#Thank you for putting your eyes on this post

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Just What I Need 2

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as noncon/dubcon, control, and possible untagged elements. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: In an effort to evade a creep, you walk head first into Bucky Barnes. (short!reader)

Characters: Bucky Barnes

Note: based on this

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me.

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Please do not just put ‘more’. I will block you.

I love you all immensely. Take care. 💖

The dress you choose is simple. Light pink. Nothing too over the top. You're not sure about what to wear on a date. It's your first one. Ever.

You flit around your apartment nervously. There isn't much room to do so. You keep knocking into things. Ugh. Why are you so nervous?

Maybe it's because of Bucky. You barely know him. He's a stranger. And he just told you to be ready. Oh, but how many men do you have even asking for a date?

The knock at the door makes you jump. Oh, it better not be Debbie telling you to turn down music you don't even have playing. You swear she imagines things to be unhappy about.

You shuffle to the door and slowly pull it open, keeping the chain in place. You let out a squeak of surprise.

"Bucky? How-- you didn't buzz up. Didn't I give you the number?"

He smirks and tilts his head as he extends an arm to lean on the door frame. "I have tricks," he assures you. "You ready, doll?"

You look at him. He looks nice. A black button-up and black pants; polished shoes that shine. His hair is parted and combed neatly. You can smell his rich cologne.

"I think," you say. "Just a minute."

You shut the door and spin away. You grab your purse and stumble to step into your shoes. Maryjanes with a short kitten heel.

You unhook the chain and open the door. Bucky pushes himself straight. "Thought you were about to ditch me," he chuckles.

"Sorry, no, I..." you lock the door and smile at him nervously. "Grabbing my stuff."

"Well, doll," he steps back and gestures to you with open hands. "Give me a spin. Let me see."

"Huh?"

"Well, you look good in the front. I bet the whole picture is even better."

You fidget and hook your purse on your shoulder. You wring your hands and turn slowly. Your body thrums with heat. You come to face him again, his teeth dug into his lower lip as he hums.

"Gorgeous, doll. And you're all mine."

He offers his hand. Your eyes flick over to the other; the one with the glove hiding metal plates. You quickly latch on. You don't want to be rude and you have no idea what you're doing. You'll let him lead the way.

He shifts his hand to grip yours. His hold on you is strong. He turns you down the hall. He struts proudly along beside your sheepish slink. You've never been the type to stand out.

Outside the building, the evening air is balmy. The street lights glow above and the moon beams down. He gestures along the sidewalk.

He stops you at a sleek black car. Even in the dim, you can see how the paint shines. It sticks out like a sore thumb in your neighbourhood. He opens the door and doesn't let go of you until you're in the seat.

He shuts the door gently and circles around to the driver's side. You take the subway, you walk, rarely you'll dole out for a cab. He has his own car. He must be well off. Is he as famous as he let on? Why didn't you look that up yet? Too busy, too anxious.

"Go for a nice dinner, get to know each other," he says as he turns the engine and it hums quietly. "Sounds like a dream getting to spend the night with a girl like you."

You blush. He's flattering. Almost too much. The praise is overwhelming and you don't want to come off ungrateful.

"Thanks."

"Thanks. No need. It's just the truth." He insists.

He pulls out from behind the car parked ahead of him. He steers with one hand as he snakes the other over the shifter. He grabs yours again. As he steers casually, his thumb rubs your knuckles. The touching is almost as smothering as his words.

You watch the streets pass by. You're not sure what else to do or say. You don't know if you've been to this part of the borough. He finds a spot and puts the car into park. He squeezes and reluctantly lets you go.

"Don't move," he commands.

He shuts off the engine and unclicks his seat belt. He gets out and hooks around, opening your door so swiftly it frightens you. You fumble to untangle from your seat belt and he once more opens his hand. You take it and he helps you to your feet. Your purse catches awkwardly on your hip as you stand and the contents spill onto the ground.

Bucky tuts and releases you. He bends to gather up your lip gloss, mascara, and your phone. He examines the last. His eyes drift up to yours.

"Wanna turn these off for the night? No distractions?" He asks.

"Oh, uh... yeah," you straighten your purse and reach for your things. He hands over the makeup but keeps the phone. He holds down the side button. You stare. It's another moment before he gives it to you.

He reaches under his jacket and slides out his phone. He taps the button at the top and puts it away again. He takes your hand just as you drop your phone into your purse.

"Come on. I booked us a table."

He tugs you up to the pavement. He pauses as he steps over the curb. He stops you as three men pass by, garbling loudly and laughing. He growls and shakes his head. He ways until they clear the space before he pulls you forward. "Punks," he mutters.

He guides you down the sidewalk to the hazy restaurant beneath a neon blue moniker. He lets you go and opens the door. He's so polite. You're glad to have him to lead you.

He enters behind you and greets the woman stood just inside with a tablet leaning on her bent arm, "hey, table for two. Barnes."

She scrolls through with a smile, "ah, yes sir, I see it here." She taps and lifts her head. "This way, please."

She strides through the doorway behind her and Bucky nudges you ahead of him. You follow her and he tails you. He puts a hand on your hip and keeps it there, as if not to lose you. His fingertips curl into you as he lets out a silty drone. He gets closer as you're shown to your table. He pulls out the chair as the hostess promises the quick arrival of a server and taps away on her heels.

You fold your hands on the table and look around. There's women in sparkling necklaces with beautiful chignons. You feel underdressed and underdone. You chew your lip.

Bucky sits. His own eyes scan the space and his forehead stitches. He huffs and arches a brow. You follow his gaze to another table. The blond man there shifts and quickly looks down at his menu.

"I didn't realise it would be so... fancy," you twiddle your fingers nervously.

"What'd you mean? You look wonderful, doll. The only girl in the room I can see," he pushes his shoulders wide and winks. "Not just me either."

He looks around once more. You don't understand what he means. You stare at the table.

"Something to drink?" He reaches for the smaller leather folio on the table.

"Hm, just water," you shrug. "I don't really... drink."

"Of course you don't, doll. You're a good girl. I know that," he considers the first page then closes the menu. "You don't want something fancier? Sparkling?"

"I think I'm okay," you assure him and wring your hands. Overly conscious of the frantic act, you pull your hands into your lap.

He clucks and his eyes narrow over your shoulder. He hunches slightly, almost defensively. He sighs.

You twist and look behind you. You just see tables with shadows. There's too much to focus.

"You notice it too, huh?" He rasps.

"Notice?"

"All these men. Staring at you."

"Me?" You squeak.

"Uh huh," he nods. "The minute we walked in."

"No, I don't think..." you eyes crawl over the table and find another pair. Brown eyes that seem to look above you, not at you, but you can't be sure.

"Right? I mean, that dress is amazing on you, sweetheart. Spectacular." He purrs. "But I'm not into sharing."

"Sharing... no. They aren't looking at me."

"Oh yeah? And what about that creep I scared off the other day? He wasn't following you?" He turns his blue eyes on you. "You don't get it, doll. You don't see the bad in people. That's why you asked me for help. You're this little mouse scurrying around in a city full of tomcats."

"What?" You shift in your seat as heat scalds across your chest.

"Look around then... tell me they aren't looking."

You gulp and do as he says. Shyly, you skim the space with your eyes. You frown and face him with a fruitless shrug.

"But... why?"

"Look, doll, you deserve the best. It's what I'm tryna give you but we can't stay here. I can't sit here and let them gawk at you. You're my girl," he grips the table and pushes his chair out. "Come on, we're going."

"What? Where?"

He sniffs and steps around the table. "Somewhere private. Somewhere safe."

He shows his palm and waits. You accept his hand and he pulls you up. 

A woman in all black approaches. "Oh, I was just coming for drinks--"

"No need. You can release the table," Bucky grits. "We're leaving."

"Oh, sir, I'm sorry. Is there something the matter?"

"Nothing you can fix," he shoulders past her and drags you with him. You give an apologetic wave and bow your head down.

He doesn't stop until you're outside. He heaves out a breath and his grip on your tightens. You squirm.

"I just couldn't stay. I'm sorry, doll. It's okay. How about we go back to mine, order in?" He turns to you. "Just us. That'd be perfect, wouldn't it?"

You stare up at him. Your nerves are still flickering. You can't believe what just happened. And after that man on the subway, you're starting to see these things more and more. You can't trust people in this city. It's lambasted across the newspapers and whispered outside your apartment door.

"Sure," you agree. "I just want to get out of here."

🤍

Bucky's building is nice. Just as nice as his car. Nicer than your place.

His life is so much bigger than yours...

He takes you up on the elevator as you bounce nervously on your feet. You never imagined your first date going like this. It isn't that you imagined one of those silver screen romances but the night has been unexpected for sure. You never thought you'd be going home with a man on the first night. It's not like that, but still.

He unlocks his door with a small fob on his keys. You just have an old-fashioned key. Another shortcoming. You feel smaller and smaller by the moment.

He holds the door and waves you inside. He flips on the lights as he follows you in. The high ceilings and open concept have you in awe. Windows stretching from floor to ceiling let in the night sky.

"Wow," you murmur.

"Bigger than I wanted, but the building is high security." He explains. "Got nothing to fill the space with."

It is a bit sparse but not any worse for it. He brushes by you, dragging his hand around your lower back.

"I got some sparkling juice. Buddy brought over this organic stuff. He can be a bit much," he chuckles. "What kinda food you into? Steak? Sushi?"

You watch him pass through a wide doorway. You can see right into the modern industrial kitchen. That's a style, right? It's like one of those decor magazines. Or a set for a photoshoot that's used once and torn down.

"Sure, juice sounds nice, thank you," you take off your heels before you trail after him. "I'll have whatever you like. I'm not picky."

"I wanna know," he insists as he searches the fridge. He takes out a long-necked bottle, "raspberry apple? Sound good?"

"Yeah, um, thanks."

He nods and moves along the counter. He's at ease. Not like at the restaurant. He was on high alert. You understand. You're much more comfortable at home.

He pours a tall glass of the juice and replaces the bottle on the fridge shelf. He grabs shorter brown bottle and pops the cap with his thumb. He takes the glass off the counter and offers it to you. You take it with another thanks.

"So, what do you usually get when you go out?"

"I don't eat out," you shrug.

"Aw, come on. Doesn't have to be fancy. Pizza? You know, when I was a teen, we lived off water pie. It's... different," he chuckles.

"Pizza's good with me," you sip the juice and your cheeks pinch.

"Whatever you say, doll. And I mean that. I want to give you everything you want so I don't want you just agreeing with me to agree," he nears and smiles as he reaches to pet your cheek. "A thing like you can ask me to get on my knees and I'll be kissing your feet."

You giggle in surprise, "please don't."

"Ha, alright," he shows his palm and swigs from the beer in his other hand. "Like I said, you're the boss."

[sqgeism]

Reader brushing anaxas hair? :))

𐙚 𓏵𓏵𓏵 𐙚 𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 | amphoreus men x gender neutral reader

love mail — amphronsksns men have u brush their hair YESS PERIOD...!!!! no layout posts for this trip, i miss my colors 😞 i'm so tired but i started this in the plane so j wanna finish !!11! characters in order: anaxa, mydei, phainon

anaxa's a bit uneasy when you initially offer, the intimacy and time it takes has him a bit hesitant. it's not that he's afraid of the idea, but moments like these were robbed from him when his family was taken away. to be cared for was something foreign, so when he undid his ponytail and his back turned to you — he shudders upon first contact.

call him dramatic, he doesn't care. but he's trying not to shake as your fingers and comb brush through his green locks, noticing your extra attention to be soft. and it isn't as if anaxa is an unkept man; he has to make appearances as a teacher to his students, but this is so different. unlike the times where he just brushes through without much thought, probably pulling some hair out in the process, you were the opposite. at each tangle is met with gentle strokes of your brush and he can't help but grow to love the feeling.

afterwards, he began to ask you to brush his hair for him before going to the academy. doesn't care if he's late if it's only by a couple of minutes, he just wants to feel your attention and tenderness for something as simple as hair brushing.

i imagine mydei's hair to be a bit of an intentional mess. he keeps it a little ruffled up since he likes the look it gives him, but when you offer to brush and braid, he accepts kindly. after all, who wouldn't want to be doted on in any way by their lover?

fresh out the shower, towel around his waist and a couple of hairties sprawled out on your vanity table. mydei plays nice the whole time, shakes his head to be an asshole once and gets water everywhere. for the rest of the process, he's obedient, thank goodness. he seemed to find great joy in the act of service, melting at the touch of you drying his hair and then beginning to brush.

makes a mental note to tell you that he'd love for you to experiment different hairstyles on him, but you do the signature braid and tie it with a ribbon. does he make a fuss? no. of course not. urges you to put one around his neck too so people know he's taken, but you know he has to still play the part of a warrior. a ribbon won't.. help that. though he wasn't joking. he'd walk around PROUDLY with a ribbon of your signature color.

gives you kisses as a thanks, appreciates the compliments of looking a little neater because he knows it's cause of you :p

i can see phainon to be the type to have his hair care down to the tea. specific shampoo and conditioner, uses hair masks and oils, takes time to blowdry.. but he decides to forget all of that when he steps out of the shower and you don't grovel at the sight of him shirtless (he's being dramatic)..

decides to catch your attention another way, asking you to brush his hair for him. 'my arms are tired' is his excuse, a poor one, but you humor him.

now he's got his head trapped inbetween your thighs, his back pressed against the bedside and you're sat on the bed itself. your retelling of your day is a little bit incoherent in phainon's ears.. too busy being headlocked and cared for. he ACHES for moments like this.. utterly yours and not having to worry about anything else.

his peace is ultimately disturbed by the sudden tug of his hair. remembers it's not him handling his hair, and even if he flinches from the small tugs.. he still enjoys himself. tells you that you're doing amazing, generally just encouraging you even if his eye is twitching from the strokes. overall, doesn't ALWAYS let you handle his hair... but on days where he isn't busy, would love for you to take the lead.

[msmk11]

hey! I’m kinda new to requesting anything so sorry if I mess it up 🤦🏽‍♀️

I was just wondering if you could write some angst + fluff about poly! marauders + Lily x fem reader. I love your writing style 💕 I don’t have any specific trope, maybe the miscommunication one?

Have a nice day 💕 thank you in advance

Hi lovely! I’m so sorry this took wayyyyyy too long for me to respond to, but here is my best try!

If your partners ask, you’ll deny it. But, yes, you are, in fact, hiding from them right now and sulking.

Why?

Because you’re too clingy. Apparently. You know they hadn’t meant for you to overhear it. They thought you were still asleep. But you did.

“They're clingier than Pads and Prongs combined” Remus had said, “and my limbs starts to hurt after a while when I can’t move with them on top of me.”

“I get so hot too,” Lily complains, “it’s too warm in the summer for cuddling but they insist.”

They hadn’t needed to name names, you knew Remus and Lily were talking about you. And you felt awful. You’d always worried you were too clingy and annoying and now it’d been confirmed.

You’re back in bed again, buried under the covers with a sleeping Sirius next to you. Of course, your skin itches to curl towards him, but you ignore your screaming instincts. Instead, you grip onto the pillow beneath you even tighter and huff frustratedly.

While you lay there agitated, you hear the door to your shared bedroom open. By the footsteps alone you know it’s James returning from his morning workout to take his shower. His heavy trod pauses near your “sleeping” body and then you feel his warm fingers dust across your cheek. Against your wishes your eyes flutter open and you’re met with James’ handsome face and lovely curls slicked with sweat.

Despite his protests that he smells after the gym, you quite like his musky scent of cologne and sweat. You always demand at least ten minutes of cuddle time with James post-gym before he showers just so you can soak up his scent.

So when you don’t instantly reach out to pull James down on top of you into bed, he frowns.

“What’s wrong, angel? Are you sick?”

He presses a kiss to your cool forehead.

“Nothing is wrong,” you murmur into the pillow.

