#Top Ways a Physiotherapist Can Help You

[allbacksphysiotherapy]

Physio Clinics Hemel Hempstead is an excellent option for anyone interested in improving their overall health through natural methods.

[777nicetits]

look who’s back ;P

⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪ baseball player!schlatt x physiotherapist!reader, mentions of injuries, a lot of bickering, not proofread. english is not my first language.

“Where is he?!” You borderline scream as you enter the locker room, the sea of (luckily clothed, save for a couple shirtless ones) players turning their heads over to where you and the nurses stood at the door.

To your right, you heard the unmistakable and ever so insufferable sound of a gravel, low chuckle. Your head whipped in its direction, fire burning behind your dilated pupils as your eyes found his. Standing by the entrance to the showers (mistake number one, not supposed to put any weight on his left leg), a damp towel thrown over his shoulder and another one wrapped around his hips (mistake number two, no full body showers, no wetting the bandage), the dirty uniform he wore previously carelessly laid on the ground next to his feet (mistake number three, absolutely no playing for the next three months).

Mother. Fucker.

“You gotta be shitting me!” This time you screamed. The room erupted in laughter, but you didn’t find anything about this situation funny.

With a heavy sigh you looked over your shoulders, head nodding once, the silent signal for the nurses to go get him, and so they did, walking over to the man with the wheelchair he hated so much.

Schlatt stumbled backwards, the back of his knee hitting the wooden bench behind him and almost knocking him onto his ass. “Hey! What’s this about?”

“You’re late for your physical therapy session. Y’know, the place you should’ve been instead of in the field, disobeying my direct orders!?”

He scoffed. “Can I at least put some clothes on? Or you want me to go like this, doc?”

I’m gonna kill this bitch, you thought.

But, instead of jumping on him like a hungry lioness and taking a piece of his jugular off with your own teeth, you just inhaled deeply, holding the oxygen in your lungs for a couple of seconds before letting go.

“Just bring the clothes,” you said calmly, “we’ll help you put them on in the clinic. Can’t risk you putting any more weight on your feet.”

Out of excuses, Schlatt reluctantly sat down on the wheelchair. Huffing and puffing his way out.

“I can’t believe you did that!” You slammed the door to your office open, the wood plank hitting against the wall and making everything on it shake.

Schlatt, who now had a shirt on and had taken control of his own wheelchair, rolled his eyes as he rolled himself in. “You’re so dramatic. It was just a light practice, I didn’t even-“

“Dramatic?!” You did a 180°, twirling like a ballerina to angrily face him. “Schlatt, you’re 100% my responsibility. If you keep disregarding what I tell you, you won’t get any better, and if you don’t get any better the higher ups are gonna blame me for that! I could lose my job!”

Schlatt kept looking up at you with a blank expression, and it was your time to roll your eyes. “Dunno why I’m telling you any of that, it’s not like you care anyways.”

You walk over behind your desk, opening the top drawer and taking some new bandages to replace Schlatt’s damp one, while he takes the moment you weren’t looking to get up, quickly throwing the towel around his hip to the floor and putting his underwear on.

“You’re not gonna lose your job.” He grunted, sitting back down on the wheelchair.

“Sure buddy,” you scoffed, closing back the drawer, “because when they ask you why haven’t you recovered you’ll tell them that’s it’s ‘cause you didn’t listen to me.”

“You think I’m that much of a douchebag I’ll just throw you under the bus like that?”

You crouched down in front of him, placing his feet on top of your knee, fingers working skillfully as you undid the bandage, careful as to not hurt him in the process.

“You’re not a douchebag, Schlatt,” you sighed, “I just know where your priorities lie. And I don’t blame you, I’d do the same if I had the talent you do… and the salary.”

With yours eyes still fixated on changing the bandage on his sprained ankle, you heard him scoff. “My priorities? Yeah, right.” He leaned in, hand cupping your chin and lifting your head up, your eyes meeting his. “Maybe you should let me take you out for a couple drinks, show you where my priorities really lie.”

To say that his offer took you by surprise would be an overstatement. Ever since you started working with the Yankees, Schlatt has always flirted with you, just for fun (and you always send him on some HR visits, y’know, just for fun), but this is the first time he’s ever gotten this close to you, touching you while he talks with that smooth voice of his, that stupid grin plastered on his face. The bastard knows what he’s doing, and he knows he’s good at it.

You placed his feet back on the floor with little care, making him wince, and got up, your thighs burning a bit.

“You haven’t seen miss Anderson this month, have you?”

“Oh c’mon, toots,” he chuckled, “you can’t pretend you don’t like the attention forever. Just give me one night, you won’t regret it, I swear.”

You looked down at him, arms crossed over your chest. It’s not a matter of liking the attention, it’s more of a matter of not hating it. Or at least that’s what you’ve been trying to convince yourself.

“I’ll call Nelson to come help you put your pants.” You say after awhile of silence, making your way over to the door.

Schlatt lets out a breathy laugh. “Just so you know, I won’t let it go until you say yes!” He screamed as you walked away, leaving him by himself in your office.

You shook your head, a dumb little smile on your face.

I really hope you don’t.

aaaand scene 🎬 !! it took me three whole days to write this lmao, what can i say? i’m just that good at procrastinating 🤪

[pdriesta]

PROLOGUE

“i want something that i know is real”

pairing — judexblack!girl

genres — fluff, slow burn, workplace romance (she’s a pt)

warnings — sexual themes (minors dni)

word count — 1.8k (for prologue)

summary — y/n, a rising physiotherapist, has just been promoted to work with real madrid's men's team. after a difficult breakup, she's determined to keep things professional. but when jude bellingham, the club's charming new star, sets his sights on her, maintaining boundaries becomes harder than ever. can she resist the pull, or will she risk everything for a love she swore she’d never fall for again?

an — so your girl is an idiot and the day before releasing the final chapter of this series, deleted her whole blog. bare with me, i have so many drafts and notes to sort through before posting everything 😭 i am so sorry to those who have to reread this series and wait for the last chapter. also, if you were apart of the taglist please comment and i’ll redo it <3

masterlist

jude bellingham walked through the pristine halls of valdebebas, real madrid’s renowned training facility, alongside carlo ancelotti. the legendary manager had insisted on personally showing him around, a gesture that wasn’t lost on jude. every step he took reminded him that he was no longer in dortmund, no longer in the familiar yellow and black. he was in madrid now, wearing the iconic white, and the reality of it was still sinking in.

as they made their way to the physio room, ancelotti spoke in his deep, reassuring voice. “we’re all very excited to have you here, jude. you’re an important part of our future,” he said, glancing at the young midfielder with a smile. “i know it can be overwhelming at first, but you’ve got a great team around you to help you settle in.”

jude nodded, trying to absorb everything. the weight of expectation, the grandeur of the club, the new language and culture—it was a lot to take in. but this was what he’d always dreamed of, and he was determined to prove himself worthy.

they turned a corner and entered a spacious room filled with sleek equipment, treatment tables, and the smell of antiseptic. the physio room—where he’d likely spend more time than he wanted over the years, keeping his body in top condition.

“this is where the magic happens,” ancelotti said with a smile. “our medical team is top-notch, and they’ll make sure you’re in the best possible shape. we take our players’ health very seriously.”

jude’s eyes scanned the room, taking in the details. his gaze landed on a young woman standing near one of the treatment tables, adjusting some equipment. she was wearing the real madrid training kit, her warm brown skin contrasting beautifully with the white and navy of the uniform. her braided hair fell just past her shoulders, each braid meticulously done, and her presence was immediately striking.

he felt his breath catch. who is she?

“and this,” ancelotti continued, drawing jude’s attention back, “is y/n. she’s one of our junior physiotherapists. i have to say, she’s quite exceptional. she started as an intern with the women’s team and did such a remarkable job that we brought her over to the men’s team.”

jude blinked, momentarily taken aback. she’s the physio? she looked around his age—young, maybe too young to be in such a prominent role. but if ancelotti was praising her, she must be something special.

ancelotti must have noticed jude’s surprise because he chuckled softly. “i know, she looks young, doesn’t she? that’s because she is. she’s your age, actually. but don’t let that fool you—she’s brilliant at what she does. the women’s team didn’t want to let her go.”

jude couldn’t help but feel a flicker of admiration mixed with something else, something deeper. y/n was his age and already making waves at one of the biggest clubs in the world. it was impressive, to say the least, but more than that, there was something about her that he couldn’t shake.

as jude approached, y/n looked up from her work, meeting his gaze with a warm, confident smile. her eyes were kind, but there was a spark in them that drew him in. god, she’s beautiful.

“y/n,” ancelotti said, his voice filled with a kind of paternal pride, “this is jude bellingham, our new signing. i’m sure you’ve heard a lot about him.”

y/n extended her hand, her smile widening. “of course. it’s great to finally meet you, jude. welcome to madrid.”

“thanks,” jude replied, shaking her hand. her grip was firm, her skin warm, and for a moment, he was caught off guard by the connection he felt. she’s my age, he thought again, still trying to reconcile that with her professionalism. “nice to meet you too.”

“y/n will be working closely with you to make sure you stay in peak condition,” ancelotti continued. “she’s been with the women’s team, but now she’s part of our setup here. and believe me, she knows what she’s doing.”

y/n’s heart swelled a little at the praise, but she kept her expression neutral. keep it professional, she reminded herself. jude was a world-class athlete, and while she was flattered by ancelotti’s words, she knew she had to prove herself every day. “i’m still learning, but i’m excited to be here and work with you,” she said, her voice steady.

jude nodded, still intrigued. “i can see why they wanted you on the team.”

he’s sharp, y/n thought, catching the genuine interest in his eyes. there was something about him that put her at ease, despite the high stakes of her new role. “thank you. it’s been a lot of hard work, but i’m ready for the challenge.”

as they began the tour, y/n walked beside jude, pointing out various areas of the facility. ancelotti excused himself after a few minutes, leaving the two of them to continue alone. jude noticed the way y/n moved—confidently, yet with a certain grace. it was clear she knew this place inside and out, even if she was still getting used to the men’s side of things.

“so,” jude began, glancing over at her as they walked down a corridor lined with photos of real madrid legends, “how does someone our age end up as a physio for one of the biggest clubs in the world? that’s pretty impressive.”

y/n felt a small blush creeping up her neck but managed to keep her cool. he’s trying to get to know me, she realized, her heart beating a little faster. “well, i’ve always been interested in sports medicine,” she explained. “i started studying physiotherapy in university, and i got an internship with the women’s team here at madrid. it was just supposed to be temporary, but i guess they liked what i was doing.”

jude smiled, clearly impressed. “sounds like you’re a bit of a prodigy.”

y/n laughed softly, shaking her head. “i wouldn’t go that far. i just worked hard and tried to learn as much as i could. the women’s team was incredible to work with, and i learned a lot from them. but when they offered me a spot with the men’s team, i knew it was an opportunity i couldn’t pass up.”

jude nodded, understanding the drive behind her words. “that’s really cool. i’m just getting started here myself, but it’s nice to know there’s someone else who’s new to this side of things.”

“yeah,” y/n agreed, feeling a sense of camaraderie. “i guess we’re both finding our way.”

they walked in comfortable silence for a moment, and jude found himself stealing glances at y/n. she was beautiful, no doubt about it, but there was something else—something in the way she carried herself that made him want to know more.

“so, you’re from spain?” jude asked, wanting to keep the conversation going.

“yeah, mostly,” y/n replied. “i was raised here, but my family’s originally from west africa—ghana, specifically. we moved here when i was a kid.”

“ghana, huh? that’s cool,” jude said, genuinely interested. “do you ever get back to visit?”

“not as often as i’d like,” y/n admitted, a hint of longing in her voice. “but we try to go back whenever we can. it’s important to stay connected to where you come from.”

“i totally get that,” jude said, feeling a connection growing between them. “i’ve always thought it’s important to stay grounded, to remember where you started.”

y/n nodded, appreciating the sentiment. he’s more thoughtful than i expected, she mused. “it’s definitely something i try to keep in mind, especially working in a place like this. it’s easy to get caught up in the glamour of it all, but i try to stay focused on why i’m here.”

as they continued the tour, jude couldn’t help but feel increasingly drawn to y/n. there was an ease between them, a natural flow to the conversation that made him forget, if only for a moment, the pressures of his new life in madrid.

