#I'm sick but I will go to work tomorrow because I can't stand being around her

[fangmich]

you know how you help your old mother with one thing and she keeps nagging at you about the dumbest shit the whole week...

you don't and it's just me? welp..

[vivwritesfics]

Hi!! Can you please do one where y/n has been feeling really sick but doesn’t tell lando about it bc he’s been stressed at work and stuff. She ends up kind of being antisocial and rotting in bed bc of her sickness and lando ends up suggesting a break since she doesn’t seem to suit his lifestyle anymore. Y/n ends up running into landos mom at the dr office for a checkup where she finds out she’s pregnant. She asks Cisca to keep it a secret but she ofc tells lando she saw y/n at the dr office. Ending however you want! Thank youuuu

changed slightly buuuuut i like it

Warnings: hospitals, vivi knowing nothing about hospitals

She was sick of everything. Not because she was literally sick of everything, but she was feeling hot and bothered, generally shitty, and her head fucking killed.

Everybody was pissing her off. Her co-workers, her boss. That random guy on the bus that was breathing just a little bit too loud. He noticed her glaring, but went right back to breathing just as loudly.

The minute she got into the apartment, she sagged. She checked the keys on the hook, except no keys were there. It was a little bit of a relief that her boyfriend wasn't home at that minute; there was no telling her close she would have been to snapping at him.

She crawled under the bedsheets, never to emerge again...

Except no because Lando wasn't going to let her rot in bed. When he got home that night, she explained it to him, explained that he was feeling so shitty. Immediately he'd gotten her pain killers, water, and toast.

After four days of her just rotting in their bed, Lando was sick of it. Well, not sick of it, but he was worried. Incredibly worried.

He sat by her bedside and brushed her hair away from her forehead. "I'm begging you to go to the hospital baby," he said and squeezed her hand. "Please."

She stared at him, looking positively grumpy. "I'm fine, Lan," she assured him as she sat up. "I'm gonna go into work tomorrow, I promise."

He released a sigh, but he trusted her. If she said she was fine, then she's fine.

"Keep me updated when I'm racing, please," he said and she agreed.

And she did go into work the next day, but she felt so fucking shitty. She had no choice but to go to the hospital.

Fucking hospitals, she hated them. Sitting there anxiously as she waited to be called into the doctors office. Her knee bounced and she kept her arms wrapped around her midsection, staring down at the floor.

But then she was called into the doctors office. Her steps were quicks as she rushed forward.

"Well, miss L/N," he said as he looked at the results from her bloodwork. "Congratulations, mom!" He pushed the results towards her.

With shaking hands, she picked up the paper and looked at it. Her information, stuff that was too much for her brain to read, and then the results. Yep, she was pregnant. "No," she whispered, shaking her head. "No. No, no, no."

Tears sprung to her eyes as she put the paper back onto the doctors desk. "I-I need to call my mother in law."

No, she couldn't call Lando. Not while he was racing, not while he was on the other side of the world. It would just worry him while he couldn't get to her. So, instead, she called her future mother in law.

Cisca Norris arrived at the hospital as soon as she could. She found her in the waiting room, where she had been stopping herself from freaking out. But her nails were digging into her palms, leaving little crescent shapes in her skin. "Oh, darling," Cisca said as she pulled her to her feet.

As soon as they got outside, she was in tears, barely able to keep herself standing. But Cisca got her into the car and calmed her down. She talked her through it, got her to the point where she was no longer crying.

"I think you should tell Lando," Cisca said, and she immediately shook her head.

"No, Cisca, I can't! I can't, I can't, I can't." It took everything in her to not break down into tears.

But Cisca just squeezed her hands. "You can do this." She waited for a confirming nod before she called Lando.

His voice came loud and clear through the car. "Hey mum," he said, seemingly without a care in the world.

She sucked in a breath. "Lan?" She squeezed.

"Baby?" He couldn't hide the concern in his voice.

Her entire body shook as she squeezed her eye shut. "Lando, you're gonna be a dad."

She was so quiet, it wasn't clear whether Lando had heard it or not. The slight pause he took didn't help. But then, "Holy shit! I'm gonna be a fucking dad! Let's go!"

[hyunniesgirl]

My cat likes you

Pairing: Lee Know x gn!reader

Genre: fluff

Summary: your cat is behaving strangely lately and a walk outside your apartment shows you exactly why.

Warnings: none

A/N: I saw a video on Instagram with a cat rubbing on the floor when they saw a cute guy and I was like "why is this so Lee Know coded?" And had to make something like that with him heheheh

It's been a few days since your cat started behaving strangely, she'll wake you up early in the morning meowing at your room’s door. At first you thought she did that because she was hungry, but when you put food in her bowl she ignores it and keeps meowing.

You realized then, that she wanted you to follow her as she twirled and rubbed on the floor. She would wait for you at the door and would keep scratching it, waiting for you to open it.

“It's too early for a walk, Bo-mi”, you tell her, shaking your head and turning around, going back to your bed to try and sleep a little bit more before work.

She keeps insisting on the early morning walks, but you don't give in, you can't have her get used to going out when it's still time for you to be sleeping.

After a few days, Bo-mi starts having that same behavior late at night, when you are already in bed, ready to go to sleep. She meows for minutes straight until you get up and walk with her to the door.

“Bo-mi, we can't go out now, I'm already in my pjs”, you sigh, patting her. But she keeps scratching the door and meowing for you to go out. “Tomorrow is Friday, okay? So I can stay up late to take you out for a walk”, you tell her before going back to your room.

You spend the next day trying to figure out why she's acting this way. You think about the possibility of her being sick, but she's eating and drinking water normally and she's sleeping the same amount as she always did. Her last check up wasn't even two months ago, even so, you should definitely make an appointment with the veterinarian.

You arrive at home and Bo-mi comes running to you, purring and rubbing herself on you. After you pet her, she goes back to the couch, getting comfortable there again, she doesn't even try to go to the door. Why does she just want to go out when it's late? Or early in the morning? It’s just strange.

Thinking too much about it won't help you find out what's going on, so you give up on the thoughts and just go to the bathroom to take a shower and put on some comfortable clothes since you have to take the lady of the house for a walk in a few hours.

Everything kind of makes sense when you open the door and Bo-mi goes running to the corridor, however, she stops at your neighbor's door, sniffing a bit. The sound of the elevator takes you out of your thoughts and your cat walks in that direction finding a strange man coming out of the elevator.

He looks at her and smiles, trying to go past her but she throws herself in the ground, showing her belly to him and rubbing herself on the floor.

Before you can speak, the guy bends down, petting and making her meow. You look at your watch to see that he's arriving at the exact time that Bo-mi tries going out every night. The weirdest thing is that she hates strangers, especially men.

“I’m sorry”, you finally get out of your head to say something, “she has been acting strangely lately”

“It's okay”, he says, without looking at you. Hypnotized by your cat's little meows and cuteness. “I actually saw her on the balcony one of these days, but couldn't pet her because of the distance”, he chuckles. “What's her name?”

He finally looks at you when asking that and for a moment it seems like the world stops for the both of you. He's the most handsome man you have ever seen in your entire life, with cute boba eyes and an innocent look.

“It's Bo-mi”, you tell him, feeling your cheeks a bit warm.

He clears his throat, petting your cat for the last time before standing up again, fixing his clothes. He didn't look at you at first, but you are so pretty it actually left him speechless and that is a hard thing to achieve. He was even going to make a joke about cats, but couldn't even manage to get that out while looking at your face.

“I'm sorry to ask, but do you also go out around five a.m.?” You ask out of nowhere, making him look at you suspiciously.

“Yeah, why?”

“Because I think my cat is in love with you”, you tell him, pointing at Bo-mi, rubbing herself on his legs. “She always tries to go out around five in the morning or at this time of the night, I guess she wanted to see you again”

You really understand Bo-mi on that, you would also want to see him everyday if you had the chance.

“Oh”, he smiles, “I'm Minho by the way, I moved here two weeks ago”, he says pointing to his apartment.

“I'm y/n”, you give your hand for him to shake, “I know it's weird to ask this, but can I bring her out sometimes so she can see you?” You ask, shyly, making Minho chuckle.

“Yeah”, he nods, “maybe you can also meet my cats”, he says, feeling his ears warming up. “I mean, in a housewarming party, of course”, he completes.

“I would love that”, you smile and he feels like he could melt just with that, “I'll take her home now”, you catch Bo-mi in your arms even though she struggles to get out of your grasp and go back to Minho, “I'll wait excitedly to meet your cats”

Minho watches you go into your apartment, waving to him before closing the door. Now, how the hell does a housewarming party even work?

[ktaerssoi]

hii could you do a jealous kate fic PLEASEEE

jealously is my middle name

summary: blowing off a project for your girlfriend and her jealously.

(678)

kate martin x reader

Being a business major meant being paired up with others often, and by the middle of freshman year, most people had a go-to partner. Your go-to partner was Violet, she was pretty and super funny.

By senior year, you and she had worked on countless projects together. You guys had recently been assigned a project that would be part of your final grade, wanting to finish it early, you guys had planned to meet up the following day to get a basic layout.

there was one problem though, your girlfriend. Kate had been making up excuses for you to stay home all day, whether it was her pretending to be sick, saying that you had all semester, or just saying she would miss you so much that she would "die an agonizing death."

needless to say, she didn't want you to go. "Kate, I need to go, seriously now." you separated yourself from her, knowing that the physical contact would make you fold.

"I don't know where your problem with me hanging out with Violet is coming from, but we need to get this work done." You and Kate were standing by the front door of your guys' shared apartment, she was leaning against the wall, still trying to bargain with you.

"It's not that I had something against her, I just don't understand why you guys have to meet up so often. I mean seriously, it's like every other day." She had pushed herself off the wall, her hands finding your waist as she now stands in front of you.

you squirm at her touch, the simple action causing your cheeks to flush. "because it's our final kate, it's not like it's optional." you looked up at her, she was 6'0, so it got hard to focus sometimes when you guys were standing so close together.

she nodded, a disappointed look on her face, but you quickly saw her eyes change as a thought popped into her head. She stared down at your lips for a second, and then quickly pulled you into a kiss.

you kiss back quickly, melting into it, a pout on your face as she pulls away. "kate, you can't just do that." she gives you a confused look, but you don't miss the smirk on her face.

"do what? I can't give my girlfriend a goodbye kiss as she leaves to go hang out with another girl?" you shake your head, realizing what Kate's big problem is with Violet all of a sudden.

"you're jealous." you smile, wrapping your arms around the back of her neck as she tries to pull you closer (if it was even possible)

"I- what?" the look on her face makes you laugh, her being unable to defend herself, giving you all the proof you need. "I am not jealous."

She narrows her eyes, the tips of her ears reddening at your accusations. "you see y/n, if I was jealous, then I would be trying to get you to stay home. I'm not doing that. Leave for all I care, te ll Violet I say hi or whatever." she bites the inside of her cheek, her hands falling to her sides and off your waist, trying to act nonchalant.

"mhm, okay then, see you later k." you smile, kissing her goodbye as you go to reach for the door you don't get far and you feel her hands grab your waist once again pulling you toward her. "okay but seriously babe do you really have to start it today? wait until tomorrow at least," the end of her sentence is muffled as she barries her head into your neck, her front pressed up against your back as your hand is still on the doorknob.

"not jealous my ass."

-

you had texted Violet that something had come up, and you were unable to meet her that day, you and kate had spent the rest of the night watching movies. (along with other things)

it wouldn't be the last time you had to blow someone off for kate.

okay chat, i like dont absolutely hate this but it def isnt my fav, so ill prob rewrite it.. i was also thinking of rewriting the other kate fic bc i just don't like how i left it. also how do we feel about me writing for women's hockey?? lord kk harvey is so fine. anyway chat im actually dying sos - kate

[shankss-magnificent-ass]

Imagine King catching feelings for you

Kaido: ah, there he is, King this is the new navigator for the main ship

King: [eyes you in disinterest] I see

You: hello, I look forward to working with you.

King: I'm sure you do.

You: [ignores his rude comment]

Kaido: would you show them around the ship for me?

King: I suppose

You: [opens the door and gestures to it] Lead the way handsome.

King: [looks at you in surprise]

During a dinner

King: [sees you're not touching your sashimi plate]

You: [notices him looking] Do you like sashimi?

King: ... Yes

You: I'm a tad full at the moment to eat mine, could I get your help with it?

King: [wastes no time taking the platter from you] I take it you don't like sashimi?

You: it's not that, I'm just not in the mood for it.

King: [can't tell if you're lying] Good, because I don't know if I can work with someone who doesn't like sashimi.

You: but it would mean more for you.

King: [pauses because he didn't think of it that way before] ... So you're going to give me all your sashimi from now on?

You: [smiles at him] Maybe, if you've been a good boy.

King: [feels unfamiliar emotions stir within him]

After that dinner

You: [goes to King's rooms] King?... King, Kaido wanted me to deliver this course log to you to review for tomorrow... Huh, I'll just leave it on his desk with a note.

