#The Williamson’s

[lvnleah]

008. | Leah’s return

word count: 1.8k

find the masterlist here!

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January 24th 2024 | 29 weeks + 6 days.

“You’ll definitely be there tonight?” Leah asked, slipping her hands underneath your shirt from behind to rest on your bump.

You turned your head to place a kiss on her cheek, “Yes Le, I promise I’ll be there. I’m going to head to work, check on the bakery and then I’m meeting your Mum and Jacob.”

Tonight, Leah was making her comeback from her ACL. It was against Reading and after a long ten months, she was finally going to be back on the pitch. You were travelling up with her family while she was travelling on the coach with the team.

The excitement in Leah was unmistakable. “I can’t wait to see you in the stands,” she whispered, giving your bump a gentle rub before stepping back.

You smiled, “I’ll be the loudest one there, I promise.” You turned towards the kitchen, grabbing your bag and keys. “Now, I better get going before I’m late.”

Leah followed you to the door, her face a mix of excitement and nerves. “Don’t overdo it at the bakery, okay?”

You nodded, “I won’t. Just a quick check-in to make sure everything’s running smoothly. Besides, Maia has got it all under control.” You said, referring to the young girl who worked at your bakery and was currently running it.

She leaned in for one last kiss. “I love you. See you tonight.”

“Love you too,” you replied. “You’re gonna smash it tonight!”

The bakery was only a short drive away, and as you navigated through the familiar streets, your mind wandered to Leah’s match. The journey had been tough on her, both physically and mentally, and tonight she was going to be making her comeback.

Pulling up to the bakery, you saw the bustling activity inside. It was a small place, but it was yours and you loved it a lot.

You checked in with Maia and sorted some paperwork, you quickly brainstormed a few sales ideas with Maia before you went on your way.

The next stop was Leah’s mum’s house, where you joined her and Jacob for the journey to the stadium.

“Ready to cheer for Le?” Jacob asked as you stepped out of the door, “She sent me a list of your favourite snacks right now for the drive, they’re in the car.

“Ready as ever!” you laughed, “You better not steal my sweets!”

“Everything went well at the bakery?” Amanda asked.

“Smooth as always. Maia’s a lifesaver.”

She nodded, pulling you into a warm hug. “Let’s get going then. We don’t want to miss a moment of Leah’s big night.”

The drive to the stadium was filled with chatter and laughter, you and Jacob bickered like siblings, everyone was buzzing with excitement. As you arrived and found your seats, the energy in the stadium was electric. Fans were pouring in, and the atmosphere was just the same as usual.

You settled into your seat in the box, Jacob on one side and Leah’s mum on the other with the rest of her family scattered around to you. As the teams started to warm up on the pitch, you scanned the field, your eyes searching for Leah. When you finally spotted her, your heart swelled with happiness. She looked focused, determined, and ready to give it her all.

Soon, the warm ups were over and both teams headed inside. Your phone pinged in your pocket, you smiled once you saw it was Leah.

Le 💕: please come see me quickly? x

You: be there in two seconds! x

You excused yourself and made your way down to the tunnel where the players' entrance was. The stadium buzzed around you, but your focus was solely on getting to Leah.

As you approached, a security guard let you through with a nod and a smile. You navigated the narrow corridor, the hum of excitement palpable. Finally, you spotted Leah standing near the entrance to the changing rooms. Her eyes lit up when she saw you.

“There’s my girl,” she said softly, wrapping her arms around you as she placed a kiss on your cheeks.

“Are you ready?” you asked, looking up into her eyes, searching for any signs of nerves.

She nodded. “I am. I’ve worked so hard for this moment. Just needed to see you one last time before I go out there.”

You placed a hand on her cheek, your thumb brushing lightly over her skin. “You’re going to be amazing, Leah. I know it. We all know it.”

She smiled as she rested her hand on your bump, “He’s lively tonight! Must be excited to see his Mumma play.”

“He’s definitely having a party,” you laughed, “Now go out there and show them what you’re made of.”

With one final kiss, you stepped back, giving her a reassuring smile. Leah took a deep breath, nodded, and turned to head into the changing rooms.

As you made your way back to your seat, you felt the anticipation build. The stadium lights brightened, the announcer's voice echoed, and the crowd’s excitement surged as the teams were introduced.

You settled back in with Leah’s family, clutching your bag of snacks that Jacob had dutifully packed. The roar of the crowd grew louder, and when Leah’s name was called, the noise was deafening. You stood, cheering as loud as you could, feeling your baby kick inside you as if he was sharing the excitement.

“Is she alright?” Lia asked, leaning from her seat to talk to you from behind.

You nodded, “Yeah, she’s just a bit nervous and wanted to see me. If I’m perfectly honest I think she just wanted a kiss.”

Laura laughed, shaking her head, “She’s so in love with you.”

The match kicked off, and it wasn’t long before Arsenal scored. Goals came swiftly, one after another, and by the 60th minute, the score was 4-0 in Arsenal's favour. Caitlin had scored in the 23rd minute followed by Stina in the 35th and again in the 45th and finally Laia in the 51st. The crowd was ecstatic, nerves bubbled up inside of you knowing Leah would soon be on the pitch.

When the fourth official held up her number for her to come on, the stadium erupted in applause and cheers. She high-fived Beth’s hand, who was also coming on, before exchanging a quick hug with Caitlin and then Jen.

You leaned forward, gripping the edge of your seat as you watched Leah take her position on the field. It was a moment you had both been waiting for. She looked calm and ready to play, you felt completely different however as nerves continued to build up inside.

Minutes passed as the game resumed its fast pace. Leah moved quickly, her touches confident and like she’d never been away. Even her leadership skills were evident after being out for so long.

Then, in the 80th minute, the moment you had been waiting for arrived. Sabs passed the ball to Leah who kicked it up the pitch to Beth. The ball sailed over and landed perfectly at Beth’s feet, giving her the chance to slot it into the back of the net. The stadium erupted in cheers, and you jumped to your feet, tears of joy streaming down your face.

“Did you see that?” Jacob yelled, his face beaming with joy.

Leah’s teammates mobbed her and Beth in celebration, their joy mirroring yours. Her smile was wide and she looked shocked at her assist. She looked up into the stands, and you knew she was looking for you.

You waved, hoping she could see how proud you were. She gave a small, discreet wave back, her eyes locking onto yours for just a second before she was pulled back into the game.

The final whistle blew with the score at 6-0. The crowd erupted in applause and chants, celebrating both the team’s victory and Leah’s return. As the players made their way off the pitch, you could see the exhaustion and elation on Leah’s face. She had done it. She was back.

After the match, Leah spotted you and ran up to the box, her face beaming with a mixture of relief and joy.

“You were incredible!” you exclaimed, throwing your arms around her.

Leah hugged you tightly, whispering in your ear, “I couldn’t have done it without you.”

You pulled back, “I’m so proud of you, Le.”

Leah kissed you quickly before moving onto her mum, “Alright, mum?”

Amanda pulled her baby close, “I’m so proud of you, bubba!”

Leah took a deep breath as she held onto her mum. “Thanks, Mum. It feels like a dream.”

After a few more hugs and words of congratulations for her family, Leah turned back to you, her hand finding yours. “Let’s go home,” she said softly, “I’m going to get changed then I’ll meet you out the front?”

You nodded, “Sounds perfect!”

Leah headed back down and got changed before heading out the front to meet you. As you made your way out of the stadium with Leah and her family, you felt your baby boy kick again, almost as if he was celebrating too. You looked over at Leah, who was walking beside you, her hand never leaving yours. She caught your gaze and smiled.

“He’s going to be a footballer, I think,” Leah said, placing a hand on your bump.

“Just like his mum then?,” you replied, leaning into her.

Amanda and Jacob walked a few steps ahead, giving you both a moment of privacy. As you reached the car, you felt a wave of exhaustion wash over you, but it was a good kind of tired, the kind that comes after a day filled with joy and excitement.

The drive home was quiet, the kind of comfortable silence that comes with being surrounded by family. Leah’s hand was warm in yours, and you could feel her contentment radiating off her. It had been a long journey to get here, but she had made it. You both had.

When you finally reached home, Leah helped you out of the car, her movements careful and gentle. “Come on, let’s get you inside,” she said, her voice soft.

You followed her into the house, the familiar warmth and cosiness welcoming you back. Leah guided you to the couch and you sank into the cushions with a sigh of relief. She sat down beside you, her hand still holding yours.

“I’m so proud of you, Leah,” you said again, looking into her eyes.

She smiled, leaning in to kiss you. “I couldn’t have done it without you,” she repeated.

You kissed her back, feeling the weight of the day melt away. “We’re a team always,” you whispered.

Leah nodded, “Always.”

As the night settled in around you, you closed your eyes, feeling the love between you and Leah. It had been a night to remember, one that you would carry with you always. And as you drifted off to sleep in Leah’s arms, you couldn’t help but feel proud of her.

[perfectfeelings]

Until we have seen someone's darkness, we don't really know who they are. Until we have forgiven someone's darkness, we don't really know what love is.

Marianne Williamson

[lazypapers]

Rescuing Bill

He is tied up in such a specific way.

[roundworm1111]

[tench-art]

Try not to lose your head, O'Driscoll boy

[yakowo]

People don't forget. Nothing gets forgiven.

