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secretswiftymarvelfan · 6 months ago

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Between the Lines - Professor!Ari Levinson x Librarian!Reader

A/N: Massive shout out to @precious1610 who essentially was my co-author for this oneshot, you came up with some brilliant lines and ideas for this and I can't thank you enough!

Word Count: 6.3k

Warnings: Fluff! Professor Ari (he needs a warning because damn)! Sexual Harassment and Assult (not by Ari!)! Language! SMUT! 18+ ONLY! Minors DNI!

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Masterlist

Between the Lines

You always looked forward to the new academic year. After weeks of the campus being quiet with only researching staff around, the liveliness of the new and returning cohorts of students always brought the campus back to life.

Another reason you enjoyed the new academic year was that Professor Levinson would be back. He often spent most of his summer in various different countries volunteering at refugee camps, providing aid during humanitarian crises.

You’d look forward to the stories of his days off, the people he’d met and the landmarks he'd seen. He’d often bring back a little souvenir for you too, last time it was a pair of velvet slippers because ‘the library can get cold’ he said.

You missed him dearly over the summer break, which was somewhat ridiculous because he was just the professor that you had a helpless crush on. At least the gifts he brought you said he thought of you at least for just a moment while he was away.

Even if it was a hopeless crush that didn’t stop you from putting in a bit more effort on Thursdays. The day he’d always come in after lunchtime to return any books and take out more for the next week's lectures.

You were sat at your desk, scanning through the returned books when he finally walked in. You couldn’t help but smile when he walked over, he looked incredible in his blue sweater and brown suit. The look completed with a pair of glasses which were a recent addition over the last year. It was no surprise almost every girl on campus had a thing for him. His international politics class was one of the most popular.

“Hi, did you have a nice summer?” He asked as he reached your desk.

“Very good, how was yours?” You smiled up at him.

“Rewarding” he smiled before nodding down to your book “How many of those did you read?”

You could feel the heat rising to your cheeks “Lots” you admitted with a bashful smile “lots of free time during the summer break, while you were travelling the world I was travelling the universe”

Ari gave you a lopsided smile “Sounds incredible, speaking of travelling” he reached into his pocket “I got you a little something” he held out a tiny pouch.

“Professor Levinson you didn’t have to” your voice soft as you took the small pouch.

“I’ve told you many times to call me Ari” he reminded you “and I wanted to”

You smiled as you opened up the pouch and gently tipped out its contents, a small silver token falling out into your palm.

“It’s a medallion that wards off evil” Ari explained as he leaned against your desk with a lopsided smile.

“It’s incredible, there’s so much detail” you muttered in amazement, admiring the small medallion.

“I thought you could use it to ward off people who talk too loud or eat loud snacks” Ari smirked making you chuckle.

“I love it thank you” You smiled, if you could you’d get up and cup his cheek and kiss him, you’d just have to settle with your imagination.

“It’s nothing, anything for my favourite librarian” he winked “Need a hand putting any of these away?” he nodded over to the large collection of returned books.

“I think a few of these are top-shelf books,” you said pointing to the trolley to which you had been adding books too.

“On it” Ari smiled, moving to grab the trolley.

“Thank you Ari” you said as you got up to follow him.

“Do you not trust me to put them back in the right places?” he smirked over his shoulder at you as you both walked through the bookcases.

“no…I trust you” you said slowly.

Ari snorted “That means no” he chuckled “After all the times I’ve helped you do this, you’d think you’d trust me by now”

“I do trust you” you laughed “I just…” you trailed off trying to find a reason you could actually say out loud. In truth, you just wanted to make the most of any time together.

“You’re just protective of your library, I get it” Ari smiled reassuringly as he lifted a heavy book onto the top shelf.

“Yes… protective” you muttered unable to take your eyes off his biceps, even underneath the suit you could see how impressive they were.

Ari smiled back at you breaking you from your trance. You cleared your throat before grabbing a book from the trolley and turning to put it away, subtly fanning yourself as you did so.

For the next half an hour Ari helped you put the books back on the shelves, he even reorganised an entire shelf when you complained that it was all out of order. You were just walking back to the desk when Ari paused and turned to face you.

“What are you doing Saturday afternoon?” He asked.

“Oh um, nothing I think” you stuttered trying to recall if you had any plans, which was pretty pointless because you rarely did.

“How about we go grab coffee?” He suggested a lopsided smile on his face.

“What like a-“ you squeaked blinking in surprise.

Ari grinned “Yes like a date” he finished for you.

You couldn’t stop stuttering, your mind short-circuiting as you tried to comprehend what was happening.

“Did a book fall on my head” you muttered to yourself, only realising you’d done so when Ari barked out a loud laugh “Shhh” you chastised on instinct.

Ari covered his mouth with his hand, delight clear in his eyes as he continued to laugh but quietly this time. You covered your face with your hands feeling utterly embarrassed at your outburst.

“Oh god,” you groaned quietly.

Ari chuckled as he wrapped his hands around your wrists and pulled your hands from your face, his smile widening when he saw you were pouting. He shifted his hold on your wrists so he was holding your hands, his thumbs stroking your palms.

“No you haven’t hit your head, this is really happening,” he said softly “is that really so hard to believe?”

You quietly scoffed “Yes, I mean you’re you and I’m me” you admitted shaking your head.

“I’ll let you in on a secret,” he said before leaning in to whisper “If you weren’t you, I wouldn’t be asking you out”

“Ari” you whispered in disbelief.

“And if you’ll join me for coffee I’ll tell you all the other reasons I’ve wanted to ask you out” he grinned.

You smiled bashfully, looking down at the floor “If I say yes, will you tell me one of the reasons now?” You asked looking back up at him.

Ari smirked “That pencil skirt and those knee-high boots to start” he said nodding down to your boots “So is that a yes?”

“It’s a yes” you grinned.

“Great” he smiled leaning in to kiss your cheek “I have to go teach now but I’ll see you Saturday”

“See you Saturday” you smiled watching him go.

You were frozen to the spot for a few moments still not entirely convinced that he’d actually asked you out and your crush wasn’t so hopeless. You eventually managed to get back to your desk, a smile on your face as you got back to work.

It was about an hour later when a shadow covered you. You were excited thinking that Ari had come back to talk to you again after his lecture but your smile faltered when you saw who it was.

“Hey sunshine,” Coach Hansen said as he leaned against the desk, lollipop in his mouth “How was your summer?”

“Nice,” you said forcing a smile “How about you Coach Hansen?” You asked to be polite.

“Call my Lloyd” he grinned “great, looking forward to the season, you’ll come and watch the games right? You can be my good luck charm” he winked.

You tried your hardest not to shudder in disgust “Oh um I’m not sure I’ll have to check my diary, I think I’m usually busy on game days” you lied.

“I’m sure I could convince you to find the time” he grinned leaning in closer.

You laughed awkwardly as you pushed your chair back and stood up to try and put some distance between the two of you “Guess we’ll see” you chuckled “Um do excuse me but I have some repairs to do in the office, you’d think college students would know how to treat books” you said stepping away “see you around” you added as you slipped into your office, shut and locked the door behind you.

You leaned against the door and let out the shudder that you had been holding in. Coach Hansen was the most disgusting man you’d ever met, Assistant Coach Pete Brennan coming in a close second. You’d heard rumours that Hansen had slept with multiple cheerleaders throughout the years. Why some of the most popular girls would sleep with him was beyond you.

You grabbed the hand sanitiser that was on your desk, squeezing a decent amount onto your hands. Lloyd hadn’t touched you but it made you feel cleaner. Just an encounter with Lloyd made you feel gross.

You sat down at your desk with a heavy sigh, it had been a rollercoaster of a day. But on the plus side, you had a date with Ari. The thought of that alone was enough to bring a smile back to your face. You had to think about what to wear, something that went well with your boots you thought.

It had been a couple of weeks since his date with you and Ari felt incredible. He hadn’t realised his feelings for you until the summer. He’d been walking through the market with one of his volunteer friends, Sam, he’d just found the small medallion when Sam snorted and shook his head.

“For your librarian friend?” Sam had chuckled.

“She would love it” Ari explained as he paid for it.

“Have you asked her out yet?” Sam asked as they walked to the next stall.

Ari frowned “No, she’s a friend” he’d said even if it felt wrong to call you just a friend.

Sam had laughed and shook his head “Who knew a college professor could be so stupid” he said as he walked away leaving Ari dumbfounded.

For the rest of the day, Ari had replayed that conversation before he finally came to the realisation that he had feelings for you. That he’d had feelings for you for a while now. If he wasn’t halfway across the world he would have gone straight to you and asked you out.

He was so glad you’d said yes, he’d found it so adorable how flustered you got. You were a little flustered on the date but Ari made sure to put you at ease and soon enough the side he absolutely loved about you. The sweet and a little cheeky side.

His favourite part was when you both left the coffee shop. It had been unseasonably cold for a September afternoon and he could see you shivering. So he took off the blue jacket he wore and draped it over your shoulders. You smiled up at him, the jacket almost swallowing you up as you wrapped it around yourself more. It was the cutest sight ever.

He now found any opportunity to visit you in the library. When he walked in you weren’t at the front desk, he checked your office but you weren’t in there either. He noticed that the book return trolley was missing meaning you were out putting books back on shelves.

He started walking through the library trying to find you. He eventually found you in a far corner, his blood boiling at the sight. You had your back pressed against the bookcase as the sleazeball Coach Hansen crowded against you. Ari couldn’t instantly see how uncomfortable you were even though you were forcing a smile.

He cleared his throat loudly to interrupt. Lloyd looked over and rose to his full height allowing you to sidestep away from him.

“Professor Levinson” Lloyd greeted him with a lopsided smirk.

“Coach Hansen, are you lost? The picture books are at the public library across town, I think they have sticker books too” Ari said as he walked over, fists clenched down by his sides, he then turned his attention to you “Are the books I requested ready to collect, I need them for my lecture in half an hour” he didn’t have any more lectures today, he knew you’d know that and hopefully took the out he was giving you.

You blinked a couple of times “Oh, not quite I’ll um go get the last of them now” you muttered before shuffling past him and back towards the front desk.

“I think you have somewhere else to be don’t you Coach Hansen?” He asked turning his attention back to the sleaze ball.

Lloyd ran his tongue over his teeth as he studied Ari “Somewhere more interesting that’s for sure” he said before turning and leaving.

Ari followed behind him just to make sure that Lloyd actually left the library. You weren’t at the front desk but he spotted you peaking through the blinds in your office.

Once he was satisfied that Lloyd had gone he walked over to the office door and gently rapped his knuckles against the wood. He pushed the door open slowly when he heard you answer. He found you perched on the edge of your desk rubbing your hands, the faint smell of hand sanitiser lingering in the air.

He closed the distance between you, his hand moving to brush hair out of your face and cup your cheek but he stopped himself short. You might not want anyone to touch you right now.

“Hey, are you okay?” He asked softly.

You took in a deep breath before nodding as you breathed back out “Fine, just feel a little grossed out, nothing out of the ordinary” you admitted.

Ari’s brows furrowed “This has happened before?”

You gave him a weak shrug of your shoulders “Kinda, usually, I’m at the front desk so I have that barrier” you said gesturing in front of you “Today was the first time he’s found me between the cases”

Ari shook his head in disbelief “Why didn’t you say? Why didn’t you tell him to back off?”

You scoffed and stepped away from him, crossing your arms as you moved to the far corner of the office. When you turned back to face him you hit him with a hard look.

“Seriously? That’s the worst thing I could do with a man like him, you think he’ll take my no as an answer?” You scoffed “The safest thing I can do is be nice and polite and hope to god that nothing happens, that he gets bored and moves on” you exclaimed gesturing with a clenched fist towards the door “And if he doesn’t I just have to pray that I can find not only the ability to fight back but win… and I know it’s wrong but that’s just reality!”

Silence fell in the room. Ari stood there and watched as you breathed heavily. He’d fucked up and he knew that, even if part of him was pretty impressed at how you put him in his place.

“You’re right, I’m sorry” he apologised holding his hands up in surrender as he took a couple of steps closer “That was very male of me to say that” he added with the smallest of smirks.

You pursed your lips before letting out a small chuckle “Yes it was”

Ari smiled softly as he walked closer to you again “I’m sorry, I’m sorry this is the reality you have to live in” he said before his brows furrowed in concern “You’ve never felt like that with me have you?”

You quickly shook your head, stepping closer to close the distance your hands resting on his biceps “No, god no” you told him “You’ve never made me uncomfortable”

“Good, and if I ever do just put me back in my place like you just did” he smirked.

You bit your lower lip “I’m sorry” you said with a slight wince.

“No don’t apologise, it was actually kinda sexy” Ari whispered as he leant in

Your smile turned bashful as you looked up at him. He smiled back down at you as he moved to cup your cheeks with both hands, his thumb gently stroking the apples of your cheeks. Your head tilted into his touch, your eyes shining as you looked up at him.

“How do you feel now?” he asked softly.

“Much better thank you”

“Good, and I promise nothing like that is gonna happen again, I’ll make sure of it” he swore “I’ll be here when you finish tonight to walk you to your car and text me if he comes back before then”

“Okay I will, thank you Ari,” you said with a grateful sigh.

“It's nothing, sweetheart” he smiled before leaning down to capture your lips in his.

He started gently just to make sure you were okay with it but as soon he felt you melt into his touch he let go of his restraint and deepened the kiss. From the moment he finally got to kiss you on your first coffee date he knew he was a goner. With every kiss since, every time he got to hold you, be close with you he fell harder and deeper for you.

If he could, he’d stay here with you forever but he had something he needed to do “I have office hours soon so I need to head off” he said softly as he rested his forehead against yours.

“That’s okay, I’ll see you later” you smiled, running your hands over his biceps.

“See you later” he smiled, pecking your lips once more before making his way out of your office.

When he stepped out of the library instead of turning towards his building, he turned in the opposite direction. Towards the football field and training facilities. He found Lloyd in his office talking to his assistant coach, Pete Brenner, lollipop in his mouth as he chuckled.

“Professor Levinson” Lloyd smirked when Ari walked in “Are you a little lost?” he asked with a condescending tone, throwing Ari’s words back at him.

Ari instantly saw red. He surged forward, pinning Lloyd to the nearest wall, fist gripping the mustard polo collar Hansen wore.

“What the shit!” Pete exclaimed, shooting up from his seat, while Lloyd just laughed.

“Sit” Ari hissed over his shoulder at Pete who instantly did what he said like an obedient dog.

“It’s cool Brenner” Lloyd smirked “Let him have his moment”

Ari growled in response, shoving him back against the wall again “Don’t push me”

Lloyds just laughed “Oh c’mon pumpkin,” he said shaking his head “What are you gonna do? Strangle me with boredom? Talk me to death? You academic lot are so funny” he tilted his head with a condescending look.

“You go near her again and you’ll find out exactly what I can do to you” Ari warned.

“Aw, you got a little crush on my little librarian?” Lloyd grinned.

Ari shifted his grip, his fingers wrapping around Lloyd's throat. Lloyd only looked more excited, a wolfish grin growing.

“She’s not your property and never will be” Ari said, squeezing his grip slightly for good measure.

Lloyd didn’t say anything for a moment, his eyes studying Ari “Warning taken” he finally said.

Ari wasn’t entirely convinced but took a couple of steps back, letting go of Lloyd. Lloyd shrugged and straightened out his polo before regarding Ari with a look.

“What are you still doing here?” he asked “trying to cause more of a scene? I don’t think Y/N would like that”

Ari clenched his fists and resisted the urge to punch Lloyd right there and then but the sick bastard was right. If you knew Ari had caused this scene you would hate it. You probably wouldn’t want to see him anymore and he’d lose the best thing he’s ever had.

“Stay away from her” he reiterated harshly, pointing over to Lloyd who held his hands up in surrender a smirk playing on his lips.

Ari turned, shooting a glare at Pete who shifted uncomfortably in his chair. He stormed out of the office, the door slamming so hard that it rattled behind him.

The past couple of months had been the best of your life and it was all thanks to Ari. As the weather got colder you got excited to celebrate the holiday season with him. You’d already had a lot of fun with him at Halloween and Thanksgiving, he’d dressed up as Indiana Jones and you went as Marion. He looked incredible as Indy, you really had to try hard to keep your hands to yourself at the faculty party. You did have a lot of fun with the whip afterwards though.

Much to your relief too, Lloyd had kept away from the library and you. That short interaction between him and Ari in the library had clearly sent enough of a message that you were taken.

Ari had been the sweetest too, he’d meet you whenever you finished work to walk you to your car or pick you up to take you back to his place. He visited the library more and helped out whenever he could. You joked that you should get him an assistant librarian badge.

It was Friday evening and you were working late. A large delivery had arrived ready for the new semester in January and you wanted to get them all sorted before the Christmas break. Ari had agreed to help out, bringing snacks and keeping you company.

It was taking a little longer than you expected because you kept getting distracted by Ari. he was wearing a deep green button-up sweater which hugged his arms deliciously, especially when pushed the sleeves up to his elbows.

He’d definitely caught you checking him out if the smirk on his lips was anything to go by. But when he’d lift heavy books up onto the top shelves you couldn’t help but stare, you were only human after all.

You shook your head to try and clear it so you could focus on the job at hand. You turned away from him and crouched down to put away some books on the lower shelves. When you stood back up you were surprised to find Ari stood behind you, his hands resting on your hips.

“Ari” you muttered as you looked over your shoulder at him.

“Y/N” he smirked as he pressed a kiss to your neck, pulling your hips back so you could feel that it wasn’t just you who was getting distracted.

“Ari” you sighed as you melted back onto him “We can’t, not here” you muttered as he continued to kiss your neck, one hand moving up to your breast.

“Sure we can” he murmured “It's late, no one else is here”

You could feel your resolve weakening “We should at least go to my office then” you suggested.

“No we don’t” he smirked as his other hand moved from your hip to your covered core, tugging you back towards him “This sort of thing is in the books you read and I know how much you love them”

You blinked a couple of times in surprise as you turned around to face him “How did you know that?”

Ari gives you a lopsided grin “I’ve read them” he answered.

“You read them” you repeated in disbelief.

“Of course, they’re something you love” he explained with a casual shrug of his shoulders “I want to know as much as I can about you… get some ideas… make sure you’re satisfied” he smirked.

“Ari,” you said softly, shaking your head in disbelief, you couldn’t believe how incredible he was.

“So what do you say?” he smirked, “are you gonna let me worship you in your temple?”

You nibbled your lower lip and nodded, you could never say no to him.

“Good, now make sure you stay quiet” he smirked as he sunk down to his knees “We are in a library after all”

You let out a shuddered breath of anticipation when his hands slipped under your skirt to pull down your underwear. Once he tucked them into his back pocket his hand wrapped around the back of your knee and lifted it. He pressed a kiss to the exposed skin just above your knee-high boots. He hooked your leg over his shoulder as he pressed kisses up your thighs, his head disappearing underneath your skirt.

You cupped a hand over your mouth to silence yourself when his lips finally found your core, his quiet moan vibrating against you when he discovered how wet you were for him already. Your other hand found the back of his head, your fingers weaving through his long, soft locks.

His beard scratched against your thighs as he feasted. He knew your body so well now that not even the perfect world of fiction could compare. He made your legs so weak that if he wasn’t propping you up, you’d be on the floor.

The feeling of him between your legs was like heaven, especially when he’d tease your clit. You wanted to stay in this moment forever, you also wanted him inside you, and you wanted to reach your peak.

“Ari” you whimpered, your fingers gripping his hair tightly.

You felt him smirk against you before diving back in. Except this time his lips wrapped around your clit and he slipped two thick fingers inside you. You had to bite your fist to stop yourself from screaming, especially when his fingers curled against that golden spot and fireworks exploded as you hit your peak.

Ari worked you through the waves of your orgasm, prolonging to the point that the entire world melted away. You hadn’t even noticed him rising to his full height until he cupped your cheeks and kissed you deeply, the taste of you on his lips.

“You’re doing so well keeping quiet” he murmured against your lips.

The kiss brought you back to life, energy surging through like electricity. Your hands quickly found his belt buckle and pushed down his deep green trousers enough to free him. You wrapped your fingers around him and pumped him a couple of times. Just the weight and feel of him in your hands made your core ache for him.

It was like Ari had read your mind because he hooked his hands under your thighs at the same time that you wrapped your arms around his shoulders to climb him like a tree. You buried your face into the crook of his neck to muffle your moan when he entered you.

Neither of you moved once he was fully seated inside you. You only breathed deeply as you took in the feeling of him filling you up completely. It was a feeling you never wanted to get used to and one you hoped you’d always have.

Soon enough you felt the overwhelming urge for movement, you turned your head to press kisses to his neck just below the ear “Move” you whispered pleadingly.

Ari chuckled softly “Anything for you” he said before thrusting up into you.

He started slowly but soon worked up to a fiercer pace. You clung onto him tightly, rolling your hips to meet his. You bit your lower lip to hold back your loud moan but you couldn’t stop the small gasps that escaped. It would be impossible for anyone to be silent when with Ari.

Your head tilted back against the bookcase, which Ari took advantage of as he pressed wet kisses to your neck and collarbone. You felt and heard books tumble to the floor but you didn’t care, you couldn’t care about anything except how great you felt.

You could feel your orgasm building and before you could even say anything it crashed over you and you couldn’t even think let alone speak. It felt like you ascended to a whole new plane of existence, Ari joining you shortly after as he hit his own peak.

Ari held you close as you came down from your mind-blowing high. His large hand cradled the back of your head as you nuzzled your head back into the crook of his neck.

“Can you stand?” Ari asked softly after a few moments.

You nodded “I think so” you muttered, still catching your breath.

Ari gave you a lopsided smile before pressing a soft kiss to your lips. He held onto you as he pulled out of you, a whimper falling from your lips at the emptiness. You leant back against the bookcase, feeling his spend slowly spreading down your thighs.

You watched as Ari picked up the fallen books with his clean hand and returned them to the nearby trolley to be reorganised later. When he returned to you he slipped his other hand back under your skirt. He smirked down at you as he collected the combined juices of your and his release, spreading it back up to your core.

“Let’s get you back to your office to get cleaned up” he murmured as he kissed you.

A couple of hours later you and Ari called it a night. There were still lots of books to sort through but you were both tired and just wanted to head back to his place to relax.

You were walking into the parking lot when Ari paused and cursed under his breath “I forgot to grab something from my office” he muttered glancing over his shoulder in the direction of his building.

“That’s fine,” you said wrapping your jacket around your tighter, it was a pretty cold December night, as you turned to go with him.

“It’s fine, you go get in the car,” he said passing you the keys “Get the heater going and lock the doors, I won’t be long” he promised.

“Okay see you in a second” you said as you started to make your way towards the car. Ari jogged off in the opposite direction towards his office.

Ari had parked under a street lamp but it was barely working. Flicking on and off periodically. You weren��t worried about it though, Ari had already seen to the campus sleaze.

You reached the car with no problem but as you reached for the handle you heard someone and your blood ran cold.

“Hey sugarplum what you doing out so late?” Lloyd said.

You quickly turned around to find him stood much closer than you thought. It was like he materialised out of the shadows and just the mere thought of him had summoned him like a demon.

“Large delivery, but heading home now,” you said gesturing to the car behind you.

“So soon? I’ve not seen you around in a while, maybe we should catch up” he smiled as he closed the distance between you, backing you against the car.

“Oh um well it’s late, uh maybe another time? I’m pretty tired” you stuttered as you leaned back to create some distance.

An evil smirk grew on his face “Tired or bored? I bet you’re bored to tears hanging out with that dull professor” he said “but don’t you worry, I can show you a good time”

His hands gripped your hips and you stopped breathing. Ari had kept hold of your underwear after cleaning you up, it was something that excited you at the time but now you regretted it. You didn’t want to think what Lloyd would do if he discovered you weren’t wearing underwear.

“Oh no thanks, I’m very happy as I am,” you said, your voice wobbling.

Lloyd smirked as he leant in to whisper in your ear “I don’t think that’s true”

Your entire body froze, eyes screwed shut when he pressed a disgustingly wet kiss below your ear. You whimpered but he just took that as a sign to carry on. He gripped you tighter, forcing his growing bulge against your stomach and kept kissing your neck.

“You like that now don’t-“ he started but he didn’t finish as suddenly he was gone.

You opened your eyes to discover Lloyd on the floor, Ari stood between the two of you “I told you to stay away” Ari growled, his fists clenched down by his sides.

Lloyd just laughed as he pushed himself to his feet “Please, she doesn’t want you, she wants me even if she doesn’t know it yet, I can read between the lines” he said before glancing around Ari to look at you “isn’t that right sugarplum?”

Ari snapped and surged forward, his fist connecting with Lloyd’s jaw. Lloyd stumbled back, the smirk disappearing and replaced by fury as Lloyd swung back and punched Ari.

You gasped in shock, hands covering your mouth as the two men brawled in front of you. It was a blur of punches and for a moment you couldn’t work out who was winning. This was a side of Ari you had never seen before. To your relief Ari got the upper hand, landing a hard punch to the side of Lloyd’s head causing him to stumble. Ari took advantage of his disorientation and grabbed his shoulders and threw him to the floor, pinning him down and shoving Lloyd’s face into the asphalt.

At that exact moment campus security finally appeared and rushed over “What’s going on here?” One of them demanded.

“Coach Hansen was sexually assaulting Miss Y/L/N“ Ari said keeping Lloyd pinned down even though he wasn’t fighting anymore.

“Is that correct miss?” The security guard said, you tore your eyes away from Ari and Lloyd and looked over to the guards, barely being able to bring yourself to nod in response “Okay, we’ll take it from here” he said.

Ari finally climbed off of Lloyd to let the security cuff him and pull him to his feet. You gasped quietly when you saw just how beaten and bloodied he was, how much Ari had beaten the crap out of him.

“Would you like us to report this to the police on your behalf?” The other guard asked you.

“I uh yes please” you muttered weakly.

“We’ll be in my office when they arrive” Ari told them before finally turning to face you.

Your heart stopped for a moment when you saw his split lip and brow. He didn’t look as bad as Lloyd but it was still difficult to see.

“Let’s go sweetheart” he said softly as he wrapped his arm around you to guide you away from Lloyd and to his office.

The entire walk to your office all you could hear was buzzing in your ears, your entire body felt numb. You hadn’t even realised you were in his office until he sat you down in his brown leather office chair. You blinked a couple of times and looked over at him as grabbed a first aid box from the far corner.

The sudden urge to take care of him took precedence over how you were feeling “Let me” you said standing up and taking the kit from him.

“Sweetheart-“ Ari protested.

“Ari please” you pleaded.

You needed this right now, you needed to look after him, you needed the distraction.

“Okay” he relented softly, he moved to perch on the edge of his desk.

You grabbed what you needed before standing in between his legs to clean up his cuts. He didn’t even wince as you did so, he just looked defeated as he watched you work.

“Are you okay?” He asked quietly drawing your eyes to his.

You took a deep breath “I don’t know” you admitted.

Ari sighed “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have- I just saw him crowding you and I-I snapped” he apologised.

“No, don’t apologise I’m glad you did that, if you hadn’t been there I…” you trailed off, you didn’t need to think too hard about what would have happened.

“It’s my fault I shouldn’t have left you alone, I should have known that he wouldn’t have left you alone after I-“ he said before silencing himself.

“After you what?” You asked, brows furrowing.

“Threatened him and told him to stay away” he sighed dropping his head.

“Ari” you muttered in disbelief.

“I know it’s stupid I know but after I caught him in the library and saw how upset it made you I knew I had to say and do something,” he said shaking his head “Nobody gets away with making the people I love uncom-“

“Love?” You interrupted, your jaw dropping in shock.

The corners of his lips twitch upwards “Yeah” he said softly “it may have taken me far too long to realise my feelings for you but once I did I fell hard. I love you Y/N”

You let out a watery chuckle and smiled at him “I love you too” you said pressing a gentle kiss to his lips.

Ari smiled into the kiss as he cupped the back of your head to keep you there “How do you feel now?” He asked after a moment.

“Better” you smiled softly “I know I probably haven’t processed what happened yet and I don’t know how I’ll feel when I do” you sighed “but I know I have you so that doesn’t scare me”

“Good, and I’ll be right there beside you I won’t let anything like this happen again” Ari promised as he cupped your cheeks.

“Thank you Ari” you smiled.

“Anything for you sweetheart” he smiled before kissing you deeply once more.

The feeling of his protection enveloped you. You knew that difficult days were ahead of you but with Ari by your side, you knew you could not only face it, but survive it.

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 3 months ago

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Boston Bears: Fake Out - Rugby Player! Ari Levinson x Reader (Part 2)

Summary: After a week back on the East Coast you start your new job at the Boston Bears only to find out your boss has an interesting job for you.

Word Count: 7.6k words

Warnings: Language! Angst! Mention of Cheating! Sexual Tension!

Rugby Explained

Dividers by Me!

Fake Out Series Masterlist /Boston Bears Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 2

You were sat with your chin resting on your knee, on Elena’s bed which technically was your bed now. You glanced around the room which was now yours, the entire apartment was yours. The first thing Elena did Tuesday morning was put your name on the lease and take her name off. That evening she started packing up her stuff and helped unpack yours.

It didn’t feel like your apartment though. You wondered whether it would when she was fully moved out and only the small collection of your belongings remained. But then it would just be as empty as you felt, most of your things were back in LA and you wouldn’t get them back for another couple months.

Even now the apartment felt quiet. Elena was at work and it was just you. The silence was deafening. Elena had asked if you wanted her to stay a couple night to keep you company but you lied and said you were fine. Last night you had just stared up at the ceiling until exhaustion finally took over.

You were pulled from your thoughts by your laptop coming to life. A video call from your parents. You’d been expecting this, your mom had texted you yesterday to ask what was going on. You hadn’t felt ready to tell them yet so you said they could call you today.

“Hey mom, hey dad” you forced a smile as the call connected and you saw the concerned faces of your parents.

“Hey sweetpea, how you feeling?” Your dad asked with a sympathetic look.

You let out a weak chuckle “shit” you admitted. There was no point denying it, they knew how you felt even if they didn’t know why.

“Has this got something to do with Dan calling us to ask if you were here?” Your mom asked softly.

You nodded, you expected that too. Dan had called Elena Monday evening, she played dumb and said she didn’t know where you were and if she did she wouldn’t tell him “did he tell you why?”

“No he didn’t, he just asked us to call if you turned up” your dad told you.

You scoffed and shook your head. He didn’t tell Elena what he’d done either, didn’t admit his mistake “Did you tell him I was with El?”

Your mom shook her head “No we didn’t, we knew that you clearly didn’t want to be around him and we respected that”

“Thank you” your voice felt weak as you looked down “The um- the wedding’s off… he’s been cheating on me with the wedding planner”

“The motherfucker!” Your dad growled shooting up from his seat, only sitting down when your mom grabbed the back of his sweater and tugged him to sit back down.

“More like wedding planner fucker” you joked weakly.

Your mom sighed “I’m so sorry sweetheart you don’t deserve that, he doesn’t deserve you either”

“Is El looking after you?” Your dad asked.

You nodded “She’s at work now but yeah she has, she’s given me her apartment and her and Chris got me a job working in the PR department with the Bears, I start tomorrow they’re gonna give me a bit of an induction ahead of the game again Washington on Friday night”

“That’s good, will you be travelling with them?” your dad asked.

“No the PR and comms team takes it in turns to go on the road and report back, I’ll just be shadowing the team who stay in Boston and post updates on the match etcetera” you explained.

The new job was a bit of a step down, not just in pay. You’d gone from one of the best PR firms on the West Coast that handled movie stars to being a PR and Comms staff for a sports team. But it was just temporary, you’d find something with better pay once you were a bit more settled.

“Well I’m sure you’ll smash it darling” your mom said, making you snort quietly they’d been living in the UK for less than a year and the British vernacular had already snuck in.

“Thank you and I’m so sorry that the wedding has been called off, I know you guys have put a lot of money into it” you sighed, guilt wracking your body.

“Sweetpea, money means nothing if you’re unhappy, we’d rather you be happy than marry that piece of shit because of the money that’s been spent,” your dad told you.

“And look the wedding wasn’t going to be until spring so we might be able to get some of the deposits back,” your mom said “Why don’t you leave that with us to sort and you just focus on yourself and your happiness”

“Thanks mom, that would be really helpful,” you said, a lump of emotion forming in your throat.

“What are you going to do about Christmas? You’re more than welcome here” your dad said.

“I don’t know, I’ll have to look into it, money is gonna be a bit tighter now and I don’t know what my work commitments will be” you sighed with a shrug of your shoulders.

“That’s okay let us know as soon as you know what you’re doing, you know we’d love to have you” your mom smiled.

“Thanks Mom,” you said before chuckling quietly “I don’t know why I was so scared to have this chat”

“You never have to be scared to talk to us, the only person who should be scared is that piece of shit, I swear he’s dead when I next see him” your dad swore.

You chuckled “that’s good to know, so how is rainy Britain?” You asked to change the topic.

You and your parents caught up for the next hour or so, by the time you finally ended the call you felt so much better. You wished they were here to hug you and make you feel better but just talking to them did enough to make you feel a little less empty. It made taking on the next chapter of your life less scary.

Your first couple of days working at the Bears had been a whirlwind. While you were mostly shadowing over the weekend it still felt like you had been dropped in the deep end. The entire office was a hive of activity during the game. You were used to this level of activity being a bad thing because it meant someone was having a PR disaster. But in this new world, it was a good thing because it meant the team was winning.

You had to admit the excitement was a little contagious, the entire PR team were avid fans. Cheering and complaining at the ref as the game played on the big screen. You didn’t know much about the sport nor the players so you couldn’t follow it very well. You did see Ari get sent off for a yellow, one of your colleagues said he was lucky it wasn’t a red but there was enough mitigation that his high tackle remained as a yellow. What that actually meant you had no clue.

It was Monday morning when your new boss, Steph called you into her office.

“Is everything okay? I haven’t done something wrong have I?” You asked as you followed her into her office.

“No, no, you’ve been great! Frankly, you’re overqualified” She smiled as she sat down “I just want your input on something that’s all” She gestured for you to sit.

“Oh I’m very flattered, I know I don’t know much about the rugby world,” you said bashfully as you sat.

Steph smiled softly “You’ve done a lot of PR work with celebrities back in LA right?” She asked leaning back in her chair.

“Yes my company worked with a lot of celebs” You nodded shifting in your seat.

“Did you do a lot of PR relationships?” She then asked.

You nodded your head again “Yeah there are not as many PR relationships in Hollywood as people think, but I have worked on quite a few”

“Good, so what makes a successful one?” She asked.

“Um well, it depends on what image you’re trying to get across” you explained.

“Someone settled, someone you can trust and is moving past their wildcard days” Steph supplied gesturing with her hands in a vague manner.

“Right well you want someone who is that kind of person, no one who grabs the spotlight for the same reasons you’re trying to fix” you told her.