“you know,” jude said, a playful smile tugging at the corner of his mouth as they reached the gym, “if you’re going to be the one keeping me in shape, i might need to get on your good side early.”

y/n raised an eyebrow, catching the flirty tone in his voice. “is that so? well, i hope you’re good at following instructions, because i’m pretty strict about my routines.”

jude chuckled, feeling a thrill at the banter. “i’ll do my best. but you know, maybe you could give me some pointers on how to stay on your good side?”

y/n laughed, shaking her head but unable to hide her amusement. he’s charming, she thought, realizing she was enjoying their interaction more than she expected. “just work hard, jude. that’s the best way to impress me.”

as they finished the tour and walked back toward the entrance, jude felt a sense of anticipation. there was no denying that y/n had made an impression on him, and he was eager to see where their paths would lead. for now, he kept things professional—aside from the occasional flirty remark—but as they exchanged a final smile, he couldn’t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning.

“good luck with the season, jude,” y/n said as they reached the door. “i’m looking forward to working with you.”

jude turned back, a playful smirk on his lips. “thanks, y/n. trust me, the pleasure’s all mine. something tells me this season just got a lot more interesting.”

y/n felt her cheeks warm at his words, a sudden shyness creeping in. he probably says this to all the girls, she thought, trying to brush it off. but the way he looked at her—like she was the only one in the room—made her pulse quicken.

“just don’t let me catch you falling behind,” she managed to reply, her voice steady despite the flutter in her chest. “i’ll be watching.”

jude chuckled, the sound low and smooth. “i wouldn’t dream of it. besides, with you around, i don’t think i’ll have any trouble staying motivated.”

as he walked away, jude couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and unease. he was undeniably drawn to y/n, but he also knew they’d be working closely together all season. it could get complicated, and he wasn’t sure where the line was between professionalism and…whatever this was. but one thing was clear—he wanted to see where it might go, even if it meant walking a fine line.

as he headed toward his car, he ran a hand through his hair, still thinking about her. this could be trouble, he mused, a small smile playing on his lips. but deep down, he knew he didn’t really mind. after all, some trouble was worth getting into.

next

© PDRIESTA 2024

[mynicosensesaretingling]

A change of mind

Jenson Button x fem!reader

summary: (Y/N) is Hertz Team Jota‘s physiotherapist at Le Mans. However, there seems to be a mutual sense of dislike between her and Jenson Button.

warnings: none.

note: I wrote this immediately after the race ended ( state of brain is error)

Hope you enjoy x

——

The sun had just settled over the Circuit de la Sarthe, casting a golden hue across the track and surrounding pits, as the air was buzzing with anticipation for the Le Mans 24 Hours race. Teams and drivers were running through their garages, making final preparations, striving for perfection in the gruelling endurance race.

Among the sea of mechanics and engineers belonging to the Hertz Team Jota, (Y/N) stood with a confident expression on her face as she oversaw the final checks on her equipment. (Y/N) was the lead physiotherapist within the team, renowned for her innovative approach to sports medicine. Her methods were a blend of traditional techniques and cutting-edge science, a combination that had earned her respect in the male-dominated field.

Noting down some tactics, the girl was determined to ensure her drivers were in peak physical condition and ready to tackle the gruelling demands of the race.

As she checked her equipment one last time, she noticed Jenson Button, the former Formula 1 champion, making his way towards her. He was surrounded by his entourage, exuding confidence and charisma. (Y/N) couldn't help but feel a twinge of irritation. During one of her physio sessions, a fellow teammate had offhandedly mentioned Jenson's scepticism towards her rather new methods – making her silently feel offended by the fact that the former F1 driver was so quick to judge her work, without ever scheduling a session himself.

"Morning, Button," (Y/N) greeted him with a professional nod. "Morning," Jenson replied, his tone polite but guarded. "I hear you're the chosen miracle worker who's supposed to keep us in one piece for the next 24 hours."(Y/N) raised an eyebrow. "There are certainly no miracles required. All it takes is me doing my best and you trying to follow my advice, and we should get through this without any major issues." She huffed, focus falling back to her notes. Jenson smirked. "Ah, well. We'll see about that. I've been doing this a long time, you know." "I'm aware," (Y/N) replied coolly, not bothering to spare him another glance. "But endurance racing is a different beast. You'll need all the help you can get."

Jenson chuckled, though there was a hint of tension in his eyes. "I guess we'll find out soon enough." With that, he walked away, leaving (Y/N) to her preparations. Despite the clash, (Y/N) couldn’t let his scepticism distract her. The race was about to begin, and she needed to be at the top of her game.

The engines roared to life as the starting signal was given, and the cars took off, speeding down the track. The energy was electric, with fans cheering and cameras flashing. (Y/N) watched the cars disappear around the first bend, her mind already focused on the next 24 hours. This race was a marathon, not a sprint, and she knew that her role was crucial for the entire team.

The physiotherapist’s first patient was Norman Nato, another driver for Hertz Team Jota. He came in for a quick massage and some muscle taping before his stint. “How are you feeling, Norman?” she asked, her hands expertly working on his tight muscles. “A bit nervous, but ready,” he replied, wincing slightly as she applied pressure to a particularly tight spot. “You’ll do great,” she reassured him with a gentle voice. “Just remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body. If you feel any discomfort, let me know immediately.”

Norman nodded, his confidence bolstered by her calm demeanour. He quickly thanked her before being ushered back to the front of the garage. As he left to take his position, (Y/N) couldn’t help but let her eyes wander through the garage, when suddenly her ears picked up the familiar tone of Jenson's voice. “You really think a massage and some tape will do wonders for you?” the blonde’s tone wasn’t mocking rather amused, yet still annoying enough to earn an eye-roll from (Y/N) as she overheard the two drivers conversing.

Stretching her arms above her head, the woman let herself fall back into her chair, propping her legs up on a crate, as her eyes wandered to the screens displaying the Hertz Jota drivers’ vitals. “I gotta admit,” oh no, there he was again “a good old massage and a roll of tape- you’re TRULY revolutionising your field.” the sarcastic voice which previously had been at a safe distance, now was too close to her for comfort. Sighing, (Y/N) glanced up, finding Jenson leaning against the wall beside where she was sitting in her chair. “Just because my methods are rather modern, doesn’t mean I completely abandon the fundamental basics of my occupation.”

“Mhm.” the former champion hummed, arms crossed above his chest as he turned his head to look down at her. “Then I really don’t get what the fuzz is about.” His lips moved into a nonchalant pout, as he shrugged and kicked off the wall. “ Now,I’m even more certain that I am completely fine to manage without your ancient magic.” His eyes held a mischievous glint, as he glanced back at her before leaving the medical area. “God, I hope you don’t drive as unserious as you behave!” (Y/N) called after him. The rather unprofessional outburst earning her a few glances and the occasional chuckle from her fellow team mates.

Hours passed, and the race took its toll. The drivers rotated in and out of the cars, each stint pushing their physical and mental limits. (Y/N) was constantly on her feet, treating cramps, managing hydration, and applying her blend of traditional and advanced physiotherapy techniques to keep the drivers in top shape. In between treating several members of the team, (Y/N) couldn’t help but glance towards the monitor showing Jenson’s car. He was performing well, his experience evident in his smooth handling and strategic maneuvers.

Jenson’s first break came after a particularly grueling stint. Squinting at the bright lights withing the garage, he walked into the medical bay, his body language a mix of exhaustion and frustration. “Y/N,” he said, dropping into a chair. “I hate to admit it, but I think I could use some of that magic of yours.”

The physiotherapist who had previously stretching her aching muscles, stopped in her tracks and put her hands on her hips. "Oh, so now the great Jenson Button suddenly believes in my 'ancient magic'?" she replied, a hint of annoyance and sarcasm in her voice. Jenson gave her a rather tired smile in return. "I appreciate the flattery. Let's just say I'm open to trying new things." With a sigh, (Y/N) approached him, her demeanor professional but her irritation still simmering underneath her skin. "Alright, sit tight and let's get you sorted."

Jenson settled into the chair, stretching out his legs as he tried to hide the full extent of his exhaustion. Rounding the chair, (Y/N) began working on his muscles, the tension between them was almost palpable.

"You don't have to look so annoyed," Jenson muttered, wincing as she applied pressure to a particularly sore spot. "I'm not annoyed," (Y/N) replied, her tone clipped. "I'm just focused." "Right," Jenson said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Because you're always this charming." (Y/N) paused for a moment, her hands still on his shoulders. "Look, Jenson, I don't know what your problem is with me, but I don't have time for this right now. It’s who knows how late at night and I have a job to do, as do you." The driver sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I don't have a problem with you. I just... I don't know. Maybe I underestimated you." "Maybe?" (Y/N) arched an eyebrow at the man’s words, resuming her work. "You're a real piece of work, Button." "Yeah, I've been told that before," he admitted, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

As the minutes ticked by, the silence between the pair grew more comfortable. (Y/N)'s hands moved expertly over his muscles, and Jenson found himself closing his eyes in relaxation despite his initial irritation.

"You're good at this," he said quietly, almost as if it pained him to admit it.

(Y/N) didn't look up. "I know." Jenson chuckled softly. "Confidence is key, I guess." "Confidence and skill," she corrected, finally meeting his gaze. "Which, believe it or not, I have plenty of." Jenson stared at her for a moment, a flicker of something in his eyes that she couldn't quite place. "I believe it," he said finally, his voice softer than she'd heard it before. "I guess I've been too quick to judge."

(Y/N)'s hands paused for a moment before resuming their work. "Apology accepted, but you're going to have to do more than just talk to prove it." He nodded, eyes darting back to the front of the garage, a determined look crossing his face. "Fair enough."

The hours of the night ticked by, the demanding weather testing everyone’s endurance. (Y/N) was a whirlwind of efficiency, moving between drivers, ensuring they were in the best possible condition to tackle their next stint. She had little time to dwell on Jenson, though she couldn’t deny a newfound respect (or was it even fondness?) for him as she watched him on the track.

During one of his breaks, Jenson found himself sitting next to the female physiotherapist yet again. "How's it going?" he asked, his tone more genuine than before. The woman shrugged, exhaustion starting to creep into her voice. "Busy. But we’re holding up."

He gave her a once-over, noticing how she kept flexing her hands and rubbing her shoulders. "You should take a break too, you know." (Y/N) scoffed. "I’m afraid the only break I’ll take , is when the race is over." Jenson shook his head, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Stubborn." "Takes one to know one," she shot back, but there was no malice in her voice.

As the night wore on, the grueling nature of the race became evident. Drivers, engineers, mechanics and several other crew members came and went, each stint pushing their physical and mental limits. Leading (Y/N)’s hands to seemingly never stop their movement, her mind laser-focused on her job.

Jenson’s final break came as the morning faded into noon. He was exhausted, every muscle in his body screaming for relief. His mind was set on autopilot to the medical area. Upon seeing him making his way over to her, (Y/N) wordlessly guided him to the chair with a gentle touch.

"Alright, Button.” she almost clapped her hands, but refrained from doing so upon remembering that some of the crew members were napping in the garage. “Let’s see what we can do," she exclaimed, her tone almost teasing.

Jenson, who was by now slumped in the chair, let out a tired laugh. "Do your worst."

The girl chuckled amused , as she stood behind him, starting to work on his neck. The former Formula 1 champion closed his eyes and let out a low satisfied hum upon feeling some of the tension leave his muscles."You know," he said, voice low,as he tilted his head to give her better access. "I never really gave you a chance. And I regret that."

Keeping her eyes trained on the movement of her fingers, she hummed. "You’re not the first one to underestimate me. But you actually might be the first to apologize."

Jenson sighed, one of his hands dragging over his face as his voice took on a sincere tone. "I mean it, (Y/N)." She paused, her hands moving from his neck to his shoulders, giving them an appreciative squeeze. "I appreciate that, Jenson. And I’ll hold you to it." He nodded, craning his neck to look up at her, a small smile playing on his lips. "Deal."

The race continued, the track conditions continiously deteriorating as the final hours ticked away. Jenson’s last stint was slowly coming to an end and (Y/N) almost felt annoyed with herself, as she caught her eyes once again wandering to the monitors in order to watch over Jenson’s vitals, as he navigated the treacherous course.

When afternoon arrived and both Hertz cars came into the pit, after successfully finishing the race, (Y/N) joined the rest of the team in gratulating the drivers outside of the garage. Despide the crash during hyperpole, Hertz Team Jota had managed to secure points by making an incredible comeback. The celebrations were loud and joyous. The happiness of her teammates infectious. She found herself surrounded by the jubilant crowd, laughter and cheers filling the air, as the adrenaline slowly started to vanish from the grounds of Le Mans.