[wileys-russo]

the royal box II l.williamson

i think this is genuinely up there with one of my favourite fics i've ever written the royal box II l.williamson

"i'd love to do lunch! i should probably find my seat soon but maybe next week? i'll get my agent to text me my calendar." you smiled, kissing the girls cheek and clinking your drink against hers in goodbye as you turned back to the bar.

not having seen her since you'd walked your first runway years ago it never ceased to amaze you how small the world could seem at these type of events, truly never knowing who you'd run into next, most of them a pleasant surprise.

"shame they let anybody in here now, for a royal box it’s really going downhill." but that voice, that raspy tone and infuriatingly attractive accent, that voice was not a pleasant surprise, in fact it was anything but.

"leah." you didn't even need to turn to look at her as she appeared beside you, nursing a drink of her own as the pair of you watched the pre set warm ups commence on the court below, stood together at a large crystal clear double paneled window right by the bar.

"well it can't be that royal of a box if you're here. unless they invited you because you're a royal pain in the ass?" you met her gaze with a fake smile, sipping at your drink as she puffed air from her nose.

"well you never seemed to complain when i was touching your ass darling." she quipped back smugly as you finished your drink with a fake chuckle, reaching over to place the empty glass on the bar top.

you hadn't seen her in months and yet it felt like only yesterday those same bright eyes had been locked with yours, often at any and all hours of the night and rarely ever stone cold sober as you'd roll around in bed together.

but swallowing the past you plastered a polite smile on your face and turned back to her. “lovely of your dad to let you borrow his suit, though it could have been tailored a little better-” you gently knocked your foot against hers, heel dragging up the edge of her pants that indeed were a centimeter or two too long to reveal her ankles.

"-then again, might be best to hide those shoes. did you loan those from your grandad?" you grimaced, leah kicking your foot away with a scowl, necking the last of her own drink.

“well speaking of hiding what a lovely change for you to put on a dress that isn't two sizes too small and soaked in cheap tequila and regret." the blonde smiled charmingly reaching over your shoulder to put her empty glass down next to yours, gesturing to the bartender that she'd like another.

"then again i know thats all about easy access for you, isn't it?" leah smirked as your eyes narrowed but still the fake smile remained on your lips.

“i seem to remember you never minded. less material to rip off and toss on your floor first, then throw at my face once we were done and you wanted me to leave, right?” you retorted back, not missing the way her eyes dipped up and down to check you out.

“do I have a glow about me? i’ve just been getting so much more beauty sleep without the needy calls at three in the morning.” leah questioned, patting her cheeks gently with a smug glint in her eyes as you laughed politely.

“no i was actually going to suggest you try a new eye cream, anti aging maybe? and these frown lines…yikes. then there’s those angry little eyebrows-” your finger wiggled around in front of her face pointing things out, lips curling upward at the way the smug humor was promptly wiped from her features.

“at least my eyebrows are real.” leah was quick to bite, jaw muscles visibly clenching as you chuckled, not at all ashamed of the fact you got yours tattooed, something leah used to find endlessly fascinating.

“well in my defense i have had a lot of practice faking things, haven't i?” you grinned watching her jaw tense even more, knowing exactly which kinks in her armor to poke at to get a reaction even after all this time had passed.

"please. i know you miss me!" leah's eyes rolled cockily as you laughed sarcastically. “aw is that what you have to tell yourself to feel better? baby I haven’t missed you at all.” you promised as her eyes now rolled.

“yeah you wish, i’ve missed you even less.”

“did dad do your tie for you as well or have we learned how to do it ourselves by now?” you pouted mockingly, reaching over and tightening the knot of her tie as she pushed your hands away and quickly tugged it back looser again.

“booked any genuine campaigns yet or is mummy still flashing the nepotism card to get you on the runway?” leah pouted right back as you scoffed and she grinned, also knowing exactly where to poke at you to get what she wanted.

“please like you don’t stalk my socials, i see you watching my stories.” you snickered, eyes drifting away from her and back down to the court where things seemed to be about to start.

“you think about me so much you feel the need to check? do you post things hoping i'll see them? aw baby girl that’s so sweet of you.” leah cooed pinching your cheek as you smacked her hand off you with a glare.

“don’t call me that.” you warned, hating the glee which filled her face at your obvious discontent, cursing yourself internally for allowing her to see as much.

“oh i'm sorry, struck a nerve did i? good girl, is that better?” leah leaned in closer to whisper, lips grazing your ear as she grabbed a fresh drink from the bar and retracted, the hair on the back of your neck standing to attention.

you kept quiet at that, turning away from her and ordering a new drink of your own with a polite smile, still feeling her eyes on your back as she made no move to leave.

"surely there's some doe eyed idiot with a complex for athletes that you can go swoon with the stories of you kicking things to boost your microsized ego?" you rolled your eyes hearing her chuckle and move to lean against the bar right beside you again.

"footballs. kicking footballs, never could learn the rules or the lingo could you? or maybe you just pretend not to know so i'll explain to you over and over and over, always giving you the attention you want so badly." leahs finger swiped at your nose as you gave her a hard look and shoved at her shoulder.

"speaking of idiots, will that wet mop with teeth and a combover you call a boyfriend be joining us?” leah questioned, spinning around so her back leant against the bar top and her eyes scanned the room, everyone slowly filing out to find their seats.

"you really have been keeping tabs." you glanced up at her with a small smirk as she chose not to acknowledge your statement.

“but no he’s probably off partying in magaluf or ibiza spreading some sort of sexually transmitted disease, waving his little dick around and shoving it into everything that moves.” you rolled your eyes with disdain at the mention of your anything but loyal ex, the boy having slept with more women just while he was with you than you think you had your entire lifetime.

"ahh i see, ex boyfriend then. did he catch the sti from you? or was it one pregnancy scare too many that pushed the unwilling father to be away.” leah smirked though she felt you stiffen beside her and suddenly alarm bells went off in her head that maybe she'd taken things just a step too far.

"fuck you leah." you didn't even hang around to wait for your drink, giving the taller girl one final venomous look which made her stomach drop before you were storming off away from her to find your seat.

it had happened when you least expected it.

you'd not seen leah for a couple of weeks as she was on camp for england, but nothing about your hook ups regular or scheduled and certainly not monogamous you'd busied yourself seeing other people.

this night in particular it had been a rather handsome male model you'd been on a shoot with, accepting his offer of dinner and drinks once you'd wrapped for the day, raised never to say no to a free meal or a hot date.

one thing lead to another and later that night you found yourself in a club packed with blurred faceless bodies, surrounded by strangers and drowning yourself in shots to the point you didn't even remember leaving and going home with him.

there was however one thing that was burned into your mind, the biggest regret of your life as the condom had broke while the two of you were going at it.

normally you were always careful and you'd never be this stupid but the boy dismissing it himself you'd been far too drunk to disagree as he made no move to pull out.

not even getting to have a release yourself it had been a gloriously underwhelming seven minutes before he was satisfied and then suddenly too tired to return the favor.

again with potentially more cheap vodka in your system than blood you'd passed out beside him, spending the night in his bed and waking up hours later with a pounding headache and a deep rooted shame as you sat up and slivers of last night flickered through your mind.

grabbing your clothes you quickly dressed and fled his house, no idea where you were as you sat on his front steps and bounced your knee, the shame spreading through your body quickly morphing into anxiety as your fight or flight kicked in.

knowing there was one person who would answer this time of morning you clicked call, phone held to your ear and skin crawling with disgust as you prayed she would come through.

sure enough after only a few rings the dial tone clicked and you heard a yawn. "this is unusually early for a hook up even for you, what you need and miss me this badly?" the teasing tone and snicker died in her mouth hearing how you spoke her name.

"leah." you could barely get it out without crying, covering your mouth as reality set in and the blonde on the other end sat up in her bed, rubbing her eyes and trying to wake herself up properly.

"whats happened? whats wrong?" the concern in her voice was lost on you as you took a shaky breath. "can you come pick me up please? i don't know where i am but i can send you my location." you asked quietly, leah already out of bed and rummaging around for her car keys.

"yeah send it now, i'll be there soon."

you'd moved away from his house lingering on the curb out front when you heard her pull up, standing to your feet and hurrying to her car just wanting to get as far away from here as possible.

leah had intended to get out of the car to check on you but you were already up and opening the passenger door, sliding into her car and avoiding her gaze as you buckled yourself in.

"you alright?" leah asked cautiously voice thick with sleep, taking in your disheveled appearance and oddly quiet manner with a frown. "i'm fine." you muttered quietly, fiddling with your hands in your lap as you stared down at the floor.

"did something happen?" leah asked carefully though you knew what she meant, a gentle nudge to your side having her offering you a bottle of water she'd quickly grabbed from her fridge as she flew out the door.

"can you take me to a pharmacy please? there's one open about ten minutes from here." you asked after accepting the water with a quiet thank you, leah hesitating for a moment which you felt.

"leah, please." you finally looked up and met her gaze, silence filling the car as the blondes eyes raked over you. "actually don't worry i should have just called an uber or something i'm sorry." you shook your head, moving to unclip your seatbelt as leahs hand shot to grab yours.