“You’re not begging for your morning cuddles,” James pouts.

You wanna kiss that pout off his lips.

“I’m just not in a cuddly mood this morning.”

A voice behind you scoffs and Sirius’ tattooed arm suddenly snakes around your waist, pulling your back against his chest., “that’s bullshit. You’re always in a cuddly mood.”

“And your post-gym cuddles are always my favorite part of my morning,” James adds, “What’s going on, angel?”

“Tryingtobelessclingy,” you mumble under your breath.

Sirius kisses your bare shoulder, “you gotta speak up sweet cheeks.”

“I’m trying to be less clingy!”

James’ eyes widen and Sirius’ grip tightens at your petulant tone.

“Why the hell would you ever do that,” Sirius responds, his voice heavy with horror, “are you trying to kill me?”

“What he means,” James clarifies, “is that we love your clinginess. What put the idea in your head that we don’t adore how much you wanna touch us?”

You go quiet and bite your lower lip.

“Well?” your most dramatic boyfriend huffs impatiently.

James gives him a scolding look.

“Rem and Lils,” you nearly whisper.

They both go incredibly still and silent- more than you’ve ever seen them- and then Sirius is clambering over you and taking two steps at a time down to your living room. You sit up startled and James wraps his arms around you, pulling your head back against his chest. He kisses your temple, “I’m sure there’s an explanation for all of this.”

Despite the feigned indifference on your face, you’re quite relieved by James’ embrace and Sirius’ quick action.

Three sets of footsteps pound up the steps and you’re suddenly being fawned over by four pairs of hands.

“Dove, please let us explain!”

“Baby, you only heard part of the story.”

“I’ll always cuddle you as much as you want.”

“Let them take a breath.”

The last is said by James and your other three partners freeze and drop their hands.

“Sorry, dovey,” Remus murmurs softly.

Lily tentatively sits by your knee with pleading eyes, “just let us explain.”

“Not sure if you both deserve to explain,” Sirius answers stubbornly.

“It’s okay my love, you tell Sirius,” and you pull him down on your lap as you sit in James’ lap.

He nods quietly and takes your fingers into his, playing with them gently.

You watch Sirius as you murmur, “it’s okay if I’m too clingy. I’m sorry that I’ve made you both uncomfortable.”

A pair of pale fingers that belong to your girlfriend hook under your chin and force you to look into her green eyes.

“Baby, don’t apologize. You’ve done nothing wrong, I promise. You just caught the wrong part of the conversation.”

Remus clears his throat, “yes, we were calling you clingy.”

Your heart drops.

“But,” Remus insists, “we didn’t mean it as a bad thing.”

“You said it hurts your limbs when I lay on you for too long. And Lils said she gets too hot.”

They both have the decency to look embarrassed.

"Both are true," Lily confesses, "But that doesn't mean we want you to stop. We all love your cuddles very, very much."

"I just don't want to be a burden."

Your girlfriend places a kiss between your brows, "you're never a burden. Just think of it like this- sometimes Sirius' yapping gets a little much, or Jamie's worrying, or Rem's grumpiness, and my stubbornness. But you love us all the same, right?"

You hesitantly nod, "of course."

Remus squeezes your free hand, "there you go. It's just the same. We may whine a little, but that doesn't mean we want you to stop."

"And you better not, or I'll never let you hear the end of it," Sirius promises.

You believe him, and you believe Lily and Remus too. How could you ever distrust one of them when James is holding you so tightly, Sirius is touching you so softly, Lily is saying such pretty words, and Remus is looking at you so warmly?

[f1smutwriter]

| 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐭 (𝐨𝐛𝟑𝟖)

★ :: Ollie bearman x Bestfriend!Reader

★ : 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 :: she just wanted to see what he was doing. But things to a turn for their friendship.

★ : 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 :: SMUT! grinding, fingering, clit rubbing, praise (just pure praise), unprotected sex (I think the fuck not sit down), riding, pet names (baby, princess, pretty girl), innocent dirty talk, neck kissing, fluff, and probably way more.

★ : 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 :: Haven’t posted in forever, not really feeling in the mood to write lately. I hope this is good enough <3.

˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆ ˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆ ˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡

I was sitting on Ollie’s bed while he was playing games with his friends. I was getting bored since he’s been on it for hours. “Ollie” I groaned loudly to try and get his attention, but no he continuing playing with his game. "I'm just gonna go home then" I said getting up getting ready to put on my shoes before he grabbed me.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry after this game I'm all your okay" He whispered in my ear wrapping his arms around my waist.

He pulled me into his lap while I get comfortable, "Here try see if you like it" He whispered softly kissing my head as he taught me all the controls and what all the keys do.

I moved trying to get more comfortable, then all of a sudden I feel his groan and hold my waist hard. "Sorry am I heavy" I asked scared that I hurt him getting off quickly. "No No your okay" He reassured me pinning me onto his lap so I didn't move.

I was playing his game as he rubbed my thigh squeezing softly. "Stop moving princess" He groaned into my ear. Once I feel his bulge causing me to gasp. "I told you to stop moving" He whispered as he moved me on his bulge softly. I whimpered as I move my hips on him softly.

“What can’t handle it” he whispered feeling his breath blow against my ear making me shiver. “Stop” I mumbled feeling my cheeks go ready.

“Needy baby” he whispered into my ear feeling my pussy get drenched. “Gonna let me touch you. Know you need it” he hummed into my neck kissing it. All I did was nod opening my legs to give him more room. “Good girl baby” he whispered slowly slipping his hand into my tiny shorts. He felt how soaking wet I was.

“So wet you really need me that bad” he says in his raspy British accent that can make any girl go to her knees.

“Please” I whined softly needing his touch. “Please what darling” he asked teasing me to tell him what I want. “Need you to touch me Ollie need it so bad” I whined bucking my hips into his hand trying to get friction. “But I am touching you” he teased even more causing me to whine loudly. “Your being mean please touch my pussy” I pout feeling my thighs close to get friction.

He slowly rubbed my clit seeing how i would react. Feeling the friction I throw my head back whimpering. “How’s that feel baby” he asked rubbing faster making me moan. I shiver moaning softly moving my hips. He gently slipped two finger in my causing my eyes to roll back into my head.

“Found it huh” he gloated fingering my pussy while curling them. “Yes don’t stop” i moaned. I feel myself getting closer as his fingers non-stop abuse my g-spot. “Good girl taking my fingers so good” he growled moving his fingers faster.

“Your close I can feel it, clenching your tight pussy around my fingers” he smiled moving them faster hearing the wet sounds of my pussy go throughout the room. “Close” I told him feeling so close as I grip his wrist. I moaned so loud cumming all over his finger feeling the knot in my stomach snap.

“Sshh I know princess I know” he hummed gently slowly rubbing my clit to calm me down. I finally calmed down from my high looking at him “thank you” I mumbled kissing him softly. “Of course will always take care of you” he grinned rubbing my back. “Need to feel you baby can I” I questioned making him let out a chuckle “don’t even have to ask.”

He slowly took out his cock showing me how big he truly was. I looked up at him stroking his cock slowly. He let out a groan before stopping my hand. “Ride me princess “ he says before putting me on his cock sinking down. I gasped at his size, shutting my eyes from the stretch. “So good” I uttered out feeling pure euphoria.

I slowly moved up and down going all the way up before sinking all the way down. He gripped my hips moving my hips faster.

“We might break my chair” he teased bucking up into my cunt feeling so deep he was practically in my stomach. “Feel me baby feel me so deep in your pretty pussy gonna cum so deep inside you” he groaned bucking faster my eyes rolling back. “Fuck always wanted to fuck this pussy didn’t know it’d be this tight. Fuck” he grunted going faster.

I hide in his neck moaning my lungs out pretty sure the people next door could hear. “Close need to cum” I moaned biting his shoulder causing him to moan. “Yeah is my princess gonna cum on my cock” he replied softly rubbing my hips while he rails me to oblivion. “Yes” I babbled.

I moaned before from practically having the best orgasm of my life. My thighs shook trying to stop him then I felt his thick warm cum in me. “Fuck” he moaned gripping my waist squirting his load in me. “There you go nice and full” he whispered kissing me causing me to kiss back.

“You know I really did mean it I really do like you” he says softy rubbing my back. “I like you to Ollie so much that I let you cum in me” I snort hiding in his neck. “Be my girlfriend” he asked. “Only if you buy me food” I teased softly smiling at him. “Anything for you” he says before kissing softly before he takes me to the bed and we slowly drift off to sleep.

˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆ ˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆ ˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡˚｡⋆ ୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆⋆ ˚｡

★ : 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 :: I finally wrote and posted let’s give a round of applause guys. Anyways after me shading myself part 4 of the short series of Lando and Charles is coming very soon then a jealous fic of Charles is also going to be posted after that. I hope y’all are like the new aesthetic because I’m living for it. Anyways enough talking hope you guys loved this fic. I mean it’s Ollie bearman who wouldn’t. Anyways bye bye love yall see you soon

[neeeooon]

Hii how are you? Hope everything is well! I saw that you wrote for wind breaker, and I loved you even more! If it wouldn't be much trouble, can you do suo x reader who is Sakura's twin like that recent post? Where at first he was flirting with the reader to mess w her and Sakura but found himself falling in love? Please and thank you!

suo 🥰 cute okay YES i’m on it TYSM

not a good idea

suo hayato x fem!reader who is sakura’s twin sister. veryy suggestive at the end

suo hummed too suspiciously, too sweetly, as he tapped his chin and stared at you. “y/n looks a little cold. doesn’t she, sakura?”

your brother’s eyebrow twitched as suo removed his jacket and draped it over your shoulders. your face flared on its own account, causing you to look away from them both.

you knew that suo was only flirting with you to tease you and your brother, especially since he openly admitted to getting some sick kick out of your matching flustered expressions, but that didn’t make it easier for you. anytime he was around, your face would instantly heat up at the thought of his “innocent” smiles and flirts. he had you conditioned like a dog.

you worked part-time at an old books and music store near sakura and suo’s high school, and they’d always stop by to see you since your classes ended before theirs. when the bell rang above the door at the normal time, though, you were surprised to see only suo there.

he flashed his signature smile, as suspicious and sweet as always, and waved his fingers at you. “good afternoon, y/n.”

tilting your attention to the bottom shelf, you hummed a reply and pretended to count records. you knew suo was approaching by the length of his shadow against your desk, and did your best to will all the extra blood out of your face.

suo leaned forward, and you froze when you looked up to find him mere inches away from you. you swallowed. “can i help you?”

his head tipped ever so slightly to the side, earrings shifting against his neck. “do you have any books on chinese poetry?”

you met his eyes then and saw a flicker of curiosity in them. his smile remained calm and calculating, but you felt a sliver of hesitation as you stared at it.

“we do. this way.”

there was no one else in the shop, as expected. you typically spent those hours organizing shelves and dusting until your usuals came in. it felt strange breaking away from your unofficial schedule, especially since suo and your brother never asked about books or music while visiting you.

“here,” you said as you waved a hand down one of the smaller sections in the store. it was located near the back, away from the door and any prying eyes with other not-so-popular genres. “if you need any more help—“

“sorry,” he smiled sweetly as he tapped a delicate finger against his covered eye. “i’m struggling to make out the titles. can you pull some for me?”

you shot a nervous glance toward the front of the store, worried your manager might walk in and accuse you of slacking off, but the feeling of suo’s intense gaze forced your attention back onto him. you blushed deeply, and he hummed.

wordlessly, you filtered through the poets, searching for authors with chinese surnames, and pulled those for your brother’s classmate. “here. look through them and bring the ones you like to the front. you can put the others back when you’re done.”

suo made sure to run his fingers along your hand as he took the books from you, and though you knew the action was purposeful, his closed-eyed expression betrayed nothing.

your expression, on the other hand, gave away every single thought running rampant through your mind. that was definitely on purpose; you could tell by the sweetness in his smile.

his hands are so soft… you blushed when you caught yourself thinking about his hands and fought the urge to slap the sides of your face.

“thank you for the book,” he said in a soft, almost cheerful voice, and you shook your head. suo still hadn’t moved, though, and neither had you.

you were going to be the first, leg twitching to step back, when he suddenly looked at you. you realized only then that suo had had his eye closed since taking the books from you and burned until his ruby-colored stare.

when you finally managed to take a step back, he took one forward. your heart fluttered, pulse hammering wildly in your ears at the proximity. the way his eye lowered and dragged to where your name badge rose and fell with your quickening breath sent an unfamiliar shock down your spine.

“this isn’t a good idea, suo.”

“logical? perhaps not. but good?” he leaned closer, hands clasped behind his back as his nose nearly blushed against your red cheek. “does this not feel good, y/n?”

you shivered. without permission, your hands flew up to clench the fabric of his jacket, fingers trembling as you held him in place. you tugged a little, not enough to move him, as you hesitated over whether you should pull him against you or push him away.

suo looked over you patiently, lips softly curled in their normal fashion, sending mixed waves of anger and heat through your chest. how could he not be affected by this? while your face felt like it would explode if it got any hotter.

“my brother’s not here,” you stammered pathetically. “you don’t have to keep teasing me.”

suo’s smile grew. “you’re the one holding me in place, y/n.”

your fingers released his jacket as if the contact burned you. hands unsure of what to do, you shoved them behind your back and leaned against the bookshelves to keep them pressed in place. “that’s… sorry.”

“don’t be,” he blew off casually, drawing your eyes back to his. “i liked it.”

oh god. this guy was going to be the death of you.

“i like you, too. but you aren’t ready for that at the moment.”

for the first time, you balked. any color in your face drained as his words slammed into you and repeated themselves in your head like a mantra.

you stammered pathetically for a reply until suo swept a strand of hair behind your ear with careful fingers. the tips of two brushed against your cheek, leaving thin trails of fire in their wake.

as quickly as his touch had been there, it left with him as he clasped his hands behind his back and sauntered to the front of the store. “i’ll take this one, please.”

it took you a moment to remember what he was talking about. you slapped the sides of your face and hurried to the front of the store to check his book out and hand it to him. “c-come again, soon,” you stammered out your professional line like it pained you to say.

suo only smiled. “i will.”

[miyamiwu]

To Be Hero X: Supporting Characters’ Names in Chinese and English + Chinese Name Meanings

As mentioned in the Top 10 Heroes version of this post, here’s a names meaning post for the supporting characters.

Characters are sorted by order of appearance, and names are listed in this order: English, Chinese, Pinyin, and Nickname/CN Abbreviation.

(The last two are just for my own reference. And ignore the colors in the text. That’s also just for my ref)

Post will be updated as new supporting characters are introduced.

Lin Ling’s Arc

1. Miss J / 娟姐 / Juān Jiě / JJ

I really didn’t want to abbreviate her as JJ because of Yuri on Ice, but since Ice Ado movie is cancelled then whatever

Juān 娟 means beautiful/graceful, while jiě 姐 is a honorific that means “elder sister.” But jie can also be used to address older women in the same generation or in a generation close to you, so the translation of “miss” in English is apt.

2. Moon / 潇月卿 / Xiāo Yuè Qīng / Yue-jiejie / YJJ

As compensation for me fangirling over her murderer, I will call her my jiejie 🙏

Dictionary definitions of each character in her name:

潇 (xiāo) = (of water) deep and clear; (of wind and rain) howling and pounding; (of light rain) pattering

月 (yuè) = moon

卿 (qīng) = high ranking official (old); term of endearment between spouses (old); (from the Tang Dynasty onwards) term used by the emperor for his subjects (old);

The association of xiao with water, the word for moon, plus qing being both a term of endearment between old couples and one used to address someone of high status. Something something about Xiao Yueqing being put on a pedestal and also the fact that she is now Lin Ling’s white moonlight:

The Chinese slang white moonlight (白月光 , bái yuèguāng) typically refers to someone or something that remains unattainable yet deeply cherished in one’s heart. It represents a love that lingers—idealized, untouchable, and forever out of reach. While often translated as a “first love,” it specifically describes a love that was never fully realized or reciprocated.