She sat forward and started taking notes “What else?”

“You have to make sure the people are well matched, if one of them has a clear type then you need the meet that type. So if someone has publicly said they like a woman with curves you can’t set them up with a Victoria’s Secret model” you explain.

She hummed studying you for a moment before returning to her notes “Anything else?”

“A mutual connection helps, makes it more believable. If fans and media outlets can easily trace how they would have potentially met then they’re more likely to believe it. So in this case if it was someone a fellow teammate knew, there’s a clear link, if you pick someone who has no connection to the player people are going to be suspicious” you continued.

“And you’re close with Elena and Chris aren’t you?”

Your brows furrow for a moment confused as to what the relevance was “uh yeah Elena is my best friend, I don’t know Chris that well though” you shrugged your shoulders.

“Okay” she hummed tapping her pen against her chin in thought.

“Are you considering it for one of the players?” You asked.

“Yes, I’ve never suggested one before though, usually you just send the players to charity events but he needs a long-term solution” she explained.

“Well if you want I could maybe take the lead, or advise?” You suggested.

A smile tugged at her lips “I’ll keep that in mind, thank you for your insight I have a lot to think about before my meeting with him tomorrow”

“No worries glad to help, is there anything else you need?” You asked.

“No thanks, can you go with the team who will be filming training content? Familiarise yourself with that?” She suggested.

“Of course” you nodded before getting up from your seat.

As you walked back to your desk you wondered which of the team needed a PR relationship. You barely knew any of them, so you could only go on what El had told you. Chris was out for obvious reasons, from what you knew of Curtis you doubted it was him. Ari came to mind but you instantly shook that thought from your head. Not because you didn’t think it was him, but because you didn’t want to work with him. You settled on Johnny instead, even though El said he was a bit of a secret softie he was known as a player.

You nodded to yourself, yeah it had to be Johnny. You instantly thought of different strategies for him, where to stage the dates. He’d be an easy client too, the only problem would be getting him to keep it in his pants. You just hoped that whatever reason he had would be incentive enough to keep him in line.

Ari grunted in pain as Elena dug her hand into the back of his shoulder “Jesus fuck woman” he complained, fists clenched “Do you get off on torturing people or something”

Ari hated physio, he swore it was just the medical team’s excuse to get some revenge.

“It’s your own fault you’re here” she pointed out as she continued to work on his shoulder.

He knew she meant his high tackle that resulted in a yellow card and sore shoulder “There was mitigation” he reminded her.

“You were lucky, if Chris hadn’t tackled him too your shoulder would have gone straight into the wolves’ head and it would have been a red” Elena pointed out as she finally stopped working on his shoulder.

“Like I said mitigation” Ari said as he sat back up sending a smirk her way.

She rolled her eyes “That’s not the only reason I’m pissed at you” she said with a pointed look as she grabbed a towel and wiped her hands clean.

Ari dropped his shoulders with a heavy sigh instantly knowing what she meant again. You. You had been on his mind for over a week now. He was pissed off at himself for the way he treated you, he kept replaying the situation to see what he could have done differently. In the perfect situation, you would have ended up in his arms as he comforted you. He wanted to apologise and make it right but he also didn’t want to make it worse.

“i know, i just haven't seen her to apologise” he sighed glancing down at his hands.

“Haven’t seen her or avoided her?” Elena asked with a brow arched “She was in the gym on Monday”

“I was at my 1-2-1 analysis while she was there” Ari reasoned “getting ripped into by your dad for that yellow” he added a pointed look.

Elena shrugged “You deserved it”

“Whatever” Ari huffed as he pushed himself off the medical bed “Look I promise I'll apologise to her now, I’m heading up to the PR office for a meeting after this”

“What do you need PR for?” Elena asked her brows furrowed.

“I want to make the national team this summer, your dad said I need to improve both on and off the pitch” Ari explained as he grabbed his top and pulled it back on.

Elena nodded “It is criminal that you haven’t been picked yet” she hummed “Don’t worry I’m sure whatever Y/N has cooked up will work, she’s the best around” she winked before pointing at him “Just don’t make her life difficult, she’s been through enough shit” she warned.

Ari held his hands up in surrender. He still didn’t know the full picture, only that you were back on the East Coast without your engagement ring. He’d asked Chris what had happened but he said it wasn’t his story to share “I swear, I won’t” he promised “You can beat the crap out of me if I do”

Elena smirked “Good, now go on and stop doing stupid shit,” she said waving him out of the medical room.

Ari huffed as he walked out, he wanted to stop doing stupid shit too. But that was easier said than done. He’d been told that he was hot-headed for as long as he could remember, there were times when it felt like he blacked out and one came back around after he’d done the stupid shit. Like the fight he started at the cup final, he remembered seeing Bryce make the illegal tackle on Chris and then the next thing he remembered was Bryce on the floor below him as he landed multiple blows to the face.

He’d always been like this. Like there was pent up anger he had at the world. He could blame the first five years of his life for that. He was signed up to play rugby at the age of 7 at the advice of his teachers to try and work through a lot of that anger. Rugby helped a lot, it gave him somewhere to direct his anger and frustrations and work through it in a healthier way.

It didn’t take away all the pressure though, evident by the way he shouted at you. Another moment when his frustrations got the better of him and he blacked out. He just hoped that you would accept his apology.

He spotted you as soon as he stepped into the PR and Comms office. He couldn’t help the smile that tugged at his lips as he looked over you. You were standing at a coworker's desk, looking over his shoulder at something on the screen. You had a contemplative look on your face, your red-tinted lips pursed. You listened to whatever your co-worker was saying before nodding your head, arms crossed over your chest. You were wearing a red sweater that seemed a little baggy on you but still looked incredible. Especially with the black skirt and knee-high boots you were wearing.

When you finished what you were saying you finally looked up and over at him. The expression on your face became guarded as you studied him. He expected you to tilt your head up in defiance but you did the opposite. Your chin dropped as you went to move back to your desk, shoulders turned inwards.

Ari internally cursed at himself, he’d fucked up majorly if you weren’t fighting back against him like you did back in LA.

“Y/N,” he said as he stepped in your path.

“Ari,” you said forcing a smile as you looked up at him, which was wrong you should have crossed your arms and arched an unimpressed brow at him.

“I wanted to apologise for the other week, I was out of line” he apologised “I was tired and was having a shitty day and I took my anger out on the first person I came across”

“That’s no excuse” you pointed out as you looked down at your feet.

That response was closer to what he expected from you, the words were right but the delivery was off. The words should have been sharper, not downtrodden.

“You’re right it's not,” Ari said before holding his arms out “So c’mon rip into me” he invited with a playful smirk “We both know how well you can do it, knock me down a peg or two”

You studied him for a moment. Ari could see the gears turning in your head which made his smirk grow. He knew you were going to come out with something brilliant, something that would knock a less confident man out. He couldn’t wait. He wanted to see that side of you again, he wanted to play.

“I’ve got work to do” you muttered as you dropped your gaze and stepped around him.

Ari frowned as he turned around “Y/N” he muttered in disbelief, his hands dropping back down to his side.

“I’m busy Ari and I’m sure you have training or something” you sighed as you refused to look at him as you gathered a notebook from your desk.

“Y/N c’mon” he pressed stepping in your way as you went to walk away again, “I said I was sorry, why are you still freezing me out?”

“Apology accepted, now leave me alone I have a meeting” you said looking up at him with a tired expression on your face.

Ari’s brows furrowed in concern as he took you in, how tired and worn out you looked. It made his fists clenched. Whatever happened back in LA did this to you and he wanted to know what so he could beat the crap out of it.

“Y/N,” he said softly.

He reached out to put a hand on your shoulder, feeling the need to provide comfort in any way he could. He wanted to ask what happened, what he could do to make it better and bring back the version he knew.

He didn’t get the chance though, before his hand even made contact he was interrupted by Steph “Ah Ari, perfect timing, we have the perfect strategy for you” she smiled from her office.

He didn’t look away from you so he saw how your brows furrowed in confusion, looking over at Steph and then back at him.

He let out a quiet sigh as he took a step back “Glad to hear it” he said as he turned and walked towards her office.

He stopped though when she said “Good, right c’mon Y/N” She waved for you to join.

He looked over his shoulder and saw you take a deep breath as you looked down at your boots. The fake smile plastered on back on your face when you looked back up and said “Of course”

Ari blinked in surprise when you walked past him into Steph’s office. You didn’t know he was your meeting and clearly weren't happy being trapped in a small office with him for the next half an hour or so. Evident by the way you sat in one of the furthest away chairs.

“Right I have decided on the best strategy for you, and I want to remind you that you said you’d do anything” Steph said as Ari sat down in his chair.

“That doesn’t concern me at all” he smirked as he leant back.

“Trust me this will work” Steph smiled “We’re going to set you up with a PR relationship for the rest of the season”

Ari arched a brow, he wasn’t expecting that at all. He expected lots of charity work, which he wouldn’t have minded, but not this “a relationship?”

“Yes, we want to portray you as settled or at least settling, what better way to do that than a relationship” Steph said with a proud.

Ari nodded slowly as he took in the information “With who?”

The smile on Steph’s face widens “Well we want this to work so I’ve brought in the best” she grinned before turning her attention to you “Y/N will be the perfect match”

“Excuse me?” you squeaked in surprise.

Ari frowned, you had clearly been blindsided by this idea. Something that didn’t sit right with him, it wasn’t fair on you.

“Yes you said so yourself, there needs to be a mutual connection and you were the only person we found that had one” Steph explained as she gestured over to you “Plus you know how to do this better than anyone, I trust you to take lead on this”

“Steph this isn’t going to work” you stuttered sitting forward in your chair “I’ve just broken off an engagement, no one would believe this”

“Is there any evidence of your relationship online?” Steph asked, her head tilted in question.

“Uh- no, I- I deleted everything,” you said your voice cracking.

“Well that’s one less thing to worry about, plus it's not uncommon for people to get into a relationship soon after another” Steph points out.

“There must be someone else” you pleaded.

Ari’s heart broke, as much as he would love just the chance to be your boyfriend even if it was just pretend, he didn’t want to make you uncomfortable.

“Not someone who fits the criteria you gave me, and we need this to work for Ari” Steph sighed, her voice sympathetic “you’ll be in charge and will take the lead on it so you’ll have control over what happens, you can make it suit you, I only ask that it's believable” she continued before turning her attention back to Ari “what do you say?”

Ari took a moment before turning and looking at you, hoping his expression conveyed how sincere he was “I’m in if you’re in” he said softly “I need this and I trust you, but if you really don’t want to do it then we don’t have to”

You sat there stunned, staring back at him with a look of panic in your eyes.

“Why don’t I leave you two to talk it through some more and get back to me when you’ve come to a decision” Steph said as she stood from her chair and strode out of the room.

Once she was gone Ari turned to look at you, your hand was resting on your heaving chest, the look of panic in your eyes getting worse.

“Hey, hey, hey,” Ari said moving to crouch in front of you, keeping enough distance between the two of you to make sure you were comfortable “Take some deep breaths,” he told you, when you didn’t respond he put a cautious hand on your knee “deep breaths sweetheart”

You finally responded to him and took the deep breaths you needed, your eyes finding his. He watched as the panic slowly faded from them with every deep breath you took.

“Feeling better?” he asked after a moment.

“Not really” you admitted as you shook your head, “I thought it was gonna be Johnny that needed this not you” you muttered as you rubbed your forehead “and that I would just be leading it not actually part of it”

“Yeah, I didn’t like how she blindsided you with that” Ari told her earning a huff of a laugh from you.

“You could say that again” you mumbled “What do you even need this for? I mean you got yellow cards recently but I thought those weren’t a big deal”

Ari nodded his head “Normally they’re not, but if I don’t reign myself in this season I won’t make the national team, the head coach is gonna be watching me and I want him to know he can trust me” he explained.

“You’re doing this for a spot on the national team?” you questioned “Seems a bit extreme”

Ari let out a small chuckle “Yeah well I’m pretty desperate, it’s been a dream of mine ever since I was a kid, a dream that hasn’t happened yet” he admitted.

“Right” you muttered looking down at your fiddling hands.

“Can I ask what happened back in LA?” Ari asked, causing your eyes to shoot back up at him.

You took a couple of moments before admitting “My fiance cheated on me with the wedding planner”

“The fucker” Ari growled making you jump “Sorry” he apologised taking a deep breath to calm himself “Well dating a sexy rugby player is a great way to say fuck you to him” he then smirked.

You rolled your eyes “Yeah but Johnny’s not the one who needs it” you muttered making Ari grin. This was the side of you that was missing, it wasn’t completely gone it just needed coaxing back out.

“There she is” Ari whispered earning a small confused frown from you “Look I won’t lie to you and say I don’t need this because I really really do, but considering all the shit you’re going through and the fact I don’t think you’ve actually accepted my apology” Ari continued “it's up to you, take the time you need to think it through and I promise if you decide to do this I won’t make your life difficult and I’ll do whatever you say”

You took a deep breath and nodded your head “Yeah okay… I’ll think it through and I’ll um get back to you”

“Great, that's all I can ask for” Ari said standing back up “And look I’m sorry about your fiance, he’s a dick and clearly insane for not realising he already had the most incredible woman on the planet” he said, Your lips parted in surprise as you stared up at him.

You went to say something but Ari didn’t want to hear you turn him down so he just flashed you a smile and walked “See you soon” he said as he stepped out.

You thought about Ari’s proposition all day and still couldn’t come to an answer. You thought it would be a simple answer, a straight-up no, but you couldn’t bring yourself to say it. There was a small niggling thought at the back of your mind that was holding you back.

So instead of going straight home after work, you went to Chris and Elena’s house to talk it out with them. Hopefully hearing them say it was an insane idea would reassure that little thought and you could just say no.

So here you were sitting on the couch, feet tucked up beneath you as you cradled a cup of tea. You would have preferred a glass of wine or something stronger but you needed a clear head, drunk decisions were almost always bad decisions.

“Right, so what is it that Steph wants you to do?” Elena asked as she sat down on the adjacent couch next to Chris, their dog Dodger jumping up to join them.

“She wants me to be Ari’s fake girlfriend for the rest of the season” you sighed, running your finger around the rim of your mug.

“Why you?” she questioned.

“Because I stupidly gave her the perfect criteria and I match it” you scoffed shaking your head “the mutual connection, someone who’s looking to settle down” you didn’t say the part about being his type because you weren’t quite sure what to do with that information yourself.

“And there’s no one else?” Chris asked as he scratched Dodger behind the ear.

“Apparently not” you shrugged, “Steph said she trusted me because of my expertise in the area”

Chris hummed and nodded his head “What did Ari say about it?”

“He’s in, said he’s desperate to make the national team and is willing to do whatever it takes” you sighed, taking a sip of your tea.

“Makes sense, he’s 30 now, will be 31 by the next world cup and 35 at the one after, but he might have retired by then” Chris shrugged “This might be his last chance”

You let out a small huff “Thanks that doesn’t make me feel guilty at all”

Chris gave you an apologetic smile “Sorry, it’s just that being his captain I want to see him make that team, it would be awesome to play alongside him at the world cup”

“Why is it that you don’t want to do it? I mean before last week you two seemed to get on pretty fine” Elena asked as she sat forward a bit.

That was another problem. You two did get along well, too well. You could recall the first time you saw him, you noticed him the moment he walked into the hotel. It was like a moment in a romance novel when the female lead sees her love interest and the whole world stops for a moment.

You’d looked away before he spotted you, you were engaged and couldn’t be ogling other men. When he came over and shook your hand it made your entire body jolt and your next breath felt like the very first. You tried to put up a front and push him away but he kept coming straight back and you felt your resolve breaking. You had felt so guilty at the time, especially when you had a less-than-innocent dream about him that night.

You had tried to forget about him, but he seemed rooted in your mind. When you watched the livestream of the cup final you told yourself it was for Elena’s sake, even if you had told her you wouldn’t be watching. But deep down you knew it was because of a large man with gorgeous long locks and a thick beard.

“Because I just got out of a long-term relationship” you landed on with a sigh “I can’t just fall back into another one”

“It's not a real one though” Elena pointed out “You’ll still be single, and you’ll have time to be single for a while without interference and find who you are without Dan”

“I guess” you sighed.

“And we both know Dan is going to work out you’re here if he hasn’t already, if he saw you had moved on with a big beefy rugby player he’s gonna be too scared to try and win you back” Elena added.

“You know when I came over I expected you to agree that it was a bad idea” you pointed out over the top of your mug, taking another large sip.

Elena chuckled “I’m sorry but I wouldn’t be a good friend if I straight up lied to you” she pointed out “I understand where you’re coming from but I can see how this benefits you too”

“Yeah and frankly i don’t think you could find someone better to do this sort of thing with” Chris added.

“You really think you should do this?” you sighed.

“I think you should at least give it a go” Elena nodded.

You took a deep breath. Everything they said was true, yeah you would be in a fake relationship in person but in private you would be single and undisturbed. Ari would provide you with that privacy, and in return, you could help him achieve his childhood dream.

“Okay fine I’ll do it” you sighed in resignation.

Elena smiled back excitedly “Yes this is gonna be great!” she grinned “You should let him know now”

“Not now, we’ll have to go over the rules and the plan,” you said shaking your head.

“You could invite him over here? Go over it together with us?” Chris suggested with a shrug of his shoulders.

“You’re not going to drop this are you?” you sighed knowingly.

“Nope. please this is so exciting! It's like something out of a movie!” Elena grinned.

You rolled your eyes “Fine, but I don’t have his number so you’ll have to call him”

“Sure not a problem” Chris said reaching into his back pocket to grab his phone.

Faster than you expected Ari was knocking on the front door. Dodger instantly ran to greet him, you could hear Ari’s deep chuckle down the hallway. Chris and him were chatting as they walked towards the living room. You noticed that his long hair was damp, it wasn’t raining so you wondered whether he’d just gotten out of the shower when Chris called. The mental image of Ari in the shower flashed through your mind, your mouth went dry at the image, all the moisture travelling elsewhere. You cleared your throat and shifted in your seat as you pushed the mental image from your mind.

Ari’s gaze shifted to you and a lopsided smile grew on his lips “Y/N” he greeted.

You cleared your throat again “Ari”

“Chris said you wanted to talk to me about the whole fake dating thing,” he said as he walked over and sat on the same couch as you.

You took a deep breath, which you quickly regretted because even though he was sitting on the opposite end of the couch you could smell his body wash. It was pine with a hint of citrus, it was fresh and comforting all at the same time.

“Uh yeah, I uh thought it over and I think we should do it but we have to lay out some rules” You shifted and turned towards him, fidgeting with your hands in your lap.

“Of course, like Steph said you’re in charge and I’m your puppet” he smirked reclining back, arm resting across the back of the couch.

Your gaze shifted to his hand, his long thick fingers which were now much closer to you. You hadn’t noticed how large his hands were. Your mind started down the rabbit hole again, you wondered how warm and comforting they were. How they might feel against your body… holding you…

“So what rules have you got in mind?” Ari’s fingers drummed against the couch breaking you out of your trance.

“Right yes rules” You cleared your throat, shifting further away from him “Well obviously we cannot tell anyone about this, the fewer people that know the better”

Ari nodded “of course, I’m assuming you two won’t say anything” he glanced over to Chris and Elena.

“Lips are sealed” Elena confirmed, “what about your parents though Tommi?”

You shrugged your shoulders “with them in England it should be fine, especially since we’re gonna take this slow, a whirlwind romance doesn’t sell settling down” you looked over at Ari who was rubbing his hand over his beard “what about your parents?”

“Same as you, they’re travelling” he hummed “How slow are we taking this?”

“Uh well we need to lay some groundwork first” you explained “like establishing that I’m here in Boston not LA”

“What about your ex? Are you sure you want him to know that?” Ari frowned, hand dropping back down to the back of the couch.

“Not really, but I’ve blocked him and any of his friends so I should be fine,” you told him.

Ari tightly nodded “As long as you’re sure, so what’s after that?”

“Uh well, maybe a social event that we’re both at, somewhere where we can appear in the back of photos chatting?” you suggested.

“Johnny is throwing a Halloween party next week? You could be my plus one” Elena suggested.

“What about me?” Chris huffed looking over at Elena.

“You have your own invite meatball” Elena slapped his chest, shaking her head at him.

“Okay yeah that works, there will be group photos and we can be in the background of a couple” you nodded thinking it through in your head “It’ll establish a when and where we met”

“But we met back in LA, don’t tell me you forgot that lunch?” Ari pointed out, a fake look of hurt on his face.

You rolled your eyes “It will establish it for people online” you clarified before taking another deep breath “And then after that, we need a time where we meet up, maybe as a four?”

“We can go to brunch?” Chris suggested.

“Perfect, and then we just need to go out a couple of times just us two but we can decide on that later, are there any events I should be aware of?” You asked glancing around at everyone, only allowing yourself to look at Ari for a second or two.

“Only Thanksgiving and the Christmas charity dinner at the beginning of December, the rest of our events are at the end of the season” Ari explained.

“You don’t go home for Thanksgiving?” You frowned, you couldn’t imagine not spending time with your family for Thanksgiving. Although it didn’t look like you’d be able to fly to England to celebrate with your parents this year.

“It depends on what day the match is that weekend, if it’s Sunday or Saturday some players do go home to family but if it’s Friday like it is this year my dad organises a team Thanksgiving for players who don’t have family in the state” El explained “players can bring a friend or their partner”

“Are you going to your parents?” Ari asked grabbing your attention.

You shifted in your seat, glancing down at your fiddling fingers unable to focus with his intense gaze “I don’t know, it might be too expensive this year”

“I could help if-“ Ari started but you interrupted. As much as you wanted to see your parents for Thanksgiving, you didn’t want to owe Ari money.

“No it’s fine, me going to this player's thanksgiving is good for PR, it can essentially confirm the relationship and then we’ll make our official outing as a couple at the charity dinner” you said with a sharp shake of your head.

It looked like Ari went to argue but when his eyes met yours his mouth snapped shut. He cleared his throat and nodded in agreement “sounds like a good plan… what else do we need to discuss?”

You were grateful for the slight change in topic but the only thing left to discuss was the part that made you the most uncomfortable. Public displays of affection. You knew you couldn’t outright ban it but you just weren’t sure how you felt about Ari holding you and kissing you.

“Right” your voice came out strained so you cleared your throat “Of course we will have to do some PDA but we should ease into it as a normal couple would and we should clear it with each other beforehand”

Ari nodded “Understandable, I’m not one for big displays of public displays of affection”

You breathed out a sigh of relief even though there was a small part of you that was ever so slightly disappointed. You pushed that part away though, you had just gotten out of a serious relationship, you needed to be single for a while and focus on yourself. Even if you did have to be in a fake relationship to do so. The irony was not lost on you.

“Cool I think that’s it for now, I’ll um plan out more of the strategy for later on is there anything you want to ask?”

“What’s the end date on this?” Ari asked.

“Well I guess once we know if you’ve made the team we can start putting things in place that lead to the eventual breakup” you shrugged “which works nicely since I’ll probably want to move onto a better-paid job in New York or something”

Ari frowned “You don’t plan on staying here?”

“You just got here” Elena pouted.

You looked over at Elena and felt instantly guilty “I know and I’m grateful for what you guys have done but sports PR is a bit of a step-down, I’m staying on the east coast though so we’ll be able to see each other easily”

Elena gave you an understanding smile “Guess I can live with that” she playfully rolled her eyes.

You smiled back before shifting your gaze back to Ari who still looked unhappy at the idea of you moving. For whatever reason you had no clue. You could practically see the cogs in his head turning as he looked back at you with an unhappy frown. It made your hands itch like you wanted to reach out and comfort him. It made you quickly jump up from the couch, you needed out. Especially when Ari’s frown changed to one of concern at your sudden motion.

“Right if that’s everything, I’m gonna head home because it’s been a long day” you ran your hand through your hair, pushing it from your face.

Ari slowly rose from the couch “Me too, I’ll walk you out” he said barely looking away from you as he said “Thanks for having us Evans”

Both Chris and Elena had amused looks on their faces as they looked up at you “sure we’ll see you both at the Halloween party” Chris nodded.

“Thanks, I’ll see you tomorrow El” You cleared your throat and grabbed your bag and made a swift exit.

Ari with his long legs had no issue keeping up with you, following you at the door and towards your car. His jeep parked next to yours, you had expected him to be more of an Audi kinda guy. You had seen more sides of him since landing in Boston than you expected. The angry, grumpy side, the cheeky side and a really calming and sincere side.

You couldn’t forget the way he put his hand on your knee and calmed you down with just that gesture in Steph’s office earlier today. The way he had apologised and told you how blind your ex was. An apology that you had yet to officially accept. You paused as you reached your car, you couldn’t go into a fake relationship and not accept his apology.

With a deep sigh, you quickly turned around. Ari’s brow quirking in surprise as you looked up at him “I accept your apology for the other day, you had a bad day and so had I, it’s all water under the bridge”

Ari nodded “My bad day was no excuse, I am really sorry and I promise not to hurt you like that again” he held his hand over his heart.

“Thank you… I’ll um see you at the party or at work I guess” You nodded, and just as you turned back towards your car Ari spoke up.

“Hey I know you said about asking before doing public displays of affection, but what about the other kind of PDA?” Ari asked.

You frowned in confusion and turned to face him “What other kinds?” surprised to find him a couple of steps closer.

Ari smirked down at you “private displays of affection”

You let out a scoff that sounded more like a squeak “Definitely not”

“C’mon we can call it practice, the only reason I play well on game days is because of practice” he points out “It’ll mean you’re not as awkward when it happens”

“What about you?”

“Trust me the last thing I’ll be feeling is awkward”

You thought about his reasoning. You had seen plenty of fake couples who couldn’t sell it because they seemed uncomfortable in each other’s presence. The slight flinches here and there.

“Fine but you have to ask” you huffed starting to turn back towards your car.

“Good, so can I kiss you?” Ari asked

“Now?” You squeaked.

“Yeah I don’t see why not” he shrugged “It's dark, no one’s around, seems pretty perfect otherwise I’d have to sneak to your apartment or something and risk getting caught and that’ll blow the going slow part” he sighed.

“Fine! One kiss” you snapped glaring up at him.

Ari’s smirk grew as he stepped closer and cupped your jaw “one kiss” he promised with a whisper before leaning in.

Your intention had been to pull away a second later. It didn’t need to be anything more than a peck. But it was like your mind shortcircuited and instead of pulling away you stepped forward. Your hands moved to rest on his chest as he tilted your head back, his other hand moving to the small of your back to pull you closer.

You had planned to be the one to pull away but when Ari did you found yourself chasing his lips.

“I’d say that was a perfect practice attempt,” he said, voice low as his thumb brushed over your cheekbone.

That snapped you back to reality. You scurried back until your back hit your car door. Your hand touched your lips as they continued to tingle.

“Yes, right. Bye. I’ll um see you at work or the party or” you didn’t finish your sentence. You just got in the car, slammed the door shut and drove off as quickly as you could.

You glanced in the rearview mirror as Ari disappeared into the distance. You could see him laughing as he shook his head, watching you go.

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This series has no schedule, please don’t ask when it will be updated! Same goes for Masterlist, AO3 and Wattpad!

Fake Out Series Masterlist / Boston Bears Masterlist / Masterlist

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#NiamhWrites #Boston Bears Series #Boston Bears: Fake Out #Ari Levinson #Ari Levinson x reader #Ari Levinson x you #Ari Levinson x Y/N #rugby au #Rugby Player!Ari

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 7 months ago

Text

Burnin' On - Firefighter!Chris x Reader (Code Blue)

Summary: After a very long day you return home surprised to find Chris had waited for you

Word Count: 1.1k

Warnings: Major RTC! Mention of death and Injury! Angst! Brief Fluff!

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Meet the Characters!

Burnin' Up Masterlist / Series Masterlist / Masterlist

Code Blue

It was pretty late and you were still at work, going through your case files trying to find a new lead that you could pursue in the morning. Chris was working a 24-hour shift tonight so you decided to take advantage of that and stay late to see if you could make some progress.

You were just scrolling through some CCTV when your Captain left his office with a grave look on his face, radio in hand “Everyone there’s been a major multi-vehicle RTC with a large number of casualties, resources are stretched thin tonight so control has asked any available units to provide support, those with advance first aid training to assist paramedics and others for crowd control” he announced.

You already knew there had been a serious call out tonight thanks to Chris sending you the code to say he was responding, but it looked like you’d be joining him as you were someone with advanced medical training. Instantly everyone that was available was up on their feet, grabbing their jackets and heading out.

It was pouring down with rain which you knew would make responding that much harder, the rain drowned out so much noise that responders would have to shout to be heard. It would make treating the injured harder too as it would be much more harder to see.

When you arrived on the scene your stomach dropped when you saw the sheer scale of the incident. The accident involved a truck, multiple cars and a coach which had turned over onto its side. You couldn’t work out what could have happened but the slick roads would have been a factor.

You had yet to spot Chris but you guessed he was helping retrieve civilians from the coach that had overturned. You did spot Robert though who stood overlooking the scene and directing people.

“ROBERT!” You shouted over the rain, carefully jogging over to him the last thing anyone needed was you slipping and hurting yourself.

“Y/N, I’m glad you’re here” Robert shouted back “We’ve already had 3 fatalities and we don’t have enough rigs to transport people to the hospital” he explained.

“What can I do to help?” you asked trying to block some of the rain with your hand.

“We’ve set up a triage for those who can wait to go to hospital, tell anyone you’ve got with advanced medical training to find a paramedic and pair up with them to provide support, that should allow the paramedic teams to split up and help more people” Robert explained pointing over to the tents where the triage has been set up.

You nodded giving him a thumbs up before returning to the other police officers with advance training to pass on the message.

The next couple of hours were a complete blur as you helped treat the injured. You weren’t sure the exact number of people you treated, but it was a lot. At one point you did see Chris who seemed shocked to see you there, he sent you an ‘okay?’ signal which you nodded in response to, even if you were finding it difficult seeing so many people injured, some with life-changing injuries.

Eventually, everyone who needed hospital treatment was taken in an ambulance and those with minor injuries were taken home allowing you and other officers to return to the precinct. Everyone was visibly exhausted, not only physically but mentally too. By the time you left the fatality count had risen to 6, one of them being someone you’d been helping who had taken a sudden turn for the worse.

You felt numb by the time you arrived back at the precinct. The Captain allowed everyone to change into dry clothes and get some warm drinks before the debrief. He tried to keep it as brief as possible as everyone just wanted to get home to rest.

“I’ll leave it there tonight, everyone get some rest and remember to seek support if you need it, if anyone needs to start later tomorrow or take the day just let me know” Your captain nodded before allowing everyone to leave.

You made your way back to your desk, considering for a moment whether you wanted to carry on working before deciding to head home. You put away all your files before grabbing your bag and jacket. When you got into your car you sat there for a moment unable to bring yourself to start the engine and start the drive home.

The idea of sitting at home all alone didn’t sound appealing to you, it would just allow your mind to replay the events of tonight and make you feel so much worse. You needed Chris, just to see he was okay and for him to just hold you for a little while before heading home.

You weren’t sure if he’d even be back at the station yet or if he’d still be working to clear the scene but you decided to head there anyway. Much to your relief you could see the engine was parked up meaning they were back. The station still seemed quiet though as you made your way towards Chris’s office.

You quietly opened the door when you heard he was on the phone with someone “Yeah ma it… it wasn’t pretty, we lost more people than we should have” he sighed quietly as he paced back and forth “I’m okay though… yeah I think she’d really appreciate that especially as she’ll be home alone” he continued, still yet to spot you, he did then turn around and spot you “actually don’t worry she’s here”

You gave him a small smile as he finished talking to his mom “Ma was asking if you’d want her to pop around” he explained as he pocketed his phone.

“That’s sweet of her” You smiled softly, a warm feeling blossoming in your chest, you were still getting used to having a mother figure in Lisa.

“You feeling okay?” he asked as he walked over to you.

“Feeling pretty crap, one of the patients I was helping suddenly coded and we couldn’t get them back” you breathed out, your voice wobbling.

“Shit I’m sorry, c’mere” he sighed opening up his arms, you instantly stepped into his warm embrace feeling protected in his arms.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve responded to an RTC that large” you muttered into his chest.

“Me too, we had to extract the body of the coach driver, died on impact” Chris sighed rubbing your back soothingly.

“Shit, that’s awful” you whispered.

“We managed to save a lot of people today though, your help was a game changer” Chris reassured you, pressing a kiss to the top of your head.

“I just wished we could have saved more” you sighed.

“I know, we all do” Chris whispered, “are you gonna head home, my ma would be more than happy to have you or do you wanna stay here?”

“Can I stay here?” you asked looking up at him “I just want to be with you right now” you admit.

“Of course sweetheart” Chris said softly, cupping your cheek and kissing you gently.

You sighed into the kiss, grateful that no matter what you always had Chris to go to after a difficult day.

Sharing is caring so please reblog if you enjoyed this and maybe even leave a comment to make my day!

This series has no schedule, please don’t ask when it will be updated!

Burnin' Up Masterlist / Series Masterlist / Masterlist

I don’t have a tag list but follow @secretswiftymarvelfanlibrary and turn on post notifications to stay up to date!

#niamhwrites #burnin' on #burnin' up #firefighter!au #chris evans #firefighter!chris #chris evans x reader #chris evans x you #chris evans x y/n

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 2 months ago

Text

Boston Bears: Fake Out - Rugby Player! Ari Levinson x Reader (Part 4)

Summary: You and Ari continue to grow closer as you celebrate Thanksgiving and go to your first rugby game ever.

Word Count: 7.7k words

Warnings: Language! Mention of Cheating Ex! Alcohol Consumption! Sexual Tension! Fluff!

Rugby Explained

Dividers by Me!

Fake Out Series Masterlist /Boston Bears Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 4

Y/N: What kind of thing do I need to wear to this thanksgiving meal?

Ari: You’ll look great in whatever you wear x

Y/N: Knew I should have asked El

Ari: It’s smart casual so nothing too fancy and something that has some give because there’s enough food to feed an army or one rugby team

Ari: Can I ask you to wear something red? x

Y/N: Thanks, smart casual it is

You let out a small sigh as you looked over yourself in the mirror, you had decided to go for a red tartan skater dress. Not because Ari asked you to wear red, but because it was your nicest fall dress which gave you enough room to account for the food baby you were going to create. Although you weren’t sure how much food would be available after all the players got their hands on it.

Looking in the mirror, it felt like something was missing from the look, you had paired the dress with some brown knee-high leather boots and you had one of your new jackets to go with it. You were also considering wearing Ari’s denim sherpa jacket which was still hanging in your wardrobe despite your attempts to give it back. It would look good PR wise, and you had to admit you kinda liked the pine scent that lingered on it. You may or may not have given it a sniff or two whenever you opened your closet.

You moved to grab your phone so you could text Elena to see what she thought, but when you opened up your phone it opened up onto the text conversation you had with Ari yesterday. Your eyes landed on his request to wear red and it suddenly clicked. You tossed your phone back onto the bed and moved to your vanity, grabbing your favourite red lipstick.

