#Nick Jackson fluff

[midwestmade29]

First Kiss Under the Mistletoe 💋

Christmas Writing Prompt: #1 Word Count: 623 Divider by: @benkeibear GIF by: @adamjf

100% fluff, no disclaimers or wanrings!

Side note...can you believe I actually wrote something about a different wrestler other than Christian Cage?! I gotta admit it was a lot of fun! Nick is my original favorite btw...I mean, just look at him 😍

You and Nick Jackson share a special moment under the mistletoe...

The hustle and bustle of the day finally started to calm down once most of the guests started leaving the Christmas party. It was only the second time you had been around Nick’s family since the two of you started dating, and you were excited to take that next step in your relationship. You and Nick were alone in the kitchen on dish washing duty, sharing laughs and smiles until the last dish was towel dried. “Thanks for helping me with these Y/N! My mom hates putting her nice dishes in the dishwasher. Matt usually helps me, but I’m glad it was you this time instead.” Nick said affectionately. “No problem! I’m happy to help. Your parents went through a lot of trouble tonight for everyone, they deserve a break.” You smiled.

After sitting and chatting with Nick’s parents and Matt and his wife, they all decided to call it a night and head to bed/home. “It’s getting late, we should probably head out too.” Nick suggested. Once you gathered your shoes and coats, you were about to walk out the front door when you remembered you had forgotten something. “We almost forgot the leftovers in the kitchen! They’re in the fridge.” you reminded Nick. He made his way to the kitchen, collecting all the containers before rejoining you in the living room where you stood waiting in the doorway. “I think that’s all of them. Looks like our next few meals are taken care of.” He joked. Alexa was still playing Christmas music quietly in the background and the lights on the tree casted a soft glow around the room. The way they seemed to sparkle in Nick’s blue eyes made your heart flutter and your knees go weak, but your adoring gaze was interrupted when Nick accidentally dropped a couple of the food containers. Thankfully nothing spilled!

When you stood up after grabbing the containers, Nick appeared to be nervous all of a sudden. “Are you okay?” you asked tenderly. He didn’t use words to respond, instead he shifted his eyes towards the ceiling, yours following suit. It didn’t dawn on you at first what he was looking at until you noticed the sprig of mistletoe hanging directly above you. Since you hadn’t been dating very long, you and Nick hadn’t had a first kiss yet. It was evident from the moment you and Nick met that there was an intense attraction to one another, but the “right time” to make that next move hadn’t occurred yet. Between being busy with AEW and Matt and others always around, getting time alone with Nick wasn’t easy. But here the two of you stood before one another, with nothing to interrupt you this time.

Nick cleared his throat as he sat the food containers down on a nearby table. “You know it’s bad luck to break tradition. I’d hate for us to be the ones to do that.” Nick pointed out. “Bad luck, huh? I don’t think we need any of that.” You teased. Nick closed the gap between you, cupping your cheek with his hand, pausing for a moment to take in the sight of you before gently pressing his lips to yours. Sparks flew the second your lips touched, causing you to smile against them. The kiss was everything you dreamed it would be and more. It ended all too soon, leaving your cheeks flushed and lips tingling. Nick rested his forehead on yours, stroking your cheek with his fingertips and grinning from ear to ear. “That was…” he trailed off. “Incredible?” you said quickly, finishing his sentence for him. “That’s an understatement, but it will do for now. Merry Christmas sweetheart.” He whispered against your lips before kissing you again.

[dirtywresling102]

Could you do Nick Jackson x f! Reader? Maybe he wants to propose but everything goes wrong?

Pairing: Nick Jackson x Female!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, Proposal gone wrong, Sad Nick, rain, teenage boys lowkey being annoying?

Imagines: Open

You looked so beautiful in Nicks eyes as the two of you walked down the beach. You laughed and kicked the sand around with your bare feet as he held onto your shoes.

Today was the day he was going to pop the question. Nick got some time off work so he could take you out on a nice vacation at a resort in the Bahama's. You both deserved it.

You stared off into the distance of the ocean, back facing Nick. Nick cleared his throat. "Y/N, I have something important to ask." He spoke up as he dug into his pocket and before he could even get down on one knee he heard someone from the beach yelling.

"Get inside! Get inside! The storm is coming!"

Nick realized what you were staring at, large dark clouds rolled in above them and fast. "Come on baby, lets go back to the hotel." You turned around, grabbing onto his hand and guided him back to the lobby.

Nick pulled his hand from his pocket, his heart thumping.

So the beach was a bust as the heavy rain came down and thunder boomed in the sky above. This was still a beautiful hotel. You both were already in your swim suits so Nick decided to take you to the pool that had a tiki bar in the middle of it. No one was in sight but the bartender, this was perfect.

"Y/N?" Nick cleared his throat, digging into his pocket as you were sitting in on a bench by the tiki bar. "I really need to ask-"

"Cannon ball!"

You and Nick looked over to see a bunch of young boys rushing to the pool only to jump in making water splash you and Nick. You laughed as you splashed the boys who were splashing each other.

"What did you want to ask, Nick?" You looked at your boyfriend only to frown. Nick's face was bright red, you could tell he was gritting his teeth by the way his claw clenched.

"Nothing. I'm going back to the room."

You watched Nick get out of the pool, leaving the pool area and down the hall. "I wondered what he wanted to ask me." You shrugged. "Bartender, a cocktail please." You waved at the worker with a smile.

[hangmatts]

jungle boy goes to matt for help.

[ set before full gear 2022 ]

—

word count: 1,036. also posted on ao3

—

Jungle Boy very rarely gets frustrated. He’s a very calm and relaxed person. But, when he keeps messing up his hair, he can’t help but get mad. He throws the hair tie down on the floor and tries not to yell.

It’s a basic hairstyle, one that he’s done many times. His hands can’t help but shake because of his nerves. He tries sitting and thinking about what to do. He listens to the pre-show talk about the in-ring return of the Elite when the idea hits him. If anyone knows anything about hairstyles, it’s Matt Jackson.

—

He finds himself at the door of the Elite’s locker room, afraid to knock. He’s not even sure Matt likes him or if visitors are even welcome. He comes to the conclusion that he needs Matt’s help. He quickly shakes off the nerves and places a knock on the door.

Nick opened the door, peeking his head out. He looked confused when he saw the young man standing in front of him.

“Jack?” He asked. “What’s up?”

“Oh- um, is Matt here?”

“Yeah? You need to talk to him?”

“Yeah, please? If that’s okay?”

“Of course it’s okay! Come on in!” Nick smiled and opened the door to invite him in.

—

Jungle Boy looked over to see Matt in front of a mirror, trying to style his hair.

“Matt, you have a visitor.” Nick said before sitting back down on the couch.

“Hm?” Matt turned around. “Oh, Jack! So nice to see you! What can I do for you?”

“Um. I was hoping you could help me style my hair?”

Matt’s face immediately lit up with excitement. He jumped out of his seat, causing Jack to step back.

“I would LOVE TO. Come sit in front of me.”

Jack sat in the chair in front of the mirror, inspecting everything. He messed with the tiny butterfly clips. He color coordinated the hair ties. He picked up Matt’s silver, dangly earrings and started messing with them.

“Do you like the accessories?” Matt asked.

“Oh- yeah, they’re fun. Sorry, I didn’t mean to touch them.”

“It’s okay. You can mess with them as much as you want.”

Matt leaned down to whisper the next part. “I can tell you’re a little nervous and if messing with my earrings calms you down, go ahead.”

“Thanks- thank you.” Jack smiled.

“So, what hairstyle were you thinking?”

“I just wanted a half up ponytail.”

“Oh, a classic! One of my specialties too! You came to the right place.”

“I tried doing it myself but I couldn’t get it. It always looked wrong or bad.” Jack explained.

“I get it. I mean, I truly believe if your hair is wrong, your entire life is wrong.”

“Who said that?”

Matt tilted his head, trying to think.

“I don’t know but I say it all the time so, I’m gonna say it’s a Matt Jackson original!”

Matt smiled, proud at himself for that answer. Jack just nodded in response. Nick overheard and rolled his eyes.

—

Matt grabbed out all the tools he needed.

“Now, do you want a silent appointment or do you want to talk?” He asked.

Jack lowered his voice. “I’d love to talk but I would prefer if it was just us? Is that okay?”

“Of course!” Matt responded before turning to face Nick. “Nicky, please leave.”

“What? Why?” Nick was confused.

“I prefer to work in a less crowded environment.” Matt made it up on the spot, just to make sure Jack felt comfortable.

“Crowded? I’m ONE person.”

“NICK! Go find Kenny and talk about sports or something!” Matt pointed towards the door.

Nick rolled his eyes, mumbling something about Matt being dramatic as he walked out of their locker room. Matt rolled his eyes back.

—

“So, what’s on your mind?” Matt asked, picking up the first tool he needed.

“You know what it’s like to fight your best friend, right?”

Matt nearly froze. “All too well.” He answered.

“How do you go on after? I feel like everything is gonna change. It already has changed, but it’s gonna be so different when this match is finished. What do I do with myself? How do I move on?”

“Well, everything is gonna change.” Matt started as he brushed Jack’s hair back. “But, that doesn’t necessarily mean for the worse. A lot of the times, change is good. You will find your way after this ends. It’s always difficult to move on but I just know you’re gonna go on to do greater things.”

“What do you mean?”

“When this match is over, when this whole mess with Christian is over, you should put it all behind you. You’re amazing at what you do, Jack. I truly believe you’re gonna be a world champion someday. You are a star.”

“You think so?” Jack asked, fidgeting with Matt’s earring.

“I know so.” Matt smiled. “And soon, the entire world will see it. You’re so special. One day, you’re gonna realize that.”

“That means so much coming from you.” Jack awkwardly smiled back.

“Well, I’m glad I could help. I’m all finished. What do you think?”

Jack examined his hair in the mirror. Something so simple, yet so efficient.

