#Shawn Mendes× reader

[livwritessometimes]

Please Please Please

: Lando Norris x Reader

: Y/n really hopes this relationship works out…after all no one likes being embarrassed by a boy

: Series Masterlist

: Main Masterlist

…

2022 (october)

liked by User32 and 62,718 others

👤: Yourname, jacobelordi

CelebGossip: SPOTTED: Y/n L/n and Jacob Elordi, in what seems to be a cozy getaway in Miami! Could this be the start of a new relationship? We’ll find out soon enough!

view all 48,932 comments

User32: SHUT UP!!!!! Y/N and JACOB

User09: OMGGGG I LOVE THEM ALREADY

User66: this is a total invasion of privacy!

liked by jacobelordi and 98,619 others

👤: jacobelordi

Yourname: Cats out of the bag ig 🤭

view all 72,780 comments

jacobelordi: 💙💙

*liked by Yourname*

Yourname: Can you tell blue is our color?? 🙈

*liked by jacobelordi*

lilyzneimer: Cutiessss 😍😍

*liked by Yourname*

-> User52: WAITTT WHY IS LILY HERE????

-> User21: Lily and Y/n are childhood friends

User33: GOALS!!! 🔥

User09: PLEASE DON’T BREAK UP 🙏🏻

liked by Yourname and 102,729 others

👤: Yourname

jacobelordi: Summer of 22’ 🐞

view all 87,627 comments

Yourname: To many more 🥂

*liked by jacobelordi*

-> jacobelordi: 🥂

User51: THEY’VE BEEN TOGETHER SINCE SUMMER??????

-> User07: ILRRRRRR

-> User66: This explains why Y/n was always blushing whenever she was asked dating questions in interviews!

2023 (march)

liked by User32 and 72,718 others

👤: kaiagerber, jacobelordi, Yourname

CelebGossip: HE DID WHAT? Looks like flowers aren’t the only thing set to blossom this season. Jacob Elordi and Kaia Gerber were CAUGHT making out in public. This comes as a shock to many, as Elordi is still believed to be in a relationship with singer Y/n L/n. Have the couple already broken up in secret, or did Jacob just air his dirty laundry out in public? Stay tuned to find out!

view all 62,839 comments

User32: WTFFFF

User59: HE CHEATED?????

User88: Ohhhh poor Y/n 💔💔💔

User01: Ik he cheated and all but why are they both kinda giving 💅🏻

-> User54: Ya giving home wrecker if that’s what you mean!

2023 (august)

liked by User72 and 129,628 others

👤: Yourname, shawnmendes

CelebGossip: Y/n L/n, back in the game? After being publicly cheated on by ex boyfriend, Jacob Elordi, L/n seems to have found herself a new beau! Revenge rebound or true love? Either way we’re here to see how it plays!!

view all 97,628 comments

User88: Ok it’s clear Y/n’s type is tall boys!!! GIRL THE WAY THAT I RELATE 🤭🤭🤭

User02: wow! I did not think Shawn had it in him to move on from hailey

-> User63: IKRRR!!! Like he was devastated after their break up 💔💔

User44: This confirms NOTHING!! This can just be a friendly conversation for all we know 🤷🏻‍♀️

-> User58: With the way he’s looking at her 🤨 ya right, friendly my ass

2023 (december)

liked by Yourname and 282,529 others

👤: Yourname

shawnmendes: Guess this makes it official or something doesn’t it @/Yourname??

view all 162,729 comments

Yourname: hmm 🤔 I guess it does @/shawnmendes!

User21: OH FUCK! I THINK IM GONNA FAINT 😵

User01: THIS PERFORMANCE>>>>>>>>

User08: “Cause friends don’t know the way you taste” AHHHHHHHH

User66: I KNEW THEY WERE LYING WHEN THEY SAID THEY’RE “JUST FRIENDS”

User50: I know they just announced their relationship but can we just talk about how GOOD Señorita is!!!!!!

*liked by shawnmendes*

liked by shawnmendes and 216,828 others

👤: shawnmendes

Yourname: I never thought our friendship could turn into something so beautiful 🤍

view all 113,728 comments

User44: this girl is in LOVE!!!!!

User20: I always knew they’d date! I JUST KNEW IT 🥰🥰🥰🥰

shawnmendes: 🤍🤍

*liked by Yourname*

2024 (february)

liked by haileybaldwin and 197,211 others

👤: Yourname, shawnmendes

CelebGossip: 2 heartbreaks in less than a year?? Y/n L/n might just be setting records, for all the wrong reasons. L/n was recently spotted with friend-turned-beau Shawn Mendes for what seemed to be a lovely lunch but ended up leaving the restaurant in tears. Looks like another heartache is in the books for L/n. Could it be bad luck, bad timing, or simply bad choices? Stay tuned to find out.

view all 97,828 comments

User11: WTFFFFF WHAT HAPPENED????

User43: This is why you should never mix friendship with love!!!!

User06: No but like Hailey liking this is just WILD!!!!

-> User71: Wait whattttt!!! I completely missed that!!

2024 (march)

liked by haileymendes and 210,732 others

👤: haileybaldwin, shawnmendes

CelebGossip: Dearest gentle reader, it seems history has a way of repeating itself. Shawn Mendes and Hailey Baldwin, spotted together once again. Could this reignite the spark they once lost? With Mendes’ recent breakup, one can’t help but wonder?

view all 157,621 comments

User02: SHUT UPPPP!!! I KNEW THERE WAS NO WAY SHAWN WAS OVER HAILEY

User23: oh nooo! How could he do this to y/n 💔

User10: they’re not gonna last 👎🏻

liked by shawnmendes and 99,718 others

👤: shawnmendes

haileybaldwin: Funny how things have a way of falling back into place ❤️

view all 81,728 comments

shawnmendes: Better than ever ❤️

*liked by haileybaldwin*

User06: I still can’t believe how cruel people can be! Y/n deserves better 🤍

User88: They’re so in love 😍

*liked by haileybaldwin*

2024 (may)

liked by oscarpiastri and 134,278 others

👤: lilyzneimer

Yourname: I’m gonna marry her someday 💍

view all 97,628 comments

lilyzneimer: It’s a love story, baby I’ll say yes 💒

*liked by Yourname*

-> Yourname: 👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩

User18: Poor Oscar 😭😭😭😭

-> Yourname: umm who tf is that????

-> oscarpiastri: Wow Y/n Wow 🙂

-> Yourname: 🤨🤨

User81: PETITION TO BRING Y/N TO A GRAND PRIX

-> lilyzneimer: 🤔

-> oscarpiastri: Lily No 🙅🏻

-> mclaren: Lily Yes 🙌🏻

liked by oscarpiastri and 168,829 others

👤: mclaren, oscarpiastri

Yourname: Blessing McLaren with my presence 😌

view all 104,753 comments

mclaren: Feeling very blessed 🛐🛐

*liked by Yourname*

-> Yourname: 🤭🤭

oscarpiastri: Did you really have to use that picture??

-> Yourname: I think the word you’re looking for is ‘Thank You’ for not using the other picture 🤨

-> landonorris: @/mclaren MOM! They’re fighting again!!!!

-> Yourname: tattletale 😒👎🏻

-> landonorris: 😇😇

User40: I pity Lily 😞

*liked by lilyzneimer*

User55: Okay so are we all just gonna ignore that interaction???

2024 (july)

liked by Yourname and 219,628 others

👤: Yourname, oscarpiastri, lilyzneimer

landonorris: Date night with Oscar, when two random girls crashed it. Weird!

view all 154,872 comments

Yourname: Wow! If I remember correctly you’re the one who called us and said “please join us!!! We miss you!!! Please guys, Please!!!”

-> landonorris: I remember no such thing 🙂‍↔️

-> User12: Yk it’s bad when you gotta use please 3 times!! 😭😭

lilyzneimer: umm that’s literally my boyfriend 😃

-> landonorris: I think you mean our* boyfriend!! 😌

-> lilyzneimer: No I absolutely did not mean that???

-> oscarpiastri: I don’t know if I should feel happy or worried about you two 🫤

User58: IS THAT LANDO AND Y/N IN THE THIRD PICTURE???????

-> User04: IT ISSS OMGGG

-> User03: Damn Y/n’s gonna get her heart broken all over again

LN4Hater: @/Yourname he’s just gonna use and dump you! Girl have some self respect! You’ve literally been through 2 heartbreaks already!

User57: Honestly I just don’t get it! Like Y/n why is your taste so bad?? Just why??????

-> User77: I just wonder how she isn’t tired of being embarrassed?? Like, I personally could never handle that level of public humiliation 🫣🫣🫣

liked by User11 and 102,881 others

👤: landonorris, Yourname

CelebGossip: The rumour mill is spinning, and your favourite pop princess is at the centre of it again! Word on the street is that Lando Norris and Y/n L/n are getting close, and fans aren’t exactly thrilled. Especially after learning out about Norris’ colourful dating history.

We’ve done all the hard work for you and compiled a list of every single person Norris has been linked to in the past year. Click the link in bio to get a full scoop on his playboy past.

Will this mark the end of his streak or will L/n just be another name added to the list.

view all 96,738 comments

User39: Wow! That list looks like a class roll call, DAMN!!

User09: @/Yourname please please please get a hold of yourself! THIS MAN HAS BEEN AROUND 🙏🏻🙏🏻

User04: Guys this is bullshit! This whole list is ridiculous and CelebGossip posting it is even worse!

2024 (september)

liked by User04 and 168,813 others

👤: Yourname, landonorris

CelebGossip: Looks like things are still going strong between Y/n L/n and Lando Norris. The duo was first spotted together back in May and against all odds (and exes), they’re still going steady. Are they in it for the long run, or is our heartbreak queen about to score a hat-trick?

view all 110,727 comments

User52: Sorry girly but that looks like love to me!!!

Nowinsnorris: There is no way that man has changed! Y/n run away as fast as you can

-> User04: Oh please! Just shut up 🙄

User65: I mean at least she’s happy! That’s all that matters ig!

liked by Yourname and 275,718 others

landonorris: Couldn’t have asked for a better end to the weekend! Thank you so much, Singapore 🇸🇬🫶🏻

view all 201,782 comments

oscarpiastri: Congrats Mate 🥂

-> landonorris: you too Osc 🙌🏻

mclaren: LETS GOOO 🔥🔥

Yourname: Good race!

-> landonorris: just good? 😏

-> Yourname: hmm 🤔 could have been better ig 🤷🏻‍♀️

*liked by mclaren*

-> User44: Not mclaren liking the comment 😭😭😭

User77: The effect Y/n has on Lando needs to be studied, cause tell me why the man who usually spends all his podium celebrations in clubs is now having DINNER AT HOME with his girlfriend??????

-> User09: It’s true what they say, sometimes, all it takes is the right person to make you change

liked by landonorris and 169,627 others

Yourname: lovin’ my life 🫶🏻

view all 102,882 comments

landonorris: ohh any particular reason why? 🤔

-> Yourname: Yes actually! Been spending a lot of time with the loml @/lilyzneimer

-> lilyzneimer: love you too 😘

-> landonorris: OMGGG first Oscar and now this!!! Lily just say you hate me already

-> lilyzneimer: I would, but then McLaren would make me sit with you for a PR meeting, and I am not ready for that kind of suffering 😩

-> mclaren: It’s true, we will!

2024 (november)

liked by landonorris and 165,728 others

👤: landonorris

Yourname: PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE OUT NOW!!! Enjoy 💋

view all 112,838 comments

User32: OMFGGGGGG IS THAT LANDO IN THE MV??????

landonorris: I see you’ve been to jail 👀

-> Yourname: what can I say I’m a dangerous girl 😌🔪

lilyzneimer: SO GOOD!!! Been streaming this ALL DAY LONG!!!

*liked by Yourname*

-> oscarpiastri: It’s true, she has been! Anyways, great song Y/n/n!!!!

*liked by Yourname*

User55: I never knew I needed to see Lando in handcuffs before this!! THANK YOU Y/N 🛐🛐🛐

User87: please please please don’t ever break up!!

*liked by landonorris*

liked by Yourname and 279,637 others

👤: Yourname

landonorris: Been in handcuffs a lot lately 😈

view all 172,728 comments

Yourname: From the looks of it, you seem to like it

-> landonorris: And what if I say I do 👀

-> mclaren: Y/N PLEASE DON’T ANSWER TO THIS 🙏🏻

-> Yourname: Oops 🤭🤭

oscarpiastri: This caption is very concerning

-> landonorris: 😙✌🏻

User58: YOU NEED HOLY WATER 💦

*liked by oscarpiastri, mclaren, lilyzneimer*

2025 (january)

liked by landonorris and 239,627 others

👤: landonorris

Yourname: To everyone who said he wouldn’t win this season and we wouldn’t last…how’s that working out for you? 😌

view all 147,627 comments

User32: AHHHHH THE CAPTION

landonorris: Winning on and off track I’d say 🥂

-> Yourname: hmm and what did you win off track? 🤔

-> landonorris: your heart ofc 😏

-> oscarpiastri: please stop! Some conversations aren’t meant for social media 🙏🏻

mclaren: On a regular day, this caption would’ve led to a PR meeting, but we’ll let it slide, only because you’re our fav 🧡

-> mclaren: Also because we’ve exhausted all our ppts over lando 🫢

*liked by Yourname*

-> landonorris: 🥲🥲🥲

…

Tags: @sheblogs | @wobblymug | @evasmlp | @ln8118 | @urfavsgf | @tvdtw4ever | @linnygirl09 | @dejavuontrack | @stylesmoonlight12 | @ellelabelle | @piastri-fvx | @vannylen2144

[nizhspo]

genre: haikyuu imagine, fluff

pairing: atsumu miya x fem!reader

summary: lost in japan.

you’re lying on your stomach on the couch, your phone propped up awkwardly against a mug on the coffee table, facetime crackling slightly with the spotty wifi.

atsumu’s grinning at you through the screen, chin propped in his hand, hair messy and flattened a little on one side like he just woke up.

“i should come see ya,” he says, offhand, like he’s just talking about picking up groceries.

you snort, lazily twirling the pen in your hand. “yeah, okay. you’re only a couple hundred miles away.”

“a couple thousand,” he corrects with a mock-offended look, lips jutting out in a pout. “but sure, close enough.”

you laugh under your breath and roll your eyes. “mhm. sure. see you in five minutes then.”

there’s a loud clatter as your phone slides sideways off the mug and onto the table, giving him a lovely view of your kitchen ceiling.

“hey, hey!” you hear him protest, voice crackling through the speaker. “put the camera back up, i wanna see my beautiful girl.”

smiling stupidly to yourself, you pick it back up and angle it toward you again, chin resting on your folded arms.

he’s smiling too, this soft, slow, lovesick kind of smile like you’re the best thing he’s seen all day.

“there she is,” he murmurs.

you feel your cheeks heat a little, biting your lip to hide the way it makes you want to kick your feet like a schoolgirl.

he gets a call on his end. you hear the little notification ding and he grimaces. “shit. i gotta go, babe. team stuff.”

you sigh dramatically, clutching your chest. “abandoning me in my time of need.”

“i’m comin’ back soon, promise,” he says, playful but sincere, like he means it.

“i miss ya,” he adds, softer.

“miss you too,” you say back, a little quieter.

he blows you a kiss, stupid and exaggerated — before the call cuts off.

you spend the rest of the afternoon in a cozy haze.

you do some studying. half-hearted, if you’re honest, tapping away at your laptop in the soft sunlight slanting through the windows. you clean up your tiny apartment, vacuuming around the cluttered corners and scrubbing down the little kitchenette. you even throw on sneakers and wander downstairs, picking up a bag of groceries from the corner konbini, yawning the whole way back.

by the time evening drapes itself over the city, you’re exhausted.

you make yourself a cup of tea, nibble at a convenience store pastry, and settle into a lazy rhythm: answering a few emails, half-finishing a homework assignment, scrolling your phone aimlessly.

tokyo outside your windows is breathtaking at night: rivers of golden headlights threading through the streets, towers lit up like constellations, neon signs blinking in and out of existence like fireflies.

your little apartment feels even smaller against it, but it’s cozy. warm.

you tug on one of atsumu’s old t-shirts, massive and soft and falling halfway to your knees, and a pair of fuzzy socks. your hair’s a little tangled, your skin clean from a quick shower, and you flop onto the couch, flicking on cars for maybe the twentieth time this month.

the gentle hum of the city floats up through the cracked window. you curl deeper into the cushions, blinking slow and heavy-lidded at the screen.

you’re asleep already when the knock comes.

at first you think it’s a drunk neighbor knocking on the wrong door. maybe a late package you forgot you ordered.

you blink blearily at the door, not quite processing it.

then comes another knock. louder this time, hurried.

you shuffle over, yawning, dragging your feet. you peek through the peephole—

and your heart nearly stops.

atsumu’s standing there.

hoodie shoved over his messy hair, mask pulled down under his chin, a tiny half-zipped suitcase by his ankle.

and in his hand, a bouquet of flowers, messy and half-wrapped, an explosion of color like he just grabbed the wildest, brightest thing he could find.

his smile when he sees you looking is crooked and breathless, golden under the cheap hallway lights.

he leans against the doorframe, casual like he didn’t just cross the entire world for you, and says, “ya gonna let me in or make me stand here lookin’ stupid?”

you fumble with the lock so fast you nearly pull it off the door.

he steps inside like he belongs there, suitcase forgotten, standings on the backs of his uggs, a little dazed from the travel and the weight of finally being here.

he holds the flowers out to you, sheepish. a little battered, a little squashed. still beautiful.

“ya wouldn’t believe how much airport flowers cost,” he mutters, almost shy, and it makes you laugh, breathless and stunned and a little choked up.

you take them in both hands, hugging them to your chest, the stems cool and damp against your fingers.

then he’s pulling you into his arms. lifting you slightly off your feet, holding you so tight you can barely breathe.

he buries his face into your neck, breath warm against your skin, hoodie soft against your cheek. he smells like airplane air and his favorite cologne, a little musky from running around, a little familiar, a little like home.

and into the hush of the tiny apartment, into the glow of the city outside your window, he mumbles, “missed ya like crazy.”

you laugh, pressing your face into his shoulder, arms wrapped so tight around his back you never want to let go.

you’re half-convinced you’re dreaming, but he’s real, solid, warm, right here.

he leans back just enough to look at you, that dumb, gorgeous grin tugging at his mouth.

“idiot,” you whisper, voice shaking.

he just bumps his forehead gently against yours, still smiling, and says,

“your idiot.”

[harrywavycurly]

Glitch: What Do You Mean?

Masterlist: Here

CW: Jealous Harry, manipulation (thanks Jeff), language, emotional immaturity (you were literally turned on less than three weeks ago so things are new for you), and some dramatic moments that could be called “causing a scene”.

A/N: It’s truly just so fun to write an unhinged Harry so I hope you enjoy and also I don’t think Shawn is anything like this it’s just for funsies. Enjoy the absolute drama that is this chapter.💓

Tag List: @alicivava @cosmicneptune @daphnesutton @valeriiyuhh @drewrry @obsessiveenthusiast @me-undiscovered @psicostyles @umadirectioner @styleswithaseaview @sunflower-tia @tulips4harry @gmikaelson @fangirl509east @howling-wolf97 @outofthisworl-d @namoreno @harryscherries28 @blckburd @harry2121 @cevans-winchester @prettygurl-2009 @maudie-duan @sassamanda77 @triski73 @mema10

Summary: When Harry sees you with someone else you have a hard time understanding why it makes him act the way he does💓

Harry hates going to events that require him to dress up and mingle with people he doesn’t know, it’s one of the major downsides to fame and it’s a giant reason why he’s enjoyed his time off for so long. Because in his mind, the music industry really doesn’t want anything to do with you if you don’t have anything to offer. So keeping out of the studio and having a life away from writing lyrics and chasing the melodies that are stuck in between passing thoughts in his head have done him a massive favor, it’s kept him out of the spotlight and off guest lists for parties such as the one he’s currently in the middle of. But famous or not Harry has always been one to rise to the occasion for important events in order to support the people he holds near and dear to him so of course when he got invited to a charity gala for a cause close to the heart of one of his bestfriends he was quick to RSVP, notably without checking the box for a plus one.

He is on his second leisurely lap around the event space, a massive ballroom of some upscale hotel that he can’t be bothered to remember the name of, when he thinks he sees someone he knows out of the corner of his eye. It’s the skirt of a gown that catches his attention, not being able to see anything else other than a few bright pink and orange flowers embroidered on a sheer white fabric before it disappears in the crowd. But a sense of something begins to stir deep down inside his chest, like he knows there’s only one person in the world that would be wearing a floral gown in a sea of stark black and the occasional red dresses but the odds of it being who he thinks are slim and while the universe may be on his side most of the time and he has been fortunate to be on the receiving end of its luck he knows tonight the luck of the universe has all but abandoned him. Because he gets a feeling that’s similar to a shiver that goes down his spine as he turns around at just the right moment and sees something that makes his blood turn to ice in his veins and his jaw to clench.

You’re standing there in a white floor length gown with a sheer lace overlay that has brightly embroidered flowers all over the skirt leaving the top half mostly white with the delicate lace creating a slightly more modest neckline and while Harry thinks you might actually be the most beautiful person he’s ever seen that’s not what draws his attention. It’s the person that’s standing next to you that earns his narrow eyed glare, the person with a hand on your waist as they stare down at you with a smile Harry knows is a playful smirk that clearly followed something cheekily said based on how your face has a faint blush to it and you bring your hand that’s not gripping the flute of champagne up to your face in an attempt to try and hide your embarrassment.

Normally Harry would just brush off the fact you’re here with someone, not caring at all what brought the two of you together let alone to a random charity event thrown by one of his close friends. Especially since Harry is trying to convince himself he doesn’t know you well enough to be bothered by any of that, considering he’s not sure if you’d even call him a friend at this point. But it’s who you’re with that changes everything for him, making him unable to just move on and go about his evening as if he never saw you because you’re with him.

Shawn fucking Mendes.

The one man he can’t stand for reasons even unknown to him, the man he swears does things just to get a rise out of him, the one person he has to actively hold himself back from smacking the silly little smile off his pretty little face, the man you just so happen to be giggling at as you place your hand on his arm. Honestly, of all the arms for you to be holding onto as you laugh at a joke Harry is sure isn’t even very funny and if it is then it’s one he stole from someone far more entertaining, of course it had to be Shawn’s.