After a couple of careful swipes, you looked back in the mirror and nodded to yourself. You used to wear red lipstick all the time in LA, it made you feel powerful, but since coming to Boston you’d opted for nudes and muted shades. The closest you got was a red-tinted balm. It had just felt a bit wrong to wear a bold colour, at least it had until now.

Your phone vibrated on your bed, it was Ari telling you that he was outside. You had nearly suggested that Elena and Chris could pick you up, or you could drive yourself, but you knew that arriving with Ari would look better. You had mentally kicked yourself for even thinking it, you had led multiple fake relationships back in LA but you didn’t realise how difficult it would be to actually be in one. Ari seemed to be a natural at it while you felt like a teen who had never been kissed and got jumpy at a simple touch. You really needed to get these feelings, whatever they were, under control. Not only because you were supposed to be enjoying single life and finding yourself but because you wanted this to work for Ari. You wouldn’t be able to live with yourself if this failed and he didn’t make the national team.

You texted him back to say you would be out in a minute before grabbing your new jacket, only to pause and scrap it in favour of Ari’s jacket. You grabbed your purse, threw on one of your new scarves and quickly made your way out. You found Ari parked up right outside your apartment block, leaning against his jeep looking down at his crossed feet. He hadn’t spotted you yet which gave you a moment to take him in because holy shit did he look incredible.

It was a relatively simple outfit, a charcoal sweater tucked into grey herringbone trousers and a long back coat. But he pulled it off like he was some GQ model. You had seen men dressed smart for work all the time, Dan had often worn a suit to work but Ari was on a whole other level.

He looked up when you took a few steps down towards him, a lopsided grin growing on his face as his eyes roamed over your body, “you look incredible”

“I’m starting to think this jacket is too casual” you admitted as you closed the distance.

Ari gently shook his head, “no, it's perfect” he opened up the passenger door for you and held out his hand to help you up “and I’m very happy you went with red” he whispered in your ear.

You felt your heat rise to your cheeks as you did your seatbelt, you were hoping that maybe he’d forgotten that request, but you knew that was never gonna happen.

It was a short drive to the training center where they were hosting the Thanksgiving meal. Ari held your hands as the two of you walked in together, not every member of the team was present, but most were. You spotted Elena and Chris stood on the far end of the large room talking to Elena’s dad and Coach Barber.

“Do you want a drink?” Ari whispered in your ear, his lips brushing over the shell of your ear, causing shivers down your spine.

“Uh yeah, a glass of wine would be nice, thank you” you nodded, glancing up at him.

“On it, back in a minute” he murmured, resting his hand on your back as he pressed a kiss to the top of your head.

You watched as he walked away towards the bar they had set up, before glancing around the room nervously, tugging at the cuffs of his jacket. You felt really out of place, even though you had been working for the team for over a month you still felt like an outsider. You decided not to wait for Ari to return and made your way over to Elena.

She smiled widely when she saw you approach, opening her arms out for a hug, “oh my god you look incredible”

“Thank you, you do too” you smile gesturing down to her outfit which consisted of blue checked trousers and a white long sleeved tee.

“Y/N, how lovely to see you, El said you’d moved back to the east coast” Coach Rogers smiled “how are you finding Boston?”

“Cold” you admitted honestly making everyone chuckle “but it’s good and thank you Mr Rogers for organising this meal, it's really sweet”

“I’ve told you plenty of times to call me Steve” Coach Rogers scolds gently “don’t make me sound like a broken record”

You chuckled looking down at your feet, you’d known Elena and her dad for years now, and it still felt strange to call him Steve, especially now that you worked for the same organisation.

“Sorry, I’ll try and remember” you smiled.

“There you are, I was worried for a second” Ari said, interrupting you as he came to a stop at your side.

“Sorry Levs, can’t keep us apart for long” Elena smirked.

Ari shrugged before passing you your drink “here you go sweetheart”

“Thank you, are you not drinking?” you asked noticing he didn’t have a drink for himself.

Ari glanced at his coaches and captain before shaking his head, “not with the game tomorrow, all the players aren’t allowed to drink”

“Glad to hear it Levinson, hopefully the players who aren’t here are abiding by that” Coach Rogers nodded in appreciation.

“Are you watching the game tomorrow?” Andy asked you.

“Oh” you muttered caught by surprise, you did actually have the day off tomorrow so you should be, it would look bad if you didn’t, but you also didn’t want to just sit there on your own watching a game you didn’t understand “uh yeah I am, it’ll be my first which is exciting” you nodded forcing a smile.

“You can be sure I’ll be playing at my best” Ari grinned as he wrapped his arm around your waist.

Coach Rogers smiled as he looked over at the two of you, “I’m sure you will Levinson, maybe you can finally convince Y/N how good Rugby can be” he smirked making you roll your eyes. Both Elena and Steve had been on at you whenever you visited to give rugby a shot.

“I’ve already won her over once” Ari said as he smiled down at you, almost lovingly, which made you purse your lips to stop yourself from smiling back.

“You two do seem very happy together… settled”, Coach Rogers nodded with a knowing smile “so don’t mess it up Levinson, her father might be across the pond but I’m here” he warned

“You won’t have to worry about that at all sir” Ari promised.

The six of you continued to chat until it was time to go sit down for the meal. As you went, you quickly stepped out of Ari’s hold to have a quiet word with Elena. Ari frowned when you stepped away, but you sent him a reassuring look as you went. You linked your arm with Elena and pulled her to the side.

“Hey, um I know you’re probably working tomorrow, but could you maybe teach me a bit about rugby?” you asked her quietly.

Elena’s eyes widened almost comically, “you want to know more about rugby?” she asked in disbelief.

“Yeah, if I’m supposed to be dating a rugby player I better at least understand it” you reasoned with a casual shrug of your shoulders.

An excited grin grew on Elena’s face and she bounced a little on the spot “yes! I’ve been waiting for this moment for years! I’ll go okay it with my dad and I’ll sit with you during the game tomorrow and explain it as they play, that’s the best way to understand it”

“Are you sure?” you asked.

“Yeah it’ll be great! I’ll make sure you get the proper rugby experience, you’ll be a fan in no time,” she smirked, “now you better go because your boyfriend is waiting for you”, she nodded. You looked in that direction to see Ari stood by your seats, waiting for you while everyone filtered around to get to their seats “how is that going?”

“Uh” you muttered slowly, drawing your attention back to her “Good, it’s um, it’s been fun”, you nodded, trying to find a good way to explain it.

“Good, you deserve some fun” she winked before stepping away to go sit down in her spot next to Chris and her dad.

You turned your attention back to Ari and walked over to join him, he pulled out your chair for you and placed a hand on your back as you sat down, “everything okay?”

“Yeah, El is gonna sit with me at the game tomorrow” you told him as he sat down next to you.

“Ah nice, you looking forward to it?” he asked as he unfolded his napkin and laid it across his lap.

“I think so, I caught a bit of the final and that wasn’t bad” you admitted with a small shrug, focusing your attention on your napkin because you caught more than just a bit, you watched the entire match.

A lopsided grin grew on Ari’s lips, “Well it’s a whole other game live,” he grinned, “you’ll love it”

You sent him a pointed look because you didn’t think you’d ever love rugby, “we’ll have to see”

Ari chuckled before returning his attention back to the food which was beginning to be passed around. He began loading up his plate while also helping you with yours. You couldn’t believe the amount of food he was putting on his plate, the sight of it alone could put you in a food coma. You had no idea how any of the players could run around a pitch tomorrow.

“How is this not against your diet plan?” you asked as you stared at the mountain of food on his plate.

“The day before a match is carb-loading day, so Thanksgiving is actually perfect” Ari explained with a grin.

“You rugby players are another breed” you muttered in disbelief.

You hadn’t been to a sports game in a long time, Dan took you to a baseball game once but that was completely different to the atmosphere in the stadium today. Your seats seemed to be pretty good, close enough to the pitch that the players weren’t tiny specs but high enough that you could see the entire pitch.

“Wine is not a drink for a rugby game so I got you a beer” Elena said, passing you your drink as she sat down next to you.

“Thanks”, you said, taking a couple sips of your pint “so what’s the basics I need to know?” you asked, looking out at the players who were warming up.

“Um, well they have to the pass the ball backwards, and get it over the try line over there” Elena said pointing to the try line “and when they score a try it has be converted by the fly half usually which is Chris” she continues pointing to Chris who was practicing his kicks.

“What position does Ari play?” you asked, scanning the pitch to find him, unable to spot his head of long hair anywhere.

“He’s a second row in the scrum, they’re usually the strongest and tallest on the team and they provide most of the power in the scrum, he’s right there doing tackling drills” Elena said pointing him out on the pitch.

You looked at where she was pointing and finally spotted him, your mouth going dry at the sight of him. You knew he was a large and muscular guy, but now that he was in his kit, which looked almost too small for him, you could see just how muscular he was. Especially those thighs which were bursting out of those shorts. The sight of them made you ache and cross your legs, shifting slightly in your seat. You had to shift your eyes away and decided to look above his shoulders, that was safer ground, just.

“What’s he wearing on his head?” you frowned, a bit disappointed that you couldn’t see his locks.

“A scrum cap, most players don’t bother with them but it protects their ears and I guess in Ari’s case it protects his hair” El smirked.

No wonder you couldn’t spot him with that cap hiding the long hair that you secretly loved and wanted to run your hands through.

“I don’t remember seeing him wear one during the final?” you hummed as you watched him warm up, when Elena didn’t say anything you looked over to see her smirking back at you.

“The chin strap broke so he had to use tape instead for his ears, he was really grumpy about it all”, Elena explained “you really paid attention to the clips you saw” she smirked into her pint.

You stuttered slightly as you tried to think of a good explanation, “well it’s pretty hard to miss that mop of hair” you landed on.

Elena snorted, “sure, anyway that’s kinda the jist, the only other main rules are that you can’t tackle a player above the shoulders, past the horizontal or while they’re in the air” she explained.

“Which is why that tackle on Chris in the final was a red because he was in the air and Bryce tipped him” you recalled as you sipped on your beer.

“Exactly, I still want to kill him for that”, Elena growled, shaking her head “And red cards stand for the rest of the match and sometimes lead to match bans, while yellows send the players to the sin bin for 10 minutes”

“Like in hockey?” You asked, you remembered representing a hockey player who spent far too much time in the penalty box.

“Yeah, that’s right, you’re picking this up quick,” Elena said, patting you on the shoulder “you’ll be an expert in no time” she winked.

“Well seems easy enough, is there anything else?” You shrugged.

“Loads, Ari can probably explain the scrum part better, but the rest I’ll explain as it happens because otherwise it’s overwhelming” Elena said with a wave of her hand “oh look our boys are looking this way!” She stood up and waved down to the pitch.

You stood up with her and looked in the same direction to see Chris and Ari stood together with water bottles in hand. Chris was beaming up at Elena, holding his hand up to wave back. You looked over at Ari to see him looking at you with a lopsided grin. You gave him a shy wave which he returned with a wave of his own, followed by him blowing you a kiss.

You then saw Johnny jog over clearly intrigued by what was going on, he looked up to see you and Elena and sent you an over-exaggerated air kiss. An act which had Ari spinning to face him and giving him a shove and exchanging harsh words. Chris stepped in between the two of them, sending Johnny away back to his warm up.

Elena whistled in appreciation, “possessive Ari is hot”

“He was not being possessive” you rolled your eyes as you sat back down.

“Are you blind? Yes, he is, he went all caveman at the Halloween party too,” Elena pointed out as she sat back down and took a large sip of beer.

“He has no reason to”, you shook your head.

“You’re a catch, only an idiot wouldn’t fight to keep you”, Elena said with a pointed look.

You rolled your eyes, “you know what I meant”

Elena nodded, “I do, but my point still stands,” she said, making you frown over at her “Look, I know you’ve been through hell but don’t let that stop you from finding something good, no matter how soon” she added quietly.

You looked back over at Ari, who was doing some stretches with the rest of the team, “it’s not that” you said quietly.

It couldn’t be. It was too soon, this was all fake. All of these feelings you had were because you had been starved of affection. They weren’t real feelings, they would all go away eventually as you got used to all of this.

“Okay, as long as you’re happy”, Elena said putting a comforting hand on your knee.

“I am” you said honestly.

You didn’t feel sad about what happened anymore, you were still pissed but you weren’t crying into a pint of ice-cream sad anymore. The only thing that lingered was the feeling of self-doubt, the thoughts of what you could have done or hadn’t noticed plaguing you. You felt like you had reverted back to the person you were before you met Elena, the shy girl who avoided confrontation. Maybe you had never stopped being that girl, maybe you did see the signs but ignored them to avoid confrontation. Heck, you didn’t even confront him when you caught him, you left a note and high-tailed it out of there.

“Right, it’s time for kick off”, Elena grinned, bouncing in her seat excitedly, rubbing her hands together “you’re gonna love it!”

You hummed noncommittally “we’ll see”

To your surprise, you found yourself really getting into it. The energy of the stadium was electric and infectious, Elena always said that you had strange telepathic abilities but you just felt like you fed off of people’s energies. You just got a gut feeling when someone was upset. You were definitely feeding off of Elena’s energy as she cheered and jumped up from her seat. You found yourself jumping up and cheering too when the Bears scored.

She explained what was happening between her cheers and you found it surprisingly easy to understand. You would have to ask Ari about scrums because even Elena couldn’t tell what was going on and why penalties were awarded.

“Okay, so they’re gonna do a line out so they’ll be lifting either Ari or Curtis up to catch the ball”, Elena said, pointing to where the forwards were gathering.

“They’re gonna lift Ari?” you asked in disbelief, you knew the players were strong but Ari was huge, could they really lift him?

“Yeah, they always lift the tallest players and since both Ari and Curtis are 6ft 4 they’re the ones” Elena explained.

“6ft 4?” you squeaked in surprise, you knew Ari was tall by the way he towered over you but hearing his exact height was shocking. It made you wonder whether everything was in proportion… his hands were big…

“Yeah, they’re not even the tallest players, there’s a guy who used to play for England that’s 6ft 7” Elena told you with a casual shrug.

“Jesus Christ what do they feed these guys?” you muttered in disbelief.

The rest of the game was pretty close, the Bears were losing by 3 points by the final couple of minutes. Elena said it was okay though because they had another lineout 5 meters out from the try line and they would easily push themselves over the try line.

It didn’t pan out like that though, you weren’t sure what exactly went wrong, but when they lifted Ari up into the air to catch the ball, it brushed past his fingers and into the hands of the opposition. You saw Ari swear as they dropped him back down, the Bears scrambling to regain possession. It was too late, the time ticked over to the 80th minute and the opposition kicked the ball out to end the game.

“Shit” Elena cursed running her hand through her hair “they were so close”

“What happened?” you asked, not able to take your eyes off of Ari who’s head was hanging low, fists clenched as he rested them on his hips.

“I don’t know”, Elena shrugged, “maybe the throw was mis-timed, or it just slipped through his hands, it's just unfortunate” She sighed “c’mon, we can head down to pitchside to meet them”

“Oh okay” you muttered following after her.

You made your way through the crowds who were trying to make their way out of the stadium. The security recognised Elena and let both of you straight through to pitchside. The players were still walking around the pitch to say thank you to the fans for their support, but you could see how disappointed they all were.

When they finally started to approach you, you spotted Chris first who smiled softly at Elena before jogging over to hug her. You stepped away from them and looked out to the rest of the players. Ari was at the back of the pack, his gaze set on his feet as he walked. He’d taken off his scrum cap so his hair was loose forming almost a curtain around his face.

When he finally looked up, your eyes met, he smiled but you could tell it was forced. He was pissed but was trying his hardest to hide it.

“Hey” you said softly when he reached you.

“Hey, did you enjoy the match?” he asked, running his hand through his hair to push it out of his face.

You nodded and smiled up at him, “yeah I did, sorry that you didn’t win” you said sympathetically.

Ari huffed and shook his head, “it’s my fault, I should have caught the ball”

“Hey no”, you said instinctively reaching out to put your hand on his bicep “no result depends on one moment”

Ari let out a long sigh, “still should have caught it”

You took a deep breath, there was no point trying to convince him otherwise now. It was too soon and too raw for him. You just had to support him until he was ready to look back at it with unbiased eyes.

“Okay, but you still played really well the rest of the match, I thought you killed the guy when you tackled him so hard” you said running your hand up and down his arm soothingly.

“Thank you”, he chuckled softly “I’m glad you enjoyed yourself” he said resting his hand on your shoulder.

You could see he was still really disappointed, so you did the next thing you could think of, “c’mere” you murmured reaching up to wrap your arms around his broad shoulders.

You felt Ari relax as he wrapped his arms around your waist and hugged your back. He buried his head in the crook of your neck and pressed a gentle, barely there kiss to your neck. His hand slipped underneath your jacket, his hand warm against your skin.

He then pulled back with a small frown on his face, “Are you wearing a jersey?” he questioned.

You nibbled your lower lip, your hands linked together on the nape of his neck, “Elena suggested it, but I didn’t realise it would be so cold,” you said.

“Can I see?” Ari asked, his hand running over the small of your back.

You nodded and stepped back out of his hold, you unzipped your jacket and took it off to reveal the Bears jersey you were wearing underneath. A more sincere smile grew on his face as he looked down at you, he reached out to put his hand on your shoulder and turn you around.

“My name looks great on you” he murmured.

You felt your heart pounding and you were so glad you had your back to him right now. Heat was rising to your cheek while also pooling elsewhere. You took a deep and shaky breath to control yourself as Ari turned you back around. His head tilted slightly and the corner of his mouth twitched upwards.

“I really want to kiss you right now” he smirked.

You took another deep and shaky breath, “okay” you whispered.

Ari smiled as he rested his hand on your hip and pulled you back towards him. His other hand cupped your cheeks and tilted your head back. He slowly leaned in to the point it was almost torturous but it made it so much better when his lips finally met yours. Just like before you felt yourself melting into his touch, you had to grip hold of his jersey to keep yourself upright. The stadium was still loud but you couldn’t hear any of it, it was like everyone had melted away.

Once again, when he pulled away you found yourself chasing after his lips, Ari smiled down at you and ran his thumb over your jawbone “thank you, it means a lot to me that you came today” he said softly.

“It was nothing, I enjoyed myself”

“So you’ll come to more?” he asked with an arched brow.

You didn’t need to think about it, “of course” you smiled.

Ari grinned down at you before pulling you into his embrace, pressing a kiss to the top of your head. You couldn’t help but smile as you rested your head against his chest, feeling his pounding heartbeat. The rugby world was not your world, but you couldnt help but feel like Ari’s arms felt like home.

Ari stretched out his shoulders and neck as he stood behind Elena and waited for her to open the door to your old LA apartment. Yesterday's match had been a physical one, but the Bears had come out on top and as a bonus Langley had to go off injured after 3 hard tackles from Chris, Curtis and Ari.

It was good to get a win following their loss against the Texan Tigers Thanksgiving weekend. Ari had kicked himself for that loss, he should have caught that ball and they would have been guaranteed the win. He had expected to go into his 1-2-1 review and get ripped apart by the coaches for that mistake, but they barely covered it. They pointed out that the ball shifted in direction mid air, caught by a gust of wind, so it wasn’t anyone’s fault. Coach Rogers had also repeated what you said, that he had played really well for the rest of the game. The reason the scoreboard was so tight was because of little errors made by others on the pitch.

Ari had wanted to go straight to you after that meeting and by some miracle you were working with the media team on some training content that day. Ari couldn’t help himself and walked over to greet you with a kiss on the cheek, he was just so happy to see you, he wanted to tell you that you were right.

It had meant so much to him that you came to watch him play. He hasn’t had anyone come to watch his games in a long time now. His family would go when the Bears were playing in New York, and before he transferred to the Bears but since then it had been no one. Seeing you in his jersey was the cherry on top, it was a sight he didn’t want to forget and he wasn’t ashamed to admit that he pictured you wearing only his jersey, riding him, as he found some release that night.

“Are you sure he’s out?” Chris asked as Elena put the key you had given her in the lock.

“Yeah, he goes golfing with his mates on Sundays, he’ll be gone all day” Elena said as she pushed the door open.

“I kinda wish he was here” Ari murmured as he carried in the bags and boxes they’d brought to pack up your stuff.

“You and me both”, Elena grumbled as she shut the door behind them “huh”, she frowned, looking around the apartment.

“What is it?” Chris asked, looking over as he dropped a couple of suitcases by the couch.

“It’s just… this was her place originally and there used to be a lot more of her stuff about, now its mostly his” Elena commented as she looked around.

“You think he packed it up?” Ari asked, glancing around to see if he could spot a box.

Elena shrugged her shoulders “I don’t know, she usually came to mine when we hung out, maybe it's been this way for a while”

“Regretting not bringing glitter?” Chris asked, looking over his shoulder at Elena with a knowing look.

Elena pursed her lips as she looked around the apartment, hands on her hips, “a little, but he’d know it was us and I’m not a PR expert”, she said, holding her hands up “but I think that would be a bad move”

“Right, well let's get to work, our flight leaves this evening” Ari said, clapping his hands together.

“Okay, I’ll handle her clothes, Chris, if I point it out can you handle her stuff in the bedroom?” Elena asked looking over at Chris who nodded, “good and Ari, I’m trusting you with her books, do not damage a single one because she will kill you, her books are her babies” Elena said with a serious look on her face.

“Sure, which ones are hers?” Ari asked, pointing to the bookcase in the corner, which was practically overflowing.

“All of them, Dan didn’t read” Elena said before disappearing into the bedroom with Chris.

Ari turned and walked over the bookcase letting out a low whistle as he took in the sheer amount of books that had been carefully stacked to make the most of the space. He noticed a few shelves were bowing under the weight of the books, with closer inspection he realised that the bookshelf was just a cheap one. That made him frown because if you cared this much about books you should have the best bookcase possible, and as many as you wanted. You shouldn’t have to stuff them all into one, you should have as many bookcases as possible.

Ari’s fists clenched as he glanced around, there was no space for another because of all the stuff that was clearly not yours. This had been your apartment and your ex had infested it and shoved you into a small corner. He was seriously considering going out and buying some glitter and maybe some sand. He was sure he could come up with the best kind of payback.

The only thing that stopped him was the fact he knew you wouldn’t like it, so he grabbed a box and got to work. He lined the inside of the box with bubblewrap to provide some extra protection and provide some waterproofing just in case. He then carefully started packing away the books. Any ones that looked like special editions, he wrapped up in bubble wrap too.

He took his time and did it as carefully as possible, holding each book securely like it was a baby. Once he was done, he looked back at the bookcase to see how damaged and cheap it was, it was a miracle it was still standing. You deserved better than this.

Once he was done, he popped his head into the bedroom so find Elena and Chris sorting through your clothes, “I’m all done”, he told them.

“Cool, I found a lot of her stuff stored away in her closet so that makes it easier” Elena said with a sad sigh.

“Is there anything else? In the kitchen, Ari asked, looking around.

“Uh, maybe, but I’d have to look, I’ll do that now, can you clear out her bedside table, there might be more books in there?” Elena said as she stood up and brushed her hands over her jeans.

“Sure no problem, the sooner we’re out of here the better” Ari huffed as he grabbed a smaller box and made his way over to your bedside table.

There were a few knick-knacks including a photo of you and Elena from what appeared to be your college days. Ari couldn’t help but pick it up to take a closer look, your smile was so wide that Ari could almost hear your laughter. A wave of sadness crashed over him because you hadn’t laughed like that with him since that lunch in LA, this was the side of you that had yet to fully emerge and he hated that. He needed to work harder to pull that side back out of you.

He put the photo away in the box along with all the other items that were ontop of your bedside table. He moved onto the drawer and started clearing that out, it was mostly things like hand creams, tablets and packs of tissues. He reached in further to get the last few things at the back and froze when his fingers wrapped around something made of silicone. He glanced over his shoulder to see Chris had his back to him as he continued to pack away your clothes, Elena was still in the kitchen.

Ari shifted so his frame blocked the view of the bedside table as he pulled out the item and confirmed his suspicions. It was a purple vibrator. He swallowed as he pictured you using it, his jeans suddenly very tight in the crotch area. Elena clearly had no idea you owned this otherwise she wouldn’t have asked Ari to clear our your bedside table. He wasn’t about to announce it either, so he grabbed some bubble wrap and carefully wrapped up the toy so it wasn’t obvious what it was and put it in the box under a few packs of tissues.

He took a few deep breaths to get himself under control and back to the task in hand but he was thoroughly distracted now. He managed to get through it though and once he was done he was given the perfect out when his phone rang. He looked down to see who it was and knew he needed to answer straight away and this call definitely would get him to stop thinking about you and that purple toy.

“I just need to take this” Ari said standing up and making his way out of the apartment.

He was on the phone for about 30 minutes or so and by the time he hung up his mind was definitely elsewhere. He stood there for a few moments just looking out at the view to clear his head, taking a few deep breaths, hands in his jean pockets.

“Hey, we’re ready to go,” Elena called out from the front door.

Ari turned around to see Chris and Elena holding boxes, “Sure, is this all going on the jet?” he asked as he jogged back over.

“Don’t see why not? There’s not as much as I thought, so there shouldn’t be a weight issue, but I’ve written the address on a couple of boxes that can be shipped if needed”

“Great, well let's get the hell out of this place” Ari nodded, not wanting to spend more time than necessary in the apartment.

It was Monday evening and you were unpacking everything that Elena, Chris and Ari had packed up for you. Finally, the apartment felt a bit more like yours as you put out all of your belongings.

You had been shocked and embarrassed when you found your vibrator wrapped up in bubble wrap. You had completely forgotten about it and hadn’t told Elena, you just hoped that it was her that packed up your bedside table and not one of the boys.

The only thing you hadn’t unpacked was all of your books, they would probably have to stay in the box for a while until you brought a bookcase. You might be able to find a cheap one online because you didn’t really have the money to spare.

You had just finished putting away your clothes when you heard a knock on your apartment door. You frowned since you hadn’t buzzed anyone into the building, it must be one of your neighbours which was still odd considering you hadn’t really spoken to any of them.

You hung up the last item before making your way to your door, surprised to find Ari stood there with a lopsided grin on his face.

“Ari? What-what are you doing here?” you stuttered in shock.

“I brought dinner” he said, holding up the plastic bag, “and a couple of bookcases”

“Wh-what” you muttered.

Ari grinned as he passed you the bag of food before turning to grab the two boxes that were leaning against the wall out of sight “well you have a lot of books and I remembered that you didn’t have a bookcase here so I went out and got you a couple so you could put them away and have space for more” he explained as he carried the boxes in.

You looked at him in disbelief, “you didn’t have to do that, I was just gonna get a cheap one online” you said as you closed the door, watching as he propped the two boxes up against the far wall.

“Well now you have two good quality ones that won’t collapse on you” Ari smiled as he walked back over towards you, stopping over a couple inches away “and building can be hard work so I got us food and made sure you got extra fortune cookies”

You looked into the bag and saw he’d gotten Panda Express again, and there were more fortune cookies than you knew what to do with, “Ari” you muttered in disbelief.

“Yes dear?” Ari smirked.

You rolled your eyes, “you really didn’t need to do this,” you told him.

“I wanted to” he said as he took the bag from you and stepped closer, “and I like to do whatever I want” he smirked, you could barely breath as you looked up at him, if you did, your chest would brush against his “shall I serve up?”

You didn’t trust your voice, so you nodded, Ari smirked down at you before stepping away towards the couch. You took a deep and shaky breath while his back was to you, quickly fanning yourself. You had no idea what was going on, you weren’t out in public so there was no reason for him to be acting this way with you.

“You not hungry?” Ari asked, snapping you from your thoughts, you looked over to see him sitting on the couch with the food spread out on the coffee table.

“Oh no-, I mean yeah- sorry was in my own little world for a moment there” you say, flapping your hand around your head “I’m hungry” you nodded as you moved to sit down next to him.

“Care to share?” Ari grinned as he passed you a pair of chopsticks.

“Huh?” You asked confused.

“What was going on in your own little world?” He asked with a lopsided grin.

You stuttered as you tried to think of what to say because you definitely couldn’t tell him the truth, “nothing of importance, let’s eat, hm” you say digging into your orange chicken to avoid more questions.

Ari chuckled but didn’t ask you anymore questions, grabbing his food and tucking in himself. Once you were done eating Ari tidied up all of the containers before grabbing the boxes and started unpacking the contents.

“Should I stick a movie on?” you asked as you moved to put the screws and other small parts into bowls so they wouldn’t get lost.

“Yeah, that would be cool” Ari hummed as he pulled off the sweater he wore to reveal the sleeveless grey top he was wearing that showed off his large biceps.

You froze as you stared at him, watching as they rippled as he lifted the wooden pieces. Your mind started going down a dirty path as you pictured those arms caging you in.

“You gonna pick one?” Ari smirked pulling you from your thoughts again.

“Uh yeah of course, any preference?” you asked as you grabbed the remote from the coffee table.

“Nah you pick” Ari said with a lopsided smile.

You nodded before turning your attention back to the TV. You had no idea what you wanted to watch, you knew you were probably gonna get distracted, so there was no point sticking on a movie you really wanted to watch. There were plenty of christmas movies streaming now, so you just stuck on of those on.

“Didn’t take you for a cheesy christmas flick person”, Ari smirked as you put the remote down.

“Yeah, they’re awful but that kinda make them good” you shrugged as you moved over to help him.

Ari chuckled, “true, mind holding this?” he asked nodding to the side of the bookcase.

“Sure” you hummed doing as you were told.

Over the next hour, you watched and helped Ari build the two bookcases he had brought for you. You wondered how much they cost because they were good quality ones, definitely not cheap at all. They were real wood instead of chipboard.

When he was done, he helped you reorganise all of your books onto the shelves, “what’s your favourite?” Ari asked as he put some books up on the top shelf for you.

“That’s like asking me what my favourite child is” you snorted from your spot on the floor, where you grabbing the books from the box.

Ari chuckled and smiled warmly down at you, “okay which do you really really like?” he smirked.

You sighed and tilted your head to the side as you thought “I really liked this series about cattle ranchers in Alberta”

“Cattle ranchers?” Ari hummed, arching a brow.

You felt heat rising to your cheeks as you looked down and focused on your job, “it's a romance series”

“Oh” Ari grinned “you like to read romance?”

“Yeah don’t judge me” you said shooting him a look.

“I’m not I think it’s cute” Ari smiled sincerely.

You smiled bashfully, “do you read much?”

“Not as much as you seem to, but I do read when we’re on the road, we have a lot of free time during away games, especially when we have to travel far” Ari shrugged his shoulders.

“What genre do you read?” you asked as you passed him a couple of books, trying to ignore the way your fingers tingled when they brushed against his.

“Usually non-fiction, but sometimes a good crime thriller”

“Wait” you paused “this hasn’t been one elaborate scheme, and you're a serial killer and I’m your next victim?”

Ari let out a loud and warm laugh “shhh, I’m actually trying to recruit you, we can be Bonnie and Clyde” he smirked.

“I guess I could live with that” you smirked.

It didn’t take much longer to get your books into their new home, you still had plenty of space for more books which excited you.

“I found this really cute bookstore the other day” you said as you sat back down on the couch.

“Really? Whereabouts?” Ari asked as he sat down right next to you, his arm slung over the back of the couch.

“By the harbour, its pretty small but upstairs there’s this cute baywindow that they’ve turned into a reading nook that looked out over the harbour, i’ve gone there a couple times just to get away and disappear into a book for a while” you told him smiling gently to yourself before letting out a small yawn.

“Cute” Ari smiled “should we watch another movie?” he nodded to the TV, which was showing the credits from the last movie.

“Sure, you can pick this time” you said with another yawn, tucking your legs up underneath you to get more comfortable.

Ari smiled as he grabbed the remote, you expected him to stick on a completely different movie but instead he selected the sequel to the cheesy movie you had picked. He relaxed back into the couch, his arm moving from the back of the couch to around you.

You weren’t sure if it was because it had been a long day of work and then building the bookcase with Ari or because of the comforting heat radiating off of him, but you found yourself slowly drifting off. Your head dipped towards his shoulder until eventually, you dozed off curled up in his embrace.

Ari must have been pretty tired too because he fell asleep with you, right up until the morning when you both woke in each other's arms. Ari sprawled out across the couch, one arm behind his head, the other resting on your back as you lay on top of him, legs tangled together.

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This series has no schedule, please don’t ask when it will be updated! Same goes for Masterlist, AO3 and Wattpad!

Fake Out Series Masterlist / Boston Bears Masterlist / Masterlist

I don’t have a taglist but follow @secretswiftymarvelfanlibrary and turn on post notifications to stay up to date!

#niamhwrites #boston bears #boston bears series #boston bears: fake out #ari levinson #rugby au #rugby player!ari levinson #ari levinson x reader #ari levinson x you #ari levinson x y/n #chris evans

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 4 months ago

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Boston Bears: Fake Out - Rugby Player!Ari x Reader Masterlist

Series Summary: Your life was going perfectly to plan, you had a great job and a perfect boyfriend who you were set to marry. That was until you found him in bed with your wedding planner. Without another word you packed up and moved back to the east coast to be with your best friend Elena with the plan to enjoy being single for a while. Ari had a lot on his plate and big dreams he wanted to achieve. The upcoming World Cup would be one of his last chances to represent his country but his reputation needed polishing and he was determined to do anything to achieve his dream, including a fake relationship with the girl who stole his heart back in LA.

Pairing: Rugby Player!Ari x Reader

Series Warnings: Fluff! Angst! Cheating! SMUT! 18+ ONLY! Sports Related Injuries! Fake Dating!

Boston Bears Masterlist

Rugby Explained

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

Boston Bears: Off-Limits (Book 1)

#niamhwrites #boston bears #boston bears series #boston bears: fake out #Ari Levinson #Ari Levinson x Reader #Ari Levinson x you #Ari Levinson x Y/N #Rugby AU

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 12 days ago

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Boston Bears: Fake Out - Rugby Player! Ari Levinson x Reader (Part 5)

Summary: After waking up in each other's arms tensions increase between you and Ari. It all comes to the surface at the charity event when you get to know Ari much much more than you previously expected.

Word Count: 10.9k words

Warnings: Language! Mention of Cheating Ex! Alcohol Consumption! Sexual Tension! Fluff! Angst! Talk of the care system! SMUT! 18+ ONLY! MINORS DNI!

Rugby Explained

Dividers by Me!

Fake Out Series Masterlist /Boston Bears Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 5

Ari was in deep shit and he knew it. It was why he had been strategically avoiding Chris the past couple of days. He had crossed the line with you on Monday, but he just couldn’t help himself. When he brought you the bookcases, it wasn’t to make a move, it was just something you deserved and he wanted to do something for you. It was a good excuse to hang out, he just really liked spending time with you. That in itself was not the problem.

