like you’re facing any part of this pregnancy alone. Lean on him. He’s your rock, your partner, and he’s got your back through it all.

Now of course, not everything is sunshine and rainbows. Sett fully believes you’ll be an excellent parent. But surprisingly, that’s not necessarily a belief he holds for himself…

One night when you two are just relaxing together, enjoying the nightly routine of him resting his head on your thigh and talking to your bump, you notice his expression get a little more serious.

“Can I tell you a secret, nugget? One that I haven’t even told your mother yet?” Sett glances up at you shyly before looking back down at your growing bump. “I’m…I’m a bit scared to be a father,” he murmurs. “I’m so excited to meet you and help you grow, but I’m also terrified I’ll mess up too much. I’m afraid I won’t be a good father to you. My dad wasn’t around very long so it’s not like I have someone in my family to look to as a good example of fatherhood…”

Your eyes widen as you listen to him continue to vent his lack of confidence in himself when it comes to being a good father. It breaks your heart. All of this self-doubt coming from the man who makes sure to never miss an appointment, even when he’s in a different country, who took all sorts of brochures from your OBGYN’s office, ordered parenting books galore and has been reading them non-stop, the man excitedly painting the walls of the nursery and helping you build a crib or rocking chair once he’s home from work.

“Settrigh, look at me,” you say softly as you gently run your fingers through his hair.

He looks up at you, his eyes clearly showing his nerves at what your response might be, though he tries to pass off a small shaky smile. “Uh oh…the full name comes out. That’s never good.”

You let out a soft giggle as you look down at him adoringly and gently move your hand down to cup his cheek. “Do you really think I’d still be here with you right now, 7-months pregnant with your child, our child, if I thought you’d be a bad father? Absolutely not, my love. You know I don’t tolerate fools or bullshit. There’s no one I’d rather start a family with and I think you’ll be an incredible father.”

He leans into your touch. “But I don’t know how to be a good father….not with the way mine was…”

“There’s no fool-proof guidebook for parenting, Sett. Even with your Ma as an amazing example, I don’t really know how to be a mother yet. Parenting is something we’ll learn together along the way, yeah?

He nods. “You’re right baby, as per usual.”

Your smile widens before you continue. “While yes, your father is a shitty deadbeat, that doesn’t concern me. Do you know why?”

He gently shakes his head.

You smile softly again. “He wasn’t the one who raised you, babe, your Ma did. Your Ma is one of the kindest, strongest, most loving beings in this world. Despite everything the world threw at her, she survived and she never let it break her spirit. She raised the best life partner I could ever ask for, and I know you’ll pass on all her lessons to our little nugget. Your heart and your upbringing come from your Ma, Sett, not your dad.”

He nods gently and sighs. “She really sacrificed a lot to make sure we’d be ok. I’m so lucky to have her as my Ma.”

“All it takes is one look to see that sacrifice wasn’t in vain. She’s so proud of you, Sett. She feels so lucky to have you as her son. She’s told me so herself.” You run your thumb along his cheekbone. “You’re not your father. I know you’d never just leave, forcing me to fend for this baby all by myself. Hell, you hate leaving me just to go on short work trips with Heartsteel! You’re a far better man than your dad ever was and you’ll be a far better father than he was too.”

His eyes grow soft as you speak and you feel him relax a bit. “You really think so?”

“I know so!…Also, babe, even in the extremely unlikely case you did leave…you know damn well your Ma would hunt you down and drag you back here herself.”

When he’s out of town with Heartsteel, he’s making sure to check in on you and call/facetime at least twice a day.

During each call Sett has you lower your phone down to your bump so he can say hello to the baby. (And if you’re ok with it, he’ll let the other guys/Alune come over and say hi to you and talk to your belly as well. “They should know their uncles and aunt!”)

Even while he’s out of town you know you’re in good hands. His Ma assures you she’s only a call away and is happy to come keep you company if you want her to. She’s truly a saint, offering advice anytime you or Sett ask her for it while also never going against a decision you and him make. She understands better than anyone how chaotic and unpredictable parenthood can be, and she knows the two of you will always do what you think is best for your baby. She’s just the most supportive woman and she’s utterly thrilled to become a grandma.

The two of you decide to wait to find out the sex of the baby. It’s not really important to Sett to know early. Whatever sex, as long as you and the baby are healthy, that’s all he cares about.

When the moment eventually comes and your water breaks, it’s a little hilarious how panicked he gets, dashing around the house to make sure everything important is in the car.