King: [exits the shower with just a towel and sees you kneeling on his desk chair and scribbling something down]

You: [turns around to see him trying to duck into another room] King? Is that you?

King: [freezes, knowing he's been seen]

You: wow, I've never seen you without your mask, [realizes this is a breach of his privacy, so you should your eyes] Oh my God, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to look, I promise I won't say anything to anyone.

King: [grabs his sword and stands over you]

You: [looks up when you hear the blade slide out of the sheath]

King: [feels dread and guilt fill his chest when he sees the look of terror in your eyes]

You: why?

King: I can't let you leave now that you know what I am, the government can't know that I'm still alive. I won't ever go back to being someone else's lab rat.

You: I understand. [Lowers your head in acceptance]

King: [can't bring himself to kill you, so he throws it down] damn it all, get out of my chair.

You: [scrabbles out, and silently watches him sit down and make a call using his den den mushi]

King: Kaido, the new navigator knows

Kaido: ehh? I just got them, do you know how hard it is to find a decent navigator and you're telling me you already killed the brand-new one!

King: I haven't killed them.

Kaido: They escaped you, are they at least wounded?

King: [gets comfortable in his chair] No, they're standing right before me.

You: [had a perfect view of his thighs and the v of his hips peaking out of the towel, and now you can see up his towel, so you look away]

Kaido: what's the hold-up?

King: [sees you looking away, so he leans forward, takes your jaw in his hand, and makes you look at him] We can't afford to lose our only navigator while out at sea. I want to keep them by my side in the meantime.

Kaido: [can tell he's not hearing the full truth] ... As long as it doesn't interfere with their duties, you can do whatever you want with them.

King: thank you

Kaido: now good night [hangs up]

King: [puts down the receiver, and runs his thumb over your lips] ... If you try to leave my sight, I will kill you without hesitation. You will stay by my side, and do everything I say. I do not tolerate disobedience, do you understand me? [Gently shakes you to get his point across]

You: [feels tears well up in your eyes]

King: [feels guilty] I'll have servants bring your things, you'll sleep here, with me, from now on... I'm not doing this to punish you, I'm doing this for my own safety, and because I don't want to kill you.

You: [sniffles] I understand

King: [can hear your distress in your voice and it makes him feel sick] Through that door is the bathroom, go bathe while I make a few calls.

You: [slinks into the other room]

King: [calls the kitchens to deliver your favorite desserts, and calls the servant quarters to have them bring your stuff to his quarters]

After your shower

You: [exits the bathroom wearing a clean kimono]

King: [lounging on the couch, in front of a rather impressive spread of sweets] Your things have been moved into your new room.

You: I'm getting a room all to myself?

King: no, you'll be sleeping with me, I need to know where you are at all times

You: we'll be sharing a bed?!

King: yes, now please help yourself to these sweets, I did order them for you.

You: you did, why? [Goes directly for your favorite dessert]

King: You were distressed, and this was the only way I could think of to help you feel better... Your distress is understandable, I know this isn't ideal for you, being practically chained to my side... And while I can't let you go, I just wanted you to know that... I don't want you to worry or be afraid of me, because I'm not going to hurt you. I can't risk going back to what I was before Kaido, I won't go back to it.

You: ... You mentioned the government earlier, I take it you were held captive by them.

King: yes, it's why I wear the mask.

You: [can see him practically squirming in his seat] Really? And here I was thinking you wore it because it was a fetish.

King: well it is, but it's not the sole reason I wear it.

You: Sasaki owes me 800 Berry then.

King: you people were betting on me?

You: to be fair we bet on everything, there's not a lot to do on a boat in the middle of the ocean.

King: [sighs dramatically] That's true, but back to the topic at hand, I usually kill people for finding out what I am.

You: but not me, what makes me so special?

King: I don't know.

You: [ruminates for a moment] How did seeing me distressed make you feel?

King: uncomfortable, guilty, I dunno? I just didn't like it.

You: hmm I see, so you don't want to kill me, seeing me upset disturbs you, and you have anxiety if I am out of your sight.

King: believe whatever you want about my reasoning, it changes nothing.

You: ... One final question

King: [rolls his eyes, and crosses his arms] Fine, final question.

You: when you were on the call with Kaido, why did you make me look at you?

King: I didn't like that you were looking away.

You: I see.

King: ... Why did you look away?

You: I could see up your towel.

King: How much did you see?

You: some of your balls, and most of your shaft.

King: [feels arousal and embarrassment well up in him] Are you finished with your food?

You: I believe so.

King: come, I'll show you the bedroom.

You: [follows him and takes it in] Why are there no lights?

King: because it's time for bed [gets settled in bed when he notices you haven't moved] are you coming or are you sleeping on the floor?

You: that bed doesn't look like it'll fit both of us?

King: [rolls his eyes, grabs your arm, and pulls you into the bed up on his chest.] It's just fine, relax and go to sleep, I won't do anything.

You: [rests your weight on him and struggles to get comfortable]

King: [agitated because you're so close to him and he's experiencing new emotions he didn't know he had] Would you stop fidgetingñ

You: I'm trying to get comfortable and avoid kicking you in your dick!

King: [realizes how aroused he is by having you so close] tsk, do it quickly.

The next morning

King:[wakes up empty-handed, panics, and looks around until he sees you]

You: [asleep on his wing, face nuzzled into his down feathers, and has handfuls of his flight feathers.]

King: [mental cogs slide into place and he realizes he's in love with you] Oh fuck [sits up]

You:[awakens with a shriek when the surface below is yanked out from under you]

King: [sits up on the side of the bed with his hands covering his face]

You: [pushes your upper half up onto your palms as you twist to look over at him] What's going on?

King: [ looks over to see you half asleep, messy-haired, and your kimono had loosened in your sleep and was now only closed over your lap and under the obi belt, giving him an eyeful of your shoulders, the center of your chest, and from mid-thigh down]

You: it's like five in the morning, what's going on? [Reaches out and pulls on his feathers]

King: nothing, go back to sleep.

You: [doesn't need to be told twice, and plops back down and wiggles back into a comfortable position]

Bout a week later

King: [has so much pent-up tension he's basically a walking time bomb that everyone avoids]

Kaido: what have you been doing to him to make him so cranky?

You: I have absolutely no clue.

Kaido: well you better do something about it before he snaps and burns down my ship.

You: [ goes to King's room to find him tensed up and hunched over his desk] Kaido wants me to do something.

King: what now?

You: he wants me to fix whatever I've been doing to make you so cranky.

King: [scoffs] You haven't done anything.

You: [climbs into his lap, straddles his thighs, and cups his cheeks] And that might be what I'm doing wrong.

King: [relaxes at the softness in your voice, but pulls your hands away from his mask] This is my problem to deal with.

You: can I please help, I'll do anything.

King: anything?

You: [nods] anything

King: [wraps his hands around your hips, and pushes you down so you're seated on his lap]

You: [feels the heat rolling off the erection trapped in his pants] Oh my

King: [guides your body to gently rock against him] You said you'd do anything, and it's your fault it's like this. Don't you think you should take responsibility?

You: [huffs, but puts your back into grinding down on him] It's been days since I moved in, why didn't you tell me sooner?

King: I was already keeping you captive, [Grunts and starts to pant as he tilts his hips up to get more friction] It felt like I would've been pressuring you into something non-consensual.

You: I see [slows your movements to a halt]

King: [huffs and bucks his hips in frustration, pulling on your hips to get you to move again] Don't fucking stop, please.

You: [goes slow] Tell me, is this just lust?

King: [desperate] It can be anything you want it to be, please I just want you.

You: is this all you want? My body?

King: I'll take whatever you give me, but I'll always want more. I'm so fucking greedy for you. I want it all, I want the sashimi you don't like. I want fun evenings out, and restless nights in with you, only to be followed by quiet passionate mornings with you. I want you to look at only me, smile at only me, to fuck only me. I'll take whatever you give, just please give me this, [Presses his thumbs into the softness on your belly] even if it's only this once.

You: you're in love with me?

King: [slumps pathetically into his chair in defeat, and looks at the ceiling] Fuck ... Yes, I am. I am in love with you, and spending every night with you pressed against me has made me insatiable.

You: [giggles]

King: [flips you off]

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[writingsbyzuzu]

lazy day with ted pls!!! 🩵

lazy day

look at zuzu finally writing something about ted again for once

warnings: horror movie mentions, ted talks about a guy shot by a nail gun

When Ted had gone to sleep last night, he had made himself an entire list of tasks he had wanted to get done the next day, a long one. There was giving his videos some final edits, coming up with podcast ideas, finally getting around to building that bookshelf you had asked him to months ago.

And then he woke up this morning.

He still had had the determination from the previous night, but turning and seeing you sleep in (something you hardly got to do because of work) threw him off badly. How could he get up and do his tasks when you were in his bed, so peaceful?

He gently brushes some hair out of your face, quietly contemplating for a moment. He could get done some tasks, sure. Or he could just lay here with you for a little while longer.

The second option sounded better.

So with that, Ted wraps his arm around you and pulls you in a little closer, shifting his body to meet you halfway. He adjusts himself to be comfortable, before shutting his eyes to sleep a little longer.

When he does inevitably wake up again an hour later, he finds you've already woken up, sitting up and stretching. Ted groans slightly at the sight of his arm falling into your lap, having enjoyed the brief break he got with you.

"Morning, babe," you yawn. "I thought you were going to get up early and work on some videos and stuff."

He shakes his head. "I was going to, but you looked so good in bed I wanted to stay," he chuckles. You chuckle back in response.

"Well, up and at 'em baby," you murmur. "We got a lot to do." You stretch out your shoulders once more, but Ted shakes his head again. "What?" you ask, furrowing your brows at the shake.

"What if we didn't today? I mean, here me out. We've been working our asses off for weeks, what if we just...chilled out today?"

"Ted, we should really-"

"What needs to be done today that can't be done tomorrow, baby?" He has a grin that you have absolutely no power against.

Which is why, an hour later, the two of you are still in your pajamas, having a Final Destination marathon, eating breakfast from takeout boxes that Ted had door-dashed.

("If we're going to be lazy, baby, we might as well commit," he had protested to you.)

"These movies...are not that consistent," he laughs two hours later, one hand gripping your legs on his lap. You shake your head. "What made you think they would be? These are not exactly high caliber," you tease.

He scoffs. "The least they could do between even just the first two movies is keep it consistent, how are we supposed to know how death operates?" He holds out his hands in frustration.

"You're being worse than when you watched all those Barbie movies," you laugh. Ted groans, pinching the bridge of his nose with his fingers.

"Baby, don't remind me...maybe I should do a video on these and their constantly shifting rules," he jokes.

"Good luck with that, honey," you hum, turning back to the movie, as someone in the movie dies.

"Oooooh, yikes," you hiss out. Ted laughs, before saying "that one was just sick, c'mon."

Five hours later, you two are still on the couch, Ted captivated by the second to last installment, as you are on the ground building your bookshelf. (Ted had offered to build it, but after thinking back to a particular fiasco with the dining table a few weeks ago, you decided it would be best to do it yourself.)

"He's literally nailed there by a nail gun! I'm calling bullshit," Ted scoffs, his eyes wide and his hands in the air, gesturing at the TV. "I guess Death has no damn consistency."

You laugh at his antics. "What do you want for dinner?" you ask, screwing in a shelf. Perfect.

"I was thinking we order food, I don't feel like cooking-oh wow, babe that looks good. It's gonna look good with all the books and records on it."

You beam at his words, standing the shelf up. He smiles at it, movie forgotten. "It really does look good," he murmurs.

Ted pulls out his phone, ready to order dinner. "Chinese sound good?" he asks, tapping away. "Yeah that's good. By the way, all of the characters left just bit the bucket," you point to the screen.

Ted looks up as the credits hit. "Goddamn it," he says, his nostrils flaring, he slams his phone into the couch and crosses his arms. "This is the worst thing I have ever seen. They didn't even have the audacity to call it Final Destination 4, just THE Final Destination. Why do that if you just give it a fifth one?"

He takes it back an hour later, Chinese food half eaten, your head on his lap. This was the worst thing he had ever seen. It had to be. Barbie movies have nothing, he thinks, on Final Destination 5.

You sigh, your eyes fighting sleep. "You alright hun?" he whispers, moving your hair from your neck. "Tired," you mumble. He smiles at your sleepy figure. "Get some rest," he whispers.

"I shouldn't be tired, we didn't do anything today," you grumble at him. He rolls his eyes. "If you're tired, you're tired. The end. And besides, it was a good day, we had fun," Ted squeezes your arm.

You sigh, nodding once more. "It was pretty good."

"Other than these shit movies, worst thing ever. Glad they stopped making them."

You chuckle groggily, then give a hum of agreement. A few more minutes pass, and Ted thinks you've fallen asleep on his lap. He gets ready to turn off the TV, call it a night, when you move slightly, and speak.

"You know they're making a sixth, right?"

"They're what?"

And with that, you're fully asleep on his lap, the end of a lazy day in.

