#I’m just excited to have been tagged in something

[velaenam]

𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮

                                                                         ◦ ♡

𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐛 𝐱 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 – non!mc/mc. a lifelong love story that transcends loss, where caleb’s devotion endures through years of grief until he’s finally reunited with his beloved in the afterlife. w.c: 21.1k 𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐬 / 𝐭𝐰 –  romance,fluff,angst,loss of life, grief, pregnancy, afterlife 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 – kinda proofread. i came up with this after listening to every breath you take by the police. i truly truly hope you enjoy it. — reblogs comments & likes are appreciated.

the sun is just beginning to dip beneath the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the quiet street. you’re playing in your front yard, the grass tickling your bare feet, when you hear it… a sound that makes your heart race with excitement: the unmistakable crunch of gravel underfoot. you freeze for a moment, squinting toward the new house next door.

someone’s moving in.

you’ve been eagerly waiting for new neighbors. your childhood, though filled with family, has felt a little too quiet lately. the idea of having a new friend nearby, someone to share the summer with, fills you with a kind of giddy hope you can’t quite explain. and then you see them—a boy, about your age, stepping out of the moving truck with his grandmother, his bright eyes scanning the neighborhood. he’s a little taller than you, with dark hair falling over his forehead, soft purple eyes, and the kind of quiet energy that makes you curious.

before you even know what’s happening, you’re crossing the yard, the dirt from the garden sticking to your hands as you reach the wooden fence separating your lawns. you can’t help the grin that spreads across your face.

"hi!" you call out, your voice unguarded and full of the raw excitement only a nine-year-old can feel. you quickly introduced him your name, followed by, " do you want to play?"

he turns, surprised at first, his gaze flickering to you as if he didn’t expect anyone to be watching. but then his lips curl into a shy smile, and something about it tugs at your chest, making your stomach flutter, but you did just eat something before running, that might’ve been it!

"uh, yeah. sure." his voice is soft, almost hesitant, but there’s something warm in his eyes. "i’m caleb."

you can’t help but giggle, because, well, caleb. it feels like one of those names you hear in movies, a little too cool for a kid like him. but his shyness only makes him more intriguing. as he steps closer, you notice something in the way he looks at you, the way his gaze lingers for a moment longer than it should. it’s not like he’s staring, but there’s this quiet sense of wonder in his eyes, like he’s trying to figure something out. you don’t know it yet, but it’s love, that quiet, unspoken thing that takes root long before he can even understand it.

"what do you want to do?" you ask, bouncing on your toes, ready to dive into whatever game you can think of, "i don’t know," he says, looking down at his feet, kicking a small rock. "what do you usually do?"

you shrug. "i don’t know either. i like to play hide-and-seek or tag or... whatever." you look over at him, hoping he’ll agree. and then you add, with a mischievous grin, "but i’m really good at it, so i’ll probably win."

he laughs softly, the sound light and carefree, and it makes something inside of you feel warm. there’s a moment of silence between you both, and then you realize: this, this feeling of meeting someone new, it’s more than just excitement. you feel like you’ve known him for longer, like he’s always been a part of you somehow.

"i’ll try my best," he says, his eyes twinkling with a challenge that you’ve never seen in him before, and you know, in that quiet, childlike way, this is the beginning of something that will stay with you forever.

a few days later, you’re outside again, running around in the yard with caleb. the sun is still high, the kind of warm you want to feel all day. you’re laughing, trying to steal the ball away from him, your bare feet kicking up the grass. 

you hear the door open, and out steps a little girl. she’s small, even smaller than you, with bright eyes that seem to take in everything at once. her pink dress is a little too big, and her hair’s in a messy ponytail that bounces as she walks. she looks kind of nervous but curious, like she’s trying to figure out the world.

caleb doesn’t notice her right away, but when he does, he grins and waves you over, “hey!” he calls out, his voice light. “this is my sister, mc.” you look at caleb, then over at mc. you blink, confused for a second. caleb has a sister? you didn’t know that. but then she’s standing right there, looking up at you, her little hands held awkwardly at her sides.

you give her your biggest smile, not sure what to say, but excited to meet her anyway. you hop over to the fence, and you tell her your name. then, “i like to play games, do you?” mc takes a second, then slowly smiles back, a bit shy. she looks up at caleb, then back at you. “i like to play,” she says, voice small but warm.

caleb is just watching the two of you, standing a little behind her, his hands stuffed in his pockets, but his smile is soft. you notice it’s different when he’s with her—like he’s protective, maybe. like she’s something special, and maybe he’s figuring out how to be her brother.

“you wanna come play with us?” you ask, bouncing a little on your feet. “we’re playing soccer.” mc looks hesitant for a second but then nods. she steps forward, glancing at caleb, and then back at you, clearly unsure but willing to try.

you all spend the next few hours together, running around, laughing and falling down, making up new games and never worrying about anything except who could kick the ball the farthest. by the time the sun is starting to set, you’re sitting on the grass, covered in dirt and grass stains, but it’s the best feeling in the world.

later, you take them both inside to meet your parents. they’re surprised at first but warm, offering sandwiches and drinks and asking questions like they’ve known them forever. it feels right. they treat mc and caleb like they’re already part of the family, and you can see her relax, that little bit of worry fading from her face.

you’re already planning tomorrow’s adventure in your head, trying to figure out where to play next, but you’re pretty sure this is just the start of something special. you tell caleb and mc as much, your heart full, because this is it. this is your new normal. and somehow, it feels like they’ve always been a part of you.

it’s a little confusing at first. one day, caleb’s talking about starting school, just like you and mc, and then the next, he’s saying something about going somewhere else. somewhere called linkon academy? you don’t really get it, and neither does mc. you both just blink at him, like maybe he said it wrong.

"you’re going to a different school?" you ask, squinting at him like maybe that’ll make it make sense. caleb shrugs, looking a little embarrassed. "grandma said it’s for... special kids. the really smart ones. it’s called linkon academy."

mc frowns, her little face scrunching up in that stubborn way she does when she doesn’t like something. "but we’re smart too," she says, crossing her arms. "why can’t we go?" you nod, agreeing with her, "yeah! we do math and stuff. i even know all the planets. why do you have to go somewhere else?"

caleb just shrugs again, looking at his shoes. "i don’t know. grandma just said it’s a good school. i don’t wanna go if you guys aren’t going."

the three of you sit on the front steps, picking at the little cracks in the concrete. it’s quiet for a while. you can tell caleb doesn’t like the idea of going either, but he’s not saying it. he’s too good at keeping his worries to himself, "it’s not fair," mc mumbles, kicking at a pebble. "we’re supposed to go to the same school."

you don’t really know what to say to make it better, so you just reach over and take caleb’s hand, squeezing it tight. mc notices and does the same on the other side. it’s kind of awkward, all of you holding hands like that, but it makes something settle in your chest. like even if things change, you’re still together.

"it’s okay," you say finally, trying to sound like it doesn’t hurt as much as it does. "we’ll still see each other after school, right?" caleb nods, but you can see his eyes are a little shiny, like he’s fighting not to cry. "yeah. i’ll come over every day. promise."

when school actually starts, it’s weird. you and mc walk to your school together, backpacks bouncing on your shoulders, while caleb goes the other way with their grandma. at first, it feels like someone cut the group in half, and neither of you really knows how to fill that space. but after a while, you and mc start getting used to it.

you sit together at lunch, share snacks, and walk home side by side sometimes. you make up stories about the other kids and giggle at the teacher’s funny way of talking. you don’t forget about caleb, of course not, but it’s like you and mc have your own little world now, too. it’s different, but not bad.

sometimes, when caleb comes home, he tells you stories about his school– how they have advanced math and how he’s learning chess even though it makes his head hurt. he tries to teach you both once, but you just end up using the pieces to build a tiny fort instead. he laughs, and you can tell he’s just happy to be back with you.

one day, mc looks at you when caleb’s not around and says, "i miss him." – "me too," you whisper back. but then you take her hand, just like that day on the steps, and say, "it’s okay. we’ll always be best friends. no matter what."

but you were kids, you felt like seeing your friend for less than 5 minutes was the end of it all. 

time feels weird when you’re a kid. those first few years of elementary school felt like they stretched on forever, and every time caleb walked a different way to his fancy school, it felt like a little piece of your group was missing. even though you saw him every morning and afternoon, something about being separated during the day made it feel like the world was just a little off.

but middle school changes everything.

you’re a little nervous that first day, trying to smooth out your shirt that suddenly feels too big and wondering if you’ll remember where all the classrooms are. mc’s right beside you, adjusting her backpack straps, while caleb is a few steps ahead, already looking like he belongs even though he’s just as new to this as you are.

you’re all at the same school now. caleb’s in the same grade as you, but they put him in the advanced classes. still, it doesn’t really matter. you’re just happy that for the first time in a while, you’re walking into the building together. it makes everything seem a little less scary.

mc’s talking a mile a minute about how the building smells different than elementary school and how she’s already seen a kid with braces, “he looked like a robot!”, and you’re just trying to take it all in. caleb’s quieter than usual, but you notice he keeps glancing back to make sure neither of you gets lost in the crowd.

you all find your lockers first, even though it takes a while since the numbers are weird and mc keeps mixing up which way the hall goes. caleb’s locker is a few rows away from yours and mc’s, but he makes sure to wait for you both before heading to homeroom.

when the bell rings for lunch, you and mc practically run to the courtyard, worried that caleb might have to sit somewhere else because of his schedule. but just as you’re about to panic, you spot him, waving you over to a spot under a tree. relief washes over you, and the three of you plop down in the grass like nothing’s changed.

“how’s your class?” you ask, unwrapping your sandwich.

caleb shrugs, biting into his apple. “okay. some of the kids know me from linkon. they keep asking if i’m gonna do the math club.” mc makes a face. “gross. who likes math that much?” you giggle, and caleb just shrugs again, his cheeks a little pink. “i guess they just do. but i’m not doing it. too much work.”

you all settle in, talking about your different classes and which teachers seem nice and which ones seem a little scary. mc’s excited because she already made a friend in her art class, and caleb nods along, asking questions even though you can tell he’s distracted. you get it, though. being back together like this—it feels right, but also new, like you’re still figuring out how to fit into this new version of your lives.

as the weeks go by, it starts to feel more normal. you, caleb, and mc walk to and from school together every day. caleb still gets pulled into higher-level classes sometimes, but he always meets you both at lunch. you still find your spot under the tree, and caleb always saves a seat even when mc gets sidetracked talking to her new friends.

one afternoon, when you’re all walking home, caleb slows down and glances over at you. “hey,” he says quietly, just loud enough for you to hear while mc is a few steps ahead. “i’m glad we’re at the same school again.”

you smile, bumping his shoulder with yours. “me too. it’s way better like this.”

he just nods, like he’s relieved to hear it, and falls back into step with you, catching up to mc when she waves at a cat crossing the road. it’s not perfect—sometimes you have to go different ways for class, and caleb’s homework seems twice as long as yours—but it’s better. it’s like the three of you are figuring out how to be a trio again, even if it looks a little different than it did before.

middle school feels different. not just because the classes are harder or because there’s suddenly way more homework. it’s like everyone’s changing, growing taller, getting louder, acting like they’re too cool for the things they used to love. you don’t really get it, and neither does mc. you still meet caleb  and mc every morning at your house so your parents can take the three of you to school, but even that feels different sometimes. like caleb’s distracted or caught up in something you can’t see.

he’s gotten... taller. way taller. when you stand next to him, your head barely reaches his shoulder now. he’s also way more involved—he joined the basketball team, he’s in some math club thing that you don’t understand, and even the teachers seem to like him because he’s always got his homework done early. it’s weird seeing him surrounded by people in the hallways, mostly girls from other classes who always seem to be giggling when he walks by.

you don’t really get it. it’s just caleb. the same kid who used to trip over his own feet and complain about spelling tests. but sometimes, when he’s laughing with his new friends, something tugs at your chest, and you don’t know why. you just know that when he sees you and mc waiting by his locker, his whole face lights up, and he waves you over, like nothing’s changed at all.

one afternoon, while you’re all walking home, mc’s chattering about how some girl in her class made a friendship bracelet and then cried when it broke. you’re only half-listening because caleb’s walking a little closer than usual, his shoulder brushing yours every few steps. it’s not a big deal, but it makes your face feel warm.

“hey,” he says suddenly, his voice quieter than usual, almost like he doesn’t want mc to hear. “you know that dance they’re having? next friday?”

you nod, kicking a pebble down the sidewalk. “yeah. everyone’s talking about it.” caleb clears his throat, looking anywhere but at you. “are you... gonna go?” you shrug. “maybe. i don’t know. dances seem kinda weird.” he laughs, but it’s short, almost nervous. “yeah. totally. weird.”

there’s a pause, and you notice he’s gripping the strap of his backpack so tight his knuckles are white. you tilt your head, trying to figure out why he looks so serious all of a sudden. “are you going?” you ask, trying to sound casual.

he glances at you, then away. “i don’t know. some of the guys from the team are going. but... i wasn’t really planning on it. unless...” your heart skips a beat, and you’re not even sure why. “unless what?”

caleb looks at you for real this time, his cheeks a little pink. “unless you were going. i mean, we could... go together. if you want.” you feel your face heat up, and suddenly, it’s like the world’s too quiet, like even mc stopped talking just to listen. you’re not sure why it makes your stomach flip, but it does.

“like... together?” you echo, trying to make sense of it. caleb rubs the back of his neck, looking at the ground. “yeah. like, together. just... us.” you can’t help but smile a little, trying to hide it by looking at the ground. “okay. that sounds... fun.”

he relaxes, shoulders dropping, and his smile is so bright it makes your chest feel funny. “cool. it’s a date, then.” you don’t know why that word makes your heart race, but you don’t argue with it. mc finally pipes up, oblivious to the weird tension that just passed between you and caleb. “can i help pick out your dress?” she asks, already planning things in her head.

you laugh, grateful for the distraction. “sure.”

caleb keeps glancing at you on the rest of the walk home, his hand brushing yours once or twice. neither of you says anything about it, but something’s different. something good.

and for the first time, you’re kind of excited for a dance.

the house smells like hairspray and perfume. mc is fussing with your hair, trying to smooth it down while you’re looking in the mirror, twisting to see if the dress looks as nice as it did in the store. it’s a soft color, one mc picked out, and she’s wearing something similar—a little simpler, but just as pretty. she keeps telling you to stop fidgeting, but you can’t help it. your hands are a little shaky, and your heart keeps racing.

“you look really nice,” mc says, grinning. she’s got a few butterfly clips in her hair, and her dress is a soft shade of pink. “caleb’s gonna think so too.”

you roll your eyes, trying to act like that doesn’t make your stomach do a weird flip. “it’s just a dance.” she raises an eyebrow. “you’re acting like it’s more than just a dance.”

you open your mouth to argue, but there’s a knock on the door, and your dad calls from downstairs. “girls! caleb’s here!”

mc’s eyes go wide, and she grabs your hand, dragging you out of your room and down the stairs. your dad is already at the door, chatting with caleb like they’ve been friends forever. caleb’s standing there, dressed in a nice button-up shirt and dark pants. his hair’s been brushed back, but a few strands still fall into his eyes. he’s holding something small and wrapped in a little plastic box.

when he sees you, his mouth opens, and for a second, he just... stares. his cheeks turn pink, and he quickly looks at the ground, mumbling, “you look really pretty.”

your dad nudges him gently. “show her what you brought, son.” caleb swallows hard and steps forward, opening the box. inside is a little flower– a white carnation with a bit of greenery, tied with a pale ribbon. his hands shake a little as he pulls it out. “um... it’s a corsage,” he explains, stumbling over the word. “for your wrist. i saw it in a magazine and... i thought you might like it.”

you let him slip it onto your wrist, trying not to focus on how close his hands are to yours. it’s soft, and it smells nice, and you don’t think anyone’s ever given you something so pretty before.

“it’s perfect,” you whisper, smiling up at him. his face relaxes, and he mirrors your smile, like he was holding his breath until now. your dad claps his hands together. “alright! let’s get some pictures before you two head out.”

caleb shifts uncomfortably, but he doesn’t argue. mc’s already bouncing around, making sure you both stand in the right spots on the porch while your dad pulls out his old camera. caleb stands next to you, a little stiff at first, but then mc makes a silly face from behind your dad, and caleb laughs, his shoulders loosening up.

your dad takes a few shots—one of you both standing side by side, one with caleb a little closer, and one where he’s looking at you like he doesn’t know how he got this lucky. it makes your face go hot, and you’re glad when your dad finally lowers the camera and says, “alright, let’s get moving.”

you all pile into the car, with caleb in the back next to you, and mc up front with your dad. the drive to the school isn’t long, but it feels like forever. caleb’s knee keeps bumping yours, and every time it does, he mumbles an apology, even though you don’t mind.

your dad glances in the rearview mirror, eyes crinkling with a soft smile. “you two look great. have fun tonight, okay?” you both nod, and caleb gives a small, almost shy, “yes, sir.”

when you finally get to the school, the building is lit up with paper lanterns and balloons, and kids are already milling around the gym entrance. caleb hesitates for a second, then reaches out and lightly touches your hand. “ready?” he asks and you nod, trying to ignore the way your heart is pounding. “yeah. let’s go.”

and with that, he leads you toward the doors, his fingers brushing against yours, and you can’t help but smile because, somehow, this feels just right.

the gym is buzzing with energy, kids everywhere, talking too loud and trying to look cooler than they are. there’s a disco ball hanging from the ceiling, reflecting little bits of light everywhere, and the speakers are playing some pop song that’s probably too grown-up for a middle school dance, but no one seems to care.

you glance around, trying to take it all in. mc is already running off to find some of her friends, promising to come back and check on you later. caleb sticks by your side, his hands shoved deep into his pockets like he’s trying to make himself smaller.

