#I typed this on my phone in a train ride so please excuse any mistakes from my side 💀

[juleteon]

[ OC x Canon, Light mentions of NS/FW, Drinking ] Anyways what I was thinking earlier about how Ayner would be confronted by Bryn about his feelings towards Vilkas and how their conversation would eventually lead to the following:

"Well, why wouldn't you tell him?" Brynjolf asked, raising his bottle to sip at the newly received stash of Black-Brier Mead.

"Tell him what?! That I'm a blood-sucking monster? That I'm the leader of the Thieves Guild? Or that I can not touch myself without thinking about his face?!"

The frustration in Ayner's voice subsided, returning to his previous low desperation.

"I feel.. (sigh) different about him. Those things don't matter with others, who I am doesn't matter with others.." He paused "But I want to matter to him. And I can't imagine /being/ that when every fiber of my being is contradictory to everything that makes this man himself"

The Nord sitting beside him shook the bottle in his hand, offering it to the Elf. Ayner accepted the offer and emptied the remaining liquid. A gasp leaving his lips as they parted from the glass.

"I feel like a fool, Brynjolf, another guild master losing his grip because of something as ridiculous as a hopeless.. romance… I've seen how Vex glares at me, I don't want to disappoint the cistern. Not after all we've achieved"

"To be fair, Vex glares at everyone" the redhead stopped him, bringing his eyes away from the disappointing lack of alcohol at the table and looked back at his fellow "And, unlike Gallus, you don't have a single back-stabber to worry about" He stuttered for a moment and corrected himself "I-I mean, not a single one that would aim their blade at you, lad" he didn't want to misrepresent the talents of his fellow members after all.

"Delvin has been reluctant to admit it, but since you've joined us, it seems like luck has returned to the Red Flaggon once more. You've been exceedingly successful at growing our abundance and connections across the province and no one is dull enough to deny that" He reassured him. "As for the matters of your heart, that, I'm afraid, I would be as useful as a rusty lockpick" He leaned closer, jokingly nudging at the mer "Mara's priests freak me out, I can't imagine myself stepping into that temple"

Ayner chuckled at his words. They've trusted each other enough for much more than the oath to Nocturnal binding the couple of thieves to intimate closure, and It was not uncommon for the two to keep each others company warm at the occasional night, especially after a well-earned drunken celebration. The mer knew exactly what Brynjolf meant, he was not a man that would be interested in giving away his freedom to a single soul - it was difficult enough for Karliah to convince him to bind himself to one oath, and it was more than enough for the Nord. But he appreciated and treasured the bond and care he received from his dear friend. Trust, was amongst the rarest treasures they've held onto in the Guild.

"Thank you, Bryn" The Altmer pecked at the man's freckled cheek.

"You've proven yourself capable enough to get anything that you've laid your eyes on, friend. You will find a way." The Nord smiled, brushing his hand on the elf's shoulder before picking the empty bottle and taking his leave. "If you need anything, you know where to find me"

[exoticarmyofcrowns]

dilwale | pjm [m.]

pairing: jimin x fem!reader

summary: a trip across europe turns a bit more interesting when you meet park jimin, a shameless flirt with a penchant for trouble. dilwale (dil-wah-ley): [hindi] the good-hearted, the strong-hearted, lover

genre: romance, fluff, minor angst (pining), smut, dilwale dulhania le jayenge!au (this is not a thing but i made it one oop)

warnings: LOTS of pining (god so much pining) / some cursing / copious amounts of fluff / (bad) flirting / banter / allusion to being taken advantage of BUT IT’S FALSE / lots of feelings / lots of consent (bc consent is sexy) / switch!jimin / switch!reader? / the smut is pretty soft ngl / praise kink sorta? (bc come on is it a jimin fic w/o it) / creampie / excessive use of the word sweetheart / thicc!jimin / unprotected sex (WRAP IT BEFORE YOU TAP IT PLSSSS) / tease!jimin / riding / aaaaand i think that’s it??

word count: ~15.6k

a/n: hello ya girl is BACK w another self-indulgent fic hehe THIS ONE’S FOR MY FELLOW DESIS AND BOLLYWOOD LOVERS!!!! ddlj is my absolute favorite movie in the entire world and i just wanted some representation dammit lol this is heavily based on the plot of that movie but obviously with some changes for my own artistic purposes. shout out to @moonlytae​ for helping me decide which member it should be and @joonies-girl-08​ for the fountain scene u guys are the best! as always, a big thank u to @jooniecult​ for ur expertise, u da best! i hope you all enjoy this, i had so much fun writing it!

“Shit shit shit!”

You’re sprinting through the terminal, checking the directory clutched in your hands as you try to both watch where you’re going and find the damn platform you’re supposed to be on. Your friends and you have been planning this trip for weeks now and you’ve already fucked up by waking up late with barely any time to spare as you frantically waved down a taxi to the train station. You and your friends are taking the Eurail across Europe to celebrate your college graduation and you really should have been at the station about 20 minutes ago but you can blame your overexcitement—and the subsequent lack of sleep—for that.

Of course, luck was not on your side as there was an accident mere minutes from the station. London traffic at its finest. You made the split-second decision to abandon the cab, throwing an apology and a few bills over the divider before running the rest of the way. A glance at your watch says that you’re mere seconds away from missing your train and the thought pushes you to pump your legs faster, backpack slapping against your back with bruising force as you attempt to drag your small carry-on behind you.

Turning a swift corner, you catch sight of the platform you’re looking for. The train doors are still open, thank god, but you know they will close any second. You’re not sure that you’re gonna make it when you see a hand pop out of the open doors, beckoning you to grab hold. Figuring you have nothing to lose now, you take it, arm jolting you through the automatic doors just as they slide shut.

Collapsing with relief, you rest your hands on your knees as you try desperately to catch your breath. The latch on your suitcase has snapped open, spilling the contents onto the floor. You curse, frantically stuffing the carrier full again. You don’t necessarily have anything to hide but you’re not really looking to literally air out your laundry to strangers. Speaking of, you remember you never actually thanked your savior for pulling you to safety. You look up, an expression of gratitude on your lips when you catch sight of the person who helped you onto the train. Your mouth dries as you struggle to form a coherent sentence.

To say he’s gorgeous would be the understatement of the century. He’s absolutely stunning, almost fairy-like with his delicate features and mischievous eyes. It’s a direct contrast to the way he’s dressed, t-shirt tucked into sinfully-tight jeans and a leather jacket thrown over his shoulders. His hair is the softest shade of pink you’ve ever seen and you’re tempted to run your fingers through it.

The sound of someone clearing their throat snaps you out of your reverie. You glance up at the man’s face to see his eyes glimmering with mirth and you know you’ve been caught checking him out. You straighten abruptly, cheeks warm with something other than exertion.

“Um,” you begin, cursing yourself internally for how lame you sound, “th-thank you. You know, for pulling me in.”

“It was no problem.” The words come out like a purr and the effect is not lost on you, heart pounding just a little harder in your chest. 

You clear your throat nervously and look away from his piercing gaze. You realize you’re both standing in the gangway connection. The handsome stranger seems to realize this at the same time because he glances over to the door and drops his own bag to try and pry it open. He struggles for a moment before knocking loudly on the door.

“Anyone over there?” He tugs uselessly on the door one more time before stepping away, hand running through his pink strands in frustration. He glances over to you looking a little sheepish. “Looks like we’re stuck here for a little.”

“Ah.” You sigh, not sure what else to say so you remain silent. You go to check your phone but remember that it had died midway through your taxi ride. Flopping down onto the ground, you figure you’re gonna be here a while so you pull out the book you brought to keep yourself entertained and flip to where you left off.

Just as you’re getting back into the story, you see the stranger settle down next to you a little closer than you would have liked. While you can admit the man is attractive, you’re still strangers. You have no idea who this guy is; he could be a mugger for all you know! Okay, that was probably not very likely but you can never be too careful.

“So,” he begins, leaning his head back to peer at you, “have we met before? You look awfully familiar.”

You frown. Of course you haven’t met him before, you’re sure you would have remembered such a stunning man. Not that you’d admit that out loud. “Uh…no?” It comes out a bit harsher than you intend but he recovers well.

“Ah, I see. My mistake.” He flashes you a sweet smile and you return it, albeit a little uncomfortably. You try to return to your book but he interrupts you yet again. “It’s just that, your eyes…”

“What?” you practically snap. “What’s wrong with my eyes?”

“Nothing,” he simpers, eyes boring into yours. “They just remind me of someone.”

“Oh? Who?” The beginnings of a sneer are curling at the corners of your mouth but you manage to bite it back. You cannot, however, keep the impatience from leaking into your tone.

“My mother,” he answers back, gaze turning fond if not a little dreamy. “Her eyes are just like yours, soft and warm and—”

“Listen, that’s very sweet and all but I’m just trying to get back with my friends so if you could, just please leave me alone?” You’re trying really hard not to get tight with this guy but you know his type—pretty boys with an agenda. This trip is for you and your girls and you’re not about to let some schmuck ruin it for you.

He raises his arms in a gesture of defeat. “Alright, alright. I was just trying to break the ice. No need to worry.” Settling back against the wall, he tips his head back to close his eyes and you relax slightly.

Out of the corner of your eye, you see him shift uncomfortably but choose to ignore him in favor of your book. 

“Excuse me, are these…?” You feel a nudge against your arm and you frown, directing your attention back to him.

Dangling from his fingers is a thong. Your thong, to be exact. 

A gasp of mortification tears itself from your throat as you rip the offending garment from his grasp, rushing to shove it back into your backpack. The man has the nerve to laugh at your embarrassment.

“I thought so,” he chuckles, a dangerous smirk curving at the corners of his plump lips. Even his mouth is a pretty pink. You catch yourself staring again and quickly curse yourself, pushing yourself further against the wall of the gangway and away from him.

“Wouldn’t have pegged you for a black lace kind of girl.”

You whip around to fix him with your most annoyed glare. The fuck was wrong with this guy? “Excuse me?”

He’s still wearing that insufferable smirk and you have to fight the urge to slap it off his stupid face. “It’s just…you seem so pure. Sure that ain’t a little out of your league, sweetheart?” 

Mouth agape, you can’t even formulate a proper response to that. “I don’t see how that’s any of your fucking business?”

You congratulate yourself a little when you see his eyes widen fractionally, clearly taken aback by your response. Serves him right, creepy bastard. He drops the subject and you raise your book again to resume reading, albeit with a bit more force than necessary. You can hardly focus on the words, too caught up on the last few minutes to read properly. 

You’re halfway through a mental smackdown of Cotton Candy Headass when you feel something making its way into your lap. Startled, you look down only to see the little gremlin squirming his way into your space and under your book. You shoot him an incredulous look, unsure whether to laugh at the sheer gall or scream in his face. 

“Don’t stop on my account.” He smiles disarmingly bright and you would be entranced if you weren’t so annoyed. “I was just curious to see how you could read a book upside down. Very interesting style!”

You glance at the way you’re holding your book, face warming at the realization that you were in fact holding it upside down. Fuck.

“Alright, jackass,” you begin, pushing against his shoulders in an effort to dislodge him from your lap, “enough is enough—”

Just then, the cabin door slides open revealing one of your friends. You and Cotton Candy Creep turn your heads to your friend at the same time. Your friend raises a brow at you in a silent question.

“___? What are you doing here?” You sigh, opening your mouth to answer her, but a low voice beats you to it. 

“Why hello there, my dear. Did I keep you waiting?” Picking yourself up from the ground, you roll your eyes as you gather your bags. First you, now your friend? This guy doesn’t give up.

“I was scared you had missed the train.” Your friend, Sheena, says the words to you but is looking at your strange companion, eying him up like she wants to devour him. 

“Oh, not to worry, darling, I caught it just in time.” He sidles up next to Sheena, leaning against the wall with one arm.

“Good, I was…worried.” She twirls a lock of hair around her finger and you have to remind yourself that you love your friend more than you want to throttle her at this moment.

You sling your backpack across your shoulders before picking up your suitcase. If you had gotten the chance to eat breakfast this morning, you’re sure you would have thrown it up already.

“By the way, what’s your name?” He holds a hand out like a gentleman, as if he weren’t just commenting on your lingerie not ten minutes ago.

“Sheena…” 

“Park Jimin, at your service” he returns, grasping Sheena’s proffered hand to kiss the back of it, and you decide you’ve finally had enough.

“Oh, Sheena~” you sing-song, wiggling your fingers in a mock wave. “I’m over here. Shall we go?”

She has the decency to look sheepish as she turns to you, reaching out for  your arm so she can pull you to her side.

“Allow me.” Jimin, the little imp, slides the door open with a flourish, sending a last wink at your friend. You usher your friend through before she can get another word in edgewise. As you step through the door, you make sure to knock his knees as hard as you can with your suitcase, taking pleasure in the hiss of pain that escapes him.

As the door shuts behind you, you can’t help but mutter, “I hate men.”

“___, come on! Are you ready?”

You have just finished placing the finishing touches on your makeup when Sheena calls you from the bedroom. Sending one last appraising look, you deem yourself ready and make your way out of the bathroom.

“I’m here, I’m here,” you chuckle, throwing your small purse over your shoulder. “Let’s go!”

Grabbing your other friends, your small group makes its way down to the lobby. The hotel is having a party sponsored by Eurail in the middle of Paris and you can’t help but feel a little excited. You’re having a great time so far, surrounded by your girls, in the city of love no less, and you feel giddy at the thought of what’s to come.

You follow the directions on the invitation and find yourselves in a ballroom located in the back of the hotel. The doors open and the sight that greets you is—

Underwhelming.

The room is dotted with tables and waiters traverse the space, glasses full of bubbling liquid balanced skillfully on trays. It’s almost unnervingly silent as a drab opera singer sings on what you think is actually a dance floor that has been repurposed into a stage. You exchange wary glances with Sheena and the other girls before making your way through the cluster of tables and settling on one closest to the bar and furthest from that damned opera singer.

“Oh god, this party is so boring,” Sheena whines beside you, picking up a menu and flicking through it.

“I told you it would be,” one of your other friends, Jennie, pipes up.

“Yeah well, you also said that the train would get into an accident, the hotel would burn down, and we’d be poisoned by the food so forgive us if we were inclined to ignore your premonitions.” You roll your eyes playfully, nudging her with your foot to let her know you were joking,

“Hey, hey, ___. Look.” Sheena shakes you as you scan the appetizers, prompting you to look up to where she’s pointing at the entrance. “It’s your loverboy. And he brought friends.”

“Oh crap,” you whine, whipping back around and sinking lower in your seat. You hope he hasn't seen you.

“‘Loverboy’?” Jennie asks with a frown.

“I found him curled up in ___’s lap when I went looking for her.” Sheena smirks at you while you try to melt into the floor.

“Shut up, Sheena, you know it wasn’t like that. Especially considering the fact that the two of you started flirting right in front of me.”

“Oh. come on. Lighten up, it was only a bit of harmless fun. I wouldn’t dream of taking your man.”

You splutter. “He’s not my anything—”

“Hey! We should invite them over!” Jennie smiles obliviously. You love the girl to death but sometimes she can be a bit…airheaded.

“That is a great idea, Jen,” Sheena shoots you a devious look and before you can stop her, she’s already flagging the group over. You wish the earth would open and swallow you up—better yet, take both you and Sheena so you can have the pleasure of throttling her yourself.

The boys make their way over to you before you can think of an escape plan and you stare resolutely at your menu in an effort to block them out.

“Hi, Sheena.” His voice is just as soft and seductive as you remembered and it sends a familiar heat flashing across your skin but you quickly stifle it. He looks good, you notice begrudgingly. He’s wearing black slacks and a black blazer with a white t-shirt to give a casual vibe. He’s topped off the look with pink tinted glasses that make him look like some celebrity. You think it would be pretentious if it were anyone else but unfortunately, he makes it work. The slacks hug his legs almost sinfully tight, highlighting the strong muscles of his thighs and the rounded curve of his— 

Snap out of it! You abruptly stop your scrutiny there, shoving your face back into your menu. You will not let him affect you like he did in the train. You won’t. Still, you can’t help sneaking a glance over to him only to find he’s already staring at you. “Hello, sweetheart.” He shoots you a devastating smile along with a wink and you sneer, abruptly turning away.

“Hey, Jimin.” Sheena simpers and she’s laying it on a little thick, you think, but you know it’s all for show. “Who’re your friends?”

“Ah, this is Jung Hoseok and Jeon Jeongguk.” Jimin points first to a young man with the brightest smile you’ve ever seen and then to a slightly younger man whose eyes and nose crinkle cutely as he waves in greeting. The three of them are stunning and you’re left wondering how all the attractive people seem to find each other.

Birds of a feather, you suppose.

The boys make themselves comfortable at your table and you try your best not to grimace. Jimin may be an asshole but the other two have done nothing wrong. You actually quite like them. You’re enjoying listening to a story about the time they got kicked out of a karaoke bar when you overhear parts of another conversation happening across the table.

“You know, Sheena, I think I’ve seen you before.” Jimin is leaning close to your friend as if they are sharing some sordid secret. An unknown emotion churns in your stomach.

“Oh, really? What makes you say that?” 

“Your eyes. They remind me of someone.” You stiffen. Now, there’s a familiar line. The nerve of this bastard, reusing pick up lines? How much more pathetic can you get? You clear your throat, trying to appear interested in your conversation with Jeongguk and Hoseok while also keeping tabs on your friend.

“Oh? Whose?”

Jimin has a coy smile curving the corners of his plump lips. “My mother.”

Sheena coos at his words and you can’t bear to hear any more. You stand up abruptly, glasses clinking on the table with the force of your exit. 

“I’m going to get a drink,” you murmur to no one in particular and stalk over to the bar. You’re craving the burn of a shot or even the dim haze of wine but you abandon those notions in favor of a water, flagging down the bartender. You chug it a little desperately, relishing in the cooling effect as the water tempers the annoyance you feel for your unwelcome companion. Taking a deep breath, you push away from the bar and make your way back to the table where you find Jeongguk and Hoseok complaining about the music choice.

“I’m just saying, this party could be bumpin’ if the music wasn’t shit.” Hoseok glances over at the poor woman singing her heart out on the dance floor. 

Jeongguk sits up suddenly, a devious smile lighting up his face. “Let me see what I can do. Come with me.” He grasps Hoseok’s arm as he gets up, hoisting the man out of his seat.

“Where’re you going?” you ask Hoseok but he looks just as lost as you do. The younger man tugs at his arm, dragging him off to the other side of the room.

“Beats me.” Hoseok shrugs and he disappears with Jeongguk in the sea of waiters and tables.

You’re left a little dumbfounded as the pair leaves you but you shrug it off. You try to enjoy the evening before remembering that Jimin is currently flirting his way into your friend’s pants and your mood sours once again. Just as you’re in the middle of planning your escape, the lights dim and a voice comes on the loudspeaker.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” you recognize the voice as Hoseok’s and you can’t help but laugh in disbelief. “We are now going to progress to some beats that are a bit more…exciting. Ready, set, and begin!”

A song with a heavy bass and a pleasing trap beat bleeds from the speakers and the room seems to buzz with life all at once. A few squeals and cheers fill the air as people rush to the dance floor at the center and begin dancing wildly. You laugh, shocked that the boys managed to liven up this party in a matter of minutes.

They walk back over to your table with self-satisfied smirks on their faces. You smile widely at them as they approach. “That was awesome! How did you manage that?”

“I just hacked into the speaker system and synced up my music playlist.” Jeongguk looks rather bashful but still proud as he flashes you a sweet smile.

“Shall we dance, then?” Hoseok bows with a flourish and you giggle fondly, nodding excitedly. You glance over your shoulder and spot Sheena still with Jimin except now he has his hand out in a question and she takes it before following the pink-haired man to the dance floor. 

You don’t feel so good anymore but you’re determined not to let some prick ruin your night. So, you turn back to the boys resolutely and lead them into the throng of writhing bodies.

Jeongguk and Hoseok, you quickly learn, are incredible dancers. The power with which the two of them move is truly a sight to behold and you’re having a hard time keeping up. You manage to have a good time, though; when Jeongguk sees you struggling, he strikes a ridiculous pose and makes up the silliest moves, making you laugh merrily. 

Unfortunately, you can’t keep your gaze from flitting over to Jimin and Sheena every so often. They seem to be getting awfully close, you think as Jimin pulls your friend close to him and the sight is almost too much. Why, you’re not sure and you don’t want to let yourself think about it. You thought you were being discreet about it but Hoseok seems to notice your shift in demeanor.

“You’ve been moping for the past few minutes now.” He nods at something over your shoulder and you know exactly what he’s referring to. “Why don’t you go ask him to dance?”

Your eyes flicker back to the happy couple of their own volition and you spot Sheena leaning up to whisper something in Jimin’s ear. You wish you were anywhere but here.

“What? No, I— That’s not…no,” you finish lamely, knowing full well that was not the least bit convincing but not finding the will to care. Hoseok looks unimpressed and you’re about to reassure him when you feel a gentle tap on your shoulder.

“May I cut in?” The velvety smooth voice caresses your skin and god you wish he’d stop appearing everywhere. You’re almost rendered speechless as you stare into Jimin’s eyes, soft and playful with an undercurrent of mischief that both intrigues and irritates you. You glance at Jeongguk and Hoseok but they merely share a look, smirking at each other as they not-so-subtly back away from the two of you. Left with no other option, you gently sway to the beat of the song, allowing yourself to fall in rhythm with Jimin.

It’s awkwardly silent for the first few moments before Jimin finally pipes up.

“Why do you hate me so much?” He steps minutely closer to you and all you can see is Sheena pressed up against him as she whispers in his ear. An inexplicable anger flashes through you.

“Why do you make it so easy to hate you?” you fire back.

Jimin raises a brow at your tone but otherwise shows no outward reaction to your hostility. It only serves to irritate you further.

Just to make matters worse, he starts laughing. It’s a soft, tinkling sound and you hate how much you like it. “I think I know why.”

“You don’t know shit,” you spit, fists clenching at your sides. You have half a mind to smack him right there on the dance floor but you know it would only cause a scene. That’s the last thing you need on this night from hell.

Suddenly, he grasps your waist and spins you around so that your back is pressed to his front. You try to squirm away but he’s surprisingly strong, keeping you locked in place with one hand around your waist and the other caressing up the length of your body. You tremble as he begins to sway.

“I think you like me.” The words are nothing but a whisper, soft breaths fanning out across your skin and creating goosebumps in their wake. The music has slowed significantly and you can feel the bass reverberating through your chest.

“L-Like hell I do!” You curse internally at the way your voice stutters but he merely laughs, sending shivers up and down your spine.

“Then why can I feel you shaking?” Jimin guides your hips with his, coaxing your body to move according to his whim. You feel him along every dip and curve to the point you’re not even sure where he ends and you begin. It’s sensual and dizzying and ridiculously sexy.

“Because I can’t stand the feeling of your hands on me.” You’re desperate to hold onto some shred of your dignity, no matter how slim,  but then you feel the tip of his nose glide up the length of your neck and your brain short-circuits. You only just manage to reign in the urge to bare yourself to him, to submit, but you’ll be damned if you let him have any more control over you.

“Then why haven’t you pulled away yet, hmm?” You swear you feel his lips brush your shoulder and your eyes slip closed of their own accord. “I’m not even holding you anymore.”

It takes a second for his words to register but when they do, it’s as if he’s dumped a bucket of cold water over you. Your eyes snap open as you realize his arm is no longer holding you in place but merely draped across your middle in a loose embrace. You could pull yourself free if you just moved slightly forward. 

You’re not even sure when that happened and you know he knows this. This is just a game to him and you? You’re just another plaything at his disposal. The thought leaves a bitter taste in your mouth and you practically rip yourself away from Jimin as if you’ve been burned.

“I-I have to go.”

“Wait—” Jimin starts to say but you don’t wait around long enough to hear him out. You’ve seen and heard enough for one night,

Grabbing your purse, you all but run out of the ballroom, barely remembering to shoot Sheena a text that you were heading back to the room early. Tears sting at your eyes but you refuse to let them fall, especially not over the likes of Park Jimin. He’s nothing more than a pathetic excuse for a man looking for a quick lay. He’s not worth it, you desperately try to remind yourself.

But somehow, as you wait for the elevator, as you feel the ghost of his touch on your waist and the soft caress of his breath on your skin, your heart refuses to believe that as the truth.

It’s been 3 days since what you’ve deemed as The Incident, and you’re happy to report that you have yet to see Park Jimin.

Of course, you’ve seen him—you’re on a tour together after all—but you’ve made it a point to actively ignore him any chance you get. Sometimes you’ll run into Hobi (as he’s reminded you numerous times to call him) or Jeongguk and talk to them for a while but you don’t linger too long, for fear he’ll just pop up out of nowhere. You feel bad because you genuinely like the other boys but every time you catch sight of Jimin’s pink cotton candy head, your heart beats a little faster and your skin runs a little warmer and you just can’t handle that headache right now.

The Eurail train has stopped in a quaint little town on the way to Zürich and you decide to take the opportunity to stretch your legs. Besides, the sooner you get off the train, the less likely you’ll have an encounter with the object of your (des)ire.

Stepping down gently, glance around the station and spot a little road that leads further into the town. You don’t really have a destination in mind, figuring you’ll just walk for a little and then make your way back. You walk until you spot a quaint little souvenir shop and decide to check it out.

A familiar head of pink by the cashier makes you pause in the doorway and you nearly turn around to walk right out but he sees you and calls you over.

“___! Come over here, I need your help.”

You shift from foot to foot. You could just ignore him and continue on your way but the guilt that would follow would be unbearable. So you swallow your pride and make your way over to him, silent and cautious.

As you approach, you see him pouring over a small spread of trinkets. They’re little handmade pieces of jewelry—rings, bracelets, necklaces, you name it. They’re quite cute and would normally have you grinning and cooing but your present company puts a bit of a damper on that for you.

“Haven’t seen you in a while,” he begins nonchalantly. He doesn’t look up as you approach and you’re not sure if you’re annoyed or grateful.

You clear your throat awkwardly. “Uh, yeah, I’ve been…busy.”

Jimin looks at you then, a single brow raised that tells you he doesn’t believe you, which is fair. You don’t even believe you. “We’re on a tour of Europe together. What could you possibly be doing?”

You don’t really have an answer for that so you remain silent.

“Okay, nevermind that,” his voice brightens up significantly and you’re marginally grateful for the fact that he’s changing the subject. “Help me pick out a souvenir to take back home!”

A smile plays around the corner of your lips and you quickly bite it back. You will not be endeared by him. Your eyes catch on a small bracelet and you can’t help but fall in love instantly. It’s a delicate gold chain threaded with beautiful black pearls, a small pink flower resting on the end near the clasp. Your lips part as you stare at it for a little too long and you quickly snap yourself out of it to look back at Jimin. He’s already staring at you with a soft look in his eyes. The expression makes your heart clench so you look away, clearing your throat again.

“I-I don’t know,” you dismiss, glancing out the window where you can just barely make out the train. “Just pick something, we’ve gotta get back to the train soon.”

“Alright, alright. Calm down, sweetheart. Gimme two minutes.”

You check your phone impatiently, noting the time. The conductor had said you were stopping for about half an hour before you would be on your way again. You don’t remember the exact time you stopped but you know it’s getting close to the time you should be leaving.

“Sweetheart, can you come here a second? I always forget which coins are which.” Jimin beckons you over, a collection of francs in his palm and you send another despairing glance at the train.

“Jimin, I have no clue but come on, we’ve gotta go!” 

You decide to stop waiting on his slow ass and run out of the shop. You make it to the platform just in time to see the train pulling away. Jimin takes a bit longer than you, practically having to sprint after you, but he stops abruptly as he notices the retreating train. 

He starts to laugh in disbelief and you can’t help the tears that well up in your eyes. All your luggage and most of your money is on that train. And now you’re stranded out here, with Park Jimin no less. You try to hold back but you feel a few tears slip down your cheeks as the train disappears from view.

Jimin seems to notice your distress because he begins to panic a little himself. “S-Sweetheart, come on. It’s okay! Look, at least you’re not alone. I’m here with you!”

That only makes you cry harder, a small sob escaping your lips as you smother your face between your hands. Jimin falls silent, unsure how to handle your emotional display but doesn’t leave your side. It’s both comforting and confusing.

It takes a few minutes but you eventually regain your composure, adamant in avoiding Jimin’s probing gaze. You can’t believe you cried in front of him like a child. You’re embarrassed and annoyed and tired but you channel that energy into fixing yourself up to look like a functioning human being and marching over to the ticket booth and finding out the next train to Zürich. Just your luck, the next train isn’t until tomorrow morning. You quickly text your friends what happened, letting them know you’re safe and that you’ll meet them in Zürich tomorrow afternoon. You sigh, wondering how what should have been an exciting trip turned into such a mess.

“So what’s the damage?” Jimin asks. Oh, right. That’s how. You fight not to roll your eyes as you relay the information. “Oh, that’s no problem! We can just—”

“Oh no,” you cut him off abruptly, seething with annoyance. He thinks you want to spend any length of time with him after he made you both miss your train? Not a chance. “We are not  doing anything, I am going to find my own way to Zürich. You’re the reason we’re stuck here in the first place. I want nothing to do with you.”

Jimin looks taken aback but then his expression hardens. “Listen here, sweetheart, I know you’re pissed but you’re being a bit of a bitch. I’m sorry I made us miss the train but splitting up is the literal worst thing we could do right now. This is not to patronize you but you are a woman alone in a foreign country, I’m not about to abandon you just because you don’t like me. Now let’s just play nice and try to find a place to stay for the night so we can catch the first train out of here and be on our merry way. Deal?”

You blink, surprised by the force of his outburst. Fuck. He’s right. You know he’s right and the wave of shame that overtakes you is well-deserved. You duck your head, thoroughly chastised, and nod at him, following his lead as he turns around and begins walking back in the direction of the town. Glancing at him timidly, you murmur a soft apology.

He turns his head in your direction but doesn’t look at you. “What was that?”

You huff, squaring your shoulders. “I’m sorry, okay? You were right.”

Jimin looks at you then, a blinding smile on his face and you feel your body relax a little. At least he’s not mad at you. 

“No problem, sweetheart. Things like this happen. We just gotta make the most of it.” He falls in step with you so that you’re no longer trailing slightly behind and the gesture warms your heart just a bit.

“Why do you keep calling me sweetheart?” You thought it was just a cheap way to endear himself to you, especially back when he didn’t know your name but the way he says it doesn’t feel gross. It feels almost…nice.

“Oh, uh,” Jimin rubs the back of his neck a little shyly, the beginnings of a blush staining his cheeks, and you can’t help the swell of affection. “Sorry. It just kinda…stuck?”  

“No, it’s…it’s fine.” You look away, suddenly finding the scuffed material of your shoe very interesting.

Clearing his throat, Jimin forces out a gruff, “Good,” and the two of you fall into a companionable silence. 

Eventually, you stumble across a small inn a little ways into town, about a 25 minute walk from the train station. Jimin ducks inside, asserting that he’ll handle the cost of the room to make amends. You try not to smile after him as he leaves.

Key in hand, Jimin leads you to a small but cozy room on the third floor. It’s very quaint, a single bed dominating the room with an old settee off by the window. There’s even a small fireplace and a tea set. You slip your purse off your shoulder as you settle near the mantle.

“Wow, what a cute room!” Sitting on the couch, you marvel at its soft texture. “Where’s yours?”

“Yeah, about that…” Jimin hasn’t really moved from his spot by the door, rubbing at his neck again in what you recognize as a nervous tick. “This was the only room they had so, uh, we gotta share?”

“What?” You blink, hoping that he’s joking. 

“I-I know that it sounds weird but there really was no other option. I’ve already decided to sleep on the couch and you can—”

“Listen, I am fine with sticking together and getting back to our friends but this is just— I can’t…I can’t share a room with you.” You stand up abruptly but you don’t have any idea what to do with yourself.

“Why not?” Jimin seems confused and honestly, you are too. It shouldn’t be such a big deal, especially since you’ve kinda-sorta made up but this is little more than you can handle.

Glancing at him, you shake your head, words failing you. How can you explain that you just feel too much for him to be comfortable around him? How do you tell him that you’re having second thoughts about him being a total pain in the ass or about the stutter in your heart whenever he so much as glances at you? You can’t so you just send him a helpless look before storming out of the room, a flush on your cheeks and a heaviness in the pit of your stomach.

You don’t know where you’re going but anywhere is better than in there with the man that forces you to confront your feelings. Shaking your head, you figure you’ll explore the town a little. You could use the fresh air.

Jimin doesn’t know what else to do.

He’s willing to admit he fucked up with you at that party. He never should have come on that strong but you had looked so beautiful and, even though they were his friends, seeing you with Hobi and Jeongguk had ignited such a strong feeling of jealousy that he was helpless to do anything but whisk you away in his arms. He had spent that night tossing and turning in his bed. Now that he knew what you felt like in his arms, his mind refused to think of anything else.

But then you had run away and Jimin knew that he had crossed a line. He just wanted to tease you, maybe fluster you a bit, but never had he wanted to scare you off. You intrigued him. You were funny and sweet—to your friends at least—and it was quite fun to fluster you with his charms. He knew it was simply a physiological reaction, having nothing to do with any actual attraction to him as a person, but he was willing to take what he could get from you.

That, as it turns out, is absolutely nothing.  He thought he was making progress with you. First and foremost, he realized at some point, he wants to be your friend. He enjoys your company and likes your attitude. It doesn’t hurt that he finds you absolutely stunning but he figures he’ll cross that bridge when he gets to it. Right now, his main focus is getting you to like him and every time he thinks he’s close, something happens and you’re back to despising him. One step forward, two steps back.

Speaking of you, it’s been a few hours since you’d stormed out of the room in a flustered mess. Jimin didn’t understand why sharing a room with him was such a big deal but he respects you enough to recognize that your feelings are your feelings and he should just accept them. He’s beginning to grow worried, though, as the sun has just set on the horizon. It’ll be dark soon and he doesn’t even want to think about what could happen to you, a beautiful young woman, alone on the streets of an unfamiliar town in the middle of the night. 

He checks his phone and curses when he realizes that he still doesn’t have your phone number. It’s decided then; he has to go looking for you. Jimin leaps off the bed, grabbing his wallet from his bag and stuffing the room key inside, before practically sprinting out of the inn. 

Jimin’s not sure how long he searches for you but the light has long-since faded from the sky and the street lights have come on. He’s pretty sure he’s stopped in every shop and establishment along the length of the main road but he has yet to see any sign of you. He wants to keep looking but his stomach gives a ravenous growl and he forces himself to stop and take a break. You’re out here somewhere; he can just stop quickly and then continue his search once he’s gotten something into his stomach.

Ducking into a random bar, Jimin runs a tired hand through his hair. He’s about to head to the bar at the back of the place when he spots you sitting on one of the stools, hunched over a drink. Jimin’s not religious but he thanks every god above that you’re alright. All thoughts of food vanish as relief floods his body, nearly knocking him over with the force of it.

“Hey, sweetheart, you nearly gave me a heart attack. You can’t just run off  like that—”

“Jiminie~!” you cry with a dopey grin on your face as you swivel around to look at him. And, you’re drunk. Figures. 

“Jiminie, I saw the cutest puppy when I was outside and I wanted to take a picture but my phone died and so I couldn’t and I was so sad—”

You start rambling about how much you love puppies and Jimin just rolls his eyes fondly as he pays the tab and decides to get you home, hunger long-forgotten. Eventually he gets you out of the bar and the both of you start walking back to the inn albeit a bit slowly.

You suddenly speak up out of nowhere. “You know, I don’t like you.” 

“Yeah, I know.” Jimin can’t help the bitterness that creeps into his tone but he keeps his expression neutral.

“It’s because of your face.” 

“What about my face?” 

“It’s too pretty. Like what the fuck?? It’s not fair. You’re pretty and handsome and sexy as fuck and it’s just not fair.”

Jimin smiles to himself but tries to sound teasing. “You think I’m sexy?”

“Duh, I may hate you but I’m not blind.” A beat. “Okay maybe I don’t hate you. I hate that you make me feel things.”

“Things?” 

“Yeah, things.” 

“What kind of things?” 

“Bad things. My heart hurts when you talk to me but also when you talk to other girls? But I can’t like you. You’re a flirt. And I don’t like flirts. But I like you.” You seem to realize what you just said because you gasp dramatically. “WAIT, NO I DON'T! Well… kinda. Woah, I’m dizzy.”

You stumble and Jimin catches you, amusement swimming in his eyes as he gazes fondly while you struggle to keep yourself upright. As the pair of you walk towards the inn, you catch sight of a fountain in the middle of the town square and bolt upright, running over to it.

It’s quite pretty, even Jimin will admit. It’s relatively small, carved out of a sand-colored stone in a pretty, almost chalice-like design. Water trickles from a spout on the top where it makes its way down to the pool. Spouts surrounding the round rim all spray a thin stream of water toward the center and little lights within the pool illuminate the coin-covered bottom.

“I’ve always wanted to jump into a fountain!” you say as you stop in front of the structure to admire it.

“Why?!” 

“I don’t know, I saw it in a movie once and it looked fun!” 

Jimin glances over to you nervously and tries to grab your arm surreptitiously. “Well, maybe we should do that another time. You know, when you’re not—” 

SPLASH! 

“—drunk,” he finishes with a sigh.

You giggle in delight as you splash around, fully clothed, in the shallow fountain and Jimin can’t help the swell of affection as he watches you smile brightly. He’s never seen you smile like that before and he wishes he could be the cause of it.

You catch sight of the coins resting on the bottom of the fountain and you gasp dramatically, begging Jimin for a franc to toss in. Jimin laughs but acquiesces, lending you a hand as you struggle to get out of the fountain, dripping water all over the pavement. He watches you fondly as you clutch the coin with both hands up to your face and whisper into it like a prayer, swaying slightly because you are still a little drunk after all, and all he can think is he could watch you forever.

You abruptly open your eyes and throw the coin in, smiling softly as you wave at your coin. God, you’re precious.

“So… What’d you wish for?” 

You look scandalized. “I can’t tell you!” 

“Why not?” 

“Then it won’t come true,” you say as if it’s the most obvious thing in the world and Jimin wonders if it’s possible to die of smiling too much. 

“Ah, I see.”

You start shivering. “I’m cold.”

“That’s what happens when you jump into a fountain in the middle of the night, sweetheart” Jimin shrugs off his jacket and wraps you up in it. It’s not much but it’s better than nothing. You snuggle into the fabric, shivering again.

“I like when you call me that. My heart doesn’t hurt anymore when you say it.” 

Something tightens in Jimin’s heart and he’s overwhelmed with it, petting your hair softly. “Then I’ll say it for the rest of your life, sweetheart.” He whispers the words like they’re something sacred. He thinks they are.

Going slack in his hold, you lean heavily against him and your eyelashes flutter prettily as you struggle to stay awake.

“Come on, sweetheart,” Jimin says and he can’t stop the tender way his voice caresses the nickname or the reverence in his touch as he slips an arm around your waist. 

“Let’s go home.”

You’ve only been awake for a matter of seconds and you already want to die.

You have a splitting headache and your mouth feels like sandpaper. Well yeah that’s what happens when you drink too much, genius. You don’t even remember what happened after your visit to the bar but you figure it was nothing good.

You glance down at your clothes and find an unfamiliar t-shirt and a pair of shorts on your body. There’s clothes strewn across the room, on the bed, on the floor and your heart crawls into your throat. Now you’re concerned. What the hell happened?

Just then Jimin comes in with breakfast, some water, and, bless his soul, ibuprofen.

“Morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well?” his voice sounds soft, softer than you’ve ever heard and you’re confused but also swooning? It’s a strange combination.

“Uh yeah, I-I guess I did. What happened last night?” You wince as you move to sit up. Damn, what did you do to make you so sore?

“Last night did quite a number on you, I’ll tell you that.” He laughs as he sets down the tray on the side table, perching himself on the edge of the bed as he looks at you. “How much did you have to drink exactly?” 

“Uh, I kinda lost count after my fifth or sixth vodka soda.” You scratch your head in embarrassment.

“Jesus Christ, how are you alive?” Jimin shakes his head in disbelief. Leave it to you, he figures. 

He hands you some water, which you chug gratefully, and take care to swallow the pills. He watches you, irises warm and pretty and you don’t like the way your heart flutters against your ribcage.

“You were incorrigible last night,” Jimin chuckles and you stiffen. What the fuck does that mean? “You kept pulling me in every direction, hanging off me at any given chance.” His voice is light and teasing and far too casual for what he’s suggesting.

Suddenly it clicks. The clothes strewn everywhere, the soreness, the strange tenderness in Jimin’s voice. 

Holy shit. Holy fuck. 

You slept with him. 

You fucking slept with him.

Jimin is still talking but you can hardly hear him over the ringing in your ears.

“We slept together,” you whisper in disbelief and Jimin immediately stops rambling about whatever the fuck and you’re still reeling with the realization that you fucking slept with him.

“What?” He seems confused but you can’t think about his emotions when yours are swirling around violently in your head, increasing the pounding against your skull and making you want to throw up.

“You fucking slept with me while I was drunk? What the fuck is wrong with you?”

Jimin’s eyes widen so much that it would be almost comical if you weren’t absolutely devastated. “What? What the hell are you talking about?” 

But you’re not listening anymore. You can’t, not with the way the blood is rushing too loudly in your ears, or the way your heart has crawled so far up your throat you think you could choke. 

Logically, you know this is not the worst thing in the world, that it may be a bit of an overreaction, but you can’t shake the feeling of wrongness that permeates your body when you think about what a vulnerable position you were in last night. Stupid, you think. How could you be so stupid? A desperate sob meets your ears and you’re all too aware that the gasping breaths are coming from you.

You can hear Jimin trying to reason with you but your body reacts violently, slapping his hands away every time he tries to reach for you. You cry, arms wrapping around your body in an attempt to hold yourself together but you can’t stop the tremors wracking your frame.

“___! Sweetheart, please, will you just—!” 

“No! Get away from me!”

You try to push him, shove him, hit him, but it’s futile and you only cry harder. Finally, Jimin decides enough is enough.

“Listen to me, ___. Listen to me.” Jimin’s hands come up to cradle your head, gentle but firm. His voice leaves no room for argument and you let out a pathetic whimper but look into his eyes nonetheless.

“I know what you think of me. I know you think I’m the scum of the earth, that I'm a flirt and a tease, and maybe I am those things but I am not a monster. Do you hear me? I may push boundaries and irritate you but I would never, ever dream of crossing that line without your explicit and enthusiastic consent.” 

His eyes blaze into yours with a passion you’ve never seen before. He looks serious and stern, but most of all he looks hurt. You did that. Before you can go any further with your self-hatred, he continues. “You were drunk and wet and I needed to get you into a change of clothes. I am telling you the truth when I say nothing happened last night. Believe me, please?”

You stare into his eyes for an immeasurable amount of time, back and forth between his irises and you feel all the tension within you release, as if his touch is a balm you never knew you needed to an ache you never knew you had.

Another whimper escapes you and you throw yourself into Jimin’s arms then, whispering, “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry,” over and over again and he just embraces you, shushing you as he strokes your hair oh so gently.

You stay like that for a long time, simply relishing in the warmth of his body, before you realize what you’re doing. Jimin seems to come back into himself as well because you both pull away from each other at the same time, albeit a bit bashfully.

“Um, so. Why don’t you go get dressed, hm? We’ve got a train to catch.” He starts to move off the bed but turns back to you with a glimmer in his eye. “I will be needing my shirt, though…” He goes to move closer to you as though he were going to take the shirt himself. You lean back instinctively but relax at his wide grin, soft giggle escaping his lips as he leaves you to it.

You gaze after him, a fond smile curving at your lips as you wipe at your tear-stained cheeks, and your heart is too light to worry about anything else.

Refreshed and ready to go, you pull up to the train station almost an hour before your scheduled train. It may be overkill but you are not missing another train, thank you very much. 

While you wait, Jimin gets you both coffee, for which you are eternally grateful. You sit on one of the benches, swinging your legs happily as you sip your drink. Neither of you speak but it’s a comfortable silence. Who would have thought you would get to feel so comfortable around Jimin?

“Let’s play a game” Jimin pipes up out of nowhere. You laugh at his innocent suggestion and decide to humor him.

“Alright I’m down. Whatcha wanna play?”

“Twenty Questions!” He looks so excited you can’t help but tease.

“What are we, 14?”

“If you don’t wanna play, all you have to do is say so, you don’t have to be mean about it.” He pouts and you laugh if only to stifle the urge to coo at him and pinch his cheeks.

“Fine I’ll bite. You go first.” 

“What’s your most embarrassing kink?” 

You smack him upside the head and roll your eyes. “Next.”

The questions continue back and forth for a few minutes, some of them serious, most of them anything but. You laugh until your stomach hurts about the time he got into an argument with his best friend over a dumpling incident.

“Listen, it was a very serious argument—” 

“Over dumplings.” 

“Excuse you, dumplings are very important, I’ll have you know—”

You laugh as he puffs his cheeks out at you. He even looks like a dumpling and you tell him as much, earning another pout from the man. Eventually the topic shifts to more personal things.

“Okay, okay, serious one now,” Jimin says and there’s an unreadable look in his eyes. “Have you ever been in love?”

The question is unexpected and you have to think for a moment. Have you ever been in love? You’re not really sure.

“Dunno,” you shrug. 

“You don’t know? How could you not know?” 

“I’m just not sure if what I felt was love or…something else.”

“Valid, I guess.” He falls silent for a moment before speaking. “I know for a fact I never have.”

This surprises you. “What? A guy like you? Surely, you’ve been in love before.”

“A guy like me?” Jimin smirks as he side-eyes you.

“Y-Yeah you know flirts with anything with a pulse.” 

“Okay, rude.” You both laugh but sober up pretty quickly. “But yeah no. I’ve had a few flings or whatever but never anything I could call love, you know? Just…never really met the right person.”

“What kind of person are you looking for?”

“Well…” He sits up a little straighter in his seat. “I don’t have, like, an ideal type or anything but…all I know is, that when I see them—the person I’m meant to be with—all my heart’s desires and dreams will come true.  And maybe that makes me naive or whatever but I feel like I’ll know when I see them. Maybe not immediately, it might take some time, but I believe my soul will recognize its other half.”

You sit there, shocked and dazed. You hadn’t expected such a serious answer from him. “I— That’s…that’s beautiful.”

“You should hear Jeongguk talk about it.” He laughs softly as he rubs the back of his neck. “Says he’ll hear bells or something. He’s a cute kid.”

“Yeah he is…” You’re still a little dazed hearing him speak so passionately about love. It makes you feel painfully inadequate.