“It’s perfect. Exactly what I wanted. Thank you so much for helping me.”

“Of course! You know, you should come by some other time. I can put some of these clips in your hair. We could try out a bunch of different hairstyles together.”

“Yeah… I’d like that, actually.”

“Great! I’ll text you when I’m free.”

—

“Well, I should probably go. My match is on first.” Jack got up from the chair.

“Right, of course. One more thing.”

Jack looked at Matt confused. Matt leaned up to place a small kiss on Jack’s cheek.

“Good luck.” Matt said, pulling back.

Jack tried to ignore the blush quickly creeping up on his face. Matt noticed.

“Right! Thank you. I will see you some other time. Um- thanks for the hair and talk. Bye.” Jack quickly shuffled out of the room.

Matt couldn’t help but giggle at how cute Jack looked nervously blushing. He put his dangly earrings in and turned on the TV just to watch Jack’s match.

[fandomnerd9602]

Can you do Nick Fury x 7 year old granddaughter and they are playing chess/ petting Goose?

Fury: no you can't do that!

Y/N: grandpa i don't know chess

Fury: well I blame your mother for that.

Y/N: can I just pet Goose?

Goose wanders up and meows...

Fury: coming to save my hide again, thanks Goose

[frankoceanfanpage]

𝐍𝐀𝐈'𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐃𝐔𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 !!

hi people!! my name is anaiya, but feel free to nick name me whatever! I usually go by nia, nina or nai. my pronouns are she/her and i'm a young writer! (I don't feel comfortable revealing my age just yet haha) my favorite artists are kali uchis, bryson tiller, mac demarco, frank ocean and many more! i'm mainly going to be writing the sturniolos and some pjo characters for now, might change in the future. all my chris fics are dedicated to @thesnshinee (aka the biggest chris girl ik LMAO) i love making new friends, so feel free to write me!!

THINGS I WILL WRITE:

— headcannons

— small fics / oneshots

— angst

— fluff

– x reader or ocs

THINGS I WON'T WRITE:

— incest

— any weird kinks

— nick x fem!reader/oc (romantically)

— pure smut (but some of my fics might contain suggestive content)

I DON'T CONDONE PLAGIARISM!! writers put time and effort into their work, so don't just go and copy it and mark it as your own.

i'd love to take request!! just write stuff in "ask away" and i'll get to it when i have time.

my bestfriend in the whole world @thesnshinee inspired me to start writing, so go follow her n show some love!!

that's all for now, talk to you soon 🎀

— 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄, 𝐍𝐀𝐈.

[bullet-clubs-bitch]

Can you do after care head cannons with the Elite?

I finally got my computer back since It was being fixed. Expect more writings from me soon!

Enjoy, I hope this is alright. Feel free to leave more suggestions

Aftercare with the elite would include..

Main Masterlist Elite Masterlist

Nick Jackson

Once you both got down from your highs Nick would hold you close

Nick always had a thing for breeding you so he would make sure to clean you up before he ran a bath

Carrying you into the room and laying you gently in the tub

He was a very messy guy so if needed he would quickly change the sheets before joining you in the tub. 

Nick would leave delicate kisses to your skin as he whispered sweet nothings into your ear telling you how good you were

Once you finished he would wrap a fluffy towel around you as he brought you back to bed

The two of you would then cuddle, your head resting on his chest

Nick never intended it to be like this but during this time was his most vulnerable state

He would often talk to you about whatever crossed his mind

Leaving you two with some of your deepest conversations before you fell asleep in eachothers arms 

Matt Jackson

Matt and Nick can be very different from one another when it comes to the bedroom. But they do share similar qualities when it comes to aftercare.  

Like his brother Matt took joy in aftercare. He valued the time, it was a special thing in his mind. Often some of the most vulnerable time for anyone. 

Unlike his brother Matt was quiet, most of the time you didn’t hear him leave. Being greeted by the older Jackson standing next to you with a glass of water and a big smile that warmed your heart. 

Both of you would normally clean up yourselves

When you would return you would find Matt lying in bed watching tv

He would offer you one of his sweaters as the two of you would watch tv together making small talk before sleep took over you both

Kenny Omega

Kenny was never one for aftercare before he met you

He would be quick to grab a towel to wipe you down after

He would make sure you went to the washroom right after

When you would come back he would be waiting with a glass of water, wanting to make sure you kept hydrated 

He would ask you a million times if you were ok, since he is terrified of hurting you

If you needed it, he would run a hot shower since he doesn’t like baths. 

Holding you against his body as he scrubbed body wash over you

He would then hold you tight in his arms as the two of you cuddled

He would wait for you to fall asleep first, watching over you wanting to protect you

Hangman Adam Page

Sex with Adam was always amazing but sometimes you found yourself lost 

At first it was silence as you left the room to have a hot shower, or the occasion he would bring a towel to clean you both up. 

You taught the cowboy the rules of aftercare, something you always valued with your partner. 

He would try and makes jokes to lighten the atmosphere that surrounded you

If needed you would share a hot shower as you washed the other, it was something you both quite enjoyed but more than once led to some fun in the shower. 

Once you both changed into more comfy clothes you would both have a beer and order some room service as you enjoyed each other's company. 

Talking about your day and plans with work

[teen-antisocial]

the winner was folklore guys, I'll try and get a one shot posted today!!!

the love interests are in the hashtags below. You may see Percy is tagged. However, I will be basing that one off the movies because I feel uncomfortable writing about Walker because of his age.

FOLKLORE MASTERLIST

[tatsueigo]

I am sorry, Princess

Title:  I am sorry, Princess

Day/Prompt: Day 6 - "Sorry! I didn't mean to throw that snowball so hard."

Fandom/Character(s): All Elite Wrestling / Matt & Nick Jackson

Warnings (if applicable): cute, Matt being a Princess as always, incest

Wordcount:

Author's notes: Written for @12daysofchristmas ❤ thanks to @moxleys-darlin for the idea of the ship to use

Even with being 38 and 34 years old, Matt and Nick still loved the snow and doing snowball fights. It reminded them of their youth, when they would spend hours playing outside, before going back inside their house to watch wrestling. Now they were wrestlers as well, but that passion hadn't faded with the years.

"Take this, Matty!" Nick rolled a ball in his hands, compacting it, before throwing it at his older brother, who seemed absent-minded and the snowball hit him directly on the right cheek.

Matt gasped as he brought a hand to the offended cheek, eyes watery as it hurt like hell. "Nickyyyy! That hurt." He rubbed his cheek, looking at his youngest brother with bambi eyes and a pout forming on his lips.

"Sorry! I didn't mean to throw that snowball so hard." Normally Nicky would be laughing, but his brother be damned, he couldn't really resist him with that pout and those eyes. "You are being a little too dramatic, though."

"Nicky, I want a kiss!" He chuckled as he noticed the youngest rolling his eyes.

"Come here, little Princess," Nick said with a heavy sigh and rolling his eyes, opening his arms to hug Matt. "You know you should stop looking at me with those eyes." He gently took Matt's hand off the cheek, so he could smooch it, trying to make him feel better. "There... Better now?"

"Mh..." Matt melted in those kisses, nuzzling against his chest, before leaving messy kisses on his neck, until he reached his lips, which he kissed deeply. "Now it's really better."

"One day that attitude won't work anymore with me, you know that?" Nick pinched Matt's nose lightly and lovingly.

"You always say that, but it never happens, Nicky. I don't trust that anymore."

[smileceldaru]

THIS IS WRESTLING. One of the prettiest and gayest things I've ever seen. Oh my god

the bucks and the motor city machine guns didn't need to make this fight so weirdly sexual but they did, and thanks for that

[of-twilight-and-moonshadow]

Family - Young Bucks x Emery

Part of my Dark Angel of the Bullet Club series

Last week, I had a poll for which sibling-esque pairing you wanted to see first, and Matt/Nick Jackson won by an overwhelming landslide. (75-ish % of all votes) The only other one in the poll that got the remaining votes was Kyle O'Reilly - which I'll get that up soon-ish.

The shoes in the image above are the ones mentioned at the tail end of this. They're so pretty but hella expensive (150-175$ )

Words: 2320

Tag List:

@blxxckheart @mrsmatt

(If you want to be added to my tag list(s) just let me know! I have 3 separate ones for the companies - AEW, WWE, and NJPW)

Warnings: potential triggers for mental health, thoughts of suicide, past body image issues, depression

(border by)

Emery could feel the familiar thoughts and emotions weasel their way into her head. It became difficult to swallow, her throat felt dry, she began to lose her appetite, and her interest in things became stagnant.

She’d be on the couch watching her favorite TV show, but her eyes would be glazed over, and she wouldn’t pay attention to it. Despite normally going to bed around 11 at night, she’d be curled under a blanket, her room darkened by the blinds, by 6 in the evening.

Texts would go unanswered, and calls would ring through to voicemail. Social media notifications would go unchecked, and no posts from her would be made.  

Oftentimes, she’d go without eating much- maybe a cracker in the morning after she finally willed herself out of bed, and if she were lucky, she’d have an apple later in the day.

She’d refuse to look in mirrors, especially the full-length mirror in her bedroom, because she knew the moment she did, all the self-hating thoughts would break her even more.

This would usually go on for a week, maybe two. If she were needed at work, she’d force herself to grab her phone and send a simple message to her boss, which was now Tony Khan, and say she was sick and unable to make it.

Her thoughts would go rampant, especially at night when she lay in bed trying to sleep. They’d remind her of all the dark, miserable things from her past that she would rather forget. The thoughts would tell her that she was weak, talentless, and nobody loved her and nobody ever would; that she was ugly and fat, and if she were to die, nobody was miss her.

It took a few days before those thoughts became so loud in her head that she was unable to ignore them. Her lungs felt like they were being squeezed, and it hurt even to breathe; it was as though she was suffocating in the self-deprecating whispers that held her hostage.