“it’s kinda loud,” he mumbles, looking a little overwhelmed.  you nod, feeling the same way. “yeah. and it smells weird.” he snorts, trying not to laugh too loud, “it does.”

just when it feels like you might actually relax, a group of boys from the basketball team spot caleb and come barreling over, practically tackling him in a swarm of loud greetings and slaps on the back. they’re talking about some game from last week, and caleb’s trying to keep up, looking a little caught off guard.

one of them, a tall kid named evan, grins at you. “hey, caleb! didn’t know you had a date.”

caleb’s face goes red, and he looks at you like he’s not sure what to say. you just smile politely, even though your stomach flips.

before caleb can say anything, another one of his friends nudges him. “c’mon, man, we’re gonna get some drinks and find the guys from the other team. you coming?” he says drinks with a cool undertone, even though the drink in question is a punch bowl containing kool aid tropical punch.

caleb hesitates, glancing at you. you just shrug, giving him a small smile. “it’s okay. go hang out. i’ll find mc or some of the girls from class.” he looks relieved, but still a little unsure. “are you... sure?” you nod, trying not to feel too disappointed. “yeah, it’s fine.”

he gives you a grateful smile before getting dragged off by his friends, and you watch him go, a weird tightness settling in your chest. you didn’t really think about the fact that he might have other people to hang out with. it shouldn’t bother you, but it does…just a little.

you wander around for a bit, finding some of your own friends who are gossiping in a corner about who’s dancing with who. one of them, kayla, gives you a knowing look. “i saw caleb with you earlier,” she teases. “you two look cute together.”

you feel your face heat up and just mumble something about how it’s not like that, but kayla just laughs and drags you closer to the group. for a while, you try to focus on what they’re talking about, but your eyes keep drifting around the room, wondering where caleb went.

then, out of nowhere, he’s there again, standing right in front of you, a little breathless. “hey,” he says, like he’s been looking for you.

“hey,” you reply, your heart thudding a little harder. he glances back over his shoulder, where his friends are still messing around near the punch table, then back at you. “do you... want to dance?”

you’re pretty sure your brain short-circuits for a second. “dance?”

“yeah. i mean... it’s a dance. we should... dance.” he’s stammering now, looking down at his shoes, and you realize he’s just as nervous as you are.

you nod, trying to keep your cool. “yeah. okay.”

he takes your hand, his palm a little sweaty but warm—and leads you out to the middle of the gym, where a slow song is starting to play. you’re not really sure where to put your hands, but he gently guides them to his shoulders, and his own hands hover awkwardly near your waist before settling there, barely touching. it’s clumsy and weird and makes your heart race like crazy.

you sway together, not really in time with the music, just moving in that nervous, uncertain way that middle schoolers do. you catch his eye a few times, and every time, he looks away, his ears turning red. but he’s smiling, soft and a little shy, and you can’t help but smile back.

after a minute, caleb clears his throat. “um... maybe... we could make a deal,” he says quietly, almost like he’s afraid of your answer.

“what kind of deal?” you ask, curious. he swallows, squeezing your hand just a little tighter. “we could go to every dance together. you know... so it’s not awkward. we’ll always have a... dance partner.”

your heart skips. it’s such a simple, silly idea, but it makes you feel warm. “okay,” you whisper. “it’s a deal.”

caleb’s smile gets a little wider, more confident. “cool.”

the song ends, and you both step back, hands dropping reluctantly. but even when the music changes to something fast, you just stand there, grinning at each other, like maybe you just figured out something important without really knowing how.

and you know—even if you don’t really understand why yet—that this is one of those moments you’ll remember for a long time.

middle school keeps rolling on, and things keep changing—faster than you expect. after that first dance, it’s like the whole school starts to see caleb differently. he’s not just the new kid anymore. he’s caleb—the guy on the basketball team who’s smart and athletic and pretty much good at everything. people start noticing him more, especially the girls. you hear them whispering about him in the hallways, giggling when he walks by.

you’d think it would make him different, but it doesn’t. he’s still caleb—the same guy who sneaks snacks into class and makes dumb jokes when you’re having a bad day. the only difference is that more people seem to know his name now.

it’s not just him, though. as the year goes on, you start noticing that people look at you differently too. you didn’t really plan on joining volleyball, but mc talked you into it, saying you should at least try. you ended up liking it way more than you thought. the practices are long, but you’re getting better—quicker on your feet, stronger with your serves.

you start to notice other things too—how your face seems a little softer, your hair shinier, your smile brighter. one of the older girls on the team says you’re “getting cuter every day,” and you don’t really know what to say except mumble a thank you and hope no one sees your blush.

the attention doesn’t go unnoticed. people start talking to you more—complimenting your hair, asking if you’re going to the next game. it’s weird at first, but mc just beams every time someone notices you, like she’s proud.

one afternoon, you’re leaving practice, your gym bag slung over your shoulder, when you spot caleb waiting by the gym doors. his basketball practice ended a while ago, but he’s still here, leaning against the wall with his phone in hand. he looks up when he sees you, his eyes widening just a bit.

“hey,” he greets, tucking his phone away. “how was practice?” – “good,” you reply, a little out of breath from drills. “coach made us run like, a hundred laps. i swear my legs are gonna fall off.”

he chuckles, but it’s softer than usual, his eyes not quite meeting yours. “you look... different.” you tilt your head. “different how?”

he rubs the back of his neck, glancing at the ground. “just... i don’t know. cuter. like... you look nice.”

your stomach flips, and you can feel your face getting warm. “oh. thanks.”

the walk home is a little quieter than usual, but it’s not uncomfortable. just... different. caleb keeps sneaking glances at you, and every time you catch him, he looks away, pretending he’s looking at the sky or a bird or something.

at school, you start noticing that other people are looking too. one day in the cafeteria, you’re carrying your lunch tray when one of the boys from the track team calls out, “hey, nice serve at the last game!” you give a quick nod, trying not to trip over your own feet, and when you sit down at your usual spot, caleb’s already there, frowning at the guy from across the room.

“you know him?” he asks, stabbing at his food with his fork, “not really,” you answer, a little confused. “just from gym.” caleb just grunts, not saying much after that, but he’s definitely quieter than usual. mc plops down next to you, oblivious to the weird tension, and starts talking about some science project, and you just focus on that instead.

later that week, you’re at your locker, gathering your books for class, when caleb leans against the one next to yours. he’s been doing that a lot lately—just showing up out of nowhere and sticking close, like he doesn’t really want to leave your side.

“are you... going to the next game?” he asks, trying to sound casual. you look at him, surprised. “your game?” – “yeah. or yours. either one.” you can’t help but laugh. “i always go to your games. and you always come to mine.” he just shrugs, looking a little embarrassed. “just making sure.”

you catch that soft, almost unsure smile, and you realize it’s been happening more and more lately—him looking at you like he’s trying to figure something out. it makes you feel weirdly happy, but also nervous, like something big is about to happen and you’re not ready for it. you don’t say anything else, just bump his shoulder as you pass by, and he trails behind you like a shadow, still looking a little dazed.

high school isn’t as scary as it was at first. after a few months, you start to get used to the routine—the long hallways, the crowded cafeteria, and the way everyone seems to be figuring out who they want to be. it’s weird how fast things change.

mc’s still stuck in middle school, but that doesn’t stop her from showing up at your practices whenever she can, cheering way too loud from the bleachers. one day, when she’s supposed to be doing homework, she blurts out, “i have a boyfriend!”

you nearly drop your water bottle, and caleb, who’s sprawled on the living room floor with a textbook, sits up so fast he almost knocks his head on the coffee table. “you what?” he demands, eyes wide.

mc just grins, not at all phased by his reaction. “his name’s ryan. he’s in my math class. he asked me to the winter dance.” caleb’s face does this weird thing where he’s trying to look calm but failing miserably. “does grandma know?”

mc rolls her eyes. “of course. she said it was fine. it’s just a dance.” you snort, nudging caleb with your foot. “calm down, dad.”

he glares at you but doesn’t argue. you know he’s just being protective, but mc doesn’t look like she cares one bit. she’s too busy grinning and kicking her legs happily off the couch.

meanwhile, caleb’s life keeps shifting too. it’s like every day, more people know who he is. he’s not just the captain of the basketball team anymore—he’s the guy everyone seems to want to talk to, whether it’s about sports, math, or just to say hi in the hallways. it doesn’t bother you, not really, but it’s a little weird seeing girls you don’t know trying to get his attention.

one day after school, you’re in the courtyard waiting for him when he walks out, looking like he’s in a daze. when he spots you, he makes a beeline over, his backpack slung over one shoulder.

“you good?” you ask, raising an eyebrow, he shrugs, looking almost embarrassed. “uh... i just got asked out.”

you blink, trying to process that. “oh. by who?”

“jenny. from english.” he rubs the back of his neck, his ears turning pink. “we were project partners. she said she liked me and... asked if we could go to the movies sometime.”

you feel your stomach flip, but you force a smile. “and? what’d you say?” he hesitates. “i... said yes. i didn’t really know how to say no. she’s nice, and we’ve been working on that paper together for weeks. it felt... rude.”

you nod, trying to ignore the weird feeling creeping up your spine. “that’s... cool. good for you.” he doesn’t look convinced, but he doesn’t push it. instead, he changes the subject, talking about practice and how the coach is pushing them harder since the playoffs are coming up.

a few weeks later, you notice he’s been reading a lot more about the DAA. you find him one afternoon flipping through a brochure, his face focused and thoughtful.

“thinking of joining the DAA?” you tease, leaning over his shoulder.

he glances up, a little smile tugging at his lips. “maybe. there’s a program for pilots. coach mentioned it since they recruit athletes sometimes. it sounds... cool.” – “you’d make a good pilot,” you say, meaning it. “you’ve always been good at handling pressure.”

he shrugs, but you can tell he likes the idea. “it’d be something big. something important. flying ships, protecting people... it sounds like a good way to use all this,” he says, gesturing to himself like he doesn’t quite know what to do with his skills otherwise.

you just smile, watching him flip through the pages. you can already tell he’s hooked on the idea. it’s like something clicked into place for him, and he’s finally got a dream of his own. it makes you happy—even if a small, selfish part of you wonders what it would be like if he wasn’t always surrounded by people who wanted his attention.

and when jenny shows up at lunch the next day, smiling shyly at him and asking if he’s still good for the movies that weekend, you make yourself smile and wave. it’s just caleb being caleb—good at everything, good with everyone. you just didn’t realize it would feel this complicated.

jenny doesn’t last long. caleb goes to the movies with her, and when you ask him about it afterward, he just shrugs. “she’s nice,” he says, not meeting your eyes. “but... i don’t know. it just didn’t feel right. she talked a lot about stuff i didn’t really care about. and she didn’t get my jokes.”

you just nod, trying not to look too happy about it. “maybe it’s just one of those things. not everyone clicks.” he hums in agreement, and that’s the end of that. jenny still says hi to him in the hallways, but she doesn’t seem too heartbroken.

time moves faster after that. by the time sophomore year hits, caleb’s gotten even taller, and his shoulders are broader. he’s still on the basketball team, still captain, and people are starting to notice how much he’s filling out. you hear girls whisper about him in the hallways, wondering if he’s dating anyone. it’s a little weird hearing them talk like that, but you just brush it off.

one weekend, your dad offers to teach caleb how to drive. you’re sitting on the porch with mc, watching as caleb struggles to figure out how to work the clutch on your dad’s old truck. it stalls twice, and you can hear caleb cussing under his breath while your dad tries not to laugh. “think he’ll ever get it?” mc asks, leaning against your shoulder. you grin. “eventually. he’s just gotta stop freaking out every time the truck lurches.”

eventually, caleb gets the hang of it, and by the time he’s done with his lesson, he’s grinning like a little kid who just learned how to ride a bike. he jogs up to the porch, a little sweaty and proud of himself.

“i didn’t crash,” he announces, like it’s the best accomplishment of his life.

you laugh. “congrats. you officially didn’t die.”

your dad just shakes his head fondly, patting caleb on the shoulder. “you’ll get better with practice. just gotta ease up on the clutch.”

after that, it becomes kind of routine. caleb practicing driving with your dad while you and mc hang out on the porch, doing homework or just talking about school. sometimes you all end up inside, spreading out at the dining room table with textbooks and notebooks. caleb’s good at math, so he helps you when the equations start looking like a different language, and you help mc with her english homework, making sure she actually finishes her reading instead of just skimming it.

you start noticing that the conversations feel different now. it’s not just about classes or practice anymore. sometimes caleb talks about the future, about how he’s still looking into the DAA programs and how they’re taking applications soon for summer camps for prospective pilots. you encourage him, even though the thought of him flying far away someday makes your stomach twist a little.

one night, after everyone’s gone home and it’s just you and caleb on the porch, he leans back against the steps and looks up at the sky, “sometimes i think about how fast everything’s moving,” he admits, his voice quiet. “feels like just yesterday we were running around the yard with mc, playing tag.”

you nod, resting your chin on your knees. “yeah. now she’s got a boyfriend, and you’re driving, and everyone’s talking about what they want to do after school. it’s kinda scary.” he glances over at you, his eyes soft. “you know... even if things change, we’ll still be us, right?” you look at him, caught off guard. “what do you mean?”

he shrugs, looking down at his hands. “just... sometimes i worry. that we’re growing up too fast. like... what if things aren’t the same later?”

you nudge his shoulder gently. “they’ll be the same if we make them the same. you’re not gonna get rid of me that easily.” that makes him smile, the kind that reaches his eyes. “good. wouldn’t want to.”

there’s a comfortable silence after that, and you can’t help but think that maybe growing up doesn’t have to mean growing apart. maybe it just means figuring out how to stay close, even when things get harder.

and when caleb glances at you again, his gaze lingering a little too long to be just friendly, you wonder if maybe you’re both figuring out the same thing—how to hold onto each other even as the world keeps changing.

after that first awkward driving lesson with your dad, things start to fall into place. caleb keeps practicing, getting more comfortable behind the wheel, and before long, he’s driving around town with you and mc in the truck, laughing at every bump and gear shift. it becomes routine—caleb behind the wheel, you in the passenger seat, mc in the back, like you’re your own little team.

it doesn’t take long for your parents and their grandma to realize that he’s the one who’ll be doing most of the driving when school starts back up again. so, one night after dinner, your dad pulls out an envelope and hands it to caleb, looking more serious than usual.

“it’s from me, your grandma, and the neighbors,” he says. “figured you’d need something a little more reliable than the old truck. we pooled together for something safe since you’re gonna be driving these two around.”

caleb’s eyes go wide, hands shaking a little as he pulls out a set of keys. “wait... you got me a car?”

your dad grins. “it’s not new, but it’s in good shape. thought you’d like to take a look.”

you, mc, and caleb all pile out onto the driveway, where a dark blue sedan is parked, shiny and clean. caleb walks around it like he’s in a dream, barely able to believe it’s real.

“this is... this is mine?” he asks, still looking a little shell-shocked.

your dad claps him on the shoulder. “yep. just make sure you keep it clean, and no speeding. remember, it’s not just your life you’re responsible for—it’s theirs too.”

caleb swallows hard, nodding. “i promise. thank you.”

you and mc pile in, immediately claiming seats and testing the windows, while caleb just sits in the driver’s seat, hands on the wheel like he’s afraid to touch anything. you can’t help but smile, seeing how careful he’s being, like he might break it just by breathing too hard.

after that, it’s like the car becomes your second home. caleb drives you everywhere—to practice, to study sessions, even to pick up groceries when your mom’s too tired to go. he never complains, just slides behind the wheel and waits for you to buckle up, always reminding mc to wear her seatbelt even though she grumbles about it.

the holidays come and go, and the three of you spend more time together than ever. Caleb and mc’s grandma insists on hosting thanksgiving, so you and your family pile into the car and drive over (even though you’re like a couple houses away), caleb behind the wheel and mc talking about how she’s going to eat three slices of pie. christmas is spent at your house, with caleb showing off the scarf mc knitted him—even if it’s a little lopsided and full of dropped stitches.

by the time spring rolls around, caleb’s gotten used to the car, even if he still washes it religiously every weekend. he never forgets to pick you up, even on days when practice runs late or you’re too tired to text him back. it’s like second nature—caleb waiting out front, his music playing softly through the speakers, the three of you falling into place like you were always meant to be this way.

and then, finally, mc joins you at high school. it’s weird at first, seeing her in the hallways with her own friends, but she still meets you both at lunch, and caleb always makes sure she’s got a ride home. she’s grown up a little over the summer, taller and more confident, and she doesn’t cling to you as much as she used to. but she’s still the same mc—still eager to tell you about her day, still rolling her eyes when caleb makes dad jokes.

you notice how caleb’s popularity has only grown—people wave at him in the hallways, call out his name between classes, and he always waves back, even if he doesn’t know them. he’s still the basketball captain, and he’s starting to really look like an athlete—tall, lean, his hair a little longer and constantly messy from practice.

it’s almost like things have settled into a rhythm—school, practice, hanging out at your place or his, planning out summer trips. caleb’s still talking about the DAA, researching how to apply and what training he’d need. you keep encouraging him, even though the thought of him flying off somewhere far away someday makes your chest feel tight.

one evening, after a long study session in your living room, caleb falls asleep on the couch, his textbook open on his lap. mc’s already curled up in the armchair, dozing off too, and you just sit there for a moment, looking at them both. it feels... right. comfortable. like you’re all exactly where you’re supposed to be.

you drape a blanket over caleb, and just as you’re about to head to bed, he stirs, eyes half-open. “you okay?” he mumbles, voice thick with sleep. “yeah,” you whisper back. “just... thinking.” he nods, not really awake, but his hand reaches out, gently catching yours. you stand there for a moment, his fingers warm and familiar around yours, and then he falls back asleep, still holding on.

you know you should pull away, but you don’t. you just sit there next to him, his hand in yours, the room quiet except for the soft sound of mc snoring, and you can’t help but hope that moments like this never change.

it’s late, and the house is quiet. mc went to bed hours ago, and your parents are probably asleep by now too. you and caleb sit on the porch steps, shoulders brushing as you look up at the stars. it’s cool out, and you can see your breath when you talk, little puffs of white against the dark.

caleb’s got his knees pulled up, arms draped over them, and his eyes are fixed on the sky. you don’t know why, but tonight feels different—calm but heavy, like there’s something he’s not saying. you nudge him gently with your elbow. “what’s on your mind?”

he doesn’t answer right away. just tips his head back a little more, like he’s trying to get a better look at the sky. “sometimes i wonder what it’s like up there,” he says quietly. “being that far away from everything. floating... where no one can reach you.”

you glance at him, taking in the thoughtful look on his face. “sounds lonely.” he shakes his head. “no. i don’t think it would be. i think it’d feel... peaceful. like nothing else matters. just you and the stars.”

you chew on your lip, thinking about it. “you really wanna do it, don’t you? fly for the DAA?”

he nods, finally looking at you. “yeah. it’s like... the only thing that makes sense. i don’t know why, but... i just feel like i’m supposed to be up there.” you give him a small smile. “you’ll get there. i know you will.”

he smiles back, softer this time, but there’s still something in his eyes that looks uncertain. “when i’m up there... you’ll be watching me, right?”

you don’t even hesitate. “of course. i’ll be there for everything. you’re not getting rid of me that easily.”

something changes in his expression, like relief, mixed with something warmer, softer. he doesn’t say anything for a while, just looks at you like he’s trying to memorize your face. the porch light casts a glow over both of you, and the night feels quieter than usual.