“What about you? What kind of person could sweep the ever-elusive ___ off her feet?”

You pause, unsure how to answer. “Oh, uh… I’ve never actually thought about it? I don’t know, I’ve always felt like, if I think about it too much, I’ll get too excited. I’ve always been the overexcited type.” Jimin chuckles, remembering the other night. He knows that all too well.

“But, uh, yeah. If I think about it, I’ll anticipate it, I’ll wait for it, and if it doesn’t come well… that’ll make the disappointment that much more upsetting.”

Jimin frowns. “Why wouldn’t it come?” 

“I-I don’t know.” You fidget with your fingers, insecure. “What if… What if I never meet someone? What if I do and my heart—my soul—never recognizes its other half?” You look into Jimin’s eyes. “What if I’m just alone?”

His gaze holds yours for an immeasurable amount of time. 

“I think,” he says slowly, and you find yourself hanging off of every word, “that you’re overcomplicating it. Sure, life has its disappointments but it comes with the territory. Having things to look forward to makes life worth living, even if it’s something as simple as waking up the next morning.”

Jimin inches his hand slowly over to where yours rests on the grainy wood of the bench. He nudges your pinky with his own, wrapping your digit with his. It’s a small gesture but it fills you with an inexplicable warmth.

“All I’m saying is, it’s okay to want.” He says it with such conviction that you desperately want to believe him. “And it’s okay to feel disappointed if you don’t get what you want. But don’t let that stop you from doing it.”

You’re silent again but you can’t look away. The words come rushing out before you can stop them. “And what if I already do? Want, I mean.”

His eyes flick between both of yours and you fight a shiver. “Then it’s your job to do something about it.”

The sound of the train’s whistle breaks the moment and you find yourself taking in a breath you didn’t know you were holding. You glance at the approaching train before looking shyly at Jimin.

“The train is coming. Wouldn’t wanna miss it again.” You try to joke but you can’t seem to shake the residual tension from before.

“And yet,” Jimin hums, barely above a whisper, “I find that I want to miss the train again and again.”

The trip wraps up almost too quickly for your liking.

When the two of you reunite with your friends in Zürich, it’s as if something has changed. You find yourself glancing at Jimin more often than not, and he’s almost always staring right back at you. It should unnerve you, you think, but you feel…calm, almost peaceful knowing his eyes are on you. Powerful. You also find yourself thinking about him a lot, often at night once the lights are cut and all your friends are asleep. You can’t shake his words.

It’s okay to want.

It seems obvious; of course it’s okay for you to want things. But when he said it, it was as if he had opened up a whole new world to you. Had you been unintentionally stifling your own desires? What did you want? You can feel something niggling at the edge of your consciousness but it disappears when you try to pinpoint the feeling, like stars when you look too hard at them. It frustrates you and you want to talk to him but where you actively had to avoid him before your little detour, you can’t seem to find him alone for longer than a cursory greeting. An ache has settled low in your stomach and the feeling of something missing pervades you for days after. You don’t sleep well until the end of the tour.

You’re sadder than you thought you’d be to leave this trip but you chalk it up to how much fun you’ve had over the last two weeks. Definitely does not have anything to do with a certain pink-haired man. Absolutely not.

“Be sure to keep in touch, yeah?” Hobi smiles his beautiful sunshiny smile and you can do nothing but return it, pulling him into a warm hug.

“Of course! We’ll have to hit up a karaoke bar together. You know, one that you haven’t been kicked out of.” You elbow him in the ribs playfully.

“That was one time and I told you that to bond! You can’t make fun of me!” But his smile is just as bright if not brighter and you’re really going to miss him. 

You turn to Jeongguk and pull him into a hug as well. “It was so great getting to meet you. Now I know who to call when I need to liven up a party.” 

Flashing you his signature toothy grin, he practically bounces in place. “Anytime, ___. We should definitely hang soon!” After nodding your assent, you wave a final time as he joins Hobi and leaves the platform.

Your friends hug you and tell you they’ll see you later. With a wave, you send them off until you’re left with only one other person. Bracing yourself, you turn around and face Jimin with a shy smile. Your heart gives a dull throb but you ignore it.

“So,” you both begin before collapsing into nervous giggles. God, were you always so awkward? “You first,” he smiles.

“This is it, huh,” you marvel, reminiscing over the last few days. You can’t believe just two weeks ago you two were strangers, enemies even, and now you’re… Well, you’re not sure what you are but it’s definitely an improvement from your first encounter. “Can’t believe two weeks went by so quickly…”

“I know. Seems like just yesterday I was pulling your late ass onto the train,” Jimin smirks at you and you shove his shoulder.

“Yeah and making inappropriate comments about my underwear.” You glare at him playfully but it dissolves into a smile when you see his sheepish grin. 

“I never did properly apologize for that, did I?” He scratches the back of his head and you melt at the familiar gesture. 

“Hey, no worries. We’re cool.” Silence befalls the two of you. It seems to happen a lot recently, but it’s not a bad silence, just a thoughtful one. “Thank you. For everything.”

“It was no problem, sweetheart.” There’s something lurking in the depths of his eyes but you don’t dwell on it.

“Friends?” You stick out your hand between you. You can’t discern why Jimin’s face looks so drawn but the expression disappears just as quickly as you notice it, replaced by a beautiful smile. 

“Friends,” he repeats, soft as he grasps your hand almost reverently.

You look into his eyes and you once again find yourself trapped. The seconds tick on and you can’t bring yourself to remove your hand from his. His grip feels warm and comforting. Right. You don’t know if you want to think about what that might mean.

Inhaling deeply, you finally muster up the will to let go of his hand, albeit a bit begrudgingly. Jimin looks just as reluctant but plasters a smile. You return it, confused as to why there seems to be so much tension but you figure it’s the sadness of parting. Sending a last lingering wave, you go to turn when you feel a hand grip your wrist. You turn in surprise, a question in your eyes.

“I just… I have something for you.” Jimin lets you go for a moment to pull out a small box. He hands it to you, bashful. You accept it gently and slide the lid open. Inside, is the bracelet from that souvenir shop. The black pearls gleam back at you in the fluorescent light of the station and you have the strangest urge to cry. You look up at him, touched beyond belief.

“You—”

“May I?” He gestures to the bracelet and it takes a second for you to understand what he’s asking, too caught up in his thoughtfulness, but you nod silently when you do. You’re not sure you trust your voice right now.

Jimin beams, delicately taking the bracelet out of the box and wrapping the thin gold chain around your wrist. He clasps it securely so that the pink flower just brushes the inside of your wrist. Your skin tingles where he grazes you and the warmth spreads throughout your body until you’re filled with it. You look up at Jimin, eyes shining a little and you do your best to blink them back.

“I saw you looking at it back at the shop. Figured you’d like it.”

“I love it,” you whisper and you feel like it means so much more.

“Well…” Jimin clears his throat and steps away to a more appropriate distance. You hadn’t even realized you were practically on top of him. “I guess I should get going.”

“Yeah, you— I-I should head out, too.” You don’t want him to go, you realize, but you have nothing to convince him to stay. So you let him go.

“Bye, sweetheart.”

“Bye, Jimin.”

You both back away slowly from each other, as if to extend the moment just a bit longer. He doesn’t look away from you and so you don’t either. Eventually, you have to turn around to actually watch where you’re going. When you look back, he’s gone.

There’s a lingering emptiness in your chest as you walk home, not even bothering with a taxi this time. The feeling of something missing has only worsened, and now it’s at its peak. You’re worried that you’ve missed your chance to find it and the knowledge that it might be too late lingers like an intrusive thought.

You deflate, shoulders hunching protectively as you make your way through the city. From what you’re protecting yourself from, you’re not sure. The bracelet on your wrist feels heavy, like a shackle, and you wonder if you’ll ever be able to look at it without feeling the ghost of his touch on your skin.

Just under two weeks have passed since the Eurail tour and you haven’t felt the same since.

You expected it somewhat. That’s what traveling does to you. It makes you appreciate the beauty of the world, shows you a new way of life, and changes your perspective and you never leave a new place the same as when you enter it. But the reason for this change has nothing to do with the wonders of a new country.

No, it centers on one person. Park Jimin.

It doesn’t take you long to realize what the emptiness means, to recognize the shape of the hole that has permanently taken up residence in your heart. You find yourself plagued by it at night, tossing and turning until you eventually fall into a fitful and restless sleep. 

He starts to permeate every facet of your life. It first begins with the dreams, your memories teasing you with glimpses of his round face and delicate cheeks, of warm brown eyes that seem to look right through you to your core, smoldering. Then it escalates quickly to lingering touches on the back of your hand when you know you’re alone or the bracelet on your wrist will suddenly feel too hot, like a brand, and it’s like he’s surrounding you—his arms around your waist, his scent filling your lungs, his breath cooling your feverish skin. You feel suffocated but the illusions leave you more empty each time.

Finally it gets worse; you start to see him everywhere. On your way to work, to the grocery store, to the bank—it doesn’t matter but your mind always tricks you into thinking you’ve caught sight of the familiar shock of pink hair or his signature leather jacket. Each time sends you reeling and you reach out briefly only for the haze to clear and you remember how very much alone you are. You even start to hallucinate his voice, the way sweetheart would flow so easily from his lips, a balm to your searing heart, and you think you might need to start seeing someone about this. It can’t be healthy.

Still, life goes on and so do you—for the most part anyway. You still work at the little convenience store around the corner from your apartment just to fill the time since there are no classes for you to take. You’re still waiting to hear back from schools about graduate programs but you don’t worry about it too much. You’re confident in your grades and your abilities to know you’ll be okay, it’s just a matter of time.

Your shift passes relatively quickly, time seeming even more meaningless since returning from your trip. You fiddle with your phone, shooting a quick text to Sheena confirming that you’ll see her tomorrow for dinner. You’re not really up for it but you haven’t seen much of anyone in the last two weeks and you miss her so you decide to go. 

Which reminds you, Hobi had managed to get your number and text you, asking if you wanted to go out next weekend with him and Jeongguk. You want to go but you’re not sure if you can get through an evening of them without thinking of a certain pink-haired man. Sighing, you glance at the time and note that it’s time to shut down the registers and begin closing. 

Just as you turn around the grab the money bag from underneath the counter, you hear the bell of the door tinkle open.

“Sorry,” you call, straightening as you reach for the register keys, “we’re actually clos—” Your breath catches in your throat. “Oh, god, I’m actually going insane,” is what makes it out of your mouth before you can stop yourself.

Before you stands the object of your hallucinations in all his pink-haired glory. You blink several times, hoping the image will disappear quickly. When it doesn’t, your jaw goes slack.

Jimin looks just as shocked as you do but recovers faster. Of course he does. 

“___?”

You inhale sharply, trying to focus but it’s hard when he’s right in front of you and god, you’re not prepared for this—

“Hey, hey, sweetheart, are you alright?” The nickname rolls off his tongue so easily, like a gentle caress, and a strange feeling of relief fills you. Jimin approaches the register carefully, as if worried he’d scare you away if he moved too quickly. Maybe he’s right.

Your eyes drink him in greedily despite everything. He looks…good. An orange short-sleeved shirt with white and navy blue accents is tucked stylishly into a pair of black jeans that hug his legs nicely. You feel very insecure all of a sudden in your work uniform and you duck your head shyly. Finally, you find your voice as you clear your throat and tuck a stray hair behind your ear.

“H-How are you?” You wince at how small your voice sounds. Your heart flutters so fast in your chest you struggle to catch your breath but at the same time…it’s the first time you’ve been able to truly breathe. 

Jimin’s eyes soften and he smiles that smile that makes your knees weak. “I’m good. Very good. I— Are you closing up now?”

“Yeah, I’m, yeah. If you give me, like, 20 minutes, we can head out, together?” It comes out like a question but Jimin is nodding before you can even second-guess yourself and you’re running around like a madwoman trying to clear the register and finish restocking the last box from storage. After a final cursory glance and a mental run-down of your closing checklist, you deem yourself ready to leave. You spare Jimin a quick smile, motioning him to follow you out and you close up shop. 

“My, um,” you begin, unsure if it’s too forward for you to say this but you’re tired of constantly running around in circles to avoid your emotions. It’s time to face them head-on, dammit! “My apartment is just a few blocks over if you…if you wanted to stop over for some tea?”

You hold your breath for some reason as you wait for his response. His answering smile is dazzling. “Tea sounds wonderful. Lead the way.”

You don’t remember the walk to your apartment, which is literally around the corner, ever feeling so long. You’re all too aware of his proximity, can feel the faint warmth he emanates from his body, and you find yourself too preoccupied with the way his arm brushes yours as you walk side-by-side. Neither of you speak but it’s comfortable, just like it was when you parted. Though you are anxious to see him, a sense of calm pervades deep within you and you welcome instead of ignore the feeling.

As you step into your apartment, you panic slightly as you struggle to remember if you’ve cleaned up enough while toeing off your shoes. You send a surreptitious glance around, satisfied that nothing looks too out of place as you lead Jimin into your small kitchen.

“Black or green?” you ask him, gazing up at him only to find him staring unabashedly at you. He startles, seemingly embarrassed to have been caught but does not look away.

“Black would be great.” You smile, nodding before setting up a kettle to boil on the stove before turning to him. You’re not sure where to begin but it seems you don’t have to. 

“I missed you.”

Those few simple words send a pang through your heart and any resolve you had bleeds through you as you try not to melt into the floor.

“I missed you, too,” you whisper back, scared to speak too loudly and break the beautiful tension that’s building around you.

Jimin looks down at the floor, as if the knowledge that you missed him too was too much for him. “I-I thought about you. All the time.”

You soften, shuffling closer to him where he is braced against the fridge. His eyes are swimming with that familiar tenderness and you can actually recognize it. He looked at you the same way on that morning in the inn.

“I thought about you, too.” You feel more confident now. Something about knowing that he’s just as shy and uncertain makes you relax significantly. “God, I saw you everywhere. I thought I was going crazy.”

“I dreamt about you.” He says this in a rush, as if he thinks he needs to get to words out in case you stop him. With the way you’re hanging off every word, you think it’s safe to say you’re just as eager to listen as he is to speak. “About you, about us. I— I kept replaying the moment at the train station, thinking how stupid I was for letting you go��”

“Hey, hey, shh.” You close the distance between you, placing a gentle hand on his chest. “I let you go, too. We’re both a little stupid.”

Jimin breathes a laugh, tense shoulders relaxing as he fixates on your hand on his chest. “You’re still wearing it,” he breathes in wonder, bringing his own hand up to clasp yours as he inspects the bracelet still on your wrist.

“Yeah, I— It’s my favorite thing I own.” Jimin’s eyes practically melt into yours, the warm chestnut irises looking down at you with such fondness you can’t stop the swell of affection from rising within you. You think you’re going to burst from the amount of adoration and feelings swirling around inside you but it’s pleasant. You’re buzzing with excitement, no longer heavy with what ifs. 

Jimin seems to realize how close you two actually are at the same time you do because his bright smile gradually fades as his gaze flickers down to your lips. The air stills around you and your breath hitches. Anticipation swirls in the pit of your stomach, cloying and intoxicating.

“___,” he calls and you shiver a little at the sound of your name dripping from his lips like honey. “Sweetheart, may I kiss you?”

You nod, inhaling deeply. “Yes, please.”

Beaming, Jimin grasps the hand on his chest firmer and moves his other hand to cradle your cheek tenderly. He bends his head down, brushing your noses together sweetly. Your eyes slip closed of their own accord and you wait, lips parted as you feel his breath wash over you. A beat passes and suddenly you’re kissing, those plump lips that you’ve been dreaming about for days finally on yours. A tingle passes between your lips and you gasp, mouth parting more under the soft pressure of Jimin’s. He kisses you sweet and slow, as if savoring the taste of you. You feel his fingers thread their way into your hair to hold you in place more securely and you hum in satisfaction. Your other hand is gripping the material of his shirt at his waist and you shuffle a little closer, all too eager to feel his body against yours.

You melt into each other as you kiss, hardly breaking apart for air as you suck in greedy, rushed breaths from your nose. You’re content to just stay here forever but the loud screech of the kettle startles you into breaking the kiss. You both chuckle, exchanging a quick peck before you pull away gently to turn off the stove.

Jimin is not far behind you, wrapping his arms securely around your middle once the stove is off and you’re sure you won’t burn down your apartment. You smile to yourself before turning in his arms and wrapping your own around his neck, reaching up to nose along his jaw. 

“Now where were we?” You smirk lightly against his skin when you feel him shiver beneath your hands. A rush of heat flashes through you as you think of all the ways you could have him now that he’s here, finally. 

Jimin seems to be thinking the same because the hands on your waist tighten and you hiss in pleasure. “I believe I was kissing you breathless.” It’s his turn to tease this time as he grazes down the length of your neck and you bite back a moan at the soft, almost ticklish feeling of his lips against your throat.

“Hmm, I might need you to show me again. I don’t think I was breathless enough.” The words are false of course, compounded by the fact that you are currently struggling to get enough air.

“As you wish, sweetheart.” And with that, Jimin is on you again. You sigh into his mouth, reveling in the plush feel of his lips. He swallows the sound, pressing you further against him and you practically turn to jelly in his arms. He kisses you with a passion you had only just begun to feel before you were briefly interrupted and you can feel yourself getting swept up in it. You wouldn’t have it any other way.

Jimin swipes his tongue along the seam of your lips in a silent question and you swear your knees buckle from underneath you. You can’t stop the moan that escapes, humming into his mouth as you open up for him. Things turn hot and heavy very quickly and you find yourself backed into your kitchen counter as Jimin positively ravages you. 

You pull back for a moment, panting and your stomach tightens as you catch a glimpse of him. Jimin looks just as wrecked as you feel, pupils blown wide in desire and chest heaving with the effort to breathe. His lips are a swollen, pretty pink mess and a desperate whine tears itself from your throat when you notice. 

Leaning his forehead against yours, Jimin closes his eyes and catches his breath. “Do you want this, sweetheart? Say the word and we can slow down. I won’t be upset.”

“It certainly doesn’t feel like you want to slow down,” you tease, rolling your hips into his where you can feel the evidence of his desire against your stomach. His answering groan has you grinning wickedly.

“Sweetheart,” he moans, panting into the skin of your shoulder as you build up a steady rhythm and you can feel him stiffen further at the stimulation. “Please, answer me.”

“Yes, Jimin, please.” You punctuate the request with a final roll of your hips, pulling his head away from your shoulder so you can look him in the eyes. “Make me yours.”

A beat. Then, Jimin lets out the most animalistic growl you’ve ever heard and your thighs clench pathetically as you feel your wetness dampen your underwear further.

“You are going to be the death of me.” Pulling you to him, he crouches slightly until his fingers are brushing the backs of your thighs. “Jump,” he grunts.

You’re hesitant but you do so anyway and he catches you, taking a moment to steady you both before busying himself with placing kisses along your jaw.

“Where are we doing this, sweetheart?” Jimin murmurs against your skin and you have to take a second to focus yourself, a haze beginning to cloud your mind.

“Second door on the left,” you manage to choke out, whining as you feel his tongue leave a wet trail along your collarbone. You hardly remember the walk to your room but you certainly feel when Jimin deposits you gently on the bed. Backing up toward the headboard, you eye him greedily as he tucks his shirt to raise it over his head. You feel your mouth run dry and you lick your lips in anticipation.

“Something the matter, sweetheart?” He’s teasing you as he crawls on the bed, stalking. 

“Not at all,” you return breezily. “Just wondering when you were gonna come over here and make me forget my name.”

“Oh, not to worry. You won’t be able to think of anything else but me.”

Lunging at you, Jimin connects your lips together once again and your hands wander over the exposed skin. You marvel at the toned muscles of his stomach, humming and running your nails lightly over them. He shudders over you, breaking the kiss to pant in your ear. You use his momentary distraction to flip you both over so you’re on top.

“My turn,” you whisper. In a surge of confidence, you grasp the ends of your shirt and practically rip it off you. Jimin stares, mouth agape, at the newly exposed skin. He seems to snap himself out of his trance because he dives in immediately, littering your chest with kisses and nips. Your hips buck against his as he moves to unclasp your bra, cupping the flesh once he’s removed the offending garment. 

“Beautiful,” he murmurs, awed. “I could look at you forever.” 

Your ears burn hotly but you try to hide your embarrassment. “You just gonna look?” 

Jimin fixes you with a look. “I plan to do a lot more than just look, sweetheart. But I am patient. Something you should learn.”

“I’ve missed you for weeks now,” you gasp as he pinches one stiff peak as punishment for your mouthing off. “So forgive me if I seem a little eager to get to it.”

“There’s nothing to forgive.” He presses a kiss over your heart and if you weren’t already a puddle on the floor you would’ve melted. Somehow the words seem to refer to more than just your impatience.

You choke on a moan when Jimin pulls a nipple into his mouth, fingers tweaking the neglected one. The stimulation has you arching into his mouth and you grind down onto his lap, reveling in the feel of him, hard and thick, under you. You shiver at the thought of him inside you.

Jimin switches then, his other hand sliding down your back to aid your hips in their movement against his. You’re sure you’ve soaked through your underwear at this point, fabric slippery as you move. Finally satisfied, Jimin pulls back, admiring the wet, flushed mess he’s made of your chest, and ventures lower. Kissing down your sternum, he gently guides you down onto your pillows. You don’t even fight him, too excited to slow him down for even a second.

“Won’t be needing these, now will you?” He tugs at the waistband of your jeans and you scramble to undo them, lifting your hips as you help Jimin tug them down and off your legs. You’re left in your underwear as your only defense against his gaze and you shyly close your legs. Jimin clicks his tongue in disapproval and places a hand on both knees. “No hiding, sweetheart.”

He makes quick work of your underwear until he’s staring at your glistening folds with reverence. You mewl as he swipes a finger down your slit, collecting the growing wetness. Jimin circles your clit and you groan, back arching off the bed as you seek more friction.

“Jimin, please,” you gasp. “Want your fingers.”

“Oh, sweetheart. Since you asked so nicely…” Jimin grins deviously before slipping his fingers down to your fluttering hole. Sinking one finger in, he allows you to adjust before thrusting shallowly. He adds another finger after a minute and curls them upward, massaging the soft spot with purpose. 

“Jimin, ah, please!”

“Patience, my dear,” he chuckles. “I’ll give you what you want soon.”

You want to yell at him to get on with it but then he sinks a third finger in and the stretch burns so deliciously that you’re rendered speechless. The sound that reverberates around the room is obscene, filthy, but you can’t feel embarrassed as the fire in your stomach burns bright with each curl of Jimin’s fingers. He dips down to swallow your whines and cries in a searing kiss and you wrap your arms around him to crush him to you, eager to feel him.

“Now, Jimin, now. I’m ready.”

“Okay, sweetheart.” Kissing your forehead, he pulls his fingers out of you gingerly before moving to remove his own pants and underwear. You watch as he revels each inch of perfect skin, mouth practically salivating as he removes the final layer and bares himself to you. He’s not ridiculously long but he’s thick and you can’t wait to feel him inside you.

You spread your legs in an open invitation but Jimin shakes his head with a smile before settling on the bed next to you. You’re confused until he pats his lap, beckoning you over. You move quicker than you ever thought you could and straddle him.

“Want to watch you. Use me as you need to. I’m yours.” He looks deeply into your eyes when he says this and you shiver at the conviction in his voice. You grab him by the base, making him hiss, and line him up with your entrance. 

“And I’m yours,” you sigh, sinking down fully onto his swollen length. The stretch burns wonderfully and you can’t help the drawn-out whine that rips itself from your throat. Jimin doesn’t seem to be faring much better.

“Oh, sweetheart. You feel so good.” He tips his head back, eyes glazed and unfocused. You’re not faring much better but you’re determined to give him the ride of his life.

Bracing yourself on his shoulders, you push yourself up and you can’t stop the cheshire grin from curving your lips when he moans softly. His hands grip your waist tightly as you begin to build up a rhythm, guiding your hips as best he can. 

“S-So good, Jimin. So big.” And you’re not just stroking his ego. The stretch has you groaning into his neck as you swivel your hips in a torturing motion. The hand on your hip tightens and keeps you moving steadily, no matter how much you wanna speed up.

“What did I say about patience, baby?” He clicks his tongue playfully and you want to wipe the smirk off his face. Purposefully, you slow down your hips even more and clench tightly, dragging yourself up and down. Jimin chokes on air as you do so.

“What was that?” You flutter your eyelashes prettily at him and he growls.

“Don’t test me, sweetheart.”

A twinge of arousal flashes through you at the thinly veiled threat and you wonder just how dangerous Jimin can get. But, you suppose, you can save that for another time. Sufficiently placated, you resume your pace, taking care to kiss and bite at his neck, his jaw—whatever you can reach. His breath stutters as you continue your ministrations and you take pride in yourself for making him react so strongly. 

Eventually your thighs start to feel tired and the fire in your core, while burning pleasantly, has dulled to a frustratingly low simmer. You whine into Jimin’s neck, begging him to let you go faster.

“Please, Jimin. I wanna cum.”

“Go ahead, sweetheart,” he acquiesces. “I wanna see you fall apart on my cock.”

His words spur you on and you begin a desperate pace, soreness long forgotten. The blunt tip of his dick nudges against the deepest part of you and you gasp as if you’ve been shocked. The pleasure begins mounting and your hips piston faster of their own accord. You feel his pelvis bump against your bundle of nerves with each drag of your hips, sending ripples of liquid heat traveling through your body.

You lean down to kiss Jimin but you can do little more than pant into his mouth, especially as he begins to buck up into you and meet your hips with every downward stroke. “H-ah, Jimin, close.”

“Atta girl, sweetheart. You’re so beautiful.” The way he whispers into your hair, as if you’re something precious, something to be treasured, sends you into another frenzy and you let out an answering cry. “Come on, cream my cock, baby. It’s all yours.”

That in combination with a punctuated thrust has you hurtling so fast into your orgasm that you’re blindsided, mouth opening in a silent scream as the pleasure overtakes you. You hear Jimin grunt as your walls squeeze him for all he’s worth and you’re suddenly desperate to make him feel just as good.

“Y-You too, baby,” you manage to choke out. “Wanna feel you.”

Jimin groans, clutching you tighter to him. “Yeah? Sweetheart wants my cum?” You nod and that’s all he needs to buck up into you mercilessly. He lasts one stroke, then two, before he’s moaning out loud, pulling you in for a desperate kiss as he releases inside you. You swivel your hips for as long as you can stand it until the oversensitivity becomes too much and you have to stop. 

You both stay there for a moment, breathing in each other as you come down from your highs. Looking shyly into his eyes, you find him looking at you with that same adoring stare and your heart throbs in response. You’re sure you look just as smitten.

“Hi,” you whisper. 

Jimin smiles and you swear you’ve never seen anything more beautiful. “Hi.”

“We’re a little sticky.” You grimace as you shift slightly, feeling the combination of your fluids leaking from inside you and onto his skin. Not to mention the thin layer of sweat that’s left on your skin.

“That we are.” He laughs goodnaturedly, fingers trailing a soothing path down the length of your back and sending pleasant tingles down your spine. “Shall we clean up?”

“Yes, please.” You wrinkle your nose at him and he laughs, kissing it lightly as he shifts. Jimin removes you from his lap so tenderly you blush under the attention despite your previous activities. 

Cleaning up turns into a full-blown shower, the two of you crammed into your small tub and taking turns under the spray as you lather each other’s bodies with soap. It’s comfortable, you realize—almost too comfortable—but you let yourself enjoy it, relishing in the feeling of wanting and being wanted in return.

Once you are clean and dressed in a thin nightgown and some sweats that you managed to find for Jimin, the two of you make quick work of changing the sheets and soon find yourself curled up around each other in a comfortable silence. You’re lying across his chest, hand clutched in his while his other arm is wrapped securely around your shoulders, holding you to him. Your thoughts wander to the Eurail trip—the trip that changed everything. You think about what would have happened if you hadn’t hadn’t been late and reached out for his hand that first day, if you hadn’t missed the train in that small-town station. You remember what Jimin had said about wanting, about finding his soul. Everything rushes back to you all at once and you can’t help the swell of emotion that rises within you.

“Jimin, I…” you begin, but you have no idea where to start. Everything feels so intense right now, so overwhelming, but Jimin seems to know exactly what you’re trying to say. 

“I know.” He says it so calmly, like he’s had time to think about this, about you, and you realize he probably has. Just as you did. You smile softly, looking deeply into his eyes as you move to cup his cheek.

“I’m sorry it took so long for my soul to recognize yours.” 

“Don’t worry about it, sweetheart.” Jimin cradles your face, gazing at you fondly and you have trouble remembering how to breathe. “I found you, and I’m never letting you go again.”

© exoticarmyofcrowns 2020

[fleckcmscott]

To Have and To Hold

Summary: Y/N makes an oversight at work. The resulting extra hours with Arthur delight them both.

Warnings: Swearing, Smut

Words: 4,272

A/N: This story had been kicking around in my head for about two months, but I hadn’t been sure if I was going to write it. Then I read @sweet-nothings04‘s amazing Hand-in-Hand (which you all need to check out, if you haven’t), and knew I had to put it on paper. Thanks to her for the inspiration to finally develop this, and for the title, too!

If you have any thoughts or questions, please comment, feel free to message me, or send me an ask. Requests for Arthur and WWH are open! 

Perhaps it was the sunshine that stirred her. Or the horns of traffic on congested streets. The hammering of a distant construction site. The chatter and occasional yelling of passersby.  The hum of Gotham awakening.

Y/N blinked in confusion - how could it be so bright this early? - and squinted at the clock at Arthur's side of the bed. No numbers greeted her, just its blank, plastic display. Stretching, she reached to her left for her watch, in its spot by the beige rotary phone on the nightstand.

"Shit!"

Nearly knocking over her glass of water, she clambered off the mattress. Arthur had warned her the lights could go off in his apartment. Not often and not for long. But enough to annoy. Naturally, his building's shoddy electricity had to mess with the alarm today. When she'd stayed up too late. When he'd had to leave ahead of her to commute to the other end of the city for a rare winter gig. When her body had chosen to oversleep in the coziness of his blankets.

Her nylons had never been yanked on with such haste. Arthur had made coffee but she skipped it in favor of brushing her teeth. Pausing on her way out, she took a calcium supplement and grabbed a note from the counter. She read it while riding the wood-paneled, graffiti covered elevator: "Your presentashin will be great. You snored a lot. Good thing your cute. - Arthur." He always signed his name. As though she wouldn't recognize his scrawl. As if anyone else wrote her sweet, sassy missives. She grinned until she hopped on the for-once punctual subway.

The presentation he'd referred to was set for that afternoon. She was expected to discuss the evidence and court file for this week's contested hearing. Last night, she'd sat at Arthur's breakfast bar to compile the case's final details and finish prep sheets. Gently, she'd rebuffed his subtle advances. His attempts to draw her attention from work to him.

Excitement had been palpable as he'd hovered near her. She was fairly certain she knew the cause because it enthused her as well. In three and a half short weeks, he'd be moving in with her. They'd officially begin traversing whatever the future held for them together. Hesitation had been clear in his posture, his drawn shoulders when (after plenty of convincing on her part that yes, she really, really, wanted him) he'd finally accepted the key to her place. But since he'd added it to his own keyring, he'd brightened. Strode a little taller. Walked a little prouder. Touched a little bolder. As though the weight he carried had lessened, at least by a couple cinder blocks' worth.

At his slight pout, she'd decided to find a way to involve him. He'd perched on the stool next to her, rested his cigarette in the pink ashtray to the left, and taken the proffered exhibit stickers with a quirked brow. Y/N had handed him papers, which he'd added labels to for her to write on. Then she'd stacked them in four different piles according to type. It had taken longer than usual - she was faster alone. But the intimacy of sharing the professional elements of her life with Arthur (besides the office wear he liked, claiming it showed how "smart" and "pretty" she was) had tightened her chest. And the curved-up corner of his thin lips had reflected how pleased he was, too.

They hadn't been able to collaborate on everything, however. It was past midnight by the time she'd joined Arthur, who had retreated to the bedroom an hour or so earlier. He'd been sitting against the headboard, half under the cover. The harsh blue light emanating from the old black and white TV at the foot of the bed had sharpened his features. Deepened the set of his eyes. He'd stubbed out his smoke as she closed the door. "I taped The Honeymoon Game. We can watch it when you're here again." A beat. "If you're not busy."

"This is supposed to be my last big project for a month or so." Sighing, she'd gotten her nightgown from her overnight bag. "I didn't mean for it to take all evening." She climbed in next to him and threw her arm across his lap. "I'm sorry."

He'd been stiff. Unyielding. The telltale signs he was miffed or upset. But he'd twined her hair around his finger, let his touch fall to her brow bone. "It's okay," he'd said lowly, adjusting to lie alongside her. "I don't want to be... I'm not being fair."

"You don't have to pretend with me, Arthur. It's all right to be annoyed." Tiredness had pulled at her as she'd fought to watch the rest of Gotham Tomorrow Tonight. The contact of his socked toes to her bare ones had made her smile, though, and she'd nuzzled his bicep. "I missed you," she'd mumbled, then promptly passed out.

The squeal of wheels on metal tracks prompted her to sling her canvas tote onto her shoulder. Shaw & Associates was a short sprint from the nearest station. She was certain she looked ridiculous, running down the street in her high heels. But she managed to slip into the office with two minutes to spare. Once she poured herself a cup of joe and straightened her blazer, she settled in her cushioned chair to get started.

It was only when Matt told her he wanted to meet before lunch that she'd rummaged in her bag. And realized she'd neglected to bring the file. Recalled it was sitting on Arthur's kitchen counter.

Fuck.

Her nails tapped the wood surface of her desk. Excusing herself to the bathroom so she could go retrieve it wouldn't fly. Matt would send a search party. She could try to discuss everything from memory, tell him documents were still being gathered. But he wasn't that oblivious. She settled on owning her error. "It's at home." Her delivery was nonchalant.

He waited until she'd loaded her typewriter with paper, then responded wryly. "You're not supposed to take files home anymore. Remember what happened last time?"

She leaned back as he stepped in front of her. "There was the slew of family cases that came in. With Patricia on leave, I'm handling all our calls and mail. Not to mention paperwork on her filings. It wouldn't have gotten finished if I hadn't taken it." Snorting, she shook her head at herself. Heat bloomed in her neck. "Not that it matters when I don't have it."

Expression softening, Matt stuck his hands in his pockets and jutted his chin at her. "How long did you work on it?"

It was hard to discern if he actually cared about the hours she put in. Or if he merely wanted to gauge the possibility of her doing investigations off the books again, something he'd explicitly prohibited. "I don't know." She waved dismissively. "Three or four hours?"

He let out a huff. "You put in enough time already. Go home at noon. We'll get to it first thing tomorrow."

"I have a lot to do." Her eyes widened at the myriad piles of folders laying around. "And I can't imagine you playing operator."

"I've managed when you've both been in court or at appointments. Besides," he continued as he headed back to his office. "You never take days off."

Straightening, she wheeled her chair to watch him plop down on his leather seat. "I'm taking three days next month," she countered.

His glare contained an unequal mix of mirth and consternation. "Y/N?"

The phone started ringing. She succeeded in making one ear ignore it. "Yes?"

"I know you haven't forgiven me for that whole Renew Corp. thing." She flinched at the casual mention of the company she loathed. Of her failure. But she forced herself to listen. Matt picked up a pen and started writing. “Rather than being stubborn, try saying, 'You're right.'"

~~~~~

Y/N stood in front of the narrow, white stove, stirring the soup she'd thrown together using bouillon, carrots, onions, and pasta. Ingredients she'd found in Arthur's kitchen. Music poured, at a respectable volume, from the radio on the windowsill. Swaying out-of-time, she added a sprinkling of black pepper, one of the only three spices he had (along with powdered garlic and salt). Wearing a content smirk, she sampled the steaming broth.

When she'd left the office, she'd been frustrated at herself. Yes, she was human. Everyone made mistakes. But she wasn't the forgetful type. Particularly if someone was depending on her. However, as she'd stopped in Burnley for another change of clothes, hopped on the train to Otisburg, and pictured Arthur's reaction to finding her in his home instead of having to call to wish her sweet dreams, her disposition had improved. Not only would he have her for an extra night. He'd get a late lunch, too.

The click of the deadbolt and clank of his keys on the entrance table came the second she turned off the stove. She listened to his heavy exhale as his bag dropped to the floor and shut the door. In her peripheral vision he froze, then approached tentatively. She reveled in his delicate hold on the dip of her waist, the peck he planted on her cheek. The smell of greasepaint wafted to her nose. "I hoped I hadn't made this up," he sighed with what sounded like relief. "But your meeting."

She angled herself towards him, gaze roving over his red and blue plaid blazer. The painted-on smile. His irresistible brown curls, mostly flattened by the wig he'd worn. Fidgeting with the petals of the squirting flower on his lapel, she scrunched up her face. "This morning went to shit." She explained the power outage, the clock, her own stupidity at leaving the file in his apartment. "I've packed it. Don't worry."

His posture grew pensive. "Sorry. Maybe- Maybe we should have stayed at your place. Your building's better."

Him thinking her error was somehow his fault had to be nipped in the bud. "No," she said. "You asked to make more memories here before we move in together. I'm happy to do that."

He paused, long enough she could have sworn she'd heard the gears in his head grinding. "Are you in trouble?"

Not unexpectedly, he had put together her mistake and her early dismissal from work and assumed the worst. "If I wasn't fired for trying to stop the Waynes, it's going to take more than an oversight to get me thrown out on my ass." Her brow furrowed. She sneaked a hand under his jacket and placed her palm on his chest. "I just hate that I wasted last night for nothing."

Soft lips, slightly sticky with red paint, grazed her temple. "It's okay," he said. "You're here now. And I got to help you."

The balm of his kindness loosened her rigid stance. His zeal to assist her, to ask questions, to learn about every aspect of her branded her heart completely. She leaned into him, kissed the squishy fold of skin under his chin, and nudged his ribs. "Food's ready. Go change. I want to hear all about your day."

Arthur emerged from the bathroom within minutes, clad in his worn, blue house pants and toweling his hair. Dimples were on constant display while they ate. The glint in his eyes was the one he usually had if his act or a job had gone particularly well, if he was pleased with himself. Was the one starting to be an almost weekly occurrence. Was the one that made his green eyes sparkle and caused her stomach to flip. He inched closer to her with every sentence.

The kids at the new children’s medical center had liked Carnival, he said. They hadn’t minded that he’d "filled in" for Gary. The magic tricks had all gone without a hitch, and the clinic had provided the balloons, which was a savings. The nurses and doctors had been nice; they’d even asked for his card. He’d had to provide a slip of paper with his address and telephone number instead. But he was sure he’d be invited to perform again. And he asked Y/N for help writing Gary a thank you note for the referral, claiming, “You’re better at that than me.”

“You’re the one who journals every day.” Her bowl and spoon clattered in the sink. “And your letter to me was beautiful. Just let me proofread it.”

Soon they were reclined on the sofa, sharing the flat pillow he’d used when he’d had no choice but to sleep there. The tape he’d recorded yesterday was playing. The Honeymoon Game had been a casual watch before, he’d explained. Not a nightly ritual like Murray. Given that he had a girlfriend and was a boyfriend himself, it had become fun to view.

She was only half-focused on the TV’s talking heads. Her mind was drifting to moving day, which filled her with gladness. She examined the plaid walls, the white cream color ceiling, the knick-knacks strewn about in the glow of the setting sun. The lantern with an owl hanging in the corner; the green, plastic drawers by the television; the curio cabinet... They were all a part of 8J, but assuredly not a part of him. How much would he be bringing with him, she wondered. And what would he be leaving behind?

“With one sugar and a shot of milk.” Arthur’s lively voice broke through her contemplation. Ah. He was reacting to the questions posed to the contestants, and making the answers about her, as he was wont to do.

She nestled back into the pleasant warmth of his firm frame. “Three sugars,” she replied, confirming she knew how he took his coffee. They continued to play along, with him showing off everything he’d memorized about her, and her replying with what she’d gathered about him.

Eventually, he shifted behind her. Raised himself on his elbow. “How did you know you loved me?”

Her hum was soft. Short. Possible responses were multitude. She’d suspected she could fall for him early on. When he’d wanted to repay her for doing what anyone should have done on the subway. And the first time he’d had the courage to call her after they’d split a slice of pie, his slight stammer revealing his nervousness. Maybe she’d say it was how slowly he’d drunken his wine during dinner, initially squinting as he sipped, his inexperience with alcohol obvious.

But she chose to go with what she believed was truest. What she assumed he’d hear most keenly. “Before we slept together, I hadn’t been with anyone for four years. And even then, it was different.” His hand splayed on her abdomen, thumb dragging along the waistband of her green leggings. A delightful ache flared in her center. “When I woke up, I felt perfect.”

“You felt like you were perfect?”

“No, silly,” she laughed, batting his forearm. “I knew I hadn't made a mistake. I reached out to your side, first thing - I’d thought of it that way, even then.” At the sensation of his hardening shaft against her rear, she giggled. “You’d made me so happy. You always do. I wanted to you to bed me again.”

The round tip of his nose skimmed her cheek, and she shivered at the dip of his fingers into her panties. “I want to again,” he rasped, paraphrasing her. The grind of his length was making her light-headed, and she twisted her torso to look at him. “I’ve been thinking about it.” Cheekbones glowing, he averted his eyes. “Ever since I woke up.”

“My monthly started,” she said regretfully. His descent halted, and a groan of frustration left him as he lowered his forehead to her shoulder. She mused. While he was becoming more apt to say what he desired, it happened rarely. But she loved it and didn’t want to discourage him from letting himself be assertive. Would he be offended by her suggestion? “I freshened up before we laid down. I have a tampon in. There are other things we can do.” She pressed her lips together, hoping she didn’t sound presumptuous. “If you’re comforta-“

“I’m comfortable.” His mouth quickly claimed hers, opening on a sigh. The tip of his tongue laved at the seam of her lips, and his messy enthusiasm made her whimper. Leaving a scorching trail in its wake, his hand traversed to her upper leg, gliding over the crease where her thigh and vulva met.

Shallow breaths caressed the nape of her neck, stoking the heat threatening to consume her. But the studio audience blaring from the television’s mono-speaker kept wresting her out of her haze. She snatched the VCR remote from the coffee table and hit the pause button.

The tease of his fingertips at her dark curls caused the peaks of her breasts to stiffen. She gasped as the rough fabric of her sweater dragged along them. His fore- and ring fingers spread her outer lips and she shuddered. The leisureliness of his fondling didn’t detract from its intoxicating effect.

Though it was a tad rough. “You’re kinda dry. Hold on.” Swiftly, he brought his hand to his mouth and wet his fingertips. Y/N blinked at him. It was clear he thought nothing of it, which shouldn’t have been a surprise, considering he’d confided he liked going down on her. Still. Seeing this normally reserved man improvise so he could pleasure her made her center throb with need.

Y/N was doing her damnedest to get her leggings and underwear down. Arthur snorted at her spirited, failed attempt at kicking them away. “It’s okay,” he chuckled, pushing them off her ankles with his foot. Then his touch fluttered at her swollen folds. She arched into him, already feeling as though she would burst. Bent at the knee, her leg lifted until her foot was flat on the couch cushion, allowing him easier access. He took advantage, sweeping forward and back along the rigid line of her engorged clitoral hood. She rolled towards him subtly, her moans getting louder with each tap to her sensitive nub.

Still holding himself up, he cradled her head. "Your sounds make me crazy," he said lowly. Once his hips started following hers, faintly rutting against the flesh of her backside, she closed her eyes. Hurriedly, she reached behind her to yank at his pajamas. "What?" he asked.

"I want to feel you," she whispered. There was a huff and some fumbling. And moments later his cock was settled at the cleft of her bottom. She bit her lip, savoring the weight of him. God, he felt wonderful.

His fingertips whispered over her clit, daring to follow the edge of her inner labia. She heard him gulp. "How does it feel when we're together? When- When I'm in you?"

"Warm. Full. Like you belong there," she replied with a smile. That last part of her response must have been unexpected, given that his grazes ceased and he trembled. "Don't stop," she whined, placing her hand on his. "Please, Arthur. You know just how to touch me."

Groaning, he started anew, deftly swiping quicker and quicker. The undulations of her pelvis hastened unevenly, begging both for release and for their coupling to last forever. She ran her palm up her torso, kneading her breast and plucking at her nipple. He nuzzled at her ear, grunting low in the back of his throat. Winding her fingers into his loose waves, she tugged lightly. Her belly twitched. Her whole frame tingled.

His skillful touch. The love they had for one another. The noises he was making in the crook of her shoulder. They all combined to throw her over the edge, and a wave of pleasure crashed through her. She cried his name brokenly, feeling empty without him inside her. But he kept holding her, guiding her through the crests of her climax. She was gasping, struggling to suck in air. Surely, she thought, he could detect the thundering of her heart against her ribs.

Gradually, the quivering grip she had on his locks eased. The kisses he planted on her neck were open-mouthed, desperate. And he hadn't halted the ardent movements of his hips. Y/N turned onto her other side. Gazing at him, she raked his curls out of his face, caressed his cheekbone with her knuckles. His look was hungry, darkened with need. The creases between his brows deepened as her hand trailed through the sparse dusting of hair on his chest.

There was a youthful charm to this situation, she considered. To them craving each other but not completely joining. It reminded her of being a teenager. When she'd been curious and horny, but nervous and not quite ready to go "all the way" with her ex. Being with Arthur allowed her to do all that again. To relive those experiences, to explore and make discoveries with him. To fall further in love with him daily.

She tenderly pecked the freckles at the top of his sternum, nestled against the notch above his clavicle. "I'm lucky to have you."

He didn't miss a beat, even as she trailed past the ticklish spots on his flank. "I'm luckier."

"I disagree." She outlined the slender muscles of his stomach, the v-lines leading to his cock. Played with the springy, brown curls at the base of him. "Without you, I'd only have my work. Which was enough before. But not now." After a moment, she concluded she was being sappy. She had to change it up. "And I wouldn't be having the best sex of my life."

Clearly flustered, he muffled his laugh. "Really?" His blush was prominent, his grin ecstatic.

"Really." Groans short and sudden, he rocked into her touch when she encircled his ample girth. Her fingers danced along his shaft, marveling at the contrast of his velvety skin with how hard he was. Pumping up and down, she tugged at him, trying to match the speed of his thrusts. He nudged his nose to hers, gazing at her before his hooded eyes flitted to watch what she was doing. Then she looked, too.

The sight of him fucking into her hand made her dizzy with want, even though he'd just gotten her off. The crimson, swollen head glistened, slick beading generously at the tip. Y/N licked her lips and spread it around him with the pad of her thumb. Moaning sharply, he bucked harder. Her motions quickened, flicking repeatedly at the notch on the underside.

Demand was implicit in the grasp he had on her upper arm. And it strengthened as his hips' stuttered, becoming unpredictable. Ragged pants hit her face. "I'm- I'm gonna make a mess.”

"It's all right," she soothed. Keeping ahold of him, she lay on her back. He followed and settled on top of her. Whimpering her name, he rubbed himself against her labia. But she gently pushed him onto his knees and continued palming him, her fingers teasing the ridge on his erection. It wouldn't take long to make him come. She could see it in the clench of his jaw, the tightening cords in his neck, his abrupt, needy cries...

Plunging forward, he held himself in place, grunting, clutching her urgently. His release hit her abdomen, warm and wet, and she gasped, her body curving up towards him. The feel of him spilling onto her couldn't completely distract her, though. Not from the beauty of his parted lips. Not from the relief that gradually spread across his features. Not from the slackening of his muscles as tension ebbed.

Sweat had gathered on his forehead. A droplet ran from the end of a dark brow to his jawline. Then he kissed her, his mouth groping at hers. "I love you," he said. He gave her one last peck and sat up on his knees. Holding onto the arm of the sofa, he retrieved her underwear from the floor and wiped her belly off. "That was fun." He tucked his chin bashfully.

"I concur." She entwined their hands and sat, then stretched as she pushed herself to stand and walk to the bathroom. The washcloth he'd designated as hers hung on the hook by the towels. She cleaned herself, listening as Arthur started the show again.

A new round of questions was just beginning. "When you and your spouse first met," the host started, "what was your first impression?"

Arthur's answer was instant. "Nice."

Y/N said the first thing that came to mind. "Handsome."

She popped her head out of the room to find him leaning on the entrance of the short corridor, beaming at her with hitched giggles. He was probably waiting for his turn to clean up. Like he normally did. But she couldn't stop herself from staring at him. Loving eyes met hers and his brows lifted expectantly. "Yes?"

Smiling, she wrung out the washcloth and put it back in its place. She stepped to him with a smile and smoothed his hair back. The rush of happiness in her soul, one she wasn't even sure she had, enamored her. Not only at what they'd shared on his old, scratchy sofa. But at Arthur being Arthur. At knowing soon she'd get to sleep next to him every night. Build a life with him, one she hadn't dreamed of even six months ago. Nothing she could say seemed adequate. So she went with a kind gesture, one she knew he'd appreciate. "I'll make us some decaf. And I love you, too."