The scariest part of the whole this is when she would find herself seriously considering ending it all. Oftentimes, her eyes would land on her razor, thoughts of how easy it would be to dismantle it and use the blade on herself.

As she sat in her apartment bathroom, the razor in her hands as she unconsciously twirled it around, Emery felt the tears trickle down her face. Her eyes shut, trying to hold back the tears, but to no avail. The noise of her phone ringing reached her ears as the familiar Superkick tone played in the distance. Eventually, it stopped, but the second it did, her mind began to race as if it were a wake-up call. Throwing the razor into the sink as she got up from her seat on the tub, Emery ran to her phone in a mild panic.

Her fingers shook as she opened the chat with the two brothers that had basically adopted her into their family, and she typed out an SOS.

“Im so far deep in the rabbit hole.”

Then quickly she added:

“I dont know which way to go.”

Falling to her knees beside her bed, it took only five seconds before her phone began to ring again. After a brief pause of hesitation, her finger over the red button on the screen, she moved over and tapped the green icon and then the speaker button.

“Ree, can you hear us?” Matt’s worried voice gently asked, the worry evident in his tone.

“Y-yeah,” Emery choked out.

“We’ve missed you this past week,” Nick stated, “Not having you ringside felt odd.”

“Brandon had the nerve to ask us if he could make a play for a championship,” Matt tried joking.

“You should’ve seen Kenny after his match—” Nick continued, telling her all about Kenny’s crazy antics backstage.

Just sitting there in the dark, listening to them go back and forth, Emery could feel her body begin to relax. The tears stopped falling, her lungs stopped feeling as though they were constricted, and the nagging, dark thoughts in her head seemed to fade away. Minutes passed by, and after Matt told her about someone backstage accidentally spilling coffee on his shoes, a soft giggle escaped her lips.

“There she is,” Nick said, the smile on his face evident just from his words.

“Go figure it takes my shoes getting ruined to make her laugh,” Matt joked, “I’m just lucky these weren’t my favorite pair.”

“I don’t even know if they still sell your favorite ones,” Nick told him.

“My luck, probably not. I’ll have to get a new pair, though,” Matt frowned, “There’s that store there in Jacksonville; they’ve got a good selection. Maybe we can hit them up tomorrow after we get back?”

“Sounds good to me—Ree, wanna come with us?”

“I dunno….” She replied softly.

“C’monnnn,” Matt enticed her, “We need you there to ensure we don’t spend five grand on shoes again.”

“And for you to tell us that the ones we like look like shit,” Nick added, causing another giggle from Emery. This one, however, was fuller and pronounced- almost a full laugh.

“Okay, okay. I’ll go,” Emery conceded, “But only so that you don’t spend a ridiculous amount and get into trouble with Dana and Ellen.”

“You’re a lifesaver,” Nick told her.

“We should be there around noon, but we’ll text you when we get to the hotel.”

“Sounds good… I’ll see you guys tomorrow,” Emery said.

Nick said, “See ya then,” at the same time that Matt replied, “We’ll see ya.”

“And guys…?”

“Yeah?” Matt answered.

“… Thank you,” Emery told them, a soft smile on her face.

“Any time, sweetheart,” Nick replied.

“Love you, angel face,” Matt added.

“Love you too.”

With that, the phone call ended, leaving Emery in what was once her self-induced prison. Taking a deep breath, she stood up from the floor and crossed her room; slowly, her arms parted the curtain, letting the sunlight flow into her once-dark room. She knew she had to shower—but more prominent was the rumbles of hunger coming from her stomach that she had ignored for close to five days. Deciding to get something to eat first, Emery smiled at how lucky she was to have the friends she did. Her teen years were not the best and were marred by darkness, but since then, she had come a long way. She should be—and was—proud of herself for getting to where she was in life, and despite the ugly moments that sometimes hit her hard, she was doing just fine.

Next Day

 After the Bucks had landed and were settled into their respective hotel rooms, they had sent Emery a text, telling her where and when to meet them. A quarter past two, she left her apartment for the first time in days and ventured outside and amongst the living.

The previous day had been spent on her, focusing on healing and self-appreciation. A bubble bath, face mask, cleaning up her apartment, eating actual meals, and slowly catching up on her messages and notifications.

Arriving at the mall five minutes past three, Emery walked through the parking lot and into the large Nike shoe store. It didn’t take her long to find her friends, who had already begun slowly walking the store to see what they had in stock.

“Hey, there she is,” Nick smiled as he saw her approach. He wrapped his arms around her in a hug and held her secure for a solid minute before releasing her- but Matt quickly took his place and engulfed her in another tight hug. It wasn’t a bone-crushing one, but more of a ‘please remember I love you and you are not alone; I love you so much, and I don’t want to lose you’ kind of hug. It helped to ground her and help her feel more connected to the life she was grateful even to have.

“Glad you could make it,” Matt smirked as he let her go.

“Thanks for the invite.”

“We know shoe shopping is—weirdly enough, not your thing,” Nick shrugged, “But it’s been a while since we hung out, aside from work-related stuff.”

“Very true,” Emery nodded in agreement, “And I do enjoy shoe shopping—just not for shoes that cost the same amount as I pay for rent.”

“They don’t cost that much!” Matt argued, a smile on his face.

“You guys buy two to four pairs each time, and at one-fifty to two hundred per pair?” Emery told him, “Do I need to do the math for you?”

“Even if we bought four pairs at two hundred, that’s only eight hundred, which is still less than you pay for rent,” Nick frowned as Emery looked at him incredulously.

“It’s still a huge chunk of what could be my rent, though! It’s too much! One pair of shoes for fifty dollars is enough for me, which usually lasts three years.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Matt waved her off before turning around to resume searching the wall, “Regardless, help us find some new ones.”

“You guys are insane,” Emery rolled her eyes playfully before she started scanning the wall, “What about those Air Force 1’s up there? The multi-colored one?”

“We already got a pair.”

“Of course you do. Okay, what about these Air Jordan 1 retro’s?” Emery questioned, pointing at the blue, white, and gray shoe near her.

“Got it already.”

“This is insane. You guys have—how many shoes? Two hundred? Three hundred? Everything I point to, you probably already have.”

“We don’t have that many,” Nick recoiled defensively, a smirk on his face.

“Might as well have,” Emery side-eyed him, poking her tongue out at him.

“Just keep pointing out any you see,” Matt smiled as they continued searching.

An hour later, after pointing out what seemed like at least a hundred different shoes, both brothers had three pairs chosen. They had even picked out a pair for Kenny and Brandon as gifts, which Emery couldn’t really argue with them over since it was a gift and not for them. As Matt placed his on the counter to begin checking out, Emery looked around and noticed that Nick had disappeared.

“Hey, where’s Nick?”

“Hmm? Oh, I think he said something about having an employee check if they had a certain shoe in the back,” Matt shrugged before deciding to add the shoes for Kenny and Brandon to his order.

“Of course he did.”

Nick rejoined them shortly after, carrying two boxes of shoes that he then added to his three boxes, ignoring the glare he got from Emery.

“Really, Nicolas? Five pairs of shoes?” she asked despairingly.

“Hey, two are gifts,” Nick replied, waiting as the cashier scanned the boxes and opened each to check them.

“You guys want to grab a bite to eat?” Matt asked as Emery looked over at him.

“We could—if you guys are hungry.”

“Sounds good to me. I think there’s a Steak and Shake and Wendy’s right across the parking lot,” Nick nodded as he paid for his order.

“Let’s do Steak and Shake- we’ll probably do Wendy’s with Kenny and Brandon at some point in the next day,” Matt laughed.

“Sounds good to me!” Emery smiled as they walked out of the store. The brothers followed Emery to her car, claiming they were parked in the same direction, exchanging a glance that Emery failed to notice. When they reached her vehicle, she turned around and looked at them curiously.

“So… are we driving the short distance or just gonna walk there?”

“We could walk it,” Matt shrugged.

“Then… probably put your shoes in your car? Or are you gonna carry them with you?” Emery questioned, confused.

“Yeah, we could put them in our car,” Nick nodded, “So while we put ours away, stash this in your trunk.”

He held out one of his bags towards her, and as she looked at it in confusion, then up to his blue eyes, it dawned on her.

“You—you didn’t,” she muttered softly, shoulders slumping slightly, “Guys, I told you before, don’t get me any of those expensive shoes—”

“Yeah, well, we ignored that,” Nick shrugged, keeping his hand held out towards her.

“Ree, you’re family,” Matt said, his brown eyes warmly looking at her, “We care a lot about you—and when family is feeling down and depressed—you do anything to make them feel better. Every time I’ve been down, you’re always there for me, so let us be there for you. Let us do this—for you.”

“You guys,” Emery whispered, her eyes tearing up instantly. She nudged past Nick’s outstretched arm and wrapped her own arms around both brothers, hugging both at once. Pulling away and stepping back, Emery used the back of her hands to dry the tears that had fallen.

“Fine—but if you insist on buying me things, make it not-shoes. Buy me other things, sparkly things, anything. Just not shoes,” Emery told them, gently taking the bag from Nick.

“Can’t promise anything,” the younger Jackson smirked mischievously, earning a playful glare from Emery.

“Which ones did you get me?” she asked, peering into the bag to view the tags on the boxes. One box was labeled ‘Air Max 90 Unlocked Prom Edition,’ and the other read ‘Air Max 90 Futura’.

“Ones that you’ll like. Besides—if you’re joining us ringside, you gotta at least look like a Jackson,” Nick joked.

“You got the hair, eyes, and attitude. Just missing the shoes,” Matt smiled.

Looking up from the boxes, she smiled warmly at the brothers, “Thank you. Really.”

“Anytime.”

“Like we said. You’re family—and we take care of family.”

To her, they were the best family she could have ever wished for; one that she never imagined having, but counted her lucky stars that she had.