As she was making rounds congratulating the other drivers, she spotted Jenson making his way towards her, his eyes sparkling with a mix of exhaustion and triumph, lips pulled into a satisfied grin and his hair an absolute mess.

"You did it," she cheered, her voice carrying a mix of pride and relief.

"We did it," Jenson corrected, stopping in front of her. "You were right. I needed all the help I could get." (Y/N) felt a smirk forming on her lips,as her eyes met his. "I'm glad you finally realized that. All it took was a 24 hour race to humble you." Jenson chuckled, his right hand resting above his heart as he looked down at her. "I have to admit, your methods truly worked wonders. I still feel like I owe you an apology for doubting you."

Upon hearing his genuine words,(Y/N) just waved a hand dismissively. "Let's just call it a learning experience." He nodded, his expression turning serious as he softly took hold of her arm. "I mean it, though. You kept me in top shape, and I appreciate it more than I can say."

"You're welcome, Jenson," she replied, her tone softening. "I'm just doing my job."

"Still," he insisted, "you went above and beyond. How about I make it up to you? Dinner, maybe?"

(Y/N) blinked, surprised by the offer. "Dinner?" "Yeah," Jenson said, a hopeful, almost sheepish, smile on his lips. "A chance to start over and get to know each other without all the bickering."

"Alright. Dinner it is." she accepted his offer, excited to explore where that new understanding, which had formed between the two, would take them.

[ninyard]

I would love to just sit on a roof top and talk to you about anything and everything. Hear all of your opinions on everything.

Wait what the hell that’s so sweet I’m the mayor of yapsville when you get me started on something I have An Opinion on, so I promise you’d probably quickly regret it.

But picture us. Me and you on a roof. And I tell you the following, as the wind blows our hair and the sun starts to set:

- Andrew helps Renee dye her hair

- When they move in together, Andrew always finds his t-shirts or random belongings shoved under Neil’s pillow. Harmless stuff, but usually stuff that belongs to Andrew. Kept safe, untouchable below his pillow like the few belongings he had in the beginning.

- Dyslexic Kevin Day

- Allison helps Neil get his hair back into a good condition when he starts to grow it out post-TKM. She helps him do treatments and recommends the best products. She braids it when it gets long enough. She shows him how to properly tie it back, she teaches him how to properly look after the texture in his hair.

- Andrew has a folder in his camera roll for nobody else but himself of things that make him smile on the inside. Most of the time it’s stupid things, like a terrible advertisement stuck to a lamp post, or an ugly dog, or an awfully parked car. Silly things that make him laugh that he screenshots or snaps a picture of. There’s eventually hundreds of pictures in there. There’s photos of Neil, when he falls asleep on Andrew’s shoulder and Andrew’s too proud to tell him how cute he looked. Photos of Neil in his suit before a banquet, photos of him doing dishes or handing him dinner. There’s photos of Andrew and Renee after they’ve been sparring. There’s photos of things he’s seen in stores that remind him of Kevin, or Neil, or Renee. Sometimes Aaron. There’s even a few photos of Kevin in there, too. Nobody know this folder exists. Not even Neil, who doesn’t even know half of the photos of himself in there even exist. Because it’s just for Andrew. It’s just for him to collect the little joys in his life now that he can somewhat actually feel it.

- Kevin has to wear a brace on his hand/wrist every now and again, and he still sees a physiotherapist once every few months to check up on his hand.

- Matt goes to Andrew the first time he thinks about relapsing. He doesn’t even think about it. Neil is very confused when he comes back to the dorm to find Matt and Andrew playing video games together, but doesn’t question it.

- Dan tags along to night practice every now and again. Nobody acknowledges that she isn’t usually there, they just let her join them on the court and practice as usual. It makes Kevin really happy, actually, to see her trying to better her skills with them. Usually she just joins them when she can’t sleep and needs to get out of her head.

- On the OG foxes last night together before the first of them graduate, they all find themselves around a fire pit in one of their parents houses, or on property Allison rented out, and they tell each other stories and share some confessions in a mostly-funny, kind of emotional way. They cry and laugh and hug and shock each other with some of the things they say but it’s a really beautiful moment before they’re finally split up for the first time

- Dyslexic Kevin Day (again)

[gavisuntiedboot]

Gavi's Untied Boot

NOT POSTING FOOTBALL OR OTHER CONTENT DUE TO THE SITUATION IN PALESTINE.

PLEASE DONATE TO HELP EVACUATE MY BEST FRIEND’S FAMILY!

Hi everyone! Welcome to my chaotic little blog. I write almost exclusively for Gavi, but may be open to other Barca players as well.

My ask box is always open so feel free to drop in requests, questions, or just messages for me if you'd like!

That being said, I don't tolerate hate or bullying of any kind. You will be blocked and potentially roasted on the public forum.

If there's something you love, please give me feedback in comments, asks, or messages, because that's the best way to make sure you see more of it!!

Masterlist

GUB Universe (aka my Pride and Joy)

*Just Pretend* - Gavi x Physiotherapist! Reader (completed)

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Part 6

Part 7

Part 8

Part 9

Part 10

Epilogue

Centimeters (Yearly medical exam oneshot)

Cherry on top (JP Birthday Special!)

*We Can't Be Friends* - Pedri x Stylist! Reader (Ongoing)

Part 1

Part 2

Prompt List- using these prompts

Soft glow - taking your makeup off for you

Should I keep going? - Washing your hair for you

You are everything - saying "I love you"

Dim the lights - holding hands

Level 8000 - First meeting

Crowded - forehead kisses

Blue Raspberry - Late night McDonald's run

*Gavi One-Shots*

Gavi Fluff Alphabet

Forward - Gavi x Confident! reader

Going to bed with Gavi

No other - Gavi x curvy! reader

Grocery shopping with Gavi

Off Limits - Arab/ Desi! Reader

Asking you to be his girlfriend

Stitches - injured! reader

Pls hold my hand - touch-starved! reader

Drip too hard - Eid! fic

Author reader

Gavi on your birthday

*Boot on the Bus!* (short one-shots)

Long distance calls

Calling Gavi pretty

Last updated: August 5th, 2024

If you want to read my ramblings and other thoughts, check out the #gavisuntiedbootasks tag!!

** Please reach out to me through messages/ the ask box if any links are not working so I can repair them asap**

[silawastaken]

hey :3 reference for the next chapter (ch.6) of the ballet au!!!

In the chapter, Dazai used something called ✨kinesiology tape✨ for reasons that are explained in the chapter. Here are reference pictures I took, with some explanations, just to help with visualisation while reading!

this is what a roll of tape commonly looks like, and you can see the paper on the back, it has grids to help measure how much you need!

The image is on its side, but this is how Dazai gets his leg taped. First, the blue piece of tape at the bottom of his knee, curving around his kneecap, and up to the top. Then, the pink piece, the opposite way. Finally, the black piece starts at the inside of his knee just below his kneecap, stretched across the bottom. For context, that's my right knee, if it helps you figure out what's going on.

The wrist is where it gets confusing. The first piece is the blue one, and once holes for the fingers have been cut, the tape is smoothed over the palm, and down the back of the hand and arm. The next is the black piece, with holes for the fingers again, stuck over the blue tape on the back of the hand, and then down the palm and inner arm. Finally the pink piece is put in the center of the base of the wrist, and stretched around the wrist to meet with where it started.

Those are the two ways the tape is used in the chapter, please be aware I am not a doctor or a physiotherapist, this is not a guide on how to use this kind of tape, just a reference so understand what I'm referring to in the chapter.

Chapter six isn't out yet, but happy reading for when it is!

[phanfictioncatalogue]

Sports (5) Masterlist

part one, part two, part three, part four

Balling in Love (ao3) - ticklishpickle

Summary: Dan and Phil are captains of rival soccer teams, and have hated each other for as long as Dan can remember. However, it starts to seem as if Phil is out to win more than just the game…

box boys (ao3) - sierraadeux

Summary: Playing hockey is easy in comparison.

Digging in the sand, looking for gold (ao3) - ShippingFangirl26 (IceQueenJules26)

Summary: When Dan's Beach-Volleyball partner retires, he's not sure how to continue his career. By coincidence he meets the aspiring Youngster Sascha, his best friend Marcelo and physiotherapist Phil, who shakes believes and rules Dan has lived by for all of his life. Suddenly, Dan's life becomes a lot more complicated...

Extra Time (ao3) - jestbee

Summary: Dan had been planning to just hide away and find some WiFi and watch it on his phone, but there Quentin was asking him if he wanted to go to the room backstage and watch it with him and some of the others.

For You (ao3) - notcrazyipromise

Summary: dan and phil as ice skaters at the olympics

i feel a kick down in my soul (ao3) - chickenfree

Summary: “I’m going to obliterate you,” he says, taking a few long steps towards Phil.

Phil runs. It takes him a minute to realize the ball is in the opposite direction.

it just grows sweeter (ao3) - sunflowerwitches (orphan_account)

Summary: in a somewhat canon divergent world were phil can ice skate and dan finally lets him take him on the ice

Keep My Head Above Water (ao3) - yiffandquiff

Summary: Dan is the captain of his high school swim team and the sport means more than anything to him. He hopes to be recruited into college so he can continue to swim, however, his plan changes when he fails English. Being tutored by Phil, Dan soon sees that even though he still wants more than anything to continue to swim, he may also want something else too.

Kick Me While I'm Down (ao3) - jerseker

Summary: Dan and Phil meet in an adult kickball league. Phil is just there to make friends. Dan is - not.

Let Go Of The Reins (ao3) - natigail

Summary: Dan did not want to go home to his parents' house the summer after his first year of studying law - which he was failing at - so when a friend suggested a simple job that would keep him busy for three months and give him a place to live, he couldn't say no. Granted, shovelling horse shit wasn't glamorous and he was afraid of horses, but the Lester Stables had other things going for it.

Phil was newly graduated with a video editing degree and moving home to his parents' horse stables, even if he still would not get back on the horse since what happened earlier in the year. He had a complicated relationship with horses to begin with and he had decided he was done riding. When the new stablehand help arrives, Phil finds himself going out to the stables more often despite trying to stay away.

On Top of the World (ao3) - dnpangels

Summary: Dan Howell is known at Cedar Creek High School for being the star quarterback and for having dated every girl in the junior year. Phil Lester is known for almost always getting the lead in the school play and being a straight-A student. Dan is popular in the stereotypical way, while Phil is popular within the groups that he chooses to be a part of. Another thing that almost everyone knows is that Dan and Phil are definitely not friends.

An AU in which Dan is the school's quarterback, and Phil is a theater kid.

Silver Arrows To The Heart (ao3) - evermorepeyton

Summary: Phil loves his life, he loves being a Mercedes Formula 1 driver and he loves being PJ’s teammate, friend and neighbor. He loves the routine he has going on. He lives in a perfect bubble.

But now that bubble is about to burst when the news that PJ is leaving Mercedes hit the tabloids. And worst of all, his replacement is Red Bull’s two-time world champion Daniel Howell, who has a reputation for having a little bit of an ego.

Phil isn’t exactly happy about this.

To put it lightly, he fucking hates it here.

something to play for (ao3) - spaceandvinyls

Summary: a basketball!au where phil is the school's star player and dan is his best friend, watching from the sidelines. everything changes when the team makes it to state championships for the first time in ten years and dan and phil realize they want something more than friendship.

Speedos and Spikes (ao3) - QuietConspiracy

Summary: Three-time Olympian Phil Lester of Team Great Britain is headed to Rio, determined to focus on the podium and not let anything - or anyone - get in his way.

So why is it, then, that he can't get his (absolutely gorgeous) roommate out of his head?

Straight To Video (ao3) - DisasterSoundtrack

Summary: It’s his face. His eyes, especially. They’re brown, the color warm like melted chocolate, but they’re also vulnerable and terrified, playing into the vibe of the song even better than the dancer’s body, even though he twirls and jumps and spreads himself thin. The real heartbreak is appearing right here, right on the dancefloor, as the dancer sheds a single, perfect tear.

Phil's peaceful, ordinary life takes an unexpected detour into a passionate, forbidden romance with a dancer, Dan.