You grab Sett’s arm to get him to pause his scrambling. “Babe out of the two of us, I feel like I should be the one panicking,” you let out on a laugh, leaning up to kiss him softly. “Breathe. We have time. This is why we prepared early and pre-packed the hospital bags in the car, remember? We’re as ready as we can be, my love, so let’s go become parents.”

As you talk he takes a couple deep breaths and relaxes slightly. As you finish, he kisses you gently. “Let’s go become parents,” he murmurs. Before he steps away completely he kneels down and kisses your tummy. “See you soon, nugget…”

Once he gets over the initial wave of anxiety, Sett gets into the zone. Just an incredible birthing partner to have with you. He’s guiding you through your breathing exercises. He has no issue letting you squeeze the fuck out of his hand or arm. He’s even calm when you cuss him out during particularly intense contractions. He knows you don’t really mean what you’re saying, you’re just in a lot of pain. He calmly keeps wiping off your face and neck with a cool towel and murmuring words of encouragement into your ear, smiling gently and holding you as you eventually melt against him for support.

Hates that you’re not allowed to eat anything. He’s not eating anything either in solidarity. What kind of asshole would bring food and eat it while their partner giving birth can’t have any?? Like Sett doesn’t understand people who do that so don’t worry, you definitely won’t experience that with him.

And once the time comes for you to push, he’s wherever you want him to be, whether that’s right next to you holding your hand, helping the nurses by holding a leg, or even sitting behind you, holding you against his chest. He wants/needs to be useful for you. Wherever he is, he’s encouraging and praising you to high heavens, in absolute awe of you and your strength.

And once the baby comes…🥹🥹🥹

Sett’s eyes are watering as soon as he sees the the teeny tiny ears on top of the baby’s head.

But first he’s hugging you, making sure you’re alright, telling you how amazing you did and how proud of you he is. And as soon as the docs/nurses give the all clear, he’s giving you your fav snacks that he packed so you can finally eat something.

Once he sees you holding the baby, that’s when the tears really start falling. His heart can’t handle it. You, the love of his life, holding your baby, a direct result of your love for each other. It’s one of the most beautiful sights he’s ever witnessed.

He’s sitting next to you on the edge of the bed, his arm around you, looking down at this squalling bundle in your arms with the biggest, most adoring smile on his face.

And when Sett gets a chance to hold the baby? He’s finally able to talk to the baby outside your tummy? Oh he’s so excited! His heart is filled with so much love it’s about to burst.

As is yours, seeing your massive partner holding this small bundle so carefully and protectively in his arms. He’s so gentle and sweet as he welcomes your child into the world and promises he’ll always be there to love, protect, and guide them as best he can. You know Sett means every single word with his whole heart, and it brings happy tears to your eyes as you start this new journey together as a family.

Ah! Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed! I just really needed Heartsteel fluffiness at the moment and the thought of Sett as a dad is just so cute. (Especially the thought of him as a girl dad oh my fucking god.)

[totowlff]

chapter nineteen — family for dummies

➝ niki has a sincere conversation with cassie about the elephant in the room... or is in the hallway?

➝ word count: 3,1k

➝ warnings: none

➝ author’s note: another one for another raceless week!

23 WEEKS The baby is approximately 29 centimeters from the top of the head to the heel. The blood vessels in the lung are preparing for breathing and for the baby to swallow normally. The skin is so thin that you could even see the veins inside the body.

As Cassie stepped out into the morning sun in the Parco di Monza, she couldn’t help but feel like she was a bit out of place.

Sure, she was there for work, she had a pass to get into the paddock, the Mercedes motorhome, and even the garage if she wanted. She was even dressed like her other colleagues that were wearing the regular team kit, but it didn’t matter — she still had the sneaking sensation that she wasn’t supposed to be there.

Maybe it was the fact that her job normally did not entail working trackside, except for certain races like Silverstone, but doing her work outside of Brackley was rare. Maybe it was the fact that she was walking side-by-side with the team principal, and that he seemed quite happy to have her by his side — well, have them by his side.

Cassie was far enough along in her pregnancy that there was no sensible way to hide it. It was too warm to wear bulky clothing or sweatshirts. It wasn’t like she was ashamed of being pregnant, no — she was quite happy to be “performing a miracle in real time”, as Toto liked to say, but there was something unsettling about the strange glances and whispers that were directed at her all that weekend, not only from other teams’ personnel, but from members of her own team. 

The paddock was small and the rumor mill was constantly churning, and she could see from the way people glanced at her that they were trying to read between the lines of why the Mercedes team principal was so often in the vicinity of the pregnant lady from marketing, whenever he could be, and being so attentive to her needs. 