It just further proves the feeling of the universe turning it’s back on Harry as he watches the two of laugh and whisper little things in each other’s ears as if you’ve known one another for years and suddenly Harry begins to wonder if maybe you have and that’s why he hasn’t ever seen you until recently. Because Jeff knows his distaste for the Canadian singer so it makes sense that he’d keep you tucked away in his contact list until he knew your entanglement or whatever it is that’s going on with you and Shawn was done with, but clearly Jeff made a mistake because by the looks of it your relationship with Shawn is anything but over.

If Harry was being honest with himself he’d admit how truly creepy he’s being as he watches you and Shawn from a relatively safe distance, but still close enough to hear your laugh filtering through the sounds of glasses clinking and muffled small talk between the other guests. Somehow the two of you have managed to be in the center of the room, near the bar and Harry finds himself slowly circling you as if you’re the center of his universe and he’s simply keeping himself in the comfort of your orbit. After a few laps that have him stopping for a few pointless conversations about things he has no interest in he gives up on trying to remain out of sight. And when he sees Shawn’s hand slide to your lower back as he helps you maneuver your way through the crowd Harry decides now is as good a time as ever to go a give you and your poor choice of a plus one a proper hello.

He gives a few people polite nods and tight lipped smiles as he makes his way towards you and it’s almost like you could sense he was near, a measly arms length away when you turn around and smile at him. It’s a smile that makes your eyes seem brighter as they get little crinkle in the corners and to top it off you raise your hand and wave at him. It almost knocks Harry off kilter for a moment having not expected such a warm greeting seeing as he’s the one who stormed off the last time he saw you in Jeff’s living room not even two days ago.

“There you are.” Your voice is like a soft melody he wants to put into a song that’s just for him and no one else so he can get lost in it while he listens to it over and over. “I was wondering when you’d come say hello.” Your words have a slight heat rising to Harry’s cheeks as he closes the small gap between the two of you so he’s now standing directly in front of you.

“Yeah Styles we saw you circling us like a shark in the water waiting for his time to strike.” Shawn’s voice makes Harry’s jaw tick as he slowly removes his gaze from yours so he can look at the tall annoying man to your left.

“Don’t flatter yourself Shawn I’d never waste my time on a little guppy like you.”

“You sure? I hear wasting time is all you like to do nowadays.”

“Hear about that while off not touring and just galavanting around in jungles and beaches huh?”

“Just shows how far and wide word travels when it’s about how boring Harry Styles has become.”

“Or it just shows how obsessed you are with me that you even manage to gossip about me while off trying to find yourself.” Harry doesn’t mean to go tit for tat with Shawn but he can’t seem to help himself, it brings a sick kind of joy to Harry knowing he can get a rise out of the normally very docile and charming young man. He ignores the glare the brown eyed boy is giving him as a slow smirk works its way onto his face as he raises an eyebrow at him. “How’s that going by the way? Figure out the meaning of life yet?” What Harry isn’t prepared for is how easily Shawn is able to brush off all the sarcasm that’s dripping from every word that leaves his mouth like rain dripping off the edge of an umbrella, as if it’s no concern to him because right now he has the upper hand seeing as you’re by his side and not Harry’s.

“You know,” Shawn’s arm loosely drapes over your shoulder as he begins to answer the question all while Harry watches, a look of disapproval etched on his face when Shawn looks down at you with one of his annoyingly perfect smiles. “I might have.” It’s the horrible attempt at a subtle wink he shoots you that has Harry seeing red, immediately knowing what the man is trying to imply while it’s clear by the look of slight confusion on your face that you have no clue what’s happening and what this conversation the two men are having is actually about.

“How have you been?” Shawn holds back a laugh as you try to dive into the conversation having no clue about the tension you just cut through making Harry’s attention fall back onto you. “I’m sorry for the other day I-I really didn’t mean-”

“You don’t have to apologize for speaking your mind.” Harry says quickly before you can divulge any details of what the two of you spoke about while in the presence of a man he can’t stand.

“Oh did the two of you have a little disagreement?” You just shake your head as Shawn’s hand rubs the top of your arm as if he’s trying to comfort you but Harry didn’t miss the slight flinch when his thumb makes contact with your skin, letting him know you aren’t exactly comfortable.

“No not a disagreement it-”

“None of your fucking business is what it is.” As soon as the words leave Harry’s mouth he knows Shawn has somehow managed to win this round of whatever game the two of them are playing. Because the harshness of his tone and the loudness of his voice makes you jump ever so slightly letting Shawn swoop in as some sort of protector as he subtly uses the arm that’s still draped over your shoulder to pull you closer into his side.

“Come on love let’s go take a walk and let Harry here get some air so he can maybe calm down a little.” Shawn says while looking down at you with a smile that Harry can see right through, he knows it’s not genuine he knows this is all an act to make him look like he’s the caring one but Harry knows him better than you do so he knows it’s just a ploy to get you to trust him and do what he wants.

“Oh uhm okay.” Your voice is low as you look over at Harry who is staring daggers at Shawn’s hand as he watches as it slowly travels from the top of your arm down to your lower back as he turns you towards an opening in the crowded space that the two of you can escape through.

“Nice seeing you Harry.” It’s not until you’re saying bye to him that Harry realizes just how much of a mess he’s made of this whole thing, how he let someone as unimportant as Shawn get in the way of the reason he even approached you in the first place, to talk to you and apologize for his behavior. But you’re swept away and once again lost in the sea of people before he can even attempt to say anything so he’s left standing there with words left unsaid and an unfamiliar hurt in his chest.

You look back over your shoulder in hopes to catch one last glimpse of Harry but it’s too late, his figure is already hidden by a small group of people heading to the bar to refill their drinks. You feel Shawn put a little more pressure on your lower back as he guides you to a secluded section of the party near the railing of the staircase the two of you had to walk down upon entering the event. When you look over at him he has his eye focused on what’s in front of him you take the time to get a better look at him, trusting that he won’t let you fall or have you bump into someone.

Now you’re well aware that Shawn is an attractive looking man, his jawline is impeccable and his smile makes your tummy flutter but something about him seems off and you can’t quite figure it out. All you know is that while he is nice to look at and is a decent conversationalist, you feel a tiny bit uneasy when he touches you like it feels wrong somehow, as if the hands you’re meant to be feeling on your arm and your cheek when he brushes some hair out of your face aren’t his but someone else’s.

You’re good at hiding your feelings because you don’t want to come across as rude considering he’s the one who invited you as his plus one to this charity event so you don’t want to ruin his night out. Especially since this is your first time meeting him in person having only shared a few phone calls over the last two days when he called to introduce himself to you and told you how Jeff was the one who mentioned your name to him and you trust Jeff, so you agreed to being his plus one and when he made you laugh at a silly joke you felt like maybe spending an evening with him wouldn’t be so bad. But that changed the moment you noticed a very familiar pair of emerald green eyes that seemed to be glued on you as you made your way around the event space, and by the way Shawn’s hand seemed to grip your waist even tighten you could tell you weren’t the only one who noticed the two of you were being watched.

“How do you know Harry?” The question makes your brows pinch together as you try to come up with a response that doesn’t seem too vague because honestly Harry is one of those people much like Jeff that you feel like you’ve just known forever. So you just go with the answer that isn’t a lie but also doesn’t feel like the exact truth.

“Through Jeff.” Shawn just nods as he leans an arm on the railing and looks towards you but you can tell he’s looking through you and scanning the crowd for any signs of the tall British man in question. “We uhm met at a party a couple weeks ago.”

“Must’ve been some party because he’s clearly got a crush on you.”

“Who?”

“You’re cute when you’re clueless.” Shawn says with a light chuckle as you look at him with a confused expression on your face because you really don’t know who he could possibly think has a crush on you. “You really don’t see it? The man is acting like a jealous-”

“Jealous?” You quirk a brow as the word leaves your mouth, having no idea what it really means and why it would be something you could see or a way someone can act. “I don’t know what you mean by that.” You explain making Shawn look at you in a way that makes you feel as if he doesn’t believe you.

“Harry is jealous.” He states plainly making you tilt your head as you try to figure out what that statement really means. “That’s why he’s acting the way he is and being-pardon my language but an asshole.”

“I just don’t think he likes you very much that’s all.” The laugh that leaves Shawn’s mouth as you shrug while giving him your response makes your eyes widen in concern because it’s a laugh that is more mocking than it is joyful.

“You’re not wrong but he also very obviously has a crush on you and that’s why he’s being extra-”

“A crush? On me? No-no way you’ve got it-”

“I don’t blame him.” You look down at your wrist as Shawn’s hand reaches out and gently wraps around it making the uneasy feeling begin to bubble up in your chest. “You’re stunning.” His eyes roam over your face before meeting your eyes.

“Tha-thank you.” You fumble with your words as the grip on your champagne flute tightens. “I uhm think I’m going to go get another drink.” You lift up your nearly empty glass making Shawn just give you a soft smile as he drops his hand from your wrist.

“Do you need me-”

“I’ll be fine thank you though.” Your words are rushed as you take a step away from him and towards the crowded bar area, when he doesn’t argue and just lets you walk away you let out a sigh of relief finally feeling as if you can breathe normally again the more distance you put between the two of you.

“One whiskey. Neat please.” Harry’s voice brings a smile to your face the moment you hear it, a deep and smooth sound that makes your heart do a weird sort of flip in your chest. When he turns to lean against the bar as he waits for his drink your eyes find his and all of a sudden he’s standing up straight and walking towards you as if on autopilot, moving through the crowd until he’s standing right in front of you.

“You forgot-” The rest of your sentence gets caught in your throat when Harry places a hand on the side of your face and before you can even blink has his lips on yours in a kiss that makes your whole body feel relaxed and at ease as if it’s finally figured out exactly whose hands are meant to be the ones touching you.

“I’m sorry.” His words are mumbled against your lips as his other hand comes up to cup the other side of your face. “I’m sorry for how I acted at Jeff’s and how I acted tonight I-I just got-”

“Jealous?” You ask as he pulls away just enough so he can look you in your eyes. The small twitch to the corner of his lips makes you aware that he is fighting back one of his signature smirks that makes a weird fuzzy sensation take over your mind.

“Yes.” He admits as he leans his forehead against yours. “I don’t know what you’re doing to me but I can’t stand the thought of you with anyone else but-but I especially can’t stand him getting to be the one who’s arm your on and-”

You don’t hear the rest of his explanation, your mind too busy trying to piece together the little bits of information you’ve gotten throughout the night. It’s all a jumbled mess inside your head making you almost feel like your mind is stuck in a fog as you stand there with the warmth of Harry’s hands on your cheeks and his thumbs gently running up and down your cheekbones. You close your eyes briefly and when you open them again the fog in your mind begins to lift and you see everything more clearly and it’s got your heart dropping to the bottom of your stomach.

“I get it now.” You get a stinging feeling in the back of your eyes as you take a small step away from Harry making his hands fall from your face, everything begins to click into place in your mind as you replay the whole night over in your head. And when you let out a watery laugh as you come to the conclusion of why Harry suddenly decided to kiss you, it makes his face contort into one of confusion mixed with hurt as his brows scrunch together.

“You get what?”

“Jealousy. I know what it means now.” Your words have Harry instantly reaching out for you but you’re quick to step away before his soft hands can make contact with your skin. “You-you did that because of Shawn because you’re-you’re jealous-”

“No no-well I mean yes I was jealous but-” You don’t give Harry time to finish explaining himself before you turn and start to walk away from him. You place your champagne flute down on the first table you walk by and when you finally get free of the crowd you place a hand over your chest as you try to take deep even breaths.

The feeling that starts to creep its way up from the deepest part of your being is one you’ve never felt before, it’s all consuming and has you gasping for air as if your lungs are being constricted and your eyes are doing that annoying thing where they just let rivers of tears pour out of them no matter how hard or often you try to blink them away. It’s as if you can feel a piece of your heart actually break and fall off, landing in the lowest part of your chest. The hurt you feel from it nearly brings you to your knees but before you end up on the floor you feel an arm around your middle holding you up.

“Come on.” When you look over you see Jeff giving you a smile, even through the tears you can tell it’s sad like he feels bad for you in this moment and wants to help you. “I have a car out front that will take you home.”

“He kissed me.” You mumble making Jeff just nod as he helps you up the steps. “But-but only because of Shawn.”

“I’m sure that’s not-”

“Please don’t leave.” You and Jeff stop your slow climb up the stairs at the sound of Harry’s voice coming from behind. “Please just let me explain.” Jeff turns to look over his shoulder at his bestfriend and the look of panic and what he would also describe as heartbreak on his face almost makes him want to help him but he doesn’t, he does what he thinks is best and gives your waist a little squeeze before he turns his attention back to the steps in front of him and continues helping you up them.

“Not now Harry.” Is all the man says making Harry stop in his tracks only a few steps behind the two of you.

“Don’t leave please just-”

“Leave me alone.” Your voice is what does it for Harry, it’s what sends him rushing up the stairs until he’s standing in front of you forcing you to look at him.

“No.” The word is followed by a glare sent in Jeff’s direction that has him slowly moving his arm from around you and waking up the rest of the stairs alone, letting Harry have his space. “I’m not going to leave you alone until you let me explain what just happened.” His voice is soft with a slight edge to it that has you avoiding his eyes.

“I know what happened. You kissed me because-”

“I kissed you because I wanted to or or-more like I needed to. It had nothing to do with that prick you came here with.” You bring a hand up to wipe at your face as Harry ducks down until you have no choice but to look him in the eyes. “I don’t know what’s happening but ever since meeting you I-I can’t think of anything or anyone else besides you and it’s because you-you see me the real me and you see things about me no one else does and I don’t-” He pauses to take let out a deep sigh. “I don’t know what to do about you.”

“Then maybe you shouldn’t see me again until you do.”

“Please don’t-”

“It was nice seeing you again Harry.” You both know you’re lying and just trying to end this whole ordeal on a slightly positive note. “I have to go now.” You tell him as you fight off a new wave of tears, he lets out a sigh of defeat as he moves over a bit on the stairs to let you walk by him.

“I’m sorry.” You hear him whisper when you walk past him and you just rub your lips together to keep them from trembling as you look up to see Jeff standing there sliding his phone into his back pocket with an unreadable expression on his face but when he sees you he gives you a tight lipped smile as he holds his arm out for you to loop yours through.

“Give him some time to sort his shit out and maybe try to talk to him again.” He advises as he leads you out of the building and towards the sidewalk where his driver is waiting for you in a black SUV. “It’s going to be okay.” You just nod as he gives you a hug before opening the door and helping you climb into the backseat.

“Thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you.” Jeff just smile at you before he closes the door, once the car is headed down the street he lets out a frustrated groan as he runs a hand through his hair.

“Fuck why can’t I just get one night where things go the way I need them to? Just one fucking night that’s all I need.” He mumbles to himself as he pulls his phone out and scrolls over to the app that lets him control your personality traits deciding that you need to be a little more forgiving if he has any hope of you wanting to see Harry again.

But then he taps on your intelligence letting him have a wider control of what you do and don’t know and he feels his hand grip his phone almost too tight when he sees your knowledge on jealousy and intimate relationships is practically at zero, letting him know exactly why the evening turned out the way it did. Once he’s done fiddling with you he closes the app and slides his phone into his back pocket. He runs a hand over his face before turning around so he can go back inside and do damage control, seeing as not only did one of the world’s biggest stars just kiss a random girl in front of hundreds of people he also got left standing on a staircase on the verge of tears by the same girl. This makes Jeffery swiftly enter manager mode to make sure the no phones policy was strictly in effect and photos or videos of the incident won’t be leaked online, at least not until he wants them to be.

As Jeff walks back into the event he knows exactly where he’ll find Harry, at the bar drying to drown his sorrows in a glass of whiskey. Luckily Jeff also knows that his bestfriend tends to get more emotional when drunk and the more emotional Harry gets the more likely he is to put his feeling down onto paper and if he can get at least a single line of a possible song then tonight won’t go down as a total bust. So instead of cutting him off, Jeff orders another round when he makes it to the bar and stands next to his friend who is leaning over the top of it with his head in hands.

“If you tell me it’ll be okay I will punch you in the face Jeffery I’m not kidding.”

“Actually I wasn’t going to say that.”

“Yeah? Then what were you going to say?”

“I think you should just move on.” He knows those are the last words Harry wants to hear, it’s the words that will have him taking shots and mumbling things about how beautiful you are as the night goes on and by the end of it he will be drunk dialing Mitch to help him figure out which word he should use that rhymes with your name that doesn’t sound too cheesy.

“Fuck you.” Jeff has to bite back his smile as Harry lifts his head and grabs his glass and downs the rest of his drink on one gulp. “You’re an asshole you know that right?” His voice is harsh as he straightens out his suit jacket and runs a hand through his hair before turning and glaring at his friend. “Tell Shawn I said bye will you? Since I know you’re the one who invited him to this.” Jeff feels the color drain from his face as Harry reaches over and places a hand on one of his shoulders, he doesn’t know how Harry knows but clearly he does and stupidly Jeff opens his mouth to try to deny it.

“I didn’t-”

“Save it for someone who’ll believe it.” He gives Jeff’s shoulder a harsh pat before stepping to the side of him. “I’m going to go fix this bullshit your little stunt caused and if you’re smart you’ll tell Shawn to stay the fuck away from her before it’s more than just insults that I toss at him.”

“Okay.” Is all he can manage to say as Harry makes a show of shoving his shoulder into his chest as he walks by.

“Oh and one more thing.” Jeff turns around to face Harry as he lifts a finger in the air while turning around and pointing it directly at him. “Do something like this again and you’re fired.” The way he says it isn’t threatening, no it’s said like a promise that Jeff knows he will keep so all Jeff does is nod and swallow down his nerves as he watches Harry turn on his heal and walk off towards the stairs.

“This is fine.” Jeff says to himself as he turns to grab his drink off the bar. “I can work with this.” He says with a nod as he tries to calm himself down enough so he can try to think of a plan to get this to work in his favor.

After a few minutes and some hearty sips of his drink later he franticly pulls out his phone and sends a text to the man that he just watched walk away from him, sending him your number and address in hopes it will not only begin to help Harry forgive him for this whole thing but also aid him in the process of finding you and working things out, both things Jeff needs in order to reach the end goal of this whole thing. When his phone buzzes in his hand he looks down and sees it’s a text from Harry, a one word reply that while being simple still has Jeff smiling to himself because maybe just maybe tonight won’t be a total waste.

Thanks

[dreamersworldduh]

HOME, SWEET, HOME

• 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐖𝐍 𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐒 𝐱 𝐌𝐀𝐋𝐄!𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑

SUMMARY — When your best friend is practically family, you sign up for the good, the bad, and the completely ridiculous. You're their rock, their reality check, their safe place—no matter what. But nothing tests that bond quite like getting a wedding invitation... with your ex-fling on the guest list. That's the situation when Ella, your lifelong best friend, drops a letter that changes everything.

WARNING! FLUFF. Suggestive Langauge.

WORDS! 8.2k

AUTHOR'S NOTE! Okay, I was watching You Again recently and got the idea for this. It was supposed to be a oneshot but now it's going to be a one shot series about complicated love—my speciality— also says you what you want Shawn but no one can deny how angelic handsome he is. Enjoy your reading✨🫶🏽

NEXT PART! BREWING OF FEELINGS

BEING A best friend comes with lot of responsibilities. You're supposed to be the constant in their life—the person they can rely on when things go south. You're the one who has their back no matter what, the voice of reason when they're being reckless, the shield when they need protection, and the soft landing when the world gets too rough. You love them unconditionally, even when they make decisions that make you want to scream, like inviting your ex-fling to their wedding.

That's the situation you found yourself in when you received a letter from your lifelong best friend, Ella. You and Ella had been inseparable since birth, thanks to your mothers, who had been best friends long before either of you existed. Ella's letter wasn't just any letter—it was an invitation to her wedding with Jake, her high school sweetheart and now fiancé.

You were thrilled for her. Of course you were going—how could you not? You and Ella had been planning her wedding since third grade, dreaming up elaborate ceremonies with glittering dresses, fairy-tale settings, and, of course, each other standing side by side on the big day. It wasn't just her wedding; it felt like a culmination of all the years of friendship, all the secrets and dreams you'd shared.

But everything shifted when you were on the phone with Ella, packing for the wedding weekend, and she casually mentioned that Shawn Mendes would be attending.

Shawn Mendes. The name alone was enough to stir up a whirlwind of emotions you thought you'd buried long ago. Shawn wasn't just anyone—he was your first love. Or rather, your first heartbreak. Back in high school, you and Shawn had been something between boyfriends and flings, caught in a fiery but fragile relationship that burned out almost as quickly as it ignited. Shawn wasn't ready to take your relationship public, and when the pressure became too much, he said things—hurtful, cutting things—that tore you apart.

The breakup wasn't just messy for the two of you; it splintered your entire friend group. Sides were taken, words were exchanged, and bridges were burned. The fallout was something you'd spent years trying to recover from. Shawn was a part of your past, and that's exactly where you'd left him—or so you thought.

It wasn't that you still had feelings for him. That heartbreak had been years ago, and time had dulled the edges of the pain. You'd moved on—or at least you'd told yourself you had. After all, you'd built an incredible life for yourself. You were a well-known singer and actor now, living a life most people could only dream of. But when it came to relationships, you hadn't let anyone else in since Shawn. The fear of being broken again, of giving someone your heart only to have it crushed, had kept you from even trying.

When Ella told you Shawn would be at the wedding, you didn't say anything. It wasn't your place. It was her day, not yours, and she had every right to invite whoever she wanted. Shawn's presence didn't change why you were going—you were there to celebrate your best friend and the love of her life. Nothing else mattered.

But as you zipped up your suitcase, you couldn't help the pang of anxiety settling in your chest. You'd spent years avoiding Shawn, carefully sidestepping any chance of running into him. Now, you were about to walk straight into a weekend where you couldn't avoid him.

This was Ella's wedding, though, and you weren't going to let your past get in the way of her happiness. You'd be there for her, just as you always had been. Even if it meant facing the one person who had once shattered your heart.

THE RUSTY ANCHOR—an unassuming dive bar tucked between the edge of town and the shore—had witnessed more of your teenage years than even your own bedroom. Its cracked vinyl booths still carried the faint, mingled scents of spilled whiskey and cheap wood polish. The air buzzed with the low hum of conversations and the raspy vocals of some classic rock anthem spinning endlessly on the aging jukebox. It was the kind of place that hadn't changed in decades, and for a brief moment, stepping inside felt like walking into a time capsule of your youth.

