#Joe Merriweather fan fiction

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.17

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: After asking Dustin for a favor, Joe arrives home to a surprise.

POV: Joe

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Dustin Ayers (Italics), Claire Merriweather (Indented Italics)

Word Count: 3187

Author’s Note: After over four months of not writing, I present you with the best Joe Merriweather fic out there. The majority of this chapter is driven by dialogue. I really have to get into the swing of things again. I didn’t get this beta’d or read over, so have fun reading and excuse any typos.

Quote: “You trying to intimidate me has as much luck as a crack whore turning down crack – you see, it’s just not going to work.”

“Dustin, buddy, just listen to me for a second.” Despite driving down the desolate road with no passengers, Joe spoke and gesticulated his hands as if someone sat beside him. “Ever since we’ve become brothers, I’ve done a lot of favors for you, like a lot, whether they be in a personal or professional sense, and most of the time I’ve done so without questions or complaining, but the one time,” Joe raised his index finger before clenching his hand on the steering wheel, “the one time I fucking ask you to come to one of my classes and hang around for a bit, you decide to keep me hanging.”

Just as expected, a moment of silence flowed throughout the Jeep, the only audible noise was the outside rumbling of the engine, pulling the vehicle forward.

As compared to most other times, instead of reveling in the solace of the silence, Joe knew, at least to his own thinking, silence had no chair at this table.

With a long exhale that was accompanied by a shake of his head and a roll of his eyes, Joe spoke yet again. “Usually the hardest part of communicating is listening, but you’re doing a damn good job right now.”

“Look, Joe, if you want me to be completely truthful, I don’t wanna do it.” The man’s annoyance laced voice finally booming through the speakers. “Plus, I don’t even have the free time to do that - I picked up an extra shift to get that good ol’ fat overtime check like I did yesterday.”

Fully prepared for the answer and excuse, Joe smacked his tongue along the roof of his mouth. “Oh, Dustin,” Joe whispered under his breath in a disappointing tone, “of course, I want you to be truthful and I appreciate the truthfulness, but that’s not the answer I want to hear, and I would really hate to intimidate or force you into this by threat or guilt.”

A booming laugh traveled throughout the speakers, forcing Joe to lower the volume. “You? Intimidate and force me? God, Joe, that’s one of the better jokes you have ever told. Seriously, you should look into a career in comedy because that shit has me almost pissing my pants.” The burly laughs turned into nothing more than a few chuckles. “You trying to intimidate me has as much luck as a crack whore turning down crack – you see, it’s just not going to work.”

With raised eyebrows, Joe straightened in his seat as a mix of shock and dismay claimed his features. There was no doubt, that what Dustin had just said was true. In the eyes of most people, whether they share a level of intimacy or not, Joe could be a pushover and claim the title of an easy, calm, and docile soul, but nevertheless, there were times where it was necessary for him to assert his dominance and this was one of the occasions.

Narrowing his sights on the road before him, Joe cleared his throat. “Tell me, Dustin, since I assume you’re currently patrolling prostitution lane due to your little joke, I take it that you’re in your vehicle since you’re on your phone.”

Not only did the dinging of the laptop notification confirm Joe’s assumption, there was also a verbal confirmation. “Prostitution lane is my favorite place to be – you know, deterring crime, getting a  comedy show, and other shit. But anyways, why do you ask?”

“Good, because I want you to do a couple of things in order to put our professional relationship into perspective. Don’t worry, though, you can do all of this in the comfort of your seat and I’ll be sure to say my orders in a nice, clear, and slow manner.”

There was a delay in Dustin’s response, but it came sooner rather than later. “What the fuck?,” he questioned, “professional relationship into perspective?,” the man asked, repeating Joe’s underlying threat, “what kind of bullshit mind games are you –.”

Interrupting the rambling of confusion, the orders began to flow. “Shut up and listen very intently to me – what I want you to do first, is to look around that SUV.  Go ahead and take a second to revel in the smell of that vehicle – I know you usually have a citrus smelling air freshener, so take a nice, deep whiff of that.” Joe paused for a moment, allowing the man to do what he was ordered. “Next, go right on ahead and run your hand along your thick, worn-in duty belt until you come along your cuffs.  When you find your first pair, let the coldness of the steel spread across your skin. Once that happens, glance to your right and admire that shotgun that’s stationed in its holster – it’s a pretty view, isn’t it?” Yet again, another pause came. “Lastly, peel away those sunglasses and take a nice, long look in that rearview mirror, but make sure you get a glimpse of that beautiful cage that’s right behind you.”

There was no doubt that the orders pouring out from Joe’s mouth were, in some ways, strangely sensual and sexual. “Do you know why I want you doing these things?”

“I have no fucking clue what kind of bullshit you’re trying to do, but it sure sounds like you’re trying to have some strange, kinky session of phone sex with me and although I appreciate the attempt, I don’t want to rub another one out in the car right now.” An attempt to cut through the tension that was radiating from the other end of the phone was made, but ultimately, all attempts failed.

“Phone sex is usually my thing, but right now, with you, it’s not my thing,” Joe admitted, allowing for the comment to cut just a sliver of tension away. “But anyways, I want you aware of how much you’ll be missing that SUV when your ass is on desk duty. I want you to also be aware of who owns you. I want you fully aware that I am your superior when you’re sitting in that car. I command you and you listen to me.”

Yes, in the eyes of both Joe and Dustin, the whole speech was a threat in a sole effort to assert dominance, but truth be told, it was more than likely an empty threat that would never happen.

Turning onto his street and eyeing his empty driveway, Joe listened as a defeated sigh sounded through the speakers.

The smile that began to claim his features was a direct result of Dustin’s submissiveness.  Deep down, both of the men knew that the older, more experienced man would come out on top. “Remember, Deputy Dustin Ayers, I own your uniformed ass when I deem fit.”

“So that’s how it’s going to be? You’re hitting below the belt with your low blows, aren’t you? Pulling the whole ‘I can tell you what to do because I’m your superior and you are required to listen to me without any resistance’ card.”

“You’re damn fucking right I am.” Joe asserted, nodding his head. “You see, when certain circumstances arise, I’ll fucking pull that card and put it to good use. It’s a rare occasion when I do that, but when I do, things usually pan out in my favor, am I right?” His voice dropping, becoming more threatening.

Thankful for the commencement of radio traffic, Dustin listened intently before it died down. “Fine, fine fine,” he repeated as if he were a broken record. “I’ll think about it, but no promises, but tell me, when is it? Where is it? What time would I need to come? How long would I have to stay? And what would I have to speak about?”

Although the answer was neither a definite yes not a definite no, the older man was content since he knew, that deep down, Dustin would appear and help him out.

“Look on the bright side, think of it as a sort of community policing and getting an eye on some future colleagues,” a string of low mockingly chuckles panned out before the answers commenced.

“Next Wednesday which is a week from now. Ugh,” Joe went quiet for a moment, visualizing the shift in times to accommodate the exam week. “Let’s see, you can come at four and we’ll shoot the shit in my office for a bit before going into the class – if you do that, you’ll be there for about three hours.  As for the last question, feel free to talk about whatever the fuck you want – everyone there is grown and knows what that line of work entails. And don’t worry, I’ll talk to whatever supervisor overseeing your shift – which I believe is Schultz – and tell her what’s going on.”

Pulling into his driveway, fully unaware of the events that were about to unfold, Joe brought the Jeep to a halt.

“Talk about whatever?” Dustin repeated. “You sure about that? You’re not going to put any restrictions on anything? Might end up regretting that.” Dustin jokingly teased.

Glancing over at his truck, Joe fiddled with the garage door opener that rested in one of the cupholders. “Man, you know what I mean – tell some stories, crack some jokes, do whatever the fuck, but if I have to cut you off from rambling too much or getting too deep, I’ll do so.” Pressing the button on the garage door opener, Joe turned his attention to the door. “You’ve seen some of these people before, so just bust their balls a bit. Make fun of them. Tease them. Don’t worry —.”

Suddenly, with just enough space to see into the garage, Joe noticed a car in his spot.  

Resting in the garage was a black Mercedes, a color matching the coldness and blackness of the person who owned it.

A string of derogatory slurs and disrespectful curses filled the confined area before Joe abruptly said a goodbye to his partner, closing the call before the man could say anything.

With anger pulsing throughout his veins, Joe hopped out of the vehicle, nearly forgetting to shut it off and put it in park before storming into the garage.

With long and heavy strides, it took just a few steps before Joe was before the door, pushing it open and catching the handle just inches before it crashed into the wall behind it.

The smell of steak frying in a pan filled his nostrils.  The sounds of sizzling meat pierced his ears. The sight of Claire standing before the stove in a pair of heels, tight jeans, and a black shirt filled his vision.

It was almost as if his loud entrance went unnoticed by the woman – she continued to calmly stand before the stove, tending to the meat.

“Ugh, are you fucking deaf or are you stupid?” Joe called out, slamming the door shut.

             Gently placing the fork down, Claire slowly turned to face the man who was dressed in a full-blown black on white suit. “No, I can hear you loud and clear and since I can hear you loud and clear, there is no need to get loud because, you know, my ears are just fine. Also, no, I’m not stupid either because here I am, in our house, cooking us a nice dinner. If anything, I’m a nice person, not a stupid one.” Claire sassed, watching as the enraged man stopped just feet away from her.

With squinted eyes, Joe quickly looked her over before locked eyes with her. “Our house? A nice dinner? A nice person?” Joe falsified a laugh, “you were always one to have a shitty and dry sense of humor, but looks like a lot can change over the course of a few months.” Taking a small step forward, Joe lowered himself just slightly. “Cut the shit and tell me how the fuck you got in in my house and why the fuck you are in my house.”

             Holding up a finger, Claire turned back around, giving the steak one last flip and baste before turning off the stove. “I thought you were always three steps ahead of people in thirty different directions.” Claire mocked. “If you’re that smart why don’t you tell me why I’m here then.” Turning around, cold, blue eyes stared relentlessly at brown squinted ones.              

              She waited a moment to see if he would answer, but as expected, Joe remained quiet, leading for her to answer the questions for him. “You must have either known or hoped that I would come back because you never changed the locks or the codes – either that, or you forgot to do it, but you aren’t a man to forget things.” She paused for a moment, searching his face for any minor changes. “As for why I’m here,” she tilted her head slightly, tearing her eyes from his, gazing past him, “well, I would be lying if I said I knew the answer to that.” 

Silence began to envelop the room – on one hand, Claire stood there with her eyes latching onto Joe as she awaiting a response from him and on the other hand, Joe turned a cold shoulder to her, his head dropping, and a hand coming up to rub the side of his bearded cheek.

It seemed as if an eternity passed with neither of the parties daring to break the streak of silence.

Strangely, for Joe, it seemed as if this small moment of time, particularly the layout of the conversation and the silent interactions between the two, rang a bell in his mind, serving as a sort of deja-vu.  The underlying tension in the air, the wandering glances, the shoulder-turning-head-dropping-cheek-rubbing-disappointment, and not to mention, the smell of cooked steak, all took him back to the moment Claire sat him down, told him she was leaving him for another man, and explained how she wanted a divorce.

Letting his hand run up from his cheek and into his hairline, Joe cocked his head back, letting out a long sigh before resting his sights on her again. It was almost as if she was frozen in time for she had yet to move an inch.

The view of his wife didn’t last long before he turned away and walked towards the cabinet. Reaching out, he opened the white surface, retrieved a glass, and gently closed the door.

This situation called for a drink.

Examining the small array of liquor bottles, he had restocked after drinking a day or two of his life away, Joe opted for the usual.

Pouring out the amber liquid of a Jack Daniels bottle, he was careful to pour no more than the usual amount before placing the bottle back into its respected spot.

Finally, turning around, glass in hand, Joe spoke, “Well, if you won’t say it, I’ll say it for you: you’re fucking lying.” He then proceeded to take a sip.

Not only did the burning liquid ignite a small fire within him, but it seemed as if a fire started within Claire as well.

             Whipping around, a shocked, yet flushed-face Claire locked eyes with him. “I’m lying?,” she questioned almost in dismay as she brought a hand to her chest, “No, no, no, Joe, you’re lying,” she rebutted, waving a finger at him, “and I would like it if you didn’t use your little police-reverse-psychology-interrogation questioning-bullshit tactics on me.”

Placing the glass beside him, Joe raised his arms up defensively, “Look, I work with people all day long and I can sense and smell a lie from a mile away. Not only that, but I know for a damn fact that no one in the right mind just happens to show up in their ex-spouses, but apparently in our fucked-up case, their spouse's house without telling them and just ‘doesn’t know why they are there.’” Joe pulled his eyebrows together, letting out a fake chuckle. “If you ask me, that’s burglary which is a crime and not only that, but it’s a shit move on your part.” Lowering his arms, he leaned against the counter.

             Weighing her options, Claire battled with wanting to continue the bickering match the two of them were engaging in and wanting to cut the shit and get down to business with or without the help of some seduction on her part. “Yeah?” She asked, ignoring the majority of his reply. “And what are you going to do, whip out those cuffs we often put to good use and take me to jail?”

              There was a handful of distance between the two - Joe continued to lean against the counter while Claire stood in the middle of the kitchen. She blatantly gave him a look over and in that moment, just like many others, she once again realized that there was no doubt that she still felt a level of attraction towards the man. In this moment, she wanted to approach him and loop her fingers through the visible belt loops on his slacks and him towards, but not only was it too early for that, but also far too dangerous – dangerous not in the terms of its true definition, but dangerous in the terms of not wanting to overstep the boundaries. In addition to wanting to approach him, she wanted to manipulate him, but they both knew that Joe was too smart for that now, especially after how things panned out over the last few months – any attempt at persuasion, seduction, or manipulation would more than likely fall apart.

Digging his hands into his pockets, Joe dropped his head, a laugh slipping through his lips, breaking his façade. “No,” he answered, leaning off the counter, “I’m not going to use the cuffs on you nor am I going to take you anywhere.” He finished, another laugh escaping before finishing off the rest of the amber liquid. “But you know what we are going to do?” He asked, placing the glass down as he proceeded to open the cupboard again.

              Tilting her head and narrowing her eyes, she watched as the man retrieved a set of plates. “What’s that?” She questioned, knowing fully, or at least to some extent, what his answer would be.

Without answering right away, he walked before the stove and instantly a frown claimed his lips at the sight. “Well, since you cooked only one steak – who cooks just a single steak when you break into someone else’s house -, we’re going to split this sucker, sit down, and have a nice and cordial discussion as to why you’re here and what you want.”

Moments later, the two of them sat down at the dining table, half a steak on eat plate, and a glass of wine placed out before them. After exchanging a smile and a longing glance, Joe went to pick up his knife before Claire reached out and stopped him.

              “Before we do anything, I’m going to lay this,” Claire quickly dug into her pocket, pulling out a golden band along with a black and blue band - the one Joe wore while on duty - before settling it down on the table, “and this down,” she then pulled out her own wedding ring and band, “and by the end of this discussion, dinner or even the end of the night, I want both of us to know whether we should put these back on and work things out or keep them off and go our own ways.” 

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.16

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: Shooting the shit and talking about his wife, Joe and Dustin get a call to a familiar residence.

POV: Joe

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Dustin Ayers (Italics) Vicky (Indented Italics), Doug (Indented Normal)

Word Count: 2700ish

Author’s Note: Thanks to @meanandshallow for the proofing. It’s been exactly a month since I’ve updated, so enjoy Joe and Dustin teasing each other. Ending the decade with YSKB and bringing in the new decade with a Negan AU oneshot, whoop whoop. 

Warnings: Even though the call is a domestic, there’s no domestic violence happening. There’s swearing as usual

Quote: "Look, I don’t need all that, I need the cliff note version.“

”…But seriously, you look just as shitty as you did yesterday.“ Dustin muttered with a mouthful of food. “I bet beneath those aviators,” he pointed his fork at Joe, “those pretty brown eyes are cozying up with some black bags.” Scoffing at his own joke, the man turned away, tossing his utensil into a Tupperware before placing it beside him.

With a deep sigh, a slightly hungover Joe brought a hand up to his face, his fingertips disappearing beneath the frames to rub his tired eyes. “Are you flirting with me?” He questioned, dropping his hand onto the door side. “Because if you are, I’m all for a workplace romance, just don’t tell Claire.” Turning slowly, he faced his partner, a playful grin gracing his lips.

“Shit, man, you down for a quickie then? Take this thing to another level?” Dustin leaned out of his window, “We can go behind a building and get frisky in your truck bed. Hell, we can even call Claire and let her watch, but two,” he raised two fingers, “options come from that. Number one:,” he retracted a finger, “having her watch would really rustle her jimmies and then there’s number two:,” he raised his middle finger again, “she’ll love the show so much that she’d want to join, but you see, once we start, I can’t share.”

The two men attempted to keep a hint of seriousness to the conversation, but seconds later, laughter erupted from both vehicles. Joe, on one hand, cocked his head back and slapped his hand again his thigh. Dustin, on the other hand, covered his face and shook his head.

After a few moments of cheerful laughter, Dustin wiped an invisible tear from his cheek as the chuckles turned into scoffs. “On a serious note, how are you? You okay? I know you took Wednesday off from teaching, but have you taken a day off from drinking? My man, have you set the bottle down after the barroom bombshell?”

Speaking of frisky business in a truck bed, the impending threat Joe’s own previous experience with Natalie loomed over him. Quickly shaking his head, he stared back at Dustin whose cheeks were red from laughter. “A mans gotta eat, sleep, shit, and shower, right?”

“He’s gotta rub one out every now and then or get some workplace romance, but yeah, I guess you’re kind of right?” Dustin answered, slightly confused.

With a quick ‘hm’, Joe scoffed before speaking. “I’m doing fine. The whole situation is pretty fucking shitty, but it’s not the end of the world.” Pulling his aviators from his face, Joe tossed them into the adjacent seat. “As for the whole drinking thing. I mean, yeah, I drank that night and the following morning - you left pretty early, so, I drank whatever I had stored away before laying in a puddle of my own pity for the rest of the day.”

Shifting in his seat, Joe wrung out his hands. “But don’t worry, I can control my drinking.” The tone of the older man was sincere and almost apologetic as both men slowly stared at each other, locking eyes, and exchanging a single nod - both well aware of the sensitivity of the topic.

Looking away, Joe turned in his seat, opening the center console and retrieving a crossword puzzle. “Plus, even if I wanted to drink from sunrise to sunset for the last three days, I couldn’t since I’m stuck with your ass for half the day.”

Listening intently to the man, Dustin watched as people walked around the shopping plaza. “Hey, now,” Dustin exclaimed, snapping back to look at Joe. “If you want my ass for the other half of the day, you can have it. Hell, maybe even take shifts, whatever floats your boat and whatever makes you happy.”

Rolling his eyes as far back as he could, an exasperated sigh fell from Joe’s lips as he shook his head.

“Okay, okay, tell me, if drinking and the bombshell aren’t the issues, then what is it?” Dustin asked, picking up on the man’s slight annoyance.

“You’re right, drinking isn’t the issue, but the bombshell is.” Placing the puzzle on his lap, Joe pulled his black-rimmed glasses from the dashboard cubby. “You see, I was able to deal with the stresses of teaching, policing, and Claire leaving, but since she’s back in the picture, like, I know it’s only been a few days, but damn…,” Joe shook his head as if he was punched square in the face, “it’s like everything just fell onto me at once.” Pausing, he placed his glasses on. “Either that or I’m just now realizing my stress.”

Watching the older man brought the puzzle to rest on the steering wheel, Dustin bit down on his lower lip. “Well,” he began, releasing his lip, “the best thing to do is cut out that stress. You see, Claire is the cause to this effect and we both know that’s the best starting point - cut the bitch out and pry those papers from her hands, that’s if she was serious about that thing.” Dustin stared intently at his partner, searching for any sign of emotion. “And if you want, take some time off from teaching the younglings.”

“You just want me to stick around, now don’t you?” Joe teased, his sights never breaking from the paper.

“You caught me there!” Dustin defensively raised his hands before dropping them. “I already lost my wife to a much more civil and clean divorce, but losing you?” Dustin sucked his teeth and squinted his eyes. “Couldn’t do it. Can’t lose my other lover,” he jested.

With his eyes locked onto the puzzle, Joe pointed the pen at the blond-haired man, “I knew it,” he shook his head, “keeping me around for your own selfish needs.” He shook his head as if he was disappointed before switching back to the real topic. “But yeah, I’ll be doing that - the whole cutting, prying, and taking a break thing.”

“Speaking about doing it, how are you and the mom? I’m assuming she knows about the whole divorce slash marriage thing, but does she know about the recent stuff? If not, do you plan on telling her?”

Slowly tearing his gaze from the puzzle, Joe absentmindedly watched the cars on the road before slowly transitioning his sights onto Dustin. Fingers began to mindlessly tap against the paper as the scenario of telling Natalie played in his mind.

With his mouth slightly agape, he returned to his puzzle. “No,” he answered firmly, “I don’t plan on telling her because it’s not her fight to fight and there’s absolutely no need to involve another party into an already messy situation.”  He paused for a moment, running a hand along his cheek. “Plus, I’m not romantically involved with her. Like, I’m involved because we’ve had sex and all that shit, but romantically?” Joe scoffed a single time. “No, not at all. At least, for the time being.”

Just as his younger counterpart was about to answer, the crackling of the radio broke through.

Grateful for the interruption, Joe finished writing an answer before returning the puzzle to its rightful resting place.

Listening to the radio and reading the print that popped up on the computer, the information of the call was revealed - it was a domestic situation at a residence Joe was very familiar with.

“Speaking of stress, looks like my favorite lovebirds are at it again.” Joe jested as he brought the truck to life.  "I need you to tag along because Doug isn’t a fan of me.“ He ordered before driving off. 

The once silent wooded area came to life with the sound of tires rolling over gravel and the engine inching closer to the residence.

Scanning the area, brown eyes hopped from parked cars to a puppy chained near a dog house and eventually up to the trailer where a woman was smoking a cigarette.

With the truck coming to a stop, Joe removed the keys from the ignition and hopped out, clasping the keys onto his belt and slamming the door shut.

Adjusting his duty belt, he made his way over to Dustin. “Every time I come here, I have three issues. Issue one: Doug is usually intoxicated. Issue two: Doug usually goes to jail. And issue three: that poor dog is always chained there. I’m telling you, next time I come out here, I’m taking the fucking thing home with me.  

              “Any day is a good day when I see Sargent Merriweather.” The woman yelled from the porch, watching as the two men approached the dwelling.

Saluting Vicky with a cordial smile, Joe detoured and walked towards the dog. Upon reaching the pooch, he knelt and welcome the friendly kisses. “I think she means bad day, but who knows,” Joe whispered to the dog.  

              “Listen, hun, I called you to take Doug to jail, not to play with my dog.“ The woman took a drag from her cigarette. "It’s the same old situation, so, take him and go.”

Taking to his feet, Joe left the dog’s side and made his way up the stairs. “'Same old situation’, huh?” Resting on the last step, he continued. “You guys aren’t even married, so, go to court, evict him, get a restraining order, and press charges. Boom…,” Joe clapped his hands once, the sound echoing throughout the area, “Problem solved. No more ‘same old situation’.”

           “I also didn’t call for you to give me advice, I called —.”

“You called us to handle your issue and arrest whoever. Yes, we get it, but we can’t just waltz in and take him. You gotta explain what happened; give us a reason. You know, establish the elements and if anything even happened.” Dustin interrupted, annoyance running high in his tone.

Taken back by Dustin’s comment, Joe exchanged a glance with the man. “Kid’s got a point.” He admitted, shifting on the wooden steps. “Now why don’t you tell us what happened,” Joe said sternly, retrieving a pen and notepad from his pocket.

With raised brows, the woman glared at Dustin, the two of them engaging in a battle of eye contact. “Look, I’d love to have this contest, but to be quite honest, we’ve got better things to do, like figuring out what happened.”

           “I’m not a fan of you, Officer…,“ she leaned in, reading the name on his tag. "D. Ayers.”

“It’s okay, ma'am, I don’t get paid to be liked nor to have fans. I get paid to enforce the law and handle issues.”

Stepping onto the porch, Joe situated himself between the two bodies. “Stop it.” He ordered, glancing over his shoulder. “Both of you.” He cautioned his partner before turning back to Vicky. “Tell me what happened.”

                Faking a laugh, Vicky discarded her cigarette. “I come home from work and this lousy sack of shit is sprawled out on the couch, surrounded by a mess of cigarette butts, beer cans, and TV dinners…,” taking to her feet, she approached the duo, “anyways, I start bitchin’ at him to get a job, he starts bitchin’, and even the dog starts bitchin’. It’s not even that —”

Looking up from his paper, Joe rolled his head, cracking his neck. “Look, I don’t need all that, I need the cliff note version.”  Peering through the screen door, Joe noticed Doug getting up. “Tell me, did anything physical happen between the two of you? Did you hit him or did he hit you? If you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions, explain to me why verbal turned into physical.”

Casting a glance over his shoulder, Joe motioned towards the door, resulting in Dustin approaching it and Joe staring back at Vicky.

        “No and no, but he’s drunk and I want him —.”

Joe raised his hand to stop her. “Listen, you have experience with this type of situation after my last visit. If Doug is just drinking and laying on the couch, doing nothing, well, he isn’t committing a crime. You didn’t hit him. He didn’t hit you. Just leave the drunk alone. Now, if it’s a physical altercation, then call us, we’ll be happy to handle it, but right now, our hands are tied.”

The opening of the front door forced Joe to look at the incoming party member. “Surprise, we’re back for the second time this month.” Joe deadpanned, watching as the man stood in the doorway.

                  “Sorry, popo, can’t come in. Don’t wanna catch swine flu, not after last time.” Doug insulted, ignoring the greeting and poking Joe in the chest twice.

Taking a step back, Joe glanced at Dustin before clasping his hands over his crotch. “Doug, I’ve been nice and have always worked with you, but right now, I’m going to strongly advise you to not poke me because the cordial attitude I have is going to go out the window and you’re going to get an attitude you don’t like.”

Eyeing the man, Joe watched as he dug his hands into his jean shorts. “Going to have to advise you keep your hands out of your pockets, too.”

                 “What are you going to do? Shoot me?” The man asked with a scoff as he took his hands out and lifted them.

Annoyed, Joe dropped his head, his eyes lingering on the wooden panels for a moment. “Yeah, because that’s what we do. We shoot people. We cause harm to people. We make peoples lives turn into horrible messes. ”

Coming into the situation, annoyance and lack of patience was running high for the officer - partly due to his slightly hungover state and the stress that was constantly running through his mind - but with that comment, tension in the air slowly began to rise.

“Am I feeling threatened right now? Am I grabbing for my gun? Do you see it out? Do you plan on doing something that forces me to retrieve either my gun or taser?” Joe questioned, snapping up to look at the disgruntled man who answered him with a slurred 'no’.

“Then calm down, pal. Everything was going smoothly until you came out. Hell, we weren’t even going to take you away, but keep it up and I might have a change of heart - I’d hate to drag you out and scuffle with you like last time.”

                 “You ain’t nothing but a badge and a couple of pussies.”

Pressing his lips together only for him to bare his teeth a second later, Joe rested his hands his belt while glancing up to the darkening sky. “You know what? Go ahead and put your hands behind your back. You’re under arrest for breach of peace.”

With the man obeying his commands and letting a string of derogatory insults and curses fall from his drunken lips, Joe cuffed him, searching his body just a seconds later.

       “Watch, I’ll be out tonight or tomorrow. Just wait and see.”

Pushing the man forward, the three men made their way down the steps and towards Dustin’s SUV. “Yeah, you very well may be.”

       “Yeah?,” the man asked, whipping his head around to look at the officer, “Well, you very well might lose your life.”