[mxqdii]

Can you do an angst to fluff with Chris plz? Where Chris has been on tour, reader is a singer/actress that's booked and busy and it's putting strain on their relationship because they almost never see each other in person. <33

unexpected visitor - c.s

pairings: chris sturniolo x reader

summary: chris is on tour and y/n is on set all the time, making no time for chris and y/n to see eachother

warning(s): angst, crying, fluff, hospitals, mentions of injury.

not proofread

"when will you be back in boston?" i ask chris, holding the phone up to my ear

i hear no response on the other end

"hello? chris?" i say, still nothing.

the call hangs up and i sigh, suddenly getting a text from chris

"sorry, bad service"

i groan, putting my phone down.

i've been on set all week, this was the only week chris was in boston before leaving for tour.

i can't help but let a few tears fall in frustration

i miss my boyfriend, so much.

but with both of our schedules not mixing, we literally never see eachother anymore.

suddenly i get a call from my manager.

clearing my throat, i answer.

"hello y/n! i just wanted to inform you that filming will be canceled for the rest of the week" she says and my eyes widen

"really? why??" i ask

"most of the cast has been getting sick, its been going around this week" she says with a slight laugh

"okay thank you! have a nice night" i say, hanging up.

i go to bed that night, planning on flying to see chris tomorrow.

i wake up the next morning not being able to breathe

i sit up frantically trying to clear my throat but failing

i look to my nightstand seeing a glass of water, taking a big gulp before letting out a gasp for air.

fuck, i'm sick.

my chest feels heavy and i feel nauseas, hot, and cold at the same time.

i try to stand but fail, falling to the floor

i try to speak but fail, whats happening to me?? why am i all of a sudden so sick??

the doorbell rings and i roll my eyes

i try to stand up to get it, but fail,

everything going black.

i wake up to the sound of beeping, trying to open my eyes adjusting to the brightness around me

i look around seeing myself in an unfamiliar room, where the fuck am i??

a nurse walks in and i try to speak but fail

"here sweetie, drink this" she says, handing me a glass of water

i clear my throat and sigh

"why am i in a hospital? who brought me here?" i ask

"you passed out, you're really sick and dehydrated. your friend alahna found you" she explains

i nod, grabbing my phone seeing like a hundred missed calls from chris

i call him back, the line ringing a few times before hanging up.

chris? chris call me back so i can explain please answer hello? chris helloooo?

i text him over and over, no response.

i bury my face in my hands, sobbing

maybe this isn't working.. we can never even reach eachother, i don't even know where he is.

i hear the door to my room open, assuming it's just the nurse

"hey, why are you crying love?" i hear and look up immediately

"chris.." i mumble, wide eyed

he walks up to me, wiping my tears with his thumb

"how did you- i-" i try to speak but just end up crying more

"it's okay, i'm here now thats all that matters" he says with a smile

"how did you know?" i croak out and he laughs

"alahna called me and i hopped on the first flight out" he replies

"i really missed you chris" i sniff

"i missed you too love, next show is in a week so until them i'm all yours" he reassures

"you promise?"

"i promise"

TAGLIST:

@strniolo @stargirlv0id @annaisabookwor

[dollmaidcrystal]

During a period when Mistress was too focused on work to play with her submissives, I became too tight for her to comfortably fit two fingers into. As punishment, I've been assigned to train on the Motorbunny Buck, Mistress's fucking machine of choice, daily for a month.

Day 1: Is this supposed to be a punishment? This doesn't seem like a punishment at all.

Day 2: I'm already tired of having to run an extra load on the dishwasher every day, since it has the all-important "Sanitize" cycle for cleaning up the Motorbunny attachments.

Day 3: Daily training is starting to pay off. That last session felt good. Really good.

Day 4: Riding the fucking machine is not the punishment, it's having to clean up afterwards every day. I asked Mistress if I could have permission to move the Motorbunny to next to the guest showers. (She said no.)

Day 5: Barely avoided disaster today. I forgot to lock up the door to the dungeon when the municipal water inspector came by to look around the basement. Fortunately, I spotted my mistake while he was still taking his boots off upstairs.

Day 6: Skip day. Mistress was home from work, and she called "dibs".

Day 7: Experimented more with the higher vibration settings today and probably overdid it. I’m going to have to take it easy for the next few days while my poor sissy booty heals.

Day 8: Switched from the spiral dildo to the precision probe. Today's training consists of trying to find exactly where all of my spots are.

Day 9: Skip day. I had a doctor's appointment. Real life takes priority!

Day 10: To make up for skipping a day, I switched to the larger Doc Johnson attachment. It was too large to ride, so I had to use the vertical wedge stand to be taken from behind. Taking something that large felt sooo good.

Day 11: Oh crap. While moving the Motorbunny back upright, I heard a crack. The plastic casing of the adapter plug cracked in half. I jury rigged back together (with some scary sparks!), but that is going to be a problem.

Day 12: A warranty replacement for the adapter is already on its way. I am more impressed by the customer service than how good I felt after today's session.

Day 13: Skip day. Mistress came home from work early because she was feeling sick. My time was spent taking care of her and lecturing her about the importance of diet and daily exercise. Writing this down in my punishment journal, I'm glad she was too sick to notice the irony.

Day 14: After some experimentation, the Motorbunny hits my spots best if I’m leaning all the way forward or arching backwards. I'm pretty sure I should stick to arching back in photosets.

Day 15: Mistress is still sick, which makes these daily training sessions extra hard. When she's healthy, I know that riding the fucking machine is a warmup for being played with later, but now I know it's going to leave me extra frustrated for the rest of the day.

Day 16: I’m starting to crave something in my mouth during these daily rides. I’m not sure how to deal with that. Maybe I should bring a box of Triscuits to the dungeon tomorrow? Will that work?

Day 17: Bringing a ball gag down to the dungeon definitely helps with my oral cravings, but I feel kind of silly doing it. It doesn’t help that 🐶 is staring at me like he’s judging my technique at chewing a ball. "Bloody amateur can't even keep in in her mouth without a safety strap."

Day 18: Mistress had some time to personally supervise my training today. The splash image on this post comes from this session.

Day 19: The warranty replacement adapter just arrived! I think I'll leave the broken one in place and keep the new one as a backup. I said it once, and I'll say it again: I am seriously impressed by the level of customer service Motorbunny has.

Day 20: Pondering upgrades to the Motorbunny using the Bondage Erector Set. Reflective Desires has so many ideas that I want to steal.

Day 21: The cursed LureVibe fucking bear is now making the rounds. I wonder if I should upgrade from Motorbunny to Motorbear. https://lurevibe.com/products/doll-automatic-thrusting-vibrating-swing-machine-female-masturbation-device

Day 22: Mistress is upset that most of the pictures she took makes me look hunchbacked. I need to find a way to ride the Motorbunny that's more photogenic, apparently.

Day 23: Gross! I accidentally put another layer of condom and lube on the attachment and didn’t peel it off before washing. Now I have a layer of cooked on dry lube to scrub off my dildo.

Day 24: I can't figure out how to advance my training. Mistress wants me to train to be penetrated at a wider variety of angles (instead of the one that feels really, really good but looks awful on camera). What even is the best to train for that? Wiggle around on the dildo every day?

Day 25: Following a friend’s advice, I’m trying yoga on the Motorbunny to improve my range of positions. This is a weird experience, and not just because of how hard it is to hold a stretch while being fucked.

Day 26: Skip day. After Pride Weekend, I can't move.

Day 27: Flexibility training continues. I’ve learned I’m not going to be able to move which spots feel good, but I can move the rest of my body. Biggest bang for my buck seems to be in getting more dramatic back arches, followed by working on my range of leg motion.

Day 28: Taking a break from trying to improve my form. Instead, I'm putting in the thickest attachment I can handle and enjoying the ride.

Day 29: I'm putting off today's training to edit and post this punishment journal. I'm hitting post now so I can get back to training.

[octuscle]

Hey, could you help me ? I've had the weirdest thing happen to me, and I don't know who to turn to...

See, yesterday, after going to bed a bit early since I was tired, I didn't wake up in my bed... but rather on a rather fancy couch in, you know, one of those modern cubic manors the other side of town... Worse still, there was visible traces of alcohol, and even other people sleeping in the living room I was in, all of them young popular-looking guys and girls... It looked like the aftermath of a party, yet I don't drink alcohol, I'm not sociable at all, I'm not fashionable and I hate parties !

Although I was able to leave without being noticed, I'm still unsure of how in hell I ended up over there. So, could you help me understand what happened ?

The next morning is even stranger. You're lying naked on silken sheets in a huge bed. Your body nestled close to a young man with the body of a Roman god. Your hard-on is downright painful! Until you realize that this is not a dream. You slide off the bed, gather up your clothes and tiptoe out of the room and out of the house. Shit, traces of a party everywhere… This is what you imagine a modern version of the great Gatsby to look like. You get dressed on the lawn in front of the house. The expensive Hanro underwear isn't really yours. And although you can unlock it with your face, the brand new iPhone isn't really yours either. Something strange, something very strange is going on here!

During the day, you receive a whole series of messages from people you don't know, but whose contact details all seem to be saved in your address book. I wonder if you're meeting for an aperitif before the party today. What you are going to wear. Whether they should give you a lift or whether you should take a cab. You're sitting at your desk, processing claims and wondering what's going on. Should you answer? Should you ignore things? You decide to ignore it. At some point you call it a day. On the way home, you grab something from the Vietnamese restaurant. And eat it in front of the TV.

This time you wake up on a lounger by an impressive pool. At least you're not naked this time. You're wearing a golden thong. And you have no idea where your clothes are. Only your cell phone is lying on the floor next to you. So what? There are plenty of clothes lying around. From different people. None of it is yours or even your style. But you can't walk around naked. So you're waiting for a cab in a satin suit and sandals and you feel incredibly ridiculous. Until you find your wallet in the inside pocket of your jacket. Well, at least a wallet with your ID and driver's license. It's from someone who looks different from you, but who has your name on it. What the hell is going on here?

After a shower, you stand in front of the mirror in your apartment. Your skin looks darker somehow. You somehow look fitter. You just look different. Your phone reports that people are liking and commenting on your latest Instagram posts. You don't even have an Instagram account. You're late for work. You have to turn your phone off because it won't stop vibrating with incoming messages. Your head keeps vibrating. You get a migraine. You call in sick. You have to go to bed.

Damn, that was the best party in a long time! Shit, you've blacked out, you've overdone it again. Thank God it's only a few meters to your house. You can only hope that you don't have any appointments tomorrow morning that you've overlooked. And if you do, your manager will have to take care of that. You need to throw up now and then get some sleep. And tomorrow the party will be at your house. You have a reputation to lose as a host and as a party animal. Give it your all!

[allllium]

Christmas Eve

~ I have multiple things I'm currently writing but it might take a bit before they're posted. Between being sick and now having an ear infection I want to do literally nothing

~ Fluff, WC: 1,456

~ Matt and Reader celebrate their first Christmas together ~

You and Matt didn't get together until after Christmas of last year, meaning this is your first Christmas as a couple. Before, being friends meant Christmas never had this kind of pressure to give the perfect gifts.

But now it's different. You've been worrying all month about finding the perfect gift for Matt. It's hard to shop for someone who keeps insisting all he needs is you. As sweet as that is, you already know he has something for you. You refuse to give him something in return.

“Foggy, I'm serious. I've been everywhere in Hell's Kitchen. I can't find anything.” Today is Christmas Eve, and you still haven't found anything good enough to give Matt

“I've had his gift picked out for months.” Foggy shrugs from across you.

“Of course you have, and I should have one too, but now that we're dating it feels like there's all this dumb pressure.”

“Matt will love whatever you give him. You don't even have to get him anything. Just spend the day naked, and he'll be more than happy.”

“I hate you. You are zero help.”

“You're putting too much pressure on it. Nothing has changed just because you're dating now.”

“What did you get, Marci?” 

“Some of her favorite perfume and a necklace.” 

“Ugh, she'll love that.”

“I know. She's easy to shop for.” He finishes off the rest of his sandwich and wipes his hands on his pants. “I have a meeting with a client. Are you good?”

“Yeah, I'm good. I'll figure it out. Bye Fog.” He nods at you and walks back to the office.

On the way back to Matt's apartment, you walk by a little store having a Christmas Eve sale. The best part is they have an adorable daredevil stuffie in the window.

It's exactly what you would've gotten him in the previous years. It's perfect.

“What did you get?” Matt asks the second you walk in the door. Smelling the paper bag it came in. 

You walk over to him on the couch, placing the bag on the counter, and sitting in his lap. “I can't tell you it's for Christmas.” 

“I thought I said you didn't have to get me anything.” He gives you one of those beautiful smiles he has. It's unfair how he always looks this good. He hasn't changed out of his work clothes, now just sitting in his dress pants and shirt. 

“And I thought I said if you get me something, I'm getting something for you.” You run your hand softly through his hair, enjoying his touch after a day apart.

“I don't want you to spend money on me.” 

You roll your eyes at him. “If you keep saying that I'm gonna spend all of my money on you until I go bankrupt, and then I'll be homeless.” 