At the far end of the long, battered wooden table, you sat apart from the lively group, fingers idly tracing patterns around the rim of your untouched drink. The condensation from the glass left faint circles on the tabletop, joining countless others worn into the wood over the years. Your script, the one for the upcoming cameo role you'd agreed to, lay open on the table in front of you. The scene was supposed to be a simple one, but you weren't about to show up unprepared—not after the career you'd built.

The others, on the other hand, had fully surrendered to the nostalgia of the moment. Ella and Jake, the happy couple, sat pressed together in the middle of the group, their hands intertwined as they smiled at one another with that warm, unshakable kind of love that made you believe in fairy tales for just a second. Matt and Lexie had everyone laughing as they reenacted a cringeworthy high school moment, throwing in exaggerated voices and gestures to drive the point home. Sophie and Nate were huddled in the corner, fumbling hopelessly with a phone tripod as they tried to set it up for the perfect group selfie. The bar's dim lighting and aged decor weren't exactly Instagram-worthy, but they weren't about to let that stop them.

And then there was you—half there, half somewhere else, lost between the words on your script and the growing knot of unease in your stomach. It wasn't that you didn't want to be here; you did, for Ella's sake. But the anticipation of Shawn's arrival hung over you like a storm cloud, looming just out of sight but impossible to ignore.

Everyone was waiting for him. Ella had mentioned that Shawn was running late—traffic, she'd said—but you weren't sure if it was his timing or your own nerves making the minutes feel like hours. You hadn't seen him in years, and yet, here you were, waiting for him in the same bar where it had all started. You told yourself it was fine, that you were fine. You'd come here to celebrate Ella and Jake, not to dredge up the past.

But as you flipped the page of your script, scanning the dialogue that now seemed distant and unimportant, you felt the old ghosts of the Rusty Anchor stirring. You'd shared so many nights here with Shawn—late-night talks, stolen moments, the thrill of something secret and unspoken. And eventually, the heartbreak.

You took a deep breath, focusing back on the group. The others didn't seem to notice your distraction, which you were grateful for. You couldn't let them see the crack in your carefully maintained composure. Ella and Jake's laughter echoed across the table, a reminder of why you were really here. Whatever was about to happen when Shawn finally walked through that door, you'd face it—like you always did.

Matt, ever the observant one despite his antics, finally caught on to your silence. He leaned back in his chair, his beer in hand, and shot a pointed look in Ella's direction. With a subtle nudge of his elbow, he silently conveyed what you already knew was coming. Ella straightened up slightly, her expression shifting from carefree joy to quiet concern. She turned toward you, leaning closer so her voice wouldn't carry over the others' laughter.

"You good?" she asked, her tone soft, laced with the kind of concern that only years of friendship could convey.

You met her gaze briefly, then looked back down at the script in front of you. The pages blurred slightly, not from the dim light of the bar but from the weight of her question—and the unspoken one that hung between you. You knew what she was really asking.

"Fine," you replied, your voice even, betraying nothing. It wasn't a lie, not entirely. You weren't on the verge of breaking down or anything, but "fine" was easier than trying to unpack the knot of emotions twisting in your chest. Ella studied you for a moment longer, her lips pressing into a thin line as though deciding whether to push the matter.

The others were still caught up in their own worlds—Matt and Lexie's exaggerated reenactment had escalated into a full-blown performance, complete with dramatic gestures, and Sophie had just knocked over the phone tripod, prompting Nate's exasperated groan. The noise and chaos of the group gave you and Ella a small bubble of privacy, but you could tell she wasn't going to let this go entirely.

She tilted her head slightly, her voice barely above a whisper now. "You know you can talk to me, right? If...you need to?"

You swallowed hard and gave her a small, reassuring smile. "I know," you said, and you meant it. Ella had always been your anchor, the one person who'd seen you through every storm. But this wasn't her storm to weather—it was yours. And you weren't ready to open the floodgates just yet.

She hesitated for a moment longer, her eyes searching yours as if trying to read the words you weren't saying. Then, with a quiet sigh, she nodded and leaned back into her seat, giving you the space she knew you needed.

Still, the weight of her concern lingered, a reminder that she knew you better than you often gave her credit for. You turned back to your script, forcing yourself to focus on the dialogue. But as the minutes ticked by, the anticipation in your chest only grew heavier. Somewhere in the back of your mind, you were already preparing for the moment the door would open and Shawn would walk in.

Suddenly, The bell above the door jingled again, its cheerful chime cutting through the ambient noise of laughter and music. You didn't look up immediately, but you felt the subtle shift in the group before you heard the footsteps. They were slow, hesitant, as though the person walking in wasn't entirely sure they were welcome.

"Hey, guys."

That voice. Warm, richer now with age but still carrying the same undertone of quiet charm that had once been your undoing. Shawn Mendes.

You finally looked up, your stomach tightening instinctively. There he was, standing just a few feet away, his hands shoved deep into the pockets of a well-worn leather jacket that looked as though it had seen as many years as the bar itself. His dark hair was slightly tousled, as if he'd been running his hands through it nervously on the way over.

He looked good. You hated that you noticed.

Shawn's gaze swept over the group, his soft brown eyes flicking from face to face as he offered a small, tentative smile. Matt was the first to respond, raising his beer in greeting with a loud, "Shawn! Took you long enough, man!" That broke the ice, and the others chimed in with similar greetings, inviting him into the fold as though no time had passed.

But Shawn's eyes didn't linger on Matt or Lexie or Sophie. No, they found you—and stayed there, longer than you were prepared for. It wasn't a casual glance. His expression shifted slightly, a flicker of something you couldn't quite place—nostalgia, maybe, or regret. Whatever it was, it sent a jolt of unease through you.

You held his gaze for a moment, refusing to look away first, even though your pulse quickened. The years between you hadn't erased the memory of that look—the way it had once been filled with something softer, something deeper. But now, it was a reminder of everything that had gone wrong.

"Hey," he said again, quieter this time, almost as if it was meant just for you. Then, as if realizing he'd been staring, he quickly dropped his eyes and slid into the open seat across from you.

Ella, ever the hostess, leaned forward with a bright smile, immediately steering the conversation toward familiar, safe topics to ease the tension. The others followed her lead, peppering Shawn with questions about what he'd been up to, where he was living, whether he was still writing music.

You stayed silent, your fingers tightening slightly around the edge of your script. You didn't trust yourself to speak—not yet. Not when your mind was racing with a thousand emotions you weren't ready to unpack. So, you let the others fill the space, their chatter buzzing around you like white noise.

But Shawn's presence was impossible to ignore. Even as you kept your eyes on the words in front of you, you could feel his attention drifting back to you, tentative but persistent, like he was waiting for some kind of opening. You weren't sure if you wanted to give him one.

The night suddenly felt heavier, the weight of the past pressing down on you in a way you hadn't anticipated. It was going to be a long evening.

"Good to see everyone," Shawn said, his voice warm but laced with an edge of caution. "It's been... a while."

The group immediately erupted into small talk, eager to fill him in on everything he'd missed. Matt launched into a story about his new job, Lexie joked about her disastrous attempts at online dating, and Sophie managed to pull Shawn into a quick selfie for her ever-growing collection. The chatter was lively, easy, as though everyone had effortlessly fallen back into their old rhythm.

Everyone except you.

You kept quiet, your hands clenched tightly under the table where no one could see. Shawn's gaze drifted to you more than once—you could feel it—but you kept your eyes fixed on the script in front of you, pretending to study the pages with far more intensity than they warranted.

And Shawn noticed. You could feel the weight of his attention growing heavier, like he was waiting for the right moment.

That moment came during a lull, the conversation dipping into a rare silence as everyone caught their breath. Shawn cleared his throat, and the sound sent a ripple through the table.

"Hey..." His voice was low, hesitant, but it cut through the quiet. His eyes were on you, the rest of the group suddenly forgotten. "Can we talk?"

The question hung in the air, and the table collectively stilled. Your friends, so loud and animated just moments ago, now found their drinks, the table, and the far corners of the bar incredibly fascinating.

You didn't look up. Your fingers tightened around the edge of the table, and you forced yourself to sound indifferent. "Nothing to talk about," you said with a shrug, your tone flat, dismissive.

Shawn flinched, just barely, but it was enough for you to notice. The others exchanged quick, awkward glances, as if debating whether to intervene or pretend they hadn't heard anything. Ella shifted uncomfortably in her seat, but she didn't say a word.

Shawn leaned forward slightly, his hands resting on the table as he tried again. "I think there is," he said, quieter this time. There was a rawness in his voice now, a vulnerability that caught you off guard.

You finally looked up, your eyes meeting his for the first time that night. The tension between you was almost palpable, the weight of unresolved history pressing down on both of you. For a moment, no one at the table breathed, waiting to see what you would do.

But instead of answering, you pushed your chair back, the legs scraping against the worn floorboards. "I'm going to get some air," you muttered, standing up before anyone could stop you.

As you walked away, you could feel Shawn's eyes on your back, but you didn't turn around. The familiar scent of the bar faded as you stepped outside into the cool night air, the door closing behind you with a hollow thud.

For a few seconds, you just stood there, breathing deeply, trying to push down the mix of anger, sadness, and something dangerously close to longing that his presence had stirred up. You weren't ready for this—not here, not now.

The cool night air was a relief against your skin, though it did little to calm the storm inside you. You leaned against the wall of the bar, staring out at the empty parking lot, your arms crossed tightly across your chest. The muffled sounds of laughter and music filtered through the door behind you, a reminder that the rest of the world was still spinning, even if yours felt like it had tilted on its axis.

The door creaked open, and for a moment, you tensed, expecting him. But instead, you heard the familiar shuffle of boots and the soft clearing of a throat.

"Mind if I join you?" Ella's voice was gentle, cautious, as though she were approaching a wounded animal. You didn't answer, but you didn't stop her either, and that was all the permission she needed. She stepped out fully, the door shutting softly behind her, and slid down to sit beside you on the curb.

For a while, neither of you spoke. She didn't push, didn't bombard you with questions or platitudes. She just sat there, her presence steady and grounding, letting the silence work its way through you both.

Finally, she broke it. "You want to tell me what's going on?" Her tone was careful but insistent, the way only Ella could manage—enough to remind you she wasn't going anywhere, but not so much that you felt forced to answer.

You exhaled sharply, your breath visible in the chilly air. "It's nothing," you said, though the tightness in your voice betrayed you.

Ella let out a soft laugh, dry but not unkind. "You really think I'm buying that?"

You glanced at her, her face partially lit by the warm glow of the bar's neon sign. She was watching you with that look—the one that had been the undoing of every lie you'd ever tried to tell her. Her expression was equal parts patient and stubborn, and you knew there was no sidestepping this conversation.

You ran a hand through your hair, letting out a frustrated sigh. "I don't know, El. It's... Shawn." His name felt heavy on your tongue, and saying it aloud made everything feel more real.

Ella nodded, her expression softening. "I figured," she said simply. "I saw the way you went quiet as soon as he walked in."

You turned away, staring at the cracked pavement beneath your feet. "I wasn't ready for this," you admitted quietly. "Seeing him again. Hearing his voice. It's like..." You trailed off, searching for the words, but they didn't come.

"Like it ripped open something you thought was healed?" she finished for you.

You looked at her, surprised by how perfectly she'd nailed it. She smiled faintly, shrugging. "I've been there, you know. Different person, different situation, but I get it."

A bitter laugh escaped you. "I thought I was over it. Over him. It's been years, El. I've moved on... or at least I thought I had."

"Moving on doesn't mean forgetting," she said gently. "Or that it stops mattering. You loved him, even if it was messy and complicated. And he hurt you. Of course it's going to feel like this."

You leaned back, resting your head against the cold brick wall. "I just... I don't know what he wants. Why he's here."

Ella tilted her head, studying you. "Maybe he just wants to talk. To make things right."

You scoffed. "It's a little late for that."

"Maybe," she agreed. "But maybe it's not. Either way, you don't have to figure it all out tonight. Just... give yourself some grace, okay? You don't have to have all the answers right now."

For the first time since stepping outside, you let yourself relax, even if only slightly. Ella reached over, giving your hand a quick squeeze. "Whatever happens, I've got your back. You know that, right?"

"Yeah," you said softly. "I know."

You exhaled slowly, letting the weight of the moment settle before you turned to Ella. Her concern was genuine, her presence comforting, but it wasn't what you wanted to focus on right now. You gave her a small, grateful smile before speaking.

"Ella," you began softly, "this weekend isn't about me. Or Shawn. It's about you and Jake. Your wedding, your union, everything you've worked for together. I don't want to be the one dragging old feelings and unresolved drama into that."

She frowned, tilting her head. "You're not dragging anything in. I can see how much this is affecting you, and I just want to make sure—"

"I'm fine," you interrupted gently, holding her gaze. "Really, I am. I came here for you, for Jake, to celebrate what you two have. That's all that matters to me. Whatever's going on with Shawn... it's in the past. I'm not going to let it overshadow your moment."

Ella sighed, her brow furrowed with worry, but there was also a flicker of relief in her expression. "You sure? Because you don't have to bottle everything up just for my sake, you know. If you need to step away, if you need to take time for yourself—"

"Ella," you said, cutting her off with a soft laugh. "I love you, but this isn't the time for that. You and Jake have waited so long for this weekend, and I'm not about to be the one who makes it about something else. I'm here to support you, to stand by your side. That's all I want."

Her lips pressed together, her eyes searching yours for any cracks in your resolve. "You always do that," she said after a moment.

"Do what?"

"Put yourself last. Sacrifice what you're feeling for everyone else." She reached over, resting a hand on your arm. "I know you're here for me, and I love you for it. But don't think for a second that I'm going to let you drown in this just to keep a smile on my face. I know you, and I know when something's eating at you."

You sighed, leaning back against the wall again. "It's not that simple, Ella. What am I supposed to do? Have some emotional heart-to-heart with Shawn in the middle of your wedding festivities? That's not going to happen."

"I'm not saying you have to," she said, her voice calm but firm. "But don't ignore how you feel either. This isn't about giving him anything—it's about giving yourself some closure, even if it's just for your own peace of mind."

You didn't respond right away, staring out at the dark parking lot. After a moment, you gave her a half-smile. "I'll think about it. But only after you and Jake are officially hitched and I'm three drinks into the reception."

Ella laughed, the sound light and familiar, breaking the tension in the air. "Fair enough," she said. Then her expression softened, and she leaned her head against your shoulder. "You've always been there for me. I just want to make sure I'm there for you too."

"You are," you said, your voice steady. "You always are."

After a few more moments of quiet outside, you stood up, brushing off your jeans and offering Ella a hand. She took it, squeezing it gently before the two of you headed back inside. The warmth and noise of The Rusty Anchor hit you as soon as you opened the door—laughter, the low hum of the jukebox, and the familiar din of your friend group already several drinks deep.

You slid back into your seat at the table, Ella following close behind. The others didn't seem to notice your brief absence, caught up in their conversation. Shawn's eyes flicked toward you briefly, but you didn't return the glance. Instead, you focused on Ella, who leaned forward to get everyone's attention.

"Alright, guys," she began, her voice raised slightly to cut through the noise. Jake grinned beside her, clearly in on whatever announcement she was about to make. "So, Jake and I were talking, and we figured it's been forever since all of us got to spend some real time together. And with the wedding coming up, we thought... why not?"

The group fell silent, everyone looking at her with a mix of curiosity and excitement.

"So," Jake added, taking over, "we booked a cabin for the week leading up to the wedding. It's big enough for all of us, and we thought it'd be a great way to reconnect—hang out, relive old times, and, you know, just relax before the big day."

The announcement was met with a chorus of reactions—cheers, laughter, and a few surprised exclamations. Lexie clapped her hands together. "Are you serious? A whole week together? That's amazing!"

"Wait," Matt said, his brow furrowed. "This isn't one of those creepy cabins in the middle of nowhere where we get picked off by a horror movie villain, right?"

"Absolutely not," Ella said with a grin. "It's a gorgeous place by the lake. Full amenities, big kitchen, tons of space. It's perfect."

Sophie let out an excited squeal. "Oh my God, I can't wait! This is going to be so much fun!"

Nate, ever the practical one, raised an eyebrow. "What about work? I mean, some of us have—"

Jake waved him off. "We planned this ages ago and checked with everyone's schedules. Plus, it's not mandatory. But we'd love it if you came."

The group's energy was electric now, everyone talking over each other with plans and excitement. You stayed quiet, processing the news. A whole week together. With Ella and Jake, with the others. With Shawn.

Ella caught your eye, giving you a look that said it'll be fine. She knew what you were thinking, and she wasn't going to let you back out.

"So," Ella said, her smile widening as she looked around the table, "what do you guys think? Are you in?"

The unanimous response was a resounding yes. Even you, despite your hesitation, nodded along. This was Ella's time, and you'd promised yourself you'd be here for her. Whatever came next, you'd deal with it. Together.

THE DRIVE up to the secluded cabin had been both long and strangely nostalgic, each twist and turn of the road pulling you further from the noise of everyday life and deeper into a landscape that felt like a postcard. The forest, dense with towering pines, seemed to close in around the winding road, while the sunlight filtering through the trees created dappled patterns on the asphalt. Every so often, the view would break open to reveal a pristine mountain lake, its surface shimmering like glass under the soft afternoon sun.

The convoy of three cars navigated the final stretch together, gravel crunching under tires as you pulled into the wide driveway one by one. The sight that greeted you was enough to make the long drive worth it. The cabin stood tall and inviting, its rustic log exterior blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. A wide wrap-around porch wrapped around the structure, adorned with cozy rocking chairs and lanterns that were already glowing softly against the early evening sky.

Beyond the cabin, the lake stretched out in serene stillness, its surface kissed by a thin layer of mist that drifted lazily across the water. The evergreens lining the shore swayed gently in the cool breeze, their reflection rippling faintly in the water. It was quiet, except for the occasional call of a bird or the faint rustle of leaves in the wind—a kind of peace you hadn't realized you needed until you arrived.

Everyone began climbing out of their cars, stretching and letting out exaggerated groans after the long drive. Bags were retrieved from trunks, and the air quickly filled with the sounds of chatter and laughter as the group took in their surroundings.

"This place is incredible," Sophie said, spinning in a slow circle to take it all in. "I feel like we're in a movie or something."

"Right?" Lexie agreed, already snapping pictures with her phone. "We're totally living our best lives this week."

Matt, ever practical, eyed the cabin with a playful grin. "Are we sure this isn't one of those places where we all get picked off one by one? Because I'm pretty sure I saw this exact setup in a horror movie once."

Ella rolled her eyes, laughing as she looped her arm through Jake's. "Relax, Matt. The scariest thing here is probably going to be Lexie's attempts at making s'mores."

"Hey!" Lexie shot back, grinning. "My s'mores are legendary."

You smiled faintly at the banter, your eyes scanning the cabin and its surroundings. It was beautiful, no doubt about it, and it did feel like the perfect place to reconnect. But there was an underlying tension you couldn't quite shake—one that had nothing to do with the cabin or the lake.

Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Shawn unloading his bag from the backseat of his car. He seemed to hesitate for a moment, glancing toward the group as if gauging whether to join in the chatter. When his eyes briefly met yours, he gave a small, tentative smile. You didn't return it, turning your attention back to the others instead.

"Alright, everyone," Jake called out, clapping his hands together. "Let's get settled in. Ella and I claimed the master bedroom—obviously—but the rest of you can fight over the other rooms."

"First come, first serve!" Matt shouted, grabbing his bag and bolting toward the cabin, Lexie hot on his heels.

The others followed, laughing and calling out dibs as they disappeared through the front door. You hung back for a moment, taking one last look at the lake and breathing in the crisp, pine-scented air.

"It's going to be a good week," Ella said quietly, stepping up beside you. Her voice was calm, reassuring, as if she could sense the hesitation still lingering in you.

You nodded, giving her a small smile. "Yeah," you said softly, "it will be."

Together, you headed toward the cabin, ready to see what the week—and whatever it brought—had in store.

The cabin's interior was even more breathtaking than its exterior. Wide wooden beams stretched across the vaulted ceiling, giving the living room an open, airy feel. A massive stone fireplace dominated one wall, its hearth flanked by built-in bookshelves filled with worn novels and board games. Oversized couches, draped with soft plaid blankets, were arranged in a semi-circle near the fireplace, clearly designed for late-night conversations and fireside gatherings.

The floor-to-ceiling windows were the real showstopper, offering an unobstructed view of the lake. The fading sunlight painted the water in hues of gold and orange, and the mist that lingered earlier had lifted just enough to reveal the treetops on the opposite shore. It was the kind of view that made you want to sit and watch it for hours.

"Okay!" Ella's voice broke through the awed silence. She clapped her hands together, a wide grin on her face. "Claim your rooms now before Lexie steals the best one."

"I resent that!" Lexie called out, already halfway up the staircase with her bag in hand.

The group burst into laughter as everyone scattered, suitcases thudding up and down the stairs and along the wooden floors. There was no real system—just a lot of playful shouts of "Dibs!" and exaggerated protests as people jostled for the best spots.

You stayed back, letting the chaos unfold without you. It wasn't that you didn't care where you stayed—you just didn't have the energy to argue about it. After a few minutes, the noise upstairs settled down as everyone staked their claims. Finally, you grabbed your bag and headed up the stairs, finding a room at the very end of the hall.

It was smaller than some of the others but no less charming. A sturdy wooden bed with a thick quilt sat against one wall, and a large window overlooked the forest. The room was quiet and private, the kind of space that let you breathe a little easier. You dropped your bag at the foot of the bed and walked over to the window, peering out at the dense line of trees. The fading light filtered through the branches, casting long shadows on the ground.

It wasn't the lake view, but you didn't mind. The forest felt secluded, calm—a contrast to the energy buzzing through the rest of the cabin. You let out a slow breath, feeling some of the tension from the day ease away.

Downstairs, the sound of laughter and footsteps echoed faintly. You could hear Sophie's voice carrying over the others, probably trying to organize some kind of group activity, and Matt cracking one of his signature terrible jokes. For a moment, you considered staying in your room and avoiding the inevitable awkwardness of being in the same space as Shawn for the rest of the evening.