~~~~~

Tag list (Let me know if you want to be added!): @harmonioussolve​ @howdylilflower​ @sweet-nothings04​ @stephieraptorr​ @rommies​ @fallenstarsabyss​ @gruffle1​ @octopus-plasma​ @tsukiakarinobara​ @arthur-flecks-lovely-smile​ @another-day-in-chuckletown​ @hhandley80​ @jokerownsmysoul​ @mrscarnival

[maxdark158]

PART TWO OF BEING INSPIRED AND WRITING ANYWAY

PLEASE check out the amazing @ozmav my friend!! AMAZING!!

Characters are probably OOC because MLB is a kids show and you guys liked stressed and cursing Damian so I kept that going even though it’s probably OOC

Angel in Gotham: Part 1 ~ Part 2 ~ Part 3 ~ Part 4 ~ Part 5 ~ Part 6 ~ Ao3

Demon in Gotham: Part 1 ~ Part 2 ~ Part 3 ~ Part 4 ~ Ao3

Fanart for AiG: Riddler ~ Joker thank you @thegreysman

Please tag me in any fanart you draw for this guys ^^

oooOOOooo

Damian tried to ignore his phone after checking it for the thirteenth time. But who was counting?

He was, actually. Because it seems the stupid worry feeling will never fucking go away! It took root, and it’s only growing. Damian wondered if drinking weedkiller works on emotions. The bitches.

He wasn’t even that worried initially! Sure, he wanted his An- Marinette to text him when she got to the hotel, but that was just… a friend thing. It’s what friends ask! And they were friends.

Damian wasn’t worried on the car ride to the manor, he had only checked his phone once then. When his father questioned him about The Riddler incident, he was thoroughly distracted and didn’t check at all. After he left the room he checked twice in one minute just to make sure he didn’t miss anything in the first check.

He checked sparsely while training briefly, adding up to eight… okay, maybe not so sparsely. But at this point the awful god damn plant had grown a mouth and it was gnawing on his sanity, bugging him every moment of peace he had.

Damian was getting really fucking sick of this whole worry business. It was awful! Why did Grayson partake in it for so many years? Why did anyone?

He was beginning to understand his classmates’ sense of humor now. But “I want to ka-shoot myself,” was not as funny as they thought it was.

Damian was so busy thinking about worrying and getting more worried – the fucking circle of life – that when he checked his phone for the fourteenth time, he realized he missed a message from Marinette.

Angel: I’m at the hotel now.

Thank fuck. Damian banished all the worry from his mind – leave, motherfucker – and typed out a response.

Damian: That’s good

Damian: Did you get in trouble?

Wait fuck the worry wasn’t gone. He wanted to smack the phone against his head. Or break his thumbs for typing that without his permission.

Angel: Professor Mendeleiev must’ve been tired or something.

Angel: She didn’t leacture

Damian bit his lip. Marinette needed to work on her English.

Angel: Lecture?

Damian: *lecture

Angel: Quiet, English is hard

He could fucking understand that! It may have been long ago but Damian had to learn once too, ya know.

Damian: Understandable.

Damian: In my original question I meant any of your classmates btw

Holy fucking shit his thumbs would be cut off by sunlight he swears to all the justice league members-

Angel: btw?

Angel: Oh by the way

Damian: yeah

Angel: I’m good at text slang in French, okay

Damian: I don’t doubt you

He really didn’t. Marinette seemed intelligent if The Riddler incident had anything to say about it.

Angel: Anyway Alya tried to bother me but I’m good now

He frowned. Alya? She hadn't told him about her.

Angel: Professor Mendeleiev told her off for bothering me after my ‘traumatic’ encounter with a Gotham villain

Damian: Speaking of, are you SURE you’re alright Angel

Damian sighed, letting his head drop. Okay, fucking fine he was still fucking worried and he hated it. His thumbs weren’t to blame, his fucking emotions were.

He pulled up Google to look up liquid weedkiller when his Ang- Marinette texted back.

Angel: I’m fine

Angel: I’ve survived akuma for three years, I’m not about to let some riddle fanatic with terrible clothing choices ruin my day

Damian: His clothes are that bad?

Good, subject change. Maybe he can stop fucking worrying.

Angel: Too much green, for one

Angel: Green shouldn’t be used in large portions when it’s that bright of a shade

Angel: Also the cloth itself was cheap, but the kind of cheap meant to look expensive if you don’t know cloth good

Damian frowned. That was so fucking obvious. Surely she didn’t actually make that mistake…

Damian: *well

Angel: Whatever

Angel: Also his hat didn’t match the type of suit he was wearing

Angel: If he wants to go old fashioned he should at least match the time period

Angel: Longer coat, more layers

Angel: He is an atrocity

Her comments were appreciable though. He could see where she came from.

Damian: he is

Angel: If I had time to cry then my tears would had been blood

Damian: *have

Damian grinned. If Marinette didn’t want her fucking grammar fixed she should learn how to spell in English.

A different motherfucking bitch of an emotion appeared at that thought. He didn’t like that one either. It made him feel bad for being mean.

Angel: istg

Damian: It appears you’re learning

Angel: Yepp

Damian: Also the Gotham news posted an article online about you

Might as well bite the bullet, right?

Damian: “Unnamed Teenager From France Holds off The Riddler Until Batman Arrives!”

Angel: Wait what?

Angel: But we both held him off?

Damian: I was kind of useless, you did most of the work

God damn it! Damian thought he told that emotion to get the fuck out! He was fucking Robin he isn’t useless, he just happened to not be needed at that exact moment.

Damian: I left shortly after you solved his riddle because the Robins had arrived

He grumbled to himself. He hated emotions. It wasn’t like he hadn’t ever felt them before, but they were easier to ignore. This girl made them hard to ignore, and Damian wasn’t sure why.

He did know that he fucking hated it.

After a moment, he realized h- Marinette hadn’t replied for a few minutes.

Damian: You there?

Angel: Yeah. I was just reading the article

Good. He didn’t want anything to happen- motherfucking dammit.

Angel: The Riddler was bad at hand to hand combat. It was easy to take him down with the practice I have from Paris

Damian: I bet.

He saw the time on his phone. Marinette had more field trip stuff tomorrow morning, right? Shouldn’t she get to bed?

Damian: It’s getting late, Angel. We should go to bed.

Damian: Goodnight

Angel: Goodnight

Angel: Also I’ll find a chat name for you soon, promise

Damian’s smile felt weird on his face but unlike the god damn worry and fucking other emotions, he didn’t hate the feeling of it.

After replying, he prepared to get dressed for his patrol as Robin.

oooOOOooo

“Sooo, Robin,” Drake dropped down next to him. “Want to share why you were at that ice cream parlor with that pigtailed French girl?”

“Fuck off,” is Damian’s extremely eloquent response. He can say it in many different languages.

“Wait, Demon Spawn has a girlfriend?” fucking Todd over the fucking comms in his fucking awful Red Hood suit. At least his current helmet didn’t have the fucking lips.

“No, I don’t-“

“I’m trying to figure that out, Red Hood, so would you kindly butt out of the conversation.”

“Of course Red Robin, good luck getting anything out of him though.”

“I don’t have a fucking girlfriend you numbskulls,” Damian hissed through the comms.

“Wait what’s this about a girlfriend, Robin?” Grayson’s overexcited cheerleader voice screamed. Damian wanted to rip out his eardrums.

“Red Robin, I thought I instructed you to leave him alone about this,” finally, his father, for once being a fucking voice of reason, speaks on the comms.

“Bruce you said I should wait until he admits to having a girlfriend,” Drake sounded too smug, Damian wanted to cut it off his masked face. “We know that isn’t going to happen.”

“I hate this fucking family,” Damian hissed.

oooOOOooo

Marinette hadn’t missed her field trip this time. Or had she? Maybe she slept in really fucking late. Damian didn’t know. He didn’t know what her sleeping schedule was like.

She could have also been captured or killed. Those were not fun thoughts. The fucking worry was back, like a virus. Damian anxiously awaited his weedkiller.

She likely wasn’t kidnapped or dead. His father would have known by now and would have told him. He hopes. If his father didn’t tell him he’s a fucking asshole.

“Master Damian.”

“Yes?” he turned around to face Alfred, grateful to be away from the god damn brain-eating plant in his head.

“I simply wanted to prevent you from walking into that wall,” Alfred gestured behind Damian.

He glanced and – yep. Fucking hell. He almost walked into a wall because of the god damn weed of an emotion forcibly taking his mind hostage.

He was having a grand ol’ time.

“Perhaps you would like to go for a drive?” Alfred asked, a single brow raised.

Damian hesitated. “Alright. Where do you want to go?”

“We can figure it out in the car, Master Damian.” Alfred went to grab the keys and his shoes. Damian checked on when his weedkiller would arrive.

A week.

Fucking fuck fuck.

He should have paid for one-hour shipping.

“Are you ready to go, Master Damian?”

“Yes.”

Alfred didn’t try to talk to him during the drive, for which Damian was grateful though. He hated this emotion thing, and people forcing him to talk made it so much worse.

His phone buzzed. Damian pulled it out and checked it.

Angel: Kill me now

His eyes widened. What happened? Is she okay? Did someone- god fucking motherfucking dammit bitch.

Damian: What’s wrong?

Stupid god damn worry.

Angel: We have to all get lunch as a class before I’m free

Angel: I’m in the group with Liar Rossi

Damian raised a brow. Marinette hadn’t told him much about this girl in her class, but he knew she lied and nobody but Marinette knew she lied.

He didn’t like her.

Angel: Death would be sweatier

Damian: *sweeter

Angel: Rude

Damian: Anyway

Damian: You can’t die yet

Damian: We still technically didn’t get ice cream

Absolutely wonderful excuse you fucking asswhipe. Damian should be a politician with that reasoning.

He looked around, recognizing the streets. They were a bit weird from the actual street instead of the rooftops, but-

Damian: Also you’re at the Gotham City Heroes and Villains Museum right?

Angel: Yes I am

Damian fought to keep the smi- self-satisfied smirk off his face. Bingo.

Damian: I’m nearby

Damian: I can pick you up for lunch

Angel: OMG really? Please do I’d really really like that

Damian: omw

“Alfred,” Damian leaned up toward the front seat. “Head to the Gotham City Heroes and Villains Museum? I’d like to pick someone up.”

“Of course Master Damian,” Alfred’s tone didn’t betray anything about his thoughts, but for some reason that was calming to him.

The car drive to the museum was fairly short, if Damian was honest. They were only a few minutes away to begin with anyway.

When they arrived, Damian saw a redhaired girl with glasses yelling at his An- Marinette. At Marinette. He couldn’t hear what Marinette had said, but it must have been good. The red-haired girl’s jaw fucking dropped. The people behind her looked fucking dead.

Priceless.

Marinette saw him and he waved. Alfred unlocked the door, and Marinette got in. She didn’t look back at her classmates' faces as Alfred drove away.

Shit. Something must have happened. He wasn’t good with emotions though, after all he ordered weedkiller to see if he could get rid of fucking worry.

So, Damian Wayne did what any Wayne would do when faced with emotions.

Ignore them.

“Where would you like to eat, Angel?” Damian asked.

Shit, fuck, too insensitive.

Marinette shrugged. “I’m not sure, I don’t know what’s here.”

She sounded so goddamn miserable-

Damian frowned. “Angel, you okay?”

Fucking shit, stupid mouth. Learn the fucking rules. He should be banned from fucking talking.

“I’m okay,” she mumbled. “I’ve got a lot on my mind right now.”

Damian wanted to press the issue but decided against it. If he was happy when Alfred didn’t make him talk feelings, maybe Marinette would be too.

He was a friend first – wait first before what, exactly?

“Alfred, can you take us to the nearest,” he glanced at Marinette. “four-star restaurant?”

“As you wish Master Damian.”

He hoped Marinette didn’t feel out of place, but he wanted to lift her spirits. She deserved to smile – that was a weird fucking sentence what the fuck?

Damian is pretty sure he’s losing his marbles.

“I know,” Marinette suddenly blurted out. “I know you’re Damian Wayne.”

Fucking fuck fuck.

Shit. She’s probably pissed he didn’t tell her-

“I just want you to know that doesn’t change anything. You’re still my friend, and I don’t care who your dad is and who you are.”

Damian gaped at her for a moment before shaking his head. He should have fucking told her, he’s an ass. “I’m sorry you had to find out on your own. I should have told you-”

Marinette interrupted, “you didn’t have to. You don’t owe me that.”

He was confused. What?

She didn’t want to know who he was right off the bat? She was okay with that secret?

“As a stranger or even a friend, you don’t owe me any details about who you are. Ever,” Marinette told him. “You’re allowed to keep secrets and not tell me things you aren’t comfortable sharing. It isn’t fair of me to demand you tell me everything.”

Holy fucking shit.

This… this woman…

“Thank you,” he said earnestly. “I… nobody’s ever said secrets are okay…”

Marinette shrugged. “I can’t help if I feel left out, but forcing you to tell me everything isn’t how friendship is supposed to work. If you don’t want to tell me, it’s okay.”

Damian’s smile was small, and it felt a bit out of place on his face. He couldn’t find it within himself to care.

“Perhaps instead of a restaurant, I can take you both to the mansion for your lunch?” Alfred, the god damn traitor, suggested.

He wanted to say ‘have you lost your god damn marbles, Alfred?’ but he didn’t.

Instead, he said, “You sure Alfred?” like a fucking loser.

Marinette glanced at him. “You don’t have to if you aren’t comforta-”

“No, it’s not that,” he assured. Why would she think he was uncomfortable? His brothers were menaces, but he was used to them! Marinette, however... “My brothers can be… rambunctious.”

Drake and Todd were going to have a fucking field day, especially after what they pulled last night over the comms. He was lucky Grayson was working today. But those two motherfuckers…

Marinette smiled. “I can handle them if that’s the only reason you’re nervous.”

Damian thought for a moment.

Fucking fuck fuck.

He hoped she could. Because if they caused her any unnecessary harm or discomfort he would murder their asses.

With pleasure too.

But one look told Damian that he wouldn’t need to. This girl was going to be the death of him. He hoped the weedkiller was miraculously early.

He sighed. “Alfred, please talk us to the mansion.”

“My pleasure, Master Damian.”

Fucking fuck fuck.

[blakescoven]

Undress Rehearsal (Duncan Shepherd x fem!Reader)

Summary: You got a fashion degree and moved to DC to work as stylist assistant. Unexpectedly you meet a familiar face during a meeting and it seems there’s a spark between you two...but things may take a wrong turn.

A/N: Hey lovelies!! This is my first fic EVER, so be nice! Also, forgive any grammar mistake (English isn’t my first language). Since the ending is kinda open, I guess I could write a PART 2. I’m so happy to finally be able to post this one-shot, even though it sucks! I’d appreciate every comment/reblog/DM about it and about how I could actually improve my writing. This is a sort of experiment! I’m still trying to figure out “my style”. Oh and this is important: bold type means flashback, italics are Y/N’s thoughts and // means a few days passed! ENJOY and thank you for reading! I love you.

Warnings: mean!Duncan (just a little), making out and veeery light NSFW, plot!twist, lol I think that’s enough(?)

Word count: 6.1K

moodboard by the talented @hecohansen31​

You were late again. It happened twice this week. But how could that happen? You had always been a punctual and reliable person, at night you ensured that the alarm was correctly set and you never went to bed too late, afraid to not being able to wake up the morning after. So how could it be possible? Maybe because of your jetlag, but after almost a month, well, this had become a really bad excuse. Then perhaps, the frenetic pace was already affecting you that much, making you too tired to hurry up and get ready. This couldn’t happen again; you were jeopardizing your new dream job because of this straggler behavior. While you were running along the streets of Washington DC, those were your recurring thoughts. Your wheezing and the speeded-up heartbeats, pounding in your hears, were drowning out any deafening noise coming from cars and traffic, which always filled the city driveways.

From the early hours of the day, the avenues were swarming with people going to their office, each of them withdrawn into oneself, busy minding their own business with their smartphones, bringing takeaway breakfast on the other hand. You were way too anxious and distracted from running breathlessly; you had already bumped into three stupid human beings, slowly strolling down the sidewalk like damn sloths. Every single step was followed by a quick glance at your cellphone screen, checking the time and ensuring there was no missed call of your boss.

If you knew anything in this world, it was that you had to take this job seriously, dealing with the fact that your exhausting dues would have allowed your eager ass to work your way up and finally become a fashion designer. So, you didn’t expect any great satisfaction to come very soon. And starting from the bottom was really tough. After years of studying and a well-deserved university degree, you were prepared for whatever the future might have brought. Despite that, you didn’t expect at all to end up in DC, working as a stylist assistant. Sure, this would have opened the door to your real dream job, be part of the style department, designing collections for a luxury brand. You had tried your luck moving to New York, but you ended up broke, with no savings left and no available job opening. For this reason, you decided to take that chance here. You hadn’t made any progress till now though. You were new, yes, but your tasks and assignments were hardly restricted to bring coffee or running around the Capital with tons of garment bags for upcoming fittings.

Finally, after that insane 3km rush, without even stopping for a second - no, you couldn’t afford an Uber ride every time -, you arrived. Your feet hurt like hell, your cheeks covered with scarlet shades like the worst of sunburns and your breath coming in short gasps…and your hair, oh dear Lord, it was a mess. You were sure you were also sweating. Luckily, Richard, your boss, was quite nice to you and somewhat tolerant; he was sincerely impressed by all your efforts, skills and abilities, so much that he wasn’t utterly certain what you were doing there.

Five minutes past the established hour and, thank God, the client hadn’t arrived yet. You didn’t have much information or details about that meeting. You only knew that you had to help during a fitting for a client, extremely influential on the political scene. He needed a few new looks and outfits for public appearances, interviews, and fundraising events. Of course, you assumed he would have been an old middle-aged white man, with too much money to count and eager for power.

Mr moneybags is getting late tho. Too busy making grands? you thought.

Meanwhile, you were trying to look more presentable, also to not risk damaging the brand reputation.

“Y/N?”

Your calves burned and, in that moment, you thought that bringing extra sneakers would have been a good idea.

“Y/N?!”

Since the client hadn’t arrived yet, maybe you could sit down and rest for a minute on that super comfy booth near the mirror…

“Y/N!!!! HELLOO!!!” Your train of thoughts was abruptly interrupted by your boss’ yells, which suddenly caught your attention.

“Oh my God, I’m sorry, I zoned out! Forgive me, what can I do for you?”

The man, a healthy and elegant 40ish brunette, looked at you concerned “Y/N I know it’s hard to settle down, but I need you to be 100% focused today. The man who’s coming is a big deal for us, he’s a powerful figure in Washington politics! He has recently taken her mother’s place as CEO of the family company. So, I want us to make a good impression!” after saying that, he looked at you from head to toe, a bit baffled.

“So…” he continued “…I need you to – in that moment you really hoped you were about to receive a major task, finally a turning point – ..to run to the bar across the street and buy some coffee, and come back quickly!” All your expectations fell apart in a sea of disappointment. “Hurry up!”

You put on a forced smile and went straight to the exit.

After having waited in line for centuries, you figured that probably the client had to have arrived, and therefore, just as you had started your day, you came back running as fast as you could, to save time.

You were holding the coffee cups in your left hand, while you were struggling to turn off your phone, which had started ringing. Opening the glass door with your hip, you were still trying to silence the ringtone, this, without even minding where put your feet up. Ugh, mom, stop calling me...always the worst timing! you screamed in your own mind, frowning. Before you could slow down your steps, one of your heels didn’t grip well the lacquered floor, making you stumble and trip. A sudden change in your balance and you couldn’t avoid slipping forward, causing the not-so-angelic flying of coffee directly on the special guest of the situation.

Damn it.

And to make matters worse, you fell to the ground, cursing the day you were born. Hell no, it can’t have really happened to me. You had just made a complete ass of yourself. You would have rather sink below the waves into the oblivion.

“OH SHIT SHIT SHIT I-I’m so sorry! I-I don’t know h-how it happened!” you were apologizing, still keeping your eyes fixed on the once-full cups rolling down the parquet, next to your badly chipped mobile touchscreen.

“The floor must be slippery…please let me make it up to you, I ca- ” you stopped all of a sudden when you lifted your gaze, for the first time since you had stepped in. Standing in front of you there was the most attractive man you’d ever seen. His piercing blue eyes were fixed on you, like two burning flames almost forming deep holes in your soul.

It’s hot in here or it’s just me?

He was tall and his toned arms were easily visible through the once-white shirt. Now that expensive fashion piece was all covered by a huge stain of hot coffee. And it was your fault. You were speechless. Your attention all focused on the man’s features. Your gaze was busy running down those perfect shaped cheekbones and the sharp jawline. Oh boy, gods’ gift indeed.

Oddly familiar to you though.

You clearly remained to stare for too long to not be noticed, because the man himself broke the silence.

“Uhm, don’t worry” he seemed taken aback for a second “I’ll send it to the cleaners or I’ll throw it away, I don’t care” he said, immediately composing himself, while carefully unbuttoning the ruined shirt, with those long fingers... You were blushing. His low soothing voice sent shivers down your spine. But his tone was plain, no apparent emotion, he seemed almost indifferent, maybe even a little annoyed. Ah, pompous ass.

Your attention was caught by your boss, who, with a worried voice, while pinching the bridge of his nose with his eyes closed, proposed him to choose another shirt among the others and take it as an apology gift. The man accepted, nodding with a crooked smile and with smug remarks about the needlessness of gifts for a man as rich as him.

Cocky asshole! You mused, with a roll of her eyes.

Anxious to change the subject, Richard, started the introductions. “Mr Shepherd, she is my smart – but clearly clumsy – assistant, Y/N” at that very moment that name awoke the memories in your mind.

No. It can’t be true.

“Well, nice to meet you” he remarked “Y/N”, repeating your name like he was tasting it on his own tongue “..or so.” he added, with a stupid smug grin on his breathtaking face. When they shook hands, you felt a sort of jolt and realized you had been holding your breath all this time. You remained silent.

That was the same man you met 6 months ago on the flight you took to go to New York, when you moved for the first time. It was him the influential man of the meeting.

Duncan-fucking-Shepherd.

//

Duncan. This name was the only thing in your mind right now, while you were lying on the couch, in your little apartment, with a glass of wine loosely resting on your lower lip. Oh my God, did he recognize me? Did he figure out it was me? How had he called me that day? Oh, his angel, right. Fuck.

Your head hurt, but you couldn’t help but keep on repeat your two first meetings again and again in your mind. The Duncan Shepherd from today was completely different, compared to the man you had encountered on that plane.

He hadn’t talked about himself very much, just spilled that he was a businessman traveling for work. You had immediately noticed how mature he was to be in his late 20ish. And incredibly handsome. And charming. And seductive.

Ok, stop.

You still couldn’t understand why you. Among all the attractive available women he could easily have, during all the time of the flight, he had been flirting with you. You. He made you feel sexy, desirable and safe, after a very long time.

It was the first class. You were there because of a lucky misunderstanding. While the plane was taking off, you two had a moment, since he saw you panicking. You had started talking for real only two hours after having left Milan. The conversation started casually, then developed into a flirty game. Little did you knew that a few hours later, you would eventually find yourselves making out so much intensely, whilst the rest of the passengers was sleeping with lights off. This wasn’t like you; you were strangers after all. Damn, you only knew his first name. But you couldn’t help your crazy attraction towards him. A sort of electricity, a particular connection that you had never felt with anybody else in your life.

You were staring off into space, completely lost in your inner thoughts, while biting hard your lip and fidgeting with the hem of your oversize t-shirt. You nervously swallowed and closed your eyes. Your hand began to move from the fabric and wander over your bare legs, brushing them with your fingertips. Throwing back your head and swallowing again, you frowned and sighed. You couldn’t make those thoughts disappear. He got under your skin and no matter what you did, you couldn’t shake him.

His soft lips on yours, hot and peachy, the trailing of his wet open-mouthed kisses along your throat and the series of marks he was leaving on your skin, on the way down your collarbone. Feeling the smile of the other against your lips as you two kissed. The best feeling in the world. His small moans when you had pulled his lower lips between your teeth, while his hands were touching and roaming all over your body, as if he wanted to memorize each spot, each curve, each part of you. “Baby I wish it was just the two of us right now, damn, I want you so badly” he whispered. God, if they had been alone, you’d have gone further for sure. You were both turned on, you could tell, especially from the prominent bulge on his designer pants. All you wanted was to climb on top of him, straddling his hips, panting in his hear and feel his hot breath all over you. Intense was the craving to undress him, feel his skin against yours. Shit, it was like a living a dream.

The meeting had been canceled and rescheduled for tomorrow. The situation was quite unpleasant. What you were supposed to do now?

//

Judgment Day had come. You hadn’t slept at all, all night spent tossing and turning between the sheets and looking at the ceiling. How were you supposed to act now? Should you have mentioned anything? What was really killing you, was the feeling that ‘your moment’ had meant nothing for him. Yes, after 6 months, you had gone over it, also because you had no idea how to contact him. But after seeing him again, all the buried thrills came rushing back. You absolutely needed to test the waters today. What did you have to lose? Well, your dignity maybe. If he wanted to, Duncan could have easily said something. And of course, a man of his status could have anything, or anybody, he wanted. Maybe you were overthinking, maybe not.

Since it was almost dawn, and the sun was peeking through the blinds, creating a delicate play of lights and shadows on the curtains, you decided you could actually distract yourself choosing what to wear for the meeting. You shouldn’t have done it. Your bedroom had become a battlefield, all your clothes scattered all over it, like some lifeless leftovers of the closet, now empty. Almost like a little bomb went off. You kept trying combinations on combinations, each time taking off the pieces and throwing them away anywhere around you, as if you were on the verge of a breakdown. It was still a business meeting; you couldn’t dress up too revealing or doll up too much. But at the same time, you’d never give up on being yourself and express your personality through what you wore. Respecting yourself was the most important thing. Self-love. However, this didn’t solve the problem at all. You wanted to appear at your best, challenge him, in a subtle way.

On your way to the office, an unexpected call tuned you away from your own thoughts.

“Richard! Good morning! Are you calling me for coffee? Because I’ve already stopped off at the bar, now tell me who is the best assistant in the whole world?! And I’m not even late!” your smile vanished as soon as your boss answered.

“WHAT?! What does it mean you won’t be there today?” Your heart skipped a beat and started pumping so much blood through your veins, that you felt as a heatwave was rushing inside of you. “W-well if you have family issues, we agree that it’s necessary to postpone the gathering..I-” your eyes widened at the realization that you’d be alone. With Duncan.

You almost fainted on the spot.

“I’m sure you can handle it on your own! You can still reach me with a phone call, if you ever need me. Plus, don’t you think this would be the right chance to prove yourself and finally level up, get noticed and considered for that vacant position in the style & design dep.? My money’s on you, girl!”

How could you blame him, though? He was always so encouraging.

You sighed through the phone, so he added “Look, it won’t be hard. Remember that Mr Shepherd is in your hands. We have to turn him into one of the brand advocates; he’s young, a self-made man, the best choice to promote the brand awareness. It’s up to you now.”

Wow, that’s very reassuring you figured, shaking your head.

“Ok, you can do this, I have to go now, let me know how it goes. Bye!” Fuck.

“W-wait! I can’t do that withou-” he has already hung up. Looking up to the sky and letting out a frustrating grunt, you allowed yourself a childish whine and mumbled a ‘why me’.

Now you were standing outside the building, trying to collect yourself before entering. You were wearing an oversized see-through blouse, tucked in a black knee-length skirt, and an *accent color* blazer with rolled-up sleeves, to complete the look. You were ready to fight. No more clumsy bullshit.

Breathe, remember to breathe you reminded yourself, looking at the elevator door.

You strode next to the receptionist’s desk, Tiffany, or, as you liked to call her, ‘Crazypants’; since her eyes were always so disturbingly wide open – Does she ever blink? – and her hair painfully pinned back, so tight that must have hurt her. She seemed a cross between a barbie and a psycho killer. As soon as you walked by her desk, Crazypants greeted you overly excited, calling you with her earsplitting high-pitched voice. You put on your fakest smile and replied,

“Morning Tiff, uhm, I wish I could stay and chat, but I have work to-”

“The client is already here. He’s waiting for you in the fitting room” she winked. Hell, you hoped your blushing wasn’t so obvious, you couldn’t even have a few minutes to be psychologically prepared. Well, maybe better pull off the band-aid.

“Thank you for warning me! I’ll be right there” you answered. Not even before your exams you felt all this pressure.

Why is it always so hot?!

Walking along the hallway as if you were going to your own execution, you found yourself in front of the door of the rehearsal room. You gently opened it and entered. Do you know when, at some point in movies, there’s a slow-motion moment with background music?! There it was. Precisely. He had his back turned, gazing the skyline through the glass wall. And the second he heard the clicking of a pair of heels, he turned his head, smiling at you and looking intensely at your figure. You were about to die for real now.

How could someone be so beautiful?

His hair perfectly styled, his hot stubble,... Oh, that stubble was your weakness. You could already feel it between your legs and…

“Hey hey, easy with that” he teased with his deep honeyed voice, pointing the take-out coffee cups you were holding. You winced and giggled

“I’ll never stop apologizing about that, ehm, incident…but if you want one, go ahead!”

You looked at each other smiling for a while, until you had to break the silence and eventually get down to business. “So, I guess it’s better if we start…Mr Shepherd, so then you’ll be free to go back to work”, he exhaled and nodded

“Oh please, just call me Duncan.”

You saw a sort of shift in his features. His face went blank. He adopted a bossier and intimidating position, like last time. Ok, maybe he just wants to keep it professional, I understand.

“When is Richard coming?” he questioned while taking his trench coat off. “To be honest, it’ll just be me today, but it’s all right, you’re in good hands” you slightly smiled. He sighed again and you rose your eyebrow, taking it as an unspoken insult.

“Is there a problem?”

“Well, yes, I didn’t come here to waste my time with a newbie assistant.” Your jaw dropped.

“Excuse me?”

“No need to get upset darling, this is what you are, after all” he stated shrugging. You were speechless; yes, you were an assistant, but the way he said that, as if you were a dumb zero…What an asshole.

“Oookay, since I’m here..let’s continue” he glanced at you, waiting for her next move. “I agree, you can change in the wa-” you paused; he was literally undressing in front of you.

“What? There’s nothing you’ve never seen...I guess” You were confused…was he teasing you or something? “You should be more professional, I’m saying it for you”, your rage slowly increasing and flowing throughout your entire body. He was a completely different man, with all those unnecessary mean remarks. He gave you mixed feelings. You would have punched him, but at the same time, contemplating his perfectly-shaped heavenly body, his toned muscles, his thighs..you wanted to jump on him, kiss him and be his, in every way possible.

“You’re staring.”

“W-what?! No. I’m waiting for you to finish undressing, so I can give you the first change to wear..”

“Sure.”

You’d already had enough of his attitude. “I suggest starting with this evening suit, since Richard told me you’ll attend a charity gala in a few days.”

“Hush, please, save it. I don’t need all your pointless suggestions. I can handle it by myself.” he seemed almost..angry? You didn’t know how to hit back anymore. Why was he acting like that, all of a sudden? He tried on a few different outfits while you were staying there, silent, shifting your weight from a leg to another, your eyes wandering through the room, your lips pressed into a thin line and your mind trying to figure out what was happening. Duncan, noticing the tapping of your fingers on your thigh, rolled his eyes and gave you an annoyed look.

Then he huffed “Impatient, uh?”

You were hovering on the brink of an outburst.

“Why don’t you do your job and bring me some water, or take notes, or whatever you get paid for?”

“My job is helping you find a set of appropriate clothes for various occasions, trying to create the right mix & match that suits your taste and personality...” you retorted in a plain tone.

“Oh, thanks for the not required explanation, Wikipedia..”

“..but I’m not stupid, I know what a fucking stylist does” he was pushing your buttons.

“If you’d allow me to do my job, instead of questioning me, I could recommend something..”

“No need to whine, baby girl…So do it, instead of staying there like a scared little girl.”

“If relying on someone to select your wardrobe really bothers you..why don’t you choose them by yourself?” you sassed, struggling to remain polite.

“Well, I’ve demanded the help of a professional, not that of a ‘coffee-bringer’…and I’m wasting my time here”.

Ok, that’s enough.

He was still a client, but for you being treated like that wasn’t acceptable anymore. “You know what? I don’t fucking care if I get fired after saying these words. But I’m done with your dumbass comments. You’re a douchebag. I’m trying to do my job and, just because you’re rich and influential, you think you can treat me like that. Like I’m trash?” you were finally giving in to an outburst “The saddest thing is that I really hoped you would remember me. About that moment we shared 6 months ago, on that flight to New York. But obviously, I’ve given it much thought. Turns out that I’m just one of many, aren’t I? I’ve been thinking about you for weeks and when I saw you again, it all came flooding back. I’m so stupid. It’s not your fault, I was wrong to think that day could have really meant something.”

While talking, you were struggling to hold back the tears, you weren’t supposed to look pathetic, but your eyes were already watering. “So, do me a favor: end this meeting now. I’ll call Richard and tell him to take care of you, since you do not believe I’m capable enough to fulfill your needs..”

“..oh and don’t worry about seeing me again, I don’t want anything to do with you! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got work to do.” you spat, entering the small wardrobe room, without bothering to switch on the light, hoping that your angry tears would have remained unnoticed in the darkness and that Duncan would have gone for good. So you started moving crutches on the clothes stand, to make room for those outfits to restock over.

Unexpectedly you felt an arm around your waist, holding you tightly. It was Duncan. He hadn’t left.

His body pressed against yours, you were paralyzed, his arms keeping a firm grip on you. What’s happening? You knew you should have pushed him back and kick him out, but something inside you decided against it. It was like a part of your dumb heart wanted to stay still in that position forever. You two remained silent, until he whispered in your hear, with his hot breath and his cologne filling your nostrils - a mixture of cinnamon, sandalwood and tobacco.

“I’m sorry..” he sighed. He sounded sincere.

“..I went too far.”

Now your own hands were resting upon his arms. You could feel the heat his body was radiating right now. With a honeyed soft tone, he murmured “Please forgive me, I don’t know what came over me. It’s just that having you standing here again, in front of me, stunned me. I didn’t know what to do and I misunderstood your demeanor. I thought you were pretending nothing had happened, or that you didn’t recall that day, or that you simply didn’t care.”

His hold slowly loosened, allowing you to turn around and look at him with narrowed eyes and a puzzled expression, without a word.

“Uhm, I’m not very good at communicating my emotions, but you’re right. I’ve been a dick. You didn’t deserve it, but I was overwhelmed by the attempt to suppress my own feelings. Since I saw you again,”

he paused,

“you are all I can think about.” he admitted, stroking your tear-stained cheek with his thumb, but you tried to resist him,

“I hope you’re not trying to play me, because otherwise I’ll smash that stupid hot smirk to the ground.”

“So do you think I’m hot, uh?!”

“You dumbass.”

“God, you’re so damn sexy when you’re mad.” he teased, coming closer.

“What?” you giggled. He stared at your lips “I just can’t stop thinking about kissing you right now…” and unexpectedly, his hand drifted to your hip, pulling you even closer. You inhaled deeply. You were against his warm chest, sculpted to perfection. Why must he be so perfect? You placed your hand against it, intending to push him away, but instead you left it there. You froze, from both fear and excitement.

You two stared into each other’s eyes and his breathing quickened as did yours. He slowly leaned in, so his forehead rested against yours. You closed your eyes. Your faces were inches apart now, and he lightly traced your lips with one finger. His other hand placed behind your neck, shortening the distance even more.

Your noses bumped and your mouths matched up slightly-opened, breathing each other’s air directly. He brushed his lips against yours and you freaking loved it. You loved the way your body melted into his. The way your lips perfectly fitted like two puzzle pieces. The way Duncan held you tighter and tighter. It sent shivers down your back. His only desire was to touch you, to move his hands under your layers and feel your smooth skin.

You two broke the kiss for a second to catch your breath. Then he pulled you in, claiming your mouth again, hungry and intense. Duncan lowered his hands down your hips, cupping your ass and dragging you impossibly close. You deepened the kiss swallowing his groan of pleasure as you lost into each other, no space between you two. His hands were exploring your body, while you grabbed his hair tightly to restrain your own moans.

Slowly, you started exploring each other’s mouths with your tongues. Sometimes sucking his lower lip and biting it a little bit. He started kissing your jaw and leaving hickeys on your neck. He didn’t want to let you go, so he pulled you again and kissed you so hard, with much more intensity. He squeezed you, suggesting that he wasn’t going to stop. You didn’t mind at all and continued making out.

He slowly put his hands under your blouse, trying to reach and unhook your bra, eager to run his fingers along your breasts and rub it. You began unbuttoning his button-down, seductively leaving wet kisses and love bites on his chest. He moaned. Then Duncan raised your blouse and took it off completely, so he could see you.

“You’re beautiful” he purred, and started massaging your chest and kissing it hardly, licking and biting gently your nipple. While Duncan was playing with your body, you could only keep on tugging his hair, making his moans vibrate against your body. Then he kneeled down kissing your stomach.

Both of you couldn’t silent your groans anymore, the entire room was filled by sexual noises. But you didn’t care at all. You knew where it was going. Duncan pushed you against a wall, grinding on you and you could clearly feel his hardness pressed against your body. You needed more friction.

“Jump.” he suddenly hinted, and used his veiny arms to hold you up by your thighs lifting you off the ground. You wrapped your legs around his waist. Your core was throbbing at that very moment.

But you were brought back to planet Earth right after; that divine feeling was ruined by a pesky thought that clouded your mind.

What if he’s just interested in sex?

He sensed your sudden slowing down. “If you want me to stop, tell me now,” he whispered. When you remained silent, he brushed his mouth against your temple,

“Or now.”

he followed the line of your cheekbone,

“Or now.”

now he was kissing your chin,

“Or—”

then your lips were against his, again. You kept undressing slowly, savoring the moment.

But that damn thought came back, stuck in your mind. And eventually it hit you. “Wait…wait” you said, trying to steady your breathing.

“What’s wrong angel? I did something wrong or..” he questioned worriedly. “No, not at all, it was perfect..but I don’t think this is right.”

“Wait what?! Why?” Duncan replied in disbelief.

“I’m not a yes girl, Duncan. I’m not looking for casual hookups, I really want to know you better and see where this leads us.” you smiled reassuringly, caressing his cheek. You were scared as fuck. Maybe he wasn’t interested in any kind of relationship, just random booty calls. But you had to take the risk. You wanted to.

“Uhm..yeah. I guess that sounds fair enough.” he chuckled and you released the breath you didn’t know you were holding. “How about a coffee date? I know a place, it’s quite secluded, to not attract the attention of press and journalists” you tilted your head and frowned,

“What do you mean?”

“Angel, I don’t want you to be targeted by newspapers, they aim to find some dirt on me and make every aspect of my private life public. I prefer keeping a low profile, and put you in an uncomfortable position is the last thing I would want.” “Oh, ok. I got it.” you were a little thoughtful, to be honest. But in that moment, you would have agreed with everything he was saying. You used every inch of strength you had, to stop and not go further. Not that there was anything wrong with that. You just wished to learn more about that handsome man in front of you; his desires, his passions, his values and aspirations.

“I’d better get back to work, they’ll wonder what happened to me.” he smirked. “Yeah, you better hurry up, then” you laughed, while putting your blouse on. “I’m gonna put aside the chosen clothes” you informed, but before you could leave the cramped room, he grabbed your hand and pulled you back in his arms, giving a last soft peck on your lips.

“How can I focus now, with the thought of you against me?!”

“You’ll have to make do with the memory..” you shot back “..for now.” you cooed, whispering in his hear.

The rest of the day went off without a hitch. You had exchanged numbers and with all those texts you were sending to each other, you felt like a schoolgirl again. Nothing could have ruined that sensation. Before going back home, Richard called you, questioning you about the meeting, not noticing your struggle to not make disconnected sentences or beat around the bush, to hide your embarrassment. Then, to thank you for having his back, he gave you another assignment: a high-society lady had requested a selection of gowns to choose, to attend a few fundraising events. Another important add-on for your CV. A few more efforts and they would have finally offered you the long-awaited position in the creative team.

//

The consultation had been set up two days later, you had to go to the customer’s penthouse this time. Ugh, lazy rich people. You rang the doorbell and right after you were greeted by a thin blonde girl, all fake boobs and tinted tips, wearing a dress that seemed closer to a long top, rather than an actual dress.

“Hey, you must be Y/N! Come in! I’ll be right back” she yelled. You came in holding the garment bag; you were shocked when you found out how actually big the apartment was: super modern, black & white themed and with some art hanging on the walls.

Uhm, de gustibus you muttered to yourself.

“Here I am, sorry for the waiting. I am Madison!” Why rich people seem so reluctant to share their last name with me? you mused, smiling to yourself.

“Let’s start, shall we?”

And then Madison took you to what has to be her large bedroom. Odd. That seemed more like a bachelor to you, but judging wasn’t your thing.

The fitting went smooth as silk. This Madison was a bombshell, every single dress fitted her body as it was sewn on her. For the upcoming event she chose a nude silk dress, that perfectly matched her skin tone. She looked pretty excited for the pick, so much that she started screaming and calling out loud, making you aware that there was someone else around.

“Muffin come here!!! I chose the dress!! It’s perfect oh my God! You must see it before I take it off!”

MUFFIN.

Seriously? Do not laugh, please, do not laugh.

You were biting her lip a little too hard. While Madison kept calling her…muffin, you decided to do something and began packing all the stuff back up into the bag.

“Oh finally, you walk so slow, babe…now, look! What do you think?” Before the man could answer she continued “Oh wait, how rude I am. Y/N, this is my fiancé...”

As soon as you turned around and lifted your gaze, your heart stopped beating.

“…Duncan!”

His smile soon disappeared too, replaced by a shocked and guilty expression, like a deer caught in the headlights. You froze in place.

You were trying to hold back the impending flood of tears, washing it away with your anger. A million different feelings rushed through you, but at the same time you couldn’t feel anything, just your own heart, literally breaking down in pieces.

“Do you already know each other?” Madison asked, noting Duncan’s surprise. You gathered all the strength left within you and stated

“Just one of the many customers.”

Then, lowering your broken voice, you sputtered a “Now I really have to go.”

Without saying anything more, you took the garment bag and run straight to the door, shutting it down behind your back. Right after, a teardrop rolled over your cheek, and your eyes started watering. Once that the first tear broke free, the rest followed in an unbroken stream. Before turning into a sobbing mess, you walked fast down the hallway, reaching the elevator and waiting for the doors to open up.

Before you could take another step, a large hand took you by the wrist, keeping you in place. You turned around and instantly pushed him back, trying to free yourself from his grip.

“Please,” he begged,

“Let me explain. Please, I don’t want to lose you! We have something..w-we can talk about it, please, wait!”

“Go to Hell” you snapped;

and then you shoved his hand away, entering the elevator. Stupid. I am so fucking stupid. You two looked at each other one last time, shedding tears. The eyes of both soaking blatantly. And then the doors shut.

That heartbreak felt like concrete drying in your chest.

________________________________________________________________

Tagging: (I hope you don’t mind BUT tell me if you want to be removed, I was just curious to know your opinion about it, if you'd like to read it) MUCH LOVE @ladynuwanda @hecohansen31 @michael-langdon-appreciation @sojournmichael @so-langdon @stupidocupido @sammythankyou @emmyrosee​ 

[fangirlinganditswonders]

Cherry pie (Cheryl Blossom imagine)

(Excuse me but I HAD to use this gif)

► Request:   # 6, 16 And 32 with Cheryl Blossom pls

6. You’re so annoying

16. I just want you

32. It doesn’t matter as long as I am with you

► Pair: Cheryl Blossom x reader

► Warnings: Language kids.

► Author’s notes: So,this is my first EVER imagine with two females and I have to say I was living while writing it, Cheryl is so funny to write and if you make the reader a shameless flirty it’s even better. Anyways! Hope you like it! English is not my first language so excuse any spelling or grammar mistake. 

► Permanent and multifandom taglist: @ssweet-empowerment @averyamyers @maggie-starz @coffeestainedtales

Feel free to contact me HERE or send me a message with anything you need!