It was even more frustrating, because Cassie wasn’t even sure if she had a clear view of the relationship herself.

— The weather is great today — Toto said, looking at the trees that lined the gravel path they were walking along, the leaves swaying gently in the breeze.

— Definitely better than yesterday — Cassie replied, smiling at him. On Saturday, the qualifying session had to be interrupted due to the storm that hit the circuit, which turned the paddock into chaos.

— I hope it stays like this — Toto said, as they followed the path through the park. Sure, it may have been easier to drive to the paddock, but Toto insisted that they walk if Cassie were feeling up to it. “After all, it is good for you to be active during this stage of your pregnancy,” he said.

It made Cassie happy that Toto was so concerned for her health and well-being. She had been afraid of being treated coldly after their conversation, but, since she had moved into his house in Oxford, he had only treated her with kindness and affection so far, like inviting her to go with him to Monza for the race weekend.

— Why? — Cassie asked when he broached the subject during dinner one night.

— Because it will be the last race of the European leg and I would like to have my girls with me — Toto replied, taking a bite of the grilled chicken that Bertha had prepared for them both.

— Your girls? — She raised an eyebrow.

— My daughter and her mother.

His words echoed in Cassie's head all week, especially when he talked about the trip. When she learned that she would not be traveling to Italy on a commercial flight like the other Mercedes employees, but on the private jet with him, something turned in her stomach.

— Toto, I don’t think that’s a good idea…

— Why not?

— I'm not one of the team executives, I can't just go to the race with you on your private flight, what will others think?

— Probably that we are close friends and that I care about your comfort since you are pregnant — he replied.

— But…

— Cassie, frankly, I don’t give a fuck what other people think. Let them draw whatever conclusions they want to. The only thing that matters to me is that you are as comfortable as possible for the trip, and that you are there with me.

It was settled, then. She was sure she could have refused if she really wanted to, but deep down, she didn’t really want to; deep down, she was excited that Toto had asked her to go with him, and happy that he was so concerned about her comfort.

It had been a long time since she’d flown on a private plane, and it was indeed comfortable; the flight was very roomy and quiet, with the exception of Toto talking to Bradley the entire time, but the lack of turbulence and the din of the jet engines lulled Cassie into sleep soon after takeoff. Once on Italian soil, they checked in at the Hotel de la Ville, where the rest of the team was already located.

For the first few days of the race weekend, Cassie’s routine was pretty much the same each day. Wake up early, get ready, have breakfast, and walk to the circuit with Toto. When they reached the paddock, each of them would go about their own commitments for the day until the waning hours of the evening. There were a few moments when they could spare to meet for a quick chat, but the frantic rhythm of race weekends prevented anything beyond them exchanging a few words and Toto caressing Cassie’s belly.

Sunday, despite being race day, started the same way for Cassie. After passing through the paddock turnstiles, she and Toto went their separate ways, Cassie to the motorhome, and Toto to the Mercedes garage. On the way to the motorhome’s marketing office, she greeted some familiar faces with a smile. Some of her colleagues and acquaintances from other teams stopped and chatted with her, most of them congratulating her on her pregnancy and asking about her due date. By the time she passed through the automatic doors of the motorhome, she was grateful that the aircon was on full-blast, and happy to be able to sit down and rest her feet for a while.

She worked through the morning, answering emails, organizing the drivers' interview schedules for the day, and adjusting some scripts for videos that would be recorded later that week ahead of the next Grand Prix. After a few hours, she could feel her stomach lurching and growling with hunger. She had been so focused for the past few hours that she hadn’t even realized how much time had passed. She glanced at the wall clock and was surprised by the time.

“I better go downstairs and get something to eat”, Cassie thought to herself, as she closed her laptop and stepped out of the small marketing office out into the narrow upstairs hallway. She passed by the door of Toto’s office, frowning a bit when she saw that it was closed. However, the light leaking through the cracks indicated that he was probably inside, talking to someone or, given the time of day, having lunch.

There was something melancholy about that idea. The thought of Toto all alone in his own office, in silence, eating the same thing for every meal, every day… It sounded sad to Cassie, but he had assured her before that it was grounding for him, something he insisted upon as a way of having some kind of control and calm in the middle of the chaos of race weekends, something he didn’t have to think about. She certainly couldn’t fault him for wanting a moment to himself when his attention was constantly being pulled in so many different directions and being responsible for so many decisions. 

She heard someone clear their throat to her left, and she snapped out of her daze, realizing she was still standing in front of the door to Toto’s office.