"no, please i really don't want you in an uber by yourself right now. put the address in and i'll take you." leah promised softly, squeezing your hand and waiting until you nodded to let go, starting the car back up as you typed the address into her gps system.

there wasn't another word exchanged between the pair of you, leah focused on the road and your own gaze trained out the window, occasionally taking small sips of the cold bottle of water clenched in your hand.

"you don't need to come in, i can find my way home from here." you unclipped yourself as leah pulled up outside the small block of shops where the twenty four seven pharmacy was.

"thank you leah." you spoke sincerely and softly, leaning across the console to kiss her cheek, slipping out of the car before the blonde could even get a word out.

she sat there stumped for a second watching your figure disappear into the pharmacy, shaking her head and hurrying to unclip her own belt, turning off the car and hurrying in after you.

"leah what-" you looked up in surprise as she appeared beside you, crinkle of confusion in your eyebrows as the blonde opened and closed her mouth a few times.

"sunglasses! i need sunglasses and...pads?" she floundered around for an excuse, grabbing a pair of shades off the rack in front of you and slipping them on with an awkward smile.

you couldn't help but chuckle, seeing what she was doing but appreciating it none the less. "thank you." you smiled, leah nodding and darting off to grab the pads she had no intention of using as you waited for the pharmacist.

"what can i get for you love?" the older woman eventually appeared in front of you as you shifted uncomfortably. "can i get the morning after pill please?" you asked quietly, not missing the judgement that flashed across her face though it was gone as soon as it appeared.

you jumped at a loud clatter behind you glancing over your shoulder to see a flustered looking leah scrambling to clean up the pile of baby formula tins she'd just knocked over, sunglasses still covering her eyes.

"sorry! sorry! i just...i got this." leah motioned to the tins, cheeks flushed bright red in embarrassment as you bit the inside of your own cheek to hide a smile, hearing the pharmacist sigh.

"is this pill for yourself or someone else?" the woman asked in a monotone, kindness drained from her voice as the same cocktail of shame, anxiety and disgust leapt into your mouth like bile.

"myself."

"have you considered all of your options?" the woman asked again as you frowned with confusion. "my options?" you questioned as again the woman sighed as if you were doing her a grave disservice.

"your options. have you taken a test? seen a doctor? do you know if you are actually pregnant?" the woman raised an eyebrow as your mouth opened and closed a few times, caught off guard by the questions.

"excuse me? it is literally called the morning after pill. how would she have had time to go see a doctor and take a test? not that any of that is your business." leah was suddenly beside you, sunglasses pushed onto her forehead and signature scowl on her face.

"well i-"

"exactly. so can you please get her the fucking pill? legally i don't think she's required to do anything than prove she's of age to purchase it." leah warned seriously as the womans eyes widened and she nodded, quickly rummaging around behind her.

"here." she placed it down in front of you and rang you up, your phone tapping to pay as leah stared the woman down firmly. "thank you." the blonde smiled though it didn't reach her eyes, the two of you quickly making your way out of the store and back to leahs car.

"seems all i'm doing today is saying thank you." you smiled hovering by her car, leah dismissing it with a small wave. "you might need to wait and take that in a little bit though." leah gestured for you to get into the car as she rounded to her own side.

"why?" you asked, eyebrows furrowing in confusion as she started up the engine, arm draped across the back of your seat looking over her shoulder with a grin.

"well because i just realised i didn't pay for these sunglasses."

"we're at your place?" you questioned later as the blonde pulled into her driveway and cut the engine off. you'd already taken the pill during the drive, missing the way leahs eyes flickered to you every few minutes to check you were okay.

"yeah i figured you probably shouldn't be by yourself, just in case theres any side effects or anything." leah brushed it off as you nodded slowly, genuinely too tired and hungover to find an argument.

you followed her out of the car and into her home, finding it strange to be stood here in broad daylight and uncertain of what was to come, awkwardly wrapping your arms around yourself.

"do you want a shower?" leah offered as you glanced down and realised you really could use one, the thought of being able to wash off the remnants of last night too tempting to turn down.

"yeah that would be great, thank you."

you exhaled heavily as you exited leahs shower already feeling better, finding a bundle of clean clothes waiting at the door for you to change into.

you couldn't help but inhale as you wiggled yourself into her clothes, drowned in the scent of leahs expensive perfume and green apple body wash, unable to deny the comfort it strangely provided you.

"all good?" leah asked as you appeared, the girl also unable to deny the weird way her stomach twisted seeing you clad in her clothes. "yeah your water pressure is insane." you chuckled making her grin, licking a dollop of jam off her thumb.

"thought you might want something to eat but i haven't exactly done my groceries yet." leah offered you a plate of toast, slight pink blush in her cheeks, something you'd not seen from the footballer the entire time you'd known her.

"its perfect." you assured, ignoring the urge to tease her for blushing knowing the girl had practically saved you today and you owed her a great debt of gratitude.

"do you want to watch something?" leah offered, thumb pointing to the lounge as you nodded, following her over here as you sat down, leah right beside you with her own plate and grabbing the remote.

"is that...just plain bread?" you asked, amusement present in your features at the blondes choice of breakfast. "yeah, so?" she scoffed defensively as you raised your hands up in surrender.

"nothing...the stomach wants what it wants." you laughed, leah kicking you playfully and grabbing her plate, settling back into the lounge and propping her sock covered feet onto the coffee table.

"you watch this?" you asked with surprise as she flicked on last nights episode of big brother. "you don't?" she questioned with a mouthful of bread as you grimaced and knocked your knee into hers.

"of course i do, just didn't picture englands captain wasted her time on trashy reality tv!" you teased taking a bite of your toast as she shrugged, reaching behind her to grab a blanket off the back of the lounge, putting down her plate and gesturing for you to put your arms up as she draped it across the two of you.

"might be a god in the bedroom but i am still human." she winked as you jokingly gagged and she pulled a face, settling back down and munching on her plain bread as a comfortable silence fell between the pair of you.

you weren't sure when you fell asleep but you awoke several hours later dazed and confused. you tensed realising you weren't alone, an arm draped across your midsection as you groggily rubbed your eyes, blinking a few times and coming to.

you quickly realised it was leah draped across you, a mess of blonde hair covering her face as it was tucked into your shoulder, her arm slung tightly across your midsection, other hand intertwined with yours as you realised your fingers were interlocked.

you felt weird, no-you felt good. it felt strangely right to be in this foreign position with her and that was terrifying, the subtle and warm and welcoming domesticity of the situation filled you with dread and with fear.

you couldn't develop feelings for her, not for leah.

leah who wouldn't even look at you after she'd spend hours worshipping your body and having you chanting her name among all sorts of obscenities.

leah who would just toss you your clothes and wander off for a shower or roll back over in bed facing away from you, which you knew all too well was the unspoken cue for you to leave.

yet here she was curled up into you, legs stretched out across the coffee table and tucked under a blanket, holding your hand and your body in a way so tender you had almost forgotten what sincere non sexual intimacy felt like.

so you did what countless nights spent with her had trained you to, you left.

carefully unwinding yourself out of her grip the blonde had stirred but remained asleep, allowing you the time to shrug off her clothes and slip back into your dress from the night before with a disgusted grimace at the memories they held.

folding up her clothes and leaving them on the arm of the lounge you gave her one last look, a weird longing to just wrap yourself back up in her arms all you needed to push you out her front door.

leah had woken up not long after, frown on her face as she realized you weren't beside her anymore and the clothes you'd had on were neatly folded a few metres away, and since that morning leah hadn't heard a word from you.

you sighed deeply as you watched the blonde make her way down the row of seats, smiling and shaking hands as she went but heading right for you.

"you have to be joking." you mumbled to yourself as she dropped herself in the spare seat right beside you, not missing the way you physically recoiled and pulled your body as far to the other side of your seat as you could to get away from her.

"you forgot your drink." leah offered it out to you, giving an awkward smile as you glanced at her but accepted it none the less, taking a sip and sitting it down in the holder on your right.

"i'm not thanking you." you warned her, hoping that was all she wanted and would head off to another seat but you had no such luck as she wriggled around and made herself comfortable.

"look i'm really sorry i took that way too far and-" you almost thought you might not hear from her again as the set started, leah leaning in to whisper to you as your eyes closed and you sighed again.

"its fine, just shut up leah." you sharply cut her off, the blonde nodding and leaning back, both of you pulled into conversations with other people as the box buzzed with quiet chatter.

eventually though you once again found yourself with not much else to occupy you as the chatter died out and the match began to heat up, leah muttering commentary under her breath as you chanced a look at her and chuckled at the concentrated scowl on her face.

"what?" she didn't miss it as your head snapped forwards again and you shrugged. "no go on, whats so amusing?" she questioned crossing her arms and turning her body just slightly toward you.

"frown lines." you pointed to your own forehead and back to hers with a small smile as her cheeks flushed red. "oh." she was quick to relax her face, though as you chanced another look toward her a few minutes later you smiled seeing the scowl right back there again.

"shut up i can't help it, this stresses me out." leah knocked her knee into yours and crossed her arms over her chest. "why? have you given up football for a budding tennis career?" you chuckled as she mocked you and pulled a face.

"no. but i know what the pressure is like to play a sport at this high a level, and how hard you are on yourself for every little thing. even without the eyes on you here they'll be thinking about the media, fans, family, everyone is just watching and waiting, hoping you mess up or do something dumb they can rip you apart for." leah retorted as your face softened a little at her words.