[midwestmade29]

TLC 🩵

This one is for you @supakixbabe 🖤 I hope this brings a smile to your face! Word count: 1.1k Divider by: @saradika-graphics GIF credit: @tekkers

Original request:

Nick Jackson. Maybe the reader is having a bad day, has shut everyone out, and Nick breaks down her walls to help her? I think a lot of people could benefit from reading that. Maybe they can be best friends to lovers or just best friends.

Disclaimers: None really! Just some feel good fluff with the world's most precious soul 🥰

Nick Jackson knows you better than anyone, so when you're stuck in a rut he comes and saves the day...

It was going on day 3 of you feeling crummy. Things weren’t working out in your favor; your self-esteem had taken a hit, and you just weren’t feeling well. You had shut everyone out, ignoring phone calls and texts and only traveled between the couch and your bed. After about a day and a half, your phone stopped buzzing with notifications which left your apartment feeling how you did inside, quiet, and alone.

You were laying on the couch flipping through the tv channels with your hair a tangled mess, empty food wrappers and dirty dishes on the coffee table, and you were wearing the same pajamas you’ve had on for days. Suddenly, there was a knock at your door that made you about jump out of your skin! There was another soft tap on the door, but you laid there silently hoping that whoever was on the other side would go away.

“Y/N, it’s me. Nick,” a familiar voice spoke softly.

Your eyes grew large when you recognized it, panic started setting in when you remembered the current state you and your apartment were in! You rolled off the couch and onto the floor, trying to run your fingers through your hair to smooth it out when Nick spoke again.

“Please Y/N, let me in. Your neighbor is staring at me,” You chuckled at the slight dismay in his voice and figured you should put an end to his suffering.

“I’ll be right there!”

“Hey,” Nick greeted tenderly.

He didn’t seem to notice your unkempt appearance when he smiled at you and explained why he showed up unannounced.

“I’m sorry I didn’t call or text, I wasn’t sure if you would’ve answered or not. I know you’ve been having a rough time lately, so I wanted to check on you,”

Nick held up a canvas bag that looked like it was filled to the brim with random items, piquing your curiosity.

“Yeah, sorry about that. I’ve just been stuck in a rut, and it’s been hard to pull myself out of it. Um, thank you for coming by. Please, come in! Ignore the mess…” You stepped aside and ushered Nick into your apartment, following behind him as he made his way into your kitchen. Embarrassment started to cover your cheeks when you noticed his eyes scanning the room, your urge to apologize for things being so untidy was strong.

“I guess I’ve fallen behind on my chores,” you laughed nervously. “And maybe my personal hygiene. Sorry Nick, I-” was all you were able to say before Nick stopped you, but for good reason.

“No need to apologize Y/N, I get it. I didn’t come here to make you feel bad or embarrassed. I’m going to order us dinner and put away some of the things I brought with me. Why don’t you take a hot shower, take your time and I’ll have everything ready when you get out?” Nick’s kindness made your heart swell, his presence was everything you’ve been needing the last few days.

“Are you sure?” you asked hesitantly, Nick responded quickly with a “yes” and shooed you away.

Thick pillows of steam flowed out of the shower and filled the bathroom while you stood underneath the hot water. It felt amazing on your skin, every swipe of your loofa made you feel like you were coming back to life. You followed Nick’s instructions and took your time, staying put until the water turned cold.

Once you were done, you dried off and brushed your hair before grabbing some clean clothes from your dresser. When you reemerged into the kitchen, you saw Nick close the front door behind him with a pizza box in his hands, a smile covering his face when he noticed you watching him.

“There she is,” he stated affectionately. “I ordered your favorite pizza; I hope you’re hungry. I’ll grab plates and drinks and meet you on the couch,”

On your way over to sit, your eyes scanned the room and noticed that Nick had been busy while you were in the shower. You saw that your dirty cups and dishes that were all around had been placed in the sink and dishwasher, the trash had been bagged up and sat by the front door, a new candle had been lit and fresh flowers in a vase sat on the coffee table. You bent down to smell the sweet blossoms when Nick walked up behind you, his voice making you jump a little in surprise.

“I was hoping they would make you smile. I remembered they’re your favorite kind. There’s also a new blanket waiting for you on the couch,”

Tears pricked the corners of your eyes as you wrapped Nick in a tight embrace, nearly making him drop everything he had in his hands. He quickly sat it all down and hugged you just as tightly.

“Hey, no more tears, Y/N. It’s all going to be okay,” he whispered. 

“It’s not that. It’s just you’re so thoughtful and caring and it just means so much, you know?” 

The pizza was delicious as you and Nick devoured it while watching your favorite show on tv. He took care of cleaning up while you wrapped yourself in your new blanket and took a seat on the floor by the coffee table. The both of you had picked out a board game to play and it was your job to get everything set up for it.

The night was filled with laughter, smiles, and happiness which was something you hadn’t felt in a while. All the weight you had carried on your shoulders lately didn’t feel quite as heavy, and it was nice having someone there to help you lift it. Nick’s smile lit you up inside every time you were the reason behind it, his laughter breathed life into you.

“You didn’t let me win, did you?” you asked suspiciously. “Do you know who you’re talking to, Y/N? I’m as competitive as they come! Of course I didn’t let you win, you beat me fair and square this time,” he replied with a wink. 

At some point, you and Nick had fallen asleep on the couch together with your new blanket draped over you both. You were facing his chest with your arms wrapped around each other when you started to stir, but the slow and steady beat of his heart soothed you right back to sleep.

You remained tangled together most of the night, even after the two of you migrated to your bed. That night you had the most restful night of sleep that you had in a long time, you slept without fear of waking up alone because just like always, you knew Nick would still be there with you no matter what. 

[dirtywresling102]

I NEED this imagine written! I need something with Matt Jackson and F! Reader where one of them is about to get married and the other tries to stop it? Please please please??

Pairing: Matt Jackson x Female!Reader

Warnings: No warnings really, Fluff, Stopping a marriage.

Imagine Requests: Open!

Follow My Main Blog!: @dirtywrestling

Your hands grew sweaty in your soon to be husbands hands as he gave you a caring smile. Your whole body was on fire underneath your white wedding dress. Was it hot? It had to be hot? Your feet ached in the heels, your back hurt everything seemed to be rushing you at once.

Looking out into the audience that was now sitting and taking photos of you and your about to be husband your eyes gazed across the people, trying to find your best friend, Matt Jackson. "Y/N?"

"Huh?" Your attention snapped towards the priest who had his eyebrows arched.

"Do you take Y/H/N, here as your husband?"

You looked back at the man you've been with for years, soon your mouth becoming dry and tongue swollen. You didn't belong here, not with him. "I-"

The slamming of doors opening made everyone gasp and you even jumped. "I object!"

"M- Matt?" You whispered seeing Matt rushing down the isle in a black suit along with his younger brother, Nick following. "Y/N, please, don't marry this clown." The whole family of the grooms gasped only for you to giggle softly. "Y/N, you belong with me and I'm a fool for not saying anything sooner. I'm sorry I ran that night we told each other our feelings. I'm sorry for everything, please, I need you by my side, Y/N."

Staring at Matt with wide eyes, you felt your hands being gripped and made you look towards your fiancé. "Y/N?" He whispered.

Looking at your lover you gave him a shy smile. "Sorry." You let go of his hand, grabbing the bottom of your long wedding dress and rushing down the small steps towards Matt.

[hangmatts]

hey guys!! i hate to do this but i’m struggling financially and need a little bit of help. if you can help in any way possible, please consider donating to my ko-fi!! i have c0mmissi0ns open and all the rules are set in my profile. there’s two different fics you can request or you can just buy me a coffee as support. all donations are appreciated so much. thank you🫶🏼

(P.S. - i haven’t updated but if you would like to request a swerve/hangman fic, i will do that!)

[fandomnerd9602]

Avenger hunt y/n because they thought y/n keep seeing y/n with hydra but the truth y/n work with fury to get information from the inside.

Steve holds Y/N by the throat.

Steve: should’ve known

Y/N: Steve let me explain

Steve: explain how you’ve been working for-

Nick: me. Y/N’s been working for me. A good spy too. Rogers can you please set Agent L/N down?

Steve sets Y/N down gently.

Steve: sorry

Y/N: I’d never betray you or Romanoff or Sam. You guys are family to me.

[punkshort]

i know who you are | 8. the return

Pairing: Joel Miller x f!reader

Chapter Summary: You help Joel recover from his injuries and you finally confront your feelings for him.

Chapter Warnings: language, angst, mutual pining, sad!Joel, amnesia, slow burn, descriptions of wounds/injuries, some smutty situations but nothing very explicit, dare I say fluff?

WC: 8.2K

Series Masterlist

"Joel, wake up."

He groaned and squeezed his eyes shut even tighter.

"C'mon. You gotta get up."

"Five more minutes," he mumbled.

"Joel," you tried again, your voice sounding so far away. Why did you sound so far away? "Joel, please wake up. I need you."

You needed him. Okay. For you, he would wake up.

His eyelids fluttered.

"Joel?"

Your voice didn't sound so far away now.

"Joel? Can you hear me?"

Fuck, his head hurt. His side hurt. Everything fucking hurt.

Then he remembered.

He forced his eyes open, blinking rapidly as his pupils adjusted to the bright light until he focused on you. You.

You were so pretty. So, so pretty, standing next to his bed with that little worried crease between your eyebrows, leaning over him. You didn't need to be so worried. Don't be worried.

Your eyes brightened when he saw you and he slowly began to recognize where he was.

He was back in Jackson. At the infirmary, in a bed.

You jumped up, calling over your shoulder for Nick and Tommy before turning back to him and grasping his hand.

"Are you in pain?"

He didn't answer. He just stared at you, dumbfounded, his brain struggling to catch up. He squeezed your hand and you gave him a shaky smile.

Tommy and Nick barged into the room and you dropped his hand. Nick began to take his vitals while Tommy tried to stay out of the way, but Joel's focus remained on you. He watched as you drifted around the room on autopilot, handing Nick instruments and supplies from a table, then disappearing out into the hall when he asked you to get some medicine he had no idea how to pronounce.