You can find more of my stories on my MASTERLIST

If you want to make a request here’s the Prompt list!

Constructive criticism is always welcomed.

Gym class had finished ten minutes ago and every girl on the locker room got a quick shower in order to get into the next class in time, but not you. You always took your time because classes and grades were not something you really worried about. Most of people on high school knew you as “The Southside intruder”. Not that you lived in Southside, you didn’t moved from there to the Northside either, it’s just that everyone agreed on that you seemed to be from there. Your clothes were not elegant and fine or high-quality; black, leather and denim fabric were your best friends. You behavior also was not Northside typical, you were not a cheesy girl like most of the ones at your school. At first it did bother you to receive that nickname but then you realize it just made more obvious the difference between you and most of people on your school, people you didn’t bear, you started to accept it, even like it. You were the official bad girl and with the time you could see that it was actually funny to be so. While you were tying your shoestrings you heard a locker being closed and frowned confused. Usually you were always the last one leaving that room.

“Blossom, what a nice surprise” Her head snapped towards you and an annoyed expression quickly formed in her face. “What are you doing here?” “None of your business intruder” At the nickname you just rolled your eyes and smile shamelessly looking at her almost bare chest, just covered by her cherry bra. “Stop looking at me like that!” It was funny to get into her nerves, funny and easy. “What do you want?” She said putting her hands on her hips. “I just want you Blossom” It was her turn to roll her eyes at your mocking tone. “You’re so annoying” She snapped back. “See you around cherry pie!” Walking towards the exit you waved your hand to her who obviously didn’t answered.

~

It was a quiet afternoon at Riverdale. The dark sky was threatening the town with rain so you thought that a blanket, your couch and some television would be the perfect plan. Putting the books you were supposed to be using to do your homework away to place a bowl of popcorn on the coffee table you started a little marathon of your favorite TV show ready to enjoy some home alone time. Your parents wouldn’t be home till night due to their work and your elder brother had basketball training so no one would bother you, or that’s what you thought. After two episodes the doorbell rang but you decided to not pay attention and not leaving the couch but when it got persistent you threw the blanket away from you and walked to the door as annoyed as you could be and ready to make whoever the hell was at the door go away without hesitating.

“What the hell do you want?” Asking before opening the door left you with your mouth shout when you saw nothing but Cheryl Blossom standing on your porch. “Blossom, what do I due this pleasure to?” You asked crossing your arms on your chest and leaning against the door frame. “I need something from you” She said shrugging as if her being at your house and talking to you was the most common thing. “Usually I would be glad to do you a favor” Bringing your flirting attitude from the lockers room back you looked at her in the eyes raising your left brow a few times. “But not today cherry pie, I’m sorry” The door was about to close when she put her foot covered in the black leader of her boots in between the door and its frame to stop you from doing so. “Look here intruder I’m asking nicely. Trust me, the idea of sharing any among of time with you is unpleasant for me as well but you’re the only one who can help me without asking questions I don’t want and I don’t have time to answer.” “And what would that favor be?” “I need a ride” “A ride?” Your eyebrows raised and a mocking smile appeared on your lips. “I’m the only one who can give you a ride in this entire town?” “Yes you are, because you’re the only one who knows the place I want to go.”

~

As much as you put effort on it you couldn’t stop glancing at Cheryl on the passenger’s seat of your car every so often and chuckle at how she was staring at everything there.

“You know? You can relax, this car is not giving you any STD” She looked at you with bored eyes and scoffed. “I wouldn’t be so sure about that” “Let me tell you something here Blossom, not that I care about what people say about me but you should stop with this criticizing people without knowing them bullshit. What if someone is insecure and you start throwing your evil arrows at them? You could really plunge them.” “I told you I needed a ride, not a morality class” Seeing you had nothing to do about it you just sighed and rolled your eyes. “And what made you think that I know this area of Riverdale?” You asked looking at the road. She had asked you to give her a ride to the outskirts of town, near to the point where the South and the North side were closest. “I know your father used to work in one of the factories around here” You frowned at her words. “How do you know that cherry pie?” Drawing a sly smile on your lips you turned to her “Don’t you tell me you’ve been stalking me or something like that because you’re interested.” “You wish, Intruder”

Ten minutes later you parked in front of the address she had told you. You didn’t know the place but you didn’t care much either.

“Do you need me to go with you?” She was already opening the door when she turned towards you. Her eyes scanned you from head to toe before smiling slightly in her usual way. “It won’t be necessary, I don’t think it’ll take much time.” “Here I’ll be then”

As she walked towards the entrance and entered the building you followed her with your eyes. What were the chances for you to be alone with Cheryl Blossom on this area of Riverdale? It definitely surprised you but it was not something you were about to complain for. Cheryl had always attracted you but you never tried anything with her, you two were way too different, well, you felt very different from the girls on your school but she was the epitome of them, hell, it was her who gave you the nickname everyone knows you by. Your chances with her were none. After a while you looked at your watch while your fingers were tapping the wheel. Fifteen minutes. Inside your head the question what is Cheryl doing here? Was growing bigger with every minute passing but obviously she didn’t want to get asked about her chores there and you respected and understood that. After five more minutes you heard the door being opened and Cheryl entered the car with a grin on her face.

“Done, we can go now” “Sure” You simply answered turning on the engine and starting driving towards the center of the town. “I was starting to get worried Blossom” “Oh don’t, you’ll still have me to stalk me on the lockers room” At her answer you just chuckled. “Oh no…” You mumbled when the car started to make that weird noise. “Crap!” It only took a few seconds until a thread of smoke started to come from under the hood, then the car stopped completely. “I can’t believe this!” Without answering Cheryl when she started to make questions you left the car and lifted the hood to check everything. The motor and alternator had been giving you problems for a while and they had decided to fail again. “Are you kidding? I checked them last week!” Throwing your hands on the air you sighed exasperated. “Please don’t tell me the car’s not working” “I won’t say it if you don’t want to hear it” Being too busy on your phone, looking for the mechanic’s number, you couldn’t see Cheryl rolling her eyes at you and looking around in case some car could be spotted and she could get home in less than half an hour.

Once the call was made you leant against the hood, almost sitting there and Cheryl soon joined you.

“Sorry about this. I’m sure you didn’t want to spent God knows how much time waiting for a lazy ass mechanic in a road in the middle of nowhere.” You were massaging your temples, pissed at your car and also the mechanic because if it was failing again he hadn’t done a good work. “It doesn’t matter as long as I’m with you” When her words went through your ears you looked at her with your eyebrows raised and a small and sided smile on your face. “I mean, it’s scary out here and I wouldn’t like to be alone. That’s what I meant, don’t get your hopes up Intruder.” “Sure Blossom”

It’s not sure how exactly started but you found yourself having a small conversation with the red haired girl, and it didn’t include any type of nickname or pejorative comments or glares. You stopped in the middle of a sentence when you felt a drop colliding with your nose. You looked at Cheryl who had felt a drop on her face as well. You didn’t have time to get inside the car dry before the rain started to fall furiously. When you found yourselves on your seats, almost completely wet, with some wet locks of hair sticking on your faces you looked at each other and started to laugh out of nowhere.

“Can something else happen?” She asked when the laughter died but you kept the smiles on your faces. “Don’t call for bad luck Cheryl, it could happen” “What about Blossom?” Already looking at her direction you frowned. “What about it?” “I think it’s the first time you call me by my name” She shrugged with her right shoulder wiping the tip of her nose when a drop was about to fall. “Is there a problem with that?” You asked leaning a little bit towards her. She didn’t answered, just shook her head and you swore you could see her eyes eyeing down to catch a stare of your lips. No hesitation, your hand found the back of her head and you pulled her into a kiss. Her body froze and yours as well when you realized what you just had done. “Oh my God” You smiled biting your lower lip, your cheeks almost as red as her lipstick. “I’m so sorry Cheryl, I didn’t think what I was doing.” Her eyes were wide but no word came out of her mouth. Great you thought to yourself now I’ve screwed it up real good. “Let’s pretend this has never happened, okay?” “No” Before you could response with what you had in mind she grabbed your arm and shoved you into her, pressing your lips together again. Now it was you the one who was shocked and your body froze again. With your eyes opened you saw how she closed hers and after two seconds you mimicked her, giving into the kiss. To say that you were not surprised that her lips even tasted like cherry was a statement. You were kissing Cheryl Blossom and you could almost not believe it. It was soft but it also had a small point of roughness where you could feel how bad she wanted to feel loved and needed and you were willing to provide that to her. Your lips pulled apart when the horn of the mechanic’s tow truck sounded behind your car, startling both of you and sharing a chuckle after.

The way back was silent. The mechanic, whose name was Jay, apologized to you at least twenty times before you got into the truck. After the moment shared with Cheryl all your anger faded away so you told him not to worry. Cheryl’s place was the first one you went to. She looked at you putting her hand on handle, she didn’t need to say a work, you understood.

“Don’t worry Blossom, we’ll talk tomorrow” You winked at her and she smiled in a way that made you feel looking forward to meet her on the locker room again.

[monotonemanday]

Our Days Divided - Mystic Messenger University AU - Chapter 7 The S Team

It’s back! Sorry it hasn’t been out for awhile! I have been working on several things lately!! And also I’ve been a little sick. (My eyeballs are always in pain lololol) Tagging you ladies because I know Helena is mad at me lol and the loml likes this series and I appreciate her! @zennyshoneybunch @glitterybitchwitch

The gang was all gathered together and Kaeli was enjoying all the lighthearted chatting that was going on amongst her peers. She decided that they wouldn't have to get down to business. They could start talking serious logistics and planning next time they all would meet. There was no lull or shortage of laughter in the conversation going around the room. The Untouchables and the tuition kids were thriving and lively mixed together. Even though there was a bit too much teasing of Jumin from the scholarship kids, even he seemed to be having a pleasant time.

Seven was getting in his daily dose of driving Yoosung insane when his watch started to set off a rapid beeping noise. At the same time, a small pager type device in Samantha's back pocket began to do the same. Her head whipped in Sevens direction and the sternness in her face made Seven wince. His face scrunched and a look in his narrowed eyes saying “please please don't kill me.”

“You told him I wasn't going to training the other night, right?”

“Well here's the thing, Sam. I uh, didn't goooo.” Seven rubbed the back of his neck and shot a smile at her trying to diffuse the situation. “And not only did I not go, I didn't tell him that I wasn't going.”

“WHAT?!” Samantha turned her body in a sharp motion starting a sprint but fumbling. Using her hands to slap the floor and keep going so she didn't fall completely, Seven made his way bolting out of the doors with her. “IDIOT!! HE'S GOING TO KILL US!”

“I KNOW, I KNOW I'M SORRY! T_T” Seven and Sam were running down the halls out to the fresh open air of the campus, darting across the grounds of Cypress. Maneuvering their way in between passerby’s and vaulting over shrubbery and half walls.

“I swear if he takes away our garage privileges, I'll kill you Saeyoung Choi!

“Sam if you don't stop nagging me and pick up the pace we're already dead!”

They had made it into one of the large athletic buildings on campus and were now sprinting to the escalators that led down to the areas only accessible to certified personnel. Running down the steps of the escalator, swerving through the few people patiently riding the escalator in the proper fashion. They reached the card readers and ran their ID badges in front of them. Not patient enough for the gate to open, Sam hurdled it and Seven slipped through the small crack it had opened already. A few more hallways and the two made it to their assigned training facility. Both hunched over, hands resting on their knees and catching their breath, they began to apologize profusely to the tall and sturdy man before them.

He was built. In jogger sweatpants and a v-neck tee that hugged his biceps. He stood there in his signature purple, arms crossed and hair tied back.

“Ah, so some form of communication IS working for the two of you. I was worried since I hadn't heard from anyone.”

“Vanderwood we're so sorry, we-Hmmphh!” As seven tried to reply he was hit in the gut my a heavy medicine ball. Sam had kept quiet. She had known better. Any apology or excuse would just piss their boss off further.

“Shut up. Your running here in a panic warmed you up. Good. Tactical obstacle course...now.”

Saeyoung and Sam hustled to the locker room to change. They both immediately began to strip off their everyday clothes. There was no hesitation or embarrassment. They were both used to this. They had been partners for 2 years now. Samantha was always a little bit faster at changing. Maybe it was a girl thing. She already was ready down to her shoes. All black. A plain black baseball cap, a black sports bra, black running pants, and all black converse sneakers. Standing with her arms crossed and her right hip popped out, she watched seven with an arched brow. Biting her bottom lip.

He was sweating from the running they had just done. He was only in black sweatpants. The redhead didn't look like much in civilian clothes but underneath the loose fabric he had always hid behind, he was trim and fit. The v shape leading to his nether region was very defined and his set of abs were toned and clearly sculpted. His biceps weren't as big as Vanderwoods. He wasn't busting out of his shirts, but you could tell he was a hacker. He used the muscles in his arms a lot. From the shoulder down to his fingertips. He ran his hands through his hair, pushing his bangs back and caught wind of Samantha's gaze.

“What pervert?”

“Nothing,” Samantha said, a smirk on her lips. “It's just a real shame you have that mouth on you. Plus, You kind of smell.” She tossed him his t-shirt and made her way out of the locker room.

“Brat.” Seven mumbled under his breath.

“Saeran? Saeran? SAERAN!” Liz slapped her hands on the counter.

“What!” He stood up from where he had been leaning on the counter in the flower shop. Stretching his arms above his head and letting out a yawn.

“You were being creepy. Just staring like that.” They heard giggling coming from the far corner of the shop. “But apparently it didn't shoo the girls away.” Liz rolled her eyes and hopped up on the counter, taking a seat.

“Liz, you know you're not supposed to sit up there.”

“Yes, I just don't care. Where is your brother? He isn't answering his phone?”

“Aahh. That's actually why I was in that deadpan stare. I was thinking. What the hell are they keeping from us?”

Liz had pulled out an apple from her backpack and took a monstrous bite. She spoke through a full mouth. “What? Who? Saeyoung and Samantha? Keeping what?”

“I know they go to training for athletics but it's more than that. Like they've been gone ever since they ran out of the room earlier today. It's been hours.”

“Oh calm down rebel boy. Afraid they're having some secret affair?”

“Gross. No.” “Yeah. You're right. Ahahahahaha. That would be something else. Anyway, I just came by to see if you had heard from them. I want to go get a milkshake. And since you're still working and also wouldn't give me a piggyback ride like Saeyong would, I'm not inviting you.” Saeran rolled his eyes and Liz jumped from the counter and the bell to the flower shop chimed lightly.

“Good evening you two. It is nice to see you again.”

“Oh, Hi there, Jumin!! You are looking very handsome! Have you come to whisk me away and show me how the rich live?” Liz was lively and clearly joking but it had gone over his head.

“Why thank you, Miss Paradise. And unfortunately I don't exactly know what you mean but I am actually here to speak with Saeran.” Jumin spoke very calmly. You wouldn't even guess his inner monologue was shouting “Oh God I don't know what that means but it might be her making advances. What do I do? Jihyun is not here!”

Saeran could tell that Liz had confused the poor guy so he gave her a gentle nudge to the side. “Looking for me? What can I do for you, Jumin?”

“Ah well, the arrangement of flowers you had brought to us the other day. It was remarkable. I am holding another event soon and I would like to commission you and this small shop. I will pay any extra amount necessary to get this establishment all the things it will require for such a tall order.”

“Oh man, that's pretty decent of you, Jumin. But I should check with the owner first. She is elderly and I wouldn't want to overwhelm her.”

“Saeran, hush. It will be fine. HE'LL DO IT!” Liz jumped out in front of Saeran who irritatedly pushed her back out of the way.

“Liz, knock it off!”

“I understand. Please discuss with the owner. Also, I would like to extend an invitation to this event to all of you that are apart of this new group we have formed.”

Liz's eyes lit up with excitement and Saeran shot her a classic, calm your ass, look. Jumin spent a little more time than he had intended in the flower shop chatting with Liz and Saeran, and the girls who normally came to ogle and the boy with the white hair were now overwhelmed with the black haired eye candy they were now receiving as well.

Samantha climbed the ladder and made quick of hopping over the ledge and beginning to run when she heard someone shout her name. It was Vanderwood. If looks could kill. His glare was icy and as soon as he knew she felt it he flicked his eyes toward Saeyoung. Samantha knew what it meant. She was going to fast and not thinking of her partner. She ran back and leaned over the edge reaching down to her partner who was climbing the ladder. He took her hand and she hoisted him up over the ledge. The two began to run. Jumping, hurdling, sliding, flipping. Doing whatever they needed to in order to get from point A to point B. The simulation was a bit harder today since Vanderwood was clearly pissed at them. Saeyoung was never as fast as Samantha but if he really wanted to he was sure he could at least keep pace with her, but he always hung back just a bit so he could focus on hacking doors or locks for her. Basically clearing a path for them. Sam was always amazed at how quick he was when it came to hacking. Even though Samantha didn't like to wait for her partner, the two were still always so in tune. When Seven got tripped up and found himself caught in the arms of a bot, Samantha made quick work of turning around and throwing a small tranquilizer at the bought precisely where in between the eyes would be on an actual human. Saeyoung was always quick to shoot or disarm enemies that came in from the sides if Samantha was occupied on whatever was in front of them. They had each other's backs.

They finally finished their tactical run of the course and approached Vanderwood, laughing and high fiving. Quite pleased with themselves. Vanderwood, however, was not so amused.

“That was rookie. Too many mistakes. Sloppy. So miss training again and the consequences will be severe.”

Samantha and Saeyoung stood in silence. Normally the two would bicker with each other or say something just to be a smart ass, but they knew Vanderwood was not in the mood. Less than he usually was even.

“Now listen. You guys are getting an assignment.”

“YaHHOOO!” Seven jumped up and exclaimed. “ow!” And then immediately found Sam's fist in the side of his bicep.

“What kind of assignment, Vandy?” Samantha was met with cold cold eyes. “Vanderwood. Sorry.”

“There is going to be an event for elitists. There are rumors of it being targeted. We are flagging this one because there's a bit of an unusual circumstance. Two parties are holding events. The big corporate hot shot they should be after isn't their target. It's his son.” Vanderwood handed Seven a picture and Samantha didn't even need to look.

“You're going to watch over the event. Behind the scenes and protect your mark. Got it?”

“Got it.” The two partners responded abruptly.

“Alright, we'll have an official briefing soon. Go clean up.” Vanderwood left without a second glance and Samantha took her baseball cap off, chucking it to the side.

“Shit. Is it?” She tilted her head back in exasperation.

“Yup.” Seven pinned the picture against Sam's chest and began to make his way to the locker room. “The Trust Fund Kid.”

[lexinthelibraryofdreams]

Through Time

Last Day of the Leather&Lace Romance Week hosted by @vorchagirl and @blueteaparty.

Day Seven: Soulmates/Destined to be together

Words: 1943

You sat in the café, flipping through the pages of your book and occasionally sipping on your coffee. “Hey, Y/N!” your friend Amy exclaimed, plopping down next to you with a huge grin on her face. You closed your book and raised an eyebrow. “Spill it,” you said, as she seemed to almost burst with excitement. “I think I found her,” she said, eyes shining. She pointed towards her arm, where the name of her soulmate stood out in dark ink against her fair skin. “I mean, Evangeline isn’t the most common name and yesterday someone with that name ordered a coffee.” You smiled at her joy. Amy was working at your local Starbucks, which caused her to meet many people. The name had appeared on her skin on her eighteenth birthday, just as it was with everyone. “Well, what did you do?” you asked and she rubbed her neck. “I didn’t want to scare her off so I wrote my name and number on her cup. I hope it works,” she explained, suddenly sheepish and you grinned. “If she finds it, I’m sure she will call or text,” you encouraged her before pushing your book into your bag. She propped her elbows onto the table and leaned forward, asking, “Any updates on your side?” You shook your head, glancing at your covered up forearm and emptied your cup. “I have to get moving if I want to catch my train. We’ll keep in contact. And keep me updated, alright?” you said when you stood up and she nodded before waving goodbye.

The train ride was without any exciting events and you stared out of the window while listening to music. After a while, your eyes trailed down to your arm and you hesitantly rolled up your sleeve, running your index finger along the letters on your skin. James. With a sigh, you covered it up again and shook your head. Amy had been lucky with the name she wore but you? It couldn’t have been a more generic name. Once you arrived at your stop, you left the station and looked around to find the car already waiting for you. The driver opened the door for you and introduced himself as Happy. After you started he looked at you in the rear mirror. “So, you’re the new genius Tony has found in D.C., hm?” he asked and you nodded slightly. “He contacted me after he had read my dissertation. I was honestly surprised,” you responded and he nodded. “Well, I suppose you’re gonna make a good addition to the team. I hope you don’t mind the long way.” You shook your head. “I just hope my luggage has already arrived,” you commented and after he confirmed it, the rest of the drive went by quietly.

The Avenger’s headquarters was even more impressive than what you had expected. You exited the car and looked around in amazement. A red-haired woman approached you with a smile. “I’m Pepper Potts. Welcome, Dr Y/L/N,” she greeted you and you shook her hand. “Please, call me Y/N. The title makes it sound so formal.” She nodded with a smile and gestured you to follow her. While you were walking and she explained your position to you, you looked around the building. Finally, you reached the lab you would be working in in the future. In there, Mr Stark awaited you. He greeted you and showed you around, then He and Ms Potts accompanied you to your quarters before leaving you to unpack. With a huff, you sat down on the sofa, processing everything that had happened. You phone vibrated and with a smile you picked up the call. “Miss me already?” you joked and Amy laughed on the other side. “Just wanted to know if you arrived safely. And what your first impression is,” she answered and you leaned back. “It is huge, overwhelming and I think I’m actually freaking out a little. My room is almost as big as my freaking apartment. I have a kitchen and everything. I think I still need time to process that this is real and not just a dream.” The two of you continued talking about this and that for a while before you unpacked and finally went to bed.

---

After a couple of days you had settled in and were working on whatever Mr Stark gave you. You had decided to cover up the name on your arm with makeup so you could wear short sleeves if necessary. You were just redesigning the communicators when someone knocked on your door. “Come on in,” you said, mind focused on the plan. “Dr Y/L/N?” someone asked and you turned, faltering a moment when you laid your eyes on your visitor. You knew who he was after getting a short input on all the Avengers’ members. Finally, you nodded and gestured towards a chair. “Yes but please, drop the title. I don’t like the formality of it. Just call me Iris, like everyone else. How can I help you Mr Barnes?” He sat down and sent you a short smile. “Bucky’s enough. I was hoping you could take a look at my arm. We were hit with an EMP and it has shown some problems since then.” You nodded and rolled over on your chair, scanning his arm promptly. As you leaned forward to study the scans on your screen, he spoke up again. “You don’t have a tattoo?” he asked and you looked at him surprised. “Excuse me?” The man cleared his throat and pointed at you forearm. “I’m sorry, it’s probably personal but I just noticed that you don’t have one.” You simply shook your head and turned towards the screen, typing something in. “I have one but I prefer to cover it due to it being quite common. Also, you don’t have one yourself,” you commented and he looked down at his left arm that was lying on the table. They always appeared on the left arm so after he lost it, the tattoo had vanished as well.

“Yeah but I still remember the name. Never found her though and she’s either dead already or close to it.” He sounded sad somehow and you turned to him. “I’m sorry, I didn’t want to open up old wounds,” you apologised but he only shrugged slightly. “It’s fine. I just sometimes tend to imagine what could have been.” You nodded, understanding and pointed at the screen. “Seems like the blast fried some circuits. An easy repair but it might take some time. I suppose it isn’t made to be detachable, at least not after what the scans showed me, so you might have to put up with me for some time,” you explained and he sent you a short smile. “A sacrifice I’m willing to make. When do we start?” he asked and you stood up. “How about tomorrow? I wanted to finish up tweaking the communicators for today if that’s okay with you.” He nodded and tanked you before leaving you to your work.

In the next few days you frequently met up with him in your lab, repairing the insides of the arm piece by piece. You took your time to avoid mistakes and occasionally improved some details and also used it as an opportunity to get to know him better. You talked about a lot of things and after finishing your work, you had gotten quite attached to each other. He still visited you frequently, occasionally bringing you a coffee and a snack or you resided to your rooms to watch movies so he could catch up. One day, you were sitting on your sofa, a bowl of chips between you while watching Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. After the film finished, you turned off the TV and shifted so you looked at him. “Alright, I’ve been thinking about this for some time now, and tell me if I’m getting to forward but where does ‘Bucky’ come from?” you asked, genuinely curious. He laughed and put his arm up on the backrest. “My middle name, Buchanan,” he answered and you raised an eyebrow. “Is your first name better or worse?” you questioned with amusement in your voice. He shrugged and said, “Depends on your point of view. James is not as adventurous as Buchanan so it could come off as kind of boring.” That comment made you hesitate and you watched him intently while your right hand subconsciously covered the spot on your left arm. “What’s wrong?” he asked, noticing your sudden change of mood. You thought about telling him for a moment but due to the common nature of the name, you could be entirely wrong. “I just realized something and I’m not sure if I’m right or wrong. I hope it isn’t too personal but what name did you have one your arm before...?” you asked, gesturing towards his metal arm and he furrowed his brow slightly at the drastic topic change. You actually expected him not to tell you but then he sighed and looked at you. “Y/N,” he said and it felt as if you couldn’t breathe for a moment. “Why’re you asking all of a sudden?”

Instead of an answer, you rolled up your sleeve and showed him the name on your skin. His eyes widened for a second, then he looked at you questioningly. “Well, it is quite common, like you said when we first met,” he said hesitantly and you could understand it. After everything he had been through, he wouldn’t want any false hopes. You inhaled deeply then looked him directly in the eye. “Iris is a nickname that came from a silly misunderstanding and I kind of adopted it. And since people around here started calling me by it as well, I just introduced myself like that to you,” you explained and fumbled with your sleeve. “My real name is Y/N,” you finally added and he inhaled sharply. “Are you telling me that your name was on my arm decades before you were born?” He sounded doubtful and you shrugged. “I don’t know but I think it is more likely than me being some kind of reincarnation of someone, right? And there have been crazier things around here so is it that unlikely?” you said and he seemed to relax more. “I suppose you’re right. Still, it’s kind of a shock. I never expected it to happen anymore.” You smiled slightly and responded, “Yeah, well, I expected ‘James’ to be some kind of lame IT-guy. Kind of glad you’re something entirely different,” you joked and he nudged your shoulder. “Good thing you like what I have to offer. How about dinner tonight then?” he suggested and you smiled. “Sounds good to me but I didn’t expect you to be a gentleman.” He laughed and took your hand. “I’m from the forties, doll. I may be able to swear like a sailor but they still taught children manners back in the day,” he responded and your smile grew wider.

“Well, even better. But what concerns me is that I have to explain to my mother that my soulmate is as old as her dad because he literally was born almost a century ago,” you teased. He only grinned and you looked at him, before leaning forward to press a short kiss on his lips. He looked at you in surprise and you sent him a wink. “Well, I guess she’ll get over it. And it’s kind of exciting that destiny put us together through time,” you added with a smile. “Now, where are we going to have dinner?”

[bfreelancing]

Just give me a chance! (And a real person)

It's currently 9:13am on a Tuesday, and today has already been a wild ride.

I started out hopeful, excited even. I heard back from a company. They told me they were interested, and they asked me to answer some more questions about myself on their website.

I looked at the questions, and immediately wondered just how much this position was worth to me.

Why?

Because this company wants your soul, your first born, and the last book you read.

Just kidding.

Not really.

This company wants to know - in detail - about your hobbies, likes, dislikes, and how they all apply to your job. AND, they want you to submit a video about all of it (and yes, there's a requirement on the video length!).

That's a lot of work for a position that might not pan out.

On the other hand, how many other people reaching out to them are going to take the time to do all that?

It might be worth it.

It might not.

Guess I will have to take a chance.

Sort of. I found an old video I made a few years ago when I was applying for jobs right out of college, and it answers EVERY question this company wants answered. Am I going to recycle it? Absolutely.

First rule of marketing: don't reinvent the wheel.

I'm working on getting the video uploaded to share the link with the company as I type this. So that's promising.

But, I made a mistake. I immediately went to some folks close to me to let them know about the opportunity because I was excited about it. They were less than thrilled. For some reason, they immediately questioned me. They acted upset. They asked if I really thought I had time to take on more clients. These were friends I was talking to, not clients.

Yes. Yes I do have the time.

Two clients are retiring. The people taking over their companies want to do their own marketing instead of using a freelancer. I voiced this. That didn't seem to matter.

I immediately felt deflated.

I found another listing for a freelancer doing something not related to marketing, but it is related to a hobby of mine. It sounds fun. Does it pay a lot? No. Does it have a huge time commitment associated with it? No. Why not have some fun every once in a while?

I told those same folks about that opportunity. At first they were excited - they share the same hobby. But then they heard the pay and acted less than pleased.

I have to admit, that really was not the response I was hoping for. It hurt, I won't lie, but I won't be deterred in finding new clients!

I set out and found another position listing. It sounded nice. Just a general marketing position. After applying, I received an automated message that the next step was a phone interview. I was back to being excited!

Until...

I discovered the phone interview was actually with a pre-recorded person asking generic questions. It became obvious that the phone interview didn't make any sense. One question asked how I felt about the commute. The position is remote. Commute? There isn't one. I admit, I got a little sassy.

It felt frustrating not to talk to a real person. Because the moment the automated phone interview ended, I received yet another automated email stating that I would NOT be further considered for the position.

How on earth did they know that fast? There's no way they even listened to my fake phone interview. I did answer the big questions with real, solid answers. But that wasn't enough, apparently.

I've run into that so much. I took an actual exam for another company. It was sort of like an IQ test, and it was all math questions for a DESIGN marketing position. My application was immediately rejected because I didn't score high enough.

Excuse me for not being great at math. None of the questions were applicable to design. At all. How is that really going to help them find a designer? A creative position demands creative questions.

It's extremely frustrating to not be able to actually speak to a real, live person. Things would definitely go differently if I could just get in front of someone. All these tests and automated processes are more hurting the job hunt rather than helping.

I can't help but wonder how many other people feel the same.

I just want a chance.

Which brings me to my next topic: how do you feel about giving people a chance at jobs if they have some experience, but not all the experience listed for the position?

I've always been that person that just wished ONE company would give me a try when I apply to a position like that. I'm a fast learner. I'm self sufficient. If I don't know something, I will research it. If I still can't find it, I'll ask. I'm not afraid to ask questions. I state up front in my application that I do NOT know the software/process they listed, but I want to learn it.

Yet no one wants to give you a chance.

I now know why.

I recently helped a client hire two new people. These two did not have the experience they needed (although their résumés said they did!). Their interviews were terrible. I voiced this to my client, but my client said they wanted to give these folks a chance.

I realized I was being too harsh. This, after all, was me, wasn't it? I have some experience. Just not ALL the experience.

Sure. Let's give them a chance.

They are two very nice people. But right now it feels like a huge mistake that we brought them on board. They learn slowly, and they are slowing down the company. Things that were going quickly are now taking upwards of two weeks as we try to train them and get them to learn their positions. It's been about three months.

Maybe I am being too harsh. At three months I feel like their should be a basic grasp of how to use basic software. I'm talking BASIC. If I voiced how basic, I would give away who I'm talking about, so I won't. But just know it's the very first thing you have to do to use software, and they don't understand how to do it. For any software. I asked them to sit down with IT to get help, and they just ignore me. No clue why. The IT team is great and super kind. They just won't do it, and it's causing problems.

I'm also noticing a HUGE disparity between what they said they have done/could do on their résumés versus what they can actually do. There's some fibbing going on, for sure.

We, as humans, tend to embellish. Especially for a job. That's fine. But don't then tell everyone you actually don't know what you're doing. Research it. Figure it out. Because it's hurting those of us in search of other positions.

I get it from a company standpoint now. So many places have hired people in the past to give them a chance, but then it just costs the company more time and money than they have to give.

I wish it was different. I get it from both sides, I really do. You want a job. You get desperate. You want ANY job. You do what you need to get any job. As a company you want the right hire. You want someone that checks all the boxes. It's a fine line we're all walking.

Don't worry, I'm still hopeful about gaining new clients. And I'm still hoping that the new hires I mentioned will start taking some notes and improving. It just gets frustrating at times, and I think we can all relate to that.

So stay honest. Let companies know up front what you can and can't do. If you don't get that job, then it wasn't meant to be. Keep going. You'll get there, I promise.

-B

[jordm]

Heartland 11x05 - Measuring Up review

So I tried to keep this short. I really did. Despite everything below.

LOU

Oh Lou, oh Lou... one can wonder what Peter thinks of Lou wanting to move her and the girls to NYC when theoretically, the summer is his time to see the girls too, but whatever. Lou is just being what she got mad at Peter for doing, and I think I’m somewhat used to it because she’s been doing it for awhile; and it’s kind of a better excuse than why Ty is going so I guess its okay. I guess. Overall, not real impressed with Lou for not realizing that Georgie is going to grow up right before her eyes and she’s going to miss all of it. She’s doing what she criticized Peter for and putting money/business before family- completely; without even trying to show a little compromise to get a little family-work balance. Hey, Katie needs her family too!

Lou is surprised to hear that Lou moved in... and kind of berates Jack for not telling her. Oh boy, what will she think when she hears about Mitch? Which I think is hilarious that Tim told her, out of all people, who has her back and made him park his trailer up the hill. Thanks Tim.

Lou does one thing right off the bat; hiring someone to take care of the Dude Ranch and Maggie’s while she’s gone, because she’s going to be gone more... okay maybe just Maggie’s because the Dude Ranch is kind of a mess and no one has been there (why is she surprised LOL). She’s finally doing something about what work she left behind to let Tim and everyone else pick up the slack, something even Casey notices. So good on ya Lou. 

I loved Jack being the audience and bringing up and asking if she’s going to be gone even more,and speaking for all of us that Georgie does miss her even if she doesn’t show it, because she’s strong. She needs her mother, even if she doesn’t show it (same can be said forAmy and Ty). He even brought up that because she’s going to be gone so much, why should she care about Mitch? It’s not always about Lou. Jack needed someone since Tim was picking up other work that Lou left behind.

When we finally runs into Mitch for the first time, we learn she called, texted and facebooked him. Guys. She facebooked him. I found that really funny for some reason I can’t quite place. This leads to Mitch finding out the real reason Lou “ran off” with Peter, and it’s probably there he realized he maybe was a bit harsh in his decision. Maybe just a little. Still, I don’t disagree with his decision to leave and let Lou figure out what she wants; I just disagree with how he did it. This seems to be the theme of my dislikes this season. HOW.

The ending montage with Mitch was so well done. I just think it was too rushed. First of all, they went from basically not talking to kissing and making up, literally in a few days span? Seems rushed. I hoped that Lou and Mitch would part as friends first, since he must know Lou is off again, and that leaves them in the same place as last year. I was also hoping Mitch wouldn’t jump right back into a relationship without really thinking of it. This end montage was the opposite of subtle, and the complete opposite of how they’re treating the Wyatt-Georgie relationship.

Tim and Amy springing wisdom onto Lou

“You cant do 3 months of parenting in 3 days” - Amy

“I think all your daughter’s need is their mother” - Tim

Onto Jen, I don’t blame her for being so intolerant of Jen being late; even Jen understood but I was glad when she gave her a second chance when she saw she could be a good fit. I think it was a win-win for Lou and Jen, who both go away with this knowing that Maggie’s is in good hands and that Jen has something to keep her from being a... smother. 

GEORGIE

When Lou comes back, Georgie correctly brings up the fact that Lou returns like nothing has changed and that it’s been hard for everyone to pick up the slack since Lou’s been gone. She also misses her long absent mother, but Lou has a remedy. Spend the Summer in NYC! Uh, as it was pointed out, wasn’t this a two week thing at one point? Why can’t she manage it from Hudson? The fact that it’s going well isn’t good for Lou’s prospects of being home with Georgie. 

It also made me wonder, doesn’t PETER have any input? Usually when there’s a divorce, the other parent has to approve the move, especially if it’s major or cuts into him spending time with his kids over the Summer? Does he even see his kids? Wouldn’t they have a seeing-kids schedule type thing that goes along with the divorce? So many questions. 

I love how she confides in Wyatt about her frustrations about Lou. They sure do seem to be spending a lot of time together and i’m soooo here for it. Friends, dating, whatever - I support this relationship. I like them together. I like the fact that the writers are taking their time with their relationship and keeping it simple, normal... so that we can actually get to know them- together and separate. Hey, we already know more about them than Caleb/Cass.. soooo.... 

In the end, Georgie decides to stay because she wants to continue to train with Flame and is going to miss home and family.. and especially Remi. Ugh. I can’t- and can’t help but laugh knowing that both of them knew what Wyatt was implying. But hey, I don’t blame her; I’d miss my dog too. 

Luckily, Lou understands their decision. This Maggie venture is Lou’s once in a lifetime, such is Flame to Georgie. Maybe she can always come up for a weekend visit once every week instead? And take Wyatt with her since he never got the trip? Surely there has to be another way then spending the whole Summer there. Anyways, i’m always glad to see mother and daughter bonding, since its so rare now.

Also. Probably my favourite conversation of the episode. I ship them. Way more than Adam and Georgie by far. How about that smile Wyatt gave when he heard Georgie was staying? Ugh. 

Georgie: “I decided to stay. I want to keep training Flame” 

Wyatt: “Is that all?” 

Georgie: “Yeah i’ll miss home and everyone here” 

Wyatt: “Anyone in particular?”

Georgie: “Like Remi, my dog” 

CALEB

Caleb made a miniature mistake and bought (mini) broncs for the rodeo school because he takes his job seriously. He may have gotten the broncs for 1/3 of the price... but there’s a reason why. They’re miniature, and Katie loves them!

“No room for cute at my rodeo school” - Tim

Caleb tries to remedy the situation and gets Tim to agree to one little mini clinic to use the mini broncs- Hey its another way to take in income!, but since Tim has learnt from the last time, he tells Caleb he won’t have anything to do with it. Unluckily for Caleb, he doesn’t do kids either, so he asks Amy to help; via bribes.

The first class, it was clear Caleb was in over his head. He unwisely relents and lets them ride the mini broncs before practising. Me at the time thinks that wasn’t such a good idea, which is proven when a kid actually breaks their arm. Ouch, he’s lucky no one sued him.

Luckily, the second time, it was Amy to the rescue! She wisely takes a step back on a more ‘tame’ horse and it ends up going much better; even so when they get back on the broncs everyone stays on a little longer and no one breaks a leg (and they wisely lift up the kids from the horses before they fall!)

I can just imagine the stage direction for the first class. “Uh, just got act crazy and play with stuff and we’ll film it.” Easiest direction ever. 

Also. More rodeo school stories please, I love the Caleb-Tim interaction!

KATIE

“Can i go on one of your horses Caleb?” It’s actually adorable how she asked that and then got on the bronc and found it so much fun, even when she fell off. She really did take after Tim/Amy.  

I also thought that her reaction to meeting her hero, Mitch was adorable and then Tim introducing Brick to Katie, and then Katie showing Brick the ropes... and literally getting tied in them was just precious. It’s nice to see Brick coming out of his shell.

Can I also mention how cute Katie was when she greeted Georgie and said she brought her something back from NYC? I need more sister time! Katie was basically just really really cute this whole episode. 

LISA & JACK

Jack couldn’t sleep because Lisa got a new memory foam mattress (just LOL); he also just wants to brush his teeth but Lisa needs the washroom to put on a face mask. He is also washing the blenders that Lisa used for her smoothies because she didn’t wash it right away; and she put all his fly fishing in a box. 

I find it comical that Jack couldn’t sleep because of the new mattress, and also kind of weird that Jack isn’t used to waiting for the washroom since he used to live with basically all girls; I mean when Lou, Amy, Katie, Marion and Ty used to live there, how did he survive with one washroom? I can’t help but think that that his reaction to that incident was compounded with the others.

And my response to “Maybe we rushed into this?”Ummm you’ve been married for two years, you definitely did NOT rush into it. But, it will take time to get used to each other’s habits, as Lou said, its a whole different ball game, and I have no doubt that they will work through it. Together. I mean at one point didn’t they both have spouses and live together with someone else? 

AMY

This episode wasn’t as Amy heavy as others, mostly dealing with that one scene where she struggled to take care of Lyndy, wash her hair and manage her phone calls. And I’m glad; other characters came to the forefront and I think they really did need to dedicate more time to Lou since she’s going to off again soon. 

So, all I’ll say is, at least Amy and Ty can Skype in the same timezone now, call each other (yay for Canada wide calling) and he doesn’t seem to be in the middle of a desert, so thats a plus I guess. I could tell Amy might have started to regret telling Ty to go, but if she did, she never let Ty know. Perhaps because it’s she who brought it up, so she really does have no right to say “You shouldn’t have gone”, but she can always go with “I miss you, can’t wait till you’re home. It’s hard without you”. 

Oh well, not many complaints here. I guess it was nice to see Lou and Amy bonding over being “single” mothers? I guess? Even though they’re extremely different circumstances and one really isn’t single. And as always, it’s proven that Amy is the one who should be leading these little britches/kids rodeo schools, not Caleb/Tim. 

HONOURABLE MENTION

I may not have liked the last scene’s content as much as I have because I still don’t think Mitch should go running back to Lou... since we know she’s gonna be off to NYC but 10/10 for the lighting and cinematography. Just beautiful. 

Also, a mention to Wyatt. Because you may have been on way less episodes than Adam, but I already like you and Georgie together waaay better than Adam and Georgie. So yeah. 

SONGS IN THIS EPISODE

When I Get There - Cheryl Rider

Timbuku- Cree Rider

Number Two - Misisipi Mike

This Town - Niall Horan

NEXT EPISODE

Uh cloning horses? What? Since when is this a thing? In any case, I’m glad for another Lisa storyline

[my-one-love-is-music]

In For a Penny

Summary: Tim is stressed from his job and ends up kicking a hole through the wall of his apartment, getting a very large eyeful of his neighbor. In order to make up for it, Tim agrees to be Jason's fake boyfriend at his wedding. Everything should be simple, right? Wrong. The two of them might end up liking each other a little more than they thought they would at the end of the week.

For JayTimWeek Day 5: Island Vacation

This is also my last prompt fill for JayTimWeek so show me some love and enjoy this ^.^

This fic is 35k words. If you’d like to read it broken up into shorter chapters, you can find that version on AO3!

Tim pushed into his apartment roughly, letting the door fall shut behind him, not caring if it alerted the whole apartment complex to the fact that he was home from work. The only thing that he could even let himself think about or care about for that matter, was the huge project deadline that he had coming up in a little over a week. Usually, he was able to be completely calm about his deadlines and he knew that he had a great team behind his back that was there to support him and rarely made mistakes. Even if mistakes happened, the rest of the team was able to get on them right away and fix it before anything could go wrong.

He knew that the knowledge of the people behind him and his own skills and track record in the work place should have been enough to calm his fears and keep him from worrying and fretting over the deadline and the final outcome of the project, but this one was just so much more significant. This was the project that he’d been working towards for years. This was the project that would either make or break his career at W.E. and set him up for his future. This was the project that he cared about.

Tim groaned and walked down the hallway towards his bedroom. He didn’t really have any idea of what he was going to do, but moving and expending as much nervous energy as possible seemed like a good idea. He’d left work in high spirits. Everything was on track and they were set to finish with more than enough time before the deadline if something bad was to happen, but that didn’t stop the anxious thoughts from taking over his brain on his ride home. The possibility of failure was all that he could focus on now. This project was going to end up ruining him and there was nothing that he could do about it.

He looked over the white, perfect wall of his bedroom with something akin to disgust. It wasn’t fair that such a wall could exist and mock him when his whole future was on the line. He growled and pulled his foot back before released a harsh kick at the plaster. The initial contact was so satisfying that it brought a smirk to his lips…until a light crunching sounded and his foot kept moving through the wall.

He heard a shout come from the room next door and Tim flailed his arms, trying to keep his balance since his foot was refusing to come out of where it was lodged in the wall.

“Sorry! I’m so sorry! I really didn’t mean to do that,” Tim said, bracing himself against the wall and gingerly working his foot free.

“So you just unintentionally kicked the wall? I find that a little hard to believe,” the man responded.

“No, no, no, the kick was entirely intentional. I wasn’t prepared for my foot to actually go through the wall. I didn’t think that I was kicking that hard.” Tim heard a snort and kneeled down to peer through the whole that he’d just made. He squawked when he got a very, very full view of his very naked neighbor. “You’re naked!” he exclaimed, falling backwards onto his carpet.

The man snorted. “No, I’m Jason. And we’re going to have to figure out a way to get this hole fixed.”

Tim felt his face heat up, even more mortified about this whole situation. “I’ll make a call to the landlord. You can just… You can… Please put on some clothes.”

“If you hadn’t kicked a hole in my wall, I would still be fine to walk around naked and wouldn’t need them.”

Jason didn’t sound angry about that fact, but it didn’t do anything to help Tim’s mortification about the whole situation. Instead, he reached for his pocket, pulling out his phone and quickly dialing the number of their landlord. After the first time his shower went haywire, he’d put the number in his phone. It was much better than trying to dig around in his junk drawer to find where he put the little slip of paper with the number on it.

“Jeff speaking,” he answered after the third ring.

“Hi, Jeff. This is Tim from apartment 5D. There’s been a bit of an…incident,” he said, wincing when he looked over the hole in the wall again.

“What type of incident are we talking about? Because the way you said that has got me nervous.”

“Well…”

“Just tell him about the damn hole!” Jason shouted from his room.

“There’s a bit of a hole…in my wall…and in the wall of apartment 5B.”

“That’s sounds like it’s more than just a ‘bit of a hole,’” Jeff said, obviously amused by Tim’s discomfort. “I can be up in about fifteen minutes to talk to you and the resident of apartment 5B.”

“Great, thanks,” Tim finished lamely and hung up. He sighed and buried his head in his hands. This day just didn’t cease to keep getting better for him.

“Look, it’s not that bad. You really don’t need to worry about it.” Tim started at the voice and whipped his head around to look at Jason who was peeking through the hole in their shared wall. He could thankfully see that he was now wearing a shirt which made Tim feel slightly better about the situation. He didn’t need to get distracted by how obviously muscular he was.

He shook his head. “I’m just stressed, that’s all.”

Jason nodded. “I’m guessing that this,” he said, gesturing to the wall, “was your way of working out your frustrations?”

“A bit. I didn’t realize that I was kicking that hard.”

“Well, I would hope that kicking holes in walls wasn’t going to become a hobby of yours. I’d hate to have to call up Jeff every time a new one showed up. Plus, I’d have to start wearing clothes around my apartment a lot more often.”