Strictly Come Dancing but make it GAY (ao3) - natigail

Summary: @danielhowell: maybe i’d actually consider doing @bbcstrictly if they allowed same-sex couples. who wouldn’t want a sexy man spinning you around? it’s not just a girl’s dream. c'mon people let's see some pretty and fierce girls pair up and handsome and strong boys get it on. i dare you.

Dan Howell calls Strictly out on Twitter for not allowing any same-sex couples and accidentally volunteers himself to be one of the contestants if they were to change that. It was a joke. It had so clearly been a joke. Why did they take him up on it?! He’s sure he’ll trip over his own feet and hate every second, but then he meets his partner, the endearingly clumsy dancer Phil Lester.

Sweat, Dirt and Collants (ao3) - orphan_account

Summary: Phil loves to watch Dan dance

The Hockey Game (ao3) - Jinny12912

Summary: Dan and Phil go see a hockey game while touring through Canada. Dan has too much to drink during the game and needs some help from Phil to make it back home before wetting himself.

The Start of something new (ao3) - apoetacriminal

Summary: Dan is an insecure figure skater and phil is his charming coach…or the yoi au that nobody asked for

the truth is rarely pure and never simple (ao3) - orphan_account

Summary: dan is natural athlete, the top player on his college ice hockey team. no one knows that he is actually really smart and is transferred into the Honours Literature class. that is when he meets a literature nerd, phil, who just might be able to give his life a little more importance.

When in Washington (ao3) - dnpangels

Summary: An outsider POV fic about a guy sitting behind Dan and Phil at the University of Washington football game.

[jsprnt]

Healing Hearts PT. 12 | Virgil van Dijk

Would a fresh start bring you more than just a new job?

A/N: I’ve been watching the national team games lately and man I miss the World Cup so much :(

WC: 3.199

Summary: Y/N L/N is a very skilled and praised physiotherapist. A certain event pushing her for a fresh start, as a physiotherapist for Liverpool FC. One question always being in the back of her mind: Will she be able to let go of her past and allow herself to experience new things?

I check the time before I get up, walking out of my office to look for Cody. I knew he would be in the gym, that's were he'd been at this past week.

Not being able to train or play in matches definitely made him want to be still be at the training center. Just to not miss out. He had been in a brace since the game against Tottenham, causing him to miss out on yesterdays match against Union St. Gilloise.

Walking into the the gym and spotting him sitting on the exercising equipment, watching the other players exercise as he chats with them.

"Cody!" I call out, realizing it had probably attracted way more attention then if I had just gone up to him. I ignore the looks of some staff members and players, particularly Virgil's as I walk up to Cody.

I had pressed on to hide our relationship. The only thing everyone should know was that we were friendly as physiotherapist and player, nothing more or less. I was wondering if we were even good at it, so far we did not have any hiccups. Or so we thought.

"Hey, are you ready to come with me?" I ask.

"Oh yeah. Of course." He says, getting his crutches together to stand up.

"So, no greeting today Doctor." I hear a Scouser accent say.

Turning my head I make eye contact with a cheeky looking Trent.

"Hello Trent." I say, a smile on my lips.

My eyes dart at Virgil behind him who's talking to another staff member. Though, it seems like he can feel me staring at the side of his face as his eyes move to make eye contact with mine.

And of course he fucking winks

No, not even a fast wink and look away- no he had to keep staring after

I catch myself quickly trying to play it off swiftly and return my gaze to Trent.

This man was testing me.

"You've been very busy lately? Not having lunch with us either." He says pointing at me.

"Well my schedule has been packed you know that. I got to make sure you and your fellow national team players are in top shape."

He chuckles his hand coming up to my shoulder, slightly squeezing it. "Appreciate it Doc."

I nod at him, warm smile forming at my lips. I loved it when my work was respected or praised. It was definitely a huge motivation to keep helping and supporting my patients.

"Thank you. Speaking of, I have to see you in a about thirty minutes. Southgate's people have been emailing nonstop for your progress report. I've got to update it before sending it tonight."

His grin turns wider, his pearly teeth showing as the corners of his mouth crinkle.

"I'll leave before I boost your ego even more! See you in a bit." I say, laughing at his change of expression.

I look back at Cody who had already found another chatting partner and tap his shoulder to signal we had to go.

"You need any support?" I ask watching him walk with the crutches.

"Oh no it's fine." He say as we walk towards my office.

"Alright so-" I begin, reading my notes again to a worried looking Cody.

"I did discuss your injury earlier with the other physio's. I was advised to check your injury again today. Just to confirm our final conclusion. Initially, we estimated the healing time would be around seven weeks. With the progress you have already made with the brace you have on- we think you'll be back on the pitch in about four weeks. We're guessing it won't take anymore time since you definitely have a record of healing pretty fast."

"So no EURO qualifications?" He say a disappointed look on his face.

"Yeah- I'm sorry Cody. You know you have both internal and external help ready for you. Just mention it if you think you need extra support to one of us and it will be handled. Besides, I think our country definitely has a huge chance of making it to the EURO's. Just focus on healing so you can be in Germany next year. I promise you you'll be back better than ever." I say, looking at him with sympathy.

"Thank you. I know I can definitely trust the team." He smiles, though he still has disappointment written all over his face.

"Speaking of the EURO's- are you taking the optional leave during it? It has probably been a while since you've seen your family and friends." He asks changing the focus of the conversation from him to me.

I hadn't even thought of home in a while. After the infuriating phone call with Theo I had vowed to myself I'd stop letting it bother me as much. It wasn't healthy for me mentally. So I let everything be handled by my new attorney I had recently become acquainted with and of course the authorities.

I had moved back home, installed some fancy security system that costs me thousands and changed my key-code and lock. I was so done with being stomped on like a bug by a ratty looking man - I had to take control of my life somehow.

Me living alone again did take some convincing on Virgil's side. He was understandably very concerned for me- but obviously I was grown enough to handle that part on my own and he understood. He helped me move back in and everything was going very smooth so far. Of course Sophie made sure to check on me many times by knocking on my door. We had girls nights almost every other day at this point.

"I don't know- haven't thought of it yet." I answer, it did sound nice to go home to see my friends and parents. None of them knew what had happened. FaceTiming with the girls when I was living with Virgil was difficult. Especially, when his house looked so different compared to mine. To try to hide that I was living somewhere else was an actual pain in the ass. I was glad I did not have to do that anymore.

"It does sound nice but I'll have to think about it since we could have some more injuries coming up. Fingers crossed everyone will stay healthy though."

Cody ends up leaving shortly after, and I follow him out to find Trent. Hoping he's still in the gym. Thankfully, he is, and we walk into my office together and I go over the most important things that needed to be updated on his progress report.

It doesn't take much time and my appointment with Trent is done quicker than I had scheduled. Leaving me alone in my office, absentmindedly doodling in the corner of my planner, oblivious to the world outside of my office doors until the door handle is moving. The sound of the door being opened and locked after removing my attention from the flower I had drawn.

"Virgil? Did something happen?" I ask, worried about something going wrong at the gym.

He smiles walking up behind my desk and turning my office chair towards him so I face him.

"Just wanted to see my doctor." He says, and I try to not look flustered. He effect his words had on me needed to be studied by a renowned university.

I stand up, looking up at his tall frame, it slightly sweaty. The smell mixed with his musky cologne.

His hands travel to the small of my back pulling me closer.

"Virgil!" I hush, my eyes darting around even though I didn't have any glass panels or windows facing the hallway.

"What I can't see my beautiful girlfriend now?"

He smirks, his eyes roaming around my face.

Oh he was definitely enjoying this

My hands travel down to remove his hands from my back, stepping aside for a moment.

"What if there is like paparazzi hiding into those trees or houses? Can't they see us?" I whisper, my expression bewildered. My eyes travel to the window that faces the training pitch, darting around to look at the scenery behind the large pitch.

"Don't be absurd how would that be possible. No one will see us y/n." He says, his hands traveling to my jaw, gently making me face him.

"You're fine. We'll be fine. Just tell me- did you miss me?" He asks another cheeky smile on his face. I roll my eyes, though a smile pulls at the corners of my lips.

"Nope, not at all. You weren't even gone. Besides, you smell like sweat. Move!" I tease, stepping away again. He reaches out again and I step away again, a laugh leaving my lips at the desperate look in his eyes.

"Now you're being childish."

"I'm not. Go back to training. I have another appointment in a bit." He steps towards me again, this time managing to catch me in another hug.

I open my mouth to protest again, but we're interrupted as someone knocks on my door. My blood going cold for a moment as I pull away from Virgil. I look at him mortified, my heart thumping in my chest.

How would it look? If the physiotherapist and a player of the team were in her office. With the door locked?

Virgil notices the panic in my face, his face coming closer to my ear. His hand coming to run up and down my upper arm.

"Calm down. Go open the door. I'll sit on the table to pretend you just treated me and I wanted privacy."

"Okay." I whisper back, trying to release the tension in my body.

"Muscle tenseness." He adds.

I walk quickly, glancing back at Virgil before opening the door.

"Why is your door locked. Got someone in here?" The German accent booms, and I don't know if I should be relieved or embarrassed.

"Oh Jürgen?"

The name falls off my lips awkwardly, he'd insisted we'd be on first name bases. It would break down some hierarchy and our teamwork would be better he had said.

I step aside to let him in.

"Oh yeah- treated Virgil for something- tense muscle." I lie, forcing a smile on my face.

He raises an eyebrow as he catches Virgil on the treatment table, his shorts slightly hiked up to pretend I had just finished treating him.

"Boss!"

He exclaims getting up and greeting Klopp with a hug. Leaving me practically third wheeling there for a moment.

"I am sorry y/n thought you were free but you had a patient here." He says and I can't help but notice he's definitely teasing us.

"It's okay- what was it that you wanted to see me for?" I ask, trying to dismiss the topic. Discreetly trying to make eyes at Virgil for him to leave. But he shakes his head, obviously this wasn't torturous enough for him.

"It was about you staying here or taking a leave during national break. Should he leave or is he allowed to hear about it?" He points a thumb at Virgil both of them obviously now trying to crack jokes about the entire situation.

I chuckle, sure I shouldn't be awkward around Klopp. He'd known about almost everything so far, our relationship, the break in. Most embarrassingly a bit about my relationship with my ex. He was required to know at least some of it, so there was no reason to feel weird around him.

"Shouldn't he be in the gym right now?" I ask raising a cocky brow at Virgil.

"You heard your missus get out of here already!" He jokes, using the British slang, lightly punching Virgil's shoulder. His perfect pearly white teeth showing.

"I need you to leave."

"Excuse me?" I ask, the tone of my voice high as his words make my heart skip a beat.

"You need to leave for a bit during national break. I do not want you working then."

I quietly exhale at the rest of his sentence. He almost had me thinking I was getting fired.

"Why?" I ask, fidgeting with the pen in my hand.

"You've been through a lot and I think it's best that you go home for a bit. See your family and your friends."

I raise my brow at his words, my face morphing into a confused expression.

"Oh I'll be fine here there is no reason-"

"Listen and trust me y/n you've been through something that requires some more rest and healing. It's a little longer than a week and I need you to get out of here for a bit."

I stare up at him with wide eyes- a manager also taking care of the staff. That was new.

"I'll think about it Jürgen. Thank you."

"Fill in the leave application and I'll make sure it gets confirmed immediately."

I lean back in my chair after finally emailing some progress reports to my fellow physiotherapists of the national teams.

I let Klopp's words sink in, it was occupying my mind when I wasn't treating or assessing the players. Why was everyone so curious and insisting I'd take a leave?

My thoughts are cut short as I hear a notification pop up on my phone. My hands going to reach over as I'm still leaning in my chair.

The message being from Virgil. He's says training ended and to come over to his when I clock out. I shoot a quick message back agreeing before sitting up and working on the last progress report I had to send before getting out of the office.

"Should I come with you? Back home?" I say, fidgeting with the blanket on my lap as I look at Virgil. He turns his head from the Netflix show he was occupied with, a slight surprise on his face.

"You want to?"

"Yeah- thought it would be good for me and everything-"

He suddenly throws his arms around me, his face coming closer to mine to plant kisses on my face and lips.

"Of course- you’ll come to my matches and everything- let me check the flights. There should be a lot of availability."

I watch the plane land through the window. I had taken so many flights in my life due my work, that I could practically fall asleep through the turbulence. Though, first class made it ten times more comfortable.

I rub my tired eyes, the last few days had been hectic with me not knowing what to pack and in true me fashion I over packed. Virgil had already left a couple days earlier. The training camp in Zeist requiring him to be there earlier.