"What's your pain like, Joel?" Nick asked, reading the blood pressure cuff.

He opened his mouth to answer but immediately started coughing. Tommy twisted around to grab the water bottle next to the sink and Nick lifted it to his lips. "Slow," he reminded him, so Joel sipped slowly then sat back with a sigh.

He was so tired.

"Your pain?"

Joel took a deep breath and winced.

"Ain't great," he croaked, voice all gravelly. You came back into the room and handed Nick the medicine, giving Joel a reassuring smile. God, he missed you so much.

He heard Nick ask you to fill a syringe for him and Joel watched you work, your hands steady and your breath even as you concentrated on getting the dosage exactly right.

"Joel? Did you hear me?"

"Huh?" he asked in a daze, dragging his eyes to his brother.

"I said, what the hell happened out there?" Tommy was pressed up against the wall, making himself as small as possible while you and Nick worked.

"Ran into some raiders- fuck!" he exclaimed when the needle entered his skin.

"Sorry," Nick murmured before pulling it out.

"Where?" Tommy asked, and Joel shook his head.

"Not 'round here. Out in California."

Everyone in the room paused to look at him.

"You got this fucked up out in Cali and you made it back?" Tommy asked in disbelief, and Joel slowly nodded his head. "Fuckin'... how?"

Joel's eyes found yours again, the corner of his mouth twitching up into a half smile.

"Had a guardian angel," he said, his eyelids beginning to droop.

"The hell does that mean?" Tommy asked. Joel pointed to his pack on the floor.

"Side pocket."

Nick lifted the blanket covering Joel's bare torso so he could inspect his wounds, which had been freshly cleaned and patched up in his sleep. Then he heard the telltale sound of pills rattling in a plastic bottle.

"You found meds out there?" his brother asked, rolling the bottle around in his palm before handing it over to Nick.

"Mhm," was all he said, then watched as you looked over Nick's shoulder to read the label. Your eyes went wide with surprise then looked up at him.

Your lips parted like you wanted to say something, then your gaze darted to the other two men in the room and you decided against it.

"This probably saved you from getting sepsis," Nick said before placing the bottle on the small table next to his bed. "I'm gonna need to keep you here for a bit," and as Joel began to protest, Nick held up his hand. "Just for a bit, I said. Til you get your strength up and I feel confident you don't got any infection or serious internal damage. Then you can go home and recover."

You could see the turmoil in Joel's face. He wanted to go home, he wanted to be in the comfort of his own bed after a week of putting himself through hell.

"I'll stay here overnight, keep an eye on him and come get you if anything seems off," you said, and all three men paused to look at you in surprise. You shrugged and cleared your throat. "Unless you don't-"

"No," Joel said, cutting you off. His throat felt so tight all of the sudden. "Please stay."

Nick and Tommy exchanged glances before shifting around the room, gathering used instruments and picking up Joel's discarded, bloody clothes.

"I'll grab the cot for you," Nick said on his way out the door.

"Do you need anythin' from home?" Tommy asked and you quickly shook your head.

"I'll be fine."

Joel wanted to tell you everything, but he could feel himself fading. Another time, he thought as you rolled out the cot on the floor next to his bed. You turned off the light before he drifted off to sleep, finally being able to properly rest now that he was back with you.

It took five whole days until Nick finally agreed to let him go home. You stayed with him every night, only going back home to shower and get fresh clothes once a day. It seemed like he was always surrounded by Tommy or Ellie or Nick and there was never a good time to talk to you. He wanted to tell you why he did what he did, he wanted to give you some comfort. But any time the two of you were alone, it was always too brief or he was asleep.

Unbeknownst to Joel, you were struggling with the same issue. You wanted to get some time alone together so you could talk to him about everything you had a chance to reflect on while he was gone, but you knew it would likely be a long and emotional conversation and you really didn't want to do it at work.

There was so much that needed to be said, but the rare few minutes you had alone together you spent holding his hand or feeding him or gently wiping the sweat off his forehead and chest with a wet washcloth. You hoped your actions spoke louder than the words you weren't brave enough to say.

Nick helped you restock your first aid kit at home while Tommy got Joel settled back in his bed. You could hear them talking from the hallway, Tommy scolding his brother when he didn't listen to him and he ended up wincing in pain.

"So you're gonna want to make sure he takes this twice a day with food," Nick said, handing you a bottle of orange pills. "For inflammation. Til you run out, then he should be good. And this is only if the pain gets intolerable," he handed you a small baggie of four white pills and narrowed his eyes. "Use them sparingly, we don't have much."

"I know."

"He shouldn't need any more antibiotics but be sure to take his temperature throughout the day and push the fluids. If the numbers get over 102 for more than four hours, come get me right away."

"Okay," you nodded, hoping your sleep deprived brain was absorbing everything.

"Maria agreed to help out at the infirmary for the next couple days, so take as much time as you need. You know I can manage without you," Nick said, and you gave him a feigned look of hurt. "I can manage, I said. Doesn't mean I prefer it," he told you with a roll of his eyes and you had a stifle a laugh. Tommy stepped out of Joel's room and joined you at the top of the stairs.

"All good?"

"I think so," you said, looking back down at the pills Nick gave you.

"You need anythin', you just holler, sugar," Tommy said and you gave him a tired smile in return. The two men walked down the steps and saw themselves out while you filled a glass with water from the sink in the bathroom, bringing it to Joel.

"How are you feeling?" you asked him for what felt like the millionth time in a week.

"Not bad," he said truthfully. You handed him the water and although he wasn't thirsty, he still drank it because it seemed to make you happy and he really liked when you took care of him.

You shifted your weight and glanced around the room awkwardly.

"Do you need anything? Are you hungry? Do you want me to get you a book or something?"

Joel smiled and dropped his gaze to the floor. You were so fucking cute and it was killing him.

"I'm good."

"Good," you nodded, chewing on your bottom lip as you tried to find another reason to stay. When you couldn't think of one, you sighed and hitched your thumb over your shoudler.

"I'll be right next door and I'll leave the doors open. If you need anything or if you're in pain-"

"I know," he said, giving you a soft smile as you tried your best to not stare at his bare chest peeking out from the top of the sheets.

"Okay, then," you said, backing out of the room. "Good night."

You had no idea how long you laid in your bed, staring up at the ceiling while your mind raced and your fingers tapped anxiously against your chest. You couldn't sleep. It must have been hours because the light flicking off in Joel's room felt like ages ago and you hadn't heard any shuffling since.

It's this bed, you thought to yourself. It was the first time in a long time you slept in your own bed and you just couldn't get comfortable.

Or maybe you were too worried about him, even though it seemed like most of his strength was back. The color returned to his cheeks and he was able to stay awake most of the day. Deep down, you knew there wasn't a need to be concerned about him at that point. In all likelihood he was out of the woods. But you still felt the urge to check on him. Just in case.

You slid out of bed and tiptoed quietly out of your room, walking the few feet to Joel's door and leaning against the frame. You tried to observe him from a distance but it was hard to see in the dark, so you crept closer.

He was sound asleep, his hands resting peacefully over his soft stomach, his lips parted ever so slightly as he lightly snored. You bit the inside of your cheek and looked at the other side of the bed. Deciding not to overthink it, you closed the door and silently made your way around the foot of the bed and slipped underneath the covers with a quiet sigh.

Just for a minute, you thought. You had just grown so accustomed to sleeping in his bed, that's all. But before you knew it, his steady breathing and soft pillows lulled you into a deep sleep.

The sun bled through the curtains, inching across the floorboards and slowly made its way up the sheets until it found your face, but you didn't wake. Instead, you buried your face deeper into the warmth underneath you, far too comfortable to bother waking up just yet.

Joel, however, had been awake before the sun even rose.

He had felt your arms wrapped around his waist at some point towards the early morning. He had managed to turn so your head rested against his bare chest while you continued to sleep so peacefully. It was far too tempting. He fucking ached for you for so long and to wake up and find you in his bed caused his heart to flutter wildly in his chest and all his blood to rush directly between his legs.

He had been doing okay. He was content with just holding you, feeling you, pretending things were back to normal, if only for a little while, but when you nuzzled into his chest and tightened your grip around his waist, he couldn't resist burying his nose in your hair and breathing in deep. He missed you so much it fucking hurt. It was torture, fighting the urge to pull you into him every day and crawl into bed with you at night. He knew it would backfire one day, all his pent up emotions. When Angie caught him during a particularly low point at the Tipsy Bison, drunk and sad and missing you so fucking much, it all blew up in his face. Kissing her was a mistake but he was just so goddamn lonely. He didn't realize how much he had come to depend on your touch to soothe him until he no longer had it.

He wouldn't make that mistake ever again.

He thought he ruined everything in one moment of weakness, but here you were, tucked safely into his side, sound asleep in his arms and he didn't even dare question what brought you into his bed because all that mattered was you were there now. And you made that decision yourself. You sought him out. You wanted to be with him.

Testing the waters, he carefully pressed a kiss on the top of your head, and when you didn't react, he did it again. Sliding his eyes closed, he dragged his lips a little lower, kissing your forehead while he savored the feeling of your breath fanning over his neck. Other than your fingertips fluttering slightly against his stomach, you still didn't move, so he kissed your forehead again. You were so warm and you smelled just like him that he quickly felt himself getting lost in his desire. His kisses became faster and more urgent, finally causing your breathing to change and your body to stir. He knew you were waking but he kept his eyes closed, too afraid of seeing apathy in the face that used to be filled with such love for him.

He was just setting himself up for more heartbreak but he couldn't seem to stop.

His lips traveled a little lower, pressing tenderly against your temple, bracing himself for when you would inevitably push him away. Maybe you weren't fully awake yet because you remained perfectly still, so he continued to take and take, his kisses becoming feverish as he brushed over your eyelids. God, he missed this so much. He missed these lazy mornings with you. They were rare, but on days neither of you had any other commitments you would lounge in bed for as long as your stomachs would allow, holding each other close, getting lost under the sheets.