3. The Enlighter / 启士 / Qǐ Shì / QS

Qǐ 启 means “to enlighten/awaken,” and Shì 士 is a suffix used to denote someone as an expert in something. Thus, Enlightener Enlighter.

The correct word is Enlightener, not Enlighter 💀. Li Haoling, I beg you, stay in your lane and leave the localization to the experts 😭

3.2 God Eye / 天眼 / Tiān Yǎn / GE

Tiān 天 translates to “heaven” or “sky,” but depending on context it can also stand for “god.” Yǎn 眼 means “eye.”

Imma call him by his English name since the translation is good enough. GE is also a much better abbreviation than TY, which can stand for “thank you.”

4. Wreck / 破坏王 / Pòhuài Wáng / W + 雷克 / Léi Kè

His Chinese name means “Destruction King,” and in Chinese it sounds like what one would call a very troublesome child. The Chinese fans hate it and refuse to call him by it 😂. In the Chinese fandom, some just call him Wreck (written in English) or by its transliteration 雷克 (Léi Kè), which can mean “Thunder Conqueror.” And honestly, that sounds a whole lot cooler than Destruction King 😭. 雷 is also internet slang for “terrifying,” apparently… Yeah, that really is cooler 😭😭😭

Once again, Li Haoling, please stay in your lane

5. Firm Man / 英雄不倒 / Yīngxióng Bù Dǎo / BD

I initially thought Yīngxióng 英雄 was just a title they add on to a hero’s name since it just means Hero, and in-universe there’s an ad that addresses Nice as Yingxiong Nice. But in the case of Bu Dao, I guess it really is part of his hero name since nobody calls him by just Bu Dao.

Bù 不 is a negator, and Dǎo 倒 is “to fall.” Direct translation of his name would then be something like Never Falling Hero, Infallible Hero, etc.

Firm Man is such a terrible translation 💀

6. Wolf Girl / 蛊狼 / Gǔ Láng / GL

Gǔ 蛊 refers to a type of poison that is used to bewitch someone and can be controlled from afar. This choice of character is then very fitting for Gu Lang, since her powers work by changing the public’s perception of Bu Dao without directly confronting him.

Láng 狼 means wolf. Altogether, her name can be translated as Poison Wolf. Some have translated it to Mad Wolf, since Gu can also mean “to drive someone to insanity.” Personally, I prefer Bewitching Wolf or just Wolf Witch.

See now how “Wolf Girl” is an injustice to her actual hero name?

7. Mr. Shand / 尚总 / Shàng Zǒng / SZ

Shàng 尚 is just a common Chinese surname, but here are some of its dictionary definitions: still / yet / to value / to esteem.

Zǒng 总 is a honorific for your superior in work. I’ve often seen it translated as “chief.” So, Chief Zong.

Idk why the team decided to change the g in Shang to d. Shang sounds much better than Shand, and English viewers shouldn’t find it so hard to accept since there was a guy named Shang in Mulan...

8. Blankster / 忘仔 / Wàng Zǎi / WZ

Wàng 忘 means “to forget,” while Zǎi 仔 means “child.” I guess the zai is there because WZ has been a hero since he was young.

And that’s all for Lin Ling’s arc! Will add side charas from future arcs as they appear...

If there are any errors, just tell me and I’ll correct them.

[alotofpockets]

Long distance date night | Mary Earps x ManUnited!Reader

5k celebration prompt: "I was having a bad day until I heard your voice."

Woso masterlist | Words: 1k

-----

Four goal opportunities. Four chances you missed. When the final whistle blew you looked around the pitch for your girlfriend, like you had always done, but she wasn’t there. It hit a little harder today, your girlfriend no longer stood between the goalposts at United. 

Maya was by your side first, noticing the way you were staring at the goal where Fallon was sitting. She wrapped her arms around you in quiet understanding. You let her hold you for a moment. “Sorry I messed up,” you say barely above a whisper.

Your captain leans back out of the hug and puts her hands on your shoulders. “You didn’t mess up, you were one of our best players today. Don’t be too hard on yourself.” You wanted to believe her, but if you had just finished one of the goal opportunities you would have been able to at least tie the game.

She noticed that you weren’t fully believing her words, so she tried a different route. Looking back at your goal where your eyes had gone to again. “I know she is proud of your performance. I’m sure Mary was watching along and cheering you on every step of the way.”

You give her a small smile, “Thank you.” She nodded and patted your shoulders before moving on to the next teammate who looked like they could use a pep talk. She was good at the whole captain thing. 

While you still weren’t happy with your own performance and beating yourself up over the missed opportunities and the loss, you walked around the pitch to thank the fans for their support.

There was only one thing you were looking forward to though. Date night with Mary. Date nights had become a little different now that you were doing your relationship long distance, but you made it work. Tonight’s plan was to call and cook dinner together, the same meal so it really felt like you were having a dinner date.

On the way home from the match, you picked up all the ingredients that you would need for the recipe that you had picked out together. You weren’t totally present on the trip, your mind still a bit clouded with thoughts and replays of the match, but you managed to get everything on your list.

After a quick shower you put your laptop on the counter and got the video call with Mary ready. The moment you saw her, your face lit up. “Hi baby.” She smiled back, “Hi love. How was your day?”

“I was having a bad day until I heard your voice." Mary smiled softly. “Do you want to talk about it?” With a shake of your head you say, “Just the match, nothing to worry about.”

Mary didn’t just want to leave it at that. “Love, I watched your match start to finish. You played incredibly, player of the match for me for sure.” You roll your eyes at her jokingly, “You’re just saying that because you’re biased.”

Your girlfriend shakes your head, “I might be biased, but I think everyone would agree with me in saying you were the team’s best player today. What did Maya say to you after the game? I’m sure she agreed with me.” Of course she stayed to watch the post-match coverage as well. You sigh deeply, “That I was one of the best players, and shouldn’t be so hard on myself.” You look up at the screen again, “And that you would be proud of me if you were watching.”

Her smile grew, “See, not biased, just speaking facts.” She got you laughing again. “Okay, enough about me now. How was your day?” She talked about her day while you both started chopping your vegetables, and soon the distance didn’t seem to be so much. 

With all the veggies chopped, showing Mary you cut them just the way she liked it, it was time to put them into the pan and really start cooking. You felt Mary’s eyes on you as you transferred the veggies from the cutting board into the pan. “What?”

“I wish I could hug you right now. You look like you need it.” Mary’s words hit a little harder than usual after the day you’ve had, and her words bring tears to your eyes. “Oh, baby, I’m sorry. I wasn’t trying to make you cry.” You smile through the tears, “I know you didn’t. I just miss you so much. I looked back at the goal today, you know like I always used to do, but you weren’t there. I know we’ve got this whole long distance thing down, but in moments like that it just hits a little harder that you’re no longer right there.”

Mary nodded, she knew moving away was going to be hard, and moments like this were going to be tough. You had built up a routine together, a different one for whichever way a match would go, and now she wasn’t there to do that with you. 

Your girlfriend being her usual self, thought it was best to lighten the mood with a joke. “Make sure your tears don’t end up in the pan, we don’t want the food getting too salty.” You look at the screen with a blank expression before busting out laughing. “Good one.” You comment as you wipe away your tears. 

With dinner now simmering, you feel into deeper conversations again. You loved how just being on a video call could make it feel like she was right there beside you. Eating together was such a nice way to connect with each other, especially on days where you felt like she was worlds away.

Long distance was new for the both of you, but you were making it work. At the end of the day, Mary would always be one call away. And as you both raised your glasses to the screen, a makeshift toast that was entirely unnecessary but brought a smile to both your faces, it felt like she was home.

-----

💗 If you enjoyed this fic, please consider liking, commenting, and reblogging! You can also support me by leaving a tip 💗

[strawbairicake]

various hsr trios and how they play uno! -various x reader (can be seen as platonic or romantic!)

warnings: none!

word count: 816

author’s note: i never post writing during the week, but enjoy haha! technically you guys would be a quartet if you played uno with them but like!! if we ignore that fact, i think life is still okay haha! hope you enjoy! <3

taglist: @cmiru, @unriding (Moze’s here, that’s why you’re tagged!), @m1ckeyb3rry (the trio of amphoreus is not here but thought you’d like this!), @vyyper, + @sheyfu! lmk if you’d like to be added to the taglist!

The Astral Express (March 7th, Dan Heng, Trailblazer):

Dan Heng wins almost all the time, it’s almost infuriating. 

Trailblazer always has the most ridiculous cards and somehow still loses.

you and March team up to try to take down Dan Heng- it never works, unfortunately. 

you, March 7th, Dan Heng, and the Trailblazer sat in the express car, playing a very fun and not at all hostile game of uno. you and March sat next to each other, while the Trailblazer and Dan Heng sat across from you. honestly, if uno was a game of teamwork, you should be teaming up with Dan Heng, since he always wins. but do you ever learn your lesson? no! not one bit. you place a +4 card down on the pile, March adds another +4, and now the game reaches Dan Heng, who slightly smirks, much to your dismay. he somehow places another +4 on the pile and quietly goes “uno.” 

you all lose your minds. 

The Yaoqing trio (Feixiao, Jiaoqiu [non-blind for this scenario!], Moze):

you all take a shot everytime Feixiao wins a round, which thankfully isn’t very often. she may be a general, but she sucks at the game.

Moze, however, is an absolute god at the game. gets all the good cards, plays fair, and is a good sport. truly the only question is how he ended up here (Feixiao begged him with puppy eyes).

Jiaoqiu plays fair, has pretty ok cards, and sometimes wins. he’s not quite a god at the game, but he’s not AWFUL like Feixiao. 

you sat next to Jiaoqiu, while Feixiao and Moze sat across from you both. for the most part, the game is very calm, and might be your last game given how droopy your eyes are getting. Jiaoqiu has his cards in one hand (you can’t see them, stingy) and he’s got his other arm around your waist and rubbing shapes into your side. god you could fall asleep if it weren’t for the sound of-

“uno!” Feixiao just about hollers, waking you out of your droopy state. Moze rolls his eyes but plays a reverse, which makes Feixiao draw a few cards and you hear her mutter “mean” under her breath. Jiaoqiu chuckles at how you tensed up previously. hopefully this game won’t last much longer. 

Divergent/Simulated Universe trio (The Herta, Ruan Mei, Screwllum): 

can see Ruan Mei winning these types of games unintentionally. 

Herta has a 50/50 shot of winning. if she doesn’t win, she takes a breather where she goes and rages (very funnily, might you add, you record her crash outs).

Screwllum doesn’t see the appeal of the game but if the three of you ask nicely, he always sits and plays with you all. 

you’re sitting next to Ruan Mei and listening to Herta go on and on about how she’s going to win. Screwllum watches the chaos unfold between the four of you. Ruan Mei sips her tea and nudges you to play. you had zoned out briefly so you were thankful for the nudge.

“uno!” you said excitedly. 

“oh mother f-“ Herta started before Screwllum covered her mouth. Ruan Mei sighed.

“I would appreciate no foul language in the presence of (name), madame Herta.” Screwllum said after uncovering her mouth. 

“Oh i’ll show you foul language-“ 

Herta then proceeded to crash out over uno for the next twenty minutes, putting the game on hold. You and Ruan Mei sipped your tea and messaged each other in the meantime. 

Interastral Peace Corporation (Aventurine, Topaz feat. Numby, Dr. Ratio): 

I can definitely see Aventurine being awful at uno, if his luck comes from gambling, then surely his luck is ass at something he (for the most part) cannot gamble. 

Topaz probably kicks ass at uno, she can get very competitive. 

Ratio pretends not to care about the game, but if you in particular ask him to play with you and the crew, he scoffs before following you to play. 

You and Topaz sat next to each other, mostly because Numby wanted to say hello to you. Numby sat on your lap as you watched Aventurine scramble for cards from the deck. Topaz is laughing, almost hysterically, at the amount of cards he’s collected. Dr. Ratio looks rather uninterested, but you know he’s most likely going to win. Aventurine finally draws a green card and smacks it down on the pile. You and Aventurine watch (in horror, for Aventurine) as Veritas puts a green reverse on the pile of cards and goes, “uno”. 

“Doctor, are you fucking kidding me?” 

Topaz wheezes and laughs even more hysterically at the sight in front of her. you laugh and watch Aventurine draw a few more cards before playing. you all came to a sudden realization: this game is NOT ending soon. something you all have come to know and enjoy, for the most part.

©2025 strawbairicake. do not repost, copy, translate, modify, or use for AI.

[mediocre-writing]

Don't run away from me | Ellie Williams

` synopsis: Y/n is having a breakdown because she's attracted to a girl, Ellie is having a breakdown because she met probably the most beautiful girl in the world.

pairing; Ellie Williams X Fem!Reader | Modern Au!

- Fluff, fluff and little angst (Y/n is having a lot of trouble accepting her sexuality.)

Notes: My first language is not English, sorry for any mistakes, After a long time I finally posted this lol

request taglist in the comments please

—

PROLOGUE | NEXT

"Dina, why do we always have to go to Jesse's coffee shop? I know you really like him, but he's terrible at making coffee." Y/n says trying to warm her hands with the steam from her mouth.

"But he's great at other things." Dina says smiling and opening the door to the establishment.

"Disgusting."

The bell rings, and Y/n sighs as she enters the coffee shop, it was warm, cozy and had an irresistible smell of coffee and cappuccino.

"Look who I came to!" Jesse says, coming out from behind the counter and going straight to hug Dina.

"As if we don't always come for that horrible coffee of yours." Y/n says, putting her hands in her pocket as she watches the two hug.

"Rude." He says, letting go of Dina and going to hug Y/n who pushes him away laughing.

"Shut up and go make our coffees." Jesse rolls his eyes but smiles.

"The usual?" He asks walking backwards.

"You're the best Jesse." Dina says and Y/n scoffs.

"The best? Seriously?"

"Look friend, I think you've been very bitter lately." Dina says hugging Y/n.

"Maybe you're the one who's too soft." She says, taking the card out of her purse.

The cafeteria is not very crowded, but not very empty either, at this time of the morning it is usually busier.

"Here are your orders!" Jesse says placing the two glasses on the counter and taking the card from Y/n's hand.

"Is it decent?" Y/n says laughing and taking the glass.

"Funny, so how are things between you and John?"

"Oh, we don't talk anymore." Jesse looks at her in surprise.

"Really? I thought it would work, you two look so alike." Jesse looks between Y/n and Dina who nods in agreement.

"No... Not really, but thanks for introducing us Jesse." Y/n puts the card in her pants pocket and smiles at Jesse.

Jonh was a great friend of Jesse, he had a great interest in Y/n and so he finally convinced Jesse to introduce the two.

"Sure, well I have to get back to work, see you later?"

"Sure!" Dina responds immediately and Y/n rolls her eyes again.

"Unfortunately."

The two of them found themselves heading towards the cafeteria door.

"Is this like a courtship ?"

"Maybe it is, maybe not" Dina answers and Y/n smiles opening the door, but when the wind hits her glass, she smells a strong smell of cappuccino.

Y/n opens the lid and groans when she sees that Jesse had given her the wrong order.

"See, Dina, you distracted him, the order is wrong." She says, showing the cup to her friend.

"Where is your-" Dina is interrupted by a loud female voice.

"Damn Jesse, that's the third time you've messed up my order this week."

"I think we found where your order is." Dina says with a laugh.

"Your little boyfriend is not normal." Y/n says this going to the girl who is screaming at the counter and Dina follows her.

"Excuse me, I think your order is with me, I haven't even taken it yet so-" Y/n says nudging the redhead who has her back to her, ready to jump over that counter and hit Jesse.

She turns to face Y/n, and her face softens immediately, Y/n who has a friendly smile on her face feels something different in her chest when she sees the girl's face making the smile fall a little.