Tim felt his face heat up and he looked away. “I suppose Jeff is going to want to talk to you. It might be better if you came over so you don’t have to talk through the hole in the wall.”

“Aw, but don’t you think it adds so much to the conversation?” he joked.

Tim just quirked an eyebrow.

“Alright, I’ll be right over,” Jason said, moving out of view.

Tim sighed and pushed himself to his feet. As much as he’d like to hide away from his landlord and his neighbor, that wasn’t exactly an option. He just hoped that this was going to be taken care of as quickly as possible and that he wouldn’t have to deal with this much longer. He could go back to his life of not knowing how attractive his neighbor was because that would only lead to bad things. And his train of thought needed to stop there.

He headed towards his front door as a knock sounded and pulled it open quickly. Jeff was standing there with a much taller man behind him. Tim was pleased that Jason was now wearing clothes, but it didn’t help that the jeans he was wearing fit him like a glove and his shirt was pulled tight across his chest, leaving little to the imagination. Not that Tim hadn’t already seen everything that was hidden underneath. And he really needed to stop reminding himself of that fact.

“Come on in,” he said, stepping to the side and letting them both through. Jeff walked purposefully towards his bedroom to assess the level of damage that had been caused and Jason hung back to look over Tim.

“You’ve got a pretty strong kick for such a short dude,” he commented.

Tim’s eye twitched and he let the door shut gently. “Keep that up and I’ll let you become acquainted with just how strong my kick is.”

Jason chuckled and followed Tim towards his room. Jeff was already kneeling on the floor examining the wall.

“Seriously, how did you manage this?” he asked, disbelief clear in his voice. “I’m going to need about a week to get all of the supplies that I need and get this taken care of. It shouldn’t be a huge hassle, I’ll just need some time to get the plaster and get this covered and painted on both sides of the wall.”

“I’m really sorry about this,” Tim said, shuffling awkwardly.

Jeff shook his head and stood up. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll get this taken care of. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll go and order the supplies. I’ll keep to daytime working hours and should be in and out of the apartment while the two of you are at work so I won’t be in your way. Let me know if you need anything else though. And try not kick any more holes into the walls. I’d like for this to only be a one-time occurrence.”

Tim watched him walk out and ran a hand through his hair, disturbing the careful styling job that he took every morning to ensure that he was presentable for work. He turned to Jason who was still next to him. “I’m sorry, again. If there’s anything that I can do to make up for this just let me know.”

Jason waved off his comment. “It’s really no big deal. You don’t need to worry about it.”

Tim hesitantly nodded, still feeling like he needed to something to make up for disturbing his life for the next week and seeing more of him than he probably should have.

“I’ll just let myself out and see you later.”

“Okay.” Tim watched him retrace his steps through his apartment and waited until he heard the door shut before he sighed. This had definitely proven to be one of his more interesting days of late. He slowly unbuttoned his jacket and let it slip from his shoulders, leaving him in his light blue, button up shirt that he’d worn to work that day.

He sat down on the edge of his bed and distantly heard the sound of a door being opened and closed, before footsteps sounded lightly on the floor. He looked over to the hole and realized that was going to take some getting used to on both of their parts for the next week. He bent over and began to unlace his dress shoes, happy that he could finally pull them off.

Shooting one last look at the wall, he pushed himself off the bed and gathered a change of clothes to take into the bathroom. Maybe a shower would prove to be just what he needed to rectify the absolutely hectic day that he’d had.

~~

Tim arranged his various pillows behind his back and leaned back against them in bed, his computer next to him with Netflix pulled up and the latest microwave dinner that he wanted to give a try. He was about to start the latest episode of the show he was watching but thought better of it, reaching for his headphones instead. He wasn’t planning on having his audio turned up to annoyingly high levels, but he didn’t know what Jason was doing next door and didn’t want to end up bothering him.

He plugged them in and was just about to stick them in his ears when he heard a low ringing coming from next door that had him pausing.

“Hey, Dickie, what’s up? Did you need something?” Jason’s voice came through clearly.

Tim hesitated, he knew that he wouldn’t want people listening in on his private conversations, but his neighbor had become a new and interesting part of his life since that afternoon. He let his headphones fall to the side and picked up the plastic tray that held his food instead.

“No, I haven’t forgotten about your wedding. I’m flying out in a few days.”

“Yeah, I know that you want everyone there the entire week and I’ll be there.”

“Seriously, with all of the questions you’re asking me, I can’t imagine why Wally would want to marry you.”

“It comes with the territory of being your younger brother. Stop, complaining.”

“Boyfriend? Wait, Dick-“

“No, I’m not done talk-“

“DICK! DON’T HANG UP-DAMN IT!!!”

Tim nearly jumped at how loud his voice got. So his neighbor had a boyfriend and his brother was getting married. And to top it all off, it sounded like a destination wedding. That sounded nice, getting a week of vacation for a relative’s wedding. He could really use a vacation. As soon as his deadline passed, that is.

“What the fuck am I going to do now? And since when does Dick think that I have a boyfriend?” Jason grumbled not solely to himself. “What am I going to do about this-wait a minute…that’s it!”

Tim heard him run across his apartment before the door was pulled open and slammed shut behind him, he was wondering just where the hell is was off to in such a hurry when a frantic knocking came at his door. Carefully, he set his dinner to the side and pushed himself out of bed. He approached his apartment door with something akin to dread. He had a very bad feeling about this whole situation.

When he pulled his door open he came face to face with a grinning Jason. He did not like where this was going at all. “Jason?” he asked.

“So you know how you said that you’d be willing to do anything to make up for the whole kicking straight through the wall thing today?”

“Yes,” he said slowly, immediately regretting his response when Jason’s grin widened.

“Here’s the thing…my brother is getting married next weekend and for some reason my whole family thinks that I have a boyfriend and won’t listen to me when I try to explain that I don’t in fact have one. So, if you want to make up for kicking a hole through our shared wall, how about you do me a favor and pretend to be my boyfriend?”

“Wait-what?” Tim asked, weakly.

“It’s a destination wedding so you basically get a whole week of vacation time in Florida which means sun and beaches.”

Tim’s mind raced. First of all, there was no way that he could pretend to be someone’s boyfriend for a whole week, but he had his project deadline the week after. He didn’t have time to take off and go prance around Florida.

“Jason, I-I can’t!”

He stopped and pouted. “Why not?”

“For one thing there’s no way that I can pretend to be your boyfriend for a whole week!”

Jason waved off his comment. “Please, you’ve seen me naked. Pretending to be my boyfriend should be a piece of cake.”

Tim made an indignant noise and immediately felt himself flush. “Second, I have a project that’s due for my work a few days after when I’m assuming the wedding is. I can’t just up and leave for a week when I need to make sure that everything runs smoothly and remains on track for the deadline! This is an important project for me and I can’t risk messing it up!!”

“You have a team of people working with you on this right?”

Tim blinked at him. “Uh, yeah, but how did you-“

“Then it shouldn’t be a problem. You can still stay in contact with them. The hotel that we’re staying at is going to have wi-fi so you can skype and email and share documents to your heart’s content. If you trust them enough to get their work done and there’s nothing you absolutely have to be there in person for, then I don’t see what the problem is.”

“The problem is that I have a deadline and this project could make or break my career so I need everything to work out perfectly!” Tim exclaimed, frustrated that Jason was just not understanding.

“Look,” Jason said, putting a hand on his hip in the sassiest way that Tim had ever seen, “based on what you’ve been telling me, it sounds like your project is completely under control and that it’s going to get done on time whether you’re going into the office every day and doing your work there, or keeping in contact with your team and reaping the benefits of a little vacation. You can take some time to de-stress now and then give the people under you some much needed vacation time when you get back. If a true emergency happens and you need to be in the office it would only take you a couple of hours to get back by plane.

“Basically, you have the resources to be my fake boyfriend for a week and get this super important project done and set you on the perfect career path for the rest of your life. This is the one and only time that my brother is getting married and for some reason, my entire family and future family-in-law is expecting me to bring my boyfriend that they’ve created in their minds somewhere along the way. Not only is Dick going to be disappointed on not being able to meet you, but I’m going to have to suffer at their hands for a whole week. Now can you please, please be my fake boyfriend?”

Tim floundered for something to say. He honestly had no idea how to argue Jason’s points because they were all valid. “All expenses paid?” he questioned, hesitantly.

Jason’s grin returned in full force. “Everything is covered. You don’t have to spend a penny and I’ll even cover the flight if you need to get back to Gotham in the event of an emergency. So..we have a deal?”

After a long moment, Tim finally nodded and stepped to the side of his doorway. “You should come in, I’m sure that we have a lot to talk about before we leave. I need a crash course on you and the travel details. I’ve got a lot of things to get in order before we have to leave.”

Jason strode past him and headed straight for the kitchen. “You might want to put some coffee on. We’ve got a lot to discuss.”

Tim sighed wearily and shut his door. This was going to be a long two weeks, projects and deadlines notwithstanding.

~~

The days leading up to their flight to Florida passed by in a blur, Tim tried to take in as much information about Jason as possible and wracked his brain for anything that Jason might need to know about him that would signal the two of them were in a serious relationship. He was glad that Jason had agreed to let him fly back to Gotham before Jason was going to leave Florida so that he had enough time to calm himself down before the deadline of his project.

His team had been blessedly understanding and a few of them had even told him that he deserved a break since he was working so hard. He argued that they were working just as hard as he was, but they simply brushed it off since he had so much more than they did riding on the outcome of their project. Tim didn’t entirely agree or disagree with that.

“Alright, we’re here,” Jason said, pulling Tim from his thoughts as the cab that they were sharing pulled up to the airport’s drop-off lane. “Ready to do this?” he asked.

Tim took a shaky breath. “As ready as I’ll ever be when it comes to lying to a bunch of people and pretending that the two of us are dating.”

Jason smiled and pulled Tim from the cab. “At least we’re not getting married in order to reap all of the benefits of the wedding.”

“Yeah, I’m really glad that this isn’t The Proposal. That would mean that I have to fall in love with you by the end of it.”

Jason held up a hand to his heart in mock hurt as he pulled their suitcases from the trunk. “I’m insulted that you don’t want to marry me. I thought that I would easily be the highest quality of fake boyfriends.”

Tim rolled his eyes and grabbed the handle of his suitcase and pulled it behind him as he headed towards the doors. “Whatever. You’re going to have to step up your game if you want me to fake marry you.”

“Wait up, Tim!” Jason said, hurrying up behind him. He caught up quickly, long strides eating up the distance between them and grabbed onto Tim’s hand, linking their fingers together.

Tim froze. “What do you think you’re doing?” he asked.

“We’re in a committed relationship. We should be comfortable enough that you don’t stiffen every time I move close to you or hold your hand. You might think you can hide those tells, but believe me when I say that my brother Dick will easily see through the act.”

Tim forced himself to relax. “Right. Okay. Let’s go then.”

Jason smiled as Tim tugged on his hand and continued walking towards their airline desk to get their tickets. Jason jumped into a conversation with the woman working the desk right away as they approached, giving her their names and showing his ID. She seemed surprised by his attitude but eagerly returned his conversation and took their bags without complaint, taking care of everything for them. Tim was grateful that he didn’t have to do anything and was ready to be on their plane so he could have the chance to not think anymore.

Taking his hand in his own once again and tangling their fingers together, Jason pulled Tim towards security and the line that was quickly forming there. They got in quickly and shuffled forward every few minutes as the line shifted.

“Here’s your boarding pass,” Jason said, holding out a slip of paper to him.

“Thanks,” Tim said taking it from his fingers and pulling out his wallet to grab his license. Flying domestically was so much easier than having to internationally and Tim was grateful for it. It would mean a lot less hassle if he had to up and leave during the next week.

“You go ahead,” Jason said when they made it to the front of the line.

Tim raised an eyebrow at him, but moved forward regardless, more than happy to get through security as fast as possible. It was almost as if Jason was worried that he was suddenly going to bail on him in the middle of the airport, which was ridiculous since he’d already agreed to go and they went through all the pain of learning as much about each other in the past week as they could.

He filled one of the available trays with his personal belongings and set his bag on the conveyor before stepping over to the metal detector. Tim thought back over the many sessions that they’d already had together. More often than not, Jason had practically pulled him into his apartment as soon as he stepped foot on their floor after work. He’d nearly been out of his mind from his project and was ready to collapse from exhaustion.

But Jason had been more than patient as they had worked through everything. He cooked almost every night, except for the time they ordered out for pizza since they were both tired and it was near the end of the week anyway. Some of it had even been fun. When Tim wasn’t thinking or reminded about seeing Jason naked, that is. It was a nice change from his usual sleep-deprived state.

Tim pulled his backpack from the conveyor belt and threw his shoes to the ground before stuffing his feet into them. He moved out of the way and turned to find Jason grabbing his own backpack and sliding his shoes back on as well.

“Glad to see that you haven’t run off and left me,” he joked, walking over to Tim.

Tim just rolled his eyes. “Come on, I need to find a Starbucks in this place and grab a coffee before our flight.”

“Didn’t you already have three cups this morning?” Jason asked, brow furrowed.

Tim started walking. “What’s your point?”

“My point,” Jason said pulling up beside him and throwing an arm over his shoulders, “is that drinking that much coffee is not normal.”

Tim shrugged, somewhat trying to push Jason’s arm from his shoulders, but it remained despite his efforts. He didn’t know how anyone could have such a heavy arm. “I like coffee, okay?”

“If there’s one thing that I want to make sure I achieve over this next week, it’s going to be getting you to kick your caffeine addiction. No more coffee from the hotel. I’m going to get it out of our room and not let any of the staff serve it to you.”

“Jason, you can’t!” Tim said, horrified. “And your main goal is to convince your family that we’re dating, leave my love of coffee out of this!”

Jason shook his head solemnly. “No can do, babe. I’m going to get you off coffee even if it kills me.”

“You’ll have to pry the drink from my cold, dead hands, you monster,” Tim said, elbowing him in the ribs and rushing over to the Starbucks counter.

“No, Tim, you can’t! The week hasn’t even begun and you’re already giving in to temptation,” he said hurrying after him.

“I’ll take a grande, cold-pressed coffee with a splash of milk, please,” Tim said to the woman working behind the counter.

“Coming right up,” she said, obviously amused as Jason came up behind him.

“No, Tim!” Jason whined.

Tim rolled his eyes. “And give him a green tea. It’s the only way that I’m going to be allowed to pay for this otherwise.”

“Will do. That’ll be $7.68, please.”

Tim handed over a ten-dollar bill and watched as she went about getting his change.

“So how long have you two been together?” she asked as she handed over his receipt and change before moving over to prepare their drinks.

Tim hummed as he put the money away. “Sometimes it feels like forever.”

She laughed. “It’s always nice to see such happy couples come through here. Where are you headed?”

Tim eagerly took the first cup that she handed over and was disappointed when it was just Jason’s tea. He took it from him with a pout and a look of betrayal, only earning another eye roll.

“We’re off to Florida for his brother’s wedding. Spending the week in a hotel and getting some nice vacation time. According to him, anyway,” he said, jabbing his thumb over his shoulder.

“Oh, that sounds lovely,” she said, passing his larger cup to him. “A vacation is always nice and it should be great weather. Enjoy your trip!” she said with a smile and a wave.

“Yeah, thanks,” Tim said, returning her smile and lifting his cup towards her. He turned and walked past Jason who was still watching him. “Stop pouting and let’s go.”

Jason huffed, but followed after Tim and drank his tea.

When they reached their gate, it was pretty empty which meant prime seats next to the charging station as they waited. Tim wasted no time in pulling out his laptop and getting it booted up while Jason looked on with disgust.

“I can’t believe you’re already falling into work mode,” he said, pulling a book from his bag instead. “First the coffee and now the laptop.”

“Think of it this way,” he said, tapping out several commands on his keyboard, “the more work that I get done now, the less I’ll have to do during the week other than the occasional check-in emails and progress reports. That means a less stressed me and the more energy I can put forth in fooling all of your relatives that the two of us are in a committed relationship. Now be a good boyfriend and shut up and read your book.”

Jason huffed. “So bossy. Jeez, if this is how you are when you’re awake, I can’t imagine how dominating you must be in bed.”

Tim spluttered and nearly dropped his computer. “Jason! What the hell?”

Jason sipped his tea, uninterestedly and flipped to the next page of his book. “I didn’t say anything. I’m just here being quiet, drinking the tea you gave me, and reading my book. Shouldn’t you be working? You did say that you wanted to get as much work done now before the week as possible. I’m sure that Dick is going to work pretty hard to make sure that you’re involved in whatever he has planned. He’s been waiting a long time to meet you after all, especially since I’ve been so tight-lipped on the details of our relationship.”

Tim sent him a glare that he steadfastly ignored and grumbled as he returned to his typing.

Jason allowed himself a little smile. This week was probably going to end up being more fun than he originally thought.

~~

Tim wanted to be embarrassed. He really did. But…having someone to hold hands with and being able to lean into Jason’s side when he had an arm around his shoulders… And after being so touch-starved for so long and single for almost as long on top of that, it was refreshing to have some other form of human contact. Jason didn’t seem to mind indulging him too much, almost mindlessly reaching out for him whenever they’d gotten up to board their plane or when they were just sitting together. If he didn’t have his arm around his shoulders and Tim was shifting to get something or was trying to find a more comfortable position, then Jason was reaching for his hand instead.

Like how he’d done as soon as they were able to stand next to each other after stepping off of the plane.

“You said that we’re headed to the hotel right away?” Tim asked as they made their way through the airport.

“Yeah. There should be a car waiting for us after we get our bags,” Jason said, pulling out his phone to make sure that he hadn’t missed any calls from his family.

“Wow, your family sure isn’t sparing any expense. Even sending a car to come get you when we could just take a cab.”

Jason sighed, letting go of Tim’s hand to send a quick text. “That’s my dad for you. He honestly has no problem spending frivolously since he has so much money. That’s why it was so simple to have a week booked at the hotel before the wedding.”

“Geez, how rich is he?”

“Rich enough. He runs his own company so if that tells you anything...” Tim heard the slight irritation in his voice and knew better than to ask further questions. The topic seemed touchy and now that he thought about it, it hadn’t come in up in the past week. They’d surprisingly stayed away from matters of their respective families, focusing more on their personal details and interests.

He hummed but didn’t say anything further. They made their way down to luggage claim and found a spot amidst the crowd of people who’d also gotten off their flight and were waiting for their bags. It was a few moments before the horn sounded and the carousel began to turn, bringing up the first few bags.

Tim watched them pass by without any interest and spotted the people near the end of the line pull them off. He always wondered how lucky you had to be to get your bags first and beat the crowds leaving the airport.

“Oh, I think I see yours,” Jason said, pointing.

Tim looked and saw that it was his bag that was coming towards him. “You’re right,” he said, letting go of Jason’s hand and stepping forward to go retrieve it.

Jason gently grabbed his shoulder and stopped him. “No, I can get it.” He pulled the bag off quickly and set it down next to Tim.

“I can get my own bags you know,” Tim said, eyebrow raised.

“What kind of boyfriend would I be if I let you get your own bags?” he asked, looking over the ones that had just been unloaded. “Oh, there’s mine.”

Before Jason could step forward, Tim was there, pulling his bag from the conveyor and giving Jason a smirk.

“Hey,” he pouted.

“Now what kind of boyfriend would I be if I let you get your own bags?” Tim said, mockingly.

Jason pulled up the handle of his suitcase and took Tim’s free hand in his other one. “Keep that up and this week is going to have some interesting developments indeed.”

Tim chuckled. “Yup. Things are going to get really interesting when I’m going to spend most of the week in the hotel room on my computer. That’ll make things super competitive.”

“One thing that you’re going to learn about me very quickly, is that I love challenges and I love to be competitive. And you staying in the hotel room all week is only going to serve as extra motivation.”

Tim swallowed thickly, mouth suddenly dry at all of the implications that Jason’s statement held.

“We should be just down here,” Jason said, leading them down the row of cars waiting outside the doors. “Alfred?”

“Ah, Master Jason. It’s nice to see you again,” he greeted from where he was standing next to an open car door.

“Did they really send you with a car to come and pick us up?” Jason asked, disbelief evident in his tone.

Alfred held up a hand, but a smile tugged at his lips. “I merely accompanied the driver. We wouldn’t want you two wandering around here all afternoon to try and find your car, now would we?”

“I suppose not,” Jason assented reluctantly.

“And this is?” he asked, turning to Tim.

Tim dropped Jason’s hand from his and held it out to Alfred. “Tim Drake. I’m Jason’s…boyfriend.”

Alfred smiled and shook Tim’s hand firmly. “Wonderful to finally meet you. Everyone is eager to get to know you back at the hotel. They’ve been looking forward to your arrival.”

“Oh,” Tim said, voice strained, “wonderful.”

“Let’s get going, shall we?” Alfred said, gesturing to the car.

“You go ahead and climb in the backseat, I’ll take care of these,” Jason said, pulling the two suitcases around to the trunk and lifting them in easily.

Tim slid into the backseat as Alfred took the front next to the driver. Jason joined him soon enough and as soon as his door was shut, the car was pulling away and headed back to the hotel. Tim stared out the window as they all sat in silence and watched as the scenery crept by. He was glad that everything was green, but it was also deceptive, belying the actual heat and temperature. The main streets and houses fell away to the beach and ocean and several hotels that had made their homes there. It shouldn’t have surprised Tim that they pulled up in front of the most extravagant looking one.

“You’re free to check-in at the front desk. I’ll inform your father that you’ve arrived,” Alfred said, climbing from the car ahead of them.

“Great,” Jason muttered before climbing from the car himself.

Tim took a steadying breath before he joined Jason at the back of the car. The heat and humidity hit him strongly after the cool air conditioning the car had provided. He was really thankful that he had packed so lightly. He stared intently at Jason’s back as they walked through the sliding doors and into the lobby. He reminded himself that everything was going to be alright and that he was prepared for this, no matter how daunting the situation seemed in that moment.

“Ah, Jason.”

Jason stopped and Tim forced his legs to stop moving just short of running into him.

“Bruce,” he said.

“I’m glad to see that you made it in alright.”

“Yeah we had a pretty easy flight. Which reminds me…this is my boyfriend, Tim Drake,” he said stepping to the side and the person who Tim came face to face with nearly had his heart stopping in his chest.

The situation really couldn’t get any worse. Not only was he pretending to be Jason’s boyfriend for a whole week, but he was going to by lying to the CEO of W.E. The CEO of the company that he worked for. His boss.

“Mr. Wayne,” Tim said, the sound getting caught somewhere in his throat and coming out what he was sure was a strangled and garbled mess.

“Ah, Mr. Drake, nice to meet you officially. As my son’s boyfriend that is. How is your project coming? I do believe that the deadline is next week, is it not?”

“Yes-yes, that’s right. Everything’s on track and there should be nothing keeping it from being completed on time. I’m going to remain in contact with my team throughout the week to keep track of their progress. I would’ve preferred to be there in person, but with the circumstances…” he trailed off.

“Yes, well, I’m intrigued to see the final outcome in any case,” he said, sounding not at all impressed. “How did you two meet exactly?”

“We live next to each other. We’re in the same apartment complex and ran into each other several times in the hallway,” Jason lied easily.

“Right, well I do expect to sit down with you sometime this week, Jason. It’s been far too long since we’ve had a chance to talk.”

“Sure.”

Bruce looked them over one more time before turning on his heel and returning to the depths of the hotel. Tim turned to Jason with a look of absolute horror on his face.

“Why didn’t you tell me that Bruce Wayne was your father?” he asked.

“I didn’t want you to freak out. I know he’s a big figure and hoped that just knowing about his wealth would be enough,” he answered, sheepishly.

Tim whined in the back of his throat. “He’s my boss! I can’t believe I’m going to be lying to my boss for the whole week.” He gripped at his hair, feeling his panic rise.

Jason’s eyes widened. “Oh, shit.”

~~

“Okay, Tim, just calm down,” Jason said, gently pulling Tim’s hands from his hair and rubbing his thumbs into his wrists. “Let’s go check-in and then we can head up to the room and talk about this, okay?”

Tim made some sort of noise that he’d heard, but didn’t make a move. Jason wrapped an arm around his shoulders and led him over to the counter.

“Yes I’d like to check into the room reserved for Jason Todd, please,” he said, hurriedly as Tim turned his face into Jason’s chest. He squeezed his eyes shut and tried to keep himself from hyperventilating. The arm Jason had around his shoulders was tight and kept him close.

The attendant typed the information in quickly and nodded. “I’ll just need to see a photo ID, please.”

Jason bit back a curse and pulled out his wallet, fumbling for his license with one hand and sliding it over the counter. She picked it up and examined it closely, much to Jason’s annoyance and impatience. She handed it back to him and reached for a set of cards and an envelope scribbling something on the inside.

“You’re in room 516. Directions on connecting to the wi-fi are on the inside of this packet. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact the front desk and we’ll be more than happy to help.”

“Thanks,” Jason said, taking the cards from her and turning Tim towards the elevator.

“Jason!”

“Christ,” Jason muttered and shut his eyes just before getting rammed in the side by his brother and accidentally jostling Tim next to him.

“Why didn’t you tell me that you’d landed?”

Jason narrowed his eyes. “Because, Dick, I was more concerned with getting to the hotel and getting settled in. Besides, it’s not like we’re going to be incredibly far apart over the course of the next week. We’re staying in the same hotel and I’d wager a guess to say that we’re even on the same floor.”

Dick pouted up at him. “Still. If I hadn’t been coming through the lobby, I would’ve missed you and probably wouldn’t have seen you until tomorrow at least.”

Jason looked past him. “Well I’m here. You’ve seen me. Now where’s your future husband? Shouldn’t he be keeping you under control?”

Dick brightened and stepped back. “Wally’s down at the pool. I was just headed there to meet him. You should come along! Get some sun and enjoy the water!”

Jason chanced a glance at Tim who was still pressed against his side and had his head down. Jason suspected he was still very much freaking out over everything. “Maybe later. We’re going to get settled in first.” He pulled Tim with him and started walking past Dick.

“Wait! You haven’t introduced me yet!” Dick called after them.

“His name is Tim and you can be formally introduced later. Besides, I’m sure you don’t want to keep Wally waiting too long.”

Jason pressed the elevator call button and was more than relieved when a set of doors opened right away and they were able to step inside. He pressed the button for their floor before pressing the door close button frantically. After they shut, he tapped his foot impatiently against the floor as they slowly climbed further up into the hotel.

Jason slipped through the doors just as they opened and steered Tim towards their room, shoving the keycard into the slot and nearly shoving him inside when he got the door open. He abandoned the suitcases near the door and walked Tim over to the bed, sitting him on the edge of it before kneeling down in front of him and searching his face worriedly.

“You okay, Tim? I know that was a bit of a shock and if you’re uncomfortable with this we can call it quits,” he asked, gently.

“Sorry, sorry. I was just not expecting that and I’m a little freaked out by how close our lives have come to each other and we didn’t even know it. It’s just a lot to take in,” he answered, ducking his head.

“No, don’t apologize. It is a lot and you have every right to freak out about it, but I don’t want to pressure you into doing this when you really don’t have to. This is supposed to be enjoyable for the most part and it’s not going to go well if you can’t handle it. I’m supposed to help get rid of some of your stress, not add to it.”

“I’ll be okay. I think I’m even on the mend right now. I just needed a chance to let everything sink in. If that’s the last of the surprises and I’m not ambushed with any more information, then there shouldn’t be anything to worry about.”

“You’re sure?” Jason asked, looking unconvinced.

“Yeah. I’m sure.” He took a deep breath. “Right. We should get unpacked. And I want to check out this hotel room.”

“Okay,” Jason said, getting to his feet and stepping back out of Tim’s space.

Tim stood and walked over to the balcony door. He was glad that they got one. It would offer a nice view. And maybe they could even order breakfast and he could drink his coffee out there while enjoying a nice breeze. He pushed the door open and stepped out, breathing in the fresh, salty air and listening to the seagulls call to each other. The few that were out in the afternoon hours anyway.

He stepped over to the railing and looked down, spotting the pool below and the beach where a few people were out laying on towels or walking on the sand. He was certain that there was even a game of beach volleyball going on too.

“How’s the view?” Jason asked, stepping up beside him.

“Amazing! This’ll be one of the perks of this week.”

“That bed looks pretty comfortable, too. And we’ll both have plenty of space so you’re free to sprawl out,” Jason explained.

“And as long as you stay on your side, there should be no problems,” Tim shot back.

“Fine, fine. Cuddling in bed is out of the question, I get it. Unless someone walks in on us, then I can’t be held accountable for my actions.”

Tim pushed himself off the railing. “If someone walks into our hotel room then you’re going to be in big trouble and missing something that you probably consider pretty vital.”

“Ouch. Geez,” Jason said wincing.

Tim walked over to the bed to where his backpack had been left when Jason sat him down. He sat on the edge and pulled it to him, unzipping the larger compartment to pull out his laptop.

“Uh-uh, no way. We just got here. There’s no reason for you to already be getting back to work,” Jason said, stalking back into the room and wagging his finger at Tim.

“I need to do work, Jason,” he said, ignoring him and reaching for the power button.

“No you don’t. You haven’t gotten any panicked phone calls from your team and you’re just going to end up staring at your computer screen, bored. And if you do decide to send them check-in emails, they’re only going to get annoyed and it’s going to stop them from getting work done because they’ll need to constantly give you updates.” Jason pulled the laptop from Tim’s hands and shut it, much to Tim’s displeasure. “Now, if you’re really still fine with this whole situation and can manage to make it through the week, let’s actually get out and go do something.”

Tim pouted up at him. “Like what?”

“We’re in Florida, staying at a beachfront hotel. For one, there are lots of things in the hotel that we could do. I’m pretty sure they have an entire shopping center and a spa so if you’re looking for a rub down, you know where to find it. There’s a gym and exercise studio. Oh, and let’s not forget the incredible layout of the pool with several bars and places to get food and the white, sandy beach that’s just begging to be walked on as crystal blue water laps at your feet.”

“You want to go for a walk on the beach? With me?” Tim asked, slowly.

“Yes,” Jason grit out. “Do you have a problem with that? Or are you just going to continue to be thickheaded and insufferable?”

Tim shrugged. “I think it’s all part of my charm. I’m trying to see how long it takes me to drive you up the wall out of frustration.”

Jason rolled his eyes. “Whatever. Go get changed into more appropriate beach clothes. We’re going out for a walk. Besides, it’s not good to sit around after spending a couple hours sitting on a plane. Gotta get the blood flowing again.”

Tim huffed, but conceded. It was a fair point in any case. He reached for his suitcase and grabbed a pair of beach shorts and a white polo, because he was that guy and he really didn’t have the opportunity to go to the beach that often in Gotham. He slipped into the bathroom and locked the door behind him only to find the room about as big and spacious as the bed they’d be sleeping in all week.

“Fucking…” he muttered. He steadfastly ignored the large shower that definitely had enough room for two people and then some. He didn’t need to start thinking about that. He changed quickly, enjoying being able to switch out his jeans for shorts. He looked over himself in the mirror and ran a hand through his hair. He looked tired, noticeable bags under his eyes. Jason was probably going to force a week of sleep on him so they would be gone by the time he got back to Gotham.

Tim gathered up his clothes and walked back into the bedroom, freezing when he caught sight of what Jason had changed into.

“Hey you hungry? We could get some food while we’re at it since we sort of missed lunch,” he said before looking up from his phone. “You okay?”

“Fine,” Tim said, forcing his legs to move and walk him over to where his suitcase was still sitting on the floor. He didn’t know why seeing Jason in shorts and a tank top after seeing him completely naked was having such an effect on him, but he couldn’t deny how good the ensemble looked. Not to mention the sunglasses that were perched on the top of his head, holding back all but a lock of the white streak in his hair.

“You’re really wearing a polo?” he asked. Tim could hear the smirk in his voice.

“Gotham doesn’t really offer many opportunities to go to the beach. Sorry for being woefully unprepared. I do have a suit for the wedding though so I should be covered for that.”

Jason hummed. “We can remedy this situation by taking you shopping later.”

Tim rolled his eyes and stood, turning to face Jason. “Ready to go?”

“Yup,” he said, popping the p. He shoved his phone and one of the keys into his pocket and walked past Tim to the door, pulling it open and standing to the side to let Tim through first.

“You are taking this way too seriously.”

“Nah, I’m just a gentleman. And willing to have fun. Unlike a certain someone.”

“I’m willing to have fun.”

“Reaaaallly now? Prove it.” Jason challenged as they stepped into the elevator.

“I’m going for a walk on the beach with you, aren’t I?”

“But are you really going to have fun and enjoy doing it? That’s the question,” Jason shot back.

“You’ll just have to wait and find out.”

“You’ll just have to wait and find out,” Jason said, laughing. “Come on, if we take too long, we’re going to miss out on some prime sunlight hours and I want to make sure that I get back to Gotham with a tan. I need to make all the tanning bed and spray tan jerks at the gym jealous.” He grabbed Tim’s hand and pulled him across the floor of the hotel and towards the doors leading to the back of the hotel.

Tim winced as the heat and humidity hit him and he was regretting not having put on sunscreen. But once the initial shock of the temperature change passed, he found the warmth oddly pleasant. It was one that they didn’t often get in Gotham since the city was farther north and had perpetual smog and grayness hanging over it year-round.

“Jason! You made it outside! I was getting worried that you were going to spend all afternoon up in your room.”

They looked over to find Dick calling to them from where he was propped up on his elbows on a lawn chair. There was a redhead on the chair next to him who’d shifted around when Dick spoke up to give them a look.

“We’ve only been up there for a little bit,” Jason argued, walking over to him. “And it was just to get our things unpacked and check out where we were staying. Wally,” he greeted the other man.

“Hey, Jason. Long time, no see,” he said, smiling. “And this must be the infamous boyfriend who Dick’s been talking about nonstop.”

“Tim Drake. Nice to meet you,” Tim said, introducing himself.

“Drake?” he asked, cocking his head.  “You wouldn’t be the same Tim Drake who’s friends with Bart Allen, would you?”

Tim’s eyed widened and blinked dumbly. “Uh…yeah. We’ve known each other for years. How do you…”

“Bart’s my cousin. I didn’t realize that his friend was dating my soon to be brother-in-law. He should be around here somewhere if you wanted to see him and catch up,” he said, looking around the pool.

“Yeah. I’m sure that I’ll run into him later,” Tim said, slowly.

“Well, we’re headed down to the beach,” Jason said, tugging on Tim’s arm and pulling him in the direction of the stairs.

“Have fun!” Dick called after them.

“This weekend just keeps getting stranger and stranger,” Tim muttered as they hit the sand. He used his hold on Jason’s hand to balance as he reached down to pull off his shoes, enjoying the feeling of the sand between his toes.

“Yeah. It’s a little strange to think that we haven’t met before you decided to kick a hole through my wall,” Jason mused.

They walked towards the water and along the edge of it in silence, letting the crash of the waves and the sounds of the seagulls fill the silence between them. Up ahead of them was a group playing a game of beach volleyball, their competitive and happy shouts mixing in with the other sounds to create a peaceful symphony.

Tim slowly edged closer to the water, shivering when the first crash of the waves washed over his feet and swallowed his ankles. The swell returned to sea and he dutifully waited for it to return, enjoying the flow of water now that it felt less bitterly cold. He tentatively dragged his toes through the sand, watching as the waves washed away the marks he made and brought it back to its original, uniform state.

“No fair, Jack!” Tim looked up at the sound of voices and saw that the volleyball the group was playing with had gotten hit over to them. “Can you guys to us a favor and toss it back?”

Jason let go of Tim’s hand and picked up the ball. Tim almost went back to tracing his toes in the wet sand, but watched as Jason tossed the ball up and sent an incredible serve back to the group.

“Hey, thanks!”

Jason turned to find Tim watching him. “What?” he asked, stuffing his hands into his pockets.

“Nothing. You play beach volleyball?” he asked, turning back to tracing in the sand.

“A little bit. Recreationally more than anything else. Whenever we would go on vacation to the beach, Dick would always insist on playing. Sometimes he would even enter us into tournaments and things. Have you ever played?”

“Nah. Don’t get down to the beach much so I’ve never given it a try,” he said, giving up on the sand and moving further down the beach.

“You hungry?” Jason asked, following after him. “We could head back and grab something to eat.”

“That sounds more like you’re hungry and you’re trying to use me being hungry as an excuse to go get food.”

“Okay so I’m hungry. Would you like to head back to the hotel and get something to eat? Or possibly a drink? That could help with getting you to relax and I’ve gotta say that I’m interested to see what you’re like drunk since I’ve not managed that yet in all the time that we’ve been dating.”

“And you aren’t going to see me drunk. I don’t much care for the feeling of having that much alcohol in my system. I wouldn’t mind a cocktail, but is it really acceptable to get one in the middle of the afternoon?”

Jason opened his arms wide. “We’re on the beach in Florida at a far too expensive hotel. Trust me when I say that no one’s going to be paying much attention to what you’re drinking since they’re already drowning themselves in margaritas.”

Tim shrugged. “Yeah, okay.” They turned and started heading back the way they came. “Just don’t let me drink too many. I’d really rather avoid any risk of your dad seeing me when I’m inebriated. He probably thinks I’m slacking off enough as it is.”

“You’re the least of his worries and your project’s going to be fine and turned in by the deadline anyway so he can’t really get onto you for attending his son’s wedding and getting your work done.”

“I guess,” Tim said, not entirely convinced.

“Come on,” Jason said, grabbing his hand and pulling him up the stairs. “We’ll have a great time eating and drinking this afternoon and then we can skip the dinner tonight so you don’t have to see Bruce. We can put off the second meeting as long as possible. If you want we can even order room service for dinner and watch whatever movie they’ve got streaming on the T.V. And if there’s nothing good, then we can pay to watch a good movie and charge it to Bruce’s card.”

Tim laughed. “You’re insane.”

“Only when it comes to you,” he said, grinning. “Come on, let’s go.” Jason took off running across the pool deck and Tim had trouble keeping up because he was laughing so hard. And if he chose to ignore the eyes that were trained on him from Dick and Wally, then that was neither here nor there.

~~

Tim blinked his eyes open slowly, staring at the curtains that had been pulled in front of the window to keep the sunlight out. A few rays still managed to sneak through where the curtains didn’t quite meet and it took his sluggish brain to remember where he was and what he was doing. Fake dating. The wedding. Florida.

He reached his arms over his head and did a full body stretch, arching his back and pulling at the sheets slightly. He reached over for his phone to check the time and bolted upright when he saw that it was already past 10am.

“What’s wrong?” Jason groaned from next to him, voice gravelly with the last dregs of sleep and words sluggish.

“What’s wrong is that it’s already after 10am. I can’t believe I slept so late. I should’ve set an alarm.” He made to throw the blankets aside and get up, but a hand on his arm stopped him.

“You’re on vacation. You can afford to sleep in a little. And if you check your email on your phone before jumping out of bed, I’m sure that you’re not going to find a frantic email from your team saying that they’re in a desperate situation and need you to fly back immediately.”

Tim opened his mouth to retort, but scowled instead because pulling out his computer was exactly what he was going to do. He let himself fall back onto the mattress instead and held his phone above him to check his inbox which was shockingly empty. He let it fall to the side and huffed out a breath.

“See?” Jason said, propping himself up on his elbow. “Nothing to worry about. Now if you’re hungry I can get us some breakfast ordered and we can figure out what to do today.”

“Fine.”

Jason pushed himself out of bed and walked over to the phone that they had in their room, but just as he picked up the receiver, there was a knock on their door. Leaving the phone in its cradle, he walked over to the door and pulled it open.

“Jason!”

“Dick? What are you doing at our room?” he asked, leaning against the door frame.

“Well since someone didn’t come down to dinner last night, I wanted to make sure that I at least got to spend some time with you. So I think that you and Tim should come down to the pool today and hang out with me and Wally. I think Bart’s going to be there for a while, too. And maybe later we can head down to the sand and play some beach volleyball,” he explained enthusiastically.

Jason stepped back from the door and looked at Tim, eyebrow raised in question. He shrugged. “Sure, why not. We’re just going to have breakfast and then we’ll be down.”

“Great! Don’t take too long or the crowds will take all the good deck chairs,” he called even as he was already walking down the hallway to the elevator.

“Well, looks like that’s decided for us,” Jason said, letting the door fall shut and walking back to the phone. He picked it up and dialed quickly. “Yes I’d like to order room service. Your full breakfast, please. Yes. Room 516. Yes that’s right. Thank you.”

“Does coffee come with this breakfast?” Tim asked, shifting himself back towards the headboard and arranged the pillows behind him.

“I really hope not. If it does, I’m pouring it out because I will get you off coffee for this week if it’s the last thing that I do,” Jason said, pulling out the office chair and sitting down only to prop his feet up on the edge of the bed.

Tim pouted. “Come onnnn. You brought me all the way here to lie to your family. The least you could do is let me have coffee.”

“And I brought you here because you felt bad about kicking a hole through my wall which makes us even.”

Tim crossed his arms and stared at Jason who was giving him a stern look. Tim narrowed his eyes and Jason quirked an eyebrow at him, but the two kept themselves from saying anything further. Moments later, a knock sounded at the door with a call that it was room service, forcing Jason to break their staring contest to bring the food in.

“That was surprisingly fast,” Tim said as Jason pushed a cart into the room.

“Things get done pretty quickly when the people calling for them are the guests of a billionaire who’s renting out practically half of the place for his son’s wedding.”

“Right. Forgot about that little detail.”

Jason pulled the lid off the tray, letting the comforting smells of food waft out from underneath it and fill the room. They were met with an assortment of pastries and fruit and a pitcher of water. Tim visibly deflated at the lack of coffee.

“Don’t look so disappointed.”

Tim looked up at him through his eyelashes. “How can I not be disappointed?”

Jason just rolled his eyes and held out a croissant to Tim. Hopefully the food would help him shut up about the damn coffee that he was so obsessed with.

Once they’d finished their food and left the tray in the hallway outside their door for housekeeping to collect, Tim and Jason changed into their swim trunks and headed down to the pool. Jason managed to remember to intertwine their fingers just before they stepped through the hotel doors and hit the pool deck.

It was already pretty crowded for the early hour and the sun was up, heating the air and the pavement around them. Tim was grateful that he chose to slip on his flip-flops to keep himself from hurting his feet from the hot concrete. They spotted Dick and Wally easily, Wally’s red hair sticking out from the rest of the crowd and headed for where they were seated. Jason had just opened his mouth to say something and Tim raised his hand in greeting when a body slammed into his side.

“Tim!”

All the air was squeezed out of his lungs. “Hi Bart,” he croaked.

Bart let him go and held him at arm’s length to look over him. “Wally told me that you were here, but I can’t believe it! Why didn’t you tell me that you were dating Jason?! Or that you were coming to the wedding for that matter?!”

“Well, the coming to the wedding bit was a little last minute. I didn’t know that I was coming until a week ago. And as to why I didn’t tell you…well, I didn’t know that you knew of Jason. And I didn’t know that your cousin was getting married either.”

Bart pouted, but it didn’t stay very long because he couldn’t help but grin at having one of his best friends there. “I’ll let it go this time. I’m just happy to see you. It feels like it’s been ages since we’ve been able to hang out.”

“It’s only been a month, hasn’t it?” Tim asked, trying to mentally count back to when their last movie night was.

“I don’t know, but have you been down to the beach yet? You should come with me!”

“Wai-“ Tim opened his mouth to protest, but Bart was already pulling him towards the stairs and away from Jason. Jason just watched them go, obviously amused by their friendship, before taking a seat in one of the two empty chairs that had been saved for him and Tim.

“Not going to go after your boyfriend?” Dick asked.

“Nah,” he said, laying back with his arms behind his head. “It’ll be good for Tim to have time alone with his friend. He’s been stressed out enough as it is and I’m sure he could use the comfort of another familiar face.”

“Yeah, but at this rate you might not get him back,” Wally broke in.

“Bart can try to keep him away.”

“Bart’s pretty fast. He made varsity track and cross country his freshman year of college,” Wally said, doubtful of how sure Jason was.

“So he’s fast…but is Tim? I don’t think Bart could get very far if he was carrying him either.”

“That’s…actually a pretty fair point. I guess you’ve got nothing to worry about then,” he said, laying back down.

Dick sat up suddenly. “We should go play beach volleyball.”

“Dick, I only just got out here, let me relax for a minute before I have to get all sweaty and covered in sand that you’ll inevitably kick up. And who are the teams going to be anyway? There’s only three of us.”

“What do you mean there’s only three of us? Of course it’s going to be me and Wally against you and Tim.”

“I don’t even know if Tim knows how to play beach volleyball.”

“Does it matter? It’s not like we did at first either. And I’m sure that you can bring him up to speed pretty quickly. He seems like a smart enough guy. I’m going to go track down a ball and net,” Dick said, before jumping up and running into the hotel.

Jason groaned and pulled off his sunglass to rub a hand over his eyes.

“It’ll take him a while to get everything set up so we have at least thirty minutes before we have to get up and move. And you could probably stall a little more after that if you have to actually track down Tim,” Wally spoke up, not bothered by his fiancé’s antics.

“Huh. You’re right. If I’d planned for this sooner, I probably could’ve bribed the hotel staff to play keep away with everything we need for a few hours at least.”

“I like the way you think.”

When Dick came to pull Jason and Wally from their sunbathing, they were met with the sight of the volleyball net already put up and Tim waiting for them with the volleyball in his hands.

“Just warning you, but I’ve never played beach volleyball before,” he said as Jason approached.

“I honestly wasn’t expecting you to have. But it’s just like regular volleyball, except on the beach and with only two people instead of a whole team.”

“Wow, so completely different then?” Tim said with a grin…that took Jason a little by surprise because Tim had a really nice smile that he hadn’t noticed before and he looked so naturally relaxed. More so than he had so far that week.

“We’ll let you guys serve first because you’re going to need it,” Dick called, snapping Jason from his focus on Tim.

“Oh yeah, Dickie? Just for that, I won’t give you a handicap point like I have in every other game we’ve played.” He turned back to Tim. “Do you want to serve or…?”

He shook his head and held the ball out to Jason. “I think it might be best if you do it to start us off with. I was never very good at serving whenever we played volleyball in school and I’d rather not be the reason that they get the first point.”

Jason took the ball in his hands. “That sounded a bit competitive. Are you hiding a competitive side from me?” he asked, spinning the ball in his hands.

“I guess you’ll just have to find out. Just know that there’s a reason that I went into business. A reason that wasn’t entirely due to the money that I would make and the fact that I would probably have a stable job for the rest of my life.”