“You’re absolutely correct but what’s that mean?” Pulling the man back, forcing him to stop, Joe watched as he stumbled over his feet, nearly falling onto the gravel. “Threatening the life of a police officer, nice job on tacking on another charge.”

Approaching the door to his cruiser, Dustin reached out to open the door, only for a mouthful of spit to land on the handle.

       “Whoops, I meant to spit on the ground.” Doug sassed, a grin on his face.

In an instant, flesh met steel as Joe pressed his body up against the drunk, squishing him against steel and flesh. “Double D - Difficult Doug, that’s your new name. Every time you’re in cuffs, you’ve gotta bust my balls. If you could just cooperate, things would be easy peasy.”

Pulling away, Joe dragged the man backwards, careful with his steps, he made his way over to the adjacent side of the car.

              “I’ll be seeing you again, trust me. What’s your name?” Doug asked as he was pushed into the backseat.

“Too drunk to even remember my name.” Joe scolded, “Don’t worry, it will be on the warrant and report.”

                “Be on your tombstone, too.”

Ignoring the threat, Joe slammed the door closed. “See, I told you he wasn’t a fan of me.” Joe chuckled, walking over to Dustin, patting the man on the back. “The perks of having no cage - I don’t have to listen to assholes on the way to the station.”

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.15

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: Relaxing at a bar, Joe and Dustin shoot the shit until an unexpected bar-goer arrives.

POV: Josephine

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Dustin Ayers (Indented), Claire Merriweather (Indented Italics), and everyone’s favorite dog, Duke

Word Count: 2800ish

Author’s Note: I present you with everyone's new favorite character, Claire Merriweather. This also takes place a day after the last chapter.

Quote:  “For fucks sake, I should have known better.”

Tuesday night rolled around and the low humming of people chatting away along with the clinking of bottles and mugs filtered throughout the busy bar.

Working Monday’s and Wednesday’s as a professor and Thursday’s through Sunday’s as an officer, the only real time Joe had the chance to blow off some steam and attempt to relax was on Tuesday’s. However, it still wasn’t enough - both professions began to weigh down on him.

Leaning forward, Joe's forearms rested against the cool, smooth surface of the wooden bar, his eyes focused on the droplets of condensation that raced down his mug while his ears tuned in and out of the ramblings of Dustin.

“I’m telling you, Josephine, by the time I get to be your age, I’m either going to be one of those cops that eat donuts all day and has one of those cliche mustaches, whose had five hernias and three slipped disks or I’m going to turn in my twenty years, retire, and then teach at a local college because I have nothing better to do with my time like a certain someone I know.” Smirking and side-eying his friend, he gripped his beer bottle, bringing it to his lips and taking a swig from it.

Bringing his mug to his lips, Joe paused, lifting a brow as he turned to look at his friend. “Did you seriously just call me ‘Josephine’?”

Swallowing, Dustin proudly shook his head. “Out of all the things I just said, you picked up on that?” He asked, his tone playful. “But you’re damn right, I sure did.”

“No, out of all the things you just said, I picked up on the most important detail.” Finally sipping from the mug, Joe placed it back down, a satisfying 'ah’ coming from him after swallowing.

“You know,” Dustin shook a finger at him “you can be a real dick sometimes.”

Joe grinned, shrugging his shoulders. “It’s one of my hidden talents.” Staring into the mirror behind the bar, Joe watched as Dustin stared right back at him, his head shaking, a smile resting on the younger man's face.

Swiveling around, Dustin rested a forearm on the bar while his hand clutched his bottle, resting the container on his thigh. “How’s your office doing?”

Pretending to be confused, Joe furrowed his brow, his eyes resting on the mug before him. “What do you mean how is my office?”

“When I surprised you yesterday with coffee and donuts because I am such a good friend, there was this musty odor in there. If you ask me, smelled like sex.” A smug smirk claimed Dustin’s lips before disappearing as he drank from his bottle.

It was almost as if his heart dropped into his stomach after hearing what Dustin had to say. In all honesty, Dustin wasn’t wrong about the smell, but of course, Joe wasn’t willing to admit to the source of the smell. After all, Dustin was under the impression that Joe was 'banging the mom’ of his student and Joe planned on keeping that impression alive…for now at least.

Joe brought the mug back to his lips, swallowing more of the cold liquid than he expected to - he needed a moment to calm down after Dustin’s comment.

“Smelt like sex?” He questioned, shaking his head. “Because I’m totally having sex in my office, but shit, wait, hold on, who would I be sticking my dick in? My fellow colleagues because that’s the only plausible choice,” his tone sarcastic as can be even though he was lying through his teeth.

Roughly slapping his shoulder, Dustin burst out in laughter. “Calm down, pal, I’m just busting your balls. No need to get all pissy.” Quieting down, his eyes wandered around the establishment, scanning the occupants. “I mean, it isn’t the only plausible choice. Merriweather could be banging a female student or you could get with the daughter and the mother, but, that’s kinda weird.”

With eyes boring into Dustin, Joe bit down on his cheek, slightly annoyed by all the banter.

Pulling his sights away from the seated crowd, Dustin locked eyes with Joe, his aura suddenly changing. He had much experience with this certain look and he knew he was walking a thin line now. “Or, you know, you could be banging no one at all. You’re not that stupid. You wouldn’t have sex with anyone in your office anyways.”

“There you go, Dustin, thinking with your head and not your ass. I’m very proud of you, son.” Joe joked, glad the issue was slowly blowing over.

Time slowly passed and Joe was on his second mug while Dustin blew threw another two bottles. Joe was due to lecture the following day while Dustin had the day off, allowing for his partner to drink more since he knew Joe would sober enough to drive the both of them home.

“I’m liking the whole black on black on black combo on you,” Dustin looked over Joe. “You sure look different in a leather jacket and jeans as opposed to your ironed button up and slacks” Flagging down the bartender, he motioned for some shots. “Keep ‘em coming too.”

Astonished by his stupidity, Joe glanced in his direction. “The fuck you mean? Our uniforms are black…on black…on black.”

Watching as the bartender placed the amber filled glasses before Dustin, Joe shook his head. “You downing those on your own or am I supposed to help?”

Narrowing his eyes, the blond-haired man ran a hand along his cheek. “You’ve got a point. They are black, but you get what I mean.” Downing the last few sips of his beer, he turned his attention to the shots. “Well, you’re driving and have to fill those brains with your precious knowledge tomorrow, so, I don’t expect you to keep up with the young guns, but one, maybe two couldn’t hurt since you can usually hold your alcohol.”

Sucking on his teeth, it only took a second for Joe to come to his decision - there was no denying that Joe was a fan of alcohol when the chance presented itself. “You’re lucky it’s a Tuesday night and not a Monday night because you know from experience that I’d drink you under the table.”

Pulling a shot towards their bodies, the two men, in harmony, lifted the glasses and downed the amber liquid, repeating the process once more.

“Now, as a man who attempts to uphold the laws of the land, I’m going to have to strongly advise you that you stop drinking now.” Cocking his head back, Dustin swiveled around in his chair, a chain of laughter cascading out of his mouth. He stared at the door that was slowly being opened, two brunettes and a blonde walked through the door. Shaking his head out, his eyes widened as he focused on the blonde. “Oh fuck,” he whispered under his breath, quickly swiveling back around and lowering his head. “And as a man who is your dearest friend, I highly and I mean highly suggest that you don’t turn around and that we leave.”

Sliding the empty glasses away, Joe glanced at Dustin, confused by his comments and his posture - it was like he was trying to hide from someone.

“What do you mean?” He questioned, looking into the mirror, scanning the people behind him only to find no one of interest.

“Last time I checked, I don’t have a stuttering problem.” Dustin quickly glanced over his shoulder, watching the women chat amongst themselves. “Don’t look to your left.”

Confused, yet interested by the strange situation, Joe straightened in his stool. “Why? Who’s here?” Taking the responsibility to answer the question on his own, Joe turned to his left, his eyes scanning the bodies until they landed on the person Dustin was more than likely speaking about.

Freezing, Joe watched the woman who he had once called his wife, mingle with her friends. He looked her over, his eyes resting on a ring that claimed the finger he had once claimed with his own. His eyes lingered for just a moment before she turned in his direction. “Oh shit,” he muttered, tearing his sights away from the woman and turning back around.

“You dumbass,” Dustin scolded, slapping the back of his head. “Told you not to look over there you.”

Glaring at Dustin, Joe began to grind his teeth, his eyes looking away and at the mirror in his sights.

It was obvious Claire had noticed him, it was apparent since Joe watched in the mirror as she made her way towards him - his body tensing as she inched closer and closer.

         “Joesph Derek Merriweather.” Claire’s hand glided up his back until it rested on his shoulder. “Surprised to see you here.” Standing between the two seated men, Claire glanced at Dustin. “Nice to see you, Dustin, it’s been a while,” her right hand coming up to pat the man’s shoulder.

Joe winced at Claire’s touch. “Claire,” he whispered, his eyes opening once her hand rested on his shoulder. “By the ring on your finger, guessing you moved on fairly quickly. Hate to say it, but I kind of feel sorry for the bastard that gave it to you.”

       Removing her hand from Dustin and placing both of them on each of Joe’s shoulders, she leaned into his ear. “Don’t feel sorry for yourself, Joe. You and I are still married.”

In that exact moment, all the air from Joe’s lungs escaped, it was as if someone decked him right in the ribs. He couldn’t move, he was frozen. He couldn’t speak, he was at a loss for words. He couldn’t blink, his eyes were locked on his reflection in the mirror.

When she leaned away from him, his frozen trance came undone. “Wait, what?” You and I signed the papers a week ago. What the fuck do you mean we’re still married. I swear to fucking god, Claire, if you —.”

         “Don’t even start with the false threats, Joe, I’m far too used to them.” Walking to the empty stool next to him, she took a seat. “But just because we signed them in the presence of each other, doesn’t mean the procedure is completed. We’re still married,” she air quoted ‘married’ “until I turn in the papers and the papers are finalized.” She shook her head, false disappointment radiating from her. “Should have been smarter, husband. Should have taken the responsibility of turning them in yourself.”

Covering his face with his hands, Joe slowly shook his head. He couldn’t believe that situation and what she had done. Hopefully, although he lacked any hope in Claire, this was all some sadistic joke she was playing. Sadly, he knew firsthand how much of a conniving, yet clever woman she could be, but this was a whole different level.

“Claire, please, oh, please, tell me that you’re busting my balls right,” his plea was muffled as he slowly moved his hands down his face.

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, he straightened up, turning to face the blonde. “Look, I know I don’t have much trust in you after everything, but I entrust you to turn those papers in,” he leaned in closer to her, “no, actually, I’m telling you to turn those fucking papers in by the end of this goddamn month. In a few weeks, they will turn void.”

        Smiling, Claire snaked her hand down, resting it on his thigh.

He quickly glanced down at her hand. “Isn’t that what got you in trouble with me? Placing your hands on me?” He gripped her hand, tossing it up on the bar. “Don’t touch me.” He warned.

        Ignoring what he had to say, Claire spoke. “I thought you said you were always three steps ahead of people in thirty different directions, but look at that, looks like you’re three steps behind me in only one direction.” Leaning forward, she grabbed one of the shot glasses. “Not as clever as you portray yourself to be.” She smiled, her icy blue eyes locking with his warm hazel ones. “I’ll be seeing you around, my dear husband.” She added, downing the shot, and standing up, pausing before walking away. “And wait, isn’t that what got you in trouble with me? Drinking?” She said almost mockingly as she walked away.

Watching her strut away for a second, Joe slowly turned back around, a shocked and open-mounted Dustin coming into view.

“Ho-ly shit.” Dustin whispered, a shaky and fake laugh accompanying his response. “What the fuck just happened?” He asked, his eyes still staring at the bar - it was as if he was scared to look up.

Without a single word, Joe reached over, grabbing the three refilled shot glasses.

Downing one, he grabbed the next. Down two, he grabbed the last. Downing the last shot, he grabbed his mug, finishing the rest of the beer. It all happened in a matter of seconds.

“Whoa, pal, take it easy.” Dustin placed a hand on Joe’s shoulder, shaking him slightly. “After all that, in a few minutes, you’ll be in no shape to drive. You know, the quicker you drink, the faster the effects come.”

Joe sat there silently, his face covered by a hand, his eyes closed. Not only on the outside was he fuming, but within, his blood was boiling by the unexpected news.

Digging into his jacket pocket, he searched for his keys, tossing them onto the counter. “Drive,” he muttered to Dustin.

Abruptly taking to his feet, the stool nearly collided with the ground. “Let’s go,” Joe commanded. As he walked away, his eyes locked onto Claire’s until he pulled the doors open and walked outside.

After a 'fuck’, 'shit’, and 'bitch’ filled ride home, the two men finally pulled into the driveway.

Helping a disheveled and belligerent Joe out of the Jeep and up the front door, Dustin followed behind the man, ensuring that if he were to stumble over his feet or fall, he would be able to catch him.

Taking a second to make sure Joe was steady on his feet, Dustin walked around, unlocking the front door and motioning for him to get inside. “You poor bastard,” he muttered, receiving a stern look from Joe.

As barking filled the house, Dustin calmed Duke. “Calm down, super dog. Dusty boy is here taking care you of daddy because your mommy dropped a bombshell on him at the bar.”

“I swear, I’ll drop a fucking bombshell on her if she doesn’t fucking turn in those god damn motherfucking papers.” Joe drunkenly babbled as he cautiously entered his own house, using the walls to keep his balance.

“Yeah, okay, I’m sure you will. Just take it easy bud.” Entering behind his drunken friend, Dustin kneed away a playful and rowdy Duke. “You take it easy too, you runt. I don’t mind getting scratched up, but I’d rather get scratched by a woman than a dog. Full offense, Duke.”

Ignoring the two lovebirds, Joe continued on his way towards the hallway that led to the master bedroom. “Duke, leave him alone, let’s go to bed,” Joe commanded, his speech slurred.

Joe paused to turn and face Dustin one last time. “You can take the couch and spend the night or do whatever, but if you leave, lock the house up. You know where the key is,” he instructed.

“Aren’t you supposed to offer the guest your bed?” Dustin joked, before walking away and over to the fridge. “I’m kidding.”

Joe zoned out for a moment, his sights latching onto the wall beside him. It wasn’t until the slamming of the fridge that Joe looked away, shaking the cobwebs out, and nibbling on his lower lip. 

Turning into the hallway, Joe stopped, his eyes scanning over the pictures that littered the wall. It didn’t take long until his eyes rested on the wedding picture. After a moment, he pulled the frame from the wall, throwing it onto the floor, watching as glass spreading across the wood.

The clash forced Dustin to peek into the hallway, a 'fuck’ echoing throughout the silent house.

Clenching his jaw, Joe stepped over the mess, glass crunching under the weight of his body as he entered his room.

Stripping off his jacket, kicking off his boots, and unbuckling his pants, he fell into bed, a groan coming from his lips as he pulled Duke into his body. “For fuck sakes,” He whispered into the fur of his dog. “I should have known better.”

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt. 12

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: Waking up in a bed that isn’t hers, Natalie quickly figures out where she is. 

POV: Natalie

Characters: Natalie Jankoski, Joe Merriweather (Italics

Word Count: 2500ish

Author’s Note: xXx

Quote:  “Go wash that dirty mouth of yours and we’ll talk afterward,”

The soothing, yet repetitive pitter-pattering of the Saturday morning showers brought Natalie further away from her not-so-restful slumber and closer to her awakening.

Rolling over from her side and onto her stomach, a long and tiresome groan escaped from her half-sleep lips as she settled back down, attempting to fall back into her slumber. Snaking a weary hand across the cotton sheets, her hand rested at what she thought was the end of her bed.

Clutching and twisting the sheet in her hand, Natalie arched her back, stretching out the muscles before following it up by tensing her whole body. As this resulting in a pleasure moan breaking the silence of the room.

Annoyed by the low rumbling of the thunder and the repetitive hits of rain hitting the window, she pushed herself down, her head resting on the soft mattress as her hand returned to her body, resting beneath her head.

Pulling the covers over her head in an attempt to drown out the noise, her senses began to awaken with every passing second and every move of her body. With the covers draped over her, it was then, that the strong, yet refreshing scent of a man's cologne began to fill her nostrils and the space around.

Fiddling with the cover until she gripped it between her fingers, she brought the comforter to her nose, pressing her face into the soft material. Lowering her head back onto the mattress, she inhaled deeply into covers, lingering in the familiar scent.

As the familiar scent began to register in her brain, her eyes flashed open at the crackle of lightning nearby.

With her body fully awake, she released the covers and propped herself up on her forearms, letting the covers fall around her body as whatever light the rainy day offered began to filter in through the opening before her.

With the scent flowing out of the space, but still lingering in the sheets, it began to dawn on her who the smell belonged to.

Staring at the bed frame and then down at the sheets beneath her, it dawned on her that neither of these things belonged to her.

Rolling her head from side to side, she felt her stomach dropped as she finally figured out where she was and who was with her.

Shaking the covers from her head, the surroundings of the room were finally revealed and they definitely weren’t ones she was familiar with.

Knowing that she was alone since the spot next to her was cold and there was nobody weighing the mattress down, Natalie plopped back down onto the bed as a waterfall of muffled curse words came from her mouth.

Sitting back up, she scanned the dimly lit room, her eyes bouncing from pictures to dressers to bottle silhouettes and whatever else the clutter-less room offered.

Letting her eyes rest on a picture frame that was on the nightstand, she stared at the glass, the only thing visible was her own reflection, offering her a chance to reflect on the actions of last night.

Natalie remembered most of the party - walking a few blocks to Ryan’s house and showing up later in the night, drinking with the masses of people, playing beer-pong and losing most of the rounds of that dreaded chandelier game, taking those shots, mixing a few red Solo cups, and then of course, hearing that single siren and seeing those flashing lights from the backyard. She remembered all that and most of the night, but what she couldn’t remember fully was how she ended up here.

Crawling to the edge of the bed, she sat on its edge while her hands rubbed her tired eyes and her toes skimmed across the carpet.

Finally standing up, Natalie looked down at herself, realizing that she was still in the same clothes as last night - a good thing in her mind. Another crackle of lightning came, illuminating the room just slightly since the blinds were drawn.

Running a hand through her hair, she began to cautiously walk along the bed until she reached a wall and flicked on a light - the lights finally gracing the room with its presence.

The lights served as her own personal flash of lightning - her vision blinded by the bright fanlight. Rubbing her eyes for a moment, she let her hand drop back to her side as she finally turned to look around the bedroom.

Deep down, she wanted to snoop around the bedroom and see all the things it offered, but she knew that at any moment, her curiosity could get her in trouble and Joe would come barging through the room. So, instead of being the creep she so badly wanted to be, she gripped the door and slowly pulled it open. Plus, on the not-so-bright side, she wanted to figure out where Joe was.

Giving the room one last glance, Natalie flicked the lights off before slowly shutting the door and entering the short hallway.

Clearing her throat, she listened intently to see if she could hear anyone walking around the house, but the only audible thing was the sound of the rain and the occasional rumble of thunder. Searching her body for her phone, it was apparent that after a moment, she was phone-less.

Grumbling, she began to slowly walk down the small hallway, stopping before a set of hung pictures. In the pictures was Joe, mainly in his younger years, with some showing him with different women, but the majority was him and his accomplishments.

One picture showed a uniformed Joe hugging an older woman, presumably his mother. Another showed two uniformed men shaking hands while holding a certificate. Another one showed Joe sitting behind the wheel of a boat with his arms wrapped around a blonde woman who was sitting on his lap - the two of them clearly happy and enjoying each other by the big smiles on their faces.

In addition, were pictures of Joe and family, Joe with colleagues, and Joe with a large dog, but the one that caught his eye was the biggest framed picture.

Staring at the fairytale type wedding picture, Natalie stared at a very nicely groomed and suited up Joe who had his forehead against a very pretty blonde whose white wedding dress flowed around them, the tail of her veil trailing behind her. The two of them were staring into each other’s eyes, her hands wrapped under his elbows, his hands gently gripping her neck while the suns rays broke through the trees, making the two of them almost glow.

The loud rumble of thunder made Natalie step away from the picture and continue walking down the hallway. It only took a handful of steps until she reached the living room where a man’s feet draped over the edge of the couch. The sound of light snoring from Joe accompanied the light pitter-pattering of the rain. With light and calculated steps, Natalie silently walked around the couch until she stood in front of the TV and behind a coffee table. She stared at a sleeping Joe, watching as his chest rose and fell with every breath under the cover. It was almost weird to see a man who was usually always serious, finally calm and at peace.

Her eyes then rested on the lump under the covers. Tilting her head as if that would help with seeing through the cover, she watched as the lump rose and fell as well.

All of a sudden, a snout popped out from under the covers, the rest of the dogs head following in line as well. A string of growls broke the silence, making Natalie take a step back and making Joe shift under the blanket, his eyes flashing open as he was startled awake.

“Duke, no.” A very rugged and deep voice warned. “Cut it out. No growl.” Joe commanded before pulling the dog by its collar and snuggling back into the fur of the German Shepard.

A moment of silence passed as Joe just stared at Natalie from behind the fur of Duke. “And you need to cut it out too.” He deadpanned, stretching out his legs, cracking his ankles before sitting up and letting the covers slide down his bare torso. “How are you feeling? It’s nice to see you not throwing up.” He cleared his throat, running his hand along his chest and shoulder before placing it back down on the soft fur of his companion.

It was the first time Natalie had seen her professor shirtless and it was honestly a sight to see, but at the same time, it was a bit amusing considering they had already done the dirty and Joe had already seen her in the nude. Instead of scanning over his body or the countless newly discovered tattoos that claimed his upper arms, left breast, and right shoulder, her eyes bounced from scar to scar.

Bringing her eyes back to stare at his, Natalie answered. “No hangover, but I’m thirsty, that’s for sure.” She looked back at the dog that was jumping down from the couch, stretching and yawning afterward. “What happened last night? Why am I here and not home?” She questioned, shifting on her feet before carefully walking to a recliner all the while the piercing eyes of Duke stared up at her.

Nodding, Joe swung his legs over the side of the couch, adjusting the thin blanket that rested on his lap. “I bet you are thirsty.” He muttered, rubbing his tired eyes. “You know, because of the throwing up and alcohol.” He added, throwing his arms out and cracking his elbows. “What happened?” Joe repeated her words, laughing at them. “Do you not remember?” He questioned, leaning over and running his hand through Duke’s thick fur.

“If I remembered, I wouldn’t be asking.”

Defensively throwing up his hands, Joe let out a strained chuckle. “Well, where to start.” He thought to himself as he lowered his hands and leaning into the couch. “I assume that you still remember most of what happened at that little party you were at, so, I’m just going to bypass that. Anyways, after escorting your drunken self out of the house, I loaded you into my truck, and we were on our way back to your house, but we had to make a little pit stop because when I looked over at you, you were about two seconds away from throwing up all over my dashboard - you were too quiet and just staring out the windshield, I’m all too familiar with that look when it comes to a drunk. So, I pulled over and quickly opened your door, and just as I expected, the floodgates of throw up opened and you nearly caught me with that mess, but I think my trucks sidestep wasn’t as lucky.” Joe chuckled, shaking his head, his eyes staring at his reflection in the blackened TV. “After that whole thing happened, we reached your house, but from the looks of it, no one was home and that’s when I decided to bring you here instead. Why? Well, that’s simple. You were throwing up and I wasn’t going to let you sleep in a house where no one was able to check up on you throughout the night.” Rubbing his hands together, he continued. “So, I brought you back here and by the time we arrived, you were passed out, so, I carried you inside, placed you in my bed, gave you some water, wiped your face clean, and watched you for a few minutes while I changed and did my own thing.”

Leaning back in the chair, Natalie stared up at the ceiling as a wave of embarrassment washed over her. “Please tell me I didn’t make a bigger fool of myself throughout the night.” She nearly begged, hoping that nothing more happened.

“It was actually the morning, so, in a way, you’re right?” Joe answered, confused by his answer. “But you get what I mean.” He waved his hand, shooing away his last response. “Back to the story - you threw up a few times here, the barfing session stopping at six or so when you finally threw up bile and returned to my bed. I helped you to the bathroom and held your hair back while this all happened because I am such a nice man.” Joe boasted, a smile claiming his lips. “I wanted to change you and get you into something more comfortable, but I don’t have any spare women’s clothing around and I didn’t wanna bother you.” He finally looked away from the TV and rested his sights on her. “You see, when you’re in my position, you become accountable for someone else besides yourself - I was just doing my service and making sure you made it through the night. I may have broken a handful of policies and moral standings, but I did what I had to do.” His tone was heavy, yet light and sincere. “I would say ‘don’t be embarrassed’, but it’s obvious my words won’t do much.”

A long groan came from Natalie as she listened to Joe finish up. “Don’t be embarrassed.” She repeated, scoffing at the ridiculous advice. “Yeah, because throwing up and having my damn professor right by my side, witnessing it all, and looking after me isn’t something to be embarrassed about. Like, come on, Joe, that’s like the number one reason to be embarrassed on the list of reasons to be embarrassed.” Natalie sighed, shaking her head.

“Hey, my partner thinks I’m banging your mom, so, that’s worth a laugh or two.” He jested, taking to his feet. “He doesn’t suspect a thing.” Joe grabbed the shirt that was draped over the armrest.

“Wow,” Natalie said with false shock. “Glad no one knows I got banged by my professor. That’s something I don’t have to be embarrassed about.” She praised with nothing more than sarcasm as she watched him dress.

“Whoa now, that’s nothing to be embarrassed about. In my opinion, that’s a check off my bucket list - you know, if I was in your shoes.” Muffled Joe as his head finally popped out of the shirt, a smile on his face as she walked over to her. “I have a spare toothbrush in the bathroom, go wash that dirty mouth of yours and we’ll talk afterward,” Joe ordered, his hand coming up and resting under her chin, tilting it up so she was staring at him. “Like I said, don’t be embarrassed, what you did, that’s nothing, I’ve seen way worse things and I’ve dealt with far nastier and embarrassing things.” Offering her some sort of comfort with his words, Joe smiled as his thumb traced along her jawline. “Now go clean up and I’ll take you home after we eat.”

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.11

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: After discussing his failing marriage, Joe and Dustin get dispatched to a house party for the second time. 

POV: Joe

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Dustin Ayers (Italics), Ryan (Indented Italics), Natalie Jankoski (Indented Normal)

Word Count: 3800ish

Author’s Note: xXx

Quote: “After all, they do say the best way to get over someone is to get under someone else and I, for one, can attest to that."

“I don’t know how you do it, Merriweather, I really don’t.” Dustin blurted through the silence. The man who was speaking was Dustin Ayers, a long-time friend, and colleague of Joe’s. “Doesn’t it burn you out? Don’t you get sick and tired of it?” Dustin questioned as his sights traveled up from the coffee cup and over to his partner who was resting against the counter with his arms crossed over his chest and his attention focusing on the only two parked vehicles outside the gas station.

For a moment, silence filled in as an answer to the question as Joe continued to stay in his reverie – his thoughts elsewhere while exhaustion quickly began to seep in. It may have been nine days since Joe took a break from teaching, but that didn't mean he wasn't still continuing to fulfill his obligations to his students.

With a lack of an answer, Dustin snapped his fingers in Joe’s face in an effort to grab his attention. “You there, partner, or are you really starting to burn out on me right here and now?” He joked, returning to his coffee, and pouring in more creamer than he probably needed to.

Shaking out the cobwebs, Joe absently pushed himself away from the counter, finally pouring coffee into his silver thermos. “You’re going to have to explain what ‘it’ is because I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He muttered, uninterested in where the conversation as fatigue began to set in.