His time was coming to an end now. Your arms loosened around his waist and soon you would realize where you were and who you were with and it would all be over. He breathed deeply, as if he could bottle you for later. Maybe his sheets would trap your scent. He really hoped they would. He could use another good night's sleep and having you at his side had always ensured that, but he could pretend as long as his pillow still smelled like you.

With his lips still roaming over your brow, you stretched your legs and let out a breathy little noise that made his cock twitch and his stomach tense. He kept his eyes screwed shut, hoping you would assume he was half asleep and therefore unaware of his lips dragging across your face. He didn't want to lie to you again but his heart could only handle so much rejection.

He felt your eyes flutter open, your eyelashes tickling his neck and he really should have stopped kissing you at that point, but it felt like he was spiraling out of control. Like his body had enough of constantly being denied what it craved.

You paused for a moment, giving your brain a chance to catch up. Figuring out where you were and why you were there. Any second now, you would pull away. He kept bracing for it, his heart thundering in his chest now that it knew time was running out, that this feeling of bliss was about to end and it was scrambling to hold on to every split second.

Thinking it would be the last chance, he kissed the corner of your eye and then your cheek. There was no way he would be able to pretend he was still asleep now, but he didn't care. He was growing frantic, his need for you overwhelming, even if this was all he could get, it would have to sustain him until he could figure out how to earn back your trust.

His eyes flew open when your lips pressed wetly against his neck. He froze, his mouth hovering over your ear, waiting to see what you would do next.

Then you did it again. Only this time, you sucked on a bit of his skin, leaving the beginnings of a red mark he would cherish for days.

Before you could blink, he rolled over, his body caging you in underneath him as he examined you with wide and hopeful eyes. You gazed up at him, your breath shallow and your lips parted as your eyes roamed over his face, taking in every freckle and every wrinkle up close. His beard was getting grayer in spots you hadn't noticed before, somehow adding to his appeal. His lips looked dry from the cold but his eyes looked bright and clear and the way the sun was beaming in through the window behind him, his messy curls sticking up every which way made it look like he was wearing a halo.

With a shaky hand, you reached up to thread your fingers through his hair. It was so much softer than you expected. His eyes fluttered shut and he leaned into your touch. You watched his throat work as he swallowed nervously and you wanted nothing more in that moment than to taste the skin there again, so you did. Leaning up, your lips suckled at the spot between his jaw and neck, his pulse strong and fast under your tongue. A reminder that he was alive and healthy and finally back home. Your nails raked against his scalp and you sucked at his skin a little harder, a little more urgently, a little more desperately and then he was the first to break.

He whimpered.

He fucking whimpered and that was all it took for you to maneuver slightly under him and spread your legs, wrapping them around his waist and pulling him close.

Fuck. He was hard. You felt it in the loose confines of his sweatpants, bobbing against your center when you pulled him down further and it set something on fire inside of you.

You brought your other hand up to get lost in his hair, giving it a tug to pull his head back just a bit so you could angle your mouth over his and you latched onto him hungrily, the contact sending a jolt through your entire body. He slipped his tongue past your teeth and finally allowed himself to touch you, hand cupping your jaw at first, then dropping to grip your ass under the sheets before sliding up your shirt, rough fingers skating up your stomach, then brushing over your tightened nipples, drawing out a sweet little moan which he swallowed down eagerly.

He flattened his hand over your heart, leaving it there as he licked into your mouth, both your jaws pried open as far as they could go, as if you were trying to swallow the other whole. He could feel your heart pounding through your chest, like it was trying to break free and jump into his palm. Like it was saying here, take me, I'm yours. And if you were to untangle your hands from his hair and place one over his own racing heart, he had no doubt you would hear what it was screaming in his chest.

I love you, I love you, I love you so fucking much, I'm so sorry, please forgive me.

And of course you forgave him. He was in just as much pain as you. Both of you had been mourning the same person without even realizing it.

And none of that seemed to matter anymore. Not in that moment, anyway. The two of you tangled together, the early morning glow from the sun washing over you, wrapping you up safe and sound in each other's arms.

You dropped your hands, abandoning his hair, nails dragging over his broad shoulders and leaving little red trails in their wake. His own hand slid down from your chest to grab your hip, pulling you impossibly closer to him, forcing you to feel how hard he was for you. All for you.

His facial hair burned your chin but you didn't mind. In fact, it felt good. You chased the feeling, pushing your mouth even harder against him, wanting to make sure you would feel that burn for the rest of the day.

Then you heard a knock on the front door.

Joel didn't react.

Either too lost in the moment or unwilling to allow it to end. Your hands drifted lower, over his relatively smooth chest and over his ribs, your fingertips dancing over each one like piano keys, careful to avoid his wound.

Another knock, louder now, made you pause. Breaking free and turning your head slightly to the side to open your eyes, you tried to listen, but Joel's mouth just slid down your jaw, nipping playfully as he went before biting gently on your earlobe. You gasped softly, momentarily forgetting about the door, your back arching underneath him. His tongue flattened against the hollow of your exposed throat, his exhale tickled your skin and caused a wave of goosebumps to emerge and he smirked, tongue still lavishing your neck as his fingers dug harder into your hip, like he was afraid to let you go.

Now you heard the front door unlock and carelessly swing open, but Joel still didn't stop.

"Joel," you whispered, your voice raspy from disuse. He only hummed in response, then his mouth latched onto your clothed breast, his tongue flicking against the thin material and you had to bite your lip to keep from crying out because you heard Ellie's voice now, along with Tommy's, making their way up the stairs.

"Joel!" you said, firmer this time and pushing him back. His dark eyes snapped up to yours, his parted lips wet and swollen as he gasped for air. Thankfully, it sounded like they had tried the master bedroom first. You heard Tommy's heavy steps enter your bathroom before walking back out into the hall and it finally clicked with Joel that you were no longer alone.

"Fuck," he muttered right before the door swung open. He dropped his upper body to cover yours best he could, protecting your modesty even though you were still fully clothed.

"Shit! Sorry!" Tommy exclaimed, backing out of the room. You squeezed your eyes shut as embarrassment flooded your veins, tucking your face into Joel's neck to hide.

"What-" you heard Ellie say from the hall, then the door slammed shut, leaving just you and Joel. The two of you stayed frozen, his body still pinning yours into the mattress under the covers, legs still wrapped around his waist as you listened to Tommy and Ellie's hushed voices trail down the stairs.

"Fuck," he sighed again, dropping his head against your shoulder.

Your heart fluttered in your chest as the both of you slowly regained your senses. Your hands drifted lightly over his back as he nuzzled into your neck, and you were perfectly content to remain just like that, but unfortunately he pushed himself up on his elbows with a sigh.

"I should go see what he wants," he murmured, giving you a heated look that told you talking to his brother was the last thing he wanted to do.

"Okay," you squeaked, feeling your cheeks warm under his gaze. He looked like he wanted to say something else but decided against it and instead sat up with a grunt. You pulled the covers back over you, the cool morning air prickling your skin now that you didn't have his body heat to keep you warm, and watched as he fumbled around the room for a discarded shirt. When his back was turned, he tried to subtly tuck his throbbing cock into his waistband, but you noticed and bit back a grin. Secretly, you were grateful for the interruption. As much as you wanted him, you needed to take things slow.

He walked down the stairs, his pace slower than usual as he favored his side with the wound. When his eyes met Tommy's in the kitchen, he saw the flash of guilt across his face for interrupting what was shaping up to be a really good fucking morning.

"Sorry," he said again, glancing quickly at the back of Ellie's head as she rummaged through the pantry for something to eat, completely oblivious to what they almost walked in on. "The kid let me in."

"Yeah, I got that," Joel grumbled as he made his way to the coffee maker and flipped the switch.

"Hey Joel, can I take this?" Ellie held up a box of granola bars and he nodded. She ripped into one and practically shoved half of it into her mouth. "How's it feel to be back home?" she asked with a mouthful of sticky oats. Joel made a disgusted face at the visual and she smirked at his reaction.

"Good," was all he said, turning away before the heat crept up his neck. It felt really fucking good to be home. "So what's goin' on?" he asked Tommy, who was leaning up against the kitchen sink.

"Couple of guys found some tracks this mornin'," Tommy began, and the hairs on the back of Joel's neck stood up.

"Tracks?" you questioned as you appeared in the doorway in a fresh set of clothes. Joel tried not to let his gaze linger on you, noting with a sick sense of pride that your neck still looked a little pink from his mouth, but it was hard. He should have just stayed in bed with you.

"Doesn't look like a big group," he said as Joel's face fell. "It ain't your fault-"

"They followed me here, Tommy," Joel rubbed the heels of his hands into his eyes.

"We'll handle it," Tommy replied calmly while you and Ellie sat down silently at the table to listen. "Shit was bound to happen sooner or later."

"Goddamnit," Joel growled angrily under his breath. "I shoulda been more careful. Stupid fuckin'-"

"Joel, you were passed out on the back of a horse," Tommy reasoned, "it's a miracle you even made it back at all. The tracks were a few miles south, I'm gonna get a group together later this mornin' and see what we can find."

"I'll go with you," he said but before Tommy could respond, you piped up.

"No, you're not."

Joel twisted around, taking in the alarmed look on your face. He held your gaze for a moment, your eyes pleading with him. Please don't. I just got you back. He immediately caved.

"Okay," he agreed, and you visibly relaxed with a smile. You desperately wanted to go to him, pull him close and thank him for listening to you, but your audience held you back.

Ellie glanced between the two of you with a knowing grin, finally sensing the change in the room.

"I wasn't lookin' for volunteers, anyway," Tommy said, breaking the heavy silence and pushing off the counter. "Just comin' by to tell you what's goin' on. We're headin' out in an hour, I'll stop by later and let you know what we find."