"yeah i sort of understand that." you agreed, feeling not too dissimilarly when you walked a runway. "maybe i'll come to your next show and kick a football at you." leah commented casually as your head snapped toward her, the cheeky grin all you needed to know she was messing about as your eyes rolled and a small smile tugged at your lips which you quickly corrected.

"i saw that." "you're getting heatstroke. only you would wear a three piece charcoal suit in the middle of summer." "summer? have you seen those clouds? i'll put a tenner on that we don't even get through the next set before a rain break."

and annoyingly enough of course leah was correct, the day wrapping up as the skies had opened and an icy wind was whipping around the air, nipping and pinching at every scrap of flesh it came into contact with.

you nodded along with a polite smile, chatting with a few people as you were longing to leave, the cold chill setting into your skin as goosebumps appeared and your arms were wrapped tightly around you.

finally their own car arrived and they bid you goodbye, a sigh of relief leaving your lips as you checked the eta for your uber and saw it wasn't too far away.

"see i told you it would rain." you jolted as soft material settled over your shoulders, turning around to meet a familiar smile.

"don't. you're going to get yourself sick if you stand here shivering like an idiot." leah cut you off before you could even say what she knew you were about to, hands knocking away your own which tried to shrug off her suit jacket she'd draped over you.

"thank you." you admitted with a smile, leah nodding and checking her phone as you tried to ignore just how good she looked. "try not to get it wet, its not actually dad its dior!" the blonde smirked as you playfully rolled your eyes.

"got any plans for tonight?" you made conversation as the pair of you stood side by side, leah shaking her head and shoving her hands into her pockets, rocking back and forth on the balls of her feet.

before you were able to stop yourself or think it through the words were tumbling out of your mouth with a mind of their own.

"do you feel like a dance?"

a dance had been putting it mildly as you moved and swayed your body to the beat, bass so thunderous it pumped and shook the floor beneath you.

taking leah as your plus one you'd arrived to the party you'd been invited to, the blonde shocked to say the least as you'd dragged her into the large warehouse where it was taking place.

it had all started off tame enough, finding a table of your friends you sat down with leah by your side, the blondes charming demeanor taking over as she found no issues holding her own in conversation with them.

then someone had appeared with a round of shots, and well it all seemed to go downhill from there.

which hours later is what had head to the liquid confidence flowing through both yours and leahs veins, her body pressed against yours as lights pulsed around you only showing flickers of her face every now and then.

a familiar urge starting to grow in the coil of your stomach you grabbed the defenders hands, placing them on your stomach and pushing your ass back into her, leaning your head back on her shoulder and feeling her nose tuck into your neck.

“i think you’ve forgotten i know all of your tricks pretty girl.” leah laughed, lips grazing your ear as you strained to hear her over the thumping music engulfing the pair of you.

reaching up and tangling a hand in her hair you pulled her closer, lips kissing at her jaw and feeling her own hands begin to wander as your teeth tugged at her earlobe.

“and I think you’ve forgotten i know all your weaknesses, captain."

that was the final nail in the coffin, a small frown creased into your features as you felt her pull away and worried if you'd misread the signals you thought she'd been giving all night.

but all of that was blown to hell and back as her hand found its home against the back of your neck and she pressed into you again, leading you out of the mass of sweaty bodies on the dance floor.

a grin was plastered on your face as she snagged her suit jacket off the back of her chair and grabbed your hand with her other, pulling you with her toward the exit.

"hi." you smiled as the fresh air hit you, the pair of you wandering away from the drunken fallen soldiers littering the exit, leah pulling your body into hers as you hid yourselves around a corner out of sight.

"hello." she grinned back, hands falling either side of your face as your hand grabbed the back of her neck, finally pulling her mouth to meet yours as the pair of you melted into one another.

"this is a bad idea right?" you mumbled against her lips feeling her nod. "terrible idea." she pulled away momentarily, chest heaving and face flushed pink as you tangled your hands in her blonde locks and she grinned.

"so, your place or mine?"

~

"jesus christ leah." you exhaled shakily, rolling off of her and running a hand through your hair, struggling to catch your breath as you closed your eyes for a moment and felt her body vibrate with quiet laughter beside you.

"you still with me?" you opened them to see her hovering over you, cheeky smile on her lips as you nodded. "that certainly didn't sound fake." her smile morphed into a smirk as you pushed her and she collapsed back into the pillows beside you.

"that was what that was about? proving a point?" you struggled to get out, coming down from your fourth orgasm in a row. "no! well not the first three anyway, but that one? yeah that one was personal." leah confirmed cockily as you reached a hand over to gently slap her cheek, feeling her lips kiss at your palm with a chuckle.

the pair of you had barely made it through her front door, hands burning and twitching as you'd done your best to keep them off one another in the excruciatingly long uber ride back.

"fuck me." leah had exhaled as you wasted no time dropping to your knees in front of her the moment you'd crossed the threshold of the bedroom, tugging at her pants as she clumsily fumbled with her belt.

"i'm trying to." you'd grinned up at her making her eyes roll as she tangled a hand in your hair, having started off pleasuring her first and reaping in the moans you drew from the older girl while your face was buried between her legs.

then things had moved to the bed and leah wasted no time reminding you that just because you struck first she was the one in control, and what felt like hours later here you were struggling to return to earth.

"i should go." your body shifted back into autopilot as you'd finally caught your breath, sitting up and pushing your hair to one side of your head as you covered yourself with the blanket and leaned down to rummage through the pile of clothes on the floor for your own.

"or you could stay." you froze at that, time seeming to stand still as leah tried to push down the nerves which consumed her following her statement, fidgeting with her fingers which were hidden beneath the blanket.

“you never ask me to stay.” you still hadn't moved, arm slung over the edge of the bed and your dress in hand, this uncharted territory quite terrifying as you had no idea what would come next.

“you never seemed like you wanted to.” you sat up at that, looking down at her with a slight frown. "you never seemed like you wanted me to." you quipped back as leah sighed, running her hands down her face and flopping them onto the mattress.

"i didn't think i did." she admitted quietly, glancing up at you as you looked on curiously and nodded for her to continue. "i thought this was just casual hook ups. then you called me that morning from that guys house and hearing how upset you were made me worried, more worried than i would be for someone i didn't care about." she sighed, avoiding looking at you now.

"then we came back here and you showered and wore my clothes and we hung out and it felt good. i thought maybe we might be able to explore something more than just hooking up but..." she trailed off as now you looked away and bit the inside of your cheek.

"but then i left." you finished for her as she nodded. "why didn't you ever answer when i reached out afterwards?" leah asked as you shuffled back to lay down again beside her.

"well when i called you that morning i thought it was just auto pilot. but then you were so helpful and sweet and we did hang out which was different but not in a bad way." you paused to think over your next words.

"then i woke up and you were holding me which felt...good, and that scared me. we've never been intimate in a non sexual way and i guess i just assumed it was a reflex for you since you were asleep, because every time we'd sleep together-" you were stopped as leah cut you off.

"-i'd throw your clothes at you and expect you to leave." the blonde admitted, the two of you sharing a look and a small smile, cheeks flushed with color.

"yes. then i panicked because it felt good and different and weird, and i assumed you'd not share those feelings and just break things off anyway, so i broke it off first to save myself and here we are." your hand moved closer to brush against hers, a silence falling between you.

"so.." leah trailed off, her leg moving next to graze yours. "so..." you echoed, finger stretching to trace a line down the back of her hand.

"would you want to stay over then?" leah broke first, head turning to face you as you noticed the obvious worry in her eyes at what you would say.

"okay." you agreed, corners of your mouth tugging upward as her eyebrows raised in clear surprise. "but you’re making me breakfast in the morning.” you declared, leahs laugh echoing around the room.

"deal. jam on toast it is!" she teased, a warmth spreading through your body as her hand moved again to sit on top of yours, her fingers linking and sliding around your own, the blonde raising it up and placing a soft kiss to your palm again.

"well for me. just plain bread for you right?" you quipped back, catching her off guard as you leaned in and pecked her lips, darting back away before she could return the gesture with a twinkle in your eyes.

“a fun fact you’ll grow to love is i am a terrible chef.” leah admitted as now your laugh filled the room, shuffling closer and turning on your side to face her as she did the same, feet nudging yours apart to slot her leg in between yours.

“and what else should I know?” you smiled, pointer finger of your free hand tracing absentminded lines across her face. "mm well i eat a plain ham sandwich before and after every game, i am a huge star wars nerd, i love country music...and i would really like to take you on a proper date." leah finished with a smile that had you reeling, cheeks heating up even more.

"do the tips of your ears always go red when you're embarrassed? how have i noticed that before thats adorable?" leah cooed and tugged at them as you whined and leaned forward pressing your face into her shoulder.

"leave me alone." you grumbled, pulling your head back onto the pillow and resuming tracing the curve of her jaw. “i think you’re working backwards, I don’t normally sleep with women on the first date.” you teased, green eyes rolling playfully.

"well I don’t normally sleep with women i date.” she smiled charmingly for a moment before the realization dawned on her she'd not quite said that right and she frowned.

“no that came out wrong i meant i-" you didn't let her finish, pressing your lips against hers with a laugh, your mouths moving together in perfect harmony.