“good,” he murmurs. “i want you to be there.”

you’re about to ask him why he looks so serious when he moves just a little closer, his hand brushing against yours. you don’t pull away. his gaze drops to your mouth, and you swear your heart stops for a second.

before you can think too hard about it, he leans in and kisses you. it’s soft, like he’s afraid to push too far. his lips are warm, and his hand finds yours, fingers lacing together. it’s just a moment—a breath, really—but it feels like time stopped around you.

when he pulls back, his face is flushed, and he immediately drops his eyes, letting go of your hand. “sorry,” he mumbles, rubbing the back of his neck. “i didn’t... i shouldn’t have...”

you reach out and grab his hand again before he can pull away completely. “caleb,” you say softly, making him look at you. “it’s okay. i wasn’t uncomfortable.”

his shoulders relax a little, and he looks at you like he’s trying to figure out if you mean it. “really?”

you nod, squeezing his hand. “really.”

he lets out a breath he must’ve been holding and finally smiles, a little crooked, a little shy. “okay. good. because... i kind of wanted to do that for a while.”

you laugh softly, your own cheeks warm. “me too.”

you don’t say much after that, just sit there with his hand in yours, staring up at the stars like they’re giving you some kind of answer you didn’t know you were looking for. and even though nothing’s really changed, it feels like everything has—like the space between you just got a little smaller, and you’re not sure you want it to go back to how it was.

you just sit there, fingers intertwined, and watch the stars until the air gets too cold, and you know it’s time to go inside. but even when you’re both heading to your rooms, you still feel the tingle of his kiss on your lips and the way his hand fit perfectly in yours.

after that night on the porch, something changes. it’s not obvious at first—just little things. caleb standing a little closer when you’re talking, brushing his hand against yours when you’re walking home. he doesn’t say anything about the kiss, but he doesn’t avoid you either. in fact, it’s almost like he’s more comfortable now, like he’s finally settled into the space between you.

mc notices it first, of course. she teases you both constantly, rolling her eyes every time caleb reaches for your hand or leans his shoulder against yours when you’re sitting on the couch. one night, when caleb’s out running errands with your dad, she smirks and says, “you know he’s in love with you, right?”

you feel your face heat up immediately. “he is not.”

mc just shrugs, grinning. “sure. that’s why he looks at you like you’re the only person in the room. even grandma noticed.”

you don’t know what to say to that, so you just shove a pillow at her, pretending not to hear. but deep down, you can’t help but think that maybe she’s right.

a few days later, you’re in the kitchen helping your mom with dinner when caleb walks in with your dad, both of them covered in dust from fixing the shed roof. your dad’s laughing about something caleb said, clapping him on the shoulder, and caleb’s trying to brush dirt off his jeans without making a bigger mess.

your mom just shakes her head, passing them both some lemonade. “you boys are a mess,” she teases. caleb grins, but his gaze flicks to you, softening. “sorry for tracking dirt in,” he mumbles, but your mom just waves it off.

“don’t worry about it. you helped fix the shed—i’ll take a little dirt over that roof leaking.”

as they talk, you notice caleb glance at your dad, then back at you, like he’s weighing something in his head. finally, he clears his throat. “can i talk to you for a sec?” he asks your dad, his tone a little more serious.

your dad raises an eyebrow, but he nods. “sure. what’s up?”

they step outside to the porch, and you feel a weird sense of panic rise in your chest. your mom notices, patting your shoulder gently. “don’t worry,” she whispers. “it’s probably nothing.”

a few minutes later, they come back in. your dad’s grinning, and caleb looks a little flushed, but he’s smiling too. your dad ruffles caleb’s hair like he’s still a kid. “you’re alright, son,” he says warmly. “just treat her right.”

caleb nods earnestly. “i will.” your mom just looks amused, leaning over to whisper in your ear, “i think that boy just asked for permission to take you out.”

your face burns, and you barely manage to look at caleb as he walks over, rubbing his hands together nervously. “uh... can we talk?”

you nod, letting him pull you outside, where the air feels a little cooler, crisper. he takes a deep breath, like he’s preparing for a big game. “i... talked to your dad,” he starts, not quite meeting your eyes. “i just... i wanted to make sure he was okay with it before i asked you.”

your heart pounds in your chest. “asked me what?” caleb looks at you, his eyes steady and serious. “if you’d go out with me. like... on a real date.”

you stare at him for a second, trying to process the words. “a date?” he nods, his face a little pink. “yeah. i mean, i know we hang out all the time anyway, but... i want to do it right. take you out, just us. because... i really like you. and i want to... do this the right way.”

you can’t help the smile that spreads across your face, relief and excitement mixing together. “you didn’t have to ask my dad, you know.” he shrugs, looking a little embarrassed. “yeah, but... it felt right. like... i wanted to make sure he knew i wasn’t just messing around.”

you can’t help but laugh, stepping closer and grabbing his hand. “you’re kind of a dork, you know that?” he grins, finally relaxing. “yeah. but you like me anyway.” you roll your eyes, but you don’t deny it. “okay. yes. i’ll go out with you.”

caleb’s whole face lights up, and he pulls you into a hug, holding you tight like he’s afraid you’ll change your mind. you just laugh against his shoulder, feeling that familiar warmth settle in your chest. it’s not just relief—it’s happiness, pure and simple.

when he pulls back, his hands linger on your waist, and he looks at you like he’s still trying to believe this is real. “so... friday night?” he asks, a little breathless. “there’s this diner i’ve been wanting to take you to.”

you nod, still grinning. “sounds perfect.”

he leans down and presses a soft, quick kiss to your forehead before stepping back, clearly trying not to look too eager. but you can see it in his eyes—that quiet, steady affection that’s been there all along.

and when you head back inside, hands still entwined, your parents just smile knowingly, like they’ve been waiting for this just as long as you have.

senior year came faster than you expected. one minute you’re trying to figure out your class schedule, and the next, it’s almost summer. you and caleb have been dating for a while now—long enough that it feels normal to hold his hand in the hallways or sit with him at lunch, even if people still whisper sometimes.

he’s still on the basketball team, still the captain, and you’ve made it through another volleyball season. life is good—busy, but good. but then the acceptance letter from the DAA comes, and suddenly, everything feels a little more real.

caleb gets in. of course he does. they want him to join their summer program, which means he’ll be gone for three months. he’s over the moon about it—excited and nervous and already packing weeks before he has to leave. you’re happy for him, really, but there’s this knot in your stomach that doesn’t go away.

the day before he leaves, he’s at your house, sprawled out on your bed, flipping through the welcome packet they sent. mc’s in the living room, packing her bag for the family vacation. your parents decided to take you, mc, and josephine to the coast for a few weeks—a little getaway before the school year kicks back up again.

“they’re gonna make us take a fitness test on the first day,” caleb says, flipping a page. “bet half of them are gonna pass out in the heat.”

you smile, resting your chin on his shoulder. “you’ll be fine. you’re like... the fittest person i know.”

he snorts. “i don’t know. some of these guys are already doing flight training. i’m just... playing catch-up.”

you brush his hair out of his face, pressing a quick kiss to his cheek. “you’ll do great. they’re lucky to have you.”

he turns his head, and for a second, his expression softens. “you think so?”

you nod. “yeah. you’re gonna be amazing.”

he doesn’t say anything, just pulls you closer until you’re tucked under his arm, his face buried in your hair. “i’m gonna miss you,” he mumbles.

you swallow the lump in your throat. “me too. but it’s just one summer. and when you come back, we’ll have senior year.”

he doesn’t look convinced, but he doesn’t argue. instead, he pulls out his phone and scrolls through some of the emails from the DAA. you can’t help but notice the way his hand tightens around yours, like he’s afraid to let go.

later that night, your family is bustling around, making sure everyone’s bags are packed. josephine is lecturing mc about not forgetting sunscreen, and your dad is triple-checking the car’s tire pressure. caleb lingers by the porch, watching you move around the house like he’s trying to memorize every detail.

when it’s finally time for him to leave, he walks you out to his car. the sun’s low in the sky, casting long shadows across the driveway.

“i’ll text you when i get there,” he promises, squeezing your hand. “and... i’ll try to call when i can.” you nod, not trusting yourself to speak. he looks at you, and there’s this sad, crooked smile on his face. “it’s just a few months,” he says, more to himself than to you.

before you can think too hard about it, you reach up and kiss him—slow and soft, like you’re trying to make it last. when you pull back, his forehead rests against yours, and he just breathes you in.

“be safe, okay?” you whisper, “always,” he replies, kissing you one more time before finally forcing himself to step back.

you watch him drive away, the knot in your stomach tightening, and when you go back inside, mc is waiting with that look on her face—the one that says she’s trying to be comforting without being obvious.

the next morning, you’re all packed into the car, with josephine already telling stories about her own high school days as your dad navigates the highway. the coast isn’t too far, but it feels like hours. mc keeps showing you pictures of the cabin you’ll be staying in—rustic but cute, with a view of the beach.

you lean against the car window, your phone clutched in your hand, waiting for caleb’s text. when it finally comes, it’s short but enough to make you smile: 

caleb: made it safe. wish you were here. you: miss you already. have fun.

the rest of the drive feels a little lighter after that. once you get to the cabin, it’s chaos—unpacking, arguing over who gets which room, and josephine trying to convince mc to help her make sandwiches for everyone. the beach stretches out just beyond the cabin, and you can hear the waves crashing even from inside.

as the sun sets that night, you and mc sit on the porch, watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange. it’s beautiful, and you almost forget that caleb’s not there with you. mc nudges your shoulder. “he’ll be fine,” she says confidently, “it’s caleb.”

you nod, smiling despite yourself. “yeah. it’s just... weird. not having him here.”

she grins, pulling out her phone to snap a picture of the sunset. “well, when he gets back, you’ll have all these stories to tell. just think of it that way.” you lean back against the porch railing, letting the cool breeze hit your face. maybe she’s right—maybe it’s just one summer. but still, you can’t help but wonder if caleb’s looking at the sky right now too, thinking about you.

senior year arrives, and you can’t help but feel like you’ve been waiting forever for it. summer flew by without caleb—just phone calls and texts when he could find the time, updates on his training and how much he missed home. you didn’t really know what to expect when he finally came back, but when he steps out of his car on the first day of school, you nearly forget how to breathe.

he’s... different. taller, definitely, and his shoulders are broader. his arms look stronger, more defined, and his hair’s a little shorter, but it suits him. he’s wearing his usual easy smile, but there’s a confidence there that wasn’t quite as sure before. when he sees you waiting at the school gate, he grins like he’s just spotted something he’s been looking for.

you barely have time to react before he sweeps you into a hug, lifting you off the ground and spinning you once before setting you back down. “hey,” he breathes, looking down at you with that familiar softness. “missed you.”

you laugh, swatting at his chest. “you didn’t tell me you’d turn into a superhero while you were gone.” he just shrugs, smirking. “training. gotta stay in shape.”

you roll your eyes, but you can’t help but notice how much more solid he feels, like he’s really grown into himself. “you look... good,” you admit, a little embarrassed. he brushes his thumb over your cheek, not even bothering to hide his smile. “so do you.”

the year kicks off, and it’s different from the others. there’s a feeling of finality, like everyone’s already thinking about the future, but it’s also more relaxed. fewer classes, more free periods, more time to just be together. you and caleb spend your evenings studying for college applications, going on dates, and helping mc with her sophomore homework when she gets overwhelmed.

you visit a few college campuses, some nearby and some a little further out, and caleb talks about how he’s still thinking about the DAA but wants to keep his options open. every time you bring up the future, his expression gets a little more serious, but he never lets go of your hand, like he’s grounding himself with you.

and then prom season rolls around. you didn’t really think much about it at first, but mc’s been planning your outfit since winter break. she practically forces you into a dress the week before, making sure it’s perfect. caleb, of course, tries to play it cool, but you know he’s just as excited.

the night of prom, he shows up at your house with a corsage that matches your dress and a suit that makes him look like he stepped out of a movie. your parents insist on taking pictures, and caleb’s hands are warm on your waist as he pulls you close, both of you smiling too big to look cool.

the gym is transformed—streamers and twinkling lights everywhere, and a DJ blasting songs that everyone knows by heart. caleb keeps you close, his arm draped over your shoulder as you navigate the crowd. he’s saying hi to everyone, accepting compliments and teasing from his teammates, but his attention never strays far from you.

it’s not a surprise when they announce caleb as prom king. the whole room erupts in cheers, and he just looks a little embarrassed, rubbing the back of his neck as they hand him a plastic crown. but when they call out the prom queen’s name—jessica, one of the cheer captains—you see caleb’s smile falter just a little.

the tradition is for the prom king and queen to dance together, and the DJ starts queuing up a slow song. jessica steps forward, clearly thrilled, but caleb just shakes his head, already walking off the stage. he makes his way through the crowd, weaving between people, and you feel a weird pang in your chest, like maybe he’s just going to go along with it.

but then he’s right there, standing in front of you, holding out his hand.

“hey,” he says, like he didn’t just break some unspoken rule. “can i have this dance?”

you blink, trying to process it. “but... aren’t you supposed to dance with her?”

he shrugs, not looking the least bit bothered. “maybe. but i have my own tradition. i promised you, remember?”

your heart thuds against your ribs as you take his hand, letting him pull you to the center of the room. he’s still wearing that ridiculous plastic crown, but you can’t help but laugh when he leans down, resting his forehead against yours.

the song is slow, something soft and familiar, and caleb’s hands are gentle on your waist as you sway together. you feel the weight of the moment, like everything in your lives has led to this one dance.

“you didn’t have to do that,” you murmur. “everyone’s staring.” he just smiles, unfazed. “don’t care. i made a promise. every dance, remember?” you can’t help but smile back, tightening your hold on him. “yeah. every dance.”

as the song continues, you’re barely aware of the other people around you. it’s just caleb, his eyes locked on yours, like he’s trying to tell you something without saying a word. when the song ends, the room bursts into applause, and you finally notice that people aren’t upset—they’re cheering for you both.

jessica looks a little put out, but even she doesn’t seem mad, just resigned, like she knew caleb would pick you. he doesn’t notice her sulking, just pulls you closer, pressing a quick, soft kiss to your forehead.

“thanks for being my tradition,” he whispers. you laugh, resting your head on his chest. “thanks for keeping it.”

and as the night goes on, you can’t help but think that maybe this is the happiest you’ve ever been. it’s just you and caleb, dancing to a song you’ve already forgotten, but it doesn’t matter—because he’s the one who chose you, every time.

graduation day feels surreal. the gym is packed with parents, siblings, teachers, and everyone you’ve grown up with. the rows of seats are filled with restless energy—people adjusting their caps, whispering about plans for the summer, and trying not to think too hard about how this is the end of high school.

you’re in your cap and gown, sitting next to mc, who’s pouting like it’s her job. “i still don’t get why i couldn’t graduate with you guys,” she grumbles, crossing her arms.

you laugh, nudging her shoulder. “because you’re a sophomore, genius.”

she sticks her tongue out at you but doesn’t push it. you know she’s just upset that you’re both leaving soon. it’s hard to believe that after today, things are going to change for good. you’re both going to skyhaven—caleb for the DAA college program to become a pilot, and you for business and management. it’s comforting to know you’ll be in the same city, but the idea of not seeing him every day still makes your chest ache.

when the principal steps up to the microphone and announces caleb as the valedictorian, the whole gym erupts in cheers. he’s been working on his speech for weeks, but you can tell he’s still nervous as he steps up to the podium, adjusting the microphone. his cap’s a little crooked, but he doesn’t seem to notice.

he clears his throat, glancing at the crowd, and for a second, you swear he’s looking just at you. “uh, hey,” he starts, his voice a little rough. “um... first off, I just want to say thank you to everyone who’s helped us get here. parents, teachers, friends... you guys made this possible.”

he pauses, shifting his weight, and you can tell he’s trying to keep his voice steady. “it’s weird to think that this is it—the end of high school. i remember being that nervous freshman who didn’t know how to find his own locker. now we’re here, about to head off in a million different directions. it’s exciting, but also kind of terrifying.” a few people chuckle, and he relaxes a little, his hands gripping the sides of the podium. “for me, it’s always been about finding where i belong. basketball was a big part of that, but it’s not just about the team or the wins. it’s about the people—the friends who stuck by me, the ones who reminded me that it’s okay to be unsure sometimes.”

his gaze finds yours again, and you feel your heart skip. “there’s one person in particular who... well, who’s always been there. even when i wasn’t sure who i was. she kept me grounded. believed in me when i wasn’t sure i could do it. and... she’s more than just my best friend. she’s the person i want by my side, no matter where we go next.”

you’re pretty sure your face is on fire, and mc’s giving you that look—the one that says, “i told you so.” caleb clears his throat again, his cheeks a little red. “so... thank you. to everyone. but especially to her. i wouldn’t be standing here without you.”

there’s a murmur of curiosity in the crowd, but caleb doesn’t explain further. he just looks at you one more time, like he’s making sure you heard him.

the rest of his speech is more general—encouraging everyone to chase their dreams, to make mistakes, and to never forget where they came from. when he finishes, the applause is loud enough to shake the room, and he ducks his head a little as he walks back to his seat.

when he sits down next to you, you don’t say anything at first. you just reach over and grab his hand, squeezing tight. he looks at you, a little nervous, but when you smile, he relaxes, lacing his fingers with yours.

as names are called and diplomas are handed out, you try to hold onto this feeling—the pride, the excitement, and the relief that, even as things change, some things will stay the same.

after the ceremony, mc practically tackles caleb in a hug, grumbling about how dumb it is that he’s leaving. he just laughs, ruffling her hair, and promises that he’ll visit as often as he can.

your parents snap a million pictures—one of you and caleb in your caps, one of caleb holding mc on his back, and one of you two leaning against the school sign, his arm around your waist.

as the sun starts to set, caleb pulls you aside, away from the crowd. his hands find yours, and he leans down, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead.