"Really? Well I... I already drank this, but I'm going to buy you another one." She says with a gentle voice now, and that smile she gave at the end.

holy shit, what the fuck is this?

"No, it's okay, you don't need to-" Y/n says awkwardly and the redhead shakes her head.

"No, I'll buy it, Jesse makes her another coffee." She says, turning to the boy with an angry expression, but turns to Y/n again with a gentle smile. "I'm Ellie."

"Y/n." She answers and Ellie repeats her name softly and Y/n thinks her name has never sounded so beautiful and-

HOLY FUCKING SHIT WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS?!

Dina coughs and Y/n comes back to reality.

"Oh, this is my friend Dina." Ellie looks at Dina with a friendly smile.

"The reason Jesse won't shut up." This makes Dina's eyes widen with a happy smile on her face.

"What does he say about me? Please-"

"Here's your coffee!" Jesse says quickly making Y/n and Ellie smile and look at each other.

"Thanks for the coffee, but I think it's only fair to buy one for you too, this one must have gotten cold by now." Ellie smiles fondly and takes the cup from Y/n's hand.

Their fingers graze, and Y/n's heart is practically beating out of her mouth.

"No need, maybe next time."

Next time?

The two look at each other for a while, and Dina and Jesse look at each other with a knowing look.

"We should go, it was great meeting you Ellie, thanks again for the coffee." Y/n says looking at her feet feeling her cheeks hot.

"See you around." Ellie looks into Y/n's eyes, and wow

what beautiful eyes.

"Bye Ellie, see you later Jesse!" Dina says smiling and hugging Y/n by the shoulders.

The two leave the coffee shop in silence, and as they walk down the sidewalk, Dina looks at her friend with a mischievous smile.

"What was that?" Dina's voice brings the girl back to reality.

"What?" She asks looking at her friend.

"Were you listening to me? What world were you in?" Dina asks smiling.

In a world with green eyes, red hair, beautiful freckles and-

"No, think about guys Y/n! Guys, guys, guys!"

"I was just thinking."

"Thinking about that girl back there? Ellie isn't it?" This makes Y/n feel her cheeks heat up.

"You're delusional, you know I only like men Dina." Dina looks at her with a frown.

"Really?" Dina asks, not convinced at all.

"Yeah, John and I could have worked out." She says, taking a sip of his coffee.

My God Jesse, learn how to make coffee.

"And what went wrong?"

"He doesn't like Star Wars." This makes Dina stop in the street in disbelief.

"What?" Y/n stops too and sighs.

"He doesn't like Star Wars."

"No way you stopped talking to him because he doesn't like Star Wars, I didn't even know you liked Star Wars." Dina says, approaching her friend.

"Well, now I like it." Y/n says with a shrug and starts walking again.

"You know there's nothing wrong with liking girls, right?"

"No, now that I'm talking to my parents again." Dina looks at her confused.

"Your parents? What the-"

"Dina please." Y/n whimpers and the other girl sighs.

"Okay, but let's talk about this later."

Y/n takes another sip of her coffee and her mind goes back to the girl with green eyes.

What a beautiful smile she had, what did her hair smell like? And her perfume ?

For Y/n! Thinking of men, men, men!

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Besotted 10

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as noncon/dubcon, virginity loss, age gap, and possible untagged elements. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: your new neighbour brings intrigue and a bit of danger.

Characters: ex-con!Bucky Barnes (silverfox)

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me.

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Please do not just put ‘more’. I will block you.

I love you all immensely. Take care. 💖

By the time Bucky finds a place, you’re exhausted. A shell encases you. The world feels far away. The day in the sun feels like it never even happened in the chill desolation of the night. 

The motel sign flickers as the buzz of crickets thrums in the air. Bucky walks behind you, like a warden, herding you to the door marked with the same number as the key in his hand. He opens it up and points you inside. He slaps the light switch and the space blooms with a tinge of yellow. 

He puts the saddlebags and helmets in the wooden chair against the wall. He’s silent as he tilts his head, his neck cracking as he stretches out the kinks. He sighs as you hug yourself and flutter along the wall. He pulls shut the curtains and turns to face the room again. His eyes scan the fading wallpaper and double bed. 

“Long day,” he says. 

You nod and reach up to rub your neck, “yeah.” 

He marches suddenly across the room and you flinch. You watch him disappear through the door way, another light flipped on. The metallic chink of the shower curtain rings tweaks in your ears. You chew your lip and examine the room. The place looks like it hasn’t been updated since 1997. 

The shower whines to life, the pipes rattling behind the wall, and Bucky’s groan wafts through. The spray of water patters onto the porcelain. You pace along the bed, teetering on your heels as you turn to sit. Before you can, his shadow paints wall. You stop and look over your shoulder. 

“Come on.” He has his shirt off already. His chest hair sparkles with stray silver strands and his muscles constrict under his flesh. You’re terrified but he’s still hot as hell. 

You follow him to the small bathroom. He sits on the closed toilet and unties his boots. You slip off your sandals and wince as he peeks over at you. You catch his errant gaze on your chest as it threatens to slip free of your tankini. The coverup does nothing to help. 

You stand straight and peel of the sheer shawl and lay it on the small counter. The damp heat coiling in the air is welcoming as the salty grime of the beach lingers on your skin. You pull of your tankini, angling to hide yourself. 

He stands, the floor groaning under his weight, and startles you as he puts his hands on your shoulders. 

“Hiding?” He growls. 

You shake your head. You shrug him off and face him. You roll down your panties. 

“Doll,” his voice thins to a wisp. “You are the most gorgeous thing...can you really blame me for getting a bit wild? Seeing that brat touching you--” 

“Let’s not talk about it,” you say. “Please, I’m tired.” 

“Hm, you’re right. We got a big day ahead of us. Let’s move on,” he agrees. He steps closer and brings his hand up to frame your face. He forces your chin up. His thumb strokes just beneath your lip. “I missed you, doll.” 

He bends before you can register what’s happening. He kisses you, his grip on your tightening, and you let him. After what he did to Colin, to Angelique, and what he threatened to do, you know better. Too little, too late. 

He brushes his hand down your arms and draws you closer. He urges you toward the shower and turns so your back is nearly touching the curtain. He parts and purrs, his blue eyes dark, his hair falling forward around his chiseled features. 

“Go on,” he reaches around you and taps your butt. You twitch and step back, your calves touching the cold porcelain. “I’m comin’ right after you.” 

He releases you and grabs the top of his brief. You spin and push past the curtain. It ripples closed behind you and you heave into the steaming spray. You let it wash over you but it can chase away your fear. 

Bucky can be nice but you know now that he can be mean and violent and scary. That you can only have the former if you behave. If you do what he says. That other side that you ignored is what he tried so many times to warn you about. His self-awareness is less than reassuring. He knows what he is but he can’t control it. You don’t think you can either. 

You wince as he steps in behind you. You sway slightly. He touches your hair, spreading his hands wide as he drags them over your head and along your neck, tracing the shape of your body from shoulder, to waist to hip. 

He steps closer, flush to you as he hooks his arms around you. He fondles your chest as he nuzzles your neck and hums. 

“You miss me too?” He growls into your skin. 

You gulp, “yes.” 

“Mmm, it’s lonely without you. Quiet.” 

“Oh?” You utter. 

It’s strange. He’s so soft now. So gentle. Only an hour ago, maybe a bit longer, he was something else. An animal. 

He rocks his hips and you feel him. He’s hard. Wanting. You cringe now as you think of how badly you wanted that before. Of how stupid you’ve been. 

He rolls your nipples between his fingers and kisses your neck. “Tell me again, baby.” 

“Tell you...” you murmur. 

“What you said before. You said I was perfect,” he snarls. “Perfect for you, right?” 

You try not to show your discomfort. You said those things. It isn���t that you didn’t mean them, just not how he heard them. That moment was perfect. And it’s over. 

“Yes, Bucky, perfect,” you assure him, almost impressed at how convincing you sound. 

He drops his hand down and tickles your pelvis. You shudder and close your eyes as the spray of the shower pings off your chest. He pets along your hip bone and trails further down. A tingle crawls through you. You might be afraid but you’re still human. 

He dips his fingertips between your folds and teases your clit. You clasp onto him at the spark it lights in you. You cling to his wrist, arching your back slightly as you gasp. He kneads your chest with his other hand, nibbling at your neck as he growls. 

He rubs you until your wet and swollen. You heave as your heartbeat pounds behind your ears. He pushes his fingers down and spreads them around your entrance, opening you to him. 

He bends his legs and shifts his hips. You suck in a breath as you feel him prodding. He pushes his chin down on your shoulder as he inches into you. You feel as tight as the first time. You reach to slap the tile as he slowly impales you. 

He brings you to your toes as you whine. He stands straight and hooks his arm around you, his fingertips curling over your shoulder. He pulls you back against him as his fingers creep back to swirl around your clit. You squeak as he pumps into you. 

“I missed this, baby.” He snarls. “You’re perfect for me too, huh? You feel that?” 

You whimper and nod as you grab onto his bicep. He jolts you with each thrust as his pace grows sharper and faster. Your nerves flicker beneath his touch. You can’t resist it. 

You spasm as you cum. He grunts and speeds up. His flesh claps wetly against your ass as lean back into him. He rams as deep as he can and stops. 

“Uh uh,” he tuts. “I’m taking my time,” he rasps and rocks slowly. “Doll, I’m gonna make sure you feel how much I missed you.” 

👙

“Doll,” Bucky’s voice startles you awake. He’s standing at the foot of the bed. There’s a shopping bag in his hand. You look at the hue trickling in between the tacky curtains. “What time is it?” 

You sit up and catch the blanket before you’re exposed. Your muscles ache from the night before. It didn’t stop after the shower. You’re surprised the squeaky old bed held up. 

“About noon,” he says coolly. “We got time.” 

“Time? For what?” You ask as you rub your eyes.  

You’re still spinning. The beach, Colin, Bucky, Angelique... all of it is too much. 

“You’ll see, baby. All you gotta do is be you.” He walks up the side of the bed. “Get yourself dolled up.” He puts the bag on your lap. “Not that you need much.” 

He bends and kisses your forehead. You stare at the bag then look up at him. Huh? Shouldn’t he be anxious to get home? You must still be hours out. 

“For what?” You wonder. 

“For me,” he insists as he stands straight and crosses his arms. “It’s a surprise. No more questions.” 

You look at him, careful not to frown. You grab the bag and let the blanket fall. There’s really no point in hiding anymore. No point in trying to get out of this. He won’t let you. 

“Bathroom’s all yours. I’ll figure myself out here,” he goes to the saddlebags and flips the flap up. “Ride got my hair all mussed again.” 

You hesitate and get up. You scurry into the bathroom and shut yourself in. The sliver of privacy will give you some time to get your head straight. Or as close to as you can. 

Your bag is in there already. You set down the shopping bag and search in the fabric one. Your phone’s not there. 

You shrug and reach into the shopping bag. You take out the dress inside. Huh? White’s never really been your colour. Too delicate. It’s cute; long bell sleeves and a short skirt. A low back with a thin tie across the shoulders. It would kill in black. 

That’s not all that’s in the bag. A white lace thong in the exact same shade and some cute heels with silver bows. Hmmmm. It’s... a bit much. Your red bra won’t go either. Not with the dress so scant in the back. 

You lay it all aside. You’re thinking this is some sort of date? If he’s really serious, you expect he’ll be trying to be normal. As normal as this can be. 

You dig out your pouch of makeup. You didn’t bring much and never wear too much anyhow. Moisturizer, blush balm, some shimmer, very simple and dewy. A touch of mascara and gloss, a spritz of setting spray. A bit much for a lunch date, isn’t it? 

You face down the all white attire. You’ve never been a fan of going without your bra but there’s not much choice. You didn’t pack anything but swimsuits and shorts. You get yourself into the thong and dress. Oof, right up your crack. 

You pack everything away and hook the bag over your elbow. You pick up the shoes and carry them out. Bucky’s back greets you as he stands in front of the wall mirror and growls. 

“Think I about got it,” his shoulders strain beneath the black fabric. “Alright.” 

He turns as he straightens his tie. Oh. He looks out of place in the button-up and slacks. 

“Wow, doll,” he blinks. “You look amazing.” 

You look down and tilt your head, “thanks. You got the right size.” 

“It fits perfect,” he praises. 

“Right, uh,” you set your bag by the door. “But won’t we get dirty on the bike?” 

He chuckles. “I took care of that.” 

“Ah, okay. Good,” you put the shoes down too. “You look nice too.” 

“You think?” he smooths his hair and checks the mirror again. “I thought about a cut. Shoulda done it before I got out of the pen but then you wouldn’t have anything to grab onto.” 

He chuckles and winks in your direction. You sit in the wooden chair and bend to put on the shoes. You make a crackly noise which could be mistaken as a laugh. This is strange. Something’s going on but you know he won’t tell you. 

He faces you entirely. You look up. He puts his hands on his hips and grins. 

“Sorry, I can’t stop looking. You just. Everything is so... perfect. Isn’t it?” 

You sit up and make yourself nod. “Yes, Bucky.” 

“You’re glad I came to get you?” 

You barely keep from reacting. You smile. “Of course, Bucky. I... I’m sorry I left.” 

“I know you are,” he says. “After last night... I know you told me the truth. I know you want me like I want you.” He crosses the room and stops in front of you. He cradles your head between his hands and strokes your cheek. You struggle not to quiver. “I know that after today, life’s gonna be exactly how it should be.” 

[dcxdpdabbles]

Do you have any rules for requests?

Thank you for asking and respecting my boundaries!

I do have some that I've started over the course of running this and other writing blogs:

1. I will not write overly Gore, Yandere, or Rape. I might have implied it or have it offscreen in a quick one sentence passage, but these themes make me uncomfortable, so I don't make them main topics. If you send in a request, I'll likely post it with a rejection notice so that others who see it might be willing to pick it up. The only time I won't is if the ask is rude/too detailed.

2. As a personal choice, I don't really enjoy writing multiple crossovers. This means I like to stick to the DC or DP universe's for this blog. Occasionally, I might use elements of a third option, but it's really hard for me to make it work since I'm not putting in an honest effort.

3. My blog has blanket permission on all prompts/chats/requests as long as I'm credited for the original. If you want to reblog and add more, you can. If you want to write an extended fic on another website, you can. If you want to draw based on something I wrote, you can. If you want to post it on tick tok with a voice reader, you can. If you would link me so I can geek out about it, please do so.

4. I don't do tag lists because they are too much of a hassel to keep an eye on. I also don't like seeing such a big wall of usernames. I try to keep my master post organized with the latest updated date on there if you would like to follow the Aus and find all the parts. The index will show you where each Au is organized.

5. I'm twenty-seven years old (I have no money, no prospects, I'm a burn to my parents, and im frighten). This means that while I don't mind getting NSFW asks or implied NSFW jokes/writes, I ask that if your underage DO NOT send them in. It's for both your safety and mine that you don't interact with that material until you're older. (I think I'll post the NSFW stuff on Ao3 as suggested)

6. I'm a multi-shipper. Since none of these charaters are real, I am known for moving them around and changing their circumstances to make pairs. My favorite genres in writing is fantasy and romance, so if you don't like a ship, please understand that it won't stop me from writing it. Unless requested for a gen fic in the ask, I will change almost all prompts into romance because I like reading/writing that kind of stuff.

That's all I can think of on the top of my head. If you sent in an ask and haven't seen it yet, it's because I haven't gotten the time to answer it.

Currently, I am behind by a lot in my inbox but that's mostly due to my final for my 16 week course, my work's audit and end of the fiscal year budget, I have five close family graduations, two weddings and one baby shower all crammed into the same month of May.

I'm also suffering from a bit of writer's blog on some aus.

But I swear I will get to your asks as soon as I can. I'll jump around to try to get past the writer's blog, but once things calm down, I'll go back to the order in which I received the asks.