“You wouldn't dare.”

“You wanna bet?” 

“Fine, you can spend as much money as you want on me.” He looks so cute when he pouts.

“That's what I thought.” You lean down to kiss him for the first time since you got home. “Hi, Matty.” 

“Hi, sweetheart.”

“How was work?” You turn your head to lay on his shoulder.

“It was good. It's a lot slower close to Christmas.” 

“Hm, good. Y’know, Foggy suggested I spend tomorrow naked as your Christmas present, but you definitely wouldn't like that.” You giggle as his face turns up in fake disgust.

“Oh no, that would be terrible. I wouldn't enjoy that at all.”

“Yeah, that's what I thought.”

“Or maybe that's my gift to you.” 

“Oh no, can't both be naked. What would we do all day?” You ask in fake concern. He leans up to kiss you again, but you pull away. “I have to go wrap your present.” 

“No, do you have to do that right now?” He pouts.

“Yes, I do. You're adorable when you pout.” When you go to stand, he follows you with an arm around your waist.

“Can't it wait?” 

“No, it can't. Christmas is tomorrow. Matthew let me go.” You use his real name to display your seriousness, although it's not as effective when you're laughing.

“You don't have to wrap. I can't see it anyway.” 

“Matt!” You laugh. “I'm wrapping it, and you can't stop me. So why don't you stay here and order us some dinner? Okay?”

“Fine, I'll just stay here all alone.” He plops back on the couch as you shake your head at him. 

“Have I ever told you how dramatic you are?”

“All the time.”

“Yeah, I'll be right back.” You go into the bedroom to wrap Matt's present in leftover wrapping paper. Matt has no idea people have made anything daredevil-related. 

“See, that took me like two minutes.” You announce to Matt as you walk back into the living room.

“That was way too long.” You move to sit with him once again.

“Why are you so clingy today?”

“No reason, it must be the Christmas spirit.”

“Hmm, yeah, this Christmas does have a lot of spirit.”

“The first Christmas after we met, I was gonna ask you out.” You turn to look at him in disbelief. 

“What? Why didn't you?” 

“I was nervous, and you didn't show any signs of liking me.”

“No signs of liking you!? Matt, you could hear my heart.” 

“I could, but I assumed it sped up like that because you were anxious about meeting a new person.”

“And you thought I was like that for two years?”

“I didn't want to ruin anything!” He defends. “Hey, why didn't you do anything!?”

“Because I didn't want to ruin anything!?” 

“Exactly!” You both laugh at the direction this conversation has taken.

“Well, we're together now, so it was all worth it.” You point out.

“Yes, it was.” He smiles and pulls you closer. Your head lays on his chest.

“Wait a minute, Matt, I told Karen I liked you multiple times while you could hear?” 

“Maybe it was a different Matt.” 

“Matt, what the fuck?” You laugh again. 

“I liked you. I just didn't believe you liked me the same amount.”

“You liked me?” 

“Yes, I liked you, now I love you.” 

“You're lucky you're so sweet 'cause sometimes you have no common sense.” He plants a kiss on your forehead.

“You have just as much common sense as me.” 

“Uh oh.”

You wake up the next morning to the smell of peppermint and the faint sound of Christmas music filling the apartment. 

“Morning, sweetheart.” He comes into the room with a mug of hot chocolate. He hands the mug to you as he sits next to you on the bed. 

“Good morning, baby. What's all this for?”

“Well, it's our first Christmas together. I figured it should be a little special.” As you listen to him, your heart warms.

“Thank you, Matty. You're amazing y'know.”

“I do, thanks to you.” 

“Hm, good. So what do you have planned?” You sit up in bed.

“I think first we should open our gifts, then we'll hang out with everyone.” 

“Sounds good. You're going to love what I got you.”

“You're gonna love mine too.” He grabs your hands and pulls you out of bed. 

You both make your way to the tiny Christmas tree sitting in the corner. Only two presents under it.

“Here you go, honey.” Matt hands you a small square box wrapped in red paper. “I had Karen wrap it.” 

“I can tell. Karen also wraps presents perfectly.” When you pull the paper off the box, there's a black jewelry box. When you open the black box, there is a silver bracelet. “Matt, this is beautiful!” 

“Look at the side.” You pull the bracelet out of the box and look at the side. On each side, there is an engraving. One side says ‘my heart,’ and the other is in braille. “It says my name.” 

“Holy shit Matt this is amazing!” You throw yourself onto him in a tight hug. 

“I'm glad you like it.” He has a giant smile at your reaction. 

“I don't want you to spend money on me.” You mock his words from last night. “This must have cost so much.”

“I know a guy, don't worry.”

“Well, now my gift isn't as good in comparison.” You hand him the box containing the stuffie.

“Is this me?” He asks in surprise as he rips open the paper. 

“Yes, it is. It's Daredevil merch.” 

“They make this stuff?” 

“Yes.” You laugh at his shock 

“Thank you, sweetheart, this is so cute.” 

“Yeah, and it looks just like you.” You joke. The little stuffed devil looks nothing like Matt.

“Merry Christmas.”

“Merry Christmas, Matt.” You lean your head on his shoulder, still admiring your bracelet.

[romanarose]

No.

No outbreak!Joel Miller x Fem!Reader

Join my taglist : Masterlist

Summary: You're sick and Joel won't let you go to work.

Warnings: Being sick. Extra for talking about covid, but reader doesn't have covid.

Immersability: Reader is fem bc this is specifically written for someone. Usually in drabbles I try to make the reader gender non descript just to make them accessible to people of all genders but this is for someone. I toyed around with sick indicators like looking flushed or pale, but I just landed on describing a change in coloring. I'm sorry if that's not vague enough.

A/n: Written for @joelsgreys who I saw was sicky wicky and I just wanted to give a few short paragraphs of comfort.

Support writers and content creaters! Reblog and leave comments!

***************

"No."

Joel stands in front of your bed, arms crossed and already dressed for the day. You had been sleeping in, or trying to. How was he not cold? You were freezing.

You try to get out of bed, but Joel walks over, gently but firmly laying you back down. "Joel! I have to go to work!"

"Like hell you do." Joel pulls the covers up over your shaking form. "You were up all night hack'n up a lung, what if you have covid?"

"I don't have covid, I checked last night."

Joel furrows his brow as he looked down at you. "What? When?"

Coughing loudly, you try to convince your husband you were fine. "I took a test around 5 when I thought *cough cough* I was gonna puke."

"Sweetheart..." He kneels down beside you, brushing hair out of your sweaty forehead. "Why didn't you wake me?"

"Because you have to work too! It made no sense for us to be miserable."

Joel sigh, pulling out his phone. "Try and look as sick and sad and possible."

You didn't have to try too hard. Your change in coloring was apparent and your face gleaned with sweat. Your nose was raw and dry and chapped from wiping it and your eyes held deep bags from no sleep. To top it all off, you frowned and pouted, eyes glistening from the sickness.

He couldn't help but chuckle as he snapped a picture. "Good, you look awful." He sent the picture to Tommy. 'You're on your own today.'

"Joooooeeeelll" You whine. "I can't stay home if it's not covid, boss won't have it!"

He snatched your phone off the bedside table and dialed your boss, letting him know that you were running a fever and puking, and he was certain he wouldn't want you spreading that sickness to others knowingly, right? Your boss conceded, Joel tone leaving no room for discussion and his implication promoting your boss to say you can stay home tomorrow too.

Your smile greeted him when he got off the phone. "I love you, you know."

"I do."

*Ding!* Went Joel's phone, loudly. Joel always had it on loud so he could hear. He didn't trust the vibration or flash and his hearing was bad enough he wanted to make sure he always got important phone calls and texts involving you, Sarah, and Tommy. It was annoying, a slight irritant and sometimes made you jump, but it was a small sacrifice for him and his peace of mind. He looked at his phone, opening the text from Tommy. 'Disgusting. *puke emoji* Both of you stay away from me. I got it here.'

Taking out the Vaseline you always kept for your dry lips, he rubs a glob on your dried up nose. "I'm gonna drop Sarah off at school, then run to CVS and get you shit. THEN I'm going to IHOP and getting a breakfast fit for a princess."

"Oh my god I'm starving."

"I know, baby." Joel kissed your gross forehead before shoving a few things in his pocket as Sarah called for him downstairs. "Try and take a nap, I'll be home in an hour and take care of yuh, alright?"

"Okay. Thank you."

"For what?" He looked genuinely confused. That was Joel, alright. Joel Miller always took care of everyone around him. He raised Tommy, he raised Sarah always putting them before any need he had for himself. When you came into his life, he did the same for you. You liked to think you returned it, that you cared for him too, but to Joel, caretaking was second nature to him. He didn't need a thank you, because that's just what he did... but you thanked him anyway. Sarah was a great kid, but she was 14, and 14 year olds are in their own world. Tommy was like a brother to you, and you knew he'd care for you too and has before, but he lived his life knowing Joel would bail him out.

You would never take Joel for granted.

"For everything you do for our family."

**************

Hope you feel better soon Vee! I know we don't really know each others but I know how much a lil fic can perk someone up so I hope you are least feel comforted bc your right, Joel would NEVER let you work under these conditions!

@fandxmslxt69 @runa-falls @k-ra @whatthefishh @campingwiththecharmings @ahookedheroespureheart @mikaelak @littlenosoul @stevenandmarcslove @pikapuff-316 @del-ightfulling @faretheeoscar @harriedandharassed @my-secret-shame-but-fanfiction @campingwiththecharmings

[burrowbaddie]

With You

Joe Burrow x Female Reader

Series Summary: Childhood friends to lovers to nothing. You and Joe had history, you were each others first and then you were nothing. Years later, you guys rekindle the flame but with more obstacles in the way this time.

Chapter 4 Summary: You and Joe are expecting, the unexpected.

Word Count: 7.7k

Warnings: Afab!reader, smut, swearing. Oral (female & male receiving), vaginal fingering, penetrative sex, vaginal sex, unprotected sex, cheating! (You are the side girl, sorry.), the small fight scene, jealous Joe, mild violence, stalker

Series Masterlist

Joe follows Nicole to the bedroom, where she picks out one of the outfits laid on the bed.

"Nicole!" Joe shouts, slamming the door behind him.

"You really think I have enough time to follow you and you're side bitch around."

"Don't call her that. You're out of line."

"Oh, but that is what she is. A side bitch. A side hoe."

"You are so delusional, Nicki. I broke up with you. This pretend play you have me doing isn't real. She is my girlfriend. You're nothing."

"I'm the mother of your child."

"And I barely believe that," Joe whispers. Nicole drops her heels on the floor, stunned by his words.

"You are an asshole. You are such a piece of shit. You think I would pretend to have your child."

"Nicole, you're acting crazy. Forcing me to be with you. Threatening Cheeks, so yeah, I think you are capable of pretending to be pregnant."

Nicole storms to the bathroom and slams the door behind her. Joe stands outside, listening to her use the toilet. When she emerges from the bathroom, she shoves a positive pregnancy test into his hands.

"Nicki, what are we doing? Do you really think we can raise a child together?"

"It doesn't matter because I'm taking you to court for everything you have."

Joe throws the stick into the trash rolling his eyes. Nicole was so hellbent on ruining his life that she couldn't see how ridiculous she looked. Nicole left the house, leaving Joe to his thoughts. He tried waiting for your call all day, but by 4 pm, he was blowing your phone up.

"Joe, you have to stop."

"I had to make sure you were okay."

"I'm okay. I'm at work now. I'll call you tomorrow." You whisper, hanging up. Mya gives you a smirk as you go into the emergency meeting that had been called earlier today. You sit in the back, listening to the medical director call attention to the meeting.

"I will let Dr.Brian take it from here," Max says, stepping aside.

"As you guys know, my mother is very sick. With that being said, I'm stepping down on a leave of absence to go back home and care for her. I've gone back and forth about who should be the interim chair of the emergency department. I sat down and ran through many scenarios, and ultimately, the board and I agreed. I've trained this girl since she was in college. It is my honor to have her temporarily sit in my chair while I'm gone."

You completely zone out hearing your name. You look around the room at the smiling faces and people applauding you, but you can't move.

"Come up here and accept your title."

You stand up, making your way to the front, smiling nervously. Dr.Brian hugs you, and you nod, agreeing to the position. It's only six months, so you can do it. After 15 minutes of accepting compliments, you go to the break room to let it all sink in.

"That's cool. I mean, you just became a full fledge doctor and already a chair member. What did you do to earn that?" Mya asks, leaning on the lockers. You put your phone down and stare at her.

"What do you mean by that?"

"Do you honestly think people aren't talking already? You're the youngest member by far."

"I've been working hard. Dr.Brian has known me since I did an internship with him during my freshman year and every year after. I graduated early. I completed med school and my residency early. I also passed the board with flying colors. My work ethic speaks for itself."

"I'm just telling you what people are thinking. You fucked him, and that's how you got that spot."

"Mya, What is your issue? Why would I do something like that? He's a married man."