"shut up. i'd love to go on a date with you.” you promised, pecking her lips a few more times and melting at the way her face lit up. "yeah?" you nodded. "yeah."

"now something you'll learn to love about me, i've never seen a single star wars movie." you confessed, leahs jaw dropping in disbelief as she sat up so quickly it made you jolt in shock.

"what are you doing?" you questioned confused as she pulled her body away from you, rolling out of bed still completely naked and rushing around her room.

"you, are getting a movie education." she pointed to you threateningly, disappearing into her closet for a moment.

"right now? leah we just had sex i'm naked!" you laughed, wincing as a bundle of material hit you in the face, pulling it away and holding it up.

"oh this is the darth vader guy right? luke skywalkers dad?" you realised who was on the shirt as leah stopped her rushing about, stood at the end of the bed staring at you in disbelief.

"that is like the biggest plot twist of the franchise how on earth did you know that?" "leah...vater in german literally means father!"

"have you always been such a know it all?" leah scoffed as you rolled your eyes, sitting up and tugging her shirt over your head, reaching down to find your underwear.

"i'm making popcorn, get comfy!" leah called out as she darted out of her bedroom. "leah at least put some pants on!" you laughed at her naked form flitting around the kitchen.

"well another fun fact for you to know pretty girl, wearing pants is actually banned in this house."

[abovesn4kes]

More animals!! Javier, Bill, Kieran, and Mary-Beth :-)

[charlybird]

Bill and Javier small comic part 1 (hopefully) This is very random but I wanted to draw a short comic about these two. It's meant to be a brotherly relationship but a stupid one where they find it difficult to get along. It was inspired by a few things but the there's a pose reference here that was taken from Everybody Loves Raymond of Ray and Robert fighting over a cereal toy. I wanted there to be like 3 more pages but that was weeks ago and sadly I seem to have art block again so I thought I'd just upload this as it is or else it might never get uploaded. My first proper attempt at a comic, it's messy but I worked hard on it. Hope you get a smile out of it lol

[scionsthings]

Bullied by the old gang

NO SRSLY HE'S SO GOOFY HELP

[desperate-gay]

short christmas fic idea - beth decides to rig the arsenal secret santa because she knows leah has a crush on reader and beth is tired of listening to her pine but not act on it

Secret Santa

Leah Williamson x fem!reader

summary: beth is tired of watching you and leah dance around your feelings for each other, so when she sees the opportunity to help, she jumps to it

“Someone has to lock them in a closet I swear to ya.” Beth shakes her head, watching you and Leah across the room basically heart-eyeing one another, acting like you’re in your own little bubble.

“They really are that oblivious, aren’t they?” Steph asks, already knowing the answer, having watched the two of you dance around your feelings for one another.

Both Steph and Beth watch as you both talk and laugh with bright red cheeks and sheepish smiles. Almost the whole team has had to watch you two almost flirt your heads off but no one make a move.

“Alright girls, since christmas is right around the corner I thought before break we could do a little secret santa.” Renee states in the front of the room where the whole team lingers, conversing in their own groups.

All the girls nod their heads enthusiastically while Beth looks as if a light bulb lit above her head. Steph quirks her eyebrow at the forward, knowing that look all too well.

“I would love to help. I can write up the names and go around for everyone to pick their giftee.” The blonde smiles innocently but Renee doesn’t look too into it and would love to have the extra help.

“That would be wonderful, Beth. Thank you.”

Once Renee walks off, Beth turns over to look back at the Australian across from her with her lip between her teeth and the sides of her mouth reaching from ear to ear.

“Alright, spit it out. What’s up your cheeky little sleeve this time, Meado.” Steph rolls her eyes, resting her chin on her hand against the table, waiting for the girl to yap out her master plan.

—

“-And that’s how Alex and I ended up all the way up in Manchester.” You shake your head in amusement at the blonde’s story, having been sharing story by story with each other in the corner of the room while comfortably resting on the small sofa.

“You two are the weirdest people I know.” You claim, laughing at Leah who just shrugs with a sheepish smile.

Out of nowhere, Beth comes over and plops in between you and the defender, wrapping her arms around your shoulders and pulling you in closer to her, smushing your bodies together. Leah grimaces in discomfort while you just raise your eyebrows in curiosity.

“Hello, you two. How are we feeling on this gloomy but glorious day?” Beth asks, turning her head rapidly to look at the both of you at every second.

“It’s fine.” Leah blanks, shrugging off the other blonde’s arm while scooting as far as she can to the arm of the couch.

“Well, that’s all I needed!” With that the girl scurries off back to her side of the room with Steph, leaving you two at a loss with what just happened.

You both sit there in silence for a minute, watching Beth talk and continue to look in your direction. Leah can already sense something is up, having admitted her feelings for you to the girl a few weeks ago. Leah knows Beth likes to stick her nose in places it doesn’t belong, but at the same time, Leah can just be overthinking it.

“I take back what I said. She is the weirdest person I know.” You slap your hands on your lap in conclusion and direct your attention back to the girl sitting next to you.

Leah nods but you can tell her head is somewhere else, watching as she stares into the abyss without blinking even once. You don’t question it considering one of your best friends just plopped by you and left without another word, making you confused as well.

But Leah’s thinking about something completely different. You. She’s thinking about how beautiful your laugh is, how bright your eyes shine when you talk about something you love, and especially how caring and considerate you are of other people.

She’s harbored these feelings for months now, and it’s eating her alive every day not telling you. She just doesn’t know how to. She doesn’t want to risk you not liking her back and ruining the close friendship between you two even though a blind person can see both of your feelings

“Earth to Leah!” The blonde snaps out of her haze when your hand waves in front of her face, trying to see if the girl has even been paying attention to which you got your answer.

“I’m sorry, what did you say?” Leah gives you a sympathetic look for not listening but you wave it off with a smile and a shake of your head.

“I said everyone is picking their person for secret santa. Let’s go!” You hold out your hand for the older girl to grab and when she does you all but drag her to where all the girls gather.

As Beth goes around the room with the hat full of names, you sit with Leah in comfortable silence, watching the rest of the girls secretly unveil the names of the people they get.

“Anyone specific you’re hoping to get?” You ask the blonde, hoping to start some sort of conversation.

“No, not necessarily. What about you miss ‘can’t decide anything’?” Leah teases, nudging her shoulder into yours with a grin as you roll your eyes at the jab.

“I do not have that much trouble making decisions thank you very much. But the answer to your question is no, I am not hoping for anyone specific.” The older girl hums even if she doesn’t believe your first statement at all.

Beth clears her throat and gestures to the hat in front of Leah, signaling for her to pick a scrap with a name hidden inside it. Leah glares at the girl in front of her and begrudgingly picks out a white slip, but right as she begins to open it, Beth loses her balance and knocks the paper out of the defender’s hand, dropping it with the others on the floor.

“Oopsies, clumsy me. You know they always call me clumsy Beth.” She jests, picking up the pieces and putting them in the hat with the help of Leah.

“No, they don’t.” Kyra jumps in, knitting her eyebrows in confusion but Steph just shakes her head, signaling not to meddle.

Once all the slips are back in their given space, one remains in Beth’s hand.

“Here. I kept my eye on the one you dropped.” Beth smiles, handing it to Leah.

Leah doesn’t think twice about it until she opens the paper, revealing your name in cursive. She knows her cheeky friend has played a part in making sure she got your name, but secretly she was hoping to get you. Maybe, just maybe this is the way to somehow show you her longing feelings.

—

“Care to tell me who you got for secret santa.” You smirk, crossing your legs on the sofa that lies perfectly in your apartment.

“You know the point of secret santa is for it to be kept a secret.” Leah points, slumping down right next to you, stuffing a ham sandwich in her mouth that she generously hooved through your pantry and fridge to make.

“It’s only between the two of us.” You roll your eyes, scooting closer to the blonde, so close your legs knock against each other.

Leah’s stomach flutters when you place your hand on her knee and look at her with your irresistible puppy dog eyes. She squints her eyes at you and continues to chew on her sandwich slowly.

She leans in slowly and just when you think she’s about to tell you.

“No.”

“Ugh, you’re no fun.” You huff, crossing your arms over your chest and dramatically falling backward, hitting your head on the back of the sofa and slumping in an awkward position with your neck crooked in the most uncomfortable manner.

Leah and you decided to both hang out at your place like usual but instead of going out or hanging with others, you decided to stay back and watch movies and shows together. You’re both secretly grateful to be alone in each other’s presence instead of harboring many other of your friends with you.

“Tell me.” You try again.

“No.”

“Please?”

“No.”

“Pretty please with a cherry on top?”

“Hmm,” she pretends to think, “no.”

You finally decide to let it go, realizing you’ll never get through the stubborn girl. You both make conversation through the night, laughing and giggling at the silliest stories, even ones that aren’t even that funny to the stranger’s eye.

How much you wish to gather the courage to admit what you feel for the girl.

—

“It is the day we have all been waiting for, the secret santa gift exchange!” Beth announces dramatically as the rest of the team cheers.

“Who will be starting?” Vic asks from the corner, sitting with Alessia and Kyra.

“Ah, I thought we would start with Kim giving her present since she’s our lovely captain.” Beth gestures to the midfielder who glares back at her but stands up nonetheless.