[critical-love-cod]

Should’ve Locked the Door

Simon “Ghost” Riley x Fem!Reader

A/N: I wrote and posted this one a while ago, and an ACTUAL doctor cringed at the way I had written the tending to of Ghost’s wound… but she loved the fic completely! So be aware, of how I wrote the treatment… but enjoy!

——• •••• ——— ••• —

“Hey, we’ve got another one.” One of the other nurses said.

“What is it?” I asked, reaching into one of the cabinets in my room and grabbing a pair of gloves.

“Gunshot to the arm. Upper arm.” She said. “He seems tough though.” With that comment, I knew exactly who it was. The nurse held the door open and in stepped Lieutenant Simon Riley. After he was all the way in, the nurse closed the door, leaving the two of us alone.

“Hello love.” Simon said, tightly grasping his right bicep.

“Lieutenant.” I replied with a smirk. He walked over to the cot and sat down. I approached him, stood on his right side and lifted the edge of his sleeve off of the wound.

“It just grazed me.” He stated. I pressed gently against his arm, causing him to suck air in through his teeth. I pulled back instinctively.

“Grazed you huh?” I repeated. Simon shook his head in defeat.

“Hurts like hell.” He said.

“Looks like it. I don’t see a bullet and there is an exit wound.” I told him, trying to calm his nerves. “So that’s good.” His body suddenly relaxed under my touch. I walked back over to the cabinet to grab some rubbing alcohol and gauze.

“You look beautiful.” Ghost said, his voice still shaky from adrenaline. I smiled to myself.

“Thank you, Lieutenant.” I replied sweetly.

“You don’t have to call me that.” He told me.

“Yes I do. You and I are on duty.” I said, turning back to him again.

“Well then, as your patient, I’d prefer to be called Simon.” He said, watching my every move.

“As you wish, Simon.” I said, adding emphasis to his name. His eyes sparkled when I said it. “Are you able to get your shirt off?” I asked. I watched as he attempted to remove it with just his left arm. But he was unsuccessful.

“No.” He replied softly. I felt my cheeks beginning to burn. But I had to remain professional.

“May I?” I asked, pointing at the base of his shirt. Simon just stared at me, his gaze remaining gentle. I moved to stand in front of him and then I reached out for the bottom of the fabric. I slowly and carefully pulled the fabric upward, revealing Ghost’s toned abs and broad chest. My face grew warmer with each inch of skin that was revealed.

Ghost pulled his left arm through, allowing me to pull it over his head and down his right arm, leaving him in only his mask and army green cargo pants. I folded his shirt neatly and put it at the head of the cot, returning to the wound.

“You get shot often?” I asked, folding some gauze and pouring some rubbing alcohol on it.

“Oh yeah, all the time.” Ghost said in a playfully sarcastic tone. I looked at him with a smile, approaching his right side again.

“This might burn.” I said softly. He shrugged.

“Just don’t count down. Talk to me.” He said, looking up at me. I felt his right knee rub against the side of my right thigh. I smirked at the feeling, trying to remain in control of my senses. I met his gaze before speaking.

“What would you like to talk about?” I asked, keeping my eyes focused on his.

“I don’t know. I’m not very good at conversation.” He admitted.

“What are you good at?” I asked innocently. He scoffed playfully. “No, I mean like, what are your talents?” I asked again, wording my question a little better. I saw his smile through his eyes. The way his bottom lid covered his eyes slightly made my heart skip a beat.

“I can take a bullet pretty well.” He remarked. I smiled, holding his gaze as I quickly pressed the soaked gauze to his wound. Ghost sucked air in through his teeth again and his left hand shot out from beside him, grasping onto my hip. I stumbled a bit against the force of his hand, but I remained still, pressing the wound. His eyebrows furrowed in pain, but he held eye contact with me.

“Sorry.” I whispered, leaning into his touch a bit. He blinked slowly, as if in a daze.

“Don’t apologize.” He said softly, his thumb brushing against my hip back and forth. I dabbed the wound a few more times before grabbing another piece of gauze and putting more rubbing alcohol on it. I pressed it onto his arm again, causing him to squeeze my hip. It didn’t hurt, but it would leave a mark for sure.

After his wound was completely clean and dry, I started to move away to grab self-adherent wrap, but Ghost’s grip on my hip tightened.

“Wait.” He said.

“What is it? Did I hurt you?” I asked, searching his eyes for something. Anything. I placed my right hand over his left, which remained on my hip.

“No. I just want you to stay.” He admitted. His eyes were pitiful.

“Simon, I’m just walking to the cabinet.” I said, smiling sweetly. I had tended to Simon before and he was never this clingy. I don’t know what happened all of the sudden. He lifted his injured arm a bit to rest on my other hip. “Your arm, Simon.” I said frantically.

“Doesn’t hurt.” He said quickly. He then pulled me into him, causing me to fall forward a bit. I grabbed onto his shoulders, the warmth of his skin sending a comfortable chill down my spine. “Not close enough.” He mumbled, pulling me so my right leg was in between his legs. I was now stranding just above his right thigh.

“Is this, um, close enough for you, Simon.” I asked, blushing a deep red as I looked down and saw our position. He wrapped his arms around my lower back, pulling me flush against his bare chest.

“Never.” He said, his eyes scanning my face. I smiled.

“I should really wrap your arm.” I told him, leaning down a bit.

“Just, give me this. Please. Just for a moment.” He begged, his eyes twinkling in the dim light of the room. I gave him a small nod, letting my hands fall slowly down the broadness of his back. I felt every ridge of a scar, his back rising and falling as his breathing became heavy.

“What if I want to kiss you?” I asked, pressing my nose to his on the mask.

“Roll the mask up a bit, love.” He replied, tilting his chin up a bit, pressing a covered kiss to my lips. I complied, bringing my arms up and gently grasping the fabric. “Faster.” He demanded. I did so, forgetting about neatness and just pulling it up above his nose. Ghost tugged on my body, pulling me into him, practically begging me to do… something.

“May I?” I asked just like I did before taking his shirt off. He groaned, and pulled me downward, making me straddle his thigh.

“Stop asking permission for things and just do them.” He said sternly. Then he pressed his lips firmly on mine. I kissed back with force, letting him know that I wanted everything he did. His body was so warm and practically shaking with desire. He tugged on my shirt in hopes of pulling me impossibly closer. I was doing just the same, gently clawing at his back in desperation.

Then I felt his tongue fighting with my own. I was quick to give up though, wanting to taste him in every way that I could. His teeth hit mine aggressively as he tried to lick the deepest corners of my mouth.

“Sorry.” He muttered against my lips. I just giggled and pulled him back in by the back of his head. His left hand was on my lower back, dragging me closer to him against his thigh. I sighed at the feeling, tilting my head to get a better angle on his lips.

“Glad to see you’re feeling better, L.T.” A voice came from the doorway. I jumped off of Ghost, standing up straight and looking over to see who the voice belonged to. Ghost was startled as well, but he did a better job of hiding it as he slowly pulled his mask back down and looked over at the door.

“Fuckin’ hell, Johnny!” Ghost shouted in frustration. Soap was just standing there, leaning against the doorway, arms folded over his chest, and a smile plastered on his features.

“Soap…” I muttered, burying my face in my hands for a moment. I then proceeded to walk to the cabinet, grabbing the wrap I needed to finish tending to Ghost’s wound.

“How long have you been standing there?” Ghost asked.

“Only about,” Soap looked at his imaginary watch. “Two minutes maybe.” He said with a chuckle. I sighed, approaching Simon again.

“Go get off somewhere else, McTavish!” Ghost yelled. Soap playfully saluted him.

“You got it, L.T.” He replied, turning to close the door. After it clicked shut, Ghost sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Next time, we’re locking the damn door.” Ghost said, looking up at me. I looked down at him as I finished wrapping his arm.

“Next time?” I asked. “You better not get shot on purpose just to do this again.” I smirked. He scoffed.

“Now why on Earth would I do that?” He teased.

“I’m free tonight.” I mentioned softly.

“It’s a date.” He replied, standing from the cot and grabbing his shirt. “Thank you.” He gestured to his bicep before pulling his shirt back on.

“And thank you.” I said, tapping my lips. He shook his head and bent down to press a masked kiss to my lips. Then he turned to leave.

“I’m gonna kill him.” He remarked.

“Don’t. Not worth it.” I replied. He glanced back at me once more before disappearing out of sight.

-Time Skip-

I looked over at the clock on the wall, seeing that it was now midnight. Which meant shift change. I began tidying up my room, putting supplies away, and straightening up the cot. My mind raced with thoughts of only a few hours before. Had I really done that? Had I really made out with the one and only Lieutenant of the 141?

I tried to shake the thoughts from my head so I could focus on getting out of here and to my quarters. Suddenly, there was a quiet knock on the door. I glanced over at the door, and then looked back at where I had started sweeping.

“Come in.” I said, loud enough for whoever it was to hear. I assumed it was the nurse that would be taking my place. But as I swept, with my back to the door, I quickly realized it was not. I took a few more steps back, sweeping as I walked, when I ran into something tough and yet soft. I turned and saw Ghost standing there.

“What are you doing here?” I asked, averting my gaze so he wouldn’t see the red creeping onto my cheeks.

“Uh, my arm hurts?” He said sarcastically. I looked over at him, and saw him smiling. His eyes were easy to read when he wanted them to be.

“Does it?” I asked, slightly concerned.

“No. I just came to see you.” He admitted. I slowly nodded my head, continuing to sweep.

“I’m surprised you’re up.” I told him. He shrugged.

“I’m used to it.” He replied, walking over to sit on the chair in the corner of the room. I finished sweeping, dumping all the dust and little pieces of trash into the trash can beside the door.

“You here for much longer?” Ghost asked. I looked around the room and then slowly shook my head.

“No actually I’m done. The other nurse should be here any minute.” I replied, walking to the cabinet to grab my stuff. I felt his eyes on me, watching my every move. It felt a bit like I was being hunted. Like he was the predator and I was prey. But, not in an uncomfortable way.

As I grabbed the last of my things, I saw the other nurse walk into the room. She stood staring at Ghost for a moment, in an almost frightened manner.

“It’s alright. He’s leaving in just a second.” I spoke up, hoping to calm her nerves. Ghost slowly stood from the chair and walked over to me. “Ready?” I asked, turning to look up at him. He nodded once and headed for the door.

Once we were out of the room, Ghost seemed to relax a little. I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion.

“Are you alright?” I asked, breaking the silence of the empty hallway. “You seem tense.” I heard him chuckle.

“I’m alright.” He replied simply, making it obvious he didn’t want to talk any further about it. I nodded slightly, and continued walking beside him.

“So where are you taking me?” I asked, reaching out and looping my right arm around his left. He bent his elbow to engulf my arm and then answered.

“Where would you like to be taken?” He asked, glancing down at me. The way he had asked the question held many thoughts and feelings. The tone of his voice was playful and yet seductive. I stepped a bit closer to him before answering.

“Heaven.” I said softly, hoping the tone of voice I used was right for the occasion. Ghost’s arm tightened over my arm, keeping me close.

“Yes ma’am.” He replied, his voice low and deep. His pace picked up almost instantly. I noticed that we were heading toward one of the dorm halls.

“Mine or yours?” I asked, trying to keep up with him.

“Mine.” He answered, his eyes staying forward. We turned left and then walked about four doors down before Ghost stopped and pulled out his room’s key.

“Simon.” I whispered. Just then, he got the door open and stepped inside, gently pulling me in behind him.

“Simon.” I said again.

“Yes, love?” He replied, starting to take his gear off and tossing it wherever.

“Um, what if someone finds out?” I asked. He raised an eyebrow.

“So?” He replied. I could almost see the smirk on his lips through the mask. I rolled my eyes playfully and watched him remove the rest of his gear. My back remained pressed up against his door, my heart pounding in my chest. As he pulled his vest over his head, he looked over at me, his eyes flashing a look of concern.

“Everything alright?” He asked, walking to his dresser and laying the vest on top of it. I nodded and he tilted his head. “You’re a terrible liar.” Ghost slowly approached me, the sound of his boots on the floor making my heart skip a beat.

“No, I’m fine. Really I am.” I lied. Ghost chuckled, now standing fully in front of me. He reached up with his right arm, brushing my hair back and placing his hand on the side of my neck.

“Talk to me, love.” He said softly, his hand trailing to the back of my neck now. I reached both of my hands up and placed them flush against his chest.

“I’m just nervous is all.” I told him. I looked up at him right as he raised his eyebrows.

“And?” He asked. How did he know there was more? I rubbed the fabric of his shirt gently, thinking of something to say that wasn’t the truth.

“Um,” I began. Nothing came to mind, so I decided to just tell him the truth. “I’ve never done this before.”

“Oh, my girl.” He said sweetly. His reaction caught me off guard. “We don’t have to do anything you don’t want to.” I smiled up at him and trailed my hands along his chest and up to his neck.

“Thank you, Simon.” I said softly, my eyes darting back and forth between his. He nodded slightly and held my gaze. Ghost took a deep breath, and trailed his left hand along my waist, fiddling with the bottom of my shirt.

“Is this okay?” He asked, pressing his forehead to mine.

“Mhm.” I responded, closing my eyes and enjoying the warmth of his touch. His calloused fingers tickled my skin as he trailed up my lower back and pulled me closer to his body. Even though my eyes were closed, I could feel his gaze scanning my face. His right hand left my neck for a brief moment, causing me to open my eyes.

“Mask.” He said softly. I watched as he reached behind his head, grabbed the fabric and pulled it over his head. It felt like I was seeing something I wasn’t supposed to. He was beautiful. No, handsome. He was everything. Chiseled features, strong face, and eyes full of emotion. I gasped silently at the sight.

“You look amazing.” I whispered. He bent down a bit, his lips hovering above mine.

“Thank you, love.” He replied. His hands left my body all together, balled into fists and pressed against the door on either side of my head. “May I?” His eyes glancing down to my lips and then slowly looking back up at my eyes.

“Don’t tease me.” I whispered with a giggle, pulling him closer by the back of his neck. He smirked and then gently pressed his lips to mine. The kiss was sweet and slow. I breathed him in, slowly tangling my fingers in his messy hair. He pulled back for a split second, then kissed me again, this time with a bit more force.

His left hand left the door behind me and found its way to the back of my neck again. He pulled me into him, tilting his head to mold his lips to mine. I did the same, kissing him with equal passion. Then I felt his right hand on my waist, clenching it into a fist around my shirt. He started walking backwards, pulling me with him, his lips never once leaving mine.

I heard his bed creak under his weight as he sat down. Then he hooked his arms around the back of my knees, picking me up and setting me on his lap. I wrapped my legs slowly around his lower back, holding him against me as tight as I could. Then I felt him lick my lips, begging for entrance. Before I let him in, I pulled back and waited until he opened his eyes.

“What is it?” He asked softly, though I could tell he was desperate.

“The door.” I said simply. “We should lock it shouldn’t we?” He smiled, and stood up, keeping me close to him. He reattached his lips to mine, kissing me softly as he walked to the door. I heard it click, confirming that it was locked.

I opened my mouth for him now, resting in the fact that we were now safe from anyone walking in on us. His body trembled excitedly as his tongue made contact with my own. He rutted up against me as I bit his tongue gently. I sighed into his mouth, pulling him closer and closer until it was hard to breathe.

“~Simon,” I whispered against him.

“Shh.” He cooed, moving from my lips and down to my neck.

[mr-zestypants]

✩ First post!

Anaxa x m!reader (cis or trans), SFW, hurt/comfort

Squeezing a dead-man's heart with a duncey looking plushie.

“I thought you would like this, sorry- It’s a little ugly..” You sheepishly laughed, nervously looking to the floor.

Now that the time to actually present the gift was here, the effort you put into making and wrapping up this Anaxa-looking droma looked like you had instead paid a 5-year-old to create his gift.