"Lol, says the girlie fucking Joe Burrow."

"Mya?"

"Sorry, okay. I'm frustrated. Mike thought that position was going to be his. He talked all last night about it."

"Oh gosh. Mike-"

"Things were finally going better for us. With this job, I thought he could-"

"He's an asshole, My. He doesn't even claim you when we all hang out."

"Because we are not allowed to date in the same department. Look, all I'm saying is that people will talk about this. You're young and hot-"

"And a female. So, of course, everyone would assume I slept my way to get here." You slap the locker close and grab your bag off the bench, leaving Mya alone. You first visit your parent's house to share the news.

"Omg! My sweet baby! This is amazing. I cannot wait to tell the ladies down at church!" Your mother holds you tight, rocking you side to side; your father claps to the side. It doesn't take long for your mother to share the news with Robin.

"We have to organize a dinner to congratulate you. We will invite family and close friends. We have to celebrate this huge achievement!" Your mother is rushing to her computer room before you can complain. Your father wears a proud smile, pulling you into a hug.

"My baby girl. I am so proud of you. I know you don't want to be celebrated, but let your mother have this." Your dad laughs. You nod your head. You share the news with Quinn and Fran, who are both over the moon for you. Quinn also wants to plan a party, but you direct her to your mother. And finally, you decide to let Joe in on your news.

"Baby, that's amazing. I am so proud of you. We should celebrate."

"Right now, I just want to lay in bed and let it soak in." You laugh, leaning on the wall and staring at your parents in the dining room.

"Hmm. Can I join you?"

"Joey, we shouldn't be seen with each other. Not until-"

"I know, but it's killing me. I'll come late in the night."

"Okay." You whisper. And late in the night, Joe is holding you in his arms, whispering how much he loves you. You kiss his lips while playing with his ears, giggling at each word.

"You are everything I have ever wanted. I promise things will get better for us. Nicole means nothing to me."

"She's having your baby, Joe. We can't ignore this matter."

"I know. And I will be a great father to my child. I am more than capable of co-parenting."

You close your eyes as he kisses your forehead. You want to believe him and every sweet word he tells you, but there is something in your gut telling you to let Joe go. But you don't. You can't let him go, and neither can he. The next few days consist of you coming home to Joe and living your perfect domestic life. He sits on the counter watching you cook in nothing but his jersey.

"Let's move in together."

"Joseph."

"I've been looking at places; plus, it's a gated community, and you won't have to worry about this stalker," Joe says, eating some popcorn.

"How would that look in the tabs? Superstar Joe leaves his pregnant girlfriend to live with his mistress. That sounds like an amazing headline, babe." You turn around, crossing your arms. Joe pouts, and you walk over, taking place between his legs. Joe bends down and kisses your nose, then your lips.

"I just want you safe. If this is Nicole on her bullshit, I don't know what she will do."

"I'm okay. I want you to focus on this season and getting that ring."

Joe smirks and slowly lifts your jersey.

"You know when I get my ring; you'll have to marry me. You promised, remember."

"That was 6th grade."

"And I remember that promise. You said once I win the Superbowl, you become my wife. I plan to do exactly that." He kisses your lips and caresses your ass. You moan into the kiss, which only excites Joe, who hops down from the counter, scooping you up.

"Joe. I'm cooking. Calm it down." You laugh while he throws you over his shoulder. You guys had just finished a steamy shower session not too long ago, and the boy was ready for me. You slap his back until he puts you down. After dinner, Joe tells you he has to get going. He promises to call you before bed.

The next few weeks are pretty busy for both of you. You are starting your direct training to take over as chair, and Joe is training during the offseason. Mya has apologized for her comments, but her behavior still offended you. Mike, her boyfriend but not her actual boyfriend, has been giving you absolute hell. The comments other nurses and doctors make don't go unnoticed. You try your best to ignore them. Today, the news station is coming to interview the hospital about its recent clinic opening. Dr. Brian lets you sit in your first assignment as the chair. You're super nervous as the makeup team works. You stare at your notes when the door opens to Nicole. It feels like the air leaves the room as she takes her place in a chair across the room. This will be your first interaction with her since finding out about you and Joe.

"Can you give the interviewee and me some time alone? I want to get a feel of her before we get rolling." Nicole smiles and laughs as the makeup team and her assistant leaves. she gets up from the chair and stands behind you. Her green eyes stare into the mirror at yours. She touches your hair and smiles.

"I have no idea what he sees in you. You are not prettier than me." Nicole clicks her tongue. You've dealt with plenty of Joe's groupies before, so her words don't sting.

"Congrats on the baby." You whisper.

"Of course, he told you. And you still want to see him."

"Having a baby with him isn't going to make him stay. You do know that, don't you?"

"Oh, miss little know it all. I know that, but I will not let Joe have his happy ending. If you think I will let you two run off happily in the sunset, you have another thing coming. Keep seeing Joe, and just like I told him, I have no problem ruing yours or his career. So soak in that little promotion of yours because it will be your last, bitch."

You take a deep breath and stand up. Nicole stands slightly taller than you because of her heels, but you stare her down.

"Nicole, I'm not afraid of you. If you think you're the first girl to threaten me because of Joe, you have no idea what you're up against. At the end of the day, Joe will never ever love you. Once you get that through your thick ass skull, I promise you will be able to let go. Now, sit your ass back in your chair and get ready to put on your interviewing skills to work, Miss Cinncinati." You brush her shoulders off and walk to open the door but pause.

"By the way, you're lucky you're pregnant because if you ever called me out of my name outside your nine-month window, I'd punch you in the fucking mouth. We're ready!" You say, swinging the door open. The crew comes back to finish up. You show Nicole around the new clinic and discuss what to expect when it opens soon.

"There you have it, folks! The new clinic is set to open in the fall of this year. Thank you for showing us around." Nicole smiles at you as the director counts down. You wear a smile as well and turn just as cut is yelled. Both of you stop smiling. Nicole storms off to her trailer, slamming her door. You giggle and walk over to your new assistant, Liv.

"What is her issue?"

"Not sure. Since we are done here, let's grab some lunch on me!" You tell her. You guys have lunch at your favorite diner, where you order your usual meal: pancakes and eggs. Liv orders a burger with onions. As you take a first bite, you get a whiff of her onion burger and gag.

"Do you not like onions? Omg, I should have asked. Is it making you sick?"

You shake your head but gag again. You shoot up from your seat and run to the bathroom. With your head in the toilet, Liv finds you to help.

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah. I just-I don't know. The smell hit me, and my stomach turned. YOu finish up and take the rest of the day off. I will go get myself together. Probably just a stomach bug." You say, giving her a thumbs up. But it's not just a stomach bug. You sit on the tub in your bathroom with the three positive pregnancy tests. You immediately call your gyn.

"I have the IUD, so it can't be-"

"It happens. I have a spot open at 4. Come in. If you are, we need to remove it if you want to continue with the pregnancy."

Everything blurs together as your doctor explains how far along you are and what the next steps are. You have the IUD removed and sent home to think further about your next moves. As you sit on the couch going over your possibilities, Joe calls you.

"Do you know how good you looked on the news today?"

"Thanks."

"What's wrong?" Joe asks, quickly picking up on your tone.

"Nothing. This dinner party my mom is throwing for me is coming up this weekend, and I had my first shift as the chair, so it's a lot to take in now."

"That's this weekend, damn. I have this football camp-"

"Joe, you don't have to come. I know how busy you are, and it's okay. Do your parents know about you and Nicole?"

"Uhh no, why?"

"I really don't want you to come if you have to bring her."

"I won't bring her."

"Quinn is calling me. I have to go." You switch over the line.

"Pregnant! With Joseph's baby? I'm going to be an auntie!"

"Quinn, I can't have this baby. Joe is already having a baby with Nicole."

"Do you actually believe she's pregnant? She's insane. How far are you?"

"Two months."

"Let me add Fran to the call he's calling me."

"Quinn, wait!"

Too late. You give Fran a soft smile as Quinn shares the news. Fran congratulates you and the twins; start planning your baby shower already. You decide against taking off work and go in only to be greeted with snide remarks.

"Mike, I'm really not in the mood for your nonsense. Get to work, or I will take you off shift. I'm so so serious too." You say, crossing your arms. He mumbles under his breath and walks away. Mya gives you a half smile and hands you your favorite chocolate.

"I'm sorry about before. I'm missing my best friend."

You take the chocolate giving in to her apology. Mya hugs you and tells you juicy nurse gossip from the 7th floor. She invites you out for drinks, but you decline.

"Come on! It will be fun."

"I'm pregnant, so I would just be a buzz kill."

Mya covers her mouth, trying to contain her excitement.

"Wait with J O E's baby?"

"You do know anyone in this room can spell." You whisper, pulling her out of the locker room. Mya spends the next 30 mins grilling you about it. You finally send her off to help a resident while you attend to some patients.

"Mr. Brown, again, this is the 3rd time you've ended up in my ER in the last two months. What's going on?" You ask, reading his chart. He shrugs and smiles.

"I just like seeing your beautiful face." He beams up at you with a big smile.

"As much as I appreciate your kindness, I can't have you hurting yourself."

"This time, it wasn't me." His voice drips with sorrow. Mr. Brown starts picking at his blanket. You put your gloves on and check the wound on his head. It's a nasty gash from the middle of his forehead to his right temple. You reach down and hold his hand.

"Talk to me. What's going on?"

"They stole my tent this time. They jumped me and stole everything. My wife's photos, all of it gone."

"Who?"

Mr.Brown looks away from you.

"Mr.Brown, I can't help you if you don't talk to me."

"These young kids. Boys. They've been terrorizing a lot of us in the community."

"Have you spoken with an officer, maybe-"

Mr. Brown shakes his head.

"They don't care about us. There is no point."

"You'll need stitches, and I'll see about your belongings."

Mr. Brown grabs your wrist before you can leave.

"I don't want to cause you any trouble. What happens outside the hospital is my concern."

"Mr. Brown, how long have I been treating you?" You ask, taking your gloves off and standing up.

"3 years, give or take." He wears a puzzled look in his response.

"Right. You are my patient whether you are in this hospital or outside. Sit tight while I have someone stitch you up." You give him a warm smile, and he holds your hand, thanking you. You grab Mya telling her you're going for a walk.

"Oh gosh! Listen, I'm all for helping the homeless, but Tent city is a ruthless land. We should at least have a guy come with us. You're pregnant now. You can't be irresponsible." Mya grabs your arm, stopping you.

"If you're scared, I'll go in alone. A lot of them know and trust me. I'll be okay. If I'm not back in 15 mins, then worry, but no cops."

"Are you-"

"15," You say, walking across the field with coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and donuts. You stop a few times to hand it out and ask around about the boys terrorizing the place. But it doesn't take long to find the rowdy boys yelling and running around. You take a seat next to the kid who is staring at the older three play around.

"Sandwich?" You offer him. The kid doesn't speak and keeps his eyes focused on the others. You look over his appearance and notice his ankle.

"How long have you had that injury? Can you take your shoe off?" You ask him. The boy continues to ignore you. Finally, the older two boys notice you.

"Get the fuck away from him!" One shouts, running over. You quickly stand and hold up your hands.

"I was just offering him some breakfast."

"And who the fuck are you, lady?"

"I'm a doctor at the hospital a few blocks from here. I come here once a week to hand out food."

"She lying. We've been here for two whole months!" The other speaks up.

"Sorry. I've had a busy schedule, so I haven't had time to come down as often." You answer while your eyes drift to the youngest kid standing up now, limping.

"You're mad pretty for a doctor."

You smile and thank him, finally introducing yourself and asking for their names.

"I'm Tate, and that's Trey and TJ. Triple Ts." Tate says, laughing. You give him a smile and nod your head.

"Are you guys siblings?"

"Nope, but blood wouldn't make us any thicker," Trey responds.

"Stop telling her so much, dummy." Tate smacks Trey upside the head. You notice TJ wince. You want to ask them where their parents are, but you must tread lightly.

"I want to take a look at TJ's ankle. If that's okay?"

"He's fine. He just needs to sleep it off. It's not like we have money to pay you, lady."

"No need to pay. It's my job to help and treat. Can I look at your ankle?" You ask TJ. He looks at the older two boys and back at you, slowly nodding his head. You have him sit down and slowly try to take off the shoe. He cries out, and you stop.

"I need to bring him in."

"No way. Hell no. You just want to send us back! Did that old hag send you for us? We're not going back!" Tate grabs TJ pulling him to his feet. Trey pulls a knife out. You slowly stand with your hands up.

"I don't know who you're talking about, but I promise you I just want to get a better look at TJ's ankle. Please. If he doesn't get treated, it could turn into an infection." You try your best to reason with the boys, but they still stand guard.

"Treat him right here," Trey says. You shake your head.

"I can't take that shoe off here. I need to cut it off. His ankle is so swollen that it's stuck. I also need to examine the foot on a machine so-"

Trey hands you the knife.

"Do it here." He emphasizes. You take a deep breath and give TJ one last pleading look. The boy cannot be a older than 12 years old. Your heart breaks for the three of them. You take the knife from Trey and attempt to cut the sneaker. TJ cries out, and you look at Tate.