Jason chuckled and moved several feet back in order to give him enough distance for a jump-serve. He spun the ball in his hand once more before tossing it up and running forward, bringing the palm of his hand forward to launch the ball over the net. Dick received it easily and sent it towards Wally for a spike, but Jason dived and rebounded it towards Tim who sent his own spike over the net, gaining height easily despite his shorter stature.

Wally was caught off guard from the hit and accidentally pushed the ball backwards, but Dick bumped it back over the net easily. Tim placed himself underneath it perfectly to act as setter. Jason saw his chance and raced forward, spiking Tim’s set. Hard. Dick tried to dive and reach for where it was headed, but it was too slow and Jason and Tim got the first point.

“Looks like the first point goes to us,” Jason said, grinning and pulling Tim to his side in a hug.

“And it’ll be the last,” Dick said, pushing himself up and out of the sand.

“We’ll see about that,” Tim shot back, grinning just as wide.

“Alright, let’s do another one of those, you take the back this time,” Jason said quietly.

“Got it.”

They took up their positions and watched as Dick lobbed his serve back. It wasn’t a coordinated jump serve like Jason’s was, but it wasn’t lacking any power despite being less showy. Jason got in the ball’s path quickly and spiked it back, unfortunately, straight to Wally. He received easily and bumped it as Dick rushed forward. Instead of spiking it like Tim was expecting he set the ball, giving Wally an opening to rush forward and take the spike.

Tim fell to his knees, keeping the ball from hitting the sand on their side, giving it back to Jason who set it for him. He faked a spike as Wally and Dick rushed to his side and tossed it back in Jason’s direction. He grinned as the ball approached him and spiked it to the sand easily, even as Wally made a desperate attempt to save it, but still fell too short.

“I cannot believe that the two of you have already scored two points,” Dick said, disbelief clear.

“Are you regretting not getting that handicap point now?” Jason teased as he gave Tim a high-five.

“This next one’s ours,” he growled, tossing the ball to Wally.

Wally took his place at the back of their area. Tim tensed as he tossed the ball up, waiting for the moment when his hand would make contact and send it to their side of the net. What he wasn’t expecting was how powerful the serve would be and the fact that it would come down just at the edge of their line. His hand barely made it underneath in time to keep it in play. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to get it back to Jason and the ball inevitably came down on their side.

Jason pulled Tim up from where he was lying on the sand and he brushed the grains from his skin. They were starting to attract a crowd now even though they’d just started playing.

“Let’s just focus on keeping and widening our lead,” Jason whispered. “Wally has always had an intense serve and strange pin-point accuracy. I never understood where he got it from, but I think we can manage to handle it.”

Tim nodded and Jason finally noticed the fire in his eyes. The need for the challenge and the desire to win. It brought a smirk to his face. As inexperienced as Tim claimed to be with beach volleyball, he thought they actually had a chance of winning this.

“Do you want to serve or do you want me to take it again?”

Tim looked up at him. “I’d suggest you take it. I’m willing to give it a shot, but there’s always the chance that I could end up losing us another point and tying us early on.”

“Even if I serve, there’s the chance of that happening. Here,” he said, handing over the ball, “I think you can do it. Just believe in yourself.”

Tim stepped behind the line and held the ball tightly between his hands. He took a deep and focused. He could do this. He tossed the ball above his head and brought his hand forward in a spike. It didn’t have as much power as Jason’s, Wally’s, or Dick’s, but it made it over the net and that’s what he was grateful for.

Dick received it easily and got it to Wally who sent the spike back. Jason bumped it back to Tim and he set it up for the spike that Jason sprinted forward to take. Wally fell backwards even as he successfully received the spike, still keeping it in play and giving Dick a chance to send it back to Wally who set it up after somehow managing to get to his feet.

Jason dived and saved the ball from hitting the sand. Tim bumped it back in the air, trying to get a sense of where Dick and Wally were positioned out of the corner of his eye. Jason set it up nicely and Tim used everything he had to push himself from the ground and reach the ball. Both Dick and Wally were rushing forward and instead of striking down, Tim sent the ball over their heads to land in the sand heavily behind them.

Everyone was dead silent for a moment. Not quite believing what had just happened. And then their audience broke out into loud cheers. Jason pulled Tim to him and lifted him off his feet, spinning him around.

Getting and maintaining the lead against Dick and Wally was harder than Tim thought that it would be. Jason had an idea of what to expect since he’d played with and against both of them before, but that didn’t mean that it was an easy game. It wasn’t. They got sandy and sweaty and were left gasping for breath after some points were won or lost. But in the end, they’d managed to come out on top and Jason couldn’t begin to quell his excitement even if he’d tried.

“I can’t believe you guys won,” Dick said, hands on his knees as he fought to catch his breath even as the cheers from the crowd surrounding the net continued.

“That’s what you get for underestimating us,” Jason said, rubbing his stomach. “That was a longer match than I anticipated honestly.”

“We should head in. Bruce must be waiting for us to join him for dinner,” Dick said, checking his watch.

Jason tensed where he still had his arm around Tim’s shoulders.

“And yes, you’re coming with us. You can’t avoid him forever.”

“Fine,” Jason said, obviously not pleased.

The thought of having dinner with Bruce Wayne made Tim’s stomach twist into knots, the joy from their hard earned victory fading. He hoped that he wouldn’t be expected to interact with him too much because he didn’t want to offend him. It was bad enough that he probably already thought Tim was slacking off from his job.

“It’ll be fine,” Jason whispered to him as they headed towards the stairs up to the pool deck, Wally and Dick leading the way.

“I’m not so sure about that,” Tim said, softly.

“Don’t worry. And if he does try to make a big deal of it, I can use it as an excuse to storm out and take you with me and then we can order awesome room service and watch movies.”

Tim chuckled. “Okay. Thanks, Jay.”

Jason smiled down at Tim and pulled him as close as he dared.

Bruce was waiting for them in the dining room, but when Dick mumbled his apologies and explained they had been involved in an intense match of beach volleyball, he’d easily relaxed and almost looked pleased by the fact. Tim was grateful that he was seated as far from Bruce as possible and had Jason seated between him and his boss to run interference.

A few times during the meal, Jason had leaned down to whisper things in his ear and had even made him laugh and smile on more than one occasion. After that happened a few times, he felt like Bruce had given him a look of almost acceptance. He wasn’t exactly sure what it was, but he was grateful for it all the same, because he didn’t feel quite so uneasy anymore.

Despite the improvements that dinner had brought he was still happy to get back to their hotel room and get to sleep, meaning he’d crawled in bed right away and left Jason in the shower. Jason had come back to the room in a near daze. He couldn’t get the memory of Tim’s smiles or his laughter out of his head. Every time he was able to bring that type of reaction from Tim, he felt his chest tighten a little at the sight.

Even now as he laid down in bed and looked at Tim’s sleeping back and the gentle rise and fall from his breathing, he felt himself come to a realization that he never expected. And that he might like Tim a little more than he thought he would.

~~

Tim stifled a yawn as he sat down in the plush chair at the breakfast table that Wally and Dick were already occupying. He brightened when he noticed the coffee pot that was in the middle of the table and reached for it only to be stopped by a hand on his arm.

“I’m going to have coffee, Jason,” he said, giving him a stern look.

“No, you’re not. I told you that you weren’t allowed any coffee while on vacation and I’m still sticking by that.”

“I’m drinking that coffee, Jason.”

“No, you’re not.”

“As much as I adore watching the two of you argue over coffee in the morning like an old married couple, I’m going to put the argument on hold for a minute to let the two of you know that I’ve signed you up for couples yoga with me and Wally,” Dick said, breaking into their stare down.

“Sorry you what?” Jason asked, grabbing ahold of Tim’s hand when he tried to sneak it forward and grab the handle of the coffeepot. He reached forward with his other hand and picked it up, moving it off to the right and out of Tim’s reach, much to his dismay.

“I said, I signed you up for couple’s yoga.”

“And why didn’t you ask us if we wanted to do couple’s yoga first?” Jason asked.

“Because I was pretty sure that you would’ve told me no and I’m not about to let you hide out in your hotel room all week and not do anything fun.”

“Dick we just played beach volleyball with you yesterday,” he said, wrapping an arm around Tim’s chest as he tried to lunge across him for the coffee pot.

“Jason,” he whined.

“You’re only making this worse for yourself,” he shot back.

“There won’t be any coffee at the yoga class,” Dick pointed out helpfully.

Jason raised an eyebrow and looked down at Tim who was still pouting in his arms. “We’re in.”

“Jason!”

“What? You have a problem doing yoga?”

“No, but…I didn’t bring any workout clothes.”

“Oh, you don’t have to worry about that, I picked some up for you at one of the shops in the hotel,” Dick said, refilling his cereal bowl again.

“You what? How do you even know what my sizes are?”

“I pretty much guessed, but I think I got pretty close. They might be a little big, but that shouldn’t be a problem. And if they’re too small, I can always get you the next size up. Just let me know and I can get them to you before this afternoon,” he said, pushing a paper bag across the table towards him.

Tim reached out for it hesitantly, pulling it towards himself with his index and thumb. He peeked inside, mouth dropping open in size. “You can’t be serious?” he asked Dick, looking up at him with a hint of desperation. “This is what you picked out for me?”

He shrugged. “That was all they had.”

Somehow, Tim didn’t quite believe what he was telling him.

“It can’t be that bad, let me see,” Jason said, reaching for the bag.

“No!” he exclaimed, clutching it against his chest. “No, it’s no big deal. It’s fine.” He dropped the bag to the floor next to his chair, shooting it once last glance before turning to the food and picking up a few pieces of toast and some fruit to nibble on.

“How did you know that I’d have spare clothes to do yoga in anyway?” Jason asked before taking a sip of orange juice.

“Because I know you, Jason and I knew that even if you didn’t manage to make it to the gym while you were here for a week you would bring a spare change of clothes just in case.”

Jason hummed but didn’t answer.

Dick and Wally left the breakfast table first, which was honestly a surprise to Tim considering how much cereal he continued to put away. Tim was wondering how he was going to make it through an hour session of couples yoga after eating that much.

“Most people wonder how he can eat that much and still look the way he does. I don’t even know, but I’m used to it by now. The incredible sugar intake just doesn’t faze him for some weird reason,” Jason said, answering Tim’s unspoken questions.

“It’s just…how is he going to bend and twist after eating that much food?” Tim whispered, looking at Jason out of the corner of his eye.

“He’s used to it I guess. His parents were acrobats and he grew up in the circus before being adopted by Bruce. Never gave it up really, so bending and twisting isn’t that unusual for him.”

“I guess that it explains it…”

“We should probably get going in any case. If we’re even a minute late for the yoga class, Dick is going to kill us and we need to head back up to our room and change.”

“Yeah…sure.” Tim clutched the handles of the paper bag tightly as he pushed his chair back and stood. He’d had a few blessed moments of not having to think about what was inside of it, but now he was very quickly brought back to the issue at hand. And as Jason had so graciously pointed out, Dick would kill them if they missed. He had to make sure it all fit anyway since he wasn’t able to try it on earlier or test the measurements.

“You can take the bathroom to change and I can change out here if you want,” Jason said as he pushed the door to their room open.

“Uh, yeah…thanks.” Tim slipped into the bathroom and locked the door securely behind him. He set the bag on the counter and reached inside with shaking hands, only to pull out a pair of black leggings and a red tank top. He set them next to the bag in a neat pile and took a minute to just stare at them, apprehensively.

Slowly, he pulled off his jeans and the shirt that he’d put on after crawling out of bed. He was glad that he’d gone with boxer-briefs the night before. Having to walk out to grab a different pair of underwear would’ve just been all kinds of awkward. And he wasn’t ready for Jason to know just what Dick had picked out for him.

Tim reached for the leggings first, sticking his legs through them and hopping in place when his foot inevitably got caught on the stretchy fabric. Despite being form-fitting, the leggings weren’t tight or too small. That didn’t mean that wearing them didn’t feel embarrassing because they didn’t leave too much to the imagination. He picked up the tank top, hoping that it would be a little longer to cover his crotch and his ass.

He slipped it over his head and sighed, relieved when the material flowed out at the bottom. It was fitted at the top, the straps leaving his arms and shoulders bare because of the racerback style, but it offered him a small comfort and relief after he’d put on the leggings. He twisted and turned, looking over the outfit in the mirror and stealing himself for the ridicule he was no doubt about to receive from Jason. There was no way that he wouldn’t laugh at him over what Dick had bought.

Tim turned the lock slowly and pulled open the door. He stepped out and groaned in frustration. “How come you get to wear basketball shorts?” he accused.

“What?” Jason asked, obviously confused and froze after he turned around and caught sight of Tim.

Jason felt his heart pick up at the tight leggings and flowy red tank top that Tim was standing there in. “That-“ he croaked and cleared his throat. “That’s what Dick bought for you?”

“Yeah and how come you get to wear shorts?” he nearly whined, still feeling betrayed by the injustice of it all.

“Well, I did pack my own clothes so I’m sure that had something to do with it.”

“How was I supposed to know that we were going to be wrangled into couples yoga?” he whined.

Jason finally pulled himself from his daze and tugged at the front of his muscle shirt. “You sort of just have to be prepared for anything with Dick. He’s pretty unpredictable. We should get going though, we don’t want to be late.”

“There’s no way that I can go through a yoga class wearing this. We should just skip,” he said, burying his face in his hands.

“Really? I think you look great,” Jason blurted and immediately froze.

Tim stiffened and peeked through his fingers. “Really?” He watched as a blush bloomed over Jason’s cheeks.

“Uh, yeah. Come on, we should go,” he said, grabbing the room key and moving past Tim towards the door.

Tim looked down at his shirt before following Jason out the door, feeling slightly better about this whole thing now that he knew Jason wasn’t going to make fun of him…and actually liked what he was wearing. He never would’ve thought that was possible. But he didn’t exactly know his tastes.

At the start of the yoga class, after Dick sent them both a knowing look that made Tim get all embarrassed over the clothes again, because he was reminded that Dick somehow managed to guess his size and buy the clothes for him, Tim thought that he might be able to get through the rest of it with no problem. The instructor had them both sitting back-to-back and cross-legged in order to work on their couples breathing. It was comforting to have Jason’s presence at his back and his firm body pressing against his as they worked to breathe in sync, feeling each movement of each other’s body as their lungs and chests expanded to bring in more air before they exhaled.

Tim found a new sense of calm from the breathing and even more so as they moved into the partner twist, the feeling of Jason’s large hand, heavy on his knee even as his own pressed down on Jason’s own. He was expecting to be put into far more compromising positions and forced to twist and try to bend his body in directions that he wasn’t used to moving in.

“Now allow yourselves to return to your normal sitting position, gently untwisting your spines. Get to your feet and stand next to each other. We’re going to move into the Twin Trees pose. First, bring your outside leg up to the inside of your thigh and find your balance. Partners, bring your inside arms up and rest your forearms and hands against each other as your outside hand comes up like so.”

Jason’s arm and hand didn’t quite dwarf Tim’s but it was pretty close, much to his own surprise. He tried not to focus on where they found strength and balance in each other, the calluses on Jason’s fingers, firm against the smooth skin of Tim’s fingers. Tim was glad to come out of the pose, but his relief didn’t last long when they were directed into the partner forward fold.

He was once again left mentally cursing the fitted leggings that he was wearing now that his ass and the length of his legs was pressed against Jason’s. He was just glad that Jason couldn’t see his face because there was no doubt a flush across his cheeks that had nothing to do with the warmth in his muscles and the sweat that was beginning to collect on his skin from the strenuous movements.

“Gently uncurl your spines and return to a standing position. As you come up, you should feel every part of you and your partner’s back matching up to ensure that you don’t move out of the position too quickly as that could be dangerous and negatively affect the muscles that support your spine.”

Tim swallowed thickly as Jason flexed against him.

“Our next pose is the double downward dog.”

Jason followed the instructor as he was guided into a normal downward dog and Tim was glad that he wouldn’t be pressed up against Jason for this pose. Tim was guided to stand in front of Jason and bring his hands to the floor to support himself as he maneuvered his feet to press against Jason’s lower back, leaving him in a strange, upside-down L-shape. And also giving him a very, very good look of Jason’s back-muscles as they shifted underneath his tank and the sweat that was sliding down his skin. Tim closed his eyes and prayed that this yoga session would be over soon.

“Ease out of the position gently and return to a seated position, facing your partner. Our next pose is the double wide boat. Bring your feet together and spread them to the sides as you hold on to each other’s hands between your extended legs to maintain balance.”

Tim thought that his face was going to be permanently flushed by the end of the class and looked everywhere but at where Jason was. He was really coming to detest yoga. And in this position, his shirt was doing nothing to provide him with any cover. He didn’t even want to begin to imagine what Jason was thinking. The few glances that he managed to steal of him, revealed that Jason’s eyelids were half-lowered and he was biting his lip. Tim swallowed and nearly shoved Jason away when they were told to release the position.

The next two poses were slightly easier for Tim’s mental state and to deal with since one of them was a balance pose where they both supported each other as they held the dancer pose. That was probably one of Tim’s favorites, because it made him feel strong and elegant.

“The last pose that we’re going to cover before moving into savasana is the flying warrior. This is the most challenging pose of the session and if you find yourself not comfortable with doing it, you’re free to move into savasana.”

Tim swallowed as Jason laid on his back and braced his feet against his hips. He reached forward and grasped Jason’s hands tightly, nervous as to what the outcome of this pose was going to be.

“You’re going to be fine,” Jason murmured, speaking for the first time since they’d started the session. “I won’t let you fall okay?”

Tim nodded reluctantly and took a shaky breath before pushing off his toes and pushing into a position where he was hovering over Jason. His arms shook slightly and Jason tightened his grip, giving a reassuring squeeze. Tim did his best to keep his core tight, but still felt a little shaky, amazed that he was staying up. A disbelieving giggle slipped through his lips and Jason grinned up at him.

“See? I told you that I wouldn’t let you fall.”

“Haven’t put me back down yet,” he pointed out.

Jason chuckled and lowered him back to his feet, giving his hands one last squeeze before letting go. He joined Jason on the floor and grabbed ahold of his hand as he let his muscles relax. His mind began to quiet now that silence descended on the group and he realized that despite the embarrassment that he felt he faced with every new pose that was introduced, he actually had fun during the session, and got the chance to let go of all of his worries.

Tim was grateful that the remainder of their day was rather uneventful and Dick didn’t spring any other plans on the two of them. After the yoga session they spent time by the pool and he steadfastly ignored the looks that Dick shot his way every now and then. He didn’t want to read any more into them than was absolutely necessary and didn’t want to even wonder at what he was thinking.

When they made it back after dinner, Tim pulled out his computer and set himself up in the chair at the table they had in their room. Jason made himself ready for bed and was crawling underneath the blanket as Tim pulled up his email.

“Will it bother you if I work for a little bit?” Tim asked, fingers pausing over his keyboard.

“No, I should be fine. I’m surprised that you’ve made it this far without having to check your email every five seconds to make sure that things were still on track.”

“Well, I figure that if something had gone terribly wrong, I would’ve gotten a phone call or something instead of them waiting for me to check my email.”

Jason made some noise of understanding, but it wasn’t long after that he was softly snoring from where his head was buried in his pillow. Tim smiled and browsed the internet as he waited for a response to his check-in emails. He was in the middle of mindlessly scrolling through Facebook when he heard the notification sound softly from his email.

He skimmed the words quickly, smiling now that everything was going well. He shut his laptop and stretched his arms over his head, sighing happily. He pushed himself from his chair and shuffled over to the bed, setting down his phone on the bedside table before crawling underneath the covers. It was only a moment and he hadn’t even gotten settled yet when an arm wrapped around his torso and pulled him backwards.

Tim barely stopped himself from making some sort of noise even as his heart thudded in his chest.

“Jason?” he asked softly.

There was no response behind him, leaving Tim to assume that the movement was completely involuntary. He willed his heartbeat to slow down and forced himself to relax, able to accept how good the contact felt when he wasn’t tense and on edge.

~~

Jason was slowly brought out of his deep sleep to the frantic sounds of Tim’s voice. It was clear that he was trying to be quiet and considerate, but there was no mistaking the desperation in his voice.

“You’re sure? It’s all gone? Everything that we’ve been working on up until this point? Okay, no, no, calm down, it’s not your fault. There’s still plenty of time left we can find it, we can get it back, don’t worry.”

“Tim?” Jason asked groggily as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes and propped himself up on his elbow. He could see the tense set of Tim’s shoulders where he sat in his chair at the table and as he looked over his shoulder at where Jason was still in bed.

“Sorry, did I wake you?” he asked, voice tight.

“What’s wrong? What happened?” Jason asked, alert from Tim’s obvious worry. He threw the covers off of himself so he could get out bed and go to him.

Tim shook his head and turned back to his phone. “Keep looking. I’ll sift through my computer and see if I can find anything to help. If you find anything, call me. I’ll call you back as soon as I finish looking and if I don’t find anything, I’ll get going on Plan B.” He ended the call and buried his face in his hands.

“Tim, what’s wrong? What happened?” he asked, holding his hands out awkwardly, wanting to offer comfort, but not sure what to do.

“It’s gone. It’s all gone and I don’t know what to do.” His shoulders started shaking and Jason gently placed a hand on his back.

“What’s gone?”

“My project. My team got into W.E. this morning and were set to get to work on it and it was just gone. There was nothing there. Nothing for them to go back to from the night before.” He dropped his hands and looked up at Jason, tears already collecting in the corners of his eyes. “What do I do, Jason? What am I going to do? There’s no way that we can make up all of the work that we’ve lost in time.”

Jason kneeled down next to Tim’s chair and cupped his face with the hand that wasn’t settled on his back, he brushed away the tears that had begun to fall with his thumb. “It’s going to be okay, Tim. You can figure this out. Maybe they just misplaced it or something. You’ll get your project done, I promise. I’ll do everything I can to help you get it done.”

Tim closed his eyes and took a shaky breath, trying to take strength from Jason’s support. “But what if I can’t? If I don’t get this project done… I have to get this done. I have to.”

“I know, I know, okay? I’ll help you through this. You get to work going through your computer like you told your team you would and I’ll get you some coffee and something light to eat if you’re up to ut,” he said pulling away to slip on his shoes.

“What happened to not letting me have coffee this week?” Tim asked as he sniffed and wiped at his tears.

Jason smiled softly. “I think we can make an exception just this once. It’s an emergency after all.”

Tim nodded and turned back to his computer. Jason watched him for a moment as he clicked through several things and typed in commands to find some way to repair the damage that had been done. He opened the door and shut it softly behind him, feeling his chest tighten at the sight of Tim crying. He’d never seen him like that before. Not that he’d known him long enough to witness such an emotional reaction like that. He took a breath before hurrying down the hall. He wanted to get back to the room quickly so that he could make sure that Tim didn’t do anything drastic like put a hole through his computer. One wall was enough for a while.

When he entered the dining room, he made straight for the nearest server standing next to a pillar and overlooking the area.

“I need to get a cart with food and a lot of coffee,” he demanded.

“Sir, if you’re in need of room service, you’ll need to make a call from your room,” she explained, obviously not wanting to deal with him.

“Look, my boyfriend is freaking out upstairs because something happened with his work and I really just need to bring him something without having to go back up there and place an order. If you really have a problem, I’m sure my father, Bruce Way-“

Her eyes widened. “I’ll get what you need right away, sir.” She moved off quickly, waving at other workers to get out of her way or help her gather what she needed.

Jason sighed, feeling a little of the tension leave his shoulders.

“Everything okay, Jason?” Dick asked, the worry evident in his voice as he popped up behind him.

“What? Oh, hi Dick. It’s…okay. Tim woke up this morning to some very bad news concerning his project. He’s trying to get things straightened out and I’m just grabbing coffee and breakfast to help him get through it.”

“Is he going to have to go back to Gotham?”

Jason shrugged. “No idea. If things don’t work out today and they can’t figure something out, he might. I hope not, though. This was supposed to be a relaxing vacation to help him unwind from the stress of everything.”

Dick smiled. “I’m sure that things will be okay. Especially since Tim’s got you to help him out. I’ll see you, and hopefully Tim, later.”

Jason watched him walk away and was relieved when the server who he was talking to earlier hurried out with a cart filled with food.

“Here you are, sir. I hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long.”

“Not at all,” Jason said, taking control of the cart and moving out of the dining room and back to the elevator. It was a little difficult to maneuver it through the hall and the doorway of their room, but he managed in the end. Tim was still sitting at the table, his computer still very much intact, much to Jason’s relief. One of Tim’s hands was tugging at his hair in frustration, though.

“I have breakfast,” he announced. “And coffee. How are things going?”

“I don’t have a copy of the project anywhere on my computer and nothing saved in my email, which means I have to start all over in case my team doesn’t find anything back on the databases at WE.”

“Have you told them yet?”

Tim shook his head. “I was about to but you came back before I could pull out my phone and make the call.”

“Here, let me grab you a coffee and something to eat first before you call them. You need to eat and you should do it now in case you get upset again.”

“I’ll just have the coffee.”

“Tim-“

“I really don’t think my stomach can handle anything else right now.”

“Tim, you really need to eat. Please just have a couple of bites of toast. For me?” he asked as he sat down a cup next to Tim’s hand.

“Okay,” he sighed.

Jason fiddled with the cart, finally seeing what had been brought for the first time. The spread was far fancier than Jason had needed with pastries, eggs, and bacon, but there was toast and fruit which Tim would hopefully be able to get down. He placed two slices of buttered toast and a few strawberries on a plate and left that next to Tim’s cup of coffee before putting together a plate for himself.

He sat down across from Tim and watched as he immediately chugged half his coffee. He obediently picked up one of the slices of toast and nibbled on the corner.

Tim only made it through one slice of toast and a couple of strawberries before he was pushing his plate away. He downed the rest of his coffee and grabbed a refill before he was pulling out his phone and dialing away. Jason watched him, feeling sad that he couldn’t do more at the moment to reduce Tim’s stress.

“Hi George. Have you found anything yet?”

“No? Still working on it? Okay. Keep looking. I didn’t find anything on my computer or in my emails. I’ll go ahead and get started on compiling the document from memory as best I can. Let me know as soon as you find out something new.”

“I might have to, depending on how today goes. It shouldn’t be too hard to find a flight back to Gotham on such short notice anyway. Thanks. Yup. Talk to you later.”

Tim hung up his phone and immediately began to type frantically on his computer. He would pause every now and then, obviously trying to dredge up the old details from memory to save himself from more work later on. Jason busied himself with clearing the dishes from the table. He refreshed Tim’s coffee quickly.

“I’m going to take a shower. Will you be okay for a little bit?” he asked.

Tim waved him away, keeping his focus on the words that he was putting together on the screen. Jason sighed and grabbed a change of clothes before slipping into the bathroom. He tried to keep himself from thinking about the whole situation as he stepped under the water and began to wash himself. It wouldn’t do to stress over things that he couldn’t control. He would just have to content himself with helping Tim through this as best as he was able.

He walked out of the bathroom, hair still damp to find Tim muttering in between sniffles as he hunched further over his keyboard. Jason hurried over to him, worry mounting when he realized that he was sniffling because he was crying.

“Tim?!”

“What if I can’t do it Jason? What if this all goes to shit and I’m done? My career’s over?”

Jason wrapped his arms around Tim from behind. “You can do this. Even if you can’t get this in on time, it won’t be over. You can find a new job if you need to. Everything will work out, I promise. Hell, if you can kick a hole through the wall, you can get through this.”

Tim laughed and rubbed at his eyes. “If only I could kick this into submission so that everything was okay.”

“I know, babe. I’m sorry.” Jason’s eyes widened as he realized what he said and opened his mouth to backtrack when he noticed that Tim hadn’t reacted. He either didn’t register what was said or didn’t care at the moment. “Keep working and I’ll get you a refill on your coffee.”

Tim nodded and started typing again. Jason filled his cup and left it next to his computer before pulling a book from his bag and making himself comfortable in the chair opposite Tim. As he worked his way through the paragraphs, he found himself stealing glances at Tim to assess how he was doing and if he needed to intervene. He still looked stressed and would pull at his hair in frustration, but he didn’t start crying again, so Jason counted that as a win.

It wasn’t until Jason poured the last drops of coffee from the pot into Tim’s empty mug that he checked the time and realized how late it had gotten. He set down the pot and the still empty mug and walked over to Tim, rubbing the back of his shoulders to try and ease some of the tension there.

“How’s it going?” he asked, softly.

“It’s going. I’ve made up maybe a day’s worth of work, but it’s still not enough. Not yet.”

“Okay. We’re out of coffee so I’m going to call room service for more and some lunch. Do you think you can eat anything?”

Tim shook his head and Jason sighed.

“I’ll order you something in case you change your mind.” He left Tim to continue his work and picked up the hotel phone, dialing for room service. “I’d like to place an order for room 516, please. A full pot of coffee, a plate of pasta, and a salad please.”

“Yes, that’s all, thank you.” He hung up the phone and looked over his shoulder at Tim, wondering yet again what he could do for him. There must be something else that he could do rather than keep bringing Tim coffee and trying to get him to eat.

His phone caught his attention when it vibrated on top of the dresser. He opened it to find a text from Dick.

Dick: How are things going?

Jason: Not too good. Tim’s having to start a draft over from the beginning and at this rate it looks like he might have to head back to Gotham to try and get things done, but we’re still waiting for some possible news back from the office.

Dick: Want me to talk to Dad?

Jason: No, I think that we should stay out of this. Tim would probably hate to get special treatment when he’s been doing so much on his own as it is.

Dick: Keep me updated, then.

Jason: I’ll let you know if anything changes.

A knock sounded at the door and he put his phone in his pocket to let in the hotel worker that brought their new tray of food. He took the one that Jason had brought up for breakfast and left as quietly as he’d entered. Jason gave Tim a new cup of coffee and set it in front of him, before splitting up the food onto two plates and giving one to Tim.

“Please eat a few bites. You didn’t have much for breakfast and you’ve been working nonstop since then.”

“Jason, I can’t. I need to keep working and that’ll only slow me down.”

“But if you don’t eat, that’s only going to make you crash later and keep you down longer than if you take some time now to eat.”

“Jay-“ Tim’s statement was cut off by the sound of his phone ringing. He answered it quickly. “Hello?” He listened intently before slumping against the table. “Really? You’re sure? And it’s recent? How recent? No, I can help…if you need me to get back on a plane to Gotham…okay. Thanks, George.” He hung up and stared at his phone for a moment before tears started to slide down his cheeks.

“Tim, what happened? What’s wrong?”

Tim looked up and smiled. “It’s going to be okay. They found a recent copy of our work and they think they can get it updated and in good shape by tomorrow night. Everything’s going to be okay. God, I’m so relieved.”

Jason returned Tim’s smile and pulled him from his chair and into a rough hug. “I’m glad.”

Tim’s hands fisted into the back of his shirt as he held him close.

“Let’s go out tonight and celebrate. We can have dinner and then go out and have some fun. I think there’s a roller rink around here somewhere that does disco nights or something. But first, we’re going to take a nap because you need to take a break from everything.”

Tim nodded against him and Jason pulled him into bed, letting his head pillow on his arm. His eyes shut quickly and he fell asleep first, the stress of the day having exhausted him entirely past the point of where coffee could keep him awake. He stayed curled up into Jason even as he slept. Jason ran his fingers through his hair to keep him relaxed, but he was interrupted when his phone vibrated in his pocket. He pulled it out carefully and saw that he had another message from Dick.

Dick: If you can pull Tim away from his work, the spa here has some great massages. That should help relieve some of the stress he’s experiencing.

Jason smiled down at Tim’s face and quickly pulled up his phone’s camera, snapping a picture of Tim’s peaceful, sleeping face. He attached the picture to his message and typed out a reply before hitting send.

Jason: Thanks, but I think a nap is going to have him feeling much better. Everything’s mostly back on track so I think that he’ll be able to stay for the wedding.

He set his phone aside and pulled Tim a little closer before letting himself close his eyes and drift off.

~~

Tim was beyond grateful to have had Jason helping him out all day when he was so close to losing his mind. The restaurant that they went to for dinner was a nice small place that had great food. But he was a little nervous to head to the roller rink after their meal. It had been years since he’d done anything remotely close to roller skating and he wasn’t entirely sure how it was going to go. It also didn’t help that Jason seemed to be a natural, stepping onto the wooden floor and pretty much gliding away.

Tim kept a tight hand on the railing as he gingerly stepped off the carpet and onto the smooth wood surface.

“Everything okay, Tim?” Jason asked, smiling at him as he swung back around.

“It’s been a while since I’ve done something like this so I’m a bit rusty.”

“Here, let me help you,” he said, holding out his hand. Tim took it tentatively. “Keep your knees bent for right now to maintain your balance and keep your chest up so that you don’t fall over.”

Jason took his other hand in his and carefully skated backwards, pulling Tim along.

“See? It’s not too bad.”

Tim smiled, feeling a little proud of himself that he hadn’t fallen yet. “Yeah, I guess not. Now you just have to pull me around the rink all night and we’ll be golden.”

Jason laughed and let them roll to a stop before moving so he was standing next to Tim. “Now where’s the fun in that?” He kept Tim’s hand clasped tightly in his as he moved them forward slowly. Tim kept his other hand out to keep his balance. “Just move your feet forward slowly, feel when the wheels come in contact with the floor.”

Tim moved forward experimentally, but quickly began to flail when his skates got away from him. He squeezed his eyes shut when he felt himself start to fall, but a strong arm around his waist, pulled him back up. He opened his eyes to find Jason chuckling as he looked down at him.

“That was a close one.”

Tim cleared his throat. “Uh, yeah.”

“Let’s try that again.”

Tim nodded and slowly shuffled his feet forward, pleased when he could move pretty well and still kept his balance. He got less wobbly and shot Jason a triumphant smile when he was able to skate on his own. Jason laughed and skated up next to him, turning on the spot to skate backwards.

Tim pouted. “Show off.”

Jason shrugged. He reached for Tim’s hand as the song changed to something far more upbeat. “Come on, I love this song.”

“Wait-Jason!” Tim exclaimed, clutching onto Jason’s arm.

“Don’t worry, I won’t let you fall.” He wrapped an arm around Tim’s waist and tugged him along at a faster pace, much to Tim’s dismay.

They made a loop around the floor just fine, but Tim became very, very aware of where Jason’s hand was resting when he noticed the people giving them looks that reminded him that they very much looked like the loving couple they were pretending to be. Which also brought up very clear memories of the day before when the two of them were in the midst of couple’s yoga and very close to each other.

The thoughts distracted him so much that he soon lost his concentration on what he was doing and lost his balance. Jason tightened his grip to try and keep him from falling. His efforts were fruitless as Tim grabbed onto his shoulder and brought them both down to the floor. Tim landed heavily on his back with Jason catching himself just before he crashed down on top of him.

“Shit! Tim are you okay, babe?” he asked, wide eyes searching his face. “You’re not hurt are you?”

Tim stared up at him for a moment before he felt his face heat up. He swallowed thickly as he realized how close they were and how he still hadn’t responded to Jason’s question. “Yeah, fine.”

“Thank, God.” Jason sat back and pushed himself up to his feet while Tim worked to sit up. He held out a hand to Tim who took it and got pulled to his feet. He held on to his hand tightly as they began to skate around the rink once more.

“You sure you’re not hurt?” Jason asked, concern obvious.

“I might be a little bruised tomorrow, but that’s about it,” Tim answered, trying not to focus on how Jason’s hand felt in his own.

“Sorry.”  

“Don’t be. I’m the one who pulled you down with me.”

Jason squeezed his hand and pulled him a little closer, moving his hand to the small of his back. Tim swallowed thickly and barely kept himself from closing his eyes. He didn’t need to fall again. And he didn’t need to think about how good it felt to have someone hold him close and show concern for his well-being.

~~

A quiet ringing tugged at the ends of Tim’s consciousness. He groaned and turned away from the sound, hoping that it would go away. He was met with a warmth that enveloped him and sighed happily. He never wanted to get up if this was what he got to experience. The ringing paused for a moment before it started up again. He sighed, resigned to his fate and blinked open his eyes. What was in front of his face came into focus slowly and he tensed when he realized that he’d buried himself into Jason’s chest and that Jason was holding him very, very closely.

He swallowed thickly and tried to calm his heart as it went on a rampage in his chest. He was almost too frozen to move, but the ringing brought him back to the task at hand. He carefully maneuvered himself out of Jason’s arms, much to his unconscious grumbling and protesting and slipped from the bed. He walked over to the table and picked up his phone from where he left it the night before. He shot one last look at Jason who was still asleep in bed and slipped out onto the balcony so he wouldn’t disturb him.

“Hello?” he asked.

“Mr. Drake!” George exclaimed, relief flooding his voice. “Sorry to call you so early, but we didn’t want to keep the great news!”

“What is it? What’s happened?”

“After we found the file yesterday, we worked almost all night and have everything back on track! There should be no problem with meeting the deadline and at this point we might even be ahead of schedule.”

Tim felt relief flood through him at the words, but also a little guilt. “You worked all night to get caught up?”

“We did and we were more than happy to do it to surprise you this morning. You’re worked so hard for this company since you started here and being part of your team has been incredible for all of us and we just wanted to do something for you this time and help you relax as you enjoy the rest of your vacation,” he rambled. “Don’t even think about coming back to Gotham, especially now. You deserve the break and we’re all too happy to give it to you.”

Tim smiled even as the pressure began to build behind his eyelids. “Thanks, George. Tell everyone else that I think you’re all amazing and that you’re going to get some well-earned time off when I get back. I wouldn’t have been able to do anything I’ve done without the help of all of you.”

“Of course, Mr. Drake, of course. Sorry to disturb your morning and I hope that you enjoy the rest of your day.”

“You didn’t disturb it at all. Thank you, George.” Tim pulled the phone from his ear and hung up as the first few tears slid down his cheeks. He clutched the phone to his chest and looked out over the sparkling water that the sun was already being reflected off of it.

“Is everything okay?”

Tim sniffed and tried to wipe his eyes before looking over his shoulder at where Jason was standing in the doorway.

“You’re crying.” Jason crossed the two steps between them quickly and cupped his face to wipe away the tears.

“Happy crying,” Tim reassured him. “That was George on the phone. Apparently my team worked all night to get the project back to its original schedule and they’re possibly ahead on what needs to be done. I’m just really grateful for them, that’s all.”

Jason smiled and pulled him into a hug, crushing his face against his chest. One of Jason’s arms was wrapped tightly around Tim’s shoulders and the other was rubbing his back soothingly.

“I’m glad. I’m really glad that everything turned out okay.”

Tim let himself relax into the hug and just gave himself a moment to soak up the attention that Jason was giving him.

“We should do something fun today!” he exclaimed.

Tim laughed and pulled back from where he was still pressed up against, Jason’s chest. “Like what?”

“Let’s just do down to the beach and enjoy ourselves! You can leave your phone up here and we can enjoy the sun and sea. Go for a swim while everyone else is stupid and stays around the pool.”

Tim laughed again at Jason’s determination, trying not to focus too much on how much he cared that Jason cared. “Okay. Let’s go and get changed then.”

Jason whooped and pulled Tim back inside with him. He set down his phone on the table and grabbed his swim trunks from where they had been stuffed back into his suitcase after he dried them the last time they’d been worn. Jason moved into the bathroom to change and Tim started stripping next to the side of the bed, he left his shirt and boxers in a pile and bent over to stick his legs through his trunks. Just as he was pulling them up he heard the bathroom door open and watched as Jason froze in his tracks. Tim hastily pulled his swim trunks the rest of the way up even as his face began to burn.

“I guess I, uh…should’ve asked if you were done changing before I came out,” Jason said, clearing his throat.

“It’s fine. Don’t worry about it.”

The two of them stayed where they were standing for too long.

“I guess that makes us even now, huh?” Jason said, forcing a laugh as he moved forward to throw his pajamas back into his own bag.

“Yeah, I guess it does.” Tim grabbed a pair of towels for them and slipped on his shoes as Jason threw a tank top over his head and grabbed his sunglasses. And as they left the room and walked towards the elevator, Tim tried to forget the spark that he thought he might’ve glimpsed in Jason’s eyes when he saw him. He was probably imagining it anyway.

The pool deck was mostly empty since it was still early and the other guests were sleeping or enjoying breakfast. Tim handed a towel to Jason as their feet hit the warm sand and they laid them out on the available chairs the hotel kept on the beach.

“You have the sunscreen, right?” Tim asked.

“After all this time, you still doubt me,” Jason sighed, pulling the bottle from one of his pockets.

Tim smirked. “Just making sure.”

Tim appreciated the normalcy that returned to their conversation. It was welcome and helped him push the events of the past couple days from his mind. He didn’t want to focus on it and he didn’t want to worry about it. It was just something that happened and Tim just needed to keep telling himself that. He handed the bottle of sun block back to Jason and laid down on the chair on his stomach to enjoy the feeling of the sun.

“Do you need any sunscreen on your back?” Jason asked.

“Do you mind?” Tim asked where he was still laying down.

In response he heard the cap of the bottle being popped as Jason squirted some into his palms. Tim shivered for more than one reason when Jason’s hands came into contact with his skin. The lotion was cold against his warmed skin and Jason’s hands moved slowly over his back. Thankfully, he started at his shoulders and upper back, but Tim practically stopped breathing when Jason’s hands dipped lower, stopping just above the waistband of his swim trunks. It made him realize just how big Jason’s hands actually were.

“Uh, thanks,” he said when Jason moved away.

“Don’t worry about it,” Jason said. He finished covering himself and set the bottle between their chairs before stretching out on his back.

~~

It was a few hours, and Tim was fairly certain that he’d dozed off more than once, before the warmth and the strong rays from the Sun forced him to move from his chair. He sat up and stretched his arms over his head, sighing happily when a handful of places on his back popped and relaxed comfortably back into place.

“Where are you going?” Jason asked as he stood from his chair.

“I’m going in the water, of course. Want to come? Or are you enjoying the sun too much?” he said, smiling lazily.

Jason shrugged and pushed himself from his own chair, setting down his sunglasses and pulling his shirt over his head. Tim looked away quickly and started heading for the water. He shivered when the waves washed over his feet, the contrast extreme from the warmth that he’d soaked up all morning. He gasped when an arm came around his waist and lifted him from is feet.

“In you go!” Jason said, rushing forward and throwing him farther into the water.

“Jason!” he gasped, barely sucking in a breath before he crashed through the water and went under.

He came up quickly, spluttering and wiping his wet hair from his eyes. “Jason!”

Jason laughed and Tim narrowed his eyes at him. “You said you wanted to go in the water. I just helped you out a little bit.”

Tim smirked, eyes narrowing. “Oh yeah?”

“Yeah.”

Tim hurried forward as fast as he could and bent over, sweeping his arms up to splash Jason with as much water as possible. He flung his arms up to keep it out of his face. Most of the water hit his torso which was a bit disappointing, but Tim felt triumphant regardless. Jason flung the water from his arms as he lowered them and looked at Tim. He grinned wolfishly and Tim felt his stomach drop at the look, letting a split-second pass before he was trying to hurry away from Jason even as the water slowed him down.

“Oh no you don’t!” he heard him call out from behind him and the splashing of water as Jason gave chase.

Tim looked over his shoulder and let out a little noise of surprise at how quickly Jason was covering the distance between them. He turned and splashed water at Jason before continuing to move forward.

“You’re not getting away that easily.”

Tim managed to evade the first grab that Jason made for him, but was quickly caught around the waist.

“Got you,” Jason growled in his ear.

Tim shivered even as he struggled to get out of Jason’s grasp. “Let me down!”

“Hmm…I don’t think so.” Jason set him on his feet, but kept him tightly boxed in with his arms. He dug his fingers into Tim’s sides and Tim’s eyes widened. He only managed to open his mouth before Jason was tickling his sides mercilessly.

Tim laughed, bucking and tugging against Jason’s hold, trying to get away from his hands. He gasped, trying to suck in more air even as he laughs racked his whole body. He squirmed in Jason’s arms, trying to get away from his persistent fingers, but only ended up being held tighter. Finally, he just sagged in Jason’s arms, unable to fight it anymore.

“I give up. No more, please,” Tim gasped out.

Jason just laughed behind him and helped support him. “Looks like I’ve found your weakness,” he said, sounding far too pleased with himself.

“Ugh, I can’t go on. You’ve reduced me to a helpless puddle.”

Jason hummed behind him and Tim let out an exclamation when Jason suddenly swept an arm under his legs and picked him up.

“Jason!” Tim said, wrapping his arms around his neck. “What’re you doing?!”

“Well you didn’t seem like you were going to move anytime soon,” he said, chuckling.

Tim made a disgruntled noise as Jason waded further into the water. He looked over the ocean and the nearly blank horizon, the sparkling water nearly blinding him as he tried to judge how far he could see. Soon enough he gave up as the water pooled up around him. He sighed and rested his head against Jason’s shoulder, swallowing when he thought that Jason just might have tightened the grip that he had on him.

Out here, in the middle of the ocean, with the sun shining down on them, lighting the water with sparkling diamonds…nothing seemed to matter. All responsibilities and expectations fell away. There was only Tim and Jason, enjoying themselves. Any feelings that might have bloomed between them didn’t exist. There was no need to put a label on what was between them. It was a relief. Tim could just enjoy the feeling of Jason’s arms wrapped around him and the waves lapping at their skin, drops of water slipping between the crevices where their bodies didn’t quite meet.

“Jason! Hey Jason! Tim!”

Tim lifted his head from where it was resting on Jason’s shoulder and squinted at the shore.

“Who’s that?” he asked.

“Looks like Dick,” Jason murmured. “I don’t know how he spotted us, but we can go see what he wants.”

Tim moved to get out of his arms.

“Don’t worry about it, I can get us back,” he said, already walking back towards shore.

“Uh…okay.”

Tim hated that the spell was broken now. Hated that he could feel exactly where his body ended and Jason’s began. They lost the illusion and Tim couldn’t pretend anymore that there was more between them than the fact that he was just helping Jason out with lying to his family. He knew that he wasn’t as relaxed as he was before, but he didn’t know how to change that. It all seemed so impossible.

Jason didn’t put him down until they reached the shore and Tim steadfastly worked to avoid looking at the pleased expression that Dick wore. He was already disappointed enough. He didn’t need to be reminded that everyone else thought there was something more than there was.

“Now that I’ve finally found you, I want you guys dressed and ready to go in the lobby at eight.”

“Why?”

“Because…you two are coming with Wally and me to go dancing. I know how much you love to salsa, Jason, so there’s no point in arguing with me.”

“Uhhh…” he eloquently responded.