But then you heard Ella call your name from the living room, her voice light and full of excitement. You sighed, shaking your head with a small smile. This week was for her, for Jake, for all of you to reconnect as friends.

With one last glance at the forest, you turned and headed downstairs, bracing yourself for whatever the night had in store.

BY NIGHTFALL, the group had migrated outside, where a roaring fire crackled in the stone fire pit just beyond the cabin's porch. The flames cast flickering shadows on the surrounding trees, their golden light reaching up to the star-filled sky. Embers popped and danced as they floated upward, disappearing into the crisp night air. The faint scent of pine mingled with the smokiness of the fire, grounding you in the peaceful stillness of the forest.

Blankets were draped over shoulders as the group settled in around the fire, the cozy scene punctuated by bursts of laughter and the clinking of bottles from the cooler someone had dragged out. Sophie and Nate were huddled near the edge of the fire pit, attempting to make s'mores. Sophie let out a loud laugh as she accidentally set her marshmallow ablaze, the charred black blob dangling precariously from her skewer.

"Why does this always happen to me?" she groaned, trying to blow it out without much success.

"Because you refuse to rotate it slowly," Nate said, grinning as he expertly toasted his own marshmallow to a perfect golden brown. "Patience is a virtue."

"Patience is boring," Sophie shot back, finally extinguishing the flames. She plopped the ruined marshmallow onto a graham cracker anyway, earning another laugh from Nate.

On the opposite side of the fire, Matt was midway through recounting an elaborate story about a disastrous hiking trip from years ago. His voice grew louder with each detail, his hands flying in exaggerated gestures as he described the "near-death" experience.

"I'm telling you, the bear was this close," he said, stretching his arms wide for emphasis.

"It was a raccoon, Matt," Lexie interjected dryly, her face lit with mock intensity as she leaned forward. "And you were hiding behind a tree screaming while the rest of us dealt with it."

The group erupted into laughter, even Matt, who dramatically rolled his eyes. "Details, Lexie. Nobody cares about the details."

You sat quietly on one of the large wooden logs circling the fire, a half-finished beer in your hand. The warmth of the flames pressed against your skin, contrasting with the cool night air. You tilted your head back to look at the stars, which seemed impossibly bright out here, far from the city lights. For a moment, you let yourself relax, tuning out the chatter and letting the fire's crackle fill your mind.

But you couldn't entirely ignore the presence of Shawn, sitting across the fire from you. He wasn't saying much, mostly listening and occasionally laughing along with the others. Every now and then, his gaze would flicker to you, lingering for just a moment too long before he looked away. You tried not to notice, tried not to let it bother you. But it did.

Ella, sitting beside you, leaned over and bumped your shoulder lightly. "You okay?" she asked softly, her voice low enough that the others couldn't hear.

You nodded, giving her a small smile. "Yeah," you said, and for now, it wasn't entirely a lie.

As the night deepened, the fire burned lower, the flames licking lazily at the logs. The hum of conversation and laughter had softened, but the energy of the group still buzzed in the cool air. You were focused on the glow of the embers, letting the warmth lull you into a momentary calm, when you felt it: the unmistakable weight of someone sitting down beside you.

Shawn.

He didn't speak right away, just stretched his legs out toward the fire and rested his hands on his knees, the movement casual yet deliberate. The orange firelight danced across his face, accentuating the sharp curve of his jaw and the faint stubble that shadowed his chin. He looked different, older, but in a way that made him even more disarming.

"Mind if I sit?" he finally asked, his voice low, though he was already seated.

You shrugged, your voice cool. "It's a free country."

A quiet moment stretched between you, filled only by the crackling of the fire and the sounds of your friends laughing and talking a few feet away. You kept your eyes on the flames, refusing to give him the satisfaction of looking at him.

"You've been...quiet," he said, his tone soft but probing, his gaze still fixed on the fire.

"Just taking it all in," you replied, keeping your voice even. You weren't sure if it was entirely true, but it was easier than admitting the truth—that his presence was making it harder to think straight.

He nodded, rubbing his hands together against the chill. "It's weird being back together like this. Good, but... weird."

You hummed in vague agreement, still not looking at him. The air between you felt heavy, dense with unspoken words.

Shawn shifted slightly closer, lowering his voice so only you could hear. "I didn't think you'd come."

That made you turn to him, your expression guarded, a faint edge to your voice. "Really? To my best friend’s wedding? The wedding that’s we’ve planning since third grade?”

His gaze faltered, his confidence cracking just slightly under your words. "I know. I just..." He hesitated, his voice softer now. "I'm glad you did."

Before you could muster a response, Matt's booming voice shattered the tension: "Alright, truth or dare time! We're doing this old-school, no backing out."

A groan rippled through the group, Sophie rolling her eyes dramatically. But the rest of your friends cheered, shifting eagerly into a circle around the fire, blankets and drinks in hand.

Matt pointed at you first, his grin mischievous. "You're up. Truth or dare?"

All eyes turned to you, the firelight catching their amused, expectant faces. But it was Shawn's gaze that lingered the heaviest, his expression unreadable but his attention unmistakable.

You swallowed, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on you. "...Truth," you finally said, your voice steady despite the knot in your chest.

Matt's grin widened, his excitement palpable. "What's something you regret not saying to someone from our past?"

The group erupted into playful groans and teasing "Oooohs," their laughter filling the space. But you didn't hear them clearly; all you could focus on was Shawn. His gaze locked onto yours across the fire, not with judgment, but with something closer to curiosity—or maybe hope.

The fire crackled, the moment stretching endlessly.

You kept your expression cool, your voice even as you finally answered. "I don't believe in regrets."

The group collectively booed your non-answer, Matt groaning in mock frustration. "Lame! That's such a cop-out."

But he let it slide, moving on to his next target with exaggerated flair, and the energy of the circle quickly shifted back to laughter and playful dares.

Shawn, though, didn't move. He stayed beside you, his lips quirking into the faintest, almost imperceptible smile. It wasn't smug or knowing, but there was something in it that made your stomach flip—a quiet acknowledgment, a shared understanding that the conversation between you was far from over.

THE NIGHT went on, but the fire between you and Shawn wasn't the only one that refused to burn out. The past, it seemed, had found its way back to the present.

The wooden deck groaned softly as Shawn shifted his weight, leaning further against the porch railing. The crisp night air was a stark contrast to the warmth and noise inside, and for a moment, he allowed himself to focus on the stars overhead. They stretched endlessly across the black sky, impossibly clear and bright, a view he hadn't appreciated in far too long. In the distance, the faint shimmer of the lake was barely visible, a mirror reflecting the night.

The sliding glass door behind him clicked softly, followed by the sound of familiar footsteps. Shawn didn't turn around, but when Matt stepped up to the railing beside him, a small smile tugged at his lips.

"Needed some air," Matt said, raising his whiskey tumbler as if to toast the night. The amber liquid caught the warm glow of the porch lantern. "It's loud in there."

Shawn nodded, taking a sip from his beer. "Yeah... They're already three drinks ahead of us."

Matt chuckled, leaning against the railing. "Sophie's halfway to starting a karaoke competition. We've got about ten minutes before it gets really embarrassing."

They shared a quiet laugh, the kind that comes easily between old friends. The muffled sounds of music and laughter spilled faintly from the cabin's windows, a backdrop to the peaceful stillness of the night outside.

Matt tilted his head back, his gaze tracing the constellations overhead. "You forget how clear the stars are out here," he murmured. "Living in the city, it's just buildings and streetlights. This feels... different."

Shawn exhaled slowly, his eyes drifting toward the lake, its dark silhouette barely visible against the horizon. "Yeah," he said, his voice quieter now. "I missed this."

A pause stretched between them, comfortable but weighted, the kind of silence where unspoken thoughts hovered just out of reach. Finally, Matt broke it, his tone softer this time. "So... How's life been? I mean, really."

Shawn hesitated, the question hanging in the air. He shrugged, setting his beer down on the railing with a dull clink. "Busy. Music, touring... all of it kind of blurs together after a while." He paused, his expression shifting, the faintest shadow crossing his face. "It's good, though. I'm lucky."

Matt turned his head slightly, studying him. "You don't sound like you believe that."

A dry laugh escaped Shawn, low and almost self-deprecating. "It's not that," he said, running a hand through his hair. "I just—sometimes it feels like... I'm always moving, you know? Like if I stop for too long, everything catches up."

Matt nodded, swirling the whiskey in his glass, the soft clink of ice punctuating the moment. "I get that," he said quietly. "Life comes at you fast, and you think if you stay busy enough, you can outrun the stuff that hurts."

Shawn glanced at him, something vulnerable flickering in his expression, and then he looked back out at the dark expanse of trees. "Yeah," he said simply. "Exactly."

For a while, neither of them spoke, letting the stillness of the night wrap around them. The soft hum of music and laughter from inside the cabin continued, a reminder of the world they'd stepped away from. But out here, under the stars, with the cool air biting gently at their skin, it was easy to feel like time had slowed, just for a moment.

Matt broke the silence again, his voice thoughtful. "You think maybe... it's time to stop running?"

Shawn didn't answer right away. Instead, he picked up his beer and took another sip, his gaze still fixed on the horizon. "I don't know," he admitted finally. "Maybe. I just... don't know how."

Matt let that hang in the air, neither agreeing nor pressing further. He simply nodded, tipping his glass toward the stars before taking a long sip of whiskey.

Inside, the music swelled, and a loud cheer erupted, likely signaling the start of Sophie's infamous karaoke showdown.

Matt broke the silence first, his voice low but deliberate. "Have you talked to him yet?"

Shawn tensed, the question cutting through the quiet night. He didn't turn his head, his gaze locked on the dark expanse of the lake. "Not really," he admitted after a pause. "He's been..." He hesitated, searching for the right word. "...distant."

Matt let out a soft, humorless laugh. "Can you blame him?"

Shawn flinched at the words but didn't argue. The truth in them was undeniable, and it settled in his chest like a weight.

Matt leaned back against the railing, his tone shifting to something softer. "You really hurt him, man."

"I know," Shawn said, his voice barely above a whisper. There was a rawness to it, a crack in his carefully composed exterior. "I didn't mean to. I just... I was scared. Scared of what people would think, of what it would change. Of what it would make me."

Matt turned to look at him, his expression both sharp and understanding. "It changed everything anyway."

The words hit hard, and Shawn nodded slowly, his shoulders sagging under a weight he had been carrying for far too long. "I thought I was protecting him... protecting us. But I wasn't. I was just protecting myself."

Matt sighed, folding his arms across his chest. "You know he loved you, right? More than he ever admitted... even when it all fell apart."

Shawn's grip tightened around the neck of his beer bottle, his gaze dropping to the worn wooden planks beneath his boots. "Do you think it's too late?"

Matt studied him, his expression unreadable as he considered the question. Finally, he spoke, his voice steady. "I think... you only get so many chances in life. But if you're waiting for the perfect moment to fix this, it's never gonna come. You've gotta decide if he's worth the risk."

Shawn nodded faintly, his jaw tightening as he swallowed hard. "I don't know if he even wants to hear me out," he murmured, more to himself than to Matt.

Matt's lips quirked into a faint smirk. "You won't know unless you try. But if you're going to do it, you can't half-ass it this time. No secrets. No excuses. He deserves better than that."

Shawn's gaze lifted, following the faint ripples of the lake under the starlight. The reflection of the stars on the water seemed endless, like a horizon he couldn't quite reach. His fingers flexed around the beer bottle as the memories—both good and bad—flooded his mind.

After a long pause, his voice broke the stillness. It was quiet, but resolute. "I'm not scared anymore."

Matt clapped him on the shoulder, a firm but encouraging gesture. "Good," he said, his voice lighter but still sincere. "Just... be ready to fight for it. He's not gonna make it easy."

The faint strains of Sophie's slightly off-key karaoke performance drifted through the air, prompting a small laugh from both of them.

"Looks like Sophie's in full diva mode," Matt said with a grin. "We should head back before she forces us to do a duet."

Shawn smiled faintly, but his feet remained rooted to the spot. "You go ahead. I'll be in soon."

Matt nodded, understanding that Shawn needed a moment. He stepped back inside, the sliding glass door clicking softly behind him.

Shawn stayed where he was, staring out at the lake, his thoughts swirling like the rippling water. He let the cool night air wash over him, steadying his breath, his mind turning over what he'd just said.

I'm not scared anymore.

It felt like a declaration, one he hadn't realized he was ready to make until now. Maybe, just maybe, it wasn't too late after all.

[sweetiepoison]

Famous Baby (social media blurb)

Who’s (Y/f/n) (Y/l/n) Dating Now?

(Y/f/n) (y/l/n) has been in the spotlight since she was 15 so it’s no surprise her relationships have been as well. From first love to whirlwind romance , we’ve seen it all from the singing sensation. She’s mainly been in serious relationships, but the lineup is impressive.

Shawn Mendes

(Y/l/n) and Mendes came into the spotlight around the same time. The pair met, instantly hit it off, and became the new young Hollywood “it” couple. They dated for three years from 2014-2017 and wrote a few of their hit songs about each other. (Y/f/n)’s song ‘Dandelions’ on her debut album is about Mendes. The love wasn’t one sided though, as Mendes reveled many of his love songs were about (y/l/n). After winning an American Music Award, Mendes said, “All of my songs are about her, so this award is as much hers as it is mine, she’s my inspiration.

We loved watching their young love romance evolve, but the two split in early 2017. (Y/f/n) discussed the breakup on the Jimmy Fallon show. “We just realized we were growing apart and going in different directions, but he will always hold a special place in my heart as my first love and no can ever replace that.”

Harry Styles

The British singer is (y/l/n)’s longest and most high profile relationship. The two began dating at the end of 2017 and remained together for four years before breaking things off. Their love caught the attention of the world and had many talking. It’s believed Styles hit song, Adore you is about (y/l/n) before they were official.

The couple raised the bar for relationships. Harry took (y/f/n) on a vacation to Greece for her 21st birthday. Which she followed up by throwing him a massive surprise party with all of his close friends and family. When asked about their relationship in an interview (y/l/n) said, “Harry is the type of boyfriend girls dream of. He loves me so well and he wears his heart on his sleeves which is beautiful.”

The breakup came as a surprise to many as it seemed the couple was going strong. It didn’t last for long though as they got back together at the end of 2022 before finally calling it quits mid 2023. Neither have revealed why they split, but both have remained consistent and committed to supporting each other.

Michael B. Jordan

During her brief break with Harry, (y/f/n) dated Creed actor, Michael B. Jordan. Despite the 11 year age gap the couple had a lot in common and spent plenty of special occasions together. Jordan helped her celebrate her 24th birthday where we got their most infamous pictures together as a couple.

The relationship lasted 10 months before they broke up and (y/l/n) was back with Styles. Despite the sudden end Jordan had only good things to say, “She’s an amazing, hardworking woman who deserves all the success she’s had.”

Auston Matthews

The newest boyfriend on the list may be NHL superstar, Auston Matthews. An insider reveals they saw Matthews and (y/l/n) at a bar together in Toronto. They were with a group of friends including Justin and Hailey Bieber, but the two seemed particularly close. The pair was also spotted leaving together at the end of the night. While nothing is confirmed, we could definitely get behind this match.

[mendesblurb]

We were staying in Paris

Shawn Mendes x female reader

Warning ⚠️: mostly fluff, maybe grammar error and maybe some punctuation errors

Word count:~500

A/N: The story idea and concept are classic and predictable; your girl just couldn’t help but write something inspired by this picture. Also, it’s three weeks late; better late than never? And this is my first story in 2024? 🙈 P.S. Should I write a longer and maybe some more steamy story with this picture? 🤪

——//

In the heart of Paris, in a hotel room with a balcony overlooking the city that served as the backdrop for a love story as it was unfolding in the early hours of dawn. You lay nestled in the warmth of the bed beside your boyfriend as your fingers intertwined with his. As the first tendrils of sunlight filtered through the curtains, Shawn stirred awake, his eyes blinking open to the soft glow of morning. 

He savoured the moment's stillness a little while before gently extricating himself from the embrace, slipping out of bed, and heading to the bathroom. The cool floor beneath his bare feet offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the bed. He was going to return to bed, but instead, he made his way to the balcony, drawn by the promise of a tranquil morning amidst the bustling city below.

As he leaned against the railing, taking in the breathtaking view before him, he couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the Parisian skyline bathed in the soft hues of dawn. The Eiffel Tower stood tall and majestic in the distance, a precious sight. Lost in thought, he reached for a cigarette, the flame casting a flickering glow on his face as he took a contemplative drag.

Unbeknownst to him, you had stirred awake in his absence, your gaze lingering on the spot where he had once laid.

There you were, quietly making your way to the balcony, and you found him lost in reverie with the smoke curling around him like a halo in the morning light. With a soft throat clearing, you announced your presence, a playful glint dancing in your eyes.

"Good morning, stranger," You greeted, voice laced with amusement as you wrapped your arms around him from behind.

A little startled, he turned to find you standing before him, a radiant smile lighting up her features as he leaned in for a kiss.

"Good morning, ma chÃrie," He greeted back before discarding his cigarette and nestling closer. It didn’t take long for his eyes to linger around you, and eventually falling upon the shirt you were wearing, a mischievous twinkle lighting up his gaze, “I believe that’s my shirt.” 

"Oh yeah, I hope you don't mind," You began, fingers tracing the fabric of the shirt, "I may have borrowed this from you,” You continued slyly as your lips curled into a grin as he took in the sight of you wearing his shirt, the fabric draping over your frame in a way that seemed almost too perfect.

"Shirt stealer," he remarked, his voice tinged with sincerity as he reached out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear.

Moments later, as the sun continued its ascent, casting a golden glow over the city, you both remained on the balcony, lost in each other's embrace and the beauty of the Parisian sunrise. 

"By the way, I'm never returning this shirt,” You added, breaking the silence with a mischievous grin. 

In response, Shawn just chuckled, his eyes sparkling with affection, “Thank you for letting me know," he replied, pulling  you closer than before, “But It looks better on you anyway."

——————————————————————————

Thank you for reading guys... feel free to like, reblog, follow my account, leave a comment and my chat is always open for random chats or requests... appreciate every single one of you... ❤️

Taglist (open) : @monikamendes @holland-styles @bvttercupbby @lonelyreputation @badreputationlove @shawn-is-my-giant-jellybean @benito-mi-vida @swiftmendeshoran @yournameoneverypage @shawn-is-bruh @mendesbhraanth @perfectlywrongformendes @imaginashawnn @smendes-forever @nervousmendes @whenyoureadyholland @shawn-youth @myboyshawn @camilalewiss @camilalewisss @theregoesmyherojd @nanijaac1 @shawnieeboyy @silverswallow @inlovewithmendes-blog @mendeslola-blog @mendesx123 @23kofmendes @jellyloml @chipofmendes @poohofmendes @wutheringmendes @shawnmendesbuddy @chocochipcookie305 @shiningshawns

Story Code:05042409

[abbygracerecs]

Shawn Mendes Fic Recommendations

❤️‍🔥 - Smut

🤰 - Pregnancy/Parenthood

⚠️ - Potential Trigger

♾ - Neurodivergent!reader

❤️ - Soulmate AU

You are my favorite - @watchmegetobsessed

Did we just get married? - watchmegetobsessed

Don't blame it on me - watchmegetobsessed

The song was about you - watchmegetobsessed

We can't be friends anymore - watchmegetobsessed still makes me cry every time i read it

Happily Ever After - @softboywriting ❤️

Unmated - softboywriting

It's always been you - @brianc521

Farmer's Daughter - brianc521 ❤️‍🔥

Mendes Barbeque - brianc521

Marry Me - @yournameoneverypage

When You're Ready - yournameoneverypage

Playing House - yournameoneverypage

I want one - yournameoneverypage

Falling forward - yournameoneverypage

Confessions - yournameoneverypage

Serendipity - yournameoneverypage

If it isn't you - yournameoneverypage 🤰

Aw, nuts - yournameoneverypage ❤️‍🔥

Like I love you - @sauveteen

Not good enough - sauveteen

Arpeggio - @lonelyreputation

Not important - lonelyreputation

His muse - @redrebecca

New years nightmare - @tbyfandoms

Glad it's you - @5-seconds-of-bucky ❤️

[multifandomworldsposts]

Day 19 of Kinkmas: Taking a Bath With Shawn

pairing: Shawn Mendes x fem!reader

warning: unprotected sex (pls be safe)

Y/N’s POV

I walk in my house, stressed by a bad day at work and see my husband Shawn.

“how’s was work?” Shawn says with that dumb smirk on his face that I love.

“a nightmare.” I said about to tear up.

I fel two hands hugging me and i look up and it’s hugging me to make my day even better.

“i know what will make you feel better.” Shawn says kissing my temple gently.

“what’s that?”

“a bubble bath.”

“if that will make me feel better then give it to me.”

Shawn picks me up bridal style and brings me to the bathroom and starts to undress me slowly and starts the warm water and get the bubbles in the tube.

I get in the tub, while in the tub I see Shawn getting undressed and getting in the tub with me.

“Are you enjoying the bath honey?”

“Mmm yes, it feels good.” i moaned.

“i just wish that you can quit that job and stay home with me.” Shawn says getting closer to me.

“I know but you know that i get paid well.” I said pouting.

“I know, i just need you to be with me, i feel lonely without you here.” He says kissing my neck slowly.

I start to moan a little louder to remind him that he can touch me.

He grabs my legs closer to him and starts to kiss my lips harder and starts to make love to me.

He picks me up to get my body dried and brings me to the our bed. He gets on me and starts to fuck me harder. I start to scream in pleasure and feel his smirk in my neck.

“Shawn, you-you’re hurting me slo-slow down ple-please.” I stuttered.

“Sorry baby, i just want to make you feel good.” He moaned.

“go on a normal speed please.”

Shawn stops and fell next to me and breathed heavily.

“That was amazing.” i say breathing heavily.

“Are you going to quit the job now?”

“Yes.”

Shawn grabs his phone and starts to call my work.

“Mr. Larsen, my wife Mrs. Mendes wants to quit going to your office. Screw you then bastard!” Shawn sceams to the phone.

“What did he say?”

“He said, ‘that you’re the most sluttiest woman he has seen in his life.’ and I got mad and cursed.”

“So I’ve heard.”

Shawn starts to get tears in his eyes a little bit.

“Shawn, it’s okay, you got me to quit that awful job, and i’m going to be with you every day.”