“you know i meant it, right?” he murmurs, his breath warm against your skin. “about wanting you with me. no matter what.” you smile, reaching up to straighten his cap. “i know. and i’ll be right there. every step.” he looks relieved, like he needed to hear you say it. “good. because i’m not going anywhere without you.”

you pull him into a hug, resting your head against his chest, listening to his heartbeat. in that moment, with the sun dipping below the horizon and the world full of possibilities, you know that no matter where life takes you both, you’ll always find your way back to each other.

the house is packed with holiday chaos—warm lights, the smell of cinnamon, and way too many people squeezed into the living room. your parents are bustling around, setting up the table, while josephine is in the kitchen, expertly directing traffic like it’s a military operation. she’s wearing one of those old-fashioned holiday aprons, her silver hair pulled back, and she keeps telling everyone to stay out of the kitchen unless they’re helping.

mc and her boyfriend zayne are huddled near the fireplace, mc talking a mile a minute while zayne just nods along, a little overwhelmed but clearly happy to be there. caleb’s next to you, looking a little jittery, his hands stuffed in his pockets. every so often, he glances at josephine, who just gives him a knowing look and a wink. you have no idea what’s going on, but it makes your stomach flip.

finally, dinner’s over, and josephine insists that everyone gather in the living room to open a few presents. she pulls mc onto the couch next to her and practically pushes zayne into the armchair. your parents are still cleaning up, but they’re listening from the dining room, and josephine keeps calling for caleb to get his butt back in here.

caleb takes a deep breath, grabs your hand, and tugs you into the room, leading you to the spot right next to the tree. the glow of the lights makes the whole room feel cozier, and you catch mc giving you a suspicious look like she knows something you don’t.

just as you’re about to sit down, caleb stops you, still holding your hand. he takes a deep breath, his thumb brushing over your knuckles. “hey,” he starts, his voice quieter than usual. “i’ve been thinking about how much things have changed since we were kids. and how, no matter what, you’ve always been there. my best friend. my... everything.”

your heart’s racing, and you can feel everyone’s eyes on you. caleb swallows hard, glancing at josephine again. she just gives him a tiny nod, smiling knowingly. finally, he pulls something out of his pocket—a small velvet box.

“i know it’s just the beginning for us,” he says, his voice a little shaky. “but... i don’t want to wait anymore. i want you with me for everything. forever.”

he drops to one knee, opening the box to reveal a simple, beautiful ring—just the kind you would have picked out yourself. “will you marry me?”

you barely manage to say yes before he’s up again, sweeping you into his arms while everyone bursts into cheers. mc practically launches herself at you both, squealing and almost knocking caleb off balance. zayne’s clapping and grinning, and your parents are already snapping pictures.

josephine wipes at her eyes, muttering something about how “my boy’s finally grown up,” but there’s pride in her smile. she gives caleb a thumbs-up, clearly approving of his choice.

when caleb finally pulls back to slide the ring onto your finger, his hands are shaking, but his smile is so bright it makes your chest ache. he presses a kiss to your forehead, and the whole room feels like it’s wrapped in warmth and love.

josephine pats mc’s shoulder, beaming. “i knew he’d do it right,” she whispers proudly.

caleb just leans his forehead against yours, still holding your hand like he never wants to let go. “best christmas ever,” he murmurs.

you laugh softly, wiping at the tears you didn’t even realize were there. “and just the beginning.”

mc’s already making plans for the wedding, and zayne’s trying to calm her down, but josephine just shakes her head, chuckling. “let them dream,” she says, squeezing your hand when you sit down beside her. “i knew from the start you’d be part of this family.”

you lean into caleb’s side, fingers still tangled together, and he just smiles, resting his head on yours. and even with the noise and chaos of the holiday, it’s perfect—just you and him, and the promise of forever.

the years at skyhaven fly by faster than you expect. balancing classes, work, and caleb’s DAA training isn’t always easy, but somehow, you both make it work. late-night study sessions turn into lazy mornings, and every time caleb gets leave from training, he spends it wrapped up in you, catching up on everything he’s missed.

graduation season comes around again, but this time it’s different—caleb’s graduating from the DAA pilot program, and you’re about to finish your degree in business and management with honors. the pride you feel for him is overwhelming, especially when he tells you that he’s been chosen as the valedictorian—again. you tease him about being an overachiever, but he just grins, kissing your forehead and telling you it’s all worth it.

the ceremony is held on the skyhaven campus, where the DAA graduates are lined up in their crisp uniforms. you sit near the front, next to josephine, who’s beaming proudly, and mc, who’s wearing a dress she reluctantly agreed to put on. gideon, one of caleb’s friends from the program, sits nearby, giving you a thumbs-up when you spot him.

when caleb’s name is called, the whole room erupts in applause. he walks up to the podium, standing tall and confident in his uniform. he looks over the crowd, his eyes landing on you, and his smile softens. “it’s crazy to think how far we’ve come,” he starts, his voice carrying easily. “most of us showed up here not knowing what we were getting into. we’ve been pushed to our limits—physically, mentally, and emotionally. but we didn’t just make it through… we excelled. and we didn’t do it alone.”

he pauses, glancing at his classmates, then back at you. “personally, i couldn’t have gotten here without the people who’ve always believed in me. my family, my friends... and one person in particular, who’s been by my side through every crazy step, my fiance…-”

your heart swells as he mentions you by status,

“-she’s the one who kept me grounded when things got tough, and she never let me forget why I wanted this in the first place. so... thank you.”

josephine squeezes your hand, sniffling happily, and you feel your own tears well up. caleb finishes his speech with some advice about perseverance and teamwork, and when he steps down, gideon gives him a hard clap on the back, muttering something you can’t hear. caleb just laughs, shaking his head, but his eyes keep finding you in the crowd.

after the ceremony, you rush to find him, and he picks you up in a hug, spinning you around just like the first day of senior year. “you did amazing,” you whisper, pressing your forehead to his. “you’re amazing,” he counters, kissing you softly. “couldn’t have done it without you.”

you both graduate within weeks of each other—caleb from the DAA program and you with honors from business school. it’s a whirlwind, but you’re more proud of each other than ever. landing a great job right out of school feels like a blessing, and you celebrate with dinner at your favorite little diner, reminiscing about that chaotic first date.

one night, caleb comes home looking more excited than you’ve seen in a while. “got my first assignment,” he says, pulling you into his lap as soon as you sit down. “and... they gave me a sign-on bonus.”

you raise an eyebrow, curious. “what are you planning to do with it?”

he grins, brushing his nose against yours. “fund the wedding. figured we should make it something special.” you feel your heart swell, “you’re serious?”

“of course,” he says, looking at you like you’re the best decision he’s ever made. “i want it to be perfect. for us.”

and so the planning begins. you pick out venues together, pour over guest lists, and spend weekends meeting with caterers and florists. caleb insists on making it something intimate but meaningful, with just close friends and family. gideon becomes his best man without question, and he dives into his duties with enthusiasm, already planning the bachelor party with a little too much energy.

one afternoon, as you’re sorting through color schemes and flower arrangements, caleb leans back on the couch, watching you with a fond smile. “you know,” he says softly, “i always knew it’d be you. since we were kids.” you look up, surprised. “really?”

he shrugs, not embarrassed at all. “yeah. even when we were just friends, something about you made everything feel right. like... if you were there, i could do anything.”

you move closer, resting your head on his shoulder. “i always felt that way too. like you made everything feel possible.”

he presses a kiss to your temple, his hand finding yours. “good. because this… us? it’s the best decision I’ve ever made.”

you spend the rest of the night curled up together, talking about the future—how you’ll decorate your first place, what you’ll name your first dog, how many kids you might have someday. it’s easy, the way you plan your lives together, because it’s always felt like you were meant to build a future side by side.

as the wedding date gets closer, it hits you just how far you’ve come. from those first nervous hand-holds and school dances to college stresses and career plans, you’ve grown together, made each other better. and now, with a life ahead of you both, you can’t help but feel overwhelmingly lucky.

and through it all, caleb never lets go of your hand—like he’s always known that no matter where life takes you, you’ll be walking that path together.

the day feels surreal—like a dream you’ve been planning for so long that you almost can’t believe it’s finally here. the venue is decorated with soft, warm lights strung through the trees, flowers lining the aisle, and chairs set up in neat rows. your family and friends fill the space, the hum of laughter and conversation mingling with the soft music playing from the speakers.

you’re in the back room with mc, who’s been fluttering around you like a nervous hummingbird, making sure every detail is perfect. she’s your maid of honor, and even though she’s tried to play it cool, you can tell she’s just as emotional as you are.

“stop fidgeting,” she says, fixing your veil for the third time. “you look beautiful. perfect, even.” you smile at her in the mirror, trying to keep your hands from trembling. “i’m just... nervous.” mc snorts, but her eyes are shining. “please. you’ve been waiting for this since high school. you’ve got this.”

your mom slips into the room, eyes a little misty as she takes in how you look. “it’s time,” she says softly, giving you a quick, proud hug. “he’s already out there, looking like he’s about to float off the ground.”

your stomach flips, but in a good way. you take one last breath, smoothing your dress, and follow mc out the door. the music shifts, signaling the start of the ceremony, and you watch as she walks down the aisle first, a little bounce in her step despite trying to look composed.

you take your dad’s arm, and when the doors open, it’s like the whole world narrows down to one single point—caleb, standing at the altar, his eyes locked on you. he’s in a fitted suit, his hair combed just right, but it’s the look on his face that hits you hardest—pure, unfiltered love. gideon stands next to him as the best man, grinning like he’s in on the best secret.

as you walk down the aisle, you catch glimpses of familiar faces—high school friends, college friends, caleb’s teammates from the DAA program. they’re all smiling, some wiping away tears, but it’s caleb who keeps your gaze, like he can’t believe you’re really here.

when you finally reach him, your dad gives your hand to caleb, and you swear his grip tightens just a little, like he’s grounding himself with you.

the officiant starts talking, but you barely hear the words, too caught up in caleb’s steady gaze, his fingers brushing yours like he’s reminding himself that you’re real.

“you both have grown up together,” the officiant says, smiling warmly. “from childhood friends to high school sweethearts to partners in every sense of the word. today, they’re choosing each other…forever.”

caleb’s smile softens, his thumb tracing little circles on the back of your hand. when it’s his turn to speak, his voice is low but steady. “i always knew it’d be you,” he says, his eyes never leaving yours. “even when we were kids. even when I didn’t understand what love was, i knew it would always be you. and today...I promise to keep choosing you. every day. for the rest of my life.”

your chest feels tight with happiness, tears welling up despite your best efforts to stay composed. when it’s your turn, you squeeze his hands a little tighter. “I guess i can’t say i never knew what love is, because you were right there the whole time,” you say, your voice wavering just a bit. “you’ve always made me feel safe, cherished, and loved. and today... i promise to stand by you, to support you, and to love you for as long as we both live.”

the officiant smiles, clearly moved. “do you, caleb take..” you stare at him lovingly, ears starting to tune the world out momentarily before you return, “-- to be your wife, to love and cherish through every moment life brings?” – “i do,” caleb says without hesitation, his eyes shining.

the officiant turns to you, and you take calebs appearance in once more, before turning your gaze to the officiant once more, “-- take caleb to be your husband, to love and cherish through every moment life brings?”

you barely whisper, “i do,” but it’s enough. the officiant grins. “by the power vested in me, i now pronounce you husband and wife. caleb, you may kiss your bride.”

caleb doesn’t waste a second, pulling you into his arms and kissing you like he’s never going to stop. the crowd cheers, and you can hear mc practically screaming in excitement. gideon’s clapping loudest of all, and josephine dabs at her eyes with a handkerchief, shaking her head like she can’t believe her grandkids are grown up. when you finally pull back, caleb’s still holding you, his forehead pressed to yours. “mrs. xia,” he murmurs, a little smirk playing on his lips.

you laugh, wiping at your face. “still getting used to that.” he kisses you again, softer this time, like he’s got all the time in the world. the rest of the ceremony blurs together—pictures, hugs from family and friends, mc practically dragging you around to take selfies while gideon and caleb joke about the best man speech.

the reception is filled with laughter and toasts, good food and dancing. when caleb pulls you onto the dance floor for your first dance, he holds you close, whispering how beautiful you look, how lucky he feels.

you rest your head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat, and think that maybe this is what happily ever after really feels like—holding on to the one person who’s always been your everything.

life in skyhaven feels like a new chapter—a fresh start wrapped in soft mornings and quiet nights. the house you and caleb move into is modest but perfect: two stories, a little backyard, and a kitchen with windows that catch the sunrise. it’s the kind of place that feels like it’s waiting to be filled with laughter and memories.

your wedding photos are the first things to go up, framed and carefully placed on the mantle. caleb insists on hanging the one where you’re both mid-laugh, your veil caught in the wind, because “it’s the most us.” gideon helps move in the heavier furniture, making jokes about how he’s the real MVP of the relationship for hauling the couch up the stairs. mc insists on helping too, even though she mostly just bosses everyone around while zayne tries not to laugh.

the first night after everything’s settled, you and caleb just sit on the living room floor, eating takeout from cardboard boxes. he leans back against the wall, legs stretched out, and pulls you into his lap, wrapping his arms around you.

“feels like ours,” he murmurs, resting his chin on your shoulder. you hum in agreement, closing your eyes and just letting the warmth of his embrace seep in. “it is ours.”

you fall into a rhythm after that. caleb’s schedule at the DAA is demanding, but he’s home most nights, and you make the most of every minute together. weekends are for lazy mornings wrapped up in each other, cooking breakfast while he sneaks kisses between flipping pancakes. sometimes you’ll just walk around skyhaven, exploring little shops and coffee places, your fingers always intertwined like you’re afraid of losing him.

your jobs keep you busy, but somehow you always find time for each other. date nights are a priority—sometimes fancy dinners, sometimes just cuddling on the couch with a movie neither of you really watch. intimacy becomes second nature, a language you both know by heart. some nights, you’ll find yourselves tangled in bedsheets, his laughter low and breathless against your neck, the world slipping away until it’s just the two of you.

one evening, after a long day, you’re curled up together on the couch, caleb tracing lazy patterns on your back. he keeps talking about his last flight, describing the feeling of being above the clouds, and you just listen, letting his voice soothe you.

then, one morning, you notice it—just a small flutter in your stomach, like nerves. at first, you brush it off, but it keeps happening. and then your period’s late. not just by a day, but by a week. it hits you while you’re brushing your teeth, and you freeze, staring at your reflection like it might give you the answer.

caleb’s in the kitchen, making coffee, humming softly. you wander in, your hands shaking just a little.

“hey,” you start, trying to keep your voice steady. “can we... talk?”

he turns, immediately picking up on your tone, concern etching his features. “what’s up?”

you hesitate, your heart pounding. “i think... i might be pregnant.”

for a second, he just stares, the words sinking in. then his eyes widen, and he sets down his mug carefully, like he’s afraid of dropping it. “wait—really?”

you nod, swallowing hard. “i’m not sure, but... i’m late. and i feel... different.”

he crosses the space between you in two steps, cupping your face gently. “are you okay?” you breathe out a laugh, still a little stunned. “yeah. just... surprised.”

his thumb strokes your cheek, his gaze softening. “do you... want to take a test? just to know?”

you nod, and without another word, he grabs his keys. the drive to the pharmacy is quiet but not uncomfortable—just full of unspoken thoughts. when you get home, he insists on waiting outside the bathroom, pacing the hallway like he’s about to take off in one of his planes.

when you finally look at the test, your heart skips a beat. two lines. positive.

you open the door slowly, and caleb almost trips over himself trying to get in. you just hold the test out, and he stares at it, his mouth falling open. “is that...”

you nod, barely holding back tears. “we’re having a baby.”

for a moment, he just stands there, frozen. then he pulls you into his arms, burying his face in your shoulder. “we’re having a baby,” he repeats, almost like he’s testing out the words. you laugh, half in disbelief. “yeah.”

he pulls back just enough to look at you, his hands on your waist, his eyes shining. “i’m gonna be a dad?” you nod, wiping at your cheeks. “and i’m gonna be a mom.”

he kisses you then, deep and slow, like he’s trying to memorize the way this moment feels. when he finally pulls back, he’s grinning, almost giddy. “we’re gonna be parents.”

you both end up on the floor, tangled together, laughing and crying at the same time. later, when you call mc to tell her, she screams so loud you have to hold the phone away from your ear. josephine cries when caleb tells her, saying something about how she knew the two of you would make her a great-grandma someday.

when you call your parents, your mom can barely contain her excitement. “a baby? i knew it! i knew you two would be giving me grandkids sooner rather than later!” your dad tries to play it cool, but you can hear the pride in his voice when he says, “i’m gonna teach that kid how to play ball. boy or girl doesn’t matter. they’re gonna know how to shoot.”

that night, caleb holds you close, his hand resting protectively over your stomach. “we’re gonna be good at this,” he whispers, his lips brushing your temple. you smile, pressing closer. “because we’re in this together.”

and as the night settles around you, you know that no matter what, this new adventure—just like every one before it—will be something you face hand in hand.

life had been good—better than good, really. mornings wrapped up in caleb’s arms, evenings spent planning the nursery, his hands always finding your stomach like he can’t help but remind himself that your baby is real, growing, safe. it’s become your favorite part of the day—feeling his palm resting there, his eyes soft with wonder.

but, fate? well.. she’s a cruel mistress.

you’ve been thinking about his upcoming mission, about how he’ll be gone for a few weeks and how much you’ll miss him. it’s why you decided to get him something special—a little piece of you that he can take with him. when you saw the small, simple necklace in the window—a silver apple pendant—you knew it was perfect. something to remind him of your promise to always be there, no matter where he flies.

you’re almost three months along now. your belly isn’t that noticeable yet, but you’ve felt the changes—the tenderness, the exhaustion, the way your body is quietly transforming. caleb’s been nothing but attentive, more protective than ever, always making sure you’re eating enough, getting enough sleep.

you decided to pick up the necklace on your way home from the market, the little shop tucked into a quiet part of town. the shopkeeper remembers you from the other day, already has the necklace wrapped up in a small velvet pouch. you’re about to thank her when the ground trembles—a low, guttural rumble that makes the windows shake.

your heart stutters. you know that sound. wanderers.

the shopkeeper’s eyes go wide, and someone outside screams. you’re frozen for a second, fear coursing through you, but instinct takes over. you clutch the necklace in your hand, slipping it into your pocket as you move toward the back exit.

you barely make it two steps when the world erupts. the noise is deafening—concrete splitting, glass shattering. you turn just in time to see the wall opposite you cave in, like it’s being hit from the outside. you don’t have time to react, to think, to do anything but brace yourself as the building shudders, the ceiling groaning under the pressure.

the last thing you see is the wall hurtling toward you, a blur of dust and debris, and then—

nothing…..

caleb’s in the middle of a debriefing when his phone buzzes, but he ignores it at first. it’s only when gideon comes running into the room, pale and frantic, that he realizes something’s wrong.