Anaxa held the drooping plushie gently, he had no idea how to react.

You both stood still, scarily still. Your mind was running with those classic self deprecating thoughts: “Does he hate it? He loves dromas, he can’t! But, maybe he’s offended by the shitty eyepatch? Damn it, I should’ve just commissioned this!”

Meanwhile Anaxa still observed the plushie.

“I’m going to snuggle with this every single night.”

After an agonizing second he spoke at last, “Thank you, I will take good care of it.” He truly didn’t know what else to say. Although he had lots of thoughts about this silly little plush was he going to admit to any of them? Absolutely not.

His simple appraisal was enough to ease you in an instant. “I’m glad you like it!” You heaved, heart rate just beginning to slow.

Anaxa nodded in acknowledgment then quickly departed. He rushed himself to the bathroom to quietly cry about this small gift.

It was so simple, just a normal looking droma with an eyepatch horribly sewed and colored to look like his. He could tell the droma plush was bought and the eyepatch was done by his beloved, perhaps that made it all the more special.

He couldn’t help it when a stray tear just so happened to slip by his grasp, he felt weak. Memories of his sister and happy moments of his destroyed hometown hit him like the tide.

“Tch, this is pathetic.” Anaxa laughed to himself, staring at his disheveled stature in the mirror. Rarely did he cry, he would prefer to change it to never.

His abrupt departure had you confused. It was normal for him to leave in a rush but this was too rushed. Obviously you had to go after him, you would pass away waiting for him!

“Anaxagorous?” You called. Thankfully this was his house so you knew where to look.

Bedroom empty, office empty- there weren't exactly many places for a grown man to hide in; so you checked the bathroom.

You tried to open the door but of course it was locked. "Anaxagorous?" You pried softly, leaning into the door to hear if anything was amiss. If he was actually using the bathroom that would be really awkward. Then again, you didn't see the plushie placed anywhere- why the hell would he use the bathroom with a droma plush? You concluded something was wrong and if he was using the bathroom with a droma plush that would be especially awkward to witness.

Anaxa cursed under his breath, but what could he expect? He couldn't just weep in the bathroom like a sad child, hesitantly he opened the door.

“Apologies, I just-“

“You don’t have to talk about it, do you want a hug?”

He sighed, not initiating but nodding in approval. You walked forward- both of you just behind the bathroom’s door frame.

He was stiff, arms squeezing you gently but you could tell he wanted to squeeze just a bit more. A ragged sigh left his lips and he muttered, “Thank you..” right next to your ear.

Anaxa could feel his eye swell up again and a tear streak his face. Perhaps it was closest he felt to having his family back since the last time he laid eyes on her.

—

AN: AGHH FIRST POST!! Sorry if it’s OOC.. very much not proofread, lmk thoughts!!

[lostpiewrites]

Hello!! Can I request a reader to unexpectedly kiss their partner (Michael, Rin, Reo and Sae) I mean they are doing anything and the reader feels they have to kiss them.

Thank you🫶

a/n : HIIIIIIIIII. this is so me coded , i loved this request. Here we goo... art credits for @/korethus.

NOTICEBOARD : Due to my exams , i will unfortunately not be able to post until 10th May 2025. After i come back , i will work on the remaining requests. Thank u for understanding. 🩷🩵

A BIIIGGG SMOOCH 💋

Ft : Michael Kaiser , Itoshi Rin , Itoshi Sae , Mikage Reo.

Michael Kaiser

You were laying down with your bf , cuddling and in your own seperate worlds. You were reading a manga and he was just scrolling , blanket over you , you laying on top of his chest etc... everything added up to a perfect cuddle session.

When you finish your book , you close it and rub your eyes. It has been a long period of focusing for them so you had to rest them before they bleed to blindness. You looked up to see your boyfriend unbotheredly continuing to scroll , while mindlessly caressing your back in the same time.

You then REALLY looked at him. His awfully-cut-but-still-suits-him-somehow hairstyle ; his eyes dazed and not really paying attention to his phone as if he was bored out of his mind , his muscles flexing unintentionally due to his positioning , his lips in an adorable half-pout and his hair falling beautifully over his forehead/eyes. He looked like he belonged to a fashion magazine rn.

So you did what you knew best. You kissed him on the lips without any warning , any preparation , nothing... Then pulled back and looked at him with a face that said "i know what i did , i am not gonna apologize and i am proud. Cope with it."

He locked his phone and turned his attention to you when he felt you getting closer to him. He didn't even have time to get surprised before he felt your lips crashing onto his. He then could barely reacted before you pulled away and got comfortable over his chest again. He chuckled and shook his head in amused disapproval.

"You're such a stupid dork but that's why i love you i guess..."

Itoshi Rin

You were mindlessly strolling around your shared house with your bf , trying to do all the chores and have time for yourself to sit down and rest.

As for him , he came from his soccer practice about 30 minutes ago and he was currently showering.

After your body gave up on accompanying your desires to push through all the chores , you technically collapsed onto the couch. You decided to wait for your bf to get out of the shower so you could eat dinner with him before going on with the remaining tasks.

After about 5 mins at max , he came out. He didn't really put any effort to his looks. He had sweatpants only , no shirt on , hair half damp half already dried on it's own due to the summer heat. It was unfair how effortlessly handsome he looked.

You pouted and gave a dreamy sigh out. He looks so kissable rn... That idea quickly took root in your mind. Then before you knew it , you were walking your way towards him. You placed a quick kiss to his lips and murmured a soft "you look handsome" then sashayed your way to the kitchen to prepare the dinner. Chill , unbothered...

He stood there dumbfounded. His voice slightly cracking in blushing. "Tf was that for ?". In his book , this meant "i liked it , do it again some time." You knew it and you giggled proudly , while he was having a cardiac arrest on the spot.

Itoshi Sae

You two sat down at his workroom. He was reading some professionals' media reports about his career and also some interview requests. As for you , you were just watching him , bringing him fruits or snacks etc.

After about a few hours of complete silence , you were bored out of your mind. You knew not to interfere with him when he is working , it never ended well so far. It wasn't violent but he didn't let you leave him after you distracted him and practically forced you into full-blown make-out sessions. But you were getting tired of the neverending silence and silly little pranks were branching their way in your mind.

You planned everything silently. You would just give him a quick kiss that would for sure distract him. If he were to get angry , you would play the innocent and say sth like you just wanted to give him emotional support. That's what you have thought , but to your surprise none of it would happen...

You walked your way over to him , gently lifted his chin up and gave him a quick kiss with a sinister smile that said "ik what i did bitch". After that you were about to walk away , but you felt a strong grip at your wrist. Before you knew it you were yanked back and sat on top of his lap. He looked at you disappointedly.

"You are giving me a kiss and without giving me a chance to return it , you are walking away. Where is your manners sweetie ?"

You knew you were there for at least 3 hours after that.

Mikage Reo

You had nothing to do today. No friend outings , no tasks , no house chores , no dates. Simply nothing. So what did you do ? Scroll in tiktok. That was the best way to kill time right ? WRONG.

You accidentally came across that trend where parents stick a camera inside their toddler's hat and just watch them pitter-patter around. The girl there had so chubby cheeks and so cute babbling that you screamed out on top of your lungs.

"SHE'S SO CUTE IT'S UNFAIIIIRRRR"

Your poor boyfriend came from another room to check on you. He was gaming , with a headphone and music blasting in his ears ; but he still heard your scream. That's how loud it was.

When you saw him , you dashed and threw yourself onto him. Kissing him all over his face , spesifically on his lips , biting his cheeks with muffled screams.No amount of time he had spent with you prepared him for this disaster.

"Babe , sweetie , y/n... What are you doing ? If you are hungry , i can order sth for you. " "Shut up , i saw a toddler on the internet now i am taking my cuteness agression fever out. Are we too young to have babies ? "

He stood there dumbfounded , shaking his head in a way that meant "how tf did i get myself into this ?". But he didn't make a move to push you either. You were a koala maybe , but his koala at least. And he was hopelessly in love...

[anakinstwinklebunny]

PAIRING: sam monroe x pregnant!reader

authors note: requested by @lunarnightt!! I promised to post it and I apologize it took me so long to do so ://

FLUFF ❦

Your birthday morning had started rarher quietly, without any big parties or wishes some people might want. So with that, you hadn’t expected much—a day with your boys was always enough. But Sam? He had other plans.

The bedroom door creaked open, and you heard the faint sound of little feet padding against the hardwood, followed by little whispers of questions if for sure you are sleeping and not dying, thanks to your little boy's imagination. Peeking over the blanket, your heart all but melted. Vinnie, your adorable two-year-old, toddled into the room wearing a tiny navy blue suit with a bow tie that was slightly askew, curls combed to perfection (or at least, Sam’s version of it). Little, pudgy hands held a small plate of waffles topped with whipped cream and sprinkles, the plate wobbling precariously in his grip.

Behind him, Sam followed, usual grumpy expression softened with a glimmer of nervous pride. He was dressed casually, though the sight of him in a fitted black T-shirt and sweatpants, hair still messy, was enough to make your heart flutter.

“Go on, Little Man,” Sam muttered, crouching to adjust Vinnie’s grip on the plate. “Just keep it steady, yeah? No facepalms this time, buddy. You got this.”

You couldn’t help but giggle at the memory of Vinnie’s last attempt at “helping,” which had resulted in a spaghetti catastrophe in the living room. But this time, the little boy was determined, with those pinky lips pursed in concentration as he shuffled towards you.

Clumsily vincent put the plate on your nightstand, twisting his little head to get an approval from Sam that he did good. Then, in all excitement he turned to you, standing on his way toes to pat your arm“Mommy!” he chirped, lisp making your chest ache with affection. “B’thday!"

"Wake up, y/n..don't make us hang on you" Sam muttered , to which you teasingly rolled your eyes and slowly sat up. Vinnie's grin widened as he repeated the "birthday" word, lifting his little arms so you'd scoope him up “Thank you, baby!” you cooed, pulling him into your lap and kissing his chubby cheek. He giggled, squirming as you took in his outfit.

“Sam,” you said, turning your gaze to your boyfriend, “oh my gosh...did you dress him like this?”

Sam rubbed the back of his neck, a faint blush creeping up his cheeks. “Yeah, well... Thought he should look decent. Gentleman in training or whatever,” he mumbled, though the corner of his lips twitched in a barely-contained smile.

“He’s.. beautiful,” you whispered, taking in your toddler's beauty

Sam smirked, stepping closer to brush a thumb over your cheek. “Happy birthday, babe.” He leaned in, pressing a kiss to your forehead before stealing one of the waffles off your plate without any shame

“Babi! No!” Vinnie cried, glaring at Sam with all the authority a toddler could muster.

“Relax, Little Man,” Sam teased, patting Vinnie’s cheek. “Had to make sure they're really good"

You chuckled at their interaction, and as you glanced back at your boys—one grumpy but softhearted, the other your sweet little ray of sunshine—you couldn’t imagine a better birthday morning

TAG LIST: @kingdomhate @divineani @haydensprettyprincess @skyguys-princess @catnipaddictt @heartscone @haydensbbg @inneedsoffanfics @jediavengers @babybell-cheese @anisluvrgirl @slutforfinnickodair @xhunnybeeex @fuckmyskywalker @gallerygourmet @ysrjune @anakinskwkler @cookybananas @emotionallybruisedx @diorvalentina @sevinax @throughparisallthroughrome @aniiuv @ritosparty @ninastyless @lily-strnlo @thesassypadawan @awhhayden @sydkneez @anisangeldust @l1ttle-misssunsh1ne @anakinca @rubiesarepretty @luluartpop @cloverina @nikiloveshayden @cherriies-snake @skywalkerssgirl @fredswrite

[dancethroughthethunder]

Been There, Done That

Pairing: Joel Miller x Reader

Word Count: 7.6k

Summary: The residents of Jackson keep trying to tell Tommy they think there’s something going on with you and Joel but he’s not buying it. Tommy doesn’t blame them, he spent over two decades trying to get the two of you to admit your feelings for each other, and that was before the outbreak.

Author’s Note: My first ever Joel fic. This one has bounced around in my brain for quite a while, and I really have to thank the very kind commenter on my WIP list (not sure if they want to be tagged so I won't) whose kind words encouraged me to wrap and post this. My sweet, soft Joel Miller and a mischievous cast of folks in Jackson. This work can also be found here at my ao3. I hope you enjoy! Divider below credit to @saradika-graphics :)

You’re out on patrol with Joel, Jesse, and Cat walking through Teton Village. In a mile or so you’ll split off with Cat to the west while Jesse and Joel go east. For now, you’re all walking alongside your horses, giving them a chance to rest before riding ahead further. Cat is in the lead with you and Jesse in the middle, and Joel bringing up the rear just a few steps behind you. 

Compared to you and Joel, Jesse and Cat are still newer to patrolling but they’re no longer considered in training. Still, Jesse can’t help but to glance over at the two of you every now and then, making sure to follow your lead, while still maintaining an active view of his surroundings. He’s trained and patrolled with Joel enough to know just how good his situational awareness is, and how it puts him a step ahead of some of the other patrolmen.

Luckily, it’s been an easy patrol so far – there’s been no signs of infected or other people, and yesterday’s patrol didn’t turn anything up either though. two days ago someone noted some tracks. Your guards are still up, but you’re able to chat while you’re going, there’s no need for complete stealth and silence right now.

“So, Jesse, how’s Dina?” Rolling his eyes, he knows even before he turns to look at you that you’ve got a shit-eating grin. 

“I’m pretty sure you know as well as I do since you ate breakfast with her right before we left.” It’s all good natured as Jesse tries to deflect away from what you’re really asking.

“Oh, I’m not sure I know her as well as you do.” You joke.

“Alright, give the kid a break.” Before Jesse has a chance to reply, Joel catches up to you and takes your hand in his. At first, Jesse thinks that maybe Joel is trying to get your attention, or lead you somewhere but he’s shocked when he realizes that he’s just walking alongside you, his hand in yours.

He’s trying not to stare but it shocks him. Joel’s not exactly the affectionate type, but here he is with his left hand in your right, like it’s something he does every day. Neither of you seem bothered by it, and Jesse doesn’t want to make it weird so he just offers Joel an amused “thank you” for stopping your line of thought and keeps walking. 

About half a mile later, when you pass the library, you make a big show of wanting to go inside and grab a book.

“I don’t think so.” Joel interrupts.

“Oh come on, the weight of one book won’t make or break me.” You look up at Joel with a look as sweet as honey.

It’s clear you’ve had this conversation before as Joel as he fixes you with a look but doesn’t say anything. You both continue walking, it’s clear that if you really wanted to take off towards the library, you could, and it’s equally clear that Joel could tug you away if he wanted. But neither of you do. It’s a practiced song and dance between you two and Jesse watches as a smile starts to break through Joel’s attempt at looking stern.

“I’ll stop on our way back.” 

“I figured you would.” Joel says, and it’s the softest Jesse’s ever heard him sound. “Cat, don’t let her grab more than two, y’hear?” 

Cat just silently nods at the direction, and when you lock eyes with Jesse, you’ve got a mischievous look in your eyes. Jesse makes a mental note to check later – he’s almost sure that look means you’ll be returning with no fewer than three books. (You come back with five.)

Not long after that, you and Cat prepare to part ways with the guys. Jesse’s not sure when you and Joel stopped holding hands, but then again after the initial shock, it did sort of make sense for him too. He’s always assumed there was something going on with you two even though you’ve always sworn you were just friends. Hell, he’s even talked about it with Tommy. He’s looking forward to telling him this latest update later. 

“Alright, watch each others’ backs. Just because we haven’t seen anything come from those tracks doesn’t mean there’s nothing out there.” Joel tells you and Cat.

“I know. You do the same.” 