“You can be a real smartass, I hope you know that, Merriweather...I hope you know that.” He jested before finally taking a small sip from his cup. “But you know, the whole teaching and policing thing, doesn’t get a bit overwhelming at times? I mean, shit, if I was in your shoes with what’s going on in your personal life right now, I would be down for the count.”  

Discarding the trash, Dustin took his turn leaning against the counter while bringing the cup back up to his lips. “The whole two professions thing. I mean, you have two jobs that deal with what may be the most dangerous species on this planet – the human species – and having to deal with that issue that involves, probably the most apex predator out of that species – which is women.” There was a small pause as he took another sip and laughed to himself. “You are just something else, my man, dealing with all this bullshit, that bullshit, and your own bullshit.”

With a line of strained, yet somewhat genuine chuckles falling from his lips, Joe shook his head as he glanced over to Dustin. “It’s safe to say that I’m a smartass that is capable of dealing with mass amounts of bullshit, I guess.” He deadpanned, which only added to his scathing sarcasm.

Motioning for Dustin to follow, Joe began walking towards the front of the store. “No, but on a semi-serious note, it does get overwhelming at times, but I don’t know which takes the gold for being most overwhelming. Yeah, we’re out here protecting and serving the community while risking our lives for people we don’t even know and who may, in fact, not even like us, but let me tell you this: teaching those who might one day replace the both of us, that’s something else.” Giving the cashier a friendly nod and tipping his thermos from brow level as a sort of homage, Joe opened the door and stepped outside.

“Aye, Jimmy, thanks for the complimentary coffee.” Dustin cheerfully called out, as he neared the exit. “We’ll be back tomorrow night, so, make sure you brew up another pot.” Stepping up his pace and catching up to Joe, Dustin joined his partner outside and resumed the conversation. “What about Claire?”

“What about her?”Joe snapped, annoyance flashing in his eyes. 

“Well, how are you two doing or not doing?” Dustin questioned, stepping up beside his cruiser and sitting against the hood. "I see you aren’t wearing that wedding band anymore. About time, if you ask me."

Joe was glad he was in front of Dustin still, his back not showing the pained wince on his face as his failed marriage was brought up. It wasn’t that the topic was hard to speak about, well, it was, but it was the fact that Joe couldn’t disclose everything without having more questions arise and his ego cut down. 

With a sigh escaping his lips, Joe placed his thermos on the hood of his truck and turned around, leaning against it and letting his hands rest on his duty belt.

He winced again, running a hand across his cheek as he looked at his surroundings, Joe finally responded. “You’re right, I took it off because things have officially come to an end for Claire and me. Don’t get me wrong, I kept it on for as long as I possibly could, hoping that she would come back, but it never happened, and she wants nothing to do with me. When we get the time, the papers are being finalized sometime this month.” Letting his hand drop, Joe glanced at his ringless finger. “Last time Claire and I had a solid conversation was a few months back when she was packing up her things and last I heard from friends and family is that she’s living with someone in the next town over. I don’t know who and I don’t really want to at this point. The only thing I can do is speculate.” Joe paused, gliding his tongue across his bottom lip before tearing away a piece of skin. Shifting uncomfortably, Joe took a second to himself. “And that right there, tears at my heart, more than I would like it to.” He shook his head, disappointed in himself and the actions of his soon-to-be ex-wife. “But yeah, I can only assume that she’s doing fine. I mean, come on, she has to be, right?” Joe asked, directing the question to himself. “She has to be.” He whispered, zoning out.

Humming as a response, Dustin sipped from his cup yet again, attempting to give himself some time to think about the situation and what else he should say.

"Been there, done that, so, I know it isn't an easy thing to do, but tell me, Joe, how are you really doing? How are you really handling this? And don't lie because I'm going to know." Dustin offered a weak scoff at the end in an effort to lighten up the situation.

"We got together when I was thirty and then married when I was thirty-four, so, our marriage lasted sixteen or so years. I'm not going to lie and say it's great when it's not, but I'm actually doing fine. In all honesty, this whole thing was bound to happen since we were having too many issues. Not to place the blame on her or anything since most of it is my fault, but I think one of the bigger issues she and I were having was the fact that she ---."

Interrupted by the sound of the radio crackling to life, Joe returned to reality. Warily, Joe looked at Dustin, seeing the fleeting sadness and pity in his eyes.

It was the noise disturbance call that had come over the radio, and Joe threw his head back, letting out an annoyed sigh, as he realized that it was the same house they visited earlier for the same exact reason.

“Well, this was a nice little therapy session before heading back to work." Walking around his car, Dustin began to ramble. "You know, I understand it’s Spring Break and all, but come on, it’s one in the morning and these kids are still partying. Like really? Come on. We warned them just, what…” Dustin glanced down at his watch. “Two, maybe three hours ago to keep quiet and they are still going. Not to mention that you know the host of this party." Dustin shook his head and 'tsked'. "I mean, shit, if I was that Ryan kid and I saw my professor come knocking on my door, I would sober up right away, no matter how old I was. That's like double the embarrassment right there. Don’t get me wrong, you can be one of the nicest people around, but when you have to be, you can also be one of the sternest and scariest.” Opening the driver side door, Dustin looked over at Joe who was already sitting in his truck. "One last thing before our session expires - best advice I can give you is to buck up and go fuck someone else. After all, they do say the best way to get over someone is to get under someone else and I, for one, can attest to that."

"Buck up and fuck?" Joe asked, smirking.

"Buck up and fuck," Dustin repeated, laughing as he finally sat down in his cruiser.  

The party was still going strong when the officers returned to the offending house.

Flashing the blue lights once and bringing the siren to life, the revelers who were lounging around the front yard scattered like mice, either running back into the dwelling or into the cover of darkness.

Parking and stepping out of his truck, Joe strolled up to Dustin's cruiser and lingered beside it, waiting for his partner to exit the vehicle.

"You know, back in my day, when the cops showed up to a party we tried our best not to cause any more disturbances because for one, even though we were immature little shits that loved to get piss drunk, we were still somewhat courteous of the old people around us. In the town I lived in, the copper stoppers weren't the ones who dished out the punishments. You know what they would do? They'd drag your ass back home and let your parents deal out the punishments.” Dustin chuckled, shifting on his feet. “Let me tell you, after the second or third 'punishment’, I learned my lesson." Reliving a part of his teenage years, he stepped up next to Joe, following his line of sight and staring at the house.

"'Back in my day.' You talk like you're some old man when you're only thirty-nine. If anyone should be talking like an old man, it's me." Joe scoffed, side-eyeing his younger counterpart before walking away.

Feeling the vibrating thump of the bass and hearing the occasional burst of raucous laughter filter out of the house, Joe and Dustin walked in sync up to the door, exchanging a quick glance. 

"Hell, the kids aren't going to answer the damn door - musics too loud and they're probably too drunk," Dustin complained, slamming the side of his balled-up fist against the door, pounding out a knock. "And it's not like we can look inside, damn windows are covered up." He said, his tone nothing but annoyance and aggravation. "Damn drunken degenerates." He muttered, slamming his fist against the door again.

Pacing along the front porch, Joe couldn't help but laugh at Dustin's displeasure. "You were once a 'damn drunken degenerate' ." Joe chuckled, grabbing his flashlight and tapping the glass of the window with it. "If they don't answer the front door, you just go through the back door. I know their back there, I smell the alcohol and weed from all the way up here, and, you know, I can hear them as well;."

After a moment of pacing and unanswered knocks that resulted in tensions rising, the door finally opened and a male attempted to stagger out before Dustin lifted his arm, blocking his path.

"Whoa, partner, did you just take a bath in a keg or is that just your natural scent?” Not waiting for an answer, Dustin continued. “Tell me, pal, where you heading off to?" He glanced over to Joe then back to the drunk. "Whoa, you're Ryan, right?" He pointed with his other hand, leaning back a bit. "Well, if you don't remember from when we came here earlier for the same exact issue, I'm Deputy Ayers and that right there is your professor and a very ticked off Sergeant Merriweather." Cocking his head in Joe's direction, Dustin lowered his arm and stood in front of Ryan, continuing to block his path.

Turning on his heel, Joe began to saunter back towards his partner, taking his sweet time. "Yeah, Ryan, where exactly are you headed off to?" Joe repeated, tucking his flashlight back into its holster. "A better question is: why are we back here? What didn't you understand about that last go-around?" Leaning against the railing, Joe crossed his arms and shook his head in disappointment. "The hardest part about communication is listening and apparently you have issues with that, whether that be in or out of class."

          It was almost as if everything passed through one ear and out the other since the only reply was a wide-eyed Ryan who leaned against the doorframe. His drunken trance came to a quick end at the sound of the deputy's hearty laugh and his slow approach."Hey, Joe!" Ryan exclaimed, shaking his head out and standing straight - or at least attempting to do so, but it was clear he failed as he began to lean to the right.

"It's not a time to be buddy-buddy, son," Joe warned, resting his hands on his belt.

            "You all...You all are here for the, ugh, the music, right?" Ryan glanced inside, telling someone to lower the music. "Problem solved, right?" Staggering a little, he held himself up against the door, and Ryan looked at Dustin, tilting his head back as his eyes tried to focus.

Approaching the duo, Joe scanned the inside of the house, his eyes landing on former and current students. "No, the problem isn't solved." He rested his sights on Ryan yet again. "Like he said, where you off to? It would be stupid for me to assume that you were going to drive somewhere, right?"

              Digging his hands into his pockets, Ryan focused on the ground, his sights resting on the polished black boots on his officers. "It wouldn't."

"Would or wouldn't? You may be too drunk to know the difference."  Dustin chided before pushing past Ryan and entering the building, resulting in the place becoming almost dead quiet and most of the occupants retreating to various rooms, couches, and some moving quickly into the backyard.

           Turning on his heels, Ryan spoke up. "Hey, you can't come in without a warrant."

Taking a step forward, Joe placed a hand on Ryan's shoulder and pulled him back to face him. "He can. He's got probable cause." His face was as stern as his voice, his eyes boring into Ryan. "Not only is this the second noise complaint, but the smell radiating from your house resembles something of a grow house.” Glancing inside, Joe eyed a woman who he knew for certain was under the legal drinking age. “And I know for a damn fact you have some underage kiddos in here too."

Before stepping inside, Joe whispered, "would have known that if you listened in class." He smiled, standing next to Dustin and looking around the alcohol infested area. "Now, listen, both of you," Joe made eye contact with both Dustin and Ryan. "I know I said I don't give special privileges, but since Ayers and I are on the last stretch of our shift and really don't feel like processing anyone this late at night, I'm going to let this slide."

"Wait, what?" Dustin questioned, faking his shock by what Joe had just said. "Second time coming out here and we're not gonna bust nuts and take names?" He joked, walking off and picking up a ping-pong ball before tossing it into a cup, which resulted in an array of laughter erupting from the kids on the couch next to the table. "Looking at a champ." Dustin joked, striking a pose before walking off and opening up a pizza box.

Scoffing, Joe walked away, glancing into the kitchen area and then down the hall. "What we're gonna do is break up this knock off version of Beertober fest. See, typically, everyone gets a ticket, the cars that are parked out front get impounded, folks go to the drunk tank and since the property is a rental, the landlord gets a notice from the city, but as I said, end of shift means I want to get out and go home."  Joe explained, stepping back in front of Ryan and shutting the door.

         Vigorously nodding his head as if that helped with sobering himself up, Ryan was relieved by what Joe proposed to him - well, it wasn't a proposition, it was more or less a command. "Thank you, Merriweather. Seriously, thank you." Ryan said genuinely as he reached his hand out, offering the man a handshake which was granted. "You know Chris and Nat are here, you see them yet?" Ryan asked out of context.

"Oh?" Joe tilted his head at the surprise discovery. "Are they now? That's nice I guess. Hope they aren't causing as much trouble as you are." Running a hand along the nape of his neck, he turned and scanned the area yet again in search of the two students. "This is what we're going to do..." Joe began, walking away, glancing into the kitchen again. "You're going to round everyone up." He walked towards the sliding glass door, peering through the blinds. "And we're just going to take the keys of everyone who can’t drive home. Those who are sober can drive and hopefully be willing to chauffeur their friends and acquaintances home. As for the stragglers, they are stuck here for the night."

Eyeing Chris who was in the backyard, Joe searched for Natalie who had to be somewhere in the back. "And if I get bored enough tomorrow morning, I'll be back, waiting to charge your friends with a DUI if they leave and are still drunk."

Tossing his head back as he laughed, Dustin pointed at Ryan. "Trust me, there is no 'if I get bored'. He will be back." He smirked before, chomping down on a chip. "I'll round up the cattle." He stepped over to the people sitting on the couch. "You heard the boss man, give 'em up." He motioned for their keys, snapping his fingers impatiently.

Spotting Natalie, Joe clenched his jaw as his eyes tracked her as she drunkenly wobbled around the backyard.

Uttering a noise of displeasure, he turned around and walked over to the speakers, ripping the cord out from the outlet. "This stays off for the rest of the night too."  After a moment of making sure his words registered with the inebriated host, he went back to the door and slid it open. Stepping out, he addressed the crowd, “Everyone needs to get inside right now and if you decide to be rude or not listen, the hangover won’t be your biggest regret in the morning. Now, come on, move it.” 

              Natalie froze, cringing at the voice that broke through the noise as if it was aided by a bullhorn. Despite being nine sheets to the wind, that voice almost sobered her up. Not having the courage to turn around, she walked forward, attempting to blend in with a group of girls.

"That means you, too, Jankoski. Don't try to hide from me because I already saw you." Joe said, calling her out as his eyes bore into the back of her.

Classifying the drunks from the sobers and taking the keys from the intoxicated, Joe let those who were keyless inside as the small line filtered down which ended with Natalie.

"Good evening, ma'am. Or should I say good morning since it's two in the fucking morning now." Joe muttered, his annoyance rising. "Keys. Where are they?" He said, motioning for her to give them up. "You're not driving that's for damn sure." He waited for her to hand them over, but the only thing he received was a shrug.

Joe rolled his neck, groaning. "So you were smart enough to get a ride?” Relief washing over him as she nodded. "At least you listen." He muttered, jiggling the keys and lanyards that were in his hand. "Well, I don't trust a bunch of drunk guys so, you’re going to come with me.”

Letting her stumble into the house, Joe slide the door closed, his hand gently around her upper arm, ensuring she wouldn’t topple over or anything.

After a moment, he found Dustin who was examining all the keys in his hands.

"Yeah, there's no way they are going to figure out which keys go to what person in the state they are in." He whispered, looking around at the kids again. "A few of them are sober and are good to go, but it looks like Ryan is going to be having a sleepover tonight." He grinned, facing Ryan again. "Hand them over, Mr. Hey-you-can't-come -in-without-a-search-warrant." He said sternly, before walking away into the kitchen with all the keys in his hand.

Chuckling, Joe gently pushed Natalie towards the door. "I'm calling a unit to stay in the area. So I strongly advise you to follow the rules we laid out...If you remember them, that is.” As he exited, he patted Ryan on the shoulder and winked.

Dustin caught up to Joe on the porch. "What's up with her?" He pulled up on his belt and looked at the girl. "She sick or something? You know her or something?" He pulled out his flashlight and shined it on her face. "Oh yeah, she's definitely going to be sick," Dustin muttered, clicking the flashlight off, not wanting to be in the splash zone of any potential throwup. 

"I know most of those kids in there." Joe chuckled, guiding Natalie to his truck, his hand still around her arm. “I know her, yeah, and she may very well be sick." He walked around to the passenger side of his truck. "You know how you said ---."  

"Ahh, Merriweather ’s banging the mom. Gotcha. Gotcha. Don't even have to explain it all to me." Dustin joked, unaware of the connection. "Taking her back home to mommy so you look like the knight in shining armor. Classic. Against protocol, but I gotcha. Smart thinking." Patting the back of his partner, Dustin aided with helping the girl into the passenger side of the truck.

Joe left it as that. No verbal response. No explanation. No story. Nothing. If Dustin was going to assume that this was some daughter of a hook-up then so be it.

"You're not coming back here tomorrow, right?"

"Nah." Joe chuckled, shutting the truck door and walking around the front. "I'm off tomorrow." He chuckled again, returning to the driver side door.

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt. 10

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: Last class before Spring Break and someone decides to get handsy.

POV: Joe

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Natalie Jankoski *(Italics), Ryan (Indented Italics)

Word Count: 2200ish

Author’s Note: xXx

Quote: “Maybe that’s the point of my so-called ‘shitty punishments’ – make you want more.” 

Soaking in the silence of the room, Joe focused his attention on the whiteboard before him as he cleared away the incomprehensible black scribbles that resembled some sort of word and the poorly drawn diagrams that were all produced mid-lecture as a way to keep his own thoughts and talking points flowing.

The tranquility was disrupted just minutes later as the sound of someone forcefully gripping the door handle pulled Joe from his thoughts.  Glancing over his shoulder and looking through his black-rimmed glasses, he watched as the door creaked open and she entered.

Scoffing lightly, Joe returned his attention to the board and resumed his cleaning. “Unusual for you to be this early. Didn’t feel like stumbling in here just before class was set to start?” He croaked, listening as she walked to the last set of tables, placing her belongings down on the wooden surface.

Leaning against the table, Natalie eyed the man dressed in black as he jokingly attempted to strike up a conversation. “Since no one shows up to class the day before Spring Break, my last class got out earlier than expected and now I’m here with my favorite professor.” A laugh accompanied her sarcastic remark.

“Obviously, some people show up since you’re here and so am I, along with most professors and responsible students.” Joe pointed out, tossing the rag onto the first row of tables. “Aww, that’s really sweet of you to say. I’m really your favorite professor?” Joe asked in a cheerful tone as he turned to face her, placing a hand over his heart before making his way back to his desk, his hand falling back to his side. “See, that’s something I would say if you weren’t being a sarcastic little shit right now.” He deadpanned.

“How dare you accuse me of being a ‘little shit’.” Digging into her bag, she looked from Joe to her bag and then back to Joe who was now unbuttoning his suit jacket before settling down into his chair. “How can you not be my favorite professor?” She questioned, taking a paper from her bag and snaking her way through the chairs until she stood on his side of the desk. “Mr. Jack-of-all-trades, you help me in and out of class, whether that be in a professional manner or not.” She quipped, holding out the assignment to him as a grin claimed her features. 

Peeling his glasses away from his face, Joe rubbed his eyes until streaks of green and orange claimed his vision. Lecturing from early in the morning until now made Joe extremely tired and if it wasn’t apparent in his raspier than normal voice, it was surely apparent in his tired face.

“Well, when you put it that way, I guess you have a very valid point.” He admitted, dropping his hand onto his lap and taking a moment to himself before opening his eyes. “What’s this?” Joe asked, swiveling around to face her, placing his glasses back on.

“Age catching up with you today?” Natalie jested, glancing at him and smirking. “It’s that paper you wanted due before the break.” She flipped through the stapled pieces of paper before motioning for him to take them. “You forget about it or something? Don’t tell me your memory is fading too.”

Peering up at her, Joe gave her a stern look before adjusting his glasses. “Check your attitude, Natalie,” Joe warned, his attention focused on the door after hearing the handle rattle. “You going to do the same thing you did three days ago?” He wondered, turning his attention back to her after a moment. “You know, keep that firm grip and then straddle me?”

With a cheeky grin and a raised eyebrow, Natalie shook her head as Joe reached out and gripped the paper. “Grumpy, too.” She muttered, tossing a glance over her shoulder before taking a step forward and standing almost directly between his opened legs. “I would say I like to keep things professional in this type of setting, but if I did, that would be a straight up lie since we both know what happened in your office just a few weeks ago.”

Leaning back in his seat to add space between them, he easily pulled the paper from her hands. “You’re playing a dangerous game and this isn’t the place to play it.” Joe cautioned, his sights switching between her and the door.

“You should learn to take your own advice, Joe.” She asserted, lingering between his outstretched legs before taking a step back.

With a sudden change in his demeanor, Joe scoffed while sliding back in the seat of his chair to sit properly. “Is that so?” He questioned, sarcasm claiming his tone as he swiveled away and pulled himself to his desk. “You might be right, I should take my own advice and so should you.” He added, looking through the stapled papers, skimming through the words. “I should know better considering I’m far older and far wiser than you. Take my advice and listen to your elders, little one.” Joe whispered, speaking more to himself than to her. 

“Then you should be wise enough to quit with that ‘punishment’ bullshit.” Natalie sat on the edge of his desk, arms crossing over her chest. “Doesn’t work. Doesn’t scare me either. Must be too naive.” She explained, staring at him while his eyes scanned the paper. “I don’t understand how you’re ‘punishment’ is a punishment. I mean, shouldn’t punishing someone act as a deterrence to make them not do that certain thing again?

Pushing herself off the desk, Natalie turned around, leaning down slightly, and pretending to read along with Joe. “If so, your shitty punishments do the complete opposite.”

Removing his glasses, Joe bit down on one of the tips before lowering the paper. Tilting his head to look up at her, he maintained eye contact as a moment of silence was shared. “Maybe that’s the point of my ‘shitty punishments’ – make you suffer and make you want more.”

Slightly shocked by his response, Natalie raised her brows. “Well, if that’s the case, I hope you know that two can play that game.” Turning her attention back to the paper, Natalie rested her hand on the edge of the desk. “You might want to pretend you’re reading over that paper just in case anyone walks in. Wouldn’t want them to suspect anything.” Smirking, she watched as he placed his black-rimmed glasses back on and continued to skim over the paper, a grin pulling at the corner of his mouth.

With her hand falling from the desk and landing on his knee, she slowly began to move her hand up his thigh. “Stay quiet,” Natalie warned, laughing to herself since this was once a warning Joe gave to her.

Her hand continued to slowly trail up his thigh until it reached his belt. Feeling as Joe raised his hips just slightly, Natalie glanced over to him, her eyes focusing on his face as her hand moved across the front of his slacks. Impressed by his lack of emotion, she studied his features for a second before turning her attention to his belt. Instead of going for her belt, her fingers latched onto the zipper of his pants. “How are you enjoying that paper, professor?” She asked, her question nothing more than an innuendo. 

Flipping the page, Joe furrowed his brow. “This paper? It gets the point across, but it’s nothing special at all.” Joe answered, his comment nothing more than an innuendo.

“Aw, well isn’t that just a damn shame.” She teased, slowly pulling the zipper down until it reached the end of its tracks.

Moments later, a figure appeared on opposite side of the door, forcing Joe to look away from the paper. “Stop,” he warned, but his warning came too late.

Suddenly, Natalie froze as the door swung open and a student entered. A rush of adrenaline coursed through her veins at the thrill of almost being caught. Relaxing moments later, she began to toy with the opening, her fingers grazing across the fabric underneath as she glanced up to the student, greeting him with a nod and a friendly smile. “You do the paper?” She questioned, slipping her hand into the opening and looking over to Joe who was still concentrating on the paper clenched in his hands.

       “Shit. That was due this week? The day before Spring Break?” Ryan worried, oblivious to what was happening between the professor and student just a handful of feet away.

Entering the conversation just as Natalie was entering through his boxers, Joe shifted forward in his seat – any and all skin coming in contact now. 

Waving the paper in the air, Joe stared at Ryan who was settling his things on the desk. “It sure is,” Joe answered, a groan concealed as a cough escaping his lips afterwards as the warmth of her hand wrapped around him. “But don’t worry about it. I have a strong feeling not everyone will be coming.” Joe rested his sights on Natalie, his eyes widening as some sort of non-verbal warning.

Slipping his hand beneath the desk, he unwrapped her hand from his growing erection and pulled her out from his slacks, quickly adjusting himself and zipping back up, shifting in his seat. “Don’t sweat it, Ryan. You can bring it in after the break, pal.”

Natalie tsked in annoyance. “So I did all this work and you’re just now telling us that it doesn’t have to be completed until after Spring Break?” Natalie asked, standing tall and backing away from Joe. “I should at least get a few points extra credit for that then.” She said as a joke as she began to walk out from behind the desk.

Taking a few deep breaths to calm himself, Joe eyed Natalie, his eyes following her until she sat down in the back row of tables. “Don’t worry, missy,” Joe began, standing up and removing his jacket – painstakingly slow, the way he always did it when around her. “The paper, it was pretty good. Like I said, nothing really special, but you got the point across and did a good job. From what I was able to read, I enjoyed it so far.” 

As expected, most of the students failed to attend class, resulting in Joe cutting the lecture short and going on a tangent of random stories, viewings of funny dashcam videos, and pointless class discussions.

Leaning against the podium, Joe spotted Natalie messing around with her phone – the desktops offering no protection despite her thinking otherwise.

“Before I decide to dismiss class early – and yes, I said early - so you all can go on your week binge of sinning, drinking, and whatever else you all do during the break, I have a story that serves as a stern warning.” Joe began to roll up his sleeves, walking around the podium. “Miss Jankoski, your attention would be much appreciated for this story, since you might be unaware of what happened to your friend over the weekend.” He shot her a stern glare, before pacing away, dipping his head as he smiled to himself.

“So, over the weekend, our beloved friend, Landon, decided to make the shitty decision to drink and drive. Obviously, that didn’t work out in his favor because low and behold, I was the officer who pulled him over. So, when pulling him over, I did the usual things you all see on TV: leave my fingerprints on the tail light, approach him, strike up a conversation, ask for all the stuff I need, peer into the truck – nice truck by the way – to see if anyone else was in it, which there was – a female –, you know, all that good stuff. Anyways, skipping over all that boring stuff and getting to the good stuff, Landon decided to get a bit belligerent when I was frisking his friend and apparently that liquid courage he had stored up decided to make a grand appearance.” Stuffing his hands into his pockets, Joe paced before the class. “Initially, I sat him down on the curb with no cuffs since I know the kid and assumed that he wouldn’t try anything stupid, but we all know the first three letters of ‘assumed’ and what they spell out – a.s.s.” He scoffed to himself before continuing. “Mid-frisk and with my back towards him, Landon stood up from the curb and in a threatening manner, approached me and the female passenger.” Joe reached the podium and leaned his side against it. “I strongly suggest you guys never ever do what Landon did because you will get the same result, something like a deployed taser and your body laying flat on the ground. I really didn’t want to do it, but he left me no other choice.”

The room erupted in gasps, scoffs, and snickers – Joe remained silent as he maintained eye contact with an embarrassed and disappointed Natalie.

Quieting the class down, Joe finished. “Landon is now in the jail for the next couple of weeks and managed to create a whole new portfolio – a criminal record. In conclusion, there are two points to this story. One is that just because you are my student, you do not get special privileges when it comes to breaking the law and disobeying what I, or any other officer, says. The second is that you are all enrolled in criminal justice and should know better, so, if you hang out with anyone like Landon, I suggest you find some better friends.”

Drumming his hands on the podium, Joe returned to his desk. “With that being said, if you do happen to get into any trouble, make sure you tell us your story when we come back. Now be safe and enjoy your Spring break.”

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt. 9

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: While driving her home, Joe reveals a few things as to why Natalie makes him nervous. In addition, after arriving at her house, Joe turns into Natalie’s personal handyman. 

POV: Joe

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Natalie Jankoski (Italics)

Word Count: 3500ish

Author’s Note: xXx 

Quote: “Like I said, I’m three steps ahead of you in thirty different directions, Naïve little Natalie.” 

The drive from the breakfast joint back to the college ward was quite peaceful. Joe and Natalie occupied the Jeep enjoying each other’s presence, even if it was a silent one. The weight that rested on Joe’s shoulders for the last 24-hours was lifted just slightly after the heart-filled apology just some time ago.  