“I know but the stuff that he said about you.”

“Ignore the dick head, he means nothing to you baby.”

“I’m just glad that you can stay here with me.”

“I know.” I say kissing his cheek softly.

“Round 2?” he says smirking.

[thenerdysimp]

Can you feel the love tonight

Pairing: Shawn Mendes x reader

Words: 1,5K

Summary: Shawn brings you on stage as a surprise guest on Valentine’s Day

(Small text - lyrics)

Warnings: None, just fluff. Potential spelling errors and mix of past and present tense.

You have been traveling with Shawn for his tour and now you’re backstage at Shawn’s show on Valentine’s Day. This just happens to be the first show this week, so no one knows what’s about to come. But the plan is to do this during every show this week out, make it Valentine’s Week instead of just one day.

You are going to join Shawn on stage to perform a song together, he proposed this idea when he was planning the tour dates. He wanted to do something special for Valentine’s and since he knows you sing beautifully he wanted to bring you into it.

And that’s how you ended up here, with a microphone in your hand waiting for Shawn to call you up. He had just finished singing ‘If I Can’t Have You’, he took a breath and leaned in to speak into the microphone, “How are you guys feeling?” He asked loudly into the mic with a smile looking over the sold out stadium. The crowd answered with a mix of screams and cheers. Shawn turned back to the mic, “So as you guys know it’s Valentine’s Day today, it’s also the first show of this week. When I planned the tour dates I had an idea to make this week into a little Valentine’s special. This is the beginning of Valentine’s Week and I have a surprise for you!” He said and the crowd cheered. “I would like to introduce the person that I proposed this idea to in the first place, the person who was completely on board with it, the one who has been by my side since the tour started and many years before, my biggest inspiration and best friend. I want you guys to welcome my amazing and lovely girlfriend Y/N!” He said.

The crowd erupted in even louder cheers and applause as you walked out onto the stage and waved to them. Shawn put his guitar behind his back so that he was able to wrap you in a hug as you got close. He held you for a few seconds before pulling away slightly, giving you a kiss on the cheek before releasing you. You gave him a wide smile before turning to the crowd, “Hi everyone! Are you guys doing alright?” You said into your microphone to get loud screams back. “Amazing! I want to start off by saying that by all means, of course you guys are allowed to film this segment. But please, both me and Shawn wish that you don’t post it on social media until at least next week. Because we want this to be a surprise at every show this week. Is everyone on board?” You said, the crowd answering with a loud yes. “Great, now since Shawn proposed this idea to me he gave me the opportunity to choose the song. This is a song from one of my all time favorite Disney movies, arguably the best song in the movie as well. So I’m very excited!” You added.

Shawn was watching you in awe as you talked to the crowd, incredibly proud to have you here with him. Especially since it was your first time on a stage like this and singing for this big amount of people. “Since it’s Valentine’s Day today, is anyone here on a date?” You asked and were met with multiple cheers. You and Shawn look at each other dragging out an ‘ooohhh’. “Well would you look at that, I hope you guys are having a nice date and this song is for you guys!” Shawn said as you walked over to stand beside him.

The band started playing and his backup vocalists started to sing Timon and Pumbas intro to ‘Can you feel the love tonight’ and the crowd went wild, screaming and cheering.

“I can see what’s happening. What?

And they don’t have a clue. Who?

They’ll fall in love and here’s the bottom line, our trio’s down to two. Oh

The sweet caress of twilight, there’s magic everywhere.

And with all this romantic atmosphere, disaster’s in the air.”

Shawn started to strum on his guitar as you started to sing your solo. While singing you walked around him while looking him up and down. His head followed your every move as he continued playing on his guitar with a smile on his face.

“Can you feel the love tonight?

The peace the evening brings.

The world for once in perfect harmony.

With all its living things.”

When you ended up on the other side of him you put your hand on his cheek caressing it with your thumb before he started singing his part.

“So many things to tell her.

But how to make her see, the truth about my past?

Impossible!

She’d turn away from me.”

As he was singing you walked behind him and leaned on him back to back. He finished the verse and you started your next one. He turned his head to the side, slightly glancing over his shoulder with a wide smile as you sang.

“He’s holding back, he’s hiding.

But what, I can’t decide.

Why won’t he be the king I know he is?

The king I see inside.”

When the chorus came for both of you to sing together Shawn put his guitar behind his back, letting the band guitarist play the rest, and picked his microphone off the mic stand. He took you hand in his and pulled you close to him, your back against his chest.

“Can you feel the love tonight?

The peace the evening brings.

The world for once in perfect harmony.

With all its living things.”

For the next part you walked together to the front of the stage while singing. When you got close to the edge he spun you around and then pulled you back to him, leaning his forehead against yours.

“Can you feel the love tonight?

You needn’t look too far.

Stealing through the night’s uncertainties.

Love is where they are.”

When you finished the chorus you both brought your mics down, Shawn still leaning over you. He brought a hand up to your cheek caressing it softly, smiling wide and looking deep into your eyes. Your own eyes met his, full of love. You stand like that while the backup vocalists sing the last part of the song.

“And if he falls in love tonight, it can be assumed.

His every days with us are history.

In short, our pal is doomed!”

As the song came to an end you and Shawn laughed together, big smiles on your faces, wrapping each other in a big hug as the crowd cheered the loudest they’ve done all night. He picked you up and spun you around, you squealed in his arms and clung to him tightly before he put you back down. He still had an arm wrapped around your waist and with that he pulled you close and planted his lips on yours, you just smiled into the kiss as you put a hand on his bicep. The crowd's loud screams faded into the background, like nothing else but you and Shawn exited.

After what felt like forever he pulled away from your lips but still held you close, you looked up at him and whispered under your breath, “I love you so much.” He had his eyes closed but his smile widened, “I love you too.” He said back. He released you from his hold as he now spoke into the mic, “Y/N Y/L/N everybody!” He shouted and pointed a hand at you. The crowd applauded as you took a bow and waved to them. You turned to Shawn and blew him a kiss, then you turned to walk off the stage. As you walked you again looked at the crowd, you made a heart with your hands and then blew them a kiss as well.

When you got off stage you just stood there for the rest of the show, admiring Shawn on stage with a proud smile on your face. You sang along to all the lyrics and cheered with the crowd. When the show ended Shawn did his little outro speech, thanking everyone for coming and then waved goodbye to them. He then immediately ran off stage and straight into your arms, he picked you up and again spun you around, “I can’t wait to do that at every show for the rest of the week.” He said as he put you down again. “Me neither.” You said smiling as you comfortably leaned against his chest, with his arms around you and his head resting on top of yours.

[dreamersworldduh]

BREWING OF FEELINGS

• SHAWN MENDES x MALE!READER

SUMMARY — When your best friend is practically family, you sign up for the good, the bad, and the completely ridiculous. You're their rock, their reality check, their safe place—no matter what. But nothing tests that bond quite like getting a wedding invitation... with your ex-fling on the guest list. That's the situation when Ella, your lifelong best friend, drops a letter that changes everything.

WARNING! FLUFF.

WORDS! 8.6k

AUTHOR'S NOTE! None at the moment, I’m too tired—although this sort of a slow burn with a promising ending. So bare with our lovely couple, enjoy your reading.✨🫶🏽

PREVIOUS PART! —HOME, SWEET, HOME

THE SMELL of sizzling bacon and fresh pancakes filled the cabin as you moved effortlessly around the kitchen, your hands busy whisking eggs and flipping golden pancakes on the griddle. Cooking had always been second nature to you—a calming ritual that helped steady your mind, even on mornings like this.

The sound of the front door opening drew your attention briefly, followed by the unmistakable thud of sneakers being kicked off onto the wooden floor. Jake's voice rang out first, loud and cheerful. "Smells like heaven in here."

You didn't respond immediately, focusing instead on plating a stack of pancakes. But then you saw them out of the corner of your eye: Jake and Shawn, stepping into the kitchen, shirtless after an early morning run.

Jake moved with his usual ease, heading straight for the coffee maker without a second thought. But Shawn lingered near the doorway, just behind Jake, his chest still rising and falling from exertion. The faint sheen of sweat on his skin caught the morning light streaming through the windows, highlighting the sharp lines of muscle across his chest and stomach. His black running shorts clung low on his hips, the waistband of his underwear peeking out slightly. His damp hair was pushed back haphazardly, leaving a few strands falling forward.

Your eyes betrayed you, lingering for just a second too long before you forced them away. You turned back to the stove, flipping another pancake with deliberate indifference, the heat from the stove doing nothing to hide the faint warmth rising to your cheeks.

"Smells incredible," Jake said, pouring himself a cup of coffee. "You're a lifesaver, man. We'd probably be eating protein bars all week without you."

"Figured someone should feed you," you replied evenly, cracking another egg into the bowl. Your tone was calm, but you felt your pulse quicken slightly when Shawn finally stepped fully into the kitchen, his presence commanding even without saying a word.

"Morning," Shawn said softly, his voice still a little hoarse from the run.

"Morning," you replied, keeping your eyes fixed on the stove as you reached for the spatula.

Jake took a long sip of his coffee and leaned against the counter, completely oblivious to the undercurrent in the room. "Seriously, man, you didn't have to do all this. We're spoiled."

"It's not a big deal," you said with a shrug, sliding another pancake onto the growing stack. "Just trying to keep everyone alive."

Jake laughed, turning toward Shawn. "See? This is why we keep him around. I told you he could cook."

Shawn smiled faintly, stepping closer to the counter but keeping a respectful distance. "It smells amazing," he said, his voice low.

You nodded curtly, still not looking directly at him. "Breakfast'll be ready in a few minutes."

Jake, clearly energized from the run, began rattling off a story about something funny that had happened outside, gesturing animatedly while Shawn listened, occasionally chiming in with a quiet laugh. You kept your focus on the food, pretending the room wasn't shrinking around you with every passing second.

But as you flipped the last pancake onto the plate and turned off the stove, you could feel Shawn's eyes on you—watching, waiting, like he wanted to say something but wasn't sure how.

You exhaled slowly, picking up the plate of pancakes and turning to set it on the table. "Eat up before it gets cold," you said, your tone neutral, brushing past both of them as you moved to grab the bacon.

Jake clapped Shawn on the back. "Guess we earned it after that run, huh?"

Shawn didn't respond right away, his gaze flickering briefly toward you before he followed Jake to the table.

The sound of heavy footsteps thudding down the wooden stairs broke the growing tension in the kitchen. Lexie appeared in the doorway first, her hair a chaotic mess from sleep, her voice carrying its usual dramatic flair.

"Is that bacon I smell?" she called out, her eyes lighting up as she zeroed in on the kitchen. "I love you," she added, making a beeline for the coffee pot with zero hesitation.

"You only love me when there's bacon," you shot back, smirking despite yourself as you slid a fresh batch of crispy strips onto a plate.

"Accurate," she said unapologetically, pouring herself a generous cup of coffee. "But I'm not sorry."

Sophie was next, trailing sleepily behind with Nate and Matt close on her heels. Nate stretched his arms overhead with an exaggerated groan. "This smells like heaven," he said, his voice muffled by a yawn. "You've outdone yourself, Chef Extraordinaire."

"Breakfast royalty!" he added dramatically, throwing his arms up as he collapsed into a chair at the large wooden dining table. "We're not worthy."

You rolled your eyes at the theatrics but couldn't stop a small smile from tugging at the corners of your lips. "You're impossible," you muttered, grabbing a platter of pancakes and setting it down in the center of the table.

Matt clapped a hand on your shoulder as he passed, plopping into a chair with a grin. "Seriously, though, you're spoiling us. What's the catch? Do we owe you our firstborn or something?"

"Just your undying gratitude," you replied dryly, grabbing another plate of bacon and adding it to the growing feast on the table.

Sophie groaned appreciatively as she slid into a seat, grabbing a plate. "I could cry right now. You're a genius."

"Don't cry on the pancakes," you said, smirking as you handed her the syrup.

The table quickly filled with plates, silverware, and a steady stream of chatter. The group fell into an easy rhythm, teasing each other and passing around food as they woke up and came to life. Jake and Shawn joined the table, sliding seamlessly into the lively conversation as if the earlier tension had never existed.

For a moment, you allowed yourself to relax. The warmth of the morning sun streaming through the cabin windows, the smell of coffee and bacon, and the sound of your friends' laughter—it felt almost normal, almost easy. Almost like old times.

SHAWN SLID into the seat directly across from you, his movements unhurried but deliberate. The lively chatter of the group swirled around the table, a comfortable hum of teasing, laughter, and clinking plates. You focused on your own breakfast, carefully pouring syrup over your stack of pancakes, the golden liquid pooling on the plate. It was a simple task, but it gave you something to do other than acknowledge the occasional flicker of his gaze in your direction.

The quiet sound of his voice cut through the surrounding noise, soft and just loud enough for you to hear. "This is... really good," he said, almost hesitantly, as though testing the waters.

You glanced up, meeting his eyes for the briefest moment. There was something there—something you couldn't quite place. Gratitude? Nostalgia? Regret? Whatever it was, you didn't linger long enough to decipher it. Instead, you shrugged lightly, your voice even as you replied, "I've had practice."

His lips twitched, almost imperceptibly, into a faint smile. He opened his mouth as if to say more, but the conversation around the table shifted, cutting off whatever he'd been about to add.

"Alright, pancakes or bacon?" Matt declared, holding up a plate dramatically. "You can only pick one. Choose wisely."

"Pancakes," Lexie said without hesitation, snatching the plate from him. "Obviously."

"Wrong answer," Nate chimed in, shoveling a strip of bacon into his mouth. "Bacon for the win."

The table erupted into playful arguments about breakfast superiority, drawing everyone into the debate. You seized the moment, focusing back on your plate, though you could still feel Shawn's presence across from you. His gaze lingered for a second longer before he turned to join the conversation, letting the moment between you dissolve into the noise of the group.

But even as you pushed your fork through the soft stack of pancakes, you couldn't quite shake the feeling that Shawn's words—simple as they were—had carried a weight neither of you were ready to address. Not yet.

Ella cleared her throat with deliberate drama, rising halfway from her chair and clinking her spoon against her glass like she was officiating an important ceremony. The cheerful clatter of breakfast conversations faded as all eyes turned to her. She wore a mischievous grin, clearly relishing the attention.

"Okay, everyone! Since Jake and I are technically responsible adults now—" she paused as Lexie snorted into her coffee, causing a ripple of laughter around the table, "—we decided to plan some fun stuff for the week, so you all don't just sit around getting drunk and playing old-school Mario Kart like we're still in college."

"That feels like a direct attack," Nate said, raising a forkful of eggs with exaggerated mock offense. His expression drew another wave of laughter.

Ella grinned triumphantly. "It was."

Jake leaned forward from his seat beside her, resting his forearms on the table. "We figured, since we've got the whole week before the wedding, we'd mix it up a bit. Bring back some of the old traditions and maybe throw in a few new ones."

Lexie perked up, already intrigued, her coffee mug suspended mid-air. "Okay, but is this gonna be like that time you planned a 'fun hike' that turned into a five-hour death march in the middle of nowhere?"

Jake threw his hands up in mock surrender. "No extreme hikes this time. I swear. I've learned my lesson."

Ella smirked, pulling a neatly folded piece of paper from her pocket with a dramatic flourish. She flattened it on the table, smoothing out imaginary creases as though revealing some grand plan. "Alright, listen up! Here's what we've got lined up."

She began ticking off items with her finger. "Tonight, we're kicking things off with a bonfire by the lake—s'mores, drinks, stories... the whole nostalgic experience."

"Classic," Matt said, nodding in approval. "Perfect excuse to hear Nate's overly exaggerated camping disaster story for the hundredth time."

"I barely survived that trip," Nate shot back with mock indignation, earning another round of laughter.

Ella continued, undeterred by the group's antics. "Tomorrow, we've booked a boat rental for the entire day—sunbathing, tubing, swimming, and fishing, if that's your thing."

"Lake day, yes!" Sophie cheered, reaching across the table to high-five Lexie.

Jake leaned back in his chair with a grin. "And, since we know some people here thrive on competition..." His eyes flicked between you and Matt with a knowing smirk. "We've set up an old-school game tournament. Pool, darts, and, of course, Mario Kart."

The room broke into excited cheers and groans, the prospect of a heated throwback challenge clearly hitting the right notes.

"Hope you all like losing," Matt said confidently, stretching back in his chair with a self-assured grin. "I've only gotten better since college."

"You wish," you shot back, unable to resist a small smirk. "You still steer with the joystick like it's a spaceship."

"That's called precision," Matt replied with mock seriousness, setting off another round of laughter.

Ella tapped the table to bring the group's attention back, her grin widening. "Wait, wait—there's more!"

The chatter quieted, though you couldn't help but notice Shawn's gaze lingering on you for a moment longer than necessary after your brief, unguarded laugh.

"Thursday night," Ella continued, her voice softening slightly, "we're having a special dinner—all of us together. Something nice, before things get crazy with wedding prep."

The table stilled for a moment, the mood turning thoughtful. You could feel the nostalgia settling over everyone, wrapping the group in a quiet understanding of just how much these moments meant. Ella's words carried a weight that wasn't lost on anyone.

"And Friday?" Sophie asked, breaking the silence.

"Friday's surprise night," Jake announced, his grin taking on a mischievous edge. "We've got something big planned to end the week right."

"Define 'big,'" Lexie said suspiciously. "Because the last time you said that, we ended up camping in a thunderstorm with no cell service."

Jake laughed. "Trust me. You'll love it."

Ella leaned forward slightly, her expression soft and genuine. "We just... we really wanted this week to be about us. All of us. It's been way too long since we've done something like this."

There was a chorus of murmured agreement, heads nodding around the table. Even the usual banter and teasing quieted for a beat, replaced by the unspoken understanding of how much these connections meant. You glanced around the group, seeing the same sentiment reflected in everyone's eyes: this wasn't just another trip—it was something more.

And then, like clockwork, Matt raised his coffee mug high, breaking the moment with his signature grin. "To surviving Ella and Jake's intense activity list."

Everyone laughed, lifting mugs, glasses, and utensils in a chaotic toast.

"To the best week ever!" Ella corrected, clinking her glass against Jake's with a beaming smile.

The group echoed her cheer, the lively energy returning as plans for the day unfolded. You found yourself glancing at Shawn again, catching his thoughtful gaze as he watched you from across the table. It felt like old times for a second—a glimpse of something unspoken, still lingering between you.

As the group burst into playful teasing about who would dominate Mario Kart and who would inevitably tip the canoe later, you couldn't help but feel the quiet tug of something bittersweet, nestled beneath the surface of the laughter.

Something that felt a lot like hope.

THE BONFIRE had burned down to a steady glow, its flames reduced to smoldering embers that pulsed with warmth, cutting through the crisp night air. The temperature had dropped, and the group huddled closer around the fire, blankets wrapped snugly around shoulders and mugs of whiskey or coffee cradled in chilled hands. Matt, in his usual animated fashion, was midway through yet another outrageous tale from his self-proclaimed "adventurous" past.

"So there I was," he declared dramatically, gesturing wildly, "face to face with a snarling beast."

Sophie, already laughing so hard she could barely breathe, interrupted, waving her hand for him to stop. "You did not wrestle a bear!" she wheezed, doubling over with laughter.

"I didn't say I wrestled it, I faced it," Matt countered indignantly, his grin betraying him. "And technically, it was more of a... large raccoon. But the principle is the same!"

The group dissolved into uncontrollable laughter, the kind that came easily after a few drinks and years of shared memories. Even Jake, usually the calm one, was wiping tears from his eyes.

As the laughter ebbed, Ella leaned forward, her eyes glinting with mischief in the firelight. "Okay, okay. Enough about Matt's epic battles with wildlife. Let's do something real."

Lexie groaned loudly, leaning back in her chair. "If this is another one of your 'deep bonding moments,' I'm leaving."

"It's not bonding," Ella insisted, rolling her eyes, though her grin suggested otherwise. "I just think it's time to play Remember When. You have to share one memory from high school or college—something that still makes you smile. No dodging, no cop-outs."

The group exchanged wary but intrigued glances. There were a few groans, but nobody outright protested.

Jake went first, raising his hand like a kid in a classroom. "Alright. Remember that summer when Matt and I decided we could build a raft out of pool noodles?"

"Oh, God," Lexie groaned, already laughing.

"And we definitely thought it would float!" Jake continued, grinning. "Except it didn't even make it halfway across the lake before it started sinking."

"It was engineering genius," Matt interjected proudly. "We just needed more noodles."

"And maybe basic knowledge of buoyancy," Sophie quipped, earning another round of laughter.

Next, Sophie chimed in with her own story, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Lexie and I crashed that homecoming dance junior year—remember that? We weren't even invited, so we pretended to be catering staff to sneak in."

"I still have the pictures!" Lexie added, cackling. "I looked ridiculous holding a tray of fake hors d'oeuvres."

The laughter came easily, rippling through the circle, but when it was your turn, the group fell quiet, their attention shifting to you.

You hesitated, staring into the glowing embers. The memories swirled in your mind like the sparks drifting skyward, so vivid you could almost feel the summer heat on your skin, hear the sound of distant waves lapping against the dock.

"I..." you began, your voice soft, "remember the first summer after high school. We all snuck onto the old dock by the lake at midnight. Just... lying there, staring up at the stars."

The group stilled, their faces reflecting the same wistful warmth that flickered in the firelight.

"We talked about everything," you continued, your voice growing steadier. "About what life would be like when we 'grew up.' About the things we wanted, the places we'd go." A faint smile touched your lips. "It felt like nothing would ever change."

A quiet hum of nostalgia settled over the group. Heads nodded slowly, smiles tugged at lips, but no one spoke. The memory was shared by all of you—a moment frozen in time, perfect in its simplicity.

"I thought," you added softly, your gaze dropping to the fire, "that things would always stay the same."

The air grew still, heavy with the weight of what had been and what had changed. The only sounds were the crackling fire and the distant rustle of trees swaying in the cool night breeze.

Across the fire, Shawn's eyes found yours. They were steady, unguarded, carrying a familiar intensity that made your breath hitch. His gaze held something unspoken, a flicker of shared memory that tethered you both to that long-ago night. For a moment, the world around you faded, leaving only the soft glow of embers and the weight of the history still pulsing between you.

The spell was broken when Lexie clapped her hands together loudly, her voice cutting through the stillness. "Alright, enough feelings. Someone pass the whiskey before this gets too sentimental."