— Is there a problem, Cassandra? — Niki Lauda asked. Immediately, her face turned redder than the former driver's cap, as if she had been caught doing something she shouldn't have.

— No, no, Mr. Lauda — Cassie replied, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear — I was just... Thinking.

He looked at the door and then back at her, a mischievous smile on his face.

— First of all, please call me Niki. Mr. Lauda is buried in some hole in Vienna. And second, you have the same expression that my dogs do when they’re locked outside of the room I’m in.

She smiled sheepishly, both from his reprimand and the comparison.

— Do I seem that pathetic?

— Not pathetic, but… Interesting, so to speak.

Cassie looked at her feet, still feeling sheepish. She didn’t know what to say in response, but Niki mercifully spoke up before she could think of something.

— Have you had lunch yet? — he asked.

— No, not yet. I was going downstairs to get something to eat before someone starts protesting — Cassie replied, rubbing the swell of her belly.

— Well, I'm going to lunch now. Would you like to accompany me?

She hadn’t expected that. Cassie knew that Toto had told Niki about the baby, after all, they were good friends. However, had never spoken to the three-time world champion beyond polite greetings in passing on the rare occasion that he popped into the factory. The fact that he seemed so earnest and genuine in his invitation was even more striking.

— Yes, I’d love to — she replied, smiling.

With Niki leading the way, they followed the corridor towards the space reserved for entertaining the team's top executives, sponsors and other VIP guests, a kind of well-decorated terrace with an enviable view of the entire paddock. Niki approached one of the tables and pulled out a chair for Cassie, offering a hand to assist her as she sat down, which Cassie politely declined.

After they placed their orders with Lena from the catering team, Cassie decided to break the ice by asking the former driver about Lewis’ pole-setting lap from the previous day.

— It was simply fantastic. I was honestly speechless when I saw his time. In those conditions, after that endless red flag… Lewis is special.

— Yes, he is — Cassie agreed — Do you think the weather will help out later today?

— I hope so. From what I read earlier in the newspaper, there is no rain in the forecast, but you know how Monza is, always full of surprises.

The two continued talking about random things, most of them related to the team, until one of the catering staff brought their dishes. Cassie ordered a simple Mediterranean salad with orzo, and Niki ordered spaghetti with cacio e pepe. Cassie thanked the waitress and took a bite, sighing with pleasure as she got a taste of the dressing.

— Good? — Niki asked.

— Very good. Every time I come to a race, the catering staff never disappoints — Cassie replied.

The man took a sip of water before continuing.

— It's something that Toto never leaves aside in the logistics plans, he says it's important to always offer the best to all of the team’s staff and guests. I can’t say I disagree with him.

The mention of Toto’s name brought an involuntary grin to Cassie’s face as she speared at a cherry tomato on her plate. She tried to recompose herself, but Niki had already noticed.

— So, does he know?

She looked up at Niki, trying to feign ignorance. 

— What? Does who know what?

— Does Toto know you like him?

Cassie swallowed.

— Well, considering that we are very close friends, and that he’s the father of our daughter, I think it goes without saying that we get on very well…

— You know what I mean.

She stared at him in silence, her throat tightening and her jaw clenching.

— Sorry, but…

— You love him, Cassie — Niki said, before taking a bite of spaghetti.

— But — she began, only for Niki to interrupt, raising his fork in an indication that would continue after he swallowed.

— Before you say anything, yes, he loves you too.

Cassie giggled.

— Sorry, Niki, but Toto and I talked about it, and we agreed that it was best to just remain friends.

— Is that idiot still with this story of just being your friend? — he asked, and, without waiting for a response from her, he continued — Honestly, and did you still listen to him?

— Well, he seemed sincere…

— Toto is doing this because he thinks the pregnancy hormones have made you, I don’t know… Sensitive, emotional, that your feelings for him are just biophysical, or something. And, if I can give my opinion here…

— You already are — she murmured.

— Toto is being a coward, and not just with you, but with your daughter — Niki added, before taking a sip of water.

All of a sudden, the food in front of her had no appeal. Thinking about Toto and his feelings had ruined her appetite.

— Niki, if I may ask  — Cassie said, and Niki grunted, signaling her to continue — Why do you care about this?

The team's non-executive director dropped the cutlery next to the plate of pasta and stared at her for a few seconds, the intensity of his piercing blue eyes contrasting sharply with the red of her cap.