"You promise you'll help him, and you won't report us?"

"Tate, how old are you?"

"I'm 18. Why?"

"That will work. Pick him up and follow me." You instruct them. The boys follow you to the hospital with Mya right behind you. Inside you quickly go to work with Trey asking you all types of questions. You answer them as you work, laughing at some.

"I want to be a doctor too, but that old hag said I was too much of a dummy."

"You're not dumb, Trey. I'm sure you will be an excellent doctor. TJ, get some rest while we wait for tests."

"I'm hungry," TJ speaks up for the first time, and you nod, telling the boys you will bring them something to eat. Tate follows you outside the room.

"Give it to me straight. How are we paying for all of this?"

"A grant, but you need to tell me where Mr.Brown's tent and belongings are. I can't help you if you're going to terrify people. It's unacceptable." You say sternly, crossing your arms. Tate sighs and rolls his eyes.

"Return it." You walk off with Mya following behind you, but before she can speak, Mike is there.

"Grant? You have no authority to the grant, especially not for those homeless little punks."

"Actually, I do have authorization as the chair. It's already been approved. Why don't you make yourself useful and clear my ED of patients who are finished with their treatment? I need beds, not your mouth."

"Fucking bitch." Mike whispers under his breath. Mya shakes her head.

"You're too hard on him. He is taking this whole thing hard."

"My promotion? He needs to get over it. I won't continue to deal with his disrespect." You walk away, unable to deal with Mya and Mike. You order some food for the boys and watch them eat and talk. The boys tell you they ran away from their foster home and have no plans to return. Tate turned 18 in January and was left to wander the world alone, so he did the only thing he knew, take his found brothers with him. You find it weird the boys haven't been reported missing, but if the foster parent is still collecting checks, why would she report them missing? You excuse yourself to make some phone calls.

"I can't just snap my fingers and pick up their case. Plus, what the older one did is illegal."

"Corey. I wouldn't be asking this of you if it wasn't important."

"I know. I know someone in that jurisdiction who might be able to get a hand in on their case and check the foster situation."

"But?"

"I am not helping you for free."

"I can pay-"

"No money. Do you still talk to Joe?"

You sigh and bite your lip. Calling your friend from high school was a bad idea.

"Sometimes."

"Get me season tickets, and you have yourself a deal." Corey cheers. You tell him to stand by while you dial Joe's number.

"Hey, baby, what's up?" He smiles, stopping his workout to give you his full attention.

"Can you give my season tickets to Corey?"

"Who is that? and why?"

"Corey Smith from honors calculus 11th grade."

"What the fuck? That's so random. Fuck that guy. No."

"Joseph, please. For me." You soften your voice, adding a pout even though he couldn't see you. But Joe could picture your face, so it didn't matter.

"Fuck. Don't use that voice. I hate that fucking guy."

"What? You were good friends in high school."

"He wanted to fuck you. I mean, who didn't? You were hot as fuck. Still are. Fuck that guy, no."

"Why are you even mad? So what he wanted to sleep with me. The only one fucking me was and still is you." You reply, making Joe smile.

"Yeah. Fine, anything for my baby. But I want something in return."

"Like?"

"Sit on my face later."

"Goodbye, Joseph, I'm at work." You hang up laughing, returning to your other line.

"It's done! You have season tickets."

"Fuck yeah! Consider the boys moved to a new caseworker and home!" Corey says cheerfully. You leave the room to share the news. TJ looks down at his new blue cast. Tate hands you a box. It belongs to Mr.Brown. You fill them in on the situation, letting them know they have to return to the foster home first. Tate is on edge at first, but you are able to get him to calm down and trust you.

"I should get a job first, but I'm not sure how to apply," Tate says, scratching his head. You smile.

"I'm glad you said that. How do you feel about being a janitor?"

"I'll do anything as long as I can work and find a place that way; maybe I can be a better example and help TJ and Trey out."

You help Tate fill out an application, and Tate returns the box to Mr.Brown, apologizing. Mr. Brown says he will look out for the boy from now on. Liv walks over, pulling you away.

"You have that meeting with Lance. It's pretty important. The board needs you to secure his donation."

"Great. I know exactly what we will do with that donation."

The day ticks down, and you almost fall face-first onto the bed when you get home. You're exhausted and very much nauseous. You force yourself to get up and shower because you know Joe will be coming over soon. Fresh out of the shower, your phone rings, letting you know Joe is either here or on his way. You wrap a towel around you and go to open the door. He gives you a cheeky grin following you inside.

"Find something to watch while I get dressed." You try to walk away, but Joe pulls you back, and you share a sweet, intimate kiss.

"Missed you all day." Joe pulls you down on his lap, and you bury your face in his neck. You lose track of time as you tell him about today. Joe makes a comment about beating Mike's ass, and you giggle. Joe has always been overprotective of you. You get off his lap and fall back on the couch.

"I'm just exhausted. My stomach is hurting. I want to sleep all day, but I have this stupid dinner my mom is throwing for my promotion. I just want to sleep on my off days!" You cry, throwing your arm over your face. Joe licks his lips, barely paying attention to your words. That's when you notice the new position. Your left leg dangles off the couch while your right sits on Joe's thigh, giving him complete access to your pussy. You try to pull the towel down, but Joe is quicker. The man is practically drooling, looking at the divine meal before him.

"Joseph, did you hear me say I'm tired?" You sit up on your elbows, warning him, but Joe is passed, paying attention to you.

"Cheeks, you don't have to do any work. Allow me to help you relieve the stress and tiredness." Joe drops down to his knees, kissing your thighs, teasing you. He places soft kisses on your cunt before spreading the lips and diving straight into his main course. Joe flattens his tongue against your clit before swirling his tongue around it. You shake and whine, trying to contain yourself.

"Not on the couch! Please!" You cry out. All in one swift motion, Joe is standing and holding you up. You quickly grab hold of his hair, unsure about this new position.

"I'll fall!" You cry, resting your legs on his shoulders. Joe mumbles something along the lines of I got you into your wet pussy. You hold on for life as he walks towards the bedroom using your direction. At one point, Joe stops and continues to eat you out in the hallway against the wall. His loud slurps can be heard echoing through the empty hallway. Joe finally takes you into the bedroom and places you on the bed. You can't believe he walked you to your bedroom without stopping his devouring of you. Joe removes his shirt and shorts and lays down, motioning you to sit on his face.

"Joe,"

"Feed me, baby." He pouts. You crawl up and hover over his face, holding the headboard for support. A smirk dances across his face, sending shivers down your spine. He asks you to keep your eyes on him, and you almost buckle immediately, staring down into those blue orbs. Joe pulls you down before you're fully ready, and you arch your back choking back a moan.

"Joe, oh gosh." You cry out, trying to lift up. Joe's voice sends vibrations through your body. It feels like electricity pulsing through you as he takes you to another plane. You try your best to maintain eye contact, but once Joe begins dipping his tongue into you, your walls break. You tug at his hair earning a delicious sound from Joe, which sends you into another orbit. Struggling to hold back anymore, you try to wiggle up. But Joe has a bruising grip on your thighs as he continues to tongue fuck you. And you finally break, soaking Joe's face. Joe doesn't stop and decides to drink every drop and push another orgasm out of your overstimulated pussy. You almost collapse, but Joe holds your waist and chuckles under you. You feel weak and light-headed. Joe turns you around so that you are on your back. He returns between your legs, giving your messy, wet pussy soft kisses. He continues making out with it for the next few mins until you sit up dizzy. Joe is completely enthralled by your whimpers and doesn't stop. He is pussy drunk, and when your eyes connect again, he winks at you. You fall back on the pillow, trying to catch your breath. Joe sits, and you stare at his glistening wet face.

"If I ever went to prison, I would want that to be my last meal." He says, lying down next to you. You toss a pillow at him, laughing. Joe pulls you into his arms, and you stare at him. You should tell him here and now and get it over with. But you can't. It feels like something is stuck in your throat.

"Cheeks? What are you thinking about?"

"Tired. Shower and then sleep." You mumble. Joe scoops you up and follows your order. The next day is spent sleeping in his arms, watching old Spongebob episodes, and enjoying time together. Joe leaves around 2 for a football camp he is helping with. When you check the mail, there is an envelope. You decide to put it on your nightstand and deal with it later. You have no doubt it's Nicole, especially after her threats. The rest of the day is spent looking at Facebook, and you come across the high school reunion page. You go to add the IG page, but you must be off private for verification, so you take it off private and send a request. And then, before you know it, it is dinner time. You greet your parents, the Burrows, and some friends as they say congrats. Fran squeezes you, and Quinn follows for a twin sandwich. You are surprised to see Joe there, but happy Nicole isn't on his arm. Joe takes your hand and leans in to kiss you, but you stop him.

"Everyone is here."

"Right. Sorry. I bought you flowers." Joe hands you the roses, and you take them, trying to hide your smile. You sit next to Joe at the table in the backyard, where everyone is seated. Your dad stands up, making a speech, and you get embarrassed as he talks about your childhood. Then your mom. Then Quinn and finally Fran.

"How am I supposed to follow up that speech? I'm proud of her, like everyone else in this backyard. She is going to do even more beautiful things. We love you! So lets us drink to this absolute babe. I mean, she can't drink, but I'll drink for her."

You freeze up and look at Quinn, praying no one caught that, but nothing gets by your mother.

"Why can't she drink?" She asks. Everyone looks at Fran.

"What? I didn't say that. I did say that. I mean, she gets insane when she drinks, you know? Alcoholics, am I right?" Fran nervously laughs. Quinn pulls him down.

"What is he talking about?" Your grandmother speaks up this time. You look for help, and Fran shoots up again.

"Look, she, umm, She is not an alcoholic."

"So what is the issue?" Your father is glaring at you.

"I'm pregnant."

The table falls silent.

"Surprise?" Quinn says.

"With whose child? You don't have a boyfriend." Your mother is standing up, completely shocked.

"Mine. It's mine." Fran stands up again, burying you deeper into this pit. You can feel Joe staring into the side of your face.

"we're dating, so there. I'm sorry I told everyone like this, honey," Fran smiles at you. You nod your head and stand up, excusing yourself. Dinner ends on a sour note. You sit in the living room, listening to your mom go on and on about how pre-marital sex is wrong. Joe stands to the side, watching everything unfold. His mind is racing a mile a min. The conversation turned to Joe when your mom asked if he knew.

"I didn't know about the baby." He replies. Your mom turns to you.

"You even kept it from Joe. I'm so disappointed." Your mother shakes her head and walks away. Your dad walks over and hugs you, letting you know he will talk to your mother. You take a deep breath and prepare yourself for the conversation with Joe.

"So, am I the last to know?"

"Clearly not." You whisper. Joe nods his head and licks the inside of his cheek.

"You should've told me as soon as you knew. I knew there was something wrong earlier. Fuck, Cheeks." Joe rubs his face.

"I was nervous. You have a baby on the way. I didn't want to give you more stress."

"Are you keeping it?"

"I have to keep it. I made a promise to myself that-that I would allow one abortion." You whisper the last part, but Joe catches it.

"What do you mean? You had an abortion before?"

"After you left for LSU, I found out-"

"You aborted my child? Without telling me? Were you ever going to tell me?"

"Joe, calm down. I-"

"How can I calm down? You should've told me!"

"I didn't want to hold you back, and I didn't want a baby!" Your grab Joe's hand, pulling him outside, away from your parent's ears. Joe snatches away and begins to pace. He can't even look at you right now.

"Stop saying you didn't want to hold me back. Our relationship ended because you gave up on us."

"Because you would have chosen me over your career."

"I would choose you over any fucking thing."

You remain quiet, letting the sounds of the hot July night feel the uncomfortable space.

"What was I supposed to do? I wanted the best for you, and I wanted my career too. How could I have made it at 20 with a child?"

"Cheeks, I would give up anything in this world to have you. If I had to get a regular job or be a stay-at-home dad while you became a doctor, I would have done it. Contrary to popular belief, football is not my first love. You are."

You didn't think Joe could make you fall more in love, but he did. Your heart skips a beat just like it did during his first-ever confession. You hold back tears as he kisses the corner of your mouth.

"I love you so much. What did I do to deserve you?" You share a kiss, and Joe chuckles against your lips. You genuinely don't know how you ended up with such an amazing man.

"We're having a baby," Joe whispers. You nod your head, wrapping your arms around his neck.

"We're having a fucking baby!" Joe shouts. You cover his mouth, laughing at his outburst. You don't need the whole neighborhood to know. After that night, your mother apologized for her outburst. It didn't take her long to start baby shopping. It felt weird keeping up the act of dating Fran but telling your parents you're carrying Joe's baby was a conversation not ready to be had.