The coffee maker beeped and Joel grabbed two mugs from the cupboard. "Be careful out there," he told his brother as Tommy slid on his boots and swung open the door. "Don't do anythin' stupid."

"That's rich, comin' from you," he replied with a chuckle and Ellie snorted. Joel shot him a glare before he left, pouring coffee into each of your mugs. He took a grateful sip before bringing yours to the table and sat down. The both of you sipped your coffees in silence, eyes glued to the table while trying to ignore the obvious tension building. Ellie began to connect the dots and stood up.

"I should get going," she announced.

"You don't have to-"

"Stay and warm up a bit-"

She cut you both off. "I got shit to do. Homework and all that," she said, lying through her teeth as she headed for her boots. "Don't worry, I'll lock it behind me," she teased, slipping out the front door while your cheeks burned hot with embarrassment.

"Jesus," you muttered and Joel had to hold back a laugh. He stared down at his coffee, the mug now half filled with the dark, steaming liquid as he struggled to come up with something to say. There was so much he didn't even know where to start.

"Oh! Your meds!" you exclaimed, jumping up from your chair to retrieve the little orange pills Nick gave you the night before. "He said you need to take these with food. Let me make you something," you told him while you shuffled around pots and pans, looking for anything to keep yourself busy.

He sat back in his chair and watched you move around the kitchen with ease. Pulling oatmeal out of the pantry, measuring it out, boiling the pot with water.

You looked nervous. The thought made him smile. He made you nervous.

Right as you turned the burner off and grabbed a bowl you felt his hands circle your hips. You sighed and couldn't resist melting against him, closing your eyes for a moment and resting the back of your head against his shoulder while he buried his face in the crook of your neck.

"Thank you," he whispered while pressing a chaste kiss behind your ear.

"It's just oatmeal," you whispered back. He swallowed and shook his head before planting another kiss in the same spot.

"No, it's not."

You knew what he was trying to say and it made your heart swell. Thank you for taking care of me. Thank you for giving me a chance. Thank you for staying. Thank you for saving my life. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

"You're welcome," you replied, your voice wavering a bit as you turned around in his arms. You laced your fingers together behind his neck and gazed up at him, examining every wrinkle and scar, fighting the urge to kiss each and every one.

"I love you," he said softly while his thumbs tucked underneath the hem of your shirt, searching for any bit of your soft skin he could find. "I know you can't say it back yet and that's okay. I just really needed to tell you."

You blinked back your tears and nodded, pulling him down to your level and slotting your lips together once again. He sighed as his shoulders relaxed and for the first time everything just felt right so you tentatively flicked your tongue over his lower lip. You felt him smile before he allowed you to deepen the kiss, your tongue slowly and deeply massaging his as he pulled your body closer, pressing you firmly against him.

A deep groan rumbled from his chest when you raked your fingers through his hair, your knees practically buckling at the sound. He walked you backwards until you felt the counter pressing against your back, his kisses growing hungrier and his fingers gripping your hips tighter.

"Your food's getting cold," you mumbled, turning your face towards the oatmeal cooling on the stove.

"Don't care," he said, his lips grazing over your throat. He missed you so much and now that he finally had you, he couldn't get enough. When he dropped to his knees, his fingers hooking into the waistband of your jeans and his mouth ghosting over the apex of your thighs, you gasped and grabbed his hair, stopping him.

"I-I'm not ready for all that yet," you admitted as the warmth of embarrassment flooded your cheeks and chest. "I'm sorry, I know you've been waiting for so long-"

"Shh, it's okay," he said sincerely, then stood back up with a grunt. He cupped your face and gave you a gentle kiss. "I can wait. I'll wait forever, I don't care," he still cradled your jaw as he nuzzled his nose alongside yours.

"This is all I ever want, anyway," he whispered, and you smiled.

It was the first day of your fresh start.

Nick had offered you time off to care for Joel but it quickly became apparent as the day went on that he was doing far better than any of you expected.

He only had a little trouble going up the stairs so the two of you spent the rest of the day in the living room. You had thought he was going to try and nap so you busied yourself with a book, his head resting in your lap as your fingers absentmindedly carded through his curls while you read on the couch, the fire crackling next to you. It wasn't until you lifted your hand to flip a page when you noticed his eyes on you and you grinned.

"I thought you were going to try and sleep?"

"Not very tired," he replied, gently reaching up for your wrist and putting your hand back in his hair. "Feels real nice," he explained. You put your book face down, the spine spread open to hold your place, and began playing with his hair again.

"Joel?"

"Hm?"

"Did you go to my parents' house?"

Shit. In all the chaos since arriving back in Jackson he never had a chance to tell you.

"Yes," he said, staring up at you from your lap, watching as the shadow from the flames danced across your face.

"Is that where it happened?" you asked, your eyes traveling to the side where he was stabbed. He nodded and you sniffled, dropping your gaze to the floor. "I thought so. Because of the pills," you said quietly, "my name was on the bottle."

"I know," he replied, watching as your eyes clouded with guilt. He frowned. "What's wrong?"

"You got hurt because of me," you said, lower lip trembling. "If I hadn't been so immature we could've talked about it but instead I pushed you away and you almost died trying to prove a point-"

"Hey," he cut you off and sat up next to you, "it's not your fault, don't you dare think that, alright?" He cupped your face but you still refused to meet his eye. "I fucked up. It was on me, okay? I fucked up with Angie and I fucked up out there."

"You could've died," you said, two tears trickling down your cheeks. He wiped them away with his thumbs.

"But I didn't."

You took in a shaky breath and finally looked at him. "Don't do something like that ever again," you told him, an undercurrent of anger in your voice, and he smirked.

"Yes, ma'am."

He dropped his hold on your face and leaned back, stretching his arm across the top of the couch. "Can't deny it got results, though," he teased after a moment and you shot him a glare but he could see you biting back a smile. You picked up your book, leaning into his shoulder just a bit as you continued to read and he stared into the fire, his mind still reeling to catch up with how fast things changed. It felt like a dream.

"What did you go there for, anyway?"

Joel rolled his eyes. "It sounds so stupid now."

You put your book back down and twisted to face him. "I'm sure it's not."

With a groan, Joel pushed himself up from the couch and began to rummage through his backpack, which remained idle next to the door since the day before. You tucked your legs underneath you and watched curiously.

When he pulled out a familiar looking binder, a faded beige color with a black trim, you could have sworn your heart stopped.

"I wanted to give you somethin' that you would recognize. Somethin' that felt like home," he began, holding it out to you. "Maybe bring you some comfort or... I don't know. Like I said, it sounds stupid now."

"No," you whispered as you carefully took the album from his hands. "Not stupid, Joel." You pursed your lips as you stared at the cover, your fingertips gently skirting over the fabric. Your family was right in your lap. So many wonderful memories... right fucking there.

The tears welled up without warning and began to pour down your cheeks.

"Are you okay?" he asked, and you nodded.

"Yeah," you said, laughing through the tears. "You... you gave me my family back, Joel. How-" your voice cracked and you averted your gaze, doing your best to compose yourself but you knew it was no use. "How could you think this was stupid? This is everything to me."

He gave you a shy smile and shrugged. "Then it was worth it."

He had been listening to you for the better part of an hour as you walked him through each photo in the album and his only regret was he wasn't able to stay long enough in California to find more pictures. He loved hearing you talk about your family, about your childhood, about everything you loved. The look on your face and the tone of your voice was all he ever wanted. You were so fucking happy, so content and at ease that he knew without a doubt if he had to go through it all over again, he would do it in a heartbeat.

"Oh my god, so this was taken the day Matty tried to teach me to surf," you said with a giggle, dragging his eyes from your face to a picture of you and your brother on the beach in wetsuits. "He had learned in college because he went to school on the coast. I told you that, right?"

"Yep," he said with a warm smile.

"Anyway, it went as well as you could imagine. I have no coordination whatsoever. I fell, like, every single time, no matter how small the wave... Oh! This must have been his graduation," you said, pointing to the next photo of the four of you all dressed up in front of a regal looking building. "He was so smart, Joel. He was going to be a chemist. Who does that? Who majors in Chemistry? I absolutely hated chem," you said with a shake of your head. Your eyes hadn't stopped shining since you opened the album and the smile never left your face. Your gaze softened and you quieted down as you stared down lovingly at the pictures, your fingers tracing over them delicately. Occasionally you would tell him a story and other times you would grow quiet and thoughtful. He sat by your side and just listened, letting you work through your feelings and memories at your own pace.

"I miss them so much," you eventually said softly.

"I know," he replied, pressing a kiss to the side of your head.

"Thank you, Joel," you said, voice thick with emotion when you turned to look at him. Your eyes were wide and wet with unshed tears, and he saw your throat bob when you swallowed tightly. "This means so much to me, I don't know how to put it into words."

"You're welcome, baby," he told you. He pinched your chin and leaned in to kiss you when a sharp knock sounded from the door.

He stood with a frustrated huff and you hid your smile, setting the photo album down on the sofa next to you.

"Hey, come in," Joel said once he opened the door. Tommy stepped through and shrugged off his coat, locking eyes and giving you a nod. "What'd you find?"

"There were only four. Two of 'em were half frozen and the other two didn't have much fight in 'em."

You made a face and looked away as Joel led Tommy into the kitchen.

"Who were they?" Joel asked, and you heard the telltale sound of liquid pouring from a bottle. You stood and made your way towards the kitchen.

"Don't know," Tommy admitted, tossing back the whiskey. Joel gave him a refill right as you were entering the room. "We questioned the two that were conscious but they didn't give us much. Said they were alone. Said they were part of a bigger group that got picked off."

"The men I killed?" Joel asked, brow furrowed as he took a sip of whiskey.

"They didn't say, but they did tell us a few of their guys were out scavenging and never made it back, so maybe."

Joel nodded and you leaned against the doorframe, crossing your arms.

"You think they were tellin' the truth? That there ain't any more of 'em?"