He crossed the line when he stayed overnight. He hadn’t planned to and didn’t mean to either. When you fell asleep curled up to him, he told himself to wait until you were fast asleep and then he’d carry you to bed. But every time he went to do so, he said ‘5 more minutes’. He hadn’t planned to fall asleep, but listening to the rhythmic sound of you breathing, it just lulled him to sleep.

He’d woken up a whole hour before you did, you had both moved in your sleep so Ari was lying down with you on top of him. You looked so peaceful with your head resting on his chest. Even though the couch was no way near big enough for him to sleep on comfortably, that was the best night's sleep he’d had in a long time.

You’d shifted a couple of times in your sleep, snuggling in further, your hips brushing against his crotch. He had to take a few careful deep breaths, he didn’t want to accidentally jolt you awake. Not until he got his morning wood, which was 100% brought on by your proximity, under control.

He spent the first hour of his day carefully running his hand up and down your back, softly playing with the tendrils of your hair. When you finally began to stir, he pretended like he was too, he knew you would freak out if you knew how long he’d been awake. You lifted your head and blinked tiredly as your eyes met his. Your face was soft for the few seconds that it took for you to register what was going on. Once you had your eyes bulged and you shot up, making Ari groan when your knee knocked against his semi-hard erection.

You mumbled and stuttered apologies that Ari waved off. He shot you his signature charismatic smile and told you it was okay. He wanted to tell you that it was more than okay, that it was perfect, that he wanted to wake up like that every morning, but you were already panicking so he kept that to himself.

It was a stark reminder that while in public you were in a ‘relationship’, in reality, you were just friends and couldn’t be more than that. You had just gotten out of a serious relationship and Ari didn’t want to mess with that, confuse you. Especially since his captain, the boyfriend of your best friend, told him not to hurt you. He also needed to make the national team, if you decided you couldn’t do this anymore he would be screwed.

While Ari knew he could take Chris in a fight and probably win, he didn’t want that. So he did the logical thing. He pulled away. If he avoided you and Chris, then he could get his head back on straight and not ruin everything.

The next time he was scheduled to see you was the charity gala on Saturday, so as long as the media team didn’t need any footage of training, he wouldn’t see you until then. Chris was trickier because of training, but since Chris was a back and Ari was a forward, they didn’t often do drills together. The only person Ari was spending a lot of time with was Curtis, and he didn’t say much.

“You going to the gala on Saturday?” Ari asked him while the scrum was taking a water break.

Curtis grunted, “Have no choice”

Ari nodded. That was an obvious answer since everyone was obligated to attend “Bringing anyone?”

Curtis looked over at him with an arched brow “No, you bringing Y/N?”

Ari took a long gulp of water “Yup”, he muttered. Silence fell between the two of them that stretched to the point that it started to become awkward “Great chat”, Ari nodded as he slapped Curtis on the shoulder as he walked away.

He grabbed a ball from the side and started throwing it up in the air a few times, “Levinson”, he heard Coach Rogers call out. Ari caught the ball and looked over in his direction, spotting him standing by the door, “Just want a word”

Ari nodded, “Sure” he tossed the ball to the side and crossed the training room. He hoped this was a good thing and not a bad thing “What’s up, sir?” He asked as they stepped out into the hallway.

“Don’t worry, it’s nothing bad”, Coach Rogers chuckled “I just wanted to say that you’re playing really well at the moment, and it’s not going unnoticed”

“Really?” Ari couldn’t help but feel excited.

“Yeah, I just got off the phone with the Team USA head coach, and he asked me about you, mentioned that he thought you were a strong player, one that makes a big impact” Coach Roger smiled.

“You think I might get called up?” Ari asked, trying not to get his hopes up.

“I’m hopeful, if you carry on like you are then he would be stupid to not pick you” Coach Rogers nodded “whatever you’ve been doing lately has been working, keep it up” he patted Ari on the shoulder “it’s Mexican for lunch so if you want first dibs I’d head over now”

Ari grinned, “Thanks, sir”, he winked. Mexican was a team favourite, so any heads up was valuable if Ari wanted to get what he wanted.

The tip off paid off because Ari was the first in line and managed to fill his plate full of his favourites, whistling to himself as he found a seat and tucked in. He flicked through his phone as he ate, making sure he hadn’t missed any important texts or calls.

Once he was reassured that nothing was wrong, he continued to flick through his social media. He paused when a photo you had taken from a window that looked out onto the harbour popped up. He liked it, but that wasn’t enough. He clicked onto your profile and started scrolling, there were a couple of you and him on there that instantly made him smile.

“Hey, you got in here quick”, Chris said, making Ari jump and quickly hide his phone.

“Got a tip off”, Ari muttered. He hadn’t considered that getting here early meant he couldn’t control who sat next to him.

“Lucky, you seemed to grab the best bits”, Chris chuckled as he sat down next to Ari “What were you doing on your phone?”

“Nothing, just scrolling”, Ari shrugged his shoulders.

Chris seemed to take that excuse, or at least decided not to question it further. The rest of the team filtered in and sat down with Chris and Ari, conversations starting up between the groups. Ari kept quiet as everyone talked, focusing on his food instead of inviting conversation.

“You alright? You seem pretty quiet,” Chris said quietly, leaning over to talk to him.

“Yeah, yeah, fine, just hungry”, Ari nodded, keeping his eyes on his plate in front of him.

“Feel like I’ve barely seen you this week”, Chris pointed out with a small shrug.

“Just the way it is sometimes, been focusing hard on my game”, Ari reasoned.

“Yeah, Steve said you’re playing well and your plan seems to be working well”, Chris smirked.

“Did you just use Coach’s first name?” Johnny exclaimed, inserting himself into the conversation.

Chris shrugged, “he told me to stop calling him coach, and I thought I better get used to it”

Everyone paused mid-bite as they stared back at Chris, “What do you mean by that?” Jensen asked.

Chris smiled bashfully before looking around and leaning in to whisper, “I’m gonna ask El to marry me”

“Shit, really?” Jensen exclaimed.

“Sh, sh, sh!” Chris chastised, “Yeah, of course I am”

“Have you gotten permission?” Curtis huffed.

“Yeah, coach might kill you if you haven’t”, Johnny chuckled.

“Not yet, I’m gonna ask him at Christmas, plus I don’t need his permission, just his blessing”, Chris explained.

“Wait, are we still gonna have our monthly gaming nights when you’re married?” Jensen asked with a genuine look of worry on his face.

“Yes, we will,” Chris said, reassuring his best friend.

“When you gonna pop the question?” Ari asked, surprised to find himself a little jealous.

“I don’t know, I want to find the perfect ring first and work out the perfect way to do it” Chris smiled softly “She deserves it to be perfect”

“Why don’t you ask Y/N to help?” Johnny suggested “girls talk about this sort of shit all the time”

Chris looked over at Ari “You think you could ask her?” he asked hopefully.

Ari stuttered for a second, “Uh yeah sure, I’ll ask when I next see her”, he nodded before taking a sip of his water to get rid of his dry mouth.

“Hey, if you hold off a little bit, you two could have a joint wedding,” Johnny smirked “I bet Y/N and El would love to get married on the same day”

Ari choked and nearly spat out his water, making everyone laugh, and even Curtis let out a small chuckle. He cleared his throat a couple of times, sparing a glance over at Chris, who had a brow arched but also an amused expression on his face “It’s a bit soon guys, don’t ya think?”

Chris shrugged, “I knew pretty much as soon as I met El”

“That’s different”, Ari muttered as he wiped the back of his hand over his mouth.

“I bet you’ll be down on one knee by the summer”, Johnny leaned back in his chair, arms crossed and a shit-eating grin on his face.

“Nah, give them a year, Halloween maybe? Since that’s when you met?” Jensen wagered.

“Guys, drop it, it's too early”, Ari huffed, starting to get annoyed at the conversation.

The topic was too much of a minefield, and Ari had no clue how he should respond. Because yeah, he did want to marry you eventually, he’s been obsessed with you since that lunch in LA. But that wasn’t on the cards, he knew that and Chris did too. He didn’t know whether to play along to keep up the ruse of being in a relationship with you or to shut it down. He didn’t want Chris to think he was leading you on and was going to hurt you, but he didn’t want the others to work out that this was all fake.

“What about Christmas?” Curtis offered, not bothering to look up from his plate of food.

“I’m telling you it's gonna be during the summer, oh I know! He’ll take her on holiday and do it on the beach, oh wait, no! While underwater diving,” Johnny argued, waving his hands around excitedly.

“Guys”, Ari warned, fists clenched as they rested on the table.

“Yeah, maybe we should-” Chris started to intervene, but was drowned out by Johnny and Jensen arguing over when it would be.

“No, it’ll be sentimental,” Jensen pointed out.

“A beach holiday can be sentimental”, Johnny smirked.

“Fuck this” Ari growled, shooting up from his seat swiping his water bottle from the table and storming out, abandoning his plate which still had half his lunch still on it.

He didn’t know where to go, training didn’t start back up for another half an hour, and he just needed to get out before he let his frustrations get the better of him and say or do something stupid. Deciding he just needed some air, he made his way outside to the training pitch. A rugby pitch had always felt like a safe space for him, ever since he was a kid.

He walked onto the pitch, stopping by the posts and leaning against them, taking a deep breath as he looked down the length of the pitch.

“Hey man, you alright?” he heard Chris say behind him.

“Fine”, Ari huffed, not bothering to turn around.

“Wanna talk about it?” Chris asked, his voice getting closer.

“Not really”

“Want me to get Y/N?”

“Definitely not”

“Okay”, Chris sighed, “well, I grabbed you a banana since you didn’t finish your lunch”

Ari glanced over his shoulder to see Chris holding out the fruit to him. He let out a long sigh before turning around “Thanks”, he said as he accepted it.

“Just ignore those two, Johnny chases anything with a pulse and Jensen…” Chris said, trailing off slightly, clearly trying to think of a way to describe his best friend, “his heart is in the right place”

Ari took a deep breath and nodded his head “I know, just a bit of minefield navigating that kinda conversation don't want to give anyone the wrong impression or screw up” he said as he unpeeled his banana.

Chris nodded “Of course, well, I’m here if you wanna talk,” he said with a small shrug of his shoulders “The whole reason I know is to be someone to talk to about it”

“Yeah… thanks man, I will”, Ari lied. There was no way Ari was gonna be confiding in Chris.

“Cool, I’ll let you be, and you have my permission to smash into the two idiots during tackling drills”, Chris smirked.

Ari let out a small huff of a laugh “What about Everett? He joined in”, he reminded him.

“Only an idiot would smash into the axe on purpose, we want you on Team USA, not 6ft under”, Chris scoffed, drawing a genuine laugh from Ari.

You were a mess. A mess that was pissed off at yourself and Ari. You hadn’t seen him since Monday, and it was like he was avoiding you. You had expected some sort of cheeky text from him about the charity gala tonight, but his texts had been short and to the point.

It was all your fault too, you had been the one who fell asleep on top of him. You hadn’t planned to, but you had just felt so comfortable that it was a losing battle. It had been the best night’s sleep you’d had in a long time. It had been so long since you’d woken up in someone’s arms, and you hadn’t realised how much you had missed it.

You had felt so incredible when you woke up, lifting your head to see Ari’s clear blue eyes, which brought a smile to your face. But then you fully woke up and realised what had happened, and you freaked out, especially when your knee brushed past his erection.

He’d brushed it off and said he’d see you later, and then disappeared. You felt so confused. It felt like whatever was going on between you and Ari wasn’t fake anymore, and you weren’t sure how you felt about that. You felt this aching in your chest as you recalled all the sweet things he’d done for you, the way it felt in his arms, the way he kissed you. But you also felt freaked out by the whole prospect, it had only been a couple of months since you broke off your engagement. It was too soon.

You couldn’t work out what Ari felt either. The way he acted suggested that he didn’t feel like it was fake either. He didn’t need to buy you expensive bookcases, build them for you and help organise your books. But he did. He seemed to be very happy that you had fallen asleep on top of him, if his erection was anything to go by.

But he’d then disappeared, which meant he was probably trying to create some distance because you were completely wrong. He didn’t like you, this was all fake, and he was an incredible actor. Leaving you feeling pissed off and hurt.

Your anger at the situation made you want to storm up to him with your head held high and give him a piece of your mind. Your pain made you want to curl up into a ball and blow off the event tonight, make up some excuse that you were ill. You couldn’t do that to Ari though, he needed you there tonight, hanging off his arm like the perfect girlfriend so he could make the national team. Plus, you would bet that if you did say you were sick, he would come and look after you, which would just confuse you more.

You were once again stood in front of your mirror, assessing the gown you had decided to wear. It was a backless red crushed velvet dress with a split that went up to your mid-thigh. You were no stranger to these sorts of events, you had attended multiple red carpets for work with your clients back in LA. But you usually dressed smart and understated so all the attention would be on the client, except now you had to be the one drawing the attention.

You let out a sigh as you ran your hand over the material, twisting slightly to check out the entire look. You couldn’t help but smile because damn you did look good. You might be pissed off, confused and hurt by Ari but you were actually kinda excited to show this look off.

You took a deep breath when your phone buzzed on your nightstand. You knew without looking that it was Ari saying he was outside. Your suspicions were confirmed when you picked it up to see the brief message.

Ari: Car’s here when you’re ready

You bit your lower lip and took a shaky breath. The shortness of the text and lack of kisses made your stomach turn with nerves. You suddenly felt tears well up, but you took a deep breath and held them back as you grabbed your coat and purse.

As you walked out of your apartment, you expected to find Ari waiting in the car for you, but instead you found him waiting by the front door to the apartment block. He was looking down and giving you the perfect view of his side profile through the window in the front door. His brows were furrowed like something was bothering him, you wondered whether it was you. Regardless, you walked over and opened the door, his head lifted, and his lips parted as he looked down at you.

“Fuck” he muttered under his breath, worry completely gone from his face, replaced by something you couldn’t quite decipher.

“Hey”, you said quietly as you shut the door behind you.

“Hey… you look… fuck you look incredible” he said with a small shake of his head.

You couldn’t stop the bashful smile and the heat that travelled to your cheeks, you just hoped that you could blame it on the cold weather “Thank you, I’m glad this event’s inside”, you said with a quiet chuckle.

Ari didn’t say anything, and when you looked back up at him, you could see the same undecipherable look on his face, it was almost like he was stunned into silence.

“Shall we go?” you prompted gently.

He cleared his throat and nodded, “yeah, yeah of course”, he said, running a hand through his head “here its slippy” he held out his hand for you to take, his other wrapping around your waist to help you down the stairs which had turned icy in the december weather.

He opened up the door to the town car for you and helped you in before rounding the car and climbing in on the other side. The drive to the venue was quiet, about 5 minutes into the drive Ari’s phone chimed and he disappeared into it, his body angled to lean against the car door.

You ended up striking up a conversation with the driver, whose name was Cole. He told you how he used to live in Washington DC but his ex-girlfriend told him to get out there and see the world more so instead of travelling he decided to take odd jobs around the country. You asked if he was into sports and he shook his head and showed off his inhaler.

When you finally pulled up to the venue, you looked over to see Ari had put his phone away and was glaring daggers into the back of Cole’s head. You frowned at him, confused by his behaviour, especially when he shot out of the car and around to your side to open the door before Cole got the chance to.

Ari muttered a tight thank you to Cole before resting his hand on your back and guiding you straight inside he building. Once inside, he led you over to where you could check in your coats, he helped you out of your coat, and you could have sworn you heard him groan as your back was exposed.

You glanced over your shoulder at him to see his eyes set firmly on your back, his tongue poking out to wet his lips. His gaze met yours, and you saw a flash of heat before he blinked and it was gone again.

He stepped past you to pass the clerk your coat, followed by his, allowing you to see the classic black suit he wore. When he turned around you spotted that his bowtie was slightly off and without thinking you stepped forward and reached up to fix it. Not realising what you had done until he froze, your hands paused as you glanced up at him. That unreadable expression on his face again.

You cleared your throat and quickly finished the job before taking a couple of steps back “Ready?”

Ari’s eyes roamed over you for a second before he nodded and gestured for you to go ahead. You pursed your lips before turning and walking in the direction of where the media team had set up a small red carpet. As you approached, you sensed Ari falling into step with you, his hand resting on the bare skin of your back. The heat of his touch travelled through you, causing your heart to hammer and your breathing to deepen.

You spotted Steph who gave you a bright smile and a thumbs up before gesturing for you and Ari to step onto the red carpet “Look at you love birds,” she grinned as she pointed at where to stand.

You let out an awkward chuckle because that sentence felt very real and very fake all at the same time. You glanced up at Ari who had the perfect poker face, not looking down at you.

You forced a smile as you stepped closer into Ari’s side and smiled for the cameras. Ari’s hand slipped from the small of your back to your hip and his charismatic smile returned as he looked out at the small collection of reporters and photographers.

Steph caught your attention and subtly gestured for the two of you to kiss. You looked up at Ari, who was already looking down at you, a silent question on his face. You gave the smallest of nods, and he started leaning down. You reached up to meet him, and even though you were wearing heels, you still had to go onto your tip toes, your hand resting on his chest to steady yourself. You could feel the tension in his body but as soon as your lips met, you felt him relax.

You couldn’t stop yourself from sighing quietly as he tugged you closer ever so slightly. It had only been a few days since you last saw him and over a week since you last kissed, and oh my god, you didn’t realise how much you missed it, missed him. Your fingers flexed against his chest as you resisted the urge to grip his shirt and hold him close.

It was only a brief kiss, but it felt like the universe had come to a stop and time had frozen. The only thing was this kiss that felt so different to all the others before. At the same time, it was over too soon, and Ari pulled back enough for you to see the lopsided smile on his face. His thumb brushed against your skin slowly as he looked back out and smiled for the cameras. You did the same but didn’t step away nor drop your hand from his chest. His side was the only place you wanted to be.

“That's great, thanks guys, enjoy the evening,” Steph winked, waving the two of you off.

You turned to walk into the party and spotted Chris and Elena standing there, you had no clue they had been there watching the entire time. Ari didn’t seem to either, if the way his step faltered was anything to go by. Elena had a smirk on her face, and Chris’ head was tilted ever so slightly.

“I’m starting to think you two are going for the hottest couple”, Elena smirked as you walked over.

You shook your head bashfully “We all know that title belongs to you, you look amazing El” She really did in her navy blue sequin gown, which perfectly matched Chris’ navy suit.

“You look like a spy in that bow tie, hiding any secrets?” Chris smirked.

Ari huffed out a small laugh “I’d tell you, but then I’d have to kill you” he looked down at you and ran his hand down your back “Shall we head in then?”

Elena glanced over at you and smirked again “See you in there lovebirds”, she said before linking her arm with Chris and pulling him inside the party.

You and Ari followed, Ari pausing just inside “I’m gonna get us some drinks, why don’t you find our seats?” he said. You went to tell him what you wanted, but he had already slipped away.

You took a deep breath and scanned the room. A lot of the players were already here, some with dates, some without. Johnny had some blonde bombshell on his arm that looked like she was straight from a Victoria’s Secret runway. You recognise a few of the coaching staff and the execs who looked like they were all schmoozing with the donors.

Ari returned just as you found your seats “Here you go”, he said, passing you a glass of white wine, exactly what you wanted.

“Oh, thank you, so how does this normally go down?” You asked, taking a sip of your wine.

“Well for the first couple of hours it’s all about the schmoozing, Evans has already been snatched away by the CEO by the looks on it” Ari said nodding over you shoulder to where Chris and Elena were stood talking with the CEO, another rich looking guy and a women in her early to mid twenties who guessed was the CEO’s daughter. She looked bored at the conversation, her eyes scanning the room before pausing on Andy “Then it’ll be dinner and then the auction and usually by then the donors are so drunk they’re throwing money around like we’re strippers”

You laughed, which made the corner of Ari’s lips twitch upwards “Does everyone have to schmooze?” You asked, “Curtis doesn’t seem like the schmoozing type”

Ari chuckled as he took a sip of his beer “No, we have to be here, but we don’t have to actively schmooze. The donors usually come to us, which means Curtis gets left alone, the lucky bastard”

“Not a fan of schmoozing? I thought you’d love it with all your charm,” you arched a brow.

“Well, for the last god knows how many years, the ones that usually approach me are the cougars”, he explained before glancing down at you with a smirk, “but with you here to protect me, I might be fine this year”

You laughed again, “and here I was thinking you liked my company,” you joked but it fell flat, Ari only let out a small huff of a laugh.

“Ari, there you are,” you heard Coach Rogers say from behind Ari, as Ari turned you could see Coach Rogers stood there with a dark skinned man with a greying goatee “Ari, this is Coach Wilson. Sam, this is Ari, the player I’ve been telling you about”

You could see Ari freeze, so you stepped forward to stand beside him, your hand resting on his back. That seemed to snap him back to reality as he flashed a genuine albeit somewhat nervous smile and held out his hand, “Honour to meet you, sir”

Coach Wilson smiled as he shook Ari’s hand “Please to meet you Ari. I’ve seen you play and I must say I would hate to be on the wrong side of your tackles”

“Well, when I commit to something, it’s always 110%”, Ari smiled.

“The coaching staff have the bruises to prove it”, Coach Rogers chuckled.

“I’ll keep that in mind, now who’s this?” Coach Wilson nodded to you.

“My apologies”, Ari said as he wrapped his arm around you “This is my wonderful girlfriend Y/N”, he smiled warmly down at you.

You smiled brightly up at him before turning your attention towards Coach Wilson “Lovely to meet you, Ari speaks very highly of you, I look forward to seeing what you do in the upcoming World Cup”

Coach Wilson arched a brow “You’re a rugby fan?”

You smirked up at Ari, “Not quite, but slowly being converted”, you admitted.

Ari smiled warmly back down at you, his hand running up and down your exposed back. His touch sent shockwaves through your body. Heat pooling at your core, he wasn’t even touching you erotically, but you wanted his hand further down.

“How did you guys meet?” Coach Wilson asked.

“At a Halloween party”, Ari answered easily, “Y/N recently moved to Boston for a fresh start, and we have a mutual friend through Chris’ girlfriend, Elena” Ari said, nodding to Coach Rogers.

Coach Wilson arched a brow at his friend, “I’m surprised you let your daughter date one of your players”

Coach Rogers shrugged, “She doesn’t need my permission, plus he makes her happy, so I’m happy,” he smiled warmly.

Coach Wilson chuckled, “Bet you still put him through the ringer”, he said before turning his attention back to you “So you guys are pretty new still?”

You opened your mouth to speak but Ari beat you to it “yeah but it doesn’t feel it, in the best way possible of course” he smiled as he looked down at you “as soon as I saw her I knew she was someone special, it was like there was this invisible string pulling me towards her, I can remember thinking she better be single because I would fight any man and go to the ends of the universe just for a shot”

Your lips remained parted in shock as you looked back up at him, as you got the impression he was talking about when he really first met you in LA. You felt yourself tear up, so you took a deep breath to get yourself under control. Ari smiled at you softly before reaching up to tuck some hair behind your ears.

“Lovely, well, I wish you two all the best and keep up the good work Ari”, Coach Wilson said before heading off with Coach Rogers.

“I think you might just have made the team”, you said once they were gone.

Ari hummed as he turned to face you “I’m definitely on the radar, a lot can happen between now and the summer”, he said as a lopsided smile grew “But I’m feeling confident and that’s all thanks to you”

You smiled softly up at him, and it felt like something unspoken passed between you, but you had no idea what. It felt like something was shifting. The hammering sensation in your chest returned, which made you look away and rub your chest to soothe it.

Over the next few hours, you continued to schmooze with Ari and that hammering sensation in your chest only got worse. You held onto his side as he spoke with different donors and sang your praises whenever he got the chance to. Each time you got a new tidbit about how Ari supposedly felt. He seemed back to his usual self, but you still didn’t know whether it was real or fake.

During the meal, he shifted his chair closer to yours, his hand often resting on the exposed skin of your thigh or your back. He would smile over at you warmly and whisper the odd joke in your ear. By the end of the meal, the hammering was so bad that you had to quietly excuse yourself and lie about needing the restroom.

The restroom was a good walk away from the event hall, which gave you a chance to breathe. Inside the restroom, you turned on the cold tap and braced your hands against the cool marble countertop. You took a few deep breaths before carefully tapping some cold water on your neck in an attempt to cool down. It was the wrong end of your body though, so it did very little to help.

You stayed in the restroom as long as you could, you didn’t feel any better, but you didn’t want anyone to worry. If you took a long walk back to the event and stopped to look at some paintings on the way, it would look more innocent if someone came looking. You wouldn’t have to lie and say you were okay when you weren’t.

Taking a deep breath, you stepped back outside and started the long walk back, You had only turned the first corner when you spotted Ari. He was standing, leaning against the wall like he was waiting. He looked up when you appeared with a concerned look on his face.

“Hey, is everything okay?” he asked, pushing himself off the wall to face you.

You opened your mouth to talk before deciding against it, you didn’t trust yourself not to blurt out what you were feeling. So you just gave him a small smile and nodded.

“Y/N”, he said softly as he stepped closer and put his hand on your arm. Your gaze followed his motion, noting how small your arm looked in his hand “I might not know you as well as El, but I can tell when something’s wrong, you’ve been acting off”

You couldn’t help the scoff that passed your lips as you stepped back out of his touch “that’s rich coming from you!” you retorted, Ari sighed and went to speak but you held out a hand to stop him “you practically disappeared on me! You’ve been ignoring my texts or your responses have been clipped! You didn’t even bother talking to me on the drive here!” you ranted your chest heaving as all your frustrations tumbled out “and then you do a complete 180 and act all mushy and sweet and say all those things about how you felt when you first met me and it’s so goddamn infuriatinly confusing because I have no idea what the hell is going on anymore! I don’t know what’s real and what’s fake! So i’m sorry if I needed a fucking moment to get my head back on straight” you huffed.

Ari looked back at you with that unreadable expression but didn’t say anything which just pissed you off even more. Your fists clenched as you went to storm past him, maybe you could find somewhere else to get some air, somewhere away from him.

You had barely passed him when he quickly moved, his hand wrapping around your arm to stop you, your head snapped up to look up at him as he said “it’s never been fake, not for me” your lips parted at that admission, at the confirmation you had been searching for and were terrified of “everything I said in there tonight was true, the only lie was the date, you are the only person I’ve thought of since that day”

“But-”

Ari wasn’t done “I hated your ex before I even knew who he was because he got to you before I did, when Steph suggested this relationship I was so fucking happy because I would take anything you were willing to give me, fake or not.” he continued as he turned you around to face him “I pulled back because I thought I crossed a line on monday, the last thing I want is to hurt you more than you’ve already have been so I pulled back and I fucking hated it and i’m sorry if I’ve confused you” he said before letting out a deep and sad sounding sigh “and if you can’t do this anymore I understand, whatever you want”

You stared back at him, shocked at his admission. Your heart was hammering in a completely different way. You knew what you wanted, and it terrified you. You must have taken too long to respond as Ari muttered something and went to step around you, and in that moment, you were more terrified of losing him, so you reached up, cupped his cheek and crashed your lips against his.

Ari instantly responded, one hand cupping your cheek, the other resting on your hip as he walked you back and pinned you against the wall.

“I don’t think it was ever fake for me too,” you admitted quietly in between kisses “I thought about you too… after that lunch”

Ari growled in response and tilted your head back to deepen the kiss. You hadn’t realised how much he’d been holding back until this moment. All the other kisses had been amazing, but this one was sinful and heavenly all at the same time.

You wrapped your arms around his shoulders, fingers running up into his long locks, which were just as soft as you imagined. You gave them a soft tug, earning a small groan in response from Ari. His hand on your hip ran down your thigh and hooked under your knee, lifting your leg to hook around him. He pressed closer, pinning you to the wall, the bulge in his pants evident.

You had already felt it once, on Monday, but that was just a brush. Now you could feel just how large it was, “Oh my god”, you moaned, arching your back.

“I want you so much” Ari muttered as his lips travelled along your jawline and down your neck “wanna head out early?” he asked as one hand gripped your ass, the other cupping the underside of your breast.

You whined because you really did, but it would look bad if you ducked out early from a charity event. He needed good press, not bad press “We can’t… it would look bad for you”

Ari sighed and pulled back enough to smile down at you “Okay… but I’m feeling hungry still”, he smirked.

You tilted your head in confusion because you saw how much Ari had literally just eaten. He just gave you a lopsided smile as he sank down to his knees in front of you. Your eyes widened in realisation when you worked out exactly what Ari meant.

“Ari…” you muttered, starting to protest, not because you didn’t want this, because oh my god you really did, but because of where your mind was taking you. Like how someone could catch you, or how Dan always seemed to be reluctant to go down on you.

Ari seemed to read your mind as his hands ran over your hips “Y/N, I want to do this… do you?” he said softly.

You didn’t trust yourself to say the true answer, expecting your brain to take over and say no, so you kept your mouth shut and nodded. A wolfish grin grew on Ari’s lips as he slipped his hands underneath your dress, your heart pounded, and the ache in your core got so much worse when his fingers wrapped around the string waistband of your thong and pulled it down.

You watched as he pocketed your thong and turned his attention back to you. His large hand hooked around the back of your knee and lifted your leg over his shoulder. Your breath caught as he started to press kisses to the inside of your thigh, his beard scratching against the sensitive skin in the best way.

He hummed to himself when he finally reached your soaked core, “Is all this for me?”

“For you, because of you… Just you,” you panted, desperate to feel his touch “Please”

“You don’t need to plead with me, sweetheart, not now, not ever”, Ari swore as he pressed a soft kiss to your core.

“Oh my god”, you moaned. You muffled yourself with one hand while the other found Ari’s head. It was a simple and soft kiss, one touch as you were already close to falling apart,

A fact Ari seemed to know, if the smirk you felt was anything to go by. He also started off slow, drawing the pleasure out for as long as possible. Taking his time to explore you with his tongue and lips, working out what made your breath hitch. It didn’t take him long because everything he did felt amazing, and he soon dove in with the killer combination that made your legs feel weak and electricity course through your body. If your leg wasn’t over his shoulder, you wouldn’t be standing.

You couldn’t believe this was even happening. Anyone could walk in on you right now. Whenever you considered public sex, you thought the anxiety would be too much for you to enjoy it, but the adrenaline you were feeling was thrilling. It felt so good that you didn’t even care what the PR repercussions would be if you did get caught. If anything it would feel like the perfect fuck you to Dan if someone did catch you.

You could feel your peak getting impossibly close, you opened your mouth to say so but Ari sucked on your clit and took the words straight from your mouth as the best orgasm of your life crashed over you. It took all your willpower not to scream his name as it hit, you could barely breathe as he worked you through it, only letting up when your breathing slowly returned to normal.

You looked down to see him reemerge from underneath the skirt of your dress, a lopsided grin on his face, his beard glistening with your release. He moved to stand, and as soon as you could, you launched yourself at him, moaning at the taste of yourself on his lip.

Ari chuckled softly as he kissed you back, his arms wrapping around you to keep you steady. When you pulled back, he smiled gently and carefully pushed some hair from your face “Are you ready to head back in there, or do you need a few minutes?”

You couldn’t help but smile, ��I’m fine, thank you”

Ari pressed a gentle kiss to your lips before bending down once more, except this time to help you put your underwear back on. When he rose back to his full height, you could see the remnant of your red lipstick on his face.

“Hold on”, you said, reaching up to carefully rub it away. You were able to wipe away most of it, but there was a slight tinge to his skin “I probably need to fix my make-up too,” you admitted.

Ari shrugged his shoulder “I kinda like the messy look”, he admitted, “but yeah, at least for the rest of the evening, I’ll see it again back at my place”, he smirked.

“Sounds like a plan, I’ll be a couple of minutes”, you grinned before slipping back away towards the restroom.

You did your best to fix your makeup, you probably could have done better if you had spent more time on it, but you were desperate to get back to Ari. Hopefully, the auction wouldn’t take too long, and you and Ari could finish what you started.

As soon as it was socially acceptable to leave, you and Ari made a swift exit from the charity event. The car ride to his apartment was the complete opposite to the journey to the event. This time, you sat right next to Ari, his arm slung around you, his fingers trailing over the exposed skin on your thigh. You couldn’t stop yourself from giggling when he pressed kisses to your neck and nipped at your ear.

You did lightly scold him when he shot daggers at the back of Cole’s head, “you have me”, you whispered in his ear, “so you don’t need to go all caveman on the poor guy”

Once you arrived at his apartment building, he took you by the hand and led you inside. He waved to the doorman at his desk and led you to the elevator. As soon as the doors shut, he spun you around and kissed you deeply. You squealed in surprise but soon relaxed into his touch.

“I can’t get enough of you”, he murmured, which made your heart skip a beat because you felt the same.

The doors opening onto his floor broke the two of you apart, but you guess not for long as Ari took your hand again and walked you towards his apartment. He quickly unlocked the door and gestured for you to walk in.

He flicked the light on as you stepped inside and got a good look at his home for the first time ever. You were expecting some bachelor pad like Johnny’s, but Ari’s apartment was nothing like that. It was surprisingly modest for a professional athlete, with no more money than what was necessary being spent.

Instead of the stereotypical blues, blacks and greys of a bachelor pad, Ari’s apartment was full of warm tones like brown, red and mustard. The furniture was 70s-inspired but still looked modern. It wasn’t like you had fallen through a wormhole to 1975; it was like he’d brought a bit of the 70s to the modern day. Along one wall were the same kind of bookcases that he’d brought you, full of different kinds of books as well as souvenirs which his parents must have sent.

“This is not what I expected”, you admitted as you looked around.

Ari arched a brow “What did you expect?”

You shrugged your shoulders, “the stereotypical bachelor pad, with modern furniture that looks nice but isn’t comfy at all,” you explained.

“I take it you like it then?” he chuckled as he walked over to you, resting his hands on your hips as he came to a stop behind you.

“Yeah, not everyone can pull off 70s furniture without looking like a wannabe serial killer”, you smirked, “but you do”

Ari laughed loudly and wrapped his arms around you “I’ve missed this side of you”, he chuckled, pressing a kiss to your shoulder.

Your brows furrowed in confusion “What do you mean?”

“You’ve been quiet and reserved since you arrived in Boston, it's like you retreated into your shell instead of being the loud and witty person I met in LA”, Ari explained softly.

You let out a long sigh because you had been a different person back in LA but looking back in hindsight you weren’t sure if that person was ever you either “i’m not sure what kind of person I am anymore” you admitted as your turned around in embrace to face him, resting your hands on his chest.

Ari tilted his head slightly as he looked down at you “What do you mean?”

“Before I met El, I had been the shy, quiet girl that nobody really noticed, I didn’t party or have many friends, I spent most of my time at home or in the library reading” You recounted thinking back to your teenage years “When I met El she… I dunno made me feel more confident like I was feeding off of the energy she put out, kinda felt like I was faking it until I made it kinda thing and when I started working in PR I learnt pretty quick that celebs and politicians don’t listen to meek and shy girls so I kept the mask on until it basically became who I was” you sighed “part of me feels like I’ve just returned to who I was before, the real shy me”

Ari nodded slowly as he took in what you said “Can I tell you what I think?” he asked “I think you’re both of those people”

“I can’t be, nobody can be shy and confident at the same time”, you said, shaking your head.