At four months pregnant, your time was split between clinical cases and administrative duties. You promised Joe to take more administrative work, but you couldn't stay away from the ED. Football season was underway, and Joe's schedule was keeping him busy. But he was not busy enough because he called you every free second. When he wasn't on the road, Joe was home with you catering to your every need. You adored him and how he was actively preparing to become a father and reading books, watching videos, and taking classes. You loved every min of it. On the other side, things with Nicole were getting pretty serious. She was hellbent on Joe staying with her no matter how often he made it clear they were done.

"Oh my! You and Joe's child could be best friends!" Robin clapped, coming to the realization. It was Sunday night, and Joe was playing while you didn't want to attend; Mya begged you for it because it was her birthday.

"What?" Nicole looks at you, waiting for Robin to say something.

"Oh gosh. You didn't know yet? I thought Joe would've shared the news. She's pregnant too." Robin announced. You mentally slap yourself because this is not how you wanted Nicole to find out. Nicole's eyes drift to your belly. You had an oversized jacket on, Joe's jacket, and it hid your small belly pretty well. Nicole grabs Amber's hand, and they leave the section. Robin is confused, but you give her a soft smile and go after Nicole.

"Nicole, I thought Joe would've told you and-"

"You! Don't say a fucking word to me. Leave the game right now," She shouts, getting in your face. Mya approaches to calm the situation down because bystanders are looking.

"Hey, you should have this conversation in private unless you want people to know," Mya states looking at you and Nicole.

"I'm the bad guy in this situation. My boyfriend cheated on me, and in your eyes, I'm the bad guy." Nicole cries. You shake your head feeling guilty. You want to blame it on the pregnancy, but you know she's right.

"You're not the bad guy. Joe and I are both in the wrong. But forcing something that isn't there doesn't look good either—threatening me, sending people to watch us. It's all a bit much. They trashed my home. They have photos of me sleeping. Enough is enough, Nicole."

"I have no fucking clue what you're talking about. I didn't send anyone after you. If I want to make you miserable, I will do it myself."

"Nicole, it's clearly you."

"When did the photos start?" Nicole crosses her arms, waiting for your reply.

"When we first started messing around. Why?"

"Did the person send it in a blank envelope?"

"Yeah, How do you-"

"Ladies, is everything okay?" Robin makes her way over, asking. You both nod. You return to the game while Nicole states she isn't feeling well and heads home early. Nicole opens her closet and walks over to a small dresser in the back. She opens the top and pulls out the envelope. Inside are photos of Nicole meeting DJ. But that's not the thing that's been driving her mad. It's the negative pregnancy results sitting in a pile. She needs to come up with a plan fast because there is no way she can keep up the fake pregnancy.

"Joey!" You giggle as he carries you to the bedroom. He gently lays you down and throws his clothes to the floor.

"That was a great game! You guys did amazing."

Joe ignores you and goes straight to your belly. He lifts your shirt to kiss it and sing to the growing baby. You run your hands through his hair and tell him about Nicole. He groans and sits up.

"I don't think she's pregnant. I don't want to sound like an asshole again, bringing it up. But something is off. I mean, she's not even showing."

"Sometimes women don't show until they're super late." You sit up, and Joe pouts.

"I should return home to check on her." Joe stands up and gets dressed. You think that is a better option because Nicole seemed very stressed out. You decide to make some ramen and watch tv. You turn off the tv as you drift to sleep on the couch, and your front door opens. A person walks by, not realizing you're asleep on the couch. You pop up when you hear your bedroom door open.

"Joe? Is that you?" You call out. When there isn't an answer, fear runs through your body. You go to the kitchen and grab a knife.

"I'm calling the police!" You shout, knowing that your phone is charging. Suddenly a hooded figure approaches you. You swing the knife.

"Leave me alone!" You scream. The assailant grabs your wrist, trying to get you to let go. During the struggle, he slams you into the counter and knocks you down. On the way down, your face hits the counter. You quickly cower and cover your stomach to protect the baby.

"I'm pregnant! Please! Please!" You cry. The man runs out of the apartment, leaving you crying and shaking. You're too afraid to move, so you lay there in a fetal position crying. Finally, you pick yourself up and call Mya. She rushes over and takes you to the hospital.

"The baby looks fine. How are you? I'm worried." You OB asks, rubbing your hand. You take your hand away. The side of your face hurts from the fall. You already gave your report to the cops, but you didn't see anything. All you know is that it was a guy. The curtain is pulled back, revealing Joe in complete stress.

"Jo-"

"You're done living there. We're going to move in. I already have some guys moving things to our new place. I don't give a fuck about anything else. Is the baby okay? Are you okay?" Joe takes your hand, and you nod. Mya gives you an apologetic look. She called Joe from your phone even though you told her not to call.

"I can't leave your side. Fuck, Cheeks. Fuck! I could rip that piece of shit's head off. Why didn't you tell me you were still getting letters and photos? Fuck! I'm going to kill this person."

"Joe, please calm down. I just want to go home and sleep. My dad went to get me something to eat. I'll be released soon, and I'm going to stay with my parents until our place is ready."

"You'll move in with me?" He asks with soft eyes. You cup his face and nod. Joe kisses your lips. You spend the next few days at your parent's house. A big regret because your mother is way overprotective. And it doesn't help that Joe is following in her footsteps.

"Isn't your girlfriend pregnant? You should be taking care of her." Your mother laughs, fluffing your pillow while Joe puts the blanket over your legs.

"I wanted to make sure Cheeks was okay." Joe nervously answers.

"You should go. I'm fine, and I have work later."

"You're not going to work." Your mother and Joe both say. You roll your eyes at them. You can't just sit around and do nothing. After much convincing, they let you go to work. You work the night shift, which surprisingly is a slow shift. Tate stands by the counter, watching you check paperwork. You ask about his brothers, and he tells you they're doing better in their new home, and he gets to see them every weekend.

Nicole sits in her chair as her makeup team begins to work. Her co-worker walks in, asking for the room. She hands Nicole a tablet. Nicole flips through the photos of you and Joe.

"Someone emailed me these photos. I won't run the story, but I thought you should know."

Nicole hops down from her chair.

"Nope. You will run this story, but not until I tell you." Nicole hands the tablet back and walks out of her dressing room. Before taking her place at her desk, she looks down at the text from the unknown number telling her time is ticking.

A/N: This chapter was ehh sorry it sucked omg! I decided to give a little more background character stories and see reader's life outside of Joe. But Omg, now that we know Nicole is also getting letters and photos, the plot thickens. And that Nicole is def not as good as she tries to make herself! It's only a matter of time before Hell breaks loose. So stay tuned! Thank you for all the comments, reblogs, and likes! I see it all and I appreciate it so much!

Tags: @joselyn001@savii999@lostaurorax@simpgirl-lat@edenhess @blinkloverx3 @dboanalooaa @nm112495 @mhm-ok-sure@katiehud@blu3jeanbaby@mrosales16@wineauntharry @Cosmolover96 @loviingjihyo @hrlzy @spideybrina@dessxoxsworld @Tjb113

[mindlessentropy]

i'm not sure if you've already posted any, but do you have any tatsujun disability/sickfic hcs?

I have not! I love a good sickfic so this is perfect (and relevant at the moment, unfortunately) I'll make a part two explaining my disability headcanons when I get the time and energy!

I hope you like reading about sick Jun and Tatsuya, because this is going to be a long one.

For the sickfic front, I think Jun would be more prone to catching colds. He's around many students every day, probably at least a little stressed due to anxiety (whether that's a result of the trauma he went through in IS or the trauma he can't remember in EP is up to you!) and doesn't exercise like Tatsuya does. So, Tatsuya is usually helping him out during flu season.

Sick Jun Headcanons

The longer he's sick, the more independent Jun tries to become. He loves doting on Tatsuya, and just hates being unable to reciprocate. It doesn't matter if he still has a hundred degree fever, and can barely stand without getting lightheaded, or even hold solid food down. He's getting his ass up and making Tatsuya something to eat. Or so he thinks, till Tatsuya picks him up and puts him back in bed. They continue this until Jun gets the hint or gets too exhausted to continue the game.

Jun thinks he's being unfair by not reciprocating, as if his sleepy smiles and quiet "thank you"'s aren't enough. Tatsuya's happy to do this for the rest of his life if it means that in the midst of all this pain he can bring the man he loves so much a little relief, or even joy. They say "in sickness and health" for a reason. Plus, he knows if Jun could he would do the same.

Tatsuya thinks he sleeps a lot, until he's reminded what it really means to sleep all day when Jun catches a cold. There's been a few times he's taken him back to the hospital just because he was almost sure he was in a coma. Most of the time, Jun can and will just sleep his cold off. Eighteen hours of rest a day broken up by six hour segments of lucidity... Tatsuya is happy to help Jun as much as he can when he's awake. Though he'll often get frustrated because he won't wake him up to ask for help if Tatsuya's asleep when Jun needs something.

Otherwise, Tatsuya's vigilant. I've briefly mentioned it before, but I love the idea of Tatsuya inheriting Katsuya's habit of getting anxious over nothing (perhaps they got it from their mother?) He's constantly reminding Jun to drink water, trying to get him to eat when the nausea settles a little, keeping watch of the time so he can make sure Jun takes his medicine regularly. Jun secretly loves being doted on so much, especially in the IS timeline where he grew up without any of this love and attention.

Jun being spoon-fed soup when he's too tired to hold the bowl or spoon and too hungry to pace himself... When he's done, his head being pulled into Tatsuya's lap. Warm, loving fingers running through his hair as he's told he did a good job, to just rest for now. That he's right here if Jun needs anything, just focus on keeping it down so he can get his energy back up. (Coming from experience, it gets exhausting not eating or keeping food down.) Slowly falling back asleep, comforted by Tatsuya. When he finally wakes up, he feels so much better. Enough to even help Tatsuya around the house a bit. Oh, but he suddenly has a relapse when it's time to eat. Tatsuya will just have to feed him again, sigh...

When Jun recovers, he's full of energy. Bouncing around the house working on chores (Tatsuya did his best! But he is a little lazy when it comes to housework and enjoys his "life hacks", like the time he canonically showered with his clothes on because it was faster in Tatsuya Scenario.) Now that he is able to reciprocate he's taking care of everything, flirting with Tatsuya like there's no tomorrow, so affectionate Tatsuya's practically drowning in it. Tatsuya allows it for a little bit, in fact he enjoys the downtime and seeing him so energetic after being worried for Jun's health. But he is an independent man at heart, and can't handle someone taking care of everything for him.

Sick Tatsuya Headcanons

Tatsuya, meanwhile, rarely gets sick. He has a great immune system, partially due to his healthy lifestyle (if you don't count all the clubbing and drugs!) partially due to his genetics, and honestly part of it is just plain stubborn refusal to be weak.

Tatsuya will power through just about anything, so to get him to admit defeat and stay in bed is tough. Jun has his ways of getting him to cooperate though. A pair of big wet puppy dog eyes, a soft yet sad "Please rest, Tatsuya. I'm worried about you.", a hand running across his hot forehead, his frown deepening at how warm it is, before trailing it down his cheek... Before Tatsuya knows it he's in bed, and every time he looks at Jun he just doesn't have the will to get back up.

It's a game of slowly being broken down by Jun till he finally caves in and asks for help. He feels so awful he can barely sleep, (One of his favorite things to do! How miserable.) can't get up because he hates the look of worry Jun gives him, and can't get himself to ask for help with anything. But that's okay! Jun loves to dote on him, and he's gotten very good at reading Tatsuya's body language. Before he even has to worry about figuring out how to ask for something from Jun, he's already on it.

The first thing Tatsuya caves in and asks for is always, without fail, cuddles. There's nothing he wants more than to just hold Jun and hear him talk till the pain goes away. Bury his head in Jun's shoulder and listen to his soothing humming, maybe Jun even sings to him sometimes. He plays the organ, perhaps Junko taught him a few songs to sing as well. He mostly chooses lullabies, hoping to get Tatsuya to finally fall asleep. The few times it works he finds the sight so adorable he almost dies of cuteness. Tatsuya hasn't said anything about having a favorite, but Jun is slowly realizing he really likes twinkle twinkle little star and you are my sunshine.

He reads to Tatsuya as well. Tatsuya will rest his head against Jun's chest, snuggled up to him. He finds Jun's voice incredibly soothing, and it's fun experiencing plot twists with him. Even when his head gets too foggy to fully understand what's happening, Jun is always happy to kindly explain where they are at and what's going on.

Eventually, he slowly gets the confidence to ask for more help. Basic necessities, like food, water, kisses on the forehead, his fingers running through Tatsuya's hair... Simple things Tatsuya can't live without. Of course, Jun is always ready to help. Having him vocalize his wants just makes things easier. Truthfully, he rather enjoys having his independent Leo so dependent on him. There's a thrill to being trusted so much that he can drop the lone wolf act and let Jun nurse him back to health. If he knew it wouldn't make Tatsuya sad to be unable to do things himself, he'd consider wishing Tacchi could be like this forever.