“caleb—there’s been an attack. downtown. a wanderer came through.”

caleb’s stomach plummets. he barely hears the rest—something about the market, about people being pulled from the rubble. all he knows is that you’d mentioned stopping by that area, something about a gift for him. his hands are shaking as he pushes past gideon, sprinting out to the tarmac, where his car is parked.

he drives like he’s in one of his training sims—reckless, fast, threading through traffic with single-minded focus. when he reaches the scene, it’s chaos—firefighters, medics, people crying and yelling, dust thick in the air.

he spots the wreckage of the little shop, the wall collapsed outward into the street, and he can’t breathe. his vision blurs, his pulse thundering in his ears.

“no... no, no, no,” he whispers, shoving his way through the crowd.

someone tries to stop him—a firefighter, shouting something about it not being safe—but caleb’s evol pulses to life, the gravity around him bending and warping. rubble that would have been immovable suddenly shifts, lifting into the air as if weightless, his desperation fueling the power coursing through him.

he sees it then—a hand sticking out from under a chunk of concrete, your ring glinting in the dim light. caleb’s knees hit the pavement, his entire world narrowing down to that single point.

“no!” his voice cracks as he pulls at the rubble, his evol pushing the debris aside like it’s made of paper. his hands shake, and he can’t stop the sob that tears from his throat as he drags pieces away, gravity warping around him like a storm, stones floating briefly before crashing down around him.

gideon catches up, grabbing caleb’s shoulders, but caleb shrugs him off, barely hearing him. “it’s her—it’s her, i know it,” he chokes out, pulling one last piece of the wall away with a forceful wave of his hand.

then he sees you, still and pale, dust settling around you. your hair is matted with blood, your face smeared with dirt, but it’s undeniably you. caleb drops to his knees beside you, hands trembling as he cups your face.

“baby... no, no, please,” he whispers, pressing his forehead to yours. “wake up. you have to—please.”

he pulls you into his lap, rocking back and forth, his other hand on your pregnant stomach, oblivious to the world around him. gravity ripples in waves, small stones lifting and falling as his control frays. gideon kneels beside him, not saying anything, just resting a hand on caleb’s back.

a medic moves closer, checking for a pulse, but the shake of her head is final. caleb’s body collapses in on itself, his hold on gravity snapping—debris crashes back to the ground with a violent thud, and the wind around them seems to bend and twist, matching his anguish.

he clutches the small velvet pouch from your pocket, the apple necklace spilling into his palm. he just holds it, pressing it against his chest as sobs wrack his body.

“we were gonna be a family,” he whispers, his tears wetting your hair. “i was gonna... protect you. keep you safe. i promised.”

gideon’s voice is soft, choked. “caleb...”

but caleb doesn’t move, doesn’t let go. he just keeps repeating your name, like if he says it enough times, you’ll come back. his whole world is gone—shattered in an instant—and he can’t do anything but hold you, his fingers tangled with yours, begging the universe to give you back.

you’re in the kitchen, sunlight spilling through the windows, the smell of breakfast in the air. caleb’s at the stove, flipping pancakes with that practiced ease, humming softly under his breath. the kitchen is full of noise—laughter, tiny feet thumping against the floor, and the baby’s high-pitched babble from the high chair.

mc is leaning against the counter, holding a cup of coffee, grinning at you. “you guys are disgusting,” she teases, watching caleb sneak a kiss before you take the next plate of pancakes.

“jealous?” caleb fires back, smirking as he sets another pancake on the growing stack.

a little girl runs by—tangled hair and bright eyes—chasing after a boy who’s wielding a wooden spoon like a sword. you can’t help but laugh, scooping the toddler out of the high chair and pressing a kiss to his soft cheek.

caleb wraps his arms around your waist, resting his chin on your shoulder. “think we might have our hands full,” he murmurs, but his voice is full of fondness.

“definitely,” you agree, leaning back against him.

it’s perfect. the house is full, messy and loud and alive. you feel that familiar warmth in your chest, the kind that only comes from knowing this is your family, your life.

then there’s a flicker—a harsh crack that splits the air. you blink, and suddenly the house fades away, slipping from your grasp like sand through your fingers.

the light’s gone, replaced by gray smoke and the distant sound of sirens. your head feels heavy, like you’ve been asleep too long, but when you open your eyes, you’re... standing.

standing in the street, watching a crowd gather. your eyes find the wreckage of the little shop, the wall broken and crumbling. there’s someone on the ground, wrapped in a familiar coat, dust and blood smeared across their face.

you move closer, and that’s when you see him—caleb, hunched over, his hands cradling a still form. his shoulders shake, and his face is buried in your hair, whispering something over and over.

you freeze, heart pounding. “caleb?” you call, stepping forward. “caleb, I’m right here—”

he doesn’t look up. you reach out, but your hand passes through his shoulder like air. panic rises, cold and sharp. you look at his hands, at the way he’s holding... you. your body.

your legs feel weak. “no,” you whisper. “no, no….this can’t be—”

caleb’s sobbing, his forehead pressed to your temple. you can hear him whispering, “please, please come back, baby, please.”

you sink to your knees, your hands shaking. “caleb... i’m here. please, look at me.”

nothing. he doesn’t move, doesn’t hear you. the realization hits hard, a crushing weight. you’re dead. gone. and he’s still here, breaking apart right in front of you, and you can’t do anything to reach him.

your throat tightens, and for a moment you just watch him—watch the way he holds you like he’s afraid to let go, the way his hands are stained with your blood. you start to cry, not from pain or fear, but from the sheer helplessness of it all.

“caleb...” you choke out, even though you know he can’t hear. “i’m sorry...”

gideon kneels beside him, trying to get him to move, but caleb just shakes his head, refusing to let go.

“i was supposed to protect her,” he whispers, his voice shattered. “i promised...”

you curl in on yourself, pressing your hands to your mouth to keep from screaming. the future you’d seen—the one with your big, happy family, caleb teaching your daughter to ride a bike, you chasing after the baby—it’s gone. erased. and you can’t even hold him, can’t even tell him you love him one more time.

the sirens grow louder, and medics move closer, but caleb still won’t let go. you reach out one more time, your fingers brushing through his hair, and even though he doesn’t react, you whisper, “i love you... i’ll always love you.”

and in the space between your heartbeat and his sobs, you feel it—the ache of everything you’ve lost, and the terrible, undeniable truth that you’ll never have that future together.

time doesn’t stop. even though it feels like it should, even though the world should have shattered along with your heartbeat, it keeps going. days blur into weeks, then months, and you watch from above, your soul aching with the weight of it all.

it’s quiet where you are—soft, light, like floating on a warm breeze. you’re not bound to one place, but you find yourself lingering around the people you love, watching them navigate a life that now feels hollow without you.

caleb doesn’t leave skyhaven. he stays in the house you shared, even though gideon offers to help him move somewhere new. he doesn’t have the heart to pack up your things—your clothes still hang in the closet, your shoes lined up by the door. sometimes, when the silence gets too heavy, he pulls out your favorite sweater and wraps it around himself, pretending for just a moment that you’re still there.

he goes back to work sooner than anyone expected—partly because he doesn’t know what else to do, and partly because he needs the distraction. flying has always been his escape, and now, more than ever, he needs the sky. you watch him train, pushing himself harder than before, his focus almost mechanical. gideon stays close, keeping an eye on him, worried that one day he might push too far and not come back.

caleb’s dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. after a few years, he earns a promotion—colonel in the farspace fleet. it’s a title that comes with respect, with responsibility. you watch him receive his new uniform, his face stoic and composed, but later that night, when he’s alone on the porch, he pulls the apple necklace from under his shirt, running his thumb over the pendant.

“made it, baby,” he whispers to the sky. “like i promised.”

you’re there, lingering at his side, wishing you could tell him how proud you are.

mc grows stronger, too. she joins the deepspace hunters—a program designed to track and eliminate wanderers before they reach populated areas. she trains relentlessly, pouring all her anger and grief into every mission. you see her determination—the way she pushes herself to be faster, smarter, like she’s trying to protect everyone the way she couldn’t protect you.

one evening, after a long mission, mc sits with caleb at the diner, her hand wrapped around a cup of coffee. they’re both quiet, the space between them heavy with memories.

“sometimes,” mc says, barely above a whisper, “i still hear her laugh. like... when it’s too quiet, i just... hear it. like she’s right there.”

caleb doesn’t respond at first, just stares at his own cup. “me too,” he finally admits. “sometimes i dream about her. about... the life we were supposed to have.”

mc wipes at her eyes, trying to be subtle, and zayne just places a hand on her back, comforting.

they don’t say much more, but it’s enough to know that they’re still carrying you with them, even after all this time.

your parents never really stop grieving, but they find ways to keep going. your mom keeps your favorite plants alive, watering them every morning, talking to them like you used to. your dad starts fixing up old furniture—something to keep his hands busy, something to distract him from the quiet. they visit caleb often, bringing him food and making sure he’s taking care of himself. sometimes they stay for hours, just talking about anything and everything, never mentioning the loss that hangs heavy over them all.

years pass. caleb remains dedicated to his position, rising in the ranks, but he never settles. he’s still the one volunteering for the hardest missions, still the one pushing himself beyond his limits. gideon becomes his right-hand man, and together they manage their unit with precision and skill.

mc and zayne get married—quietly, just a few friends and family. caleb walks her down the aisle, and you’re there too, watching from the corner of the little chapel. she laughs when she stumbles over her vows, and zayne just squeezes her hands, telling her to take her time. for a moment, she looks over her shoulder, like she’s expecting to see you behind her as her maid of honor, but when she doesn’t, she just takes a breath and finishes her words.

caleb doesn’t date. people talk about it sometimes—how he’s still young, still handsome, still kind. but he never shows interest, always just shakes his head when someone hints at setting him up. even though he keeps moving forward, his heart is still with you.

sometimes, when he’s alone, he talks to the garden where your memorial is—just quiet conversations about his day, about the missions, about how he’s still trying to do right by you.

you watch it all, your presence like a soft breeze through the leaves. you want to tell him that you’re okay, that you’re at peace, but you’re not sure if he’d ever really believe it.

life keeps going, and you see the world changing around him. mc and zayne have their first child—a boy, with zayne’s bright smile and mc’s fierce spirit and caleb practically becomes the boy’s godfather..

sometimes, when he thinks no one’s looking, caleb pulls out the necklace, tracing the apple with his thumb.

“i kept my promise,” he whispers, his eyes on the sky. “i’m still here. still fighting. just... wish you were here to see it.”

and every night, you sit by his side, letting your presence linger like the soft glow of the stars, hoping he knows that even though your paths diverged, your love never really faded.

time moves differently when you’re not part of it anymore. you watch from your place in the sky as years stretch on, seasons passing like waves. life doesn’t stop—not for grief, not for joy. it just keeps going, a slow, steady rhythm that you can’t touch but can only witness.

caleb settles into his role at the farspace fleet, his leadership becoming almost legendary among the newer pilots. they look up to him—not just for his skills, but for his dedication and the way he carries himself. he’s firm but fair, always encouraging the younger ones to push past their limits but reminding them to come back safe.

mc and zayne’s family grows. after lyra, they have two more kids—a girl named mae and a boy named kieran. caleb is at every birthday, every family barbecue, every soccer game. he shows them how to make paper airplanes, how to tie knots, and how to tell the difference between constellations.

you watch the celebrations—birthdays with homemade cakes, christmases with too many presents, thanksgiving dinners where mc accidentally burns the rolls but insists they’re “just crispy.” caleb always laughs, always reassures her that it’s perfect.

but time doesn’t just bring joy. it brings loss, too.

you see the slow fading of josephine—how her hands get weaker, how her laughter becomes softer. caleb takes care of her, visiting almost daily, making sure she’s comfortable. the kids love visiting her house, even when she’s too tired to get up from her favorite chair. one afternoon, when the sun is just right, josephine passes quietly, holding caleb’s hand.

he doesn’t cry at first, just presses a kiss to her forehead and whispers, “i’ll take care of mc. i promise.”

later that night, he sits on the porch, clutching the apple necklace, his shoulders hunched. gideon sits beside him, just as old now, both of them more gray than not, and caleb finally lets the tears come.

a few years later, it’s your parents’ turn. your dad goes first, his health fading bit by bit. your mom holds his hand until the very end, and when he finally slips away, she just leans her head on his shoulder and whispers, “i’ll see you soon.”

it’s not long after that your mom follows. caleb is there for every step, helping with arrangements, making sure they’re laid to rest beside each other. mc clings to him during the funeral, her grief heavy and raw. caleb doesn’t say much—just stands beside the gravestones, his hand on your dad’s old walking stick.

“i promised her i’d take care of you,” he whispers. “and i will. i always will.”

you’re there, too—watching, feeling the ache but knowing that they’re together now, just like they wanted. and even though caleb doesn’t see you, you press your hand to his shoulder, wishing he could feel it.

years go by. lyra, mae, and kieran grow up—awkward, gangly teenagers with loud voices and big dreams. lyra joins the academy, wanting to be a pilot just like her uncle. mae gets into music, her room filled with guitars and song lyrics. kieran plays basketball, towering over his sisters by the time he’s fifteen.

caleb never misses a game, never misses a chance to cheer them on, even when his knees start to ache and his hair goes more silver than black. gideon retires first, moving out to a small cabin by the lake, but caleb keeps going a little longer, determined to see lyra through her first year in the fleet.

the day he announces his retirement, the entire fleet throws a party. lyra’s there in her new uniform, beaming with pride as she hands him a handmade card signed by half the pilots. caleb just shakes his head, smiling but looking a little overwhelmed.

that night, back on the porch, he sighs as he lowers himself into the old rocking chair, his hands shaking just a little. he takes out the apple necklace, holding it like a lifeline.

“finally did it, baby,” he murmurs. “retired. gideon says it’s about time. i guess... i guess he’s right. i’m getting too old for this.”

you stand beside him, feeling the bittersweet pull in your heart. he looks up at the stars, his face lined but still so familiar, and you can’t help the tears that fill your eyes. he’s older now—his joints creak when he moves, his steps slower, but his eyes are still warm, still full of love.

“you’d laugh if you saw me now,” he says softly, his voice rough. “barely got the energy to mow the lawn. and the kids—they’re all grown up. lyra’s gonna be a pilot. just like i was.”

you kneel beside him, brushing your fingers through the air near his hand, wishing you could hold it.

“you’d be proud of them,” he continues, his smile tinged with sadness. “mc’s got her own team now. zayne’s still patching people up. and me... well, i’m just here. still holding on.”

you can’t help but cry, but it’s not all sadness. it’s joy, too—a deep, aching joy that you still get to see him live. you’re grateful to witness every year, to see the way he keeps moving forward, even when it hurts.

as the stars come out, he leans back, closing his eyes. “sometimes, i still feel you,” he whispers. “like you’re just... right there. and i like to think... maybe someday...”

he doesn’t finish, just holds the necklace a little tighter.

you sit beside him, wiping your own tears, and as the night deepens, you feel something peaceful settle around you. you’re still here, still with him, and he never forgot—not for one second.

you’re grateful, even as your heart breaks, because you know that love like yours doesn’t just end. it lingers, just like the stars, always there even when the world moves on.

as the years keep moving, his body becomes less forgiving. his joints ache more in the mornings, his steps a little slower. his hair is fully silver now, cropped short, and his hands tremble sometimes when he’s holding a cup of coffee. the farspace fleet is in his past now—he’s officially retired, though his mind still drifts to the sky on quiet evenings.

he stays in the house you shared, keeping the garden tended, though it’s more flowers now than vegetables. he spends a lot of time on the porch, rocking in the old chair, looking out at the road as if expecting someone to come walking up any minute. sometimes he talks to the wind, sharing stories about his day, about the kids, about how much he still misses you.

one afternoon, he pulls out the old wooden box from the closet—the one with important papers, documents, things he’s tucked away for safekeeping. he sits at the kitchen table, his reading glasses perched on his nose, and starts sorting through it.

he’s never been one to dwell too much on the end, but lately, he’s been feeling it more—the tiredness settling into his bones, the way his thoughts sometimes feel heavy and slow. it doesn’t scare him, really. it’s more of a quiet acceptance, like he’s spent so long carrying so much that it’s finally time to put it down.

he starts drafting his will, his handwriting a bit shaky but still careful. he writes about the house—how he wants it to go to mc and zayne, so the kids can always come back. he writes about his old flight journals, leaving them to lyra, knowing she’ll appreciate the stories and the notes about his missions.

when it comes to your things—your clothes, your books, the trinkets you collected—he hesitates. it’s been so long, but he never could bring himself to pack them away. instead, he writes a small note, saying they should go to mc, since she always appreciated your sense of style and loved the stories behind your knick-knacks.

he pauses, rubbing at his eyes, then pulls out the little apple necklace from his shirt. it’s worn, the shine faded, but it’s still intact, still his most cherished possession. he writes that it should go to lyra, since she always loved hearing about how you gave it to him for good luck.

he sits back, letting out a slow breath. it feels strange to put it all on paper—like acknowledging that his time is winding down. he doesn’t feel sad, just... tired. like he’s been running for so long and finally gets to rest.

mc visits later that evening, bringing dinner and the grandkids. lyra’s in her pilot uniform, looking proud and grown-up, and caleb can’t help but ruffle her hair like she’s still a kid. mae shows off the new song she’s been working on, and kieran talks about his basketball game, eager to share every detail.

caleb just sits back, soaking it in, his heart full. when the kids go to bed, mc sits with him on the porch, noticing the papers stacked neatly on the table.