The group laughed, the tension dissolving as quickly as it had formed. Matt eagerly reached for the bottle, making a joke about how Lexie always killed the mood.

As the conversation shifted back to lighter topics, your heart was still pounding. You tightened the blanket around your shoulders, your mind lingering on the memories and the way Shawn had looked at you—as though those moments hadn't just been a memory for him either.

The quiet ripples of the lake mirrored the ones inside you, soft but insistent, refusing to settle.

THE SUN blazed high in the sky, its golden rays casting sparkling reflections across the vast, mirror-like surface of Lake Marigold. The air was warm, laced with the crisp scent of pine and sunscreen, while a soft breeze rippled through the water, carrying bursts of laughter from your group. Ella and Jake had delivered on their promise of a perfect lake day with the old but reliable pontoon boat they'd rented—a roomy, slightly weathered vessel equipped with a cooler packed with drinks, inflatable water floats, and a Bluetooth speaker blasting a nostalgic playlist from your teenage years.

You stood at the edge of the boat, leaning casually against the side rail, the occasional cool spray from the lake refreshing against your sun-warmed skin. You wore your favorite swim shorts and a lightweight tank top, though the heat was quickly convincing you to shed the layer. The boat swayed gently, its rocking motion soothing, as if the lake itself was welcoming you back to simpler times.

"Cannonball competition!" Matt's voice rang out from the rear of the boat, shattering the relative calm. He launched himself off the deck with a dramatic leap, his arms flailing for effect before he plunged into the water, sending up a towering splash. The spray drenched everyone nearby, including Lexie, who squealed before holding up an imaginary scorecard.

"Ten out of ten for the splash," she called, lounging on one of the padded deck chairs with her sunglasses perched on her nose and a drink in hand. "Minus points for the form, though."

"You're all critics!" Matt yelled back from the water, grinning as he splashed toward the ladder.

Beside you, Nate appeared, his hair still dripping from his last jump. He leaned casually on the railing, his grin as wide as the lake. "You in?" he asked, raising an eyebrow in challenge.

You laughed, shaking your head. "I'm saving my energy for tubing. You're going down later."

"Oh, that's how it's gonna be?" Nate teased, leaning in closer, his voice dropping mock-seriously. "Better back that up, because I'm not letting go of that tube until I win."

"Hope you've been working on your upper body strength," you shot back, nudging him playfully with your elbow.

Before you could react, Nate's grin turned wicked, and his hand shot out to grab your wrist. "Or maybe I'll just take you down now."

"Nate—don't—!" you protested, laughing as you tried to pull free. But he was faster, and with a firm tug, he yanked you toward the edge. You tumbled together into the lake, the water wrapping around you in a cool, shocking embrace.

You surfaced with a gasp, brushing water from your face just in time to see Nate grinning triumphantly. "Told you!" he said, holding his arms up in mock victory.

"Payback's coming," you shot back, launching yourself toward him with a splash that sent him flailing. The laughter between you was easy, uninhibited, like the kind you hadn't felt in a long time.

From the boat, Shawn watched quietly. He stood near the railing, one arm resting casually against it while his other hand held a water bottle. His black swim trunks clung to him, and his hair was damp from an earlier swim, curling slightly at the ends. He hadn't said much all day, but his eyes stayed on you now, following the way you laughed and splashed with Nate like nothing else in the world mattered. His gaze was thoughtful, almost wistful, as if trying to decipher the person you'd become in the years since.

When you finally climbed back onboard, breathless and dripping wet, you tugged off your soaked tank top and tossed it onto an empty chair. The sun warmed your skin as you grabbed a cold drink from the cooler, and that's when Shawn saw it.

The tattoo.

A delicate stream of black-inked butterflies trailed gracefully down the side of your neck and shoulder, each one unique, their wings intricate and fluid. Interspersed among them were faint words in elegant, flowing script:

"Learn to love yourself first."

Shawn's gaze lingered, tracing the path of the ink like it was a secret waiting to be unraveled. He remembered you mentioning once, long ago, that you wanted a tattoo, though you'd never said what or when. Seeing it now—seeing you now, bold and unapologetically yourself—hit him in a way he wasn't prepared for.

Lexie, sprawled in her chair, noticed the tattoo first. "Damn!" she called out, lifting her sunglasses to get a better look. "When did that happen?"

You glanced over your shoulder, absently brushing your fingers over the ink. "Couple years ago," you said, your voice casual but distant. "It was... something I needed at the time."

"It's gorgeous," Lexie said sincerely, raising her drink in a mock toast. "Good choice."

Before you could respond, Shawn spoke, his voice low but clear. "It's... beautiful."

The sincerity in his tone made you pause. You turned to meet his gaze, and for a moment, something unreadable passed between you. His eyes were steady, full of quiet admiration and something deeper, something unspoken.

"Thanks," you said softly, holding his gaze a second longer than you intended before Nate called your name from the front of the boat, waving you over to help with the tube.

You nodded and turned away, leaving Shawn standing by the railing, his thoughts visibly racing as he watched you walk off.

The day carried on with wild tubing rides, splash wars, and sun-soaked moments that would become the kind of memories you'd talk about years later. But for Shawn, the image of your tattoo lingered in his mind—a symbol of how much you'd changed, grown, and healed.

And it reminded him of how much he still wanted to be a part of your life.

THE SUN had begun its slow descent, casting golden light over the lake and softening the edges of the world around you. The group had settled into quieter activities—some lounging on the boat's deck, others lazily floating on inflatable tubes tethered nearby. The energy from earlier had simmered down, leaving behind a calm, reflective atmosphere.

You had slipped away from the group, finding a quiet spot on the pontoon's rear deck. Sitting on the edge with your legs dangling just above the water, you trailed your fingers lazily through the cool surface. The rhythmic lapping of the waves against the boat was soothing, a moment of peace you hadn't realized you needed.

Footsteps on the deck behind you made you glance back. Shawn stood there, his hands stuffed awkwardly into the pockets of his swim trunks. His damp hair was slightly tousled by the breeze, and the sunlight caught on the droplets of water clinging to his skin, giving him a golden glow. For a moment, he just stood there, his expression hesitant, almost cautious.

"Hey," he said softly, his voice carrying easily in the quiet.

You turned back to the water. "Hey."

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, stepping closer.

You hesitated, considering your answer. Part of you wanted to stay in this moment of solitude, free from the complexities his presence always seemed to bring. But before you could think better of it, you shrugged. "Sure."

Shawn sat down beside you, mirroring your position with his legs dangling over the edge. For a while, neither of you spoke. The silence wasn't exactly uncomfortable, but it wasn't easy either. It was weighted, heavy with everything unspoken between you.

He finally broke the silence, his voice quiet but steady. "I've been meaning to ask... how's life been? Since, you know... high school."

You didn't answer right away, your fingers skimming the water as you watched ripples expand and fade into the lake. "It's been... a lot," you said finally, your tone careful.

Shawn nodded, as though he'd expected the vagueness. "I figured," he said softly. "I mean, with everything you've done... the way everyone talks about you now. It's incredible."

You let out a faint, humorless laugh, glancing sideways at him. "Yeah, it's been great. Busy. A whirlwind." You paused, your voice dropping slightly. "But not always as perfect as it might look."

Shawn's expression softened, and he leaned back on his hands, his eyes scanning your face. "I get that," he said. "Sometimes it's easier to just... keep moving forward. Makes it harder for people to see what's really going on."

You turned your gaze back to the lake, the truth of his words hitting closer than you liked. "Yeah. Something like that."

There was another pause, longer this time. Shawn shifted slightly, his movements careful, like he was testing the waters of a conversation he wasn't sure you wanted to have.

"You've... changed," he said finally, his tone thoughtful. "Not in a bad way. You just seem... stronger. Like you've figured things out."

You gave a faint smile, though it didn't quite reach your eyes. "Figuring things out is a process. I think I'm still in it."

"Your tattoo," he said, his voice almost hesitant. "It's beautiful. And it feels like it says a lot about what you've been through."

You stiffened slightly, surprised at how easily he'd read the meaning behind it. "Yeah," you said after a moment, your voice softer now. "It's a reminder. For me, mostly."

Shawn nodded, his gaze dropping to his hands. He seemed to weigh his next words carefully before speaking. "I've thought about you, you know. Over the years. Wondered how you were. What you were doing."

You glanced at him, catching the faint vulnerability in his expression. It was disarming, and for a moment, the guarded wall you'd built felt less solid.

"I wasn't sure you would've cared," you admitted, your tone sharper than you intended. "You didn't exactly... make it easy to think otherwise."

Shawn flinched slightly, but he didn't look away. "I know," he said, his voice laced with regret. "I made a lot of mistakes. Hurt you in ways I didn't understand back then. I was stupid and scared."

You swallowed hard, the old wounds he was touching on still raw in some places. "Yeah, well, we were kids," you said, your tone deliberately detached. "It's all ancient history now."

Shawn opened his mouth as if to argue, but then he stopped, his jaw tightening briefly before he spoke again. "Maybe it is," he said quietly. "But I still wanted to tell you that I'm sorry. For everything."

His words hung in the air between you, heavy with sincerity. You didn't know how to respond, so you didn't. Instead, you focused on the way the water glimmered in the late-afternoon sun, the ripples from the boat spreading out endlessly into the lake.

After a long moment, you finally said, your voice softer now, "I'm glad you asked how I've been. I think... I think I'm okay now. Most of the time."

Shawn's gaze flicked to you again, and for the first time, you saw something in his eyes that looked like hope. "I'm glad," he said, his voice quiet but warm.

The conversation drifted back into silence, but it felt lighter this time, less burdened. For now, it was enough.

THE CABIN had settled into an almost eerie calm, a sharp contrast to the earlier chaos. The living room bore the evidence of the group's gaming marathon—empty snack bowls balanced precariously on the edges of tables, half-finished drinks scattered across every available surface, and a few abandoned controllers lying in a tangled mess near the TV. Jake had claimed the crown of Mario Kart champion after a nail-biting final race against Matt, and the cheers and laughter that followed had felt like stepping back in time.

Now, the energy had drained from the space, leaving it quieter than it had been all day. One by one, the group had drifted off, retreating to their rooms with groans about sore muscles and heavy eyelids. The day's adventures—tubing, fishing, and far too much competitive gaming—had taken their toll.

You lingered behind, moving through the room with quiet purpose. You grabbed stray cups and empty cans, stacking them carefully before ferrying them to the kitchen. A throw blanket, half-slid off the leather couch, caught your eye, and you tossed it back into place, smoothing it out instinctively. The act of tidying, of restoring some sense of order to the space, felt grounding after the lively chaos of the evening.

The cabin creaked softly as you made your way down the dimly lit hallway toward the shared bathroom near your room. The faint scent of pine and lingering smoke from the earlier bonfire seemed to cling to the walls. You pulled your shirt over your head as you walked, the fabric sticking slightly from the long, active day. The promise of a hot shower was irresistible, a reward for the ache in your shoulders and the slight sunburn prickling at the back of your neck.

The bathroom was small but cozy, its wooden walls lined with hooks for towels and a small shelf cluttered with travel-sized toiletries. You turned on the shower, the old pipes groaning for a moment before the water began to flow. Steam quickly filled the space, curling around you and fogging up the mirror. The heat was immediate, soothing, as you stepped under the powerful spray, letting the water cascade over you.

The tension of the day began to dissolve as the water worked its way over your skin, washing away sunscreen, sweat, and the faint smell of lake water. You closed your eyes, tilting your head back, and let the steady rhythm of the droplets drown out everything else—the laughter, the noise, the subtle undercurrents of tension that had woven through the day.

For a few minutes, it was just you, the warmth of the water, and the comforting hum of the cabin settling into the night. The outside world faded away, leaving behind nothing but steam and the quiet sanctuary of the moment.

Meanwhile Shawn wandered down the dim hallway, the cabin unusually quiet after the day's lively energy. He was still sipping the last of his water, the coolness a welcome contrast to the warmth lingering in the house. The day had been long and full, but his mind kept drifting back to you—the way you'd laughed with Nate on the lake, the easy way you'd shared memories during the gaming marathon, and especially the conversation you'd had earlier on the boat.

He hadn't expected to feel so at ease with you again. The years between you, the mistakes, the regret—they'd weighed heavy on him for so long. But talking to you about your career, your tattoo, the way you seemed more confident and self-assured than ever, had stirred something deep in his chest. A mix of admiration, nostalgia, and something else he didn't quite have the words for.

The hallway creaked softly under his bare feet as he moved toward his room, the glass of water dangling loosely in his hand. As he passed the shared bathroom, the faint sound of running water registered in the back of his mind. For a moment, he thought it was the old pipes acting up, or maybe someone had forgotten to turn off the shower entirely.

He glanced at the light streaming under the door, assuming the room was empty. It wasn't unusual for someone to leave a light on in their rush to bed after a day like this. Without a second thought, he reached for the handle and pushed the door open.

The warm rush of steam hit him first, curling outward as the door swung wide enough to give him a clear view inside. His mind caught up a moment too late, his eyes taking in the figure standing under the shower spray, the glass door slightly frosted but not enough to obscure you entirely.

Shawn froze, the glass of water slipping slightly in his grip as his heart lurched into his throat. His first instinct was to look away, to backpedal, to somehow undo the mistake he'd just made. "Shit—sorry!" he blurted out, his voice sharp but laced with panic.

You spun toward the door, your hands instinctively reaching to shield yourself as best you could. "Shawn?!" Your voice was equal parts shock and mortification, the heat of the water now nothing compared to the burning rush of embarrassment flooding through you.

"I—I didn't know you were in here!" Shawn stammered, his face going red as he immediately turned away, his hand gripping the doorframe like it was the only thing keeping him from bolting. "I thought the light was just left on, I swear!"

"Get out!" you shouted, your voice muffled slightly by the sound of the shower spray

"I'm going! I'm going!" he said quickly, fumbling to pull the door closed behind him. The steam seemed to follow him as he stumbled back into the hallway, his pulse racing and his mind scrambling to process what had just happened.

Shawn stood there for a moment, the coolness of the hallway doing little to calm the heat in his cheeks. He ran a hand through his hair, letting out a breath he didn't realize he'd been holding.

Back inside the bathroom, you turned the water off with a sharp twist, the moment replaying in your head as you grabbed for a towel. Your heart was pounding, equal parts anger and humiliation swirling in your chest.

Shawn lingered outside the bathroom for a second longer, debating whether to say something or retreat entirely. But when he heard the sharp click of the shower turning off, he quickly made his decision, heading straight for his room without another glance back.

Whatever peace the night had held for either of you was long gone.

THE MORNING sun bathed the cobblestone street in a soft golden light, casting long shadows from the quaint storefronts that lined both sides. The group strolled together, their energy still buoyed by the lingering high of the week's adventures. The laughter and banter from the past few days seemed to follow you like a warm breeze, wrapping everyone in an easy camaraderie.

Lexie was darting in and out of shops, her enthusiasm infectious as she called out to Sophie, who trailed behind her with a resigned but amused grin. Every so often, Lexie would burst out with an exclamation—something about a vintage jacket or a ridiculous souvenir—and Sophie would groan playfully, shaking her head before following her friend inside.

Up ahead, Jake and Matt were locked in a lively debate, their voices carrying easily over the cobblestones. They were animatedly arguing about which old diner in town had served the best burgers during your teenage years. Jake was gesturing emphatically toward one corner of the street, while Matt shook his head, pointing in the opposite direction.

"You're insane if you think Charlie's had better fries!" Jake said, his tone incredulous.

"Charlie's fries were soggy half the time," Matt retorted. "Now, Mel's—that was perfection. Crisp, golden, and they gave you free refills on ketchup."

"You're basing your entire argument on ketchup?" Jake groaned, throwing his hands in the air. "I can't with you."

You walked a few steps behind them, laughing softly at their exchange but keeping mostly to yourself. The morning air was cool against your skin, and the quiet rhythm of your steps on the uneven stones grounded you as your thoughts wandered.

Shawn lingered toward the back of the group, hands tucked casually into the pockets of his denim jacket. His gaze moved over the street, the bustling shops, the familiar faces of your friends—but it always seemed to drift back to you. He walked with an easy, unhurried stride, but his thoughts were anything but calm.

He couldn't stop thinking about the night before—the moment in the bathroom that had caught both of you off guard. He'd felt a rush of embarrassment, of course, but beneath it, something else had stirred. In that fleeting, awkward moment, he'd felt the weight of how familiar you still seemed, even after all the time and distance that had stretched between you. It wasn't just the sight of you—it was the way you moved, the way you'd reacted, the way you'd looked at him, even in anger and shock. It had stayed with him, replaying in his mind long after he'd retreated to his room.

Now, as he watched you from a few steps behind, he felt the same pull, the same sense of gravity that had always drawn him to you. He wanted to say something, to bridge the gap that still felt so wide between you despite the small steps you'd taken back toward each other this week. But every time he opened his mouth, the words wouldn't come.

You glanced back briefly, catching his eye. For a moment, neither of you looked away, the world around you seeming to blur as the connection between you crackled like a live wire. Shawn's lips parted slightly, like he might finally say something, but then you turned back toward the group, leaving the moment suspended in the air.

"Hey!" Lexie's voice rang out, breaking the spell as she burst out of another shop, waving something in the air. "Look at this ridiculous hat!" She planted it on her head—a wide-brimmed monstrosity with fake flowers—and struck a dramatic pose, sending the group into peals of laughter.

"Perfect," Matt said, grinning as he gave her a thumbs-up. "That's exactly the vibe we're going for."

Shawn smiled faintly at the exchange but remained quiet, his attention still half-fixed on you. He wondered how long he could keep holding back, how many more moments he'd let slip away before he finally found the courage to tell you what was on his mind.

The cobblestone street felt alive with memories as you walked beside Nate, pointing out the old record store just a few doors down. The shop's faded sign and scuffed window displays were exactly as you remembered, a nostalgic throwback to teenage afternoons spent flipping through vinyl and saving up for limited-edition releases. Nate grinned as you shared a quick story about an epic argument with Lexie over who got the last copy of a rare album, the kind of playful bickering that had defined your group back then.

But mid-sentence, you faltered, your words trailing off as your attention snagged on a familiar pair across the street.

Caroline and James Whitmore.

Caroline stood in front of a boutique that practically screamed exclusivity, its polished windows and pristine displays a perfect match for her perfectly curated appearance. She adjusted her designer sunglasses with the precision of someone who wanted to be noticed, her posture straight and commanding like she was posing for the cover of a fashion magazine. Even from across the street, you could feel her air of superiority—the kind that had been her trademark since high school.

Her sharp gaze scanned the street lazily, as if she owned it. When her eyes landed briefly on your group, her expression barely changed. There was no recognition, no warmth, just a flicker of disinterest before she turned away, dismissing you all like you were background noise in her perfectly crafted world.

But it wasn't Caroline who really held your attention—it was the person beside her.

James Whitmore stood casually next to her, a takeout coffee in one hand and an easy smile on his face as he chatted with the shopkeeper in front of him. He was tall, with the same striking features as his sister, but that was where the similarities ended. James radiated warmth and charm, his relaxed demeanor a sharp contrast to Caroline's icy poise. While Caroline looked like she could cut someone down with a single glance, James had always been approachable, down-to-earth, and, well... genuinely likable.

Your memories of James were mostly positive—moments of easy conversation and unexpected kindness that had stood out in the whirlwind of high school drama. He'd been one of the few people in Caroline's orbit who didn't seem to care about wealth or status, a refreshing anomaly in a world that often felt dominated by people like her.

Nate followed your gaze, his expression shifting when he spotted them. "Wow," he said under his breath. "Caroline Whitmore in the wild. I thought she only existed in penthouses and glossy magazines."

You snorted, your lips quirking into a half-smile. "Guess even royalty needs a coffee break."

"James is still around too, huh?" Nate added, nodding toward him. "Man, I actually liked that guy. What's he doing hanging out with her again?"

"They're siblings," you pointed out, shrugging. "Even nice people have baggage."

Nate laughed at that, but his attention soon shifted back to your group, leaving you with your thoughts. Your eyes lingered on James for a moment longer, noting the way he laughed easily at something the shopkeeper said. It was strange—seeing him and Caroline together, the stark contrast between them as vivid as ever.

You turned back to Nate, brushing off the encounter with a casual air. "Come on," you said, nodding toward the record store. "I want to see if they still have that hidden section in the back."

But as you walked away, you couldn't shake the feeling that the Whitmores' sudden appearance was more than just a coincidence. Something about it stirred old memories, old tensions. And while James had always been a pleasant surprise, Caroline was a reminder that some things—and some people—never really changed.

THE DOOR of the record store swung shut behind you, the small bell above it jingling softly as your group stepped out onto the sunlit cobblestone street. You were still laughing at something Nate had said, your arms laden with a few choice finds from the store, when you turned the corner and almost collided head-on with a familiar face.

"Hey!" James Whitmore's voice rang out, warm and unmistakable. He crossed the street toward you with long, confident strides, his hazel eyes sparkling in the sunlight. His easy smile widened as he approached, and for a moment, it was like no time had passed at all.

"I thought that was you guys!" he said, his tone infused with genuine excitement.

Your steps faltered, caught off guard by the unexpected encounter. But as James stopped in front of you, his presence as charming and down-to-earth as ever, you couldn't help but feel yourself relax.

"Back in town, huh? For Ella and Jake's wedding?" he asked, looking at you with the same sincerity that had always set him apart from his sister.

"Yeah," you replied, nodding. "It's been a while."

"Way too long," he said, his gaze lingering on you. There was a warmth in his expression, something genuine that made your stomach flutter unexpectedly. "You look... good."

"Thanks," you said, feeling a faint blush creep up your neck. Before you could respond further, the sharp click of heels on cobblestones interrupted the moment.

"Oh. You people," came a familiar, disdainful voice. Caroline Whitmore stood a few steps away, her arms crossed and her sharp eyes narrowing behind oversized designer sunglasses. Her glossy hair shimmered in the sunlight as she flipped it over one shoulder with dramatic precision.

Caroline's voice dripped with condescension as she continued. "Didn't know they let tourists loiter downtown now."

Behind you, Matt let out a theatrical sigh. "Still a delight, Caroline," he deadpanned, earning stifled laughs from Lexie and Sophie.