Looking out the window, Natalie bounced her sights from house to house, tree to tree, and car to car. The atmosphere in the Jeep was warm and welcoming, yet awkward and strained. It wasn’t that Joe was causing the situation to be awkward and strained, in fact, he was the only reason as to why it was welcoming and warm – the welcoming smiles, the conversations that were nothing more than small talk, the hesitation of his hand when he placed his on hers for a moment before changing the radio. Instead, she was the culprit of the awkwardness, after all, there were only so many questions she could ask without getting too deep into his personal life – something she wanted to dive straight into. This man who sat just feet from her, he was interesting, friendly, older, and was damn attractive, but he was still a complete mystery to her.

The soft sound of music filtered throughout the car – the radio was nothing more than a filler for the silence that engulfed the two. Turning her attention away from the familiar surroundings, Natalie watched at the man who sat beside her focused on the road ahead – one hand resting on the steering wheel, the other resting along the center counsel, his hand grazing his pants while his teeth picked at the skin on his bottom lip. Following in his actions, Natalie absentmindedly bit down on the skin of her lip, her eyes trailing his features yet again, returning to the small gap between his eyes and black aviators. For a moment, she watched as his eyelashes flickered beneath the glass before turning back to face the road.

From his peripheral vision, it was quite obvious that his younger counterpart was gawking over him – well, maybe not gawking, but examining him as if he was some sort of specimen under a microscope.  Adjusting his sights just slightly so he could get a better look at her without turning his head too much, Joe watched as she looked away and out towards the road.

Chuckling just slightly, Joe spoke. “You know, they say a picture is worth a thousand words, so, instead of being the little creeper you’re being right now, why don’t you just take a picture instead?” Joe teased, waggling his eyebrows beneath his glasses as he turned his head fully to take in the sight of his student sitting next to him.

Reluctantly looking away and towards the road again, Joe shook his head slightly. “Scratch that, don’t do that.” He addressed, acknowledging the situation he was in. “Yeah, don’t do that.” He repeated in a whisper, a hand coming up and running along his cheek. “It could get the both of us in some sort of trouble, well, not really, but you know what I mean.”

Turning into her subdivision, Joe bared his teeth for a second as he thought for a moment. “Actually, let me just say this now.” Joe removed his glasses. “Look at me.” He coaxed before continuing.

Running her tongue along her teeth, Natalie took a moment before turning to face him. “Okay, I’m looking.” She stated, her body shifting in the seat.  Yet again, another sliver of silence accompanied the two as they just stared at each other for a moment – their eyes locking as usual and that famous close-lipped smile claiming his lips, those deep dimples making yet another appearance. Failing to conceal her smile any longer, a scoff escaped her lips as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Whatcha gotta tell me, officer?”

With his grin turning into a smile, Joe slowly ran his tongue along his bottom lip before speaking. “Being a smartass, aren’t we?” Joe questioned, his hand slipping down from the center console, making its way towards her almost bare thigh. “Well, I have to tell you this.” Snaking his warm hand along her cold thigh, Joe broke eye contact and quickly glanced to the road before shifting back. Joe watched as her eyes widened and her lips parted just slightly while a wave of goosebumps spread out across her skin.

Stopping, his hand rested on her inner thigh, his fingers connecting with the smooth surface of her phone. “If you’re with me, no matter where we are at, I don’t care if it’s in this car, in the classroom, in my office, or at each other’s houses – well, I don’t plan on showing up at your house unless it is empty. I want you to know that you’re…” In a quick motion, Joe grabbed her phone out from between her thighs and quickly pulled away.

Naturally, Natalie reached out, grabbing Joe’s wrist to stop him from pulling away, but in a quick motion, he pulled away from her, bringing her phone to his body. “Really, Joe?” She sneered, reaching out yet again, trying to retrieve her possession. “Give me it back right now.”

With both hands off the wheel, Joe clutched her phone in one while pushing away her hands with the other. “First off, my Jeep, my rules, so, sit your pretty little ass in that seat and listen to what I have to say before I stop this car.” With that, Natalie reluctantly sat back in her seat, her arms crossing over her chest and a scowl claiming her features. “Perfect.” Joe jested, placing a hand back on the steering wheel. “Now, listen to me. I want you to know that while you’re with me, these.” He shook the phone in the air. “These aren’t allowed.” Shifting a little, he tucked the phone into his right pocket before continuing. “I mean, they are, but I don’t want you sneaking any pictures to show your little friends or texting something stupid. I know you’re smarter than that and I know you wouldn’t do anything stupid but it’s just a little precaution that I’ll more than likely forget by the end of the week.”

Pressing her lips together and rolling her eyes, Natalie knew that deep down whatever Joe was saying, had some sort of point to it. Despite the so-called ‘virgin territory’ not being so virgin anymore, there were still aspects that needed to be addressed – in this case, the phone being one of them. It took a moment before Natalie addressed him, but oh she addressed him all right. “I scare you, don’t I?” She asked yet another thing that needed to be addressed. “You think I’m stupid enough to tell and apparently show people that I’m with my professor who happened to,” shrugging, she fished for the right words, “I don’t know, fuck me in the back of his truck while on duty and after arresting my ex-boyfriend.” Natalie uncrossed her arms, realizing that it was now her time to toy with him. “You think I’m that stupid, don’t you?” She questioned, adjusting herself so she was now closer to him and slightly leaning on the center console. “It’s a shame, now isn’t it? Come on, Joe, you should know better.” She shook her head with false disappointment. “You should know better.” She repeated, watching as he came alive with a stern reaction – his jaw settled, his eyebrows furrowed, and his hand gripping the steering wheel as he continued to stare down the road.

Tapping her tongue against the roof of her mouth, a line of ‘tisks’ scolded him. “You see, you wouldn’t have to be scared if you thought with your actual head instead of the one between your legs, but you made your bed, now lie in it.”  She teased, expecting some sort of reaction out of him at the leas

Exhaling deeply, Joe snapped his head in her direction. “Same goes for you, young lady. Don’t you dare forget that you were the one who came onto me the first time around. Yes, I admit that I was unprofessional, but look at where we are now.” Looking away, Joe set his jaw once more as a hand ran through his hair. “If you’re going to act immature and throw that in my face, you’re more than welcomed to cut this off...” Pointing from himself to Natalie and then back to himself, Joe continued. “And return to our platonic and strictly professional relationship.”

An unwarranted smile that was accompanied by an unwarranted laugh filled the cab of the Jeep. “Tell me this, Joe.” Quickly, Natalie leaned forward, her lips just mere inches from Joe’s ear. “Tell me, do I make you nervous? Knowing how much power I possess over you in a situation like this? Not just the situation right now, but the situation as a whole.”

Refusing to pull away at the intimidate space the two of them were now sharing, Joe swallowed hard and nodded. “Do you want the professional answer or the personal answer?” Joe nearly hissed as he turned the car onto her street.

“Both.” She whispered.

“Either way the answer to your question falls within the same category,” Joe advised before continuing, “the answer to your question is: yes, I’m slightly nervous and I’m not afraid to admit that. I’m aware of this so-called ‘power’ you possess but remember this, I also have a say as to what will happen and that should make you just as nervous as it makes me.”

With her eyes on the prize – the prize being her phone that was tucked away in his pocket -, Natalie placed her hand on his forearm, patting it twice before whispering again. “Why?” She asked, her fingers toying with his as he gently latched onto one of her own.

Going quiet for a minute, Joe pondered his thoughts and the answer to her question. “Well, why wouldn’t I be nervous?” Joe put to question but continued without offering her sufficient time to answer. “You’re probably not going to like what I have to say, but ask a question and you shall receive an answer. Anyways, with the type of job I have, it’s a requirement to look at all the factors of a situation. I’m always, I don’t know, three steps ahead of you in about thirty different directions, basically overthinking the situation and its outcomes. So, trust me, I’ve thought about most of the outcomes and surprise, surprise, the negatives outweigh the positives. That right there, that’s one reason why I’m nervous, but you want to know the other ones?” Joe shifted away slightly, realizing that her hand had snaked its way towards his waist, resting just above his belt. “If you haven’t noticed, you’re my student and I’ve never done anything more than teach a student, so, all this is very dangerous since it’s a possibility that you can tell someone about this little escapade and with that, my reputation will go down the drain even though we are both adults. In addition to that, the whole, you know, age thing is a big thing to consider. A 44-year-old man with a, what…” Joe looked over her for a moment. “A woman who is no older than twenty-four or twenty-five.”

Fiddling with his button up, Natalie pulled away once Joe started speaking. Despite pulling away, she was still leaning over the center console, her brow furrowing as he explained himself.

“Understandable.” Was the only thing she managed to say before sinking her hand lower into his lap. “But you have to understand, Joe, this 24-year-old isn’t going to go out and blab.” The once smooth terrain was replaced by the slight roughness of the leather pieces that rested on his right hip before slipping back onto the smoothness of his slacks. “I assure you that.” Her hand resting on his upper thigh where her phone was resting just below her palm.

Completely ignoring the wandering hand, Joe glanced between the unoccupied house and over to Natalie. “One last thing,” Joe stated, a smile pulling at his lips as he looked at her, knowing she was unaware of what was to come. Suddenly, Joe slammed on the brakes, forcing the slow-moving car to come to a complete stop in the middle of the street and forcing Natalie’s body to go flying forward – the seatbelt catching her before any damage could occur. “You’re also a big liability to me,” Joe informed, abruptly pulling the Jeep into her driveway, parking, taking his keys out, and then abruptly getting out.

Walking around the front of the car and opening the passenger side door, Joe leaned against the door. “Like I said, I’m three steps ahead of you in thirty different directions, Naïve little Natalie,” Joe said, nearly disparaging her. “Plus, you should know better than to try and distract a driver while they are driving.” Shaking a finger in her direction, Joe stepped forward, helping the annoyed and aggravated woman out of the Jeep.

“Fucking asshole,” Natalie muttered to herself as she rubbed the back of her neck. Pushing his hands away, she immediately headed for the door.

“Being rough and talking dirty to me? Keep it up, Natalie because I happen to love that shit.” Joe teasingly whispered, shutting the door, and following her up to the house.

Stuffing his hands into his pockets, Joe ran his finger along the smooth surface of her phone yet again. “Oh, come on,” Joe pleaded in annoyance, “You really thought I was going to fall for that little baiting?” He questioned. “You know, I spoke to an academy once and told them you have to watch the hands of the person because the moment you lose track of their hands, you can lose your life. So, if you think I’m not tracking your hands, you’re not thinking right.”

Fiddling with her keys until the door was unlocked, Natalie glanced over her shoulder before walking inside. “I was hoping you would, but my hopes were too high.” She said in annoyance as she disappeared into the house just like she had done just a few hours ago. “If you promise not to be an asshole or snoop around, you can come in.”

Pulling her phone out of his pocket after feeling the vibration, Joe stared at the notification before looking at the time – 1:00 P.M.

“Look, I get paid to be nosey at my job. You telling me not to be nosey is like me telling a robber not to rob when he’s mid-robbery. It just doesn’t work like that.” Joe responded, tucking the phone back into his pocket as he took his first official and warranted step into the house.

“You know, Joe, you can be a real smart ass when the time is right. I would have never guessed Mr. Merriweather was a certified smart ass. That right there, that never crossed my mind.” Natalie called out from somewhere within the house, presumably her room or the bathroom.

Slowly shutting the door behind him and locking it, Joe ventured further into the house, investigating the contents within.  “I’m a jack-of-all-trades, I suppose.” He retorted, reaching out, and picking up a piece of paper from the countertop. It didn’t take long before he realized that it was the assignment he handed out a few days prior. “Hey, make sure you do this.” Joe waved the paper in the air despite Natalie still being out of sight. “Just because I give you special privileges out of the classroom doesn’t mean I’ll give you special privileges within it,” Joe warned, tossing the paper back onto the counter, and looking down the hallway where she disappeared down.

“No special privileges in class?” Natalie called out, appearing out from a room, laughing along the way. “Really, Joe? What was up with that pat-down in class? No privileges, my ass.” She rolled her eyes before disappearing yet again.

Instead of responding, Joe made his way to the open door where Natalie was peeking in and out of. “What are you even doing in here?” Joe asked, pulling his glasses out from his pocket and placing them on as he glanced into the cluttered room that had tools and parts to an unconstructed desk laying all around the room.

“Well, you see, Landon was supposed to come over and build this desk for my stupid roommate, but since he’s not here because of a certain someone, I’m stuck trying to construct the damn thing myself until she gets back, which is supposed to be at I don’t know o’clock since you still have my phone and she was supposed to call me beforehand. Since I have nothing better to do besides that exciting little assignment you assigned, I was working on this before you came here and even with my whiplashed concussion you just gave me, I want to finish it, so, it’s probably best if you left anyways.”

Looking over the objects before settling his sights on Natalie, Joe chuckled. “Next time sit in your seat properly and keep your hands to yourself and you won’t have to worry about getting whiplash.” Pushing himself away from the threshold of the door, Joe stood next to her, his hand rubbing the back of his neck as he looked over the pieces yet again. “Being the jack-of-all-trades, I’m sure I could build this thing in twenty minutes, tops. It’s an easy build. Just have to put some things in some other things and screw some things together and you’re set.”

Gazing up at him, Natalie was taken back by his indirect offer. “Well…” She stepped away, her hands up in the air. “Get to work Mr. Handyman.” She jokingly ordered, patting his back twice.

As expected, the build was quite easy to construct. Tossing a rag onto the newly constructed desk, Joe leaned back in the office chair, running a hand over the surface of the desk. “Easy peasy lemon squeezy.” He whispered to himself, digging his hand into his pocket and retrieving her phone yet again.  

Glancing at the time before tossing it onto the desk, Joe swiveled around in his seat, realizing that Natalie was propped up against the door frame, a bottle of water in her hand.

“Done?” Natalie asked, looking past him, and examining the desk. “Thanks, Joe. I appreciate it.” She pushed herself away from the door and approached him, offering him the bottle.”

“Told you I’m a jack-of-all-trades.” Joe teased, reaching forward, and grabbing the bottle.

“You really are. Certified handyman in my book and that’s in more than one way.” Natalie laughed, looking back at him, and keeping a firm grip on the bottle. “No one’s called, I assume,” Natalie asked, referring to her phone that was now on the table.

Hesitating, Joe exchanged a few glances with her before resting his sights on the water bottle. Humming a ‘mm hmm’ as a reply, Joe fastened his grip on the bottle and tugged it forward, the body on the of Natalie following behind. “Texts, but no calls.”

With the tension between the two of them still high, the intense session of eye contact and silence only heightened the uneasiness. Knowing that Joe wouldn’t be the one to initiate anything due to his regretful nature, and with her thirst for him, Natalie, in a quick motion, closed the gap between the two of them. Placing her free hand on his shoulder, Natalie swung a leg around Joe – his hand guiding her until her body straddled his lap.

Almost simultaneously, the grips they had on the bottle loosened until Joe tossed the bottle onto the bed. Getting to work on the buttons of his shirt, Natalie quickly released three buttons from their restraints before Joe tilted her head up so she could look at him. Smiles claimed both of their faces as their bodies remained pressed together.

Natalie arched slightly as a trail of warmth spread up her back to her neck where Joe’s idle hand rested – his fingers entangling themselves with her hair.

Watching as he ran his tongue along his bottom tip, Natalie snaked her hand down his chest while the other wrapped around his neck, fiddling with the ends of his hair. With this, a throaty groan came from Joe as he leaned forward, his lips coming close to hers, but stopping just inches away.

In a split second, Joe’s free hand slipped beneath her and he lifted both their bodies from the chair. Taking a step towards the bed, he gently placed her body down, hovering over her. His hand slipping out from under her and removing her hands from around his neck. Regardless if Joe wanted to reenact the scenario from last night, he couldn’t.

Slowly pulling away, Joe straightened up and smoothed out his shirt. “My shift starts in an hour, I can’t.” He explained, picking up the water bottle from the bed and taking a few steps away from the visibly distraught Natalie. “While I’m gone, get that assignment, I would hate to punish you again.”

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.8

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: After the events of last night, regret begins to take hold of Joe and the only thing he can do to amend things is to do a face-to-face apology. 

POV: Joe

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Natalie Jankoski (Italics), Waiter (Indented Italcs)

Word Count: 3400ish

Author’s Note: xX

Quote:  “Why don’t I just take them out so you can get a better kick at them.” 

With regret seeping into his conscience ever since Joe dropped Natalie off and returned to the station to deal with her unruly partner, Joe knew that deep down, despite enjoying the actions of last night, some sort of apology was needed.  It wasn’t necessarily that he had to apologize for all his actions - it was very apparent that she enjoyed the whole having sex in the back of a truck while he was in full uniform - but the thing he felt obligated to apologize for was his immaturity and misconduct when dealing with the situation. Not only was there the excess roughness on his end, but the using of the power that radiated from his uniform to get into her pants and the way the act was conducted -  there was no premeditated plan to have sex with someone in the back of his police truck while being on duty, especially if that someone was one of his students.

It didn’t take long before Joe turned onto the street he visited last night to drop off Natalie. The surrounding area was quite the familiar scene for Joe. Nicknamed ‘the college ward’ for the excessive amounts of students that rented houses in the surrounding area who caused a handful of issues for the docile people living in the area, Joe frequented the area when on patrol or for calls during the college breaks. So, surprisingly, Joe had yet to cross paths with Natalie during or prior to this semester.

For a moment, Joe’s eyes rested on the familiar house before switching back to the road, his eyes bouncing from parked car to parked car. Nervously running a hand through his damp hair, Joe eyed a spot on the shoulder of the road and pulled forward. Quickly trading in the view of the car cluttered road, Joe set his sights on the interior of his Jeep Wrangler, his eyes focusing on the blue colored numbers that read 11:26 a.m.

Letting out a deep sigh, he shifted in his seat – it was obvious, to him at least since he was the only person in the car, that the situation was a bit awkward despite him being a 44-year-old man who had a plethora of awkward situations under his belt.

For a few moments, Joe allowed the awkward silence to seep in and permeate the entire car. It was finally interrupted by a harsh bite on his own lip, forcing the coppery taste of blood to snap him back to reality. Stroking the back of his neck, Joe finally turned his attention to the house was once occupied with a driveway full of cars, but now was completely barren except a single white car.

Thrumming his hand along the sun-beaten surface of the steering wheel, Joe looked away, shaking his head, and gritting his teeth. “What am I even doing?” He muttered, the guilt from last night making an appearance and silently answering the question for him.

Bowing his head, Joe attempted to think of an acceptable reason to just start his car up and drive off, but the stubbornness that resided deep within him refused to let that happen.

“And what if she isn’t home then what? What if that car right there…” Joe pointed to the white Ford that stood idly in the driveway. “What if that isn’t hers?” He tried to rationalize with himself, despite his mind journeying back to when Natalie was holding her keys when speaking to him, a key engraved with the Ford emblem hanging from the lanyard.

The mental tug-of-war continued to rage on for a few more minutes. Every time an illogical thought was presented, it was quickly swept away by another so-called ‘logical’ reasoning.

Finally, slamming his palm onto the steering wheel in a fit of rising anger that was laced with annoyance and disappointment, Joe snatched his wallet from the center console and nearly ripped out the key from the ignition.  Flinging the door open as the words ‘fuck it’ rained down from his lips, Joe stepped out, his shoes finally connecting with the road while his skin erupted with a line of goosebumps as the warm sun landed on his cold body.

“Just get back in your car and drive away. There’s no need to be here. She…She is your student and you…You are her professor and there is absolutely no reason for you to be here. You shouldn’t even know where she lives. Just get up and go, Joe. Get back in and leave.” His conscience screamed at him.

Pushing aside his thoughts along with his car door, Joe trudged forward until he approached the front door of the house. Taking a second to himself, he began to look around at his surroundings – at first, his sights landed on the flowers planted along the front of the house then switched to focus on the car parked just several feet away.

Setting his attention back to the door before him, Joe finally formed a fist and just as he was about to connect with the door, a noise from within the house forced him to stop. Standing there in a frozen state for a second, Joe looked at the white door for a moment before dropping his sights down to look at his feet, his relaxed fist falling back to his side.

Rubbing the nape of his neck, Joe scoffed at himself, almost embarrassed by his actions. It was as if he was a young boy, scared to knock on the front door of his crush’s house in fear of her father opening the door instead of his crush.

“You’re a grown ass man. Your balls have already dropped so there’s no need to grow a new pair. You’re already too far in, so, knock on the damn door, say what you need to say, apologize for what needs to be apologized for, and go on your way. It’s as simple as that,” his conscious spoke.

With a small rush of confidence, Joe lifted his head, shifted on his feet, and finally knocked on the door.

It felt like years, but after a few moments of listening intently to what was going on inside, the door finally opened, forcing Joe to take the slightest of steps back while greeting her with a smile.

“Joe?” Natalie asked, running her hand up from the door knob to the center of the frame.  Looking over him, her eyes trailed from his drying hair down to his open button up that revealed small locks of black chest hair forcing her eyes to linger there for a moment too long. Clearing her voice, she looked past him, glancing over the cars parked on the street. “What are you doing here?” She asked, focusing back on him, this time her eyes locking onto the gun that was resting in its holster on his hip which was accompanied by his badge.  “Coming to arrest me or something?” She jokingly asked, before letting her hand drop back onto the door knob.

A boyish grin took hold of Joe’s lips as he shook his head and scoffed. “No.” He answered, stuffing his hands into his pockets and glancing into the house. “I’m not here ‘to arrest you or something’.” He teasingly quoted, his eyes shifting and narrowing in on the dark discoloration on her neck. Tilting his head up slightly, Joe swallowed hard, his eyes still locked on the hickey. “I came here to apologize.”

Furrowing her brow and tilting her head to the side just slightly, Natalie took a second to process the situation. Twirling the hem of her shirt, she leaned against the door. “Apologize? For what?” She mused despite knowing the real reason. Running a hand along her neck, she watched as Joe’s eyes finally connected with hers. “Nevermind, don’t answer that.” Standing tall, she continued. “Look, professor, officer, Merriweather, Joe, or whatever floats your boat in this situation --.”

“Joe is perfectly fine.” He confirmed, his face softening a little.

Nodding, Natalie continued. “Joe, there is no need to apologize about last night. You don’t need to feel sorry for anything.” She assured, a smile spreading across her face before she continued. “We were both happy, both consensual, and obviously both in need of it too.”

“You’re right, but ---.” Joe started, only to be interrupted.

“And don’t you dare say you have your regrets about it.”

Pulling a hand from his pocket, Joe ran it along his stubble-filled face until he reached his lip where he proceeded to cover them before pulling on his lower one. “Don’t assume I have regrets because I don’t.” He scolded, lowering his hand. “But there are things I shouldn’t have done that I did.”

“There are things both of us shouldn’t have done but ended up doing. I shouldn’t have been with Landon. I shouldn’t have let him drive drunk. I shouldn’t have taken him up on his offer for food, but look at that, I did and the night ended up better than how it was going to end up. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, but it is what it is, Joe. I’m not coming to you or calling you trying to apologize for anything and neither should you. After the day in your office, we both knew something was going to happen sooner or later. If anything, I’m the one who initiated the whole thing, not you.”

Taking a step and leaning forward, Joe spoke. “First off, last time I checked we never exchanged numbers so even if I wanted to do this over the phone, I couldn’t – but I wouldn’t since that isn’t very manly of me to do, now is it? Secondly, I’m not saying you need to apologize for anything, that’s on me, not you. Thirdly, instead of discussing this whole thing on your front porch with the threat of your roommates coming home and seeing you talking to your professor, why don’t I take you to breakfast?”  Taking his keys from his pocket, Joe leaned away and took a few steps back. “Last night you did say you couldn’t say no to free food and since I’m offering, I expect a yes.” Joe smiled, his dimples making an appearance. “Plus, I don’t expect you do break my little old man heart.”

“Oh, yeah, because going out to a place to eat is a safer option than letting my roommates see you here. Smart, Joe, very smart.” She said, almost taunting him as she retreated into her house, leaving the door open. “I’ll go as long as you don’t, in your words from last night during that very inappropriate pat-down, expect to get lucky.”

Clasping his hands behind his back, Joe patiently waited for her to reappear. “I assure you I got very lucky last night.” He chuckled, taking a few steps forward and leaning into the open doorway, looking around at the contents of the house. “But don’t worry, I don’t expect anything out of this.” He said absentmindedly as he scanned the seemingly clean area. “Well, I expect you to accept my apology, but that’s all.”

Quickly leaning out of the doorway when she reappeared, Joe looked over her realizing she had changed into a different shirt, concealed his love bite, and grabbed a set of keys.

Approaching him and shutting the door, forcing him to take a few steps away, allowing for some space to be set between them, Natalie locked up the house before turning around and smiling. “I already accept your apology.” She assured, patting his chest a few times.

The car ride from Natalie’s house to the nearest breakfast joint was anything but awkward. Surprisingly, the conversations were interesting and attention-grabbing while the questions she asked were simple and general – nothing too deep about his personal life.

Arriving at the nearest IHOP twenty minutes later, Joe parked closest to the building, shifting in his seat afterwards to look at her. Instead of immediately speaking, Joe just sat there, his eyes tracing along her features, returning yet again to her neck where the hickey he had given her was now camouflaged. “Got a little carried away when I did that.” Joe chuckled, finally mentioning something from last night while a smile formed on his lips, his tongue following behind, grazing against his lower lip.

“Could say that for a lot of things, now couldn’t you?” Natalie teased, looking around at the spotless interior of the Jeep. “Now where’s the chase and how do I cut to it because I am one hungry girl for some IHOP.”

Playfully shaking his head, Joe stepped out of the Jeep, walking around the passenger side, and opening the door. “You like to bust my balls, don’t you?” Standing beside the open door, Joe motioned for her to step out, shutting it once she did. “Why don’t I just take them out so you can get a better kick at them.” Joe murmured before winking and placing a hand on the small of her back, leading the both of them towards the front of the restaurant.

After settling down in their booth, the two of them read the menu while exchanging small talk, that is before Natalie questioned Joe about what happened to Landon back at the station.

Gripping the menu in his hand, an exasperated sigh came from Joe – not only did he not want to speak about his job when eating, he also wanted a single conversation where she wasn’t bringing up her god-forsaken ex.

Glancing up from the menu, Joe answered. “He was being unruly. You, of all people, should know that by now.” Joe eyed an older female waitress who was staring at their table.  “He would have gotten off easy if he didn’t act out, resulting in him getting those prods in his chest, but he should have known better and shouldn’t have let his temper get the best of him.” Bringing his eyes back to his menu as the woman began walking towards them, Joe continued. “Since he refused to take the FTS and a breathalyzer – which is his right – his blood was taken by the help of a warrant, his license has been revoked for a year and his truck was impounded, so, he will have to pay a hefty fine for that.” Joe shook his head, a string of laughter coming from him as he continued to scan the menu, his eyes quickly shifting to the older woman who stood next to their table.

       Offering the patrons, a warm smile, the woman spoke. “Tell me, dear, what can I get you and your daughter to drink?” She asked, glancing from the female to the male, her eyes landing on the items resting on his hip. “Drinks are on the house, officer.” She added.

Astonished by the waiter’s assumption on their relationship, Joe nearly choked on his own spit, bringing a hand from the table to cover his mouth. Staring at Natalie while stifling his chuckles, he watched as her jaw dropped, a smile claiming her gaping mouth while her head shook in disappointment.

A moment passed before he dropped his hand, Joe offered the woman a smile before speaking. “My dear, she’s not my daughter, but we’ll have a couple of cokes.”

        Embarrassingly covering her face, the waiter apologized for her statement before offering them Pepsi products instead.