“writing stuff down?” she asks softly.

he nods, not looking at her. “just... getting things in order. figured it was time.”

mc doesn’t say anything for a while, just leans her head against his shoulder. “you’ve done good, caleb. you really have.”

he swallows hard, his fingers brushing over the necklace. “i just... don’t want to leave anything undone. you know? i want them to know how much they meant to me. how much she meant to me.”

mc’s hand finds his, squeezing gently. “they know. she knows.”

they sit in comfortable silence, the sky turning shades of orange and pink. when it gets late, mc kisses his cheek, whispering, “i’ll see you tomorrow,” and heads back inside to check on the kids, “have a good night, pipsqueak.” he says.

caleb stays on the porch, watching the stars come out. he closes his eyes, leaning back in the rocking chair, and thinks about all the years that have passed—all the moments that still make him smile.

you’re there, as always, sitting beside him, even if he can’t see you. your heart aches, not from sadness, but from the overwhelming love that never faded. you reach out, your presence soft as a breeze, and watch as caleb leans his head back, whispering your name into the night air.

“soon,” he murmurs, his voice quiet but certain. “i’ll see you soon.”

and from where you are, you feel both grateful and heartbroken, knowing that he’s lived a full life, but that it’s winding down. you just hope that when the time comes, you’ll be the one to meet him at the end, ready to hold him the way you couldn’t when you left.

he knows it’s time.

it’s not a feeling of fear or regret—just a soft certainty, like a candle finally flickering out. he’s known for a while now—how his body has slowed down, how his breaths come a little more labored, how his hands shake even when he’s just holding a cup of tea.

the house is quiet. mc visited earlier, bringing food and checking in, but caleb insisted he was fine, that he just needed some rest. she left reluctantly, promising to call in the morning.

when the door closes, caleb takes a long breath, steadying himself. he gets up from his rocking chair, moving slower than he used to, but with purpose. his joints creak, and he grips the banister as he makes his way to the bedroom.

once inside, he moves to the closet, reaching up to the high shelf where a small, worn box sits. it’s dusty from years of being tucked away, but it’s still just as he left it. he carries it carefully to the bed, sitting on the edge as he pries the lid open.

inside are the remnants of a life lived—little pieces of his heart that he’s kept safe for all these years.

he takes out the first photo—one from your first dance, when you both were just kids, his tie crooked and your dress a little wrinkled from running around beforehand. he laughs softly, tracing the edges, remembering how you made him promise to take you to every dance after that.

the next photo is from your first date—the one where everything went wrong and you couldn’t stop laughing. you’re both sitting in the diner booth, your cheeks flushed from trying to contain your giggles, and he’s looking at you like you’re the only person in the world.

he pulls out a stack of love letters next, the paper soft and worn from being read over and over. some of them are his, scribbled notes he left you on the kitchen counter or slipped into your coat pocket before he left for training. others are yours—neat handwriting, talking about how proud you were of him, how you couldn’t wait for him to come home.

there’s a little carved wooden heart you made him once—a joke about how he “stole yours” when you were just teenagers. he remembers teasing you about how uneven the edges were, but you just shrugged and said it made it unique—just like him.

caleb scatters the photos and letters across the bed, letting them fan out like a mosaic of your life together. he picks up the necklace from around his neck—the little silver apple—and sets it gently among the photos.

his hands are trembling as he lays back against the pillows, his breaths growing softer, slower. he closes his eyes, and a wave of calm washes over him, like a weight finally lifting from his shoulders.

he lets out a slow, deep breath, his fingers still resting on the old, worn photos. his eyes flutter closed, his chest rises and falls one last time, and then stillness settles over the room.

the house is quiet, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. the photos lay scattered on the bed, each one a snapshot of a life filled with love, loss, and the ache of remembering. caleb’s hand rests over the necklace, his face peaceful, as if he’s simply fallen asleep, finally at rest after a lifetime of carrying so much.

when he opens his eyes again, he’s standing on a path bathed in golden light, the sky impossibly blue, the air fragrant with wildflowers. he feels different—his movements are steady, his back straight, but when he looks down, he sees his hands—still wrinkled and worn, aged by the years.

he follows the path, his footsteps light, and as he gets closer to the towering gates ahead, he sees someone standing just beyond them. his heart lurches, recognition hitting him all at once.

it’s you.

you’re standing there, dressed in white, your hair flowing like it did when you were young, your smile soft and bright. you haven’t aged a day—still the same as when you left, still beautiful, still his. and he looks down, your baby bump. caleb stops, his breath catching, and tears fill his eyes before he can stop them. he doesn’t even think to wipe them away—just stands there, his heart aching with joy and disbelief.

you walk forward, your arms outstretched, your own tears glistening like tiny stars.

“i’ve been waiting for you, my love,” you say softly, your voice trembling.

caleb lets out a shaky laugh, wiping at his face with the back of his hand. “sorry for taking so long,” he whispers, his voice thick. you just shake your head, stepping closer, your hands cupping his face. he leans into your touch, his hands settling on your waist like he’s afraid you’ll slip away again.

then he pulls back just enough to look at you properly, his mouth twitching in a crooked smile. “you... you’re still young,” he says, bewildered. “and i’m... well, i’m grandpa age.”

you laugh, your hand brushing through his silvery hair. “you are,” you tease, a playful glint in your eyes. “look at you—old man, gray hair... you could pass for josephine’s brother.”

he huffs, still a little self-conscious. “i guess i figured... i’d look like i used to. you know... not like this.”

you cup his cheek, your thumb brushing over the lines at the corner of his mouth. “as long as you’re my caleb, i don’t care.” he can’t help but laugh, the sound soft and full of wonder. “you’re sure you don’t mind having an old man hanging around?”

you just shake your head, pulling him closer. “ you’re my caleb. always. no matter how many years pass. i love you.”

his lips find yours, and it’s soft and familiar, like no time has passed at all. he holds you close, his hands resting on your waist, and when he pulls back, his eyes are clear, his heart full.

“i missed you,” he whispers, his voice cracking.

“i know,” you say, your forehead resting against his. “but you lived. you did everything you promised. and now... we’ve got forever.”

caleb just smiles, a little shy, a little relieved. “can’t believe i get to be with you again.”

you take his hand, squeezing it tight. “you’re home.”

and as you guide him through the gates, your hands intertwined, he knows that this is it—where he was always meant to end up. with you.

𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 ! - @rcvcgers, @miffysoo, @blessdunrest

[loverboysturn]

it's friday night, and both popular!chris and cinderella!reader have somewhere to be !!

masterlist for this au here

꒰ friday night. 7:40pm ꒱ you were late. again.

you were working tonight, but you had got completely carried away with an assignment you were writing in the campus library, by the time you had noticed the time in the corner of the compurer screen, you only had twenty minutes til you were due to clock in, and the diner was a twenty minute drive away from campus which meant you were already late.

you shoved the notes scattered all over the desk in front of you into your bag and left immediately, muttering under your breath in a panic as you bolted from your seat. you rushed out the library and through the hallway, sliding past all the excited students making their way to tonight’s football game, throwing out “sorry’s” and “excuse me’s” as you squeezed past them.

but then, you turn the corner, way too quickly and your body slams straight into someone.

your tote bag slips from your shoulder, and your phone that’s gripped in your hand nearly goes flying, but a strong arm wraps around your waist just in time, catching you just before you can stumble backwards.

“woah, careful.”

you had collided with chris sturniolo, the football captain, campus’s very own golden boy, the guy that everyone wanted to be, and the girls wanted to be with and right now, he was also campus connect's most spoken about student.

his brown hair was pushed back like he had also been rushing to get somewhere, his chest was rising and falling beneath the palms of your hands that laid flat on his chest to balance yourself. for a second, neither of you moved. his hand still wrapped around your waist steading you, his eyes locked on yours.

“you good?” he asked you, his tone of voice sincere.

you nodded, your throat had gone completely dry. “yeah… i’m so sorry, i didn’t see you, i was rushing because i’m gonna be late and i—“

“you’re good, it happens” he interrupts, a smile forming on his lips. “don’t worry about it.”

you step back, brushing your hair that had fallen from your claw clip out of your face, and you were still a little breathless from all the rushing around, “i—i really have to go, i’m gonna be really late for….something.” you say quickly, the words coming out before you can even think about it, and you almost feel embarrassed to admit to the most popular boy on campus that you’re headed to the diner, like always. “i’m sorry again, chris.”

you’re already turning to go, when his voice stops you.

“be careful next time, clumsy.”

you don’t look back at him, you just keep walking, your heart pounding harder in your chest than it was before.

chris stayed where he was, even though he should’ve been in the locker room ten minutes ago, tonight’s football game starting in twenty but he stands watching you until you’re out of sight.

something about the way you rushed off, the way you apologised to him made him want to make sure you were really okay, that you hadn’t dropped anything on your way out, that you had made it to wherever it was you were rushing to on time but before he could think about your run in any longer, a voice called out to him.

“chris, hurry the fuck up!”

it was matt, leaning his head out of the locker room, reminding chris that he was already running late.

CAMPUS CONNECT | NEW POST POST BY: ANONYMOUSBUZZ Was it just us or did Chris Sturniolo seem distracted during tonight's game? 👀 Not exactly the start we were expecting from our golden boy on the first game back this year. Is he distracted because he's still hung up on the head cheerleader break up, or are the rumours true and he was scanning the bleachers for a new mystery girl? Either way, his head was not in the game. — 🐝xoxo

꒰ 🏷️ tags ꒱ @ribbonlovergirl | @oopsiedaisydeer | @herevphoricwriting | @leaningoutthewindow | @backwardshatnick | @sturnslutz | @maekieuwu | @ellssturn

[bullet-prooflove]

Positive: Andrew 'Pope' Cody x Reader

Tagging: @kmc1989 @fadeinsol @akotafi @yousigned-upforthis @cowardlycandy

Companion piece to:

The Professional - Pope meets the love of his life when Smurf hires her to crack a safe.

Ethical Thieving - You introduce Pope to a new skill set.

Crazy (NSFW) - Pope's always been crazy but now he's also a man in love.

Tomorrow - Pope's family always fuck up the good in his life.

Do Over Day (NSFW) - Pope tries to make up for the day before.

Everything - Pope's family life clashes with your time together.

The baby comes as a complete surprise to Pope. He sits on your couch staring at the three pregnancy tests, each one lined up one after the other, each one positive. You sit across from him, your hands pressed between your thighs waiting for him to process this new information.

“I’m having a lot of feelings right now.” He tells you, his voice rough as his eyebrows furrow. You can sense the panic raising up in him as he gestures to his chest. “Like too many feelings…”

“Alright Andy, take a deep breath.” You say climbing into his lap, your arms wrapping around him holding him close. He buries his face into the curve of your throat, inhaling the soothing scent of the ocean that lingers on your skin as your fingertips comb through his curls. It’s the only thing that grounds him when he’s overwhelmed, that keeps him here in the moment.

“Is this real?” He mumbles as he looks up at you, his whiskey eyes glistening. “Am I really going to be a father?”

“Do you want to be?” You ask him, your thumb brushing away the salt that mars the freckles on his cheeks.

“It’s what we talked about.” He whispers. “You, me, a baby of our own. I just didn’t think it would happen this soon.”

“That’s kind of on me.” You explain as your fingertips trail over his features. “When you were in prison, there was no need for birth control. I wasn’t on it when you turned up that night, I didn’t expect-”

“Hey.” He says softly, his palm cradling the nape of your neck as his mouth drags over yours. “It takes two to make a baby and I was just so excited to see you I didn’t think about any of that either. It’s like the stars aligned or something.”

“You think the baby was fate?” You ask him and the edges of his mouth twitch up into a smile.

“I think you were.” He tells you, his gaze fixing on yours as his hands come to cradle the little lifeform residing inside you. “I gotta think that maybe this is too. I mean it was always the plan…”

“When we had our own place outside of Oceanside, where your mother couldn’t find us.” You remind him.

His grip on you tightens because your words, they’re a reminder that Smurf can’t let   Andy have good things. She always snatches them away so she can keep him close, keep him chained to her like a dog on a leash, desperate for freedom but never obtaining it.

“We don’t have enough money for a clean break now but there’s a few jobs I’m working on-”

“No.” He says resolutely, his ferocious gaze meeting yours. “I can’t take the risk of something happening to you and the baby.”

“Andy.” You say firmly, cradling his face between your hands. “There’s a bigger risk to the baby if she finds out about it.”

You’re right, he knows you are. It’s different with Baz and Catherine because Smurf knows she can control Catherine on some level. Catherine needs her to help with Lena, to provide jobs for Baz so that they can make rent, afford good things. 

You are a completely different ballgame. You’re fiercely independent, running your own jobs, making your own cash. This whole feud between the two of you started because you knew how to command a room and Smurf didn’t like it. When she did try and get you under her thumb you’d countered it with your own leverage.

Mutually assured destruction Janine, you’d reminded her. You fuck me, I’ll fuck you right back and trust me I’m harder and rougher than most of the men you play with. It created a healthy boundary between the two of you, you stay out of her business, she stays out of yours.

It’s Pope that’s the problem.

You falling in love with him is your biggest downfall because it places you directly in her scope. She’d put a bullet in you and the baby before she’d let him have either of you.

“There’s a big job coming up.” He says finally, running through the figures in his head, doing the math. “My cut from that with the money you’ve already saved should be enough to get us squared away. We just have to wait a couple of weeks, start looking for a place in Santa Barbara sooner rather than later.”

“We can get started tonight.” You tell him, reaching back towards the coffee table for your tablet. Pope stops you, his hands clasping your wrists before he guides them back around his neck, your fingers lacing together.

“Tomorrow.” He says, his mouth capturing yours before he raises to his feet, taking you with him. “Tonight we celebrate.”

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Like My Work? - Why Not Buy Me A Coffee

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

butterflygirl738 (5)

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as dubcon/noncon, power imbalance, sickness, medical bills, and other possible triggers. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: You love butterflies and your mother, but life isn’t that simple. As life gets complicated, and expensive, you find yourself in need and an unexpected miracle presents itself.

Characters: Steve Rogers (CEO/Sugar Daddy)

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me <3

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Asking for more or putting ‘part 2?’ is not feedback.

Love you all. You are appreciated and your are worthy. Treat yourself with care. 💖

This is what you wanted, isn't it? For things to get easier? For some godsend to come and save you from the deepening pit of debt and despair?

Is that what S is? Is he really going to save you? And your mother? Can his money do that? Or are you just dragging out the inevitable? Is this also just denial? False hope? What do you call it?

There's some things you can see clearly he isn't lying about. The money. It's already in your account like he said. And his car screams rich. Richer than you could ever hope to be. A rental but not the type they give to someone with nothing in the bank.

You look out at your apartment building. Those second thoughts already have you nervously picking at the edges of your nails. You take a deep breath and look straight to the windshield.

"You okay?" S asks, startling you from your doubt.

"Yeah, yeah, I... I've never lied to my mom before. Not as big as this. I mean yeah, I lied about losing her pearl earrings in grade school but that lasted all of two hours..." You frame your face and sit back in the seat. "I'm rambling. I'm sorry." You drop your arms. "And I've wasted enough of your time."

"Not wasted. Honest," He leans his hand on the steering wheel. "I'm headed to the hotel to eat room service alone." He scoffs and gives a sardonic smile. "Exciting stuff. But uh... it's a nice suite."

"Hah, yeah. Must be weird being away from home," you sniff.

"Not much different. Still empty." He shrugs.

"Uh huh," you hum thoughtfully.

"Well, you can tell your mom you went for an interview? Got something new? That could explain... things as they come up."

You pick at your lip and nod. "Makes sense."

"I could mock stuff up for you. I mean, I have letterhead," he chuckles and rubs his neck. "I'm not a great liar either, sorry."

You chuckle thinly. "It feels... hopeless." You shake your head. "Not you. Just... alright. Gotta face the music." You look at him. "S, thank you. For lunch and being patient with me. Sometimes I feel like a piece of my brain is not there." You exhale and grab the door.

"Uh, wait, before you go," he grabs your other arm then quickly lets go. You sit back and look at him. "I'm gonna be in town for a few days. So, I was hoping tomorrow we could... spend some more time together."

Your lips part. That's a surprise. You just assumed you'd have more time to adjust. To process. Time. It's precious and you don't know how much you truly have.

"Oh, right," you breathe.

"Unless... " he draws out.

"Oh, oh, I... I thought maybe you had to go back. For your business," you say as you wring your hands. Your skin is raw. "I'm so sorry. I wasn't thinking and... you know, I have work but, I guess I'll be calling in."

"Sure, I didn't mean to blindside you. Sometimes I think things and just assume other people know," he clears his throat. "So, I'll pick you up tomorrow morning."

"Yeah," you agree and pull the handle, pushing the door out. "Please, go get some rest. You flew out here, it must've been a long day."

"It's sweet of you to think of me," he says.

"Good night," you smile and stand straight. You shut the door and turn to look up at the dingy apartment building.

You drag your feet forward. Your lips move silently as you rehearse your lies. You purse them and slant your mouth one way than the other.

You almost collide with someone else as they come out of the building. You step out of their way and wait. You glance back. S idles at the curb. You wave before you go inside.

You climb the stairs one at a time. You're wading through molasses. As you get to the apartment door, you hesitate. Stop. Get yourself together. This isn't against her, it's for her. This could save your mom.