“You can, it just depends on who you’re with and how safe you feel with them” Ari explained as he softly caressed your cheek “people change and evolve, shy people don’t always stay shy and confident people won’t always feel confident and when you’re with someone who make you feel safe and secure like El does it allows you to be the real you”

You took a quiet, shuddering breath as tears collected in the corner of your eyes. You had never felt more seen, “I feel safe with you”, you whispered.

Ari’s eyes softened as he looked down at you, his thumb brushed over your cheekbone softly as his head dipped, and his lips met yours. It was the exact response you wanted as you melted into him. Your arms looped around his shoulders as you moved up onto your tip toes to get closer to him. Ari responded by crouching and hooking his arm under your knees and sweeping you off your feet and carrying you to his bedroom.

You had expected to crash into his apartment like two horny teens, ripping clothes off each other as you stumbled to the near surface. But what was actually happening was so much better, it felt more real, raw and special.

He gently set you back down at the foot of his bed and stepped back enough to run his eyes over you, top to bottom, twice “You don’t know how long I’ve wanted to see you standing here, in my room”

“Since that lunch in LA?” you tilted your head in question.

Ari shook his head gently, his tongue darting out to wet his lips “Since before I even met you”, he said, cupping both your cheeks with his large hands as he dipped his lips to meet yours.

You sighed dreamily into the kiss, your hands resting on his chest. As his tongue mingled with yours, you cursed the fabric that separated you. You reached up to tug at his bowtie until it came loose. You tossed it aside before moving to push his suit jacket off his shoulders. Ari responded in turn, pressing kisses to your neck as he found the zipper of your dress. As soon as the fabric was loose enough, he guided it off your shoulders, taking advantage of the newly exposed skin to press kisses to your chest.

“Oh my god”, you muttered when you finally unbuttoned his shirt and could touch his rock-hard chest. You ran your fingers over his pecks, past his abs and down to his Adonis belt. You didn’t think this level of physique could exist, yet here it was, and you were touching it.

You were so distracted that you hadn’t even noticed that your dress had completely fallen to the floor, leaving you standing in only your completely ruined thong and high heels. You only noticed when Ari’s large cupped and squeezed the globes of your ass. You went to kick your heels off, but Ari stopped you.

“Keep ‘em on”, he murmured as he captured the sensitive peak of your breast in his mouth.

You gasped when he raked his teeth over the peak, the sharp sensation sending shock waves through your body and down to your core. He quickly soothed the pain with a gentle swirl of his tongue.

Your back arched, and your hips brushed against his, allowing you to feel his erection through his pants. You immediately decided that there were too many layers of clothing between you, so your hands dropped to his belt buckle and tugged it loose. You pushed down his pants and boxers enough for his erection to spring free.

Your fingers wrapped around it making you gasp “Fuck” You glanced down and saw the sheer size of it, your hand looking tiny in comparison “Oh my god you’re gonna kill me with

that monster”

Ari snorted against your skin and laughed when he pulled away enough to smile down at you “Don’t worry sweetheart”, he said as he lifted you up, wrapping your legs around his waist.

“You have seen the size of it, right? That's a world record breaker” you panted as you wrapped your arms around his shoulders “Maybe you are a serial killer, but your weapon is your dick”

Ari laughed harder as he kicked his shoes off and stepped out of his boxers and pants “firstly, I’ve already told you we’re bonnie and clyde” he said as he laid you down on the bed, his chest mere inches away from your “and secondly, I have seen the size of it, touched it whenever I thought of you which is why I know it’ll be fine because I know it’s made for you”

Your heart skipped a beat because how could he be so romantic and sexy at the same time? You reached up to push some of his hair back behind his ears because, as much as you loved his long hair, you didn’t want anything blocking the view of his face. Especially not the oasis that was his eyes.

“But if you’re hesitant-” he started, but you silenced him by pressing your fingers to his lips.

“Don’t you dare stop Levinson”, you warned, your body ached for him, and if he didn’t touch you soon, you’d lose it.

Ari smirked against your fingers, “Your wish is my command, Bonnie”

You laughed as your fingers moved to scrape through his beard. You didn’t use to think beards were sexy, you typically preferred clean shaven or the smallest bit of stubble, but when you touched Ari’s beard, it was like a drug, and you were hooked. Ari smiled down at you softly before pressing a languid kiss to your lips.

You watched as he sat back on his haunches in between your thighs and gazed down at your body. He rested his hands on your knees, spreading your legs further as his hands glided down your thighs. In one quick motion, your thong was ripped from your body and thrown over his shoulder.

“Ari!” you gasped in shock.

Ari gave you a lopsided smile “What? They were already ruined,” he pointed out.

You went to argue back but all that left your mouth was a moan when the pad of his thumb drifted over your slit, spreading your arousal. Your back arched as his thumb strummed your clit once, a second time and then a third. All you could feel was pleasure - so intense that you previously thought it was unimaginable - as he slowly rubbed circles over your clit with his thumb.

You didn’t think it could get any better until he slid one thick finger inside you. You almost came apart at that moment, but it wasn’t quite enough. Your chants changed from his name to a plea for more. A plea that was granted when he added a second finger on the next pass.

In the haze of your pleasure, you looked up at his face, watching him as he watched his fingers disappear inside you. It was the sexiest he had ever looked. He looked like a lion that was staring down at its prey, the hunger in his eyes unmatched. Your eyes fluttered shut as he dipped his head down and wrapped his lips around your clit. The combination of his sucking and his curled fingers pushed you over the edge. You screamed his name as the best orgasm of your life rolled through your body, one so intense you wondered whether you ever actually orgasmed before him.

Ari gently guided you through your orgasm, prolonging it to impossible lengths. He only pulled away when your body fully relaxed and your breathing returned to a close to normal as possible. You watched as he sat back once more and licked his fingers clean, smirking to himself when you muttered a curse.

He then reached over to his bedside table and pulled out a familiar foil square, he held it in his mouth as he grabbed a pillow and positioned it beneath your hips. You watched as he ripped the wrapper and rolled the condom on, the sight alone making you desperate for him. It didn’t matter that you had already had 2 mindblowing orgasms from him tonight, you wanted, no, needed more.

Once he was ready, he positioned himself over you, coating himself in your arousal before pressing the broad tip against your entrance. His eyes found yours as he dipped down to kiss you softly, “Tell me if it’s too much”

You wrapped your arms around his shoulders, threading your fingers through his hair and nodded. He kissed you once more before he slowly started to rock into you. You had taken barely an inch, and you already felt so full, but with Ari’s lips on your neck, you relaxed and slowly took more and more with each gentle thrust.

He stilled once he was fully seated inside you. You expected it to hurt, but it didn’t, not really. There was a burn as your walls stretched around him, but it was the most pleasurable burn you had ever felt.

“You okay?” he gritted, his teeth nipped at your skin.

“I’m more than okay… I’m so, so good,” you moaned.

“Good because I can’t hold on any-” he started, but you hooked your leg around his hip and the movement alone spurred him on.

You clung onto him, and he deeply thrusted into you with the perfect rhythm. You gripped onto the dress shirt he still wore so tightly, you were surprised that it hadn’t ripped. You cursed the fact that you couldn’t touch his skin, feel the way his back muscles worked. You wondered whether Ari felt the same, whether he read your mind or if you had spoken your thoughts out loud because he quickly pulled back and ripped off his shirt before returning his lips to yours.

You held on for as long as you could, but with Ari, it was a losing battle. He played your body like an instrument he’d played his whole life. He knew exactly what you needed better than you ever did and all it took was a simple touch to your clit to push you over the edge once more.

You saw stars as your orgasm hit and your walls clenched around him, you were able to stay aware enough to feel him hit his peak soon after yours. Each moment was better than the last as you felt Ari’s weight press against you, he was the best weighted blanket you could ask for. You smiled blissfully as he peppered your neck and jaw with kisses.

“You still alive Bon?” he smirked down at you.

You chuckled as you cupped his cheek, brushing your thumb through his beard “I think you brought me back to life, Clyde”, you admitted.

Ari smiled softly, his eyes shining as he kissed you deeply. You held onto him for as long as possible, but far too soon, he slipped away, making you whine at the emptiness that you had never felt this intensely before. The feeling was soon soothed when Ari returned with a warm, damp cloth and started cleaning you up. He then removed the heels you wore, his large fingers expertly undoing the tiny buckles.

Once he was done, he climbed back into bed beside you and pulled you into his side. You smiled as you rested your head on his chest and curled up beside him. He pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head as you trailed your fingertips over his bare chest.

As you did so, you remembered something that Elena had mentioned to you once “El told me that the team all got tattoos after winning the championship,” you recounted.

Ari hummed as his fingers ran up and down your back “They did”

“Where’s yours? Is it on your ass?” you smirked since that was the one place you hadn’t gotten a good look at.

Ari chuckled, “No, I didn’t get one”

You lifted your head from his chest “Really? Why not?”

“Because I’m Jewish”, he answered simply, like it was obvious.

“You’re Jewish?” you repeated in surprise, your gaze travelling over his body down to where the sheets now covered his crotch. You admittedly didn’t know much about Judaism but you got pretty personal with his cock tonight.

Ari laughed, clearly knowing where your mind had gone “I only started practising Judaism when I was 1,7 and at that point the idea alone of circumcision was too painful”, he explained with a chuckle.

“Oh”, you muttered, that made more sense. “What made you decide to become Jewish?”

“My birth mom”, Ari answered.

“Your birth mom?”

Ari smiled softly down at you, “Yeah, I’m adopted”, he explained “My birth mom was Jewish and died a few hours after I was born. There was no other family to take me in, so I ended up in the care system”, he sighed.

“I’m so sorry”, you whispered, you’d heard horror stories of the care system and how difficult it can be.

“It’s okay”, he said softly, “I bounced around foster homes until I was five. I’ve always had anger issues, and being in the system didn’t help. The home I landed in was my parents and I don’t know why but they didn’t give up on me even when I was the worst I could possibly be to try and push them away, they helped break down the walls I’d put up and adopted me when I was 6” he recounted, you sniffled slightly trying and and failing to hold back your tears “I still had issues with my anger though, still do now, but my teachers suggested they signed me up for rugby as a way to channel that anger into something productive and I’ve been playing ever since”

You looked up at him through teary eyes, “They sound like incredible parents”

Ari smiled softly as he brushed away your stray tears “They are. When I was sixteen, they told me everything they knew about my mom. It was a time in my life when I really needed it, and when I was 17, I decided to start practising Judaism to help feel closer to her”

“How does that work with your rugby schedule? Doesn’t it make it difficult?” you asked.

“It can, I don’t follow all the rules strictly, I’ve never been much of a rule follower to begin with”, he smirked, “so I do what fits into the lifestyle of a professional rugby player, anything I can do that makes me feel closer to the woman who gave me life”

You smiled up at him, “That’s really sweet, so do you not celebrate Christmas?”

Ari shook his head, “No, I do, I just celebrate it alongside Hanukkah” he shrugged his shoulders “Speaking of which”, he tapped your shoulder with his fingertips “are you flying to England to celebrate with your parents?”

You let out a long, sad sigh “No, I can’t afford the flight, and because of work, it’ll be such a short visit”

“I can pay if you want”, Ari offered.

“No, no, it's okay” You shook your head, resting back against his chest, fingers running over his chest.

“What will you do instead?” Ari asked, his brows furrowed.

“I don’t know”, you admitted.

“Why don’t you spend the day with me?” Ari asked, making your head snap up from his chest.

“What?”

Ari chuckled as he brushed some of your hair out of your face, tucking it behind your head “have you got gunpowder in your ears, Bonnie?” he smirked “spend Christmas with me, it’ll just be me and I can’t think of anyone else I’d want to spend the holidays with”

You smiled and reached up to press a kiss to his lips “I’d love to” you smiled “thank you, not just for the invite but for being honest with me about your past, it means a lot to me” you admitted “Dan’s affair wouldn’t have hurt so much if he’d been honest, I’d much rather he told me that it was over than go behind my back”

Ari nodded, his eyes searched yours for a moment before he said, “You’ll never have to worry about that with me, I promise”

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 5 months ago

Text

Boston Bears: Off-Limits - Rugby Player!Chris x Reader (Part 10)

Summary: After the eventful weekend that was the championship final, you and Chris talk about your relationship and attend the end-of-season party together as a couple. But will everything be okay with your dad?

Word Count: 6.7k

Warnings: Fluff! Angst! Mention of Panic Attacks! Language! SMUT! 18+ ONLY! MINORS DNI!

Rugby Explained

Dividers by Me!

Series Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 10

It was late at night that the hospital discharged Chris, he was still so drowsy from the painkillers that he slept the entire car journey back to his house. You sat in the back with Chris as Lisa drove the both of you. You and Lisa had tried to get Chris to sit in the front, but despite being pretty out of it, he was adamant that he wanted to be next to you. So you sat in the back, right next to him holding his hand as he rested his head against yours.

Scott was waiting for the three of you when you got to the house “Thought you two might struggle to get a 6ft rugby player into the bed” he reasoned as he helped get the semi awake Chris out of the car.

You watched nervously as Scott draped Chris’ uninjured arm over his shoulder and patted him on the cheek to wake him up a bit more before helping him to the door which Lisa had already opened.

Thankfully between the three of you, you managed to get Chris into bed without hurting him any more than he already was. He was snoring before his head hit the pillow, you didn’t blame him, it had been a long day and he didn’t even know the half of it.

“I can look after him, you guys get some rest it’s pretty late” you sighed glancing at the clock to see it was past midnight.

“Are you sure? He can be a pretty awful patient” Lisa warned with a small smirk.

You gave her a small chuckle “I don’t doubt that, but I’m good I wouldn’t be a good medic or…” you started before realising that you still didn’t know exactly what you were to Chris “Um if I didn’t stick around” you finished.

“Okay but I’ll leave my number in case you need to call for backup” she smiled softly, putting her hand on your shoulder.

“Thank you” you smiled.

Once Lisa and Scott left you set about getting yourself ready for bed because you were exhausted, mentally and physically. You found the spare toothbrush you always used on the occasion you stayed here and one of Chris’ tops to sleep in. You then grabbed a glass of water and the meds the doctor prescribed for Chris ready for when he needed them before carefully climbing into bed next to him.

You let out a long sigh as you rested your cheek into your hand against the pillow and just watched Chris as he slept. Today had felt so long, it didn’t seem right that the call you had with Tommi had only been that morning. So much had changed and happened since then. You now knew you loved Chris and that he loved you too. Your dad knew about you and Chris. Chris now had 1 less working shoulder thanks to Bryce.

Yet there were still so many unanswered questions. Would you and your Dad be okay? What would he say when he’s finally ready to talk? What’s next for you and Chris? Would you be in a committed relationship? Were you already in one since you admitted how you both felt?

It was enough to make your head hurt.

You rolled onto your back and stared up at the ceiling, your mind too wired to fall asleep. A blue glow then lit up the room as your phone buzzed on the bedside table. You instantly grabbed it hoping it was your dad texting to say everything was okay. After your mom's passing, he never liked going to bed still mad.

You sighed in disappointment when you saw Tommi’s name instead.

Tommi: I understand you’re probably busy following what happened to Chris but please check in to say you’re alive and okay

Tommi had texted you during the match after she found out what happened to Chris, but you hadn’t found the time to get back to her.

You: sorry, alive but not sure about okay

Tommi: is Chris okay?

You: he’ll be okay, got a broken collarbone and dislocated shoulder but he’s fast asleep and high on painkillers next to me so all good

Tommi: that’s good, it looked really nasty

Your eyebrows rose in surprise.

You: you watched?

Tommi: no, saw a clip online, you looked really shaken.

You: it was horrific, but that’s just the start of it…

Tommi: Okay, what else happened

You spent the next half an hour or so texting with Tommi telling her everything that had gone down. Feeling much better for getting it off your chest.

Tommi: I’m sorry that shit with your dad must really suck, but focus on the positives. You love Chris and he loves you, I’m sure as soon as he’s awake and not high he’ll ask you to be his girlfriend, he probably already considers you his girlfriend

You: I hope so

Tommi: and don’t worry about your dad, you guys are so close you’ll work it out, it’s probably just a big shock that he needs to get his head around first

You: yeah, I just hate being in an argument with him

Tommi: I know but it’ll be fine I promise, now get some rest I know it’s really late on the East Coast

You: I will thank you for being here for me

Tommi: I’ll always be here

Tommi: before you go

Tommi: what happened to Ari? I saw he got into a brawl following the tackle

You let out a small huff of laughter, shaking your head, Tommi clearly didn’t dislike Ari as much as she said.

You: he’s fine, a split lip and knuckles but Bryce saw the worst of it

Tommi: glad to hear it

You smiled softly, wondering if she was glad to hear about Ari or Bryce as you put your phone away. You rolled back over to face Chris and watched him again, smiling to yourself as you looked at the man you loved. Falling asleep soon after.

To your relief, you didn’t wake in the night with one of your panic attacks like you expected you would. Instead, you woke up to the sound of Chris groaning and shifting beside you.

You woke with a start as soon as you heard him, a quick glance at the time told you it was 10 am so at least he managed to sleep through the night too. You looked over at him to see he was definitely in some discomfort as he woke.

“Hey, you alright? Do you want some painkillers?” You asked sitting up.

Chris blinked a couple of times before rubbing his eyes with one hand “Oh hey” he muttered before glancing around and frowning “I don’t remember coming home”

You chuckled softly “I’m not surprised, you were half asleep and pretty out of it thanks to the painkillers they gave you at the hospital” you explained as you helped him sit up, as you grabbed the painkillers and water for him you started to worry that maybe he didn’t remember anything from the hospital “do you remember much?” You asked as you passed him the painkillers.

Chris swallowed back the painkillers and down half of the glass before speaking “Um not too much” he admitted “I remember waking up on the pitch in agony but then it was a blur, then I remember being in the hospital with Ma” he recalled before a lopsided grin grew on his face “I remember you telling me you love me if that’s what you’re asking”

You bit your lip to hold back a smile before ultimately failing “Maybe”

“Um I also remember a nurse hitting on me but I told her to back off because I love you instead” he recalled looking proud of himself.

You laughed dropping your head “Chris…” you started.

“Yeah?”

“That nurse was me,” you told him.

He blinked a couple of times before laughing himself “Oh shit I really was out of it, I don’t remember anything else, did anyone else visit besides you and Ma?”

“Ah” you muttered nibbling your lower lip “my dad was there with me too”

“Oh” Chris hummed in surprise, his face falling with realisation a second later “Oh”

“Yeah….” You said slowly knowing what conclusion Chris has reached.

He ran his hand down his face “shit Y/N I’m so sorry I had no clue…. Did he take it well?”

You shifted slightly recalling exactly what went down “It’s okay you don’t have to apologise he worked it out before you admitted it,” you told him, Chris furrowed his brows in confusion “The mic to my radio pack was on so the entire coaching and medical team heard me call you sweetheart and you call me babe, after the match he pulled me into his office to get some answers”

Chris reached out to take your hand, this thumb running back and forth soothingly “I’m guessing that didn’t go well”

You took a deep breath “No he said I was stupid for dating another rugby player after Bryce especially after he told you guys I was off limits, I told him that you were different, that I’d told you stuff about Bryce that I hadn’t even told him and that I loved you” you told him “he told me it was still a mistake and that I should end things before you hurt me and I agreed”

Chris blinked a couple of times “Wait hold up are you-“ he started, panic clear in his voice.

“No, no, no I’m not I promise, I’m not gonna end things, not now, not ever” you promised him making Chris breathe out a deep sigh of relief “I actually want us to be more… serious… a real committed relationship,” you said hesitantly.

Chris smiled “Good, because I want that too, I have for a while” he admitted “What changed? Why didn’t you end it like you promised?”

You smiled softly “You told me you loved me, he said he couldn’t expect me to end things now, but I think he’s still mad at me,” you said your smile dropping, “he told me to leave him alone until he was ready to talk” you sighed.

Chris sighed sympathetically “I’m so sorry sweetheart, I wished this all came out differently”

“It’s okay… I just hope me and my dad will be okay, I hate fighting with him” you sighed.

“I know, but we’ll work it out, I bet by the end-of-season dinner in a couple of weeks you’ll be back to normal” Chris promised.

“You think so?” You asked, uncertain.

Chris smiled softly “I know so, now c’mere I wanna hold the woman I love” he said holding out his arm.

You chuckled as you shifted closer into his embrace careful not to accidentally hurt him. Chris pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head as he held you close.

A few minutes of peaceful silence passed when Chris suddenly asked “Where’s Dodger?”

“Oh he’s at your sister’s, your mom thought it would be better so he didn’t jump up and hurt you while you were still out of it” you explained.

He nodded “Probably for the best, can we pick him up later though?”

“I can probably ask your mom or Scott to bring him around now if you want?” You offered.

“That would be nice, but I want to celebrate the win with you, my gorgeous girlfriend, first” he smirked.

You instantly caught on to what he meant, tilting your head “I’m not sure that's a good idea with your shoulder” you point out.

Chris smirked as he climbed out of bed and turned to face you “As the playmaker I know how to get inventive” You watched as he knelt down on his knees beside the bed “Now lose your underwear, and sit here” he smirked patting the edge of the bed in front of him.

You bit your lower lip, part of you knew it was a bad idea but a much larger part really wanted it too. Chris was a drug and even if you knew better, you were hooked.

You quickly did as you were told and moved to where Chris wanted you, spreading your legs wide so he had enough space and wouldn’t risk bumping his shoulder against you. You watched as his tongue poked out to wet his lips as he looked up at you with hooded eyes. The look of Chris between your thighs was one of your favourite sights, and from this vantage point, it looked spectacular.

Chris leant in and started pressing wet kisses up your thighs, switching back and forth, making the journey painfully slow. You were arching for him already and couldn’t wait for him to get to the end destination.

When his lips finally ghosted over your core you let out a breathy gasp, leaning back on your hands as your back arched. Chris groaned in response before diving in like a man starved, using the arm he could use to pull you closer.

“Fuck Chris” you moaned, a hand moving to his head, fingers running through his hair as this beard scratched your inner thighs.

“God I love you” he moaned against you.

“I love-“ you started but you cut yourself off with a loud moan as your orgasm rolled through your body.

Chris worked you through it, not letting up until you had collapsed onto your back. Your chest heaved as you caught your breath, you looked over when the mattress dipped beside you. Chris smiled back at you lazily as he lay beside you.

You rolled over to face him, pushing up onto your elbow “I love you too” you finished as you leant down to kiss him.

As much as you wanted Chris to be right and for your dad to get in contact with you before the end-of-season party, he didn’t. Chris tried to reassure you and encouraged you to make contact first but you refused. Your dad barely asked you for anything, the least you could do was give him the time he asked for. Even if it did hurt you.

You were standing doing Chris’ tie for him but you were struggling to focus only able to snap into the present when Chris put his hand over yours “What’s wrong sweetheart?” He asked softly.

I sighed looking down at the floor “I’m not sure I should go tonight” you admitted.

Chris cupped your cheek and tilted your head back so you were looking up at him “It’s gonna be okay” he reassured you.

“No it’s going to be awkward and awful, I’m supposed to be sitting next to him” you pointed out with a sigh.

When the end-of-season party was planned you and Chris were still a secret so he said no to a plus one and you were placed next to your dad on the seating plan.

“Maybe he’s waiting to talk to you then, he might think you’re upset with him too” Chris suggested, shrugging his uninjured shoulder.

“He won’t want to talk about this sort of thing in public” you said with a shake of your head, your dad was a private man who hated being the centre of attention.

“Maybe we can do a little bit of seat swapping” he suggested.

“I dunno it’s a lot of hassle for my sake” you sighed “I should just-“

Chris leant down and shut you up with a kiss “Nothing is a hassle when it comes to you” he said “Look we might be overthinking the whole thing so let’s put this gorgeous dress to use” he said nodding down at the blue dress you wore “we’ll go, we’ll sit where we’re told to sit and if you need to move, you come straight to me and we’ll sort it out, you can sit on my lap if you really want” he suggested wiggling his eyebrows.

You sighed and nibbled your lip in thought before glancing up at him. He gave you a pleading look with puppy dog eyes that could rival Dodger’s and before you knew it your resolve was melting away.

“Okay, hopefully it won’t be as bad as we think” you relented.

Chris grinned as he dipped down to kiss you “Perfect, I can’t wait to show you off as mine”

You chucked “Well let’s get this tie sorted first” you said returning your attention back to his tie “There we go, perfectly handsome” you grinned smoothing it down.

“Thank you sweetheart, you’re definitely the best and sexiest nurse I’ve had” he smirked making you roll your eyes.

The car soon arrived to take you to the hotel where the end-of-season party was being held. Chris wasn’t going to be drinking because of his painkillers but he couldn’t drive either. You had offered to drive but Chris said you should celebrate too.

You couldn’t help but smile when the two of you walked in hand in hand, you didn’t realise how refreshing it would be to not have to hide anymore. You could show the world just how much you loved Chris.

Chris guided you through the room towards the table he was supposed to be sitting at, as you went you glanced around to see if your dad was here yet but you hadn’t spotted him. You did spot Sam and the other ticket office mean girls who were all glaring daggers at you, something that made you smirk to yourself.

When you got to the table Chris was given a warm greeting by Jensen, Johnny, and Ari. Even Curtis gave him a gentle pat on his uninjured shoulder.

“Good to see you cap” Ari smiled “Can I get you a drink?”

Chris shook his head “Can’t, painkillers, Y/N will have a beer though”

“On it” Ari winked before moving off towards the bar.

Johnny walked over to you with a smile “Looking hot Y/N I’m almost regretting not getting to you before Evans did” he smirked.

“Back off Storm” Chris warned pulling you closer into his side.

You rolled your eyes at Chris’ possessiveness, even if you did secretly love it.

“Careful storm we’ve already seen what he did to Langley” Ari said as he returned and passed you your drink.

“He had it coming” Chris grumbled “Still does, he better look out the next time we play the Lions”

“I think we’ve all decided to hit him hard next time, nobody gets away with illegally tackling our captain” Jensen promised, Curtis grunted in agreement.

“Just keep it legal, you guys cause the medical team enough headaches as is” you chuckled.

As the guys kept chatting you glanced around and finally spotted your dad. He was stood talking to Andy, hands deep in his trouser pockets as he nodded along to whatever Andy was saying. You hoped that he would look over but he didn’t. Your fists clenched by your side, you bet he knew you were looking over, your dad always had a good sense for that sort of thing, and yet he was still clearly angry enough to completely ignore you.

“Looks like they want us all to sit down” Jensen said nodding over to the hotel staff who were getting ready to bring the food out.

You swallowed nervously “I better get to my seat then” you muttered.

“It’ll be fine” Chris promised, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of your head.

“Where you going? Your seat is right here” Johnny said as you went to step away.

“No I’m supposed to sit with my dad” you sighed gesturing over your shoulder with your thumb.

“No look,” Johnny said lifting up one of the name tags “You’re here between Chris and Ari”

“Oh” you muttered unsure what to think.

“That’s a good sign,” Chris said as the two of you sat down “Maybe he’s okay with me and you”

“Or a really bad one, what if the idea of just sitting next to me was too much to bear” you pointed out with a heavy sigh.

You glanced over your shoulder again towards your dad who now had Andy sat next to him instead of you. He finally looked over at you, his expression unreadable as he looked away again. You let out a heavy sigh as you turned back around.

“Don’t let this spoil your evening” Chris murmured as he leant in and whispered in your ear “This whole evening is supposed to be a celebration”

You nodded your head “I’ll try” you sighed.

“That’s all I can ask for” Chris smiled softly as he kissed the side of your head.

The dinner was soon served which gave you a good distraction from everything, especially since you couldn’t help but chuckle at how quickly the boys all devoured their meals. You wouldn’t blame anyone for thinking they had been starved but you knew this was just how they were. Chris was the only one who was a bit slower since he only had one arm to work with.

In between courses, you noticed Ari looking down at his lap with a deep frown on his face. More specifically he was frowning at his phone which he was keeping mostly out of sight underneath the table.

“Everything okay?” You asked quietly.

He quickly pocketed his phone and looked over at you “All good” he said with a lopsided grin that didn’t meet his eyes.

“Ari-“ you started, knowing something wasn’t right.

“I have to say I’m glad you guys are finally out in the open, we were all wondering when the secret would get out” he interrupted making your jaw drop.

“You knew?” You gasped quickly looking over at Chris who looked just as shocked. At least that meant he wasn’t the one who squealed “Johnny!” You complained.

Johnny held his hands up “I didn’t say anything I swear!” He defended.

“We all worked it out, you guys were pretty subtle but we weren’t oblivious” Jensen explained.

“Yeah I saw you whispering sweet nothing during our lunch” Ari smirked.

“Thought you were too busy getting shot down to notice” Chris shot back, making Ari’s brows flatten.

“I was not shot down” he grumbled.

“Wait did all of you guys seriously know this entire time?” You asked pointing around at all of them “Even you Curtis?” You asked when you realised he hadn’t said anything.

Curtis let out an offended grunt “You really thought I fell for your excuse in LA?”

Chris groaned pinching the bridge of his nose and shook his head, while you pursed your lips together remembering the rambling mess Chris had become when Curtis caught him leaving your room.

“Even Andy knew” Johnny chucked.

Your eyes bulged, you assumed he found out at the same time as your dad. Not that he already knew “what?” You squeaked.

“He grilled us on it when your dad wasn’t around one gym session, he wasn’t initially pleased considering the warning your dad gave us but he said he’d keep it quiet since Chris was playing better than ever and he wasn’t gonna screw with that” Jensen explained.

“Really?” Chris asked surprised.

“We’re superstitious guys, we weren’t gonna mess with your new good luck charm,” Ari said shrugging his shoulders.

“Well thanks, I thought we were hiding it pretty well” Chris chuckled shaking his head.

“You guys were so obvious! I mean you couldn’t take your eyes off her!” Johnny laughed.

“Don’t forget that water bottle stunt” Ari pointed out.

“And ditching us at the bar” Jensen added.

You sat back in your chair shaking your head in disbelief as the three of them continued to rattle off times you had been less than discrete. Even Curtis chimed in occasionally. Had you really been that obvious? You were surprised that you hadn’t been caught earlier if that was the case.

You looked over at Chris who looked just as shocked and dumbfounded as you. Your eyes met and before you knew it you were laughing and you couldn’t stop. The absurdity of it all sinking in. Maybe you should have been straight up and honest with your dad from the beginning, it was a miracle it took him so long to notice.

Eventually, the guys all calmed down and the conversation moved away from you and Chris. Just in time for the meal to end and the ceremony part of the dinner to start. Which began with your dad giving a speech to everyone, you watched as he got up from his seat and walked over to the small stage and lectern. The championship trophy on a pedestal next to him, along with the other awards that would go out tonight.

Your dad let out a long almost dramatic like sigh as he rested his hands on the edge of the lectern and shook his head “Well that match was one hell of a way to end the season, took me back to the good old days” he started earning a low chuckle from everyone “this season didn’t start well, we were on the back foot a lot of the time, after Christmas break we came back fighting but the scoreboard was still a lot closer than I would have liked but then something changed in the spring” he said his gaze shifting to you for a split second “and all of sudden we weren’t just winning, we were blazing ahead”

He chuckled to himself when Johnny called out “hell yeah! Never count the bears out” he hooted.

Your dad looked over at the trophy next to him before speaking again “I want to thank everyone here in this room for getting us this, you all played a part no matter how small of a part it was, its was game changing, I know if it wasn’t for you guys the boys would just be a bunch of guys running around and not a team” he continued earning another laugh “And boys” he said directly to the team “I think of you lot like family, like my sons, even if you do cause me enough stress to go grey” he chuckled running his hand through his hair which had yet to go grey just yet “but I am extremely proud of you all, you deserved this win more than anyone else in the league” he smiled pausing as everyone applauded the team “it’s a testiment to how well you work as a team that even when you lose your leader in the first 15 minutes of a match, you powered on” he continued nodding to Chris “and since he spent the rest of the day high on painkillers I would like to invite our captain up to finally lift the trophy”

Chris’ eyes widen slightly as you exchanged a glance. You gave him an encouraging nod, despite everything with your dad you weren’t gonna stop him from having this moment.

Chris cleared his throat as he stood up from his seat and made his way towards the stage. When he got there he shook your dad’s hand but you could see the nervousness and tension in his shoulders.

“Chris you are a player and man that I admire, this win was a testament to your leadership,” your dad said making Chris’ head dip bashfully “When I watch you play it makes me wish I wasn’t retired and playing alongside you because what you do with that ball is magical” he continued shaking his head with a warm smile on his face “I’ve coached you since we were a kid just out of the academy, I’ve watched you grow from a party animal that could rival Storm to a well-rounded gentleman who I would trust with my most precious possession”

“Should I be offended?” Johnny muttered but you weren’t paying any attention to him.

You were too busy listening intently to your dad, biting your lower lip to stop it from wobbling.

“Speaking of which, should we lift this bad boy together?” He asked Chris nodding to the trophy.

Chris smiled, glancing out at you before nodding his head. Both you and him knew that your dad didn’t mean the trophy. He meant you. Despite not hearing from him in two weeks, this was him giving his blessing. Everything was going to be okay.

“It would be my honour sir” Chris smiled before moving to stand one side of the trophy.

Your dad stood on the other side “Drum roll please” he said.

The entire room filled with the sound of people drumming their hands against their legs and the tables. The silverware and glasses clattering. All culminating in a large cheer when Chris and your dad lifted the trophy above their heads. The room exploded, the rest of the team jumping up from their seats and cheering loudly like they would on the pitch, you joining them.

You were laughing and clapping as loud as you could, letting out a few cheers too. Your voice not completely cooperating since you were trying and failing to stop yourself from crying happy tears. Chris’ eyes met yours from across the room, he smiled brightly back at you before mouthing ‘I love you’ to you.

You were wiping away your tears as they put the trophy back down and before you knew it he was rushing over to you. He wrapped his arm around you and tilted you back as best as he could before kissing you deeply. You smiled into the kiss, one arm wrapped around his shoulders to keep you steady while your other hand cupped his cheek.

“You’re the best trophy” he murmured against your lips.

The next thing on the agenda was the awards ceremony. Chris walked away with the player’s player award something that wasn’t that surprising following your conversation earlier and the fact that he often gave away his man of the match medal. It was once that was done and the party really started that your dad made his way over to you and asked if you could talk.

You squeezed Chris' hand reassuringly before following your dad. He led you out of the main function room and to a balcony that gave you a gorgeous view of Boston Harbour.