“I’ll have orange juice instead,” Joe replied, turning to Natalie who just nodded her head to the offer from the waiter. Waiting for the waiter to leave their side, Joe continued their previous conversation. “Pepsi tastes like ass, but anyway, that’s all I know about that situation. As for the whole unruly thing, that started the moment he stood up from the curb and – apparently – all the way to the jail. See, if he didn’t do that, he wouldn’t currently have a first-degree misdemeanor, a newly created criminal record, a $1,000 fine, and 60 days in the county jail, but he did something stupid and now he has to deal with the punishments.”

Resting her chin on her hand, Natalie listened intently to the rest of what Joe had to say before sitting tall once more.  “Should have listened to you. I don’t know why he was acting like such an ass. Well, I mean, you two aren’t exactly best friends or friends or even fond of each other, but still. Drunk or not, he knew exactly what he was doing.” Looking away from him, Natalie watched the cars that were passing down the street. “You really got under his skin, Joe.” She said almost as if she was disinterested in the topic now.  “But tell me, ‘daddy’, did you rough him up a bit when you went back?” Waggling her eyebrows, she chuckled at her own joke before going back to reading the menu.

Nearly cringing at the word ‘daddy’, Joe rolled his eyes.  He was never a supporter of the so-called ‘daddy kink’ and found it weird to be called the name. “First, don’t call me ‘daddy’, that shit is weird. I don’t like it, so, don’t call me that. Go ahead and call me ‘old man’ like you already are, but ‘daddy’? Nope, that’s crossing the line.” Joe eyed the woman who was returning with their drinks.

Clasping his hands onto his lap, Joe smiled for a moment before pulling his lips into his mouth in an attempt to conceal that same smile. “As for the roughing up Landon…” He paused, watching as the drinks were set down. “I don’t know, I might have. I can’t disclose that type of information.” 

Taking a mental note at Joe’s displeasure with the word ‘daddy’, Natalie silently shook her head. Humming a ‘mmm’ in response to both of his replies, Natalie glanced up to the waiter, smiling as she settled their drinks down. “Pleading the fifth for your own safety. Can’t incriminate yourself, gotcha.” She theorized.

        “Now, what can I get you two fine people?” The waiter finally announced.

After receiving their meals and chowing down on whatever they could stuff into their empty bellies, the two of them leaned against their booths, content and happy with their meals.

Of course, Joe was the one to break the silence. “Now for the reason I showed up to your house.” Gripping his glass in his hand, Joe brought the juice to his mouth, taking a big swig from it before placing it back down. “That…” He nodded towards her, hoping that she would get the message. “I shouldn’t have done that.” Bowing his head as he leaned over the table, Joe continued, lowering his voice to a whisper. “I also shouldn’t have pressed you down against the bed – placing my hands on you the way that I did was completely unnecessary. In addition to that, I shouldn’t have used the authority of my uniform for my own benefit, that was completely unprofessional, not to mention literally doing ‘it’ in my uniform as well was beyond unprofessional.” Looking down at the plates before him, Joe avoided eye contact for a moment. “Actually, everything I did last night was unprofessional and I should have known better, but the situation got the best of me and I apologize for that.”

Feeling the waterfall of sincerity in Joe’s apology, Natalie felt almost sorry for him. The strong and knowledgeable man who sat before her was nothing more than a puddle of sorrow and emotions – not only did this increase her attraction towards him, but it exemplified how strong and knowledgeable he truly was.

Placing a hand on top of his forearm, Natalie fixed her gaze onto him, locking eyes with his. “Joe, it’s okay.” Was all she could say before being interrupted by the waiter who removed the plates and left the check.

Snaking her hand away from him so she could lean back against the booth, his hand gripped hers before she could fully pull away. Glancing down at her captured hand, she clenched her jaw, gazing up to Joe who had yet to remove her from his sights.

“I’m sorry, Natalie,” Joe repeated once more, before releasing her from his grip.

Silently nodding, Natalie forced herself to look away from Joe.

Digging into his pocket, Joe removed his wallet and tossed a ten and a twenty on the table. In an attempt to lighten up the situation, Joe cracked a joke. “At least I know that I don’t have to buy you food to get lucky, but you know who is the lucky one today?” Joe scooted to the edge of the booth. “Our waiter who got a fifteen-dollar tip.”

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.7

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: While driving Natalie home, Joe decides to make a pit stop to handle some business. POV: Joe

Characters: Joe Merriweather, Natalie Jankoski (Italics)

Word Count: 4700ish

Author’s Note: *THROWS THIS WONDERFUL TRASH AT YOU* IT FINALLY FUCKING HAPPENED. SO, YOU ARE ALL FUCKING WELCOME AND YOU BETTER FUCKING ENJOY IT. I HOPE YOU GUYS ENJOY IT BECAUSE I KNOW I DID. 

Warnings: Smut and big time cringe

Quote: “Sadly, I can’t go back to the station smelling like pussy, so this meal will have to be eaten later on.”

Keeping his eyes on the empty road before them, Joe sat silently in his seat, one hand tapping the steering wheel, the other resting on his lap, pulsing in and out along his inner thigh. Every few minutes, Joe would turn to his right and look at Natalie who, since from the beginning of the drive, was staring out of the passenger side window, her eyes latching onto the silhouettes of the trees and the rails of the road that passed through the truck lights and her view.  Since the beginning of the ride, there was nothing but silence in the cab of the truck and although silence was something cherished by Joe, one thing he could not stand was an awkward silence.

Even though Joe did not know the underlying reason for why Natalie was ignoring him, he had two assumptions. On one hand, it was possible that she was ticked off with his frisky pat-down. It was true, Joe had crossed several lines that could get him in deep trouble when he positioned himself behind her while she leaned against the truck, but considering what had happened less than forty-eight hours ago, Joe had a strong feeling this was not it. On the other hand, Natalie was more than likely ticked off after the whole altercation that resulted in her beloved ex-boyfriend to be sprawled out on the side of the road with a jolt of electricity circulating through his body, forcing him to cry out in agony.  Out of the two options, Joe would bet his life that the latter was the true reason for her disregard towards him.

Turning to her once more, Joe finally broke the silence. “You just going to sit there and sulk the entire ride or are you actually going to say something?” Joe asked, his voice rough and deep, forcing him to clear his throat. “I don’t even know where the hell I’m driving, so, you know, if you want to just sit there and act like a child the whole time, the least you can do is tell me your address so I can get you out of this truck and go about on my shift.” Exchanging glances her and the road, Joe continued. “You know, you’re lucky to be here in this truck with me. This isn’t a taxi service and technically I’m not supposed to be driving you to wherever the hell you live. The situation you got yourself into, that’s on you, and you should be the one responsible for finding a way to get your ass home, but no, since I am such a good public servant, I’m here with your stubborn, quiet ass when I should be processing your boyfriend.” Staring at her for a moment, Joe placed his sights back onto the road before him, the hint of anger that he had when he first realized that it was Natalie sitting in the truck with Landon, was beginning to flourish.

With the lack of an answer and no motivation to talk to a wall, Joe pressed a button on his dash, bringing the radio to life. “Fuck it, fine.” He muttered under his breath as fiddled with the channels until he finally came to a channel that was playing music instead of advertisements. Out of curiosity, he turned slightly to his right to see if Natalie had pulled her gaze away from the darkness, but as expected, she was still staring into the void.

Sighing loudly with annoyance, Joe shook his head and spoke, despite knowing the result he would receive. “This stuff they call ‘hip-hop’, you kids like this type of music, right?” Joe asked, referring to her as a child, hoping that it would tick her off to some extent if only for a reaction.

Placing his hand back onto the center console, he turned his attention back onto the road as the song ended and the radio broadcaster came on, announcing a few ads and then the next song. Surprised by the song, a smile spread out across Joe’s lips as he spoke once more. “I remember when this first came out,” Joe said with a laugh as he reached over and turned the radio louder, letting the intro of the song fill the cab. “Buy you a drank. Wow, what a classic from like ten years ago.” He added with a hint of sarcasm, receiving a scoff in return.

Dropping his jaw in amazement, Joe slowly turned to look at her. “Did you just…Did you just scoff at me?” He asked, exchanging hands on the steering wheel. “That’s it, you asked for it.” Joe explained, snapping along with the intro of the song. “For that scoff, I’m going to sing and dance for you.” He leaned in slightly, dropping his voice into a whisper. “Make you get a little bit of secondhand embarrassment even though you’re not even paying attention to me.”

With every actual snap of the beat, Joe shifted in his seat, shimmying to his left and then to his right as he continued to snap his finger beside Natalie’s ear. Unable to control the smile on his face, Joe chuckled slightly before the lyrics finally broke through the beat.

“Baby girl, what’s your name?” Abruptly turning his head to look at Natalie, Joe poked her in the arm a few times. “Let me talk to you, let me buy you a drink. I’m Joe Merriweather, you know me.” Taking both hands, Joe took his thumbs and began bobbing them towards him.

Suddenly, Natalie turned, cutting out the radio and looking at Joe. “Stop it.” She said despite having a small grin on her lips. Looking up at Joe, she questioned him. “Why did you do it?”

With wide eyes and creased brow, Joe reached out and placed a finger on the radio knob. “First off, my truck, my rules. Don’t touch my radio and don’t touch any of this cool shit you see in here. Keep your little hands on your lap and we won’t have an issue.” Joe warned, looking at her for a second before nodding and turning the radio back on.

“Then imma take you home with me.” Nudging her with his elbow, Joe quickly dug into his back pocket, whipping out his wallet and letting it fall open. “I got money in the bank, shawty, what you think about that?” He sang, letting her get a glance at the amount of cash and the various cards and golden badge that called his wallet home.

Letting the wallet fall into his lap, Joe continued to embarrassingly sing. “I’ll be in the black F-150 sheriff’s truck and we’ll be in the bed like ooh ooh ooh, ooh ooh.” While Joe sang the ‘ohh’s’, he stretched his arm all the way against the steering wheel as he began to grind in his seat, his hips moving from side to side as he did short thrusts. Sadly, his fun was quickly cut out yet again as the music came to a stop.

Although it was a good laugh, Natalie wanted answers to her questions, well, the only question she asked, she wanted an answer to.  “Come on, Joe.” She said with a scoff, her mood becoming a bit lighter. “Enough of your embarrassing moves. You dance like my dad, well, without the grinding and all.” She teased, finally shifting in her seat to face him more. “Answer the question, old man.”

Clutching his chest, Joe groaned in agony as if he was seriously hurt. “Goddamn it, child!” He cried out. “Calling me old like your dad and turning off my radio again! You’re just on a damn roll right now, aren’t you? Hitting me where is really hurts!” Removing his hand from his uniform, Joe watched the road for a moment before waving a finger in her face. “Call me old all you want – obviously, I’m an old man that you have a crush on and that turns you on -, but touch my damn radio? Nope, you’re crossing the line yet again, young lady.” Turning the radio back on, Joe added one last warning. “Don’t touch my damn radio again and if you do, I’m pulling over.” Breaking the tension with his warning, he smiled, those deep dimples revealing themselves.

“I’m checking your body language, I love the conversation – not really ­- and when you lick your lips I get a tingling sen—.” Yet again, with wide eyes, Joe snapped his head to look at her, the radio cutting off again. “FUCK,” Joe yelled, slamming his hand on the steering wheel. “I fucking tell you not to touch my shit and what do you do? Touch my shit! You listen so well in class, but outside, you don’t listen for shit, Natalie.”

Knowing the area like the back of his hand, Joe turned down a side road that resulted in a dead end. The street was dimly lit, the only light was whatever the moon was offering and the number of houses that belonged to the street was scarce.

Hearing Joe yell and get angry was not only extremely intimidating and scary but slightly funny and attractive. Shrinking back into the seat, Natalie knew better than to anger him further. “Damn, Mr. Merriweather.” She began, figuring that using his formal name would keep him from becoming even angrier. “Or Officer, whichever you prefer, I’m sorry. I was just —”

“You were just disobeying my order, now weren’t you? I tell you twice not to touch my stuff and you still don’t listen.” Joe interrupted, his voice portraying frustration even though he physically wasn’t angered, instead, he was laughing on the inside with what he was about to do.

Pulling onto the grass of the side road, the truck came to a stop and Joe shifted it into park.

“Wait, whoa, what’s going on?” Natalie asked, looking from Joe to the window and back to Joe almost as if she was a scared animal. “Were you serious?” Natalie asked, watching as Joe shifted in his seat and began taking his windbreaker off. If she thought watching him put his suit jacket on in class was slow, watching Joe take off that black jacket was twice as death and twice as slow. “You’re really goi–.” She stopped, watching as his hand came and hovered just inches away from her face as he removed the jacket from his body. The smell of his cologne briefly making her drunk. Shaking her head just slightly, she continued.  “Going to make me walk?” She questioned, almost pleading for him to say he was joking.

Joe gently placed his jacket onto the center console and inhaled deeply. Without a word, he turned the truck off, opened the door, stepped out, snatching his wallet from the driver’s seat and slammed the door shut.

With her heart beginning to switch into a faster beat, Natalie watched as Joe stalked around the front of the truck. Despite it being almost completely dark, she could tell his posture was hunched and she could see a hand aggressively running through his hair.  It didn’t take long before he stood just outside the passenger side door. Clenching her jaw and exhaling deeply, she prepared herself to be chewed out.

Reaching the other side of the truck, Joe stood before the closed door for a moment, adjusting his equipment belt, and brushing a piece of lint from the sleeve he wore on his right arm. Finally, he placed a hand on the handle and pulled the door open, making the area come to life with a bit of light. “Get out,” Joe ordered, motioning for her to step out of the truck.

Shaking her head, Natalie cupped her hands in her lap. “Joe, no.” She pleaded, shifting further into the truck so her back was now against the center console – the heat from Joe’s jacket still radiating onto her skin. “Come on, Joe, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it. You’re not really going to make me walk home in the pitch black?”

Joe stood there quietly, shifting on his feet, his eyes latching onto the step of the truck. He never once threatened to make her walk. Yes, he threatened to pull over the truck, but to make her walk? No, Joe wasn’t that evil.

Shaking his head, Joe lifted his gaze, a sly grin on his feature. “Get out of the truck.” He ordered yet again, taking a step forward, placing a foot on the step of the truck. “You know, I am still on duty, I can still arrest you.” Joe toyed despite his voice still being authoritative. Reaching up, he gripped the handle on the roof of the truck and pulled himself up, leaning slightly into the cab, looming over her. “But I won’t because I am so nice and have no reason, but that doesn’t mean I won’t punish you.” For a moment, he was nothing but serious, but after a second that façade faded and a smile formed on his face. “Get out of the truck,” Joe said, reaching out and gripping one of her wrists. “Who said I was going to make you walk anyways?” He asked, pulling himself out of the truck, guiding her with him. “That’s horrible of you to assume that I am that horrible of a man,” Joe added, stepping down from the step and back onto the grass.

Confused for a moment, Natalie willingly let Joe guide her back into an upright position. “Wait, what?” She asked more to herself than to him. “Wait…what?” She questioned again, realizing that the situation wasn’t going to play out how she actually thought it was going to. “Oh.” She said to herself, finally focusing on Joe who had a large smile on his face. “You want to punish me that way? Ohhh, I got you now.” She said although it came out a bit more flirtatious than expected.

Raising an eyebrow, a deep and low chuckle came from Joe’s lips. “Oh, you got me?” He repeated, dropping his hand from her wrist and letting it fall onto her lap. “No,” Joe said, shaking his head. “I think I got you.” In a quick motion, both hands snaked their way along her thighs and pulled her into his body. “We’ll be in the bed like…” He whispered, wrapping a hand around her back and pulling her out of the truck. “Ooh, Ooh Ooh.” Joe repeated, this time instead of singing it, he groaned it.

With a smile spreading from ear to ear, Natalie couldn’t help but laugh at Joe, slightly shocked by the situation, but extremely aroused at the same time. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she leaned in for a kiss, but the only thing he did was back away and shake his head.

“Oh, no, no, no.” Joe scolded, taking a few steps away from the truck, leaving the door wide open. “Punishment.” He whispered, lifting her up slightly so she wasn’t sitting directly on his utility belt.

“Oh, come on, Joe,” Natalie begged, leaning in for another kiss, only to be rejected yet again. Sighing, she decided to let one hand run from the back of his neck down to the first button of his uniform. She managed to only get one button undone before Joe leaned forward, latching his lips onto her neck, forcing her hand to grip his uniform instead of unbuttoning it.

With one hand clutching his black uniform, the other clutched his black hair as Joe continued to stay latched onto her neck. He wasn’t kissing, instead, he was sucking on the delicate skin – the pulse in her neck nearly throbbing throughout her body. It didn’t take long before Joe nipped at her skin and pulled away slightly, his tongue grazing across the newly bruised area before he moved his head to the other side, forcing Natalie to cock her head back and let out a soft moan. He rested idly next to her ear, his warm breath spreading out across her neck before he went in and nibbled on her ear.

“Don’t be too loud now, we are still in a public area,” Joe whispered, nipping at her ear once more before carrying her to the back of the truck. Adjusting her against his chest once more, Joe searched for the handle of the truck bed as his lips focused on her collarbone. Exploring the bare area that her V-neck offered, he let the scruff of his beard tease her for a moment before backtracking and planting a line of kisses until he reached her neck.

After a moment of searching, Joe finally pulled the handle, forcing the bed of the truck to come crashing down just behind Natalie. “Fucking finally.” He groaned, pulling back slightly, and looking over her features. With the help of the cab light just before him, Joe examined the mark he had left on her, an accomplished chuckle coming from his lips as the purple and blue bruise was rapidly forming. “Might want to cover that up, but next time…” Joe gently placed her down onto the flap of the bed, “Next time I’ll make sure to leave them in places where no one can see them.”

Casting a careful glance around, Joe ensured that no car or person was in the area before proceeding.

Running his hands up her sides, forcing her shirt to ride up with his hands, Joe ran them back down until they rested on her waist. Pulling her body into his chest, Joe hunched over, his lips connecting with her warm stomach while one hand entwined itself with one of hers.

Slowly and teasingly, Joe planted gentle kisses from her bra down her stomach. It didn’t take long, but her free hand latched onto his hair yet again, forcing Joe to look up at her, his scruff gliding up and down her stomach as a result of their deep breathing. “Don’t do that,” Joe warned, planting a single kiss just above her belly button. “Punishment, little one.” He repeated, a sly grin tugging at his lips as he watched her squirm beneath him as he grabbed her hand and pulled it from his hair.

Pulling away, Joe turned his attention towards her face, resting his lips just inches from hers as both of his hands entwined with hers, lifting them above her head. “You go and hang out with Landon after I told you time and time again that he is nothing but trouble. You come to my office and try to seduce me into fucking you – which we almost got caught doing – and then no more than forty-eight hours later you’re out with that fuck getting ‘food’ and letting him drive drunk.” Joe paused, glancing down, and watching her arch towards him, her body wanting to be against his. Chuckling, he placed her back into his sights. “For that, you need to be punished in some way,” Joe said with a smile, abruptly standing tall, and running a hand along his belt, searching for a pair of cuffs, but considering that his cuffs were on Landon and that his spare set rested in the cab of his truck, his plan to cuff her was cut short.

Clenching his jaw and cocking his head back, Joe clamped his eyes shut and let out a hearty groan. “Fuck,” he cursed under his breath, shaking his head, and running his hand down his neck. “Fuck it,” he muttered yet again, placing his hands back onto her, letting them get to work on her jeans. “Deal here is, you can’t touch me. Touch me and I’ll stop.” Joe warned, pulling the leather belt from its buckle, and unzipping her pants. “Got it?” Joe asked, receiving a nod in response which was then met with Joe pulling her pants down in a quick motion. “Good, take that as you first and last warning,” Joe announced, taking a step away from the bed of the truck, discarding her jeans, and tossing them beside her.

Crouching down just slightly, Joe lowered his face, becoming eye-level with her already wet pussy. “Tisk, tisk, that’s what I missed out on two days ago,” Joe spoke to himself as he ran his hands down her smooth legs, spreading them out before placing his hands back onto the bed of the truck. “Sadly…” Joe began, sinking his face between her thighs, leaving a trail of kisses on one side. “I can’t go…” Switching sides, he placed another trail of kissed along her thigh. “Back to the station…” He zoned in on her white laced thong, placing a single kiss on the material before pulling away and slipping his finger beneath the thin material. “Smelling like pussy, so, this meal…” Joe pulled the material to the side and straightened up, his free hand returning to his own zipper. “Will have to be eaten later on.”

To his amazement, Natalie was finally listening to his orders. She kept her hands to herself, although it was apparent that she was desperate to latch onto his hair or grip some part of his body.

After a moment of fiddling with his own zipper, Joe dug one hand into his pants, gripping his fully erect dick while the other dove two fingers into her pussy.  This combination was enough to make Joe nearly come to his tipping point, but his attempt to control himself was successful.  

Despite being fully clothed, Joe pulled his dick out and just as he was about to trade his fingers for his dick, Joe paused. After years of having unprotected sex with his ex-wife, it was natural for Joe to just dive right in, but not this time around. An animalistic groan came from Joe as he pulled his fingers from her and placed them on her mound, his other hand reaching for his wallet, pulling out a condom. “Can’t forget protection,” Joe spoke lowly, his tone joking as he placed the wrapper in his mouth, tearing the wrapper open, and spitting it onto the side of the road.

It took him a moment, but he finally managed to roll the condom on. “Fucking things. I’m not used to them anymore.” Joe said in annoyance as he positioned himself between her legs once more.  Gripping his dick, he teased her entrance as he leaned over her yet again. Not only were his breaths deep and unsteady, but hers fell in line with his. Smiling, Joe placed a gentle kiss on her bruised neck before returning to her ear “Now, try to be…”  In a quick motion, he thrust himself into her – a cry of pleasure coming from her.  “Quiet.” Joe finished in a low chuckle, placing his hands back onto her hips as he straightened back up, his thrusting finally taking effect after letting her adjust to him. “I would bite down on your lip of yours to make sure you keep quiet, but that would give you more pleasure than what I’m giving you now.”

At first, his thrusts were slow and painstakingly long, but being on the side of the road was no place for being slow and sensual, so, Joe increased his pace. With every thrust, Joe pulled her body towards his, meeting his thrust, forcing his orgasm that was already looming over him to creep closer and closer.

“Fuck,” Joe panted with closed eyes as he cocked his head back, his hands gripping her sides firmly. He suddenly felt the warmth of her hand wrap around one of his wrists, forcing his lids open and for him to look down at her.

The crackling of the radio snapped Joe out of his tranquility and disturbed his thrusts. Freezing mid-thrust, Joe remember that he was, in fact, still on the clock. “Fucking shit,” he complained, resuming those painstakingly long thrusts as a call came out over the radio.

“Hey, Merriweather, get your ass back to the station. That arrestee you gave me is acting up and since you’re the original arresting officer, you need to deal with this mess.”

Groaning, Joe placed a finger on his lips, telling Natalie to be quiet.

Taking a few seconds to himself, despite still slowly thrusting into her, Joe conjured up his thoughts and tried to slow his heavy breathing. Pulling a hand from her and placing it on the radio, Joke spoke. “Yeah…ugh…” Joe began, pausing just seconds later to gather his breath yet again. It didn’t help that Natalie gripped at his pants, pulling herself up slightly and further into him and vise versa. Raising his other hand, Joe forcefully gripped her neck, forcing her to lay straight back down. His grip may or may not have been a bit too tight, but right now, Joe needed to focus and reply.

Clearing his voice, he finally replied as if he wasn’t currently thrusting into a woman at that very moment. “10-4, I’ll be coming soon.” He managed to say without skipping a beat.

Instead of removing his hand from Natalie’s neck, Joe continued to keep it there, his grip loosening slightly as he quickened his pace. It didn’t take long, but Joe leaned forward yet again, this time his mouth finally meeting with hers, indicating to both of them that he was close to the edge.

Overcome by some strange need to make Joe cum and make him cum well, Natalie bit down daringly on his lower lip, her hips rocking against him while holding onto his neck, and arching her back, her chest glued to his.

Natalie felt Joe go taut from head to toe; the violent shudder running right through his tired body, his fingers tensing as they clutched at her waist; the warmth caught by the condom spreading within the container. His release was accompanied by an “oh, fuck” right into Natalie’s mouth. Joe continued to rock into her, each thrust a little less violent than the last, trembling just a little as the tension throughout his body was released. After a few moments, his hold on her loosened, and he stepped away, pulling out of her.

Natalie looked him over, the vein in the middle of his forehead protruding out as well as the veins littering his bare forearm. She watched as Joe gripped the end of the bed and steadied himself while his head hung low and his chest rapidly rose and fell. Running a hand across her cheek, Natalie giggled lightly and laid her head back onto the warm bed of the truck as she closed her eyes.  

Joe took a few moments to himself before removing the condom and tucking himself back into his pants. “Get up,” Joe said, stepping away placing a hand on her thigh, wiping his cum off before turning away and tying the condom, tossing it into the woods afterwards.  “Enough serving gotta go back to protecting.”

It took a good chunk of time, but Natalie and Joe finally arrived in front of her house.  Parking the truck in the middle of the road, Joe glanced at the house, unsure if she lived at home or if she rented a house with a handful of roommates.     His investigation came to a stop when she placed a hand beneath his chin, forcing him to turn and look at her.  A wary smile claimed his features as he tried to hang his head low, slightly embarrassed by the actions that happened just a short while ago.   Smiling, Natalie stared at him for a moment before leaning in and giving him a kiss – which wasn’t returned on his part at all. Regardless, when she pulled away, that same smile was on her features as she opened the truck door and stepped out. “See you in class,” she said with a wink.

[a-tired-bitch]

YOU SHOULD KNOW BETTER - IN PROGRESS

MASTER LIST TO OTHER WORK

Synopsis: Believing to be a single and divorced man, Joe lands himself in a relationship, mainly sexual in nature, with one of his familiar faced students. As a result, not only does he secretly participate in the relationship on campus, but he gets a bit unprofessional while on duty as a L.E.O. Usually, the whole motto of ‘protect and serve’, especially the ‘serve’ part, is, and should be, taken in an innocent fashion, but in the bed of his patrol truck, Officer Merriweather simply couldn’t help but make things a bit not-so-innocent. Finally, after some time, the realization that he is not a single man begins to take hold after the return of his wife. 

POV: In the beginning, it starts in the eyes of Natalie, but after a few chapters, it swtiches to Joe’s since it’s far more interesting to write from his perspective. It may change in the coming chapter, but I shall see.

Warnings: Smut (both in a truck and an office), Fluff, Angst, Swearing, Plot Twists, and the possibility of becoming obessed and falling in love with Joe and the story.

Main Characters: Joe and Claire Merriweather, Natalie Jankoski, and Dustin Ayers

Minor Characters:  Landon, Dan Miller, Richard Payne, Ryan, Doug, and Vicky.

Authors note: You Should Know Better is one of my - and will continue to always be - favorite stories that I have created. Despite being super sketchy and unorthodox when it comes to updating it, I appreciate all those people who take the time to read this amazing piece and those of you who enjoy it. As always, I enjoy any and all feedback, good or bad. Also, if you read my work the least one can do is drop a like. 

Side Note:  Chapter 13 and Chapter 20 have been moved to AO3 and the link is provided when clicking on the chapter. 

 23 Parts as of now: 

I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII 

Fanart Pieces:

I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.6

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: After a night out with Landon, Natalie is on the way home when Officer Merriweather pulls them over. Things begin to get heated in all sorts of ways.

POV: Natalie and Joe

Characters: Natalie Jankoski, Joe Merriweather (Italics), Natalie Jankoski (Italics), Landon (Bold -Indented italics)

Word Count: 3800ish

Author’s Note: The first few paragraphs are flashbacks that transition right into the story. The bold comments are Landon speaking throughout the flashback scenes. 

Warnings: It’s the beginning of smut.