The presents scatter all over the room while everyone rips theirs apart on their turn and smiles in joy. You have already given away your gift to Stina but have yet to receive one.

Having been so caught up in the laughter and talk of your team, you haven’t noticed your best friend nervously standing outside of the group, holding a bright-wrapped present.

“Alright, somehow we have stumbled into a stop, so who else is left?”

Leah hesitantly steps up and hands you the present with a nervous smile, shocking you that she is, in fact, your secret santa.

Thanking her, you slowly rip the wrapping paper to reveal another box you have to open, and when you do, you’re consumed by utter shock. Everyone gauges your reaction, causing it to quiet down in the room as they watch emotion flash over your face.

Your fingers trace the wooden detail of the antique you haven’t seen in years. When you open the small chest, a small tune begins to play lightly, breaking the sudden silence in the room.

A small tear runs down your cheek as you just stare at the gift, completely admired by it. Some of the girls look around in confusion while others just sit silently and watch you with an empathetic eye, hoping you’re not hurting in any way.

You suddenly remember where you are and clear your throat, standing abruptly and excusing yourself from the setting, moving with haste outside of the building. Leah is quick to follow your trail, worried that she has upset you in some way.

When Leah finally catches up to you, she keeps some space between you two, watching as you stand there, looking at the stars with the music box still in hand.

“I can’t believe you remembered.” You say softly, feeling her lingering presence without even as much as a turn off your head.

“I remember everything about you.” You turn around to meet the blonde’s eye, her having moved closer to you when you addressed her presence.

“Do you do that with everyone?”

“Do what?” She asks, knitting her eyebrows together in focus and confusion.

“Remember every little detail. The fact you found the exact match of my grandma’s old music box and even remembered me speaking about it. No one has ever paid this much attention to me.” You look down shyly, feeling embarrassed at the blunt confession.

“It seems to only be you. I’m sure you find it…”

“Weird.”

“Romantic.”

Leah looks up at you to meet your eye, mouth opening agape in surprise. Your cheeks flush red due to the cold breeze but also in fluster. You both stand in silence with soft smiles adorned on both of your faces, eyes melting into one another’s.

“I find it romantic,” you restate in reassurance, “along with sweet, generous, and warmth.”

The space between you and Leah closes in as you both lean in slowly. Your eyes flutter down to her lips and quickly lock back onto the older girl's gentle blue orbs, but right as you begin to lean in, Leah pulls away quickly.

“I’m sorry, I must have read this wrong.” You mumble, stepping further away to create a bigger gap, giving the space you think the defender needs.

“No, not at all.” Leah fetches your hand, squeezing it with a soft smile. “I have been waiting for this for so long, so I want to do it right.” She admits with a smile, causing you to now have a look of shock.

But after understanding, you return the smile and the soft squeeze of your hands.

“So would I have the honor of you accompanying me on a date, my lady?” The blonde bows down jokingly, making you bark out a laugh at her gesture.

“You will, my lord.” You say, extending your hand out with your palm curved down, allowing Leah to grab it and place a soft kiss on your skin.

You both break out into a laugh, holding onto each other’s arms and noses almost touching. Your little bubble is soon cut off by a bang on the window and a yell from inside the house.

“Steph! My plan worked. It worked!” Beth runs away from the glass, arms up in cheer while heading towards the team.

[lvnleah]

Month One

word count: 3.2k

find the series masterlist here!

May 22nd 2024 | 1 month old.

Leah pushed open the front door, quietly shutting it behind her as she slipped her bag off of her shoulder. The house was enveloped in a calm quietness, the kind that followed the business of the day. She took a deep breath, the familiar feel of home wrapping around her like a comforting blanket.

Walking into the living room, Leah's heart melted at the sight before her. Finley was nestled on your chest, both of you deep in an evening nap. She smiled, slipping her shoes off and tiptoeing softly into the kitchen.

Leah had grown to love moments like this. She’d been out with a few of her friends today, the first time since Finley was born. She’d had a nice day catching up with everyone over coffee and a walk in the park but all she wanted was to come home to you and Finley. She set to work on dinner, something that she’d improved on a lot over the past few weeks.

As the aroma of dinner began to fill the air, you stirred slightly. Your eyes fluttered open, and you instinctively placed a hand on Finley's back, feeling the warmth of your baby. Leah peeked around the corner from the kitchen, her face lighting up as she saw you awake.

"Hey, pretty girl," she whispered, her voice soft. "Dinner will be ready soon."

"Hi," you replied, a smile spreading across your face as you adjusted Finley slightly. "How was coffee with Lia and Kim?"

"Good. I missed you both," Leah said, returning to the kitchen, “Couldn’t stop thinking about you both.”

You gently transferred Finley to the Moses basket, making sure he was comfortably settled before joining Leah in the kitchen.

You slipped your arms around her waist and under her shirt, “How was Lia and Kim?”

She nodded as she continued to cook, “They were good too, obsessed with all of the cute photos I showed them of Finley. How about you and Finley? Any adventures?"

You laughed softly, sitting down at the table. "Nothing too dramatic. We went to the shop quickly, I survived and then we ran into Mrs. Havers from next door. She couldn’t stop cooing over Finley."

Leah chuckled. "She’s sweet. Always has been."

As you sat down to eat, the conversation flowed easily. Leah recounted the highlights of her day with Lia and Kim. You shared your own stories from the day, from the funny moments with Finley to the small difficulties of the day.”

After dinner, you both tidied up, the chore made lighter by shared jokes and occasional affectionate glances. By 8:00, Finley woke up, ready for his evening feed. Leah took him in her arms, rocking him gently.

"Hello, little man," she cooed, her fingers lightly tickling his tummy. "Did you have a good nap?"

Finley looked up at Leah, a wide grin spreading across his face. "There it is," Leah said, her eyes shining with joy. "Such a happy boy."

"Look at that smile," Leah said, her voice full of awe as Finley beamed up at her. "He's growing so fast."

"Too fast," you agreed, as she handed him over to you for a feed.

You settled into the cosy corner of the couch, cradling Finley as he latched on. Leah sat beside you, her head on your shoulder as her hand gently rubbed Finley’s hair.

"It's hard to believe he's already a month old," Leah said quietly, her eyes never leaving Finley's face. "It feels like just yesterday we brought him home."

You nodded. "I know. Every day, he changes just a little bit more. I want to remember all of it."

As the evening progressed and Finley fell back asleep, Leah carefully took him and placed him back in the Moses basket. She turned to you with a smile.

"Stay here," she said, leaning in to give you a quick kiss on the lips. "I have a surprise for you."

Curious, you watched as Leah disappeared down the hallway. You heard the sound of running water and the soft clinking of glass, but you couldn’t quite piece together what she was up to. A few minutes later, she reappeared, holding out her hand to you.

"Come with me," she said, her smile widening.

You looked at Finley who was sound asleep in the Moses basket “But what about—”

Leah interrupted you, “He’s fine, he’s sound asleep and we’ve got the baby monitor. He’ll be okay.”

You took her hand and let her lead you down the hallway. The door to the bathroom was slightly ajar, and as she pushed it open, you gasped in surprise. Candlelight flickered around the room, casting a glow on the walls. The bathtub was filled with steaming water and bubbles up to the side.

"Leah, this is incredible," you whispered, turning to look at her.

"I thought you might like a little relaxation," Leah said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "You’ve been amazing with Finley, and I wanted to do something special for you."

Tears of gratitude welled up in your eyes as you pulled her into a hug. "Thank you," you murmured into her hair. "This is perfect."

Leah helped you undress, her hands gentle and loving. She turned off the taps and helped you into the bath, the warm water enveloping you instantly. You sighed in contentment, feeling the tension melt away.

Leah sat on the edge of the tub, dipping her fingers into the water and tracing gentle circles on your skin. "You deserve this," she said softly. “How did you find going out with Finley alone?”

You sighed, leaning back against the tub's edge. "It was... okay, I guess," you began, "I mean, it wasn't as overwhelming as I thought it would be, but I still felt this knot of anxiety the entire time. What if he started crying and I couldn't calm him down? What if I forgot something important? There were so many 'what ifs' running through my mind."

Leah nodded, "It's completely normal to feel that way. I feel anxious about him all the time, we’re new mums it’s expected," she reassured you. "You're doing an amazing job. It's all so new to us, and it's okay to feel anxious."

You sighed again, nodding your head, "I know, but sometimes it feels like I'm just barely keeping it together. Like today, I was so anxious when we were in the store. I kept checking on him every few seconds, making sure he was okay. And then running into Mrs. Havers... I was so nervous she'd think I wasn't doing a good job or something."

Leah squeezed your hand gently. "Mrs. Havers adores you, and she thinks you're a wonderful mom. Everyone does. And most importantly, Finley thinks you're perfect."

You smiled, feeling a bit of the tension ease. "I just want to be the best for him, for you. I worry that I'm not enough sometimes."

Leah's eyes softened, and she leaned in to kiss your forehead. "You are more than enough. You are everything to Finley and me. It's okay to feel anxious and to have these moments. We'll get through them together."

A tear slipped down your cheek, not from sadness but from the overwhelming love you felt. "Thank you," you whispered. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Leah smiled, brushing the tears away. "You'll never have to find out. I'm here, every step of the way.