— Well, for starters, I’ve seen Toto go on several dates over the years, and start a handful of relationships that never got off the ground. Every prospective partner, all of them gorgeous women, either obviously knew he had money and acted like it, or they weren’t prepared for the reality of being with someone that travels so much, and has to spend so much time away — he explained — Even though I don't know you well, I know that neither is the case for you, and I also know Toto well enough to see how much happier he has been over the last few months.

— You think so?

Niki smiled. 

— I’m sure. As long as I’ve known him, his life has been his job. He’s always enjoyed getting to travel and going all over the world, as tough as the season schedule is. He’s never once complained about it. But a few months ago, out of nowhere, he grumbles every time he has to spend more than a few days away from Oxford. He spends Sundays practically counting the hours until the race is done and he can go back to the UK. Not to mention that more than once, I’ve caught him looking at ultrasound images on his phone and grinning like a fool.

Imagining it filled Cassie with warmth, and she couldn’t help but smile.

— The problem is that Toto has spent too much time alone, especially after what happened with his ex-fiancée — Niki continued — Well, when I saw him bringing a box of pastries back from Hungary, saying that it was to make you happy… You know Toto, he doesn’t do anything unless he’s sure of it, and when he does, he doesn’t go halfway. All of that is to say… He loves you, I am sure of it. 

Cassie pursed her lips.

— Well, that's not what he told me when we talked about it.

— Because he's an idiot, I told you — he muttered.

— But it does not matter. In the end, I don’t need him to love me for us to have a family.

Niki snorted, looking at her with a smug sense of disbelief on his face.

— Did you two agree to say this nonsense? — he asked, without waiting for an answer — I already told him this, and I'll repeat it to you: you can have a child without love, but not a family.

The statement hit Cassie like a speeding train. Cassie knew Niki was right, because she had lived it. She was the daughter of two people who didn't love each other, who came from two people who also didn’t love each other. The only thing tying her family together was lineage and a surname, the rest of it was just a pantomime, a show for the benefit of only looking good to the rest of the English upper class circles her parents ran in, a status quo that Albert was hellbent on maintaining. It all looked very charmed and privileged from the outside, but it was just a shining veneer over something that had long been rotten down to its foundations.

She did not want to raise Ingrid in a family like that.

Cassie was about to answer Niki when her eyes met Toto's, who was walking up to their table with a wide smile. The way her heart leapt was confirmation that Niki was right.

— Did you find a new lunch companion? — Toto asked, placing one of his hands on the back of Niki's chair. His voice sounded fond, like he couldn’t have been happier to see the two of them eating together.

— Someone has to keep this lovely lady company, since the man who should be doing so prefers to eat lunch alone in his office — the ex-driver replied, a hint of acid in his voice.

— You know it’s a habit of mine…

— One that you’d do well to change — Niki muttered. Toto rolled his eyes, and didn’t acknowledge the comment.

— I must have missed a riveting conversation, whatever you were talking about, considering Cassie barely touched her salad — Toto observed, making Cassie look down at the still-full salad plate.

— Oh, we were talking about how — Niki started, the direction of the sentence filling her chest with panic.

— The baby is doing. She’s kicking me in the ribs now — Cassie interjected, flashing Niki an expression that begged him not to continue his sentence. He gave her a curt, almost-imperceptible nod, and dispensed with whatever he was actually going to say. Toto chuckled, coming around the table and crouching down next to her, placing his hand on her stomach.

— Ich kann nicht glauben, dass sich mein kleines Mädchen nicht gut benimmt — Toto said, stroking his hand fondly over the front of Cassie's work shirt.

— Sie ist genau wie ihr idiotischer Vater — Niki muttered before drinking from his glass of water. The meaning was lost on Cassie as Toto repositioned his hand closer to her ribs, where he could feel Ingrid moving.

— Ich denke nur an ihr Wohlergehen — Toto said softly, giving her a small smile.

— Sag ihr lieber, was du wirklich fühlst, bevor es zu spät ist — Niki replied, standing up and, with a nod, saying goodbye to Cassie. Then, he headed downstairs, walking briskly. 

Confused, Cassie looked up at Toto, trying to read his inscrutable expression. 

— Is he alright? He seemed mad.

— Yes, he’s fine. You know how he can be. Nothing to worry about, Cassandra. 

[zot3-flopped]

There's a piece on the Daily Mail that gives a very interesting behind-the-scenes of Liam's life (they also talk about a big childhood trauma but "whose full details the Mail has chosen not to publish"). It's behind a paywall but I've discovered that many times the reading mode in Firefox and Safari gets through anyway, so here it is:

---

Liam Payne's serious childhood trauma and why having a baby so young with Cheryl couldn't bring the stability that may have saved him: KATIE HIND

It was the autumn of 2011, and I had been summoned to Sony Music’s west London HQ to meet Britain’s hottest new boy band.