Quote: “I told you the drill before, you move, you fall.” 

“I guess it’s time to serve,” Joe muttered after latching a hand onto Natalie’s neck yet again, his body following behind, closing the space between their two warm bodies. As his lips reclaimed hers, the pressure of his erection pressed against Natalie’s hip, forcing a small moan to escape her lips which was then met with a stern bite on her lower lip: a warning from Joe to stay quiet.  His free hand began to move all over Natalie; warm, rough, and expert all at the same time. Gliding down the length of her back, it making her arch slightly to his touch – wanting deeply to escape into him. Practically high off the dangerous situation, his hand continued to snake across her skin as if he can’t decide which part he craved most. With a curious smirk, Natalie teasingly ran her hand down the length of his button-up until it reached his black dress pants where she gripped at the tent in his pants – oh, how the slightest of touch made Joe tense. As a result of her playful nature, Joe pulled away for a moment, his hand that was once on her neck glided onto her back as the other hooked beneath her, forcing her off the ground and against his chest. It took no more than a few seconds before the warmth of his hand was replaced with the coldness of the desk as he gently placed her down, tossing aside any papers or pencils from the area. Standing tall, Joe quickly fiddled with the buckle of his belt – his eyes never leaving hers as she ran her tongue across her bottom lip, soaking in the taste of him, not only was she soaking in the taste of him, but the smell of his cologne and coffee, the rasp of his beard, and the sound of his heavy breaths added to the sensations of the situation.  Finally graced with success, Joe quickly took a knee, his hands running up her sides, dragging her shirt up with them as he pulled her closer to his face. A grin curled at the ends of his lips as he stood up slightly, leaned forward, and left a trail of kisses from her neck to her collarbone to the center of her chest where her shirt rested. In response, the body who laid beneath him arched forward and a string of sexual sighs escaped her lips. Joe quickly returned to her lips, sternly biting down on her bottom lip once more – a silent warning yet again. Pulling away slowly, his hand snaked its way to the waistband of her jeans and attempted to wiggle into them, but with the clothing being too tight, his hand was too big to slip all the way in. A groan escaped his lips as he ripped his hand out from her clothing and began to fiddle with her own belt and the buttons of her jeans. Throughout the undressing, Natalie rested her eyes on Joe as a hand ran through her hair, a smile on her lips. As for Joe, his fingers worked quickly to remove the annoying clothing, his eyes glancing between her jeans and up to lock eyes with her.

        “Hey.”

Perking up like a hungry dog – his body still over Natalie’s - Joe quickly turned around, facing the door. Listening closely, the sound of muffled voices cut through the heavy breathing of the room.

        “Are you in there?”

Pulling away, Joe quickly buckled his belt, Natalie following in his footsteps and pulling her shirt back down and fixing her jeans. Putting a finger to his lips, he silently told his partner to keep quiet before a knock echoed throughout the room.

        “Is anyone in there?”  Was spoken followed by the sound of snapping fingers.

With a familiar voice forcing Natalie to pull away from her daydreams and succumb to reality once more, she shook her head slightly, focusing her sights on the passing traffic lights that illuminated the darkening sky.  It took a moment, but she finally responded. “Yeah, I’m listening.” She shifted in the passage seat, resting her forearm on the center console, her eyes settling onto Landon who was looking back at her, a look of annoyance claiming his features.

        Nodding, Landon turned to face the road once more, one hand gripping the steering wheel, the other reaching for the can that sat in the cup holder. “Fucker kicked me out of his classes. Told me not to attend any further ones or sign up for them, but like I said, that’s mainly what the whole conversation was about.” Bringing the Budweiser to his lips, he took a swig from it. “He’s just a prick with a badge.” Landon shrugged, placing the drink between his legs – the truck pulling forward and down the road. “Oh, well. At least, I have an upper hand when it comes to you.” He chuckled, the smell of alcohol spreading across the cab of the truck. Cocking an eyebrow, Landon chuckled again. “I’ve fucked his favorite student and would you look at that, he hasn’t.”

With wide eyes and an open mouth, Natalie sat there, a single scoff escaping her lips as she shook her head in disbelief. “Landon!” She called out, playfully slapping his chest as he drove. Staring into the side-view mirror, she continued. “Looks like you two are on the same playing field because you won’t be fucking me anymore.” She added, a smile forming on her face at the joke and the thought of what happened within the confines of Joe’s office just a day before.

        “Oh, come on. I take you out to eat and you’re telling me that I can’t at least eat you out?” He asked, stepping on the gas, forcing the truck to exceed the speed limit despite approaching a stop sign.

Focusing on the truck behind them, Natalie squinted her eyes, attempting to figure out of that truck was a regular truck with a light beam on top or if it was a sheriff’s truck.

“You might want to sl–.” Interrupted by the sound of a single siren and the constant blinding motion of the red and blue flashing lights, Natalie turned to face Landon. “Slow down.” She finished, turning around in her seat, she waited to see if the truck would pass on by or continue following them, but considering that these two trucks were practically the only ones on the road, the chance of the sheriff’s truck pulling away was slim to none.

        “Fucking shit.” Landon muttered, glancing into the rearview mirror, tossing the can of beer into the back of the cab. “Just what I need.” He muttered, pulling off onto the side of the road, the accompanying truck following along.

“For God’s sake, Landon, I fucking told you not to have that shit open when you drive and to add to that, your dumbass just had to speed,” Natalie complained, quickly turning to see a familiar man stepping down from the other truck. “No fucking way.” She muttered, watching as the man readied himself before quickly turning and shrinking back into her seat. Despite not even being drunk, Natalie was still nervous about the situation.  That nervousness quickly switched into a higher gear when she realized that it was, in fact, Joe who was the officer who pulled them over.  

Sitting in the cab of his vehicle, Joe stared out the open window for a moment, watching as the sun slowly disappeared beneath the horizon. After rolling up his window, Joe stepped out of the truck, his black boots connecting with the road while his hands gripped his equipment belt, adjusting the heavy weight as he slammed the door shut. With a cool breeze lingering in the air, a black windbreaker jacket emblazoned with the words ‘sheriff’ accompanied by a badge on the front kept the chills at bay as Joe approached the other truck. With the headlights of his truck paired with the lights of the ‘freedom’, Joe looked through the rear windows of the vehicle as he walked beside the truck, noticing only two occupants within.

        “I can’t fucking believe the luck we’re having tonight! Look who it is, my best friend!” Landon called out, laughing as he rolled the window down and dug into his pocket, grabbing his license, then retrieving his proof of insurance and registration.

Joe’s eyes trailed along the side of the white truck until they rested on the window that was being rolled down. Joe removed his black aviators and tucked them into the front pocket of his jacket before quickly placing his sights on the driver. To his amazement, he had managed to pull over Landon – upon that realization, a single chuckle came from Joe’s lips as he glanced into the cab, the smell of alcohol one of the first things he noticed.

A displeased groan came from Natalie as she shrunk even further into the seat – wanting desperately to disappear from the situation. The tension shared between Joe and Landon was already unrepairable, so, this situation would do nothing but increase that tension. There was no way of knowing how the outcome of the situation would be, but the assumption of a bad ending was more than apparent.

“You know the procedure. License and registration, bud.” Joe stated, knowing well enough that calling Landon ‘bud’ or ‘buddy’ would irk him tremendously. Sidestepping, and looking into the dark cab of the truck, Joe rested his eyes on the silhouette. “You know, you were speeding back there and that’s why I initially pulled you over, but the smell of beer is pretty present in here. Tell me, have you been drinking, buddy?” Joe asked, his eyes coming back to focus on Landon. “Better be honest – things will play out far easier if you do,” Joe warned, casting a glance over the objects he grabbed from Landon.

        With a close-lipped smile, Landon hung his head low, nodding slightly in defeat. “Yeah, a couple beers, but I’m not drunk.” He admitted.

Nodding, Joe turned his attention to the passenger for a closer look, his stomach dropping when he realized it was Natalie. Clenching his jaw, Joe took a step back, shaking his head slightly as he looked into the rear end of the truck – attempting to keep his emotions in check. “What were you reaching in the back for?” Joe questioned, taking his flashlight out and beaming in into the truck. “I saw you reaching. You have an open container back there?” Receiving no answer, Joe sighed before stepping back towards his truck. “You two stay here. Especially you, young lady.” Joe pointed his flashlight into the truck, the beam resting on Natalie. “Think about what I told you about drunk driving.”

With her heart pounding out of her chest and with the blinding beam of the flashlight in her face, Natalie turned her head away, shielding herself from the light and attempting to shield herself from a disappointed Joe. 

It didn’t take long, but Joe returned to the truck, the flashlight, and Landon’s papers still in his hand. “Okay, listen here, I’m going to need for you to step out of the vehicle. We’re going to do a sobriety exercise on you.”

        Resting a hand on the steering wheel, Landon cocked his head back and groaned. “Oh, come on. Are you serious right now?”  He pleaded, looking at Joe who was nothing but stone-cold at the moment. “Come on, Merriweather, I’m just dropping her off, just let us go. Let’s just talk about it.”

Joe shook his head, a chain of laughter coming from his lips. “Look, I’m trying to be as nice to you as I can, but I can’t just let you go. You’re intoxicated to some level! You’ve already confessed to drinking and there’s no way I can just let that slide. If I do that, I would’nt be acting very professional, so, my hands are tied here.” Flashing his beam into the car once more, he took a quick moment to look around. “No more negotiating. If I have to drag you out of here, you best believe that I will, but let’s not make a scene in front of the lady and let’s not tack on anymore charges.”

Another minute of pleading and negotiations happened before Joe gripped the handle of the truck, pulling open the driver’s door. “Listen, if I have to get hand’s on with you, it’s going to get worse for you and then I’m going to arrest you for resisting an officer, obstruction, and a bundle of other things.” Turning away, Joe spoke into his radio, requesting for a car that had a cage in the back. “And guess what, if you don’t get out now, I will tase you.” Joe stepped away from the truck slightly, allowing for space so Landon could jump down, that is if he decided to follow his orders.

        Raising his hands defensively, Landon shifted in his seat, pretending as if he was going to exit the truck. “Come on, Joe, let’s make a deal, okay?” Landon pleaded yet again, the scent of alcohol pouring out from his mouth with every word spoke. “I’ll just…I’ll just let her drive.” Landon offered, turning in his seat, looking at Natalie who was staring out the window, disregarding the whole situation as if she wasn’t there. “Problem solved if she does that, right?” Resting his hands on his lap, Landon turned to face Joe once more.

“No. It’s too late for it to be solved. Should have been smart and let her drive from the start, but since you are extremely stubborn and disobey laws and my orders.” Joe paused for a moment, a stern and angry expression claiming his features – his response carrying more than one meaning. “Things are about to get very, very bad for you.” Joe shook his head, beaming the light into the car once more. “You might want to tell your friend here to listen to me or I’m dragging him out in about two seconds and if it comes to it, you’re going to watch your friend here get tased and probably piss his pants.” Beaming the light back to Landon, Joe addressed him. “Step out of the car now.” He ordered, motioning with his hand for him to step out.

Pulling her gaze from the flashing lights that she was watching in the side-view mirror, Natalie turned in her seat, resting her eyes on Joe at first.  Looking him over in his black on black on black uniform, her mind traveled back to just two days prior, resulting in a smile pulling at the edges of her lips. Forcing herself out of that trance yet again, she turned to Landon, who’s back was to her.

“He’s got a point, he has been overly nice to you and I suggest you just listen to him. Landon, you’re already in a hole and you’re only digging yourself a deeper one. Just man up and take the punishment and things will be over. Spend a night in jail and you’ll be out by tomorrow.” Natalie explained, trying to convince Landon to cooperate with Joe’s answers.

Joe smirked. “Yeah, listen to her. Be a man.” He said with a nod of his head as Landon finally gave up and stepped out, his posture of a defeated and embarrassed man. “See, bud, that wasn’t that hard, now was it?” Joe asked, lingering beside the door, and motioning for Landon to walk to the back of the truck – which he did or at least attempted to since his balance was completely offset. “As for you, young lady,” Joe muttered, turning back to Natalie, a steely and disappointed look grabbing hold of his features and voice. “You can get out too.” Joe barked, slamming the door shut and walking away.

Returning to Landon’s side, Joe waited for Natalie to appear within his view. With the truck door slamming, Joe pointed to the curb. “Sit.” He ordered to the girl before turning back to Landon and roughly pushing him up against the back of the white truck. “Got anything that will hurt my person?”

        Stretching his hands out to steady himself, Landon nodded in a ‘no’ motion as he rested his eyes on the road below him, stretching his legs out while he was at it. “Is this really necessary?” Landon questioned, turning around slightly, his hands dropping from the bed of the truck.

Gripping the back of his shirt, Joe pushed Landon forward a bit. “What did I say in class that one day?” Joe questioned, positioning his face just a few inches from the incorporative man. “Resist an officer and you will get friendly with the floor.” Backing away, Joe resumed the procedure, taking a step back when he was finished. “Now, tell me, are you going to submit to a field sobriety test or are you going to be bullheaded some more?” The only response Joe received was a wad of snot landing on the floor next to him. Glancing down, Joe stood there silently, cocking his head back and forth before stepping away a bit more. “I take that as a no.” He assumed, turning to look at Natalie and motioning for her to come stand next to him. “You can go have a seat on that curb, but I’m not playing with you, Landon. You move, you get tased and trust me, you’ll get very friendly with the pavement.” Joe watched as Landon wobbled his way to where Natalie was sat.

Shifting on his feet, Joe rested a forearm on his belt before speaking to Natalie. “You know the drill, young lady.” Joe whispered, the once cold and steely expression now a welcoming and somewhat lust filled one. “Against the truck and spread ‘em.” Switching his sights from Natalie to Landon back to Natalie, Joe made sure to keep Landon in his sights, wanting – for some reason – for him to see what was about to happen.

Positioning himself behind her, Joe slid his hands onto her hips as he leaned forward, his face next to hers. “Why are you with him?” He whispered, pulling away, his scruff sliding across her skin as he ran slowly and sensually pulled his hands up her sides, running them along her arms and then back down.

Dropping her head only for it to be cocked back slightly as the warmth of his hands ran across her cold body, Natalie bit down on her lower lip and she dropped her head once more. “He offered me food.” She muttered, tilting her head slightly, feeling the warmth of his body come into the crook of her neck once more. “Who says no to free food?” She asked, getting a scoff in response.

“Food, eh?” Joe asked, resisting the temptation to latch onto her neck with his lips. Turning slightly, Joe eyed Landon who was eyeing him back. Winking at him and smiling, Joe turned to the left, realizing that another cruiser was just up the road. Shifting on his feet behind her again, Joe pressed up slightly against Natalie before running his hand across her waistband, feeling her tense beneath his touch as she did before in class. “Relax. You weren’t this tense just a few days ago.” Joe whispered, losing his restraint, and dipping a hand beneath her fabric of her jeans. “So, you’re telling me if I take you out to get food…” His hand reached her slit, before dipping into it just slightly. “I can get lucky?” He asked as he barely moved his finger across her clit, forcing her to lean forward slightly, resulting in his body moving with hers, and a deep chuckle to escape his lips. 

In the blink of an eye, Joe ripped his hand out of her pants, turned around, and pulled his taser from its holster – the cartridge pointing right at the drunk who was staggering towards them. Honestly, this was the result Joe was hoping for, hence why he dismissed cuffing Landon when he denied the FST.

“Don’t step a foot closer or I will tase you, Landon.” Joe yelled, stretching a hand out and guiding Natalie behind him. “I told you before, you move, you fall.” Joe added, taking a cautious step back, blocking Natalie from Landon if necessary. “You’re already going to jail, don’t make it worse on yourself, pal.” Joe falsely pleaded as the assisting cruiser pulled behind his truck. Watching as Landon stepped forward yet again, Joe warned one last time. “Sit back down or I will tase you.” He said sternly, his trigger finger getting the best of him and firing off the taser prematurely.

Looking out from behind Joe, Natalie watched – almost in slow motion – as the cartridge popped out, the sound of electricity zapping and popping throughout the air filled her ears as the body of her ex-boyfriend hit the ground, an agonizing muffled cry coming from him.

Placing a hand on the back of Joe, she stepped beside him. “Joe, what the fuck?” She asked, looking up at him, his stance still in a shooting position, his eyes focused on the man sprawled out before him. It took only a second before he pulled away from her and rushed to Landon, placing a knee in the center of the man’s back as he retrieved his cuffs, slapping them onto the man and tightening them as the assisting officer came to his aid.

Standing there in awe, any previous sexual desire was thrown out the window as she watched Joe and the other officer drag Landon to his feet, the probes still latched into his chest.

After a few minutes, Landon was successfully tucked away into the back of the caged cruiser, Joe was off to the side discussing the details of the altercation, and Natalie was pacing in front of Joe ’s truck, the side of her thumb in her mouth as she nervously peeled away a piece of skin.

Slapping the back of his colleague’s shoulder, Joe placed a firm grip on his friend before nodding and bidding his farewell to her. Returning to the distraught Natalie, Joe placed a hand out, attempting to calm her in some way. “Come on.” He whispered, crouching slightly to look her in the eyes. “Get in the truck, I’ll take you home.” He said with a warm smile, guiding her to the passenger side of his truck.

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.5

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: After having a conversation about what happened between Joe and Landon, things between Natalie and Joe begin to dramatically change.

POV: Natalie

Characters: Natalie, Joe Merriweather (Italics)

Word Count: Somewhere around 4k

Author’s Note: This is where my babies begin to get to know each other...and it isn’t just on a professional level anymore. 

Quote:   “This is virgin territory to me, so, as long as you don’t tell anyone, it won’t be a virgin for much longer.”

With Spring Break less than a week away, Natalie expected her phone to blow up with messages from Landon begging her to come out and spend time with him, but surprisingly, those texts never came. It had been a few days since the altercation between Natalie and Landon escalated into an intense discussion between Landon and Joe and even if it wasn’t clearly visible, an intense shift within both relationships was apparent. The usual handful of texts she received daily seemed to cease, which, in her mind, was not only a small weight lifted off her shoulders but also a newly acquired curiosity as to why they had ceased. Natalie had an idea, though. It was obvious that whatever happened in that side hallway was the reason for Landon’s lack of involvement. Whatever Joe had said or threatened to do to Landon had to be behind the lack of communication and she was out to find out what exactly had happened. As for the relationship with Joe, that was yet to be determined, but it was apparent that something between the two had changed. 

It didn’t take long, but after a long walk across campus, she finally arrived at the desolate corridor that was littered with several offices of different professors. Walking down the empty hallway, she noticed that a few of the office doors were wide open with professors chatting away with students and colleagues while the rest were closed – this was to be expected considering that she arrived during a class hour. Spotting Joe’s office at the end of the hall, Natalie trudged forward, hoping that he was in it.

With his last class ending fifteen minutes prior, Joe had returned to his office in hopes of grading some assignments that he was grossly behind on. Sitting at his desk, Joe read over the papers while soaking up the silence he had been blessed with.  Silence was a rare and cherished thing for him. But as expected, all good things come to an end.

A knock interrupted the brief respite, forcing him to look up from his papers and stare at his closed door, a low groan escaping from his lips. He had no previous appointments with any of his students today and it was rare for another professor to come knocking on his door when it was closed. It was known throughout the masses that if his door was closed, so was the time to converse. Exhaling deeply, he tossed the papers onto his desk and reclined in his chair before answering. “What?” Joe called out, raising his hand, and removing his glasses.

With the door closed, Natalie stood in the empty hallway, waiting for a voice to emerge from the other side of the door. After what felt like an eternity, a deep voice broke the silence. The response she received was nothing more than an annoyed greeting. Placing a hand on the smooth wood, she replied through the barrier.  “Professor Merriweather…” She began, her tone mirroring that of her professors. “I know it’s unexpected, but I believe that the contents of this discussion are better to be spoken in private than through a door.” She paused for a quick moment before adding onto her comment. “So, professor, are we going to talk through the door or can I come in?” Despite clutching the handle in her hand, she never turned it and instead focused her attention on a professor that was nearing her and entering an office just two doors down.

Cocking his head back, Joe tossed his glasses onto the table and began rubbing his eyes. “Ms. Jankoski, since when do you appear on campus on a Thursday evening?” Joe questioned through the door. “Don’t answer that. It’s a rhetorical question.” He chimed in before she could say anything. “But with much regret, I must say that I’m not taking conferences at the current time.” Lowering his hand and leaning forward, Joe opened his eyes and stared at the door. “If the issue you have to discuss is still present after Spring Break then feel free to schedule an appointment or speak to me after class, but as of now, I’m sorry, but it has to wait, so, instead of wasting your time, I suggest you leave.” Truthfully, he had no intention to speak with his student- not after their previous interactions.

Smiling, Natalie took a step away from the door, running a hand through her hair. She wasn’t going anywhere; this meeting was going to happen one way or another, there was no way in hell she drove all the way to campus just to be told to return after the break.  

While thinking over her decisions, Natalie rested her hands on her hips, glancing out the window, tracking a student passing under the overhang.  She continued to track the person until they vanished from sight and that’s when she turned on her heels and returned to the door. “That doesn’t answer my initial question. In fact, I didn’t ask if you were taking conferences at all.” Pausing, Natalie ran her tongue along her bottom lip, knowing well enough that the next few sentences out of her mouth would either force him to accept her inside or completely dismiss her. “If I read your syllabus right, you actually accept walk-ins between the hour of 6 and 7 p.m., so, professor, you should know better than to dodge questions. Besides, this conversation will be more personal than academic.”

“Oh, give me a fucking break,” Joe muttered to himself as he stayed put, pondering over his options. Resting his elbows on his desk, he rested his chin on his knuckles, his eyes narrowing in on the door handle. “If the door is closed then so is the possibility of conversations – personal or academic,” Joe replied, untwining his hands, and grabbing his glasses, placing them on once more. “But since I have a strong sense that you won’t stop pestering me until I allow you in – come in.” Joe replied, realizing that it was far easier to give in than to keep up this little game of talking through the door.

Content with how easy it was to get her way, Natalie inhaled deeply before turning the handle and entering through the door. At last, walking into his office, she was greeted with the scent of coffee and cologne. The room had yet to drastically change since her last visit – the blinds were still drawn, pictures littered the walls, papers were neatly placed on any open surface, and that one picture frame that held a picture of he and his wife was still missing.

“Shut the door,” Joe ordered, bringing his student from her examination of his room. “You have…” He glanced down at his watch, reading the time. “Until 6:45 to tell me what you need to tell me. That means you have five minutes to either convince me to continue speaking to you or to dismiss you. Like I said, I’m not taking meetings, conferences, discussions, or whatever else can be conjured up, so, don’t take it personally. Sit and start talking.” Once more, Joe reclined in his chair and clasped his hands onto his stomach.

Considering her lack of time, Natalie opted to jump right into the conversation instead of a steady warm-up of small talk.  “Fine. What did you say to him? Tell me what happened between you two.” Natalie said firmly, claiming a seat just opposite of him.

Tilting his head, Joe raised an eyebrow. “Excuse me?” He asked, a neutral expression claiming his face despite wanting to scoff at the question. “You’re telling me came all this way to stand outside my door and pester me just so you could ask me what I said to him.” Joe shook his head, breaking his eye contact to look out the slits of the blinds that were drawn. “You have to be kidding me, right? Please tell me you are.”

It was almost as if she felt her jaw hit the floor again -  Joe was dodging one of her questions yet again. Natalie shook her head in response to his ridiculous question. “If you’re giving me a time constraint then you’re not able to dodge my questions.” Natalie leaned forward, closing the gap between herself and the desk. “I just want to know, so, just tell me.”

Because of his disbelief towards the situation, Joe shook his head, biting down on his bottom lip.

Latching onto his smallest of interactions, Natalie spoke again. “I hope you know biting your lip is usually a sign of nervousness or deception. Plus, it’s a bad habit.” Natalie repeated the very words Joe had told her nearly a week ago.

Smiling, revealing those deep dimples of his, Joe returned his gaze to her, giving a boyish nod. “You’re absolutely right.” Quieting down, he looked her over, watching as she leaned over his desk, her V-neck revealing more than it should. “He and I had a little...talk,” Joe answered, his eyes returning to hers, his hands slipping onto his lap. “What more do you want to know?” Joe asked.

Rolling her eyes, Natalie straightened up and leaned against the backing of the seat. “The contents of the conversation, professor. The contents. All these short replies do is confirm that you’re dodging the questions.”Natalie shook her head, disappointed with him. “Just answer the questions, that’s all.”

“If my memory serves me correct, I believe you said Landon isn’t your problem and that you don’t care anymore, but right now, it looks like you’re backing out on your comment that you so firmly said just a week or so ago.” Joe loosely quoted as his hands returned on top of the desk and he pulled himself forward. “But if you want to know so badly and insist on busting my balls on the issue then fine, I’ll tell you whatever your little heart desires – no time constraint this time.”

Crossing her arms over her chest, Natalie nodded in agreement. “That’s all I wanted.”  She chimed in.

“To protect and serve, right? That’s one of my mottos, right?” Joe questioned. “Well, at that moment I was doing my duty of protecting you, a citizen from a threat. When I left that room, I saw how close he was to your face and even if you can’t sense it, I can sense the danger that was radiating off from him, so, I did my duty of protecting you even if you weren’t necessarily asking for it. As for the contents of the conversation…” Joe scoffed and ran a hand through his hair. “Well, first, I told him to not return to class and that he was officially withdrawn from it then I told him to not sign up for any of my future classes as well.” Joe zoned out for a moment, thinking back to the conversation, a grin pulling at the edge of his lips.

Listening intently to what Joe was saying, Natalie realized that the contents of the conversation weren’t as bad as she had initially thought. Perhaps, Landon had finally given up his thirsty nature and decided to stop contacting her after the last class meeting. “That wasn’t too hard, was it?” She asked, a smile finally making an appearance.

Joe smirked, dropping his head to hid his chuckling. “Well, it gets much harder because that wasn’t the end of it,” Joe admitted, lifting his head, his smirk traded for a broad smile. “I might have gotten a bit out of line and threatened to charge him with several different things if I found him around you again or any other woman I deemed him to be a threat to, but hey, I was still doing my duty of protecting the great citizens of this campus.” Joe jokingly stretching his arms out. “Looks like I’ve got one thing down-pat with the whole ‘protect and serve’ thing.” Settling his hands back onto the desk, Joe waited for her response – a feeling deep down indicating that the response would be much more sour than sweet.

The smile that once claimed a spot on her lips quickly disappeared after hearing the rest of what Joe had to say. Uncrossing her arms, she let one fall onto the armrest while the other stroked the side of her face until her fingers lightly tugged at her bottom lip. Silence began to envelop them and for a few moments, she just stared at the edge of his wooden desk, zoning out of the conversation and tuning in onto the anger that began to build up within her.

“Is that alright with you? Do you need anything else?” Joe spoke, breaking the silence, watching as she slowly pulled her gaze from the desk and up to him.

For a moment, Natalie just glared at him, her head shaking in a disappointing fashion. “So, you told him to leave me alone?” Natalie glanced down to the palm of her hands. “That’s why he hasn’t messaged me since that day.” She said in an unexpectedly disappointed whisper.

Joe nodded once and clenched his jaw, humming a ‘mm hmm’ in response to her question.  “No need to worry about him anymore, aren’t you happy about that? With my help, your problem has officially been solved.”

“No,” Natalie answered, letting her hand finally drop onto her lap. “You can’t do that.” She said as if she was trying to reason with him. “You can’t just do that.” She repeated, her eyes finally lifting to meet his. “You can’t just tell someone what they can do with someone else. You have no right. You have no rule to do that. You have no authority in my life just like I don’t have any in your life. The only authority you have is when I sit my ass in your classroom and if you somehow manage to pull me over one day, but besides that…” She bit down on her lip, her anger rising more. “You can’t do that.” She practically hissed through her teeth. “You are a professor and you need to keep it that way. Don’t go meddling in the affairs of your students.”