You and Joel exchange a quick nod, and Jesse does the same with Cat. Then you split one way while he and Joel go the other way. They don’t see you for the rest of the afternoon, but that’s expected with the way your routes diverge. Aside from one clicker that Joel takes out, it’s an incredibly calm patrol. 

As they enter the gates, Joel offers to sign Jesse’s gun back in with his own and take the horses. Jesse hands the gun and reins over before heading to Tommy’s office. It’s partly a chance to update him on how patrol went, but it’s mostly a chance to gossip while Tommy takes a look at some blueprints he’s been working on with Joel.

“So how was patrol?” Tommy asks after a few minutes of idle gossip, turning his focus back to his work. 

“Good, we followed up on those tracks that were spotted the other day, found one lone infected that Joel took out. Other than that, nothing out of the norm.” Jesse subconsciously stands a little straighter as he delivers this mini-report, his mind in business mode. 

Tommy doesn’t have much more to ask, he’ll get any details from Joel later and he trusts that if there’s anything to know immediately, one of the four of you would have already told him. Jesse’s a good kid and good on patrol, if he says it was all good, it was. So Tommy just nods and hums his approval.

“Tommy, they were holding hands.” Jesse says, sitting down and finally dropping what he thinks is going to be the biggest piece of gossip of the day.

Tommy doesn’t even bother looking up, “Were they near the old library?” 

“Well yeah, how’d you know?” Jesse’s eyes widen with surprise. How could Tommy possibly know that? 

“She’s always been a big reader, kid. Back in the day they’d go to the mall with Sarah, and Joel would have to practically drag her away from the bookstore before she could buy everything. Now it’s as much an old habit as it is practical. She can only carry so many books back on patrol.” 

“I’m telling you,” Jesse shakes his head, “they kept holding hands after they had walked past.”

“Joel was probably giving her shit about her running back to the library, and she was probably giving it right back about being tempted to do it.” Tommy shrugs. 

“Alright, if you say so.” Jesse wants to argue that he knows what he saw, how the two of you looked, but he gives up. Tommy’s just as stubborn as Joel and it’s easier to let it go. 

“Trust me, kid. They’ve been like this for decades. You’re not the first person to tell me you think something is up with them. I spent years thinking the same thing. But on a more interesting note, what’s this I hear about you and Dina getting back together again?” Tommy smirks, finally looking up right at Jesse.

“How the fuck could you possibly know that already? How does everyone know?” Jesse sighs exasperatedly while Tommy laughs. 

The two men spend the next hour together, talking and working as Tommy starts walking Jesse through what he’s been doing. Jesse is focused on the work but at the back of his mind, he’s still considering what he saw on patrol. The instinctive way that Joel grabbed your hand, the way it didn’t even phase you.

Sure, you were near the old library and you did joke about getting books but you didn’t look like you were trying to head there, and it didn’t look like Joel was trying to lead you anywhere, he was just trying to be with you. Frankly, it was quite a sight: big, bad Joel Miller, strapped with at least four weapons, eyes constantly scanning his surroundings and one hand softly holding onto you. What kind of trust that must entail to tie one hand to yours, knowing that’s a few extra seconds before it could reach for a weapon. Jesse loves Dina, he really does, but he’s not sure that he’d hold her hand on patrol. Not when it could be by his side, ready for action.

But, he figures, you and Joel are old hat at patrolling together. Everyone knows that you and Joel have been best friends since way before the outbreak, back to your school days. He’s seen the way you two move as one, so maybe those few seconds aren’t as concerning, as necessary. Maybe it’s an old habit, of a friendship from a lifetime ago. Besides, Tommy’s known you his whole life, has had decades of seeing you two together. Maybe he’s right, but if he isn’t, Jesse won’t wait to say I told you so. 

Just like he told Jesse, Tommy is so used to having to tell people no, you and Joel aren’t an item that he doesn’t even think to mention it to anyone. It’s old news, not even worth a mention to Maria at the end of the day despite the other gossip he passes along. He doesn’t give it another thought, not even when he’s thrust into a similar conversation with Eugene at the Tipsy Bison a few days later. 

“So, guess who I saw leaving your brother’s house early this morning?” Eugene asks as Tommy slides up next to him at the bar. 

“Do I even want to know?” Tommy asks with a groan. Joel’s really not as much of a ladies man as the gossip mill wishes he was, but he has been known to go on a date here or there. Still, as far as gossip comes, Eugene’s a pretty reliable source. 

Eugene doesn’t say anything, he just looks at Tommy as if to say, come on, guess. After a moment of silence, the look morphs into one that seems to indicate you’re not this dumb. I know you know who. 

“Oh come on, you can’t seriously tell me that even you think there’s something going on with them?” Tommy rolls his eyes. Neither man says your name, they don’t have to, they both know that they’re talking about you.

“No, I know. I’ve been on the other side of this conversation, myself, but this time there’s something to it.” Eugene jokes, taking a sip of his drink as Tommy just shakes his head. 

“You’re nuts. I think the weed is finally going to your head.” 

“That may be, but I know what I saw.” Eugene says. “We got that heavy rain this morning, and I was out on the porch just watching it come down when I saw her come out and head down the road towards her own house.” 

Tommy just shakes his head, “alright so she was there. You and I both know that doesn’t mean anything. They were probably just having breakfast.” 

You were, in fact, having breakfast. Joel had fried up a few eggs and you had brought over a loaf of bed to have some toast. The two of you ate your breakfast and sat there, watching the rain through the window as you drank your coffee. Eventually, a glance at the clock told you that it was time to head home so you could get ready before your shift. You were helping out at the school today – in another life, you were a substitute teacher to get through grad school, and while you’re a bit of a Jack-of-all-trades nowadays, you still find yourself slipping into the classroom from time-to-time. 

“Alright, thanks for breakfast, I’ve gotta head home.” You told Joel as you pressed a quick kiss to his cheek, watching as he put away the last dish you’d washed and dried. 

“Are you sure I can’t talk you into staying for another cup of coffee?” Just like every time you’re over for breakfast, Joel refused to let you wash your coffee mug right away, just in case you want another, he always says.

“Joel Miller? Offering to give away even more of his coffee? That’s crazy talk. You keep that up and people are liable to think you’ve been body snatched.” You laughed as you headed to the front door to lace up your shoes. You didn’t notice the way Joel pauses for a moment, glancing back into the kitchen as if to confirm he’s still got an extra can tucked away high in the pantry where you wouldn’t think to look. 

“At least take a jacket. You should’ve brought one.” Joel moved to grab his raincoat from the hall closet.

“It wasn’t raining when I left. Besides, a little rain never killed anyone.” You smiled. 

“I don’t know about that, you might be sweet enough to melt.” Joel teased.

“You’re incorrigible, Joel Miller. I’m fine, I’m only going over two streets to go get ready. I can dry off and grab my own jacket before I head to the school.”

“Yeah, alright. Have a good day.” Joel knew he'd lost, it’s always a battle of stubborn will between you and it was his turn to give in. 

With the rain pouring down around you, you gave Joel a quick wave before setting off towards your house. It was the type of heavy rain where you just keep your head down and trudge through to your destination. You meant what you said, you didn’t mind the walk in the rain, but it did keep you from really noticing Eugene watching from a few porches down as you departed. 

“Nah, it was too early to be decent. Hell, I couldn’t even tell you why I was up. Maybe the storm woke me.” Eugene tells Tommy, now that he’s done recounting the way he saw you leave this morning.

Instead of continuing to focus on your alleged walk of shame, Tommy takes the opportunity to joke with Eugene. “Ah, that old man sleep schedule.” 

Before either man can say anything else, Tommy feels someone coming up behind him. 

“You’re no spring chicken yourself, anymore.” Joel knocks shoulders with Tommy, joining their conversation. 

Whether Eugene agrees with Tommy’s assessment of a casual, platonic breakfast or not, he takes the hint to drop the conversation while the brothers start bickering. Even if Tommy completely missed the point Eugene was trying to make. There’s no way you would have been out in that weather early enough for breakfast, and even if you had been crazy enough, you would have had a jacket.

No, Eugene knows what he saw and what it meant. Tommy can think whatever he wants, but Eugene is sure you didn’t just go over for breakfast, but woke up and had it there. At the end of the day, he’s amused but it’s really none of his business so when the next conversation comes along, Eugene lets it go. There’s no point in bringing it up any further yet, but maybe he’ll keep an eye on you two and see if he notices anything else. 

A week later, Dina heads towards the front gates, waiting for Jesse to return from another patrol. She knows how proud he’s been to get to go on more and more patrols, and today he’s out  with Joel again, just the two of them. Dina’s only been on a few patrols so far, and she knows Jesse likes patrolling with and learning from Joel the best, but she prefers your style of teaching. She likes Joel and he knows what he’s doing, but you feel like a cool aunt, or a fun older sister, even out on patrol. Dina misses Talia, and while neither of you are trying to replace the people you’ve lost, it’s nice to have someone in that familial role. 

Today, she gets to go out on patrol with you, taking over after Jesse and Joel. The two of you had grabbed lunch with Ellie before you offered to go sign out the guns if Dina would get the horses, telling her you’d meet her by the gates.  

By the time Dina (and both horses) walk up to the gates, you’re already there chatting with Maria. Dina walks up to join you and you exchange her gun for the reins to your horse. 

“Alright, I’ll stop by later.” You tell Maria, turning to make sure everything is set the way you like it. Dina waves to Maria as she turns to walk away. 

“Let’s just wait a few minutes for the guys to get back and then we can head out.”

Strategically, it’s a smart choice. It means the gates only have to open once, and that you can quickly touch base and see if there is anything you should know before you head out. Selfishly, Dina’s glad to have the chance to see Jesse. Plus, she’s convinced there’s something going on between you and Joel so she’s taking every opportunity she can to pay attention. 

Sure enough, not even a minute later she hears the call to open the gates and the two of them move forward so they can meet the guys right at the opening.

Dina watches as your eyes light up with relief seeing Joel and Jesse back in one piece. She notices the way you give each of them a quick once-over for any injuries before your gaze lingers on Joel. She feels an immediate sense of satisfaction, this is the exact type of thing she's looking out for.

“Hi, you. Come here often?” You ask.

“I’ve been known to.” Joel responds, and it’s easy for Dina to see why the women of Jackson love to watch him – with that charming smile and gleam in his eyes, not to mention the accent. He’s not her type, but she gets it.

Dina takes a minute to say hi to Jesse while you and Joel talk.

“Anything we should know?” She asks, in a similar version of the conversation you and Joel are having.

“We didn’t see anything, so hopefully your route is quiet too.” Jesse tells her. 

“Okay.” Dina says, giving him a quick kiss. “I’ll see you later.”

“Be safe.” Jesse tells her.

“You be safe out there.” Joel tells you at the same time.

“Always am. Love you.” Dina’s glad she’s looking at Jesse and not towards you and Joel because her jaw drops. Sure, she thought something was going on but she wasn't expecting anything so direct.

Joel grunts back something that sounds like “love you too.” Dina doesn’t think her jaw could be any lower. She knows you’re an affectionate person but telling Joel you love him? In the middle of Jackson? And him saying it back? No way is she hearing what she’s hearing. A quick glance at Jesse’s look of astonishment reveals that she’s not the only one shocked or who heard it.

“Alright, miss Dina. Time for us to head out.” 

Dina just nods, still stunned by your matter of fact, nonchalant tone, and mounts her horse to follow you out of the gates. 

You do spend a good part of patrol talking about people in Jackson (general), relationships (hers) and rumors, but you never mention what you said to Joel. She has so many questions but doesn’t want to scare you off, or make patrol weird. No, she’ll keep waiting and watching and bring it up later. 

The next day, she stops by lunch with everyone to grab a sandwich and is delighted to see Tommy and Ellie eating together.

“Oh my god.” She says, in lieu of a greeting.

“Good afternoon to you, too.” Tommy says while Ellie just nods with a mouthful of food. 

“You’ll never guess what I heard yesterday?” She’s so excited she doesn’t give them a chance to answer before continuing, “so, as you know we had patrol after Joel and Jesse and we met them at the gates to switch off and right before we left, I heard her tell Joel she loves him. And he said it back!” She’s nearly yelling, she’s so excited.

“Okay.” Tommy says, before taking a bite of his sandwich.

“Okay? Okay! This is big news!” She exclaims.

“Dina, I hear you. But, I’ve been hearing her say that since high school.”

“No way, this was romantic. Trust me.” Ellie snorts as Dina digs her heels in. 

“I thought that too. It’s easier when you just accept it.” He shrugs.

“I dunno, Tommy. They do look pretty damn cozy lately.” Ellie adds in Dina's defense. “But then again, it is Joel, so.” Dina’s smile fades as she groans in reply to Ellie.

“Exactly, it’s Joel. Joel!” She tries again.

“What’s this about Joel?” You ask, walking up to the table with your own plate in hand. 

“Ah, Dina’s just telling us about you telling Joel you love him.” Tommy pointedly ignores the look Dina is giving him to be quiet, and tells you the exact thing she’s trying to avoid him saying.

“Tommy what the fuck?” She bursts out and you just laugh.

“Oh, fair enough.” You say, sitting down. Dina watches, exasperated as you unwrap your sandwich and start eating. No, it doesn’t matter how Tommy denies it and you play it off, she’s positive something is going on. And she’s going to keep watching until she has complete proof. She was already on a mission, but now she's determined to double down. While you start talking with Tommy, she scoots over closer to Ellie, roping her into her plan. 

It takes another week for the girls to come up with their plan and get everything ready, but it’s finally time. Ellie has talked Joel into another movie night and Dina has gotten you to promise that you’ll attend, not that it took much convincing. 

They almost go so far as to ask Maria what kind of movie you should watch, but decide against it, worrying that she’d tell you their scheme. They do tell Tommy, much to his amusement. 

“Hold on, so your big plan is to watch a movie with them, and just see what they do?” The corners of his eyes crinkle with amusement. “And you think this will be different from any other movie you’ve watched with them, because…?”

“We have a plan, Tommy.” Ellie says, almost defiantly.

“Yeah. I asked her about what movies she likes on patrol, and talked her into looking at the library to see what they have. She found a few she said she liked that we brought back. This way it’s something she already knows, and they have options.” Dina nods as if this is the lynchpin of their entire plan. 

“Plus, Dina will pretend to get a headache and go home and I’ll ‘fall asleep’ on the couch so they’ll think it’s just them but I can watch them.” She’s so excited about it, it brings a genuine smile to Tommy’s face.

For a minute, Tommy is thrown back 20 years, instead of Ellie, it’s Sarah scheming over the two of you. He tries so hard to see them each as their own person, but sometimes, in moments like this, he can’t help but see the similarities. But he can’t say that, so instead he just smiles.

The girls spend the rest of the day excited and finally, it’s time to head over for dinner. They’re full of excited energy as they meet you and Joel at the house, and instead of going off to Ellie’s room like they normally do, they sit with you in the kitchen while you cook, talking about a little of everything until Joel finally cracks and sends them to the living room, “It's not that big of a kitchen, it’s gonna take twice as long if you’re hovering.”

You just laugh and wink at Dina as the girls groan and go to the living room.

“They’re in good spirits today.” You say.

“Teenage girls, still the same as 20 years ago apparently.” Joel grumbles, but you see through it to know that he wouldn’t have it any other way. 

“Who would have thought at our big age we’d still be surrounded by them?” You pause your stirring and share a smile with Joel. You miss Sarah more than anything, and are glad to have Ellie and Dina in your lives, even when they’re being ridiculous. 

Without the constant interruptions, you two finish making dinner and call the girls to the table to eat. It’s a practiced routine with you and Joel dishing out food around each other listening to Ellie’s recount of her day. 

You’re not entirely sure what’s up during dinner but it’s clear that the girls are up to something . The little looks between the two of them, the way they keep giggling when they mention movie night. You’re just not sure what. Dina had the great idea to check out the movie selection at the Grand Teton library on patrol so you know you’ve got a couple of new options and you can’t think what might be causing it. Oh , you realize, one of the movies you grabbed was Dirty Dancing, the title is probably what’s giving them the giggles.