You enter and the deja vu makes you feel out of place. Everything is as it should be yet it feels like it's all changed. Your mom is on the couch, reading, her head in her hand, her finger feeling the edge of her scarf. You shut the door gently.

"Hi mom," you say as you put your bag down. You sanitize your hands before you go any further. "How was your day?"

"Good," she sits up. "You were gone a while. I thought it was your day off."

"I'm sorry, I didn't... say." You linger by the entryway. "So, uh, I really didn't want to get my hopes up and... I thought I'd surprise you..." you let the words dangle. You watch her, waiting for her to challenge you. She looks tired. "I went for an interview and er, I got it."

"An interview?" She echoes.

"Yeah. It pays better, so I said yes... and... yeah."

"Another store?"

"Um... admin?" You say.

Her lashes flutter and she smiles. "Wow, that's great, pie. Very good." The book closes in her lap and she brings her hands up to her face. "Can you help me to bed? I'm feeling nauseous."

"Oh, of course, mom."

You near her and offer your arm. She gets up and you help her around the couch. She doesn't even have the energy to doubt you. She has bigger problems. She's staring down that abyss and you're worried about a little white lie. She doesn't need to know, she doesn't need to worry. She just needs to get better.

🦋

S arrives at nine. You're outside waiting. You're anxious, not excited. You feel bad enough leaving your mom for work, but this feels wrong. Not just that you're lying to her, but about what.

You get in the car as he smiles at you. "Good morning, I brought coffee," he announces proudly.

You look at the paper cups. You smile back. It feels strangely normal. This is what you see on TV. Real couples do this. This isn't real.

"Thanks, that's so nice," you say. You buckle in and peer around. You feel like you're being watched. Like one of the neighbours will tattle on you. "H--How was your night?"

"Not too bad. Watched a movie. Fell asleep before it ended," he snorts as he pulls away from the curb. "Old man hours."

"Ah," you nod. "I just read a bit. Checked on the butterflies."

"They getting close?" He asks.

"Yeah. Should be soon I think."

"Hm. Nice. You eat yet?" He asks.

"I had some toast." You answer.

"Cool. I hope you don't mind a bit of a road trip? I found this place in the next town. Has good reviews."

"Oh, it's totally up to you but... I don't want to be too much," you scratch your neck.

"This is the deal, right? Spending time together. So don't worry about being too much. Just try to enjoy yourself," he girds.

"Right, yes, I just... guess it's been a while since I did anything for fun. God, that sounds lame, doesn't it?" You ask.

"Lame or it means you've been working hard." He says.

"I guess so," you agree.

He drives on and you stare through the window. It's better that you leave town. It's not like you're well-known but you don't need to chance anyone seeing you with him. Out-of-towners always tend to inspire gossip. Mom doesn't go out much but...

Your mind won't stop. You try to calm it as the minutes tick by. Your worries are replaced by curiosity. Where exactly is he taking you?

Before you can assume the worst, you recognise the large stone behind the town sign. You haven't been around this way in years. He steers past the green park and through town square.

As he pulls in at the vaguely familiar yellow brick building, you can't help but pinch yourself. How could he know? Maybe just a lucky guess. You went to the conservatory once as a child. You realised later how expensive that birthday trip was.

"Here we are," S says. "I know it's nothing fancy."

"It's... it's great," you say. "I love this place."

"You've been here?"

"Not in ages but once," you answer.

"Ah, I should've figured."

He grabs his phone and wallet as the engine quiets. He gets out and slides them into his back pockets. You undo your belt and climb out as he comes around the car.

We waves you ahead of him toward the arched front doors. He pulls one open and lets you through first. He approaches the desk and takes out his phone. He has them scan his passes and puts it away again.

He turns to you and offers his hand. You stare for a moment before you accept. His skin is warm.

He takes you through the entryway to the first wing. Here they have all the antiquated inventions; funky looking glasses with stacked lenses and scientific tools you couldn't guess at the purpose of. You stop to read the placards as S leans in to admire the objects.

"Probably not your favourite part," he says.

"I don't mind. I like old things."

"Ah, me too. Maybe one day... well, who knows, I might take you to the museum in New York... but... who knows," he shrugs.

"Maybe," you say. You don't know about all that. That's a long way away.

You continue on around the winding exhibits and into the room with the live exhibits. Insects of all kinds. You let go of S and stop to watch the bees in the hive with a tunnel to the outside world. There's a little sign explaining that the conservatory houses the hive as a protective effort.

"They have a new part to it," S says. "I saw it on the website. Down that way."

"Oh," you back up. "Sure, whatever you want to do."

He leads you on. You admire the windows that look onto colonies and tunnels of different insects. You stop short at the next door. 'Butterfly Room.' You look at S. The last time you came, you remember there was one tiny little exhibit of unhatched chrysalis.

You rush through ahead of him in excitement. A blue flutter brushes over your forehead and another flap of yellow sweeps by. You spin as the lazy wings beat around you, others still as butterflies rest on petals or branches. It's a menagerie. A garden full of colours.

You turn and look all around. You're breathless and amazed. In that moment, there's nothing else but the beauty of those creatures.

You smile and tilt your head up. A monarch lands on your nose and you freeze. S laughs and you look over at him as he aims his phone at you. The butterfly flees.

He turns the screen to show you the picture. You blush and rock bashfully. "That's cute."

"It is," he agrees."

"S," you gasp, "this is amazing."

"It is." He looks around and lowers his phone. "It's nice to have someone to enjoy it with."

"It is," you cheep. You turn and follow the path of a white flutter.

You go to the bench and sit. It's bittersweet. It's nice to not be alone, but you wish it was your mom here with you. She's all you have but with her being sick, it only sinks in then, how lonely you've really been. She's there but not really. She's fighting a battle you can't understand.

S sits beside you. He's quiet. You blink away a glaze of tears.

"It's really beautiful," you say. "Thank you so much. I can't... I can't even begin to tell you how much..." You sniff. "How much I appreciate this."

"You don't have to say it," he assures you.

"But I should. There's so much I never say. So much to say. So much I might never have the chance..." you lower your head. "I'm really trying. I don't want to be sad. I don't want to ruin this day." You exhale. "You didn't pay to watch me mope."

"I did. I paid to be close to you. To be with you," he shifts closer. "And whatever that means, is fine with me." He puts his hand on yours, like the day before. It doesn't feel as strange anymore. "I don't want you to think about that. The money. I want you to have a nice day. With me."

You nod and gulp. You breathe out the emotion and look at him.

"Why?" You croak.

He stares at you. His cheek dimples. "I got lucky. I took a chance... and I met you."

He squeezes your hand and you look down. His hand wraps easily around yours. It makes you feel safe. It's been so long since you felt anything close to that.

[joaosnovia]

heyyy, hope ur doing great! Soo I had this crazy and random idea about a cubarsi x reader, the reader is hector’s twin sister and lamine’s best friend. For the plot I was thinking that Hector and Pau have been playing a lot of matches but are also stressed cause their school exams are coming up and everything is a bit tense. And at some point the team and some of the wags organise a bqq and after they eat and have fun they sit around the outside fire pit and Cuba and hector who are sleep deprived fall asleep using the reader as a pillow, Pau’s head on her lap and hector’s on her shoulder, and lamine is staring at the two for a while and the rest of the teams asks him about it and he admits that he is worried about his best friends being so stressed but he is also proud because they both have been playing extremely well as defenders despite their age. Really pure fluff and Lamine being worried. Really appreciate ur work and talent keep up the great work ❤️❤️❤️

❦ - mis chicos.

warnings:: cussing I THINK..? angst if you squint and also comfort

pairings:: twin!hector x reader , situationship!pau x reader , friend!lamine x reader

writers notes:: sigh i’m posting this after my first gcse… english lit. i wanna SOB bro it was the worst but shoutout to macbeth ❤️. anywho! enjoy, this is rushed asf 💔.

tags:: @barcapix @n0vazsq @httpsdana @paucubarsisimp @universefcb @mariejuli

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

you’d been watching it happen for days.

hector walking through the house like a ghost, textbooks in one hand, his boots in the other. pau answering texts at 2am, the read receipts timestamped way too late for someone with morning training. both of them running on energy drinks and adrenaline, trying to balance being fc barcelona starters and passing their exams like their lives depended on it.

you’d tried to check in, multiple times.

‘bro,’ you said to hector one night, watching him eat cereal for dinner while reviewing anatomy flashcards. ‘maybe sleep? like just a lil nap?’

he’d barely looked up. ‘no time.’

pau was the same. texting you and lamine in the group chat like:

‘chemistry exam tmrw. if i fail i’m changing identities. wish me luck.’
‘also who has the notes from ethics. i think i was unconscious during that class.’

and lamine, bless him, was so worried. not in a loud way. but in a quiet, watching everything kind of way. you’d catch him frowning when pau forgot to tie his laces, or when hector stared blankly at his locker for two minutes straight.

so when one of the older players suggested a bbq to ‘clear the air’ after a rough week of training, everyone jumped on it. wags included. someone offered a garden, someone else offered food, and suddenly the group chat was on fire with emoji spam and location pins.

you were mostly excited for a moment to breathe. for all of them to relax.

especially your boys.

the bbq had been chaos, in the best way.

someone (you were 99% sure it was ferran) set off the smoke alarm twice, the playlist was full of early 2010s throwbacks, and someone brought water guns, which turned into a full war between the midfielders and the defenders.

and through it all, you’d been watching your boys.

hector had finally relaxed a little, laughing when someone made fun of his haircut and letting go of his notes for the first time in days. pau was smiling again, actually smiling, not the tight tired one he’d been faking all week.

and lamine? he was hovering. not in a weird way, just always near. watching, checking, protecting. it was kinda cute, honestly.

now the sun had dipped low, and everyone had migrated to the fire pit in the garden. blankets were thrown over laps, half-eaten marshmallows forgotten, the music soft now. just vibes. glowy and golden.

you were sitting in the middle of the bench seat, hoodie zipped up, legs pulled close.

pau had dropped beside you with a dramatic sigh, mumbling something about being so full he might explode, then somehow… just stayed there. head eventually resting in your lap, eyes fluttering shut mid convo.

hector followed not long after, yawning like a baby lion and flopping down with his head on your shoulder, mumbling ‘you smell like smoke and perfume’ before fully passing out.

you blinked down at them.

two fully grown, exhausted footballers using you as a human pillow. you were literally a cubarsí sandwich.

lamine plopped down on the ground across from you, a marshmallow stick still in his hand. he was staring at them, brows a little furrowed, lips pressed in that way he did when he was thinking hard.

you caught his eye. raised a brow.

‘what?’ you mouthed.

he hesitated… then the others noticed too.

iñigo leaned forward, voice low. ‘lamine. you good? you look like you’re watching a movie or something.’

lamine looked at the two boys, your brother and your maybe something (he wasn’t your boyfriend, but also… he was). then back at you.

‘they’ve just… been through a lot,’ he said finally, his voice softer than usual. ‘and no one really talks about it. how hard it is. being that young, playing at that level. then having to study for a physics exam like it’s nothing.’

you smiled gently, brushing your fingers through pau’s hair without thinking. ‘they’re trying so hard.’

‘yeah,’ lamine nodded. ‘and i’m so proud of them. i just don’t say it enough.’

the others went quiet for a moment. even the fire popped at the right time, like it knew this was something that needed to be said.

pure softness. pure love.

and as hector snored lightly against your shoulder and pau mumbled something in his sleep about ‘don’t forget the flashcards’, you leaned your head back, warm inside and out.

your boys were safe. lamine was watching over them. and for once, just for tonight, the world could slow down a little.

the fire had burned low, the air crisp with the last breaths of warmth from the embers. your legs were falling asleep under the weight of pau sprawled in your lap, and you couldn’t help but smile at how peaceful everything felt now.

hector, on the other hand, had been using your shoulder as his personal pillow for the last little while. his head was still resting there, and his breathing was steady until, of course, he shifted slightly and mumbled, his voice still thick with sleep.

‘mm… what time is it?’

you chuckled softly, adjusting yourself to make sure you weren’t crushing pau. ‘it’s late, i think. everyone else is inside by now.’

hector blinked up at you, looking a little groggy. his hand rubbed at his eyes, and his head flopped back onto your shoulder with a quiet sigh. ‘guess i really fell asleep on you, huh?’ he mumbled, voice muffled by your hoodie.

‘you’ve been running on empty for days,’ you teased, nudging his shoulder. ‘you needed it.’

hector grinned sleepily, his lips pulling into a lazy smile. ‘yeah, maybe... i’m just glad i have a sister like you to nap on.’

you laughed quietly, your hand brushing through his hair, trying not to wake pau. ‘well, someone has to be the pillow, right?’

hector’s smile softened, and for a moment, he just looked at you really looked at you, like he was seeing you for the first time in a while. the tiredness in his eyes was still there, but there was something else too. something softer. ‘you’ve been here for me through everything, huh?’ he said quietly. ‘even when i don’t deserve it.’

your heart swelled at the sound of his voice the vulnerability in it. ‘always, hector. you’re my brother. no matter how stressed you get or how many exams you have, i’m here. always.’

he smiled again, leaning his head into your shoulder once more. ‘i don’t say it enough, but i’m really glad you’re my twin.’

you rested your cheek on his head, laughing softly. ‘i’m glad you’re my twin too, idiot.’

just then, pau stirred in your lap. he groaned and rubbed his eyes, half awake. ‘are you two seriously having a moment while i’m stuck here?’ he mumbled, his voice thick with sleep.

you shot him a playful look. ‘you literally fell asleep in my lap, pau. don’t act like i’m the one being dramatic.’

pau just blinked at you, his head still a little groggy as he sat up. ‘fine, fine. i’m not complaining. you’re comfy,’ he grinned, looking at hector, then back at you.

hector chuckled, but before he could say anything, lamine approached the bench, standing a little behind you and observing the scene quietly.

you caught his gaze, and for a second, his eyes softened. he leaned against the back of the bench, his arms crossed, as he took in the sight of you, your twin, and pau.

‘you alright?’ you asked him gently, feeling his concern without him having to say a word.

lamine hesitated for a moment, his eyes flickering to hector, then back to you. ‘yeah. i’m just… thinking.’

‘about what?’ you asked, offering him a gentle smile.

he ran a hand through his hair, then shrugged. ‘about them. about hector and pau. they’re really putting so much into their games right now, but no one really talks about how stressed they are off the field. no one sees that part.’

you nodded slowly, understanding where he was coming from. ‘yeah, they’re both carrying a lot. i think they just don’t know how to stop pushing themselves.’

‘i see it,’ lamine said softly, his gaze now focused on hector, who was leaning into you with his eyes half closed. ‘and it makes me proud. they’re both playing so well despite everything. but it’s like... they’re too hard on themselves sometimes.’

you smiled, your heart warming at the thought of how much lamine cared about your brother and pau. ‘they don’t show it, but they appreciate you looking out for them.’

lamine’s eyes softened at that, and for a moment, you felt a deeper understanding pass between you two. it wasn’t just about being there for hector or pau; it was about the three of you watching out for each other.

just as the moment settled in, hector let out a small yawn, his head lifting slightly as he looked at lamine. ‘you good?’ he asked, still groggy but clearly aware of his best friend’s quiet mood.

lamine blinked and gave a small nod. ‘yeah, just making sure you’re both alright.’

you smiled at that. lamine’s loyalty to your brother was something you’d always admired, even if he was a little shy about showing it.

pau, now fully awake, stretched and groaned. ‘i need to get up before my back dies,’ he muttered, standing up and shaking his legs out.

hector gave him a lazy wave. ‘go ahead, old man. stretch it out.’

pau threw a playful glare his way, then nudged you as he started to walk inside. ‘you gonna leave them to be all cutetogether, or are you coming?’

you laughed softly, feeling the warmth of the fire on your skin. ‘in a minute.’

pau rolled his eyes but gave you a small smile before heading inside.

and as the fire died down even further, you sat there with lamine and hector, a quiet calm falling over the three of you. you didn’t need to say anything more, not right now.

you were all just together. and for the first time in a while, it felt like everything would be okay.

[mullermilkshake]

Two wrongs can make a right

Part 9 <- Part 10 -> Part 11

You're pissed... like really pissed.

Yandere!Jinwoo Sung x Fem Hunter!reader Tags - NSFW, pregnant reader, manipulation, Smut, p in v sex, vaginal sex, quickie, creampie, unprotected sex

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“I can’t believe you, Jinwoo. I wanted to break it to her easily- why did you tell her like that?”

There was an easy explanation for this, and it wasn’t the truth. “She was going to find out through someone else, wouldn’t you rather we tell her and not beat around the bush?”

“You know how she feels about you, what you did wasn’t compassion, it was like you were rubbing it in her face.”

Because it was exactly that.

“It’s not the case at all, I just thought it was best to rip the band aid off. You and me are having these babies, and she’ll have to get used to it. But skirting around the subject won’t help any one.”

“Why do I not believe that?” You were more than just angry, you were furious. Even your foot tapped impatiently at him. “It just felt so nasty how you did-“ 

You stopped abruptly, hand straight to your mouth with all the paleness in your face. “How you did that, it’s-“ You tried again and failed, placing your hand over your stomach.

And then your ability triggered Eye’s handmaiden. It appeared in the corner, standing as it always did, arms out ready for spell casting. It fed you a spell with its aura, calming you down so that now you were standing straight.

“What is it?” He asked, rushing over to your side. “Is it the babies?”

“N-no…” You watched Eye’s handmaiden closely. “I just felt sick, I… I don’t anymore.”

Could it be the morning sickness the doctor and Hae-in talked about? “You’re getting morning sickness? That’s what it is.”

You wanted to say something but stopped yourself, shaking your head quicker than Jinwoo liked and pressed your hand flat to his chest to make space. “That doesn’t matter, I’m still pissed off at you. Don’t go pulling that again, because I don’t want drama. I’m stressed enough as it is, me and Hae-in both are.”

Jinwoo pushed back against you to get closer, he took you by the shoulders. “I’m not trying to stress anyone out, especially not you.”

“Then why did you do that?” You didn’t resist his touch.