Caroline's eyes darted to Matt, her expression as icy as ever, but she didn't dignify him with a response. Instead, she turned her attention back to James, her patience clearly wearing thin. "James," she said sharply, her tone carrying an air of authority, "Mother wanted you back ten minutes ago."

James didn't even glance her way, waving her off with a casual flick of his wrist. "Tell her I'm busy."

Caroline's mouth opened, likely to protest, but she seemed to think better of it. With a dramatic huff, she spun on her heel, her expensive heels clicking loudly against the cobblestones as she strutted back across the street.

"Good talk," Matt called after her, earning another laugh from Lexie.

James chuckled, shaking his head. "She hasn't changed a bit."

"Some things never do," you quipped, a grin tugging at your lips.

James laughed softly, his attention returning to you. "It's good seeing you again," he said, his tone quieter now, almost thoughtful.

"Yeah," you replied, matching his tone. "You too."

From a few steps away, Shawn lingered in the shadows of the moment, his hands stuffed tightly into the pockets of his denim jacket. His jaw tightened as he watched the interaction unfold, his gaze fixed on James. The easy way James leaned in, laughing at something you said, his hand briefly brushing yours—it was effortless, familiar, and far too comfortable for Shawn's liking.

Shawn's lips pressed into a thin line, his narrowed eyes betraying the practiced indifference he was trying so hard to maintain. He shifted his weight from one foot to the other, as though the movement could somehow shake off the tension building in his chest.

Lexie appeared beside him like a wisp of smoke, silent and sharp-eyed. She tilted her head toward you and James, a knowing smirk tugging at her lips. "You're staring," she said quietly, her voice low enough not to draw attention but loud enough to needle him.

"I'm not," Shawn muttered, his voice clipped as he tore his gaze away, focusing instead on a crack in the cobblestones beneath his feet.

"Uh-huh. Sure," Lexie replied, her tone dripping with amused disbelief. She folded her arms, leaning closer. "He's very charming, isn't he?"

Shawn's jaw clenched visibly, the muscle twitching. "He's fine," he said flatly, his voice devoid of conviction.

Lexie laughed softly under her breath, a sound that was more perceptive than mocking. "Relax," she said. "It's just James. They've always been friends."

"Good friends," Shawn muttered before he could stop himself, the edge in his voice cutting through the quiet. His eyes flicked back to James, who was now lightly touching your shoulder as he spoke. The gesture was casual, innocent even, but it burned in Shawn's chest like a live ember.

Lexie's smirk faded, replaced by something softer, more thoughtful. She studied him for a moment, her perceptive gaze seeing far more than he was comfortable admitting. "You know," she said finally, her voice dropping, "if this is bothering you, maybe you should figure out why."

Shawn's jaw tightened further, but he didn't respond. He didn't need to—Lexie's point had already landed.

Before either of them could say more, James called over, his voice warm and inviting. "Hey, you guys coming to the brewery later? They're doing live music tonight."

"Absolutely!" Matt answered instantly, his enthusiasm cutting through any lingering tension. "We're so there."

James grinned, his hazel eyes flicking back to you. "Hope I'll see you there," he said, his tone meant just for you.

You felt your cheeks warm under his gaze but nodded, your smile easy and genuine. "Wouldn't miss it," you replied.

As James crossed back to the boutique, you watched him go, the exchange leaving you with a pleasant warmth. Talking to him had been effortless, like stepping into a time capsule of simpler days. It felt good—comfortable in a way you hadn't realized you'd missed.

Shawn, however, remained rooted beside Lexie, his posture rigid. His heart pounded with a mix of jealousy, regret, and something far more complicated than he was ready to name. His eyes flicked to you again, catching the faint smile lingering on your face as you turned back toward the group.

"See you tonight," you said, your voice carrying easily as you addressed the group—but your gaze lingered on Shawn just a moment longer. His expression was hard to read, the tension in his shoulders unmistakable, and you couldn't help but wonder what, exactly, was running through his mind.

[sassy-classy-fangirl]

We cry because our celebrity husband doesn’t know we exist

[mendesblurb]

Sparks Fly

Shawn Mendes x female reader

Warning ⚠️: mostly fluff, maybe grammar error and maybe some punctuation errors

Word count:~600

A/N: Got Inspired by the Taylor Swift song 🤓, also first story since forever. Hello, 2025!

——//

The New York skyline glittered, a million tiny diamonds scattered across velvet night. You stood there, overlooking the East River, pulling your coat tighter against the crisp air.

You’d come for work, meeting him was something impulsive, unplanned.

Hey. I’m in town. Break a leg tonight 🤓

Come and meet me ❤️, I’ll take you around the Big Apple after.

True to his word, he did.

The restaurant he picked was tucked away on a quiet corner. Warm light. Perfect pasta. Wine that loosened your thoughts away from your laptop. Conversation that felt familiar, easy, and safe.

Now, you walked beside him along the riverbank. The city lights danced on the water.

You stopped at a lookout point. The Brooklyn Bridge arched in quiet grandeur.

You craned your neck to take it all in, the glittering skyline, the way the city lights shimmered like reflections on glass. It was breathtaking, almost unreal, like something out of a dream. For a moment, you forgot everything else. The sound of distant traffic faded beneath the hum of the river, and all that remained was this moment, this view, this quiet magic.

Truly a beautiful sight, you thought, just as your heel caught on a crack in the pavement. You stumbled, unexpectedly thrown off balance. Your shoulder bumped into your companion with a soft thud, the contact sudden but not unwelcome.

Before you could catch yourself, his hand shot out, steadying you by the arm, “You okay?” he asked, a hint of concern laced in his voice, though the corners of his lips twitched like he was holding back a smile.

You nodded, breath catching for a beat. “Yeah… yeah. Just distracted by the view I guess,” you said, eyes still wide.

“Some things never change, huh?” he said, a smile playing on his lips.

You laughed softly and brushed his arm, “Shut up,” you said, more breath than voice. Although your hands didn’t part. His fingers were warm, steady.

The closeness stole your breath. He didn’t step back. Instead, he leaned in. Your heart hammered. His face hovered close, too close and without thinking, you shifted away, just slightly, “What are you doing?” you asked, barely louder than a whisper.

Neither of you said a word for a beat or took a step back.

His voice came low, uncertain, “You’re right. We shouldn’t.”

“Yeah,” you whispered.

Then he exhaled, like he’d finally dropped the weight he’d been carrying for years. “What if I can’t?” he said. “I can’t ignore it anymore, Y/n.”

You froze. Because part of you had been waiting to hear that for years. You’d be lying if you said you hadn’t thought about it too , maybe even more times than you cared to admit.

“This is…” you began, flustered, “This is not like me. I don’t stumble. I haven’t been this clumsy in years.”

He gave a knowing smirk.

You rushed on, words tumbling out, “Also — I’m in a strange city. I’ve never even been here before. And okay, maybe I’ve had a little too much wine. And maybe my shoes aren’t made for walking on cobblestones, or stepping perfectly on uneven pavement,” You huffed a breathless laugh, “Plus, someone this tall, attractive, and smells damn good shouldn’t be standing this close. It’s unfair.”

You were rambling, and he knew you tended to do this when the nervousness crept in. He always found it cute.

He chuckled, eyes glinting, “Are you done?”

“I… okay. Yes, I’m done,” you said, smiling softly. “I’m running out of excuses.”

“Thank God,” he murmured, voice thick with relief.

This time, when he leaned in, you didn’t stop him.

The kiss was soft at first, hesitant, like opening a door you’d both stood behind for far too long. Then it deepened, years of tension melting into something undeniable. His arms wrapped around your waist. Your fingers tangled in his hair. The city blurred behind closed eyes, only light and heat and him.

——//

Thank you for reading guys... feel free to like, reblog, follow my account, leave a comment and my chat is always open for random chats or requests... appreciate every single one of you... ❤️

Taglist (open) : @monikamendes @holland-styles @bvttercupbby @lonelyreputation @badreputationlove @shawn-is-my-giant-jellybean @benito-mi-vida @swiftmendeshoran @yournameoneverypage @shawn-is-bruh @mendesbhraanth @perfectlywrongformendes @imaginashawnn @smendes-forever @nervousmendes @whenyoureadyholland @shawn-youth @myboyshawn @camilalewiss @camilalewisss @theregoesmyherojd @nanijaac1 @shawnieeboyy @silverswallow @inlovewithmendes-blog @mendeslola-blog @mendesx123 @23kofmendes @jellyloml @chipofmendes @poohofmendes @wutheringmendes @shawnmendesbuddy @chocochipcookie305 @shiningshawns

Story Code:01062510

[sweetiepoison]

Famous Baby blurb

(The Leafs Game)

A/n: I’m actually really struggling writing the next part so a throwback! Italics indicate a flashback

“Try going up one note” You suggest standing across from Justin at the piano.

Your friend asked you to come over to help out with some new music he was working on. You also were trying to write an album of your own and figured the afternoon spent working would help you as well. Justin sang the previous verse over again but higher like you suggested.

“Yeah I like that.” He commented going straight into the next verse. You hummed along joining in on certain verses creating a harmony.

“How would you feel about this song being the first I release off the new album?” Your jaw dropped at Justin’s question.

“For real?” You gasped. Justin’s return to music had been long anticipated by both fans and the media alike. And for him to want the song you collaborated on to be his intro back into the music industry was appreciated.

“Of course!” Justin exclaimed scooting back from the piano. “(y/n), you are one of the biggest names in the industry right now if not the biggest” he said putting an emphasis on the word the.

You were like a little sister to Justin, originally signing onto the same label when you were 16 and starting your career. Justin knew what it was like to be so young and in the spotlight so he looked out for you. Despite you switching labels and Justin taking a step back from music, you remained close. There was no one else he trusted more to debut his new album with.

“You’re still Justin Bieber.” You reminded him. “You don’t need my name attached for this to be successful.”

You continued practicing until the afternoon slowly turned into the evening and Hailey came downstairs with a leafs jersey on and an extra in her hands.

“Cult meeting tonight?” You asked as she handed the jersey to Justin.

“Yeah, do you want to come?” She offered.

You laughed at the thought, “Hell no.”

“C’mon, (y/n) please.”

“Come support our friend with us.” They both wore the same pouty expression.

“Auston is not my friend.”

“But we are,” Justin cut in before you could go on a rant. “And would you rather hang out with your friends or stay in by yourself tonight?”

“I’m fine with staying in.”

“C’mon everyone’s going, and it’ll be a fun night and we can go out after-“

“Fine.” You give in. “But I’m not wearing a jersey.”

—

It wasn’t enough for you to just not wear a maple leafs jersey. You knew one thing would piss off Auston even more. So once you all settled into your seats you grabbed your best friends hand and dragged her down to the gift shop.

“You don’t even like hockey.” She reminded you as you searched through the jerseys. “Why waste money on something you’re never gonna wear again?”

“Because, Auston will hate it.”

“And why do you care what he thinks?”

“I don’t.” You immediately snapped. “But I definitely don’t want him to think I came willingly. Plus we’re from here so why not support the hometown team.” You shrugged continuing your search.

Once you finally settled on a jersey you liked you didn’t wait for a bag and instead immediately pulled it on over your shirt. The jersey may have been petty, but you knew it would get the job done and that’s what mattered.

Justin groaned and rolled his eyes once he saw you return to your seat, “I’m not even gonna say anything.”

“Good choice.” You said sitting down next to Shawn with a satisfied smirk, actually looking forward to the start of the game.

“The arena is packed tonight. And we are not short of celebrity guests. Up in the stands we have Justin and Hailey Bieber, Shawn Mendes, and (y/f/n) (y/l/n)” The crowd cheered loudly following the announcement and the excitement only grew as your section was featured on the Jumbotron. You waved and smiled for the camera.

“It looks like there’s a rivalry going on up there.” The other announcer commented on the oppsoing jerseys you were wearing. You adjusted in your seat making it very known that you had a Kings jersey on.

“I would love to hear the trash talking that’s going on up there between Justin and (y/n)”

—

Once again the crowd went wild as Auston scored a goal. The group around you excitedly jumped up cheering along with others. You remained stoic looking down at your phone to check the time.

“At least pretend to be happy.” Justin leaned down to whisper his back facing the ice. “The cameras are on us.”

“Excitement for Auston is just something I can’t fake.” You finalized with a shrug of your shoulders, but the pleading look on Justin’s face was too hard to ignore. So you forced a smile throwing in a few claps.

“I’ll take it.” Justin said satisfied.

Once everyone calmed down you went back to your phone showing Shawn pictures from the vacation your family took recently. You were so absorbed in telling various stories from the trip you didn’t notice the time out that was called.

Shawn’s song, Fallin’ All in You began playing. You absentmindedly hummed along and looked up to see the Jumbotron started back up and this time with the kiss cam.

The camera suddenly panned on your section and was featuring Justin and Hailey. All of your friends instantly began cheering the couple on. And when they gave in and the crowd erupted.

Your excitement was fleeting though as the camera moved off of them and onto you and Shawn.

“Oh God.” You mumbled with a smile on your face trying to cover up any discomfort you were feeling.

You thought your immediate hesitation would be enough of an indication that you didn’t want to kiss your ex, but they persisted refusing to move the camera.

“They aren’t going to move on till we kiss.” Shawn whispered.

“Fine.” You conceded leaning back and looking over at him. “You make the first move.”

“Like our first kiss all over again.” He laughed before leaning over and kissing you. It was gentle and sweet, but had the whole arena booming with excitement.

You immediately covered your face laughing along with him as the camera stayed on you two to get the aftermath. Shawn kept his arm wrapped around your shoulders and kissed the side of your head. “Give it a second they’ll move on…And we’re good.”

You were relieved when you looked up and it wasn’t your face you were seeing on the screen. The breakup took place seven years ago and you stayed true to your word remaining friends after the split.

While there were no longer romantic feelings, Shawn was a comforting piece of your foundation. He not only maintained a good relationship with you, but your family as well. You knew he would be a part of your life for the rest of your life.

“Good job guys, no matter what happens with this game, that’s all anyone’s going to be talking about.” Justin reached over to fist bump Shawn.

“So we need to know are you guys back together.” Your best friend held out her water bottle as a fake microphone to you.

“Yeah, that kiss seemed pretty intimate.” Your other friend, Mason joined in also holding out a water bottle.

“Shut up.” You giggled pushing the water bottle away. “If any of you say we’re together I will end you.”

“Not the threats.” Mason joked, “I’m for sure telling TMZ that when they call me.”

Following the kiss cam the intensity seemed to go up for both teams, especially for one player in particular.

Auston wasn’t sure why seeing you on the kiss cam annoyed him so much, but it did. Everyone was supposed to be here to watch a hockey game and you turned it into a joke.

“Fuck.” He angrily slammed his stick against the boards breaking it before taking a seat on the bench.

“Dude, take a breather.” Mitch encouraged sitting down next to him.

“I’m fine.” Auston insisted taking a long swig from his water bottle.

“You sure because you’ve seemed tense?”

“Yeah I just want to win.” Mitch knew that wasn’t the reason, but he also knew not to push so he let it go.

Following your kiss he began playing harder. His hits were more forceful, his trash talking more heated, and his need to score at an all time. The intensity in the arena extended beyond the ice. As the game drew closer to ending fans of both teams started getting more aggressive.

“Matthews sucks. Anytime anyone gets near him he’s crying and acting like a little bitch.” A man sitting in front of you screamed at the glass. You had watched him down four beers already and become progressively drunk as the game went on.

“He’s talented, but selfish with the puck and a show off. The talent won’t last forever.” His friend next to him chimed in. They were both wearing Kings jerseys similar to the one you had on.

The way they were talking about Auston didn’t sit right with you. Any other day you would agree and probably even say those things yourself, but today was not that day.

You may have not known much about hockey, but you knew Auston was good (you would never admit that to him). And two middle aged men saying otherwise annoyed you.

“(Y/n), don’t.” Your best friend wrapped her hand around your wrist. You looked down now noticing that your hands were clenched and tapping against your leg.

“I’m not going to do anything.” You reassured her, trying to take deep breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth.

“Are you sure? Because you have this crazy look in your eye and your extremely stiff right now.”

“I’m fine.” You seethed through clenched teeth.

“He’s overrated and overpaid.”

You took it upon yourself to tap on one of the men’s shoulder. As they turned around you cleared your throat and plastered on a tight smile. “Don’t you think this is the type of conversation you can have in your car on the ride home or maybe not even at all?”

“I can talk about whatever and whoever I want, when I want to.” The man on the right replied his beer sloshing around in his glass.

“You are two grown men talking about another grown man, be realistic.” You bit back, your attempt at being nice slowly fading away.

“You’re right we are grown men and allowed to have whatever opinion we want.” The second man replied raising his voice.

“Yeah maybe just don’t have it so loudly.” You suggested shrugging your shoulders and leaning back in your seat.

“You don’t know anything about hockey.”

“I know that right now the leafs are beating the kings.”

“Games not over yet.”

“And Matthews has scored two of their four goals.”

Despite your best attempts to keep the conversation cordial. The raised voices started gaining the attention of others around you. You knew a disagreement was one thing, but a full blown fight wouldn’t be a good look for you. As far as the public were concerned you weren’t the type of girl to be aggressive. And you would have maintained that look had one of the men not stood up so he was towering over you.

“He sucks the same way you probably get on your knees every night and suck his dick.” Any thought of being passive for your public image was out the window as you also stood not backing down.

“Excuse me.”

“You heard me.”

“No say it again I want you to hear yourself and how stupid you sound.” Image be damned. You didn’t want someone talking about Auston like that and you definitely weren’t going to allow them to talk about you like that.

“You’re nothing more than one of his sluts.” He threw his arms in the air, but before anything further could happen security was closing in on you quickly. You realized you hadn’t only caught the attention of the people around you but the whole arena as you looked up and could see yourself on the Jumbotron.

“And you’re a pathetic excuse of a human being. People pay to watch him, you’re running your mouth for free.” You had the final say as security pulled him away kicking both man out of the game. The crowd cheered watching them get escorted out, still fighting with anyone they could.

Watching them leave, however didn’t make you feel any better. You quickly picked up your bag and began climbing up the stairs before anyone could stop you. You were embarrassed that someone spoke to you like that especially in front of a crowd. You ran into the nearest bathroom locking yourself in a stall. You cursed yourself for letting your anger get the best of you. You knew this was going to be everywhere in a matter of hours. The string of texts coming into your phone from your publicist let you know that word already got to her.

“Fuck.” You groaned letting your head fall against the stall wall.

“(Y/n)?” You knew your best friend would find you. She stopped in front of the stall you were in, “I know you’re in there. I can see your feet.”

You groaned stomping your foot on the ground,“Go away.” There was no way you were opening the door.

“A security guard came over to us, Auston’s asking to see you.”

“No.” You flat out refused.

“Please.” You didn’t need to open the door to know she was biting down on her lip, a nervous habit she picked up from you. “He’s refusing to go back on the ice until he talks to you and they kinda need him.”

“Oh my god, he’s so dramatic.” You exclaimed opening the door. You usually were against giving into tantrums, but this needed to be resolved.

You begrudgingly followed security as they took you down to the tunnel where Auston was waiting.

“Are you crazy?” Auston screamed as soon as he saw you walking towards him.

Auston was confused as both teams were forced back to their benches in the middle of the game. Nothing happened on the ice to justify this, but as the crowd started to get loud and the Jumbotron featured the stands he realized it wasn’t because of what was happening on the ice, but rather off of it.

He watched as two people stood toe to toe yelling back and forth, neither backing down. But once he looked closer he realized he recognized the people around the two and then realized one of the people standing was you.

“So fucking stupid.” He mumbled, anger starting to flare up in his eyes. He continued to watch until the man raised his arm and that’s when Auston started moving before he could think. He didn’t get very far though, before multiple people were holding him back.

“Get off me.” He growled fighting against Mo, John, and Willy.

“You’re not going over there, this isn’t our arena and those aren’t our fans.” John kept his arms on Auston’s shoulders.

He continued watching as security closed in on the altercation separating you two, “fuck this.” He snapped breaking free from the hold on himself and moving towards the tunnel. “Someone get her down here.”

“Are you?” You shot back, “your holding up a whole game for this!” You motioned your hand between the two of you.

“I wouldn’t have to if you would’ve just sat down and stayed quiet!” He was pissed and didn’t care about who could possibly hear him.

“Oh yeah because I wanted a grown man yelling in my face.” You sarcastically let out, your voice going up an octave as you also got louder.

You watched as Auston shook his head and ran his hands through his hair. He had a concentrated look on his face, a look you’d seen before. This was the look Auston wore when he was trying to figure something out. But unlike before, the look didn’t go away, he was still frustrated.

“What the hell were you thinking?” He huffed pacing back and forth.

“I wasn’t, I was defending you!” You flung your arms in the air voice strained. “And based on how you’re treating me right now, I shouldn’t have.”

“I don’t need you to defend me.” Auston didn’t hold back, “people say shit all the time. You included.”

“But they weren’t me and no one besides me should say those things about you.” Your pulse was racing and it took a generous amount of self control to bring your voice back down to a reasonable level.

It felt like an eternity of silence before Auston finally replied, his voice much softer and more worn out, “You could’ve gotten hurt.”

“But I didn’t.” You watched as he leaned against the the wall hunched over. You realized that this was effecting him more than you. You were worried about your image, but Auston was worried about you. If anything would’ve happened to you, he would’ve never forgave himself. That’s not because he had any feelings for you, but because his parents raised him right (or at least that’s what he told himself when he flew off the ice and down the tunnel demanding to see you.)

“Hey, Auston.” You timidly touched his cheek forcing him to look at you. “I’m fine. Okay?” You searched his eyes for any confirmation that your words were getting through. “Plus I didn’t totally disagree with them, they did call you a little bitch.” The smile that tugged at the corners of his mouth and the deep chuckle confirmed that he was fine.

“A little bitch, huh? Not very original.”

“They also called me a dumb bitch so we have that in common.” You shrugged taking a step back.

Auston was amused, “Who would’ve thought that would be what we have in common.”

You smiled crossing your arms over your chest. You both took a second to really look at each other. You may have disliked each other, but you shared common ground when it came to dealing with hate. Auston didn’t deserve it any more than you did.

“This color looks terrible on you by the way.” Auston broke the silence lightly tugging at the jersey you wore.

“Really? You looked down at your outfit, “I think it’s sleek and flattering.”

“You’d look better in blue.” Auston stood to his full height.