I had told everyone back home I was returning and everyone was very surprised to hear I was visiting so early. My dad was picking me up from the airport which did make a bit nervous. I hadn't seen him in a while. Which made me curious as to how he would react.

Thankfully, my luggage comes quickly and I immediately make my way outside of the airport. Dragging my heavy baggage behind me. Of course in typical Dutch fall fashion the weather was shitty as ever. The rain dripping on my face and body, making me shiver.

Spotting my dad in his car I nervously approach it. Taking deep breaths to try to calm my nerves.

He steps out after parking, his door opening immediately as he walks towards me.

"Hi dad."

I'm caught of off guard as he wraps his arms around me in a hug. My dad giving me this much affection? That was a new one.

"Let me have a look at you." He mumbles, pulling away and planting his hands on my shoulders.

"You've gotten skinny. Is the food there not good enough for my daughter?"

I chuckle, dismissing his concerned expression.

"I'm fine, but can we go home? It's cold out here."

"Here we thought y/n was going to England for a new job, but she also snatched a man as well?" Monet exclaims, taking a sip of her drink.

I had told them of my relationship with Virgil. From beginning to end, leaving some- crazy details out, but they were happy for me.

We all came together to Monet's home for a nice movie night. We had a lot of catching up to do. The movie had long finished, leaving us lounging around her huge sofa with drinks and snacks on the table.

"Oh stop you know I didn't plan shit." I exclaim throwing her a piece of popcorn which she avoids quickly with the duck of her head. A laugh leaving her nicely painted lips.

"Hey, no reason to be embarrassed. You're a WAG now-" Juliette teases and I resist the urge to throw another piece popcorn her way this time.

"Stop making it sound so weird- it just happened."

I complain taking another sip of my drink. My eyes dancing over the marble tiles of the home. Monet had opened her own clinic a couple years after graduating, and looking at how beautiful her home was maybe I should've taken that route too.

"Right- let's talk about something else, or we're never passing the Bechdel test." Priya chimes in.

Oh yeah, that would be much appreciated.

The night passes with many laughs and juicy gossip. Half of the friend group being flat out drunk when it's time to go home. Clumsily calling Uber's and getting home late. Making them remember their old university memories of partying it up on weekends.

y/n enters her childhood bedroom, stumbling across across the pink carpet before drunkenly throwing herself on her twin bed. She groans softly, the mattress being harder than she had recalled.

Her sleepy and drunken daze is interrupted by her phone ringing in her hand bag. She grumbles before sitting up, moving her hands to look for the bag. Only to find it on the floor, and sleepily pulling out her phone.

"Hello?" She mumbles holding the cool phone against her warm cheeks and throwing herself on to the bed again, her cheek squashed against her fluffy pillow.

"y/n?" The deep voice calls out, and she gasps softy at the recognition of the comforting voice.

"Virgil? Why haven't you called me all day? I've missed you." She giggles, her cheeks hot from the alcohol.

"I've been busy at the training center. You okay? You sound different." He asks, wondering why his girlfriend sounds so giggly and is slurring her words.

"Drinks with the girls. Half of us got drunk. Liz almost tripped when entering the cab." She laughs, trying to whisper so her parents don't wake up.

"Oh yeah?" He says, amused by her drunken story and speech.

"It was funny." She whispers, her drunken mind repeating the scenario, making her burst out in laughter again.

"Okay, but when can I see you? We're in the same country but I still miss you." She unconsciously pouts.

"We'll be in Amsterdam tomorrow, two days before the match. Come over to my place yeah? I'll see you tomorrow night. Go to sleep now sweetheart. You must be tired."

[harryandpedro]

uppercut - five

summary: Maisy witnesses Pedro's first victory of the boxing season

parings: boxer/singledad!pedro x nanny!fem oc

warnings: talks of sexual orientation, fem!mc being pathetic and self-sabotaging, mild description of violence (in the form of boxing)

wc: 3k+

series masterlist here.

Maisy

The next morning, we meet up with Pedro's team which includes a physiotherapist, my dad and a second coach at the airport. We get through check-in and security fairly quickly and hunker down in the business lounge while we wait for our flight to Miami to be called.

After a tactical bathroom break before gate info, I return to the spot we claimed as ours in the lounge. On my way back I grab a fruit salad from the buffet and pop a piece of mango into my mouth.

The four other men I'm travelling with are standing in a circle, using a tablet to go over film of Pedro's opponent for tomorrow's match.

Oliver is perched on his dad's left hip, his head pillowed on Pedro's sculpted shoulder, and as soon as I'm close enough, the boy hurls himself at me. I take him but not before Pedro kisses the top of his son's head and murmurs a thank you to me.

Oliver and I sit down on the couch we deposited our cabin bags on. I situate him on my lap, one of my arms going around his back to prevent him from falling down. I feel Pedro's gaze following my movements and as I look over at him, he gifts me with a smile then turns to face my dad and the other trainers accompanying us.

Oliver makes a humming sound, restoring my attention. "What's up, Bug?" I ask, eating a piece of strawberry. His eyes go all big and he smacks his lips together. "Want a bite?" I fork a slice of banana and he eagerly starts at it.

While we wait for boarding, Oliver and I share the fruit salad. He drools all over himself and I pull a cloth from his diaper bag to clean him. As I do, I catch Pedro stealing glances at the two of us. A silent conversation passes us: Hi and Hi back, and You're watching me and No, you're watching me.

A light giggle bubbles out of me.

At that, a debonair smile spreads slowly across his stubbled face. He tucks his tongue into the side of his cheek and winks.

The fluttery warmth in my stomach curdles.

I curse at him inwardly for the way he makes me feel.

When they announce our gate, he strolls over to us, hands in his pockets. He's wearing a baseball cap, a plain grey T-shirt, black joggers and his usual New Balances. Even in a simple outfit he manages to look spruce and otherworldly handsome.

We merge into the line that's forming around the gate. Perdo wordlessly takes my tote bag from my shoulder, sliding it down my arm and carrying it for me alongside his personal bag while I carry his son.

"This is us," he says on the plane now, slowing to a stop. We've got a whole row to ourselves at business class. All six cubicles with reclining cushioned chairs, one with a special seat for Oliver strapped into it. Pedro's personnel take their respective seats. I put Oliver in his seat and take the aisle seat directly next to it, presuming Pedro would need my help with his son during the flight.

He puts our bags in the overhead luggage compartment. "I thought you wanted to spend some time with your dad," he says. "Don't feel like you need to hang out with Oliver on the plane. I'll be with him and if I need to go over film or something he can be with me for that."

"But I like watching him."

Pedro's eyes dart to me. "Okay. I just don't want to burn you out on him."

"It's fine, really," I assure him with a placating smile. "I like spending time with him."

He looks at me with a softness I've only ever seen him wear with his son. "I know. He likes spending time with you too."

The flight and the rest of the day ensues without a hitch. We check in at our hotel and everyone disperses to freshen up. My dad then invites me out for dinner and after Pedro reassures me he doesn't need help with Oliver, we go out into the city and explore for the remainder of the night.

After my mom passed away, I became even closer to my dad. He's always been a role model for me and I heavily rely on his guidance. I consider him a wise, well-mannered, both street and book-smart guy. He gave me the most wonderful childhood—he never missed birthdays or school recitals, read me bedtime stories when I was still little, and gave me permission to follow my dreams.

I couldn't have asked for a better man to raise me. I'm eternally grateful for him.

While I was in another State to get my education, we stayed close. We Facetimed regularly and he pretty much advised me through college.

I had quite the unconventional college experience; I didn't party, didn't join societies nor did I put myself out there. Instead, I focused on my classes, did all my readings, and passed my exams with flying numbers.

I remember dad asking me after I finished my junior year and still nothing panned out romantically if I were into girls. I told him the truth, that no, I was not into girls and he didn't pry about it ever since. I guess he thought I wasn't ready to date yet, which wasn't entirely a misconception but I also knew that it couldn't be just my reserved exterior that warded off boys. I wasn't getting approached, not ever, and no one had ever invited me out on a date.

For a long time, I genuinely believed something was horribly wrong with me. I even debated with myself that I might be asexual. Those thoughts were fueled by the fact that even though I played with myself, I didn't make myself orgasm, still haven't, and nobody truly has aroused me—at least not how Pedro has in the past two weeks.

By my last year of college, I considered my lack of romantic—and sexual—partners as a byproduct of my asexual tendencies (I can count on one hand how many times I found a guy handsome) and my introversion-induced self-isolation. Instead of pursuing those few boys I've found remotely attractive, I retreated into my fantasies: I read romance and daydreamed about my book-boyfriends. Rather than searching for real connections with other human beings, I dreamt up enough to keep my desires and urges satisfied; a habit I still default to.

To this day I often catch myself imagining alternative lives where I chose to be a doctor and now I live with my blue-eyed boyfriend who rock-climbs, or a sugar daddy took me under his wings and now I owe my own pottery studio, selling my craft. When I'm teleported back into reality from one of these trances, I faintly feel sorry for myself but not enough to offset any kind of action that would put me out of my self-inflicted misery.

Apart from my parents and other family members, nobody has ever loved me unconditionally. And lately, despite reconciling myself to the fact that apparently, I'm not most guys' type, at twenty-one I find myself carving affection, both physical and emotional.

God, I feel pathetic, asking someone to love me when all I ever do is beg to be alone.

After my dad and I get back to the hotel, I lie awake in bed, staring at the adjoining door that opens to Pedro's and Oliver's suite, and feel very homesick for arms that have never held me.

×××

The next morning I join Pedro and his personnel for breakfast then fifth-wheel with Oliver in the corner of Pedro's hotel room while they huddle on the match's game plan. Following lunch me and Oliver move to my room to let Pedro get on with his pre-match rituals, and we spend our afternoon watching cartoons on YouTube and reading picture books.

Originally, Oliver and I would've stayed in but when I get a text from my dad saying that he managed to get us a pass for Pedro's match, I jump on the offer.

This will be my first time going to one of his matches and just the mere thought of seeing him in the ring, in his element awakens a horde of butterflies in my stomach.

When he wakes from his afternoon nap, I get Oliver dressed in a pair of forest green trousers and a white polo shirt. I decide on a white and muted pink, tiered ruffle sundress, accessorizing it with my everyday jewleries; my silver droplet necklace and four dainty rings.

At the venue, a hostess shows us to a private box above the bleachers and tells me that later on Jason, Pedro's physio and Sam, his second coach will be coming up here to watch the fight.

We arrive just in time because a few minutes later, they dim the light and the crowd roars in anticipation. I stand right before the window overlooking the arena with Oliver slung over my hip as the boxers get their introduction.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is the main event of the evening. Twelve three-minute rounds for the WBO cruiserweight championship of the world," the speaker hollers. "Miami, I need you to get out of your seats, raise your drinks high and get wild. Let us meet the fighters."

Pedro's opponent walks out first. "Fighting out of the blue corner, wearing blue and red trunks is Cole Wayne." He's the same build as Pedro but appears less agile. "From last season, he holds a record of fifteen victories with nine of those wins coming by way of knockout." The man cracks his neck and rolls his shoulders with a smug expression.

"That's your daddy's opponent," I tell Oliver. "He seems like a brat, don't you agree?"

He makes a jumbled sound and I take it as his version of yes.

"And now, his opponent, fighting out of the red corner, wearing black and green." The crowd erupts as Pedro makes his walkout in his robe. He's focused and in his head, I can tell solely by his posture. The speaker goes on, "He holds an undefeated professional record of twenty victories versus no defeats with sixteen of those wins coming by way of knockout." He climbs into the ring, slipping under the ropes, and like that, he sets my heart aflutter. "Introducing the former WBA InterContiental Cruiserweight Campion. Ladies and gentlemen, Pedro 'The Viper' Pascal."

He lowers the hood of his robe, revealing his perfect brown hair and the most tender brown eyes I've ever looked into. His features and his personality are a stark contrast to his robust, mesomorphic body.

My dad slips the robe from his form, and I see Pedro shirtless for the first time. Hard, defined muscles cover his upper body, with visible obliques. His trunks cut mid-thigh, and his legs are thick and cut.

He bounces on the spot, shaking off his arms. His muscles ripple and my stomach pulls taut.

The referee calls the two boxers over. Cole invades his personal space but Pedro remains stoic and collected. "Okay boys," the referee says, "At call break I expect you to stop punching and take a step back. Don't deliberately throw punches on the back of the head. Protect yourselves at all times. Any questions?" The two of them eye each other. "Alright. Touch gloves." They do so before returning to their respective corners of the ring.