A few months earlier, five hopeful teenagers had auditioned for ITV’s X Factor talent show – and the music impresario Simon Cowell had drawn them together to form One Direction.

The fledgling stars had already attracted a global fanbase in the millions: a juggernaut that was drawing comparisons to 1960s Beatlemania, even though they had yet to release a song.

Now that was about to change. The band’s debut single, What Makes You Beautiful, was launching the following week – and I was there to interview the boys behind it.

Although they had seemed like sweet young things when we had briefly met at the Fountain Studios in Wembley, north-west London, during their X Factor live shows the previous year, I had expected these precocious adolescents to now be full of self-importance at their growing fame.

How wrong I was.

I arrived to find five handsome young men politely waiting to greet me, but one of them stood out thanks to his cute curly hair and his charming, talkative manner.

No, not Harry Styles – the only ex-1D member who has gone on to forge a successful, long-term solo career – but Liam Payne. Dressed down in a navy hoodie and jeans, Liam wrapped me in a warm hug and excitedly introduced me to his bandmates – Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Zayn Malik – in his strong Wolverhampton accent.

Looking younger than his 18 years, Liam told me how badly he was missing his beloved mum Karen’s cooking – so much so that he had resorted to eating chicken dippers warmed up in the microwave.

Living as he was out of suitcases in hotels, he asked me for ironing tips as he had yet to learn how to use one – and said he still spent much of his free time playing Nintendo.

He admitted that he had practised putting his hands behind his back and trying to sing like his hero Liam Gallagher, the snarling Oasis frontman. ‘I probably looked a bit stupid though,’ he said.

He also spoke lovingly about West Bromwich Albion, the football team he had supported since he was a young boy – though he regretted that he no longer had time to cheer them on in person.

As for girls, Liam told me he preferred shy and quiet ones, although he revealed he’d fallen in love with X Factor’s 2006 winner Leona Lewis, while he found singer Tulisa Contostavlos ‘really, really hot’.

Overall, he struck me as an innocent abroad – a child, really – who seemed too vulnerable a soul to last long in the cut-throat music world.

As the years passed, I met Liam many times at industry events and in chance encounters – and I never shook that worrying sense that he was, in some ways, a lost little boy.

I could never have known, of course, that just 13 years after our first interview, Liam would perish in the most terrible circumstances – following a long spell of torment, scandal and drink and drug abuse.

His descent into addiction had been playing out, in public and in private, for years – worsened by his fragile emotional state.

Many had tried to help him quit the substances that were destroying his life, but to no avail: following his death in Buenos Aires’s five-star CasaSur hotel on Wednesday evening, what appeared to be cocaine and heroin paraphernalia were found in his wrecked suite, with its smashed TV and half-drunk flutes of champagne.

It was a squalid end for one of the most famous young men in the world, so adored by ‘Directioners’ that he insisted he couldn’t leave his hotel without a large security detail (although it’s worth pointing out that other former bandmates, including the global megastar Styles, often travel without huge entourages).

So where did it all go wrong for him – and how did that smiling boy I met all those years ago, rough around the edges as he was, come to such a terrible end?

There is no doubt that he struggled, even more than his bandmates, with that explosive early fame and notoriety.

In a candid moment at 2014’s Brit Awards, Liam told me how difficult he found it to be unable to blend into a crowd. The band’s relentless schedule had taken its toll on him, as had the long months away from home.

He often wished, one of his friends later told me, that he had gone to university like many of his schoolmates.

Of course, Liam came to enjoy a lifestyle unimaginable to his old contemporaries at St Peter’s Collegiate, his Church of England secondary school in Wolverhampton.

Despite his insatiable appetite for drugs, his large property portfolio, his endless jaunts on private jets, taste for high fashion and luxury hotel stays, his bank balance was still thought to be in the millions when he died.

For all his fears that he had peaked so young, he still had decades ahead of him – and ample time to grow into the contented father to Bear, his son with Girls Aloud star Cheryl Tweedy, his friends and family longed for him to become.

But I can reveal that behind that smiling, cherubic face, Liam had suffered serious trauma in his childhood: a shadow from which he felt he could never escape and whose full details the Mail has chosen not to publish.

One friend told me: ‘Before he even began his showbiz career, he had demons from his formative years. He struggled with that and never quite got over it. He was in a band with four other guys, he could get any girl he wanted and he was earning millions – but he struggled to enjoy any of it.’