The two of you stood there for a moment in silence, just admiring the view. All you could hear was the waves crashing against the harbour walls and the clinking of metal. It reminded you of all the times your dad would bring you here as a kid, watching all the boats go in and out. Munching away at a pretzel or an ice cream.

“I need to apologise” your dad started as he turned to face you.

“No I do” you said shaking your head “I should have told you much sooner that I was dating Chris I-“ you continued.

“I should never have said you were off-limits” your dad interrupted “and I shouldn’t have said all the things I said after the match or at the hospital”

“It’s okay you were angry, we all say things we don’t mean when we’re angry” you reassured him with a gentle shake of your head.

“I wasn’t angry, shocked but not angry” he said making your lips part in surprise.

“I thought you were angry, you said to leave you alone” you muttered shaking your head in confusion.

Your dad looked back at you apologetically “I’m sorry, I… I had a lot to process and a lot of emotions to deal with and I’m sorry it took so long I did swing by your apartment before coming here but you weren’t in” he sighed.

You nodded your head unable to think of anything to say.

“Look” your dad sighed “when you called me about Bryce I- it broke my heart hearing you in so much pain, I wanted to jump straight on a plane and beat that punk up myself, it killed me that I couldn’t protect you from that,” he said his fist clenching in anger “I swore I wouldn’t let you get hurt like that again”

“So you told the team I was off limits” You nodded.

“Yes, so when I found out you’d both gone behind my back I was shocked and angry at myself for not protecting you, I knew deep down Chris wasn’t the boy I first met anymore but I couldn’t take the risk” he explained “but then when he turned down that ‘nurse’ because he loves you I realised I was wrong… I saw you two and you reminded me of your mom and me, you already look so much like her” his voice broke.

You bit your lower lip trying to stop yourself from crying. You hated seeing your dad in pain.

“I also realised how upset she would be with me for what I said and tried to make you do, I would have been sleeping on the couch” he muttered “I promised that I would look after you, I thought I’d done a good job, I felt so proud that you felt comfortable enough to tell my what Langley had done so when you admitted that you hadn’t told me everything, that you had been having panic attacks and that I’d been so goddamn oblivious to all of this I started to spiral and wonder what else I missed, failed”

“Dad” you muttered taking a step forward “you didn’t fail at anything, you have been the best dad I could ask for, the fact I was able to tell you anything about what happened with Bryce is a testament to that” you reassured him “the only reason I didn’t tell you everything was because I didn’t think you’d be comfortable knowing the intimate details of my sex life” your dad’s face scrunched up just at the thought of it “exactly,” you said with a watery chuckle “and like I said I didn’t realise I was having panic attacks until the trip to LA, but I’m sorry I didn’t say anything sooner, mom would be so proud of you, you’ve been my mom and my dad and I can’t thank you enough for what you’ve done for me,” you said unable to hold back your tears any longer.

“C’mere” he sighed softly, opening up his arms.

You immediately accepted his hug. It had only been two weeks but you missed your dad and his hugs so much. His hugs were the best, you always felt safe when he hugged you like he was shielding you from the world.

“I’m so sorry” he muttered, his voice thick with his own tears.

“It’s okay, I forgive you” you promised “and thank you for what you said during your speech, it really meant a lot to me and Chris,” you said as you stepped out of the hug.

“It’s okay, I didn’t know if you’d be willing to speak to me after everything so thought it would be a good way to say that I gave you my blessing and that I was sorry” he said with a small smile.

“It was a great speech” you smiled.

“Thanks” he smiled bashfully as he looked down at the floor running his hand through his blond hair. He then chuckled shaking his head “I still can’t believe I didn’t notice it, I can’t believe I was so oblivious”

You laughed, knowing thanks to the guys that he had been very oblivious “Yeah you were a bit”

“Oh I know, Barber and some of the guys came to me after I left the hospital” he told you.

“They did? Why?” You asked, surprised.

“They were worried about what would happen to Chris, they told me that you were Chris’ good luck charm” he explained.

“And can’t mess with a player's good luck charm” you finished with a knowing smile.

“Exactly, and as long as you’re happy, I'm happy” he smiled “But just a word of warning, Rugby weddings are crazy and hectic”

“Dad I think you might be getting ahead of yourself there” you chuckled.

Your dad gives you a gentle smile and he shakes his head “No I'm not, I see the way Chris looks at you and it was the same way I looked at your mom”

You couldn’t help but smile warmly at that because you had never felt this sort of love for someone, even though it was just the beginning you knew Chris was it “So you’re not gonna give him a hazing at training?” You asked.

“Oh no as soon as he’s back to full fitness he’s gonna get the most intense training regime out of all of them” your dad smirked before glancing over your shoulder “Speak of the devil, I’ll leave you two lovebirds to it” he smiled nodding to someone behind you before stepping away.

You turned around to see Chris stood by the door. Your dad said something to him as he passed that Chris nodded in response to. You couldn’t hear what Chris said but it looked like he said ‘With my life sir’

“Hey,” you smiled as Chris walked over to you.

“Hey, it had been a while so I thought I’d better check if you were okay” he said as he came to a stop in front of you.

“We’re good, very good” you smiled up at him.

“Glad to hear it” he smiled as he cupped your cheek and kissed you softly “So I’m not completely screwed when it comes to next season then?”

You laughed “Not completely, but we better get you fighting fit because he’s not gonna go easy on ya” you grinned.

“It’s a good thing I have the best medic in the league as my girlfriend then” he smirked kissing you again.

“How’s the party?” You asked nodding back to the party inside.

“Nice but it would be better if you were there with me” he grinned.

You laughed “Well take me back inside captain” you smirked, holding out your hand.

“Certainly” Chris took your hand with a grin and led you back into the part and straight to the dance floor where the rest of the team was.

You laughed as he spun you around, his hand moving to your hip using it to pull your back against his chest. You grinned over your shoulder at him as you grinded your hips against his, smirking when he quietly groaned.

He leant in to whisper in your ear “If you keep this up I’m gonna have to find us a closet” he warned.

“What if that’s what I want” you smirked.

Chris groaned as he pressed a kiss to your shoulder “You are trouble”

The two of you continued dancing together, ignoring the whistles and cheers from the boys whenever it got a bit hot. Eventually, the music slowed down and only the couples remained on the dance floor. You turned around to face Chris, draping one arm over his shoulder, your other hand resting on his chest as he wrapped one arm around you. You swayed back and first slowly, smiling warmly up at him.

“You know, from the moment I met you I knew you were someone special” Chris hummed.

“Really?” you asked, surprised even if you did think the same about him.

“Yeah, from the moment you walked over in your white tee and blue jeans and offered to buy me a drink I was a goner, I’m surprised I stayed away as long as I did” Chris smiled softly.

“You remembered what I wore” you muttered in disbelief.

“I remember everything when it comes to you”

“Except when you’re high on painkillers in the hospital” you smirked.

Chris threw his head back and laughed loudly “You got me there, but every other time I remember” he smiled.

“You’re very sweet Evans, I don’t know what I did to deserve you” You smiled up at him.

“You did nothing except be yourself, this incredible, brave, amazing woman that I love,” Chris said softly, shaking his head.

“I love you too” you smiled reaching up onto your tip toes to kiss him.

His hand moved to cup your cheek, keeping your lips against his for as long as possible. So much so that I felt like the entire universe had melted away and there was nothing and no one who could get in the way of you and him.

When you eventually pulled away you caught sight of your dad watching, beer in hand, with a soft smile on his face. He raised his beer and nodded his head in a toast to you and Chris and it meant the absolute world to you.

A/N: I almost didn't want to put this out because I didn't want to say goodbye to these two but its not a goodbye its a see you later and I hope you enjoyed this first installment to the Boston Bears series!

Sharing is caring so please reblog and leave a comment to really make my day!

This series has no schedule, please don’t ask when it will be updated! Same goes for Masterlist, AO3 and Wattpad!

Series Masterlist / Masterlist

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#niamhwrites #chris evans #boston bears #boston bears series #boston bears: off-limits #rugby player au #chris evans fanfiction #rugbyplayer!chris #chris evans au #chris evans x reader #chris evans x you #chris evans x y/n

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 3 months ago

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The Demigod On Earth - Steve Rogers x Reader (Back In Time)

Summary: You and Steve celebrate Valentine's day

Word Count: 840

Warnings: FLUFF!

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Masterlist / Main Masterlist

You carefully rocked Talia and approached her crib, she seemed to be fast asleep in your arms but you knew better. JJ had been such an easy baby, even when he was suffering from colic, it lulled you and Steve into a false sense of security when it came to Talia. Talia was only 4 months old but she was a wild child already. She had an unbelievable amount of energy which meant it was very difficult to get her to sleep.

Like you were holding a bomb you placed Talia into her crip, holding your breath to see if she was about to wake back up. This was already your third attempt to put her down. She stirred slightly but stayed asleep. You waited for a few minutes just to be safe, breathing out a sigh of relief when she didn’t wake. Once Talia was out she was out, an alien invasion could happen and she’d sleep straight through.

You made your way back downstairs to find Steve making Pepper a cup of tea while Morgan and JJ coloured in the living room.

“She finally down?” Steve asked as you walked in.

“Finally, only took 3 attempts this time” you sighed tiredly.

Pepper chuckled nervously as Steve passed her drink “only slightly regretting agreeing to babysit”

“Don’t worry she should be out for good now” you reassured her.

“We love her but god she is a wild child” Steve sighed shaking his head.

“You’ll be fine, she should stay asleep until we get back, she has a fresh diaper, and milk in the fridge but if you have an issue just call it’s fine” you chuckled.

“I’m sure we’ll be fine, don’t rush back and enjoy Valentine's day” Pepper smiled softly “What are you doing?”

You arched a brow over at Steve “I don’t actually know, Steve has planned all of this”

Steve grinned “It’ll be fun”

“Well you two get going and enjoy your evening” Pepper said ushering the two of you out of the kitchen.

“Thanks again for this pep,” Steve said as you said goodnight to JJ.

Once Steve had said goodnight he took your hand and led you out of the house, you expected him to lead you to the car but instead, he led you over to his bike which was out of the garage.

“I feel like I’ve fallen through a wormhole back in time” you chuckled as you approached the bike.

“Thought I might take some inspiration from our past” Steve smiled softly “c’mon” he climbed onto the bike.

You smiled as you climbed on behind him, wrapping your arm around his waist. You pressed a kiss to his neck making him smile over his shoulder at you. You held on tight as he revved the bike and pulled away from the house towards the city.

It wasn’t long until you pulled up outside a venue you hadn’t visited for many years “I didn’t think this place would still be here” you muttered as you climbed off the bike.

So many businesses had shut following the snap, New York was a completely different city when you returned. So you were surprised to see this small business still going.

Steve shrugged “I think people just like to escape the modern world from time to time, shall we?” he held out his hand.

You grinned as you took his hand and followed him inside the dance hall that you had taken him to all those years ago. The 40s music was in full swing as he guided you straight onto the dance floor and spun you around into his embrace.

You spent the next hour or so dancing and having fun just like you did the first time you came here. Your lives have completely changed since then in ways you never imagined.

“It was a year ago today that you told me you were pregnant” Steve hummed his mind on a similar wavelength to yours.

“Yeah, I was just thinking about how much our lives have changed over the years”

“Do you think our past selves would have believed it if they knew what would happen?” Steve asked as you slowly swayed to the beat.

You took a deep breath “No, I don’t think we would have” you sighed “Some unimaginable things have happened like Thanos and losing the people we’ve lost, but I think at that time I don’t think we thought we could get to the place where we are now, retired and just a normal suburban family”

“There were days when it felt like a pipe dream” Steve agreed.

“We did it though, and as much as I do miss elements of being an avenger, like the comradery, I wouldn’t go back” you admitted.

Steve nodded “Me neither, why would I when I have everything I need and want at home” he smiled softly.

“I love you” you smiled, reaching up to cup his cheek.

Sharing is caring so please reblog if you enjoyed this and maybe even leave a comment to make my day!

I have no schedule, please don’t ask when I will be updating!

Masterlist / Masterlist

I don’t have a tag list so follow @secretswiftymarvelfanlibrary and turn on post notifications for updates!

#niamhwrites #DOE #Steve Rogers x Reader #Steve Rogers x You #Steve Rogers x Y/N #Marvel #MCU

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 7 months ago

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Boston Bears: Off-Limits - Rugby Player!Chris x Reader (Part 7)

Summary: It's your first time back in LA following what went down with Bryce. You expected it to be uncomfortable, you didn't expect almost everything to explode in your face

Word Count: 5.9k

Warnings: Fluff! Angst! Brief Minor Violence! Talk of Sexual-Misconduct! Poor Self-Confidence! Mention of Vomit! Talk of Anxiety!

Rugby Explained

Dividers by Me!

Series Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 7

The stadium was already full when Chris stepped out onto the pitch to warm up. The LA heat was almost unbearable compared to the East Coast spring weather. Chris scanned the crowd which was full of LA Lions fans but to Chris’ joy, he could still see the occasional blue shirt of the Bears fan. Dedicated fans who made the long trip or kept their allegiance after moving.

Today was the first away game for a few weeks. It was an important match as the Lions were the main competition for the playoffs and championship, but also because it would prove that the current winning streak wasn’t because the Bears were at home.

Training had been intense the past week, Coach blasting the heating so the change in temperature wouldn’t be too stark. They also arrived in LA Wednesday evening despite the match not being until Saturday. It allowed them to train in the heat and recover from the flight so they were all fighting fit.

As Chris warmed up he glanced over to the bench where you were stood with the other medics. You looked good in shorts and a sports vest instead of the tracksuit you normally wore, but Chris kept spotting you glancing over at the Lion’s bench nervously.

You hadn’t told him exactly why you left the Lions so suddenly but he guessed it wasn’t for a happy reason. You seemed hesitant to be back here. Chris had a suspicion though, one he had when he was doing his research for tonight’s match.

He had watched all of the Lion’s games from this season to fully understand how they were trying to play. Despite knowing you obviously worked there, He was surprised when he first saw you on the footage, he wondered how he never noticed you before because now he couldn’t stop looking for you. It was one match that caught his attention though, it was the last match the Lions played before you left.

He could see in the small glimpses he got of you that you were acting different, acting like you were now Chris realised. In the footage, he watched as the Lion’s fly-half, Bryce Langley, went down and you jogged onto the pitch. Unlike all the other times you saw to Bryce in previous matches, you seemed pissed off, you snapped at him and even chucked a water bottle at him.

If Chris had to guess, Bryce was at least part of the reason that you left so suddenly. He just hoped Bryce stayed away today and didn’t cause you any more trouble.

Chris went back to warming up, practising his kicks. The crowd were doing their best to put him off, jeering as he did his run-up. But to his delight and their disappointment Chris slotted the ball between the posts each time. Chris grinned when he bent down to grab his tee, sending a winning smile to the crowds as he turned around only to see Bryce was watching him from his side of the pitch. Chris barely acknowledged him as he walked off to join his team for some drills.

When it was time to head back into the changing rooms to get ready for the match, Chris timed it so he walked by the bench next to you “You okay?” he asked quietly, pausing for a moment.

You gave him a small smile and nodded “Good just promise me you’ll beat the crap out of them” you asked.

Chris grinned and nodded his head “It’ll be my pleasure” he promised as he carried on towards the changing room only to notice Bryce once again watching him.

Soon enough it was time for kick off and both teams came out of the starting blocks with fire in their veins. It was a brutal first half and hard hits and each team scrapped to get over the try line only to be unsuccessful. The only points on the scoreboard were from penalty kicks.

There had been plenty of breaks as different players on either team needed some medical attention. Whenever there was a break the medic team would jog on, a couple going to the players that were down, the rest bringing water on for the rest of the team.

You had been mostly on water duty and whenever you came over Chris somehow always managed to end up standing up next to you. You occasionally brought on some instructions that had been radioed down from your dad.

After the most recent break when you went to leave the pitch, you gave one last instruction from your dad directly to Chris. Chris nodded and patted you on the shoulder as you left before moving to get back into position for the restart.

As he took up his position ready to kick the ball ready to start the next phase of play he spotted Bryce was watching him intensely and not because Chris was about to kick the ball, Bryce was also looking at you as you walked off the pitch.

Chris decided to take this moment since Bryce was clearly distracted, he checked the ref was ready to go and kicked the ball the restart the game. It was another rough ten minutes that ended with the ref calling both Captains over for a talking too, which to Chris’ annoyance meant Bryce came walking over. Chris ignored him as the ref told them both to get the penalties under control otherwise players would start getting sent off, but when they went to walk back to their respective teams Bryce spoke up.

“See you’re close to our old medic,” He said.

Chris arched a brow but didn’t engage.

“She’s a bit of fun isn’t she” Bryce smirked with a disgusting wink before turning away.

Chris clenched his fists as he took in that snippet of information. You and Bryce had been in some sort of relationship, one that clearly didn’t end well. Chris knew that it had to be Bryce’s fault and the reason why you were so nervous to be here and it made Chris’ blood boil. If he hurt you then Chris was gonna kill him.

Thankfully for Chris, he played the perfect sport that allowed him to dispense some justice, he just needed to play it carefully.

It was only a couple of minutes until half-time when the perfect opportunity presented itself. Johnny had kicked the ball down the pitch and it was going straight into Bryce’s hands. Chris timed his run perfectly, hitting Bryce with a hard tackle as soon as his boots touched the ground. The ball was knocked free the hit was so hard, yet Bryce just laughed as he lay underneath Chris.

“You can do better Evans” he chuckled.

Chris bit back a growl as he went to push himself up and rejoin the game but Bryce spoke up again.

“And I don’t mean the tackle, there better lays out there, she’s shit in bed” Bryce smirked up at Chris.

Chris saw red but still had enough reason to stop himself from punching Bryce. If he threw the first punch he would be sent off for the rest of the game, he wanted Bryce to throw the first punch. So instead he grabbed Bryce by his shirt, lifted him up and slammed him back into the ground before standing up so he looked more innocent.

Bryce took the bait, jumped to his feet and swung, his fist connecting with the side of Chris’ face. The crowd exploded as the two teams piled in, it was only once Chris and Bryce were surrounded and hidden from the cameras that Chris threw a punch, but not before getting a couple more to his face. Chris could feel blood trickling down from his forehead and he was pretty sure his lip was split.

Eventually, the teams and refs were able to break the fight up. Ari had his arm around Chris’ shoulders as he led him away to ensure Chris didn’t go in for round two even though they both knew Ari was more likely to go in again out of the two of them.

The medics ran onto the pitch, you ran straight to Chris “What the hell happened” you hissed as you passed him a water bottle and held some gauze to his eyebrow which was bleeding.

Chris squeezed some water into his mouth to sloosh out the blood before spitting it back onto the pitch “Don’t worry about it” he muttered.

A worried look passed over your eyes as you glanced over toward Bryce who was also being treated, when you looked back at Chris it looked like you wanted to be sick.

“Chris-” you started but Chris interrupted.

“Later”

You nodded and returned your attention back to getting the bleeding to stop. As you did so the ref who had been talking to the TMO walked over and showed Chris a yellow card. Chris sighed, it wasn’t great but at least it wasn’t a red which was the card that was shown to Bryce.

Since the fight had started in the 40th minute the ref called the end of the first half allowing all the players to head back to the changing rooms.

“Hold onto this and I’ll patch you up better in the changing room” you instructed as you grabbed your bag and stood up.

Chris did as he was told and held onto the gauze as he started to walk off the pitch, as he did so he glanced up to where all the coaches sat and watched the game. Even from this distance, he could see the look of fury on your dad’s face telling Chris he was about to get a bollocking in the changing rooms.

Once inside, Chris sat down in his cubby and let you carry on treating him. The cut on his brow had stopped bleeding allowing you to apply butterfly stitches to keep the cut shut. You then added a bandage to help protect it while allowing him to continue playing.

You were just cleaning up the small cut on his cheekbone and split lip when your dad finally stormed into the changing room “WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT EVANS!” he bellowed loud enough to make the entire team flinch.

“I’m sorry sir, I just saw red” Chris apologised.

Your dad shook his head “That isn’t like you Evans! What on earth was he doing that provoked you” he asked.

Chris noticed how you froze for a second, a flash of fear passing over your eyes that only Chris could see.

“He was trash-talking Jensen and it just pissed me off” Chris lied, Jake looking over at him surprised.

“It's true I heard it, he deserved it” Johnny piped up.

Chris shot Johnny a thankful look, he knew Johnny hadn’t heard a thing but he clearly put two and two together.

“Right well good for you for sticking up your friends” Coach Y/L/N sighed “At least you didn’t throw the first punch” he then turned your attention back to you “Is he good to back on?”

“Just about to do the head injury assessment now” you responded.

Your dad nodded “Okay well it’s going to be 14 men on both teams for the first ten minutes of the second half so we should expect them to hit us hard during those ten minutes, but as soon as we get 15 men back on the pitch we need to hit them hard and make them regret losing Langley”

As he continued on with his halftime talk, you did the head injury assessment on Chris which involved a lot of you looking into Chris’ eyes. He just hoped you could see the reassurance he was trying to convey in them.

Today had been a disaster. You really regretted coming back to LA. Your dad had said that you could stay back in Boston if you really wanted to but you wanted to prove to yourself that you weren’t haunted by LA. Tommi was here, you needed to be able to visit her and the team would always play here at least once a season.

You had felt sick the entire time you were in the stadium, you could feel a thousand eyes on your back. The only time you felt better was when you felt Chris’ eyes on you, they felt like a gentle touch in between the stabs of pain.

It was enough to make you feel better, feel safer. You could do this, the tightness in your chest dissipated.

That was until the fight broke out between Chris and Bryce. You knew it had to be over you. You didn’t know exactly what Bryce but you had a good idea and all the progress you made was gone in an instant.

You had been feeling better about yourself following your night out with the ticket office girls. Whether he knew it or not Chris had built you back up by making you smile, he took you to bed and seemed to worship you. You felt more like the person you had been before everything happened.

But now Bryce had poisoned it. He has told Chris about you and you felt like you were back to square one.

Chris had said ‘later’ when you tried to ask him and you couldn’t work out if it was a good or bad later. Considering you had yet to speak to him following the match you felt pretty confident it was a bad later.

You had eaten dinner with your Dad who wanted to make sure you were okay being back in LA. When everything went down with Bryce you had called your dad in tears, you hadn’t told him every detail just that you had been in a relationship with a player and it ended so badly that you needed out. Your dad went into instant over-protective mode and you had to convince him not to jump straight on a plane over.

To anyone else, it would have been awkward talking about this sort of thing with their dad, but it had been just you and him, he’d been your mom and your dad so it felt normal. He didn’t know that the fight between Chris and Bryce was because of you, he’d believed the lie Chris had told him. Whether he lied to protect you or himself you didn’t know.

Now you were just sat alone in your hotel room, chin resting on your knees as you hugged them close to your chest. It was late but you couldn’t sleep. You were still waiting for Chris to come to discuss what had happened. He hadn’t texted you or said anything since the game but you knew it was only a matter of time.

It was half an hour later that you heard a light tapping of knuckles on your hotel room door. You took a deep breath and pushed yourself off your bed, wrapping the loose long cardigan you wore around yourself tightly.

Like you suspected you found Chris on the other side of the door, an unreadable look on his face “Can I come in?” he asked quietly.

You swallowed and nodded as you stepped aside and let him in. He walked in and took a quick look around your room before he turned back to face you. He had changed into comfies, grey sweatpants and a navy blue tee. The cuts on his face looked better even if bruises were starting to form.

“Everything okay?” you asked quietly.

Chris nodded “I just thought I’d find out why I took a total of 3 punches to the face for you today” he said.

“Chris I-” you started before your voice gave out, your own body silencing you.

“You left LA because of him right? You were dating him and it went bad” Chris stated his hands buried in his sweatpant pockets probably to hide the fact that they were clenched.

“Yes,” you whispered.

“What happened? Did he hurt you?” Chris pressed taking a couple of steps forwards towards you.

“He- he uh - it-”

“You can tell me” Chris promised.

“I know I just- it’s just-”

Chris let out a long sigh and dropped his head “It’s okay don’t worry, you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to, I… I just wanted to make sure you were okay” he said softly.

He lifted his gaze to meet yours and you could see the sincerity in them. It made your heart completely melt. It was at that moment that you realised that you did want to tell, you wanted this all off your chest even if it meant he left you because you couldn’t live the lie anymore.

“I want to tell you, I do…” you muttered looking down at the floor, fiddling with the sleeves of your cardigan “It’s just difficult” you admitted.

Chris nodded his head “That’s okay, take however long as you need” he said softly.

You bit your lip and nodded your head. Your mind was running at a million miles per hour trying to work out what you wanted to say or how to say it. You took a few deep breaths and tried to talk but every time you opened your mouth nothing came out no matter how hard you tried.

You looked back up at Chris and saw him patiently waiting for you. He wasn’t trying to rush you, he looked sympathetic and understanding. Which actually made it worse because you weren’t sure you could see that face change to disgust as you told him everything that happened.

“I’m sorry I- I can’t look at you when I… I just can’t” you said before turning around so your back was to Chris.

You took a couple more deep breaths, once you got going the rest would just fall out. You just needed to take that first step. You’d done it before with your Dad and Tommi so why was it so hard now? You’d done it before, you could do it again. You could do it.

“I had a crush on Bryce for a while, I never properly knew him but I thought he was hot and he seemed nice, he was a good laugh” you finally managed to say “Then at the Christmas party he finally reciprocated, I thought it would be a one-time thing and I was okay with that too but he kept coming back and I kept letting him in” you explained trying to keep your voice level, “he asked to keep it quiet, said it was to protect me, made me think it was exclusive when it wasn’t” you swallowed as you prepared yourself to recall the hardest part of the story “at my last match for the Lions I overheard him talking about me and not just him telling the team that we were together he told them everything, told them so much that I may as well have walked in naked and given them the information myself and it wasn’t like he was bigging me up, here was tearing me down, saying how shit I was- the disgust in his voice… I tried to brush it off and say it was just locker room talk but all of them just looked at me like I was naked and I felt so violated I-I had to leave”

You had to take a moment as the tears streaming down your face made it near impossible to talk but the floodgates were open and truths you hadn’t even voiced before came streaming out.

“It made me feel like spoiled goods, I’m not someone who asks for reviews and the first I got was the worst you could ever get and my confidence just went. I tried to get myself back on the horse to prove him wrong but that voice was still in my head, it still is telling me how disgusting I am and how there was no way that you’re enjoying this as much as you say” you shuddered “and even if you didn’t realise it then I’m sure after hearing all this you do now and it’s fine if you want to stop, want to leave… I wouldn’t blame you”

Silence fell in the room. The only sound was your sobs that you tried and failed to hold back. You covered your face with your hands to hide your tears, tried to stop them.

It felt like an eternity had passed, so long that you were certain that Chris had left and you hadn’t heard him go. That was until you felt his arms wrap around you tightly, holding you up as you completely broke down.

You were so distraught that you hadn’t even registered that he’d turn you around until your head was buried in his chest. Your fist clutching his tee as your tears soaked the fabric. He rubbed your back soothingly, his other hand cradling the back of your head.

You were faintly aware of him whispering comforting words in your ears as he pressed kisses to the top of your head. It was soothing and heartbreaking all at the same time. Chris was being so sweet and it pained you to think that you thought he wouldn’t. He’d given you no real reason to think the worst of him yet you did and you felt awful about it.

Your body began to shake with exhaustion. All the adrenaline that had been pumping through your body all left at once making you feel weak. Chris instantly picked up on it though as he scooped you up and moved to sit on the bed, you curled up in his lap.

With the exception of the comforting words he was whispering, he just let you cry it out, he didn’t try and get you to stop he just held you. It was only when your sobs receded and turned into hiccups that he spoke.

“Firstly I am so sorry you had to go through all that, I would have hit him harder today if I’d known” he sighed “But secondly… don’t you dare believe a word he says, you are not spoiled goods, you are not disgusting, and you can be damn well sure I have never felt that way about you either” he continued cupping your cheek as he tilted your head back so he could look into your eyes “when I’ve told you how much I enjoy our time together and how fucking good it makes me feel it is 100% the truth because I would never, ever lie to you about something like that”

“But-” you started but Chris silenced you by running his thumb over your lips.

“You are easily the sexiest woman I have ever had the pleasure of spending time with, you are like a drug that I cannot and do not want to quit” Chris stated, his voice full of conviction.

“Then why did he-” you sighed shaking your head.

Chris shrugged his shoulders “I don’t know, Bryce is so fucked in the head that I don’t even want to dive into his messed up mind to try and figure it out but I can guess that like all bullies he was projecting his own insecurities onto you and decided he needed an ego boost and so he started to brag” he sighed “all of it is on him not you”

You let out a long sigh and rested your head back against his chest as you thought back to all the times you had spent with Bryce, the memories completely different without the rose tint “he definitely isn’t the best I’ve had” you muttered “that award goes to you”

Chris snorted with laughter, and shook his head “I can say the same thing about you” he said softly.

“Thank you” you whispered “I am sorry you got punched by him today, I should have told you about all of this before”

Chris shook his head, his hand running soothingly up and down your back “It’s okay you weren’t ready to tell me, plus if you had I probably would have been the one who got given a red card because I would have outright punched him the first chance I got, I should really give you the man of the match medal” he chuckled.

“I thought Johnny got player of the match” you pointed out, brow furrowed in confusion. You could definitely recall Johnny showing it off in the changing rooms despite how awful you were feeling at the time.

“He gave it to me, said if I hadn’t taunted Bryce into the fight we wouldn’t have had the 1 man advantage and he wouldn’t have been able to score as easily as he did” Chris explained “So remind me tomorrow morning to give it to you” he smiled softly.

You shook your head “You keep it, you deserve it for sticking up for me”

Chris nodded but you had a sneaky suspicion that it would somehow end up in your possession anyway.

“Can I ask you something?” Chris then asked, you nodded your head to tell him to go on “Did you report what he did to you?”

You let out a long sigh and nodded your head “Yeah I went straight to the head coach after the match, to his credit he was really good about it, he launched an investigation into it but all the team took Bryce’s side and said he never said anything about me, it was my word against all of theirs and while the head coach believed me he said his hands were tied” you recalled.

Chris swore under his breath “That’s utter bullshit, he could have done so much more” he said his voice almost like a growl “I’m glad you left, seems like that entire club is backwards and not a safe space for anyone”

You nodded and let out a sigh “You’re right, it would be nice if there was some justice”

Chris hummed in agreement “I know, but there will be, these things have a way of working themselves out, and in the meantime, Bryce is walking around with a nasty black eye so he won’t be getting any attention for a while” he smirked.

You chuckled softly before yawning, the exhaustion from today finally catching up with you. You were finding it difficult to stay awake, especially in Chris’ warm and safe embrace.

“You tired?” Chris murmured as he looked down at you.

You looked up at him with droopy eyes, there was no denying that you needed to go to sleep but you really didn’t want Chris to leave “Not really” you said.

Chris gave you a knowing look “C’mon let's get you to bed” he hummed standing back up.

You tried to protest but it was an impossible battle as Chris pulled back the covers and guided you to climb in. You managed to grab hold of his hand as he pulled up the covers.

“Will you stay?” you whispered.

Chris smiled softly as he nodded his head “I’m not going anywhere” he promised, pressing a kiss to your forehead.

You watched as he stood back up and pulled his tee over the top of his head, turned off the lights, before climbing into bed with you. As he settled he pulled you into his side so you could rest your head on his chest. He wrapped his arms around you securely the weight of his arms comforting. It didn’t take long at all for you to fall asleep, only faintly aware of Chris kissing the top of your head as you drifted off.

To Chris' relief, you fell asleep quickly. He watched as all the tension and worry left your face and you completely relaxed as you slept. It took him a bit longer to be able to fall asleep himself. His mind focused on replaying back every interaction he’d ever had with you, noticing all the signs he’d missed.

Like how you were so set on making sure you were on the same page on exclusivity and how many details would be shared with others. He could tell it was important to you at the time but now he knew it was because you were trying to protect yourself, trying to ensure Chris wouldn’t do what Bryce had done.

He could also recall all the times an odd look would pass across your face. While he didn’t know exactly what you were thinking in those moments, he knew there were doubts and fears that only existed because of the damage Bryce had done.

Chris now understood why your dad was so adamant that none of the players messed with you. Hell Chris would be the same if his daughter had been so broken by a rugby player, heck Chris might even try and convince them to leave and use their skills elsewhere. He just hoped that Chris’ good reputation would be enough to convince your dad not to kill him.

Chris took one more look at you and studied your peaceful face for a few moments before deciding he should try and get some rest. It had been a long day afterall and his face still really hurt. The pain subsided though as he held you closer, breathed in the smell of your shampoo and let himself fall asleep.

Chris wasn’t sure how or why he woke up, all he knew was that he felt you tense in his arms before quickly climbing out of bed to make your way to the ensuite. He waited in silence for you to come back but what felt like an eternity passed and you didn’t. He waited long enough that he too climbed out of bed to make sure you were okay.

He tapped his knuckles gently against the hardwood door, he heard you suddenly sniffle in response “Everything okay in there?”

“Yeah,” you responded, your voice weak and shaky.

You weren’t okay, he’d known that from the moment you woke “You decent?” He asked, you hummed in response “Good, 'cause I’m coming in”.

Chris heard you protest, you said you were fine but Chris knew it was a lie. He got his confirmation of that fact when he found you sat on the cold tiled floor, knees hugged close to your chest. Sat right by the toilet which had its lid up ready to be used.

“I’m fine” you repeated weakly, but Chris saw the shiver that ran through your body.

Without saying anything Chris grabbed the fluffy bathrobe that hung on the back of the door and draped it around your shoulders “You’re not, and that’s okay” he said gently as he sat down next to you.

“It’ll pass, it always does” you whispered as you wiped your fingers under your eyes. All the colour had drained from your face and you looked exhausted, like someone who was about to be sick.

Chris’ brows pinched together “This happens regularly?”

You let out a long sigh as you hugged your knees closer to your chest “Ever since… you know…”

“Oh”

“Not every night, it comes and goes sometimes for long enough that I think it’s not gonna happen again and then it does”

Once again Chris was thinking back to all the times he’d spent the night, or you had come back to his. Trying to remember a time when you’d crept out of bed and he didn’t notice. The only time he could think of was the first night you spent at his house, you hadn’t shared a room let alone a bed but Chris remembered finding you downstairs. He cursed to himself that he hadn’t noticed it then, with hindsight he could recall how you didn’t look quite right and you seemed skittish.

“You had this the night of the Barbeque didn’t you?” he asked wanting to confirm his suspicions, you gave him the smallest of nods “Why didn’t you say?”

You shugged your shoulders weakly “I don’t know, the feeling had mostly gone by the time you came downstairs, maybe I was trying to rationalise it and say it was the alcohol and honestly… I just didn’t want to talk about it” you admitted.

Chris nodded his head understandingly “Have you spoken to anyone about it?”