"That there," I point at Pedro, "Is your daddy."

Oliver claps and squeals, his precious eyes wide with excitement.

"Is your dad the best boxer in the world, huh, buddy?"

He nods his head eagerly, though I know he doesn't have any idea what I'm asking.

Jason and Sam join us in the box then. They greet me with polite smiles and wave at Oliver before taking their seats to my right where a couch is positioned in front of the window.

In the ring, my dad feeds Pedro his mouthpiece before leaving the platform to take his spot at the ringside.

I fix the noise-cancelling headphones on Oliver—they look comically big on him—and zero in on the elevated platform.

The bell sounds and the fight begins.

Pedro is quick and light on his feet, slipping and ducking any incoming punch. In the first two rounds, Cole is the initiator, trying to force the pace but Pedro doesn't let him.

In the third round, he takes over and by the fourth one, it's clear as the sky he's got the experience going for him. He lends a few stinging jabs and crosses, throwing Cole off balance. He tries with an uppercut but Pedro guards his face with his gloved hands, then delivers a quick right hook in the ribs.

I watch with batted breaths as the match unfolds.

Another punch disorients Cole and Pedro lets loose a torrent of hard-landing jabs.

His punches are precise and lethal, and the way he conducts himself in the ring has got me handing in my feminism card for the night.

He wins in round five with a vicious right uppercut that has Cole toppling. The referee raises his hand high into the air, declaring him as the victor.

Pedro's eyes scan the faces in the crowds, his chest heaving with heavy breaths, and as his gaze rises, he finds me and pins me with a look, a glint in his eyes and his lips curled into a devilish smirk.

I feel a zing of awareness between my thighs.

"What do you say, Maisy? He's a hell of a boxer, isn't he?" Sam speaks from beside me.

I clear my throat. "Yeah, he really is," I whisper, not daring to take my eyes off Pedro. "He's a knockout."

The speaker asks him for an interview and he begrudgingly breaks eye contact.

I deflate and can only hope Sam and Jason didn't notice the physical effect their boxer has on me.

Surely this is my cue to get a therapist because something is terribly wrong with me if I think we stand a chance.

×××

Pedro enters his hotel suite stealthily. Oliver is fast asleep in the portable crib provided by the hotel, and I've already showered and changed into my nightwear.

He knocks on my door which I've left ajar. I hum in acknowledgement and he steps inside, closing the door behind him so that we can have a conversation and not have to whisper.

"Congrats on your win," I say, climbing out of bed.

He's in the same joggers he wore for the flight yesterday and a simple white t-shirt. His hair is still wet from his post-match shower.

"Thanks," he murmurs. "I liked having the two of you in the crowd."

I hand him the baby monitor. "Oliver liked being there for you."

"And what about you?" he asks in undertones, tentatively. His fingers brush against mine as he takes the device from me.

"Uhum, I—, it was a great match," I mumble, refusing to meet his stare. I touch my necklace to do something with my hands.

"Okay, well, as per usual, thanks for taking care of Oliver," he says, smiling softly. He turns to leave but I stop him.

"Pedro?"

"Yeah?" He faces me.

"I actually—," I pause, unsure how to continue, "I was wondering if I could ask you something."

"Sure," he says, rubbing his hands on his joggers. "Go ahead."

"It might be kind of weird," I warn. "Please don't laugh at me."

He shakes his head, granting me with his softest eyes yet. "I won't."

"Would you—," I begin, nibbling on my bottom lip, "—teach me how to box?"

"I—," he recoils slightly, taken aback by the question. "What?"

"Would you teach me how to box?" I repeat, though my voice is significantly smaller and much more hesitant. "I want to learn how to defend myself."

"Against what?" he asks, his brows knitting together in concern. "Is everything alright?"

My insides warm at his unreasonable protectiveness. "Everything's fine." I wave away his worries with an inattentive flick of my hand. "It's just that, when we, Oliver and I go on our daily adventures, I want to feel safe. And I think knowing how to throw a punch would help ease some of that anxiety."

"Did something happen while you were out? Did someone try to hurt you or Oliver?" he urges, voice low and serious.

"No, no one has hurt or tried to," I tell him calmly. "But I want to know how to react if someone did try something."

Pedro's eyes narrow as he studies my face. "You come to me if they do." I nod firmly. "What do you want to learn?" he asks.

"Anything," I answer breathlessly. "Everything."

The corner of his mouth quirks up a little, a small chuckle rumbling in his chest. "How about I teach you the basics first?"

I nod in agreement. "And please don't tell my dad I want to learn self-defence, he'd freak out." I rush to add.

His smile falls again. "Maisy," he rasps my name lowly, warningly. "Are you sure there's no reason for me to worry?"

"No, nobody is harassing me I promise. Just—," I let out a breath. "It's just Rick doesn't have to know, alright?"

There's a pause and he uses his X-ray eyes on me. "Alright," he echoes finally.

"Alright," I parrot and avert my eyes.

A moment of tension-laden silence descends on the room. "I—we should get some sleep, we've got a flight to catch tomorrow." I remind him quietly, tossing my thumb over my shoulder towards the bed.

"You're right." He touches his lips, scratches his bearded jaw. "I'll, uhm, see you in the morning," he drawls and goes back to his room, closing the adjoining door.

.

.

.

taglist: @biapascal

[seidenbros]

Breaking the Ice - Chapter 3

Pairing: Wylan van Eck x Jesper Fahey Summary: “I’m not gonna sugarcoat anything for him. That’s no use.” Nina placed her hand on top of Matthias’s. “No, you’re right. Doesn’t do any good to lie to me.” “You’re in luck because you have the best physiotherapist you can get.” “I know and I’m thankful already.” Nina had helped many of his teammates with injuries, but other people as well. One of them being Wylan van Eck. Everyone had talked about it, because the injury had happened before a big event about two years ago. He’d been hit by a car, possibly a drunk driver, but the driver hadn’t been found. It had been really tragic and while Jesper didn’t know the details of his injuries, he knew that he’d been in hospital for a while, even in critical condition at first. “You see how well Wylan moves on the ice again, and his injuries were worse than yours. Not that I want to compare them, but just to give you an outlook on this.” And here they were, talking about Wylan. A topic that still confused Jesper a little bit, but the only one who knew what had happened, was Matthias, and he’d sworn to not tell Nina anything.

Warning/Tags: POV Jesper Fahey, POV Wylan van Eck, Alternate Universe - Hockey, Alternate Universe - Figure skating, Hockey Coach Kaz Brekker, injuries, Jan van Eck is the scum of the Earth, sexual content, implied child abuse A/N: It's Friday, and this means Chapter 3. Chapter 4 will be posted next Thursday because of MagicCon 💚

Read on AO3

One month later

Before Jesper even opened his eyes, he heard beeping noises and it smelled very strange, yet in a way familiar. When he tried to push himself up, he couldn’t really do that, and he also felt this pain in his head, making him groan. Now, he slowly opened his eyes, but closed them immediately again. It was way too bright wherever he was and it burned in his eyes.

“Hey, stay down, Jes,” Matthias said next to him, and he could feel his hand against his upper arm.

“Where am I?” Jesper asked, already having this gut feeling, but he needed to hear it to believe it. It felt like his head was wrapped in cotton, and Matthias’s voice sounded further away than he probably really was.

“At the hospital. You went into the boards really hard last night.”

“Last night?” Oh fuck. Ohhhhh fuck. That didn’t sound good. He’d hit his head before, and he’d even been at the hospital to get all that checked, but that he’d been out for a few hours - he didn’t know what time of day it was after all - wasn’t a good sign.

“Yeah, we played against the Belendt Barons. Do you remember?”

“I think so.” Jesper thought back, tried to concentrate, but it wasn’t that easy. He remembered the first period, remembered the goal he’d scored, the intermission and the second period was kind of a blur. “First period yes, but then… nothing really.”

“I don’t know but you seemed a little absent again last night and your movements were… clunky and reckless at the same time. You should have seen the guy coming, but it was almost like you were looking in his direction, but didn’t see him, I don’t know.”

Oh… he had been a little distracted for a moment, because he’d thought he’d seen Wylan in the crowd. Ever since their little moment in the elevator, he hadn’t been able to stop thinking about him, no matter how much he wanted to. But he hadn’t heard from him or seen him around the arena - and frankly, he didn’t know how he would react if he did see him. That probably depended on how Wylan would behave. Jesper had kept thinking about why Wylan had left him standing there like this, but he hadn’t really found an answer. It was more than okay if Wylan had changed his mind back then, if he hadn’t wanted to do anything more, and Jesper would have told him exactly that, if he’d only had the chance. So, maybe, they could resolve this, talk about it when they met again sometime, because they definitely would meet again, he was sure of that, since they were both more or less working at the ice-rink.

Jesper had also realised that he’d been playing differently the last month, not as focussed as he used to play. Then there was the whole last year that had also been… different. He’d realised it himself, but he didn’t know how to change it.

“He apologised a thousand times, but honestly, we can’t blame him completely.”

“I know,” Jesper admitted, the memories coming back. Body Checks were normal in the game, and it hadn’t been the first time he’d been checked into the boards. It happened, he’d done that to other people as well, but the other had thought Jesper would move, instead he’d just stood there.

“He hit you at a bad angle, though.”

“Spill it.” Now, Jesper managed to open his eyes and looked over at his captain and friend.

“Concussion obviously, a bad one at that, because you hit your head very hard on the boards and then the ice. Dislocated your right knee, and your tibia is broken.”

“Fucking hell…” That meant that he’d be out for a couple of weeks, missing a bunch of games. He wouldn’t even be able to travel with the team at first. Only when he was allowed to move around, and he didn’t know how strict they would be. How strict Kaz would be. He’d definitely make sure that Jesper stayed at the hospital as long as he needed to, and that he wouldn’t overdo it at home as well. Speaking of Kaz, he had no idea how he would react when they talked for the first time after this.

“How is…” Jesper trailed off, not wanting to ask after his coach, but in a way he needed to know.

“Kaz? He was the first one on the ice to look after you, even before the medics.” Matthias smiled to himself, rubbing a hand over his beard. Ever since Nina had told him that it looked good on him, he hadn’t shaved it off. “He won’t admit it, but he was really worried. Still is probably. And we had to hold him back from the guy. He’ll still give you shit for this.”

“I know.” At least, Jesper managed to smile now. The situation was shit, no doubt about it, but thanks to the pain medication they’d given him, he wasn't feeling it that much.

There was a knock on the door and Jesper looked up towards it, when he saw Nina enter. He couldn’t stop himself from smiling, because it was sweet that she was here, whether it was because of him or Matthias didn’t really matter. She was here for both of them in fact, since over the last month, Jesper had gotten to know her better privately as well, when Matthias had invited him over for dinner or other things.

“Hey, how are you feeling?” she asked and walked up to his bed. Matthias immediately reached for her hand to hold it, but then he pulled her closer so she could sit in his lap and stay close to Jesper as well.

“Bit of a headache, but apart from that I think that they made sure to give me enough of the pain meds.” He managed another smile, but felt his concentration waver a little bit. He’d been out for a good while, but everything seemed to be exhausting, and the medication was doing its part as well.

“Good. You’ll need them.”

“Nina,” Matthias chastised her, letting go of her hand to wrap his arm around her middle.

“I’m not gonna sugarcoat anything for him. That’s no use.” She placed her hand on top of Matthias’s.

“No, you’re right. Doesn’t do any good to lie to me.” Jesper had known right from the moment he’d heard what had happened, that it wouldn’t be nice. He’d had fractured bones before and concussions as well, but the combination of both with the dislocated knee, that was something new, and Nina had seen all kinds of injuries so far.

“You’re in luck because you have the best physiotherapist you can get.”

“I know and I’m thankful already.”

Nina had helped many of his teammates with injuries, but other people as well. One of them being Wylan van Eck. Everyone had talked about it, because the injury had happened before a big event about two years ago. He’d been hit by a car, possibly a drunk driver, but the driver hadn’t been found. It had been really tragic and while Jesper didn’t know the details of his injuries, he knew that he’d been in hospital for a while, even in critical condition at first. Nina must know more, but it wasn’t her position to tell him anything - and he probably wouldn’t hear it from Wylan.

“You see how well Wylan moves on the ice again, and his injuries were worse than yours. Not that I want to compare them, but just to give you an outlook on this.”