Eventually he does recover. Jun can tell because he starts getting shy, asking for help less and less. Sometimes he can't even look Jun in the eye, as if he's ashamed of how weak he was. But again, Jun has tricks up his sleeve. He slowly plays up his own helplessness, asking for assistance with things he knows he can do himself but would be easy for Tatsuya to do as he recovers. Getting the pickle jar open, reaching things on a high shelf, holding this "heavy" object for Jun... It works very well. Before he knows it, his Tatsuya is back to his normal hot-blooded independent self, doing what he can to take care of Jun. Affectionate as always, but once again struggling to vocalize what he wants from Jun.

[negativepeanuthoarder]

PLEASE MORE PREGGOS SAP N DNN PLEASEEE either angst or fluff

Alright I'm going to set a timer for 20 minutes and write as much as I can :)

944 words, not proofread, Mpreg, no smut, one mention of weight gain/loss

"I feel awful," Sapnap grumbles, lying down on the couch and staring at the ceiling. He really has - waking up every morning with horrible vomiting and fatigue, unable to do much of anything except lie down and sleep, and he can't even do that half the time.

"I know," Dream walks past and touches Sapnap's head before putting a cup of tea on the little table beside him. It's ginger tea, supposed to soothe his upset stomach.

Sapnap sips at it weakly, exhausted. "What even causes this stuff anyways?"

"It's probably just a virus," Dream assures as George walks into the room, spotting Sapnap and Dream on the couch and making a beeline for them both.

"It can't be a virus," George comments casually, leaning onto Sapnap like a nosy cat. "You've been sick for like a week now and none of us have caught it."

Sapnap sighs. "Do you think it's going to go away?"

"Probably," Dream assures. "If you throw up tomorrow we'll go to the doctor's."

"Mm," Sapnap mumbles, rolling over a little and burying himself in throw pillows and blankets, wanting nothing more then to nap for a while and hopefully sleep this off.

George inches closer until they're cuddled up against one another and Dream smiles at them both, gently leaning to kiss Sapnap's forehead and George's cheek, before standing. "I've got some work to do in my office, okay? But I promise I'll be right back when I'm done, we can watch a movie or play a game."

"Okay," Sapnap mumbles. "Can you email someone for me and tell them I can't stream?"

"Of course," Dream assures. "Love you."

"Love you too," Sapnap mumbles, sighing as he finally sinks into the mattress and into a dreamless sleep.

-

George is deeply suspicious of this.

For one, Sapnap throwing up constantly without getting Dream and George sick is weird enough on it's own, but there's other things he's picking up on that neither Sapnap nor Dream seem to notice.

Sapnap frequently leaving their bed in the middle of the night, avoiding foods he used to like while gravitating towards stuff he normally hates, the slight weight gain even though they've been working out all the time.

All signs point to Sapnap being pregnant, which is completely ridiculous because Sapnap can't get pregnant.

Which is why George hasn't brought it up.

But today's as good a day as any to bring this up to Dream and ask what he thinks. George is getting a little sick of feeling like the only person around here with eyeballs.

He releases Sapnap gently, running his hand over his boyfriend's midsection just in case, wondering if he's actually right, if there is a little baby growing inside Sapnap. Sapnap whines in his sleep and rolls over, away from George, and George slips out of the living room and to Dream's office.

"Can we talk?" He asks, knocking at the open door.

Dream tugs off his headphones. "Yeah, what's up?"

George sighs. This is going to be a weird conversation so he might as well get it out of the way. "I think Sapnap's pregnant."

Dream stares at him for a long moment before snorting, amused. "Okay. That's pretty funny - just because he's caught something or had food poisioning doesn't mean he's-"

"I'm serious," George frowns at him. "He's getting up all the time, has all this weird food stuff, sleeps all day, he's sick, and on top of that he's gained a little weight. He's pregnant."

Dream looks at George for a long moment, trying to process that information. "But... George he's - he can't get pregnant, he doesn't even have a like... uterus. That's impossible."

"It's either that or he's got some weird illness that's masqerading as pregnancy," George sighs. "Look it couldn't hurt to take a pregnancy test, can it?"

Dream looks skeptical. "Yeah, that won't hurt, but good luck convincing Sapnap he's pregnant."

George slinks off, ordering a pregnancy test for same-day delivery online as he does so, and trots back to the living room.

-

Turns out Sapnap is extremely easy to convince he needs to take a pregnancy test. He thinks it's a joke and humors George by taking it.

And then it comes back positive. He's pregnant. He really is pregnant. Sapnap is pregnant.

"This doesn't- I'm not even- I shouldn't-" Sapnap mutters, sitting down at a barstool while Dream and George get food for the three of them. "This shouldn't even be possible."

"Well... we'll get a good look at the doctor's office tomorrow," Dream sighs, before walking over to kiss Sapnap's head. "But until then you probably need to rest for a little, okay?"

Sapnap agrees, purely because he's really tired and just wants to nap in their bed. He also wants them to snuggle with him, and he wants the cats to snuggle with him too, even though they're entirely disinterested in doing that.

Except Patches, who leans against him and purrs while he sleeps, warm and safe in their big bed. Dream joins him a little later with a laptop to work on, and George climbs in with his phone. He likes resting his hand on Sapnap's tummy.

George loves it, loves feeling like he's holding a baby inside Sapnap, a little jelly bean. Their baby, all three of them. Their little baby growing inside Sapnap. He loves it. He loves them already, because they're a part of Sapnap and George loves Sapnap and he loves Dream and he loves whatever this is.

Even if this is all a false alarm. But that's a worry for tomorrow. Today George is happy with his boyfriends and their baby.

[rainbowsky]

GQ and XZ have bad history??? They boycotted him why??

Hi Anon,

This is a fandom - mostly 🍤 - conspiracy theory that doesn't hold a lot of weight. I'm not going to get into the weeds on it except to say that a lot of the claims are false or misrepresented, especially the ones about Rocco Liu.

The post that is said to have come from Rocco is one from 2019 where he allegedly says he's getting sick of seeing GG's face everywhere and basically rolls his eyes and says stars like that are here today, gone tomorrow. (However, the account/post no longer exists, so it's impossible to verify whether it was real, whether it was him or not, etc.)

And the post itself is pretty harmless. Yeah, it's speaking negatively about GG, but it's the sort of thing people say online about celebrities every single day.

There are 2 or 3 other posts that are claimed to be from Rocco, but which fans are actually mistaking. They appear to have come from the previous editor-in-chief, and mostly swirled around 2/27. And the whole 'boycott' claim is just totally unsubstantiated.

(Edit: More on this later in the post)

2/27 didn't bring out the best in a lot of people, and it was horrible for GG but I think it's best to look at it rationally and have a sense of perspective. Every day every one of us casually says terrible things about one celebrity or another. Especially when we are hearing horrible things about a person and their influence on culture.

For example, I absolutely can't stand Lady Gaga. While some of her songs are OK, I mostly find her fake and hugely overrated. Which as a gay man is practically a crime in most people's eyes. 😅

Sometimes we go on to revise our opinions and sometimes we don't. Sometimes we grow to respect a star more over time, other times we grow to gradually dislike them more.

What's at the forefront of our minds one week will be forgotten the next. Most of those who we've had a negative opinion of in the past we probably couldn't name even a few months later. This is just how culture works, especially in the age of the internet.

All of this is totally normal. One of the prices of fame is being under the scrutiny of millions of people. Some will love you, some will be indifferent, and some will hate you.

I doubt very much GG carries a grudge about a social media post from 4 years ago (an eternity in the entertainment business), whether it was from Rocco or not. DD certainly doesn't seem to. They've heard infinitely worse and moved on from it. Fans should too.

I think if we are going to have such ruthless purity tests about everyone who has ever said anything negative about GG and DD then we would have to also accept people holding every single thing GG and DD have said/done in the past against them, no matter how many years ago it happened.

As fans, I'm not sure that's a path we should want to go down. Both GG and DD have come under fire for things they said/did when they were younger, and antis love to dig through old posts and clips of them trying to find evidence they're horrible people.

Like I said before, this is mostly a solo theory that toxic solos like to obsess over. They make it their mission to viciously slander and attack anyone who they feel is a threat to GG, or so much as says anything less than totally fawning about him. They've actually gotten GG into hot water over that kind of behavior multiple times in the past, and I doubt they'll ever stop.

Keep in mind that it's in their interests to spin narratives of DD getting cozy with 'a sworn enemy' of GG. So these breathless tales of GQ and Rocco Liu being GG antis have an ulterior motive. They're a (very thinly) veiled attack on DD and on BXG.

EDIT: and I should add that this anti theory is also used by DD solos to attack GG, claiming that GQ hate GG because of all of the various shortcomings DD solos think GG has, and that the hatred is totally justified, etc. They use the fact that DD has had some high profile GQ moments as proof that DD is a bigger star, that he's more in demand, blah blah blah. It's same shit, different pile. Antis are antis, and will say anything to try to malign and destroy others, regardless of how false and horrible it is.

The best thing we can do is block and ignore (and report when appropriate). Swimming in toxic waste will mutate you into a toxic person over time. Save yourself, stay in your own lane and just enjoy GG and DD.

Edit: Because fans are continuing to push this conspiracy theory, I dug back into the topic and wrote about it more here.

[jelzorz]

160.

inspired by a single line from @raayllum's the purpose of a knight

It's only a cold, claims Opeli. Nothing she can't handle, nothing she hasn't worked through in the past, and to her credit, she had looked mostly fine. Soren will give her that much. He'd only noticed to begin with because he's grown so used to her. Callum and Ezran and Rayla don't--they're their own little trio, caught up too often in each other's dramas and emotions that they forget, sometimes, to take in the drama around them. In any case, it's not like Opeli has made it easy: she's been very good at making everything around them look and feel fine, and, for some reason, is insistent that this is her job and her job alone. She doesn't take breaks, and she's obviously doing too much, and she refuses help too often, so of course this was going to happen, and well.

This is how Soren finds himself tending to her in her chambers while she fights off a fever that has her shivering in the summer heat.

"I don't think this is a cold, Opeli."

She grimaces and has the grace not to deny it. "I think you may be right," she grumbles. The way she pouts about it would be funny if she weren't huddled sadly under her sheets. "My apologies."

Soren raises an eyebrow at her. "For being wrong?"

"For being sick," she corrects. She shifts guiltily under the covers and accepts the cup of tea that he hands her--lemon, honey, and a little ginger for her sinuses, cooked up specifically for her by Barius who's been all but pestering her to just sit down for weeks. "I've left you all in a lurch, and there's so much to do."

Soren makes a face at her. "Are you being serious right now?"

She makes one back. "I'm certainly not joking," she grumbles, although whatever indignance she meant is lost when she sneezes and almost spills her tea. "Ugh, excuse me. What poor timing, I'm so sorry."

Soren presses his lips together, borderline offended that she thinks anyone would care about the work more than her health. "Stop that," he scolds. "Sources, Opeli, no one blames you for being sick. You work harder than anyone else in the castle, it's amazing you're not sick more often!"

She smirks weakly over her tea and sits up a little straighter, wincing the whole way. "Just unlucky this year, I suppose. Regardless, I'll be fine. Let Ezran know I'll be back tomorrow. I just need the day."

"Um. No." Soren crosses his arms over his chest and frowns, which is an odd and kind of funny role reversal: usually she is the one being disapproving of his shenanigans. "You're going to stay in bed until your fever breaks, and then you're going to take the rest of the week off to rest."

Opeli gives him a look. "Are you a physician now?"

"I'm Ezran's Crownguard, and my duty is to the Crown."

She snorts at him. "I am decidedly not the Crown, Soren."

"No, but Ezran is, and if you make him sick with whatever the hell you've got, I'll have you kicked off the council."

There's a pause. Opeli makes a face so shocked and so scandalized that Soren has to bite back the laugh rising in his throat. He smirks at her, victorious, and waits, daring her to argue against the health and safety of her King.

"I won't let you harm the Crown, Opeli," he lilts, enjoying her frustration maybe a little too much.

"I would never," snaps Opeli.

"Then rest," says Soren, uncrossing his arms to push her back into bed by the shoulders. "Please. I am begging you to just--let yourself recover, and if you're going to refuse to do it for yourself, then do it for Ez. I'm not above accusing of treason if you don't. I mean it."

"But--"

"I mean it." (He doesn't, and she knows this, but the point still stands).

Opeli scowls and slurps at her tea, frustrated but defeated all the same. "Does it have to be the whole week?"

"It has to be the whole week," says Soren decisively. "I'll come and check on you personally and bring you your tea and stuff just to make sure. You and Zubeia, Moon and Stars..." He shakes his head. "Just, like." He huffs. "You work too hard. You gotta let us look after you too. Okay?"

He expects her to be furious about it. He half expects her to get out of bed and accuse him of treason or something--but in the end, Opeli ducks her head over her tea and sighs.

"Fine," she mutters. "One week."

"One week." Soren tilts his lips upwards at last and pats her shoulder for good measure. "I'll check back in in a bit, yeah?"

"Okay." Opeli grumbles a little bit more over her tea, but she doesn't protest, and when Soren turns to go, she sighs. "Thank you," she says, resigned. "I appreciate the effort."

Soren grins. "Any time," he says. (He does mean that, and he knows she knows it).