“Remember! Eight, tonight. Meet in the lobby!” Dick said as he walked away and headed for the stairs back up to the pool.

Jason turned to look at Tim. “Tim, do you even know how to dance?”

“No.”

“Do you think you can learn?”

Tim opened his mouth to respond, but only made a face that was close to a cringe.

“I’m going to take that as a maybe. Come on, we better go and see if we have anything decent to wear out tonight at least.”

He collected their towels and his shirt and headed towards the stairs as Tim followed behind him in a daze. His mind raced, trying to process everything that happened in a matter of seconds.

“Okay, I know you don’t have the most casual and breathable clothes, but show me what you’ve got at least. And no polos.”

“Yes, okay,” Tim said, rolling his eyes. He opened his suitcase and started rifling through his clothes, pulling out anything that might be suitable to dance in. He found a couple of pairs of shorts, a pair of white cotton capri pants, and even threw in the leggings that Dick had bought him for yoga for the heck of it. Finding a shirt was harder. He set the tank top on the bed that was also from yoga and managed to find the one other shirt that he’d brought that wasn’t a polo: a nice salmon-colored one that was made out of a thin polyester material.

“Okay, better than I was expecting,” Jason said as he tapped his chin in thought.

“Thanks?”

“I say go with the white pants and the salmon shirt.”

Tim shrugged. “Fine.”

“Anything else you want to do now that our day was interrupted?”

Tim thought for a minute. “Well, I wouldn’t mind some lunch. We haven’t exactly eaten yet.”

~~

Their late lunch passed in a blur and the next thing Tim realized was that he was standing in the bathroom, looking at himself in the mirror. He’d tucked the ends of his shirt into his pants, but the loose fabric still billowed out slightly from his stomach. He’d rolled up the sleeves to his elbows and left the top two buttons undone. He knew that Jason was outside waiting for him, but he still couldn’t quite grasp the fact that the two of them were going out dancing.

He took a deep breath before pulling the bathroom door open. Jason lifted his head from where he was laying on the bed, already dressed in a pair of dark-wash capri jeans that hugged his legs in all the right places and a loose black tee.

“Ready?” he asked.

“Yeah,” Tim said, nodding.

Jason pushed himself out of bed and pocketed the key to their room. He walked over to Tim and guided him to the door. “Don’t worry, it’ll be fine. And if you’re really terrible, maybe I can convince whoever’s playing the music to put on the Cha Cha Slide. There’s no way you can mess that up, right?”

“Actually…”

“Christ. What happened?”

“While we were all cha cha-ing, I accidentally hit the person next to me in the nose with my hand. Blood got everywhere.”

Jason chuckled. “Are you serious right now?”

“Completely. I’m just that bad.”

“Well maybe we can fix that,” Jason said, throwing an arm around Tim’s shoulders as they entered the lobby and spotted Dick and Wally by the entrance.

“There you are! We’ve already got a car waiting,” Dick said, pulling Wally towards the front doors. Wally followed eagerly, staying close to his fiancé.

Jason rolled his eyes, but followed after them anyway.

~~

“Do you think you have an idea of how to salsa, now?” Jason asked.

Tim swallowed. He glanced to the side. Everyone else had swarmed the dance floor without a problem, all the couples picking up some set of dance moves easily and flowing together to the music.

“Hey.”

He looked up at Jason.

“Don’t worry about them. They’re not going to be paying any attention to you, okay?”

Tim let out a breath and nodded. “Okay.”

Jason gripped his hands loosely and slowly started going through the steps. Tim bit his lip and watched his feet, trying to keep up with where Jason was going to move next. He thought he was doing pretty well, until he moved forward straight into Jason’s chest when he was supposed to step back.

“Sorry. Look, maybe this wasn’t the best idea,” Tim said, weakly.

“It’s fine, Tim. You’re still learning.” He tapped the bottom of Tim’s chin and raised his eyes. “Keep your eyes up here, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Now, let’s try this again.” Jason stepped forward, guiding Tim backwards. “Try and swivel your hips like I told you.”

Tim tried and knew that he was failing epically when Jason chuckled under his breath. He flushed.

“Not the worst, I’ve seen. Here, like this.” Jason placed his hands on Tim’s hips and he was very, very aware of how large his hands were. They enveloped his slender waist easily and were firm in their movements as Jason guided him. Tim placed his hands on Jason’s shoulders, needing somewhere to put them as much as he needed the stability to not lose himself in the feeling of Jason’s hands.

Tim let himself be pulled along, keeping his own focus on Jason’s eyes as he stared right back. Dancing came easily this way. He didn’t have to focus, just let Jason guide him. Everything around them fell away and it was just like that afternoon when they were alone in their own little world. Jason ran his hands up Tim’s sides and his arms so that he could take Tim’s hands in his own.

He pushed them apart before pulling Tim back in and spinning him. He pulled him back in until his chest was up against Tim’s back. One of his hands settled back on Tim’s hip and the other splayed out across Tim’s stomach. Jason used his hips to guide Tim’s in the figure eight motion that he’d been trying to manage all night and Tim placed his hand over where Jason’s was on his stomach, needing something to draw support from.

Tim’s other hand came up to tangle in Jason’s hair and he turned his head, locking eyes with Jason once again. He felt hypnotized, like he couldn’t get enough oxygen, but couldn’t make himself take anything deeper than a shallow breath. Jason started to lean in, eyelids falling half-closed. Tim mimicked his movement, leaning in as well. Their lips met slowly, caressing, and testing, experimenting.

They grew in confidence, putting more feeling behind the kiss, stilling as they zeroed in on the feeling of their lips moving together. Tim tightened his hand in Jason’s hair and Jason pulled him impossibly closer. They broke apart, twin expressions of looking punch drunk as they searched each other’s faces. It was only a moment before they started to lean in again, seeking more.

“Okay, you two lovebirds. You’re not here to give everyone a show,” Dick said, pulling Wally close in a wild and loose dance.

Tim squeaked in alarm and pulled his hand from Jason’s hair to cover his mouth.

“Thanks for the reminder, now if you’ll excuse us,” Jason said, using his grip on him to pull them away from the other couple. He heard Dick snicker behind him and pulled Tim around to face him again. He cleared his throat. “Let’s try this again, shall we?”

Tim nodded, resigned to not looking Jason in the eye for the rest of the night.

~~

Jason groaned as a loud knocking sounded from the door. He blinked open his eyes and sighed at the fact that he would have to disentangle himself from Tim. Neither of them chose to mention the fact that they woke up in each other’s arms the past few mornings, but that didn’t mean that he liked the feeling any less.

“What is it?” Tim asked groggily as he was jostled in bed.

“Someone’s at the door. I’ll get it don’t worry,” he said, slipping from the bed.

“Okay,” Tim said, pulling the blanket tighter around himself and snuggling in his pillow.

Jason sighed at the loss of warmth and contact. He probably wouldn’t be able to get Tim back in his arms when he came back to bed. It was a shame really. He shuffled over to the door, covering his mouth in mid-yawn as he pulled it open. He squinted against the bright lights of the hallway.

“Finally!” Dick said, rolling his eyes.

“Dick? Why are you here so early?” Jason asked, leaning against the door frame. “The wedding isn’t until tomorrow.”

“You think I don’t know that? It’s my wedding. And I’m here because it’s bachelor party day!”

“And?” Jason asked.

Dick pouted. “And so we need to celebrate. You’re obviously coming with me since you’re my best man and Tim is going with Bart and Wally.”

“Why are we getting started so early?” Jason groaned. “You’re not planning on starting to drink yet, are you?”

Dick made a face. “No, of course not. We won’t be drinking until tonight. And we have to keep it tame because I will not be hungover for my wedding tomorrow.”

“There is nothing tame about you when you go out to drink. The last time we went drinking in a club you got up on one of the poles and started pole dancing.” Jason heard Tim snort from where he was on the bed and made a mental note to tell him the full story later. “What on Earth are you planning to do at your bachelor party?”

“Just have some fun, of course. And I looked fabulous on that pole.”

“I’m not saying you didn’t, I’m just saying that since we don’t want you hungover tomorrow, it’s probably not going to be what you’re used to. You should’ve planned your bachelor party for earlier this week.”

Dick shrugged. “It doesn’t matter now, does it? Just get dressed and come down to breakfast. I’d like to spend some alone time with you today, at least. I’ve barely seen you all week since you’ve been spending so much time with your boyfriend.”

“What did you expect when you had the both of us come?”

Dick shrugged. “Nothing really. I’ll see you later, okay? Try not to let too much of the day pass by,” he called over his shoulder as he walked down the hallway.

“I’m not leaving this hotel before noon so don’t come bothering me before then!” Jason sighed and closed the door behind him.

“So tell me about his pole dancing thing,” Tim spoke up from the bed. He pushed himself into a sitting position and leaned against the headboard while Jason walked over. Jason groaned and practically fell on top of the bed, throwing an arm around Tim’s waist and pulling him close as he laughed.

“Well, there’s not much to tell other than Dick got super drunk and Every Time We Touch by Cascada came on. Dick loves that song and absolutely flipped saying that he had to dance to it. So he stumbled onto the stage and started pole dancing. It was a little sloppy at first, but he found his rhythm and actually put on a pretty good performance. He’s basically an acrobat so he made it look so easy and he’s so fucking flexible, you have no idea. Everyone there lost it and started throwing money at him. I think we actually made back everything we spent on drinks because of it…”

Tim laughed. “Please tell me that you have videos.”

“Just who do you think you’re talking to, babe? Of course I have videos!” Jason sighed. “I can show them to you later. It’s not the best quality, but I was also drunk so I think it’s pretty forgivable.”

Tim rested his hand in Jason’s hair and brushed it through the sleep-mussed strands.

“You’ll have to record anything good that happens tonight.”

“Ditto for Wally.”

“Is he going to mind if I’m at his bachelor party?”

“You think he would mind?”

“Maybe…I know that I’m Bart’s friend, but I only met him earlier this week…”

“Wally’s a great guy. He’d want you to be included. Honestly, if he knew that you were foregoing it just to end up locked in here alone all day, he would be pissed and probably yell at me for doing something wrong.”

“I can’t imagine Wally being angry,” Tim mused.

“It doesn’t happen often, but when it does…watch out.” Jason yawned. “For now though, let’s just go back to sleep.”

Tim wiggled down from his sitting position so he was laying again and Jason pulled him closer even as sleep pulled him under.

~~

Jason sighed as Dick pulled him into a cab. Luckily, Wally and Bart had been waiting in the lobby when he and Tim had come down so he knew that Tim wouldn’t be waiting around alone. He didn’t know what they had planned for the day but he was a little wary as to where Dick was going to tug him along to.

“You don’t have to look so worried,” Dick said as they got settled into the back of the cab. “I don’t have anything crazy planned. I mainly just wanted to go out for lunch and have a few drinks.”

Jason arched an eyebrow. “Really? That’s all you have planned?”

“Well there might be a few other things in there…”

“That’s what I thought. As long as we don’t get arrested and we’re not too hungover for the wedding tomorrow, I guess it could be okay.”

The car stopped in front of a seemingly low-key restaurant, but Jason knew to never take the outward appearance of a building for granted. It would either end up being something higher class that Bruce would go to, or it would be something totally unexpected that Dick managed to find. Dick paid the driver and the two of them climbed from the backseat.

Jason was pleasantly surprised that the restaurant seemed to be something modest. It had a warm atmosphere and the pastel yellow walls made it comfortable and welcoming.

“Reservation for Grayson,” Dick said to the woman working.

She nodded and picked up two menus. “Right this way, please.”

The restaurant was decently filled since it was later than the usual lunch time when many people went out to eat and enjoy themselves. They were led to a table next to the windows that overlooked the back patio where more tables were filled with people who were enjoying the weather under the comfort of an umbrella. Jason took the leather-bound menu as it was held out to him and immediately opened to the first page.

The prices weren’t too outrageous, but it was still a place that Jason wouldn’t pick out for himself. He’d rather go to a smaller scale restaurant that didn’t specifically cater to a wealthier class. He flipped to the lunch specials and found a decent offering of sandwiches. He quickly decided and flipped the menu closed, setting it on the edge of the table. Dick too much longer to make his way through the pages, choosing to read through practically every dish that they offered before deciding on one.

Almost as soon as he closed his menu, their waiter appeared.

“What would you like to drink this afternoon?” he asked.

“Water for me,” Dick said.

“I’ll take a coke, please.”

“Very good. Are you ready to order now or would you like a few more minutes?” he followed up.

“We’re ready to order now,” Jason said. “I’ll have the house special sandwich with fries on the side.”

“And I’ll take the spaghetti Bolognese,” Dick supplied when the waiter turned to him.

“Wonderful. I’ll put this in and return shortly with your drinks.”

He walked away leaving the two of them alone.

“So…” Dick said, leaning back in his chair.

“So…?”

“You seem to be getting along really well with Tim.”

“Why wouldn’t we? We’re dating after all.”

“I was just surprised by last night is all. You two seemed pretty caught up in each other on the dance floor. I thought that I was going to have to pull you apart.”

“We were just dancing. It’s not like we were ripping each other’s clothes off to start an orgy in the middle of the floor.”

“No…but it sure looked like it when the two of you kissed.”

Jason’s stomach clenched as the memory flashed through his mind. They hadn’t talked about it the night before and he wondered briefly if he should’ve broached the topic that morning with Tim. He didn’t want him to think that it didn’t mean anything or was just a stupid kiss, because it wasn’t just a kiss. It was everything that Jason could’ve ever dreamed or imagined or wanted from him and he would’ve loved to feel those lips against his own again. He didn’t want Tim to think that he was just using him, because even though he’d agreed to come and pretend to be his boyfriend, Jason had already far surpassed the point of no return.

“It was a just a kiss. We were lost in the heat of the moment, that’s all.”

Their conversation paused as their waiter returned and set down two glasses on their table before walking away.

“Tim just didn’t seem all that comfortable at the beginning of the week and when I caught the two of you kissing that just seemed so different from when you got here.”

“He was just nervous,” Jason said, quickly scrambling to put together some sort of excuse. “He was nervous to come and meet all of you and didn’t want to make a bad impression so that kept him pretty on edge when we first got here. And then the whole thing happened with his project and his work and that was his focus.”

“That worked out though, didn’t it?” Dick asked, concern showing easily. He always cared for people. Maybe too much.

“Yeah. He got a call yesterday from his team saying that it was back on track, maybe even slightly ahead of schedule so there’s not going to be a problem. He’s still heading back before me though so that he can check everything and watch the progress as their deadline approaches and they prepare to present it.”

Dick hummed and fell silent as he took a drink from his glass.

“Have the two of you slept together yet?”

“Dick!”

“What?”

“Why would I tell you something like that?”

“Because I’m your brother and you seem pretty serious about Tim so I’m curious.” He acted so innocent, but Jason knew that his protective instincts were just manifesting themselves. He wasn’t sure if it was for his benefit or Tim’s at this point.

Jason looked out the window to preoccupy himself. “No. We haven’t slept with each other. That’s not something that’s been the focus of our relationship and we just haven’t gotten there yet.”

“I’m not saying that you should’ve or that you need to have sex, I was just curious. You care about him. A lot.”

“Yeah, I do.”

“Do you think you’re going to ask him to marry you?”

Jason looked at Dick, eyes wide. He opened and closed his mouth several times, trying to find something to say. “I…don’t know,” he answered honestly. “That feels like it’s so far away and I know that I’m certainly not ready to take that step, but…”

“But?”

“I don’t know. It’s a possibility. I could see the two of us living together. Especially after this past week, but marriage….I’m not sure.”

Dick shrugged. “Like you said, it’s off in the future, but you guys work really well together and you obviously care about each other a lot. Maybe you’ll be next to get married and you just don’t realize it yet.”

Jason swallowed thickly, feeling uneasy about the past week. He’d thought that it would be so easy and no big deal to lie to his family for a whole week about having a boyfriend. About Tim being his boyfriend. But he hadn’t expected all of it to go so well or to actually start liking his neighbor. It was unexpected, but not unwelcome. He just didn’t know how Tim felt about it all. He just hoped that after the next day, Tim wouldn’t up and disappear on him forever.

He didn’t want to pretend like everything that had happened meant nothing. He wanted to keep Tim in his life and if that meant just as a friend then that was fine. If it meant just having short interactions in the hallway then that was also fine. If it meant that he would have to kick a hole through the wall to get his attention then it was no big deal. He’d pay for the repair damages this time.

And now that his stomach was officially twisted into knots, the food that was set in front of him didn’t look appetizing at all. As Dick chattered on about the wedding and about Wally and where they were going on their upcoming honeymoon, he just wanted to go find Tim and drag him back to their hotel room. He wanted to return to those peaceful moments from that morning and pull him into bed and just lay together.

He wanted to make Tim laugh and smile. He wanted to be the reason that Tim got a soft smile on his face and looked fond. He wanted to make him happy and as much as he hated to be upset, he wanted to be the person that was able to comfort Tim when he most needed it. And maybe he was selfish. Maybe he was a complete idiot for thinking that he could get through the whole week without a problem, but for once, things were in perfect clarity for him and all the signs around him pointed at Tim.

Jason made a silent resolution that he wouldn’t let the wedding be the end of it. It couldn’t be.

Lunch passed in a blur. Jason let himself be tugged along by Dick afterwards. He thought they went shopping or walked around town, but he was honestly so preoccupied with thoughts of Tim that it didn’t even matter what they were doing. He was impressed with his ability to hold a conversation even when his mind was off with Tim wherever he was with Wally and Bart. But he’d developed the skill to handle Dick without paying attention to him early on.

He remembered that they went to a club. There were drinks and he had to stop Dick from going absolutely crazy. He thought that Dick might’ve still had a little more than he needed, but the wedding wasn’t until the afternoon so he would have a little more time to sleep it off if he needed to. Jason just knew that he’d done a pretty decent job since Dick didn’t start swinging from a chandelier or doing backflips off tables. He didn’t need them to get kicked out of a bar again because of that.

The alcohol had helped to quiet his swirling thoughts somewhat, but it still wasn’t enough to drown out his focus on Tim. He was more than happy when they were finally able to call it a night and he pulled Dick into a cab and told them the address of their hotel. Jason dropped Dick off with Wally first, glad that he was still awake and seemed pretty competent himself. He suspected that he hadn’t involved a lot of alcohol in his day.

He shuffled back to his room tiredly and sluggishly used the keycard to open the door, having to try two or three times before he was actually able to get it open. He left the light off and kicked off his shoes, too exhausted to take a shower or change or do anything else. He was consumed with his need to get in bed and get some sleep.

Tim was already laying under the covers on his side, the blanket over him rising and falling slowly as he breathed evenly in his sleep. Jason was once again hit with his wish that this wouldn’t end. And he resolved himself to the fact that if he was only going to get to sleep with him two more times, than he was going to make the most of it.

He pulled the blanket back gently and slid underneath it. He didn’t even care that he was still fully clothed and would regret it in the morning. His focus was on Tim and he wrapped his arm securely around his waist, pulling him to his chest before letting his head fall to the pillow and his eyes slide shut. Jason didn’t even stay awake long enough to notice that Tim relaxed against him. He was already asleep and if he had been awake, he would’ve worried and argued with himself over whether the action was subconscious or not.

~~

I can tell that he really cares about you. More than you probably know. He doesn’t have relationships often, but when he does, he truly cares about his partners and would do anything for them. Be gentle with his heart.

The words rang through Tim’s brain all night. He laid awake far past the time when Jason had come back and pulled him up against his chest. The action making him realize how much he couldn’t relax until Jason was there with him. Wally had been so earnest when he’d talked to him yesterday and he could barely put together a coherent sentence in response.

It’d stuck with him though. Made him think about all of his interactions with Jason over the past week. Their attitudes towards each other had certainly become more relaxed and they’d become more comfortable with each other. Tim had no doubt of his own growing feelings for him, but when he thought about Jason liking him…he just couldn’t picture it.

Jason was amazing and kind and funny and he knew just what to do to help Tim calm down and bring him back when he’d been freaking out earlier in the week. He could honestly have anyone in the world.

So Tim had hardly been able to sleep and was already awake when the sun broke over the horizon, sending its first rays through the sheer curtains that covered the windows that opened onto the balcony. He let himself enjoy the feeling of having Jason practically wrapped around him and prepared himself for a long day ahead of him. He would be on his own for the most part since Jason would have to help Dick and Bart would be with Wally. It didn’t bother him though. It would let him prepare for the inevitable when he went back to Gotham.

He lifted his head and looked over his shoulder at where Jason was still sleeping peacefully. Tim shifted experimentally to see if he might accidentally wake him. When Jason didn’t make any move Tim shifted again, slowly moving until he was on his back. He paused to reevaluate the situation and was satisfied when Jason didn’t move at all. He shifted again until he was on his side facing Jason.

This time, Jason made a low noise of what sounded like protest and his grip tightened on Tim, but he didn’t wake up. Tim let his head rest on the pillow next to Jason’s and brought his arms up between their chests, letting his hands rest lightly on where Jason’s elbow and bicep stuck out from underneath the pillow. He closed his eyes, content to wait until Jason woke up or someone came to wake them up. After yesterday, he never knew what was going to happen with Dick running around.

Tim didn’t end up falling asleep again, but he knew the exact moment when Jason woke up. He sucked in a breath through his noise and groaned, hand flexing where it was resting on his hip. Tim opened his eyes only to watch Jason blink the sleep from his own.

“Tim?” he asked.

“Morning.”

“How long have you been up?” he asked, fingers rubbing circles into his lower back.

Tim did his best to shrug from where he was laying down.

“Okay. Do you want to go downstairs and get some breakfast then? We might as well eat now before things get too crazy.”

“Things could already be crazy and we just don’t know because we haven’t stepped foot outside that door.”

“Shit, you’re right.”

Tim laughed quietly, earning a smile from Jason.

“Come on,” he said, patting Tim’s hip. “Let’s get dressed in something relaxed and go downstairs to get something to eat.”

Tim rolled away from Jason and pushed himself out of bed. He walked over to his suitcase and pulled out the last of the casual clothes that he packed. He pulled out the dress pants and dress shirt that he was going to wear to the wedding later and set them out on the bed. They weren’t too wrinkled, but he still might have to iron them later.

After a quick change of clothes, Jason and Tim headed down to the dining room for breakfast. The room was filled with everyone there for the wedding. Bruce and Dick were sitting at their own table and Tim saw Wally’s entire family there with him for the first time. Both groups were deep in conversation and Tim and Jason secured a table for themselves amidst it all.

“They must all be going over last minute details or whatever,” Jason said, setting down two cups of coffee as Tim set down their plates of food.

“Shouldn’t you be involved with that, then?” Tim asked as he took a sip of his coffee and sighed happily.

Jason shrugged. “Maybe. I’ll be dragged into everything the rest of the day and I’d much rather get a chance to at least enjoy breakfast with you before I’m whisked away to make sure that Dick stays calm.”

Tim tightened his grip on his mug. “You’ll see me at the reception.”

“True. And since there’s not a huge number of people in attendance, there’s not really a table for everyone in the wedding party. Although if there was, I’m sure that Dick would have seated you at it anyway.”

Tim shrugged. “I’m sure that I would’ve been fine either way.”

They tucked into their meal, but it wasn’t long before Dick rushed over to their table to try and pull Jason away.

“Dick, can’t I at least finish my breakfast, first?” he asked, shoving another forkful of eggs into his mouth even as Dick tugged on his arm to try and pull him from the chair. Tim had to hide his smile behind his second cup of coffee.

“You should’ve gotten up earlier, come on, we need to get going.”

“Dick, Wally is still sitting down and eating with his family. There’s plenty of time before the wedding is set to start. It’s not until this afternoon. Did you at least eat a decent breakfast that didn’t solely consist of cereal? I swear to God if B didn’t-“

“Yes, I ate more than cereal. Come on, Jason!”

Jason shoved one last bite of food in his mouth and downed the rest of his coffee before shoving his chair back. “Alright fine! I’m coming! I’ll see you later, Tim, okay?”

Tim snickered and nodded.

“My boyfriend doesn’t even show me any sympathy. What’s this world coming to?”

He waved as they walked off and mentally cheered that this meant he could have another cup of coffee without worrying about Jason judging him for it. Or taking his cup away.

Until Bruce sat down across from him.

“Mr. Wayne,” Tim spluttered, hastily swallowing his coffee and trying to hide his wince as it nearly burned his throat. “Is there something that I can do for you?”

“Relax, Tim. This isn’t anything formal. I simply want to talk to you as my son’s boyfriend, not as my employee,” he said, leaning against the back of the chair.

Tim tried to follow his suggestion, but knew that it would be impossible.

“I don’t know how much Jason has told you about my relationship with him and it’s not my business for you to tell me if he has or hasn’t discussed something. What I am saying is that we haven’t always been on the best of terms and since I can’t be there for him in the way that he always needs, I hope that you can support him when he does need it. Dick has been talking with me of some observations he’s made this week and he’s reassured me on more than one account that the two of you care for each other deeply and that he even has hopes the two of you will be next to get married.”

Tim felt his face heat up. Even if they weren’t pretending to date, there was no way that he was ready for that yet.

Bruce chuckled at his reaction. “No need to look so horrified. We’re not going to force you to get married. You and Jason are still young and it’s not something that everyone wants. But know this…if you hurt my son, things will become very…unpleasant.”

Tim swallowed thickly. “Yes, sir.”

“Good. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go and make sure that preparations are going according to plan today.”

Tim watched as he pushed his chair back and left the dining room without looking back. His breath left him in a rush when he finally walked through the glass doors and disappeared into the lobby. He could feel his heart beating painfully in his chest and felt like he’d just survived death. He looked around and found the West family still very much involved in their own conversation. Resigned to spending most of the day alone, Tim pushed his own chair back and headed for the elevator. He could at least try to get a bit of sleep after the night before.

Tim spent most of the day enjoying the sunshine on the balcony of his and Jason’s room. He was pretty certain that he dozed off once or twice, but it left him feeling far more awake and alert than he’d been earlier and he knew that he’d probably need the added energy to make it through the reception after the wedding.

His phone buzzed on the table next to him. At first he thought that it was the alarm that he set for when he needed to get up and change, but it was just a text from Jason.

Jason: A little over an hour until the wedding. You better not miss it.

Tim grinned.

Tim: You know what, I think I’ll just stay up here on the balcony and work on my tan. I’m sure that I’ll be able to see the proceedings from up here anyway.

Jason: I swear to God, Tim. I will come up there and drag you down to the beach if I have to.

Tim: Is that a threat?

Jason: No. It’s a promise. Don’t test me because I am more than willing to come up there right now.

Tim: That’s not a good idea, Jason. Dick might need you.

Jason: Dick’s fine. But you won’t be.

Tim laughed and propped his feet up on the railing in front of him.

Tim: Ooooh scary. I’m shaking.

Jason: I’m so disappointed babe. If it’s this easy to sneak up on you…

Tim shivered and forced himself to not look over his shoulder. There was no way that Jason could be behind him. He would’ve heard the door open. He was alone.

Tim: Cut the bullshit. There’s no way you’re behind me.

Jason: You sure about that?

He turned his head an inch, trying to see out of his periphery. He knew that Jason wasn’t behind him. There was no way, but now that he’d gotten him on edge he couldn’t stop thinking about it. Taking a deep breath, Tim snapped his head around…and faced an empty room. He sagged back in his chair, letting out the breath that he’d been holding.

Tim: You’re an ass

Jason: But I’m your ass

Tim swallowed, chest tightening at the words. He wished, he really did. He gripped his phone tightly in his hand and looked out over the ocean, losing himself in his thoughts.

He jumped when he felt his phone vibrate in his hand, thinking that no time had passed, but was shocked to see that it had actually been several minutes since Jason’s last text.

Jason: Hey…where’d you go?

Tim: Sorry, just got a little distracted, that’s all.

Jason: You sure?

Tim: Positive

Jason: Okay, then you better get ready for the wedding. Less than an hour until we start and it’s best if you get changed and get down to your seat with enough time. Dick’ll probably complain to me if you show up at the last minute.

Tim: Yeah, that’s a good idea. I’ll see you down there, then.

Tim pushed himself from his chair and walked back into the bedroom. He set his phone down on the table and walked over to where he’d put his dress pants and dress shirt earlier. He smoothed his hands over the fabric, pleased that all of the wrinkles had fallen away since he’d laid it out. He pulled his shirt off and threw it on top of his suitcase before sliding is arms through the loose fabric of his shirt. It wasn’t the nicest button up that he owned, he saved those for work, but it was still fairly good quality and thought that it was fitting to have something slightly more casual at a beach wedding.

He pushed off the shorts that he was wearing and picked up the black dress pants that he’d brought, sliding his legs into them and tucking his powder blue shirt into the waistband. Tim picked up the dark blue tie that he’d brought with him and looped it around his neck, forming the knot easily after so many years of practice.

He walked over to the full-length mirror that was hanging in their room to look over his appearance. He thought all the colors went well together, but thought that he’d look out of place in some sense. He let his eyes rove over where his sleeves came to be buttoned around his wrists. He reached for the buttons and hesitated, wondering if he was going to be pushing his luck with a move like this. He didn’t want to be too casual at a wedding. But this was also Dick’s wedding and it was on a beach so in his mind it made sense.

Tim undid the buttons quickly before he could stop himself and then rolled the sleeves up to his elbows. He smiled when he looked back in the mirror, turning slightly to admire how the fabric of his shirt lay over his stomach and hugged his sides in just the slightest way.

“Perfect.”

His phone vibrated again where it was on the table and he walked over to see what it was now.

Jason: Where are you? The Wests all just got down to the lobby.

Tim: Calm down, Jay. I just finished getting dressed and I’ll be down in a minute. I still have 30 min before it’s set to start anyway.

He slipped his phone into his pocket and grabbed the pair of casual black shoes he’d brought for the occasion, not wanting to get his nice dress shoes covered or filled with sand. He slipped the room key in his pocket and walked out, heading for the elevator and the wedding.

Jason had been right that the Wests were already seated outside on the beach. There was one last seat waiting for him in the back next to Bart and he was glad that he would get to be next to a familiar face.

“Hey Bart,” Tim said as he sat down.

“’Sup Tim! Oh wow, Jason’s going to love that.”

Tim looked down at himself. “What? It’s not bad is it?”

“No! No, not at all. It looks really good. Wait until you see him. I caught a glimpse earlier when he was popping out of the room that Dick was in to grab something or other and I just gotta say that the people who dressed him did a great job.”

“Uhhh…”

“Oh look, they must be getting ready to start soon,” Bart said, turning in his chair.

Tim looked over his shoulder, expecting Dick or Wally to be coming down the stairs but instead found Jason stepping lightly onto the sand. Tim’s breath caught in his throat, his mouth going dry at the image in front of him. Jason was wearing black dress pants, a deep red button up and a black vest. Like Tim, the sleeves of his shirt were rolled up to the elbows. He smiled when he caught sight of Tim and made a beeline for him, offering an easy smile.

“Hey Tim. Wow, you look great,” he said, placing a hand between Tim’s shoulder blades.

Tim felt his face heat up at the compliment. “Thanks, uh, so do you. Is Dick currently freaking out or is Dick currently freaking out?”

“He’s actually fine at this moment and is getting ready to come down. He was more excited than freaking out earlier. I had to stop him from doing backflips off a chair multiple times and even had to pull him back into the room because he really wanted to swing from a chandelier. I told him that it wouldn’t hold his weight, but apparently some of his acrobat friends have done it before and told him that he had to try it at least once in his life.”

Tim made a face.

“Yeah, that was my reaction exactly. I didn’t want to have to tell Wally that Dick fucking broke his leg or some shit trying this. I told him he had free reign until the reception because then it won’t be my problem anymore. It’ll be Wally’s problem.”

Tim laughed. “I guess that’s the good thing about being married. Everyone else doesn’t have to take responsibility for you anymore.”

Jason grinned. “You got that right. Oh, here they come, I better go get in position. Meet you at the reception, babe,” he said, planting a quick kiss on Tim’s cheek before moving away to the area in front of the seats.

Tim’s eyes widened and he shifted in his seat, hand moving to push a lock of hair behind his ear, feeling more than a little self-conscious.

“Ooh, someone’s blushing,” Bart whispered next to him.

“Shut up,” Tim hissed.

The officiate was the first person to walk down the aisle between the chairs. When he took his place everyone stood and turned to watch as Wally and Dick passed between the rows of chairs holding hands. Tim was confused as to why Bruce wasn’t there until he noticed him in the front row. He just hadn’t seen him among everyone else.

“Family, friends,” the officiate began as everyone resumed their seats, “we are gathered here today to celebrate the joining of Wallace West and Richard Grayson in a lifelong union.”

As he continued, Tim took in Dick and Wally, they were facing each other and holding their joined hands between them. Wally was smiling easily and Dick was biting his lip, excitement evident and gaze unwavering from Wally’s. Jason was standing off to the side, but there was no mistaking the smile that he wore as well. As much as Tim had seen the two of them bicker over the past week and poke fun and make jabs, they were still brothers and still cared a great deal for each other.

It shouldn’t have surprised Tim that the two of them would have chosen to write their own vows, but they did. Even if the statements weren’t the most artistic or elegant, the meaning behind them was clear and the love they held for each other shone through. He heard a stifled sniffling coming from someone in front of him and suspected that it was Wally’s mother.

“Wallace West and Richard Grayson, I know pronounce you husband and husband. You may kiss the groom.”

Wally pulled Dick to him and brought their lips together. Dick freed one of his hands and tangled it in Wally’s bright red hair. Tim applauded with everyone else even as Bart let loose an ear-piercing whistle next to him. He laughed and when he looked up again, caught Jason watching him.

The newlyweds finally broke apart, grinning and headed back up the aisle to lead everyone else to the reception. Tim hung back to let the large family go first since they seemed eager to congratulate the couple. Jason caught up to him as they exited the lobby and headed down the hall towards the event room.

“Hey,” he said.

“Hey,” Tim said. “That was a lot more low-key than I was expecting.”

Jason snorted. “We haven’t gotten to the reception yet.”

“Should I save myself and flee now?”

“Nope,” Jason said, snaking an arm around his waist. “If I have to endure this, so do you.”

The double doors had been propped open for the reception. The lighting was muted to a dim blue and white strips of cloth had been pinned from the walls to the center of the ceiling. It had the effect of resembling a circus tent, which was all too fitting for someone like Dick. There were few tables set up and decorated and a large area of space was left free to dance in, a DJ having already started her set.

The food was set up in a buffet style and a large cake was decorated on a separate table, waiting to be cut. One of the members of the hotel staff was behind the bar serving drinks, one of which Dick was halfway through, much to Tim’s amusement.

“Want to get something to eat?” Jason asked.

“Sure. You grab the food and I’ll get the drinks?”

“You got it.”

They split off in different directions, the muted chatter offered nice background noise and it seemed everyone else had similar ideas of helping themselves to the food behind Jason.

Drinks were had quickly, food was eaten, and the cake was cut. Everyone circled the dance floor as Wally and Dick had their first dance. Mr. and Mrs. West were the first to join them and it was only a moment later when Jason was pulling Tim onto the dance floor.

“Jason…you know I can’t dance,” Tim said voice hesitant and nervous.

“Don’t worry about it,” he said, wrapping and arm around Tim’s waist and taking one of Tim’s hands in his other. “You’ll be fine. Just follow my lead. I promise that this won’t get as complicated as the other night when we tried to salsa.”

“Oh-okay,” Tim said, gripping tightly to Jason’s hand and placing his other one on Jason’s shoulder as memories of the kiss they’d shared flashed through his mind. He swallowed, trying to push them from his head, but failing miserably.

“Relax, Tim,” Jason said, pulling him closer.

Tim took a breath and looked up, locking eyes with Jason who smiled at him. He smiled back and let himself get pulled around the dance floor. They stayed close together and he found that Jason was right in that the steps weren’t quite as complicated, not that Tim was any better at executing them because of it. Eventually, they just settled for swaying slowly back and forth as the song neared its end.

The music took a turn from there and became something far more upbeat. Jason immediately grinned at the change in tempo and took both of Tim’s hands in his. He pushed them apart first before pulling Tim back in and spinning him quickly.

“Jason wha-“ he began, certain that he was going to end up tripping over both his feet.

“Relax, Tim.”

“You seem to be telling me that an awful lot.”

“Well maybe you could stand to actually listen to it and just enjoy the ride. I won’t let you get hurt, I promise,” he said, pulling Tim in again and then dipping him towards the floor while keeping their gazes locked.

“I’m just not very good at dancing.”

“Nah, Tim. You’re doing great, okay? Just trust me a little bit.”

Tim nodded once and Jason pulled him back up. The music changed back to something slower and Jason returned them to a more formal dance position.

“Time for the bouquet toss!”

Jason and Tim paused in their dancing looking over to where Dick was waving a bouquet of flowers over his head excitedly.

“Bouquet? But you didn’t have one during the ceremony,” Tim spoke up.

Dick shrugged. “So? I still want to do it. Now come on Tim join everyone else!”

“Why me?” he asked, affronted.

“Come on, Tim,” Bart said, racing over to him and pulling him to join the group of women standing around Dick.

“I don’t see why I-“

“Just let him have this, please.”

Dick turned around with more than enough flair and bent his knees before launching the fake flowers over his head. Everyone in front of him eagerly outstretched their hands in the hopes of catching it.

“Bart,” Tim said, putting his hands in front of him in a type of pleading gesture, “I really don’t see-“

A blur of red passed in front of his face and the next thing that Tim was looking at was the bouquet that had somehow just landed in his arms.

“Uhh…”

There was a chorus of cheers and awes around him, both in congratulations and disappointment.

“Nice catch, Tim,” Jason said, walking over to join him and inspect the flowers that had now taken residence in his arms.

“I guess this means that you and Jason are going to be the next to get married!” Dick cheered as Wally wrapped his arms around his waist from behind and perched his chin on his shoulder.

“Huh?!” Tim looked between the cheering group and Jason’s slightly shocked face, feeling a blush spreading over his own cheeks.

He tried to stop his brain before it got started, he really did, but once the thought had been introduced every part of his imagination fixated on it. He wondered if Jason would wear something similar to what he wore today. The deep red did suit him. Would Tim wear a matching color? Or would he choose something else? Would they write their own vows or not? Jason probably would. He was good with words and could be sappy and romantic when he wanted to be and he liked to read. That already gave him an advantage over Tim.

Would their wedding be small like this one with only a few close friends and family or would it be larger? Would Tim even have anyone else to invite besides his small group of friends anyway? Would they do a destination wedding or would they hold it in a church in Gotham? Would they move into Jason’s apartment? Or Tim’s?

Tim could imagine it honestly. Them sharing a bed, tangled together under the sheets. Jason trying to confiscate his coffee machine, but Tim ultimately winning out. Them cuddling on the couch watching a show or a movie and maybe ordering pizza. Would they get a dog? Tim had thought about it before but knew that it wasn’t something that he would ever be able to handle on his own.

“Tim? You okay?” Jason asked, forcefully pulling him back to the present. Everyone that had been around him had moved off to either return to their dancing or grab more drinks or cake. He forced himself to relax, forced his hands to loosen their death grip on the flowers.

“Uh, yeah. I think I’m going to grab another slice of cake, you want one?” he asked, trying to brush off his very obvious reaction to the mention of the two of them getting married.

“Sure, I’ll come with you.”

Tim nodded and turned towards the table. He barely stopped himself from flinching when Jason’s palm came to rest on his lower back, sure and strong where it was supporting him. He refused to read into it more than what was there. He was just concerned because Tim had zoned out. It didn’t mean anything. And that was the thought that hurt most of all.

Tim kept telling himself for the rest of the night to let it go. To just leave the bouquet in the event room or throw it out because holding onto it and caressing the roses and admiring their color was only going to make the heartbreak worse for him. There was no denying his feelings anymore. He’d accepted them earlier that week after things kept happening with Jason and it just seemed that he couldn’t stop himself from noticing him.

It was why he knew that he was going to have to leave sooner than he thought. He had to get out of the hotel and get away from Jason before he did something that would ruin it all and that was the last thing that he wanted. Jason had trusted him to play his fake boyfriend and he’d done that. He’d gotten through the wedding and now he needed to leave.

He let Jason take his shower first. It gave him more time to wallow in self-loathing and stare at the flowers that he was still holding. He couldn’t seem to let them go because they represented so many possibilities and hopes that were going to be lost and there was nothing that Tim could do about it. He knew that Jason had been watching him and had probably noticed that he hadn’t been able to put the flowers down, but he thankfully hadn’t questioned him about it. It saved him from making up some kind of lie.

So when Jason walked out of the bathroom and crawled under the covers to go to sleep, Tim set the flowers aside and went to quietly rifle through his bag. He discreetly packed up all the clothes that had gotten taken out and he gathered his pajamas and his phone in his arms before slipping into the bathroom and locking the door behind him. He turned on the shower and stripped down to his boxer briefs before making himself at home on top of the toilet seat lid.

Tim opened the web browser on his phone and immediately began to search for plane tickets back to Gotham for the next morning. Since it was only a domestic flight he was lucky and there was one before 7am. He booked the ticket quickly, paying with the credit card that he’d memorized the information for long ago in case he ever got into situations where he needed to make a quick purchase and couldn’t afford to take it out of his wallet.

He sighed and placed his phone down gently on the counter. It was a relief really. He’d leave in the middle of the night and grab a cab to the airport and before Jason was even awake he’d be back in Gotham and headed back to his apartment where he would wait for the inevitable breakdown to hit. Because as much as he was doing this to save the both of them from any awkwardness, he knew that he’d become too attached and would have to suffer through the crash and burn alone.

Bracing himself against the oncoming pain, and finding some satisfaction that he would be the only one hurt as a result of his feelings and his decision, Tim stripped out of his boxer briefs and stepped into the shower. Hopefully the scalding hot water would be enough to wash away his shame and self-loathing.

~~

Jason woke slowly, trying to bury himself in the blanket that had become bunched around himself and keep his head in the softness of the pillow. He didn’t want to be up yet. Yesterday had been long and the reception had been fun and he just wanted to lay in bed with Tim and not worry about anyone else or the fact that Tim would have to go back to Gotham that afternoon while he spent another day in Florida with his family.

Sighing and determined to get in as much cuddling time with Tim as he could, he reached blindly towards the other side of the bed to draw him into his arms. Waking up yesterday had been so incredible. He’d never experienced something as great as having Tim practically buried in his chest. And then when he’d seen Tim at the wedding… He’d looked amazing and Jason wanted nothing more than to keep him for himself. He’d wondered if the kiss that he’d planted on his cheek had been a little much since they hadn’t done that type of PDA earlier in the week, except for when they went dancing, but Tim had kept it together regardless, even if he had blushed a little bit.

Jason’s brow furrowed. He moved his hand back and forth over the sheet on Tim’s side of the bed. The blanket had been pulled back and the mattress was cold, lacking any residual body heat.

“Tim?” he asked, cracking his eyes open. His side of the bed was indeed empty and he pushed himself into a sitting position, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. “Tim?”

He didn’t hear the water running in the bathroom but that didn’t mean that Tim wasn’t in there. Jason hopped out of bed and walked around the corner to look in the bathroom, becoming further confused when he found the door open and the light off.

“Where is he?” He looked behind him, thinking that he might’ve slipped onto the balcony but didn’t see him there either, it was only when he glanced down to where he’d left his bag that the full impact of what must’ve happened hit him.

“He…left?”

Jason felt like his world had just been wildly tilted on its side. Tim’s flight hadn’t been scheduled until later that afternoon, so why had he already left? Was he that desperate to get away from Jason? Did he hate having to pretend to be his boyfriend that much? He sat down heavily on the edge of the bed and sagged forward, gaze trained on the floor.

He’d thought that Tim had enjoyed himself. And they’d become rather comfortable around each other. He was sure that if Tim had gotten another panicked phone call and that’s why he left earlier, Jason would have heard him and would’ve woken up. He wasn’t ready to give up his time with Tim yet.

He knew that it was coming and knew that he’d become far too attached to him since they’d been complete strangers at the start of the week, but he didn’t think that they’d just completely disappear from each other’s lives. He hadn’t even given much thought as to what would happen once the week came to a close or where it would put them.

“I guess I know now,” he sighed.

Jason looked over his shoulder at where Tim had slept next to him for the past seven days. His eyes caught sight of the bright red roses that were still laying on the bedside table. He got up and walked around the bed, picking the bouquet up to hold in his hands and turn it this way and that. He’d been surprised the night before by how attached Tim had gotten to the flowers.

After he’d somehow caught them, he hadn’t put them down, keeping them next to him on the table or fiddling with them in his lap. It was one of the reasons why Jason hadn’t asked him to dance again because he didn’t want to try and pull Tim away from the focus that he’d held for them. He’d wondered what the real reason was as to why he’d kept them with him. It was a meaningless arrangement of flowers. Tim had only gotten them because Dick insisted on having the chance to complete the tradition of throwing the bouquet. He loved doing cheesy things like that which were supposed to determine who the next person to get married was going to be.

Jason froze, the bouquet of flowers falling from his hands to land on the floor between his feet as a revelation slammed through him. He stood abruptly and began to pace across the carpeted floor.

“There’s no way. He’d never have feelings for me, but what if…”

Right after Dick had made a comment about them being the next couple getting married, Tim had gone very still. At the time, Jason had just assumed that it was because he was embarrassed and knew that it wasn’t going to happen because they were just there pretending and it was all a charade. But if Tim actually liked him and had inadvertently gotten fixated on the idea once it was brought up…

It would also explain why Tim hadn’t been able to put the flowers down the rest of the night. The thought had stayed with him and maybe, just maybe, he’d gotten as attached to Jason as Jason had gotten to Tim.

A beat passed before he was scrambling into action. He nearly dived across the bed in order to reach where he’d left his phone. He immediately searched for flights back to Gotham and found that the next one was in just over two hours. It was enough time. He could make it. He could make it and get back to Tim because that’s where he needed to be. Where he wanted to be.

Jason fumbled with his wallet as he hastily pulled it from his suitcase and pulled out his credit card. He booked the ticket so that he wouldn’t have to take the time to do it later and left his wallet and phone on the table to grab on his way out. He dug through the clothes in his suitcase, throwing things that he wouldn’t wear aside until he found something clean to put on.

He changed into the jeans and tee quickly before shoving his feet into his sneakers and grabbing his wallet and phone. He practically sprinted from the room and straight into Dick who was walking down the hallway.

“Jason!” Dick exclaimed, stumbling backwards. “What’s wrong? Is everything okay?

“I have to go. I have to get back to Gotham.” He turned towards the elevators, walking purposefully down the hallway, his focus zeroed in on getting to the airport as quickly as possible.