You tried to lift your hand to wash your hair, but the effort felt overwhelming. The fatigue from the day, combined with the anxiety, made your hands tremble slightly. As you fumbled with the shampoo bottle, it slipped from your grasp, splashing into the water and sending bubbles everywhere. Frustration welled up inside you, and you let out a small, defeated sigh.

"Hey, it's okay," Leah said gently, noticing your struggle. She reached for the shampoo bottle, her eyes full of understanding and concern. "Let me help you."

Tears of frustration blurred your vision as you nodded, unable to find the words. Leah's touch was tender as she applied the shampoo to your hair, her fingers massaging your scalp in soothing circles.

"You don't have to do everything on your own," she whispered.

"I'm sorry," you said softly, your voice cracking slightly. "I just... I feel so overwhelmed tonight."

Leah leaned down, her lips brushing against your forehead. "You don't have to apologise. We're in this together, remember?"

As she continued to wash your hair, you allowed yourself to relax, knowing that you had a wife who understood and supported you every step of the way.

For a while, you both sat in comfortable silence, the only sounds being the gentle sloshing of the water and the faint crackle of the candles. Leah handed you a glass of chilled water with slices of lemon, and you sipped it gratefully.

As the water began to cool, Leah handed you a fluffy towel and helped you out of the bath. She wrapped you in it, rubbing your arms gently to warm you up. "Feel better?" she asked, her eyes searching yours.

"Much better," you said, leaning in for a kiss. "Thank you for this. It was exactly what I needed."

Leah smiled, her eyes full of love. "Anything for you.”

Leah took the towel and began drying your hair with gentle, careful strokes. "Let's get you nice and cosy," she said, her voice full of warmth. She continued to towel dry your hair until it was only slightly damp.

Once you were both back in the bedroom, you changed into a spaghetti strap top with a pair of small shorts. Since giving birth, you had been insanely warm every night.

Leah retrieved the hairdryer from the drawer. "Sit down," she instructed, patting the edge of the bed. You sat down, and she stood behind you, turning on the hairdryer.

As Leah dried your hair, she hummed softly. You closed your eyes, allowing yourself to fully enjoy the moment.

"There you go," Leah said once all of your hair was dry, turning off the hairdryer. "All dry and ready for bed."

You turned to face her, your eyes shining with gratitude. "You always know how to make me feel better," you said softly.

Leah smiled, cupping your face in her hands. "That's because I love you," she replied, leaning in for a kiss.

"You get into bed," Leah said. "I’ll go get Finley.”

You nodded, feeling the weight of exhaustion settle in. As you climbed into bed, Leah slipped out of the room, returning a few moments later with Finley, who had woken up and was fussing lightly. She brought him over, his little body cradled against her chest.

"Looks like someone wanted to join us," Leah said with a smile, sitting down beside you.

You reached out, taking Finley from her arms and cradling him in your own, “Little man hungry?”

Leah tapped her phone, checking the time, “He is due a feed in half an hour, I think he is though.” She laughed, nodding to Finley who was currently searching your chest with his mouth.

You settled back against the pillows, adjusting your top to allow Finley to latch on. His tiny mouth found its mark, and he began to nurse contentedly. You and Leah switched on your TV in the bedroom while he fed, catching up on your favourite TV programme.

Once Finley had finished nursing, Leah carefully burped him before she walked around the bedroom, rocking him gently as he drifted back to sleep.

"He's out like a light," Leah whispered, placing him in the next to me crib beside you. She returned to bed, sliding under the covers and wrapping her arms around your waist.

You moved closer to Leah, practically laying on top of her as your head rested on her chest. Her hand played with your hair gently as she watched TV.

You hadn’t been able to be this close to her in ages, the early stages of your pregnancy were fine but once your bump grew it became harder. Then after you gave birth, your stomach was too tender so being able to be close again with Leah was amazing.

Leah kissed the top of your head, her fingers threading through your hair. "I missed this," she murmured. "Just having you close."

You nodded, chest. "Me too. It's been a while since we could just…be close.”

Nighttime with a newborn was unpredictable, so you soaked in the quietness as Finley slept in his crib beside you. Just as you started to drift off to sleep, Finley's cry pierced the quiet, bringing you both back to reality.

Leah groaned softly, her hand rubbing your back in a tired, but affectionate gesture. "I'll get him," she whispered, sliding out of bed.

You watched as she slipped out of bed and walked round to the crib, lifting Finley gently. "Hey, little guy," she cooed, cradling him against her chest. "What's wrong?"

Finley's cries softened as Leah gently swayed back and forth, “I think he just wanted a cuddle," she said, patting his back gently.

Within minutes, Finley's cries turned into soft whimpers, then contented sighs. She smiled at you, “Clingy boy.”

Climbing back into bed, Leah pulled you close again. You both fell back to sleep, Leah’s arm draped over your waist as you both fell asleep.

The night continued in a similar pattern, short bursts of sleep interrupted by Finley's needs. At 2 a.m., Finley's cries pierced the silence once again. You stirred first, rolling over and rubbing your eyes as you felt Leah sit up beside you.

"I've got this one," Leah murmured, already getting out of bed. She reached for Finley, his small body producing cries that you didn’t think were possible. "Shh, little man. Mumma’s here."

You watched as Leah cradled him, her voice soft and soothing. "I'll get his bottle ready," you whispered, slipping out of bed.

In the dim light of the kitchen, you prepared a bottle. Although you were mainly breastfeeding Finley, giving him a bottle during the night worked better for you. Every other feed, you were trying to give him a bottle. You loved breastfeeding but sometimes it felt overwhelming and tiring.

By the time you returned with the bottle, Leah had settled back into bed, Finley nestled in her arms as she gently rocked him. His tiny cries still breaking the silence.

"Here you go," you said, handing her the bottle.

Leah smiled, guiding the bottle to Finley's mouth. "There you go, Bubs," she whispered, watching him with loving eyes as he fed.

Once Finley was full and drowsy, Leah burped him before placing him back in the crib, his tiny legs kicking slightly.

You both laid back down, exhaustion pulling you into a light sleep. Only a couple of hours later, at 4 a.m., Finley's cries rang out again, more insistent this time.

You yawned, rubbing your eyes. "I'll get him," you said, sitting up and turning to the crib that was on your side of the bed. Finley's face was red, his tiny fists waving in the air.

"Hey Bubba, shhh it’s okay! Mummy’s here," you murmured, lifting him into your arms. "What's got you so upset eh?"

Leah sat up. "Want me to take him?"

"I'll try to settle him," you replied, bouncing him gently. You checked his diaper, found it clean, and tried to nurse him, but he wasn't interested. He continued to cry, his wails echoing through the quiet room.

After a few more minutes of failed attempts to calm him, Leah spoke up. "Here, let me try," she said softly, taking Finley.

Leah began to pace the room, humming a gentle tune, a tune you recognized instantly. "Breakaway" by Kelly Clarkson. Finley's cries gradually turned to whimpers, but he still seemed restless. Leah kept walking, her voice low and soothing.

"Grew up in a small town, and when the rain would fall down," she sang quietly, planting a kiss on Finley’s forehead. "I'd just stare out my window, dreaming of what could be."

You watched as Leah moved around the room, the glow of the nightlight making her visible. Finley's eyes started to droop, his little body relaxing in her arms.

"Trying hard to reach out, but when I tried to speak out, felt like no one could hear me," Leah finished, her steps slowing as Finley's breathing evened out.

But when she tried to put him down, his eyes snapped open, and he started to fuss again. Leah hushed him back to calmness, continuing to sing the song. When she eventually finished the song, after singing it twice, she tried once again but Finley woke up and cried in her arms.

"Looks like the little man doesn’t want to be put down tonight," she said, resuming her gentle pacing.

She paced up and down the bedroom a few more times until Finley was completely settled. She climbed back into bed, bringing her knees up to her stomach to lay Finley on them.

Finley started up at her, his dark blue eyes that were identical to Leah’s focused on her face. "Look at you," Leah murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "You just wanted some extra cuddle time, didn't you?"

You watched from your side of the bed, "He seems to have you wrapped around his little finger," you said softly.

Leah chuckled quietly, her fingers gently stroking Finley's cheek. "I suppose he does," she admitted. "But I wouldn’t have it any other way. Would I, Bubba?

As Finley began to settle, his tiny breaths becoming steady, Leah carefully laid him back in the crib, making sure he was comfortable. She then returned to bed, her movements slow and gentle to avoid waking him.

"I think he's finally out for a while," Leah said, slipping under the covers beside you. She turned onto her side, her face close to yours. "How about you? Need anything else before we try to get some more sleep?"

You shook your head, leaning in to kiss her. "No, I’m good. You?”

Leah smiled, “I’m fine.”

At 6 a.m., just as the first light of dawn was breaking through the curtains, Finley's cries filled the room once more. You and Leah exchanged tired, knowing looks. This time, you both got up together.

Leah reached for Finley, lifting him into her arms. "Good morning, little one," she said, her voice soft but weary.

You prepared another bottle, and together you sat in bed, watching as Finley fed, his tiny hands gripping Leah's fingers.

After feeding, Finley was more alert, his wide eyes taking in the world around him. You both knew he wouldn't go back to sleep easily. Leah cradled him, humming softly, but he remained awake, his gaze fixed on her face.