With that, Natalie abruptly stood up, nearly flipping the chair onto its back. Staring at Joe for a moment, the muscle in her jaw proceeded to be flexed while her eyes narrowed onto him. “Thanks for your help, but you need to stay out of it.” With every word, she pointed her finger closer to him before turning on her heels and walking towards the door.

Even though Natalie was on the opposite side of his desk, with every finger point, Joe slouched slightly into his chair. Right now, he was completely confused with the situation, after all, she conveyed to him on several occasions that she was completely over him and wanted nothing to do with the young man, but here Natalie was, upset with his actions. Yes, Joe understood where she was coming from, well, at least partially, but what he didn’t fully understand was her unexpected anger towards him.

Casting glances between the door and her, Joe quickly stood up. “Sit down!” He called out loudly firmly, leaning over his desk. “Sit down right now.” He ordered yet again, but his commands were completely and utterly ignored.

“My initial five minutes are up,” Natalie called out, glancing over her shoulder while nearing the door. “You answered my questions and that’s all I wanted to know.” Finally reaching the door, she opened it.

Within seconds, Joe was on his feet and with his long strides, was behind Natalie within a matter of seconds. As she began to open the door, Joe stretched his hand out, slamming the door shut and cornering his student with his arm and the door. “The conversation doesn’t end until I say it ends, do you understand?” Joe asked, shifting on his feet, looking down at his student who quickly turned to face him, a look of surprise on her face. “Now, you know I like to keep my door shut.”  He muttered, a smirk claiming his lips as the atmosphere began to change dramatically . 

Aware that she had angered Joe to a certain extent, Natalie never expected him to jump out of his seat and trail her. In all her time of knowing the man, she had never seen him be anything other than calm and collected. When the door unexpectedly slammed shut, Natalie nearly jumped out of her shoes. Turning to face him, a confused yet surprised expression took hold of her features while her jaw nearly dropped to the floor. She was right, there was a shift in their relationship. Yes, Joe was clearly angered, but with the way he lingered before her, it felt as if he was hiding his true emotions.

Looking away and breaking eye contact, Natalie rested her sights on the bookcase just behind Joe. Once again, it was not only somewhat awkward to be in such close quarters with Joe, but it was extremely alluring. Placing him in her crosshairs once more, Natalie lifted her hand and placed it on his chest, applying pressure until he took a step away. “I think it’s best if there was some sort of space between the both of us before. After all, we both know what happened last class when we’re a bit too close.” Scoffing, Natalie shook her head almost embarrassed by the situation.  Letting her hand drop down to her side, she added one more thing. “Anyways, I thought you said ‘if the door is closed then so is the possibility of conversations – personal or academic.’ But now you’re all for a conversation?”

Slightly tensing at her touch, Joe willingly took a step away from her, increasing the gap despite his arm still claiming its rightful position on the door. “Ah, so you noticed that?” Joe asked as a smile crept onto his face. “Have to admit, I got a bit carried away there. I’m not going go to lie, but it was quite enjoyable and you know it was.” Joe paused, dropping his head in disbelief at that he was about to say. “The way you hummed the ‘mm hmm’ wasn’t just in response to my question, now was it? The way you tensed under my touch and remained tensed throughout the ordeal. Yeah, it’s common for that to happen, but I don’t think you were scared. I don’t know if it was noticeable to you or the class – besides Landon -, but I think you were turned on by the whole ordeal.” Joe lifted his head, his dimples accompanying his smile. “Scratch that, I know you were turned on. Now, as for what I said before…” Unaware that he had taken a step forward during his monologue, Joe closed the gap once more. “Who says we’re going to be talking?” Thinking with his wrong head, Joe officially closed the gap by reaching out and tilting her head up, bringing his lips just inches from her. “That’s if you allow it,” Joe whispered, his warm breath spreading out across her cheek.

An eruption of chills spread out across Natalie’s skin the moment Joe stepped forward, backing her into the door once more and placing his hand on her chin. As always, Joe was right in his assumption and there was absolutely no denying that during the previous class meeting, she was turned on, but turns out her assumption of him was correct as well – he was turned on during the ordeal as well.

The rational side of Natalie urged her to open the door and walk away from the proposition, but the irrational side urged her on. It practically yelled for her to accept the offer and go at it with him and as a result, she nodded her head, agreeing with his comment.

Natalie tried to conceal a smile, but she failed. As a smile began to appear on her face, she slowly ran her tongue across her bottom lip, inhaling his scent, and inviting in the warmth of his hand and face. “Have you done this before?”

Joe slowly shook his head. “No.” He whispered, his lips grazing up against hers. “This is virgin territory to me, so, as long as you don’t tell anyone, it won’t be a virgin for much longer,” Joe added, finally pressing his lips against her while his hand snaked down to her throat, lightly groping at the upper portion of her neck.

Although she was expecting the kiss to happen at any moment, Natalie couldn’t help but smile beneath the kiss. Combining the tension of the situation, the man who she was with, and the grip on her neck, made her achieve a level of arousal she had yet to achieve. Although it was just a simple kiss, she was practically begging for more. In fact, she would be lying if she said she had never thought about a situation like this before - a situation where she managed to cross the line with this man, she had known professionally for quite a bit of time.  

She couldn’t help but let her hand reclaim the position on his chest, gripping his blue shirt while she attempted to deepen the kiss, but to her disappointment, Joe pulled away.

The kiss didn’t last long since Joe quickly pulled away, his rational self-reclaiming his mind and leading for him to immediately regret his actions. With wide eyes, Joe took a step away, his hand releasing its grip from her neck and running through his hair. “Shit.” He muttered, turning around, his hand reaching his mouth, cupping it. “Fuck, what did I just do?” He asked himself, the shock of the events washing over him. “I just kissed my fucking student.” He whispered, casting a glance over his shoulder, looking at the woman who was calmly staring at him. “Look, I’m sorry.” He slowly turned around, his hand running along his scruff. “That…I…” He fumbled with his words. “That wasn’t supposed to happen. I…I don’t know why that happened.” Joe took another step back, nearly stumbling over his own feet which was far better than stumbling over his words. “Just please, don’t tell anyone. That’s unprofessional for me to do. I just wasn’t thinking. Please…” He pleaded.  “I’m sorry.”

To Natalie, it was almost amusing the way Joe begged and pleaded for her to not tell anyone or to report him to the dean’s office. Natalie wanted more, there was no denying that. Apparently, Joe’s keen sense of reading people at all moments was out of service.

Stepping forward to him only to watch him retreat a step back, Natalie reached her hand out slightly, a smile on her face. “It’s okay, Joe.” She said, disregarding formal names considering what they had just done. “Truthfully, I’m all for popping the cherry on that virgin territory,” Natalie admitted, taking another cautious step forward. “There’s no way in hell I’m telling anyone about what just happened, you have my word on that.”  With every step forward, Joe would take one back making for this whole thing to be a game of cat-and-mouse. It didn’t take long, but Natalie watched as Joe finally backed against his wooden desk.

“It’s not right,” Joe muttered, balancing himself against the desk. “It just isn’t right. Relationships between professors and students are strictly forbidden while attending classes together.”

“But would you look at that, we’re not attending class right now,” Natalie interjected, standing before Joe who was clearly turned on, but also in extreme shock as to what he had just done.

Joe couldn’t help but grin at her response. “In a way, I suppose you’re right, but…” He finally leaned away from the desk, straightening up before her. It was almost as if he could feel his heart about to burst him his chest, this situation was far more intense and dangerous than any call he had been on.  Staring down at her, Joe took in the innocence – even if she wasn’t innocent – of the woman who stood before him knowing well enough that that innocence would soon be gone. Smiling, he spoke once more. “Since I’ve already done my duty of protecting.” He stepped forward, latching his hand onto her once more. “I guess it’s time to serve.”

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.4

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: After dismissing class early, Natalie walks outside only to get into a heated argument with her ex. Joe, after settling himself down, stumbles upon the mess and inserts himself into the altercation. 

POV: It straddles both Natalie and Joe’s POV

Characters: Natalie, Joe Merriweather (Italics), Landon (Indented italics)

Word Count: 2600ish??

Author’s Note: This chapter literally picks up right after the last one, so, if you haven’t read part three, go ahead and read that sucker now. I don’t know why, but I struggled a bit with this chapter because having to control more than one person is a bitch. 

Quote:   “The moment people run out of ways to socially express themselves, they resort to physical violence.”

Moments of silence passed as Joe watched as his students filled out the assignment on Terry vs. Ohio that he had laid out during the beginning class. Lingering behind the podium, Joe hung his head low, his eyes fixated on the spare assignment laying idle on the smooth surface. He was slightly embarrassed by what he had done to Natalie and how aroused the ordeal made him. It didn’t help that a train of sexual thoughts had plagued his mind throughout the ordeal and up to this point.

Closing his eyes, he fiddled with the keyring in his pocket, roughly running his finger along the cool metal ring as he thought of things that didn’t include her. Thankfully, being a master at hiding his emotions, his turned-on nature was nearly non-existent. Opening his eyes at the sound of whispers, Joe searched for the source, pinpointing it to Natalie and Landon, mainly Landon who was clearly angered by something. Settling his jaw, he watched them intently – a hunter watching his prey. Letting his eyes linger on the source of the whispers coming from the back of the room, Joe shifted on his feet, attempting to listen to the inaudible whispers, but failing to hear the contents of the conversation. Taking a deep breath and finally calming himself, ridding himself of his slight erection, Joe pulled his hand out of his pocket and began to address the class before a minor eruption disturbed the overall silence of the room and cut him off.

Lifting her head, Natalie listened to Landon’s little outburst, silently scoffing as he went on an unneeded tantrum about what had just happened. “Seriously Landon?,” She began, lifting her sights from the table top and settling them on him. “Give it up. Take a chill pill and chill out because I don’t care what you have to say. Get over whatever you’re complaining about.” She muttered, realizing that Landon had reached his tipping point and that the conversation was ending at this very moment. She watched as he stood up, disgust and anger claiming his lightly bearded face before snatching his belongings from the tabletop. All the while he did this, Landon’s eyes were locked on her and for some odd reason, a hint of fear struck her core, but was quickly replaced with disgust and amusement. 

Now, with a hint of disbelief claiming her face, she watched as he stormed along the back of the classroom and towards the door. “Why does that not shock me? Getting pissed and storming off – typical.” She whispered to herself as he turned back and faced the monitor before her as a string of disappointing shakes of her head ensued.  

Watching the disturbance, Joe finally walked out from behind the podium, one hand gripping onto the corner of the smooth wood. A brief look of the class and Joe realized that the disturbance had gone unnoticed – most of the students assuming it was just a someone leaving early. Glancing back up, an intense microsecond of eye contact was shared between Joe and Landon. Straightening up and settling his jaw, Joe continued to stare at the angered man until he vanished out the door. After a moment of looking at the door, realizing that the student took a right instead of a left making it impossible for Joe to watch him storm down the hallway, Joe pulled his sights away and settled them on Natalie who was turning to look up at him as well. “Well,” He paused, loosening up his tense frame. “He should know better than to leave my class since he hasn’t been here for the past few weeks.” Joe finally broke the silence, directing his comment towards Natalie, but addressing the class. Thrumming his fingers against the podium, Joe shook his head to himself. “I think it’s a proper time to remove his ass from my class before these little outbursts of estranged anger and rudeness begin to become a thing – although, I would nip that in the bud very quickly, I do not have time for such petty things and I would much rather waste my time on other important matters.” A hint of anger began to become apparent in his voice as he returned to the podium.

In all honesty, the situation in which Natalie was in at the current time was more than laugh-worthy. Landon, who had no plausible reason to be in the class, also had no plausible reason to be upset about a simple policing procedure. But in his defense, the things he spoke were truthful. After being in a relationship with him for a nearly year, Landon knew her many faces of being turned on and, as expected, he caught on to them during the procedure. Whether it be slightly or fully, she admittedly was turned on, there was no need to doubt that. But in her defense, who wouldn’t? An attractive older man toying with his younger counterpart during a very handsy procedure, pour in the word ‘professor’, “cop”,  and ‘student’ and you end up having the perfect type of fantasy.

A coy grin began to pull at the corners of her lips as she finally looked away from the monitor and over to Joe. It was apparent that he had been staring at her for some time now. Scoffing, she listened to him speak about her ex, explaining how it was time to withdraw him. “I told you.” She whispered to herself, looking away and reading over the assignment. Natalie began to look around the room, watching as her fellow classmates began to pull their attention away from the assignment and directing their attention to the professor who was continuing with his passive-aggressive banter.

“But yeah,” Joe began, walking towards his desk, and placing his fists down.  “Why don’t you all follow in the footsteps of your former classmate and take off early.” He announced, watching as the heads of his students snapped up from their assignments and to him - a look of shock and confusion claiming most of their faces. “Seriously, I know I never let class out early, but I don’t have anything else planned for the day.” Lying, Joe looked away and began to fiddle with the papers on his desk. “Have a nice day and bring in the assignment next class. We will begin to discuss not only the theories of crime but the elements of various crimes and criminal law.”

It took no more than a few seconds before the class erupted with noise. As expected, students began grabbing their belongings and rushing to the door, wanting to leave the class, and go on with their day in a hurry. Natalie, on the other hand, was one of the last students in the class as usual. Tossing her belongings into her bag, she listened as the remaining students opened the door and exited the room, leaving her alone with Joe yet again. Following in their steps, Natalie approached the door, but her name was called, forcing her to stop in her tracks. Facing the door, she glanced at the handle that was already in her hand.

Looking up slowly, Joe ran a hand through his stubble. “Natalie.” He called out, stopped the student just as she was about to leave the room. “First off, forgive me if I crossed the line. I shouldn’t have volunteered you for this demonstration. I personally believe it may have affected you in some way to make you feel awkward, especially when you tensed under my touch. Even though it happens all the time in the real world, I don’t think it was suitable for a classroom setting, but that’s just me.” He stepped out from behind his desk and stood before the first table top. “Secondly…” He leaned over the desk, placing the palms on the cool wood. “You do know he is a ticking time bomb, right?”

Letting her hand drop from the handle, Natalie slowly turned to face her professor who seemed to be a bit out of character. She listened, nodding at his apology, lightly scoffing afterwards since it was completely unneeded. The joking aura quickly dissipated when Joe commented on Landon.

“A ticking time bomb?” Natalie asked, stepping away from the door. “If my assumption is correct in what I think you’re trying to say – you might be right, but I wouldn’t know.” Natalie dug a hand into her pocket. “Said it before and I’ll say it again, but it’s not my problem, at least not anymore.” Natalie pointed at him and then to herself. “You and I. We’re in the same boat because this is the first time we’ve seen hi—.”

“Look, I don’t need you to explain things to me, but trust me, I know what I’m talking about. I don’t just say these type assumptions for the hell of it. I’ve been around this type of stuff before. I’ve dealt with domestic situations and situations that lead up to that type of thing. I’ve dealt with situations like yours before.” Joe returned to his desk. “He’s a jealous, young, and angry man who seems to still be fixated on you.” Taking a moment to roll down his sleeves, Joe stood silent. “The moment people run out of ways to socially express themselves, they resort to physical violence.” He paused, looking up, and biting his lower lip for a second. “Just be careful around him, okay?”

There was no reasonable point to try and bicker with Joe, so, instead, Natalie hung her head low, nodding in response to what he had to say. “I’ll try.” She replied, lifting her head, and walking back towards the door. “Have a nice rest of your day, professor.” She uttered before stepping out of the room.

It was only a few minutes after Natalie and the rest of the class left that Joe did the same. Dressing himself with his suit jacket and clutching his black briefcase, Joe headed for the door. The situation revolving around Natalie and Landon continuing to irk him for some reason.

             Turns out after Landon had stormed out of the class, he lingered just outside the door, waiting for his – in his mind – girlfriend to accompany him.  With tensions high and anger taking hold of him, Landon balled his fists as he paced in the corridor. His pacing ended when people began to flood through the door and into the barren hallway just moments after he had left the class. Turning on his heels, he waited for Natalie, but just as he expected, she was not a part of the exodus. It took a few moments before she finally made an appearance. Within seconds, Landon approached her, taking her by the wrist, and pulling her to the side, away from the from the view of the window. “What the fuck was that?” He asked, positioning her against the wall while he took a step back. “Seriously, what the fuck was that?” He repeated himself, running a hand through his hair as he bit down on his bottom lip, attempting to calm his anger.

Completely taken by surprise, Natalie followed Landon until the two stopped just feet away from the classroom. “What the fuck?” She protested, pulling her wrist from his grip and leaning up against the wall. “You need to seriously calm the fuck down. You’re completely pissed off because of literally nothing. You have absolutely no God damn reason to be here in this class and no fucking reason to be pissed off at me or the professor. Quit your shit and move on, it’s a fucking procedure, let it the fuck go. And you know what else you —.”           Interrupting her, Landon continued with his tangent. “So, hold on. Hold on. Hold on.” Landon said pacing before her, tension still running high. “What you’re telling me is that I come back to class and suddenly Mr. McFucking Prick over here decides to just pull out a policing procedure out of his ass and do it in the middle of class.” Landon stopped, running a hand through his blonde hair. “And he decides to do it on a female student?” Landon cocked his head back and laughed. “You’ve got to be fucking kidding with me. What kind of shit —.” Landon stopped and turned towards the classroom door that was being opened. “Would you look at that, the man of the hour is here.” He muttered before stepping to Natalie and pointing a finger in her face saying “Ri-fucking-diculous” before storming off.

Stepping out of the class, Joe pulled his wallet out, locking the door with his I.D card before stepping away and looking down the hall. Witnessing Landon stepping before Natalie, Joe tilted his head and clutched his belongings in his hand. What Joe just witnessed was something that he would not let side under his supervision and be allowed to be swept under the rug. Realizing that Landon was storming towards his way and passed him, Joe stared at Natalie – who was completely in awe of the situation – before turning on his heels and closing in on Landon. Within a few strides, Joe reached his hand out, gripping the young man by the shoulder and jerking him back.  Despite Landon sizing Joe up with a glare as he attempted to escape his grasp, Joe kept a firm grip on him. “Why don’t you and I have a nice little chat?” Joe declared, wrapping his hand around the man’s shoulder and firmly patting him on the chest. “Let’s first start with the consequences of your outburst and number of absences.” Joe directed them down a side hall, making the two of them vanish from Natalie’s sight. “You are officially out of my class after today. I’m not going to waste my time on you just like you don’t want to waste your time coming to class. So, to make it easier for the both of us. Do not attend my class again and do not sign up for any of my other classes in the future.”

           Scoffing, Landon spoke. “Don’t worry about me joining you in any other class sessions, buddy. I don’t want to see you again, so, it’s a win-win for the both of us.” Landon muttered looking up at the man who stood just a few inches taller than him.

“Good. Good.” Joe replied as he stopped in his tracks, forcing Landon to do the same as well. “Now, man to man, I have one more issue to address.” Joe dropped his hand from Landon’s shoulder and backed him up against the wall, just as Landon had done to Natalie. “I need you to pay strict attention to what I am about to say because I am not going to repeat myself, buddy.” Clutching his briefcase, Joe held back from laughing, watching as a glint of fear began to shine in Landon’s eyes after being cornered. “You, my friend, are a danger, so, I need you to not talk to her anymore. I need you to keep away from her. I need you to stop texting, facetiming, and whatever else you kids do – you two are not together anymore get, so that through your thick head.” Joe tapped Landon’s head twice with his finger. “If I find you around her – let alone any other woman that I deem you are a threat to – I will be forced to step in – professor or cop, it doesn’t matter, I still wear a badge and I still have authority in either profession.” Joe paused for a moment, his sights locked on the man before him, a man who was no longer just angry, but fearful as well. “Listen here, buddy, I will fuck up your world by charging you with assault and whatever else I can rack on, so, I suggest you take my words to heart because I do not have the patience for boys like yourself who think it’s perfectly okay to get in a woman’s face. I might let other shit slide, but that’s one that I will not allow.” Joe took a step forward. “You should know better than to do that, especially around me.” Joe said almost in a whisper. 

Turning to look down the hall, he realized that Natalie was watching the two of them and with that, Joe offered her a smile before turning back to Landon. “Understand, buddy?” Joe asked, lightly slapping Landon’s cheek twice before backing away.

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.3

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: During class, Natalie arrives late and as a punishment, Joe demonstrates a procedure on her. As a result, things begin to shift in their relationship and blood begins to boil - in a good way. 

POV: Natalie

Characters: Natalie, Joe Merriweather (Italics), Landon (Indented italics)

Word Count: 2582

Author’s Note: This picks up four days later...blah, blah, blah. ALL ABOARD THE SMUT TRAIN BECAUSE IT’S PULLING OUT OF THE STATION SOON. 

Quote:   “Before we start, do you give me permission to touch you?”

Four days passed since the last class meeting and during her off period, the conversations shared between Natalie and her professor along with the one-sided story exchange continued to plague her mind.  It wasn’t necessarily the verbal things that claimed her mind, instead, it was more of the non-verbal actions such as the smile he exchanged after dressing himself, the closer than normal proximity the two of them shared when he whispered to her, the abrupt and unneeded shutting of the blinds, and the innuendos Joe not-so-secretly slipped into the conversations. Either she was thinking too deep into his actions and blowing it out of proportion or Joe was crossing some sort of line and acting unprofessionally in the way he handled the situation.

“Natalie,” Joe said, pulling his unaware, zoned-out, tardy student from her daydreams, “Since you walked in extremely late and seem to have your mind on other, seemingly more important things, you’re my lucky volunteer for the day.” Glancing down at his white button-up, Joe took a moment to brush away a piece of lint. “So, remove yourself from la-la land…” He looked up and began to roll his right sleeve up to his elbow. “Place yourself back into reality…” He repeated his actions on his left sleeve. “And come on up.”

With sweaty palms and a racing heart, Natalie jolted from her daydreams and began paying full attention, slightly embarrassed by the situation. She began to listen as her professor passively-aggressively called her out and automatically volunteered her for whatever he had up his sleeves.

Locking eyes with him for just a moment, Natalie gave him the mother stare – the stare when a mother gives her child those crazy eyes in hopes of getting her point across and striking some sort of fear into the receiver. It, of course, did not work.

“I’m a grown man and that stare doesn’t intimidate me especially from a young woman such as yourself, if you were, I don’t know, my mother, I would possibly be afraid – I would -, but right now, if you could so kindly as to get your ass up, things will be easy peasy lemon squeezy.” With his sassy reply, snickers began to erupt in the room.

With the eyes of her classmates locked onto her, Natalie hung her head low for a moment, raising her hand to her eyes and rubbing them. “Fine” She whispered, dropping her hand, and standing up, looking down at Landon who had finally shown up to class after nearly a month of being absent.  Cursing to herself for a moment, she watched as Landon shook his head and smiled, laughing as she left his side.

During the journey from the back of the room to the front, Natalie could not only physically feel the eyes of her fellow classmates burning into her, but Joe’s as well. 

Reaching the front of the class, Natalie glared at Joe before turning facing her classmates.

“Before we start, do you give me permission to touch you?” Joe asked, walking out from behind the podium. “If you say ‘no’ then you may return to your seat.” Digging his hands into his pockets, Joe stood beside his student, awaiting her answer. “In all honesty, you probably should say ‘no’ due to the circumstances of this demonstration, but it’s all up to you, I know you didn’t willingly volunteer.” He said, this time speaking more in a whisper and directly to her.

Taken aback by his question, Natalie shifted on her feet, a puzzled expression claiming her face. “Can you touch me?” She repeated, tilting her head, and nearly laughing in his face, but her nerves prevented her from doing so. “I mean, I guess?” She answered, despite it being more of a question than an answer.

“I don’t need an ‘I guess’, I need a definite answer,” Joe said firmly, pulling a hand from his pocket and running it along his stubbly cheek. “You know what?” He asked, bringing his sights from her and resting them on the class for a slight moment, watching as most of his students proceeded to zone out for a moment. “If you’re going to dodge the question, sit back down, and I’ll pick someone else.” Joe explained, slightly annoyed as he turned to the class once more, examining the faces that were hiding behind the desktops, looking for his next ‘victim’.

Looking out across the classroom as well, Natalie shook her head to herself. For a moment, she thought over the situation and what could possibly force him to ask for her permission. After a quick replay of last class, it quickly came to mind what the demonstration could be and that’s when it hit her – stop and frisk.

Concealing a smile by biting down on her lip, Natalie shook her head in an approving fashion. “Go ahead, I give you permission.” She finally answered, receiving a somewhat surprised reaction from her professor who turned to face her during her reply.

“Good.” Joe muttered, turning to the class. “You hear that, class?” Joe commented quite loudly, grabbing the attention of his students once again. “She said yes. Remember that,” he paused, placing his hands back into his pockets. “Just in case I somehow get into a sticky situation,” He said with a scoff as he nodded and walked back to his desk, opening his briefcase, and pulling out his badge along with a pair of steel cuffs.

Realizing that he left her side, Natalie took a few steps forward and leaned against a table, watching as her professor dug through his briefcase and silently stood there by his desk.  She couldn’t help but glance back to Landon who was sitting there, a puzzled expression on his face as he looked between her and the professor. Offering her a tilt of his head and a furrow of his brow, Natalie shrugged, knowing that he was wondering what exactly would play out in the coming moments – she, of course, had an idea of what actions which were just moments from being played out. The glances and the silent conversation they shared were quickly interrupted by the closing of a briefcase and a clearing of a voice.

“Terry versus Ohio, 1968 -  stop and frisk, a pat-down of the outer clothing for weapons and can only be conducted with reasonable suspicion and for the fear of public safety along with a long line of other circumstances which I’m not repeating since you all should know them. This Supreme Cout decision is something that holds extreme importance in what you will do.” Joe announced, lingering behind his desk for a moment. “For this example, suppose Ms. Jankoski is out during the wee hours of the morning in a commercial area. Remember, houses are broken into during the day because no one is there and commercial buildings are broken into during the night because all the workers have gone home. Anyways, this area is a known hot-spot for crime and recently, a spike in burglaries has presented itself. Numerous reports claim the suspect is a slim female, wearing…” Joe looked her over for a moment. “black gloves, blue jeans and a black hoodie, standing roughly between 5’3 and 5’6 and carrying a backpack,” Joe spoke, clipping his badge and cuff holder onto his belt while walking towards his student. “I, as an officer stop the suspect and ask a few general questions, but receive evasive answers or answers that don’t make sense. So, first, I have reasonable suspicion to stop her due to the circumstances of the situation – loitering late at night in a place that is known to be burglarized during this time and wearing a hoodie and carrying a backpack.” Stopping beside her, Joe faced his class. “I have a reason to stop her, but no reason to frisk her, but let’s add in the notion that the burglar is known to smash in windows with a pipe wrench then I have reason to conduct a frisk. Remember, I am alone in the situation, I suspect she is armed and dangerous, she avoided my general questions, and the timing and location all play a part in my authority to conduct a frisk.”

Taking a deep breath, she listened intently to his example, mentally checking off the circumstances in which the procedure could legally be done and of course, with everything Joe said, the procedure was justified. 

Lightly placing a hand on her shoulder, Joe glanced down to his volunteer, aware that his unexpected touch caused her to tense up. “It’s understood that males frisk males and females frisk females, but since women officers may not be in the vicinity, may be in low numbers, and since the police cannot detain you for more than twenty minutes or so, it’s somewhat common for the opposite sex to frisk the other. Of course, the procedures and policies may be very in different departments, the frisking of the opposite sex should be much more careful and less invasive. In the academy, you actually learn how to frisk the opposite sex.” Joe turned to the class and formed a smile. “So, guys, with the permission of my volunteer, I am going to conduct a light frisk.”