“Go back to Gotham? Why? What happened? And where’s Tim?”

Jason was grateful that the elevator doors opened almost immediately after he’d called for it and he could step inside. Dick followed him quickly.

“Tim left for Gotham this morning without telling me. I have to go to him.”

“But…I thought that was the plan? You told us that he was going to have to leave early today to get back because of his project deadline that was coming up.”

Jason slipped through the doors as soon as they started to open and stalked across the lobby floor. Dick rushed to catch up and grabbed ahold of his arm to stop him.

“His plane wasn’t scheduled to leave until this afternoon. He left without telling me and I have to go to him. I can’t let him keep thinking whatever’s going through his head about this whole situation.”

“Jason, you’re not making any sense. Maybe you should just calm down and wait a minute and you can try and explain what’s going on. What is Tim thinking that you’re so worried about?”

“You don’t understand,” Jason said, obviously frustrated.

“Maybe because you’re not actually telling me anything and refuse to explain the situation to me,” Dick huffed.

Jason turned to face Dick and pressed the hotel card for their room into his hand. “Have Bruce bring my suitcase back. I can’t let it end like this, Dick. I can’t let him go.”

Dick stared into Jason’s eyes, taking in his determined expression before nodding once. “Go get him.” Jason tried to walk away but Dick stopped him, earning a confused look from Jason. “And if this is all your fault, you better tell Tim just how much you care about him and how much you love him. Because I can see that you do and I’m sure that he’d appreciate hearing it a little more often.”

“Don’t worry, that’s exactly what I was planning on doing.”

Dick nodded and let his hand go and Jason rushed from the lobby. As soon as he passed through the sliding glass doors, Jason made a beeline for the row of taxis that were waiting in front of the hotel. He jumped into the first one and hurriedly instructed the driver to get to the airport.

The ride seemed like it took forever, leaving Jason to bite his nails and bounce his leg in the backseat.

“That’ll be $12.50,” the driver said as they pulled in front of the entrance to the airport.

“Keep the change,” Jason said, throwing a ten dollar bill and a five dollar bill at him. He shoved open the car door and sprinted inside. He was thankful that there was no line at the ticket counter as he pulled his license from his pocket and handed it to the worker. “Ticket for Jason Todd.”

She nodded at him, a little startled by his strong demands and impatience. She put in a few bits of information on the computer in front of him and waited as the boarding pass was printed. “Here you are…”

“Thanks!” Jason said, not waiting to listen to what else she had to say as he rushed off towards security.

He managed to calm himself down as he waited in line to go through the body scanner-mainly because he didn’t want to be pulled aside or detained. People weren’t normally this anxious when they were waiting to get on their flights and he didn’t want to have to explain everything about needing to get back to Gotham to confess to the guy that he liked after the misunderstanding that the two of them had over the past week.

Jason made a quick stop at one of the airport shops and grabbed himself some breakfast now that his stomach was making itself known. Once he got through eating and made it to his gate, the attendant was making the announcement that they were starting the boarding process. He was one of the last people because he’d just purchased his ticket a couple of hours before, but none of that mattered to him. What mattered was getting on his plane and getting back to Tim.

He thought that he’d be able to relax once they were off the ground, but it only made him painfully aware that he now had to wait a few hours before he could do anything. He was stuck in the air, unable to do anything or move around very much. He had no way to contact Tim and would be left at the mercy of his brain and what types of scenarios that it chose to dredge up for him and torture him with. He could only hope that when he got back to Gotham, Tim would be there at his apartment.

Jason’s flight from the airport to his apartment complex was almost as dramatic as his rush through the Florida airport. His anxiousness was probably far worse than it had been at the beginning of the day because he was close now. He was close to Tim and it wouldn’t be long before he’d be seeing him again and could explain everything to him.

He sprinted up the stairs of their building, not even considering taking the elevator and knocked loudly on Tim’s door as soon as he reached it. Instead of thinking that Tim might not be home, he was concerned with whether or not he should’ve brought something for Tim. He could’ve brought chocolates or flowers or even the bouquet from the night before that Tim hadn’t been able to put down. Maybe he could text Dick later and tell him to bring that back with his bag. Tim would probably hate him for it, but at that moment he didn’t care.

After several painful moments, the door was pulled open. Tim was staring towards the floor and he raised his eyes slowly until they settled on Jason’s face and widened, mouth dropping open. Jason felt his heart clench painfully in his chest at the sight of Tim’s red eyes. He had tears clinging to his eyelashes and was sniffling. Jason wondered how long he’d been crying and hated that he was the one who’d done this to him. He wanted to be the one to make Tim happy. He wanted to make Tim laugh and smile, not cry.

“Jason!” Tim squeaked. He stepped back, aiming to close the door on him, but Jason had already come this far and he wasn’t about to let him get away. He pushed through the door and shut it behind him.

Tim’s eyes were trained on the ground as he refused to look at him.

“Tim…” Jason said softly. He watched Tim shut his eyes against the words and his hands balled into fists at his sides, almost as though he was trying to block all of this out. Maybe he thought that this wasn’t really happening, or maybe he didn’t want to read into it more than what he thought was actually there.

Jason sighed and walked forward slowly, giving Tim enough time to walk away if he wanted to. He wouldn’t push him, but he did want to tell Tim exactly how he felt. He gently cupped Tim’s face in both of his hands and turned it so that he was looking at him. Fresh tears welled at the corners of his eyes and Jason hated that this was probably his fault for not going to Tim sooner.

“Tim…” he said again. “I don’t know if a week is enough time for me to have fallen in love with you…”

Tim’s eyes immediately widened at the words.

“But I can sure as hell say that I stopped pretending to have feelings for you sometime during this past week. You’ve come to mean so much to me and I’m not about to let you go after you wormed your way into my heart, you ass.”

Tim giggled. It was a little wet and it caused the tears that had collected around the edges of his eyes to spill, but it was a happy laugh and that’s exactly what Jason had been wanting. Tentatively, Tim reached out and grasped Jason’s shirt, twisting the fabric in his fist.

“I’m going to kiss you now, okay?” he asked, ducking his head so that his breath ghosted over Tim’s lips as he breathed every word.

“Okay,” Tim answered, eyelids already dropping in anticipation.

Jason closed the gap between them, bringing their lips together softly. It was so different from the intense and practically filthy kiss they’d shared days ago, but it was perfect. It held no reservations and signaled the beginning of something new. Tim sighed when Jason pulled back. He was smiling now and looked far less upset than before.

“Wait a minute…what are you doing back in Gotham?!” Tim asked, pulling back to look at Jason’s face.

“It took you this long to actually ask me that question?” Jason chuckled.

“Forgive me, I was trying to figure out if you were really here or not or if I was just imagining things.”

“Come on,” Jason said, tangling their fingers together. “Let’s go sit on the couch and I can tell you what happened.”

Jason leaned up against the arm of the couch and made himself comfortable before pulling Tim down to rest between his legs, head propped up on his chest. He looped his arms loosely around Tim’s waist before he started to talk.

“When I woke up this morning and found out that you were gone I was really confused. I thought that you’d left early because you didn’t want to have to hang around and pretend anymore and that hurt. A lot.”

He noticed Tim wince and squeezed him closer to know that it was okay.

“But then I got to thinking and remembered how focused you were the night before with the bouquet. I didn’t want to believe it at first, but it gave me hope that you just might share my feelings. So I booked the next flight to Gotham and raced to the airport, not even bothering to bring my suitcase with me. And then I showed up here.”

“Oh,” Tim said, voice small. “I left because I thought that there was no way that you could feel the same way,” he said, curling further into Jason’s chest. “I thought that I’d just have to deal with all of my feelings myself and rather than make things awkward by trying to explain my feelings to you, I resigned myself to coming back to Gotham and dealing with this myself.”

“Looks like we’re both pretty bad at communicating,” Jason said. “I guess we’ll have to work on that.”

“Only if we can work on it together,” Tim said, tipping his head back to look up at him.

“Absolutely.” Jason dipped his head and captured Tim’s lips in another kiss. He felt his phone vibrate in his pocket and groaned as he had to wiggle around to try and get it out. He ended up jostling Tim a couple of times in the process, but that only made him laugh.

Tim closed his eyes and sighed as Jason read over the new text that he’d gotten.

Dick: How’d it go? Is everything fixed between you and Tim?

Jason glanced down at where Tim’s head was pillowed on his chest, eyes closed, and soft smile gracing his lips. It brought a smile to his own face and caused warmth to bloom in his chest.

Jason: Yeah. Everything’s great. Just do me one favor, when you get my bag packed, make sure to grab the bouquet from the floor and bring it back too. I think Tim would like to keep it.

[lazytacomoon-blog]

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"quotes on rental insurance

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quotes on rental insurance

quotes on rental insurance

""What type of Life Insurance is best for my husband and I? (We just purchased a home, we are both 23 years old)""

My husband and I are both 23 years old and we just purchased a home. We have been under pressure from our Insurance Agent and our Mortgage broker to obtain Life Insurance in case something happens to one of us. We would like to have coverage in case something happens. I know the importance of Life Insurance, as my mom was killed in a car accident when she was only 38. So, we want to be protected, and we want our house to be safe. We are pretty much clueless when it comes to Insurance policies. I ALREADY LOOKED UP THE INFO ON WIKIPEDIA, SO PLEASE DON'T GIVE ME MORE OF THAT. I want opinions on what the best kind of Life Insurance is for us. Term (but if it is a 30 year term, does that mean when we are for example 54 and something happens after the 30 years, we aren't covered???) or Permanant (whole life, and others). We didn't like the decreasing term policy our agent showed us. We have gotten 2 quotes for Term Life. Help us make an informed decision!!! Please!""

Indiana resident buy car insurance in Chicago?

I go to college in Indiana and hold an Indiana license. I'm working in Chicago this summer and thinking about buying an affordable used car here since there are way more options in the city. I'll go back to Indiana in the fall and would like to register the car as an Indiana one. Since I can't drive the car without an insurance, I wonder if I can buy insurance here in Chicago and still register it as an Indiana car? Thanks a lot.""

Car Insurance?

My daughter is going to be 17 soon and is looking to buy a small car, ie corsa. Does anyone know the cheapest place to get car insurance for young drivers. She would prefer to have the insurance in her own name to build up no claims discount.""

Will my insurance go up after a carpool violation?

I was driving on the carpool lane today(I wasn't suppose to because carpool says 3 or more persons and it was me and my sister only), and a CHP saw me, so he pulled me and asked for my license, registration and insurance. Then he asked me why I was in the carpool lane, and I said that a car cut me off so I had to avoid coalition and so I went into the carpool lane...not sure if this was a smart answer, but anyway he gave me the ticket and said that I will receive something in the mail. My question is, I know i'm going to get a point for this violation, but will me insurance rate go up? how will this affect me?""

Car insurance!?

im looking to get a car and insurance on my own is outragous. the question is my mum has her own car with her policy with NIS. on direct line i want my mum to be the main policy holder with me as an additional driver. is this possible for my mum to have 2 policies on 2 different cars?

What/how does car insurance work?

as you may have gathered i am not the smartest person to know how car insurance work! im learnin how to drive soon and i might get a car of my own so i can practice in my spare time and i guess ill be insured in that car i know its an absolute must to have car insurance and i think you have to pay taxes? how do they all work? what does insurance cover/not cover? i've been told if i get into an accident, i wouldnt have to pay for any of the damage cuz insurance covers it all BUT you have to buy insurance? slightly confused by that... plz explain to me in a very clear, concise manner as if youre talkin to a 5 year old child how car insurance work. for reference how much insurance costs, im a 20 year old female""

Does auto insurance.... ?

if lets say i hit a car with my car and the other guy claims the accident does the my auto insurance investigate the accident at all or do they just fix the car without asking questions??? im comfused

What's the average cost of health AND dental insurance per month for.....?

....a 44 year old man. I am a non-smoker, and in good shape. I have no medical conditions, now or ever.""

Car accident without insurance?

My 16 year old son had an accident in his 2013 Lexus ES350 a few weeks ago. I have been insured with Geico, however 2 days before the accident my coverage lapsed (I had to switch ...show more""

Does anyone know of any dependable and affordable health insurance for young adults?

Does anyone know of any dependable and affordable health insurance for young adults?

How much extra on car insurance does an amp cost? Or dyou not pay any extra?

I treid all the insurance comparison websites and none showed amps in the modification part. I'm 17 and pay over 1000 pound for insurance already and don't want the price to go up much. Any help appreciated :)

Is it a legal requirement to carry your car insurance documentation at all times?

Okay, this is the second time i've asked a question in the last two days but this forum is really interesting and gets me thinking. While I was at University, I was driving innocently along when I realized I didn't have my lights on. At that PRECISE MOMENT, I saw blue flashing lights behind me and the police pulled me over. He asked ''Do you know why I pulled you over?'' and I said 'Yes sorry! I didn't have my lights on''. He then proceeded to put me in the back of his police car and ask me questions such as name, address, telephone number, mobile telephone number, height, weight etc.. which I believed to be innocent questions.. but then the questions kept going down a quite frankly rediculous route and he asked me ''hair colour, eye colour, what are you wearing?, where are you going? why are you going there? etc etc and I started to wonder if he was taking the mick. Then after all that he asked for my car insurance documentation and driving lisence and I said I didn't have any on me except my lisence. He looked at my lisence, wrote down some information and gave it back to me. He then said ''do you realize it is an offence not to carry your car insurance documents with you when asked to produce them at the roadside?''. Again I apologized and said that I had no idea that this was the case. He then gave me five days to produce my photo and counterpart driving lisence and car insurance documents at the local police station or I would be arrested for failing to produce documents on demand. He then asked me to provide a testimony which would be read in court if I didn't produce the documents and so I said ''I'm terribly sorry for any inconvenience''. He then let me out. Suffice to say, the next day I took my documents to the police station for inspection. Is this standard proceedure?""

What kind of document do I need do register a motorcycle in my name in California?

What kind of document do I need do register a motorcicle in my name in California, and get the plates, How long does it takes? It's possible for a non US resident?""

Insurance is WAY too high...help!?

I am 19, female and have just passed my driving test ... however, the cheapest insurance I have found is 1400 :( I have tried all of the companies who are on tv...admiral is the cheapest, norwich union and theives (almost 4 grand for a fiat punto!!), sheilas wheels and diamond are expensive too. Does anyone have any suggestions of cheap car insurance providers?""

Getting married and need help with insurance?

My parents have Cigna insurance. I understand that I am no longer a considered an eligible dependent when I am legally married, but I am also a full time student. Which status is the dependent variable when considering eligibility? If I'm married AND a full time college student, does that mean I can't get coverage?""

Whats the best California insurance ?

I want full coverage what's the best company

What would insurance on a 2001 Mustang GT be in Michigan?

I'm deciding between a Mustang GT and any V8 Ford pickup. The mpg on the Mustang will be probably at least 5 miles per gallon better than the pickup, but I'm sure insurance will be more. I want to know which one would be cheaper to own in the long run. I plan on driving about 40 miles per day for work and this would be my first car. I am in highschool so the insurance will be even higher than if it were for an adult.""

Does each driver of a specific vehicle need to have car insurance?

Does every person who plans to drive a specific car need to have their own insurance? My husband and I are about to buy a car, and we're wondering if we both need insurance or if just one of us could have it. We would both like to be able to drive the car. (we'll be living in Idaho, if that makes a difference)""

What car insurance should I use?

I'm 17, I live in Texas, and my mom is making me get my own car insurance. which would be the best and cheapest for me?""

""Got into car accident, my fault not my insurance?""

the car and insurance was in my moms name, i was not listed as a driver, ran red light, car smashed me in side, his car somehow flipped over, will insurance pay for both cars,it was on full coverage""

Approximate insurance costs on cars?

I'm 16 and get a's and B's in school. I'm looking for approximates on the following models. they're all auto transmissions as well. Thanks! 2003 hundai Santa fe 2000 BMW 328i 2004 Mazda 6 2004 Honda civic 2003 vw jetta 2001 Mercedes c240 2002 vw passat

Health insurance for 18 year old?

I turned 18 at the beginning of this month. I want to get health insurance but all the places I've looked at so far said you have to be 19 and older. Nobody in my family has health insurance. I live in MD and I can't get state sponsored health insurance(even though I'm willing to pay for it) because I don't have a baby or I'm 19. I need health insurance for college but the one my college offers is too expensive for me. Help me

Does anyone have term life insurance with primerica? Are rates with another company better?

Does anyone have term life insurance with primerica? Are rates with another company better?

How much will my insurance increase after a MINOR fender bender? (ballpark figure please)?

After 11 years of error free driving and on-time insurance payments, I managed to back into someone in a parking lot going about 1 mph. My car was NOT damaged, except for a scraped bumper sticker. The other driver had cosmetic damage only, and being the good guy that I am I gladly helped her navigate the insurance claim. I figured that if it was my car that was dented, I would want it taken care of. Do onto others, right? Anyway, the total payout of the claim was $556. That's roughly seven months of my premium payment. So, how much can I expect to see added to my yearly premium? 10%? 20%? more? Also, how long will it take to recover back to my previous rate? Finally, considering that I've paid this company much more than $556 over the years, how much of an increase should I accept before I start looking for a new carrier? This is technically my second insurance company - I was on my parents policy until I was 22 (I'm 27 now). So I haven't been with them forever, but I am not ready to jump ship unless they really screw me. Thanks!""

What is the cheapest auto insurance for teens these days?

I'm 18 and just got my first car. I would like to drive it but sadly have no insurance on it yet. I then looked up quotes and found out it is real expensive, $500 and more. Is there any way a teen like myself can get cheap auto insurance?""

quotes on rental insurance

quotes on rental insurance

Insurance for a teen help!!?

My first car is going to be the 2011 Camaro 1LS. My dad knows insurance is high but he trusts me. How does the insurance company know if I'm a good driver and when will the insurance lower for me? I'm curious my dad knows but I don't wanna ask.:p best answer 10 points.

How much money does drivers ed save on car insurance?

Is the amount saved by drivers ed a lot, meaning does drivers ed pay for itself by helping lower your insurance cost?""

Progressive auto insurance? or AAA..which one is cheaper?

in terms of (monthly payments)

What companies dont have age limit on driving any car with third party car insurance?

I have heard that there are still some companies that give car insurance fully comp and cover you third party on any car without an age limit. I know most are 25 and over but there must be someone out there who knows a company that doesn't have an age limit may have a car restriction but you know...

Cheap Car Insurance for young drivers?

My younger brother is 18 and he has had his UK drivers licence for 5 months (he was 18 when he passed) but he has not driven since he passed his test simply because he can't afford insurance. When I passed at 18 I paid 500 on our mothers insurance and that was considered expensive but the cheapest he has found is 1029 With the co op. Can anyone help him because he really deserves it, anywhere cheaper would be ideal. Thanks""

State based insurance?

Trynna find insurance that only covers a few states . I need one that covers I'm Florida?

What to do with car insurance? questions on buying a car?

I've been driving close to a decade. I am under my father's insurance. My sister recently is not anymore. Because we have all been under my father insurance, my sister who has more driving experience is consider a new driver. Because of this her rates are very high. But since both of us have a decade more of driving experience surly this can do something about the rates? What happens if you do not have car insurance or it expired recently? Isn't it required? If you get into accident with other driver and you do not have insurance what happens? Is any cheap car insurance better than none? for 27yr old what is the best insurance for you, if you drive the family's car? If you want to buy your own, used car. How do you go about it?""

Suggestions for car insurance?

I have preferred insurance and have been paying by the year for over 5 years with this company, with no claims in over 10 years. They have raised the entire states rates, and I'm not staying with them. Any suggestions? Any reviews on that little green lizard insurance company?""

Is car insurance cheaper if your a dad?

i'm soon to be a father of two and was wondering if it makes insurance any cheaper, does anybody know?""

What is the point of insurance?

I've just graduated and will be going out into the real world now, and a question I've had for years is why people seem to get insurance? To me it makes more sense to save the money you would have been paying myself instead. Am I wrong here?""

How Does Full Coverage Auto Insurance Work?

How Does Full Coverage Auto Insurance Work?

Can group health insurance deny for Pre existing?

I'm on my moms insurance and she's moving jobs and her new insurance is going to be group coverage blue cross, can group coverage deny you coverage for Pre existing or only private? Why's the difference between group and private? Thanks!""

Liberty Mutual Insurance?

im 16 years old just got my provision license in california and my mom has liberty mutual car insurance and i was wondering if i drove her car and crashed would they cover damages?

Does your car insurance go up for possession of marijuana in your car?

Does your car insurance go up for possession of marijuana in your car?

Can the government require us to buy insurance?

If the government requires us to buy insurance, cant they force us to buy anything they want? Couldnt they also forbid us to buy something they dont want us to buy? What happens if the insurance cost a million dollars and we don't want to buy it? We can no longer refuse to buy it. We are required to buy through the government. How does that empower the consumer?""

Car insurance 17 year old?

I'm turning 17 in April, I was just wondering what the average car insurance prices for somone who is 17. I tried getting a quote but seeing as i dont actually have a car yet, its been quite difficult. How do they give quotes, based upon engine size, make or something completely different? Thanks.""

CAR INSURANCE - 2nd driver?

My sister who recently passed her driving test would like to buy a car, problem is car insurance quote comes up to 3000, which is too much! So i was thinking to get the insurance in my name, and put her down as secondary driver. I already have another car, where i am also primary driver. If she crashed her car, would this get flagged up under my insurance, although she crashed it....i dont want to pay high insurance for the rest of my life for her mistake or would it come under her record??""

California low cost health insurance?

i need an innsurance with a low cost monthly fee.. i just need it for birth control. i dont want to pay full price it gets pricy please let me know of some good ones that you have experience with

Car Insurance (Geico) ?

My parents don't have me on their insurance but I have a license does geico know I have my licence because I live with my parents? And by how much will they raise the insurance cost if they put me on?

I want to take a trip to europe how much do motorcycles cost there and how much is insurance?

Im thinking of going to the EU, as kind of like a backpacking trip, but on a motorcycle! I was wondering how things work in regards to prices of Bikes there, and insurance that covers anywhere I might plan to go! I need some help making this idea a reality! Oh I'm 18 and i have both my drivers licence and motorcycles licence, I reside in BC, Canada. Thanks!""

How much is it for car insurance for a 17 year old in long island new york?

my mom had a 2002 honda accord that she just bought a week ago and we need to get it insured but she doesnt have a permit or licence bc her permit has expired in the year of 2010 , so now what she wants to do is, get a car insurance under my name . im going to be 18 in early june . and i have my permit .""

What kind of insurance would I need for this?

There is a private residence that I would like rent out for my daughter's wedding. I am going pay him a certain amount for use of the house but then I'd like to take our a short term insurance policy in case the house is damaged or someone is injured.

Drivers License with Insurance?

Do you have to be on someones insurance if you get a driver's license? I don't know what company my mom gets insurance through but her insurance would go up four hundred and thirty dollars because of my sister's driving record, but the lady said I HAD to be on someones insurance right after I get my license. But I called the local DMV and they said that I don't have to be on someones insurance if I get my license. The car just has to be insured. Who do I believe? Because I heard that sometimes insurance companies try to milk you for money... Who do I believe? Can someone give me a real LEGAL answer?""

Looking for health Insurance?

I'm looking for affordable health insurance with good coverage and options for doctors. A PPO is okay but I'm looking for quality AND affordability. Dental and vision would be a great plus. Can anybody out there help me!?! http:// pilih .cn /health-insurance.html

Car insurance?

which car insurance company do you perfer for a teen that just starting a job and just turned 16

quotes on rental insurance

quotes on rental insurance

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/get-quote-workers-comp-insurance-zachary-murphy/"

[stretchemersonarchive]

Runaway In Disguise

By Emma Lopez

Runaway in Disguise

I was storming out of my house, ready to start my new life braving the world by trekking through the forests of my small suburban town. My dark green backpack felt like it weighed as much as I did at that time; sixty pounds. At nine years old, I didn’t know much about living on my own. What I did know was that I needed food, and lots of it. My bag was exploding with mcintosh apples, oranges, bags of chips, and a pack of forbidden Oreos. All these snacks were to sustain me in my life beneath the stars. Earlier that day I had written a note to my parents, informing them of my adult and well thought out decision to leave home. I also devised a long packing list to leave behind for a more dramatic effect. The list was always my favorite part, it was a way of affirming what I was doing; it made it real. As a child, I got into the typical small arguments with my parents such as TV privileges and not eating my vegetables, but instead of throwing a tantrum or refusing to talk, I would threaten to or actually leave home. When I say I would leave home, I mean for a max of two hours in my backyard, but that’s not the point. With every opposition, my first instinct was, and still is, to run.

My relationship with my best friend Isabel is an exciting one at that. We balance each other out like two opposite forces with magnetic attractions to different temptations. Just from talking about Isabel, it may seem like she is the one who would stray away from crazy ideas of adventure, but it is actually quite the opposite. Every week, Isabel comes to me with insane ideas for adventure. One day it is hiking the Appalachian trail for a month, and the next is quitting our jobs to start our own bracelet making business. She could ramble off ideas for hours, but when it comes time to do anything, she will make up an excuse not to follow through with whatever she devised. I, however, will give her reality checks on those whims, reeling her in on more plausible adventures that she'll still find terrifying. At the end of the day, we are both runners. The main difference is, I run because it’s a necessity and she runs because it’s entertaining.

Isabel and I had a tendency to get ourselves into trouble as children, but it was mostly me doing the trouble making. We got into the most trouble when I purposely got us lost in the woods. We started this “club” with just the two of us. We called it the “Off Road Roonies," where we would basically go into the woods behind different houses in our neighborhood. One day, we found a particularly thick, wooded area and decided to make it a mission of the Off Road Roonies to explore it. We were walking through the thick forest when I had enough of Isabel texting her new boy crush, so I took it upon myself to confiscate her phone. Ten minutes into the walk I felt a certain lightness to my pockets. I had lost both of our phones.

“Do we even know where we are,” Isabel asked me, looking around.

“I know where we are, don’t worry.” I didn’t. “We came from that direction.” I said, pointing in a random direction. Isabel began to go into panic mode, because that’s just what Isabel did in times of distress.

“Are you sure?” she asked, spinning in circles trying to get a bearing of her surroundings. I nodded confidently, despite being totally and utterly lost. We continued walking in the same direction. With every step I felt lighter, like I was on a stairway to heaven. I never felt lost, not once; I felt like I was finding myself.

Needless to stay, we finally both came to our senses and realized the reality of the situation; it was getting dark and we had no idea where we were.  

“I see houses!” I said, as we approached a community. Isabel of course took off running towards civilization, like she was floating on clouds. Meanwhile, I could feel my feet growing heavier, like lead sinking into the earth with every step towards home. We finally made it to the street, against my body’s wishes. We knocked on a house and used the man’s phone to call my mother. My mom, however, was not too pleased with our exploration when she picked us up from a random man’s house at the edge of the woods.

Sometimes I wouldn’t set out to get lost, it would just happen naturally. It was as if my body was driving me astray—it was what felt natural. Anyone who knows me knows that I am notoriously awful at directions. When I first started driving in my hometown I needed a GPS to get to our local Walgreens, even though I had been to it hundreds of times. Soon after I got my license, I thought it would be a great idea to go on a road trip/day trip with Isabel. My mom had a business meeting in Connecticut, so I thought it would be adventurous if Isabel and I drove to meet her there. I used a free road trip planning website to map out our pit stops on the way to Connecticut, which was the first to many mistakes. The only pit stop we made was to a small castle—which was more like a fort—that was consequently closed. I continued to drive, but the directions did not seem to align with where we were. We eventually arrived at a rest stop to get some food because we were starving to death. We had just loaded up on multiple bags of chips and candy, which would have to suffice for lunch, when I reached into my pocket to grab my keys, but the only thing I pulled out was my receipt.

“Oh my god oh my god!” Isabel started. I dipped my hand into my pocket once again and came out empty. I pressed my face against the cold glass window and peered into my car, and sure enough, the keys lay pitifully on the seat. A laugh erupted from the bottom of my throat, tumbling out of me like it had been hiding there for months. I did not find this troubling whatsoever; I found it hilarious and exciting. Here we were, locked out of our car in the middle of nowhere, with no one but a few store clerks nearby. It is moments like these where I feel whatever lingering weight is on my chest lift for a moment, enabling me to catch my breath before I return to the world. While most people would panic in a situation like this, I felt the opposite. As Isabel continued to panic, I realized I put the wrong destination into the trip planner, and that we were in the wrong state. I laughed at myself again, and called the police to open our car after my survival mode kicked in.

As a child, I was always fascinated by the art of survival. It all started with the show Survivor, where chosen individuals would occupy an island and be forced to essentially live off the land. I always found a certain draw in escaping everyday life for the green canopy and blue skies. It was my idea to start my own game of Survivor. Every week Isabel and I would pack a bag full of food and venture out into my backyard to set up camp three feet into the woods. We would stay outside for up to six hours. Every time we played Survivor, my parents would come out and tempt our starving tummies with fresh waffles, but every time Isabel looked at me with pleading eyes and I’d say “No, we are survivors!!” I will never forget the time when I returned from tending the fire to see Isabel stuffing the last of our berries into her mouth. As she swallowed the last berry, her lips were stained purple as evidence of her crimes. She never understood my desire for survival or why she could not eat all the berries she wanted. Playing Survivor for a day was the one time we could escape reality and pretend we were living off the land. I felt at peace in the woods of solitude. I got a thrill from living so close to the edge, even though conserving food in my backyard was hardly living on the edge.

Growing up, I may not have been the easiest friend. I imagine my actions came off as controlling at times, between wanting to be the fire builder and egg-cooker of every game of Survivor, to treating the book club I created like school and making myself the teacher. I loved to run away and get lost because I could control that. I was totally in charge of my path, even if I didn’t know the ending. When I start to feel myself losing control, I find myself running away, even today.

Moving to Boston to study at Emerson College has been a huge adjustment for me, just as it is for any other college student. For the first time in my life, I found myself struggling to make true friendships and connecting with other students. I was not used to trying to make friends since everyone in my old high school were friends since elementary school. As I experienced true isolation for the first time, I began to follow my familiar pattern of seeking escape. My escape began as walks around the Boston Public Gardens, and developed into long T rides to the outskirts of Boston. When I was in motion, I was at peace. As long as I kept moving, reality could not catch me even if it tried. Walking through the streets of Boston or zipping along the train tracks equated my walks through the woods. In both circumstances, I was leaving my worries behind, and it felt like I was gaining control over my life again. Whenever I returned back home to campus, my mind was at peace and I had a solution in mind for my problems.

I would like to say that I have found a better coping mechanism now, but the fact is, I am still forever moving. Many people may find this as a method of avoidance, and it certainly can be, but I have found that I find myself returning from my adventures with a clearer mind and some type of resolution. Everyone has different ways of coping and pondering their problems. Our society advertises people running away from their problems all the time. Television shows broadcast brides that run from their grooms at the altar, children that reach adulthood and run from their parents, and people who travel across the country that are uncertain with their lives. The runner is not always trying to avoid their problem; they are just trying to find their solution. Finding resolutions away from the influence of others and my environment around me is what I try to do when running or going on spontaneous adventures. Running cures my writer’s block, turns my brain into its’ own personal therapist, and gives me a zen unlike no other. If it takes a train ride or getting lost in the woods to find myself, I’d gladly do it time and time again.

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank Mary Kovaleski Byrnes for her helpful comments and in-class feedback on my work. Without her guidance my memoir would not be where it is today. I would also like to thank Althea Smith for her helpful comments during the peer review process, as well as my best friend Isabel Ladoulis for jogging my memory and being apart of my adventurous past. I also owe a thank you to Sarah Sweeney who spoke to our class and offered some very helpful advice. Lastly, I would like to thank my parents who have been incredibly patient and loving over the years and have helped shape me into the young woman I am today.

Works Cited

Hoffman, Richard. “The Ninth Letter of the Alphabet: First-Person Strategies in Nonfiction.” The Call to Write. Sixth Edition.

John Trimbur. Boston, MA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning, 2014. 141-145.

Didion, Joan. "Los Angeles Notebook." The Call to Write. Sixth Edition. John Trimbur.

Boston, MA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning, 2014. 97-101.

[sending-the-message]

Schnieder's Specialty Meats- My First Catering by gentlesatann

This is the backstory to my current situation.

It was Wednesday that I had been called into the office and had signed my blood oath to a man I’d only known for a few short months. Friday was the big day, the day that I started my training as a caterer. Jason told me to take Thursday off to ‘prepare myself’. I had no idea what that meant or what these trips would entail, all I knew is that I needed to be ready for anything. How does one prepare for something one knows nothing about? Well, I was about to find out.

Before leaving his office, Jason gave me implicit instructions. On Friday I was to arrive promptly at 12pm to the catering office wearing a white button down shirt, black dress pants and all black shoes. There I would receive the itinerary of the day. I was to follow it exactly as it was written and do nothing outside of my duties. I was not to engage any guests unless it was to ask if I could help them in any way, or clear their table. I would be help loading the catering vehicle before we left, and I was to, under no circumstances, eat any of the food. The customers, he relayed, had paid top dollar for this food. If any of it was missing, it would be his ass. He made it clear that if I broke any rules, it would not end well for me and left it at that.

Thursday night I tried to go to bed early, assured that what the next day would bring would need to be met with proper sleep. As soon as I closed my eyes, my head started pounding. My thoughts were racing faster than my consciousness could keep up. As soon as I thought I had a grasp on what I was panicking about, it was already onto the next anxiety.

The front runner to most of my anxious thoughts was: how far would I be pushed ethically? I had absolutely no idea what was expected of me, but I couldn’t back out now. As deep as the fear in me ran about the tasks I was to perform, a deeper unknown clung itself to the core of my being and dragged it down to the pits of my humanity. This unfathomable worry of leaving my family destitute.

I could handle it, if it were only me. But these wonderful people who’d done everything and sacrificed their entire lives to raise both my brother and I the best they could. They did everything within their power to give us everything they didn’t have. To see them not only emotionally but fiscally suffer for something so out of their control would be worse than torture. That’s what kept my resolve.

I had already made up an excuse to tell my parents about the sudden influx of money. I’d tell them that Jason had made me a partner of the business, desperately needing someone. They already knew how well I was doing in a short while and Jason had okayed me using any excuse necessary to make no one suspicious. He gave me a dozen of his business cards to hand out to anyone who had questions. I took this as solidarity, as he was a naturally convincing man.

I eventually drifted off to the sound of my heartbeat pounding like a drum in my ear. I’m not sure when that was, but I peeled my eyes open as my alarm clock blared its way through my foggy consciousness. I took a deep breath. It was time.

I slowly climbed out of bed, drowsiness weighing me down, and put on my newly bought catering outfit. I put my hair up in a pony tail, looked in the mirror and took a deep breath. I was ready. I had to be.

When I got to work, I went straight to the catering office door. It, of course, was locked. I knocked lightly. The door immediately opened, and the catering director hurried me through the door. The office was even more spacious than Jason’s. It was tastefully decorated with old style looking signs and framed

pictures of Schnieder’s in black and white. Articles about the establishment littered the wall, as well as newspaper and businesses naming Schieder’s Specialty Meats the #1 catering place in the Midwest.

At the desk was a brand new computer, which clashed with the antiquity of not only the room itself but the entire establishment. Sitting at one of the two chairs on the opposite side of the desk was a fairly attractive guy in his early thirties, thumbing through his phone and looking thoroughly bored. He didn’t even look up from his screen when the catering director shut the door and it gave an echoing thud.

“Bethany, I presume?” the tall, gangly looking woman questioned, offering her hand out to me in a professional manner.

I shook her hand and attempted to fake a smile. “Yes, it’s nice to finally meet you.”

“And the same to you,” she parroted, “My name is Rea.”

She sat down behind the desk and asked me to have a seat next to who she called Dustin.

“Now, I want to be perfectly clear,” she spoke in a calm but stern voice, “all I want is for us to complete this job with efficiency. Dustin and I know what we’re doing. You, however, do not. You are to listen to our instructions and never question us. Do you understand?”

I was taken aback by her matter-of-fact manner, but nodded compliantly.

“Good,” she hissed, with a pleased expression.

“Your instructions are as follows: you are to help us load the products carefully onto the truck, ALWAYS with gloves on. If you handle the food with your gloves off, that’s a strike. Five strikes and you’re in breach of your conduct code. However, don’t think you can make five egregious mistakes. A strike is just a frivolous rule. To break a rule stated on your contract is means for immediate eradication. No questions asked. Do you understand?”

“Yes ma’am,” I assured, as the knot in my stomach grew exponentially. Why hadn’t I read the contract? Was I really so desperate?

“Good. Now, tonight will go as follows. We will load up the truck, and you will be riding in the back with everything, making sure nothing falls on the drive in. Once we get there, we will set up a large double sided buffet. On location, Dustin and I will instruct you where to place things chronologically, as that is important.”

“You will, under no circumstances, speak with the guests. If they ask you about the buffet, you are to smile and refer them to me and only me. You are not to answer any questions outside of this, nor to do anything but smile and thank the guests for coming. You are absolutely not allowed to eat any of the food. You are to leave your cellphones at this location. No devices that could transmit signal are to come with as soon as you set foot on the truck.”

“Anything that happens onsight is to never be repeated, unless a statement is required by either myself or Jason. This will be clause for an automatic breach of contract, and will lead to severe consequences.”

“At 6’oclock PM the event will start. You are to make sure that everything is in place by then, as there can be no delays. At precisely 8pm, we will be responsible for the entire clean up of the area, including any waste left by guests. Do you agree?”

“I agree,” I stated blankly, trying not letting my emotion reach my voice.

“Wonderful! We will be taking another newly trained catering operative, and we will head out. Dustin will direct you in what to load where in the truck. Dustin?”

Dustin finally looked up from his phone and gave an unconcerned grunt in agreement. He sighed loudly as he put his phone on the desk, got up lazily and told me to follow him.

I sprang up from my seat and followed him out the door to the meat cutting room. From there he apathetically told me to load a few hot boxes full of trays onto the truck, and to keep doing that until everything was gone.

After the truck was all loaded up, Rea told me to get into the back of the truck as her and a guy I’d never seen before got into the front of the truck. Dustin gave me a blank look as he closed the back doors of the truck, leaving me in total darkness.

I don’t know how long it took. Not having a phone or light, it’s easier than you think to lose time. All I know is that when the truck finally came to a halt, Rea opened the creaky, obviously rusted, doors. The sunlight pierced painfully through my eyes. Once they adjusted, I saw everyone was waiting at the door with a look that told me that it was time to get down to business.

I climbed out and looked around. We seemed to be in the middle of nowhere. The only other visible thing, other than empty farm fields, was a gala looking tent. Guests were arriving on the gravel road leading up to the place in fancy looking vehicles and limousines. I even saw a Roll’s Royce. It was odd to see the combination of bright shining vehicles, fully formal dresses/ suits and the dirt that the vehicles kicked up as they drove away.

I didn’t look too hard or too much at any specific thing. I didn’t have the time to. Within minutes of getting out of the truck, I was having orders barked at by Dustin, transformed into a serious worker, and this other guy, who I’d assumed was the anonymous caterer. I was to put this chafer here, and that there. We set up a table in back of the spacious and elegantly decorated tent while the guests started piling in. We left quite a bit of food in the truck, so I figured there would be a lot of moving back and forth for refilling. We were directed to leave anything with a pink mark in the truck, and to bring out anything with a green. Backups versus originals.

While carting things back and forth from the truck to the barn, I couldn’t help but notice several things. Although the ground was covered in hay and dirt, many of the guests in the front of the room had on high heels and dresses for some type of glamorously formal event. I could see the dust collecting on the men’s dress shoes. It seemed like more trouble than it was worth.

The next thing I noticed was the influx of people who were wearing tattered clothes and looked like they hadn’t showered in days. They started seating themselves at the back tables, close to where we were setting up. The stench of unbathed bodies lingered in the air by the buffet table. I didn’t know how anyone could have an appetite while smelling such a thing. I didn’t understand any of it, and only had just gotten away with stolen glances while going back and forth from the truck to the buffet table.

There were many tables set up throughout the tent, each with silk table cloths, a beautiful flower center piece, and an expensive looking bottle of champagne on each table. The only thing different about the tables was the clear segregation between formal wear and tattered clothing. There was also an elongated table at the front of the barn with all established guests sitting behind it, with a podium in the middle. I actually recognized some of the people behind the front table. Some were prominent politicians. Some were CEO’s that had been in the news for nefarious business practices. I pretended not to notice.

One of the well-dressed men, in a three-piece suit from the head table eventually stood up and strode gracefully to the podium. The carefully strung up lights on the tent’s ceiling dimmed, leaving only two lights at either side of the podium on. It looked eerie. The man’s teeth were almost too white, his expression almost inhumanly ecstatic.

“Thank you everyone for coming to our charity event,” he boomed over the microphone.

“As you know, this is an event that we have set up for the homeless. Their plight is something none of us could ever understand, so our company raised funds so that they could all have a meal of the finest quality. After the meal is over, each will receive a cash stipend of 1,000 dollars, as well as live rent free in a building generously donated by (a well-known construction company. Redacted for obvious reasons). Everyone give a round of applause to these brave heroes,” the speaker proclaimed, excitedly.

The crowd reacted with as much admiration as they had enthusiasm. The well-dressed portion of the audience stood up in applause, only to be beaten out by the poorly clothed other half.

It was just then that I noticed the cameras. There were at least half a dozen professional looking video recorders, each being manned by someone dressed in all black.

“And now,” the slick politician spoke, “let the homeless have a meal, curtesy of the CEO of (notorious computer company). No one from the end of the room better get up to eat before them, only if you’re willing to admit you are before them as a human being. ”

The large enclosure made the large applause from both ends of the barn echo.

I was entranced by how well and eloquently this man spoke. A true politician.

A whisper snapped me back to focus.

“My name’s Jared, by the way,” the twenty some year old said quietly, leaning against the buffet table.

“I’m Bethany.” I whispered back.

“Well, Bethany, I don’t know about you, but if these homeless fucks get a steak, then I think I deserve one too.” Jared retorted. I rolled my eyes. Classy.

Before the speech ended, he looked around to see where Rea and Dustin were. They were both prepping the other food down the long buffet and seemed to be focused on little else. He lifted up one of the chafers on the table and snuck a steak. It smelled absolutely delicious. My own stomach rumbled as I fantasized about taking one, too. The difference was, I wasn’t that stupid. He proceeded to sneak out of the tent while the man at the podium continued his speech. He returned back within a couple minutes, assuring me he was ready for work.

Dustin and Rea bustled up to me and Jared with grave expositions. Rea talked in a low voice, almost a whisper, but her dead pan inflection told me I better strain to hear every word.

“We now are at the most important part of the night. Now, right after they approach the line you are to immediately exist the tent, do you understand me? You both are to wait in the back of the truck until Dustin and I come and get you. Be prepared to work and work quickly when we do.”

“Before we have these fine ladies and gentleman grab their meals, I’d like to briefly thank Schnieder’s Specialty Meats for agreeing to cater tonight. It’s because of them that this unique and wonderful night can be had by all.” The speaker extended his arm out towards us in the back. “Let’s give them a hand!” People in the room turned and looked in our direction, smiling approvingly and applauding.

Rea elbowed me gently in the ribs. I looked up to see her smiling back with a friendly wave. I figured she meant for me to do the same.

“Okay, well let’s not starve these people any longer! Anyone sitting at a back table, our esteemed and honored guests, may get up and eat their fill!”

Without a moment’s hesitation, the tabled was swarmed by sunken faces and dirty hands, all almost fighting each other to get their food. I was shocked by how violent and desperate their motions seemed to be. Some even began cramming food in their mouths right at the table so they could pile more on their plates. I sympathetically wondered how long it’d been since any of them had had a real meal. I felt my apprehension replaced by a wave of relief that they were getting this to eat.

I looked up to see Rea motioning for Jared and I to get out. Jared was staring off into the distance, concentrating on something intently. I shook his arm lightly, ushering him forward with me towards the truck. He followed behind me. Once I exited the tent, a cool breeze hit me and sent shivers down my spine. It was almost dusk. Hopefully this was all almost over.

As I strode towards the truck, I realized I heard no footsteps behind me. Jesus Christ, Jared was going to get us both into trouble. I spun around, thoroughly irritated to see him walking slowly with a strange gait. Before I could ask if he was alright, he gasped as if he’d had the wind knocked out of him and clutched his stomach with both his arms, doubling over. I ran towards him in a panic.

By the time I got to him he had thick streams of blood running down from his bulged eyes. He made a choking sound, spewing thick, dark red out of his mouth. In seconds it pooled around his head and his face grew pale and contorted in a way no human face ever should. He began seizing violently. I had no idea what to do. I couldn’t breathe, I couldn’t move.

Suddenly I heard a chorus of shrieks coming from the tent followed by several thuds. Crashing noises clanged out along with violent and desperate moans and sobs.

“Help me! For fuck’s sakes somebody fucking help me!”

“Why aren’t you doing anything?”

“Oh god, it hurts so much, oh god!”

I’d never heard so many people in such distress before. These sounds, although I wasn’t at all familiar with, I knew they were wrong. They went against every part of my humanity.

I was too shocked to put a coherent string of thoughts together. I just stood there, dumbfounded as the cries echoed through my head and reverberated against my skull. They slowly died down before extinguishing all together, erasing themselves from existence. But they weren’t erased. I still felt them crawling around in my head, attaching themselves there forever.

Rea quickly rushed out of the tent, Dustin in tow. Both of their faces were completely blank, as if they hadn’t experienced what I had. But they had to have, didn’t they?

“What are you doing out of the truck? I specifically-“ Rea stopped mid rage after she looked down to see Jared’s lifeless body, a look of suffering forever etched on him. Her gaze quickly shifted up to me.

“I told that dumb ass not to eat the food.” She sighed deeply. “At least he can’t fuck anything else up now.”

My mouth dropped open. Before I could think of anything to say, the same smooth voice from earlier came to life over the microphone.

“Wasn’t that something, folks?” The enthusiastic yells and applause was deafening.

“They’ll no longer litter our streets. We’ve cleaned up a lot of trash tonight…” was all I heard before all I could hear was static. I was in such shock that the word started distorting around me. Everything was spinning and I saw purple dots. I felt like I was about to pass out.

Rea snapped right in front of my face.

“Hun, I need you to pull yourself together. We need to clean up in there before we set out the real food. You’re not being paid for nothing,” she quipped.

“Dustin!” Rea called out loudly, “get the wheel barrows!”

She then turned back to me, giving me a small, almost sympathetic knowing smile. “Welcome to the special part of Schnieder’s Specialty Meats.”