I can vouch for that: of all the 1D members, Liam seemed by far the most uncomfortable with his fame and fortune.

I would see him most years at the Brits, where at first he would dash over to say hello, often reminding me that he had enjoyed me asking him ‘fun questions’ at our first interview.

Yet as time went on, his chaotic living began to catch up with him, and his manner became ever more unpredictable.

In February 2013, at a Brit Awards afterparty organised by his music label at the upmarket Arts Club in Mayfair, I saw him drunkenly dancing with his bandmates – by far the most bleary-eyed of them.

That December, I bumped into him in the Kurt Geiger shoe shop in Canary Wharf, east London, where he was buying his then girlfriend Sophia Smith – a former school sweetheart – a pair of boots for Christmas.

Gone was his carefree demeanour of just two years earlier, he now seemed strikingly shy. He told me he had bought a penthouse flat in the Docklands, and at my insistence, he posed for a picture with me before dashing off.

During 2013’s Take Me Home tour, the band performed an average of a concert every two days, completing 124 dates between February and November. That, I’m told, put unbearable pressure on Liam, who would often say that he ‘just wanted to be normal’.

Of course, the fame came with perks – women chief among them. Liam’s best-known romance was with Cheryl, who was ten years his senior, which had begun in 2016 following her split from her French husband Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini.

They quickly became the most talked-about couple in showbiz –and only six months after they were confirmed to be an item, Cheryl revealed she was expecting their baby.

For Liam, however, the pregnancy was a huge shock: he was, he allegedly told friends, not ready to become a dad.

With 1D having gone on ‘permanent hiatus’ in 2016, he was trying to launch his solo career, and becoming a father – especially to a woman a decade older than him –was not part of his plans.

He told friends that he felt like Cheryl, who was 33 when Bear was born, had used him so she could have a baby.

When Bear, now seven, was born in 2017, Cheryl grew increasingly fed up that she was stuck at home with the baby while Liam was away jet-setting.

‘Liam was flying around the world promoting his music,’ said a friend. ‘He was in the zone Cheryl had been in ten years before with Girls Aloud. It led to some furious rows.

‘He began using private jets so he could get home quicker, but it wasn’t enough. Cheryl wanted a proper family unit and Liam just could not give it to her. Things got really bad and tempestuous. Liam was a young lad in his early 20s and he just wasn’t ready for it all.’

Inevitably, they split up – giving Liam even more time to ‘go off the rails’, as one former associate of the star describes it.

Even when they were co-parenting, Cheryl desperately hoped that Liam and Bear would develop a strong father-son bond, despite Liam’s addiction issues.

‘Cheryl knew what a state he was in,’ says a source. ‘She wished she could make it better.’

And she wasn’t alone in that wish: as Liam turned from being a cheerful teenager into a tormented, angry young man, many of those closest to him tried unsuccessfully to rescue him.

He was dropped by more than one of his managers due to his erratic behaviour and his failure to turn up to work engagements.

In September 2017, Cheryl, Liam and Bear went on a luxury holiday to Majorca: a birthday treat for Liam. But he injured himself while drunk.

As the years went on, he only got worse.

In 2022, a gurning Liam appeared to be high on drugs at a post-Oscars party in Hollywood. In footage that went viral for all the wrong reasons, he replaced his Wolverhampton twang with a bizarre Los Angeles accent.

One friend of Liam’s called me in horror to share their fears that he ‘really wasn’t OK’. Last year, Liam moved to a sprawling mansion near the Buckinghamshire town of Chalfont St Giles to be further away from the temptations of London and closer to Bear, who lived nearby with Cheryl.

However, neighbours tell me that he brought his problems with him. They would often spot him coming home in the early hours in chauffeur-driven cars, often with women in tow.

While I’m told he tried to see Bear regularly, his unpredictable lifestyle frequently made this impossible. Instead, Cheryl was largely left to bring up the little boy alone with the help of her mother Joan.

Liam’s new home was also close to a woman who some describe as his fairy godmother – the Olympic heptathlon gold medallist Denise Lewis.

Her husband Steve Finan worked with Liam for several years and the couple were at his side through some of his most difficult times – including his fall-out with Cheryl.

He would often stay at their home as they battled to keep him sober.

‘Liam adored Denise,’ says a source. ‘She mothered him and really tried to support him.’

Yet in recent months, his life was clearly spiralling out of control. His on-off girlfriend, Maya Henry, 23, had recently hired lawyers to send a ‘cease and desist’ letter to the star, accusing him of repeatedly contacting her and her loved ones.