With that mystery solved, you turn your attention back to your dinner, leaving the girls to their own amusement. By the time dinner is done, they seem to mostly contain themselves so you send them off to pick a movie in the other room while you and Joel do the dishes. 

“What is with the giggling?” Joel says, the second you hear laughter coming from the other room.

“My best guess? We grabbed Dirty Dancing. I think the title is setting them off.” You shrug as you scrub the next dish.

“Could be.” Joel muses. 

It doesn’t take long for you to finish the dishes and dry your hands. Before you can make your way to the living room, Dina and Ellie come back to the kitchen.

“Dina’s got a headache!” Ellie nearly yells. It’s almost laughable, only Ellie would shout next to someone with a headache. 

“Yeah, sorry, I think I need a rain check on movie night.” Dina says, almost looking sheepish.

“Alright, honey. You want to go up to Ellie’s room and lay down? I can grab you a cool cloth.” You offer, concerned.

“No, that’s okay, I’m just gonna head home.” Dina says with a small shrug.

“Why don’t we save the movie for another night? We can play a game with Ellie instead.” You look over at Joel who nods in agreement.

“No!” Both girls yell, startling you and Joel.

“Dina doesn’t mind.” Ellie says.

“Yeah, I don’t want you to miss out. I’ll watch another time!” Dina adds. You and Joel exchange a look but frankly, you don’t have the energy to try and decipher every bit of teenage weirdness from the girls so you just agree. Dina gets sent home with a couple of cookies you were going to share during the movie, a hug, and a promise to you to get some rest. 

You and Joel turn back to the dishes to finish cleaning up while Ellie walks Dina to the door.

“That was fucking perfect, I don’t think they suspect anything.” Ellie says, louder than she intends. In the kitchen, you have to bite back your laughter. Truthfully, you’re not sure what this performance has been about, but you definitely suspect something is up with Dina. Even if you didn't, Ellie's momentary inability to whisper would have looped you in.

“Okay, you’ll have to tell me everything.” Dina says.

“Tomorrow at breakfast.” Ellie nods, seriously, as if they’re discussing battle plans and not an attempt to catch you and Joel in a romance. 

Dina leaves and Ellie meets you and Joel in the living room. She claims the slightly larger of the two couches, and sprawls out hoping it will push you two to sit closely on the other.

“How does one small person take up so much space?” Joel teases. Ellie just lifts up a middle finger in response while you laugh. 

You toss her a blanket as you cross the room towards the small stack of VHS tapes. 

“I’m thinking Raiders of the Lost Ark. It’s one of my favorites, I think you’ll like it, El.” Joel just laughs, knowing how many times you’d bring it over for movie night back in the day.

“Sure.” Honestly, Ellie doesn’t care what you watch tonight, since her focus is going to be on you and Joel. 

With that decided, you pop the tape in the VCR and grab a blanket for yourself. You make your way back to the couch and Ellie nearly jumps for joy when you curl up right next to Joel like you always do. 

As Joel extends an arm on the back of the couch behind you, he raises one eyebrow at Ellie, trying to figure out why she’s being so damn weird. When she gives him a thumbs up, he’s no less confused but brushes it off as Ellie being Ellie. 

She makes sure to get cozy at an angle where she can see the tv and you and Joel, but you won’t have an easy glimpse to know whether or not she’s awake. A few minutes into the movie she makes a point to yawn, and then she does it again a few minutes later. Damn, she thinks, this does look like a good movie, but it’ll be worth it to watch you and Joel. She’ll just have to see if you want to watch it with her again sometime. 

Not even twenty minutes into the movie, you look over at Ellie and nudge Joel, “she’s out cold.” 

Joel moves to reach for the remote before you can stop him, “no, it’s okay. Let her sleep, she and I can watch it another time.” Joel just nods and when he moves back, his arm falls from the back of the couch to around your shoulders. Ellie thinks she deserves some kind of award for feigning sleep during this. 

With Joel’s arm around your shoulders, one of your favorite movies on the tv and a cozy blanket draped over your laps, you’re happy as a clam and contentedly drop your head to Joel’s chest. The two of you stay that way for the rest of the movie. On the one hand, Ellie considers your cuddling a win. On the other hand, she was definitely hoping for something more exciting. Though she does eventually actually fall asleep, but she won’t tell Dina that part. 

The next morning, she’s wide awake the second her feet hit the floor for once, ready to meet Dina for breakfast. She tosses out a “good morning, going to breakfast, bye” all in one breath before she runs out the door. 

Dina’s already waiting for her with two plates when she gets to breakfast, and she eagerly fills her in on what happened after she left. It doesn’t take long for them to spot Tommy and wave him over to share their information.

“Them cuddling during a movie? During Raiders? Sorry, kiddos, been there done that. Literally.” Tommy offers them a sympathetic smile.

“You can’t ruin this for us, Tommy. Something’s up with them.” Ellie insists.

“Whatever you say.” Tommy laughs and shakes his head before saying goodbye and heading off to work for the day.

This time, he does mention it to Maria when they’re chatting after dinner. 

“Honestly, hon, I don’t know why everyone is suddenly so focused on them. They’ve been like this forever. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been convinced that they were finally getting together. It’s always ‘no, Tommy, we’re just friends’, ‘Tommy it’s platonic’, ‘she’s just a friend, Tommy’ so I finally was like fine! Short of them fucking making out in front of my face, it’s all platonic.” Tommy’s being overdramatic and Maria is having a hard time keeping a straight face. 

“I’m sorry to say, I also think that there’s something going on there.”

“Oh, not you too.” Tommy groans.

This afternoon, it was Maria’s turn to stop by the store to get what passes for groceries nowadays. They still have some things in the pantry, and later this week they’re having a birthday dinner for you, so she mostly focused on grabbing some produce and meat. 

She had looked over and saw Joel entering the store. They exchanged a pleasant nod and she continued with her shopping while Joel began his. Joel seemed to be a man on a mission and quickly gathered what he needed, with them both arriving at the front at the same time. 

With a slightly larger basket, Maria gestured to let Joel go first. 

Joel set his purchases down on the counter where it could be marked off for inventory purposes. Maria glanced down and saw sugar, flour, eggs, and some applesauce. With a nod, Dominique reached under the counter and grabbed what appeared to be a container of spices. Wordlessly, Joel pulled a can of coffee out of his bag in exchange.

“Normally you’re taking home the coffee, not bringing it back.” Maria couldn’t help herself from saying. 

“Well, her birthday’s coming up.” Joel scratches the back of his neck and shrugs. “Her favorite has always been spice cake, and I asked Dominique a while ago to keep an eye out for any spices I could use.” 

Maria’s heart melted. Coffee is hard to come by, and it’s long been a running joke in Jackson that now that they’ve got a steady supply, nothing could come between Joel Miller and his daily cup. But to see him willingly handing over an entire can of it, just to get something for you, is something she never expected from him.

“You were in luck, too. I almost feel bad asking for the whole can in return.” Dominique joked, despite taking the coffee anyways.

“Thank you, mighty appreciated.” Joel nodded, grabbing the rest of his goods to put in his bag before delicately placing the spice jar on top. 

Maria wanted to say more, but it was clear that was enough sentimentality for Joel as it was. So instead, she said, “well, I, for one, am looking forward to this Friday night birthday party. It’s nice to be able to celebrate things even though it’s not how it used to be.”

Joel simply nodded in return, but one glance at the look in his eyes told Maria that he was visiting a faraway time, a time where he could have gotten you a cheap cake from the supermarket, ice cream, and easy, store bought presents. If she could have seen in his mind, she’d have heard years of singing each other happy birthday with laughter – his, yours, Tommy’s, their parents, and Sarah’s. She’d have seen the way that Sarah insisted on learning how to make a spice cake every year, even though you promised you’d have been just as happy with chocolate cake, or vanilla; the way your eyes would always light up with the first bite, the perfect mix of the spices in the cake with the frosting (regular, not cream cheese, thank you very much). 

She couldn’t see any of that, but she could see Joel’s love for you in this simple act of preparing to bake a cake. So, much like the other residents of Jackson, including their friends lately, she filed it away to tell Tommy. 

“Alright, I’ll admit, you make a compelling argument. I guess that’s what I get for marrying a lawyer.” Tommy jokes, pulling her into his lap. “Still, they’ve always been close. I’m telling you, they’re just friends. After all this time, I’ve given up hope of matchmaking them.” He jokes. 

“You never know.” Maria teases, laying her head on her husband’s shoulder, before changing the subject slightly to what’s planned for your birthday party and who is responsible for what. 

The next few days fly by for your group as everyone is looking forward to getting together. Naturally, everyone spends all of their time together anyways but it’s nice to have an event planned, something to look forward to that celebrates something like Maria told Joel. 

Tonight’s party is being held after dinner, and has your closest friends and family. You’ve got a big flannel on over a comfortable dress that lives at the back of your closet for every celebration under the sun and Ellie plopped a homemade, paper birthday crown on your head. Everyone has finished their dinner and Joel disappeared for a moment before bringing out a cake. Which, admittedly, made you tear up. It’s the end of the world and he’s still making you a birthday cake, you shake your head at the thought.

“Alright, thank y’all for comin’. I know I don’t usually host or make a big speech, but bear with me just a minute.” Joel stands, with a drink in hand, looking around the bar at everyone gathered for your birthday: you, Ellie, Dina, Jesse, Maria, Tommy, and Eugene. The best of your community, as far as you’re concerned. 

“Someone often tells me that it’s okay to celebrate, the big things and the little things. Hell, she’s been telling me that most of my life. So today, this one’s for you, darlin’. It’s hard work to keep a place like this running and lord knows how much we all owe Tommy and Maria, but we also owe it to you. To the way you volunteer for a little bit of every job, take care of everyone, and I’m sure everyone agrees that we owe you a big thank you for putting up with me and keeping me as in line as you can, all these years.” Joel says, laughing when Tommy bursts out laughing. 

“I love you, honey. I ain’t got any candles but you’ll just have to close your eyes and make a wish anyways.” 

Tommy watches Joel tuck you into his side and press a kiss to the top of your head while you close your eyes to make your wish and blow out the lighter Eugene offers. It’s such a familiar scene to Tommy that he can almost picture Sarah sitting on your other side, waiting to help you cut and serve the cake. He’s so busy thinking about the life you all deserved that he nearly misses seeing you open your eyes, and lean up to press a kiss to Joel’s lips.

“Hold on, what ?!” Amidst the chorus of ‘happy birthday’ that’s starting, Tommy is staring at you two, wide eyed.

“What do you mean ‘what’, Tommy Miller?” You’ve got a mischievous smile on your face as you grab the knife from Maria and start cutting the cake. 

“Ain’t you been the one tryin’ to get us together all this time?” Joel adds.

“Well, I was. But the two of you are hopeless so I gave up. Years ago. You’re just friends. That’s what you’ve been saying, that’s what I’ve been telling everyone.” Tommy throws his hands in the air, exasperated, as though the two of you have organized all of this just to frustrate him.

“I mean we were, and then we weren’t.” Joel adds, unhelpfully. 

“Tommy, we haven’t exactly been subtle,” you laugh, “I’m pretty sure Jesse saw us holding hands a few weeks ago.” You nod your head towards Jesse who doesn’t get his chance to finally say I told you so before Tommy cuts him off. 

“He said you were passing the library, Joel always had to hold your hand passing the bookstore so you wouldn’t wander off and buy the whole fucking store.” 

“He was holding my hand long before we got to the library.” You smile, leaning back into Joel.

“That’s what I said!” Jesse whispers to Dina, who tucks her head into his shoulder and giggles.

“Okay fine, so you were holding hands.” Tommy concedes.

“Right, and I know Dina heard me tell Joel I love him before patrol one day because y’all were talking about it the next day.” Dina’s giggles continue. 

“You’ve been telling him that for decades. Hell, you tell me and Maria you love us. I don’t see you kissing us.” 

“I didn’t know either of you wanted me to, sugar.” You wink at him. “But nah, fair enough. Well, he never said anything to me but I think Eugene saw me leaving Joel’s too early to be decent one morning.” Your voice trails up, unsure.

“I did.” Eugene confirms, very matter of fact. 

“Though he might not have said anything.” You add, assuming that maybe he hadn’t since it had never gotten back to you or Joel.

“No, I did that too.” Everyone laughs. Eugene might be a cranky old man, but damn does he love his gossip. But you have to earn the right for him to like you enough to include you in it, and all of you at this table have been lucky enough to have been brought into the fold. 

“How many times in school did I come downstairs and you were already there for breakfast? Half the time you came over with breakfast in exchange for a ride to school and half the time you’d fallen asleep studying or watching a movie with me right there too. How was I supposed to know this time it was different?” Tommy continues ranting.

“Tommy, have you been watching my girl all this time?” 

“How the hell could I not, Joel? Everywhere I’ve gone for decades it’s ‘are they together’, ‘have they finally kissed’, 'are they sleeping together', nobody wanted you two together more than me. But no, every time I thought there was something going on you convinced me it was just platonic. Excuse me for finally believing you.” Tommy’s doing a remarkable job keeping up the facade of being annoyed, but you can tell how delighted he is for the two of you.

“Okay, so my brother and my best friend are together. Finally, after all these years. It’s all I’ve wanted, so why the hell do I feel cheated?” He finishes his rant with an exaggerated sigh.

“In our defense, we really thought you knew. Don’t think I don’t know that Miss Dina and Miss Ellie over there have been watching our every move.” Ellie looks sheepish for once at having been caught. 

“Well regardless of who knows or not”, Joel cuts back in, “I wanted to thank all of y’all for helping me put together this party for the best woman I’ve ever known. I don’t know why you put up with me, with any of us” Joel says with a wink to Ellie, “But we’re sure glad you do. Happy birthday, baby. Let’s have some cake.”

“Oh fuck yeah, finally!” Ellie yells as she squeezes past Maria to grab one of the first slices of cake. She’s never had spice cake before but Joel has told her about it, how it’ll be the first one he’s been able to make for you in years. It's been a monumental effort for her not to have ruined the surprise for you and she's pretty proud of herself, and ready to finally try it.

Sure, Tommy had a point, or several, with the reason he assumed you two were still platonic but Joel still can’t believe his brother didn’t know you had gotten together. Joel doesn’t need a mirror to know that he looks at you like you hung the moon in the sky. He’s still got one arm around you, and looks down to see you laughing at something with Dina and Jesse while you’re scooping a bite of cake into your mouth. When that first bite hits your tongue, your eyes light up at the familiar flavor that you never thought you’d get to experience again.

Joel loves you in every mood, but damn does he love the way you look when you’re happy. He knows you’ll tease him for it later, that everyone here is likely to, but he doesn’t bother waiting for you to finish your conversation as he uses his other hand to tilt your chin towards him and kiss you. You’re still finishing your cake so you end up accidentally covering him in frosting as well. 

“Oops.” You say, not at all sorry, as you grab a napkin to wipe his face. But Joel doesn’t let you, he just pulls you back in for another kiss. This one is long enough that Ellie starts complaining about “old people germs” and “public indecency”. You start laughing into the kiss before pulling away, setting down your plate to chase Ellie around the room to press a sloppy kiss to her cheek.

“I mean really, holding hands, being together at all hours, saying they love each other, saving up for a spice cake? From the two of them? Been there, done that, for over 30 damn years!” Tommy grumbles one last time to Maria as she hands him a plate of cake. In truth, he’s thrilled. He can’t keep the smile from his face as he looks at you, at the love that was there all along that you’ve finally given into. 

I hope you’re seeing this, sweetheart. He sends a thought up to Sarah, knowing that she wanted you two together as much as he always did. The world might have ended long ago, but as long as there are pockets of love and joy like this, they can keep going.