You nodded your head “Yeah I told Tommi, she made me take a test, multiple tests, but they were all negative so at least it's not that but I don’t know what it is, I just get this sudden wave of nausea that wakes me up, my heart is pounding like I’ve just run miles but I’m never actually sick it feels like I’m on the verge”

Chris nodded slowly as he took in all that information, he studied you and was able to recognise a lot of what you were doing, he’d done it all before in his past.

“It’s anxiety” Chris answered, your head snapped over to him in surprise “I used to get that exact same feeling when I suffered from anxiety, still get it occasionally”

“But why?”

Chris shrugged his shoulders “Nobody really knows, but you told me something that happened to you that was traumatic to you and it was probably playing on your mind even if you didn’t realise it and triggered this”

You heaved a deep breath as you nodded slowly before resting your chin on your knees “I guess that makes sense”

“It’ll get better, I promise” Chris reached out to gently take your hand and hold it “How do you feel now”

You shifted your head so you could look over at him “It’s gone, I’m just very tired”

A gentle smile tugged at Chris’ lips “That’s normal too, people think anxiety and other mental illnesses are just mental, but they affect you physically too” You gave him a weak smile “C’mon let’s get you to bed”

He carefully helped you to your feet, holding you steady knowing your legs would feel weak. Once up on your feet, you looked up at him and Chris could have sworn he saw the start of tears in your eyes but before he had a chance to ask you wrapped your arms around him and hugged him tightly.

Chris wrapped his arms around you in turn and pressed a soft kiss to the top of his head. He’d seen a completely different side of you tonight, the side you’d kept hidden. He felt his heart race as he recalled how broken you looked when you explained everything, how you seriously expected him to leave afterwards like you were undeserving of any form of care.

He wished he’d gotten a bigger punch in at Bryce for causing all this pain, he wanted blood even though deep down he knew that wouldn’t help you and helping you was more important. He was gonna be there for you, whenever you needed it but he wasn’t going to tell you that because he knows that just being told that it’s okay and someone is there to help isn’t enough, you needed to be shown it. Actions speak a thousand words. So in that moment, Chris swore he’d be there for you whenever you needed it, he’d show you that you were deserving of care and how exactly you should be treated, he’d build you back up piece by piece so you could never be hurt like this again.

Sharing is caring so please reblog and leave a comment to really make my day!

This series has no schedule, please don’t ask when it will be updated! Same goes for Masterlist, AO3 and Wattpad!

Series Masterlist / Masterlist

I don’t have a taglist but follow @secretswiftymarvelfanlibrary and turn on post notifications to stay up to date!

#NiamhWrites #Chris Evans #Boston Bears #Boston Bears series #boston bears: off limits #rugby player au #rugby player #chris evans fanfiction #chris evans au #chris evans x reader #chris evans x you #chris evans x y/n

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 2 years ago

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Run Free - Alpha!Ari Levinson x Omega!Reader (Masterlist)

Summary: After spending most of your life in captivity a chance escape leads you to another Alpha who helps teach you how to be free and that not all Alpha are evil

Series Warnings: Fluff! Angst! SMUT! 18+ ONLY! Minors DNI! A/B/O Dynamics! Captive Environments! Talk and Mention of Non-Con! Human Trafficking!

Status: Ongoing

This series has no update schedule! Do not ask when it is getting updated!

Chapter 1: Run

Chapter 2: I Know Places

Chapter 3: It's Nice to Have a Friend

Chapter 4: Red

Chapter 5: Out Of The Woods

#NiamhWrites #Run Free Series #Ari Levinson #Alpha Ari #A/B/O #Ari Levinson x Reader #Alpha Ari x Omega Reader #Ari Levinson x You #Ari Levinson x Y/N #Chris Evans

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 2 years ago

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Run Free - Alpha!Ari Levinson x Omega!Reader (Part 1: Run)

Summary: As an Omega you knew your place in the world, however when the opportunity arrives to escape you take it... only to find yourself face to face with another Alpha

Word Count: 2.9k

Warnings: Language! Captive Situation! Suggestion of Non-Con environment! Angst!

Dividers by @firefly-graphics

Series Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 1: Run

You woke up with a start, the sound of your cell door opening with a loud creak. You looked up to see one of your captors standing at the door looking down at you. The scent of the large Alpha assaulted your nose making you want to vomit.

“Eat, you’ve got a long day ahead of you” he ordered dropping the plate of food by your feet.

You glance down at the plate of food. Seeing the pathetic excuse for food, something that just looked like mush. Even though it was the only food you’d get you weren’t racing to eat it.

“Eat it you worthless omega” The Alpha commands with a growl grabbing your head and forcing it down “Or do I have to teach you where you stand?”

You didn’t dare say anything, your body reacting to the alpha command, picking up the plate and forcing the food down trying your best not to gag. The alpha watching on with a disgusting smirk on his face. You’d been held captive long enough to know your place in the world. As an omega, you were nothing more than a piece of meat for Alpha to use however and whenever they please, you had to lose certain battles to avoid others.

“It’s sale day for you Omega so you’ll be out of here soon enough” he smirks before making his exit.

You knew your future was dire, you were to be sold to the highest bidder. Your only hope was that you were brought by someone nice, that or when they did eventually kill you it would be quick. It was better than starving to death.

Once you had eaten you were dragged out of your cell. All the other Omegas were lined up and marched through the compound out to the courtyard. As you walked the other captors would laugh, purposefully tripping you up. Grabbing you as you passed, taunting you.

Once outside they ordered you to line up against the wall and strip down naked. A couple of omegas protested but were instantly whipped using the silver-tipped whip. They screamed out in pain, instantly submitting and removing their clothing. Soon you were all standing there naked, with the exception of the collars that stopped you from shifting. You could see the captors watching, a few of them whistling making your skin crawl.

They then turned on the high-powered hose and started spraying you all with freezing cold water. As much as you tried to avoid it they would always purposely aim the water at your face. Making you feel like you were drowning before giving you a short moment of respite. Just another level of torture they subjected you to.

Once they turned the hose off they handed out clean clothes. Which only consisted of shorts and a vest. They didn’t give you a towel you just had to remain damp until you slowly dried off. It wasn’t uncommon for people to fall ill and die from pneumonia here.

Once you were all dressed they attached silver handcuffs around your wrists. The pain from the metal stopping you in your tracks, the skin around your wrist already burnt and scarred.

Once you were all bound you were attached to a chain and dragged out. The sounds of whines filled the corridor as the silver dug into everyone’s wrists. You were led out to a truck and shoved inside. Someone coming and securing you all in place, additional silver restraints being attached around your ankles. Ensuring none of you could escape during transport to the sales centre.

You weren’t sure how long you remained in the back of the truck. All the omega quietly talked with each other about their lives before this hell. Eventually, the truck stopped but it wasn’t the end of your journey. Instead, you were herded out of the truck and into a shipping container.

Once in the shipping container, they gave out bottles of water and stale bread which felt more like a brick. Once they were gone they shut the shipping container leaving all of you in complete darkness.

Overall you had no clue how long you had been in this container. You had no way to tell the time, not that you did before when you were in your cell. Occasionally they’d bring more food or water but that was it. You guess though that you were in the shipping container for at least 3 days though.

Eventually, the door to the container opened and a blast of warm air entered the container. A direct contrast to the cold metal you’d grown accustomed to over the past few days.

As you stepped outside you savour the fresh air before you were taken into a rackety old truck. They chained you all up to the rotten wood. A thin layer of tarpaulin covers the roof and sides. You sat at the very back giving you the best view.

As the truck drove off you were able to look out. Dreaming of one day having the freedom to go wherever you pleased. Maybe the Alpha they sold you to would be kind enough to give you those freedoms. As the truck drove through the forest you imagined what it would be like to run through the trees. Darting in and around them, the wind whistling past your ears and through your fur.

Everyone bumped around as the truck travelled down the dirt road. At one point, however, you shifted just as the truck hit a large pothole causing you to be thrown hard enough for your retrains to break free of the rotten wood. Now completely free despite your hands and feet still being bound you got thrown out of the back of the truck.

As you roll along the dirt track you wait for the truck to stop but it doesn’t. You realise this was your chance to finally be free. You couldn’t stay here though. You quickly shuffled off of the road and into a bush to hide.

You waited there in silence waiting for your absence to be noticed and your freedom to be taken once more. But that never happened. They never returned.

You sat up and looked down at the silver shackles around your ankles. You start working on getting yourself free wincing at the metal brushed across your skin. Finally, you got yourself free and tossed the shackles as far away as possible. You examine the burns on your ankles, they were bad but like the rest but they would just scar over eventually.

You had no hope of getting your handcuffs off alone, you needed help. You passed through a town not far back, maybe you could find another omega or a beta to help you. You also knew you needed at least a beta to remove this collar that would allow you to be truly free.

Pushing yourself up onto your feet you steadied yourself against a nearby tree. Once you were certain your weakened ankles could hold your weight you started walking back towards the town. You made sure to stay hidden in the trees just in case you were spotted by the wrong people.

You walked for hours. Your body was so tired and weak. You clung to trees as you walked past, desperate to keep yourself up and moving. You couldn’t stop, not until you found somewhere safe.

Eventually, the edge of town came into view. Leaving the forest you stumbled through the back alley behind some building. At one point you stumbled catching yourself on the side of a dumpster.

Your legs felt like lead, it felt impossible to keep yourself up for a second longer. You slump against the dumpster hoping a moment of rest would help.

Suddenly a backdoor to one of the buildings opened. You froze in fear as the scent of an Alpha filled your nostrils. You turned to look and saw the large man walking out of the building trash bag in hand. He shouted something back to someone who was inside as he ran his hair through his long brown hair.

You didn’t dare move as he approached the dumpster seemingly unaware of your presence. You barely breathed as he threw the trash bag into the dumpster and turned to head back towards the building.

You risk glancing over the side of the dumpster a move you instantly regret when you accidentally make a sound. You saw the alpha freeze before slowly turning to face you, his eyes widening in surprise when he spotted you. His nostrils flared as he scents you and you knew you were in danger. There was no way this Alpha would let you get away now that he knew you were an Omega.

So you ran, or at least you tried to. Your weak legs refused to cooperate, leaving you stumbling.

“Whoa wait!” The alpha shouts moving after you.

You desperately try and get away but you trip and fall. With your hand bound by handcuffs, you weren’t able to catch yourself. Hitting your head as you fell, you tried to move but your body refused exhaustion taking over. The last thing you saw was the Alpha crouching over you.

Ari had woken up early that day, not that he’d slept well that night anyway. His mind running at a million miles per hour, running through all the things he could do and needed to do. He went on his usual morning run, hoping that would help but it didn’t.

In the end, he just decided to go to work early. He drove from his cabin just outside of town parking up behind the bar. Letting himself into the bar he owned he made his way into the back office.

Dropping his bag in the corner he first makes himself a pot of coffee before dropping down onto the small couch he had. He sighs running his hand through his hair.

Once the coffee had brewed he pushed himself up from the couch. He poured himself a cup taking a large sip as he moved to sit at his desk.

As he sat down at his desk his eyes fell on the picture on his desk. He smiled slightly as he remembered that day. It was the day his bar, The Red Sea, officially opened. He and his friend all stood outside smiling proudly.

When the bar first opened business had been booming. They almost had to herd people out when closing time rolled around. Presently the story couldn’t be any more different. Now they would shut up early to save money on utilities.

Ari knew he needed to do something but he had no clue what. If he didn’t find a solution too otherwise he’d have to consider selling up. And anyone who knew Ari knew that he wasn’t a quitter.

Sighing to himself he started going through the month's expenses. Doing all the paperwork that made his position even more painfully obvious.

“Do you ever go home?” Rachel asked leaning against the door frame.

“No it saves money” Ari says not looking up from his work.

“What’s the verdict?” She asks walking in and perching on the edge of the desk.

“Not great we maybe have 6 months at most to turn this place around otherwise I’ll have to sell” Ari sighs shaking his head.

“It’ll work out, you always think of something,” Rachel says patting him on the shoulder as she stands up.

“The rest of the guys are coming up later so don’t hide away in here all day” she adds before leaving him in the office alone.

Ari nodded in agreement before turning back to his work. He ended up spending hours in there working away. Putting off going out to see just how empty the bar would be. He could hear his friends though all laughing and talking loudly.

Eventually, he had done all the work he could and decided to head out to his friends.

“Ah, there he is the slacker!!” Jake shouts once he spots Ari.

“I hope you all paid for those beers” Ari retorted looking at the three men.

“Hey, we’re your best customers!” Max complains.

“You’re my only customers” Ari sighed as he stood behind the bar.

“Don’t worry Rachel charged us” Sammy said pointing over to Rachel who rolled her eyes as she wiped the bar down.

“Good because otherwise there won’t be a bar to come hang out in,” Ari says.

“Stop being so melodramatic you’ve just hit a slump. Every business goes through it, it’ll pick up soon” Sammy tells him.

“Yeah I bet something is right around the corner” Max says.

“Right let's stop being all depressed, you owe me a game of pool” Jake says pointing at Ari.

“I do?” Ari asks not recalling promising him that, the last game they played Ari wiped the floor with him.

“Fine call it a rematch” Jake says shrugging his shoulders as he racks up.

Ari smirks as he walks over “Fine let’s make it interesting”

Jake raises a brow as he stands up “What are you thinking?” Jake asks.

“You win, I’ll buy you a drink for a week. I win, you take a garbage out” Ari smirks.

“Oh no not that dumpster, that thing fucking stinks!!” Jake complains.

“Fine we won’t play,” Ari says shrugging his shoulders and stepping away.

“Okay, okay fine, you can break” Jake relents holding out the pool cue.

Ari smiled taking the pool cue from Jake and lining up his first shot. The balls broke with a resounding crack and much to Ari’s joy and Jake’s annoyance, 2 striped balls rolled into the pockets.

“Fuck sake man” Jake complains shaking his head.

“Regretting that decision now?” Ari smirks.

The rest of the game was pretty close, with Jake managing to catch up when Ari missed a couple. Everyone else cheering on who they thought would win.

“Go on Jake!” Sammy shouted.

“Hey you’re supposed to be backing me up” Ari complained to his childhood best friend.

“Nope sorry I’m backing my fellow Beta today” Sammy says holding up his hands in surrender.

“Don’t worry Ari we’ve got you” Max says gesturing to Rachel.

“Oh, so it's alpha’s vs Beta’s then?” Jake asks.

“Seems that way” Ari laughs.

Eventually, the game got down to the final ball. Ari lined up his shot, it should have been easy. It should have gone in, but for whatever godforsaken reason it hit the side of the pocket and bounced out. Leaving it perfectly open for Jake to easily pot it, which he did.

“Yes!! Rachel grab me a beer and pass Ari the trash” Jake says smiling victoriously as he walks back towards the bar.

Ari groans in annoyance as Rachel passes him the trash bag. All of his friends laughed as he made his way to the back door.

“And no holding your breath that’s cheating” Sammy shouts after him.

“Shut up I’ll do as I like” Ari shouts back as he steps outside.

As he approaches the dumpster he holds his breath as he chucks the bag into it. As he turns around and starts walking away he hears shuffling.

He turns around expecting to see a raccoon or something. He wasn’t expecting to see someone peeking out beside the dumpster. He sniffs slightly realising that it was an omega, one that looks completely petrified. He cautiously takes a step closer but you take off.

“Whoa wait!” He shouts moving after you.

He watches as you stumble and fall, it's only then that he notices the handcuffs around your wrists. He sees you try and push yourself up before completely slumping down in exhaustion.

“Hey it's okay, I’m not gonna hurt you” Ari says calmingly as he crouches down beside you.

You look up at him and he can see the fear in your eyes before they completely shut and you pass out.

“Shit” Ari mutter looking down at you “Sammy! Sam!” Ari then shouts “I need you out here”

“I swear to god Levinson if you throw something gross at me” Sammy says stepping outside “Fuck what the hell happened!” Sammy says when he spots Ari crouching beside you.

“I don’t know, she was hiding behind the dumpster and then ran when she saw me but tripped and must have hit her head” Ari said looking over at all your injuries, spotting the burns on your ankles.

At this point, everyone else had made their way outside wondering what was going on.

“Whoa is she okay?” Jake asks nodding down to you.

“I dunno, we need to get her inside” Sammy says as he looks over you.

“What’s she got around her wrists?” Rachel asks.

“Handcuff by the looks of it” Max says,

Ari decides to try and break them off but when his finger comes into contact with the metal he hisses in pain.

“Fuck that silver” he hisses shaking his hands.

“That must be what’s caused these burns” Sam says pointing to the burns on your ankles.

“Fuck. Who the hell would do this to someone” Rachel says shaking her head.

“Sick bastards” Ari growls ignoring the pain as he breaks off your handcuffs.

He then gently scoops you up in his arms to take you inside. He had no clue who you were or where you’d come from, but he was damn well sure he wasn’t gonna let anything happen to you now.

Sharing is caring so please reblog and leave a comment to really make my day!

This series has no schedule, please don’t ask when it will be updated!

Series Masterlist / Masterlist

I don’t have a taglist but follow @secretswiftymarvelfanlibrary and turn on post notifications to stay up to date!

#niamhwrites #Run Free Series #Ari Levinson #Alpha Ari #A/B/O #Ari Levinson x Reader #Alpha Ari x Omega Reader #Ari Levinson x You #Ari Levinson x Y/N #Chris Evans

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 10 months ago

Text

Boston Bears: Off-Limits - Rugby Player!Chris x Reader (Part 6)

Summary: You go out on your first girls night since moving to Boston, but instead of a fun night out, you end up with the cast of Mean Girls

Word Count: 6k

Warnings: Fluff! Angst! Talk of Nepotism! Slut-Shaming! Alcohol Consumption!

Rugby Explained

Dividers by Me!

Series Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 6

You sighed as you assessed your outfit in the mirror. This was the first time you were going out drinking in a very long time. Even back in LA, you didn’t go out often even though you loved dancing, your friend Tommi preferred chatty drinks so you often went out for a meal instead. So it had been a little while since you had gotten dressed up like you were now and it wasn’t filling you with the confidence it normally did.

You’d picked a sparkly black mini-dress which looked like the night sky. The last time you wore it you felt like a boss, like someone out of a fantasy novel that was a queen or high lady and commanded an entire court. Now it just felt off, you couldn’t stop fiddling with the hem and adjusting it. It felt like it was wearing you instead of you wearing it.

You nibbled your lip trying to determine whether you should change, not that you knew what you’d change into. You needed a second opinion, someone to reassure you that it was fine and not as bad as you thought it was.

You grabbed your phone, took a quick mirror selfie and sent it to Tommi, asking what she thought. You could have just face-timed her but you didn’t want her to do her empath superpower and pick up on how uncomfortable you felt causing a mini therapy session that you didn’t want right now.

Tommi: Looking hot! You’ll be pulling all the guys tonight!

You rolled your eyes knowing she meant you could pull someone other than Chris. You had told her about your agreement and how Chris definitely wasn’t like Bryce but she still wasn’t convinced.

Y/N: I’m not looking to pull anyone tonight, just a girl's night with some of the office staff

Tommi: well have fun anyway and stay safe, share your location and text me when you’re heading home

Y/N: will do, love ya wish you were here

Tommi: love you too, wish you were here

You smiled softly to yourself as you put your phone away and looked back in the mirror. You still didn’t feel like a boss bitch, but you felt better and more confident. You could fake it until you make it until then, plus you were already running a little late.

You grabbed your bag and did last looks in the mirror before making your way out of your apartment to go meet the rest of the girls. The bar you were meeting at wasn’t that far from your apartment, only about a twenty to thirty-minute walk, but the girls were already inside when you got there.

“Hey sorry I’m a little late” you smiled as you sat down at the bar table with them.

Sam gave you a smile that you could tell was insincere “No worries” she said as her eyes scanned your outfit “You look… nice”

You forced your own smile to hide your reaction from the backhanded compliment, noticing how the other girls were also assessing your outfit which was more out there than theirs “thought I’d bring some LA glamour to the east coast” you smirked as you flagged down a bartender to order a drink “love the east coast but I think it could use it”

Sam’s smile became more forced and tight as she gave you a quick nod “Right”

You flashed her a winning smile before turning your attention to the other girls, starting a direct conversation with them instead of Sam. She did an unimpressed huff which you caught but ignored, you knew the game she was trying to play and you could play it too.

An hour into the ‘girls' night’ you decided you needed a break from them. The conversation had become less awkward but there was still the air of animosity. Tommi came to your rescue though when you texted her asking her to call you.

“Oh I better take this, I’ll be right back,” you said sliding off your seat.

You didn’t wait for them to reply and walked straight to the door to step outside.

“Hey is everything okay?” Tommi asked as soon as the line connected.

You let out a long sigh “Yeah, just needed an excuse to get a break for a bit, I thought I’d left all the LA bitches in LA” you grumbled.

Tommi snorted “There’s bitches everywhere” she chuckled “What’s so bad about them?”

“Urgh well two of them are fine, Sophia and I’ve forgotten her name, but Sam is the queen bee and the problem” you explained.

“Oh, the peaked in high school kinda person?”

“Yup, instantly judged me as soon as I walked in, I don’t even know why she invited me out” you huffed.

“Maybe she just didn’t expect the medic to also be a sexy bombshell, those girls hate competition” Tommi suggested.

You laughed and shook your head “I wouldn’t say bombshell but maybe… I think I might just cut my losses”

“No don’t give in, you said the other two are alright so stick with them and you never know they might feel the same as you” Tommi told you “Remember when we found out we both hated the same person?”

You recalled that time in college and laughed, the two of you had been studying in the library when the popular know it all girl had swanned past making you roll your eyes before you could check your expression. Tommi had caught it but instead of calling you out on it she let out a massive sigh of relief and told you she found that girl just as annoying as you did. The two of you became inseparable after that.

“That definitely brought us even closer”

“Exactly so just stick it out for another hour or two and you might make a new friend, just don’t go replacing me,” Tommi said and you could practically see her pointing her finger at you.

“That’s impossible no one can replace you” you smiled.

“Exactly now go have some fun, you deserve it,” Tommi told you.

“Will do, love ya” you chuckled.

“Love ya!” Tommi shouted down the line before the call disconnected.

You slid your phone back into your purse before taking a deep breath of the cool night air. You could do this. You stepped back inside the bar looked over towards the table and decided you needed just a few more minutes so went to the bathroom. It didn’t seem like they cared, they didn’t seem to notice you hadn’t come back yet.

Inside the toilets, you only just shut the door to a cubicle when you heard the bathroom door open and three people walk in “Urgh I wish I hadn’t invited her, do you think we could sneak out before she comes back?” you heard Sam say.

“Oh um, I dunno she’s probably stood right by the entrance” Sophia muttered.

You held back your snort, you were much closer than they realised.

“Well, she’s clearly a slut” Sam scoffed “I mean did you see what she was wearing? She may as well have written fuck me on her forehead”

“I thought it was nice, it reminded me of-” the other girl whose name you couldn’t remember said before Sam interrupted.

“No it’s slutty” Sam fired “I bet she isn’t even a trained a medic and is just in the job because her dad is the coach, typically nepo baby”

Your fists clenched, it wasn’t anything you hadn’t heard before. While it was getting better it was pretty unusual to be a female medic in the sports industry. But you worked damn hard to get your qualifications you did everything you could to make sure you were where you were because of your merits and not because your dad was a coach.

“Maybe” Sophia sighed “The guys like her though”

“Of course they do, she’s a female medic with the prime access to touch them up” Sam pointed out “I bet that’s why she decided to be a medic, she’s a slut who wants easy access to hot rugby players, I mean have you seen her with them, especially Johnny and Chris!”

That made your stomach drop. You were used to the other comments but the slut shaming and the insinuations were too much. They clearly didn’t know what was going on with you and Chris if they thought you were after Johnny too but did it really matter? It brought back the memories of what you hear in the LA changing rooms which made you feel sick.

Thankfully the girls didn’t stay in the bathroom much longer and you were able to step out of the cubical. You looked at yourself in the mirror and tried to see what Tommi saw but all you could see was what Sam saw. You bit your lower lip to stop yourself from crying, taking a deep and shaky breath.

You grabbed your phone and sent a text to Tommi ‘they’re all bitches and I’m going home, I’ll call when I’m home”

Chris let out a big yawn as he leant back in his chair and stretched his arms above his head “I think I’m gonna go into a food coma” he groaned, his belly completely full of food, some of which wasn’t diet-compliant but he was celebrating so it was fine.

Chris was out with Johnny, Jensen, Curtis as well as a few other teammates to celebrate Ari’s birthday. Since they had a match tomorrow they couldn’t go out drinking so had settled for a meal out. But they might have overindulged on food instead of booze.

“I don’t think I could eat another bite” Johnny complained as he put another spoonful of dessert in his mouth.

Chris snorted and shook his head at the winger. Things were good between them again now, Johnny had proved to Chris that he wasn’t gonna say a word and the team had been on a winning streak the last few rounds so Johnny was definitely right.

“I think I ate too much” Jake admitted as he wiped his brow “I might struggle tomorrow”

The rest of the guys all hummed in agreement, Curtis had a deeper frown on his face than he normally did.

“I dread to think how much this bill is gonna be” Ari sighed as he ran his hand through his long brown locks.

“We’re professional sportsmen, you can afford it” Johnny pointed out.

Ari shot him a look “Yeah rugby player, we’re not in the NFL or NBA” he argued “and some of us have other things they have to pay for besides fancy clothes and girl’s drinks”

Chris arched a brow at the nerve Johnny had seemingly unknowingly pressed, he wondered what it was that Ari had to pay for that meant he was more frugal than others.

“We’ll all chip in and cover it” Chris stated “It’s your birthday Ari, you don’t have to pay for anything”

Ari shook his head “No it’s fine I can pay” he stated.

“No it’s you’re birthday so we are gonna treat you aren’t we?” Chris argued sending a pointed look around at the rest of the guys who all murmured in agreement.

Ari still tried to protest but Chris made sure to take the bill from him when it arrived and ensured that everyone paid their fair share. Once the bill was paid the team made their way out to the fresh air.

“Thanks for that man” Ari said to Chris quietly as they walked out.

“No worries, it's not fair to pay on your birthday” Chris smiled as he clapped Ari on the shoulder.

“Thanks, it’s not like I couldn’t afford it, I just try to be careful with my money that’s all,” Ari said.

“I get it, don’t worry man, it's good to be frugal instead of materialistic, especially when our careers could be over tomorrow” Chris shrugged.

Ari snorted with laughter and shook his head “Great pep talk for tomorrow cap”

Chris threw him a lopsided grin “It’s what I’m known for”

“So what’s the plan, are we hitting a bar?” Johnny called out.

“Storm we have a match tomorrow” Chris reminded him, all of them already had one alcoholic drink they couldn’t go out for another.

“I know but it’s not late, we could still hang out” Johnny points out gesturing over his shoulders to the bars on the other side of the road.

Chris sighed considering it, looking across the road at all the bars they could head to. His attention was then taken by a short black shimmery dress. Chris’ lips parted as he watched you step out of a bar your head low, arms wrapped around your body tightly. You looked stunning, Chris felt an electric current run through him as he looked at you, the same one that he felt last weekend at the BBQ when he couldn’t help but seek you out to just get a kiss. But there was also something wrong, he could tell that much from here.

“Hey isn’t that Y/N?” Jensen said pointing across the street to where Chris was already staring.

“Yeah, looks like she’s alone, I’m just gonna go make sure she’s okay,” Chris said barely taking his eyes off you, watching as you walked away from the bar alone “Text me what you decide and I’ll catch up”

Chris didn’t wait for their responses before he checked there were no cars coming before jogging across the road. You seemed to be in a hurry because you had already gotten a good distance away from the bar. Chris had to keep jogging to catch up, something that didn’t sit particularly well with his full stomach.

“Hey,” he called out when he was close enough.

You instantly spun around, your eyes wide in fear. Chris held his hands up in a defensive manner as you breathed out a deep breath, hand on your chest.

“Jesus fuck Chris you scared the living daylights out of me, I thought you were a stalker or something” you scolded slapping him on the arm.

“Well you are the one walking alone” Chris pointed out.

You rolled your eyes “I’m fine my place isn’t that far, thirty minutes tops” you said shaking your head.

“A lot can happen in thirty minutes, you alright? You seem off” he asked noting how you had wrapped your arms tight around your waist again like you were trying to hide.

“Just a shitty night out” you sighed.

“Oh well we’re out celebrating Ari’s birthday, we were about to head to a bar I think when I spotted you, if you fancy joining us?” Chris offered nodding his head back towards the guys.

You glanced around him before shaking your head quickly “No I don’t think that’ll be a good idea, at least not right now” you said making Chris’ brows pinch together as he tried to work out exactly what you meant.

“No problem, let me walk you home then” Chris said but you shook your head again.

“No, no I’m good, you head back with the others,” you told him, turning to walk away before he even had a chance to argue.

“Whoa, hold up I can’t let you walk home alone” Chris said grabbing your arm to stop you from walking away.

You pulled your arm out of his grip and kept walking forcing him to follow “Chris please not now, I just want to go home” you sighed, your voice squeaking on the last syllable.

Chris’ brows pinched in concern, something was definitely wrong and he wasn’t gonna let you walk home alone if you weren’t okay “Okay but I can’t let you walk alone, I wouldn’t forgive myself if something happened, you already thought I was a creep”

You paused, let out a deep sigh and closed your eyes taking a couple of moments before nodding your head “Fine” you muttered quickly walking on.

Chris nodded and fell into step with you, standing on the roadside of the pavement. He sent a quick text to Jensen to say he was walking you home before heading home himself. He shoved his phone and hands in his jeans pockets and looked over at you as you both walked in the direction of your apartment.

Ten minutes had passed and you hadn’t said a word. You just kept your eyes on the floor in front of you, your arms wrapped around your waist. This was the quietest Chris had ever seen you, it wasn’t a side he liked because it wasn’t right, it wasn’t you. The biggest indication he had that something was wrong was the quiet sniffles like you were stopping yourself from crying.

“What was so shitty about your night then?” he asked guessing this sad mood had something to do with it.

“I don’t want to talk about it” you muttered quietly.

“Did something happen? Was someone a creep to you?” Chris questioned starting to get more concerned.

“No it wasn’t a creep it was- it was nothing” you sighed shaking your head.

Chris' brows furrowed “Who did you go out with?” he asked.

“Just some girls from the ticket office, but I won’t be doing it again” you explained with a small scoff.

Chris scrunched up his nose and shook his head “Oh yeah they’re not the nicest, it wasn’t Sam was it? She’s so annoying” he complained.

Your head snapped up to look at him, Chris had to stop himself from smirking victoriously. He’d hit the nail on the head. He might not know the exact reason but he had a better idea.

“You don’t like her?” you asked him.

“Gahd no, she’s like Regina George” Chris scoffed.

Your jaw dropped and Chris had to stop himself from laughing because it was a cute sight “Do you just reference mean girls?” you muttered in disbelief.

Chris gave you a lopsided smile “I’ve got sisters remember”

You chuckled weakly “Well she definitely was a mean girl tonight” You sighed.

“That’s a shame, it’s not nice being around someone who's being mean to strangers for no reason,” Chris said shaking his head.

“It wasn’t strangers” you muttered under your breath, Chris wasn’t sure if you meant for him to hear it but he did.

He froze, putting his hand on your arm to stop you “Wait, was she mean to you?” he asked, anger prickling under his skin.

You opened and shut your mouth a couple of times before shaking your head “It was nothing”

Chris wasn’t gonna let you brush this off any longer “It clearly wasn’t, c’mon you can tell me, we’re buddies right?”

“Look they were really judgy of me and how I was dressed and a bunch of other things” you sighed waving it off.

“How you were dressed? Fuck you look amazing, you caught my attention from across the road” Chris said shaking his head in confusion.

You gave him a weak smile before turning to continue walking towards your apartment “Thanks, I was a bit overdressed though” you admitted.

Chris shrugged “No you weren’t you look like you’re out for a night out, if they thought you were overdressed then they were underdressed” he pointed out.

You let out a small chuckle “Guess I can’t fault that logic” you said.

“It’s a bit shitty that they said it to you though” Chris sighed shaking his head.

“They didn’t, well, not really, I went to the bathroom and they didn’t know and followed me in a decided to chat shit” you explained.

“What else did they say?” Chris asked picking up on the fact there must have been more said.

You let out a long sigh but remain silent. Looking over Chris could see your lips were pursed as if you were trying to decide if you wanted to tell him or how to tell him.

“They said I was a nepo baby and that I was only a medic so I could get up close and personal with hot rugby players” you finally said.

“What the actual fuck!” Chris exclaimed loudly “That’s utter bullshit, you’re one of the best medics we’ve ever had”

You let out a small scoff “Thanks but look don’t worry about it just typical slut shaming”

“No, I am because it’s not on and it’s clearly upsetting you! Do they know about us? Is that the problem?” Chris asked.

You shook your head “No she just said we were close, same with Johnny” you sighed.

“That’s good at least,” Chris said earning another small scoff from you “Look don’t listen to anything she or those other girls say, they’re just jealous because you get to hang out with us guys and we don’t like them enough to hang out with them, what they’re saying is just their insecurities projected onto you” he continued softly.

“I dunno” you sighed shaking your head.

“Trust me, we’ve all been subjected to Sam throwing herself at us at Christmas and end-of-season parties, if anyone is trying to get up close and personal with us it's her” Chris explained trying to suppress the shudder that passed through his body when he recalled the last Christmas party when she tried to grind her hips against him despite his efforts to get away “we like you Y/N all of us, which is why we hang out with you so don’t listen to them, you’re a badass who doesn’t need to worry about their opinions”

You stopped and turned back around to face him, your eyes damp as you looked up at him “Thanks Chris… it’s nice to know you’re on my side”

Chris put a comforting hand on your shoulder “it's nothing” he said before looking up and realising you were outside your apartment building “Are you okay now? I can stick around if you want”

You gave him a brave smile and shook your head “No I'm good thanks, you should head back to the guys, I said I’d call Tommi when I got in to talk about everything anyway”

Chris nodded trying not to look too disappointed. He didn’t want to leave you just yet, not just because you still weren’t 100% yourself again but because he just felt this need to be with you.

“Sure, well I’ll see you tomorrow at the game” he nodded.

“Yeah see you tomorrow, thanks for walking me home by the way” You smiled softly.

“It was nothing…” he said trying to think of something to say to allow him to stay a little longer but he couldn’t “See you tomorrow” he repeated quickly, giving you a quick hug before turning on his heels and heading back the way he came.

He didn’t go far though, staying just close enough to watch and make sure you got inside the building and the lights went on in your apartment. He stayed another moment more before letting out a long sigh and making his way home.

Chris climbed out of his car and brushed down his tie before moving to grab his kitbag from his trunk. There weren’t many fans here yet since the team met at the stadium a whole 2 hours before kickoff, but there were always a few dedicated fans who turned up early. Chris gave them a wave as he walked from his car to the team entrance, even stopping to take a couple of photos with young fans.