Despite having a previous notion of what she was getting into, hearing that Joe was actually going to perform a frisk was just as shocking.  Turning her head just slightly to look at him, Natalie scoffed ‘oh joy’, receiving a few chuckles from her classmates in return.

“Hey, if you want to sit back down then go ahead, but you’ve made it this far, might as well ride it out and finish it.” Joe said joining in with the chuckles, dropping his hand from her shoulder, and stepping back.

“Ride it out and finish it.” Natalie thought to herself, chuckling at yet again, another innuendo from Joe. Shaking a finger in his direction, she spoke. “You’ve got a point there. Might as well carry out the rest of my embarrassment. No point in going back now.” She joked, stepping away from the table and standing by his side once more.

Nodding, Joe lifted an eyebrow and took a step away. “Okay, perp.” He jokingly replied before adjusting his sleeves. “Now interlace your hands on top of your head and I’m going to cuff you,” Joe instructed, fiddling with the latch on his holster before Natalie turned to give him a confused look.

“Wait, seriously?” Natalie protested, confused as if he was serious or just messing around, trying to work her up even more.

Joe chuckled, clasping his holster. “No, but I do need for you to lock your hands behind your head and keep them there until I tell you otherwise,” Joe ordered.

With all eyes locked on her, Natalie reluctantly abided by his orders. Shifting on her feet and straightening up, she locked her hands and placed them behind her head, awaiting the next order or the initial touch.

“Perfect,” Joe commented before taking a step forward and gripping her hands with one of his. “Spread ‘em.” Joe said, nearly in a whisper before going ahead and lightly tapping the inside of her feet, spreading them out.

There was a pause and a moment of silence, but Natalie could feel the remnants of his breath graze past her cheek and neck. The firm grip along with the warmth of his hands forced her body to release a trail of chills across her skin, but thankfully with the cover of her jacket, the chills went unnoticed.

With the two of them standing with their sides facing the class, Joe proceeded with the demonstration. First, he quickly ran his free hand down her arms, lightly patting them while doing so. “You good?” Joe whispered, taking a step back and running his hand along her side, getting a two-tone ‘mmmhmm’ in response to his question and due to the placement of his hand. Running his right hand down her side, Joe felt her tense slightly, causing him to smirk, and let out a light scoff.  He continued to run his hand down her side, stopping at her waist. “Remember, it’s a frisk, not a search so I can’t physically dig into her pockets, but I can feel around them.” He addressed the class before returning to his demonstration and running his hand down her leg right leg before sliding his hand back up and pausing yet again.

If her turned on nature wasn’t apparent on her face, it surely was elsewhere.

Keeping her eyes locked on the floor, she remained tense throughout the whole ordeal, standing still, practically frozen and turned on all at the same time. It didn’t help that he let his hand linger on her waist for a moment before going frisking down her leg and gliding back.

Pulling away slightly due to the assumption the demonstration was over, she received a stern warning in return.

“Ma’am, please don’t move away.” Jerking her back slightly and tightening his restraint on her hands. “Number one tip: don’t pull away from an officer unless you want to get friendly with the floor.” Joe announced, switching his grip, gripping her hands with his right hand this time. With heavy breaths, Joe proceeded to slowly run his hands along her left side and leg before rising up once more and wrapping his arm around her waist and pretending to run his hand along the belt loops of her pants. In addition, his body wasn’t the only thing beginning to rise. Swallowing hard, and snaking his hands back to himself, Joe released his grip slightly and began to speak, fumbling with his words. “For females, just like males, there’s an extra area to search, but searching the breast area and crotch is completely inappropriate for class and on the job.” Joe let his hands return to his sides before quickly placing one into his pocket. “If a male was to search the breast area, they would ask the woman to shake out her bra, but there really is no reason for this to happen since it’s just a simple frisk,”

Pulling her gaze up from the floor, Natalie let out an unsteady breath, slightly aroused from the actions of her professor. Dropping her hands back down to her side, she turned to look at the class, Bringing a hand up to her face, she pretended to brush away a stray piece of hair. In reality, it was all a ruse to try to hide her blushing cheeks for the smallest of seconds.

Turning to look at his visibly – to him – aroused student, Joe smiled, attempting to contain his own growing arousal. “Good job.” Joe praised, stretching his free arm out and motioning for her to take her seat again. “Taking that embarrassment like a champ.” He jokingly commented, raising his free hand for a high-five, but receiving none since she was already walking away from him. Slightly embarrassed, Joe raised his eyebrows as he returned to his podium, shielding his growing erection from the class.

Quickly returning to her seat, Natalie sat back down next to Landon who was just staring at her. Running her tongue across her bottom lip and shaking her head, she couldn’t believe the situation she had just endured.

Glancing to Landon, she attempted to conceal the happiness, but as expected, a chuckle escaped her lips and she shook her head, looking down and away.

            “Shit looked like the beginning of a fucking porno. Next time, why don’t you just tell him to fuck you right then and there. Both of you seem to fucking enjoy it. I know you're turned on expression and you have that look right the fuck now. You’re lucky no one else suspects anything.” Landon muttered, angry with the situation. “Fucking pat-down my ass. Guys a prick.” And with that, Landon collected his materials and abruptly left the classroom.

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.1

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: Staying after class to ask her professor a question, Natalie realizes that Joe is no longer wearing his wedding band.  Request Summary / Song:  Guys My Age - Hey Violet  - @xdaddy-neganx  POV: Natalie Characters: Natalie, Joe Merriweather (Indented) Word Count: 1732 Author’s Note: Okay, well even if you guys don't like it, I enjoy writing it and Joe is such a sweet, low-key asshole to write out.  Quote:  “You should know better than to lie to someone such as myself who has extensive experience in reading people.” 

“So, remember guys, there are people who are going to hate you for what you do, but do not take it personally. It’s simply the uniform that you wear and it’s nothing against you as a person. Some people simply don’t like the uniform and can’t get past that.” There was a moment of silence as Joe leaned up against the podium and simply smiled. “Trust me, guys…” A small line of scoffs escaped his mouth as he shook his head and glanced down at his hands. “It’s a fine profession, but shit like that happens, it’s inevitable.”

Covered by a line of computers, Natalie absentmindedly glanced around the classroom.  It was nearing six in the afternoon and with the day consisting of semi-boring classes and little to no food, her attention span and energy was practically nonexistent.

 “As for the FBI, now that is a whole other story.  You never hear about the common person hating someone in that position, unless your name is James Comey and you have a bunch of people who think you did an inadequate job of investigating someone's emails.” Again, another string of lighthearted chuckles escaped the professor's mouth as he straightened up and glanced across the large classroom that had more computers than actual students. “I would tell you some stories of being a police officer and a special agent, but since time is running out…” Joe glanced down to his watch, reading the time. “Remind me to do so during our next class.”

Snapping out of her trance, Natalie dug into her backpack, retrieved her keys, and shifted in her seat.  It was her last class of the day and honestly, despite it being just a whole hour and a half of storytelling and mindless lectures, it was probably the most interesting and attention grabbing class up until the last ten minutes.  The reason for this was Professor Merriweather had this kink for dragging out the class as much as he could.

He was one of those professors who never dismissed class early.

“So, guys, as I attempt to drag out the last minute of this amazing class, remember you have assignments due by the end of tomorrow night. I know on the first day of class, I asked you guys if I looked like you mother and proceeded to explain that I would not remind you to do things, but right now, I am making an exception.” Pushing off the podium, Joe took a few steps and stood next to his desk. “Remember, do the quiz, it’s ten questions and has two attempts. If you somehow manage to not get a hundred the first time around, because I am such a nice professor, the correct answers appear on the second go around – it’s a little gift from me to you. And in an addition to that, start on your lengthy research papers. Don’t procrastinate it because it isn’t the easiest of topics.”

With that, half, if not most of the class took to their feet, gathered their belongings, and were on their way out the door.  Of course, there were a handful of students lingering in the classroom, waiting their turn to ask the professor a wide array of questions, but just as quick as they asked the questions, they were heading out the door as the professor finished his response.

Natalie silently lingered by Joe’s desk, one arm propped up against the edge while the other absentmindedly fiddled with her keys as she listened to the last of the questions before it was just the two of them left in the room.

“Ahh, Ms. Jankoski, what a pleasure seeing you not glancing around the classroom the entire time.” Joe greeted, turning on his heels and retreating behind the desk once more. “Before you say anything, what happened to that kid who used to sit next to you? Was he a friend or what?” He questioned, placing his hands on the back of the office chair. “I mean, he just showed up a few times in the beginning of the semester and boom, never appeared again. I figured I would ask you since it seemed as if you two talked quite often whether it be on your way to class, during class, or after class.  Don’t think I’m a creep or anything, but it’s just my years of observation skills coming out to play.” Digging a hand into his pocket, he began to fiddle with whatever items were stashed away. “I just noticed some sort of connection between the two, but once again, I’m no creep, just observing things.”  

Shaking her head, Natalie couldn’t help but give off a few fake chuckles at not only the greeting but the question as well.  The ‘kid’ he was referring to was Landon, her good for nothing ex-boyfriend.  For the past month, he was MIA in class and despite texting Natalie, explaining how he was sorry and how he would show up to the next class meeting, his actions failed to uphold his words.

Smiling, Natalie laughed once more before speaking. “Landon?” She asked, shifting on her feet, pulling her hand off his desk. “Well, I have to admit, I haven’t seen my ex since we broke up and honestly, it’s kind of great. But besides that, I don’t know where he’s been. He’s told me that he was going to come back to class, but knowing him, he’s too busy with his friends, sitting on his couch, and smoking weed. Either way, it’s not my problem, at least, not anymore.” Natalie shrugged, reeling in her lanyard until she was gripping her keys in her hand. “At this point, you might as well just drop him from the class because we all know that he’s not going to come back and it’s kind of a shame because, despite my zoning out from time to time, the class is extremely interesting due to all the stories you tell.”

Briefly, Natalie glanced down to her phone to read the time and realized only five minutes passed since the end of class up until now. Those five minutes felt far longer than just those three-hundred combined seconds. Perhaps it was due to who she was talking to. After all, speaking to a retired police officer and former FBI special agent, Natalie always felt like she was being examined and analyzed in some way.

Throughout her reply, Joe nodded along indicating that he was actually paying attention instead of simply letting the information go in through one ear and out the other.  “Well, first off, thank you for the compliment, that is, if it is a compliment.” Joe chuckled a few times and sidestepped back to the podium just a foot or so away. “Secondly, I wasn’t expecting this to get personal, but sorry to hear about the whole mess. But from what I can tell, it’s not bothering you one bit and that’s a very good thing. Focus on your studies, young lady! Don’t let a man, or in this case, a boy, take you away from your studies.” Joe chuckled, attempting to lighten up the conversation because even though she was portraying herself as a happy, young lady with her lighthearted laughs and glowing smiles, Joe knew better and could see right through the façade she was portraying. “Thirdly, I may just take your advice on dropping poor, ole’ Landon. It is a shame, paying for a class and then not showing up.  I mean, come on, we are all adults here, he should know better and act professional instead of not attending a class over a matter such as this.” Clasping his hands over the edge of the podium, Joe leaned forward. “No offense to you, but it’s not a good excuse to not show up. Tisk, tisk, to him, that right there with the addition of the whole weed smoking thing, makes me believe that a career in this field isn’t for him.”

Shrugging, Natalie glanced over to the door, watching as a student came and vanished from her view.  “Yeah…” She muttered, keeping her eyes locked on the door for a moment. “It is what it is, though.  In all honesty, it doesn’t really bother me.” Running her tongue across her bottom lip, biting down on her lip afterwards, she brought her attention back to Joe who was unwrapping a piece of gum.

“Mmm.” Joe hummed, casting a glance up in her direction. “I’m sure it doesn’t.” He added in an almost monotone voice as he continued to unwrap his gum. “But the way you’re acting tells me differently. You should know better than to lie to someone such as myself who has extensive experience in reading people.” Popping the piece of gum into his mouth, Joe glanced up, a stern expression on his face. “But like you said ‘it is what it is’.” His sternness changed back to a welcoming expression. “Here, have a piece,” Joe said, extending his hand out, offering her a piece of the red velvet gum he was chewing on. “It honestly tastes horrible and nothing like red velvet, but like you say, ‘it is what it is’. It’s probably better than chewing on your bottom lip, though.  I hope you know biting your lip is usually a sign of nervousness or deception. Plus, it’s a bad habit.” Joe flicked the gum, motioning for her to take it from him.

Running a finger against the groove of her car key, Natalie sat there in almost a shocked state. Her assumption on being studied by the older man turned out to be true.

Staring at the piece of gum, Natalie examined his hand for a moment and noticed that the ring that once claimed his ring finger was now missing.

Joe wasn’t the only observational one here.

[a-tired-bitch]

You Should Know Better Pt.2

23 Parts:  I  -  II  -  III  -  IV  -  V  -  VI  -  VII  - VIII  -  IX  -  X  -  XI  -  XII  -  XIII -  XIV  -  XV  -  XVI  -  XVII  -   XVIII  -  XIX  -  XX  -   XXI  -  XXII  -  XXIII

MASTER LIST

YSKB MASTER LIST

Summary: After sitting down in his office, not only does Natalie receive her stories, but she notices something else that is missing. 

POV: Natalie

Characters: Natalie, Joe Merriweather (Indented), Professor Miller (Indented italics)

Word Count: 2800ish

Author’s Note:  God, I love reading what Joe has to say.

Quote:   “Get comfortable, this might be a long ride unless you take Miller’s advice and tell me to stop.” 

“You know, they say gum helps you stay alert and awake,” Joe said as Natalie finally accepted the piece of gum. “Two areas you seem to be lacking in at the current moment,” Joe added, pushing away from the podium, and returning behind his desk. “Understandable, though. It’s late in the day, and you’ve been here since the morning.” Turning, he smiled once more. “Once again, it sounds creepy, but it’s not. Like I said before, I have a keen sense of noticing my students while they walk around campus with their eyes glued to their phones.” Gripping the back of his chair, Joe leaned over, grabbing his black briefcase from the floor. “Gotta be observant in this day in age no matter what. Trust me, it’s a good skill set to have and it comes in handy with where you’re going, so, it’s a win-win.” Straightening up, Joe placed the briefcase on the desk. “Now,” his eyes locked onto her as she fiddled with the gum wrapper. “Since it’s getting late and I’m sure you would much rather be on your way home than to listen to me ramble on with whatever I can come up with at the moment, what exactly do you need, Ms. Jankoski?”

Running a finger across the smooth gum wrapper, Natalie continued to listen, shaking her head every now and then as she unwrapped the wrapper, revealing a red piece of gum. “Although, I feel like I’m some sort of test subject being studied right now and, I suppose for the rest of the semester as well, it’s fine, I understand where you are coming from.” Popping the piece of gum into her mouth, she finally rested her eyes back on him, only to notice that he was doing the same. “There’s no need to apologize since I’m the same way. I guess it’s a habit we share,” with that, a soft scoff came from her.

Natalie was always one to keep eye contact with whoever she was speaking to, but for some reason, keeping contact with her professor was something different - it was almost intimidating and it had always been this way, but nevertheless, she always persisted.

“Now, I’m not sure if you want to answer this, but since I practically want to follow in your footsteps, in terms of career, I thought you!” Natalie extended her arms out almost as if she was presenting something. “The police officer turn FBI Special Agent turn police officer 2.0 who also dabbles in teaching college courses, would be the best source of information for this assignment. After all, you always seem to be a good source of stories and information.”  A moment passed, and the two of them stared at each other in silence while Natalie attempted to collect her thoughts and proceed with the conversation.  But with a blank mind, the best she could do was turn and take a few steps away, tossing the small wrapper into the trash.

Tapping her finger against her lanyard, she finally turned around after a moment and spoke. “Now, let’s get down to business,” Natalie said, a false tone of amusement taking ahold of her voice. Clenching down onto her gum, she reclaimed her position before his desk and spoke once more. “Like I said, you don’t need to answer if you don’t want to, but since you already do this in class, I don’t think it’s a problem. But once again, it’s your call.”

Crossing his arms over his chest, Joe shifted on his feet and tilted his head. “I don’t appreciate you fiddling with your words, so, spit it out.” He said, his tone a mix of annoyance and curiosity. “You either want me to answer something or you don’t, but don’t worry, I’ll answer whatever you need me to answer, that’s why I’m here - to teach you and satisfy your needs...in an educational sense.” Glancing down to his watch, he read the time. “That’s if time allows for it to be answered. I highly doubt that it will since the next class starts in just a few minutes and I know for certain that Dan is walking down the hallway right now as we speak.”

Following Joe’s actions, Natalie glanced down to her phone, reading the time as well. “Look at that, you’re right.” She thought for a moment before continuing. “I guess I can just stay after class and we can discuss it next time around.” She negotiated. “But just for future references, I just need for you to tell me a story that you haven’t discussed in class, about your time on the force or bureau.” She replied, glancing up at the door that was now being opened by the next professor that occupied the room.

“It doesn’t matter?” Joe asked, placing his sights on the door as well. “You should know that everything matters to some extent, don’t be foolish, young lady,” Joe said with sternness as he grabbed his suit jacket and dressed himself.

Almost reluctantly, Natalie watched as Joe teasingly placed on his black jacket at what seemed to be a slower pace than usual. Running a hand along her cheek, she took in a deep breath and continued to chew her gum, watching in silence as he fluffed out his jacket and ran a hand through his lightly gelled hair.

Oh, how he was attractive.

Smirking as he gathered his belongings, Joe walked out from behind the desk and stood beside his student, leaning down slightly. “I told you Dan was almost here,” Joe whispered, a smile creeping onto his face as he straightened up and walked forward. “Come, Ms. Jankoski, let’s go to my office.” He said, looking over his shoulder and motioning for her to follow. “I’ll tell you a few stories and do whatever else you need me to do.” He added, stopping just a few feet from the door to greet his colleague with a firm handshake and a few words.

Following a few steps behind Joe, Natalie stopped in the isle of computers, halfheartedly listening to the conversation that the two men were engaging in.

“Yeah, she wants me to tell her some stories for some assignment she has to do.” Joe added, turning to look at Natalie.

                “Wow, Natalie. That really hurts my feelings. You know you could’ve asked me for some stories during our class.” The professor shook his head and clutched his heart as if he was injured. “I’m kidding.” He added with a chuckle. “With so many years of experience under his belt, Joe has an assload of stories to tell you, just make sure to tell him to stop after a while because this man can go on for hours.”

Smiling, Natalie nodded in response. “Sorry, Professor Miller.” She apologized as she leaned against the table, reeling in her keys, and clutching them. “Got the assignment last class and instead of procrastinating, I thought I should get a head start, so, here I am with Professor Merriweather, but don’t worry, I got you next time.”

“You hear that, Dan? She’s going to get her way with me and then go to you.” Joe pitched in with a chuckle as he slapped Miller’s back. “I’ll see you later, buddy. Let me go take care of her for now.” Joe said, walking to the door, and opening it, holding it open for his counterpart to follow him out. 

With a sprinkle of a conversation here and an exchange of friendly contact there, the two of them finally reached Joe’s office after a trek across campus. 

“So, you want to hear a story?” Joe asked, digging into his pocket, and pulling out his keys. “I’ll give you a story alright. Might not be what you’re looking for, but it sure as hell is a story.” He muttered, opening the door, and motioning for her to enter

Furrowing her brow while listening to his careless whispers, she stepped through the threshold of the room, looking around the area after entering.  It was small and filled with bookcases, papers, and pictures of Joe wearing several different uniforms.  She had been to his office a handful of times, but this time she noticed something missing from the center of his desk - a portrait of him and his wife.

“Sit.” Joe ordered, pulling his student out of her trance, and squeezing past her while shutting the door. “Get comfortable, this might be a long ride unless you take Miller’s advice and tell me to stop.” He said with a chuckle as he approached his desk, placing his briefcase down and flicking on the lights. “I’m not saying it might be too much for you, but I’m sure you would rather be home and not with your professor.”

Glancing behind her, Natalie looked at the closed door, surprised that he didn’t leave it cracked like most other professors do when they speak to a student. While doing so, she couldn’t help but scoff at the sexual reference - or at least she assumed it was one - Joe just said. 

“Long ride?” Natalie asked, turning back around to face Joe who was lingering behind his desk, both hands stored away in his pockets. “Not to be a smartass, but you have a point there, who wouldn’t want to be back at home?” Natalie asked, leaning forward a bit and looking out the window, watching as the night began to creep onto campus. “If you want to make things easier for the both of us, you can just tell a short story, that is, if you have any or simply just tell me a few main points. It’s whatever you want.”

Following her glance, Joe also looked out the window before leaning over his desk and abruptly shutting them. “I’ve grown a habit of shutting doors behind me wherever I go.” Joe spoke up, ignoring her proposition. “Same goes with blinds.” He added, leaning away from the window and letting the string fall from his hand. ��You can open the door if you want, I really don’t mind, it’s my mistake for closing it.” He added, opening his briefcase, and messing with its contents.

Ignoring his lack of response on her offer and dismissing his counteroffer, Natalie approached a chair and sat down, placing her objects besides her, and pulling out a pad of paper and a pen. “Well,” she began as she settled into the chair, getting comfortable. “Whenever you’re ready, I guess. Start talking and I’ll start writing.” She said, watching as he slowly glanced up from his briefcase and nodded.

Joe nodded and took a few moments to himself before speaking. “You know what’s just as dangerous as a man with a gun?” Joe asked, pulling a badge from his briefcase and placing it down on the desk. “Drunk driving.” He sternly answered, looking her straight in the eyes while his thumb ran across the cold material. “It’s Mother’s Day and I’m out doing my usual patrol when a call comes out over the radio.” Joe took a deep breath and straightened up, taking his suit jacket off and placing it on the back of his chair. “’10-55, drunken accident at the cross section of Baker and 50. 10-51.’ Which translates to a drunk driver, resulting in a wreck. So, as expected, I rush to the scene and I’m practically the first patrol unit there and it’s just a God damn mess. Car parts everywhere. Flashing lights illuminating the night sky. Firefighters and EMTs everywhere. The looming presence of death stalking its way through the area. The whole shebang-shaboom.” Pulling his seat out from his desk, Joe sat down. “You know what happened that night that compares to no other crash site I’ve been to?

Natalie glanced up from her notepad and bit the end of her pencil. She took a moment to think before speaking. “A child?” Natalie answered with little confidence as she leaned onto the armrest of the chair. 

Joe nodded. “It’s pure and simple: the loss of innocence at such a young age. But you were close.” Joe said, pulling himself up to his desk and leaning forward. “I got there and some asshole decided to just drive drunk and you know what the result of that was?” He questioned, his voice increasing in volume. “It resulted in me holding a child in my arms while his mother was dying just feet away from us. I told him, ‘Don’t worry, buddy, look up at the sky, your daddy will be here soon.’ and then took him back to my vehicle and comforted him.” Joe bit down on his lower lip, anger, and sadness clearly present on his features as he leaned away and back into his chair. “But his dad never came. Not only did he lose his mother, but his father was already out of the picture.” Joe shook his head, letting out a deep sigh as he regained his composure. “That drunken mess took away that child’s only parent and now... Now I have no idea what happened to the poor kid. Hopefully, the grandparents took him in because if not, he’s off in a home somewhere. Either way, that kid’s innocence is completely and utterly destroyed.”

Thankfully, since Joe was a nice and clean speaker, writing down the key points of the story was an easy breeze, but what wasn’t an easy breeze was letting a small wave of sadness wash over her. She couldn’t even begin to piece together the story he was laying out before her.  Yes, the story as a whole was saddening, but the image of Joe holding a child while tragedy ensued just behind them was the thing that affected her more than anything. It was unusual to hear Joe in a saddened state since the only stories he told in class were ones of entertainment, excitement, action, and ones to study from.

“Here’s another one for your little assignment.” Joe continued, looking through the blinds of his window. “I’m sitting at Denny’s during the start of my shift and a call of a 10-56 at the tracks of Regan St. erupts from my radio. 10-56 is a suicide. So, the old little lady who works at the gas station just across the tracks called in, saying a man was ‘stuck’ on the tracks and his car wasn’t moving. Turns out, after further investigation this man had just lost his job, was having a hard time with his family life, and was an alcoholic, so combine all those things, you get one dirty mess – literally. So, dispatch tells me this guy just jumped in front of the train and committed suicide. You know what happens when I get to the scene?” Joe asked, turning back to face Natalie who was vigorously writing away. “I find one arm over here, a shoe over there, a leg hanging out from the tracks. His body just fucking exploded and it was a complete and utter fucking mess, but not only did he die, but get this, the conductor of a train had a heart attack right after hitting the man and the ambulance wasn’t able to get to him quick enough because they stopped at the wrong intersection.” Joe shook his head almost as if he was disappointed. “Anyways, to wrap things up, since the tracks were closed, traffic began to become backed up and that, in turn, leads to people being pretty ticked off, but they, as in the people who were yelling and cursing at me for simply doing my job, don’t understand the circumstances of the closure.” Joe began to tap the desk to go along with his upcoming dialogue. “You see, two people just died and these people don’t care nor do they realize what had just happened, they just want to cross the tracks to get their damn Starbucks or whatever. No matter how long and how vaguely you tell them what the situation is, some people just don’t care.” Once more, there was another disappointing shake of Joe’s head as he placed a hand over his mouth and just sat there in silence for a moment. “Point is, this job, it’s not about just being a police officer, it’s much more than that. We are exceptional people and beneath all the fraud of allegations against the police, is the fact. And the fact is that less than one-half of one percent of police misfit that uniform. That right there is a better average than what you would find between clergymen.” Joe paused for a moment, crossing his hands over his chest.

Giving up on her notes, Natalie watched as Joe went through a series of emotions, only to return to his passive and neutral state. At this point, listening to Joe talk was far more important than writing down his words, but it seemed as if he was done speaking.  He just sat there, chewing on his gum while his eyes were fixated onto his wooden desk. “Wow.” She whispered, turning to look at the covered window.  “I don’t even ha---.”

“What is a police officer?” He interrupted, leaning back into his chair. “They are the most needed person in someone’s hardship while being the most unwanted in another. They are called ‘sir’ or ‘ma’am’ to their face while being called ‘pig’ and ‘fuzz’ and receiving threats against their lives behind their back.  A police officer is someone who needs to be a diplomat and settle issues between two parties. They need to make split-second decisions that would take lawyers months to make. They are the first responders to an accident and are expected to start breathing, stop bleeding, and ensure the victim is alive and if they aren’t, then they expect a lawsuit on their hands or to serve a death notification. If they are too quick, they are careless. Too slow, they don’t care. Too nice, they’re a flirt. Too mean, they’re an ass. They need to draw while on the run and shoot where it doesn’t hurt. The spectrum of force is a continuum. If you hit them, they are a coward. If they hit you, they are a bully and engaging in ‘brutality’. They need to engage in fights while attempting to not damage their uniform or badge. A police officer is in constant contact with sin, yet, they learn to not partake in it. A police officer runs files and conducts reports until their eyes are irritated, but they continue to trek on to produce a case. They are the news breaker. The Protector. The shoulder to cry on. The friend. The Comforter. The Psychologist. The social worker. The minister. The husband or a wife. They are a daughter or a son. A brother or a sister. They are people who spend more time with complete strangers than their dearest loved ones. You see, you’re everything mixed into one uniform and badge and no matter what, people will either love you or hate you. You either learn to deal with new things every single damn day and you have to decide to either let those things get to you or to brush them aside. Do you understand?”