And here they were, talking about Wylan. A topic that still confused Jesper a little bit, but the only one who knew what had happened, was Matthias, and he’d sworn to not tell Nina anything. So far, he’d kept quiet, because it wasn’t his story to tell, and Jesper really appreciated it. It was something between Wylan and him, but he’d had to talk to someone about it at least, see if he was missing anything, But Matthias had been a little confused as well, that Wylan had left him standing there and hadn’t tried to talk to Jesper, explain anything at all later on.

“If I can move like him when I’m better, I won’t be complaining. He really is a vision on the ice.” He’d said that before, but by now he knew that he was a vision off the ice as well, and easily captured all of his attention, which was rare, because Jesper’s mind was usually all over the place.

“He is. And he’s a really wonderful person as well. He even asked me how you were, because he knows I’m here.” Nina smiled softly, pulling her phone out of her pocket. “I told him I’d text him when I find out something new.”

“Wylan asked about me?” Now, that was rather surprising, and Jesper couldn’t deny that his heart skipped a little beat upon hearing this.

“Yes, he was at the rink and watched the game.”

So he hadn’t imagined seeing him, which was on the one hand a relief, on the other, it meant that Wylan had seen this play out live. Great. He hadn’t expected Wylan to worry about him and ask for him like this. Well, if he wasn’t talking to Jesper, it was nice to know that he talked to Nina about him apparently.

“I thought I’d seen him there, but I wasn’t sure.” Jesper admitted, but he wouldn’t tell them that this had been right before he’d gotten knocked down. That would definitely send the wrong message to them, and it wasn’t Wylan’s fault after all. Someone could make it out to look like that at least. Not Matthias and Nina, because they weren’t the kind of people.

“He comes to a lot of games actually. No matter that he didn’t pursue a career in hockey, but he’s still a fan of the game.” Nina shrugged her shoulders, still smiling, but then she looked down at her phone to type a quick message to Wylan to let him know that Jesper had woken up.

“Do you need anything here? Can I bring you some stuff from home?” Matthias asked. He had a key for Jesper’s apartment for emergencies - or when Jesper forgot his keys at home again - so he would be able to get some stuff for him without a problem.

“Some clothes I guess, my phone charger… And maybe one of the books in the living room.” He hadn’t had time to read ever since their training had started up properly again, then the games, but something told him that he might get the chance to do that here and now. After all, he wouldn’t be going home tomorrow, maybe in a couple of days.

“Not a problem.”

“And I should call my Dad.” Oh God, he’d probably seen the game on TV. In fact, Jesper was sure that he’d seen it, because Colm Fahey watched every single game his son played. He’d been there in his school days, and he’d even travelled to Ketterdam  a couple of times to watch him play here. And then there were the games closer to him, that he rarely missed, unless he couldn’t get away from the farm.

“I talked to him on the phone and kept him updated, but I told him that you’d call when you’re up.” Jesper knew that he could always count on Matthias, and he thanked him for that.

When the doctor came in, Matthias and Nina said their goodbyes, telling Jesper that they’d come by the next day again, probably with Kaz on their heels. Matthias promised to let Kaz know how he was doing, so he didn’t sneak his way past the hospital staff to get to Jesper’s room. Right now, he really needed some rest and some food, as he realised, because all of a sudden, he felt rather famished.

The doctor didn’t tell him much more than what the other two had already told him. They’d keep him here for a couple of days to monitor him, see how well he was dealing with his concussion, see if he had any more issues apart from the headache. Jesper knew all the things that could come with a concussion, and he had to admit that this was what he was most afraid of. That’s he’d have recurring headaches, could be sensitive to bright light, have trouble concentrating - more than he already had - and stuff like that. His bones would heal and as it seemed without a problem, since they had taken care of his leg, so as long as he listened to their instructions, it should be fine. For Jesper, it wasn’t that easy to keep still, not move around that much, but he’d try his best.

Once he was done with his food and could relax a little, he reached for his phone. For a moment, he hesitated, but then he pulled up his Dad’s contact and called him. He needed to talk to him, and his Dad also needed to hear his voice, know that he was alright, and not just hear it from Matthias.

“Jes?” his father answered on the other side, sounding hopeful, because it could be Matthias calling from his phone as well, and Jesper squeezed his eyes shut. He wasn’t going to cry, but he felt a little relieved upon hearing his father’s voice.

“Hi Dad,” he said, but had to clear his throat when he realised how hoarse his voice sounded. “Matthias told me that he kept you updated, but I wanted to talk to you myself.”

“How are you holding up, son?”

“Alright, I guess.” It wasn’t a lie, because considering the circumstances, he was doing alright. He was pissed at himself for being so distracted that this had happened. “Gonna be here for a couple of days and then I can hopefully go home.”

“Time will fly, and you’ll be out there before you know it. And what happens then?”

“I’ll have to be careful at first, not walk around that much and if I do, with crutches. They suggest a wheelchair for the first two weeks, but that’s not gonna be easy all by myself.” He had to think of something, maybe hire someone apart from Sofia who came once a week to clean the apartment. “I’ll figure something out.”

“I could come and stay with you, if you want,” his father suggested, and it was something Jesper hadn’t really thought about.

“But… what about the farm?”

“I’ll work something out. Or you could come here, get some peace and quiet, and you won’t worry about me abandoning the farm.”

Jesper thought for a moment about this, because it came as a surprise. He’d been wanting to see his Dad, and while his injury wasn’t anything he’d wished for, a little timeout at the farm where he’d grown up sounded like a good way to clear his head, and at the same time, he knew that his father would make sure that he wouldn’t overdo it in any way.

“That sounds like a great idea, if it’s not too much for you.

“I’d love to have you here, so it’s definitely not too much. Do you need me to pick you up?”

“You don’t have to drive all the way here only to pick me up. I’ll figure something out, don’t worry.”

“Alright. Go get some sleep now. You sound exhausted.”

Jesper could hear his father’s smile in his voice, and it was such a relief that he managed a smile of his own as well.

“I will. Thanks Dad. For everything.” Not just the phone call and the possibility to stay with him for some time, but for everything he’d done for Jesper and continued to do for him.

[alexbkrieger13]

Sara Bjork’s pregnancy story shocked women’s football, but it’s different at Chelsea

Everyone at Chelsea has been so supportive of Melanie Leupolz before, during and after her pregnancy. Her baby boy has even become our mascot!

Possibly the biggest story in women’s football so far this year has been that of Iceland captain Sara Bjork winning her case against her former club Lyon after they stopped paying her when she got pregnant.

I read her account on the Players’ Tribune and it is fair to say it raised questions about the culture of women’s football and attitudes towards pregnancy and motherhood. The same goes for Reading captain Emma Mukandi’s comments recently questioning the maternity conditions available to WSL players.

Both stories created headlines but I would like to paint a different, more encouraging, picture for you. Last weekend my Chelsea team-mate Melanie Leupolz was back in our matchday squad for the first time since giving birth in September.

Since the day she surprised us by announcing her pregnancy, everything has been positive inside our club surrounding Melanie. We have had open discussions and shared in her joy. Not for a second was there a feeling of “she won’t be able to play now”.

We were actually in a meeting room expecting something on tactics when we found out. An ultrasound scan appeared on the screen and her name was there at the top: Melanie Leupolz. She then stood up and told us and the response was like she had won an award.

We had a baby shower for her and a goodbye meal before she went back to Germany to give birth. When we played at Paris-Saint Germain in the Champions League in October she paid us a surprise visit with her baby boy.

Where Emma Mukandi said her baby was not welcome at her club’s training ground, things could not be more different with Melanie.

Of course, there are certain restrictions regarding times and places but the staff and team have welcomed Melanie’s baby with open arms. Whenever he is around the training ground, everyone just lights up – he is like a little mascot and gets passed around. He is such a happy baby and puts a smile on everyone’s face.

Melanie even brought him and his nanny along to our mid-winter training camp in Spain, and it was cool to see the club allow that. When we got emailed the squad list for that trip, Melanie’s name was there and his below – like he had been called up too, which was so cute.

If I am giving you a positive picture, I acknowledge that pregnancy does raise big question marks for female athletes. In some ways, things will never be the same and you have to make sacrifices. And if you do not have a partner who can look after the baby, there is the financial cost of childcare.

Yet I am optimistic things are changing for the better. The WSL took a forward step, for example, with the introduction of a league-wide maternity policy for the first time ahead of this current season. This means a player going on maternity leave is paid 100 per cent of her weekly wage, as well as any other remuneration and benefits, for the first 14 weeks before reverting to the statutory rate. Emma Mukandi has said it is not enough but it is a start at least.

Going back to Melanie, the specialist support she has received has been wonderful. We are fortunate at Chelsea to have help from a sport scientist called Georgie Bruinvels who is a consultant with our menstrual cycles, and she was in weekly contact with Melanie even while she was back in Germany.

With the break from playing football, Melanie was able to focus on other aspects of her body, including building up the strength in her glutes and her hamstrings. Crucially, the club engaged a pelvic-floor physiotherapist to work with her too

What impresses me is how quickly Melanie has got her fitness back. I know her sleep is not the same – as you would expect – but she has surprised herself with her physical condition since coming back at the end of November. It is important not to rush back, though, and she finally rejoined us in full training at the start of this month.

Melanie is not the first team-mate I have seen bounce back after having a baby. A couple of years ago, my Sweden colleague Elin Rubensson recorded her best sprint-test speed six months after giving birth.

I am fascinated by the science of this and Georgie at the club explained to me this week that during pregnancy, a woman’s heart rate and the oxygen-carrying capacity in her blood increases – after all, her heart has to pump for two. For athletes who continue to train during pregnancy, these benefits can last longer than the usual six to 12 weeks after giving birth and bring performance improvements.

As Georgie added: “Quite a few people are known to have improved their personal best in track and field, for example. There are cases of athletes coming back and being better, partly because their body has gone through this process.” In short, keep a close eye on Melanie in the weeks ahead!

[raplinesmoon]

bollywoodtan sonyeondan: bts in 2010s rom-coms

Listen, I’ve had a filmy weekend, okay? First my friends got engaged and threw a party, then my other friend and I had a sleepover and binged The Romantics, and on top of that, I think I’ve watched five other different Bollywood movies this weekend and I need to channel this energy somehow so please enjoy my explanations for casting BTS in these 2010s Bollywood rom-coms which I hope one day me (or anyone else) can turn into fics thank you very much

Ok, let’s begin:

Kim Namjoon - Baar Baar Dekho

Listen, I know this movie was critically panned? Do I fucking care? No. I love this movie, I would go to war for this movie because Sidharth and Katrina induce massive amounts of bi panic within me. I love Jai and Diya, I love their love, I love the time travel, I love Kala Chashma. So that’s why I’m choosing none other than Bangtan’s resident intellectual Mr. Namjoon to fill those shoes, okay? Namjoon’s expressed his own profound thoughts about marriage, just like Mr. Jai, and him as a genius mathematician who gets caught in a time loop. Drooling

Kim Seokjin - Hasee Toh Phasee

Again, I would d word for this movie bc it’s just so??!!! My crush on Sidharth Malhotra non-withstanding, this movie is chaotic and beautiful in the best way. It doesn’t try to be flashy or suave, and instead embraces its inner dork. Who does that remind you of, huh? Mr. Kim Seokjin, that’s fuckin who. Nikhil and Meeta just give major OTP vibes, him being a through and through himbo and her being a neurodivergent genius who he can’t help simping over!! Give me Seokjin and OC causing major chaos I beg! And put Zehnaseeb on in the background while you’re at it!