“Win this game and I might consider it.” You offered side stepping to allow him to get closer to the entrance.

“Really?”

“No.” You shook your head, “but I do actually need you to win now. That fight can’t be for nothing.”

“This next goals for you, then.” He smirked.

“Don’t miss it like the last one.” You teased.

“Don’t get into anymore fights.” He retorted walking away and you watched as he returned from where he came.

[homeofthelonelywriter]

Celebs - Masterlist

Tom Hiddleston:

Series:

🌺 Take the Stage: While once again sneaking out of the Palace, you meet an actor...let’s just say there is something between you two. (Royal! Reader)

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9 | Part 10 | Part 11 | Part 12 | Part 13 | Part 14 | Part 15 | Part 16 | Part 17 | Part 18 | Part 19 | Part 20 | Part 21 | Part 22 | Part 23 | Part 24 | Part 25 | Part 26 | Part 27 | Part 28 | Part 29 | Part 30 | Part 31

Romeo to my Juliet: You are a student and a teacher at a college in Lodon, which is the same place a very handsome acting professor is employed. Discontinued for now.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

🌺 New Beginning:

(Part 1) | Part 2 | Part 3

Headcanons:

HC - Tom Hiddleston x clumsy!Reader

HC - Tom helps Reader deal with anxiety and stress

HC - Tom loves Reader’s boobs

Oneshots:

Forgotten Fears - The Reader had some bad experiences with her ex-boyfriend when he was drunk and is still traumatised by that. What happens when Tom forgets about that fear of hers?

Kinky Surprise - pure smut

Application - When you loose a bet, you are forced to send an application for Loki’s love interest. Who would have thought that they actually want to meet you?

Jealousy - Tom is insecure because of your age gap. What will happen when he sees you with one of your co-workers who is about your age?

Hidden - As an artist, you find a way to tell Tom that you’re pregnant

Bun in the oven - Pregnany reveal and a proposal. What could go wrong?

Drunken Start - After a night out with his buddies, Tom calls you, neither rembering you, nor how he got your number

Trick or Treat - Halloween Special

Best boyfriend in the world - You have trouble sleeping, so Tom decides to help you out

Dance with me - Reader and Tom slow-dance in Paris

Diary - Tom finds your diary while you’re moving and reads it

Drabbles:

Christmas Surprise - Christmas Drabble

Let it snow! - Christmas Drabble

Drabble #75

Drabble #3

Imagines:

Imagine while on vacation with your BFF you catch Tom Hiddleston during a photoshoot. Your BFF makes sure he remembers you.

Imagine tagging Tom Hiddleston in a meme and actually getting a reaction.

Benedict Cumberbatch:

Drabbles:

Drabble #69

Sebastian Stan:

Drabbles:

Drabble #46

Shawn Mendes:

Series:

🌺 Better that way: When Shawn’s girlfriend finds out that she is pregnant, she decides that she can’t burden the superstar with a child. She makes decisions which may seem stupid, but she knows that it’s Better that way.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9

🌺 Surprise: Walking a Victorias Secret show was an honour already, but being able to see your boyfriend while doing so? Pure bliss. Especially when he has a little surprise for you.

Part 1 | Part 2

🌺 Fan Mail: Writing to Shawn every so often paid off when he asked you to come to one of his shows.

Part 1 | Part 2

Oneshots:

When you’re ready - Inspired by his song

Guard my heart - You are a part of the security at one of Shawn’s shows and he notices you

Nervous - Inspired by his song

One more chance - Filming an explanation video why Shawn and you broke up, leads to some interesting realisations

In my Blood - Inspired by his song (Triggers)

Late Late Show - You are present during your boyfriend’s appearance on the Late Late Show with James Cordan. Let’s just say it was disgusting.

Sad song - Shawn finds out you can sing during a very sad occasion

Tom Holland:

Migraine - rl!friend has a Migraine and Tom wants and tries to comfort her

Back to the Master-Masterlist

[cup-of-jonas]

♥️Heart By Heart♥️ Prequel AND✨What This Could Be ✨

Series, chapters and official masterlist

✨Prequel✨- Heart By Heart

♥️Heart By Heart: Chapter One WARNING ⚠️ 18+🔥

♥️ Heart By Heart: Chapter Two

♥️ Heart By Heart: Chapter Three

♥️ Heart By Heart: Chapter Four (Part 1)

♥️ Heart By Heart: Chapter Four (Part 2)

♥️ Chapter 5

♥️ Chapter 6

♥️ Chapter 7

♥️ Chapter 8

♥️ Chapter 9

♥️ Chapter 10

♥️ Chapter 11

♥️ Chapter 12

♥️ Chapter 13

♥️ Chapter 14

♥️ Chapter 15

♥️ Chapter 16

♥️ Chapter 17

♥️ Chapter 18

♥️ Chapter 19

♥️ Chapter 20

♥️ Chapter 21

♥️ Chapter 22

♥️ Chapter 23

♥️ Chapter 24

What This Could Be Ch.1 ✨

What This Could Be Ch.2✨

If you would like to be tagged in updated chapters or on the masterlist please let me know. I have poured my heart into this serious and I hope you love it as much as I do. ♥️ Please feel free to message me or if you have a request or ideas for a story send me a message ♥️

[sweetiepoison]

Famous Baby (Blurb)

The confession

Warnings: verbal argument, angst, smut, flashbacks italicized

You were stringing every curse word you could think of in your head as your right leg shook up and down uncontrollably. Tonight was supposed to be a good night. A night of celebration and friends, but that turned south very quickly when you got to your table.

The outdoor venue that was chosen to host the drew house celebration was big. There were plenty of areas to sit or stand and seating wasn’t assigned. So it infuriated you to no end when Auston decided to sit right across from you with the beautiful blonde he brought as his date.

There was always tension between you that was predictable but the tension that was happening now was palpable and uncomfortable.

Shawn rested his hand on your leg under the table in an attempt to help you relax. You looked over at your ex and gave him a gentle smile and his hand a light squeeze of appreciation.

“So, any big plans before you guys leave LA?” Your best friend asked trying to diffuse the tension.

“Yes!” Steph picked up immediately also trying to lighten the mood, “We planned a hike to the Hollywood sign tomorrow morning.”

“That’s awesome, we’ve done that a few times and honestly the view never gets old.” Your best friends boyfriend, Ryan commented.

“Are you all going?” You asked wanting to know what Auston would be doing, especially if his plans involved his “friend”.

“Nah.” Auston shook his head, “Alexa and I are just gonna chill by the pool.” He smirked, his eyes never leaving yours, “You know what they say, nothing like the California sun.”

You hummed a response your jaw tightening. The thought of Alexa near naked next to Auston made you sick.

“Well I think we all deserve a break especially you two,” you best friend pointed between you and Auston, “(y/n), told me about all the time you put into this event.”

“Yeah, we really had to work together to make the party a success.” Auston kept his eyes on you as your chair made a screeching sound against the ground as you stood abruptly.

“You okay?” Shawn asked as all eyes at the table turned to you.

“Yeah.” You reassured, “I’m just gonna go get another drink, do you want anything?”

“No, I think I’ve had enough. Thank you though.” He smiled brightly up at you.

“Okay.” You gave his shoulder a squeeze before making your way to the bar. After you ordered you put your head down on the cool surface to try and regather yourself. You were annoyed by the emotional strain you were already feeling and the night had barely even begun.

“Almost didn’t recognize you earlier with your clothes on.” You didn’t need to turn around to know the voice whispering in your ear was Auston’s.

“Funny.” You deadpanned sitting back up, but refusing to look at him.

“Were you planning on ignoring me the whole night?”

“For as long as I could.” You admitted with a shrug.

“Don’t you think you’ve done that enough already?” Auston picked up his own drink that he ordered. “You won’t answer any of my calls, you’re ignoring all my texts.”

“Mhm” you agreed. “If you don’t see this going anywhere I don’t want to be involved.”

You both stood side by side back to the bar watching the crowd. You felt a pang of sadness in your chest watching the table you came from. As everyone interacted and laughed your eyes specifically fell on Shawn.

You could be with him if you wanted to, not him specifically but a guy like him. A sweet guy, someone who is kind and polite and treated you well. All of your ex boyfriends fit that description, they were everything you needed. Auston was the opposite. He was loud and assertive and honest, even if it hurt your feelings. He wasn’t everything you needed, but he was everything you wanted.

“That’s not what I said.”

“You told me you didn’t want me.”

“I didn’t say that.”

“Oh right you just left me there crying.”

“I didn’t ask you to catch feelings for me, in fact I made it abundantly clear that you shouldn’t.”

You weren’t sure if you regretted that night with Auston or not. The back and forth game between you two was finally over, but the last few weeks also left you lonely and missing him.

With it being the off season, Auston had the time to come to your concert in New York. After the show he joined you at your hotel before you left the next day for the next state.

The night went as it usually did, sex…cuddling…sex again…cuddling again…shower (sometimes sex in the shower). But you didn’t let the routine get past the first round. As you laid there in his arms you took the risk and asked where he saw things going. You tried to deny your feelings for as long as you could but after a while there was no point in ignoring how you felt.

“I’m over it, Auston.” You gulped down the rest of your drink.

“Are you over me?” You sucked in a breath as his fingers timidly touched yours, not fully holding your hand but close enough.

To say the night ended badly would be an understatement. You slammed the bathroom door shut after he rejected you and soon after your hotel room door was slammed shut following Auston’s exit. You’ve ignored him since that night, wanting to forget everything that happened and move on.

“Yes.” Placing your glass down on the bar you rejoined the crowd. You spent the next hour mingling with others and avoiding Auston.

“You okay?” You stood off to the side with Steph.

“Yeah, why wouldn’t I be?” You twirled the small straw that came with your drink around your glass a few times.

“You just haven’t seemed like yourself.” She shrugged, “and I don’t want to assume but..” she trailed off avoiding eye contact.

“But, what? Steph.”

“But even your fighting with Auston isn’t like your usual fighting.” She shifted from one foot to the other. “Usually it’s annoyed fighting, but tonight it feels almost…personal.”

You swallowed thickly, “What are you trying to say?”

“Did something happen between the two of you?” She finally huffed out.

“No.” You shook your head, “he’s just more irritating than usual tonight.”

You watched as she processed the information but the frown she wore didn’t leave, “If there was anything wrong, you would tell me right?”

“Of course.” It felt like a knife right through the heart as you lied to her, “you’ve become one of my best friends.”

She let out a deep breath and finally smiled, “Okay, good. I’ve just been worried about both of you.”

You wanted to ask her why she’s been worried about Auston. Has he been acting different also? Had your conversation actually had an effect on him? But before any of your questions could be answered the devil himself interrupted.

“Hey Steph, could you keep Alexa company? I forgot a gift in my car and need to go grab it.”

The blond looked over her shoulder before side stepping to allow a spot for the new company to join, “of course we were just gossiping.” She giggled.

You smiled at Alexa but your eyes really never left Auston as you watched him walk away, “excuse me, I’m going to talk to one of the sound guys.”

You backed out of the group and sped walked through the crowd careful to not trip on your own heels. You caught up to Auston right as he was getting his keys from the valet guy.

“We need to talk.” You demanded latching onto his arm.

“Okay, walk with me to my car.” You walked in silence to the parking garage and once you arrived Auston unlocked the doors getting into the drivers side. “Get in.”

You slid into the passenger side crossing your arms over your chest, “what do you think your doing?”

Auston reached into his backseat grabbing a small box, “Getting Justin’s gift.”

“Not that,” you slapped the small box out of his hand back into the backseat, “you brought one of your old hookups as your date.”

“What about you?”

“Me?” You raised your eyebrows.

“Yes, you.” Auston mocked your voice, “you brought your ex boyfriend, which is way worse.”

“He’s Justin’s friend too.” You defended.

“Yeah, that’s not making it better.”

You crossed your arms over your chest,“Watching you with another girl isn’t any better for me.”

“Don’t be jealous.” Auston placed his hand on your thigh letting it slowly creep under your dress.

“I told you, we aren’t doing that anymore.” You grabbed his wrist stopping his hand from moving any further.

“You say that every time and then next thing you know we’re hooking up again and the cycle repeats itself.”

“No. I was for real last time, if you don’t want anything serious I’m done. And don’t look at me like that.” You grumbled keeping you arms crossed and eyes straight ahead.

“Like what?” Auston teased a smile playing at his lips.

“Like you actually care.”

“I do.” He responded. “I care about making you feel good.” His right hand made itself comfortable on the back of your neck and began applying pressure, “And you look really tense right now.”

“Wonder who’s responsible for that.” You sarcastically responded.

“The same person who can also help you relax.” He suggested his hand back on your thigh again, but this time you let him go under your dress.

It was pathetic how easily your body responded to him. How your head fell back against the head rest and your hips shifted toward him. Your legs spread further apart and your hand came up to play with the hair at the nape of his neck as he pushed your panties to the side.

“You’re really wet for someone who’s done with me.” He commented as he massaged your clit, spreading your wetness around.

You ignored his comment

“If you want me to stop I will, but you have to tell me.” You could only manage to shake your head, taking deep breaths while Auston’s middle finger ran up and down your slit.

“Use your words.” Auston whispered into your ear as his fingers continued to dance around where you needed him the most.

“Don’t stop.” You chocked out almost like a plea. Auston followed your command as two of his fingers started to slowly move in and out of you. He used his right hand to unzip the back of your dress. Allowing the top of your dress to fall down, he began sucking and kissing all over your chest.

You reached over the center console to stroke the growing bulge through his dress pants. However, you suddenly felt empty as Auston’s fingers thar were once inside you were now wrapped tightly around your wrist stopping you, “no, this is about you.”

He put your hand back in your lap before bringing his fingers to your lips. He watched intently as you wrapped your lips around his fingers sucking gently. Auston gave you for a hum of approval before going back to pumping his fingers in and out of you at a pace that only someone with significant wrist strength could manage.

You should’ve been embarrassed about how easily he had you falling apart around his fingers, but the feeling was nonexistent as you moaned hiking your leg up on the seat to give him more access.

You bit down on his lip hard keeping your lips connected as you came down from your first orgasm. Auston continued to move his fingers building you up for a second and then he did it again for a third. His fingers continued to move despite your pleas for him to stop.

“You have one more in you.” He encouraged kissing on your neck.

“Auston-I can’t, please.” You whined overstimulated. Auston loved to hear you beg, it didn’t matter if it was for more or for him to stop. He loved the way your voice strained and your body pulsed and his absolute favorite part was hearing the way you said his name.

Hearing you now only motivated him to move his fingers quicker and at more of angle, “Yes you can. You’ve done it before you can do it now.”

Your hips bucked up involuntarily over and over again to meet his fingers. Your body felt like it was on fire as you reached your climax and that’s all it took before you were slumping forward gripping on to the dashboard to keep yourself steady. Your body was absolutely wrecked and you weren’t sure how you were going to stand, let alone walk back to the party.

“Good girl.” Auston kissed the side of your head, finally removing his fingers. He brought them to his own lips this time sucking them clean.

“Enjoy sitting next to your hookup with me still on your fingers.” You commented through ragged breaths.

“Enjoy singing with your ex boyfriend after I just did that to your pussy.” Austons smug remark had you moving with a sudden burst of energy. You reached for your phone looking at the time as it read 7:45. “Fuck,” you mumbled as you frantically pulled your dress back up. You pulled down the passenger side mirror fixing your makeup and hair before pushing the door open.

“Where are you going?” Auston asked as he followed your lead, also getting out of the car.

“Back to the party, I’m supposed to sing with Shawn at 8:00.” You ran your hands over your dress looking at your reflection in the car window.

“I hope Shawn doesn’t remember what you look like after you get fucked.” Auston dismissed your panicked behavior locking the car before walking around to your side.

“I hope Alexa doesn’t mind sitting in the seat where you fucked me.” You threw back as he picked up your hand leading you back to the venue.

You ran straight into Scooter’s chest as you and Auston sped walk back through the side gate that led to patio.

“Woah, slow down turbo.” He joked placing his hands on your shoulders to steady you.

“Sorry, we uh went to Auston’s car to get his gift for Justin that he forgot and we didn’t realize how far away it was and so we basically ran to make it back in time and they should really give his mom a price reduction because of how far away parking is.” You rambled out of breath as you fidgeted with your fingers.

“Where’s the gift?”

“Huh?” You questioned trying to play it cool.

“The gift, that you guys went to go get. Where is it?” Scooter questioned again looking back and forth between the two of you.

You opened your mouth, but no words came out. You began panicking and searching for any plausible explanation as to why you didn’t have the gift.

“She told me it was stupid.” Auston spoke up clearing his own throat, “the gift, she didn’t like it, told me to return it. Ya know…how she usually acts.” Auston’s voice shook and you mentally rolled your eyes. You may have been a bad actor, but he was worse.

“Right.” Scooter nodded glancing between the two of you again for any real answers. “Well, Shawn’s getting mic’d up now.”

“Yeah I’ll go find him.” You nodded.

“I’ll go back to the table.” Auston said at the same time as you.

You both turned to leave but you turned to your right and he turned to his left causing you to bump into each other. You awkwardly fumbled around each other until you were out of the way.

“Oh and (y/n),” Scooters voice interrupted your awkward interaction “you have a hickey on your neck, might want to put your hair down to cover that up.”

Your cheeks instantly became warm as you kept your head down avoiding eye contact with both of them. “Thanks for letting me know.” You kept your head down as you released your hair from the claw clip it was in and sped walk to the side stage.

“I was starting to think you ditched me.” Shawn joked as he noticed your appearance.

“Sorry I was gone I got caught up in something.” You explained as you were handed a mic. You tucked it under your arm as you placed your inner ear ignoring the way your hands shook.

“You okay? you seem flustered.” He held onto your arm to keep you in place.

“Yeah, Im just nervous.” That wasn’t a total lie.

“I got you, it’s just you and me up there.” His sweet smile made you feel sick. Shawn tucked a piece of hair behind your ear which you quickly began to play with to ensure it didn’t move from your neck.

“You guys ready?” The sound guy asked.

“Yep.” Shawn answered for the both of you as the best you could manage to do was nod your head.

“Alright, you’re on.” He nodded placing headphones over his own ears.

The crowd applauded loudly as you and Shawn took the stage. You were very grateful to whoever’s idea it was to have you sit and perform as you perched yourself on one of the stools center stage. The crowd settled as you sat down and the anticipation built as the opening chords were played by the band.

—

The crowd erupted into cheers as you and Shawn harmonized on the final note. You held tightly onto his hand slowly opening your eyes.

“I’ve missed singing with you.” He placed a gentle kiss on the back of your hand and then kissed your temple.

“I’ve missed it too.” You agreed, pulling him into a deep hug. Your happiness, however was short lived as you looked out into the crowd and watched a body you knew all too well leaving through the side gate.

You shoved your mic into Shawn’s chest, “I’m sorry give me five minutes and I’ll be back.” You promised leaving without a response.

You sped walk through the crowd your eyes locked on the side gate. You brushed off all the praises you received from people as you passed them, your sole focus on catching up with Auston.

“Auston.” You shouted after him as you exited the gate. He didn’t turn around but kept walking.

“Auston!” You shouted again trying to catch up with him on the sidewalk. “Please stop!” You begged tugging on his arm when you finally caught up.

“What do you want?” He turned around to face you ripping his arm out of your grip.

“I want you to talk to me.”

“Oh like you’ve been talking to me these past couple of weeks?” His voice boomed above all the cars on the street.

“You hurt me.” Your voice was soft, barely above a whisper.

“I just listened to you sing love songs with your ex, so you hurt me too.”

“That’s not fair.” You crossed your arms, tears starting to form in the corner of your eyes. “You left me at that hotel, I shouldn’t be chasing after you.”

“I left because you slammed the bathroom door in my face.”

“Because I told you I had feelings for you and you said that our relationship wasn’t that serious to you.”

“Because I was scared!” Auston finally burst, “I’ve known I wanted something with you ksince that night at our home game when you got into a fight. But I could tell you didn’t want anything so I kept up the little game we had, but then you stayed the night and wrote the song and my feelings just got all confused.” He ran his hands through his hair letting out a deep sigh, “That night I came to your apartment to apologize, that’s all I should’ve done was apologize and then leave. But once we started, I couldn’t stop, you became addicting. And then you became comforting and-fuck-It’s you, you are all I want.”

“Auston-“ you tried to cut him off, but he didn’t let you.

“And that night you told me you wanted more, I panicked because it would mean we would finally be on the same page. And I started to imagine all the scenarios where it wouldn’t work out. I’ve never wanted to hurt you, but that night I did and I haven’t been able to forgive myself since.”

“I forgive you.” You tentively reached for his hand, “I was confused after that night at your apartment too, but I knew there was something there. And I was hurt after my New York show so I tried pushing you away. But, fuck, I can’t turn off how I feel and you’re all I think about. You are everything I want.”

You chewed on your bottom lip as you waited for him to say something, anything. The all consuming silence reminded you of your last night together. And that silence ended in both of you slamming doors and neither of you getting what you wanted.

Up until now all of your relationships for the most part had been easy, especially at the beginning. This was the most you’ve ever had to work. Was being this vulnerable scary as hell? Absolutely. Was Auston worth it? Absolutely.

Auston smiled as a sigh of relief left his lips. He pulled you in by your waist resting his head on your own, “For real?”

You giggled nodding, “yes for real. I don’t want anyone else.” The relief you felt was incomparable. It was like a weight was lifted off your shoulders and you could finally breath.

“I don’t want anyone else either.” He admitted rubbing his hands up and down your back. “I want you to be my girlfriend.” The last sentence was whispered lowly into your ear.

Your grin was enough of an answer, but still you nodded and whispered “I want you to be my boyfriend.”

“I’ll be whatever you want, baby.” Auston reassured placing a kiss on your neck, followed by your cheek, and then your lips.

“Would it be totally wrong if we ditched our dates?

“Yes.” Auston confirmed, “but when have we ever been morally sound people.” He bent to pick you up causing you to squeal and giggle at the sudden change as he carried you down the street.

“That song you performed with him wasn’t even that good anyway.” You laughed at Auston’s bitter tone.

“I’ll perform some new ones for you that I’ve been working on.” You offered running your fingers through his hair.

“As long as they aren’t about another guy.”

“Nah, they’ve all been about the same guy lately” you admitted, hoping the darkness would hide your blush.

“I can’t wait to hear it then.”