He wanted to come clean, he really did. But telling you he loved you wasn’t the right time. He had an idea now of when he’d tell you and today wasn’t it.

“You’re having twins. Half of them are me, and half of them are you. Maybe I got a little excited now that it’s settling in, we finally did it, I got you pregnant when for a time, I wasn’t sure that I could. I kind of want to shout it from the rooftops and show the Chairman that he did wrong trying to rush us, it only hindered things.”

You seemed to buy it for now, your expression though, not so much. “So, you’re telling me that you’re not freaking out about this, that you’re excited?”

“Uh…” Jinwoo rubbed the back of his neck with the sudden realisation that you must have been ready to slap him. “Well… I dunno, I just-“

You didn’t slap him, you didn’t scowl or grit your teeth, or just throw harsh language and scold him for it. No, you kissed him. Everything stopped, Jinwoo threw out everything from the air, anything unquestioned and hidden from your view so that he left nothing between you.

He pulled you into him, feeling his way over your waist and let your arms wrap around his neck, your fingers scrunching into his hair with a tug that sent him off. Jinwoo wanted you right here, right now, and pull everything from your bottom half and fuck you senseless over the bed and any other hard surface in the room.

But, he had two babies to think of now, and it wasn’t an option to be rough with you, not for a long while.

Would you even want to have sex, or was it the hormones just getting you hot and bothered? Because the way you kept yourself pressed against him gave him mixed signals. You were pissed off at him, yet grabbing onto any part of his body you could.

“The doctor said we can still have sex, right? I forgot.” You pulled away and slipped off your pretty red shirt, leaving your perfect breasts tucked away in your bra.

You still wanted to have sex even though you weren’t obligated to do so now that you were pregnant. That had to mean something. But it also begged the question of how much information you actually took from the doctor. It was one of the first things she spoke about. You could still have sex though with caution, because there were two babies and possible complications later down the line. 

So Jinwoo had to be careful.

For now, he’d have to restrain himself until the babies were born. Simple enough despite his urges and yours, clearly. You were all over him, pawing at his shirt right over his head and stealing little nips down his chest where you could reach. All the signs told him you wanted it, and wanted it bad.

He stopped you right there, making a gap you fought with until you realised, your eyes wider than they should have been. “What- oh shit, I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me.”

“It’s alright, I want it too- we just need to be careful, because of the babies. But… if you still want to then-“

You did, you kissed him quick and held him near. Jinwoo took the initiative and lifted you up in his arms so that your legs wrapped around his waist. Any hard surface would do. Anything. No bed, no softness, just upright. He took you straight to the end-suite bathroom, holding you firm under your ass and swiping the products from the counter so that they clattered and cracked on the tile floor.

“Fuck me Jinwoo- I need it right now or I’ll burst.”

Pleading always got his cock hard and twitching. He grabbed at your remaining clothes and pulled your underwear off, pulling his pants down just below his ass and gripping his thighs for dear life. Jinwoo spat in his hand and ran the wet right to the base of his cock to make it glisten, ready and aching to get inside you. It had already done its job in knocking you up, but his leaking tip wanted more. It wanted to fill you up every day for the rest of Jinwoo’s life.

“Jinwoo.” Your sternness caught him off guard. “If you don’t put your cock inside me right now, you can finish yourself off.”

The doctor warned him about this, mood swings and sudden changes in scenarios he never took much notice of, until now. He couldn’t ram his cock inside you like you clearly wanted, he held himself back and slipped himself inside your dripping pussy as cautiously as he could. You still let out an aroused gasp and adjusted yourself on the counter, wrapping your legs around and gripped his ass towards you.

“The doctor said we have to be cautious, pulling me like that isn’t cautious-“

But the way you bit his bottom lip drove him insane, the way you watched him with hungry eyes sent him wild.

“You’re driving me crazy, you want to be cautious all the time for nine months?”

No, of course not. 

And hearing such forward words drove him to go against his better judgement, though he never bit, regrettably.

“It’s what we need to do to make sure the babies are safe-“

“Please don’t talk about the babies right now while your balls deep, Jinwoo.” You had a point.

He wanted to say something, or agree with you that bringing up anything other than how good your pussy felt clenching around him. Nothing came out, it wasn’t justified when he did the opposite and slipped his tongue in your mouth. You responded in kind and kissed him back, more feverishly as though you were his lover that reciprocated and told him so everyday. You were yet to say it, Jinwoo knew eventually that you would admit it and give yourself to him.

For now, you accepted his cock with open arms and let him thrust you with some precision, yet tender loving care. Jinwoo wanted to please you in every way that you wanted, his compulsions also wanted you safe.

Still, for now, his urges got one up on the priority list. Only a fraction. A minute molecule.

But it still won.

He fucked into you, lacking his fingers with yours and nipping up your neck in what was possibly the most sensual experience of his life to date. You were constantly topping each new moment just by being you.

And only you.

He loved you.

He really loved you.

I love her. I love her. I love her. 

Each time his hips went flush against the plush of your thighs, he repeated that mantra in his mind, over and over. One day he’d say it out loud and one day you’d say it back. And when he came inside you much earlier than he wanted to, those three words almost slipped out. But what did, came as more of a surprise to Jinwoo than you it seemed.

“I think it’s time you meet my mom and sister."

Part 9 <- Part 10 -> Part 11

If you would like to be tagged, please let me know! Thanks so much for all the support on this likes, reblog and comments appreciated! ❤️

Tag list - @bubera974 @snowy-violet @sky2lar @starrynights23x @minh907

@yessirr7 @aussie-boys-wife @yihona-san06 @mashiromochi @daiyanomochi

@justatimidcreator @alia-17 @otomegamesforlife @m00n-estelle @towomatos

@stormnightingale @johnnysactualgf @solarisstarrsolomonsbeloved @johnnysactualgf @notleclerc

@minkuro @misakicchi @lovingyeet @soft-dots @gina239

@sabrina-senpai @tsukimoon-chan @afkmylajah @livelaughlovekuni @keiva1000

@delusionillusion322 @dreamingoftomorrow @gina239 @blxuqueenie @stardust0709

@chahaezii @athanasia10 @crutoyu @thetruepair @lostpsycho13

@dragoonsuki @sashagaming1012 

DISCLAIMER - Crossposted from my AO3 - I do not own any of the characters or anything from the anime or manhwa. This is a work of fan fiction and is absolutely not representative of the views or intentions of the original creator(s).

Also please don’t post any of my work without permission thank you!

[raiiny-bay]

some WIPs from the 80s AU i never finished

[itspileofgoodthings]

my seniors have been so quiet all year and it’s been fine cause we’ve had a lot of writing/research to do but I need them to talk to me now so i was hit by a bolt of inspiration two days ago and I made them all tell me their comfort level with sharing aloud, rating themselves on a scale of 1-10. I then averaged the class score and they’re a 4.5. I then told them yesterday we needed to raise the score the tiniest bit. And the 1’s and 2’s didn’t need to be 10’s just maybe 3’s and 4’s. And they tried! They talked more 😭

[dannybobany]

OH MY GOD I’ve never brought up Nephilim!!! I KEEP THINKING ABOUT HIM BUT IVE ENTIRELY NEGLECTED TO SAYYYY ANYTHING OH MY GOSH….

Ok so. Angel right. You know the omori character named Angel- well, I used reflection (hero) to symbolize Basil’s self worth issues so you’re never gonna guess what Angel turns into- yeah. Yeah a creature that symbolizes Basil’s religious anxieties

Why is called ‘Nephilim’? Well IN THE BOOK OF ENOCH- (<- lost it, this is an omori au, why am i talking about Nephilim) which is considered one of the unofficial books of the Bible (those are a thing, yeah) (I AM GREATLY SUMMARIZING BY THE WAY) (THIS IS NOT HOW I WOUPE TALK AHOUT TJIS USUALLY BUT IT IS LATE AND I NEED TO GET THIS OUT BEFORE I FORGET AGAIN) the origin of these creatures called Nephilim is explained, these creatures are supposed to the children of angels and humans, which biblically speaking is an abomination

But for the sake of my omori au (STAY WITH ME) this is a very cool and interesting being to design, and making Angel an ACTUAL ANGEL would’ve been a little too op for that character… so what IS a Nephilim if not an Angel? Well it’s a Giant. Of course. Duh (<- again. Lost it)

Which is ✨amusing✨ because Angel is the smallest hooligan, so turning him to the largest monster in Marzenie (not counting the water beast) (ignore that) (not right now) (it’s one in the morning when I’m typing this and I am NOT elaborating at the moment) is a silly haha

Also Nephilim are very interesting and I need an excuse to put them in my work somewhere (iceberg boy has me on that giant juice) (please don’t question that)

Anyway

So!! That’s what I’m doing with Angel!!

[unintentional-sad-wizard]

I don’t usually comsume caffeine (my body just doesn’t handle it well) but given that I am starting work again and extremely fatigued as a result I fear I must begin experimenting with it again. Anyway. Time to see what 100mg of caffeine does to my (extremely exhausted, zero caffeine tolerance) body today.

[fluffairy]

.

[corrodedcoughin]

okay so your trans art binge-reblog spree yesterday kinda synced up with me having Intense Gender Feels so please allow me the liberty of gently knocking at your inbox again bc I feel a mighty need to unleash some trans!Eddie headcanons on you >.>

imagine the sheer emancipation of Eddie growing out his hair again after he had cut it short when first moving in with Wayne but this time long hair feels different and so, so much freeing bc it's no longer a stupid social expectation rooted in sth that isn't even true about him but instead a personal choice, one deeply connected with the music that comforts and inspires him like nothing else

imagine the freedom of him first realizing he's trans and how things — maybe not all things but at least some of them — suddenly fell into place from just knowing who he is, even if back then he had no opportunity and no safe place to as much as think about trying to socially transition. just feeling like his authentic self for once, without the weight of others' preconceptions about all the arbitrary ways he's supposed to be. he might've been unable to tell anyone at that time but simply having that knowledge to himself was liberating from the years of having felt like there's sth wrong with him. liberating bc now he knew for a fact that there wasn't. how can this be wrong if it made him feel like himself for the first time maybe ever?

imagine him hesitantly knocking on his uncle's door in the middle of the night when he had no choice but to run away from home. imagine the surprise on Wayne's face and all the unyielding unquestioning trust and comfort he's got for him, so thorough and genuine that it only takes him a few days to come out despite the fear. and then Wayne's silence breaks into a question of what name his nephew would like to called then. the words startling soon-to-be-Eddie into a impulsive hug, which is returned with utmost care and with quiet thinking-out-loud rambling of whether Wayne's got any clothes that would fit his nephew and that he would feel comfortable in

imagine the joy when Eddie gets a fake ID from Reefer Rick one day

imagine him making friends with the rest of Corroded Coffin guys and, when he gathers the courage and trust to come out, being met with support, ranging from confusion and a promise to eventually get how any of it works and to respect Eddie's pronouns etc, to deep understanding that hardly needs words bc you know you're being seen for who you actually are

imagine Eddie working on his voice and ending up achieving some success partly thanks to singing along to his favorite songs and trying to learn harsh metal vocals and at first scaring everyone around by going over the top with them until he figures out ways to train his voice to be more masculine sounding without resorting to that kind of harshness (and developing multiple fun vocal stims on the way)

imagine Eddie getting together with Steve and as a bonus gaining the perfect person to get advice from when it comes to figuring out a workout routine for his purposes

imagine the relief of knowing there are multiple people who you can be your authentic self with and who love you for this and would never change a single thing about what makes you yourself

oof well, I kinda carried away "a bit" (meanwhile the Feels have only intensified further whoops) and these are in no particular order but I really hope you'll like this humble offering. have a restful fulfilling weekend💜

LIAM!!!! LIAM!!!!! I am always ready for transing the narrative (been in some gender struggles too so let’s be in this together 🤝) I’m going to be running commentary replying so if it’s incoherent or accidentally cover something said later I’m sorry!!

- the hair!! YES!!! I feel like he had long hair before and felt pushed into have short hair in order to be taken seriously in his identity but what he always really wanted to be was ‘just a boy with long hair’ and the more it grows the happier he gets becuase THIS!! THIS!!! Is who he feels like he should have always been!!! This feel RIGHT! When it gets past the length of being ‘acceptable’ for a boy and starts brushing his shoulders he hasn’t never felt more strongly that he is Right. That this is Who He Is, this is Eddie Munson and Eddie Munson is a societal expectation-dodging BOY

- THE ACCEPTANCE AND REALISATION!!! What if he was going around as a child saying kid stuff like ‘when will I grow a beard?’ And being hushed by his elders (before Wayne). Going along with what was given to him, be it toys or clothes because his family didn’t have a lot so he’s not going to ask for more but knowing that they didn’t feel right. That he was performing a character for these people and hoping it would be enough for them, for himself. It’s not, something still feels wrong and he can’t figure out. But then, then he gets the keys to the kingdom, he moves in with Wayne and Wayne gives him some money and sets him loose in the thrift shop. At the start he sifts through the girl’s rails but all of the sizes are wrong for him. So wayne just suggests the boys racks because hey it’s just T-shirts and we need to get you stuff that fits. He guides eddie to the plain T-shirts, not thinking much of it. Not thinking it’ll be a Realisation in the young mind of his nephew. Eddie goes home with 2 boys T-shirts that day and from then on gravitates to exclusively wearing them. Next thrift shop visit eddie makes a beeline to the boys section and doesn’t look back.

- AHHH WAYNE AND COMING OUT I LOVE YOUR VERSION!!! What about Wayne passing a couple of shirts on to Eddie? A hat too? And a belt because god knows Eddie’s buying the jeans that hide his hips and needs something to hold them up. Wayne starts calling eddie ‘son’ and ‘boy’. Every time it’s like Christmas lights have been turned on behind his eyes. He feels dizzy with it, can’t contain himself, has to clench his fists to stop himself from shaking becuase this? This feels right. It fees Correct and knowing Wayne is here with him is the ballast he needs to secure himself on this unpredictable ride.

-CORRODED COFFIN SAYING ITS SO METAL OF HIM. (I personally also hc Gareth as trans so I like to think that Jeff and Freak are always ready to be Boys and show them Boy Stuff. Like alongside band practice they had Boy Practice at the start and now they can burp the alphabet in harmony and can armpit fart guitar solos and play fight and are just GOOFY)

- eddie going to a gig or band practice and then the next morning waking up with a slightly wrecked voice that he /loves/. He surreptitiously tries to maintain it, shouting lyrics in his room and just screaming sometimes but it starts to get painful and he accepts he has to find a different way. He listens to the radio with Wayne, asks to go with him when Wayne’s work friends plan a couple of drinks in one of their yards. Eddie gets to go to a couple, gets to listen to Wayne’s country and rock radio stations. Gets to hear these men talking and tries out phrases he hears when he’s on his own, records them on a tape deck he found in the thrift by luck one day. Records and re-records until he gets it right. Until he can prank call principle Higgins and get shouted at down the phone ‘I’ll find out who your father is boy! He’ll have your hide!’ The peak is when he goes into scoops and gets everything he wanted ‘hey man, how’s it going?’ From the offensively cute sailor with the big hands and strawberry sweet smile

- WORKOUT SUPPORT STEVE. YES. YES ABSOLUTELY!!! Steve showing him that he can’t just hit upper body every day, that he has to get everywhere. That he needs to make his core thicker if he wants that boy look. That working on his quads and calves will help, he promises it won’t leave him a big butt and tiny waist. (Not unless he wants Steve’s routine, that boy is going to work on his ass-ets okay?) eddie doing his first full push up with Proper Form and feeling the muscles in his back move and thinks yes. This is Good. God knows he’s not great at sticking to it but when it serves a purpose and it means he gets to ogle his boyfriend? Kind of a win win

- TBE LAST POINT!!! Yes!!! Eddie living in subconscious fear for so long that he pushes the very notion of being a Boy down. so far Down and Away that he won’t ever let it see the light of day. Or so he thinks. He tells himself that he is fine, that this is fine. But it isn’t and he doesn’t know what feels wrong. Until it slowly starts to change at a glacial speed. He tries different things. Starting only in his room, makes jokes that he thinks he can get away with in front of Wayne. Pushes it further, does more Boy things with corroded coffin. Sees that it’s okay? They are okay with it? With how he is? Sees that Wayne just nods at him and doesn’t make a fuss? That Wayne’s friends don’t bay an eye somehow? (Sure some guys at work do, but Wayne makes sure they know where their opinions aren’t wanted. That Wayne and his group aren’t to be taken lightly on the topic of Wayne’s nephew)

Eddie experiencing so much acceptance and love and there being so venom in it. No ‘waiting’ for it all to pass and Eddie to go back to ‘normal’. Eddies never been normal and that’s a badge he starts to wear with pride. With defiance. Knowing that he has everyone he could ever need how could be not?

[age-of-moonknight]

i just have to say that whenever theres a new comic featuring moon knight i IMMEDIATELY check your blog so i can read your tags... like i genuinely love hearing your thoughts so much

!!!! oh my goodness, thank you so much for taking the time to shoot me a message, particularly one that !!!! honestly has made my entire day! I’m really, incredibly honored and so glad that you enjoy this blog so much. Thanks again and here’s to many more Moon Knight comics and appearances in the future 🤍🖤

[sucrose-soymilk]

hadn’t really regressed in a While and i didn’t realize how much i missed/dareisay needed it until i had the free time and ability to do so over the last few days and i have to say. i’m feeling a bit better

[tariah23]

I don’t even watch naruto but I scroll thru ur naruto tag for sasunaru🫡

[spookykestrel]

KESTREL. KESTREL. KESTREL. there are SO MANY BUGS in arizona. and every time i see one i think of you :)

i saw a cockroach for the first time (!) the other day, and also found a cool moth that i got a terrible photo of but here it is

and also i met someone at astronomy club and their favorite insects were centipedes and i immediately though of you (actually i thought of you way before bc they were wearing a green crop top w bugs on it and moth earrings and it looked so cool and so slay and so kestrelcore)

anyways ramble over ily <3

Wooaoaogh I love sphinx moths that’s so coolio

^my lockscren lollll

Also you should become best friends with the astronomy club person bc they sound super sexy and cool

Ily have a goodnight take care of yourself and learn lots about space