With a resigned smile, Leah stood up and started to walk around the room, singing Breakaway quietly once again. You watched them, your heart full despite the exhaustion. Finley's eyes finally began to droop, lulled by Leah's voice and the gentle sway of her movements.

Eventually, he fell asleep once more, and Leah carefully placed him back in the crib. She turned to you, her eyes tired but filled with love. "We made it through the night," she laughed.

You nodded, wrapping your arms around her. "One night at a time," you replied.

You both climbed back into bed, Finley sleeping peacefully beside you. You were both quick to fall asleep, arms draped around each other as you both knew it wouldn’t be long before your day was starting.

[alotofpockets]

Staring | Leah Williamson x Interviewer!Reader

Where you're interviewing Leah, and she can't stop staring at you

Woso masterlist | Words: 1.1k

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Usually, you felt prepared when interviewing someone. Always doing a bit of research beforehand and going over your notes one last time before they arrive. But today you were more nervous than you had ever been before.

You’ve interviewed plenty of celebrities on your radio show before, but your guest today was the first one you were really nervous about meeting. She was a guest you didn’t have to do a lot of research on, as you were a bigger fan of her than you cared to admit. Leah Williamson was set to show up in the next few minutes. While most people knew her for her football, having captained the Lionesses to victory in the Euros, to you she represented so much more. The way she used her platform for the better, never shying away from harder topics, shedding a light on the more taboo subjects, you admired that part of her.

As you flipped through your notes, in an effort to calm your nerves, a soft knock on your open door startled you. The unexpected sound sent your notes flying through the air. You spun around just in time to see Leah rushing over.

“I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you.” Her voice was soft and apologetic. Leah had gathered most of your papers before you had even had time to react. She handed you the papers with a sheepish smile.

Meanwhile her cousin, Jordan, watched the scene unfold with a knowing grin. She knew Leah well, and could immediately tell that Leah thought you were attractive, and while she didn’t know you, she could tell by the light blushing off your cheeks, that you thought the same about Leah.

“I’m Jordan, by the way.” Jordan cut through the silence that filled the room after the two of you had introduced yourselves to each other. You blinked, realising you had been too lost in the moment to even realise that there was another person in the room. 

You quickly turned to the voice with a warm smile, “Nice to meet you, Jordan. Thank you for joining us today.” Leah smiled gratefully, giving her cousin a nod. “It means a lot to have her with me to talk about the book, so thank you.”

Luckily during the interview your nerves settled a bit. You were totally in your element in your recording studio. Behind the microphone with your headset on, it gave you the comfort you needed to completely forget about anything else besides giving the listeners a good interview.

You started off talking with just Leah, while Jordan sat to the side. Speaking about her recovery from her ACL injury, as well as her comeback, but mostly focussing on the mental health aspect of her recovery. Just like Leah, you used your platform to speak about subjects that weren’t talked about enough, using your platform to show that struggling with your mental health isn’t something you need to hide.

It was wonderful getting to speak with Leah about it, and get to hear her experience on it on a deeper level than she had spoken out about before. Throughout your conversation you and Leah held a lot of eye contact. When you spoke, you made sure to speak around the room, and also make eye contact with Jordan and your staff members. But every time your eyes made their way to Leah, she was still watching you. 

At one point Leah’s gaze on you was so strong that you stumbled a bit over your words. You cursed yourself for letting your feelings get to you while you were live on the radio. Meanwhile Leah was watching with a proud smirk at your stumble, but so lost in the moment that Jordan had to nudge her to answer your question.

Luckily the next part of the interview would be about the book, so Jordan joined in on the conversation. You spoke on how it was to write the book, as well as what it was about, and what they wanted it to say to children. 

You were excited to hear all about it, as your two nieces loved Leah, and you had read the other books in the series plenty of times with them. Getting a little insight into the story that was ahead was definitely going to score you some auntie points.

After wrapping up the interview, your staff members left the room, and Jordan quickly made an excuse as well, leaving the two of you alone. “My nieces are going to be so jealous, they’re big fans of yours.” 

“I was hoping you were a big fan.” Leah said with a challenging, yet playful look in her eyes. Your cheeks flushed and you were at a loss for words. “I’ll tell you what, I will sign a copy for each of your nieces and they can have the books before they’re released.” 

Your eyes widened, “You would do that?” Leah smirked, “Yeah, just on one condition though. You have to admit that you’re a fan.” You chuckled, “Of course, I am a fan. How could I not?” Now it was Leah’s turn to get flustered at your words.

Leah signed two copies, each with a little personalised message for your nieces. “Here, hand me your phone real quick.” You did so without hesitation, and watched as Leah recorded a little video for them as well. 

“Thank you so much, Leah. They are going to be so happy with all of this. My auntie points are going to be through the roof!” Before Leah hands you back your phone, she quickly types her number into your phone. “Well if you want to get more points, text me and I can get you all into a match.”

“Are you sure? That’s so kind.” Leah smiles and nods, “Of course, it means I get to see you again.” Your heart starts beating fast, you weren’t imagining things right? “I- eh thank you.”

Jordan walked back into the room, “Have you asked her out yet? We have to head back.” You both blush at her words. “I eh, I hadn’t gotten that far. But yeah, I would love to see you again. Would you like to go out for lunch some time this week?” 

Your smile grew, “I would love to.” With a racing heart you stood there. “Glad you got there and I didn’t have to do everything for you.” Jordan joked, earning herself a glare from Leah. 

“I have to go, before she embarrasses me more, but text me later to make plans?” You smile at her, “Yeah that sounds good, looking forward to it.” Leah looks back before walking out of the door, “Me too.” 

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[bigboy-lovers-unite-writes]

Imagine slapping their asses 🙏🙏

•Dutch; immediately pissed off, depends on who slapped his ass, he might push his cigar into their arm or something out of anger. Will grumble if it's his partner and shoo them away, smokes enough cigarettes after that to take away ten years on his life (it definitely made a camp deafening sound when they slapped it)

•Arthur; the most shocked face ever, just has to stand there for a minute to figure out whatever the fuck just happened. Will stumble over his words, before glaring at the person and chest bump them a few times, but secretly he's nearly popping a boner 💔💔

•John; eye twitches, trying to hold back grabbing his revolver and threatening the person. Says something sarcastic and crosses his arms like the dumb child he is. Will definitely be so damn embarrassed that he flushes as red as Sean's hair. Definitely blabs about it to Abigail later and gets huffy when she laughs

•Hosea; jumps a foot in the air and his body bends like a banana 😭 he's not mad, he'd never get mad, but he is a bit embarrassed about that. He sighs softly, tells a little story about his youth and how he would be able to handle it when he was younger as he rubbed his sore ass, then says he's too old for all that 🫶🫶

•Javier; yells out the loudest Spanish he's ever said, nearly falls forward from the shock of it as both hands go to cover his ass. Can't see it since he pulls his poncho up over his entire face, but he is burning bright red and thinking about it for the rest of the month. Will never trust being around the person again, will side eye them and cover his ass with anything if he's around them again 😢

•Bill; Two different ways this could go. One, he's drunk as a bitch and he hurls a beer bottle them and starts cursing and chasing them all over yelling about how he's no queer, even if it was a woman that slapped his ass, or he will just glare and threaten them a little bit and try to intimidate them if by god he's not drunk

•Kieran; actually stands up straight for once instead of being like a shrimp literally 24/7. Looks like a bug when you pick up a rock, eyes all wide and face flushed even pinker than it usually already naturally is. Definitely looks spaced out the rest of the day, probably can't stop thinking about it for sure

•Sean; gasps and is completely over dramatic, falling and pulling whoever slapped his ass down with him. Definitely tells everyone that the person slapped his ass, and he sounds strangely proud about it too..

•Lenny; poor boy doesn't know what to do, he's stuttering and gripping at his favorite book that he was reading, glancing around as he tried to say something. Might quirk a smile after a while, but it's whenever that person isn't around (he's so embarrassed don't do it again he can't handle it 💔)

•Micah; immediately cracks up and dares the person to slap his ass again, sticking it out slightly. He then promptly slaps that person's ass twenty times harder than they slapped his. It becomes a little game between the two whenever they see each other

•Charles; the absolute politest, might get a bit grumbly. 'oh my' is the first words outta his mouth 😭 will ask them why they did that and if it was supposed to be funny. He's like a mother in this sense, but also can't stop grinning since he actually liked it ❤️

[our-trans-youth-experience]

Rest in Power, Nex Benedict

A 16 year old kid who loved nature and looking after their cat Zeus. Who enjoyed reading, watching the Walking Dead, and playing Ark and Minecraft. They loved to cook and would often make up their own recipes. They did well in school, being a straight-A student. Rest in power a teen who was human and had interests and ambitions and challenges and friendships. A trans youth who was brutally murdered just for being trans, when that was only a fragment of who they were as a person.

Nex Benedict, Jacob Williamson, Brianna Ghey, and other trans youth like them were real people with real lives. They deserved better, longer, happier lives. They deserved to grow up and not fear for their lives. They deserve to be remembered as who they were, not just as another trans kid who was killed, as people with families and normal human lives.

[arthursfuckinghat]

I forget that Arthur canonically has his own camera in his satchel so here's some portraits I took of some of the guys with Arthur's lil camera :)