Once inside the building, he walked down the corridor that would lead him to the team’s changing room. He nodded hello to any other members of staff he crossed, including the team photographer who was capturing the team’s arrival. The only people he wouldn’t say hello to would be Sam and her other mean girls, but he rarely saw them anyway.

The one person he did want to see though was you. He just wanted to know you were okay after last night. You seemed better when he left you compared to when he found you but you still weren’t yourself. He hadn’t seen you yet though which wasn’t unusual but it still bothered him.

He walked into the team changing room, not everyone was there yet but there were a few. Including Johnny who walked over to greet Chris, shaking his hand.

“Hey Storm, you’re not usually here this early” Chris commented.

Johnny shrugged “Got ready earlier than usual, you missed a good night last night”

“Sorry to hear it, hope you guys didn’t go too crazy” Chris said with a pointed look.

“Nah don’t you worry, we kept it chilled” Johnny reassured him with a clap on the shoulder “Was she okay?” he then asked his voice low.

Chris nodded “Fine, bit of a shit night out that's all, she was with the ticket office mean girls” he explained quietly.

Johnny pulled a face “god no wonder she thought it was shit” he grimaced “but glad she’s okay”

Chris nodded “Me too” he sighed even though he wasn’t confident that you were okay.

Johnny clapped Chris on the shoulder once more before turning and heading back to his cubby. Chris walked over to his, dumping his bag and opening it up to pull out what he needed. His kit was already hung up by the kit manager, he just needed his boots and gumshield.

He was about to start getting changed but before he even managed to get his suit off he felt this urge to make sure you were okay. It was like someone had flipped a switch and there was this animalistic desire to find you, one that he couldn’t ignore.

He mumbled a quick excuse before walking back out of the changing room. He made his way straight to the medic room where he would find you. To his surprise you weren’t in there, one of the other medics was instead.

“Hey, everything okay? Do you need anything?” the medic asked as he packed his bag.

Chris shook his head “Uh no, just- no” Chris stuttered as he tried and failed to think of an excuse “Are the other medics on the field already?” he then asked.

The medic nodded his head “Yeah they’re just prepping the bench”

Chris nodded despite wanting to curse. He wasn’t allowed out onto the pitch until warm-ups which meant he wouldn’t get the chance to ask you if you were okay. He couldn’t quench his desire to ensure you were okay.

“Cool thank you” Chris said before turning on his heel and walking back out towards the changing room.

He would just have to get over it and get his head in the game. He couldn’t be distracted thinking about whether you were okay, he needed to focus on the game and just hope that you were.

He was halfway back to the changing room when he crossed paths with your dad “Ah Evans just the person I wanted to talk to” he said.

“Everything alright sir?” Chris asked.

Coach Y/L/N nodded before gesturing with his finger “Yeah follow me” he said.

Chris followed him down the corridor before realising he was heading towards his office. Chris mentally cursed, had your dad somehow clocked on to your little arrangement? Was that why he couldn’t find you, because you were in your dad’s office?

To Chris’ relief, you weren’t inside your dad’s office but that didn’t mean he was off the hook, he was desperate to ask what was going on but he kept quiet.

“Right, I just wanted to ask you about this” Coach Y/L/N said pointing down to a piece of paper which was a printout of an online news article from a rugby news site.

Chris took a closer look and cursed silently, it was a picture of you and Chris walking home together last night. The photo was thankfully completely innocent, taken before Chris managed to get you to open up. His hands were in his pockets and your arms wrapped around your waist. However, that didn’t stop the site from speculating whether you were Chris’ new fling.

“Oh, oh this is nothing, sir, I promise,” Chris said with a shake of his head.

Your dad arched a brow “it is?”

Chris nodded “Yeah I was out with the guys last night for a meal to celebrate Ari’s birthday, when we left we spotted Y/N leaving a bar alone so I said I’d go make sure she was okay and ended up walking her home”

Your dad nodded his head slowly “Right okay, and was she? She doesn’t look okay to me”

Chris sighed wondering how much to say “Have you spoken to her sir?” he asked instead, your dad shook his head in answer “Well she didn’t tell me much but she said she went out with some of the girls from the ticket office and it wasn’t as fun as she thought but she seemed better by the time I left her”

Your dad nodded his head knowingly “That’s reassuring to know, and I will ask to thank you”

Chris smiled at him “It’s nothing, I’m sorry we got papped and made it look like something was going on, I just wanted to make sure she was okay and got home safe, absolutely nothing between us we’re just friends” he said hoping your dad didn’t see through his white lie.

Your dad snorted “I should hope not, you know better than that Evans” he warned “But thank you, I really appreciate it the past few months haven’t been easy for her so it’s good to know she has people looking out for her over here” he said.

Chris felt his mouth go dry and his throat constricted at the not-so-veiled warning your dad had just sent his way. It was clear that your dad wanted none of the team dating you, there would be no exceptions. The warning wasn’t enough to put Chris off though, he couldn’t give up the electric feeling he felt when he was with you. The team was also on a winning streak and Chris wasn’t a superstitious man but he also wasn’t gonna risk it.

“Of course sir” he coughed “No need to worry about me… is there anything else you need?”

Your dad shook his head “No, just go out there and win”

Chris smirked as he saluted “Yes boss”

Chris made his way back to the changing room to prepare himself for the game. Despite everything Chris managed to get his head in the game with no issue at all. He felt ready to get out there and win. He was still worried about you but he could still focus, the two things weren’t mutually exclusive.

When Chris finally stepped out onto the pitch and saw you his worries were somewhat soothed. You seemed fine, okay even, but something was still different. It wasn’t something he could work out until the match started and he watched you jog on to help Johnny who needed some strapping on his knee.

Chris watched as you worked and saw the dynamic was completely different. Usually, you were all jokes and smiles as you worked but now you were straight face, you barely reacted to Johnny’s quips you just worked. You were being strictly professional.

You weren’t okay, what had happened last night was still playing on your mind and making you change the way you behaved. It pissed Chris off because you shouldn’t have to change how you acted around the team because of the opinions of people who really weren’t worth the trouble. Other people’s opinions shouldn’t matter full stop.

Chris decided that he wasn’t going to let this carry on any longer, as soon as this match was over he was gonna pay you a visit and build you back up until the opinion of Sam didn’t matter.

As it turned out though he didn’t need to wait for the end of the match. After completing a kick Chris felt a twinge in his upper thigh right by his hip. It was one that he would usually just play on for, it was one he could run off. But instead, he sat himself down on the pitch, wincing in pain waiting for you to come over.

“What’s wrong?” you asked once you jogged over to him, putting your medical bag down as you crouched.

“Twinge in my thigh, right here” he said pointing to the side of his thigh.

Normally you probably would have made some joke that included an innuendo but you just nodded “Okay let’s stretch it out, lie back and give me your leg” you said holding out your hand to catch his ankle.

Chris did as he was told, lifting up his leg ready to stretch. To lift it high enough and provide some resistance you lifted his ankle so it was resting on your shoulder. A smirk played on Chris’ lips at the sight.

He scratched his beard to hide his lips from sight as he said “You know it’s usually your leg on my shoulder, not the other way around”

Your eyes widened and he saw the ghost of a smile play at your lips “Chris” you hissed, no venom in your voice at all.

“I actually quite like the view, maybe you should be on top more” he smirked.

You shot him another look but he could see your defences falling, even if you were still desperately trying to act strictly professional.

“How are you feeling?” you asked him.

“Much better, you’ve got the magic touch” he grinned as he sat back up.

You let out a small snort and shook your head before passing him a bottle “rehydrate” you ordered.

He took the bottle from you and squeezed some water into his mouth. He watched as you packed your bag back up, your sight set firmly on the task instead of him. A mischievous grin grew on his face when an idea popped into his head. It was a dangerous idea but if it worked it would definitely bring back your smile.

While your attention was still on the bag Chris twisted the bottle around so when he squeezed it the water would squirt out at you instead of into his mouth. You clearly were paying more attention than you let on though as before he got the chance to squeeze the bottle you reached out, grabbed it and spun it back around the face him, the water squirting into his face instead.

Chris spluttered in surprise, but despite his plan backfiring it still worked as you were trying and failing to hold back a laugh. Chris grinned back at you and shook his head, water droplets running off his face.

“Nice try Evans” you smirked snatching the bottle back and putting it in your pack as you stood up.

You held out your hand to help him up which he gladly took “It worked though” he said quietly, you tilted your head in confusion “It got you to smile” he explained making your lips part in surprise “Don’t let the opinion of others stop you from being you” he added quietly before jogging off to go rejoin his team.

When he met his team in the huddle ready to give some instructions for the next phase of play, he spared a glance over to you as you jogged back off the pitch. A smile played on his lips as he spotted the one you hid with a bowed head. You might not be 100% fine but you were better and more yourself and that was all Chris could hope for. He’d work on getting you back to 100% later after he won this game.

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secretswiftymarvelfan · 4 months ago

Text

Boston Bears: Fake Out - Rugby Player! Ari Levinson x Reader (Part 1)

A/N: Just a quick reminder that the reader from Off-Limits has now become an OFC called Elena and Tommi is now our reader!

Word Count: 5.8k words

Warnings: Language! Mention of Masterbation! Angst! Cheating! Brief SMUT! 18+ ONLY! Minors DNI!

Rugby Explained

Dividers by Me!

Fake Out Series Masterlist /Boston Bears Masterlist / Masterlist

Chapter 1

A/N: Just a quick reminder that the reader from Off-Limits has now become an OFC called Elena and Tommi is now our reader!

It was Saturday morning and you were at work trying not to pull your hair out. Today was supposed to be your day off, one that you desperately needed. You were supposed to be having a long lie-in, cuddled up to Dan your gorgeous fiancé, then you were supposed to go to a market together to see if you could find some cute decorations for your wedding reception.

But instead one of your clients had made a minor PR hiccup which caused them to spiral and panic. Your boss had called you and a couple of others in to talk them down from making a statement about something barely anyone knew about.

“Look right now the news is only circulating in one small pocket of the internet” you sighed running your hand through your hair as you leant back in your chair “Very few people know, if you made a statement to your millions of followers, millions of people will know about it and then the gossip mags will sink their fangs into it and the even more people will know and you can kiss any deals goodbye”

Your client shook his head “I don’t care there’s a disgusting rumour going around about me! I need to shut it down!” He argued.

“Y/N is right,” your boss said from her seat at the head of the conference table “We understand that you’re anxious about this, so we’ll do our best to squash it on the down-low and keep monitoring the situation so if the time does arise when a statement is needed we’ll be ready”

The client sighed “You swear?”

“There’s a reason we’re the best PR agency in the state” your boss promised.

“Fine, I’ll hold off” he sighed before ending the Zoom call.

You slumped down in your seat letting out a long sigh “Why is it the men that cause us the most issues?” You muttered as you rubbed your forehead tiredly.

“Because they’re less evolved” your boss sighed as she got up from her seat “Look you’ve been working so hard recently, on top of planning your wedding so why don’t you head home”

She wasn’t wrong, the summer was a busy time in the PR world. It was like everyone decided to go crazy over the summer months and there were more messes to tidy up than normal. This year it seemed to bleed into September too, much to your annoyance. You had spent any time off you had trying to plan for your wedding, even with a wedding planner it was more stressful than you thought it would be.

“Are you sure? I’m happy to help out” you said even if the idea of going home and having your afternoon back sounded incredible.

You probably wouldn’t go to the market now but you could relax, have a bath, and spend some quality time with Dan. God knows it had been a while, both of you too busy or tired to do more than relaxing on the couch together.

“Yeah we can handle the rest now, you deserve the break after talking him down, get on home” she smiled patting you on the shoulder.

“Well I can’t argue with that, I’ll see you Monday” you smiled as you got up and shouldered your bag.

You glanced at the time as you got in your car, it was lunchtime so you decided to grab some bagels from your and Dan's favourite bakery. You didn’t text Dan, wanting to surprise him, and made your way home.

As you opened the door you heard a strange noise. You paused waiting to hear it again, you heard it almost immediately. You realised with a start that it sounded like moaning.

You silently crept through the apartment following the noise, which was getting louder and louder. You followed it to your bedroom door which was ever so slightly open. You peered inside but instantly regretted it. Because inside you saw Dan and your wedding planner naked in bed, getting busy, getting very intimate.

“Oh god don’t stop” she moaned as she wrapped her leg around his waist.

“Fuck you feel so good, I’ll never get enough of you” Dan groaned as he thrusted deep with far more passion than you’d ever seen.

You stumbled back as your world crashed down around you. You turned on your heel and rushed back out of the apartment and to your car. You went into autopilot mode as you drove away, only snapping out of it when you pulled up outside of Elena’s old apartment remembering she didn’t live here anymore. She moved back to Boston in the spring after a horrific incident with her ex Bryce Langley.

You slumped back in your car seat as your mind began to replay everything. This wasn’t a one-time thing, they’d clearly been doing this for a while now. Maybe since you hired her over a year ago. Everything suddenly made sense, the way Dan always seemed to be busy, how he seemed to be dragging his feet with the wedding planning.

How could you have been so blind?

You didn’t know what to do. You knew that if you confronted him he would end up talking you around. He promised he wouldn’t do it again and you’d want to believe him. You would end up married to a man who would willingly cheat.

You glanced over to the passenger seat where your bag and bagels you brought were. Your blood boiled as you looked at the bagel you got for him. You had done a nice thing, you got his favourite bagel and he cheated. You snatched his bagel and stormed out of your car to a nearby trash can, throwing it away with force.

That act alone made you feel better. You realised you just needed to cut ties. No confrontation, which was something you absolutely hated to begin with so avoiding it was perfect. You just needed to leave and get as far away as possible.

Climbing back into your car you started planning. Your parents had moved to the UK so you couldn’t just up and leave to them. You didn’t have any close friends in LA anymore, not any that you could live with until you got yourself somewhere new to live.

You glanced up at Elena’s old apartment, she was the only friend you wanted to see right now. She was like your sister. The only reason you hadn’t already called her was because you knew the Boston Bears were playing today and she was busy as their medic.

You knew what you needed to do. You grabbed your phone and started searching for flights to Boston. The earliest you could find was tomorrow night at 10 pm that stopped in Denver meaning you wouldn’t get into Boston until 10 am on Monday. It wasn’t ideal but it worked out pretty nicely, you could sleep the entire flight and while Dan went out with his mates you could pack up as many of your belongings as possible.

The next thing you needed to do was quit your job. You needed a clean break from LA, you didn’t want anything to draw you back or tie you to this city. So you sent an email to your boss, you didn’t tell her you were leaving because you had been cheated on. You said that you had a family emergency that meant you had to go back to the east coast and you were handing in your notice effective immediately. You made sure to schedule the email to be sent on Sunday evening just in case she reached out to Dan.

Soon enough everything was planned and ready to go. You would call Elena tomorrow during her day off to warn her, then you’d pack and get the hell out of LA for good. You slumped back into your seat feeling more exhausted than ever. Your stomach growled so you grabbed your bagel and took a bite trying to ignore how it now felt tainted with betrayal.

You spent the rest of the day alone trying to keep yourself busy until the time you were originally supposed to return home. The last thing you wanted was to intrude on them again. You just hoped that Dan changed the sheets.

You were so exhausted that you got Chinese takeout on your way home. As you walked in you made sure to make a racket just to be safe, dropping your keys and bag down by the door. Thankfully Dan was alone this time, sat reclining back on the couch.

“Hey, how was work?” He asked walking over and pressing a kiss to your cheek.

You had to fight the urge to recoil away in disgust. You didn’t know and didn’t want to know where those lips had been.

“Exhausting but we’ve got it under control now” you sighed “I got us Chinese”

“Oh nice did you get spare ribs?” He asked eagerly.

“Uh no sorry I forgot but I got you chow mein” You lied, you knew they were his favourite and you deserved to be a little spiteful.

“No worries” Dan shrugged as he took his food and walked back over to the couch.

You resisted the urge to heave out a heavy sigh as you grabbed your food and moved to join him. Sitting down on the opposite side of the couch.

The two of you ate in silence, the only noise coming from the TV which was playing some program that Dan liked but you didn’t care for. Normally you’d sit and read your book but you were too exhausted.

When you decided to call it a night you walked into the bedroom to find the bed made but still the same sheets as before. Your body shuddered at the thought of sleeping there where they had gotten busy. You had no choice though, so to make it more bearable you decided to sleep in leggings and a long-sleeved tee.

When Dan joined you, you pretended to be asleep. Trying not to flinch when he kissed your shoulder. You tried to fall asleep but couldn’t, you stared up at the ceiling and listened to Dan’s snores which never irritated you before but now you wanted to smother him.

You looked over at him and saw him in a completely different light. You wondered how you ended up in this position, and whether there was something you could have done. You wondered whether than man you considered the love of your life ever loved you.

Ari woke with a long sigh. He should be feeling properly rested, he’d had all of Sunday to recover from the match but instead of relaxing, he’d flown to and from New York to deal with something. He was exhausted, the last thing he wanted to do was go to training. A good portion of the day would be going back through the game on Saturday but that didn’t help Ari since he got sent off with a yellow card. He was expecting another chewing out from the coaches for that.

He let out a long yawn before sitting up, he checked his phone relieved to see no missed calls. He then stood up and grabbed some boxers to slip on, he ran hot so often slept in the nude but didn’t want to give any neighbours a show. He walked out of his bedroom and towards his kitchen to grab himself a much-needed coffee.

As he drank his coffee he made himself a quick breakfast before sitting down in front of his laptop. He had a few things he wanted to search up and look into before he had to make his way to training.

Soon enough he got dressed and made his way to the training centre. He was one of the last to arrive, his nose buried in his phone as he walked into the media room finding a seat near the back.

“Look all I’m saying is that girls who love NFL players should love us too! More so! We don’t need a helmet or padding” Johnny exclaimed as he leaned back in his chair spinning side to side.

“Maybe but it is two completely different sports, they get more funding than we do, they’re like gods” Jensen pointed out.

“Minor gods are still sexy” Johnny smirked “Don’t you think so Levs?”

Ari looked up from his phone “huh?” he hummed.

“That us minor sports gods deserve the girls just as much as the regular gods” Johnny repeated.

Ari just shrugged “Maybe they just didn’t like you storm” he said before returning his attention back to what he was doing.

“I beg to differ” Johnny scoffed.

“Hey, you okay?” Chris said as he sat down in the seat next to Ari.

Ari nodded as he put away his phone, out of sight “Yeah, just tired” he said.

Chris smirked “Celebrated too much yesterday?” as he leaned in to whisper.

“Yeah something like that” Ari said clearing his throat.

Thankfully the conversation died out as the coaching team walked in ready to start the game review. Ari reclined back in his chair ready to relive Saturday, not that he particularly wanted to.

Ari kept pretty quiet as the coaching team ran through each passage of play, highlighting all the good moments and moments where something went wrong. His fists clenched when it got to the moment when he got his yellow card. It was a ridiculous yellow, the opposition got away with the exact same thing he did.

“We need to remember not to argue with the ref, leave it to the captain to deal with,” Andy said, his arms crossed as he surveyed the room.

Ari tried his hardest not to huff in annoyance. Thankfully they didn’t linger on it too much longer. They then moved on to watching clips of the Washington Wolves play, they were the team they were facing next week. The coaching team ran through the different clips highlighting the weaknesses the Bears could exploit.

“Right, that’s it for now, get yourselves into the gym” Head Coach Rogers said “We’ll call you in for your 1 to 1 reviews, Levinson we’re gonna start with you”

Ari made an effort to keep his face straight as he nodded, walking over to go join the coaching staff, all of them sitting down at a small table.

“Have a good day off Levinson? Get up to much” Coach Rogers asked as he tapped on his laptop.

“Uh yeah,” Ari muttered in response.

Coach Rogers arched a brow, exchanging a glance with Andy before returning his attention back to his laptop “How do you think you played on Saturday?”

“Pretty good, I didn’t miss any tackles, won a few turnovers” Ari shrugged.

“And the yellow card?” Andy asked.

“Unfair, the other team got away with it the entire match” Ari huffed shaking his head as he leaned back and crossed his arms over his chest.

“Well we’ll get to that, but first let’s look at this” Coach Rogers said as he turned the laptop so Ari could see the screen.

They spend the next 20 minutes going over different passages in play where Ari made an impact or could have made more of one. They went over the yellow card in more detail than Ari would have liked.

“Look Ari” Coach Rogers sighed “you were right that you shouldn’t have been penalised for the same act that our opposition got away with, but that’s not why you got the yellow, you got the card because you argued with the ref”

“But-“ Ari went to argue, he wanted to explain that Chris wasn’t nearby to argue for him.

“No,” Coach Rogers said holding up his hand to silence him “You should have let Evans deal with it, he’s the captain it’s his job to talk to the ref, not you”

Ari shook his head. He knew that Coach Rogers was right, he shouldn’t have argued but sometimes his temper got the better of him.

“Look Ari” Coach Rogers sighed “you want to make the National Team don’t you, get called up for the World Cup next year”

“That’s right sir” Ari nodded, it was something he dreamed of ever since he first picked up a rugby ball, but had been overlooked every time.

“Well I’m good friends with the new head coach, Sam Wilson, he’s even asked me for my opinion on a few players” Coach Rogers continued.

“Right,” Ari said sitting to attention, this might be his best chance at finally getting the call-up.

“You’re a great player Levinson, it’s criminal that you haven’t been called up yet,” Coach Rogers told him, Andy and the other coaching staff nodding in agreement.

“Thank you sir, that means a lot coming from you,” Ari said gratefully, Coach Rogers had been one of the best players in the league back in his day. He led the Boston Bears to multiple championship wins.

“Coach Wilson is interested but not sold yet, he doesn’t like players that are too much of a wildcard, players he can’t trust, players that get sent off for dissent” Coach Rogers explained with a pointed look.

Ari felt his shoulders deflate “So I have no chance is what you’re saying”

“No, but you need to sort this sort of behaviour out, he’s going to be watching the entire season on and off the pitch so you need to show him that he can trust you,” Coach Rogers told him, Ari failed to hold back a scoff as he shook his head “Ari you are a great player, you just need to keep your cool more”

“Well that’s easier said than done when the ref is as blind as a bat” Ari snapped his fists clenched as his anger got the better of him again.

To his credit, Coach Rogers didn’t react “It can be done, we’ll help you on the pitch but it’ll be up to you off the pitch” he continued.

“How? What could I possibly do?” Ari huffed.

“I leave that to you to sort out,” Coach Rogers said “We want to see you in the Team USA jersey as much as you do”

“Sure” Ari muttered as he shook his head.

“Levinson is everything okay?” Coach Rogers questioned with an arched brow “Everything at home?”

Ari felt his defences go up all of a sudden “Perfect” he stated “Can I go to training now or is there more to say on how I won’t represent my country?”

Once again Coach Rogers didn’t react, nothing more than clenched his jaw “No” he said gesturing for Ari to leave.

Ari did exactly that, storming out of the media room. The door slammed loudly behind him. He couldn’t wait to get to the weight room where he could work through his frustrations which were only getting worse.

He was so caught up in his anger that he wasn’t really looking where he was going. He turned a corner and ran straight into someone. He looked down to see a woman he didn’t recognise, her hair up in a messy bun, and baggy clothes. She certainly didn’t work here, and only staff and players were allowed in the building.

She stuttered an apology but Ari’s anger and frustration that had been simmering since the match on Saturday boiled over “Who the hell are you? You know you can’t be back here? What are you a fan desperate for an autograph or media desperate for a scoop?” He demanded.

The woman stuttered slightly before completely breaking down in tears. Ari scoffed in frustration and moved to step around her, he’d have to go find security to deal with this.

He’d just stepped around her when he heard someone speak up behind him “Y/N? What on earth are you doing here?” Elena said.

Ari turned around and saw Chris and Elena stood there. Elena had a look of shock on her face, while Chris was frowning at Ari. He then glanced back down at the woman beside him who was sobbing. It took him a moment but he then recognised you. You were the bombshell that had him by the balls from the moment he met you back in late April.

“What the fuck Levinson” Chris demanded as Elena rushed over and hugged you.

“I- I didn’t-“ Ari stuttered, shaking his head in disbelief.

“What's wrong? Why on earth are you here?” Elena asked you softly.

“I’m sorry I meant to call yesterday but I forgot and- and-“ you stuttered before breaking down into sobs again.

“Hey, hey, hey it’s okay let’s get you out of here” Elena said shooting a glare up at Ari before wrapping an arm around you and leading you away.

Chris watched as Elena took you away and out of sight before turning back to Ari “What the hell man? Why’d you yell at her? Why’d you upset her like that?” Chris demanded.

Ari shook his head unable to think of a reason “I didn’t even recognise her” he muttered “I thought she was a crazed fan or something”

“You shouldn’t have yelled at her even if she was!” Chris argued shaking his head at him.

“I know… I- I fucked up” Ari admitted.

Fucked up was an understatement. From the moment he set eyes on you in that hotel bar you captured his attention and never let go. You looked absolutely stunning in the red sundress you’d been wearing, a beautiful smile on your face as you laughed with Elena. He’d felt this tugging sensation that drew him closer and he knew he had to at least say hello.

He’d been secretly devastated when you held out your hand and showed off your engagement ring. He’d only just met you, he knew nothing about you but he found himself cursing the universe that he’d met you too late. He hadn’t missed his chance, he never had one. Yet despite all that he couldn’t just drop it, he wanted to get to know you, flirt with you. Maybe he hoped that your relationship was on the rocks and he had a chance, that he couldn’t leave LA without even trying. Maybe he hoped it would get you out of his system.

It didn’t.

He hadn’t stopped thinking about you for the last 5 months. He wasn’t ashamed to admit that he’d fantasised about you, and thought of you whenever he needed to find a release. Ari was no stranger to finding hookups but he hadn’t even managed to do that because he couldn’t get you out of his mind.

He kicked himself for the way he behaved. If you didn’t want him before, you definitely wouldn’t want him now after he made you cry. His heart ached as he replayed the moment your face crumpled, your left hand moving to cup your mouth as if you could stop yourself from crying.

Wait.

“She wasn’t wearing her ring” Ari muttered as he looked over at Chris.

Chris frowned as he glanced in the direction Elena had taken you “Wasn’t she?”

Ari shook his head “No she wasn’t, she seemed upset before I said anything, maybe they split”

Chris hummed “Maybe, I hadn’t heard about it if they have but you still need to apologise,” he said with a hard look.

“I will I swear, next time I see her I will” Ari promised.

“Good, now get to the gym and work off whatever is going on with you” Chris ordered before walking off back towards the media room,

He’d probably need to tell the coaches what happened since Elena was Coach Rogers’ daughter. This probably meant Ari was in an even worse position now if he wanted to get called up. He let out a long sigh before heading off towards the gym, not before popping into the PR and Coms office.

“Ari, what can we do for you?” Steph, the head of PR asked as he walked into the office.

“I need some good PR, something that shows I’m not a wildcard and can be trusted so I can get a call up to the national team” Ari explained.

“Right that shouldn’t be a problem, have you got any ideas?” She asked.

“No but I’ll do whatever is needed” Ari said with a small shake of his head.

A lopsided grin grew on her face “That’s exactly what I like to hear, give me a couple of weeks to come up with some strategies and I’ll get back to you”

You were sat wrapped up in a fluffy towel on the edge of El’s bath. You hadn’t realised how much you’d been running on adrenaline until you literally bumped into Ari and promptly broke down after he yelled at you. Under normal circumstances, you probably would have ripped into him but you were too exhausted.

You hadn’t been able to sleep Saturday night. You felt too disgusted, sleeping in the bed and on the same sheets that Dan had cheated on. You had been so tired and busy packing up as much as you could on Sunday that you forgot to call Elena. You barely slept on the plane either so you were running on empty when you got to Boston.

Now you just felt empty. Unable to bring yourself to move. Just static in your mind.

A gentle knock on the bathroom door pulled you from your stupor “Hey food’s here” El called out softly.

“Okay,” you said with a quick sniffle “be right out”

You finished drying off from the bath El had run for you before getting changed into a new set of comfies. You shuffled out of the bathroom to join El and Chris in the living room, a couple of pizza boxes open on the coffee table.

“Here,” Chris said as he passed you a glass of wine, a plate full of chicken, veg and pasta in his other hand.

“Thanks” you muttered as you accepted the glass sitting down on the floor by the coffee table “Aren’t you having pizza?”

Chris shook his head as he sat down next to El on the couch “Diet plan” he explained as he dug into his large meal.

You shouldn’t be too surprised, you remembered all the times El mentioned the diet plan the players had to stick to. Especially over the summer when she was helping Chris recover from his broken collarbone and dislocated shoulder. You didn’t know much about it all but it was a testament to both El and Chris that he’d recover enough to be fit again in time for the season.

“Wanna talk about what happened?” El asked gently as you took a bite of your pizza slice.

You took your time chewing before eventually swallowing to give you a bit more time “Dan’s been cheating on me with the wedding planner” you finally admitted.

That clearly wasn’t what either of them expected. El nearly spat out her wine while Chris choked on his mouthful.

“Shit,” El said as she patted Chris’ back “What did he say when you confronted him?”

“I didn’t” you sighed “I just left, left him a note and the ring and left”

“Wow… god I- I never expected him to do something like that” El muttered as she shook her head.

“Me neither” you sighed “I was supposed to be working all day but my boss said I could take the afternoon off since I wasn’t supposed to be working in the first place, I decided to surprise him with his favourite bagel but when I got back to the apartment I saw the two of them going at it on our bed”

“Oh god” El muttered a look of horror on her face “and you just left straight away?”

“Not straight away no,” you said looking down “I knew I needed to get a few things sorted, so I stayed the night and pretended everything was okay before packing up as much as I could yesterday, quitting my job and flying out here”

“God, I could never do that, I would have smothered him in his sleep” El commented, slapping Chris’ hand away when he went to grab a slice of pizza after putting his empty plate down.

“Ow,” he complained as he rubbed his hand “and noted” he muttered.

“I just still can’t quite believe it, I thought everything was good between us,” you said “Yeah things were tense but I thought that was just the stress of the wedding planning” you sighed rubbing your forehead tiredly “I- I don’t know when it started or why or-or if I could have done something different”

“You did nothing wrong, he’s to blame in all this,” El told you “And the wedding planner, she was supposed to relieve you of the stress not steal your man”

“But-“ you started.

“But nothing, I know there’s that little voice in your head that’s telling you all the things you could’ve done, tearing you down,” El said, her voice shuddering.

Chris gave her a sympathetic look, placing his hand on her back and rubbing it soothingly. She’d gone through hell last spring, her ex Bryce had told the entire LA Lions team what her naked body was like except he lied and made up hurtful rumours. Like you she ran away, you had tried to pick up the pieces for her, tried to help and guide her. You originally didn’t like the idea of her dating Chris after everything she’d been through but after you met him in LA and found out what he’d done for her you knew that she’d found her special person.

Like you thought you had.

“But don’t listen to it, none of what it’s telling you is true” El continued “What is true is what we’re telling you, that nothing is your fault and you are deserving of so much better“

“and when you are ready… you’ll find someone who won’t even want to look elsewhere because he knows he found the best woman he’ll ever find” Chris added as he smiled softly over at El.

“Thank guys, I’m glad I came to you” you sighed as you wiped away a few stray tears.

“It’s okay and just let us know what it is you need” El smiled “Chris stop it! Diet plan!” She scolded when he reached for the pizza slice again earning a huff of annoyance from him.

“Thanks, I- I um, I guess I need to find a job and somewhere to live” As you said it all the consequences of what you’d done hit “god I have no job or home” you muttered dropping your head into your hands and breaking down.

You heard El get up and move to sit beside you, wrapping her arms around you and holding you close as you broke down.

“It’s okay you did the right thing” she reassured you.

“Yeah he clearly didn’t realise what he had right in front of him if he looked elsewhere, you deserve better than him” Chris said taking advantage of El moving and grabbed a slice of pizza.

“But what am I gonna do now?” You stuttered as you wiped away your tears.

“We’ll work it out don’t worry” El reassured you as she rubbed your back soothingly.

“Yeah, you work in PR right? I’m pretty sure they’ve been looking for someone to join the team at the Bears for a while” Chris suggested.

“There we go, we can get you a job with the Bears, we can see each other at work all the time” El said, nudging your shoulder trying to get you to smile.

“That would be nice” you admitted, it would be like college again when you and El were practically inseparable, but then you remembered your encounter with Ari “But I don’t know anything about rugby, and wouldn’t I need to work close to the players” you gulped nervously.

“You don’t need to know much” Chris reassured you “and Ari said he was sorry”

“Yeah my dad said the 1 to 1 had been pretty tense so he was probably just in a bad mood and took it out on the first person he came across, you guys got along great in LA” El reminded you.

You sighed, Ari did seem different to the man you met in LA but still he shouldn’t have shouted at you “I don’t know”

“Just give it a go, and it can just be somewhere you work until you find somewhere else” El suggested “And you can stay with me until you find somewhere, we can either share the bed or take turns sleeping on the couch”

“Why don’t you move out?” Chris interjected.

“Huh?” El muttered in confusion.

“I mean why don’t you move in with me El? You spend most of your time at my place anyway and it means Y/N can have this place” Chris explained.

You watched as El’s face softened, the look of love shining in her eyes. You were so happy for her but it also broke your heart because you used to look at Dan like that.

“Really?” She whispered in disbelief.

“Yeah move in with me Elena Rogers” Chris smirked.

El grinned as she blew him a kiss “I’d love to”

You had to look down unable to see such pure love while your heart was so broken “I’ll um have to get the rest of my stuff at some point not that I particularly want to be back in the apartment” you sniffed.

“We’re playing the Lions in LA the last weekend of November so we can get anything you want” Chris suggested.

“Yeah, just give us a list and we’ll get it, you won’t ever have to step foot in the state again” El promised you.

“And if you want us to destroy anything of his, glitter bomb the apartment or slash his tyres just let us know” Chris winked.

“Chris” El gasped shaking her head at him.

“What?” Chris laughed “You know you were thinking it”

“I’ll let you know” you chuckled weakly.

“Good, well I better head off back to Dodger” Chris said standing up from the couch “I’ll leave you ladies to curse the male species and do whatever else it is you girls do” he bent over to quickly kiss El goodbye.

“See you tomorrow” she smiled.

“See you tomorrow,” he said grabbing yet another slice of pizza “One for the road” he reasoned before heading out.

“How can he eat so much?” You muttered in amazement. You didn’t have much of an appetite to begin with but even if you were ravenous you couldn’t eat as much as Chris just did.

“It’s insane isn’t it, my dad showed me the food bill at the club once… eye-watering,” El said shaking her head in disbelief “Now let’s forget about all mankind and just have a girl's night,” she said grabbing her glass of wine.

You let out a long sigh, part of you just wanted to wallow but you knew that would only make you feel worse. Maybe getting wine-drunk, talking shit about men and distracting yourself from everything was the way to go for now.

You grabbed your glass “Girls night” you said forcing a smile.

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