Min Yoongi - Khoobsurat

Am I biased bc I’m Pakistani? Am I biased bc it’s Fawad? Maybe, maybe not! But to quote Lizzie McGuire, this is what dreams are made of!! An off-beat physiotherapist meets a tsundere prince?? And he gradually warms up to her while they get into their own royal shenanigans? You can’t tell me this role wasn’t written for Yoongi, and long haired Yoongi specifically. The grumpy x sunshine trope is super strong with this one, and I love the brightness that Milli brings to the entire family, not just the prince. The Disney movie of everyone’s dreams <3

Jung Hoseok - Mere Brother Ki Dulhan

Listen, this movie doesn’t get enough credit for just being fun the entire way through!! The comedy is top-tier and the characters are just so likeable and wholesome!! And just this big, amazing hare-brained matchmaking effort that is so Bollywood!! And Imran Khan’s Kush being in love with Katrina’s Dimple, who is definitely bisexual (Dhunki, anyone?!). It’s giving King Hobi vibes, not only because he would go out of his way to do anything for someone he loved, but also because Choomantar is definitely siblings with Daydream and I need to see him bust it down to Do Dhaari Talwar thank you for coming to my TED Talk

Park Jimin - Aisha

Let’s all agree that Gal Mitthi Mitthi Bol is a banger, and then let’s all swoon over Jimin in this adaptation which is based on Emma!! I literally can’t decide if I want Jimin in Aisha or Arjun’s role, but it’d be so fun either way!! I kinda like the idea of him trying to set up all his guy friends and them just being such a fun group who all have their own individual love stories sighhhh. And OC being Arjun who’s all no nonsense and the grounding presence in Jimin/Aisha’s life!! Also the style in this movie was inspired by Clueless, and our mans models for Dior so that’s enough for me to want to make it happen

Kim Taehyung - I Hate Luv Storys

Fun fact - I once watched this movie instead of studying for an exam that was happening at the end of the weekend and had so much fun I passed out on my friend’s couch until 3pm the next day!! This is another one of those nostalgic movies that pays homage to all the fun romantic Bollywood tropes!! And all the DDLJ references made me totally think Taehyung! Except he’s not Jay, he’s Simran, and OC will be Jay, and Taehyung has to convince her to believe in romance!! I think that’s a fitting task for the man I consider to be the most romantic member of Bangtan (he’s SRK’s Korean incarnation imo)

Jeon Jungkook - Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania

If there’s one himbo I stan, it’s Humpty Sharma. If there’s another himbo I stan, it’s Jungkook. I literally have a severe emotional attachment to this movie and could probably quote most of the lines to you. What I love about this is how Humpty literally shatters all the stereotypes about toxic masculinity - he cries, he’s vulnerable, he believes in love. It just screams bby boi Jungkook vibes. Also pls him doing the most to get Kavya her wedding lehenga - that’s some of the cutest shit Bollywood has pulled in a while and I’m 10000% here for it (pls bring in Jimin and Tae as Shonty and Poplu too)

Anyways, thanks for listening to me ramble!! If anyone is interested, I’d love to do more of these, like maybe 2000s rom-coms or action movies!! I’m here for any discourse you guys have too, let’s be film nerds together 💜

[banasmita]

Best Orthopaedic Clinic in Electronic City, Bangalore

Srinivasa Neuro & Ortho Clinic

If you are looking for the best orthopaedic clinic in Electronic City, Bangalore, you want to be at a facility known for advanced medical expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and compassionate patient care. The Srinivasa Neuro & Ortho Clinic emerged as a trusted name to offer orthopaedic services to patients in the region with utmost expertise. It may be a sports injury, just a nagging joint ache, or chronic as arthritis; orthopaedic health helps you live without any aches and pains. Let's find out why Electronic City is the right place for first-class orthopaedic care and what makes one clinic better than another for you.

Why Electronic City for Orthopaedic Care?

Electronic City is one of the high-tech hubs in Bangalore, but it also houses some of the best health care facilities in the region. With growing professions and families, needs for quality health care have led to establishing world-class clinics and hospitals. Here's why Electronic City stands out:

Advanced Medical Facility Proximity: All the orthopaedic clinics in this area are equipped with advanced technology, which helps to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatments.

Specialized Doctors: The clinics have very experienced and qualified orthopaedic surgeons and specialists.

Total Services: They provide end-to-end services ranging from diagnostics to post-treatment rehabilitation.

Easily Accessible for Locals: Electronic City is located at the center, so it's easy for locals living in Bangalore and around Bangalore to reach the location.

Services Provided by the Top Orthopaedic Clinics

A leading orthopaedic clinic in Electronic City will offer a plethora of services in regard to all kinds of musculoskeletal problems. Here is what you can expect:

1. Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint pain, mainly the kind occurring in knees and hips, impairs your movements and lifestyle in a major way. The finest clinics are ones that offer joint replacement surgeries less invasively with quicker times to recover as well as higher success rates.

2. Sports Medicine

Whether you are a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, injuries can be part of life. Advanced sports medicine treatments, including arthroscopy and physiotherapy, are designed to get you back in action quickly and safely.

3. Spine Care

Back pain is one of the most common issues, which can result from poor posture, injuries, or degenerative conditions. Top orthopaedic clinics provide specialized spine care, including surgical and non-surgical treatments.

4. Paediatric Orthopaedics

Orthopaedic care for children is peculiar since their bones are always developing, and children have an active lifestyle. Some of the conditions that clinics can treat in children include clubfoot, scoliosis, and fractures.

5. Arthritis Management

The treatment of those who suffer from arthritis includes the management of pain, improved mobility, and retardation of the progression of the disease by medication, physiotherapy, and surgery when needed.

6. Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy

The most important part after surgery or injury is rehabilitation. There are dedicated physiotherapists in clinics who can help you exercise and go through therapy to regain your strength and mobility.

Things to Look for in the Best Orthopaedic Clinic

Selecting the right clinic will help you recover more effectively. Here's what you should look for:

1. Qualified Specialists

The clinic should employ the most qualified orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and support staff. Check their qualifications, years of experience, and opinions from former patients.

2. High-Tech Solutions

Modern diagnostic equipment, for instance, MRI, CT scans, and digital X-rays, coupled with the most up-to-date surgical equipment, provide exact treatments.

3. Holistic Care

The clinic should have a broad spectrum of services beginning with diagnostics and surgery, to post-operative care and rehabilitation.

4. Patient-Centric

A good clinic takes care of the comfort and satisfaction of the patient. Look for personalized care plans and transparent communication.

5. Accessibility and Convenience

Proximity to your location, ease of appointment scheduling, and a clean, welcoming environment are all important factors.

Notable Orthopaedic Clinics in Electronic City

While there are several excellent clinics in Electronic City, one that stands out is Srinivasa Neuro & Ortho Clinic:

Srinivasa Neuro & Ortho Clinic

Known for superior orthopaedic care, Srinivasa Neuro & Ortho Clinic is one of the best places found in Electronic City that provides holistic treatment to various musculoskeletal disorders. It is known for its high-tech diagnostic tools, experienced specialists, and a patient-centric approach; thus, making it one of the first choices to many for efficient and compassionate care.

How to Maintain Orthopaedic Health

Prevention is better than cure. Here are some tips to keep your bones and joints healthy:

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Overweight contributes to more stress in your joints, especially in the knees and hips.

Be Active: Regular exercise conditions your muscles and bones, keeping your joints fit and healthy generally.

Diet: Keep up a balanced diet that incorporates dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and nuts which have calcium.

Good Posture: Keep good posture; do not slouch and maintain good ergonomics at work.

Supportive Shoes: And so, supportive shoes will prevent foot and ankle problems.

conclusion

Well, finding an efficient orthopaedic clinic in Electronic City, Bangalore, is what all will decide the efficient treatment and recovery. Whatever treatment is desired, be it surgery, physiotherapy, or even special care for chronic conditions—Srinivasa Neuro & Ortho Clinic is sure to provide just the right choice to suit your needs. So forget not to research and read reviews along with gathering references from specialists, and trust them then you're good to go—a pain-free life in health and activity, of course.

[physiostudio]

Enhance Flexibility and Strength: A Guide from Spartan Physiotherapy Clinic

Flexibility and strength are two vital components of physical health. At Spartan Physiotherapy Clinic, our experienced physiotherapists in Bangalore are committed to helping you achieve optimal mobility and strength through customized treatment plans. In this blog, we delve into the importance of flexibility and strength, practical tips to improve them, and how our expert care can transform your health journey.

Why Are Flexibility and Strength Important?

Improved Functional Abilities: Strength helps with daily tasks like lifting, while flexibility aids in smooth movements.

Injury Prevention: Strong muscles stabilize joints, and flexible muscles reduce the risk of strains.

Enhanced Range of Motion: Flexibility allows for better joint movement and reduces stiffness.

Better Posture: Strengthens core muscles, while flexibility corrects imbalances to maintain alignment.

Increased Athletic Performance: Strength provides power, and flexibility supports agility and precision.

Faster Recovery: Flexibility exercises improve circulation, aiding muscle recovery after activity.

Weight Management: Strength training boosts metabolism by increasing muscle mass.

Physical Independence: Both strength and flexibility are essential for mobility and self-sufficiency as we age.

Reduced Muscle Tension: Flexibility training relieves tightness and enhances relaxation.

Improved Balance: Strong muscles and flexible joints help prevent falls and improve stability.

How to Improve Flexibility and Strength

1. Stretch Regularly Incorporate dynamic stretches before workouts and static stretches post-exercise to improve flexibility. Target major muscle groups like hamstrings, calves, and shoulders.

2. Engage in Strength Training

Bodyweight Exercises: Push-ups, squats, and lunges are excellent for building strength.

Resistance Bands: Easy to use, they help in improving both flexibility and strength.

Weight Training: Start with lighter weights and gradually increase resistance.

3. Try Physiotherapy Our physiotherapists assess your individual needs and create tailored exercise plans to improve both flexibility and strength.

4. Yoga and Pilates These practices combine stretching, balance, and strength-building, offering a holistic approach to physical health.

5. Maintain Consistency A consistent routine ensures gradual and sustainable improvement in flexibility and strength.

How Spartan Physiotherapy Clinic Can Help

At Spartan Physiotherapy Clinic, we offer personalized treatments, including:

Mobility exercises to improve flexibility.

Strength training programs customized to your needs.

Manual therapy to release tight muscles and enhance range of motion.

Posture correction exercises to improve balance and alignment.

Our top physiotherapists in Bangalore are here to guide you every step of the way.

Flexibility and strength are not just about achieving fitness goals; they are essential for a healthy, pain-free life.

📍 Address: 28, 4th Cross, KEB Layout, Ashwath Nagar, Bengaluru,Karnataka-560094. 📞 Call: 99860 11503 🌐 Visit: spartanstudio.in

#SpartanPhysio #FlexibilityAndStrength #BangalorePhysiotherapy#SpartanStudio #FlexibilityGoals #StrengthTraining #PhysiotherapyBangalore#Physiotherapy #FlexibilityAndStrength #BangaloreHealth

[digiwork-234]

Convenient and Effective: The Rise of Home Physiotherapy

In recent years, home physiotherapy has emerged as a game-changer in the healthcare landscape. This innovative approach allows patients to receive professional care in the comfort of their own homes, enhancing both convenience and effectiveness. At Ravenscroft Health, we are proud to offer top-notch home physiotherapy services tailored to meet your unique needs.

What is Home Physiotherapy?

Home physiotherapy involves a licensed physiotherapist visiting your home to provide treatment. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or dealing with mobility challenges. Ravenscroft Health’s home physiotherapy services are designed to deliver personalized care, ensuring that every session is aligned with your specific health goals.

The Benefits of Home Physiotherapy

Convenience: Home physiotherapy eliminates the need for travel, making it an ideal option for those with limited mobility or busy schedules. With Ravenscroft Health, you can receive high-quality care without leaving your home.

Personalized Attention: Receiving treatment at home allows physiotherapists to evaluate your living environment and recommend adjustments to enhance your recovery. Ravenscroft Health’s physiotherapists are trained to create customized plans that address your unique circumstances.

Comfort and Privacy: Many patients find it easier to relax and engage in therapy sessions in the familiar surroundings of their home. Home physiotherapy with Ravenscroft Health ensures a private and stress-free experience.

Improved Outcomes: By receiving care in your own environment, you’re more likely to adhere to treatment plans and see quicker results. Ravenscroft Health’s expert team is dedicated to helping you achieve your recovery goals efficiently.

Why Choose Ravenscroft Health?

At Ravenscroft Health, we combine expertise with compassion to deliver exceptional home physiotherapy services. Our physiotherapists are highly skilled and experienced in treating a wide range of conditions, from post-surgical recovery to chronic musculoskeletal issues.

We understand that every patient’s needs are unique. That’s why Ravenscroft Health emphasizes personalized care, ensuring that your treatment plan is tailored to your specific requirements. Whether you need rehabilitation after an injury or ongoing support for a chronic condition, our team is here to help.

Take the First Step Towards Recovery

Home physiotherapy is a convenient and effective way to prioritize your health and well-being. With Ravenscroft Health, you can enjoy the benefits of professional care without the hassle of travel. Contact us today to learn more about our home physiotherapy services and how we can support your recovery journey.