Liam’s friends insisted he was angry and upset at her, adding that her behaviour was due to her wanting to publicise her new book.

And only last week, I’m told Liam had a huge row with his manager over his forthcoming album, whose release – to Liam’s fury – had been delayed because it was deemed ‘too poppy’.

A source said: ‘There was a blazing row and the album was put back again. The single from it had flopped and there were concerns. Liam desperately wanted that album to come out: despite everything, he thought of himself as a musician.’

To make matters even worse, just a few days ago Liam’s record label dropped him.

Another source said: ‘People begged him to get help and suggested that he went to Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings, but he wouldn’t take them up on it.’

His most recent girlfriend was Texan model Katie Cassidy, whom he thought might have been The One. She too had tried to help him, but left Argentina to return to the US two days before he died.

‘Lots of people cared for Liam,’ said a source. ‘He had so much love around him.’

Yet all the love in the world was not enough to rescue this desperately unhappy young man, who for all his fame and fortune could never escape the demons that haunted him from his lost, tormented youth.

www dailymail co uk/tvshowbiz/article-13972405/Liam-Paynes-childhood-trauma-having-baby-young-Cheryl-bring-stability-saved-KATIE-HIND html

Thank you for this. Plenty of interesting insights here.

[maniculum]

Bestiaryposting Results -- Hreksong

Slightly awkward timing on this one: the animal in question happened to come up on a recent episode of our podcast (We literally quoted a line from the Bodley MS 764 entry, because it was relevant to the story we were reading). So any of the artists who listen may have gotten spoilers. (I say "may", but I've already seen one art post that references the episode.) Sorry about that, artists. Kind of a bizarre coincidence, actually -- it's pretty rare that we happen across bestiary material in a narrative text, and the fact that we did so shortly before the relevant entry came up in the rotation... well, the odds are against it.

Anyway, anyone who doesn't know what this is about should check out https://maniculum.tumblr.com/bestiaryposting. You can also check the "maniculum bestiaryposting" tag to see what beast is the current prompt. The entry for this week's drawings can be found here:

Art below the cut, roughly chronological, as always.

@silverhart-makes-art (link to post here) decided that the best interpretation of the information given was that this was a sort of arboreal mongoose that practiced mouthbrooding. If you want to know what the reasoning was there, you should read the linked post -- it all makes sense there. I absolutely love that the one in the picture is opening its mouth to show the baby riding inside. Silverhart indicates that this is a quicker sketch than usual, but frankly their animal-drawing skills are so good that even a quick sketch is impressive from my perspective.

@cheapsweets (link to post here) did separate drawings for the large outdoor version (upper image, carrying its young) and the small indoor version (lower image, stealing someone's food). The linked post, which explains the design in some detail, indicates that CheapSweets was thinking along similar lines as Silverhart -- i.e., what kind of animal is known for hunting snakes? I like the pose in the first image, and I really like the scene depicted in the second one. On one hand, I'm sure having little creatures live in your roof and steal food literally out of your hands is quite frustrating, but on the other hand, it's very funny. Look at that little guy just brazenly stealing some chicken (or whatever type of bird). The idea of them using their back legs to grip rafters for exactly this purpose is excellent.

@strixcattus (link to post here) decided these could be birds, and has drawn these owl-like creatures for us. They look a bit surly, but that could just be the feather pattern on their faces. As always, I strongly recommend checking out that linked post, as Strixcattus writes brilliant interpretations of these entries in the register of a modern naturalist to accompany the illustrations.

@pomrania (link to post here) has noted that cats live in houses and eat mice, and given us this charming domestic scene. They also note the issues with this interpretation in the linked post, which of course you should read. I think the poses of the cats are very well done here; one of those kittens looks like it wants to paw at the monk's belt but can very much not reach.

And now for the Aberdeen Bestiary:

I'm not sure about the head proportions -- I'd suggest that the flattened snout is because the artist ran out of space, if it weren't for the fact that they were fine letting the back foot extend into the border -- but that is recognizably a weasel.

A few things to note from this:

1. Medieval people apparently had not only mice in their homes, but weasels, which I'd never really thought about. I'm not sure what the distinction they're drawing between the type you find in your home and the type you find in the woods is about, though.

2. The weasel's healing magic crops up in multiple texts, including the Lais of Marie de France and Volsungasaga. It's less common than you might think to find overlap between bestiary-weirdness and narrative-weirdness, so that's pretty notable.

3. I have no friggin' idea why anyone thought they gave birth through their ears. Baffling.