Tommy shrugged. "Didn't have reason to think otherwise. We scoured the area. Couldn't find any other tracks-"

"But the snow coulda covered it up," Joel offered anxiously. He scratched his chin, staring blankly at the floor while the gears turned in his head. "They probably followed the horse tracks and when the snow got to be too much, they lost their way. They were comin' for me, Tommy."

For some reason it never occurred to you that those men were looking for revenge. It sent a shiver down your spine.

"Or they were just lookin' for someplace warm. You don't know, Joel. Besides, it don't matter now. It's dealt with."

Joel didn't look convinced but he kept his mouth shut, for your sake. He could tell he was worrying you and he had already put you through enough as it was.

"Listen, I oughta get back to Maria. I'm sure she's got her hands full," Tommy said after a brief silence. He handed Joel his empty glass and shot you a look. "Don't worry, sugar. We got this under control."

You gave him a tight smile and moved out of his way so he could gather his things.

"Thank you," you told him quietly while Joel rinsed out their glasses.

His eyes flicked up to yours as he laced up his boots. "Don't mention it. Ain't nothin' bad gonna happen, I promise."

You wished his words brought you some comfort but you couldn't shake the nagging voice in the back of your head.

"C'mon. Why don't you show me more pictures," Joel urged once Tommy was on his way. It was clear he was trying to get your mind off things.

"Actually, I think I'm gonna go to bed," you told him. He was in the middle of picking up your photo album when he paused and glanced up. His eyes scanned your face, clocking the anxiety you were trying to hide. He could tell you still felt responsible, even though he had insisted what happened wasn't your fault, and now the raiders following him back into the mountains just made matters worse.

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah," you replied, your voice sounding more confident as you tried to shrug off the bad feeling Tommy left. Your eyes flickered to his awkwardly. "Do you... need help getting up the stairs?"

He frowned and shook his head, too lost in his own head to pick up on what you were too nervous to really ask. "I'll be alright. Go get some rest, I'm gonna stay up for a bit."

After you went to bed, he tried to distract himself from the possibility he put the entire town, but more importantly, you, at risk. He poured another glass of whiskey and picked up a book, but he found himself rereading the same paragraph over and over for half an hour.

What a stupid fucking thing to do. He pinched the bridge of his nose, kicking himself for being so careless. Maybe he could convince you tomorrow to let him go out with Tommy. He trusted his brother, but he knew he would feel better if he explored the area himself. He knew he had to be careful. He made so much progress with you, he couldn't risk fucking that up, either, and based on the way you looked at him earlier, it was clear the prospect of him leaving Jackson again so soon scared you.

Warmth bloomed in his chest and the corners of his lips twitched into a smile. The idea of you scared didn't please him, but scared for him? Well, that was different.

The way he woke up that morning still felt like a dream. Your arms wrapped around him, your face nuzzled into his shoulder, your scent invading his senses. It felt strange for a split second until his memories came flooding back from a time when he woke up like that every single day and he foolishly wondered if you had finally remembered. Once you opened your eyes he knew instantly you hadn't, but somehow he was even more excited that someone as perfect as you found your way into his bed twice.

Bed.

He sighed and rubbed his eyes before tossing back the rest of his whiskey. He was procrastinating now, tending to the fire one last time before dragging himself back to his empty bed. How was he going to sleep when he knew you were right in the next room? God, what he wouldn't give to curl up in bed with you.

He froze, the poker hovering in the air halfway towards the fire as he thought back to your words when you went to bed, now hours ago.

Do you need help getting up the stairs?

You sounded a little strange but at the time he just chalked it up to Tommy's news about the raiders. When you asked if he needed help, were you trying to get him to come up and sleep with you?

"Oh, you fuckin' idiot," he growled to himself under his breath before slotting the poker back in the stand. Was it too late?

He crept quietly up the steps, hoping to see your light on under your door but unfortunately, your room was dark. Shit.

Changing into his sweatpants, he mentally chastised himself for being so goddamn thick and missing his opportunity to go to bed with you. After he washed up, he paced around his room, anxiously chewing his nail and wondering what he should do. Should he just go to sleep? Should he slip into your bed the way you did the night before? Would you be upset if he did?

Just when he thought he was about to wear a hole into the thin carpet he heard a light tapping on his bedroom door. He froze and held his breath, wondering if he imagined it until he heard it again.

He rushed to the door and whipped it open where he found you standing in the hallway wearing a thin T-shirt and sweatpants of your own. You didn't look like you had just woken up, your eyes didn't look like they were clouded with sleep. You were waiting for him.

Your gaze darted quickly over his bare chest, like you were trying not to look but couldn't help yourself. His cock twitched, excited by the notion that you could be fighting your own arousal, same as him.

"Can I stay with you?" you asked, your voice impossibly small and fuck, his heart squeezed in his chest at how sweet you were in that moment.

"Yeah," he breathed, hoping he didn't sound as desperate as he felt. He widened the door and stepped aside, watching as you slipped past him and curled up underneath his sheets.

Neither of you said a word. He just flicked off the light and slid into bed beside you, turning onto his side and pulling you against him. His face nuzzled the back of your neck and his arms wrapped around your waist and he heard you sigh. He held you close and with tears in his eyes whispered how sorry he was, how he would never hurt you again, how he was weak and stupid and he loved you so much.

You didn't say much in return. Just the occasional nod or sniffle or squeeze of his hand in acknowledgement.

All of the stress and anguish from the past several months were the furthest things from both your minds as you fell asleep that night, each of you finally assured that everything was going to be okay.

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[triptuckers]

sparring sessions - percy jackson

Request: yes! "ok so ik it’s kinda (by kind of i mean VERY) cliche, but i was wondering if u could do like an angst -> fluff where like percy and reader get into a fight n stuff and he like admits that he loves them??" Pairing:  percy jackson x reader Summary:  when an argument between you and percy gets heated, some things are revealed Warnings:  mentions of injuries and blood, arguing, angst Word count:  858 A/N: raaaaaahhh I LOVE me some cliche's LETS GO !! thanks for you request, enjoy!

it started out as an innocent sparring session between percy and jake, a hephaestus kid. a couple kids from hermes, hephaestus, and athena decided to get together to train. you and percy also joined.

you'd been at camp longer than percy, so you had trained him in the beginning. the two of you often train together even though percy is now better than you.

but somehow he still looks at you while sparring with someone else. if it's to read your facial expressions or just because you're in his line of sight, you're not sure.

but today it nearly went wrong.

while percy and jake were sparring, percy was looking at you and too late to block jake's sword. he managed to make a deep cut in percy's arm.

the session was immediately ended and percy put his sword away. while the other kids continued their training session, you walked away. you couldn't stay there and be around percy right now. clearly he hadn't listened to you.

but percy, having seen your face, follows you.

as soon as you get to percy's cabin - which provides you with more privacy than your own - you turn around to look at him with an irritated look on your face.

'I told you to ignore me if you're sparring!' you say.

percy frowns. but nothing bad happened? why are you mad at him? besides, he can't look away from you when he's sparring. he thought you knew this.

'and how am I supposed to do that?' says percy, watching as you take off your armor and neatly put it away. 'you're the one that taught me. of course I need to see if you think I'm doing a good job.'

you pinch the bridge of your nose between your fingers. you're trying so hard to stay calm right now.

'of course I think you're doing a good job, percy.' you say. 'I know you're good at what you do. but you'd do a great job if you would listen to my advice and avoid getting stabbed.'

percy makes a soft offended noise. 'first of all, I didn't get stabbed. I got nicked!'

you groan out loud 'percy! come on, don't be stubborn!'

'I'm the one being stubborn? you should see yourself when you're sparring. you want it to be perfect but fighting never is! it's messy, no matter how good you train someone.'

'I'm going for a walk.' you say, before you get angrier and say things you don't mean.

you grab your armor and walk towards the door, but he steps in front of you, blocking the doorway.

'oh no, you're not. we're not done yet.' says percy, crossing his arms over his chest, displaying the cut on his arm that he didn't have time to heal yet.

'got more to say?' you say.

'yes. you never did actually tell me what I did wrong.' says percy. 'you're mad, I can tell. but you didn't tell me what it was that I did that's made you mad.'

'yes I did. I told you that you need to ignore me when you're sparring. focus all of you attention on the opponent, not me.'

'I can't do that.'

'can't focus on the opponent? I noticed.'

'that's not what I meant!'

'then what do you mean!'

'I meant I can't ignore you when I'm sparring!' says percy loudly. 'I can never ignore you, don't you understand that? whenever you're near you always have my attention, I can never look away. even when you're not near me I'm thinking about you. gods, you're always on my mind because I love you, okay? so I'm sorry if I can't look away from you when I'm sparring!'

you hadn't realised how close you were to each other. now percy's face is close to yours, both of you breathing heavily.

you knew percy liked you, obviously. you wouldn't be staying in his cabin almost every night if he didn't. but this? even though you knew percy had liked you for a long time, you hadn't been together for that long.

'you love me?' you say in a soft voice, feeling your anger and irritation ebb away.

percy closes his eyes and shakes his head, as if he just now realises what he said. then he sighs and when he opens his eyes and looks at you, there's nothing but sweetness in them.

'yeah. I do.' says percy. 'I've loved you for a long time, actually.'

you smile and want to say something but percy's eyes widen.

'wait, shit, is that too soon? should I have waited to say it? oh gods if I-'

'percy.' you say, shutting him up by stepping even closer to him.

'it's okay. I love you too.' you say.

percy grins and his eyes twinkle. without warning, he puts his hands on the sides of your face and crashes his lips against yours. he can feel the smile on your lips.

when he pulls back, you're both smiling.

'you still want to go on that walk?' says percy.

'definitely not.' you say.

percy laughs and kisses you again, your argument already forgotten.

A/N: If you want to request something, make sure to read my house rulesHere’s the list of characters I write for. Everything that I have written can be found on my masterlist. Please don’t repost, steal or translate my work, as I spend much time and effort on it!! Thank you for reading! Much love, Marit